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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 #1041 onFriday, April 17, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Friday, April 17, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Friday'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 Friday, April 17

1. Healthy food.
2. Widespread.
3. Ebony and ivory.
4. Cheers!

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 Friday, April 17:

1. VETEABLE PARTS: BULB, LEAF, ROOT, STEM
2. PREVAILING: COMMON, DOMINANT, GENERAL, POPULAR
3. PARTS OF A PIANO: HAMMER, KEY, PEDAL, STRING
4. SECOND HALVES OF DRINK NAMES: SODA, STORMY, TAN, TONIC

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: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, April 16, 2026

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 #1763 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There's one vowel, but it is one of the two repeated letters, so you will see it twice in today's five-letter word.

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

Today's Wordle begins with a consanent.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

Today's Wordle answer refers to a beautiful and charming woman, often from the South. It's also the first name of a Disney character.

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 #1763 on Friday, April 17, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Friday, April 17, 2026, is BELLE.

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

Related: Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1762 on Thursday, April 16, 2026

Rod Stewart’s 1979 global smash hit “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” continues to stand tall as one of the most recognizable songs in pop music history, earning lasting recognition as a timeless anthem that defined an era and still resonates across generations.

Originally released as part of his 1978 album Blondes Have More Fun, the disco-infused track quickly rose to global dominance, securing the No. 1 spot on major music charts, including the US Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks in 1979 and the UK Singles Chart for one week in December 1978. It also topped charts in countries such as Canada and Australia, solidifying Rod Stewart’s reach far beyond his rock roots.

British singer Rod Stewart performs on June 12, 1983 at the Stade Montbauron in Versailles.

Photo by PHILIPPE WOJAZER/AFP via Getty Images

At the time of its release, Rod Stewart was already an established rock star known for his gritty voice and earlier hits like “Maggie May.” However, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” marked a dramatic shift toward disco-pop, blending dance rhythms with catchy rock elements.

The song was written by Stewart alongside Carmine Appice and Duane Hitchings. Its sound featured a four-on-the-floor disco beat, sharp guitar rhythms, strong bass lines, and a signature synth hook, making it instantly recognizable on dance floors worldwide.

The track’s story centers on a chance meeting at a nightclub, capturing feelings of attraction, nervousness, and romantic tension. As drummer Carmine Appice described, it reflects “a story of a guy meeting a chick in a club,” showing the emotional and social energy of late-1970s nightlife culture.

Music expert Sean Egan noted that the song contains a “strange disconnect between choruses and verses,” where the chorus leans playful and bold, while the verses feel more emotional and reflective.ct

The success of “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” was immediate and massive. It not only reached No. 1 in the United States and United Kingdom but also dominated charts in Canada, Australia, Spain, Portugal and several other countries.

By the end of 1979, Billboard ranked the song No. 4 on its Top Singles of the Year list, proving its strong staying power throughout the year. It has since earned certifications, including Platinum status in the United States for over two million units shipped.

Beyond commercial success, the track also helped redefine what rock artists could do in the disco era. While some critics initially accused Stewart of abandoning his rock identity, the song eventually gained respect and nostalgic appreciation. In fact, Rolling Stone later ranked it among the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

Despite its success, the song was not without controversy. A copyright dispute involving Brazilian musician Jorge Ben Jor claimed that the chorus drew from his song “Taj Mahal.” The issue was settled amicably, and Stewart later acknowledged the influence, calling it “unconscious plagiarism” in his autobiography.

Another influence came from Bobby Womack’s arrangement style, which contributed to the song’s distinctive synth elements. These layered inspirations helped shape the unique sound that defined the track.

Even decades later, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” remains a cultural staple, frequently played at parties, retro playlists and live performances.

Over the years, the song has been reintroduced to new audiences through remixes and covers, including versions by N-Trance in the late 1990s and a 2017 collaboration featuring DNCE. Each generation has rediscovered the track in a new musical style, proving its adaptability and lasting appeal.Rod Stewart himself continues to perform the song during his ongoing tours, including his extended One Last Time farewell tour in 2026, where he still energizes audiences at age 81.

Related: 1963 Timeless Classic Was a No. 1 Hit Song 63 Years Ago Today

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Small but mighty, accessories have the power to transform an outfit. For example, the right pair of earrings can make even the simplest of outfits feel intentional and look effortlessly put-together. If you’re looking for a pair that’ll bring some luxury to your everyday look no matter what you style it with, these Amy and Annette Sapphire Halo Earrings at Walmart are a fantastic option. 

These sapphires are lab-created, which is an affordable alternative to naturally grown ones that can cost a pretty penny. They look identical to the real deal, and these earrings adorned with them are currently on sale for less than $20 for a limited time. Normally retailing for $80, they’re on sale for 80% off, bringing the price down to just $16! 

Amy and Annette Sapphire Halo Earrings, $16 (was $80) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

These dazzling earrings bring all the glamour and bling. Featuring four 3-carat sapphires on either side, these earrings ooze luxury and elegance. The sapphires gracefully cascade down to form a row, and they’re set on an elongated hoop frame. While these sapphires aren’t naturally grown, they share the same chemical and physical properties as the real deal. They gorgeously mimic the appearance of real sapphires, including their rich blue hue and brilliance. 

The sapphires are oval-cut and faceted with many flat surfaces. They’re designed to capture light from various angles and deliver constant sparkle. They’re prong-set, ensuring that they stay in place. Each large blue sapphire is framed by a halo of small round-cut white sapphires, giving these earrings even more sparkle and glam. The white sapphires contrast with the blue ones, allowing them to stand out. 

Many shoppers raved about the color of the sapphires. One reviewer mentioned that they’re “beautifully vibrant.” Another shopper described these earrings as “stunning” and said that they “sparkle.” A third commented that they “look and feel very expensive.”

Made of sterling silver and plated with 14-karat white gold, these earrings have a polished finish that adds some additional shine. Both sterling silver and white gold are hypoallergenic and are free of lead and nickel, which makes these earrings a great choice for those with sensitive skin. 

Unlike earrings with butterfly backings that can easily fall out or get lost, these earrings have a hinge closure that’s built into the frame, giving you peace of mind. They’re also really easy to fasten. Once you insert the post into your ear, you can just snap the backing into place. Reviewers noted that though these earrings have a good weight to them, they aren’t heavy on their ears and are very comfortable to wear.

Related: Kendra Scott’s Dainty Heart-Shaped Hoop Earrings at Amazon Are a Rare 50% Off Ahead of Mother's Day

Striking and regal, these earrings are designed to drop below your lobes and frame your face. They’ll add some bling to any outfit and make it feel sophisticated and classy. These earrings will undoubtedly complement any dressy ensemble, like cocktail dresses and polished officewear. Alternatively, you can style them with simple and relaxed attire like athleisure and loungewear, and they’ll instantly elevate your look. 

Shop More Deals 

• Apsvo Birthstone Tennis Bracelet, $13 (was $110) at Walmart
• Amy and Annette Sapphire Teardrop Earrings, $15 (was $80) at Walmart
• Lunvky Birthstone Ring, $12 (was $80) at Walmart

With Mother’s Day less than a month away, you may also want to consider snagging the Amy and Annette Sapphire Halo Earrings as a gift, especially with a deal this sweet. Be sure to hurry and grab a pair, or two, while they’re on sale for just $16 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.

A '90s hard rocker is stepping into a new arena, one that goes far beyond the stage.

Evan Seinfeld, best known as the frontman of Biohazard, has announced a major new venture with the launch of his fitness app, Full Metal Fitness, marking a first-of-its-kind move for the rocker as he continues into 2026.

The app is designed to bring fans into a more personal, lifestyle-driven experience, offering customized workout programs, tailored meal plans and a built-in community component. Members can also join weekly accountability video calls led by Seinfeld, with higher-tier memberships including one-on-one coaching sessions. Prices start at $29.99 per month and go up to $299.99 per month for the most robust membership package.

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"This is my very own fitness app, and [I'm] building a community of badass metalheads and hardcore fans who are getting fit and leveling up our lives together," Seinfeld said in a statement.

For the rocker, the project is deeply personal. "Throughout my life, I have struggled with my weight, my physical fitness and, of course, my confidence and body image," he shared. After decades in the spotlight and on the road, he's found a welcome balance. "I find myself at 58 years young and in the best shape of my life, not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well."

