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Comedy legend Carol Burnett, one of the most influential figures in television history, turns 93 on April 26.

Burnett rose to national fame in the 1960s before making television history with The Carol Burnett Show, which ran for 11 seasons from 1967 to 1978. The series was groundbreaking for its time, making Burnett the first woman to host a comedy-variety show and helping redefine what sketch comedy could look like on television.

Blending musical numbers, film parodies and unforgettable characters, the show became a massive success, earning 23 Emmy Awards during its run and cementing Burnett as one of the defining comedic voices of her era. Sketches like “Went with the Wind!”—a parody of Gone With the Wind—remain some of the most iconic moments in television comedy.

One of the show’s most enduring trademarks was Burnett’s connection with the audience. She often opened episodes with an unscripted question-and-answer segment, showcasing her quick wit and ability to improvise. She also ended each show by tugging her ear—a gesture that became her signature and a quiet message to her grandmother, who had helped raise her. Those personal touches helped set the show apart and made viewers feel like they were part of something special.

Her influence extends far beyond that single show. Over the course of her career, Burnett has earned seven Emmy Awards, seven Golden Globe Awards, a Grammy Award and a Tony Award, along with honors like the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Burnett’s impact on television has been so lasting that in 2019, the Golden Globes introduced the Carol Burnett Award for career achievement in television, naming her as its first recipient.

She has also remained active well into her later years, appearing in projects like Better Call Saul, Palm Royale and Hacks, continuing to reach new audiences decades after her breakout success.

As she celebrates her 93rd birthday, Burnett’s legacy as one of the greatest comedic performers of all time—and a trailblazer who opened the door for generations of women in comedy—remains firmly intact.

Cast your mind back to April 26, 2017. It was a time before the pandemic and before everything going on in the world right now with a cost of living crisis and questions about what comes next. This was the date The Handmaid’s Tale first premiered.

At the time, we had no idea what it would become. There wasn’t even a way to see how it could continue more than one season. While it had source material, that source material was nothing like Game of Thrones and Outlander. Was it possible to continue the tale?

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ Brought Life to Offred

The very first episode quickly proved that The Handmaid’s Tale would be a show to watch. It remained relatively faithful to the story that we knew by Margaret Atwood. We got to meet Offred, Commander Fred Waterford, and his wife Serena-Joy. Aunt Lydia, Ofglen, and many others were quickly introduced, making it clear that this was Atwood’s world that she had created back in 1985.

The series quickly made it clear that it would differ from the book, as Elisabeth Moss's Offred received her own name: June Osborne. It was a name never mentioned in the novel, suggesting that there were many more ideas to flesh out the world of Gilead for show lovers.

It was culturally relevant, even in 2017. Little did we know that it would grow into something even more relevant and eye-opening, but that’s exactly what has happened. It was quickly renewed for second season, and eventually, it would go on for six seasons, telling a much bigger story than the book ever did.

That was the big question at first. How could the series go past the end of the book? It did so because it had the freedom to do that. The book ends with Offred being taken away, and we have no idea what happened to her because there were no more tapes to “listen” to. Bruce Miller was able to tell us what he thought happened, which was slightly different to the ending of the 1990 movie starring the late Natasha Richardson.

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‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ Led to a Sequel

Despite the novel being published in 1985, it wasn’t until 2019 that a sequel was written. That sequel is now being transformed into a TV series. The Testaments premiered almost nine years to the day of The Handmaid’s Tale, premiering back on April 8, 2026.

It continues the story of Gilead, this time focusing on June’s teenage daughter Hannah, who has been raised as Agnes in Gilead. The novel includes June’s younger daughter, but the TV series has changed Daisy’s identity to suit its own timeline, and that makes perfect sense — books and shows are different entities.

However, none of this would have been possible without the success of The Handmaid’s Tale series premiere. Yes, Atwood even made a cameo in that episode, and there's one to come in the sequel.

If you’ve ever heard of the psychological theory of the “hierarchy of needs,” then you’ve heard of Abraham Maslow’s work. In addition to being a psychologist, he was also a philosopher who popularized the self-actualization theory of psychology, which argues that the “primary goal of psychotherapy should be the integration of the self,” per Britannica.

Born on April 1, 1908, in Brooklyn, NY, Maslow was the oldest of seven children and came from a first-generation Jewish immigrant family from Kyiv (now the capital of Ukraine, but at the time it was a part of the Russian Empire), per the School of Philosophy and Economic Science. And in the vein of his main research and work on the self and hierarchy of needs, our quote of the day includes his thoughts on growth and the choices we have to make to either level up or stay “safe.”

As Positive Psychology reported, Maslow was “one of the most influential psychologists of the 20th century.” His work advanced the field of humanistic psychology, which is a movement that believes humans are unique individuals and “should be recognized and treated as such” by mental health professionals, according to Britannica. This is where his hierarchy of needs theory comes in, where he argued that each human has this order in which needs need to be satisfied. This includes basic physiological needs (food, water, shelter, etc.), then safety needs (security, resources), followed by love needs, esteem needs and then self-actualization at the top.

Maslow studied psychology at the University of Wisconsin, then studied Gestalt psychology at the New School for Social Research in New York City. He became the head of the psychology department at Brandeis University in 1951 and stayed there until he retired in 1969. He died on June 8, 1970, and his work still influences psychology to this day.

Today’s quote is in line with the majority of his teachings and research and, again, talks about what we need to do to grow. Hint: it’s the opposite of staying in our comfort zone. 

Related: Quote of the Day: Historian Howard Zinn on Hope in Hard Times

Quote of the Day by Abraham Maslow

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"In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety."

This is the most popular version of this quote, though the quote is also often written as, “You will either step forward into growth, or you will step backward into safety.” This is what you can find in Brian Tracy’s 2009 book, How the Best Leaders Lead: Proven Secrets to Getting the Most Out of Yourself and Others, at the beginning of the chapter, “Leaders Know Themselves.”

As the different variations might have hinted at, this quote is attributed to Maslow, but there isn’t a direct quote in his writing that is this exact sentence. However, it is a good summation of what he reported on in his work and ultimately what he believed.

Related: Quote of the Day: Political Activist Angela Davis on Uplifting Others as We Succeed

Deeper Meaning of Abraham Maslow’s Quote—Growth vs. Staying Safe

As this truncated quote says, based on Maslow’s work, there are often two options: grow and take a leap of faith, or stay in your comfort zone. 

