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I Get Around by The Beach Boys was recorded on this day in 1964.

The legendary American rock band recorded the opening track to their album All Summer Long on April 2, 1964.

The song, written by Brian Wilsonand Mike Love, was inspired by the group's rapid rise to fame and pressure to adhere to the status quo. The single was the band's first chart-topping hit in the United States. On June 6, 1964, the song debuted on the Billboard Top 40 chart at 17.

The success of the song started an unofficial professional rivalry between The Beach Boys and The Beatles. After Wilson's death in 2025, Paul McCartney shared a heartfelt tribute to the late musician.

"Brian had that mysterious sense of musical genius that made his songs so achingly special. The notes he heard in his head and passed to us were simple and brilliant at the same time," he wrote on Instagram.

The song's impact was formidable to the legacy of The Beach Boys, with Rolling Stone critic Anthony DeCurtis writing the track was an example of Wilson's ability to be, "very complex and have every single thing you do have an emotional impact, and have the listener not even be aware of it—just hear it the first time and get it. That's hard."

In 2017, I Get Around was formally inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

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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 Thursday, April 2, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Thursday, April 2, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on April 2, 2026

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

• Yellow: The Big Apple.
• Green: Time to work out.
• Blue: NBA player.
• Purple: Pass the orange juice.

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: NEW YORK TEAMS
• Green: TRAINING EQUIPMENT
• Blue: ASSOCIATED WITH JAYSON TATUM
• Purple: SPORTS FOR BREAKFAST

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 #556 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• NEW YORK TEAMS: KNICKS, LIBERTY, NETS, RANGERS
• TRAINING EQUIPMENT: FOAM ROLLER, JUMP ROPE, MEDICINE BALL, RESISTANCE BAND
• ASSOCIATED WITH JAYSON TATUM: O, CELTICS, DUKE, THE JAYS
• SPORTS FOR BREAKFAST: CUP OF COFFEE, GOOSE EGG, HASHMARK, PANCAKE BLOCK

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: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Warren Buffett is making a big and exciting return, and this time, he’s bringing basketball superstar Stephen Curry along with him.

The 95-year-old business icon has announced a new charity auction called A Seat at the Table, where one lucky winner will get the chance to share a private lunch with Buffett, Curry and Ayesha Curry. The event is set to raise money for important causes that help families and children.

Online bidding for the special experience will open on May 7 and close on May 14. The winning bidder, along with up to seven guests, will travel to Omaha, Nebraska, for an exclusive lunch on June 24, 2026.

All the money raised will go to two organizations: GLIDE and the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, which Stephen and Ayesha Curry founded.

Buffett said he is proud to be part of this new effort. 

“Over the years, I’ve seen how the business community and innovative nonprofits can work together to create real change,” he shared in a statement. “This event is about coming together again—in a new way—with people I admire, to support work that truly matters.”

This marks the first time Buffett has teamed up with the Currys for the famous charity lunch. The auction itself has a long history, starting in 2000, and has raised more than $50 million over the years.

Now, with the addition of global sports and entertainment figures like Stephen and Ayesha Curry, the event is expected to reach even more people.

“For us, this is about using the platform we’ve been given to create something bigger than ourselves,” Stephen and Ayesha said in a joint statement. “With this incredible auction, we are excited to turn this moment into real impact for students and families throughout the Bay Area community.”

The Currys’ foundation focuses on helping kids succeed by giving them access to food, education, and safe places to play. In just a few years, the group has already provided millions of meals and helped improve schools and playgrounds.

Chris Helfrich, CEO of Eat. Learn. Play., said the partnership with Buffett could make an even bigger difference. He explained that the goal is to support “tens of thousands of students” by expanding programs that meet everyday needs.

The partnership between Buffett and Curry is not just about charity, it also includes a fun and personal twist.

Curry recently revealed that Buffett wants him to teach him how to shoot a basketball. The NBA star joked that he might need to start with the basics.

“We’ll see how he can do. I haven’t seen any video of a Warren Buffett jump shot, but we’ll see,” Curry said, per Boston Herald.

At the same time, Curry is working on returning to the court after dealing with a knee injury that has kept him out of recent games. Despite that, he continues to stay active off the court through projects like this charity event.

The charity lunch auction began thanks to Buffett’s late wife, Susan, who volunteered at GLIDE. What started as a simple idea has grown into one of the most successful charity events of its kind.

In 2022, the auction reached its highest bid ever at $19 million. Over time, it has become known as a powerful way to turn a simple meal into real help for people in need.

Even eBay is supporting the event through its charity platform, helping bring global attention to the cause.

As Buffett returns after a short break from the auction, many see this new version as a fresh chapter, one that connects different generations and industries for a shared goal.

Related: Steph Curry Explains Why Retirement Isn’t on His Mind

Legendary Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd is bringing fans closer to their legacy through a new collaboration with Hell House Whiskey, highlighted by a special in-person bottle signing event featuring frontman Johnny Van Zant and guitarist Rickey Medlocke.