That transformation is what inspired him to create the platform. "Helping others experience the power of transformation is my new passion," Seinfeld explained, adding that his goal is to create a supportive space where fans can improve their health while staying connected through music and shared motivation.

The app also reflects a broader shift in Seinfeld's life. After years in Los Angeles, he relocated to Tulum, Mexico, in 2021 and launched Mantorship, a men's support platform focused on vulnerability, purpose and personal growth.

Even as he expands into wellness, Seinfeld hasn't stepped away from music. Biohazard recently released its first studio album in over a decade, Divided We Fall, and continues to connect with fans through touring.

With Full Metal Fitness, Seinfeld is blending his two worlds, music and self-improvement, into something new, offering fans a chance to train, connect and transform alongside him.

Related: 1973 Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Rock Songs’ of All Time Became a Timeless Classic

In 1979, Peaches & Herb released a ballad that would become one of the most recognizable love songs of its era.

Their song "Reunited" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on May 5, 1979, and remained there for four weeks. It also topped the R&B chart, giving the duo an even bigger follow-up to their previous hit, "Shake Your Groove Thing," and helping turn their album 2 Hot into a major success.

Written by Dino Fekaris and Freddie Perren, "Reunited" stood out for its soft, emotional sound and its simple story of two people finding their way back to each other after a breakup.

The song encapsulated sincere emotion and chemistry, which is a major reason it lasted. Even though it is ultimately a love song, it also works as a breakup anthem rooted in regret, distance, and reconciliation.

The song also arrived during a major comeback moment for the duo. Herb Fame had revived Peaches & Herb with Linda Greene taking over for Francine "Peaches" Barker, and the pair quickly found renewed success in the late 1970s. "Reunited" became the biggest song of that revival, and its breathtaking vocal performance was nominated for a Grammy at the 1980 Grammy Awards.

Fame later reflected on what drew him back to music, explaining how powerful it remained in his life. "Music soothes a lot of people. Music makes you happy. Music keeps a lot of people from doing dangerous things. Music is life," he said, highlighting the genuine passion that helped make songs like "Reunited" resonate so widely.

More than four decades later, the hit still stands as the highlight of Peaches & Herb's legacy. Its smooth melody, heartfelt lyrics and talented performers helped make it a defining success of the late '70s that listeners still instantly recognize.

Related: 1971 Career-Defining Classic Was a Massive No. 1 Hit 55 Years Ago Today

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Packing for a spring or summer trip always starts the same way — light layers, easy outfits, and enough options to get you through a few different types of plans. Somewhere between the lounge sets, breezy dresses, and “just in case” extras, your suitcase starts filling up fast. And then come the shoes, which somehow take up the most space while being the hardest to narrow down.

The easiest way to make it all work? Find a pair that can handle just about everything on your itinerary. The Vionic Uptown Sunset Slide Sandal at Nordstrom Rack is on sale for $60, marked down from $140 for a rare 57% off deal on this beloved designer brand. Designed with supportive comfort and a slightly elevated look, they can move from daytime exploring to dinner out without needing a swap.

Vionic Uptown Sunset Slide Sandal, $60 (was $140) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

These slides may just take over your shoe rotation, considering that they'll go with everything in your closet and feel a notch more pulled together than the usual throw-on pair. The wide, crisscross straps wrap across the foot in a way that feels secure but still easy, with a softened feel and a woven, richly grained leather look. They have that slightly pebbled, matte texture that adds dimension without feeling overly polished, while the clean, minimal stitching keeps the focus on the shape of the straps themselves. Altogether, it gives the sandal a subtle, pulled-together feel that’s easy to dress up or down.

The cushioned footbed has a soft, suede-like finish with built-in arch support, offering comfort that actually holds up through long days out. A lightweight, flexible sole helps absorb impact while still feeling easy to walk in, and the platform design — featuring a 2-inch heel, 1.25-inch platform, and 0.75-inch slope — adds height without throwing off your balance. Finished with deep grooves along the sole for added traction and a slightly sporty edge, they manage to feel both styled and practical at the same time.

Related: Amazon’s 'Cushiony and Supportive' $35 Clarks Sandals Feel Like 'Walking on Clouds'

These slides come in seven color options, ranging from easy neutrals to metallic finishes and soft pastels, making it simple to match whatever direction your warm-weather wardrobe takes this season. Sizing runs from women’s 5 through 12, with select half sizes and wide-width options available for a more customized fit. 

While shoppers loved this “supportive” and “stylish” pair, travelers in particular really put them to the test, calling them “lightweight” and “convenient.” One shopper who brought them along on a trip to Cape Cod wrote, “These sandals are extremely comfortable to walk a lot in and look good, too.”

Another shopper who wore them on a cruise shared that “they were perfect for evening wear and comfortable enough to wear for traveling.”

Shop More Deals

• Vionic Uptown Marin Sandal, from $48 (was $125) at Nordstrom Rack
• Vionic Renie Knit Slide Sandal, $70 (was $125) at Nordstrom Rack
• Vionic Elaine Slide Sandal, $70 (was $125) at Nordstrom Rack

At $60, the Vionic Uptown Sunset Slide Sandal makes packing and getting dressed on the go a whole lot easier. Grab them at Nordstrom Rack while they’re 57% off and free up some suitcase space!

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.

Following his comeback to the Coachella spotlight, ’90s “King of Techno” Moby is making waves once again, this time for a cause beyond the stage.

Thirteen years after his last appearance on the stage, the “Porcelain” hitmaker announced a major move that highlights a cause he’s long championed.

Using his platform, the six-time Grammy nominee is committed to driving change for animal welfare.

In an Instagram update, Moby, whose real name is Richard Melville Hall, shared a video revealing that he is donating 100 percent of his profits from both of his Coachella shows to four animal rights organizations.

The chosen organizations are the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a non-profit research and advocacy organization, and the Humane League, an organization that advocates for improved welfare standards for animals raised for food.

Musician Moby performs onstage during the 7th Annual Adopt the Arts Benefit Gala at The Wiltern on March 07, 2019 in Los Angeles, California.

Scott Dudelson/Getty Images

The third is the international non-profit animal protection organization, Mercy For Animals and the last is Direct Action Everywhere, a worldwide community of activists working for revolutionary social and political change for animals.

“The reason I picked these four is because they do very unique and interesting things in the world of animal rights,” he said.

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Moreover, he also shared a heartfelt message to fans expressing his love for music and at the same time his advocacy.

“Music is what I love, but working on animal rights is my life's work. To that end, I will be giving 100% of my profits from my @coachella shows to @physicianscommittee @mercyforanimals @thehumaneleague @directactioneverywhere. My simple belief is that every sentient being is entitled to live their life according to their will,” he wrote.

The comment section was filled with reactions from fans expressing their admiration for the EDM legend.

“Thanks, Moby. You are the superhero the world really needs,” one wrote.

“You are a beautiful human, Moby!” a commenter added.

The same goes for a follower who said, “YOU TRULY ARE ONE OF THE KINDEST HUMANS I KNOW! THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO TO PROTECT THE VULNERABLE ANIMALS IN THE WORLD! THANK YOU, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.”

Fans continue to praise Moby for his selfless move, with one adding, “Incredible…Thank you for looking after the beloved beings.”

The last time Moby performed at Coachella was in 2013, where he delivered a high-energy DJ set in the Sahara Tent.

More than a decade later, the “Natural Blues” singer brought waves of nostalgia to the crowd after performing his classic hits on the Mojave stage across two weekends.

He was joined by special guest, Gabriels vocalist Jacob Lusk, who performed his signature tracks "Natural Blues" and "When It's Cold I'd Like To Die".

Related: Supergroup Guitarist Announces Rare Move Ahead of Band's 2026 Tour

On April 16, 1983, 43 years ago today, Journey released their iconic power ballad “Faithfully.” While the song has become a signature staple in the rock band’s catalog, it surprisingly never became a No. 1 hit. 

RELATED: 1979 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Country Songs of All Time’ Became a Timeless Anthem of Forbidden Love

Produced by Kevin Elson and Mike Stone, and written by the band’s keyboardist and rhythm guitarist Jonathan Cain, “Faithfully” reached the No. 12 spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking the group’s second top 20 smash following “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart). The track also became a Top 40 hit in Canada. 

