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When Shrek hit theaters on May 18, 2001—25 years ago today—it flipped the fairy-tale formula on its head, replacing polished princes and perfect princesses with an unlikely cast of unforgettable misfits. The movie—a parody with a heartfelt message about self-acceptance—stuck the landing in large part thanks to its all-star voice cast, including Mike Myers as Shrek, Cameron Diazas Princess Fiona and Eddie Murphy as Donkey.

All three actors returned for the franchise’s sequels, Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007) and Shrek Forever After (2010), and they’re set to reprise their roles for the fifth installment due out next year. 

“I love the theme of ‘You are beautiful to me,’” Myers once told Vulture. “Because, listen, I’ve never traded on my looks. I’m a comedy actor, I’m not like Rob Lowe … I always thought, 'What if I could play a guy who learns to love himself and find himself beautiful?' I can really connect to that.”

Keep reading to find out what the stars of Shrek (and its sequels) have been up to since the original movie premiered—plus, who will be back for more.

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‘Shrek’ Turns 25: Where Is the Voice Cast Now? Mike Myers as Shrek Mike Myers will return for the fifth installment of Shrek.

Photo by Julian Hamilton on Getty Images

By the time Myers was cast as Shrek, he was already one of the biggest comedy stars in the world with a seven-season run on Saturday Night Liveand two massive franchises (Wayne's World and Austin Powers) under his belt.

He famously wielded that power on the set of Shrek when he insisted to DreamWorks Pictures co-founders Jeffrey Katzenberg andSteven Spielberg that he re-record his part in a Scottish accent rather than the Canadian one he went with initially. 

“I said [to Katzenberg], ‘Let me just try it one more time,’” Myers recalled in an interview with Vulture. “He said, ‘It’s gonna cost millions.’ I said, ‘I’m not getting paid more to do this. Let’s do it.’ We did it, and later on, I got a letter from Steven Spielberg saying, ‘Thank you so much for caring.’ It’s framed in my house.”

After Shrek, Myers continued voicing the character through multiple sequels while also starring in films like The Cat in the Hat and The Love Guru. He’s also taken on dramatic supporting roles in such movies as Inglorious Basterds and Bohemian Rhapsody. In 2022, he returned to television with the Netflix miniseries The Pentaverate, and in 2027, he'll be back as Shrek for the fifth movie in the franchise.

Myers married Kelly Tisdale in 2010, and the couple share three children.

Related: Comedy Legend Mike Myers Is Now a Full Silver Fox, and We’re Here for It

Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona Cameron Diaz is married Good Charlotte's Benji Madden in 2015.

Photo by Kristina Bumphrey on Getty Images

Diaz was already one of the biggest actresses in Hollywood when she voiced Princess Fiona, and that didn’t change after Shrek premiered — at least not right away. In the first ten or so years that followed, she starred in The Holiday, My Sister’s Keeper and Bad Teacher, to name just a handful of her films. Then, after appearing in 2014’s Annie, she stepped away from acting for nearly a decade.

Speaking at Fortune’s Most Powerful Women Summit, Diaz said that taking a break “felt like something I had to do to reclaim my own life. And I just really didn’t care about anything else.”

“Nobody’s opinion, nobody’s success, no one’s offer, no one’s anything could change my mind about my decision of taking care of myself and building the life that I really wanted to have,” she added. “It really comes to: What are you passionate about? For me, it was to build my family.”

Diaz married Benji Madden of Good Charlotte in 2015 and the couple shares three children, the third of whom they welcomed via surrogate in 2026.

In recent years, the Mask star returned to acting with movies—including Back In Action and Outcome, and she has a lineup of pictures due out over the next few years, including Shrek 5.  

Related: Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden Welcome Third Baby

Eddie Murphy as Donkey Eddie Murphy's Donkey is a fan favorite.

Photo by Michael Kovac on Getty Images

When Eddie Murphy signed on to voice Donkey, he was already a comedy legend. Still, Shrek introduced him to an entirely new generation of fans, many of whom counted Donkey as their favorite character from the movie. (Even Myers gushes over him. “I love Donkey so much. I want Donkey to live in my house,” he’s said.) 

Following Shrek, Murphy earned an Oscar nomination for Dreamgirls and later returned to beloved franchises with Coming 2 America and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. He was also the subject of an authorized documentary, Being Eddie, on Netflix, and he'll return as Donkey for Shrek 5.

Murphy has 10 children and married Australian modelPaige Butcher, with whom he shares two of those kids, in 2024. He was previously married to Nicole Murphy, with whom he has five children.

John Lithgow as Lord Farquaad In 2026, John Lithgow garnered a Tony Award nomination for his performance in GIANT on Broadway.

Photo by Kristina Bumphrey on Getty Images

Before voicing insecure villain Lord Farquaad, Lithgow was already considered one of the most respected actors of his generation — on Broadway (The Changing Room), in film (Terms of Endearment) and on TV (3rd Rock from the Sun).

After Shrek, Lithgow continued to master the form, most memorably with Emmy-winning roles on Dexter and The Crown, as well as with funny guest turns on How I Met Your Motherand 30 Rock. On the big-screen, he appeared in movies such as Bombshell and Conclave. (Unfortunately, he wasn’t in the Shrek sequels because his character got killed off by the end of the first one.)

The 80-year-old actor is currently wowing Broadway audiences with his role as Roald Dahl in the play GIANT, which runs through June 28, 2026. The part earned him a Tony nomination for Best Actor in a Play.

He’ll next be seen as Albus Dumbledore in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series.

