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1968 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 18 Minutes, Is Still a Powerful Hit 58 Years Later
Nearly six decades after its release, Procol Harum’s 17-minute, 31-second progressive rock piece “In Held ‘Twas in I” remains one of the boldest long-form songs of the late 1960s.
Released in September 1968 on the English rock band’s second studio album, Shine On Brightly, the song takes up almost an entire side of the original record. Its unusual length, multi-part structure and changing musical sections helped make it an early example of progressive rock.
At 17 minutes and 31 seconds, “In Held ‘Twas in I” is among the classic rock songs that run for more than 15 minutes. American Songwriter included it alongside Yes’ “The Gates of Delirium” and Rush’s “2112” in a list of long classic rock recordings.
Pop group Procul Harum posed for a photo in 1967.Photo by Daily Mirror/Mirrorpix/Mirrorpix via Getty Images
The song is also unusual because some versions of Shine On Brightly, including the original A&M release, do not list its individual movements. Other versions identify five sections: “Glimpses of Nirvana,” “‘Twas Teatime at the Circus,” “In the Autumn of My Madness,” “Look to Your Soul” and “Grand Finale.”
Rather than following the format of a normal rock song, “In Held ‘Twas in I” works as a suite, moving through several connected sections.
Shine On Brightly was released in 1968 through Regal Zonophone and A&M. The album became a commercial success in the United States, reaching No. 24 on the Billboard 200. It also reached No. 26 in Canada, although it did not chart in the band’s home country.
According to the album’s background information, “In Held ‘Twas in I” was written and recorded in pieces. The spoken-word introduction was recorded before any music had been written for the track.
Lyricist Keith Reid said he heard the story used in the introduction from an American writer he met at Baghdad House, a café on Fulham Road.
The song’s title also has a very specific origin. “In Held ‘Twas In I” is an acrostic formed from the first words of lyrics from its different sections. The words come from “Glimpses of Nirvana,” the sixth verse of that movement, “‘Twas Teatime at the Circus,” “In the Autumn of My Madness” and “Look to Your Soul.”
According to Reid, the title has no meaning beyond this acrostic.
The song was credited to Gary Brooker, Matthew Fisher and Keith Reid. Brooker provided the lead vocals and piano, while Fisher contributed organ and sang on “In the Autumn of My Madness.” Fisher also wrote the “Grand Finale” section by himself, according to the album’s background information.
The recording also featured Robin Trower on guitar, Dave Knights on bass and B. J. Wilson on drums. Guest musicians added instruments including harpsichord, percussion and balalaika.
Retrospective critic Bruce Eder wrote in AllMusic that the album “extended the definition of progressive rock.” He singled out “In Held ‘Twas in I,” saying it “rivaled anything yet heard from such established progressive rock outfits as The Nice or The Moody Blues in length and surpassed them in audacity.”
In 1977, the band recorded another extended piece, “The Worm and The Tree,” which ran for about 19 minutes on Something Magic.
The band itself would continue recording and performing for decades, releasing albums through 2017. Frontman Gary Brooker died in February 2022, while lyricist Keith Reid died in March 2023.
The long song from Shine On Brightly, however, remains part of the band’s recorded legacy.
Related: 1971 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 23 Minutes, Is Still a Powerful Hit 55 Years Later
Reese Witherspoon Calls This Haunting Debut a 'Read Anywhere' Book
Reese Witherspoon is one of the most respected celebrity book lovers, and Reese's Book Club is known for choosing heart-stopping novels with compelling female characters at the center of the story. The Legally Blonde star just named her August book club pick, a "haunting" novel Reese calls a "read anywhere kind of book."
We may be in the twilight of summer 2026, but Reese Witherspoon's latest pick is keeping summer—and romance—alive and well. Released on August 4, The Wild Beneath by Kelly Anderson has already earned glowing praise from some of the publishing world's most celebrated authors, not to mention readers eager to squeeze one more unforgettable book into their summer reading rotation.
What Is The Wild Beneath About? View this post on InstagramSet against the backdrop of the ocean, The Wild Beneath follows Annie, a young woman caught between the familiarity of her first love and the allure of a mysterious stranger. Annie's deep connection to the sea begins to blur the line between the natural world and something far more magical as she navigates heartbreak, longing, and self-discovery.
Kelly Anderson's debut novel, The Wild Beneath, is the ultimate end-of-summer read, blending romance, mystery, and the beauty of the natural world.
Part love story and part suspense novel, The Wild Beneath explores themes of grief, destiny, and the powerful pull of nature. More than just a setting—or a stunning image on the book's cover—the ocean serves as a living force that shapes Annie's journey and the relationships that define her life.
Why Reese Witherspoon Calls It a "Read Anywhere" BookAlready earning high praise, Kelly Anderson's debut is the kind of book that is meant to be read anywhere—and everywhere—according to Witherspoon, who suggests readers will want to pack The Wild Beneath for a beach vacation, curl up with it on a rainy afternoon, or listen to the audiobook on a long drive.
Known for championing novels with strong, complex female protagonists, Reese Witherspoon's August book club pick continues the actress's tradition of highlighting emotionally rich stories, layered relationships, and unforgettable settings.
Early Reviews Are Already Raving View this post on InstagramThe Wild Beneath was published on August 4 and early readers and bestselling authors are gushing about Kelly Anderson's debut.
Bestselling author Jodi Picoult calls the book, "Ethereal...a story that reminds us sometimes the impossible is possible."
Christina Baker Kline gushes, "A haunting, heart-stopping debut."
Goodreads readers have also shared their excitement, with one calling The Wild Beneath, "Beautiful. Breathtaking. Indescribable."
For readers who enjoyed Witherspoon's previous picks, Wild Dark Shore (oh, that ending!) or The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, Reese Witherspoon's August book club pick is already poised to become one of the year's most talked-about reads.
1968 Rock Hit, Voted the 'Worst Song in Modern History,' Went to No. 1 Twice
Some songs divide listeners. Others become guilty pleasures.
Then there's "MacArthur Park."
Written by Jimmy Webb and first recorded by Richard Harris in 1968, the sprawling, seven-minute pop epic has spent more than half a century inspiring one question from confused listeners: What does leaving a cake out in the rain have to do with anything?
Related: 1975 ‘Comeback Song,’ Written in One Night, Hit No. 1 51 Years Ago Today
For many, that mystery became part of the song's charm. For others, it made the song unbearable.
