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Even if your team isn’t on the field, the Super Bowl has a way of getting under your skin. You swear you’re just watching for the commercials—or maybe the halftime show—yet there you are, pacing the living room, feeling every big play like it somehow matters to you. For one night, millions of people are locked into the same experience, sharing the highs, the tension, and even the heartbreak in real time.

But why why does a game we don’t technically "belong" to still hit so close to home?

To unpack that emotional pull, we spoke with Dr. Patrick McElwaine, Associate Professor and Director of the Graduate Counseling Psychology Program at Moravian University. He explains why Super Bowl feelings linger long after the confetti falls and what our investment in the game says about who we are.

Why do we feel so emotionally invested in a Super Bowl when our team isn't even playing?

"Part of it is how rare it is now for so many people to be watching the same thing at the same time," Dr. McElwaine says. "For a few hours, it feels like we're all tuned into the exact moment, and there's something comforting about that."

"I'll catch myself rooting for or against a team because I like them, dislike them, or just want to see how the story ends. You might also get connected to a team player's redemption story, like Sam Darnold, who was a journeyman around the league and is now playing in the Super Bowl. You also may still harbor feelings about a team that you dislike for one reason or another or whether they are your favorite team's arch nemesis."

RELATED: Mark Ballas Breaks Down the Dance Contest That Could Put You in a Super Bowl Commercial—Exclusive

Why do some Super Bowl losses stick with us longer than wins?

Dr. McElwaine puts it simple: "Losses linger."

"Wins feel great, but they don't seem to hang around the same way. That's because disappointment tends to leave a deeper mark than joy. The Eagles beating the Patriots in Super Bowl 52 was unforgettable. But the loss to New England in Super Bowl 39 still sits with me differently. I remember exactly how that felt. That's why, years later, with the Patriots playing the Seahawks in this year's Super Bowl, I find myself quietly rooting for Seattle. Wins make us happy. Losses become memories we carry."

How do people end up picking a team when they don't already have one?

"We like to think we choose teams logically, but most of the time it happens fast and emotionally," he says. "It might be a player, a city, a color, or a memory tied to someone we care about. Usually, the choice comes first. The explanation comes later. We decide with our gut and then fill in the reasons."

Why do underdogs pull us in so strongly?

"Underdogs tap into something familiar" says Dr. McElwaine. "Most of us know what it feels like to be underestimated or counted out. When we root for an underdog, we're often rooting for effort and perseverance to matter. It's not just about winning. It's about hope. It's about believing that grit still counts for something."

What does being a sports fan say about who we are?

"Sports fandom is really about connection, Dr. McElwaine adds. "Teams give us shared rituals, shared language, and shared experiences. They give us a sense of belonging. Wearing Eagles green, Bills blue, or any other team colors isn't just about the team. It's about identity, loyalty, and community."

Why do insults toward our team feel personal?

"When someone insults your team, it can feel like they're aiming it at you," Dr. McElwaine explains. "That's because, in a real way, your team becomes part of your identity. Even when we know it's not logical, the reaction is emotional and automatic."

How do high-stakes games like the Super Bowl affect stress and anxiety?

"Big games wake up the body," the expert shares. "Heart rate goes up. Muscles tense. For some people, that feels exciting. For others, it feels uncomfortable. Neither reaction is wrong. What matters is paying attention to how it affects you and knowing when you need to step back."

Are fans today more emotionally invested than past generations, or just louder?

People have always cared deeply about sports, but Dr. McElwaine says seeing it play out in real time is what makes the difference.

"Social media didn't create intense fandom," he adds. "It just puts a microphone in front of it. Social media has given us a glimpse into die-hard fans watching their teams celebrating big plays and melting down when things go poorly. I believe this has always been around, but now we watch some fans experience the roller coaster of emotions with a giant spotlight and a megaphone!"

What's the healthiest way to handle intense game-day emotions?

"Enjoy the passion but keep perspective," Dr. McElwaine says. "Take breaks. Move your body. Remind yourself that disappointment is uncomfortable, but it's survivable."

The 2026 Super Bowl LX will be broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. ET from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Fans of the trio of One Chicago shows—Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D.—may be concerned to see that new episodes won’t return to NBC for several weeks.

Following the Wednesday, Feb. 4, episodes, it was revealed that the Dick Wolf dramas would be taking a month-long hiatus.

Why did the shows get pulled from the lineup? There's actually a good reason, and it's not a concerning one at all, though a little upsetting if you like getting your weekly dose of Windy City action.

Why Are the One Chicago Shows on a Month-Long Break?

New episodes of Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D won't be on for the rest of the month due to a scheduling conflict with the 2026 Winter Olympics.

The Winter Olympics will run from Feb. 6 through Feb. 22, meaning many of the shows have to be taken off air to accommodate the coverage as it broadcasts on NBC.

A handful of the events will take place during primetime as well, including the Opening Ceremony on Friday, Feb. 6.

The Closing Ceremony will conclude the Olympics on Sunday, Feb. 22, but the One Chicago shows won't be back that week, returning the following week instead.

One Chicago Will Return After the Winter Olympics With a Crossover Event

The Chicago dramas will return on Wed., March 4, and while that may be a long time for fans, it will also be worth the wait as the comeback will feature a three-show crossover event.

The mini-hiatus allows anticipation to build up for the huge TV moment.

And it may just be the network's most ambitious crossover event yet, not to mention it will bring back fan-favorite stars, Jesse LeeSoffer and Tracy Spiridakos, in a guest capacity to reprise their roles as Jay Halstead and Hailey Upton, respectively.

The most recent three-show crossover event aired on January 29, 2025, centering on a gas-leak explosion beneath the city streets that wreaked havoc and required the combined expertise of Fire to contain the threat, Med to treat the injured, and the CPD to investigate who was responsible. It marked the first full crossover in six years, following the previous Infection event, which aired on Oct. 16, 2019.

Related: Marina Squerciati Reveals She Accidentally ‘Caught on Fire’ During Recent Filming of ‘Chicago P.D.’

And now, on March 4, 2026, the Chicago franchise will deal with a plane crash crisis, once again requiring all hands on deck.

For the crossover, Med and Fire will be swapping time slots temporarily for storyline purposes. Fire will air first at 8 p.m. ET, with Med taking the 9 p.m. ET time slot and P.D. concluding the event at 10 p.m. ET.

Why Jay Halstead and Hailey Upton Are Back

Seeing the team back together for the first time since Soffer and Spiridakos exited the series isn't just exciting to fans, as Marina Squerciati, who plays Kim Burgess, shared her joy in an Instagram post with the two stars.

"Upsteadgess's BACK! The trio you've been waiting for. It was so hard keeping our date night a secret, but now the secret's out!" she captioned the photo.

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So what brings these two back into the mix?

Per Deadline, Spiridakos' Upton returns on the "federal level" as a "Special Agent of the FBI."

"She joins her former P.D. allies after a drug enforcement task force case out of her Detroit field office leads her back to Chicago," the outlet revealed.

As for Soffer, whose character, Jay Halstead, left for an Army job in Bolivia, he is now working deep undercover, "which leads him on a path to the same case that Upton is investigating."

The crossover synopsis reads: Firehouse 51 is called to an airfield when a passenger jet suddenly goes silent mid-air, triggering a high-stakes emergency. Their discovery cracks open a bigger and deadlier mystery — one with consequences that could ripple far beyond the runway and put countless lives in jeopardy.

Related: Get a ‘First Look’ at Tracy Spiridakos’ ‘Awesome New Role’ in the Upcoming ‘Anna Pigeon’ Series

Taylor Swift'sbrand-new music video for her song "Opalite," off her album The Life of a Showgirl, has caused quite a stir on the internet for many reasons—with even Sesame Street's Elmo weighing in—and now some fans believe they've figured out the exact moment when Swift came up with the idea for the video.