Lithgow has been married to UCLA professor Mary Yeager since 1981, and they share two children.

Vincent Cassel as Monsieur Hood Vincent Cassel at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival

Photo by Mondadori Portfolio on Getty Images

French actor Vincent Cassel had already built a strong international reputation when he voiced Monsieur Hood in Shrek, delivering intense performances in movies like La Haine.

After turning in a brief-but-memorable Robin Hood parody in Shrek, Cassel continued working steadily in both European and Hollywood productions, appearing in Ocean's Twelve and Thirteen, Black Swan and Westworld, among other projects. 

Cassel was married to actress Monica Bellucci from 1999 to 2013, and they share two daughters. He later remarried model Tina Kunakey and welcomed another daughter, but the couple split in 2023. 

Conrad Vernon as Gingerbread Man Conrad Vernon is an accomplished voice actor and film director.

Photo by Variety on Getty Images

Unlike many of the celebrity voices in Shrek, Conrad Vernon came from the animation world itself. Before voicing the Gingerbread Man — better known as Gingy — he worked as a storyboard artist and animator at DreamWorks Animation.

After the film’s success, Vernon continued taking voice roles in projects like Bee Movie, Monsters vs. Aliens and The Emoji Movie, but he also became a prolific director in the field, helming such movies as Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted and Sausage Party.

Julie Andrews as Queen Lillian We won't be seeing Julie Andrews (Queen Lillian) in Shrek 5.

Photo by Steve Granitz on Getty Images

Julie Andrews, star of Mary Poppins,The Sound of Music and The Princess Diaries, was Hollywood royalty before she joined the Shrek franchise as Queen Lillian in Shrek 2, Shrek the Third and Shrek Forever After —  and she remains Hollywood royalty to this day.  

After bringing Fiona’s mother to life in the Shrek sequels, she continued voice acting with roles in the Despicable Me franchise, Aquaman and Bridgerton, to name just a few. She’s also rumored to be returning for an unconfirmed third installment of The Princess Diaries. Alas, she’s not signed on for Shrek 5.

She was married to acclaimed director Blake Edwards from 1969 until his death in 2010 and has three daughters, including one with her first husband, Tony Walton. 

John Cleese as King Harold John Cleese will launch his new tour in October 2026.

Photo by Karwai Tang on Getty Images

As co-founder of the Monty Python comedy troupe, John Cleese was a comedy legend when he joined the Shrek universe. 

Since lending his dry wit and upper-crust British sarcasm to the film’s sequels (with the exception of Shrek 5, which he’s not set to star in), he’s popped up in projects ranging from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone to The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run. He also continues to tour, delivering the same sort of biting commentary that made him famous in the late ‘60s. (His upcoming 2026 tour is called “Not Dead Yet!”)

In his personal life, Cleese has been married four times and has two daughters—including comedian Camilla Cleese.

Antonio Banderas as Puss in Boots Antonio Banderas enjoyed leading the Puss in Boots franchise.

Photo by Stefano Guidi on Getty Images

Antonio Banderas joined the franchise in Shrek 2 as the scene-stealing Puss in Boots, a character so popular that he eventually starred in his own spinoff films, including Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, which earned critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination.

Outside the Shrek universe, Banderas has remained a busy leading man—starring in films like The Legend of Zorro, Pain and Glory, Uncharted and Babygirl. Much to fans’ disappointment, however, he revealed in 2025 that he had not been contacted to return for Shrek 5.

“Puss in Boots did very well. Number two got a nomination for the Oscar, and the movie behaved beautifully at the box office,” he told Parade in February 2025. “But I am totally satisfied with the five Puss in Boots that I did. I don’t know what is going to happen in the future. Maybe they [will] call me tomorrow.”

Banderas was married to actress Melanie Griffith from 1996 to 2015, and they share daughter Stella Banderas. He has since been in a long-term relationship with Nicole Kimpel.

Jennifer Saunders as Fairy Godmother Jennifer Saunders in 2025

Photo by Sébastien Courdji on Getty Images

Long before she belted out “Holding Out for a Hero” in Shrek 2, Saunders was best known in the U.K. as the co-creator and star of the sitcomAbsolutely Fabulous. After Shrek, she wrote and starred in a 2016 feature film adaptation of the star-making series. 

She also continued voice acting with roles in Coraline, Minions, Sing and Sing 2. 

She’s been married to comedian Adrian Edmondson since 1985, and the pair share three daughters.

Rupert Everett as Prince Charming We first met Everett's Prince Charming in Shrek 2.

Photo by Daniele Venturelli on Getty Images

When Everett signed on to play Prince Charming in Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third, he was already known for films like My Best Friend's Wedding and An Ideal Husband. 

Since his turn as the vain and entitled prince, he’s appeared in series including Black Mirror, The Musketeers, TheSerpent Queen and Rivals.

In 2018, Everett took on one of his most personal projects yet: The Happy Prince, a biographical drama about Oscar Wilde that he wrote and directed.

He exchanged vows with his longtime partner, a Brazilian accountant named Henrique, in 2024.

Next: Everything to Know About 'Shrek 5'

Joni Mitchell was just nine years old when she faced a life-threatening battle with polio. "My spine was twisted up like a train wreck," she said. "I couldn't walk. I was paralyzed." Later, she'd describe it as "a rehearsal for the rest of my life." It built the resilience, hope and unshakeable spirit that the "Both Sides Now" artist continues to embody at the age of 82.