In fact, when Pulitzer Prize-winning humor columnist Dave Barry surveyed more than 10,000 readers for a two-part column about the worst songs ever released, which was later turned into his 1997 book Dave Barry's Book of Bad Songs, they overwhelmingly voted "MacArthur Park" the No. 1 "worst song in modern history."
Thousands of readers turned one bad-song column into a national debate.
Related: 1975 Rock Ballad Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 51 Years Later
Barry said the idea began innocently enough after he criticized Neil Diamond's "I Am… I Said" in one of his newspaper columns. He was flooded with complaints from readers defending Diamond, but he was also flooded with people agreeing with him and with letters from readers eager to nominate songs they hated even more.
"The thing is," Barry wrote, "I got at least as many letters, just as strongly worded, attacking Neil Diamond. But that was just the beginning: I got a whole lot more letters from people who wanted to complain about other songs that they hated to hear on the radio."
The response surprised even Barry.
Related: Iconic Rock Guitarist, Called ‘The G.O.A.T.,’ Turns 63
"I have, in my twenty years as a newspaper columnist, written about many vitally important issues … and none of these topics has ever stirred up so much passion in the readers as the issue of bad songs," he joked. "People were stopping me on the street … saying things like: 'You know that song about the piña coladas? I HATE THAT SONG! I HATE IT!'"
Barry realized he had tapped into something unexpectedly universal.
"I realized that Americans… care very deeply about song badness," he wrote before launching his official Bad Song Survey, asking readers to vote for the songs that made them rush to change the radio station.
"The response was unbelievable," Barry recalled. "I think more people voted in the Bad Song Survey than in the presidential election."
When the votes were counted, one song finished comfortably ahead of the rest.
Related: 1973 Oscar-Winning Song, Written in One Night, Was a No. 1 Hit 53 Years Ago Today
"I won't keep you in suspense," Barry wrote. "The worst song in modern history … is… 'MacArthur Park.'"
Barry argued the song had everything listeners disliked: an unusually long running time, cryptic lyrics and so much radio airplay that it became impossible to escape. Many survey responses, he noted, boiled down to one simple question:
"What the HELL is this song about?"
From an International Hit to a Disco SmashIronically, Barry acknowledged that he personally disliked many songs more than "MacArthur Park," but he couldn't argue with the survey's results.
The song's commercial success told a very different story.
Related: 1972 Country Rock Song, Written by a 19-Year-Old, Became an Overnight Radio Favorite 3 Years Later
Harris' dramatic original climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1968 while reaching No. 1 in both Canada and Australia, turning the actor's unlikely recording into an international hit.
According to Fred Bronson's "The Billboard Book of Number One Hits," the song actually began life as part of a much longer cantata Webb hoped to write after producer Bones Howe challenged him to create an ambitious, multi-part pop composition. The Association ultimately passed on the song, and Webb instead recorded it with Harris.
A decade later, "MacArthur Park" found an entirely new audience.
Disco queen Donna Summer transformed the orchestral ballad into an epic dance song for her 1978 album Live and More. Edited into a radio-friendly single, the song spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving Summer the first chart-topper of her career.
Bronson noted that Summer's success meant the song had completed one of pop music's most unlikely journeys, from Harris' theatrical ballad to a disco blockbuster.
More than 50 years after its debut, the debate hasn't gone away.
Culture Sonar observed in 2022 that while Barry famously labeled it the "worst song in modern history," the song has also earned passionate defenders, including David Letterman, who once devoted an entire episode of Late Show to celebrating it with a full orchestra and Webb himself.
Webb has long maintained there was never anything random about the famous lyrics.
"There's nothing in it that's fabricated," he said. "The old men playing checkers by the trees, the cake that was left out in the rain, all of the things that are talked about in the song are things I actually saw."
And in 2026, it was introduced to a whole new generation of listeners when Alysa Liu skated to the song for her free skate in her gold-medal winning performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Whether listeners hear poetic brilliance or pop absurdity, one thing is undeniable: few songs have sparked more arguments while simultaneously becoming such enduring hits.
Related: 1973 Oscar-Winning Song, Written in One Night, Was a No. 1 Hit 53 Years Ago Today
’80s Metal Band Reveals Dramatic New Direction on First Album in 7 Years
Sacred Reich, the Phoenix thrash metal veterans led by frontman Phil Rind, are mixing their first new album in seven years and eyeing a September release. Rather than keep Into the Abyss under wraps, Rind is sharing new details about what fans can expect.
In an interview with Metalourgio, transcribed by Blabbermouth, the vocalist/bassist said that he was originally writing the songs for the record. But after he got wind of what guitarist Joey Radziwill, who joined Sacred Reich in 2019, was doing, he “scrapped” his own songs and went with Joey’s work.
“[Joey] gave us a different direction,” Rind said. “It is much faster and heavier. It was obvious to us, and we think the fans will really dig it.”
View this post on InstagramInto the Abyss is the follow-up to 2019’s Awakening. It also marks the debut LP since the addition of Eduardo Baldo on drums, who replaced Dave McClain last year. Mixed by Bill Metoyer (Slayer, Deliverance) and produced by John Aquilino (Icon) at his Focusrite Room at Platinum Underground, the effort features songs about dark times and ultimately finding the light at the end of the tunnel.
“A lot has happened since 2019 when Awakening came out,” Rind shared. “We all went through some dark times. I personally had a lot of challenges. The title Into the Abyss reflects that. It is about going into the unknown. I think we all can relate to this. It's much darker musically and lyrically. There are a few optimistic songs, which are important, so we remember that this too shall pass."
Formed in 1985, Sacred Reich is best known for landmark albums Ignorance (1987) and The American Way (1990). Even though they have weathered numerous lineup shakeups, a decade-long hiatus, and subsequent reunions, they've been anchored throughout by Rind and have remained one of the defining acts of thrash metal for more than four decades.
Today, the lineup consists of Rind, Radziwill, and Baldo, as well as lead guitarist Wiley Arnett. They are currently on the summer leg of their No Truth, No Justice Tour, performing across Europe. Into the Abyss is tentatively scheduled for release in September via Metal Blade Records.
Related: ’90s Rock Icons From Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, and More Announce Rare 2026 Event
1970 Rock Song, Never a No. 1 Hit, Ranked 'Greatest Heavy Metal Song' of All Time
More than five decades after Black Sabbath released “Paranoid,” the iconic 1970 track continues to rack up honors, with the latest recognition naming it one of the greatest songs in music history.
To celebrate heavy metal’s lasting legacy and influence on music, Rolling Stone named the top 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Songs of All Time.