The Lyrics

Appearing on Journey’s eighth studio album, Frontiers, which spawned three additional Top 40 singles, including “After the Fall,” “Send Her My Love,” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)," “Faithfully” is a piano-based ballad about living the road life as a musician and missing the one special love who waits at home for their return. 

“They say that the road ain't no place to start a family /  Right down the line, it's been you and me / And lovin’ a music man ain’t always what it’s supposed to be / Oh, girl, you stand by me / I’m forever yours / Faithfully,” the chorus goes. 

According to Cain, who spoke about the song in a video uploaded to YouTube by Premiere Collectibles, “Faithfully” was recorded in three sessions. However, Perry didn’t want to lay down the vocal track for the song with anyone else in the room. 

In the Studio

“He looked at me, and he said, ‘Ok. I’ll sing it under one condition. I can’t be around you when I’m singing it, I want to be alone with it,” Cain confirmed, adding that the sessions came after Stone requested another ballad for the Frontiers album. “I said, ‘You got it, Steve.’ I got chills when I heard it.

“I had originally shown that song to Steve on a plane, and he loved it, and he wanted to record it for his solo album,” he recalled. “I had a little cassette in my pocket, and he took it and listened to it. I took it back and said, ‘No deal.’ It’s got to be on a Journey album someday.”

Related: 1985 No. 1 Art Rock Hit Became the Anthem of a Cult Classic Still Beloved 37 Years Later

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As warmer weather arrives, it's worth stocking up on some cute, lightweight basics that you can throw on for all your spring and summer adventures. Walmart's top-rated Cueply Flowy Tiered Skort is a stylish piece that you can easily dress up or down, and it's currently on sale for just $17 in dozens of vibrant colors and prints. 

The versatile closet staple is available in sizes small to 2XL and comes in over 25 styles, so you're sure to find an option that complements your wardrobe. Choose from a range of pretty florals, animal prints, classic neutrals, and bright hues.

Cueply Flowy Tiered Skort, $17 (was $26) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

No matter which shade or pattern you choose, the cute skort offers a fun, summery look that can be worn anywhere from an early morning workout to a casual lunch to a weekend BBQ.  It features a double-layered butterfly hem, combining the chic look of a tiered skirt on the outside with the comfort of shorts underneath. The fit is relaxed, with a gentle stretch that moves with you throughout the day, and the drawstring waistband can be tightened or loosened to suit your preference.   

Made from 100% polyester, the skort is designed to be soft, ultra-light, and breathable, so you can stay comfortable on even the hottest summer days. Thanks to the versatile design and multitude of color options, it's also easy to style. Pair it with a T-shirt and sneakers for a more casual look, or dress it up with a stylish tank, heels, and jewelry. 

Related: Walmart's 'Silky' $20 4-Piece Cooling Sheet Set Offers a 'Perfect Fit for Deep Mattresses'

A favorite among Walmart shoppers, this skort has over 415 five-star ratings. Multiple reviewers praised the "comfy" and "flattering" fit. Several highlighted the "cute" prints and airy design, with one buyer calling them the "perfectly flowy shorts for summer."

Shop More Deals

• FITOP Women's A Line Tennis Golf Skirt, $16 (was $26) at Walmart
• Luniro Cap Sleeve V-Neck Top, From $10 (was $16) at Walmart
• Rosvigor Women's Top, From $13 (was $24) at Walmart

If you've been looking for the perfect pair of lightweight shorts to complete your warm-weather wardrobe, this stylish skort is an excellent option that you'll reach for again and again. Grab a couple in your favorite prints before this flash deal ends 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.

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 Friday, April 17, 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!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Friday, April 17, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Sound made while sinking into a hot tub — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

4 Across: March Madness pick —HINT: Ends with the letter "M"

6 Across: Like "status quo" and "mea culpa" — HINT: Starts with the letter "L"

8 Across: Large venue for a comedian — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

9 Across: Piece of bacon — HINT: Ends with the letter "P"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Book of maps — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

2 Down: ❤️ — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

3 Down: Constant critic — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

5 Down: Car that's easy to park — HINT: Ends with the letter "I"

7 Down: Much of the afternoon, for a toddler — HINT: Ends with the letter "P"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Friday, April 17, 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: Sound made while sinking into a hot tub — AHH

4 Across: March Madness pick —TEAM

6 Across: Like "status quo" and "mea culpa" — LATIN

8 Across: Large venue for a comedian — ARENA

9 Across: Piece of bacon — STRIP

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Book of maps — ATLAS

2 Down: ❤️ — HEART

3 Down: Constant critic — HATER

5 Down: Car that's easy to park — MINI

7 Down: Much of the afternoon, for a toddler — NAP

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, April 16, 2026

Christina Applegate has reportedly been hospitalized in Los Angeles.

According to reports from TMZ, the 54-year-old was admitted in late March, though details surrounding her hospitalization remain unclear. It’s also unknown whether the stay is directly connected to her multiple sclerosis diagnosis, which she first revealed in 2021.

While her team has not confirmed specifics, a representative noted to the outlet that Applegate has “a long history of complicated medical conditions that she has been refreshingly open about, as evidenced in her memoir and on her podcast.”

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That openness has been especially evident in recent weeks. The Dead to Me star released her memoir, You With the Sad Eyes, where she shared a candid look at her daily life with MS. “When I wake up, I often can’t get my arm to move far enough to grab the cup of water by my bed or my phone from its charger,” she wrote.

Applegate has also been frank about the emotional weight that comes with the diagnosis. In a recent podcast appearance on NPR’s Wild Card With Rachel Martin , she admitted she thinks about death “every day ‘cause it’s looming,” explaining that “it looms for all of us.”

“For people who have a disease like this, you never know, you know?” she added, revealing she has already made arrangements for her future, including purchasing burial plots.

Despite the challenges, Applegate has continued to stay active professionally. Her memoir has been well received, even earning praise from former co-star Chevy Chase, who called her incredibly talented.

At this time, reps for Applegate have not responded to Parade’s request for comment

WARNING! This article spoils the events of The Pitt Season 2 finale. Please do not read further if you do not intend to know what happens in the final episode.

The Pitt is an atypical medical show for a number of reasons. It takes place in real-time, with events unfolding over one eventful day at the Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center. It is happy to cycle cast members in and out between seasons, as fans discovered with the news that Supriya Ganesh's Dr. Mohan would not be returning to the show. And, apparently, it dabbles in a bit of superhero culture, by closing out Season 2 with a surprise post-credits scene.

Earlier in the jam-packed finale of the hit HBO Max medical drama, Santos (Isa Briones) and Mel (Taylor Dearden) were both exhausted and distraught. The former was fatigued as all get-out, and steaming that Langdon (Patrick Ball) had returned to the PTMC, considering how traumatic he had made her first day. Mel, meanwhile, underwent a deposition earlier that day, found out she had to do another one, and had found out her sister Becca (Tal Anderson) had a relationship without her knowing. And it's this shared sadness that alowed Santos to come out of nowhere with a question: "Do you want to get a drink?"

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But that drink didn't just come with no strings attached. Because Santos followed up that request with another: Accompanying karaoke. Well, for her, it's more so "primal scream therapy." It's a cute note to end the scene on, considering how completely different their characters' dispositions are.

But it's another thing entirely to actually see it on our screens, as we did at the beginning of the last credits.

"In the last episode, it's me and Supriya and Isa just kind of sitting on our computers the whole time," Dearden says when recalling how she found out about the karaoke scene when talking to Parade at The Pitt's panel at PaleyFest. "And one day, Isa goes, 'They fit me for a karaoke scene that's coming up, right? When are we shooting that?' And I went, 'Sorry, what?'

"She's like, 'We're doing karaoke together.' I go, 'In what world is that happening?'"

Related: Is Noah Wyle Leaving ‘The Pitt’? Creator Breaks Silence on Season 3 After Emotional Finale (Exclusive)

Luckily, this one! To be fair to Dearden, though, according to series creator R. Scott Gemmill, who also wrote the finale, it was a scene brought in at the eleventh hour.

