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There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, StrandsMini 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 #971 on Friday, February 6, 2026

Today's NYT Connections puzzle for Friday, February 6, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

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

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

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Friday, February 6

1. Java time.
2. Not spots.
3. They soar around.
4. They sound the same as various salutations.

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

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

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Friday, February 6:

1. ITEMS AT A COFFEE STATION: CUP, LID, STIRRER, STRAW
2. THINGS WITH STRIPES: CANDY CANE, CROSSWALK, REFEREE, TIGER
3. WORDS BEFORE "FLY" IN INSECTS NAMES: BUTTER, DRAGON, FIRE, HORSE
4. HOMOPHONES OF GREETINGS: CHOW, HAY, HIGH, YEOH

How'd you do?

Up Next:

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

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

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, February 5, 2026

It wasn't just Christian McCaffrey who was stealing the spotlight at the 2026 NFL Honors, but also his wife, Olivia Culpo, who commanded attention with her show-stopping entrance.

Ahead of the highly anticipated Super Bowl Championship, the league hosted its annual presentation that recognizes the achievements and exceptional skills of players, coaches and individual performers throughout the season.

Among the recipients was the San Francisco 49ers star with three major honors: The AP Comeback Player of the Year, FedEx Ground Player of the Year and Salute to Service Award for his efforts to honor and support the military community through his foundation, 23 and Troops.

The 49er running back was also nominated for two awards, including Offensive Player of the Year, which was won by Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and NFL MVP, but lost to Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Although the event was a celebration for the football elites, the former beauty queen brought her signature charm to the red carpet and effortlessly turned heads with her statement-making ensemble.

San Francisco 49ers' Christian McCaffrey and his wife, Olivia Culpo, during 2026 NFL Honors' red carpet.

Scott Strazzante/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

Culpo arrived with her husband, hand in hand, while strutting the red carpet in an all-white look.

Instead of going all out with traditional gowns or sultry red carpet dresses, she opted for a sheer dress layered over a silky, flowing skirt. It created the illusion of a seamless, one-piece look.

The comment section was filled with mixed reactions expressing their unfiltered take on Miss Universe 2012’s personal style.

View this post on Instagram

“Very classy and elegant,” an Instagram user said.

“Olivia is the baddest NFL wife,” one wrote.

Amid positive reactions, some were not impressed with Culpo’s red carpet choice.

“I hate the dress , it's awkward and unflattering, love the makeup and hair,” a follower said.

The same went for another who playfully asked, “Is she the Pope?”

X users were also divided by the 49ers WAG’s bold look.

“Hate the dress. lucky they cute,” a commenter said.

“Why does Olivia Culpo look that bored?” one wrote.

A fan suggested "she needs a new stylist."

Meanwhile, a commenter gave a brutal reaction, saying, “Good looking couple, but her dress looks like a shower curtain.”

The model and TV host had been dating for five years before officially tying the knot in June 2024 in a stunning seaside ceremony in Watch Hill, Rhode Island.

After a year, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter whom they named Colette Annalise.

Related: Olivia Culpo Enjoys One 'Last Date Night' Before Welcoming Baby

Beyond the Gates breakout star Lami has announced a major personal and professional change.

The actor, formerly known as David Lami Friebe, shared on Instagram that he has legally changed his name to Lami, explaining the deeply personal reason behind the decision.

In the caption, Lami wrote, “- I’m changing my name -  Goodbye David Lami Friebe. Now it’s Lami. Singular. The return to my roots.”

The actor explained that Lami was actually his birth name, chosen in honor of a relative his father admired.

“I was Lami until about five years old, when I woke up from a dream and asked my parents to call me David,” he said. “ They said “aight bet” (don’t quote me on that) and from that point David was my nickname.”

He also opened up about the stress his legal name caused while growing up, particularly after his family moved to California.  “After we moved to California, throughout school I had a tough time fitting in, and the name “Lami” always stuck out like a pimple. I’d always rush over to ask a new teacher to change the name sheet before roll call, so that they didn’t call my legal name “Lami” out loud. I thought it was embarrassing to be different.”

“So it was David for awhile. Those fears and insecurities stayed tucked in my pocket all the way up until high school.”

That is when things began to change, “Then I grew up. I gained a voice. Started putting myself out there. My senior year I released my first EP, and with that release I turned those pockets inside out. I chose myself, and embraced my authentic identity. I released under the stage name LAMI. But I was still David to those around me.”

He shared, that all changed when he met his future wife, Nia Renee, “She was the first person to ignore David and call me Lami until I started introducing myself as such. She was also the one who encouraged me to take acting classes, write scripts, shoot films.”

The actor shared, “I gained a new level of confidence and skills, but I kept the name “David Lami Friebe” for all things film-related to separate that side of myself from my music, still under “LAMI”. That split in artistic personality survived until now. This industry has a way of shaking up your world, throwing unexpected curveballs and ----ing up your plans, and I’ve learned that the best thing you can do to manage the volatility is to stay true to yourself, trust yourself, trust your work, and lean on your loved ones.”