Spanning every era, from classic heavy metal to modern metal, the list features a roundup of timeless tracks that defined the genre through their heavy riffs, thunderous sound and enduring influence.
With the band earning multiple entries on Rolling Stone’s ranking and securing the top spot with the title track from its self-titled debut album, Black Sabbath, the quartet’s song “Paranoid” landed at No. 13.
While the record achieved massive global success, becoming Black Sabbath's first and only album to hit No. 1 on the Official UK Albums Chart and earning recognition as one of the greatest metal records of all time thanks to signature tracks such as “Iron Man,” “War Pigs” and “Paranoid,” the band never secured a No. 1 hit single.
Black Sabbath members Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, Bill Ward and Ozzy Osbourne.The Ozzy Osbourne-led band’s highest-charting single was “Paranoid,” which peaked at No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart and No. 61 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
However, despite the song’s success and positive public reception, it was a last-minute addition to the album.
“Paranoid” was written in just five minutes, with Geezer Butler creating the lyrics in a frantic rush.
Paranoid by Black Sabbath is one of the greatest songs of all time pic.twitter.com/ZKVkMCbkio
— 🎸 Rock History 🎸 (@historyrock_) February 3, 2026“We recorded the whole thing in about two or three days, live in the studio,” the bassist told Guitar World in 2004, as cited by Far Out Magazine, adding, “The song ‘Paranoid’ was written as an afterthought. We basically needed a three-minute filler for the album, and Tony came up with the riff. I quickly did the lyrics, and Ozzy was reading them as he was singing.”
Moreover, he added that the whole track was completed in “about two hours” and made it onto the album’s tracklist.
Far from being just a filler to the album, the band did not disappoint the public as “Paranoid” resonated not only to listeners but also with fellow musicians.
The song’s enduring influence inspired several artists including American punk band The Dickies, whose cover version reached No. 45 on the UK Singles Chart.
Related: 1970 Rock Song, Written in Two Hours, Ranked Among 'Greatest Protest Songs' of All Time
Rihanna Goes Bold and Bejeweled in Carnival Look During Return Home to Barbados
Caribbean islands are renowned for Carnival celebrations, with each destination putting its own distinct spin on the vibrant festival.
The latter may be an underrated vacation destination, but its most famous native recently returned home to join the party.
Rihanna hasn't toured since 2016, but did make a surprise appearance at Jay-Z's anniversary concert while continuing to expand her Savage X Fenty lingerie brand. She also recently made headlines after an intruder targeted her Los Angeles residence.
Now, she's returning to her roots.
The proud Barbadian joined thousands of revelers on the streets of Bridgetown for Grand Kadooment Day in a jaw-dropping 'jewel-encrusted' carnival look. There's no question she came to let loose — she was dancing through the parade alongside fellow masqueraders and with her husbandA$Ap Rocky.
Check out the look here.
Unlike in Hollywood, where celebrity sightings can be fleeting, Rihanna happily stopped for selfies with fans as soca music blared in the background.
Her kaleidoscopic ensemble was no accident. Rihanna teamed up once again with designer Lauren Austin, who has crafted many of her Crop Over looks since 2013.
Celebs tend to opt for paradisal locales, such as Cabo, for their international beach getaways, but Rihanna clearly has no problem coming back home and soaking up the love.
Crop Over, Barbados' annual harvest festival— often compared to Carnival, much to many locals' chagrin — is a nonstop party from early July through early August. The island makes for an excellent sun-drenched vacation spot — minus a spotty hurricane season, which runs from June through November.
Chock-full of ritzy resorts and colorful Bajan culture, Barbados isn't just a sleepy island with swaying palms and crashing waves — it's one of the Caribbean's most dynamic destinations with fewer crowds than the household names of Punta Cana and Nassau.
You may not see many A-list stars vacationing here, but Rihanna is no stranger to making appearances in her homeland, last attending the same festival in 2024.
As the Grammy-winning star threw herself into the, fans were understandably thrilled to see her enjoying life as one commenter raved, "Rihanna just had three kids and she looks stunning. OMG, what a beautiful woman she is. Everything shines on her—she really does shine bright like a diamond."
Shoppers Walked Miles in Clarks’ Floral Flip-Flops With ‘Terrific Arch Support’
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If you’re looking for some sandals to add to your summer footwear collection, you can’t go wrong with a pair from Clarks, especially from its Cloudsteppers line. Gracing your feet with plush cushioning and exceptional support, Cloudstepper sandals are known for their comfort. Whether you’re sightseeing on vacation, strolling at the park, or roaming around a farmer’s market, these Clarks Brinkley Flora Cloudsteppers Flip-Flops are fit for the occasion, ensuring all-day comfort without sacrificing style.
There’s no better time than right now to snag these Clarks flip-flops, because they’re currently on sale at Amazon for up to a whopping 58% off. Normally retailing for $55, they’re now marked down to as low as $23. Prices slightly vary depending on size and style, but all sizes have options that range between $23 and $30.
Clarks Brinkley Flora Cloudsteppers Flip-Flops, From $23 (were $55) at Amazon Shop at AmazonYou can score these sandals in up to eight styles, though availability varies by size. They come in a variety of hues, including black, navy, taupe, white, and more. Sizes range from 7 to 11, and shoppers noted that these sandals fit true to size.
Made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), the footbed and midsoles were designed to cushion and cradle your feet with every step. They absorb the impact of your steps, reducing pressure on your feet and joints to help prevent fatigue. The soles are treaded and made of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), offering traction and stability on all kinds of surfaces to keep you from slipping.
These sandals have a 30-millimeter heel, offering a slight lift without compromising stability. While the heel gives them a chunky profile, these flip-flops are very lightweight, so they should be a breeze to walk in. Shoppers attested to their comfort, noting that they were able to walk miles and take over 15,000 steps in these sandals without any issues.
Crafted with a contoured footbed, these flip-flops support the natural curves of your feet. Numerous reviewers mentioned that they have "terrific arch support,” making them a great choice if you have any podiatry issues. Customers with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, high arches, and flat feet raved about how comfortable these sandals felt. Many also commented that they actually helped relieve their foot pain.
Clarks Brinkley Flora Cloudsteppers Flip-Flops, From $23 (were $55) at Amazon Shop at AmazonDesigned so you can put them on and take them off easily, these sandals have an open construction and classic Y-straps. The Y-straps sit between your big toe and second toe, and span out across your footbridge to keep your feet securely in place while walking.
While practical, the straps double as a stylish and playful accent. They’re adorned with a bold floral embellishment that adds the sweetest touch. You can style these sandals with nearly any outfit, whether it's casual attire like loungewear or athleisure, or something a bit dressier like a sundress or elevated streetwear.