The announcement was made on Instagram, where Hell House Whiskey invited fans to take part in a rare meet-and-greet experience in New Orleans. The event is set for April 9, from 6–8 PM at Rouses Markets, offering fans a chance to connect directly with two of the band’s longest-serving members.

"Feel the spirit of Lynyrd Skynyrd with Hell House 🔥🥃 Join us in New Orleans for an exclusive bottle signing with Johnny Van Zant & Rickey Medlocke,” the post read.

Johnny Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd and Billy Gibbons of ZZ top perform onstage during the 2024 CMA Music festival.

Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images

Fans attending the event can purchase a bottle, meet the artists and even take home signed memorabilia.

View this post on Instagram

Beyond the signing, the event also includes added incentives. According to the post, attendees will have a chance to win exclusive prizes, including a Hell House guitar and Hondo Rodeo tickets.  For those unable to attend, the brand is still making the product accessible online.

Formed in the early 1970s, the band became one of the most recognizable names in Southern rock, known for timeless hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird.” Their sound blends rock, blues and country, creating music that still resonates across generations.

Today, the band is led by Johnny Van Zant, who took over as frontman in 1987 following the tragic 1977 plane crash that claimed the life of his brother, Ronnie Van Zant, along with other band members. Alongside him, Rickey Medlocke remains a key figure, helping maintain the group’s signature three-guitar sound.

The timing of this collaboration aligns with a period of renewed activity for the band. Lynyrd Skynyrd has been celebrating milestones, including the 50th anniversary of their album Gimme Back My Bullets. The record, first released in 1976, showcased the band’s range, from hard-driving rock tracks to emotional ballads.

At the same time, the group continues touring and expanding its presence in pop culture. Their classic song “Free Bird” appeared in a major Super Bowl commercial, showing how their music still reaches new audiences decades later.

With the combination of live events, product launches and ongoing tours, Lynyrd Skynyrd proves that its influence is still strong in 2026.

Related: 1972 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Became a Timeless Anthem

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 #760 on Thursday, April 2.

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: "On track."

A hint for today's Strands game: Run for the roses.

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:

• AG
• BE
• BO
• JO
• TI
• TR
• HO (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for April 2

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, April 1, 2026, is HORSERACING.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Thursday, April 2?

• AGENT
• BETTOR
• BOOKIE
• JOCKEY
• TIPSTER
• TRAINER
• SPANGRAM: HORSERACING

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, April 1, 2026

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For those who prefer to never leave the house without all their essentials, a comfy, roomy tote bag is a must-have. If you’re looking to upgrade your current everyday bag, this Valleycomfy Corduroy Tote Bag from Amazon might just be the replacement you’re looking for. 

Better yet, it’s currently on sale! It normally retails for $20, which is already an amazing price considering that some shoppers said they’ve owned the tote for years. However, you can now score this bag for just $11 to $14, depending on the size and style. 

Valleycomfy Corduroy Tote Bag, From $11 (was $20) at Amazon Shop at Amazon

Available in 24 colors, you’ll find one perfectly suited for your style. Choose from neutrals like beige, black, brown, gray, or khaki. For those who prefer deep rich hues, opt for green, dark green, navy blue, sapphire blue, dark red, or dark pink. If you like vibrant colors, the bag is also available in pink, yellow, grass green, orange, purple, rose red, and light blue. You can even score it in a strawberry or geometric print!

With a chic corduroy exterior and an interior polyester lining, this tote bag effortlessly combines style and practicality. It has a structured silhouette that delivers a sleek, polished look and maintains its boxy shape. 

Related: Amazon's 'Spacious' $25 Modular Cube Organizers Are Excellent for Storing Clothes, Books, and Toys

You can carry it as a shoulder bag using the top handles, or you can use the long adjustable strap to drape it over one shoulder or sling it across your body. Shoppers mentioned that the straps are comfortable to wear no matter how much they carry in their bag.

Ideal for work or school, the large bag measures around 14 inches wide, 12 inches tall, and 5 inches deep. Many shoppers raved about how spacious the bag is and said they were able to fit all their essentials with room to spare. For example, a customer was able to fit in their laptop, water bottle, notebooks, and daily necessities. 

“I call it my ‘Mary Poppins’ bag because of how much I’m able to fit in it!” one shopper said. 

Valleycomfy Corduroy Tote Bag, From $11 (was $21) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

“This bag is incredibly practical — it's spacious enough to hold all my essentials without being bulky.” another reviewer raved. “It's stylish, functional, and built to last.”

Slightly smaller, the medium size bag measures around 12 inches wide, 10 inches tall, and 4 inches deep. However, it’s still roomy enough to hold everything you’ll need for errands and casual outings. A customer described it as “perfect for everyday use.”

To keep everything organized, this tote bag features one zippered and one slip pocket on the inside. The exterior also has a roomy slip pocket where you can store essentials like your phone and wallet for easy access. It’s finished with a magnetic snap closure to keep everything secured.

Practical, comfortable, and gorgeous it’s no surprise that this Valleycomfy Corduroy Tote Bag has racked up thousands of five-star ratings. Grab yours now from Amazon for as low as $11 before the sale ends!