Lami wrapped up his post with a simple message, adding, “Who I am is the same when I’m singing or acting, holding drumsticks or operating a camera. My art and expression comes from the same place. So there’s no need for two different stage names. There’s no need for six syllables. We can keep it blunt. Straight to the point. Lami.”

Since the actor posted, many of his co-stars responded with their support. Sean Freeman shared, “Yo momma named you Lami, so ima call you Lami! #RESPEK lol ✊🏾 🗣️” while Jibre Hordges added, “Yessirrrr 🔥✊🏾”

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Beyond the Gates airs weekdays on CBS with episodes airing weeknights on Paramount+. Viewers can catch up on the series from the beginning on Paramount+ as well as Pluto TV's dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.

Robert Irwin, the star of Dancing With The Stars Season 34, recently revealed exciting news for NFL fans down under: the Los Angeles Rams will face the San Francisco 49ers in the first-ever regular-season NFL game in Australia.

Irwin shared the news during his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, posting a clip on his Instagram Story with the caption: “See ya in Aus, NFL fans.” 

Known for his fearless work with wildlife, Irwin even conducted the interview with a large snake draped around his shoulders, keeping fans both entertained and intrigued.

Robert Irwin attends the 2025 AFI FEST - "Nuremberg" Premiere at TCL Chinese Theater on October 24, 2025 in Hollywood, California.

Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

“I think it’s going to be huge. The love for NFL is real in Australia. This game is gonna inspire the next generation of Aussies,” Irwin said.

Robert Irwin shares exciting news for Aussie NFL fans. pic.twitter.com/DQ1mNrVgT1

— mydzn (@MadelaineDizon) February 6, 2026

According to the NY Post, NFL Australia & New Zealand general manager Charlotte Offord confirmed the matchup, saying: “We are delighted that the San Francisco 49ers will take on the Los Angeles Rams. The 49ers are a popular franchise within the Australian market, and this rivalry game solidifies what we know is going to be an incredible NFL experience for our fans Down Under.”

BREAKING: "The Los Angeles Rams will be going up against the San Francisco 49ers in Australia" @RobertIrwin #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/7Uyc0uSyQj

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) February 5, 2026 Historic NFL Match Coming to Melbourne Cricket Ground

The game will take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), marking the first regular-season NFL game ever held in Australia. The Rams were previously announced as the host team, but Irwin’s reveal confirmed the 49ers as their opponents.

The matchup is part of the NFL’s 2026 international expansion, which includes nine games across four continents. Cities like Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Munich, Madrid, London and Mexico City are also on the 2026 schedule. 

NFL fans in Australia will see two of the NFC’s top teams go head-to-head. In 2025, both the Rams and 49ers reached the NFC playoffs, eventually being eliminated by the Seattle Seahawks on their way to Super Bowl LX. 

This announcement also coincides with rising interest in the NFL globally. The league has previously hosted games in London, Dublin, Berlin, Madrid and São Paulo, and continues to grow its international footprint.

Though the exact date and kickoff time are yet to be announced, the match is expected to be held early in the season, possibly in Week 1, giving both teams a global stage before returning to the United States for their next games.

Related: Robert Irwin Reveals the ‘DWTS’ Castmate He Bonded With Most — And the Life-Changing Advice They Gave Him (Exclusive)

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 #1693 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?

Today's Wordle answer can refer to a small mallet used by a judge or auctioneer.

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 #1693 on Friday, February 6, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Friday, February 6, 2026, is GAVEL.

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

Related: Today's Wordle Hint, Answers for #1692 on Thursday, February 5, 2026

Drew Barrymore may have been reluctant to go gray, but she's clearly having second thoughts after caving to the color.

The talk show host and her latest guest, Valerie Bertinelli, both tried out embracing the typically dreaded shade we'll all get to one day, with celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton whipping out a pair of luxurious wigs for the ladies to try on during Bertinelli's visit to the studio.

The 65-year-old went first, disappearing behind the curtain to have the hair affixed as she "went to the gray side." She strutted out with a length that fell below her shoulders, styled in defined waves. Highlighting gave definition to the look, with the pieces framing her face distinctly lighter than the others.

She looked thrilled with the results, while Barrymore, 50, seemed shocked, her mouth dropping open. The host was convinced to "get in the chair" and try it out for herself, though she still didn't look quite on board with it all. However, after Appleton secured the wig to her head, she did a double-take as she caught sight of herself for the first time, mouthing, "Oh my God!"

She and Burtinelli repeated the phrase to each other before Barrymore declared, "I love it!"

"I can't believe how good I feel," she added.

@thedrewbarrymoreshow

@Chrisappleton1 pulls off the most unexpected hair transformation for Drew and @Valerie Bertinelli! 😍 #chrisappleton #hair #drewbarrymore #valeriebertinelli

♬ original sound - thedrewbarrymoreshow The Gray Is a Go for Barrymore's Viewers

Fans were in full support of the pair's new 'dos, encouraging them, "Embrace the grey!! So beautiful 🩶🤍."

Fans agreed they "BOTH LOOK ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS!!" and encouraged each, "You should for real."

"Please do it!!!!!" another agreed, calling themselves "OBSESSED."