It’s no surprise that these flip-flop sandals have racked up over 8,600 five-star ratings at Amazon. Numerous customers praised these shoes for their style, describing them as “chic” and “absolutely adorable.” One shopper said that these flip-flops deliver “all the comfort with an elevated look.”
Shop More Deals- Clarks Arla Wave Slide Sandals, From $32 (was $70) at Amazon
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From casual errands to activity-filled days, the Clarks Brinkley Flora Cloudsteppers Flip-Flops are bound to become your go-to shoe every time you head out the door. Don’t hesitate to grab them at Amazon while they’re on sale for as low as $23. Be sure to hurry because your preferred style and size may not be in stock for much longer!
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1968 Rock Song, 'Openly and Vocally Detested' by John Lennon, Took 42 Hours to Record
It's no secret that by the time the Beatles were in the process of recording their 1968 self-titled double album (better known as the White Album), John Lennon and Paul McCartney weren't always seeing eye to eye. One song in particular, "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da," caused quite a bit of trouble in the studio (especially from Lennon's point of view).
While McCartney wrote the song in India, the title was actually inspired by an expression he heard from a Nigerian friend.
"I had a friend called Jimmy Scott who was a Nigerian conga player, who I used to meet in the clubs in London," McCartney recalled in The Beatles Anthology.
"He had a few expressions, one of which was, ‘Ob la di ob la da, life goes on, bra,'" he continued. "I used to love this expression…He sounded like a philosopher to me. He was a great guy anyway and I said to him, ‘I really like that expression and I’m thinking of using it,’ and I sent him a cheque in recognition of that fact later because even though I had written the whole song and he didn’t help me, it was his expression."
"It’s a very me song, in as much as it’s a fantasy about a couple of people who don’t really exist, Desmond and Molly," McCartney added. "I’m keen on names too. Desmond is a very Caribbean name."
While "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" might have been a very McCartney song, Lennon was not a fan. In the book Here, There and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of The Beatles, recording engineer Geoff Emerick said Lennon "openly and vocally detested" the song, dismissing it as "more of Paul's 'granny music sh—t.'" (His distaste for the tune didn't stop Lennon from "acting the fool and doing his fake Jamaican patois," however.)
Making the situation worse, no doubt, was how long it took the Beatles to record "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da." Driven by McCartney's reported perfectionism, the band spent 42 hours trying to get the song right...which finally happened when a very frustrated Lennon took matters into his own hands.
"John Lennon came to the session really stoned, totally out of it on something or other, and he said, ‘All right, we’re gonna do ‘Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,'" recalled engineer Richard Lush in The Complete Beatles Recording Sessions. "He went straight to the piano and smashed the keys with an almighty amount of volume, twice the speed of how they’d done it before, and said, ‘This is it! Come on!’ He was really aggravated. That was the version they ended up using."
Of course, George Harrison and Ringo Starr were pretty fed up at that point, too. In fact, it's been theorized the Harrison referenced the ordeal in his own song, "Savoy Truffle," which appeared on the same album: "We all know Ob-la-di-bla-da / But can you show me where you are?"
Whatever the case, one thing's for sure: No matter how tense the vibe was behind the scenes, "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" sounds like a pretty good time.
Related: 1970 Acoustic Ballad, Banned by Radio Stations, Took Over 100 Takes to Record
NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, August 6, 2026
In today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, every answer rhymes with the last word of its clue.
Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can’t forget about the NYT’s The Mini Crossword, too!
Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.
So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Thursday, August 6, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Thursday, August 6, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: Place to see a gnu — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"
4 Across: Something a prospective college student might sign up for —HINT: Ends with the letter "R"
5 Across: Dropped a note — HINT: Starts with the letter "W"
6 Across: Makes sound through one's gums — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
7 Across: Shout after a big success — HINT: Starts with the letter "Y"
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: Meetings in virtual "rooms" — HINT: Starts with the letter "Z"
2 Down: Rarities in baseball routs — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
3 Down: Something a gold miner looks for — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"
4 Down: ___ blue — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"
5 Down: "___ should I?" — HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"
Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Answers1 Across: Place to see a gnu — ZOO
4 Across: Something a prospective college student might sign up for —TOUR
5 Across: Dropped a note — WROTE
6 Across: Makes sound through one's gums — HUMS
7 Across: Shout after a big success — YES
1 Down: Meetings in virtual "rooms" — ZOOMS
2 Down: Rarities in baseball routs — OUTS
3 Down: Something a gold miner looks for — ORE
4 Down: ___ blue — TRUE
5 Down: "___ should I?" — WHY
Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Americans' Ideal Sleep Temperature Might Shock You — What the Landmark Study Revealed
When was the last time you had a good night's sleep? Be honest with yourself!
Perhaps it has something to do with the thermostat, or the right amount of draft from outside. Indeed, a new report is stressing the role temperature plays in how Americans get some serious shuteye.
Sleep wellness brand Bear Mattress recently conducted a landmark study timed to America's 250th anniversary, uncovering how the nation truly rests. Surveying more than 2,000 adults across all 50 states, the research is said to have mapped sleep comfort, temperature preferences and bedtime behaviors, revealing how geography and generation shape the way Americans wind down.
The findings point to one clear takeaway: The country's ideal sleep temperature is a refreshingly cool 67°F, offering a data-driven snapshot of how the nation sleeps as it celebrates its semiquincentennial.
Yes, you read correctly. That go-to number of "78 degrees" is apparently a thing of a past, as Americans clearly likely it more than 10 notches lower overnight.
Per Bear Mattress' news release dated Tuesday, August 4, here are some key findings surrounding sleep temperatures:
- The sweet spot for slumber is 67°F, a perfect balance of cool comfort and cozy warmth. It's the temperature most Americans say helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer
- Almost one in four couples admit to arguing over the thermostat, proving that temperature isn't just a sleep issue, it's a relationship one.
- Hawaii tops the charts as the warmest sleeping state at 69.5°F, while Massachusetts sleeps the coldest at 63.2°F. Regional climate plays a major role in how Americans define "comfortable."
Temperature isn't the only factor shaping America's sleep, though. The survey conducted by Bear also explored habits, routines, locations and generational quirks that define bedtime in 2026. Here are a couple other takeaways:
- Nearly half of Americans spend the equivalent of three full months every year in bed, making sleep one of the most time-consuming, and essential, parts of daily life.
- Millennials are more likely to use their phones in bed than Gen Z, highlighting how technology continues to blur the line between rest and connectivity.