Roberta Joan Anderson was born on November 7, 1943, in Alberta, Canada. Her dad Bill was a grocery store manager, while her mom Myrtle was a former schoolteacher. When Joni was seven, a classmate introduced her to classical composers and she begged her parents for piano lessons. However, instead of memorizing the notes, she'd start hearing new melodies in her head. It frustrated teachers, but was just a sign of what was to come.

But in the fall of 1952, Joni's life would change forever when the polio epidemic hit Saskatchewan. One October morning, she woke up feeling oddly different. She made it three blocks toward school before her body gave out and she had to sit down to rest. By the next day, Joni couldn't get out of bed—she was paralyzed.

Sent to a hospital 100 miles from home, she continued to lie in a polio ward as Christmas approached. Her mother only came to visit once and wore a mask. As for her father, he didn't come at all. One doctor told Joni she'd never walk again and the physical therapists gave up, too. It's horrifying to think about going through this as an adult—can you imagine how a nine-year-old would feel?

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But Joni refused to let anyone—or anything—stop her. At night, she did exercises by herself, guided by the light on her Christmas tree. "I turned myself around," she told NPR in 2014. "I came back, and I said, 'Now can I go home?' You know, it's the fighting Irish, eh? But that's another thing that made me more of an artist. So, you know, no doubt in the universe is unfolding as it should be."

After months in the hospital, Joni finally made it home. But polio had permanently weakened her left hand. As a teenager, she saved up $36 to buy a baritone ukulele and taught herself to play from a Pete Seeger songbook. When she finally graduated to guitar, her weakened hand couldn't form standard chord shapes—but why would she let that stop her? Joni invented her own alternate tunings just to play, taking what was once considered a disability and building the foundation for her legendary sound—those iconic "Joni chords" no one else in music has ever been able to replicate.

By 20, she'd left Saskatoon for Toronto to chase her folk singer dreams—busking in church basements and working at a department store to pay the rent. After a brief marriage to fellow folk singer Chuck Mitchell, Joni moved to New York City in 1967.

Photo by Robert Knight Archive on Getty Images

By 1968, Judy Collins had turned one of the most classic Joni Mitchell songs, "Both Sides Now," into a Top 10 hit, and a young David Crosby had spotted her in a Florida club—calling her "stunningly good, right off the bat." Crosby brought her to LA, produced her debut album Song to a Seagull and introduced her to the legendary Laurel Canyon music scene. The little girl who was told she'd never walk again and refused to believe it was now sitting at the center of one of the most important music movements in history.

Over the next five decades, Joni won 11 Grammys, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Rolling Stone named her one of the greatest songwriters of all time. But in March 2015, she suffered a brain aneurysm that left her unconscious in her Los Angeles home. The health crisis made global headlines, but Mitchell was ready to fight—just as she'd done as a child and in every chapter of her life. Over the next several years, she slowly relearned how to walk, talk and even play the guitar.

A beaming Joni Mitchell surprises fans with a performance at the 2022 Newport Folk Festival.

Photo by Douglas Mason on Getty Images

Then, in July 2022, Joni shocked the world with a surprise appearance at the Newport Folk Festival—her first public concert in nine years. Friends joined her on stage as she performed for nearly 80 minutes, even treating guests to a guitar solo! The recording—Joni Mitchell at Newport—won her a Grammy in 2024. On the same night, she had her first-ever Grammys performance at 80 years old, bringing Taylor Swift to tears.

Throughout her life, Joni Mitchell has defied the odds and overcome the unthinkable—and that's why she's today's quote of the day.

Quote of the Day by Joni Mitchell

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"My life has changed for the better. Out of a catastrophe, like a phoenix, rose a better life."

In just 18 words, Joni captures one of life's most beautiful, hard-won truths: The very thing that nearly destroys you can ultimately become the foundation for your most beautiful chapter. The phoenix—that mythical bird that rises from its own ashes—isn't just a poetic metaphor here. For Joni, it's a literal description of how she rebuilt her life after one of the most devastating medical events imaginable. And coming from a woman who's already risen from her own ashes more than once, those words carry the weight of a lifetime spent proving them true.

Related: Quote of the Day: John Denver’s 15 Words on Surviving Life’s Lowest Moments Will Transform Your Mindset

Deeper Meaning of Joni Mitchell's Quote—The Power of Rising Again

If you've ever known pain—and let's face it, we all have—the worst thing someone can say is "Everything happens for a reason." What I love about Joni's quote is that she's not saying anything even close to this. She's saying that the ashes left behind are not the end of your story.

Let's take the myth of the phoenix. The lesson isn't that the bird successfully avoided the fire—it's that the fire is part of what made her rise. She didn't get to skip the burning. She didn't get to bypass the loss—she had to go all the way through it. But once she made it to the other side, she was able to enjoy a better life—one that simply couldn't exist if she hadn't endured that pain.

So whatever pain you're feeling right now, just keep going like Joni did. Fight for yourself and never give up because eventually, you'll feel yourself rising above it.

Related: Folk Rock Legend, 82, Sounds ‘Amazing’ Singing Iconic 70’s Hit and Fans Are ‘Crying With Joy’

More Quotes by Joni Mitchell

• "Depression can be the sand that makes the pearl. Most of my best work came out of it."
• "They'll crucify you for staying the same, and they'll crucify you for change. I'd rather be crucified for changing."
• "Freedom to me is a luxury of being able to follow the path of the heart, to keep the magic in your life."
• "I sing my sorrow, and I paint my joy."
• "I've been around a long time, and life still has a whole lot of surprises for me."
• "Something's lost, but something's gained, in living every day. I've looked at life from both sides now."
• "You've got to keep the child alive; you can't create without it."