Some even felt the two looked much younger than their respective ages with the updated styles, with one marveling, "Somehow they look younger. 💗," and another emphasizing, "Both look younger as strange as that may seem….."

It's Becoming Trendy to Be Gray

There's been an increasing trend of celebrities embracing the color many once shied away from, from Bette Midler to Patricia Heaton, Facts of Life star Mindy Cohn, Growing Pains star Tracey Gold, and '80s singer Natalie Merchant.

Even Barrymore's followers are jumping on the trend, with one sharing, "I stopped coloring maybe a year ago and it is freeing. I get so many compliments."

"I stopped dying my hair 2 and half years ago...and [am] proud of my grey hair !" another agreed. "Cheers to grey 😊."

"Wow! I want that wig!!" someone else admitted.

What do you think, is the gray a yay or a nay?

Related: 'Friends' Actress Maggie Wheeler Looks Stunning as She Embraces Gray Hair in Rare Red Carpet Appearance With Another Sitcom 'Legend'

Michele Specht, a former TV star most well-known for her performance as the character McKennah in the show Star Trek Continues, looked amazing while attending the grand opening of The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation Kitchen & Campus at Project Angel Food on Feb. 5.

The 52-year-old was photographed at the event smiling brightly in a Project Angel Food shirt and matching blue pants, with her bright red hair bringing the outfit together. Many people from the organization and some big names came out in Los Angeles to celebrate the exciting opening.

Michele Specht at Project Angel Food's Grand Opening of The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation Kitchen & Campus held at Project Angel Food on February 05, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

JC Olivera/Variety via Getty Images

After acting in various projects, including voice work for the video game Star Trek Online, Specht joined the nonprofit as the human resources coordinator, according to the official website. On her Instagram, she lists her position as the people and operations manager.

Other celebrities at the event included Jamie Lee Curtis, Lori Loughlin, Sharon Lawrence, and Judith Light, while Chuck Lorre, the television producer who created many popular sitcoms like Two and a Half Men and The Big Bang Theory, was on hand to help open the new facility named after his foundation.

Related: Days of Our Lives Icon Charlotte Ross Turns Heads in Green Dress for First Role in 9 Years

The event on Thursday marked the opening of the first building on the campus. According to Variety, the new building officially expands Project Angel Food's footprint from around 7,700 square feet to 16,000 square feet. The expansion gives the organization the ability to produce more than 4.5 million meals each year.

As the nonprofit's personal statement explains, "Project Angel Food nourishes the health and spirit of people facing critical and life-threatening illnesses by preparing and delivering medically tailored meals with love, care and dignity."

Richard Ayoub, the CEO of Project Angel Food, commented on the landmark facility ahead of its opening ceremony, saying, "This new building represents hope, growth and the next chapter of our mission, so we can nourish our most vulnerable neighbors today, tomorrow and for decades to come."

Ayoub went on to thank "our partners, donors and community leaders," with specific callouts to The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation and the S. Mark Taper Foundation.

Specht appears to be very passionate about the organization and her work, often sharing updates about various efforts, events, and more on social media.

Related: ‘Who’s the Boss’ Legend Judith Light, 76, Is a Quirky Platinum Blonde Queen on the Red Carpet

Vince Gill is looking back on the serendipitous success he had with his smash-hit 1990 single, "When I Call Your Name."

During a recent conversation with musician and friend Charlie Worsham, the country music hitmaker looked back on the making of "When I Call Your Name," a single he released back in 1990 after co-writing it with Tim DuBois.

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After they finished writing the song that would later become a major, success, Gill said, "Nobody was sitting there going, 'This is the one! This is the one!'"

"Nobody thought that at all," he recalled, "They just said, 'Ok well let's try this waltz.'"

But the song would end up launching Gill's career to a whole new level after reaching massive, unexpected success.

Not only did "When I Call Your Name" reach No. 2 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart, but it also ended up earning Gill the 1990 Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance.

It was also named the Single of the Year at the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards that year.

View this post on Instagram

"And man it just, it was awesome to watch," Gill said, looking back on the success of the song.

"It was like a grassfire. It started, and I remember [his business manager] Chuck Flood called and he said, 'This one's on fire.'"

"You could feel it," Gill, 68, continued. "All the stations were getting behind it and people were responding to it."

During the conversation, Gill also spoke about how he and DuBois, a friend and "fellow Okie," came together to co-write the song.

"You never know," he said, "When you hook up with somebody and say, 'Hey let's write a song,'" Gill explained, comparing the experience to going on a date.

"It could go really good or it could go really bad," he said, noting that her is certainly glad with how it all turned out.

"[I'm] grateful for him that's for sure," he added of DuBois.

Related: 36 Years Ago, This Country Star Broke a Chart Record With a Song He Almost Didn’t Record

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Thanks to the upcoming spring refresh, it's the time of the season to start reevaluating your living space. And by revaluating, we mean updating to its full potential – starting with thoughtful home decor items. Wayfair offers some of our favorite pieces, spanning from a patio set to a bath mat, including a new one we have our eye on. The Latitude Run Khaleed 3 Light Tree Floor Lamp is up to 53% off right now, and you won't want to miss out on this sale. 