In a 2025 interview on The Graham Norton Show, actor Domhnall Gleeson shared that he was hoping to one day appear in a Taylor Swift music video, and Swift, who was present at the time, immediately reacted with a shocked and intrigued expression. Fans are now pointing out that you can almost see the gears turning in Swift's mind—and they're not wrong.

@xxpeter

Opalite mv is so cute !! #opalite #taylorswifttok #thelifeofashowgirl #domnhallgleeson #lewiscapaldi

♬ original sound - ★

Gleeson has also now had that dream come true, as he is front and center, alongside a brunette Swift, in the new "Opalite" music video. Whether or not this interview was truly the moment Swift decided on the idea is unclear, although it's certainly not outside the realm of possibility, especially when it comes to Taylor Swift.

For one, if this really was the first time Gleeson mentioned the idea to or in front of Swift, then this presumably would be where the idea took root. While Swift may not have literally begun planning the concept that very second, as some in the comments of the above video have suggested, that also wouldn't be all that difficult to imagine.

Swift is known for her elaborate details and for the Easter eggs she leaves for fans in various forms, and she really does seem to be thinking deeply after hearing Gleeson say that he'd like to be in one of her music videos someday.

It's therefore quite possible that this one comment from Gleeson did indeed trigger a whole series of plans in Swift's head. If true, that moment on The Graham Norton Show very well may have been precisely when the idea for the new "Opalite" music video was born.

After exceedingly high demand, 1960s folk rocker Paul Simon added a new show to his upcoming 2026 U.S. tour. The announcement was shared on Friday afternoon via Instagram.

Simon announced the North American leg of his "A Quiet Celebration" comeback tour on Tuesday. He is set to travel to 20 cities across the U.S. and Canada throughout early summer, commencing on June 4 in Palo Alto, California. However, due to high ticket demand, Simon decided to surprise fans with a second show in Lenox, Massachusetts on June 28.

His "A Quiet Celebration" tour kicked off in spring of 2025, seven years after his retirement. In 2018, Simon went on a farewell tour before stepping away from the road due to hearing loss and personal reasons. Fans thought it was the last they would see of him live, but the 84-year-old singer un-retired from touring, scheduling a series of intimate theatre shows. Since the first leg in early 2025, he has only continued to travel and perform, extending his "A Quiet Celebration" tour into 2026 with North American and European dates.

Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel of Simon and Garfunkel performing.

Gary Null/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Simon and Garfunkel

Simon began his music career in 1957, initially garnering attention as part of the band Tom & Jerry with his friend Art Garfunkel. Later, the two reconnected to form the iconic '60s folk rock duo Simon and Garfunkel. The duo released five studio albums together between 1964 and 1970, achieving significant commercial success and critical acclaim.

The duo is widely recognized as one of the greatest folk rock acts of all time with seven Grammy Awards and three inductions into halls of fame, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Vocal Group Hall of Fame and Long Island Music Hall of Fame.

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In the comments, fans expressed their excitement for the added Lenox show:

"we cannot miss this"

"Got my tickets 😍"

"Love 🦄"

Related: ’80s Rocker’s Son Responds to Health Concerns After Cancellation of 50th Anniversary Shows

Related: Legendary Folk Rocker, 84, Announces 2026 Tour 8 Years After 'Retirement'

Maybe you haven’t considered making cheese sauce before, but it’s actually easier than you might think. Plus, when you make the crowd-pleasing cheese dip at home, you can always replenish the bowl when it inevitably disappears.

Don't know where to start? TikTok creator Eitan Bernath claims to have discovered the trick to nailing copycat Taco Bell cheese sauce at home. And lucky for you, his secret ingredient is something we can all pick up at the store before the Super Bowl: a jar of pickled jalapeños.

Related: The 90 Best Super Bowl Dip Recipes

Why You Should Make Nacho Cheese Sauce With Pickled Jalapeño Brine

The pickle brine from a jar of pickled jalapeños adds a touch of spice to nacho cheese sauce, but not as much as if you added the peppers themselves. It’s also salty, so it seasons the nacho cheese sauce, while the vinegar from the brine adds a punch of acid.

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Acid is essential in any well-balanced dish, and in nacho cheese sauce, it cuts through the fattiness of the cheese and milk. Though other acids, like white vinegar or lime juice, can have a similar effect, you get the double duty of spice and salt with pickled jalapeño brine.

Related: The Secret Ingredient for Crispy, Crunchy, Perfectly Golden Grilled Cheese Every Time

@eitan

You won't believe the secret ingredient to make Taco Bell Queso! 🧀 #recipe #yum #foodie

♬ original sound - Eitan Bernath How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce With Pickled Jalapeños

In his TikTok video, Eitan enthusiastically shows us how he makes his incredibly gooey cheese sauce (the shot of his cheese sauce-coated tortilla chip at the end is enough to send me to the store to pick up pickled jalapeños and American cheese ).

Here's how you can make Eitan's copycat Taco Bell nacho cheese sauce: Start by making a roux, which is a fancy French culinary term for a mixture of equal parts melted butter and flour. This will help thicken your cheese sauce and help it stay creamy without separating. From there, slowly pour in about two cups of whole milk, whisking constantly as you pour. It’s important to stir while you add the milk so you break up the roux and incorporate it into the milk. Once the milk comes up to a simmer, it will thicken pretty quickly. Be sure to keep stirring as the mixture simmers to prevent the milk from scorching. 

Next up is the secret ingredient: a glug of pickling liquid from a jar of pickled jalapeños. Finally, tear up plenty of good old American cheese (the orange kind) and add it to the pot. Though you can use other kinds of cheese for nacho cheese sauce, American cheese melts beautifully and is very stable, which will give you a smooth, velvety cheese sauce that stays dippable for a good long time. 

Related: Donna Kelce's Upgraded 7-Layer Dip Is a Super Bowl Party Winner

What to Serve With Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Cheese Sauce

Make Eitan’s copycat nacho cheese sauce and be the judge: Is it as good as (or better than?) Taco Bell’s?

Related: Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

A week after announcing the Southern Hospitality Tour, a co-headlining tour between The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers that will take the two bands around North America this summer, The Black Crowes revealed that general sale tickets are now available. This will be the first time the two rock groups will be performing and going on tour together. In addition, Southall will be the opening act for all 40 dates.

"The Southern Hospitality Tour is officially live," the American rock band posted to X on Friday morning. "The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers bring a no-bull [explicit], high-voltage rock-and-roll run to 40+ cities this summer. With special guest Southall. Tickets are on sale now."

ON SALE NOW ✌️

The Southern Hospitality Tour is officially live.

The Black Crowes and Whiskey Myers bring a no-bullshit, high-voltage rock-and-roll run to 40+ cities this summer.

With special guest Southall

Tickets are on sale now at https://t.co/cC5upx7ted pic.twitter.com/HKzdCm7OXs

— The Black Crowes (@theblackcrowes) February 6, 2026

The tour was officially announced last week on social media. The two bands are set to be on the road all summer, starting in Austin, Texas, on May 17, and ending at Mountain View, California, on Aug. 20. In between, they wil be making stops in Nashville, Charlotte, Cincinnati, New York City, Boston, Indianapolis, Toronto, Kansas City, Phoenix, Los Angeles and more.

Presale took place earlier this week on Tuesday, as well as the sales for VIP packages, which come with a seat within the first 15 rows, as well as an exclusive TBC x Whiskey Myers merch package that includes a harmonica, whiskey glass, a flask, a challenge coin and a tour laminate.

Black Crowes perform during the 2025 SEMA Fest at the Las Vegas Convention Center on November 07, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bryan Steffy/Getty Images

The Black Crowes are an alternative indie rock band that was formed in Atlanta in 1984. Consisting of Sven Pipien, and brothers Chris and Rich Robinson, the band's discography includes nine studio albums, four live albums and multiple charting singles. The Black Crowes are set to release their tenth studio album this year, titled A Pound of Feathers, on March 13. The two singles — "Profane Prophecy" and "Pharmacy Chronicles" — are out now.