"That was sort of a last-minute thing," he admits. "I thought it would be really fun for the fans."

And said fans were treated to the surprise of watching Santos and Mel belt their faces off to "You Oughta Know," complete with jumping around and headbanging. And, while Gemmill had suggested the Alanis Morissettesong in the initial script, he said the final choice came down to the actors.

"I put the Alanis Morissette song in the script because I thought that was a banger song that those two could crank out," he explains. "And then I left it up to Taylor and Isa if they wanted to pick a song. I didn't have to sing it; they were gonna have to sing it. But they stuck with it, and I thought it turned out super well."

Dearden agrees heartily. "It was so much fun. We had such a blast that day. I'm uncomfortable singing, but it's a weird thing where I'm ok doing it if it's Mel.
I don't know what that means. But it's weird, and I escaped myself."

Considering Season 3 of The Pitt is already beginning to kick off production, we're already looking ahead to what next season's finale will provide. Can we make more use of Briones's musical talents, considering she's currently starring on Broadway in Just in Time? Looks like we found something Santos could do instead of charting!

Sydney Sweeney and Scooter Braun are finally Instagram official.

For months, the duo has been seen holding hands, most recently at the season three premiere of Euphoria at West Hollywood’s Chateau Marmont. People said that Sweeney “appeared affectionate with Braun,” as the couple held hands as they left the hotel.

Romantic speculations were confirmed on Sweeney’s Instagram on April 15 when she posted a story of Braun’s arms around her. She added a white heart to the corner, and Braun reposted the story with the caption, “lucky bastard.”

In an interview with Cosmopolitan in January, Sweeney explained that she’s still learning how much she wants the public to know about her private life.

"I was in a relationship for a very long time, for seven and a half years, and I never talked about it," Sweeney said. “I was very private. No one would ever see us. I think it's important to have some things for myself."

In March 2025, Sweeney ended her engagement to Jonathan Davino, a businessman from Chicago.

Prior to Sweeney’s breakup, Braun divorced his wife of seven years, Yael Cohen. The couple married in 2014 and divorced in 2022, and now share joint custody of their three kids.

Sweeney admitted that dating after her breakup was difficult because of her fame.

"After I had a few months of just crying my eyes out, I asked all my friends, 'How do I do this?'" Sweeney said to Cosmopolitan. "I've never dated before. I've never even used a dating app. My friends who aren't in the industry are like, 'We'll just go out and meet someone.' But I can't just meet someone at a bar. It doesn't work like that."

However, it seems like Sweeney has found the love she was looking for. In December, a source told People that things between her and Braun were getting serious.

“Scooter and Sydney are going strong and things between them are great,” the source told People.

Sweeney recently reprised her role of Cassie Howard in Euphoria season three, which debuted on HBO Max on April 12. Check out the trailer here:

For decades, hustle culture encouraged us to rise, grind and sleep when we're dead. Yet, the world has gone in another direction—and we're not mad about it. Sleep-maxxing has had a moment in the sun on TikTok recently. Social media trends and cultural expectations aside, one psychologist shares that sleep is not a luxury. It's absolutely essential to your physical and mental health.

"Sleep is when your body and mind reset," reports Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, Ph.D., a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor. "It helps with memory, mood, immune health and energy. When you are well-rested, it is easier to think clearly, manage stress and stay emotionally steady."

The problem is that you may literally and figuratively toss and turn all night because your brain is so full of mental clutter. You may be running through your to-do list (or adding item upon item to it). Or, perhaps you're living in the past, ruminating about something that happened hours ago or years ago—did you say the wrong thing? Did so-and-so not like you? Did you bomb the interview? It's understandable to overthink at night. Life throws a lot at us. However, poor sleep can make life a nightmare.

"When sleep is off, even a little, people often feel more anxious, more reactive and more overwhelmed by things that might normally feel manageable," the psychologist tells Parade.

People with certain traits may be more likely to overthink each night, but it's not an exact science.

"These traits are not flaws or signs that something is wrong," he says. "Many of them are strengths in other parts of life. The goal is not to change who you are, but to build awareness so you can better understand your mind and support yourself at night."

To help you get dreamier sleep and learn more about yourself, Dr. Lira de la Rosa shares the nine traits that are closely linked to overthinking at night and reasons why you might catastrophize before you doze off.

Related: How To Stop Worrying That Someone Is Mad at You, According to a Psychologist

Why Do I Overthink Only at Night?

Ekaterina Goncharova/Getty Images

Even though it can feel isolating and take over your sleep, it's common and understandable to overthink at night.

"For many people, nighttime is the first quiet moment of the day," Dr. Lira de la Rosa states. "There are fewer distractions, less conversation and less noise, so your thoughts have more space to surface."

The fact that your energy is inching toward or already in the red doesn't help.  

"On top of that, when you are tired, your brain has a harder time keeping worries in perspective," he shares. "Thoughts can feel bigger, more urgent and harder to let go of, even if nothing has actually changed."

Related: People Who Constantly Overshare Develop These 6 (Surprisingly) Positive Traits

9 Traits of People Who Overthink at Night, According to a Psychologist 1. They are very reflective

Often, people overthink at night as they reflect on things that happened that day (or previously).

"People who naturally think deeply tend to review conversations, decisions and interactions," Dr. Lira de la Rosa says. "At night, that reflection can turn into replaying things over and over."

2. They put a lot of pressure on themselves

If you (perhaps unintentionally) swap your nightcap for a thinking cap, you may have very high expectations for yourself.

"When someone holds themselves to high standards, they are more likely to question whether they did enough or did something wrong," Dr. Lira de la Rosa points out. "That can keep the mind active at bedtime."

Related: If You Can’t Relax When Someone Is Upset With You, a Psychotherapist Says You Probably Possess These 9 Traits

3. They do not like uncertainty

Dr. Lira de la Rosa shares that people who overthink may value security and try to create it for themselves after sundown, once they've logged out of their day job.

"If not knowing what will happen feels uncomfortable, the brain tries to 'figure it out' at night," he says. "This often leads to spiraling thoughts that do not actually bring answers."

4. They feel responsible for a lot

Many people whose minds race at night are dedicated humans who want to do right by others and their to-do lists.

"People who care deeply about others or their responsibilities may carry those concerns into the night," Dr. Lira de la Rosa explains. "They might think through different scenarios or try to plan ahead."

5. They are more sensitive to stress

Stress is a part of life. But people have different capacities for what qualifies as "too much stress." Individuals who have highly active evening minds may be more sensitive to stress than those who can "power off" more quickly.

"Some people notice stress more quickly and feel it more strongly," Dr. Lira de la Rosa says. "At night, that sensitivity can make small worries feel much bigger."

Related: 11 Phrases To Use if Someone Says You're 'Too Sensitive'

6. They push feelings aside during the day

Compartmentalizing is a survival tactic sometimes. For instance, you may have been broken up with via text or a poor performance review, but still needed to power through tasks. Yet, putting off feeling your feelings can have its pitfalls.

"When you stay busy and do not have time to process emotions, they tend to show up later," Dr. Lira de la Rosa states. "Nighttime is when those feelings finally get attention."

7. They try to think their way through everything

There's nothing wrong with using your brain to problem-solve (it'd be nice if more people did!). However, Dr. Lira de la Rosa notes that there's a time and a place for working through problems.

"Some people cope by analyzing and problem-solving," Dr. Lira de la Rosa says. "While that can be helpful, it can also keep the brain 'on' when it is time to rest."

Related: 8 Phrases To Repeat to Yourself When You're Feeling Anxious, According to a Therapist

8. They have a hard time switching off

We shut down our computers at the end of the day. Our brains? Maybe not if you are one of the many people who overthink at night.

"If your day is full of work, screens or constant activity, your brain may not easily shift into rest mode," Dr. Lira de la Rosa says. "Thoughts about tasks and to-do lists can follow you into bed."

9. They have perfectionist tendencies

Dr. Lira de la Rosa says people may play through regrets or mistakes at bedtime.

"People who are sensitive to making mistakes may replay past moments and think about what they could have done differently," he notes. "This can keep the mind stuck in a loop."

Related: Psychologist Says People With High Levels of Self-Respect Never Share These 7 Personal Things

How To Stop Overthinking at Night 1. Give your thoughts a place earlier in the evening

You put your shoes and coat away right after you get home. Consider trying to do the same with your thoughts.