7-Eleven Just Launched a Brand-New Line of Sodas Nationwide
If your go-to convenience store order includes a cold soda, there's something new waiting in the cooler at 7-Eleven.
The convenience store giant has officially introduced a brand-new lineup of 7-Select sodas, giving shoppers three classic flavors at a budget-friendly price. Available now at participating locations nationwide, the new 20-ounce bottled drinks retail for $1.99 and come in three flavors. The new collection includes Cola Classic, Orange Soda, and Lemon-Lime Twist.
The company says the new drinks are part of its ongoing effort to expand its growing lineup of private-label beverages.
"7-Select Soda reflects what the 7-Select brand stands for: variety, dependable quality and value," Nikki Boyers, Vice President of Private Brands, Emerging Brands & 7 Ventures, said in a statement, per PR Newswire. She added, "This new offering is the latest example of how 7-Select keeps evolving, introducing new flavors and products that exceed expectations for what convenience should taste like."
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Earlier this summer, the retailer celebrated the countdown to its annual Free Slurpee Day with the return of its "Slurpee Drink Happy Hour" promotion, giving customers discounted frozen drinks in the weeks leading up to the popular July 11 giveaway. The annual Free Slurpee Day has become one of the chain's most anticipated promotions.
And in April, parent company Seven & i Holdings announced plans to close 645 locations across North America during its 2026 fiscal year, though roughly 200 new stores are also expected to open. While some locations will be converted into wholesale fuel stores, the company has said its newer locations will continue emphasizing larger footprints and expanded food and beverage offerings.
The beloved convenience chain first opened its doors back in 1927.
Bella Thorne Breaks Silence on Disney’s Feud Setup with Zendaya
BellaThorne is opening up about her experience co-starring with Zendaya on the Disney Channel show Shake It Off.
The 28-year-old actress shared that Disney was trying to drive a wedge between her and Zendaya during a recent appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast. During the height of their fame, the network made it so difficult for the duo that they had to sneak away while filming to discuss the situation.
“It got to a point where when we were on our Good Luck Charlie crossover, we escaped to another set in the middle of live taping — which is really ballsy, badass and rebellious. We snuck out. We knew we had three scenes until we were up again and we like just went to talk,” Thorne revealed. “We got into it, hashed it out, and it was so beautiful”
“It was my first experience — woman to woman, girl to girl — where you actually can speak,” she added. “You can both be heard about the different things you’ve been experiencing and what people are saying and how they’re trying to do this to you. You can walk out of there seeing each other… It was one of the most genuine girl-on-girl talks.”
Shake It Off followed two aspiring dancers, CeCe Jones (Thorne) and Rocky Blue (Zendaya), after they became backup dancers on a local TV show. Both actresses became breakout stars from the sitcom. It ran for three seasons and for a total of 75 episodes between 2010 and 2013.
“With women it’s like, ‘We have to make you all beg for one spot… if you can beat each other down and scrap to whatever extent we’re asking you two [and] eat yourselves alive while we have all these spots but for women, it’s just one of you…’ The patriarchy has been doing it since the beginning of time,” Thorne said. “You go back and we were 12! What’s wrong with you? We are supposed to be best friends. We play best friends. It got pretty bad.”
’80s Rock Legend Announces New Song for the First Time in 10 Years
Kai Hansen is back with new solo music.
The ’80s rock and metal legend has released “Welcome To Life,” the second single from his upcoming album, Born With A Hammer. The song marks his first new solo release in a decade, following the 2016 album XXX – Three Decades in Metal.
Hansen announced the new track on Instagram, sharing a teaser with the caption: “WELCOME TO LIFE!” The new single from my upcoming album ‘Born With A Hammer’, is out today.”
He added: “This is my anthem. Turn it up. No compromises. No apologies. Just pure enjoyment and fun.”
Kai Hansen member of the band Unisonic performs live on stage at the Monsters of Rock Festival on April 26, 2015 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.Photo by Mauricio Santana/Getty Images
The new song is the follow-up to “Feeding The Beast,” which was released as the first single from Born With A Hammer.
“Welcome To Life” shows another side of Hansen’s music. The song brings together heavy metal, punk and rock and roll, with driving guitars, changes in tempo and strong melodies.
View this post on Instagram“Welcome To Life” is the second track on Born With A Hammer. Its place early in the album also gives listeners a quick look at the wide range of sounds Hansen has prepared for his new solo record.
The album will contain 10 songs:
- “Feeding The Beast”
- “Welcome To Life”
- “Don’t Care”
- “Wait And See”
- “Born With A Hammer”
- “I.D.G.A.F.”
- “End Of The Road”
- “Triple Trouble”
- “Invaders”
- “Wonderland”
The album was produced by Eike Freese, Kai Hansen and Alexander Dietz. The recording lineup includes Freese on guitar, Heaven Shall Burn’s Alexander Dietz on bass, Carcass drummer Dan Wilding and Induction guitarist Tim Hansen.
Born With A Hammer is available in CD Digipak and limited LP formats, according to Chaoszine.
Hansen is best known as a co-founder of Helloween and the founder of Gamma Ray. He helped establish the European power metal sound during the 1980s and became one of the genre’s most recognized guitarists and songwriters.
Hansen co-founded Helloween with Michael Weikath in 1983. He remained with the band until 1989 and was involved in the group’s early releases, including Walls of Jericho and the influential Keeper of the Seven Keys albums.
After leaving Helloween, Hansen formed Gamma Ray. The band went on to become one of Germany’s long-running power metal acts, with Hansen serving as guitarist, vocalist and songwriter.
He later returned to Helloween during the band’s reunion era. Hansen and former Helloween vocalist Michael Kiske joined the group again for the major Pumpkins United period, which began with a world tour in 2017. Hansen has remained part of Helloween since then.
That long history is also reflected in Born With A Hammer. The album keeps Hansen’s heavy metal roots while adding punk energy, hard rock elements and melodic hooks.
Born With A Hammer will arrive on Sept. 18, 2026. Until then, “Welcome To Life” gives fans a new look at what Hansen has been working on during his return to solo music.
Related: ’90s Rock Band, Disbanded for Three Years, Announces News on World Tour
’90s Metal Band, Disbanded for 10 Years, Announces New Album
Exumer, the German thrash metal band, has teased listeners with an exciting update about its long-awaited new album.
Having undergone several lineup changes since its 1991 breakup, followed by a one-off reunion in 2001 and its permanent reformation in 2008, the metal veteran is back with new music, with founders Mem V. Stein and Ray Mensh joined by guitarist Marc Bräutigam, bassist Alex Voss and drummer Jerome Reil.