Meanwhile, Whiskey Myers is a country rock band formed in Texas in 2005 by Cody Cannon, John Jeffers, Cody Tate, Jeff Hogg, Tony Kent and Jamey Gleaves. Since their formation 21 years ago, they have released seven albums, with their latest being Whomp Whack Thunder in September 2025.

General tickets are now open to the public and can be purchased on Ticketmaster.

Related: Rachel Dratch Recalls the Time She Got High with Iconic '90s Rock Band During 'SNL' Days

Related: ’90s Rock Band Announces New Member Amid U.S. Tour

Naming a baby is an important responsibility for any parent, but in many countries, government agencies will sometimes step in when it's believed that the chosen moniker is not in the child's best interest. There are a ton of illegal baby names in the U.S., as well as names that are banned around the world.

Though there are a few regulations here, the U.S. does have some of the most lax naming laws in the world. Individual states are left to make their own rules, and most of them just regulate the use of symbols, numbers and, occasionally, obscenities. But naming rights are mostly up to the parents. This is how we get celebrity children who are named things like Apple, North, Saint, Blue Ivy and more. According to a University of Vermont blog, the Vermont Department of Health reportedly told parents in 2009 that they could even "use trademarked names (e.g., IBM), diseases (e.g., Anthrax) [and] obscenities," though the department did "highly recommend against it."

Around the world, restrictions are often much tighter. Some countries only let parents choose from a pre-selected list of name options, others require traditional language spellings and many set precedents to not allow potentially embarrassing names that can afflict the child into adulthood.

Here are the 65 banned baby names you need to watch out for in the U.S. and beyond.

Related: 125 Modern Baby Names for Boys and Girls Born in 2026

Illegal Baby Names in the U.S.

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1. Baby/Infant — Illegal in all states: According to the Social Security Administration's (SSA) enumeration at birth guidelines, parents will be met with an "invalid" value if they try to enter their child's name as "Baby" or "Infant." The same goes for "Babyboy" and "Babygirl."
2. Noname/Unnamed — Illegal in all states: The same SSA guidelines state that variations of "Noname," "Unnamed" and "Unknown" will also be logged as "invalid" moniker options.
3. Test — Illegal in all states: These options would also be flagged by the SSA system.
4. Void — Illegal in all states: Unsurprisingly, this name would also be marked as "invalid" per the SSA guidelines.
5. X Æ A-12 — Illegal in California: According to People in 2020, Elon Musk and Grimes's son's name was a violation of a handbook rule from the California Department of Public Health's office of vital records. The handbook stated that names could only use the 26 letters of the alphabet—no numbers or symbols. Musk and Grimes later changed the child's name to "X Æ A-Xii."
6. José — Illegal in California: Per The Sacramento Bee, the same rule that doesn't permit numbers also doesn't permit names to use accent marks. Just "Jose" would be accepted or even "Jos'e," since apostrophes are allowed.
7. III — Illegal in California: In 1984, Thomas Boyd Ritchie III was denied his request to change his name just to the Roman numerals "III." Per case records, the court found that the name request was "inherently confusing."
8. 1069 — Illegal in North Dakota: When Michael Dengler wanted to change his name to "1069," he was rejected. According to the Star Tribune, only letters are allowed—so unless he spelled it "One Zero Six Nine," he could not change his name to a series of numbers.
9. Messiah — Illegal in Tennessee: This name was briefly banned by a Tennessee judge who ordered a boy's parents to name him "Martin" instead. Per CBS News, the judge said, "'Messiah' is a title that is held only by Jesus Christ." The outlet reported that the judge's "unconstitutional" ruling was later overturned, and the child's name, Messiah Deshawn McCullough, was restored.
10. @ — Illegal in Georgia (and other states where symbols are prohibited): Per Georgia birth certificate law, numbers and symbols are banned—as is "any word or term that constitutes an obscenity in any language."

Related: 105 ‘Old Money’ Baby Names for Boys and Girls

1. King — Illegal in Arizona: Because this name can be conflated with a rank title, it's not a legal baby name, per The Arizona Republic. In other states, more than 1,000 babies were given this moniker in 2024 alone, according to CNN.
2. Doctor — Illegal in Arizona: The same Arizona Republic article reported that the baby name "Doctor" is restricted "because [it] could be misleading."
3. Judge — Illegal in Arizona: Unsurprisingly, "Judge" is also not allowed for the same reason "Doctor" is not.
4. Ñejo — Illegal in Arizona: Puerto Rican musician Ñejo would struggle with his name in many states, including Arizona, that don't recognize the eñe tilde mark. Per the aforementioned Arizona Republic article, "ñ" is considered a "non-English letter" for Arizona birth certificates.
5. Santa Claus — Illegal in Utah and Ohio: In 2000, Utah resident David Lynn Porter was denied his name change to "Santa Claus." Porter later took the fight to the Supreme Court, which overturned the original rejection in 2001, per The Salt Lake Tribune. Also in 2000, Ohio denied a similar name change request from Robert William Handley, per UPI. The judge cited concerns that children would get confused.
6. Adolf Hitler — Illegal in New Jersey: Technically, this name isn't banned outright, but a couple who named their son "Adolf Hitler Campbell" lost custody of the child in 2009 after his name went viral when a New Jersey bakery refused to make a birthday cake for him. The custody decision was reportedly not solely based on the name situation, per NJ. com.
7. R2D2 — Illegal in New Jersey: While Adolph Hitler is technically allowed by New Jersey law, this Star Wars character's name is not... due to the numbers. "If the Campbells had named their son 'R2D2,' state authorities would have intervened," law professor Carlton Larson said, per Time magazine. C-3PO would also be out.
8. Anything obscene — Illegal in New Jersey (and other states that prohibit profanity): According to the Obermayer law firm, New Jersey doesn't allow "names that contain obscenities—such as those that would include racial epithets or curse words."
9. Lengthy names — Illegal in New York: According to Utica's WIBX, New Yorkers can't give their babies names that are longer than 30 characters. (They also can't contain numbers or symbols.)

Related: 175 Unique Gothic Baby Names and Their Meanings

Illegal Baby Names Around the World

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Europe

1. Nutella — Illegal in France: In 2015, a French judge ruled that parents could not name their daughter "Nutella," but could call her "Ella" instead, per the BBC. "It is contrary to the child's interest to have a name that can only lead to teasing or disparaging thoughts," the judge said.
2. Fraise — Illegal in France: The same BBC article reported that the French word for "strawberry" was also not allowed by the court as it "could result in the child being teased." The child in question was renamed "Fraisine."
3. Prince William — Illegal in France: If you're not the actual Prince William, heir to the British throne, you can't have that name in France. According to The Independent, a civil law allows judges to overrule a potential baby name "in the interests of the child." They did so in 2015 for a child whose parents wanted to name him "Prince William."
4. Minnie Cooper — Illegal in France. After getting denied the name "Prince William," the young boy's parents tried to name him "Minnie Cooper" instead and were also denied, per The Independent.
5. Monkey — Illegal in Denmark: PerThe New York Times, this name was vetoed by the Department of Name Research at Copenhagen University in 2004. "That's not a personal name... It's an animal. I have to protect the children from ridicule," said assistant professor Michael Lerche Nielsen, who worked in the Department of Name Research at the time.
6. Stone — Illegal in Germany: According to the Library of Congress, a German court case determined that the name "Stone" was not fitting as "a child cannot identify with it, because it is an object and not a first name."