Related: Next Up:

Lauren Alaina took a moment to highlight Mental Health Awareness Month during the 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards on Sunday, May 17, as part of its ACM Lifting Lives segment. While speaking to the audience, the country star and Season 10 American Idol runner-up, 31, became visibly emotional, unable to hold back tears. 

During the moment, Alaina was also on stage preparing to introduce Dan + Shay, who were set to debut the live performance of their latest single, “Say So,” a deeply personal, mental health-themed song inspired by the loss of the duo’s Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney’s close friend and mentor Ben Vaughn, who served as the president and CEO of Warner Chappell Nashville. Vaughn died by suicide in January of 2025 at age 49.

“Sometimes, lifting lives can mean saving lives,” Alaina said, beginning her message to the audience from inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. “May is Mental Health Awareness Month and an important time to say, if you are secretly suffering, you are not alone.” 

“Like too many of you out there, I know what it’s like to lose someone who struggled with their mental health, so to anybody out there tonight suffering, please know,” she said, then, pausing and covering up her face with her hand to try and fight back tears.  

Showing both love and support for Alaina, the crowd then cheered her on as she summoned the courage to finish her speech. 

“There is always someone to listen and someone to help. Just please, please reach out,” Alaina said. “Oh, man, OK, I’m doing a great job ... Tonight's ACM Lifting Lives’ performance is by two friends of mine, Dan + Shay, whose powerful new song ‘Say So’ was inspired by a heartbreaking loss in our country music family. When I first heard it, I knew this song is going to save lives.”

If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text "HOME" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or visit their website.

Related: The 2026 ACM Awards’ Most-Nominated Artist Won’t Attend the Show — Here’s Why

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Sometimes it makes more sense to do a full bedding refresh instead of replacing pieces one by one. Whether you’re updating your bedroom for spring, setting up a guest room, or moving into a new space, a complete set can simplify the process. It ensures everything coordinates perfectly and saves you the hassle of trying to match separate items.

Complete bedding sets can also be surprisingly budget-friendly — one bestselling option right now is the U by Bedsure 7-Piece Comforter Set. It’s currently $6 off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $25 to $19. For a full bed-in-a-bag setup, that’s a pretty impressive deal.

U by Bedsure 7-Piece Comforter Set, From $19 (was $25) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The set is available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes. Each one includes a comforter, a flat sheet, and a fitted sheet. The twin size also comes with one pillowcase and one pillow sham, while the larger sizes include two of each. It’s designed to give your bed a finished, coordinated look right out of the package.

Care is simple, too. The entire set is machine-washable and can be cleaned in cold water on a gentle cycle. Just tumble dry it on low to keep everything soft and fresh. Easy maintenance like this makes it practical for everyday use.

The comforter itself is crafted from ultra-fine microfiber and filled with fluffy fibers that create a cozy balance of softness and warmth. It’s designed to work year-round, offering comfort without feeling too heavy. The extra-durable polyester microfiber fabric also helps the set resist fading, shrinking, and pilling over time.

Related: Walmart's $150 Tall Bookcase Is 'Beautiful' and 'Sturdy' With 'Lots of Storage'

Style-wise, the set comes in several color options including beige, sage green, black, and burnt orange, though availability can vary by size. A subtle contrast between the sheets and pillow shams adds a bit of visual interest, while the quilted design helps keep the comforter evenly distributed. It’s simple enough to work with many decor styles, whether you prefer modern, cozy, or minimalist rooms.

This bestselling style has nearly 1,000 five-star reviews. One shopper shared, “This is some of the most comfortable bedding I’ve ever ordered — it’s so soft and really comforting to snuggle into.” Another described it as “absolutely beautiful,” “so warm,” and “silky.”

If you’re looking for a complete bedding set that’s affordable and comfortable, the U by Bedsure 7-Piece Comforter Set is a great pick, especially now that it’s just $19 with Walmart’s discount. 

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.

You'll need all your wits about you to solve today's NYT Connections Sports puzzle. 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 Monday, May 18, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Monday, May 18, 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 May 18, 2026

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

• Yellow: Not going up.
• Green: Gridiron plan.
• Blue: Pacific Northwest teams.
• Purple: Add two letters to form a baseball team's name.

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: SLIDE
• Green: FOOTBALL RUNNING PLAYS
• Blue: AN OREGON ATHLETE
• Purple: MLB TEAMS, MINUS THE LAST TWO LETTERS

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 #602 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• SLIDE: DECLINE, DIP, DOWNTURN, SLUMP
• FOOTBALL RUNNING PLAYS: COUNTER, DIVE, DRAW, SWEEP
• AN OREGON ATHLETE: BEAVER, DUCK, THORN, TIMBER
• MLB TEAMS, MINUS THE LAST TWO LETTERS: ANGE, DODGE, MARINE, RANGE

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: 8 Discontinued Breakfast Cereals From Your Childhood You Completely Forgot About

41 years ago today, on May 18, 1985, Simple Minds topped the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart with their pop-rock hit, “Don’t You (Forget About Me),” but if it weren’t for the cult classic The Breakfast Club, the band never would have been able to celebrate the milestone achievement. 

In fact, “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” was written for the movie, and later presented to the band as a request for them to learn for the film. Upon hearing the Keith Forsey and Steve Schiff-penned tune, Simple Minds was reluctant to record it and declined the offer at first.