The lamp initially cost customers $173, but has been reduced to as low as $82 in the brown colorway with a beige shade. You can shop the home item in matte black for $95 or regular black with a white shade for $87. Each hues are fairly minimalist, so you can easily place them in any space for a more modern look. The steel metal base features a linen shade, and requires E26, medium bulbs with a maximum of 60 watts per bulb. The bulbs are even included in the purchase! 

Latitude Run Khaleed 3 Light Tree Floor Lamp, From $82 (was $173) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

The style features a base that's 80 inches tall, 11 inches wide, and 1.5 inches long. The shade is 6.89 inches tall and 10 inches wide. There are three, 360-degree lights that stem from the base in an arc, mimicking the form of a tree. The bottom of the lamp features a "very sturdy" wide base that keeps it from tipping over, while the lights offer a warm yellow glow. 

Shoppers love that you can adjust the brightness level from cool to warm with a remote control, adding that the feature is a "lifesaver" that prevents their living space from being overpowered. Other reviewers described the piece as "sophisticated," "beautiful," "fantastic," and the "perfect" height for any home. 

Related: Wayfair Is Selling a 'Very Soft' Bath Mat for Only $15, and Shoppers Say It 'Absorbs Water Fast'

There is some assembly required with this purchase, but shoppers assured that it's "easy" to put together. According to the product description, assembly should only take an estimated 20 minutes in partnership with the user manual provided. 

Shop More Deals

• Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse Coffee Table, From $90 (was $160) at Wayfair
• Wrought Studio Cream White Ceramic Table Lamp, From $56 (was $120) at Wayfair
• Wade Logan Fazio End Table, From $40 (was $148) at Wayfair

Don't wait until the warmer weather comes to feel good about your home — shop this stunning Wayfair lamp for up to 53% off, before the sale disappears! 

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.

Black Keys fans were devastated when the rock duo canceled a major North American tour before parting ways with their management team in 2024, including power player Irving Azoff. Thankfully, the beloved band has rebounded in the interim, releasing the album No Rain, No Flowers, and hitting the road again. Now, Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney are back with another new record...this time, of covers.

As Brooklyn Vegan reported, the new album, titled Peaches!, is due out on May 1. The pair started working on the record after Auerbach's father was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, though they weren't sure what would become of the material at first.

“We weren’t making a record. We were just jamming, like this is for us,” Auerbach said in a statement shared with the outlet. “Really primal, in a moment when all the nerves were raw, just kinda screaming. We were going through a lot, trying to lift our spirits. I think my dad getting sick made me not give a f—k and just wanna scream for a bit.”

View this post on Instagram

“Everything was all cut live in one with no separation, including vocals,” Carney added. “It was a nightmare to mix but we got it sounding raw and filthy.”

Fans on Instagram made it clear they were looking forward to the upcoming collection of covers.

"You guys are pumping out the jams at a fast pace and I love it," one person wrote, with a second adding, "Amazing!!! Can’t wait and keep 'em coming!"

"I hope the whole album sounds like the single. Feels like the old sound is back!" declared someone else.

Black Keys opened up about what led to the split with their former management

In a 2025 interview with Rolling Stone, Carney shut down the idea of the band's split with Azoff and their PR team being an "amicable parting."

"I mean, we fired their ass. S—t happens," he said.

"We spent a lot of time making Ohio Players and turned it in in October 2023 and had all this time to plan how we were going to tour," he continued. "Things got off to this weird start where I was waiting for these European dates to pop up because our plan was to go to Europe first. We ended up getting nine shows sent to us [on] a three-week tour. There’s absolutely no way to make money [from] that."

"We kept having to move s—t around for a Manchester show because there was a venue that our management company co-owned and wanted us to play, and it wasn’t ready," Carney added. "After going to Europe 30 times in our career for tours, this was the most poorly orchestrated tour we had been on. The shows were incredible, but [it] just became the first sign that maybe there was some poor organization happening."

The first single on Peaches! is a cover of George Thorogood & The Destroyers’ “You Got To Lose,” which fans can check out now. The Black Keys are also scheduled to play a number of shows and festivals through the summer.

Related: '90s Rocker Announces New Album Featuring Never-Before-Heard Covers for Valentine's Day

Mark Ruffalo did not hold back on sharing his thoughts on Kevin O'Leary's criticism of Billie Eilish's anti-ICE Grammys speech.

Following the Grammys ceremony, O'Leary appeared on Fox News' America Reports on Tuesday, Feb. 3, and advised Eilish that, "Half the people in politics that you piss off won’t buy your music anymore. Don’t be stupid about it, but hey, they don’t listen."

He added, "It’s the first lesson 101 for celebrity: As you rise up, whether you’re a film star, a music star [or] whatever, shut your mouth and just entertain."

Ruffalo responded to O'Leary's comments and defended Eilish in a Threads post on Thursday, Feb. 5.

"Kevin O’Leary why don’t you STFU. It’s hilarious. You will go on any show and talk shit about any number of things and smugly expect us to listen to you, but you will dig into a real artist that dwarfs anything you dream of doing for actually saying something that resonates with 100’s of millions of people the world over," the Oscar-nominated actor wrote.