"Before bed, take a few minutes to write down anything on your mind," Dr. Lira de la Rosa advises. "It helps your brain feel like those thoughts are 'held' somewhere, so they do not need to keep coming up."

Related: 11 Phrases To Use That Communicate 'You've Hurt Me,' According to Psychologists

2. Focus on your body instead of your thoughts

Exit your brain and enter the rest of your body. Dr. Lira de la Rosa says it can help root you in the present and put you in a better position to get quality sleep.

"Simple things like slow breathing, stretching or noticing how your body feels in bed can help shift you out of your head and into a calmer state," the psychologist says.

3. Let thoughts pass instead of fighting them

It may be hard, but Dr. Lira de la Rosa recommends relinquishing control of your thoughts.

"Trying to force your mind to be quiet usually backfires," he reveals.

To be clear, that doesn't mean you need to live in it.

"Instead, notice the thought, remind yourself you can come back to it tomorrow, and gently shift your attention elsewhere," he suggests.

Related: Psychologist Explains People Who Automatically Say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’ Share These 7 Traits

Final Takeaways

Overthinking at night is common and is sometimes linked to certain traits. Here's what to remember (preferably during daylight hours):

• People overthink at night for many reasons. Nighttime may be your first free moment to process everything that happened during the day. Additionally, Dr. Lira de la Rosa says that tiredness can make it harder to keep things in perspective.
• People who overthink often share common traits. Overthinking at night is commonly associated with traits such as perfectionism and stress sensitivity. However, traits and tendencies don't define us, and you can't "type" a person based on one behavior or habit.
• It's possible to work on nighttime overthinking. Dr. Lira de la Rosa says that journaling before bed, engaging in mindfulness exercises and letting thoughts pass rather than trying to control them can help you quiet the noise and wind down.

Up Next:

Related: 9 Unique Traits of Adults Who Were Shamed as Kids, According to Child Psychologists

Source:

• Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, Ph.D., is a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor.

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Sneakers are usually the go-to when you’ve got a busy day ahead, but actually putting them on can take more effort than you’d like, especially when you’re rushing out the door. Between bending down, tying laces, and adjusting the fit, it can slow you down. That’s where slip-in shoes really stand out, offering a hands-free design that lets you step in and go without the extra hassle.

When it comes to this category, the Skechers Hands-Free Slip-Ins are hard to beat. One standout style, the Skechers Bobs B Cute Sweet Hands-Free Slip-Ins, is currently on sale for up to 51% off at Amazon, bringing the price down from $73 to $36. 

Skechers Bobs B Cute Sweet Hands-Free Slip-Ins, From $36 (was $73) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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These shoes are available in sizes 5 through 11, with both standard and wide width options for a better fit. They feature a rubber sole for traction, a textile outer, and a synthetic inner lining. They’re also crafted with 100% vegan materials, making them a more conscious choice while still delivering on durability and everyday performance.

The hands-free design is what really sets them apart. You can slip them on without using your hands thanks to a structured heel and built-in heel pillow that keeps your foot securely in place. This makes them especially helpful for anyone with mobility concerns, during pregnancy, or for those moments when you just don’t want to deal with bending down.

Comfort is another major highlight. The memory foam cushioned insole provides a soft, supportive feel that’s ideal for long days on your feet. Whether you’re running errands, walking the dog, or just moving through a packed schedule, they’re designed to keep up without sacrificing comfort.

Related:  Skechers Has 'Cute, Trendy, and Comfortable' Mommy and Me Sneakers Under $80 Ahead of Mother's Day

Style-wise, they’re easy to work into your wardrobe. They come in five versatile colors: white, two black options, navy, and tan. The canvas upper with decorative laces gives them a classic sneaker look, so they pair well with casual outfits while still feeling a bit more put together than basic slip-ons.

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For a top-rated pick that balances comfort, style, and ease, you can’t go wrong with the Skechers Bobs B Cute Sweet Hands-Free Slip-Ins. Right now, they’re on sale for up to 51% off at Amazon, making it a great time to grab a pair.

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WARNING! This article spoils the events of The Pitt Season 2 finale. Please do not read further if you do not intend to know what happens in the final episode.

It has been a rough final day before vacation for Dr. Robby (Noah Wyle), to say the least. When The Pitt picks up for Season 2, it's July 4. But the senior attending is getting ready to celebrate his own independence, as he has plans to take his motorcycle on a three-month sojourn to the Great White North, riding to a place called "Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump." Not an entirely subtle nod to the mental status of the lead character this season.

Indeed, as both the characters and fans of the hit HBO Max medical drama have noticed, Robby seems a bit...off today. Despite the terse nature of a job in emergency medicine, he's being more brusque with his co-workers than usual, even telling Mohan (Supriya Ganesh) to go home when she suffered a panic attack on the job because of her "mommy issues." Simultaneously, there's been an ominous aura over him. He's let Whittaker (Gerran Howell) house-sit for him, with no real timeline of when he's returning. He flat-out tells Dana (Katherine LaNasa) at one point, "What happens if I don't come back?"

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The finale, at long last, had Robby saying the quiet part out loud. In an emotionally fraught scene with Abbot (Shawn Hatosy), he reveals how much he's been suffering in silence on the job, feeling that being around constant death is killing him. As he puts it, "I’m tired of being a role model. I’m tired of feeling you can’t get ahead. I’m tired of drowning every day." But the most poignant confession comes in the final scene. While comforting "Baby Jane Doe," who had been abandoned in the waiting room during the first hour of his shift, he reveals his tragic backstory, having also been left by his parents at an early age. But he promises her, "You’ve got so many wonderful things to see. People to love ahead of you."

Season 2 of The Pitt leaves things on quite an unresolved note, especially when it comes to the status of Robby and his sabbatical. So Parade sat down with creator R. Scott Gemmill (who also wrote the finale) to give his take on the Robby arc this season, whether he went on his trip, and, most importantly, if Noah Wyle will be back for Season 3.

Related: 'The Pitt’: What Is Viral Meningitis, and What Does It Have To Do With Dr. Al-Hashimi’s Seizures?

It's very clear that we see Robby is in a very different place mentally and emotionally than even when he was at his most broken in Season 1. Talk to me about how you wrote out that arc throughout the season.
It's graduation. You see it over the course of the day, as things just start to chip away at him, hour after hour. And you see that in his behavior to the other doctors and nurses. He's a little chippy this year. You see how he treats Samira, which is somewhat inappropriate. I mean, he says it's tough love, but it's a little aggressive. And he really pushes Langdon, to the point where he tells them to "doctor the f—k up" and try this procedure, which is risky. It's well-intentioned, even if it's not well-executed on his part.

So, at what point did this final scene of him comforting Baby Jane Doe come into play? Did you start writing the season with it in mind?
The idea that he would end up with him and the baby was from the get-go from day one, whether we were going to get there or not. And it was a crazy idea, because it involved multiple babies over the course of the season. Because our show takes place in over the course of 15 hours. But these babies, the first babies we used would be almost a year old by the time we were finished. So, that was challenging. But no, the idea was that the baby, ultimately, was the one person that Robbie was able to be honest with a little bit at the end. He could say what was bothering him to someone who he knew was never going to spread it. It was never going to go anywhere else. So it's sort of symbolic that way.

The scene he has with Abbot is perhaps the only other time where he was able to be more honest, where he outright says, "The most important things I’ve done have been in this hospital. Nothing will mean more to me than what has been done in this hospital. But it is killing me." Talk to me about writing that scene, having Robby finally speak out loud his suicidal ideations.
I think it was important. The guy's been struggling for a long time, and he hasn't been doing the work he needs to. He's very good at giving people advice. He's very good at helping others and healing others, but he's terrible at taking his own advice. And it was important to really see just how bad a shape he was in in terms of his mental health. And that's the biggest part of his journey, him trying to come to terms with what he's going through, and taking the steps, which he hasn't done really. He's given it some lip service, but he hasn't gotten the help he needs. And so until he does, he's never going to get the closure or the happiness that he desperately needs.