“It was a record that we didn’t want to do initially,” Simple Minds’ lead singer Jim Kerr confirmed during a 2023 interview with AXS TV, explaining that he and his bandmates had already been preparing songs for their next album, so they had initially hoped to use one of their originals for the film.

“....We went ‘Hang on a minute. We do our own songs,” Kerr recalled. “And, we had just had this thing up our sleeve called ‘Alive and Kicking’ that we thought was pretty good. I remember saying, ‘Hang on a minute. You want us in there because you love the band, and you love the band because of the songs? But you don’t want us to do our songs? I didn’t get it.”

“But, of course, we were young…and we weren’t really listening,” he continued. “He did want the sound of Simple Minds, but they had a song specifically written for the script. What made us get on board was when we met Keith Forsey and John Hughes (Director, Co-producer, and Writer of The Breakfast Club). We just loved them as people.” 

Luckily, Simple Minds agreed to cut the song in the end, and reaped the benefits as it went on to become their biggest North American hit, topping the charts in both the U.S. and Canada. The song, which plays in the opening and closing credits of The Breakfast Club, also reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart, where it stayed for three weeks. 

Aside from chart success, “Don’t You (Forget About Me),” which became a cultural touchstone of the ‘80s, still resonates with listeners today.

“That’s just one of those songs that, you know, has taken on its own life,” Kerr acknowledged. “We just feel proud to be connected with the record.” 

Related: 1992 No. 1 Cover Initially Deemed Unimpressive by Its Songwriter Became a Massive Arena Rock Ballad

Today's NYT Strands puzzle is positively zesty. 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 #806 on Monday, May 18.

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: "The daily rind"

A hint for today's Strands game: Your daily dose of vitamin C.

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:

• LI
• OR
• CL
• PO
• TA
• KU
• CI (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly diagonal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for May 18

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, May 18, 2026, isCITRUS.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Monday, May 18?

• LIME
• ORANGE
• CLEMENTINE
• POMELO
• TANGERINE
• KUMQUAT
• SPANGRAM: CITRUS

Related: 8 Discontinued Breakfast Cereals From Your Childhood You Completely Forgot About

In 1975, country music legend Loretta Lynn released what would prove to be the most controversial song of her career. Despite becoming her highest-charting song on the Billboard Hot 100 charts, Lynn's "The Pill" has been banned from country music radio for more than 50 years.

The song — which was penned by Lorene Allen, Don McHan, T. D. Bayless, and Loretta Lynn — is an ode to the sexual revolution of the decade.

"This incubator is over-used because you've kept it filled / But feeling good comes easy now since I've got the pill," Lynn sings.

Country radio stations refused to play the song due to its focus on the taboo topic of birth control.

"If I'd had the pill back when I was havin' babies I'd have taken 'em like popcorn," Lynn previously told People. "The pill is good for people. I wouldn't trade my kids for anyone's. But I wouldn't necessarily have had six, and I sure would have spaced 'em better."

Following her death in 2022, "The Pill" was played by a country radio station for the first and only time, according to Luminate (formerly Nielsen Music), Time reported.

"It's just a wife arguin' with her husband," Lynn explained to People. "The wife is sayin', 'You've kept me barefoot and pregnant all these years while you've been slippin' around. Now you straighten out or I'll start, now that I have the pill.'"

Despite its radio ban, "The Pill" was "selling 15,000 copies a week" simply through word of mouth, the outlet reported.

You'll find today's NYT Connections puzzle easy if you understand semantics. 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 #1072 on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Monday, May 18, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Monday'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 Monday, May 18

1. "Buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo."
2. What might happen to a gasket.
3. Baseball pro.
4. Smoothie scramble.

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 Monday, May 18:

1. HOMOPHONES: PAIR, PARE, PEAR, PERE
2. RUPTURE: BLOW, CRACK, POP, SPLIT
3. MLB PLAYER: PADRE, RED, ROYAL, TWIN
4. FRUIT ANAGRAMS: CHEAP, EARP, LUMP, WIKI

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: 8 Discontinued Breakfast Cereals From Your Childhood You Completely Forgot About

When they're not screaming at each other in their own private yachts, mansions, and waterfront patios, the Real Housewives of Rhode Island cast brings the fire to some of the Ocean State's most scenic bars, restaurants, and hot spots. Here are some of the RHORI stars' favorite places to eat and hang out!

Audrey's View this post on Instagram

Audrey's will likely be the first RHORI restaurant to come to fans' minds as it's a huge topic of conversation on the series. Ashley Iaconetti and her husband Jared Haibon own the South Kingstown cafe, and it's a major bone of contention in their relationship.

Despite the on-screen drama, the coffee shop itself was ranked the second highest-rated celebrity owned restaurant in the United States, so it's very much worth a visit.

RELATED: Bachelor’s Ashley Iaconetti Thought She Knew Reality TV — Then She Joined ‘Real Housewives’ (Exclusive)

Pizza Mamma View this post on Instagram

Iaconetti and Haibon aren't the only ones on the cast that own a restaurant. Alicia Carmody's fiancé Billy has several eateries, but her "favorite" is Pizza Mamma in Cranston, where she shares "her love for authentic, expertly crafted pizza and creating a space where every bite feels like something special," according to the website.

Newport Vineyards Newport Vineyards Entrance

Newport Vineyards

This beautiful vineyard and winery in Middletown is the perfect spot for a serene afternoon with friends, as long as you don't break out the truth box like the housewives did on an episode of the show!