1. Lord — Illegal in Germany: The same Library of Congress article noted that a German court ruled that "Lord" was most well-known as "a title for English nobility or as a name for God," and therefore not suitable for a child's first name.
2. Hitler/Osama Bin Laden — Illegal in Germany: You cannot name your child after these men in Germany, per CNN, though one couple did try a Bin Laden moniker for their child in 2002. Names in Germany "must not ridicule the child or be offensive," the outlet reported.
3. Venerdi — Illegal in Italy: In Italian, this name means "Friday." Per NBC News, in 2006, this name was blocked for a baby boy as judges believed it would make the child the "laughing stock of his group."
4. Thomas — Illegal in Portugal: Per the Portuguese American Journal, this country requires "traditionally Portuguese" names, which means that anglicized versions of monikers are not allowed. "Thomas" would be rejected, but "Tomás" would be allowed instead.
5. Superman — Illegal in Sweden: The 1982 Naming Law enacted in Sweden forbids names that could "cause trouble" for children as they grow up, per The New York Times. This superhero moniker is one such illegal option.
6. Metallica — Illegal in Sweden: This band is banned as far as baby names go, per the same NYT article.
7. Elvis — Illegal in Sweden: Music lovers also can't name their child after Elvis Presley in Sweden, The New York Times reported.
8. Ikea — Illegal in Sweden: The Swedish furniture store will stay just that, and never a baby name. According to Apartment Therapy, "Ikea" is a banned baby name—akin to naming an American child something like "McDonald's."
9. Brfxxccxxmnpcccclllmmnprxvclmnckssqlbb11116 — Illegal in Sweden: Per the BBC, in 1996, a couple tried to give their son this long, complicated moniker that they said was pronounced "Albin." The Swedish authorities rejected it.
10. Harriet — Illegal in Iceland: According to The Guardian, Iceland only allows parents to choose from around 4,000 Icelandic names. The outlet reported that the government has rejected common Western names like "Harriet."
11. "C" names — Illegal in Iceland: The Icelandic alphabet doesn't recognize the letter "c," so anything containing this letter is out, per The Guardian.
12. Judas — Illegal in Switzerland: According to Swiss news outlet SWI, the Biblical name Judas is not permitted for use as a baby name in this country. SWI reported that authorities will block names that are "considered potentially harmful to the child’s well-being."

Related: Modern Parents Are Loving These 125 Gender-Neutral Baby Names

Asia

1. "Kirakira" names: Illegal in Japan: According to Japan Today, the country recently added naming laws to outlaw "kirakira" names—monikers considered "flashy... silly or frivolous." The law was intended to restrict combining or mispronouncing characters to make an "outlandish" name like Naiki for "Nike" or Purin for "pudding," per the New York Post.

1. Akuma — Illegal in Japan: This name means "devil," and a father was blocked in 1994 for using it as his son's name, according to the Los Angeles Times.
2. Muhammad — Illegal in China: Per The New York Times, in 2017, the Chinese government cracked down on Muslim-associated names like "Muhammad" and "Arafat" in an attempt to "curb religious fervor."
3. Evil — Illegal in Malaysia: Monikers with "negative connotations" are prohibited, per The Straits Times. This includes "Evil," "Bodoh" (which means "stupid") and "Busuk" (which means "smelly").

South America

1. Messi — Illegal in Argentina: Per NBC Sports, this country doesn't allow last names to be used as first names. So, fans of Argentine soccer player Lionel Messi can't name their babies "Messi."
2. Samba — Illegal in Brazil: In 2023, Brazilian music star Seu Jorge was denied his request to name his son "Samba." According to The Guardian, the registry office deemed it "too outlandish."
3. Piyé — Illegal in Brazil: Per the New York Post, a Brazilian couple who wanted to name their son after an Egyptian pharaoh was denied in 2024, with officials ruling that the pronunciation was too close to the ballet step "plié."
4. Ebullicion — Illegal in Peru: In 1998, Peru enacted a law to ban "names considered ridiculous, offensive, or contrary to religious beliefs," per the BBC. This Spanish word for "boiling" made the list.
5. H2O — Illegal in Peru: Also according to the BBC, this moniker made the banned list. "This is going to hurt the child," Justice Minister Alfredo Quispe said of these types of unique names.

Related: 205 Western Girl Names for Your Little Darlin’ and Her Natural Charm

North America

1. Lucifer — Illegal in Canada: In Quebec, monikers are sometimes rejected to "spare children from being saddled with names that later might subject them to ridicule," Jocelyn Tremblay, an agency spokesman for Quebec's Registrar of Civil Status, said in 1998, per the Tampa Bay Times.

1. Cowboy — Illegal in Canada: This name was also rejected by the Quebec Registrar, per the Tampa Bay Times.
2. Avalanche — Illegal in Canada: Per CBC, even a middle name can get flagged in Quebec. In 2009, a couple was prohibited from giving their son Logan the middle name "Avalanche."
3. Burger King — Illegal in Mexico: Per The Guardian, the Mexican state of Sonora released a list of banned baby names in 2014, and this popular fast food restaurant made the reject list.
4. Hermione/Harry Potter — Illegal in Mexico: The Guardian also noted that these Harry Potter characters were not allowed to be used as baby names.
5. Batman — Illegal in Mexico: This character also made the banned list, per The Guardian. The outlet reported that the director of the civil registry, Cristina Ramírez, wanted the list "to protect children from being bullied because of their name."
6. Facebook/Twitter/Yahoo — Illegal in Mexico: Per Reuters, Sonora also banned these tech-related names.
7. Scrotum/Circumcision — Illegal in Mexico: Surgical monikers were also on the no-go list, per Reuters.

Related: 205 Truly Cool Names That Mean ‘Water’ for Baby Boys and Girls

Oceania

1. Talula Does The Hula From Hawaii — Illegal in New Zealand: According to The Guardian, a young girl with this name was placed into court guardianship to allow a name change. The judge ruled that her given moniker "makes a fool of the child."
2. Stallion — Illegal in New Zealand: Per the same Guardian article, other banned names in New Zealand include "stallion," referring to a male horse.
3. Yeah Detroit — Illegal in New Zealand: This U.S. city could probably work as a baby name on its own, but adding "yeah" in front made it illegal in New Zealand, per The Guardian.
4. Prince/Princess — Illegal in New Zealand: Names that suggest an official title or rank are not allowed, per New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs. This also includes monikers like "Lady," "Duke" and "Saint."
5. Indica/Sativa — Illegal in New Zealand: These cannabis-themed monikers were also rejected by New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs as "invalid name[s]."
6. 4Real — Illegal in New Zealand: This moniker was rejected for including a number, according to Reuters.
7. Fish and Chips — Illegal in New Zealand: Per The Everett Herald, this name was rejected in 2008 by a family court judge.
8. Sex Fruit — Illegal in New Zealand: This moniker also made the judge's banned list, per The Everett Herald.
9. God/Goddess: Illegal in Australia: According to the naming restrictions of the Victorian Government in Australia, names like "God" or "Goddess" are "contrary to the public interest" as they're considered official titles.
10. President/Prime Minister: Illegal in Australia: These official titles are also not permitted to be used as baby names.
11. ?: Illegal in Australia: The Victorian Government in Australia also noted that names that "contain symbols without phonetic significance" are not allowed, like names with question marks in them.

Up Next:

Related: 125 Beautiful Scandinavian Names for Baby Girls and Boys

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Not all hoodies are created equal. While your average sweatshirt is strictly in loungewear territory, there are some that are so polished you could potentially wear them to relaxed brunches or on casual workdays. The difference comes down to key details like fabric and cut, both of which can elevate the style considerably. Amazon is a great spot to uncover surprisingly chic alternatives to the usual pullover.

Among those is the Simple&Opulence Chenille Hoodie, a tastefully designed and textured piece that looks far more expensive than it actually is. Reduced from its usual $36 to only $20 in select colors and sizes right now, it's the lowest that it's been in at least three months. The sumptuous material sets it apart, lending it a light but warm feel. Unlike bulkier fleece hoodies, chenille locks in body heat to keep you comfortable without weighing you down.

