Monday, May 18, 2026 • 3 min read

Wake up with The Yodel

by Natasha Frost with Harriet Sinclair

Happy Monday, everyone. If you’re planning to overhaul your budget, this simple rule can help curb overspending and build healthier habits. Now, on to the news.

Need to know

A woman holds an award while standing at a microphone against a pink backdrop.

Ella Langley accepts the award for female artist of the year during the 61st annual Academy of Country Music Awards. | Chris Pizzello/AP

Country music’s biggest and brightest stars gathered in Las Vegas for the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards, hosted by Shania Twain. Here’s what went down.

Queen of modern country: Singer-songwriter Ella Langley swept all seven of her nominations across five categories, and her song “Choosin’ Texas” won Song of the Year and Single of the Year. Cody Johnson took home Entertainer of the Year and Male Artist of the Year. See all the winners. [AP/Yahoo Entertainment]
On the red carpet: Kacey Musgraves rocked a graphic black and white strapless dress, Langley lent into a bridal look and Twain’s striking ensemble included a train, silver sparkles and a black panther design, set off by new auburn tresses. See the best looks. [Variety]
Most heartfelt moments: Shaboozey and Twain wished Willie Nelson a happy 93rd birthday, Lauren Alaina opened up about mental health and Langley honored the trailblazing women who supported her. “I would not be standing here without just the encouragement of so many women,” she said. [People]

In case you missed it

The cast of SNL stands on stage with Will Ferrell at the front.

Pictured: (l-r) Veronika Slowikowska, Chloe Fineman, Jane Wickline, Jeremy Culhane, Ben Marshall, Chloe Fineman, and host Will Ferrell on SNL. | Lloyd Bishop/NBC via Getty Images

‘SNL’ finale

The ghost of Jeffrey Epstein, Pete Hegseth’s “beer bong” and a musical appearance from Paul McCartney: Saturday Night Live’s 51st season ended with a bang, with Will Ferrell hosting. Another surprise? The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith. Catch up. [Yahoo News]

Jets collide in Idaho

An air show near Boise, Idaho, was abruptly canceled after two fighter jets crashed to the ground after colliding in midair. All four crew members safely ejected and were in a stabilized condition, a spokesperson said. The incident is being investigated. [CBS News]

Ebola outbreak

Global health authorities are scrambling to contain an Ebola outbreak affecting hundreds of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda that is suspected to have killed dozens. The U.S. is trying to relocate a “small number” of its affected citizens. [CNN]

Shootings in Texas

Assailants in Austin wounded at least four people in at least 10 random shootings between Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Two boys, aged 15 and 17, were arrested, and the authorities are searching for a third potential suspect. No motive was identified. [AP]

Cleveland thrashes Pistons

The Cavaliers trounced the Pistons to clinch a 4-3 series victory. Cleveland dominated early and never looked back, fueled by 25 busloads of fans reportedly brought in by owner Dan Gilbert. Next up: Can Cleveland match the Knicks? [Yahoo Sports]

What’s happening today

Mike Tompkins/AcornTV

Now streaming

Love a mystery? In You're Killing Me, now on Acorn TV, a bestselling novelist and an aspiring writer team up to find a killer, against the backdrop of a quaint New England town. Brooke Shields stars. Watch the teaser. [Parade]

On TV

It’s a procedural twofer on CBS, with the Season 8 finale of FBI at 8 p.m. ET, followed by the Season 1 finale of CIA at 9 p.m. ET. The FBI spinoff was recently renewed for a second season after just four weeks on the air. [Hollywood Reporter]

On the diamond

The Dodgers are riding high after a decisive weekend sweep against the Angels, fueled by a star performance from Roki Sasaki. Up next, Los Angeles plays the Padres at 9:40 p.m. ET on MLB Network. [NY Post Sports]

On the court

The Sun plays the Fire at 10 p.m. ET on WNBA League Pass, with both teams looking to recover from recent losses. Can Connecticut come back from a four-game skid? [AP]

And don't forget to...

Read your daily horoscope. Play the crossword. Check the forecast in your area.

Today in history

Illustration: Yahoo News; photo: Rex Brown/WireImage via Getty Images

In 2004, Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson became the oldest pitcher in MLB history to throw a perfect game, at age 40. The lanky left-hander made his debut with the Montreal Expos before being traded to the Mariners in 1989. See how Seattle recently honored his tenure. [AP]

Feel-good moment

Luke Pellegrino/Dogs Inc

Raising guide dog puppies Maverick and Electra has been a win-win for optometry student Luke Pellegrino. Luke says he’s driven by the chance to change a life, though he admits the four-legged company is also the ultimate antidote to the stress of grad school. Read about his journey. [People]

Your daily advice

For the tastiest chicken breasts, take inspiration from top chefs with a classic saltwater brine. Even 30 minutes makes a big difference. [Simple Recipes]