Seven years after releasing its fifth studio album, the five-piece band is set to introduce new music through its sixth studio album, Death Mask Messiah, via Metal Blade Records.
Longtime lead vocalist Mem V. Stein spoke about the difference between the soon-to-be-released album and the band's 2019 record, Hostile Defiance.
Mem Von Stein of Exumer during a performance in 2025 in Monterrey, Mexico.According to him, the upcoming album will feature a heavier and more intense sound without losing the classic thrash metal style and influences that made the band known in the 1980s.
“We are a lot more aggressive than on Hostile Defiance and are returning to a more ‘in your face’ style on Death Mask Messiah,” he mentioned in a statement as cited by Metal Blade. “We're furthering the process that began with our first offering for Metal Blade, 2012's 'Fire & Damnation', where we wanted to sound like a contemporary band while maintaining the spirit and our musical heritage of the 1980s.”
To give listeners another preview of Death Mask Messiah, Exumer dropped its second new single, "Allocated Savagery."
Stein described the newly released track as a “brutal musical and lyrical account” inspired by the 1993 Waco siege.
“The track captures the intensity of the confrontation with the ATF, while reflecting on themes of misinformation and division that still resonate today,” he explained, as mentioned by Distorted Sound.
View this post on InstagramWith only weeks to go before its release, the sixth studio album features 11 tracks, including its lead single, "Death Mask Messiah," which debuted in July.
Exumer's Death Mask Messiah Tracklist:
- Death Mask Messiah
- Blinding Skies
- Sin Bleeder
- Eradication
- Ravishing Waste
- Allocated Savagery
- Serpent
- Fratricide
- Scorcher
- Frozen Ground
- Unchained Angel
Related: 1983 Rock Song, Never a No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among 'Greatest Protest Songs’ of All Time
1996 Song, Secretly Tied to a ‘60s Classic, Was a Worldwide Smash Without Hitting No. 1
In the days before streaming, playlists and viral TikToks, certain songs had a way of reaching every corner of the world, without even topping the charts.
1996’s “Where Do You Go” by No Mercy was one of those songs, becoming an instantly recognizable hit through its catchy chorus that you simply couldn’t shake, released under the group's self-titled album, No Mercy.
But what many fans might not know is that the track has roots that go back decades.
The now-iconic line, “Where do you go, my lovely?” actually came from a 1969 song by Peter Sarstedt, which connected the '90s dance tune to an older Baroque pop classic, which was a No. 1 hit in the UK Singles Chart and received the 1970 Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically.
But that’s not all.
No Mercy's version that became well-known globally wasn’t even the original.
In fact, the song was initially recorded in 1995 by German group La Bouche, which was a moderate hit, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Maxi-Singles Sales chart, before No Mercy’s Latin-pop-infused cover turned it into a global phenomenon, which, when heard in the present day, instantly transports you to the carefree vibe of the '90s.
I still vividly remember being 10, jamming out to the song every time it played on the radio, and watching the music video on VIVA in my grandparents’ apartment.
“If you grew up in the 90s, this song never stopped playing in your head,” EDM. US Instagram recently wrote of the defining tune, as one fan agreed, “I still sing this randomly outloud sometimes 😂“ while another added, “Still hasn’t stopped."
View this post on Instagram"My mom burned their cassette out back in the day!!! Such a banger," added of the era-defining tune.
"Where did they go? 😂” someone else joked.
“Every time I listen to this song I get a weird nostalgic feeling that takes me back to the 90’s. Hard to explain,’ one fan wrote in the comment section of the music video, as someone else emphasized, “The 90s wasn’t just a decade, it the 90s was a VIBE…”
“I bought this CD in 1996. Song sounds just as good as it ever did,” a fan declared.
The music video was just as memorable, capturing the peak mid-90s aesthetic, with dramatic storytelling, along with romantic and beachside imagery.
The tune was released at the height of the Eurodance boom, and “Where Do You Go” quickly climbed the charts around the world.
However, it never hit No. 1, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and reaching No. 2 in the United Kingdom. It also landed in the Top 10 across multiple countries.
The single also found its way into the pop culture universe, featured in the cult comedy A Night at the Roxbury.
No Mercy was created by controversial hitmaker and producer Frank Farian, the mastermind behind acts like Boney M. and Milli Vanilli. The latter became a lip-sync scandal after it was revealed that the duo had not performed the vocals on their recordings, leading to their 1990 Grammy Award for Best New Artist being revoked.
The trio of No Mercy consisted of Bronx-born Marty Cintron and twin brothers from Miami Ariel and Gabriel Hernández.
Decades later, the song serves as a time capsule, instantly transporting fans to simpler days when the guitar melody brings a memory to life.
Was the song in your rotation in the '90s?
'MasterChef' Sends Home a Fan Favorite After High-Stakes Viral Cooking Challenge — See Who Went Home
MasterChef: Global Gauntlet is down to 11 home cooks as the competition to win the grand prize of $250,000 and the trophy awarded by host/judge Gordon Ramsay, judge Joe Bastianich and judge Tiffany Derry continued tonight.
As this is the Global Gauntlet season, the teams are divided up into regions of the world: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and The Americas.
Tonight, social media chef and past MasterChef contestant Nick DiGiovanni joined as a special guest to test the chefs' ability to turn their cultural roots into the next viral food sensation. With an exciting collaboration opportunity with DiGiovanni on the line, the contestants had to strike the perfect balance between authenticity and social media appeal in the "Global Feed” episode. And the home chefs also learned that there is no more Immunity Pin for the winner of the best dish.
Check out our spoiler-filled recap below to find out who went home on MasterChef tonight.
Who went home on MasterChef tonight? Maria-BourlandPhoto credit: FOX
Maria BourlandRepresenting: Brazil
Current Residence: Miami Beach, FL
Basia Newman
Representing: Poland
Current Residence: Asbury Park, NJ
Julia Cili
Representing: Italy
Current Residence: Miami, FL
Foo Nguyen
Representing: Vietnam
Current Residence: Irvine, CA
Aishu Challa
Representing: India
Current Residence: Georgetown, MA
Jaime Tan
Representing: Malaysia
Current Residence: Los Angeles, CA
Related: MasterChef Judges Deliver Devastating Elimination After ‘Royal Wedding’ Challenge Disaster
TEAM AFRICAPeter Egede
Representing: Nigeria
Current Residence: Dallas, TX
Dave Patera
Representing: Morocco
Current Residence: Chicago, IL
Heidi Muston
Representing: South Africa
Current Residence: Plantation, FL
Related: MasterChef’s Tiffany Derry Reveals the Biggest Mistake Contestants Keep Making (Exclusive)
TEAM AMERICASTkaiya Dryden
Representing: Jamaica
Current Residence: Jamaica Queens, NY
Jake Kelley
Representing: Mexico
Current Residence: Mount Pleasant, MI
Photo credit: FOX
After last week’s team challenge, it was back to every man/woman for themselves with a new Mystery Box challenge, but when the box was lifted, it didn’t reveal ingredients, but phones and tablets.