In that conversation, Abbot says, "You need this place as much as it needs you." And there's certainly been talk throughout the season by the characters as to how long Robby's sabbatical is going to be. Does he end up going on the trip?
I mean, that's the question, right? Is he going to go or not? Do I stay or do I go now? And ultimately, he will have gone on his trip.

So then the follow-up is: Is he going to come back? There's been a lot of speculation from fans this season about whether The Pitt can exist without Robby. Should we expect to see him back in scrubs in Season 3?
I wouldn't want to do the show without him. And that's just a personal honor, because we're friends. I think Noah's fundamental to the show, and I wouldn't want to do the show without him.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Creator Breaks Silence on Supriya Ganesh’s Shocking Departure — And Warns More Exits Are Coming (Exclusive)

The 1980s were a decade of excess, experimentation and unapologetic boldness—and nowhere was that more obvious than in what people were drinking. Grocery store shelves and vending machines became playgrounds for bright colors, new formulas and marketing ideas that ranged from clever to downright strange. Beverage companies weren't afraid to take risks, whether that meant reinventing a classic cola or introducing flavors that sounded more like candy than something you'd sip through a straw.

At the same time, drinks became part of pop culture in a way that felt bigger than ever. Tie-ins with movies, celebrity endorsements, big-brand rivalries and "new and improved" formulas turned everyday beverages into conversation starters. Some of these drinks burned brightly and disappeared just as quickly, while others developed loyal followers who still reminisce about them today.

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What Drinks Were Popular in the 1980s?

The 1980s saw a mix of classic sodas, bold new experiments and novelty drinks dominate the market. Cola giants still ruled store shelves, but the decade also introduced fruit-forward sodas, diet alternatives and quirky limited-time releases that leaned heavily on branding and pop culture.

Here are ten discontinued drinks from the 1980s that captured that adventurous spirit—and that many people still wish would make a comeback.

1. New Coke (1985)

When New Coke debuted in 1985, it wasn't just a new soda—it was a full-scale reinvention of a beloved classic. The company reformulated its flagship drink to compete with sweeter rivals, betting that consumers were ready for a change. The rollout was massive, and for a brief moment, it seemed like the future of cola had arrived.

But the reaction was swift and intense. Loyal fans rejected the new taste, flooding the company with complaints and even hoarding the original formula. Within months, the original version returned, rebranded as "Classic." New Coke became a legendary example of how deeply people can care about what they drink—and how risky it is to tamper with nostalgia.

2. Slice Soda (1984)

Slice entered the scene in 1984 with a promise that felt almost revolutionary at the time: soda made with real fruit juice. In an era when health consciousness was beginning to creep into mainstream culture, this gave Slice a unique edge. Flavors like orange and apple helped it stand out in a crowded market.

Despite its initial popularity, Slice struggled to maintain its identity as both a better-for-you option and a fun soda. Over time, formulas changed, and competition increased, and the brand slowly faded from its original prominence. Still, for many, Slice represents that early attempt to make soda feel just a little less guilty.

3. Aspen Soda (1982)

Aspen Soda arrived in 1982 as an apple-flavored twist on the typical soft drink lineup. Crisp and slightly tart, it offered something refreshingly different from the usual cola and citrus options dominating store shelves.

Despite its unique flavor, Aspen never quite broke into the mainstream in a lasting way. It developed a small but devoted following before quietly disappearing. Today, it's remembered as one of those intriguing "what if" drinks—something that may have thrived in a more adventurous, modern market.

Related: 11 Popular Food Chains From the '80s We Wish Would Come Back Now

4. Hubba Bubba Soda (1987)

By 1987, beverage experimentation had reached playful new heights, and Hubba Bubba Soda might be the perfect example. Inspired by the popular bubble gum, this drink attempted to capture that sweet, nostalgic flavor in liquid form.

It was fun, colorful and undeniably odd. For kids, it felt like drinking candy; for adults, it was more of a curiosity. While it didn't last long, it embodied the "anything goes" spirit of the decade and remains one of the most memorable novelty sodas ever created.

5. OK Soda (1980s)

OK Soda actually began as an experimental concept at Coca-Cola in the late 1980s, when the company started researching how to appeal to younger, more cynical consumers. By the early '90s, it officially launched—but its roots are firmly tied to that late '80s shift toward edgy, anti-mainstream marketing.

This wasn't just a drink—it was practically a satire of advertising itself. The cans featured abstract artwork, offbeat slogans and even a hotline number you could call just to hear weird recorded messages. The flavor? Intentionally vague. Fans described it as a mix of cola, citrus and "something else," which somehow added to its cult appeal. It didn't last long, but it's remembered as one of the strangest and most self-aware beverage experiments ever.

6. Hi-C Ecto Cooler (1987)

Launched in 1987 as a tie-in to the Ghostbusters franchise, Hi-C Ecto Cooler quickly became more than just a promotional product. Its bright green color and citrusy flavor made it a standout in lunchboxes across the country.

What started as a marketing gimmick evolved into a genuine fan favorite. Even after its original promotional ties faded, the drink remained popular for years. Its eventual disappearance only deepened its cult status, with fans continuing to call for its return decades later.

7. Pepsi AM (1989) View this post on Instagram

Pepsi AM hit the market in 1989 with a bold idea—cola for breakfast. With higher caffeine content and a smoother taste, it was designed to compete directly with coffee as a morning pick-me-up.

The concept, however, proved to be a tough sell. Many consumers weren't ready to swap their morning routines for a soda, no matter how it was marketed. Despite its short lifespan, Pepsi AM remains one of the most fascinating examples of how far companies were willing to push boundaries in the 1980s.

Related: 11 'Healthy' Snacks From the 2000s That Were Actually Just Sugar

8. 7Up Gold (1988)

In 1988, 7Up Gold took a surprising detour from the brand's usual crisp lemon-lime profile. Instead, it introduced a spiced, almost cola-like flavor that confused expectations and challenged loyal customers.

The drink's identity crisis made it difficult to find a stable audience. While some appreciated its unique taste, many didn't know what to make of it. Its quick disappearance only added to its mystique, making it a standout example of experimentation that didn't quite land.

9. Like Cola (1982)

Like Cola debuted in 1982 as a low-calorie alternative aimed at consumers looking for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. It was part of a growing trend toward diet-friendly beverages that still felt indulgent.

Despite its intentions, Like Cola struggled to compete with more established diet sodas. It maintained a modest following but ultimately couldn't secure a lasting place in the market. Today, it's remembered as one of the many stepping stones that paved the way for the diet drinks we see everywhere now.

10. Jell-O Pudding Pops (1980)

Introduced in the early 1980s, Jell-O Pudding Pops, which weren't exactly a beverage, blurred the line between drink and dessert. These frozen treats were creamy, chocolatey and designed to be savored slowly as they melted—often turning into a sippable experience by the end.

Their popularity soared thanks to heavy advertising and a strong cultural presence. Kids loved them, and they became a staple of after-school snacks. Even though they weren't technically a beverage, their smooth, melt-in-your-mouth quality made them feel like one, and their disappearance left a surprisingly large gap in nostalgic cravings.

Related: You'll Never Guess Which Iconic Women Actually Invented the Way You Eat Today

Why Were So Many '80s Drinks Discontinued?

The same bold experimentation that made 1980s drinks memorable also made them risky. Beverage companies were constantly chasing the next big trend, which meant many products were launched quickly—and pulled just as fast if they didn't perform.

Some drinks failed because they confused consumers, like 7Up Gold's unexpected flavor shift. Others, like New Coke, underestimated how emotionally attached people were to familiar tastes. In many cases, shifting health trends, rising competition and changing marketing strategies made it difficult for niche or novelty drinks to survive in the long term. The '80s rewarded creativity, but not every idea had staying power.

Are Any '80s Sodas Still Available Today?

While many iconic '80s drinks disappeared, a few have either survived in some form or returned years later due to nostalgia-driven demand. Brands have realized that emotional connections to classic products can be just as powerful as new innovations.

Slice, for example, has been reintroduced with a modern, health-focused twist. Other drinks, like Hi-C Ecto Cooler, have made limited-time comebacks tied to movie releases or special promotions.

Even when the original formulas aren't widely available, their legacy continues to influence today's beverage trends, especially in the rise of retro branding and throwback flavors.

What Was the Most Popular Soda in the 1980s?