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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 #1026 onThursday, April 2, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Thursday, April 2, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Thursday'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 Thursday, April 2

1. I'm behind you!
2. Gimme a break!
3. Not a doe.
4. Drink up!

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 Thursday, April 2:

1. SUPPORT: BACK, CHAMPION, ENDORSE, SECOND
2. OPPORTUNITY: CHANCE, MOMENT, OPENING, WINDOW
3. MALE ANIMALS: BUCK, DRAKE, DRONE, STALLION
4. ENDS OF LIQUOR BRANDS: CARDI, EATER, MESON, MIGOS

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, Wednesday, April 1, 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 #1748 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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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: can describe someone who no longer drinks alcohol.

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 #1748 on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Thursday, April 2, 2026, is SOBER.

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

Related: Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1747 on Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart 49 years ago today!

On Apr. 2, 1977, Fleetwood Mac's eleventh studio album reached the top spot on the albums chart after steadily climbing following its release on Feb. 4 of that year.

The album was recorded during a time of great upheaval for the band. Mick Fleetwood was going through a divorce, Christine McVie and John McVie were separating, and Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks had ended their eight-year relationship.

“We had to go through this elaborate exercise of denial,” Buckingham told Blender magazine in 2005. “Keeping our personal feelings in one corner of the room while trying to be professional in the other.”

However, the band’s true feelings surfaced in the songs they were writing. Buckingham wrote "Go Your Own Way" about his split with Nicks, while Nicks penned "Dreams" and "Silver Springs" to offer her response to the breakup.

“Even though ‘Go Your Own Way’ was a little angry, it was also honest,” Nicks wrote in the liner notes in the Rumours reissue in 2013. “So then I wrote ‘Dreams,’ and because I’m the chiffony chick who believes in fairies and angels, and Lindsey is a hardcore guy, it comes out differently. Lindsey is saying go ahead and date other men and go live your crappy life, and [I’m] singing about the rain washing you clean. We were coming at it from opposite angles, but we were really saying the same exact thing.”

Christine McVie also wrote two songs about her divorce: "Don't Stop," which reflected her feelings after separating from John, and "You Make Loving Fun," which was inspired by her affair with the band's lighting director.

RELATED: 1977 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Was Released 49 Years Ago Today

As of February 2023, Rumours had sold over 40 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time. All of its singles—"Go Your Own Way", "Dreams", "Don't Stop", and "You Make Loving Fun"—reached the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, with "Dreams" reaching the coveted No. 1 spot.

The record won Album of the Year at the 1978 Grammy Awards and was inducted to the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003. Rumours was also selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry in 2017 by the Library of Congress due to being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

The album was ranked No. 7 on Rolling Stone‘s list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” in 2020.

"With Rumours, Fleetwood Mac turned private turmoil into gleaming, melodic public art," the outlet wrote in its review. "As John [McVie] later told Rolling Stone of the atmosphere during the making of Rumours, 'Parties going on all over the house. Amazing. Terrifying. Huge amounts of illicit materials, yards and yards of this wretched stuff. Days and nights would just go on and on.'"

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In 1972, Stevie Wonder released a song that would change the path of his career and redefine the sound of funk music.

The hit '70s anthem "Superstition" became one of the highlighting songs of its era and is now ranked No. 12 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.

The song appeared on Wonder's album Talking Book, a record widely regarded as one of the strongest releases of his career. From the start, "Superstition" had serious momentum, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on January 27, 1973. It also hit No. 1 on the Hot Soul Singles chart earlier that month, further enhancing Wonder's already remarkable run.

What made "Superstition" have such an impact was the electric energy it brought to listeners. Its infectious groove, unforgettable chorus and lively instrumentation created a timeless anthem that remains beloved decades later. It was not just a hit single, but a strong influence on the sound of '70s funk and one of Wonder's greatest creations.

Wonder later reflected on the song in a 2000 interview with NPR, saying, "I think that the reason that I talked about being superstitious is because I really didn't believe in it. I didn't believe in the different things that people say about breaking glasses or the number 13 is bad luck, and all those various things. And to those, I said, 'When you believe in things you don't understand, then you suffer.'"

The success of "Superstition" was met with major recognition. At the 16th Annual GRAMMY Awards, it won Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male, as well as Best Rhythm & Blues Song. It was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998, reflecting its enduring reputation.

More than 50 years later, "Superstition" remains as legendary as ever. Countless songs become hits, but few manage to maintain their status throughout generations. Stevie Wonder's 1972 classic did exactly that, beginning by topping the charts and growing into one of the most celebrated songs ever recorded.

The Andy Griffith Show became one of the most cherished TV sitcoms in the 1960s, anchored by the legendary Andy Griffith as the iconic Sheriff Andy Taylor.

With its official debut on Oct. 3, 1960 in CBS, it became one of the top-rated TV shows, rarely leaving the Top 5 in the Nielsen ratings during its run, as mentioned by Woman’s World.