It’s really easy to continue to live in your comfort zone, because it’s familiar and it does feel safe. But just because something is a safe choice doesn’t mean it’s a good choice; as many would argue (Maslow included, probably), going with your “safe” option actually might hinder you from reaching your full potential. 

Just because something is safe doesn’t inherently mean it’s bad or a choice that will hinder you going forward. For example, a safety college is still a good place to attend if it’s the best financial choice, or it’s the best college you got into. But if that “safe” choice is stopping your progress or holding you back, then it is, such as sticking with a toxic partner or staying at home to help your parents out—and letting life pass you by—when that’s not your job.

Essentially, to evolve and gain success in life, you have to do the hard things. You have to take risks, and you have to push yourself out of your comfort zone. If you don’t, you’ll never reach your full potential. 

Specifically in his 1961 book, Toward a Psychology of Being, Maslow writes about this exact concept: that you can either go forward and grow, or stay where you are, where it’s “safe.”

“Every human being has both sets of forces within him. One set clings to safety and defensiveness out of fear, tending to regress backward, hanging on to the past, afraid to grow away from the primitive communication with the mother’s uterus and breast, afraid to take chances, afraid to jeopardize what he already has, afraid of independence, freedom and separateness. The other set of forces impels him forward toward wholeness of Self and uniqueness of Self, toward full functioning of all his capacities, toward confidence in the face of the external world at the same time that he can accept his deepest, real, unconscious Self.”

His hierarchy of needs theory puts self-actualization at the top, making it the thing humans are aiming for; it’s the point in development where someone can understand themselves the best and reach their full potential. As Britannica reported, it’s something one can reach after meeting all their other needs. And Maslow writes in this book that a very small percentage of people actually reach full self-actualization. Why? Because of what this quote states: people are okay staying in their safety zones rather than taking those leaps to grow. 

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist B.F. Skinner on Perseverance, Reframing and Never Giving Up

More Quotes from Abraham Maslow

• “I suppose it is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail.”
• “To the man who only has a hammer, everything he encounters begins to look like a nail.”
• “It isn't normal to know what we want. It is a rare and difficult psychological achievement.”
• “A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be”
• “What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself.”
• “If you plan on being anything less than you are capable of being, you will probably be unhappy all the days of your life.”

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Erich Fromm on Lasting Love, Loyalty and Commitment

If you're looking for a good tune to listen to while sitting at a bar, crying into your beer, you can't do better than "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song," which is about doing just that. The country classic hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 51 years ago today on April 26, 1975, marking the second (and last) time singer B.J. Thomas would top that particular chart. (The first time was with "Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head" in 1970.)

Written by Larry Butler and Chips Moman, "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song" is sung from the perspective of someone whose misery needs a little company:

"Hey, won't you play another / Somebody done somebody wrong song / And make me feel at home / While I miss my baby / While I miss my baby / So play, play for me / A sad melody / So sad that it makes everybody cry / A real hurtin' song / About a love that's gone wrong / 'Cause I don't want to cry all alone"

Pretty straightforward stuff.

As Tom Breihan of Stereogum pointed out, "This is not a complicated song, and it doesn't have all the sharp and finely observed storytelling touches of the best country music. There's a bit of mid-'70s dinkiness to it — the ukulele-sounding guitar strum, the weirdly jaunty trumpet that sometimes pops up. But the arrangement mostly nails the Nashville countrypolitan sound, with its welled-up strings and its consoling pedal-steel murmurs. And Thomas sells it all, his tough baritone keeping things conversational but still sounding wounded."

Not only did "(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song" make it all the way to #1, it broke a record when it got there by having the longest title of any Hot 100-topping single ever, according to Joel Whitburn's Top Adult Contemporary: 1961-2001. Six years later, however, the song known as "Stars on 45" broke the same record (the song's official charting title is actually 41 words long.

Tom Breihan sang the 'Growing Pains' theme song

Even though Breihan's #1 hits obviously put him on the map, he might be most famous for singing one of the most popular sit-com songs of the '80s, the Growing Pains theme song, "As Long As We Got Each Other."

Thomas performed the song solo for the first season, with Jennifer Warnes joining him for a duet featured in most of the other seasons (other versions included one with Dusty Springfield accompanying Thomas).

Related: 1969 Tearjerker Ranked Among 'Greatest Songs in Country Music' Was a No. 1 Hit 57 Years Ago Today

Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Sunday, April 26, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Sunday, April 26, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on April 26, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Whack!
• Green: Hoops team monikers.
• Blue: Common last name.
• Purple: Not 2 or 3.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: HARD-HIT BASEBALL
• Green: NBA TEAMS WITH SINGULAR NICKNAMES
• Blue: ____ JOHNSON
• Purple: WHAT "1" MIGHT MEAN

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #580 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• HARD-HIT BASEBALL: FROZEN ROPE, LASER, LINER, SCREAMER
• NBA TEAMS WITH SINGULAR NICKNAMES: HEAT, JAZZ, MAGIC, THUNDER
• ____ JOHNSON: FLAU'JAE, GUS, LANE, RANDY
• WHAT "1" MIGHT MEAN: FASTBALL, PITCHER, POINT GUARD, TOP RANK

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: 9 Items To Buy From Aldi's Produce Section and 6 To Skip

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #784 on Sunday, April 26.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Get into it"

A hint for today's Strands game: Shop till you drop.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are seven theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• QU
• DI
• BI
• AR
• SQ
• WR
• LO (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is a mix of vertical and horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for April 26

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, April 26, 2026, isLOCKHORNS.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, April 26?

• QUARREL
• DIFFER
• BICKER
• ARGUE
• SQUABBLE
• WRANGLE
• SPANGRAM: LOCKHORNS

Related: 9 Items To Buy From Aldi's Produce Section and 6 To Skip

With Season 3 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds now behind us, what in store for us in Season 4? With only two seasons left of the series, will we see Spock (Ethan Peck) become the stoic older version we have come to know and love? Will we encounter a young Sulu or a young resident McCoy? Or perhaps an even younger Chekov? Here’s what we know so far about Season 4 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

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What is Star Trek: Strange New Worlds about?