Matunuck Oyster Bar

South County Tourism

When we first meet Jo-Ellen Tiberi and her husband, Gary Tiberi, they're suggestively sucking down oysters at this beloved bayside spot in Wakefield, along with extra dirty martinis with blue cheese-stuffed olives.

Rail Explorers Rail Explorers Rhode Island

Rail Explorers

The girls got adventurous at this unique New England activity, and fans can do the same! Rail Explorers is located in Portsmouth, and allows riders to coast along the scenic railroads in the sunshine.

While they don't serve food, the carts have plenty of space for backpacks and coolers, and guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics!

Check back for new hotspots as the season continues!

Carl Fredricksen perfectly embodies today's NYT Wordle puzzle answer. But 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 #1794 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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

How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels 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 no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

A hint for today's Wordle is: unwilling or reluctant.

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 #1794 on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Monday, May 18, 2026, is LOATH.

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

Related: 8 Discontinued Breakfast Cereals From Your Childhood You Completely Forgot About

Four decades ago, a music legend continued to dominate the scene with her debut album as another of her singles topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Whitney Houston made history when "Greatest Love of All," which was released as an official single from her self-titled album on March 18, 1996, was a major success soon after its release.

The emotional ballad about self-love immediately started climbing the charts, following in the footsteps of other singles on the album, including No. 1 hits "Saving All My Love for You" and "How Will I Know." On May 17, 1986, "Greatest Love of All" finally took the top spot.

With this achievement, Houston became the first female artist to have three singles from the same album reach the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It wasn't just a U.S. success either, as "Greatest Love of All" was Houston's second No. 1 hit in Canada and topped charts in other countries as well.

"Greatest Love of All" is a cover of the original song from artist George Benson, written by Michael Masser and Linda Creed. It was the album Whitney Houston's seventh official single. Others were "Hold Me," "You Give Good Love," "All at Once," and "Thinking About You."

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The official Instagram account for the late Houston commemorated the special anniversary with a clip from the music video and a list of the song's accomplishments. Along with its chart-topping success, "Greatest Love of All" also earned a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year.

Related: 1982 Classic Song Inspired by Iran’s Ban on Rock Music Became The Band’s Biggest U.S. Hit

Fans paid tribute to Houston and the song in the comments, with replies like, "This song always bring so many emotions," and "The voice heaven sent the greatest and it's not even close!"

Another declared, "Whitney was truly one of the greatest artists of all time. This song brings such positive memories," while someone else noted that although the song is technically a cover, Houston "made it her own."

Related: 1985 Rock Hit Was Originally Hated by the Legendary Band That Recorded It

Released in 1985, a musical-comedy film that cemented the Hollywood status of then-rising star Blair Underwood was named among the best movie soundtracks ever made.

Krush Groove, a movie directed by Michael Schultz, was based on the real-life experiences of Def Jam Recordings co-founder Russell Simmons, who created the iconic record labels at a time when the hip-hop music scene was largely ignored.

Written by the renowned television producer Ralph Farquhar, who was celebrated for his notable Black sitcoms like The Parkers, Moesha and the Disney animated series The Proud Family, the movie centers on the early days of the record label, following Simmons, who was a young music producer at the time, struggling to navigate the rise of the New York rap scene while balancing his career ambitions amid challenges in his personal life.

The movie stars Underwood as Russell Walker, who was then an ambitious young manager who launched his new hip-hop record label named Krush Groove.

Blair Underwood photographed in 1991

Chris Haston/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

After one of his talents secured a massive hit record, he found himself grappling to keep his business afloat. To address the fast-paced financial pressures, he took a bold risk to keep the business afloat.

Beyond the rocky stage of his business, Walker was also dealing with romantic rivalry within his family and at the same time seeking out new talent.

Joining Underwood in the lead cast are LisaGay Hamilton as assistant Aisha and Richard Gant, who played the notorious neighborhood loan shark Jay B.

Since Krush Groove focuses on music as the background, the film featured a mix of R&B, old-school hip-hop, dance-pop and rock.

With this, Rolling Stone ranked the movie at No. 76 on the list of “best movie soundtracks” of all time as it proudly showcased the work of music legends such as Chaka Khan singing "(Krush Groove) Can't Stop the Street" and influential musicians like the Beastie Boys’ track "She's on It,” LL Cool J’s breakout hit "I Can't Live Without My Radio,” Blondie vocalist Debbie Harry for "Feel the Spin" as well as the all-star collaboration from Fat Boys, Run-D.M.C., Sheila E. and Kurtis Blow with "Krush Groovin.”

Director Michael Schultz poses behind rap group The Fat Boys on the set of the film Krush Groove. The Fat Boys from left to right: The Human Beatbox, Prince Markie Dee, and Kool Rock Ski.

Nick Elgar/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images

During the celebration of the movie’s 35th anniversary, Underwood recalled the fondest moment he had on set and playfully mentioned his co-star’s name.

“Being able to kiss Sheila E,” he joked during an exclusive interview with Black Film and TV, adding, “No, seriously, because the first time we kissed we had already done a love scene, but that wasn’t until later in the shooting. So there’s a scene when Run comes off the elevator. I come off the elevator and we meet in the hallway. And Sheila’s there. Michael Schultz, the director, said, ‘Because you guys already made love together in the story, continuity-wise, I think when you greet each other, you should kiss.’”

The actor then revealed that it wasn't part of the script but happened spontaneously during filming.

Related: 1967 Hit Film Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’

In 1963, a rock hit the airwaves that would go on to cause mass confusion, outrage and accidental comedy. That song was "Louie Louie" by The Kingsmen. Within two years of its release, the FBI was investigating it for possible "pornographic" lyrics.