Every Monday night, viewers followed the charming life of the widowed sheriff and the unfolding stories in the slow-paced fictional town of Mayberry, North Carolina.

Adding to the beauty and appeal of the story was the amazing cast lineup, including Don Knotts as Deputy Barney Fife, who was also Andy’s cousin and fellow police officer, while Ron Howard played the Sheriff’s young son, Opie Taylor.

In addition to the core cast was Frances Bavier, who played the role of Aunt Bee, Andy’s paternal aunt, who also took on the role of the family’s housekeeper.

Don Knotts as Deputy Barney Fife and Andy Griffith as Sheriff Andy Taylor in a scene from the television series 'The Andy Griffith Show', circa 1965.

CBS Photo Archive/Archive Photos/Getty Images

Viewers also fell in love with the dynamic of the supporting cast, including Jim Nabors, George Lindsey and Howard McNear.

Unfortunately, after eight seasons and 250 episodes, The Andy Griffith Show bid goodbye to viewers.

58 years ago today, the series aired its last episode on April 1, 1968.

However, the beloved sitcom didn't bow out because of low ratings. In fact, during the show’s last season, it ranked as the most-watched show on television across all prime-time slots.

View this post on Instagram

What prompted the show to end was the lead star’s decision to leave the show.

Various reports state that The Andy Griffith Show primarily concluded due to the professional burnout that the actor and comedian felt during the sitcom’s run.

At the time, Griffith spoke about how his interest in continuing the series had begun to wane compared to earlier years of the show.

"I wasn't doing the series justice because I had done it for so long,” he said in an interview with the Press of Atlantic City, as cited by Me TV. “My concentration just wasn't there, and I wanted to try other things. The show made me famous, and I thought I was hot stuff. I felt I could tackle something better; I wanted to make movies. But I was wrong. I didn't work again for a long time."

After The Andy Griffith Show ended, CBS introduced the spin-off Mayberry R.F.D on Sept. 23, 1968, which ran for three seasons before concluding on March 29, 1972.

Interestingly, the finale episode of The Andy Griffith Show served as a backdoor pilot for the new series.

Although Griffith appeared in several guest episodes, the original cast returned to reprise their roles, including Aunt Bee, Howard Sprague, Goober Pyle and Emmett Clark.

Related: 45 Years Ago Today, Beloved '70s Icon Won His First Best Actor Award at the Oscars

Few performances have defined an era quite like Ali MacGraw's did in the early 1970s, and as she turns 88, her impact on Hollywood remains unmistakable.

Born in Pound Ridge in 1938, MacGraw began her career in fashion, working as a photographer's assistant, and later as a model before transitioning into acting. Her natural presence and understated style quickly set her apart at a time when Hollywood was undergoing a major shift toward more grounded, emotionally driven storytelling.

Her breakthrough came with the 1970 film Love Story, where she starred opposite Ryan O'Neal. The film became a massive success and cultural phenomenon, and MacGraw's performance as Jenny Cavilleri earned her a Golden Globe Awards for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Drama, as well as an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

The role cemented her status as one of the defining actresses of the decade, with her performance helping to shape the tone of romantic dramas that followed. Her effortless charm and emotional authenticity resonated deeply with audiences, making her one of the most recognizable faces of the '70s.

"Looking back, it seems so strange that — overnight, at 30 — I became a 'movie star,'" MacGraw told The New York Times. "I'm relieved I got out of that often exciting, often terrifying decade alive."

MacGraw went on to star in films like The Getaway, further solidifying her place in Hollywood during that era. Off-screen, her personal life, including her high-profile relationship with Steve McQueen, kept her in the public eye, adding to her cultural influence.

"You never knew what he was going to do or say or be next," she said of McQueen. "That translated on screen as excitement. In life it was a little less romantic, making for a pretty nerve-racking home life as I tried to guess the mood of the day or the hour."

Though she later stepped away from the spotlight, MacGraw's legacy has endured through her work and the lasting popularity of Love Story, which remains one of the most iconic romantic films ever made.

"I'm grateful I had all that, but I live a very different life now," said MacGraw. "I don't care at all about being seen in the latest piece of clothing or knowing the latest song. I don't feel diminished by not knowing those things. I did it all and was looked at, and that was for another time."

At 88, Ali MacGraw is still remembered as a defining figure of 1970s cinema, an actress whose breakthrough role left a lasting impression on audiences and helped shape a generation of film.

Related: Award-Winning Actress, Who Became a '60s Legend, Turns 92

Beyond the Gates has already begun launching the careers of many of its stars. But for one of its leading vixens, Marquitta Goings, who plays Haley Lawson, her connection to soap operas started long before joining the series.

In an interview with Parade, Goings said, “I was very aware of soaps, since I was about 5 years old.”

The actress explained that growing up, she spent summers watching soaps with family members. “I used to hang out with my grandmother and my great aunt, and we would literally watch soaps every day,” she said.

She added that it became part of their daily routine. “It was to the point where we could be out at the laundromat, or out to eat, and they're like, ‘oh, we have to hurry up and get back home and go watch our stories.’”