Despite all the experimentation, the cola wars dominated the decade. The rivalry between Coca-Cola and Pepsi defined much of the beverage landscape, with both brands investing heavily in advertising, celebrity endorsements and product innovation.

Coca-Cola remained the market leader for much of the 1980s, but Pepsi gained significant ground, especially with younger consumers. Campaigns tied to pop culture helped fuel this competition, turning soda into more than just a drink—it became part of identity and lifestyle.

Even as new and unusual drinks came and went, these major brands provided a sense of consistency in a rapidly changing market.

Will Any Discontinued '80s Drinks Return?

The short answer: some already have—and more could. Nostalgia is a powerful force in the food and beverage world, and companies frequently revisit old ideas to spark renewed interest.

Limited-time releases, reformulated versions and modern reboots give brands a way to tap into that nostalgia while adapting to current tastes. However, a full-scale permanent return is less common, since today's market is more competitive and health-conscious than it was in the 1980s.

Still, as long as people keep remembering—and talking about—these drinks, there's always a chance that one of them could make another unexpected comeback.

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WARNING! This article spoils the events of The Pitt Season 2 finale. Please do not read further if you do not intend to know what happens in the final episode.

What a difference 15 hours makes on The Pitt. At the beginning of the day on July 4, Robby (Noah Wyle) walked into his shift (relatively) bright-eyed, bushy-tailed, and ready to go on a lengthy sabbatical up to Canada. He, and the rest of the staff of the Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center, had no idea they would be in store for the day from hell. Over the course of Season 2 of the Emmy winning medical series, we've seen the PTMC deal with overflow from other hospitals, be forced to "go analog" when the networks go down, and deal with everything from a nun with gonorrhea to a waterslide accident.

And the finale that capped off the season left a surprising amount up in the air. Not everyone in the teeming hospital staff had a happy ending, or even a resolved one. At the center of that, chiefly, was Robby. After being teased a darker side to the chief resident throughout the season, he had quite the emotional final hour of his last shift before his sabbatical — and possibly, for good.

Here's everything to know about the ending of The Pitt Season 2.

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The Pitt Season 2 Ending Explained Sepideh Moafi as Al-Hashimi (L) and Noah Wyle as Robby (R) in 'The Pitt'

Warrick Page/HBO Max

What is Dr. Al-Hashimi's condition on The Pitt?

Episode 15 picks up right from where the last one left off, as Robby looked over the medical records of Dr. Al-Hashimi (Sepideh Moafi). While she was brought in to be his replacement during sabbatical, the two certainly had their disagreements throughout the day, particularly when it was revealed that Robby had hid that Langdon (Patrick Ball) stole meds from the hospital. Regardless, the pair are on the same page in this moment, as Al-Hashimi has recruited Robby's help in confirming one of her worst fears had come true.

As Al-Hashimi revealed, after a bout of viral meningitis as a child, she has a long history of seizure disorders. Until today, she had been free for a year without any notable incidents. However, it turns out she had two of what are colloquially known as "absence seizures" today while on the job. The first came in the very last scene of the premiere, as she was checking the chart of Baby Jane Doe (delightfully hidden at the time, as her dramatic pause falsely indicated to fans that something was wrong). The second came very recently, while treating an asthmatic boy. As she puts it, "Nobody’s noticed before. They just think I’m thoughtful."

Of course, having a head of the ED who is susceptible to seizures is a massive liability, given the in-the-moment hands-on work they do in life-or-death situations. But Al-Hashimi affirms to Robby that she has a plan. Later in the episode, she eagerly tells him that she worked something out with her neurologist, allowing for her to work with another senior staff member at the same time. But Robby does not mirror that happiness, instead rebuffing the workaround.

"Robby, I can handle it," she affirms.

“No, you can’t," he replies. "And I can’t let you. You are not fully capable and you know it."

As a result, Al-Hashimi flies into an absolute rage, cursing to him, "I am not your f—king patient!" Regardless, he is stone-faced to her reaction, telling her she has until Monday to disclose her condition to the hospital administration, or he will.

Al-Hashimi's final scene of Season 2 has her shockingly getting behind the wheel (despite the fact mere minutes ago she was reminded she cannot drive after she's had a seizure). Her act of defiance is halted, though, as she stops her car and starts to weep. Given what we now know about Al-Hashimi, and Robby's ultimatum, it leaves her status going into Season 3 very up in the air.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Star Sepideh Moafi Reveals the Powerful Real-Life Story That Inspired Her Character (Exclusive)

Supriya Ganesh at Mohan in 'The Pitt'

Warrick Page/HBO Max

How did Mohan leave The Pitt?

There is one cast member, however, whose fate is much more nebulous. The biggest piece of Pitt news the past few weeks has definitely been the shocking announcement that Samira Mohan (Supriya Ganesh) would not be returning for Season 3. Considering the fan fervor that has developed around the decision, it gave extra attention to every scene she had in what wound up being her final episode, especially with Robby.

Things are awkward between the two going into the finale, to say the least. Robby has always had a different relationship with Mohan, something that hasn't gone unnoticed from the fans. This season alone, when she had a panic attack in the middle of her shift, she gruffly told her to go home to take care of her "mommy issues." He also passive-aggressively suggested she go into geriatrics, saying it was "more her speed." And it's that very topic that kicks off what would be their final conversation.

"Maybe I will go into geriatrics," she admits to him, as the two find each other outside in the ambulance bay.

"It's a smart choice," he agrees.

He attempts to sympathize with her in the midst of massive impending life changes. He reminisces about thinking, by now, he'd be married with a wife, kids, and a big pond for hockey.

"It's never too late," she replies.

Mohan then reveals she and her mom are currently not talking, apologizing to Robby for letting the situation distract her from her work. "She was treating me like a child," she says, "and I was letting her."

"Have a good trip," she tells him. "Please be safe. We need you here, even if you can be a dick sometimes." Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like, when The Pitt returns for Season 3, Mohan will be included in that "we" anymore.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Creator Breaks Silence on Supriya Ganesh’s Shocking Departure — And Warns More Exits Are Coming (Exclusive)

Robby finally gets real

Indeed, as Mohan indicates in her final words to Robby, the senior attending has been even more grouchy than usual this season. Not only that, he's been more ominous. When he talks to Mohan about an uninsured patient who came in with a head wound, he implied that the man had tried to end his whole life. During a confrontation with Dana (Katherine LaNasa), he basically asks her, "What happens if I don't come back?" It has left the staff increasingly concerned for his well-being, especially going into a trip up to the middle of nowhere that's supposed to be only three months.

Since Abbot (Shawn Hatosy) checked in for today's night shift, he's been trying to get into his friend's head, trying to talk some sense into him to take a ride that won't have a return trip. For the past few episodes, Robby has largely ignored engaging in any conversation in it. But, in an emotional scene behind closed doors, he finally admits the place he's in mentally — and it's not a good one.

"The most important things I've ever done in my life have been in this hospital," he tells Abbot. "Nothing will ever matter more than what I've done in this hospital. But it is killing me.

"You know how they say a part of you dies when you lose someone you love? I'm not convinced that a part of you doesn't die every time you see a fellow human pass. And I've seen so many people die that I feel like it's leeching something from my soul. I'm tired of being a role model. I'm tired of feeling like you can't get ahead. I'm tired of feeling like I'm drowning every day. I'm tired of all of it."

Abbot comforts him, telling him, "Nobody works here as long as you or me and doesn't get screwed up. You gotta find someone to help you. Dance through the darkness."

Noah Wyle as Robby (L) and Patrick Ball as Langdon (R) in 'The Pitt'

Warrick Page/HBO Max

Langdon and Robby finally hash things out

Langdon's return to the PTMC has been an awkward one, to say the least. First, Robby put him in Triage to start, a way to keep him in the corner to not acknowledge how much his protegé had broken his trust last season. As the hours passed, though, not only was Langdon brought back into the fray, but he even earned some redemption, most recently by performing a closed reduction of facet joint that was referred to as "cowboy s—t." As Langdon ends his shift, Robby finally decides to have the conversation he's been putting off the whole day. And it doesn't go well.

"Look, I'm doing the work," Langdon says. "I've been sober 186 days. I'm going to meetings. I'm taking the drug tests. And you're still riding me."