Simple&Opulence Chenille Hoodie, From $20 (was $36) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

The hoodie comes in sizes small through extra-large and is available in a wide range of colors. The options include neutrals like black and brown for maximum versatility and deeper tones like red and green for a fun little pop. 

While it is far more chic than an ordinary hoodie, it's just as easy to maintain as its more laid-back counterparts. Just toss it in the washing machine to keep the polyester chenille fresh and protect its texture.

Related: These Skechers Sneakers Feel Like 'Walking on Clouds,' and They're on Sale for Just $50

It features all of the hallmarks of a classic hoodie, with a drawstring adjustable hood and ribbing at the cuffs and hem to keep you warm. At the same time, it brings a decidedly classy element to your off-duty wardrobe. "This is the nicest quality chenille sweater I have ever purchased," one reviewer wrote. "It is extremely soft and has a luxurious feel to it." Another shopper called it "super cozy" and said it "feels like a warm hug."

The styling possibilities alone set it apart. It's adaptable enough to pair with the usual relaxed suspects, like leggings, jeans, and joggers. Unlike other hoodies, though, you can dress it up slightly with flowing trousers and ballet flats for a pulled together take on comfort dressing. It even works with tailored pants and booties if you want to dress up your basics just a touch.

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It's hard to beat a $20 chenille hoodie as posh and beautifully designed as this one from Simple&Opulence. Backed by great reviews and ideal whether you're dressing up or down, it nails multiple looks while keeping you toasty. It's worth snagging while it's discounted to this unusually low price!

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There has been new police activity at Nancy Guthrie's home in Arizona on Friday, Feb. 6. After what seemed like a relatively quiet morning, according to the media that has been outside of Nancy's home, things picked up shortly after Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that authorities were made aware of a new message about Nancy.

Brian Entin from NewsNation has been outside of Nancy's home for the majority of the week, sending updates on social media. On Friday afternoon (local time), Entin said that authorities were back at the house within 30 minutes of Nanos' social media post. Entin said that law enforcement was working to close off the street in front of Nancy's home and has asked the media to move out of the area.

Right now -- investigators are back at Nancy Guthrie's house. They are closing down the road and moving all media out for "investigative purposes." pic.twitter.com/R0eNh8iA4e

— Brian Entin (@BrianEntin) February 6, 2026

The Pima County Sheriff's Department has also confirmed that a follow-up investigation at Nancy's home has closed the street out front.

"Investigators are conducting follow-up at the Guthrie home & in the surrounding areas. The roadway in front of the home is currently restricted to provide investigators space," read a message shared on X on Friday afternoon.

Investigators are conducting follow-up at the Guthrie home & in the surrounding areas. The roadway in front of the home is currently restricted to provide investigators space. (Camino Escalante is restricted from Cerrada Nopal to E Camino el Ganado)
See map below. pic.twitter.com/Q3wBKFTnaf

— Pima County Sheriff's Department (@PimaSheriff) February 6, 2026

The new message that Nanos referred to would be the second time that the would be kidnapper (or kidnappers) sent about Nancy. While neither of these communications have been verified as legitimate by authorities, they are being taken seriously.

Related: Is Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Alive? Unverified Ransom Note Makes Chilling Claim About Nancy Guthrie

Media sources have said that whomever is sending these messages—presuming they're related—hasn't given the Guthrie family a way to communicate with them. In the first note, which was sent to media outlets including TMZ, the sender demanded millions of dollars in bitcoin and provided two deadlines to receive the money. The first deadline was on Thursday, Feb. 5 at 5 p.m. The second deadline is coming on Monday, Feb. 9.

“I will say the letter begins by saying she is safe but scared, and they go on to say she knows exactly what the demand is,” TMZ founder Harvey Levin, who saw the first note, told Fox's Sean Hannity on Thursday, Feb. 5. "They are, through us, telling the family exactly what they are demanding, and they are saying that Nancy is aware of it.”

READ NEXT: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom: Neighbors Come Forward With Eerie Information as Search Heads Into Day 6

NBC's 2026 Winter Olympics coverage will look different than originally planned. The network has announced that veteran sportscaster Mary Carillo will replace Savannah Guthrie as the co-host of the Opening Ceremony on Friday, Feb. 6 and fill in throughout the Winter Games.

Guthrie—who was set to host alongside Terry Gannon—withdrew from the assignment to remain with her family following the alleged abduction of her mother—Nancy Guthrie—from her Arizona home. “Savannah will not be joining us at the Olympics as she focuses on being with her family during this difficult time,” reads the official statement from NBC. “Our hearts are with her and the entire Guthrie family as the search continues for their mother."

The network announced that sportscaster Mary Carillo—who has a long history of covering the Olympic Games—would act as Guthrie's replacement for Friday's Opening Ceremony. "Mary is one of the most experienced Olympic commentators ever and a master storyteller," said Molly Solomon, Executive Producer and President of NBC Olympics Production. "She and Terry will lead the American audience through one of the world’s greatest global moments.”

Ahead of the Winter Olympics, here's everything to know about Mary Carillo—including her own background in professional sports.

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Carillo speaks on stage at the 2019 Women in Sports Foundation 40th Annual Salute to Women in Sports Awards Gala.

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

Who is Mary Carillo?

Mary Carillo is a veteran sports broadcaster, an Olympic commentator and former professional athlete, widely known for her work with NBC Sports and HBO's Real Sports. The 68-year-old Brooklyn native began her television career working for USA Network in the 1980s. Since then, she's contributed sports commentary to MSG, ESPN and CBS Sports—amongst many others. In 2018, Carillo was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games will mark the media personality's 17th Olympics Games. In fact, she has previously hosted three closing ceremonies.

Related: 125 Olympics Trivia Questions and Answers to Test Your Knowledge of the Games’ History

What sport did Mary Carillo play?

Prior to her long-running career as a sportscaster, Carillo was a professional tennis player. She played on the women's pro circuit from 1977 to 1980, with her highest world rank set at No. 33 in the Women's Tennis Association Rankings from January through March 1980. Alongside tennis legend John McEnroe, she won the 1977 French Open mixed-doubles title. Carillo retired from professional tennis in 1980 at the young age of 23, due to chronic knee injuries.

In November 2025, Carillo was elected to the International Tennis Hall of Fame's Class of 2026. "This is the sport I love," she told the WTA about the honor. "This is the thing that has changed my life. I just never imagined that I could get into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, which is reserved for the most special people—not just the players, but people like Bud Collins and Steve Flink, who I have genuinely, openly admired for decades ... I'm used to telling their stories and admiring them. I never thought I'd be among them."

Related: Coco Gauff Could Face a $50,000 Fine After Her Off-Camera Racket Smash at the Australian Open

Andy Murray of Great Britain smiles during an interview with Mary Carillo after his victory in the men's singles final match on Day Fifteen of the 2012 US Open.

Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

What is Mary Carillo doing now?

Carillo continues to work as a broadcaster and on-air talent for NBC Sports. Along with stepping in as Guthrie's replacement to co-host the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony, Carillo will be offering general sports commentary throughout the games, which go through Feb. 22, 2026.

Related: Why Are Two Different Cities Hosting the Olympics for the First Time?

Is Mary Carillo married?

Carillo is not currently married. She was previously wed to tennis instructor Bill Bowden from 1983 until their 1998 divorce. During a 2014 interview with Outsports, Carillo came out as gay.

Does Mary Carillo have children?

Yes, the sportscaster shares two children with her ex-husband Bowden—a son named Anthony (born in 1987) and a daughter named Rachel (born in 1991).

Carillo interviews John McEnroe in 1987.

Jacqueline Duvoisin /Sports Illustrated/Getty Images

Are Mary Carillo and John McEnroe friends?