That early exposure left a lasting impression. “I grew up knowing Victor Newman,” she said, referencing the iconic character played by Eric Braeden on The Young and the Restless, who is set to cross over to Beyond the Gates this summer.  “He was just a staple in the household.”

Goings also shared her deep respect for the genre, “I have so much respect for the soap world, and I didn't know what it took to be on a soap, though, until recent,” she said.

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Goings debuted on the series during its premiere on February 25, 2025, as Haley Lawson. The character was introduced marrying Bill Hamilton (Timon Kyle Durrett) after breaking up his marriage to Dani Dupree (Karla Mosley).

As the series has unfolded, it has been revealed that Haley has been scheming to gain control of Bill’s fortune, including plotting his murder. Now, with her former partner Lynette Wise (Dominique Madison) arriving in Fairmont Crest, her feelings may be complicating that plan.

Viewers will have to stay tuned to see what happens next.

Beyond the Gates airs new episodes weekdays on CBS and weeknights on Paramount Plus. Viewers can watch episodes from the beginning on Paramount Plus or on Pluto TV’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.

The Culinary Commandment challenges continued tonight on America’s Culinary Cup, hosted by Padma Lakshmi, when the nine remaining chefs were tasked with the fourth Culinary Commandment challenge: Mastery of Vegetables.

Their challenge in “The Roots of Success” episode was a vegetarian three-course cohesive dinner menu, consisting of an appetizer, a main course and a dessert, featuring only vegetables. Each course had to feature one of the following varieties of vegetables: root, cruciferous or nightshade.

The winners of last week’s challenge Diana, Beverly and Matt got to select their teams. After plates were cleared and scores tallied, the bottom team faced each other in a three-way showdown. The America’s Culinary Cup winner will be awarded the biggest cash prize in culinary history: $1 million dollars. Here's our spoiler-filled recap of who went home tonight.

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Who went home on America's Culinary Cup tonight?

Emily Yuen
James Beard Nominee

Advancing contestants tonight on America’s Culinary Cup Season 1 Night 5

Beverly Kim
Michelin Starred Chef

Buddah Lo
Michelin Starred Chef & Two-Time Top Chef winner

Cara Stadler
James Beard Nominee

Chris Morgan
Michelin Starred Chef

Diana Dávila
James Bead Nominee

Katie Button
James Beard Winner

Keith Corbin
James Beard Nominee

Matt Peters
Bocuse D’Or Gold Medalist

Related: America’s Culinary Cup Reveals Powerhouse Lineup of 14 Guest Judges for $1 Million Cooking Competition (Exclusive)

What was the first challenge on America's Culinary Cup tonight, and who won it?

The remaining nine chefs were divided into teams of three to deliver a vegetarian three-course menu to a dinner party of elite guests from the culinary world. The catch? Each chef must stay within the parameters of their vegetable family, with one lucky chef creating an all-vegetable dessert.

As usual, Padma, Michael Cimarusti and Wylie Dufresne awarded points based on Taste, Creativity, Presentation and Mastery of the Commandment with each quality worth 5 points, so each judge’s total would be 20 points for a cumulative possibility of 60 points.

Guests this week included Tim Flores, Genie Kwon, Stefano Secchi, Suzette Greshon, JJ Johnson and Priya Krishna.

The top team was the Green Team, which included Beverly, Kyra and Keith. Coming in second was Diana’s team, which also included Buddha and Chris.

Green Team

Appetizer: 168  Main: 158  Dessert 133 Total: 459

Red Team

Appetizer: 113  Main: 122  Dessert: 151 Total: 386

Grey Team

Appetizer: 103 Main: 151 Dessert: 117 Total: 371

What was the elimination challenge on America’s Culinary Cup tonight, and who lost it? Emily Yuen

Photo: Jackie Brown/CBS

The elimination challenge for the Grey Team -- Emily, Matt and Katie -- was to prove their mastery over beans, squash and corn, known as the three sisters, by creating a dish featuring all three ingredients.

Padma chose Katie’s dish as the least successful, Michael chose Emily, which left Wylie to break the tie. He chose Emily as the least successful.

“It was an honor to be chosen to be here,” Emily told the judges. Then in her video interview she added, “It sucks. At least, I showed my daughter that I did follow my dreams. When you are among all these chefs, you have to step it up more. It’s sad, but I’m also so proud of myself because it’s been an emotional journey. This is not the last of me.”

America’s Culinary Cup airs Wednesday nights at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. Streams next day on Paramount+.

Next, Top Chef Star Joins Padma Lakshmi’s New Culinary Competition Show

Days of Our Lives actress Nikki Crawford is set to bring Lexie Carver back to the long-running soap, and she’s now teasing the emotional moment Lexie reunites with her son, Theo (Tyler Joseph Andrews).

Crawford shared a teaser on social media previewing the reunion. “She was never supposed to come back… But this week — everything changes,” she wrote.

“A son is about to come face to face with the impossible,” she continued, adding, “The question is… will he see it as a miracle—or a betrayal?”