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds takes place in an era when Capt. Christopher Pike (Anson Mount) manned the helm of the U.S.S. Enterprise. With his Number One, Una Chin-Riley (Rebecca Romijn) and Vulcan Science Officer Spock (Peck) at his side, Pike and the Enterprise will explore new worlds around the galaxy.

The three characters previously appeared in Season 2 of Star Trek: Discovery.

When is the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4 release date?

Season 4 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds will premiere on Thursday, July 23 on Paramount+ with episodes dropping weekly on Thursdays.

What happened in Season 3 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds?

SPOILERS! If you have not watched the entirety of Season 3, skip this section or pause and come back after you have viewed all ten episodes.

Picking up from the Season 2 finale, the crew of the Enterprise managed to rescue their fellow shipmates from the Gorn and send the Gorn into a sort of hibernation state. We met Trelane (Rhys Darby), an alien that gave viewers a hankering for Lucky Charms, and we were finally given proof that Trelane was indeed related to Q (John de Lancie). We saw La'an (Chong) beta-test the first prototype of the Holodeck and Ortegas (Melissa Navia) faced her fears and her long-held beliefs when she crash-landed on a toxic moon with no visible means of escape or rescue.

We learned Una had a torrid relationship with Doug (Patton Oswalt), a Vulcan who she had to turn to for help in "Four-and-a-Half Vulcans". With Chapel (Jess Bush) off with Korby (Cillian O'Sullivan) and Kirk (Wesley) off on the Farragut and already in another relationship, Spock and La'an turn to each other and eventually enter into a romantic relationship.

With the Gorn out of the picture, we needed a new enemy to face in Season 3. Enter the Vezda, an ancient malevolent species that could take over bodies, and did so with the season's red shirt, Nurse Gamble (Chris Meyers). After recovering from the Gorn attack at the end of Season 2, Marie (Melanie Scrofano) recuperated throughout Season 3 in the arms of Captain Pike (Mount) and his private quarters. She was treated with a variety of remedies, including Una's Illyrian blood, the Chimera blossom and Spock's mind melds. The combination of everything, including the Gorn DNA, changed Batel, morphing her into a foe strong enough to challenge the Vezda. She dispatches the baddies, leaving Pike and the earthly plane behind. By the end of the season finale, Dr. Korby gives Nurse Chapel scans of areas of the universe that the Federation has yet to explore.

Where is Star Trek: Strange New Worlds filmed?

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is filmed in Toronto, Canada.

When did Season 4 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds film?

Season 4 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds filmed from March to August 2025.

What is the plot of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4?

In the upcoming fourth season, the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise—led by Captain Christopher Pike—embarks on a series of thrilling and emotional adventures across the stars. As they journey to strange new worlds, they will battle inner demons and external threats, encounter colorful new characters, reunite with familiar faces and confront terrifying aliens. Through it all, they strive to embrace a bright, hopeful future.

No specific storylines have been officially released for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4, but we do know there will be an episode that is all...puppets. Check out the teaser below.

Parade asked Carol Kane, who plays Pelia on the show, what viewers can expect in Season 4. Her response? “We’ve done so many crazy, out-of-the-box things you could never imagine, and they’ve been beautifully done. So the only way I can tease it is to say, as Bette Davis said in All About Eve, 'Buckle your seat belts. You’re in for a bumpy ride!'"

Related: Jamie Lee Curtis Makes Her 'Star Trek' Debut: Get the Scoop on How It Happened (Exclusive)

Will there be a Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 5?

Yes! Paramount+ announced a Season 5 pickup. Sadly, that will mark the final season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Who is in the cast of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4? Anson Mount as Christopher Pike in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Anson Mount (Capt. Christopher Pike)

Captain Pike is the immediate predecessor to Capt. James T. Kirk on the Enterprise. The character has been played by four actors so far. Jeffrey Hunter originated the role in the pilot episode, but after the pilot was rejected, he withdrew from the series, and the show was reimagined with Kirk at the helm instead. Within the original series, Sean Kenney plays an older Pike, with the show using footage from the unaired pilot as archival footage of the character. In the recent Star Trek film by J.J. Abrams and Justin Lin, Bruce Greenwood plays Pike and is a mentor to a young James Kirk (Chris Pine).

Mount is probably best known for his role as Cullen Bohannon on AMC’s Hell on Wheels. He also starred in the short-lived Marvel series, Inhumans and has appeared on Dollhouse, Law & Order, Lost and Smallville. When asked about being cast as Captain Pike, Mount said, “I just never thought I would end up captaining the Enterprise. Every single day I’m on the set—I’m not exaggerating—is both disbelief and a feeling of tremendous gratitude.”

Rebecca Romijn as Una Chin-Riley in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Rebecca Romijn (Number One/Una Chin-Riley)

Number One’s real name is Una Chin-Riley and was first portrayed by Majel Barrett, who was Gene Roddenberry‘s second wife. She also portrayed Lwaxana Troi, the mother of Counselor Deanna Troi (Marina Sirtis) on Star Trek: The Next Generation. She was also the voice of the ship’s computer from the franchise’s premiere until 2009 (Barrett died in 2008).

Romijn made her start as a model with Cosmopolitan and Sports Illustrated covers. She also had Tommy Hilfiger and Victoria’s Secret ads in her portfolio—before delving into acting. In recent years, Romijn has been a part of several successful franchises, including the X-Men films and television shows like Ugly Betty, Eastwick and The Librarians.

Related: How to Watch Star Trek Shows In Chronological Order

Ethan Peck as Spock in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Ethan Peck (Lieutenant Spock)

Ethan Peck takes on the iconic role of Vulcan Starfleet Officer Spock. The role of Spock was originated by Leonard Nimoy in the original Star Trek series back in the 1960s and Peck plays a younger version of the character—in his pre-Kirk days on the Enterprise.

Peck is the grandson of legendary actor Gregory Peck (To Kill a Mockingbird, Roman Holiday). He previously starred as Patrick Verona in the ABC Family television series, 10 Things I Hate About You, based on the film of the same name that starred Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger and Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

Celia Rose Gooding as Uhura Celia Rose Gooding (Nyota Uhura)

Nyota Uhura started as the only cadet in this series, but has recently been promoted to ensign. Nichelle Nichols originated the role in the original Star Trek series ,and Zoe Saldana played Uhura in the reboot films helmed by J.J. Abrams and later Justin Lin.