According to the History Channel, The Kingsmen’s chaotic 1963 recording of the garage-rock anthem became one of the biggest hits of the decade, but it also triggered a bizarre federal investigation after parents and politicians became convinced the song’s garbled lyrics were secretly obscene.

Sixty-one years ago today—May 17, 1965—after months of analysis, the FBI laboratory officially concluded that the lyrics were simply “unintelligible.”

The investigation began after complaints flooded the U.S. Department of Justice accusing the song of containing hidden pornographic content. Concerned parents circulated supposed “real lyrics” among teenagers, while some radio stations banned the song entirely.

Even Indiana Governor Matthew E. Welsh publicly condemned the record and pushed for restrictions on airplay.

Ironically, the actual lyrics of “Louie Louie” were relatively innocent.

Originally written and recorded by Richard Berry in the 1950s, the song told the simple story of a sailor speaking to a bartender named Louie about wanting to return home to his girlfriend.

Everything changed when Portland garage band the Kingsmen recorded their now-legendary version in April 1963.

The session was famously rushed and chaotic. Lead singer Jack Ely had to stand on tiptoe and shout into a microphone hanging from the ceiling while competing with loud guitars and drums. Ely was also wearing braces during the recording, further slurring his already frantic vocals.

Rolling Stone later ranked “Louie Louie” No. 54 on its list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” describing the track as “a blast of raw guitars and half-intelligible shouting recorded for $52.” The magazine noted that the Kingsmen accidentally made the lyrics indecipherable by crowding around a single microphone during the session. “I was yelling at a mike far away,” singer Jack Ely told Rolling Stone. “I always thought the controversy was record-company hype.”

The result sounded raw, distorted and nearly impossible to understand, which only fueled the hysteria.

As rumors spread about hidden obscene lyrics, the FBI launched a formal investigation that reportedly lasted more than two years. Agents interviewed the band, analyzed recordings at different speeds and repeatedly attempted to decipher the vocals.

According to the FBI lab’s final assessment, however, the song could not be understood “at any speed.”

The controversy only made “Louie Louie” more popular.

The Kingsmen’s version climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually became one of the defining songs of garage rock. Over time, critics and musicians would credit the recording’s rough, unpolished energy with helping inspire punk rock and grunge decades later.

Music critic Dave Marsh later called it “the most profound and sublime expression of rock and roll’s ability to create something from nothing" in his book "The Heart of Rock & Soul."

The song’s legacy only grew with time. “Louie Louie” became one of the most-covered songs in rock history, with versions recorded by artists ranging from Otis Redding and the Beach Boys to The Kinks and Motörhead.

Despite all the years of controversy, one small detail eventually emerged that made the story even funnier.

Decades later, drummer Lynn Easton admitted that after fumbling a drum fill during the recording, he accidentally shouted the F-word in the background of the song at around the 54-second mark, according to Marsh's book "Louie Louie: The History and Mythology of the World's Most Famous Rock 'n Roll Song."

The FBI never noticed it.

Actor Russell Andrews — perhaps best known for his roles in Grey's Anatomy and Better Call Saul — revealed he has been diagnosed with ALS.

"I am a person living with ALS," Andrews, 64, said during an appearance on CNN's The Story Is With Elex Michaelson on Saturday, May 16.

"I was diagnosed in the late fall of last year," he added. "It's been humbling. But there's also something in the fact that I walked into a family of very caring people. People I did not know a year ago."

Andrews, who appeared on the segment with his fiancée, Erica Tazel, explained that he believed he had suffered a stroke during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"It was a stressful time," he explained. "There were moments. There were twitches. There were things that I thought I was having pinched nerves in my neck. And they were quite frequent. But then I was not able to do things I was normally able to do."

According to Andrews, his diagnosis may have been caused by CTE from his college football career. However, it won't be clear until after his death when doctors can study his brain.

Andrews' public announcement comes just three months after fellow Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane lost his battle with the same disease.

ALS is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that "often begins with muscle twitching and weakness in an arm or leg," according to The Mayo Clinic.

Dane — who played Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running medical drama — died in February, just 10 months after publicly announcing his diagnosis.

"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," Dane’s family told People. "He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world."

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If you're looking for a simple way to declutter your yard or deck for spring, Walmart's bestselling storage find can help you get organized without overcrowding your space. The Yodolla Outdoor Storage Shed is now on sale for as low as $120, down from $190, in the 5- by 3-foot size. It offers ample room to stash snowblowers, holiday decorations, gardening tools, pool supplies, and more. 

At 67 inches long, 37.4 inches wide, and 72.5 inches inches high, the shed is compact enough to fit in small yards, decks and other tight spaces while still providing plenty of space to stow outdoor gear. It comes in five colors, with the brown style marked at the steepest discount, and you can also shop it in 10 larger size options at varying prices. 

Yodolla Outdoor Storage Shed, From $120 (was $190) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made of heavy-duty steel and aluminum, the Yodolla shed is designed to stand up to wind, rain, and other tough weather conditions. Its sloped roof helps prevent water accumulation and rust, while the overlapped wall panels are waterproof and moisture-resistant, ensuring your items stay protected in all weather conditions. The 72.5-inch entrance is taller than that of most sheds, allowing easier access and more headroom as you step in and out. 