"What would have happened if I hadn't been here today?" Robby replies. "You'd still be questinoing yourself. Now you know you can do it. You're welcome."

"You know who I saw in rehab? I saw a bunch of guys just like you. The only difference is, they've accepted that they need help. I think you're afraid to admit that the mighty Dr. Robinivich isn't perfect. You expect it of yourself, and it's not realistic, man. How can any of us live up to your standards if you can't even do it? You need help, Robby."

Robby simply shrugs. "Finished?"

Langdon replies, "You don't gotta be honest with me, man. At least be honest with yourself."

Whatever happened to Baby Jane Doe?

The Pitt is far from a mystery box show. But one of the biggest surprises of the season was dropped in the premiere, as the staff found a baby abandoned in the waiting room. "Baby Jane Doe," as memetically referred to by Dana, has been set up in the corner of the ED, habitually being checked on by the staff. And, in the final scene of Season 2, Robby decides to take Langdon's advice and be honest, albeit while talking to a baby.

Hearing her cry, Robby comforts the child, playing soft music, swaddling her, and rocking her in his arms. As he talks to the baby, he admits to a personal detail that has only been mentioned in passing recently: Like her, he was abandoned too, albeit when he was 8.

"I got through all of that, and so will you," he tells her. "I've got a good feeling you're gonna be just fine. Everything's gonna be just fine. You've got so many wonderful things to see, and so many people to love ahead of you. So many wonderful things to see. People to love ahead of you."

Tears stream down his cheeks. Even still, as she fusses, he soothes her, gently stroking her back. The season closes on Robby giving a thousand-yard stare, clearly wondering if those wonderful things and people to love are still ahead for him as well.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Season 3 Is Happening — But a Major Cast Exit Changes Everything

Taylor Dearden as Mel in 'The Pitt'

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Does The Pitt have a post-credits scene?

Amazingly, yes! Earlier in the episode, sharing in their separate forms of misery, Santos (Isa Briones) asks Mel (Taylor Dearden) if she wants to go get a drink to shake off the day. Then she adds another level: Karaoke (though Santos calls it more "primal scream therapy" on her part). Mel happily agrees, saying they both deserve to have a fun night.

And luckily for us, we get to see part of that fun night firsthand. About five seconds into the credits, we hear a cover of "You Oughta Know" fade in. And we suddenly see Santos and Mel belting their heads off to the Alanis Morissette classic, having gone through with their karaoke plans. Indeed, the women wail away, with Mel even letting out her familiar braid and taking off her glasses to headbang along. It's an even more delightful moment when you realize that Isa Briones is not only a trained singer, but she's currently on Broadway. Talk about going out on a high note!

Other odds and ends

Here are some smaller storylines/character moments that also played out over the course of the Season 2 finale:

• It wouldn't be The Pitt without at least one stressful medical incident per episode. In this case, a pregnant woman who has swore off any procedures is brought in with a severe headache that turns much more serious when she begins seizing. This prompts an emergency C-section, showcased in all of its gory detail. The atmosphere is tense, but the staff is able to perform the operation with both mother and baby intact. While the finale is short on action, it's a firm reminder of how important the work they, and emergency workers all around the world, do on a daily basis.
• Javadi has found her calling! The med student has been spending all of Season 2 wondering where she wants to specialize, especially with her mother pressuring her to go into surgery. By the end of the day, the stars have fallen from her eyes about working in emergency medicine, going through a laundry list of afflictions and flaws the PTMC staff has. And, when she mentions the importance of mental health, Whitaker (Gerran Howell) points out her clear passion for it. In one line, Javadi's path is entirely changed. By the end of the episode, she's decided she'll be pursuing emergency psychiatry, something Robby wholeheartedly agrees with.
• Before leaving, Langdon takes us to a place we've rarely seen on The Pitt: The ICU. Now that he's off the clock, he wants to check in on Debbie Cohen (Mara Klein), the cellulitis patient who had developed sepsis over the course of the day. Unfortunately, while she survived, it was not with all of her limbs intact, as the rash had spread above the knee, requiring the removal of her leg. Having heard the bad news, he changes his mind about paying her a visit, clearly feeling some guilt over how the situation was handled earlier in the season.
• Whitaker officially gets the keys to Robby's place, house-sitting for however long he'll be gone. But he'll be playing "farm boy" for at least one more night, as we see when Amy (Bailey Gavulic) pulls up with her baby and pick-up. Whitaker bids adieu to Robby and takes off, blasting funk music the entire time.
• Speaking of Whitaker, we found out what happened to his new "Doctor" badge. While Digby (Charles Baker) the homeless patient went AWOL before the final episode. He didn't leave empty-handed. We see him sporting Whitaker's badge, alongside the ED dummy, festooned with July 4 iconography. Given a shave and a haircut during his time in the hospital, he excitedly talks about the chemical science of fireworks. And there were plenty to be had this season, that's for sure!

Related: 'The Pitt' Season 3 Cast: Who’s Returning and Who’s Leaving the PTMC?

The stakes were higher than ever on tonight's Next Level Chef, because for the first time this season, the chefs were no longer competing in teams. Rather, it’s now each person for themselves as they fought for their place on the top level. If they failed to cook the best dish in the top kitchen, they competed again in the middle kitchen. Fail there and it’s down to the basement to cook one last meal that will make or break their place in the competition. Without a team to save them, who will make it through?

Both Gordon Ramsay and Richard Blais each had three remaining cooks, while Nyesha Arrington was down to two.

In a twist, all eight chefs started in the top level in a "pan-to-pan" combat 30-minute challenge. The chefs who created the top two dishes are done cooking for the day, and next week, they will start in the top-level kitchen. Those who dropped to the middle level faced another cookoff, but were only given 25 minutes. Then, the final three were in the bottom kitchen for the elimination challenge, with only 20 minutes to produce a dish that would save them.

Here's our spoiler-filled recap of who went home on Next Level Chef tonight.

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Who went home on Next Level Chef tonight?

Jared Veldheer, 38
Grand Rapids, MI
Home Cook
Team Blais

Advancing contestants tonight on Next Level Chef Season 5 Night 8

Andy Allo, 37
Malibu, CA
Social Media Chef
Team Gordon

Christian Alquiza, 35
Austin, TX
Social Media Chef
Team Blais

Cole Lawson, 31
Los Angeles, CA
Professional Chef
Team Gordon

Connor Caine, 30
Manhattan Beach, CA
Professional Chef
Team Nyesha

Danielle Kartes, 43
Puyallup, WA
Home Cook
Team Nyesha

Darian Bryan, 34
Buffalo, NY
Professional Chef
Team Blais

Gabrielle Coniglio, 34
Palm Beach, FL
Professional Chef
Team Gordon

Related: Nyesha Arrington and Richard Blais Promise Never-Before-Seen Twists in Next Level Chef Season 5 (Exclusive)

What was the first challenge on tonight’s episode of Next Level Chef, and who won it?

The first challenge was 30 minutes to make the best possible dish with the primo ingredients that were on the platform drop.

The first winning dish was a toro dish cooked by Gabrielle, the second was the duck dish by Andy, both of whom were originally Gordon’s girls.

The remaining chefs then moved down to the middle kitchen for the second part of the competition: 25 minutes to take average grocery store ingredients and turn them into something amazing.

The first winning dish for the middle-level kitchen next week was Christian, the next dish that earned safety was Darian, the third and final dish that earned its spot in the middle-level was Connor.

What was the elimination challenge this episode of Next Level Chef, and who lost it? Jared Veldheer

Photo credit: FOX

That meant that Danielle, Jared and Cole headed to the basement for the elimination challenge. They were given 20 minutes to create a dish using not-great proteins like frog legs, chicken carcass, and cod head.

The chef that cooked his final dish in the Next Level Kitchen was Jared.

“It was a joy,” Jared said. “I am filled with gratitude to be standing here. It’s an honor to be a part of this competition. I’ve done some things that feel like the opportunity of a lifetime but this really feels like it is one of those opportunities of a lifetime. I loved every second of it. I came into this as a former NFL player, a former lunch lady, and I’m leaving it a chef.”

Next Level Chef airs Thursday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.

Related: Here’s What Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef is Serving Up for Season 5