Crawford continued, “Some truths don’t heal… they divide.”

The actress closed out her post teasing, “👀 Stay close. You won’t want to miss what’s coming.”

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Crawford’s return marks the latest chapter for Lexie Carver, a character with a long history on the soap. The role was originated by Cyndi James Gossett in 1987, with Angelique deWindt Francis and Shellye Broughton also portraying the character before Renée Jones took over in 1993. Jones remained in the role until her retirement in 2012, when Lexie was written off the show.

In the final moments of the March 6, 2026 episode, Lexie’s brother E.J. DiMera revealed to Abe’s current wife Paulina Carver (Jackée Harry) that he had been working on a way to bring Lexie back, setting up the character’s shocking return.

Harry previously teased the drama in an interview with BET’s Current. “All I can say is hide the kitchen utensils,” Harry joked, before adding, “Really good but for an actor, but oh, look out. That’s all I can say I’m trying to be tactful.”

Fans React

Fans took to the comment section to share their excitement for Lexie’s impending return.

One fan excitedly looks forward to Lexie reuniting with her former husband, sharing, “I’m glad Lexie’s back . Hope she stays and gets back with Abe”

A second user wrote, “This is going to be great to watch ❤️”

A third fan added, “Looking forward to lexie and theo scenes together in tomorrow episode”

With Lexie’s return looming, the storyline is expected to create major fallout for those closest to her.

Days of Our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.  

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If you’re looking to refresh your bedding, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make your bed feel like you're sleeping at a five-star hotel. Walmart currently has a flash deal with a massive discount on a high-thread-count 100% cotton sheet set that shoppers have raved is an "impressive" bedding upgrade.

Normally $90, the Sonoro Kate 100% Cotton Queen Sheet Set is on sale for up to 56% off right now. The best deal is on the dark gray color for $40, though the most you'll pay for any color in the queen size is $50, which is still a significant discount. These sheets also come in white, black, gray, gray-blue, and navy blue, and are on sale in sizes from full to California King at various price points.

Sonoro Kate 100% Cotton Queen Sheet Set, From $40 (was $90) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made of 100% cotton, these 1,000-thread-count sheets have a luxurious, hotel-like feel. Each set comes with two pillowcases, one flat sheet, and one fitted sheet with deep pockets that fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep. They're also Oeko-tex certified, meaning no harsh chemicals were used in the manufacturing process. 

I purchased these sheets about six months ago for my kids, and we've had a fantastic experience with them. My youngest has eczema, so finding sheets that won't irritate his sensitive skin is a priority. Another feature I look for in bedding is breathability because my older son sleeps hot. Sheets made of 100% cotton check both these boxes while being easy to care for — a must when middle-schoolers are doing the laundry. 

Much like cotton clothing, these sheets get softer each time they're washed and dried. Though my kids have these sheets in white, shoppers who have purchased the darker colors said they have not experienced any bleeding or fading after washing. 

Related: Walmart Has an 'Adorable' $27 Side Table With 'Great Storage' Built-In for Books, Toys, and More

These "very soft and comfortable" sheets offer "excellent breathability," which shoppers said is particularly helpful for hot sleepers and those who experience night sweats. One reviewer who purchased multiple sets said they are a "comfy and stylish" choice.

Describing their value, one shopper said, "They are comparable to sheet sets costing considerably more." My own sheets cost about double the original price of this set, and I can attest that the difference between these sheets that my children sleep on and the ones I use is minimal. 

Shop More Deals

• Gogreen 100% Cotton Deep Pocket Queen Sheet Set, $44 (was $70) at Walmart
• Baauye Bamboo Queen Sheet Set, $20 (was $39) at Walmart
• California Design Den 100% Cotton 4-Piece Queen Sheet Set, $36 (was $40) at Walmart

At just $40, the Sonoro Kate 100% Cotton Queen Sheet Set is an easy and affordable way to upgrade your sleep experience. Add this set in one of the six available colors to your Walmart cart now to secure this deal!

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.

Not only did country singer Ella Langley, 26, just drop her new "Choosin’ Texas" music video with a celebrity-packed, all-star lineup, but she also dropped what appears to be at least one Easter egg clue (or more) for what might be coming next. Time to do some detective work, people.

Ahead of her second album Dandelion, which comes out in April, fans get to enjoy a fantastic music video for Langley's hit single "Choosin' Texas," which has spent four consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video feels like a short film and boasts a star-studded cast, including actor and singer/songwriter Luke Grimes (Yellowstone), actress Ava Phillippe (daughter to Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe), singer/songwriter Kaitlin Butts, and country star Miranda Lambert (also, a co-writer on the song).

In the opening scene, Langley's character and her love interest, played by Grimes, arrive in his hometown of Abilene, Texas. The couple pops into a little bar in his old "stompin' grounds," where, of course, there sits the Grimes character's former love interest (played by Phillippe). And just like that, there'a little love triangle trouble brewing in Texas.