Related: Walmart's Spring-Ready $18 Solar Sunflower Lights Look 'Beautiful at Night'

The Yodolla shed is a Walmart bestseller for a reason, earning over 700 five-star reviews online. Shoppers praised its "sturdy" yet compact build, which is versatile enough for any outdoor setup no matter how big or small. One reviewer called it "just the right size," while another said it offers "fantastic storage."

With its impressive storage capacity, durable construction, and an ultra-affordable price, this outdoor storage shed can help streamline your spring cleaning. This flash deal won't last long though, so pick one up while it's still on sale for $70 off at Walmart.

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.

It's one X-rated film to the next at Cannes.

As the controversial horror-drama The Devils (1971) is celebrated at the France festival with a 55th-anniversary screening, new details surrounding The Brutalist director Brady Corbet's juicy new project were just revealed.

Variety reports that Cate Blanchett and Selena Gomez are set to star in the new X-rated movie alongside Michael Fassbender.

During a masterclass at the France film festival on Sunday, May 17, Blanchett, 57, reportedly said she is "about to work with Brady Corbet on a film." Variety confirmed that she has indeed been cast.

Corbet, 37, previously said in interviews that he was looking to make an “X-rated” feature set in the ’70s.

“The film spans from the 19th century into the present day — it’s just predominantly focused on the ’70s. The film is really, really genre-defying,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in an interview article published last November 24.

Variety also noted on Sunday that at the Storyhouse Screenwriting Festival in Dublin last month, Corbet teased that the new film will be lengthy — saying it has a 200-page script. Fans of The Brutalist, which stars Adrien Brody and Felicity Huffman, might recall that the script was 165 pages, with the film totaling three and a half hours in duration.

Blanchett made headlines last month when Variety confirmed she'll be portraying Martha Stewart in an upcoming biopic reportedly titled Good Thing about the TV personality’s life and career. Filmmaker Janicza Bravo, best known for 2020’s critically acclaimed film Zola, has also been confirmed to direct the project.

Most famously, the 56-year-old Blanchett won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2004’s The Aviator, in which she portrayed Golden Age of Hollywood legend Katharine Hepburn. She went on to win her second Oscar for Best Actress in 2013’s Blue Jasmine.

Five years have passed since Bob Odenkirk had a life-threatening experience while on the set of Better Call Saul, the prequel to Breaking Bad. In summer of 2021, he woke up in a medically induced coma and learned he had survived a widowmaker heart attack. Now, fully recovered, Odenkirk is reflecting on the experience.

In an interview with The Times of London, Odenkirk shared what others later told him about the incident.

“I went down and Rhea [Seehorn] and Patrick [Fabian] grabbed me and they were screaming, but [the crew members who noticed] thought they were laughing,” Odenkirk said to The Times. “So there were delays in reacting because we were all so far apart from each other. I was gone. I turned grey. Eventually the on-set medic showed up and he didn’t know what to do. He’d never done CPR.”

Odenkirk said he doesn’t remember the experience, only waking up in the hospital seven days after his heart attack. He was “ecstatic to be alive, appreciating every moment,” The Times said.

“That was such a gift, to experience a few weeks where I felt that way about my presence in the world,” Odenkirk said. “I felt just very, very delighted and engaged.”

According to The Times, Odenkirk’s heart attack was caused by built-up plaque that blocked an artery. He has since cut back on sugar and takes statins, aspirin, and a beta-blocker to reduce blood pressure.

In April, People spoke with the actor, who said that his health is in a good place, and he’s “still able to do everything he needs to take on action roles.”

"And I'm still going to the gym for stunt fighting,” Odenkirk said. “I go twice a week with my same trainer, Daniel Bernhardt."

Odenkirk’s latest action-comedy film, Normal, finds the actor in a Midwestern town playing Ulysses, the town sheriff. Odenkirk said that the film wasn’t a challenge since he had just finished filming Nobody 2.

“I was up to speed when we rolled into this film,” Odenkirk said to People.

In celebration of his upcoming film, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, Pedro Pascal surprised fans with a once-in-a-lifetime Disneyland experience.

As guests neared the end of the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run queue at Galaxy’s Edge, Pascal stood dressed in Din Djarin’s Mandalorian costume. The outfit included a helmet, leaving fans guessing that it was just a cast member. As Pascal took off his helmet to reveal his identity, guests cheered and screamed.

“Mandalorian, do you have anything to say before we send our travelers on their journey?” A cast member asked Pascal.

Taking off his helmet, Pascal joked, “Now you all have to die because you’ve seen my face.”

Pedro Pascal at Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland
Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort via Getty Images

Brent Simmons, a Star Wars fan and Instagram content creator, was among the guests Pascal surprised. He posted a group photo with Pascal on Instagram, captioning it “the biggest surprise this galaxy has ever seen.”

“Meeting Pedro himself as Mando in the most iconic of spots,” Simmons posted. “This was a night to remember for sure. We are so lucky to have these incredible people care about this franchise and fandom so much. So grateful for @starwars 🫶🏼 These pictures will be forever cherished.”

View this post on Instagram

Pascal’s The Mandalorian and Grogu is set to release exclusively in theaters and IMAX on May 22. The Mandalorian started as a TV show streaming on Disney+, and Pascal recently opened up to Good Morning America about what it was like to bring the show to the big screen

“I love that it had beautiful seasons for people to see it at home, but now Jon Favreau, our director, knows a big screen experience puts all of his love of Star Wars, all of his love of movies, into this one on the biggest screen possible,” Pascal said. “It's a thrill ride."

Later in the interview, Pascal teased that he likes that his character wears a helmet.

“Thank God he wears a helmet,” he said. “I get to age all I want in this role.”