Gooding became interested in acting after seeing their mother, LaChanze, win a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for The Color Purple. They got their professional acting start in Jagged Little Pill, the musical where she originated the role of Frankie Healy and was nominated for a Tony for Best Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical. They won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater album for Jagged Little Pill in 2021.

(L-R): Jess Bush as Christine Chapel and Ethan Peck as Spock Jess Bush (Nurse Christine Chapel)

Nurse Chapel, the ship’s medic, was originally played by Majel Barrett in the original Star Trek series.

Bush, an Australian, got her start as a contestant on Australia’s Next Top Model. She previously starred in Playing for Keeps, a television series about the wives of Australian Rules footballers.

Christina Chong as La’an Noonien-Singh on 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds'

Paramount+

Christina Chong (La’an Noonien-Singh)

Lieutenant Noonien-Singh is the Enterprise’s Chief of Security and is related to Khan (played by Ricardo Montalban in the original series and in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan). Benedict Cumberbatch took on the role in the 2013 film, Star Trek Into the Darkness.

Chong has starred in several TV series and mini-series, including Line of Duty, Bulletproof and 24: Live Another Day. She has guest-starred on such shows as Whitechapel, Black Mirror and Doctor Who.

Fun Fact: Chong's dog, Runa, is featured in the episode, "The Elysian Kingdom," where Chong's character plays a fairytale princess in an altered storybook reality.

Babs Olusanmokun as Dr. M'Benga in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Babs Olusanmokun (Dr. M’Benga)

Dr. M’Benga was played by Booker Bradshaw in the original series. The history for the character shows he served under both Christopher Pike and James T. Kirk.

Olusanmokun most recently starred in Dune and has guest-starred on Black Mirror, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and Sneaky Pete. He is a competitive third-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Melissa Navia as Ortegas Melissa Navia (Lt. Erica Ortegas)

Ortegas is the ship’s pilot and quickly proves her mettle. She also provides a bit of comic relief in the show. Navia has made appearances on Bull, New Amsterdam, and Billions.

Carol Kane as Pelia in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Carol Kane (Pelia)

Kane joined the Season 2 cast in a recurring role as Pelia, a centuries-old Lanthanite who filled the opening of Chief Engineer on the Enterprise. Kane returns to the role for Season 3 to continue to train Scotty (Martin Quinn) before she moves on to the next adventure. Nominated for an Oscar for her role in Hester Street, the veteran actress is known for her roles in The Princess Bride, Scrooged and The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.

(L-R): Paul Wesley as James T. Kirk and Dan Jeannotte as Sam Kirk Paul Wesley (James T. Kirk)

Wesley joined the cast in season 2 as a recurring guest star as the iconic character, James T. Kirk, made famous by William Shatner in the original series and later by Chris Pine in the recent feature films. Wesley is best known for his role as Stefan Salvatore on The Vampire Diaries.

Dan Jeannotte as Sam Kirk in 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Dan Jeannotte (George Samuel "Sam" Kirk)

Jeannotte stars in a recurring guest star role as Sam Kirk, James T. Kirk's older brother. Jeannotte has appeared in various Hallmark Channel movies like The Royal Nanny and Sweeter Than Chocolate, and in recurring roles on Reign and The Bold Type.

Martin Quinn as Scotty Martin Quinn (Montgomery Scott)

Quinn took on the role of Montgomery Scott, who was played by James Doohan in the original series. Scott was introduced to the Strange New Worlds audience in the season 2 finale, "Hegemony," after he escaped the Gorn in a shuttle and landed on the planet where he found Pike and his crew.

Related: ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Celia Rose Gooding Reveals They Came Up With Their Romance Storyline (Exclusive)

Who are the guest stars in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4?

No guest stars have been announced for Season 4. Season 3 saw Cillian O'Sullivan, Rhys Darby, and Patton Oswalt guest-star on the series.

Are the Star Trek films in the same timeline as Star Trek: Strange New Worlds?

According to our research, the recent films starring Chris Pine as Captain James T. Kirk and Zachary Quinto as Spock are set in an alternate timeline and do not coincide with the events on Strange New Worlds.

Is there a trailer for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4?

Yes, check out the first teaser trailer for Season 4 of tar Trek: Strange New Worlds below and also take a look at the sneak peek that was dropped at New York Comic-Con 2025!

How many episodes are in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4?

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds will air 10 episodes. That's been the consistent episode count for the series since the very beginning.

How to watch Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

You can watch episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds on Paramount+ with a valid subscription.

Check out images from Season 4 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

Take a look at some select images from the new season of tar Trek: Strange New Worlds in the gallery below.

Star Trek: Strange New WorldsParamount+ (L-R): Jess Bush as Christine Chapel and Ethan Peck as Spock (L-R): Paul Wesley as James T. Kirk and Dan Jeannotte as Sam Kirk Martin Quinn as Scotty (L-R): Paul Wesley as James T. Kirk and Ethan Peck as Spock (L-R): Anson Mount as Captain Pike, Christina Chong as La’an Noonien-Singh, and Babs Olusanmokun as Dr. M’Benga Anson Mount as Captain Pike Celia Rose Gooding as Uhura (L-R): Rebecca Romijn as Una, Christina Chong as La’an Noonien-Singh, and Melissa Navia as Erica Ortegas

Paramount+

Melissa Navia as Ortegas Celia Rose Gooding as Uhura Martin Quinn as Scotty What other Star Trek shows are on Paramount+?

Along with the various Star Trek movies and the original Star Trek series, there are 11 series over the years including Star Trek: The Next Generation, Voyager and Deep Space Nine which are available to watch in multiple ways on various platforms including DVD and Blu-ray.

Every series and every film in the Star Trek catalog is available to stream on Paramount+.

There are also several new series that have debuted on Paramount+. They are:

Paramount+

Star Trek: Discovery

Star Trek: Discovery was renewed for a fifth and final season of which premiered in April 2024. The current season finds Captain Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and the crew of the U.S.S. Discovery facing a threat unlike any they’ve ever encountered. With Federation and non-Federation worlds alike feeling the impact, they must confront the unknown and work together to ensure a hopeful future for all.