Yes, Mary Carillo and John McEnroe have remained friends for decades. Fun fact: The two future tennis stars grew up just three blocks apart in Queens, New York. That close connection has spanned their respective careers as professional tennis players as well as sports broadcasters.

When Carillo was honored with the Georgina Clark Motherhood Award in September 2022, McEnroe paid tribute to his old friend and her great influence on his life, per the WTA. "You helped me get to be the player I became," he said. "You stuck with me, you made me believe in myself before I believed in myself."

Next up, How to Watch the 2026 Winter Olympics Live—With or Without Cable

Maybe you saw the headlines that Melania has marked the best box-office showing in a decade for a documentary film.

And then there were those other headlines — entertainment magazines blasting out their critics' reviews that mostly panned director Brett Ratner's comeback project.

So, is the Amazon MGM film about the first lady a success or failure? The critics' score for Melania sits at just 6% on Rotten Tomatoes, while its audience score on the movie-review website is an impressive 99%.

A Rotten Tomatoes spokesperson confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that it's indeed the biggest critics vs. audience split in the site's history. They also stand by the Melania Trump documentary's audience numbers — claiming that they, in fact, very real.

"There has been NO manipulation on the audience reviews for the Melania documentary," the company told THR, per an article published on Feb. 6. "Reviews displayed on the Popcornmeter are VERIFIED reviews, meaning it has been verified that users have bought a ticket to the film through Fandango."

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Here are a couple verified audience reviews of the doc about President Donald Trump's wife:

• "Very interesting look into the lives of FLOTUS as she prepares for the inauguration. This was so much more enjoyable than an interview format."
• "Great must see movie. Gives us access to the woman who is setting the bar for First Ladies. She is inspiring, intelligent and innovative in her commitment to helping people, with a focus on children."

Meanwhile, here's a snippet of THR's critic's negative review of Melania from last week:

"To say that Melania is a hagiography would be an insult to hagiographies. This is a film that fawns so lavishly over its subject that you feel downright unpatriotic not gushing over it. Fittingly, it was directed by Brett Ratner, whose feature film career was derailed in 2017 after numerous sexual assault allegations that he has denied. But like many unsavory people associated with Donald Trump, he’s apparently received a pardon."

After a series of health concerns, Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider is stepping away. The announcement was shared to Instagram on Thursday afternoon, leaving fans deeply saddened. Cody, Snider's son, left a comment on the post in support of his dad, warming the hearts of many longtime fans.

Snider's resignation follows the metal band's plans for a 50th Anniversary celebration, which included a series performances throughout 2026. In the resignation post, guitarists Jay Jay French and Eddie Ojeda made a statement regarding the future of the band.

"Due to the sudden and unexpected resignation of Twisted Sister's lead singer Dee Snider brought on by a series of health challenges, the band has been forced to cancel all shows scheduled, beginning April 25th in Sao Paulo Brazil and continuing through the summer," French and Ojeda said. "The future of Twisted Sister will be determined in the next several weeks."

Jay Jay French and Dee Snider of Twisted Sister promoting a Twisted Sister Christmas CD on October 26th, 2006 in New York City.

Bill Tompkins/Getty Images

Snider makes it clear that his decision to resign is not made easily. He has been open about his health concerns in the past, revealing he struggled with heart issues and degenerative arthritis. These challenges worsening encouraged him to make the tough call. Even though it will be difficult to say goodbye, Snider admits he would rather leave on a high note than continue while not being his true self.

"I don't know of any other way to rock. The idea of slowing down is unacceptable to me. I'd rather walk away than be a shadow of my former self," said Snider.

View this post on Instagram Fans Rally in Support

Snider's son responded to the post, saying, "Stay healthy dad, we love you ❤️"

Another user responded to Cody with a heartfelt message, "You having your dad means everything. Sad that an era may come to an end. But family and health comes first. Lots of love from Denmark 🙏🥰"

Other longtime fans also left comments encouraging the rock icon to stay healthy and prioritize his well-being:

"Oh Dee prayers are with you. We love you!! 🙏🙏💗💗"

"The legend of TS lives on forever. We don't need any come back or anniversary shows. The albums, photos, videos and memories remain forever, for all to see and hear 🙌🔥🙌

"I hope Dee quickly recovers from whatever health issues he is facing. I believe in you!"

"Heartbreaking news. Endless respect for a man who gave everything to rock ‘n’ roll. We stand with you, Dee. 🙏🤘❤️"

Related: ’70s Rock Icon Forced to Postpone Shows Amid Health Concerns

The crowd at the Milan-Cortina Olympics opening ceremony was not happy to see Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha.

In a viral video posted on social media, the Vice President and the Second Lady are seen waving American flags and clapping as Team USA athletes made their way in to the ceremony. In the background, the crowd can be heard booing loudly when the camera pans to their faces.

The incident comes just hours after International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry told Town & Country that she hoped no American athletes or officials would be booed during the inaugural event.

“I hope that the opening ceremony is seen by everyone as an opportunity to be respectful of each other.” Coventry said. “When we went to the [Olympic] village that is the best reminder of how we should be. You see athletes from every walk of life. No one is asking what country they come from or what religion. They are all just hanging out… It was a real opportunity to put into perspective how we could be and so, for me, I hope that the opening ceremony will do that and will be a reminder for everyone how we could be.”

The Guardian also reported on Friday, Feb. 6 that Olympic officials "have quietly expressed hope the ceremony will unfold without political demonstrations directed at American athletes or officials" amid reports that the Vances and Secretary of State Marco Rubio would be in attendance.

RELATED: Vice President JD Vance and Wife Usha Announce Pregnancy

The Vance's appearance at the Winter Olympics comes just weeks after they shared they're expecting their fourth baby.

The couple revealed the news via Instagram on Tuesday, Jan. 20 — exactly one year after JD was sworn in as Vice President of the United States.

“We’re very excited to share the news that Usha is pregnant with our fourth child, a boy. Usha and the baby are doing well, and we are all looking forward to welcoming him in late July,” the post read.

The couple already share children Ewan, 8; Vivek, 5; and Mirabel, 4. Usha’s pregnancy also marks the first time a second lady has been pregnant while in the White House.

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During their five-month break between legs during their Peel It Back Tour, Nine Inch Nails has finally found its newest member.

On Thursday evening, the rock band revealed that they had recruited Stu Brooks as their new bassist. He made his live debut during the first night of the second North American leg of the group’s Peel It Back Tour at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The band’s world tour began in June 2025 in Dublin in support of their most recent album, Tron: Ares.

Brooks replaced Alessandro Cortini, who left in late 2025. Cortini, who was part of the rock band How To Destroy Angels and had his own successful solo projects, originally joined Nine Inch Nails from 2005 to 2008, then returned in 2017 before leaving again eight years later.

Nine Inch Nails casually introduced their fans to Brooks via Instagram Reels by posting a video of them performing their 2007 hit, "Non-Entity."

View this post on Instagram

Now based in Brooklyn, New York, Brooks is a Canadian bassist, producer and musician known for his work with the Saturday Night LiveBand, Lady Gaga and Mike Patton. He has also worked for various artists, including Pretty Lights, Lauryn Hill, 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige, Fall Out Boy, Danny Elfman and more. In addition, he is the co-founder of the rock band Dub Trio.

Stu Brooks of the Australian industrial rock band Vowws performs in concert during Resurrection Fest on June 26, 2025 in Viveiro, Spain.

Mariano Regidor/Redferns

Formed by Trent Reznor in 1988 in Cleveland, Ohio, Nine Inch Nails, or commonly abbreviated as NIN, broke into the mainstream in the early 1990s, thanks to their debut album, Pretty Hate Machine, which featured the song "Head Like a Hole." In addition, their 1992 EP Broken and their 1994 album The Downward Spiral boosted their fame and established them in the major alternative rock scene.

Since their formation, NIN has released 15 studio albums. Though the band has gone through multiple lineup changes, its current lineup now includes Reznor, Brooks, Atticus Ross, Robin Finck and Josh Freese.