Ruffalo continued in the post, "It’s astounding the fantasy double standard Kevin O’Leary lives in. You played yourself well in Marty Supreme."

At the 2026 Grammys, Eilish won the Song of the Year Award for "Wildflower" and used her acceptance speech as an opportunity to speak out against ICE. The singer also wore an "ICE OUT" pin to the ceremony.

“I feel so honored every time I get to be in this room. And, as grateful as I feel, I honestly don’t feel like I need to say anything, but that no one is illegal on stolen land," Eilish said in her acceptance speech. "It’s just really hard to know what to say and what to do right now, and I feel really hopeful in this room. Keep fighting and speaking up and protesting."

The singer then ended her speech by yelling out, "F*** ICE" which was bleeped out of the CBS broadcast.

Eilish's brother, Finneas O'Connell, also took to social media to defend her comments.

"Seeing a lot of very powerful old white men outraged about what my 24 year old sister said during her acceptance speech," he wrote in a Threads post. "We can literally see your names in the Epstein files."

Along with Eilish, artists such as Olivia Dean, Shaboozey, andBad Bunnyalso shared similar anti-ICE sentiments at the Grammys.

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Food Network in the early aughts was untouchable. It was the go-to destination for all things home cooking, inspiring generations of chefs (yours truly included) to think about food in new and inventive ways. It made preparing a meal feel effortless and fun, while also giving us a healthy dose of inspo. From Rachael Ray’s iconic garbage bowl and time-saving 30-Minute Meals to the approachable rusticity of Barefoot Contessa, Food Network had it all. For years, it dominated the market in culinary programming, but with the launch of shows like Bravo’s Emmy-winning mainstayTop Chef and Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen, the network pivoted to bringing the drama. 

Although Food Network has always hosted competition shows like Iron Chef America and Food Network Challenge, most of them were focused less on the nail-biting tension we’ve come to expect from a show like24 in 24, and more on the reality and documentary aspect of showcasing the talent. Today, however, most of the shows that air on the network feature some sort of seemingly impossible competitive element, with several sharing the same revolving talent across programs.

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But, to truly understand everything Food Network has become, there’s no better example than the short-lived and gloriously quirky Cutthroat Kitchen. The wacky competition show was set up like several others, with four chefs competing to be the last one standing. To outlast the other contestants, chefs were given $25,000 at the beginning of each episode, which they could use to bid on sabotages to give to their competitors. The trick was to save as much cash as you could, because the winner could only take home whatever was left in their bank. Notably, only two chefs made it to the end with all $25,000.

Related: Here's How Much You Paid for Groceries in 2016

While most of the sabatoges were more or less tame, like taking away someone’s utensils or forcing them only to use a microwave, some of the challenges were decidedly brutal. One episode saw a chef have to chisel their ingredients out of a block of ice before cooking, while another required a chef to cook everything while swinging in a hammock. Although the eccentric and unpredictable nature of the show made for wildly entertaining TV, it almost became a pantomime of itself. 

Alton Brown Gives an Ultimatum

Not only was it a major departure from the more prescriptive and informative cooking shows on which Food Network made its name, but it was also a giant left turn for host Alton Brown, who was known for educating audiences about the science behind the Maillard reaction or the origins of specific cuts of meat on his show Good Eats. This schism culminated in Alton Brown famously walking away from the show after 15 seasons in 2018 by tweeting, “Cutthroat Kitchen got cancelled. Sorry. #ProbablyMyFault.”

Today, Alton Brown has left Food Network entirely after briefly relaunching Good Eats as Good Eats: Reloaded in 2018. According to Brown, in a YouTube livestream, the show was pulled after two seasons because he refused to cut the budget and wouldn’t give up creative control. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like Alton Brown will return to Food Network anytime soon, but you can keep up with him by following his new YouTube series, Alton Brown Cooks Food. 

'Cutthroat Kitchen: Knives Out' Picks Up Where the Original Left Off View this post on Instagram

As for Cutthroat Kitchen, the show was recently relaunched as Cutthroat Kitchen: Knives Out with host Brian Malarkey on May 13, 2025. The new iteration of the show largely follows the same format as its predecessor, but focuses more on practical, real-life themed sabotages with only two rounds instead of three. Although there hasn’t been any word on a second season of the spin-off yet, Brian has become a staple on Food Network, making appearances on several major shows in the network’s catalog, leading us to believe we haven’t seen the last of Cutthroat Kitchen yet.

Related: What Happened to Fruitopia? (And the Secret Places You Can Still Find It)

Tony Hawk is shutting down claims that one of his weddings was held on Jeffrey Epstein's private island.

The professional skateboarder posted on his Instagram story on Thursday, Feb. 5, to address speculation that arose after his name was mentioned in the recently released Epstein files.

“Here are the facts and timelines of my nuptials, and I apologize if they don't fit a narrative of nonsense,” Hawk wrote on Instagram. "1990: Married in Fallbrook, CA (At home). 1996: Married in San Diego, CA (At Hilton Hotel). 2006: Married in Fiji (On Tavarua Surf Island). 2015: Married in Ireland (At Adare Manor)."