Related: Country Singer HARDY's 1-Year-Old Steals the Show Backstage During Tour Sound Check

You can tune in below to watch how the rest of the heartbreaker story goes, but pay close attention at the end of the video. There's one if not more little Easter Eggs that Langley seems to be dropping for fans (it wouldn't be the first time):

• The Tennessee license plate that reads: ICLYA
• The quick clip of an apparent new song with lyrics: "And I think we both know it's last call for us. Last call for us. It's last call for us..."

Watch the full Ella Langley "Choosin’ Texas" music video:

Any guesses on what "ICLYA" could stand for? Could it stand for "I Can't Love You Anymore"? Is that a reference to a new song? And what about those soft, sweet lyrics we hear at the end of the video? Also a new song? And hey, what about the song they're listening to on the ride into Abilene at the beginning? Is this three new songs? What else are we missing?

Hmm, it does appear there's already live but blank (for now) Ella Langley YouTube page titled "Last Call for Us." Says: "Video unavailable," but something must be coming. Very mysterious ...

Image via Ella Langley/YouTube

The Ella Langley album Dandelion (with 18 tracks, including "Choosin' Texas") comes out April 10, 2026. It is available for pre-order now.

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The Doctors introduced a complex world of medical caregivers and emotionally driven storylines long before hospital dramas became mainstream.

Sixty-three years ago, NBC debuted the award-winning soap opera, which ran for almost 20 years.

With its tagline “a daytime drama series dedicated to the brotherhood of healing,” the 1963 soap opera was set in the fictional Hope Memorial Hospital in Madison. Viewers got to see how the professional and personal lives of doctors, nurses and staff often overlapped in moments of both crisis and compassion.

The soap opera not only brought a different kind of TV show to the public but also featured a roster of future Hollywood stars, led by James Pritchett, who was known for his iconic role as Dr. Matt Powers, Chief of Staff at Hope Memorial Hospital.

Bethel Leslie as Dr. Maggie Hansen Van Allen Fielding Powers, James Pritchett as Chief of Staff Dr. Matthew Powers.

NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images

Joining him as a lead star was Lydia Bruce, who played Dr. Maggie Powers, the wife of Matt Powers. The character was portrayed by multiple actors throughout its nearly two-decade run, including Ann Williams and Bethel Leslie.

Also part of the cast was David O'Brien as Dr. Steve Aldrich, along with Elizabeth Hubbard, who was briefly replaced by Virginia Vestoff for the role of the career-driven doctor Althea Davis.

Apart from the star-studded cast, the soap opera also launched the career of then-rising actor Alec Baldwin, marking his first major acting role. Baldwin played the character of Billy Aldrich for three seasons until the series concluded in 1982.

The Doctors Makes Daytime TV History

Following its debut, The Doctors received positive feedback from the public, making it a highly decorated program at the time.

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In addition, it earned numerous accolades from various award-giving bodies, including a historic milestone as one of the early winners of Outstanding Achievement in Daytime Drama or "Best Show" at the Daytime Emmy Awards in 1972.

The Doctors also won Outstanding Achievement in Daytime Drama at the 26th Primetime Emmy Awards two years later, proving its status as one of the standout TV shows at the time.

In addition, the cast also received individual recognitions, including James Pritchett’s win at the 1978 Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series and Elizabeth Hubbard winning Best Actress in a Daytime Drama Series at the 1974 Daytime Emmy.

Unfortunately, The Doctors officially bid goodbye in 1982 after experiencing declining ratings toward the end of its run.

At the time, it also faced tight competition against ABC’s Family Feud and CBS’ The Young and the Restless.

Related: 45 Years Ago Today, Beloved '70s Icon Won His First Best Actor Award at the Oscars

Phillip Phillips may have finished as the runner-up on The Masked Singer as the lovable Pugcasso, but his approach to the competition was anything but typical.

The season 11 American Idol winner says he went into the show with zero pressure and, he joked with Parade, even tried to get himself eliminated early.

Related: ‘Masked Singer’ Winner Reveals What It Was Like Competing Against Her Husband (Exclusive)

Why He Said Yes to ‘The Masked Singer’

Phillips admitted that timing—and family—played a big role in his decision to join another singing competition.

“They had asked me a couple years ago and it wasn't the right time,” he said. “And now… I didn't really have anything going on when they would start filming.”

But the biggest factor? His kids.

“My kid loves costumes. He loves, you know, Star Wars and Spider-Man and all of that stuff. I thought it might be cool for him to see dad in a costume," he said, adding, "We love Halloween, so… that was like it kind of ties into it a little bit.”

Related: Meet the Cast Competing on ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 14

He Had No Pressure — and Kind of Wanted to Go Home

Unlike many contestants, Phillips said he never felt the pressure to win.

“There was like no pressure for me,” he said. “They're not gonna guess who I am unless the clues are just like super obvious.”

In fact, at one point, he joked that he tried to get eliminated. It was back in week 9, Care Bears night, when he took The Cranberries song "Dreams" and gave it a country spin. He thought for sure that was going to get him kicked off the show.