Related: 15 of Patrick Stewart’s Funniest Twitter Photos

Paramount+

Star Trek: Picard

Star Trek: Picardfollows former Starfleet Admiral Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) in his retirement. After leaving Starfleet in protest, Picard is trying to live the quiet life of a vintner on his chateau in France. When a strange young woman shows up at his vineyard asking for his help, Picard feels compelled to help her. When he sees her extraordinary skills, he is reminded of his old friend Data (Brent Spiner), a synthetic being who had always yearned for a daughter. Seeking answers to his own questions, Picard is pulled back into space travel as he races to save the young woman’s identical twin sister from Romulan assassins intent on killing her and all of her kind.

The third and final season of Star Trek: Picard found Jean-Luc reuniting with old friends as they grappled with an invasion amongst the highest ranking Starfleet officers.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Star Trek: Picard, Including Season 3 Art and Cast Reveals

Paramount+

Star Trek: Lower Decks

Star Trek: Lower Decks is an animated series geared toward an older audience. It follows the support crew of Starfleet’s least important ship, the U.S.S. Cerritos and features the voice talents of Jack Quaid, Tawny Newsome, and DawnnLewis. The animated show has already been picked up for a fifth season, though it was recently announced that it would be its last. The final season premiered in the fall of 2024.

Paramount+

Star Trek: Prodigy

Star Trek: Prodigy is another animated series, this one geared toward a younger audience. It follows a motley crew of six young aliens who must figure out how to work together after they commandeer a Starfleet vessel they know nothing about. Prodigy features the voice talents of Kate Mulgrew, John Noble and Jimmi Simpson. The series was cancelled by Paramount+, but a second season was picked up by Netflix which also streams the first season.

Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

This new series will follow a group of cadets who come together to pursue a common dream of hope and optimism. Under the watchful and demanding eyes of their instructors, they will discover what it takes to become Starfleet officers as they navigate blossoming friendships, explosive rivalries, first loves and a new enemy that threatens both the Academy and the Federation itself. Star Trek: Starfleet Academy will premiere in early 2026.

Academy Award-winning actress Holly Hunter has been tapped to lead the series. Hunter will play the chancellor the Academy who not only oversee her faculty but also a new class of Starfleet cadets.

Related: Holly Hunter and Paul Giamatti to Lead Already-Renewed Freshman Series, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

Star Trek: Section 31

Star Trek: Section 31 is a standalone movie event starring Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh who will reprise her role as Emperor Phillipa Georgiou – the alternate universe version. Georgiou joins Section 31, a clandestine division of Starfleet tasked with protecting the United Federation of Planets, and faces the sins of her past.

Star Trek: Khan

“Khaaaan!!!” Star Trek: Khan is a new podcast series thatl features the voice talents of Naveen Andrews as Kahn, Tim Russ as Tuvok and George Takei as Sulu.

Star Trek: Scouts

Star Trek: Scouts is a new and original animated YouTube-first series that marks the first preschool extension of the Star Trek franchise. Scouts follows three 8-year-old friends, JR, Sprocket and Roo, as they train to become future Starfleet Explorers by going on epic, out-of-this-world missions that push them to “discover, grow and boldly go!” Two episodes of the short-form series (3-4 min each) are available now on Nickelodeon’s Blaze and the Monster Machines YouTube channel, with the remainder of the 20-episode order continuing to roll out into next year.

Star Trek "Origin Story"

This yet-to-be-titled film is said to be an origin story that takes place about a decade before the events of the original 2009 Star Trek film that starred Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, Karl Urban, and Zoe Saldana though it's unlikely any of these actors will return for this origin story film. Production is slated to begin later this year.

Related: 'Star Trek' Announces New Preschool Show and Rose Parade Float

There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1050 onSunday, April 26, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, April 26, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Sunday, April 26

1. What's the fine print?
2. Singer's technicalities.
3. Famed children's book from the 1930s.
4. Like one's countenance.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Sunday, April 26:

1. STIPULATION: CATCH, CAVEAT, FINE PRINT, STRINGS
2. VOCAL CHARACTERISTICS: PITCH, RANGE, REGISTER, TONE
3. CHARACTERS IN "DICK AND JANE": DICK, JANE, MOTHER, SPOT
4. THINGS WITH FACES: BUILDING, CLIFF, CLOCK, POLYHEDRON

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: 9 Items To Buy From Aldi's Produce Section and 6 To Skip

The day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1772 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There is one vowel in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

A hint for today's Wordle is: it's poppin'.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1772 on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, April 26, 2026, is GLOSS.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: 9 Items To Buy From Aldi's Produce Section and 6 To Skip

There’s something special about live music in the summer—especially when it comes with an ocean breeze. This year, Ocean Casino Resort is leaning into that magic with a packed lineup of concerts and comedy shows, including none other than Diana Ross.

Set to take the stage on August 21, Ross, 82, brings decades of iconic hits and timeless stage presence to a venue designed for an up-close experience. For fans of classic music and unforgettable performances, her appearance is shaping up to be one of the season’s biggest highlights.

A Summer Lineup Full of Big Names

The series doesn’t stop there. The resort’s Ovation Hall will host a wide range of performers across genres, from rock and reggae to stand-up comedy. Music lovers can catch artists like Lenny Kravitz, Lord Huron, and Collective Soul, while comedy fans can look forward to shows from Sebastian Maniscalco and Matt Rife.

There’s also a strong dose of nostalgia, with acts like Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, and Spin Doctors sharing the stage for a throwback-filled night. Below is a breakdown of the Summer 2026 event schedule:

• Lenny Kravitz – Saturday, May 16
• Iration – Saturday, May 30
• Tim Dillon – Friday, June 19
• Lord Huron – Friday, June 26
• Dirty Heads & 311 – Saturday, July 18
• MattRife – July 24 & 25
• Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, and Spin Doctors – Saturday, August 1
• Joey Diaz – Friday, August 7 and Saturday, August 8
• Slightly Stoopid – Friday, August 14
• The Stray Cats – Saturday, August 15
• Diana Ross – Friday, August 21
• Modi – Saturday, August 22
• Collective Soul – Saturday, August 29
• John Fogerty & Steve Winwood – Friday, September 11
• Sebastian Maniscalco – September 17–20 & 24–27

An Upgraded Experience for Fans

This summer’s shows come with a major enhancement: a newly upgraded, state-of-the-art sound system designed to bring every note—and every punchline—to life. The investment means clearer sound and a more immersive experience, no matter where you’re seated.

