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Winter Olympics champion Eileen Gu has shared heartbreaking news just hours after winning gold at the 2026 Winter Games. 

The 22-year-old freestyle skier revealed that her grandmother passed away, posting a touching tribute on Instagram that quickly moved fans around the world.

“Because I promised her I would be brave like her 🤍🕊️,” Gu wrote alongside a carousel of photos of her grandmother, Feng Guozhen, also known as “Nai Nai.”

The photos showed tender moments between them, including a hospital visit and a powerful image of Gu and her grandmother wearing Gu’s Olympic medals together.

"The reason I was late is that I just found out that my grandma passed away. She was a really big part of my life growing up and someone I looked up to immensely."

-💔🇨🇳China's Gu Ailing after clinching her 2nd straight freeski halfpipe gold🥇at the #Olympics#MilanoCortina2026 pic.twitter.com/6iK0MMT5tK

— CGTN Sports Scene (@CGTNSportsScene) February 22, 2026

Gu’s post came after she defended her women’s halfpipe gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, becoming the most decorated freeskier in Olympic history, male or female.

View this post on Instagram

At a press conference on Sunday, Gu arrived late and apologized before sharing the reason.

“The reason I was late is that I just found out that my grandma passed away,” she said, fighting back tears. “She was a really big part of my life growing up and someone I looked up to immensely. She was a fighter.”

Gu had just taken gold in her final event at Livigno Snow Park. Her teammate Li Fanghui earned silver, while Great Britain’s Zoe Atkin took bronze. The victory marked Gu’s third Olympic gold medal and her sixth Olympic medal overall, setting a historic record in freestyle skiing.

But behind the celebration was deep sadness.

Gu explained that her grandmother had been very sick before she left for the Games. “I didn’t promise her that I was going to win,” she said. “But I did promise her that I was going to be brave like she has been brave.”

That promise became her focus throughout the competition.

“That’s why I keep referring to this theme of betting on myself and being brave and taking risks,” she added. “It actually goes back to that promise that I made my grandma.”

Even in her grief, Gu spoke with pride about honoring that promise. “I’m really happy that I was able to uphold that and hopefully do her proud. But it’s also a really difficult time for me now.”

Gu has often credited her mother and grandmother as the two strongest influences in her life. Raised in San Francisco in a bilingual household, she grew up surrounded by a powerful matriarchy.

Her grandmother, Feng Guozhen, was a former senior engineer in China who moved to the United States to help raise her. She played a key role in teaching Gu Mandarin and keeping her connected to her Chinese heritage. 

Her emotional tribute also drew support from fellow Olympian Lindsey Vonn, who commented on Gu’s post, “Grandmas are so special. I’m so sorry.”

Gu’s Olympic journey has included record-breaking achievements, public scrutiny and global attention. Born in the United States and competing for China since 2019, she has often spoken about embracing both sides of her identity. Through it all, she has leaned on the strength of the women who raised her.

Now, as she celebrates historic success on the snow, she is also mourning a woman who helped shape her path.

Related: Steve Jobs' Daughter Has One Word for Eileen Gu Amid Winter Olympics

Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Monday, February 23, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Monday, February 23, 2026 / The New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on February 23, 2026

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

• Yellow: "You stink!"
• Green: 1996 movie.
• Blue: Sunshine state.
• Purple: Football teams, with a twist.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: HECKLE
• Green: CHARACTERS IN "SPACE JAM"
• Blue: FLORIDA COLLEGE TEAMS
• Purple: NFL TEAMS, WITH THE FIRST LETTER CHANGED

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #518 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• HECKLE: BOO, HISS, HOOT, JEER
• CHARACTERS IN "SPACE JAM": BUGS, JORDAN, LOLA, TWEETY
• FLORIDA COLLEGE TEAMS: BULLS, GATORS, OWLS, SEMINOLES
• NFL TEAMS, WITH THE FIRST LETTER CHANGED: BOLTS, CROWNS, HACKERS, PAINTS

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Sunday, February 22, 2026

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #722 on Monday, February 23.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Strike a chord."

A hint for today's Strands game: Rockers sometimes smash them.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are eight theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• BO
• NE
• PE
• ST
• HE
• FR
• BR
• GU (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for February 23

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, February 23, 2026, is GUITAR.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Monday, February 23?