Nick told them to go viral, “You need visuals that stop people, then you need flavor that makes it worth staying, and it needs to be accessible so someone at home feels they can try it.”
“This is as much a plating challenge as it is a cooking challenge,” Joe added.
The top dishes were:
Asia-Pacific: Jamie – Pandan Surprise Coconut Cup
Europe: Julia – Mount Etna Raviolo
Africa: Dave – Seffa Medfouna
Americas: Jake – Horchata Crème Brûlée in a Churro Bowl
Top dish and the winner of the collaboration with Nick went to Julia.
“I made it into the Top 10 on MasterChef, I am so pumped I can’t believe it,” she said.
Who was in the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet bottom three this week? Maria-BourlandPhoto credit: FOX
The bottom three dishes were:
Asia-Pacific: Foo – Vietnamese Sizzling Crepe Taco
Africa: Peter – Plantain Funnel Cake
Americas: Maria – Baby Octopus Rice
The home cook leaving the MasterChef kitchen was Maria.
“I am feeling a little sad that I am going home but at the same time, I am beyond proud of everything I’ve accomplished here on MasterChef,” she said. “I am so proud to have represented Brazil to show my culture, my flavors. It means the whole world to me. This opportunity was incredible. I can walk with my head held high.”
MasterChef airs Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.
Next, MasterChef Returns With an International Theme for Season 16 in 2026 — What to Know
1972 Rock Hit, Recorded in a Single Day, Is Making a Sudden Resurgence
It's not unusual for classic rock songs to show up in TV commercials decades after they were released, but Meta's recent AI commercial featuring "Five Years" from David Bowie's 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars is a more controversial pairing of product to music than most.
The commercial paints a hopeful portrait of the future of humanity, as assisted by AI: Smiling kids, butterflies, rainbows and hugs. “Call us optimists, call us dreamers, call us whatever the hell you want — but we’re betting on people, and we like those odds,” says the narrator.
The message is supposed to be comforting, a reassurance that technology won't destroy civilization as we know it. Except, "Five Years" is actually about the end of the world, so...what gives?
In a 1974 interview with fellow icon William Burroughs for Rolling Stone, Bowie explained the concept behind the scenario described in "Five Years," which was recorded on November 15, 1971, and how it fit into the Ziggy Stardust album as a whole.
"The time is five years to go before the end of the earth," Bowie said. "It has been announced that the world will end because of lack of natural resources. Ziggy is in a position where all the kids have access to things that they thought they wanted. The older people have lost all touch with reality and the kids are left on their own to plunder anything. Ziggy was in a rock & roll band and the kids no longer want rock & roll. There’s no electricity to play it. Ziggy’s adviser tells him to collect news and sing it, ’cause there is no news. So Ziggy does this and there is terrible news."
Not exactly the kind of thing that would make for a cheerful social media post, as many commenters on an Instagram video of the ad were quick to point out. Criticisms ranged from "This is so dystopian" to "This is the type of video they show at the beginning of movies then the camera zooms out of a screen to show the war and destruction happening around because of the consequences."
When WIRED reached out to Meta for a comment, spokesperson Francis Brennan told the outlet he “would like to highlight what David Bowie himself said about ‘Five Years’ and its meaning: having optimism for the future.”
Michael Putland / Getty Images
In a 1974 interview with NME, per the Bowie Bible, Bowie did offer a somewhat more positive interpretation of the song.
"Okay, well if this is going to be an inevitable situation with the chronicles of rock, and one must presume that it will be, then I would strive to use that position to promote some feeling of optimism in the future, which might seem very hypocritical related to ‘Five Years,'" he said.
"There the whole thing was to try and get a mocking angle at the future," Bowie continued. "If I can mock something and deride it, one isn’t so scared of it. People are so incredibly serious and scared of the future that I would wish to turn the feeling the other way, into a wave of optimism. If one can take the micky out of the future, and what it is going to be like…it's going to be unbelievably technological. There isn’t going to be a triangle system, we aren’t going to revert back to the real way of life. That’s not going to happen. It’s certainly not a new thing, my god I haven’t got any new concept. I juggle with them, but what I’m saying, I think, has been said a million times before. I’m just saying again that we’ve gotta have some optimism in the future."
As Jeremy D. Larson, the deputy director of Pitchfork, told WIRED, because Warner Chappell Music owns Bowie’s catalog, it's up to them to decide who gets to use his music in commercials.
“Meta choosing this specific song where the context for human connection is the apocalypse seems either really ignorant or really insidious,” Larson said, adding, “I don't know, maybe in that context it's genius. Hearing [Bowie’s] work used for AI just feels especially and specifically nonconsensual."
At the very least, a classic Bowie tune is reaching a new generation of listeners.
Related: 'The Greatest Rock Star' Ever Just Hit a Major Milestone 10 Years After His Death
Shark’s Viral Cordless Stain Cleaner Is a ‘Total Game-Changer’ for Tackling Pet Messes, and It’s on Sale
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Whether you're raising kids, living with pets, or simply trying to keep your home looking its best, stains are almost impossible to avoid. From muddy paw prints and coffee spills to everyday wear and tear, carpets and upholstery can quickly start looking less than their best. The longer those messes sit, the harder they become to remove, often leaving you with the choice of replacing furniture or paying for professional cleaning.
@tylafindsA must have for pet owners and parents ✨ #shark #stainforce #stainremover
♬ original sound - Tyla FindsOne cleaning gadget that's been getting plenty of attention online is the Shark StainForce Cordless Cleaning System. Shoppers have been raving about its powerful cleaning performance and cordless convenience since it first hit shelves last year, making it one of the latest viral home cleaning tools. Right now, it's available from $142 at Walmart, and you can also find it at Amazon.