Combined with Ovation Hall’s intimate setting, it creates a rare opportunity to see major stars in a space that still feels personal.

A Classic Summer Night, Reimagined

With the beach just steps away and a lineup that spans generations, the concert series at Ocean Casino Resort offers a little bit of everything, whether you’re there for the music, the laughs, or simply the atmosphere.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you're planning on hosting backyard parties this year, then it's time to upgrade your outdoor area with that gorgeous accent piece it's been begging for. Luckily, we've been scouring Target's deals section to find the best home products that are actually worth investing in (like this gorgeous wooden dresser). Now, we're shopping for the Nourison Aloha Floral Area Rug, which is up to 58% off. 

The rug is currently available in 21 sizes, so prices vary greatly. The lowest deal price is on this 2-foot by 6-foot size, which initially cost $67 but has been reduced to $40. However, the highest discount is on the 12-foot by 15-foot size, which was originally priced at $770, but was marked down to $321. The piece is being sold in round, rectangle, and square options. You can shop for it in 10 colors, spanning from black and white to multicolored.

Nourison Aloha Floral Area Rug, From $40 (was $770) at Target

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

The brighter colors lend to more of a bold statement that's perfect for the season, while the minimalist colors fit in with a modern look that you can display year round. The rug is made of 100% polypropylene with a 100% latex backing and loomed fabric. Due to the material, it's advised to hose the rug clean with water and air dry it for best results. You can also vacuum and spot clean it when using it indoors. 

The low pile rug is less than 0.5 inches tall, which makes it ideal for high traffic areas, because it's unlikely you'll be tripping over it. The design features oversized flowers that blend into one another for a tropical look. It has garnered hundreds of positive reviews, with customers describing the rug as "excellent," "really beautiful," "vibrant," "perfect," and "well-made."

Related: Target’s 'Super Comfy' $90 2-Person Hammock Will Turn Your Porch Into a Relaxing Oasis

Other shoppers said that the rug "brightens up the room" and "pulls the whole room together." Some reviewers placed it in their screen room, living room, on their porch, and virtually wherever they needed a splash of color. Considering the rug is "durable," it's expected to last a long time. 

Shop More Deals

• Hyleory Outdoor Market Patio Umbrella, $70 (was $160) at Target
• Costway Swing Glider Rocking Chair, $75 (was $150) at Target
• PhoenixCrest Heavy Duty Raised Garden Bed, $100 (was $251) at Target

Don't wait to update your outdoor area, especially when Target has deals this good. Elevate your patio with this gorgeous rug, while it's up to 58% off! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

In 1970, a song that had struggled to find its footing finally became a defining hit, thanks to the right voices at the right time.

"(They Long to Be) Close to You," performed by The Carpenters, climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the most iconic songs of the decade.

But its success didn't come overnight.

The track was originally written by legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David in the early 1960s. Its first recording came in 1963 by Richard Chamberlain, followed by another version from Dionne Warwick in 1964.

Despite the pedigree behind it, neither version made a major impact. For years, the song remained largely overlooked, an example of a composition waiting for the right artist to deliver just the right interpretation.

That changed when Karen and Richard Carpenter reimagined it.

With its gentle piano intro, lush arrangement and Karen Carpenter's unmistakably warm, intimate vocals, the Carpenters' version transformed the song into something deeply emotional and instantly memorable. Their softer, more polished approach gave the lyrics a sense of sincerity that resonated with listeners in a way earlier recordings had not.

"It's a very deceptive song and a very deceptive arrangement," Richard Carpenter told Goldmine in 2022. "The whole thing makes it sound like it's an easy song, and the trouble with that one is it was so strict with timing and rhythm. It was very easy to start rushing and ultimately, you never want to admit that you need the click track, but on several of them you do and that was one of them. We finally said, 'OK, we need a click track,' so 'Close to You' took around 40 takes to get that basic track with bass, piano and drums, but that was an exception."

The result was a massive breakthrough. Not only did the song top the charts, but it also launched The Carpenters into superstardom, defining their signature sound and setting the tone for a string of future hits.

"The impact of hearing our music on the radio is impossible for me to put it into words," said Carpenter. "There's a feeling that you've gone against what a lot of people on the way up said was going to happen, which was not much was going to happen with our demo for one reason or another with the sound. But we believed in it."

More than five decades later, "(They Long to Be) Close to You" remains a timeless classic and serves as proof that sometimes a song's true potential isn't realized until the right artists bring it to life.

What began as a missed opportunity ultimately became one of the most enduring love songs in music history.

Related: 1985 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Power Ballads’ of All Time Hit No. 1 41 Years Later

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Want to experience the best sleep? Dressing your bed with a cozy comforter can do the trick. The ideal comforter set should have the ability to elevate the style of your bedroom and deliver the utmost comfort while you snooze away. This Whale Flotilla Three-Piece Patchwork Comforter Set is a prime example, and it’s currently over 50% off at Walmart! 

It’s available in queen and king sizes, which normally retail for $75 and $79, respectively. Right now, you can score the queen sets on sale for as low as $36, while the king sets are marked down to as low as $38. The collection is available in 13 total styles, including floral patchwork, classic floral, and paisley patterns. 

Whale Flotilla Three-Piece Comforter Set, From $36 (was $75) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The patchwork styles feature colorful squares filled with contrasting vibrant floral prints that somehow blend together effortlessly. Shoppers said they loved how the trio brightened up their bedroom. The set is complete with two matching pillow shams and will instantly elevate the look of your room. “It’s beautiful and comfortable,” one shopper described. “The colors are lovely and really pop.”

This comforter is designed to drape over you like a cozy cloud. It’s made from 100% polyester and boasts a microfiber shell stuffed with fluffy filling. For those who like the feeling of natural down filling, polyester is a great affordable alternative. In addition to being hypoallergenic, it’s designed to mimic the same plush feel. 

Whale Flotilla Three-Piece Comforter Set, From $36 (was $75) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

Many reviewers noted that it’s lightweight yet warm. This makes it ideal for hot sleepers and great for year-round use, since you won’t have to constantly switch out your bedding. 