NIN will be touring around the United States for the rest of February and the first half of March. The second North American leg of the Peel It Back Tour started on Thursday evening in New Orleans and will close in Sacramento's Golden 1 Center on March 16. The rock band is expected to hit various cities, including Charlotte, Washington D.C., Boston, Columbus, St Louis, Austin, Las Vegas, San Diego and more. Fans can purchase tickets to their upcoming shows on Ticketmaster.

Related: Iconic '90s Rock Band Announces Update on 40th Anniversary Tour

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If you’re getting a head start on spring cleaning, one of the hardest parts is figuring out where to put things that don’t have a home but you’re not ready to toss. A large bookshelf is one of the easiest ways to solve that problem, giving you space to organize, display, and declutter at the same time while making your room look more put-together.

One option that’s as stylish as it is practical is the Homfa Triple Row 6-Tier Bookshelf. It’s currently on sale for $190, down from $270, which makes it a strong value for such a tall, sturdy, and versatile piece.

Homfa Triple Row 6-Tier Bookshelf, $190 (was $270) at Walmart

Courtesy of Wal

Design-wise, it comes in seven colors — black, blue, maroon, green, white, and two wood tones — so it’s easy to match your space. The shelf measures 58.7 inches long, 9.3 inches wide, and 74 inches tall, with a 3.1-inch thick base for extra stability. It’s made from 0.6-inch thick particle board, and each shelf holds up to 44 pounds. Two metal anti-tip devices add extra security, and assembly is required.

Storage is where this bookshelf really shines. Its asymmetrical layout includes 17 open compartments across six tiers. The left and right sides each have six smaller sections, while the center column features five larger compartments. That mix of shelf heights makes it easy to store everything from books and baskets to taller decor and storage bins without things feeling cramped or awkward.

Related: Wayfair Is Selling a 'Soft' and 'Colorful' $160 Boho-Chic Rug That 'Brightens Up the Whole Room'

It's versatile to work in any space. Use it in a living room for books, framed photos, plants, and collectibles. In a home office, it’s great for files, binders, and tech accessories. It also works in bedrooms for folded clothes and baskets, in pantries for dry goods and glassware, or even in dens for records, DVDs, or display pieces. 

This bestselling product has earned praise for its construction quality and stylish appearance. One shopper said the “design is modern, clean, and works beautifully in almost any room,” noting it has "plenty of space for books, decor, or storage bins.” Another described it as “beautiful,” adding that the “directions were very clear and detailed.”

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If you’re ready to reduce clutter while upgrading your space, the Homfa Triple Row 6-Tier Bookshelf is a smart pick. And with Walmart’s current deal, you can save $80 on a piece that’ll make your space feel so much neater.

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.

The Super Bowl has Prince, aka Prince Rogers Nelson, fans taking a trip down memory lane as his infamous halftime show resurfaces.

Bad Bunny, real name Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, will headline the biggest night in the NFL this weekend. There has been plenty of political controversy surrounding Bad Bunny’s performance during the Seattle Seahawks-New England Patriots game.

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However, for many music fans, all the hoopla around the Super Bowl has them remembering 19 years ago, when Prince gave a performance ranked as the best in Super Bowl halftime show history.

It was epic, and not just because Prince is iconic and knew how to put on one heck of a show. Prince took the stage in the pouring rain in Miami, which was beyond fitting as he lit up the stadium with his classic hits like “Purple Rain,” “Baby, I'm a Star,” and “Let’s Go Crazy,” to name a few.

X has been on fire with fans gushing about Prince killing it at the Super Bowl.

“19 years ago today, Prince performed at the Super Bowl and took the entire world to church,” wrote a fan. The X was shared by another fan who added, “The best halftime show ever.”

One fan declared, “19 years ago tonight Respectfully, this #SuperBowl halftime show will never be topped.” A fan reshared the X to chime in, “God was in on it. It poured during Purple Rain.”

“February 4, 2007, in the pouring rain, Prince took the stage at Dolphin Stadium in Miami, and delivered what is widely regarded as the greatest #SuperBowl Halftime show of all time,” declared a fan who also gave props to Prince’s back up dancers, sharing “Equally impressive were his backup dancers, the Twinz, Australian-born identical twins Maya and Nandy McClean, who toured with him from 2006 to 2016, didn't slip once while wearing 8-inch stilettos on a polished wet stage.”

Related: ‘Days of Our Lives’ Hunk Lands Super Bowl Ad With Hollywood Legend Kurt Russell

Nearly 10 years after Prince died and 20 years after his Super Bowl halftime show, fans can’t stop talking about his iconic music and moments.

Super Bowl LX airs Sunday, February 8, with Green Day kicking off the game and Bad Bunny performing at halftime.

Next: Fans Can’t Get Enough of This Snoop Dogg Winter Olympics Moment

Despite The Big Bang Theory ending in 2019, actress Kaley Cuoco says she's still in constant contact with one of her former co-stars.

During a February 5 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Cuoco, who played Penny on the CBSsitcom, was asked if "there is an active Big Bang Theory group chat." Cuoco replied that there wasn't, but she still texts Johnny Galecki, who played her on-screen love-interest Dr. Leonard Hofstadter throughout the show's 12-season run.

"There's one with me and Johnny. All the time," said Cuoco during the Watch What Happens Live interview.

Kaley Cuoco & Johnny Galecki Were in a Romantic Relationship

Cuoco and Galecki were in a nearly two-year relationship until 2009, per People magazine. According to the publication, the former Big Bang Theory co-stars got candid about their romance in the 2022 book, The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story, by Jessica Radloff.

Cuoco revealed that she "had a very big crush on Johnny early on" in the show's production. She said while she and Galecki "were both dating people" during the show's first season, which premiered in 2007, she "only had eyes for Johnny."

"Then, when I found out he had eyes for me too, I was like, Uh‑oh, this is going to be trouble," continued Cuoco, who is engaged to Tom Pelphrey, the father of her daughter, Matilda.

In the book, Cuoco also noted that she and Galecki weren't open about their romance while they were dating. She explained that Galecki "was very protective of what the fans would think."

"Because we wanted them to want Leonard and Penny together so badly, that if they saw us together in real life, it could ruin the fantasy," said Cuoco in The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story, as reported by People.

She also said that one of the reasons she and Galecki ended up breaking up was because they "ran out of things to talk about" due to being co-workers. In addition, she asserted that "there was no foul play" when it came to the end of their relationship.

Cuoco also shared that while their breakup was painful, she and Galecki were able to quickly establish a friendship.

In the 2022 book, Galecki said that he has a deep appreciation for Cuoco.

"I adore the friends that we are. I think I might value my relationship with her more than any other previous relationship or relationship afterwards. We just have such a bond that I appreciate so much. And I think that's part of our great friendship," said the Roseanne star, as reported by People.

Kaley Cuoco Teased She Might Reprise Penny in a Spin-Off Series

Cuoco teased that Big Bang Theory fans might see Penny again in a January 2026 Entertainment Tonight interview. When asked if Penny would be appearing in the upcoming Big Bang Theory spin-off, Stuart Fails To Save The Universe, Cuoco simply smiled and widened her eyes.

"Big eyes. I don't know what that tells you," said Cuoco with a smirk.

She also said she adores her Big Bang Theory character and attributed her role on the sitcom to her success as an actress and producer.

"I love Penny. It's one of my favorite characters. It changed my life professionally, personally. What a journey. I learned so much," said Cuoco during the Entertainment Tonight interview.

Authorities have confirmed that they have received a new message in regard to Nancy Guthrie's disappearance.

On Friday, Feb. 6, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanosshared a post on the Pima County Sheriff's official social media pages, letting the public know that they are "aware of a new message regarding Nancy Guthrie."

"Investigators are actively inspecting the information provided in the message for its authenticity," the post continues.