Shark StainForce Cordless Cleaning System, From $142 (was $159) at Walmart Shop at WalmartWhat makes it stand out is its all-in-one cleaning system. Instead of mixing cleaning solutions yourself, the machine uses a dual-formula bottle that combines the solutions as you spray. Simply soak the stain, scrub, and let the powerful suction lift away dirt and spills in just a few passes. According to Shark, the dual formulas provide 30 times more stain-fighting power, activating on contact to tackle everything from fresh spills to older, stubborn stains.
Beyond stains, it's also designed to help neutralize lingering odors from pets, smoke, and everyday accidents. That makes it especially useful for pet owners, families potty training young children, or anyone dealing with stubborn smells. Its low-moisture cleaning system also uses less liquid than traditional spot cleaners, helping surfaces dry more quickly.
One of the biggest advantages is its cordless design. Weighing under 3 pounds, it's lightweight enough to grab the moment a spill happens without dragging out a bulky machine or searching for an outlet. That convenience makes it much more likely you'll actually clean stains before they have time to set.
It's also surprisingly versatile. While it's ideal for carpets, rugs, upholstery, and stairs, the cordless design makes it easy to clean car interiors, patio cushions, strollers, pet beds, and other fabric surfaces around the house. It's one of those cleaning tools that ends up getting used far more often than expected.
Shoppers seemed especially impressed with its performance. One reviewer, who is a working parent with a dog, called it a “total game-changer” and “an absolute must-have for busy households” in a five-star review. They wrote, “The cleaning power is seriously impressive, tackling tough stains effortlessly. I also love its ergonomics; it's so lightweight and easy to maneuver.”
Another shopper described it as “compact and powerful,” sharing, “This is such a great tool to clean up pet messes or spills on the carpets and furniture. I also have a few dog beds that are not washable and this is a perfect tool to keep them spotless.”
Shark StainForce Cordless Cleaning System, From $140 (was $170) at Amazon Shop at AmazonIf you're shopping around, there are a few versions available depending on where you buy it. Both Walmart and Amazon carry the Shark StainForce Cordless Cleaning System, with options that include either no caddy or accessory bundles featuring a crevice tool or wide stain tool to better suit your cleaning needs.
Shop More Deals- Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, From $99 (was $140) at Walmart
- Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum, $158 (was $260) at Walmart
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, $199 at Walmart
Related: Walmart’s ‘Powerful’ $30 HEPA Air Purifier Helps Tackle Odors, Dust, and Wildfire Smoke
If you're ready to invest in one of the internet's favorite cleaning gadgets, the Shark StainForce Cordless Cleaning System is worth considering. Its cordless design, powerful stain removal, and versatile cleaning capabilities make it a handy addition to almost any home, whether you order it from Walmart or Amazon.
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1986 Hit Film by Beloved Director Gets Named the Most Fun Comedy of All Time
To even be considered in the comedy genre, a film needs to provide a good time for its audience. In August 2026, Collider spotlighted some of the most joyful movies in the genre by releasing a ranking of "the 10 most fun comedies of all time."
The publication included titles like 1998's The Big Lebowski, the 1952 musical Singin' in the Rain, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy from 2004, and 1985's Back to the Future in the August 4 list. According to Collider, the "most fun" comedy film ever released is the John Hughes-written and directed 1986 movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off. The publication noted that the film, which has an 85 percent Rotten Tomatoes score, shows Ferris (Matthew Broderick) do his best to convince his best friend Cameron (Alan Ruck) to go on an adventure without the worry of consequences.
Arguably, one of the reasons Ferris Bueller's Day Off is so rewatchable is the chemistry between Cameron and Ferris. However, in a 2020 interview on Reunited Apart with Josh Gad, Broderick and Ruck revealed that some producers didn't believe they could convincingly play best friends after a wardrobe test with Mia Sara, who played Sloane.
"They didn't think we had chemistry for a minute there," said Ruck during the interview.
He went on to say that Broderick was confronted about the situation during the film's first rehearsal.
"Mathew came in and was like, 'Hi, what's going on? How is everybody?' and then he said, 'Apparently not well.' And then they laid this whole thing on Matthew, and he said, 'Wow, I didn't know anyone was supposed to glow during a wardrobe test.' And it just let the air out of this whole thing," recalled the Succession actor.
Ruck also said that he and Broderick felt at ease on the Ferris Bueller's Day Off set because they had previously co-starred in a stage production of the Neil Simon play Biloxi Blues.
"We were already pals with a similar sense of humor, so we didn't have to make anything up like you always to with the first day of shooting. Like 'this is your girlfriend, this is your mother, like instant relationship,'" said Ruck during the podcast interview.
Before You Buy a Squishy Toy, Read This Urgent Federal Warning
Parents shopping for the latest squishy toy may want to take a closer look before making a purchase.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a new consumer safety alert on Aug. 5 warning families about fake and counterfeit squishy toys that may pose serious hazards to children. The agency also renewed its warning against a viral social media trend encouraging children and teens to microwave the popular squeeze toys.
According to the CPSC, counterfeit squishy toys may fail to meet federal safety standards designed to protect children. Officials say some products can contain hazardous chemicals, unsafe small parts or water beads, while others lack required testing, warning labels and manufacturer information.
The agency also warned that heating squishy toys, whether in a microwave, inside a hot vehicle or even left in direct sunlight, can cause them to become dangerously hot or burst. If that happens, the sticky filling can cling to skin and continue transferring heat, potentially causing severe burns.
Some counterfeit toys may also tear open during normal play, exposing children to their contents. If a toy contains water beads, the beads can expand if swallowed, potentially causing intestinal blockages, choking or other serious injuries. The CPSC says other unknown filling materials could present inhalation, ingestion or chemical exposure hazards.
Federal officials said they have already identified 55 shipments of noncompliant squishy toys entering U.S. ports and worked with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to stop more than 355,000 unsafe toys from reaching store shelves. The agency said it will continue targeting dangerous products through import inspections and enforcement actions.
The CPSC recommends buying squishy toys only from reputable retailers and verified sellers. Parents should also avoid toys with missing manufacturer information, poor-quality packaging, strong chemical odors, oily or sticky surfaces, leaks or signs that they can be torn apart easily.
Officials also stress that squishy toys should never be microwaved or intentionally heated, despite videos circulating on social media. Any toy that becomes damaged, leaks or begins to deteriorate should be thrown away immediately and kept away from children.
If someone suffers a burn from a heated squishy toy, the CPSC advises placing the affected skin under cool running water for at least 20 minutes, gently washing away any remaining material with mild soap, covering the burn with a sterile nonstick dressing and seeking medical attention for severe burns, burns involving young children or signs of infection.
Consumers can report any incidents of injuries or product defects to the CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov.
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