“It's so pretty and fluffy,” another review raved. "It’s not hot or cold — it's perfect.”

Related: Walmart's $170 Farmhouse Sideboard Is 'Practical,' 'Stylish,' and Available in 5 Colors

When it’s time for a refresh, toss it into the washing machine on a delicate setting with cold water and tumble dry it on low. 

Once you experience this comforter draped over your body, you may have trouble leaving its cozy warmth. Be sure to check out the Whale Flotilla Three-Piece Comforter Set at Walmart for as low as $36 while your preferred style and size are still in stock! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Princess Diana had to adhere to many royal traditions while raising her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, and she specifically struggled with sending her kids to boarding school so young.  

King Charles III was the first heir apparent to attend boarding school instead of being taught by private tutors at the palace. He was sent to Cheam School in Newbury at age 8 and later attended Gordonstoun in Scotland at 13, where his father, Prince Philip, was a distinguished alum. Although multiple outlets reported Charles didn’t enjoy his time at boarding school, even getting bullied in his younger years, he ended his schooling on a positive note. 

In 1975, he praised the school’s positive impact on his life by saying, “I am lucky in that I believe it taught me a great deal about myself and my own abilities and disabilities.”

RELATED: Why Is Prince George Going to Boarding School? Inside the Royal Tradition

When it came to his own sons, Charles also wanted to send them to boarding school at age 8, in line with his “new” royal tradition.

Diana also attended boarding school but had a much different experience. At age 9, she attended the all-girls Riddlesworth Hall School near Thetford. In 1973, at age 12, she began attending West Heath Girls' School in Kent. Although Diana excelled in sports and community service, she struggled academically and left the school at 16. 

The Princess of Wales’ brother, Charles Spencer, said she had a hard time separating from her family during her early years away at school. He claimed Diana told her father, Edward John Spencer, “If you loved me, you wouldn’t leave me here.”

Given her own complicated history with school, Diana was conflicted about sending William and Harry to boarding school so young. While it was agreed that they would start at age 8, she pushed back on them attending Gordonstoun and “insisted” they be closer to home. William and Harry attended Ludgrove School in Berkshire before moving on to Eton College in Windsor at 13, where Diana’s father and brother attended.

Diana Princess Of Wales, Prince William & Prince Harry Visit The 'Thorpe Park' Amusement Park. (Photo by Julian Parker/UK Press via Getty Images)

Julian Parker/UK Press via Getty Images

Diana was reportedly “in tears” when she dropped William off for his first day at Ludgrove School. However, despite her kids being away, she kept a very “hands-on” approach with them and would reportedly send them the “rudest cards you could imagine" to make them laugh. Eventually, Diana came around to their education and thought boarding school offered them a more “normal” life, thanks to the privacy and socializing with their peers. 

RELATED: Prince Harry Mirrors Princess Diana by Breaking 1 Royal Protocol Rule During Ukraine Visit

William generally loved his time at Eton, with royal experts claiming it was a “safe harbour” for him in the years following Diana’s death in 1997. He excelled in academics and was on the water polo and soccer teams. Harry, on the other hand, said in his 2023 memoir, Spare, that he “didn’t enjoy” his years at Eton and “had a lot of anger” as he struggled with isolation and loneliness. 

If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. 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 on for Today's Mini Crossword on Sunday, April 26, 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!

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Sunday, April 26, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Spanish for "house" — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

5 Across: Developer's projects —HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

6 Across: Sketch comedy spinoff launched on March 21, 2026 — HINT: Ends with the letter "K"

7 Across: One of 24 — HINT: Ends with the letter "R"

8 Across: Gas brand with a green-and-white logo — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Kayak alternative — HINT: Starts with the letter "C"

2 Down: Great grade — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

3 Down: N.B.A. team with the 7'4'' star Victor Wembanyama — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

4 Down: "___ not what your country can do for you ..." — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

6 Down: Sound made with a finger to the lips — HINT: Ends with the letter "H"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Sunday, April 26, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Spanish for "house" — CASA

5 Across: Developer's projects —APPS

6 Across: Sketch comedy spinoff launched on March 21, 2026 — SNLUK

7 Across: One of 24 — HOUR

8 Across: Gas brand with a green-and-white logo — HESS

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Kayak alternative — CANOE

2 Down: Great grade — APLUS

3 Down: N.B.A. team with the 7'4'' star Victor Wembanyama — SPURS

4 Down: "___ not what your country can do for you ..." — ASK

6 Down: Sound made with a finger to the lips — SHH

Related: 9 Items To Buy From Aldi's Produce Section and 6 To Skip

Anthony Hopkins celebrated a major career milestone five years ago today after his record-breaking win at the Oscars.

However, amid the recognition and applause from the public and critics, there was a surprising twist that no one saw coming.

On April 25, 2021, Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles lit up with A-listers, celebrities and industry figures to celebrate the 93rd Academy Awards.

Despite the global pandemic, the event broke from tradition, opting for a more intimate, scaled-down and socially distanced setting.

While some guests arrived dressed to the nines, others, including nominees, chose to skip the Oscars due to personal reasons, among them was Hopkins, who was nominated for Best Actor for his performance in The Father.

Anthony Hopkins attends the 94th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on March 27, 2022 in Hollywood, California.

David Livingston/Getty Images

The Welsh actor was up against equally talented stars such as Riz Ahmed (Sound of Metal), the late Chadwick Boseman (Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom), Gary Oldman (Mank) and Steven Yeun (Minari).

Presented by Joaquin Phoenix, Hopkins took home the coveted award, making him the oldest Best Actor winner at 83.

He surpassed the previous record set by Henry Fonda, who won the same title at 76 during the 1982 Academy Awards.

However, at the time, Hopkins was not present to accept the award, so the Joker star accepted it on his behalf.

A day after the actor’s historic win, his representative revealed a surprising reason he was MIA at the ceremony.

“Tony was in Wales, where he grew up, and he was asleep at 4 in the morning when I woke him up to tell him the news," the actor’s long-time agent, Jeremy Barber, told PEOPLE, adding, "He was so happy and so grateful."