He continued, "One of the guests in 2006 shot photos of the Fiji ceremony and licensed them to Getty Images. His name is [coincidentally] Mark Epstein."

Mark Epstein is the name of Jeffrey Epstein's younger brother, however, Hawk asserts that the photographer, who took photos of the 2006 ceremony, holds no relation to Jeffrey Epstein.

"An accomplished action sports photographer from Wyoming and of no relation to Jeffrey Epstein (who I never met and whose island I never visited)," he said.

Hawk ended the Instagram post saying, "This is all easily verifiable information. Facts are not fungible. Sorry you got pulled into the misinformation vortex @MarkEps @MarkEpsteinPhoto."

Hawk's name was mentioned in the Epstein files released by the United States Department of Justice. In an email from Oct. 22, 2024, a special agent working as a Threat Intake Examiner wrote that, “They would have sex with the young women and she was taken from Ireland and brought to Jeffrey Epstein's Island when she was 13 years old. [Redacted] said that she was there when Prince Edward was there and when Tony Hawk got married on the island."

Representatives for Hawk were contacted byPeople, but they have yet to comment on the contents of the email.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor.

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Condolences are pouring in for former NFL tight end Greg Olsen, 40. The athlete-turned-television analyst shared a heartbreaking update on Thursday following his brother Chris Olsen’s battle with glioblastoma.

In a post shared to social media, the beloved athlete, who played 14 seasons in the NFL before becoming a lead NFL analyst for Fox Sports, wrote:

“It is with great sadness that I share this update. Despite fighting with every ounce of his being, my older brother Chris has lost his battle with Glioblastoma. This terrible disease took many things, but it could never take Chris’s spirit for life.”

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He continued: “Our family is devastated. Everyone could take a lesson on how to live life from Chris.”

Chris Olsen was 42 years old.

Related: Matthew Stafford Steals the Show With the Cutest Dates at the 2026 NFL Honors

Condolences Pour In for Greg Olsen and His Family

Friends, fans, and sports stars were quick to offer support and condolences for the former NFL star. San Francisco 49ers running back and 2026 NFL Comeback Player of the Year award winner Christian McCaffrey commented, “Praying for you brother 🙏🏼❤️.”

Fellow Fox Sports NFL commentator Erin Andrews shared, “Love the Olsen family and Chris so much. Here for you always.”

Former Los Angeles Rams left tackle and member of Amazon’s Thursday Night Football crew Andrew Whitworth wrote, “Sorry for you and your family’s loss! 🙏🏼”

“Love you Greg,” offered San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle.

A friend of the family added, “Prayers for the Olsens—love you all so much. Chris was always smiling, pure joy. He certainly will be remembered that way.”

Greg Olsen’s family has been deeply impacted by heart disease and cancer. The three-time Pro Bowler’s older brother Kevin Olsen passed away in 2018 at the age of 29 due to complications related to a heart condition. His brother Chris was born with congenital heart disease and underwent a heart transplant as a child.

The impact on his family inspired Greg and his loved ones to launch the HEARTest Yard Foundation, which supports families of children with congenital heart disease and raises awareness about heart health.

Despite Chris Olsen’s childhood battle with heart disease, he died from glioblastoma, a highly aggressive and rapidly growing brain tumor.

Related: NFL WAGs Stun on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Covers Ahead of Super Bowl LX

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Days of Our Lives star Sal Stowers is opening up about what Black History Month means to her, sharing a personal reflection that honors her family, ancestors and the cultural trailblazers that stood out to her.

The actress shared her message in a video posted to the official Days of Our Lives Instagram account, where she reflected on the legacy of those who paved the way for her.

First reflecting on those closest to her, “Black history month means to me, my family, my ancestors, my grandparents,” she said.

The actress then began listing the important historical figures that made an impact, sharing, “It means Dr. Martin Luther King, Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, Rosa Parks.”

She then ended her message adding, “All of the beautiful, wonderful souls that have paved the way for me to be sitting right here on this couch, I like to tell myself that I am living, my grandparents, my ancestors wildest dreams. So, thank you to all of those greats who have shed light and allowed me to walk down this path. Happy Black History Month.”

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Although Stowers is not currently appearing on-screen, Parade previously reported that the actress has been spotted back on set. A representative for the show confirmed to Parade that Stowers’ character returns periodically.

This was reconfirmed as Stowers was also recently seen in a behind-the-scenes video filmed during an interview with co-star Jackée Harry. In the scene, she appeared alongside Lamon Archey (Eli Grant), Tyler Joseph Andrews (Theo Carver), and James Reynolds (Abe Carver). Based on the show’s production schedule, the episodes are expected to air in late 2026 or early 2027.

Stowers was last seen as Lani in Christmas 2025, when she and her on-screen husband Eli came back to town to gather with family and friends and celebrate the holiday. In November, Eli and Lani announced their plans to expand their family and have another child. Viewers will have to stay tuned to see if that is part of the characters upcoming appearances.

Days of Our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.