"Care Bears night was super bizarre," said Phillips with a laugh. "I didn't know anything, like why the heck am I doing Care Bears? And so then I wanted to change ['Dreams'] into bluegrass. I was like, this is definitely going to get me kicked off so I can go home faster to my family. And [the judges] said this is their favorite performance. I'm like, are you kidding me?! Now I gotta stay another week!"

Related: Jessica Simpson Looks Incredible in Surprise ‘Masked Singer’ Appearance

The Judges Had No Idea

Throughout the season, Phillips said he wasn’t surprised that the panel struggled to identify him.

“I figured they wouldn't guess me,” he said. “Honestly, in the finale, I don't think they had a clue.”

He added that even after the reveal, it still took a moment for it to click.

“Even when I show my face… I'm sure they still didn't know me until I started playing the song.”

Related:‘Masked Singer’ Panel Reveals Favorite Performers of All Time—and the Answers Might Surprise You (Exclusive)

His Favorite Performance Might Surprise Fans

While many artists gravitate toward their most recognizable moments, Phillips said one unexpected performance stood out.

"I think mine was probably too much by the Spice Girls 'cause I didn't know any Spice Girls songs," said Phillips, adding that he picked out "Too Much," but told the music producer he wanted to really change up the arrangement and if he couldn't pull it off, they were going to have to send him home.

"You're gonna have to like write me off like I died, like the dog had to get put down or something," he joked, adding that they said he could do "Too Much" and he could rework it his way, so it all worked out in the end. In fact, he liked the arrangement so much that he wants to incorporate it into his concerts now.

"It came out really great and now I think I'm going to start playing it at my shows because I really, I really like how it turned out," said Phillips.

That creative freedom was a big part of why he enjoyed the experience.

“It was just no pressure… super easy… it was a cool experience.”

Related: Randy Jackson’s Dramatic Weight Loss Over the Years—What He’s Said About His Health

New Music and What’s Next

Phillips is also using the momentum of the show to launch new music. His latest single, "Homesick," dropped the same day as the finale.

“This song's called 'Homesick' … it's just a real honest song about missing the people you love,” he said, adding that the meaning is deeply personal and that he wrote the song one day while his son was napping.

“That song's about missing the three people I love more than anything … my two kids and my wife," said the singer. Phillips married his wife Hannah Blackwell in 2015. They welcomed son Patch in November 2019 and daughter Isla in June 2025.

Related: Is ‘The Masked Singer’ Renewed for Season 15? What We Know So Far

Still Grateful for ‘Home’

More than a decade after winning American Idol, Phillips still holds the record for the most successful coronation single with "Home." And unlike some artists, he says he hasn’t grown tired of it.

“I actually don't [get tired of playing them],” he said of his hits "Home" and "Gone Gone Gone." “I wouldn't have the career that I have without those. I'll play them every day, any chance I get."

For Phillips, The Masked Singer wasn’t about winning—it was about having fun, trying something new and sharing the experience with his family.

Even if it meant accidentally making it all the way to the finale.

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Small closets and crowded entryways are a constant struggle, especially if you've ever tried to squeeze one more pair of sneakers onto an already packed shelf. That's why shoppers are excited about a new space-saving home find at IKEA that promises to transform the way you store your shoes. It's affordable, practical and exactly the kind of clever solution the Swedish retailer is known for.

The buzzworthy item is the MURVEL shoe organizer, a compact, gray insert designed to help you store shoes vertically rather than side by side. At just $2, this IKEA organizer proves you don't need a full closet overhaul to make a big difference.

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The idea behind this space-saving home find is simple but effective. Instead of placing your shoes flat on the shelf, the organizer lets you stack them one on top of the other. That means you can potentially double the number of pairs you fit in the same area. For apartment dwellers, dorm residents or anyone with limited storage, that extra capacity is a godsend.

MURVEL Shoe Organizer, $2 at IKEA

IKEA

Shop It!

Shoppers say the IKEA organizer lives up to the hype. Reviewers describe it as a nifty little solution that saves a lot of space in closets and hallway storage areas. Many report doubling their shoe storage almost instantly. Others mention buying multiple units at once because the price is so low and the impact is so noticeable.

Related: IKEA Is Selling a $13 Kitchen Staple With a Modern Brutalist Edge

Another bonus? The MURVEL shoe organizer is made with more than 50 percent recycled plastic, making it a slightly more sustainable pick for eco-conscious shoppers. Designed by IKEA of Sweden, it blends seamlessly into minimalist closet systems and works just as well on open shelving as it does behind closed doors.

Because this organizer is so compact, you can use it beyond the bedroom closet. It works in entryway cabinets, mudrooms or even under a bench. Anywhere you tend to stack shoes into a messy pile could benefit from this tidy upgrade.

For $2, it's an easy decision to add to your cart. If your goal is to maximize every inch of storage without investing in bulky furniture, this IKEA space-saving home find might be the simplest fix yet. Sometimes the smartest solutions really are the smallest ones.

Related: This New 3-Piece IKEA Duvet Set Brings Dreamy Sunset Energy to Your Bedroom