At the time, the two-time Oscar winner was in his hometown in Wales, where he was spending the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"After a year in quarantine, and being double-vaccinated, he was finally able to return to Wales, and at age 83 it was a great relief after such a difficult year," Barber further explained, adding that he considers the film to be meaningful to him, “But he loved the role in The Father – it's his proudest performance – and to be the oldest living actor to win in the category means so much to him."

Hopkins earned his first-ever Oscar after winning Best Actor at the 64th Academy Awards. It was for his exceptional performance as the cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the movie The Silence of the Lambs.

Related: 1991 Hit Film Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’

There is no novel that defines the Lost Generation quite like The Sun Also Rises.

The bestselling work by Ernest Hemingway has been ranked among the greatest books of all time, by The Greatest Books, a recognition that reflects both its literary influence and lasting cultural impact. Yet despite its acclaim, the novel was also frequently banned over the years due to its frank depictions of sexuality, drinking and disillusionment, elements that were considered controversial at the time.

Published in 1926, the novel follows a group of American and British expatriates traveling from Paris to Spain, capturing their search for meaning in the aftermath of World War I. At the center is Jake Barnes, a war veteran grappling with both physical and emotional wounds, and his complicated relationship with Lady Brett Ashley.

As a young man, Hemingway spent quite a bit of time in Spain, which inspired the novel.

"The country that a novelist writes about is the country he knows; and the country that he knows is in his heart," Hemingway told The New York Times in 1950.

The book is widely associated with the Lost Generation, a term used to describe the group of writers and artists who came of age during World War I and were left disillusioned by its aftermath. In The Sun Also Rises, that sense of aimlessness and fractured identity is central to the story, as the characters drift through life searching for purpose in a world that no longer feels stable or meaningful.

Hemingway's stripped-down writing style and focus on dialogue helped redefine modern fiction, influencing generations of writers to come. His process was as simple as it was essential, and it started even before sunrise.

"When I am working on a book or a story I write every morning as soon after first light as possible," Hemingway told The Paris Review. "There is no one to disturb you and it is cool or cold and you come to your work and warm as you write. You read what you have written and, as you always stop when you know what is going to happen next, you go on from there. You write until you come to a place where you still have your juice and know what will happen next and you stop and try to live through until the next day when you hit it again."

The novel was later adapted into the film of the same name, starring Tyrone Power, Ava Gardner and Errol Flynn. The adaptation brought the story's themes of love, loss and postwar disillusionment to a wider audience, translating Hemingway's introspective narrative to the big screen.

Nearly a century after its release, The Sun Also Rises remains both celebrated and debated.

Its place among the greatest books of all time, and its history of being challenged, speaks to its enduring power as a novel that continues to confront readers with uncomfortable truths about identity, purpose and the lasting impact of war.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Novel Ranked ‘Most Read Book’ in United States

Paramount+’s upcoming film The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender was leaked on X earlier this month. Now, the man behind the account has been arrested and is facing up to seven years in prison.

The user said that a friend from his hacker days sent him a full copy of the movie. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the user didn’t think it was a big deal to post it.

“I saw it’s just a Paramount+ thing, so I decided I’d troll a little bit,” the user said.

Within hours, the videos had been circulated and viewed thousands of times online. Paramount quickly conducted an investigation into the incident. On April 24, Singapore's The Straits Times said that the leaker had been arrested.

“A 26-year-old man who allegedly leaked the unreleased film The Legend Of Aang: The Last Airbender, the first animated movie in the Avatar franchise, has been arrested for accessing a media server without authorisation,” The Straits Times posted.

The man is currently being investigated for unauthorized access to the computer material, which could carry a maximum jail term of seven years, a fine of up to $50,000, or both, according to The Straits Times.

Australia's Flying Bark Productions, which animated the film, said in a statement, per Variety, “It was heartbreaking to see footage from ‘The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender’ leak online. This leak did not originate from Flying Bark. Our studio proudly partnered on the production until the very end and we acknowledge the filmmakers, cast, artists and animators who worked tirelessly to produce this incredibly crafted film."

“We worked on the aang movie for years with the expectation that’d we’d get to celebrate all of our hard work in theaters.. just to see people unceremoniously leak the film and pass our shots around on twitter like candy,” Julia Schoel, one of the animators on The Legend of Aang, said on X.

Due to the leak, The Legend of Aang will not be getting a theatrical release. Instead, it will premiere exclusively on Paramount+ on October 9. Schoel called this “an awful decision.”

“I totally understand folks not wanting to pay for/support paramount+,” Schoel said. “But pirating the movie after its release would have at least been better than this. This is incredibly disrespectful to all of the hard work the artists put in.”

The Legend of Aang is based on Nickelodeon's series titled Avatar: The Last Airbender. 

Jeremy Jordan has officially returned to Broadway.

Jordan reprised his role in The Great Gatsby from November 2025 to early March 2026, and on April 21, he made his debut in Just In Time.

Just In Time is a biopic play based on the life of Bobby Darin. Known for his songs “Mack the Knife” and “Beyond the Sea,” Darin comes to life in the nightclub atmosphere of New York City’s Circle in the Square theater.

Originally starring Jonathan Groff, the role of Darin was passed on to Glee alum Matthew Morrison, who played Darin for a limited three-week engagement. Now, Jordan has taken over for an open-ended run.

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“What a thrill it was to finally share my version of this show with an audience for the first time," Jeremy said to People. "And what a gift this role and this company have been, challenging in all the good ways and just chock full of love and delight."

Just in Time begins with Jordan rising from beneath the stage, and he told People, “they may as well have shot me out of a cannon.”

“It honestly feels like nothing I've ever done before, and I can't wait to continue to take this ride each and every night," Jordan said.

Directed by Alex Timbers, the show tells the story of not only Darin’s songs, but also the man behind them. People called Darin “the tragic teen idol” and “a man in a hurry.”

As a child, Darin overheard a doctor say he would live a short life. This fueled him to live his life to the fullest, and by the age of 22, he became famous with his hit song “Splish Splash.”

“The way we're kind of weaponizing his story in our show is: He accomplished a lot in a short period of time because he had this ticking clock,” Groff told People. “What we're hoping to give the audience is this message: Life is short. Live it to the fullest while you can.”

Alongside Jordan, Just in Time stars Isa Briones (known for her role as Dr. Trinity Santos in The Pitt) as Connie Francis and Carrie St. Louis as Sandra Dee. Get tickets for the show here.