More than 50 years after the songs were first written, British rock band Squeeze is finally releasing one of the earliest and most ambitious projects in their history.

Trixies, a long-lost album written in 1974 by teenage songwriting partners Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, is set for release on March 6, 2026. The record, which predates the band’s chart success by several years, had been sitting unheard on cassette for decades before the timing finally felt right to bring it back to life.

“It’s always been in the background, to be honest,” Difford explained in a new interview with Noise11. “And, you know, every now and again we talk about it, have conversations, but it never seemed like the right time. And then, last year, seemed like a really good time because we didn't really have enough music for a new album. So we thought that Trixies would be a good stepping stone.”

RELATED: Classic ’80s Rock Band Drops Never-Before-Seen Live Video — and Asks Fans Where to Play Next

Written when Difford and Tilbrook were still learning how to play their instruments, the songs were far more ambitious than what the young band could realistically record at the time. Looking back, Difford doesn’t see Trixies as a missed debut, but as a project that simply needed time to catch up with its creators.

“No, I don't think so,” he said when asked if it could have served as their first album. “I think what it was is a bunch of songs that we couldn't play when we were teenagers, but we were ambitious enough to write them. And it's taken all this time to realize that actually they're amazing songs and they're now coming out at the right time.”

Although the songs were written individually, they form a cohesive narrative centered on a fictional Soho nightclub filled with underground characters. Difford has cited the influence of classic concept albums and narrative storytellers, drawing inspiration from the era’s fascination with ambitious, story-driven records.

RELATED: Don McLean Explains ‘American Pie’ as America ‘Coming Apart at the Seams’

“When these songs were written, they were written sort of individually, but together at the same time,” he said. “And, you know, they tell a story of this nightclub that doesn't exist, but it's a fictitious place, but it's a place where… Um, villains and all sorts of underground people would have gone to in the 60s.”

Producer Owen Biddle, who also plays bass for Squeeze, was tasked with sequencing the album, a process that surprised even Difford himself. “They've been sequenced by our producer, Owen Biddle,” he said. “It was a very big surprise to me when I saw the running order that he put together. It does make sense, and it makes for a genius play, really. I'm very pleased with it.”

Importantly, the band resisted the urge to heavily modernize the material. Instead, the goal was to preserve the spirit of the original recordings while letting the current lineup’s chemistry elevate them naturally.

RELATED: ’70s Rockers Win First Grammy 50 Years After Forming

“I think it is, yeah,” Difford said when asked how closely the new recordings resemble the original cassette demos. “I mean, the demos we are putting out, so you'll be able to hear them, the original cassette copies coming out. So, yeah, I mean, it's pretty much like it was. It just sounds a lot smarter.”

Several Trixies tracks have already been quietly introduced during recent tours, often to audiences who had no idea they were hearing songs written more than five decades ago. “Yeah, it was a good reaction, I think,” Difford said. “Fingers crossed that we still keep getting a good reaction for it.”

The experience of revisiting the lost album proved unexpectedly emotional and creatively energizing, leading Difford and Tilbrook to write and record additional new Squeeze material during the same sessions. “I think, in a way, Trixie's has set quite a high bar, so we've really got to get over it,” Difford said, noting that work is already underway on another album.

The release of Trixies arrives a few months after the death of longtime Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis, adding a poignant layer to the album’s emergence. For fans, the record offers a rare window into the band before the hits, before the charts, and before the long career that followed.

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Nick Jonasand his pal Glen Powell may be close friends—but it turns out that they're much closer than anyone even thought!

The Jonas Brothers singer, 33, recently admitted that he and Powell accidentally took their friendship to the next level by sharing the same exact pair of pants. In an Instagram video shared on Thursday (Feb. 5), Jonas explained how it all happened.

"I'm here at Jimmy Fallon to perform 'Gut Punch' but before the performance, I was changing into my outfit," he shared while setting the story up. "A lot of times a brand will lend you something to wear for a big TV performance or something like that."

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He continued, "So in the past, there's been times I've reached into the pocket and found various things from the last person that the brand lent that thing to. So I put these pants on that I'm wearing right here and I reached into the pocket and I'm like, 'Oh there's something in there.'"

Jonas went on to say that he pulled out the mystery item and discovered a plane ticket that must have belonged to the previous owner.

"And I'm like, 'Who could this plane ticket belong to?' I open it up and, of course, it belongs to Glen Powell. Of all people, Glen Powell. My friend, Glen Powell. His plane ticket. He wore these before me. It's the brotherhood of the traveling pants," Jonas laughed.

Powell immediately joined in on the discussion in the comments, raising a question about the pant's cleanliness.

"They didn’t wash these for you?!? I feel like the Brotherhood of the Traveling Pants should incorporate some sort of hygiene pact," Powell joked.

In response, Jonas replied that the pants were "giving dry cleaned," reassuring Powell and other curious fans that the pants had been washed.

While Jonas didn't share the designer of the brotherhood of the traveling pants, it did come with a matching denim jacket.

Only time will tell who wears the pants next! You can hear all that Jonas had to say below.