View this post on Instagram

Nancy, 84, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1. Authorities believe that she may have been abducted from her Arizona home in the middle of the night. Three days later, some media outlets, including TMZ, reported that they'd received an email that appeared to be a ransom note. Investigators have been working around the clock to figure out if the email is legitimate.

As far as the public knows, this is the second communication that would-be kidnappers have made. It's unclear what might have been said in this note, but NewsNation's Brian Entin reported that the note was sent to KOLD TV in Tucson. Entin also reported that the note was sent from a different IP address as the first communication, but they used the same software to hide their IP address from being traced. Moreover, Entin says, the new message "contains something the senders seem to think will prove to investigators they’re the same people who sent the first note."

Related: Is Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Alive? Unverified Ransom Note Makes Chilling Claim About Nancy Guthrie

The Guthrie family acknowledged the initial unverified ransom note in an emotional video shared on social media on February 4. In that video, Nancy's kids, Savannah Guthrie, Annie Guthrie and Camron Guthrie, mentioned the ransom note and requested proof that their mother was alive before moving forward with any ransom request.

On Thursday, Feb. 5, TMZ founder Harvey Levin spoke with Sean Hannity about some of the details in the unverified ransom note that was set to the outlet via email.

“I will say the letter begins by saying she is safe but scared, and they go on to say she knows exactly what the demand is," Levin told Hannity. “They are, through us, telling the family exactly what they are demanding, and they are saying that Nancy is aware of it.”

“They are also saying … that this will be their only communication and they are done communicating and negotiating — here’s the deal and that’s it," he added.

READ NEXT:Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mom: Derrick Callella Arrested by FBI, Admitted Sending Bitcoin Ransom Request

With the 2026 Winter Olympics starting in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, many people are doing a deep dive into the history of the games. This includes fun facts about the iconic symbols of the five Olympic rings. You recognize them the second you see them, but what exactly do they mean?

We've got everything you want to know about the interlaced Olympic rings, including their symbolism, what their colors represent and the changes they’ve undergone throughout history.

Related: We Ranked the 14 Best Olympics Movies of All Time

History of the Olympic Games

The Olympic Games have a rich history dating back to ancient Greece—776 BCE, to be exact. Picture this: Every four years, a bunch of naked men would gather in Olympia to compete in honor of Zeus. There were basic events like running and wrestling, with the big prize being a crown of olive branches. The whole shebang was as much a religious festival as a sports competition. It was smaller and simpler than today's global extravaganza, but it laid the groundwork for the Olympic tradition we know now.

The modern era of the Olympics, however, began in the late 19th century. In 1894, French educator Baron Pierre de Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and proposed the idea of reviving the Olympic Games. The first modern Olympics were held in Athens, Greece, in 1896.

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History of the Olympic Rings

The Olympic rings were designed by Baron Pierre de Coubertin and first appeared in 1913. He came up with the whole modern Olympic setup, including that famous five-ring logo, and spent his life hyping up the Games as a way to get countries to play nice and learn from each other.

According to the IOC, "In the Olympic Review of August 1913, [Baron Pierre de Coubertin] explained that 'These five rings represent the five parts of the world now won over to Olympism and ready to accept its fertile rivalries. Moreover, the six colours thus combined reproduce those of all the nations without exception.'"

The interlaced rings were officially adopted in 1914 but didn't make their debut at the Olympic Games until 1920 in Antwerp, Belgium, due to World War I causing the cancellation of the 1916 Games.

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What Do the Olympic Rings Symbolize?

The Olympic rings symbolize four things:

1. Movement

The shape of the rings symbolizes the universality of the Olympic Movement.

2. Unity

The rings are interlocked to represent the unity and meeting of athletes from around the world. In Olympic parlance, the five inhabited continents are Africa, the Americas (North and South America combined), Asia, Europe and Oceania.

3. Flags

The colors of the rings (blue, yellow, black, green, red) were chosen because at least one of these colors appeared on the flag of every nation at the time of the design. The rings are typically displayed on a white background.

4. Equality

The equal size of the rings shows how each continent is treated as equal at the Games.

Related: Why Do Athletes Bite Their Olympic Gold Medals?

What Do the Olympic Ring Colors Mean?

The five colors of the Olympic rings are blue, yellow, black, green and red on a white background. The colors were chosen for a simple reason: At least one of them appeared on the flag of every nation at the time of the rings' creation.

Related: Top 23 Moments in Team USA’s Summer Olympics History

Which Color Represents Which Continent in the Olympic Rings?

The colors of the Olympic rings are not assigned to specific continents. Rather, every nation's flag beared at least one of the five colors when the rings were created in 1913.

"The six colors thus combined reproduce those of all nations without exception," stated the rings' creator, Pierre de Coubertin.

Why Are There Only 5 Olympic Rings When There Are 7 Continents?

The five Olympic rings represent the five continents recognized in 1913, when Pierre de Coubertin created the rings. These are Africa, the Americas (North and South combined), Asia, Europe and Oceania.

"These five rings represent the five parts of the world now won over to the cause of Olympism and ready to accept its fecund rivalries," stated Coubertin.

Sorry, Antarctica!

Different Versions of the Olympic Rings

Over the years, there have been several variations of the Olympic rings. The original design had the rings interlaced in a slightly different pattern than what we see today. For many years, the IOC used a version with the rings on a white background.

In 2010, the IOC officially adopted a new version with the rings interlinked in a more precise geometric pattern. Monochrome versions of the rings are used in certain contexts, so there are actually seven official versions of the Olympic rings.

Related: 125 Olympics Trivia Questions and Answers to Test Your Knowledge of the Games' History

Lynn Blakely, an indie rock musician who played with Let’s Active, Oh-OK and Tres Chicas, has died. Her cause of death wasn’t immediately known. In 2025, she was fighting a recurrence of cancer. She was in her early 60s.

The news of her death was reported on social media by Bob Mehr, author of the acclaimed book Trouble Boys: The True Story of the Replacements, who noted her role in the Replacements’ college rock anthem “Left of the Dial.”

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“On one level ‘Left of the Dial’ celebrated the '80s American indie scene and paid tribute to the tiny-watt college stations at the far end of the FM dial, where the Replacements got most of their airplay. But it was also a love song, an evocation of Paul Westerberg’s infatuation with Blakey,” Mehr wrote. “They first met when the ‘Mats & Let’s Active shared a bill at San Fran’s I-Beam in late ‘83. He bummed cigarettes off her & they spent hours walking & talking in the rain. ‘I think Paul decided he had a crush on me,’ said Blakey. As Westerberg recalled: ‘I was in love with the idea of being in love with her. I used that to pine with.’”

The phrase in the song “sweet Georgia breezes” refers to Athens, Ga., Mehr added, where Blakey moved and joined the band Oh-OK, which also featured the sister of R.E.M. singer Michael Stipe, Lynda.

“The song is about that first year of Paul and I meeting and hitting it off and logistically it not working out,” said Blakey, Mehr shared in his post.

“I figured the only way I'd hear her voice was with her band on the radio on a college station and one night we did,” said Westerberg told Mehr. “We were passing through a town somewhere, and she was doing an interview on the radio. I heard her voice for the first time in six months for about a minute. Then the station faded out.”

The song’s lyrics, “If I don't see ya in a long, long while/I'll try to find you, left of the dial,” directly referred to that situation, Mehr noted.

In 2024, Blakey returned to the University of North Carolina, Greensboro to pursue a degree in Peace and Conflict Studies. Then 61, Blakey had attended the university three decades earlier and was pursuing a communications degree before she left school during her junior year to join Let’s Active.

Last March, Blakey’s friends in the band the dB’s posted on Instagram that Blakey’s cancer had returned and shared a link to a GoFundMe to raise money for her treatment. At the time, Blakey’s husband Ecki Heins had been diagnosed with colon cancer.