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Kevin Bacon stunned fans as they saw evidence of exactly how long he and wife Kyra Sedgwick have been together. The actor shared a photo from the couple's early days of romance on social media, and some couldn't believe how young they were.

Bacon posted the throwback snap on his Instagram account on Feb. 5, captioning it, "A vintage selfie. #tbt @kyrasedgwickofficial."

In the photo, a shirtless Bacon stood in a bathroom with one arm wrapped around Sedgwick as he took a photo in the mirror with an old camera. Sedgwick had the start of a smile on her face as she leaned into Bacon, wearing a tank top with her curly hair framing her face.

While the fact that the photo was taken with an actual camera was a testament to how long ago it was, the details of the vintage bathroom also hinted at the time period of the photo. Along with that, both Bacon and Sedgwick's fresh faces reflected their young age at the time.

Bacon didn't share exactly when the snap was taken, but the couple started dating all the way back in 1987, getting married the next year. They met on the set of their film, Lemon Sky, and have been together ever since.

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Related: Kevin Bacon’s "Majestic Mullet" Has Fans Doing a Double Take—"What Is Going On"

Fans shared their amazement at the rare photo, with one commenting, "I Love it! Selfie's before Selfie were popular. I have some of those as well. Cute couple there."

"Oh my goodness… I LOVE IT," said another, as more chimed in, saying, "Sooo freakn cute," and "If those walls could talk! Love this photo!"

A stunned fan of the couple added, "Wow. I didn't realize you guys were together this long. Congratulations on a great relationship."

At the time of Sedgwick and Bacon's wedding, the former was 23 years old, while the Footloose star was 30. They didn't wait long to start having kids, with the couple welcoming their sonTravis in 1989. In 1992, their daughter Sosie was born. As of 2026, Sedgwick and Bacon have been married for over 37 years.

The two actors continued to work together in various projects over the years, including Pyrates, Murder in the First, and Loverboy, the last of which Bacon directed.

Related: Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick Welcome 'Two Babies' to the Family

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If you’ve been looking for a comfortable, trail-ready sneaker that’s versatile enough for everyday wear, Amazon is running a great deal on Columbia’s Novo Trail Performance Shoes. They’re currently marked down to $45 (originally $75) and are available in five colors, with the monument and dark fuchsia pair priced lowest. They’re available in sizes 5 through 12, including wide options.

These shoes are built to handle walking paths, gravel trails, and uneven ground, even in light wet conditions. Columbia’s Omni-Shield finish is designed to repel light rain and stains, while the Omni-Max cushioning system will absorb impact and support the heel. The durable rubber outsole should provide reliable traction across dirt, rocks, and slippery surfaces.

Columbia Novo Trail Performance Shoes, From $45 (was $75) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

They’re designed with a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet comfortable throughout the day, and they prioritize flexibility and cushioning over the stiffness you might get with traditional heavy-duty hiking footwear. Their lightweight construction makes them easier to wear for extended periods, whether you’re sightseeing, traveling, or heading out for a casual trail walk.

One person said they’re “supportive, steady, [and have] good traction on rocks and slippery surfaces. ” Another said they're “lightweight, breathable, and … [they] can make any rough terrain feel almost like a flat surface.” A third described them as “super comfortable for trails,” adding, “It's like walking on pillows!”

Related: Columbia’s 'Toasty Warm' Snow Boots Are on Sale for $60 at Amazon, and They Feel 'Like Parkas for Your Feet'

Because they’re performance shoes rather than technical hiking boots, they’re easy to style beyond the trail. They work with leggings, joggers, or casual outdoor pants and don’t feel out of place on travel days, long walks, or errands that keep you on your feet longer than planned.

Shop More Deals

• Columbia Crestwood Hiking Boots, From $46 (was $80) at Amazon
• Nortiv 8 Hiking Boots, From $38 (was $57) at Amazon
• Knitmax Hiking Shoes, From $27 (was $55) at Amazon

At 40% off, the Columbia Novo Trail Performance Shoes are a practical buy for anyone seeking comfort, traction, and versatility in one pair. They’re priced well below comparable performance sneakers, making now the perfect time to snag them while the sale is still live on Amazon.

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

If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Friday, February 6, 2026, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Friday, February 6, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: BT(W) —HINT: Starts with the letter "W"

4 Across: TL(C) —HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

5 Across: NP(R) —HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

6 Across: L(A)N —HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

7 Across: T(G)IF —HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Walked through water — HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

2 Down: Opera solo — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

3 Down: Lead-in to "man," for a naval title — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

4 Down: Pulitzer-winning writer Robert, famous for his four-book series on Lyndon Johnson —HINT: Starts with the letter "C"

5 Down: Cleaning cloth—HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Friday, February 6, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: BT(W) — WAY

4 Across: TL(C) — CARE

5 Across: NP(R) — RADIO

6 Across: L(A)N — AREA

7 Across: T(G)IF — GOD

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Walked through water — WADED

2 Down: Opera solo — ARIA

3 Down: Lead-in to "man," for a naval title — YEO

4 Down: Pulitzer-winning writer Robert, famous for his four-book series on Lyndon Johnson — CARO

5 Down: Cleaning cloth— RAG

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, February 5, 2026