• BODY
• NECK
• PEGS
• STRING
• HEADSTOCK
• FRETBOARD
• BRIDGE
• SPANGRAM: GUITAR

Related: Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, February 22, 2026

There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #988 on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections puzzle for Monday, February 23, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

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

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

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Monday, February 23

1. Chow down.
2. Dunce cap-shaped.
3. Fake it, maybe.
4. Smooch site.

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

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

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Monday, February 23:

1. EAT VORACIOUSLY: BOLT, GORGE, INHALE, SCARF
2.CONICAL THINGS: CHRISTMAS TREE, CONE, PARTY HAT, VOLCANO
3. POSE: BLUFF, FRONT, MASQUERADE, POSTURE
4. SETTINGS FOR A KISS: BLARNEY STONE, MISTLETOE, NEW YEAR'S EVE, WEDDING

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, Sunday, February 22, 2026

Former General Hospital star Antonio Sabato Jr. took to Instagram this week to tease an upcoming project he described as “big.”

Sabato Jr. shared a photo of himself on Instagram along with the caption, “Something big is coming. And I’ve never been more excited to share it. 02.25.26.”

View this post on Instagram

Sabato Jr. is best known to soap fans for portraying Jagger Cates on General Hospital from 1992 to 1995.

His character was a popular presence on the soap opera in the early 90s, and helped drive story for the young adults of Port Charles.

He later reprised the role in 2008 on the SoapNet spinoff General Hospital: Night Shift, for the series second season.

The actor also appeared on series including The Bold and the Beautiful to Ugly Betty, Scrubs, and Dancing with the Stars

Sabato Jr’s most recent credit was in the 2022 film Trail Blazers, in which he played John.

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In 2018, Sabato Jr. ran for California’s 26th congressional district seat against incumbent Julia Brownley. Ultimately, he lost the election by 24%.

While few details have been revealed about the project, fans shared heir excitement in the comments, with one user writing, “Let's gooooo 🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌”

A second user added, "Something with suspense, it's killing me 😉," with a third fan sharing, "Can’t wait. Thank You for being real God Bless You. 🙏🏻❤️"

Sabato Jr. first began teasing his upcoming 'big' project on February 16, writing on Instagram, “8 days until I tell you what I’ve been working on. 30+ years in this industry... and I’ve never been part of anything like this. 02.25.26. You’re going to want to hear this.”

View this post on Instagram

He followed this up sharing, “I’ve seen how Hollywood really works. The closed doors. The games. The gatekeeping. On February 25th, I’m announcing something that changes the rules.”

View this post on Instagram

Then went on to tease, “Hollywood won’t see this coming.
But you will.
February 25th.”

View this post on Instagram

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and streams weeknights on Hulu.

Bad Bunny may have pulled the rug right out of the rest of the Super Bowl when he performed, but Green Day certainly show-stopped as the event's opener.

In addition to big names like Charlie Puth, Kenny G, Brandi Carlile and Coco Jones, the beloved punk-rock band performed at the big game by ushering in the highly anticipated day with some of its biggest hits — all from the iconic album American Idiot.

Following the buzzy mini-concert, Green Day's famous song of the same name has re-skyrocketed in popularity, now appearing on a certain Billboard chart for the first time, Forbes reports.

View this post on Instagram

"American Idiot" has surfaced on the Hot Alternative Songs chart for the first time, launching at No. 12 on Billboard's list of the most consumed tracks classified under the alternative label throughout the U.S., Forbes also noted on Saturday, Feb. 21. The catchy protest song returns Green Day to its career peak on the Hot Alternative Songs chart as it debuts.

Previously, the rock group has reached 12th place with "The American Dream Is Killing Me," which opened in that spot in November 2023. Their track "Dilemma" also appeared on the chart, in mid-2024.

And thanks to Green Day's Super Bowl intro, purchases of "American Idiot" grew by 295% from one week to the next, Forbes added.

The NFL showed strong support for Green Day after the band opened Super Bowl LX with a high-energy performance of songs from their famous album American Idiot. After the show, the league shared videos of the performance on social media, showing moments from the band’s live set.

Green Day is known for mixing music with political messages. Their 2004 album American Idiot was inspired by events after 9/11 and the Iraq War. Over the years, the band has spoken out about politics during shows and award performances. However, during the Super Bowl performance, the band avoided making new political statements.

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 #1710 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 vowel.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

A hint for today's Wordle is: Upstairs, but not quite a bedroom

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 #1710 on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Monday, February 23, 2026, is ATTIC.

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

Related: Today's Wordle Hint, Answers for #1709 on Sunday, February 22, 2026

Krispy Kreme is bringing back its menu collaboration with Oreo, and this year, it's bigger (and hopefully better) than ever before.

Hot off the success of its limited-edition Valentine's Day menu, the popular doughnut and coffee shop is ready to welcome back a longtime favorite with some sweet new Oreo-inspired additions that are straight out of fans' dreams.

“Fans made it clear they wanted more Krispy Kreme x Oreo – and we listened,” Alison Holder, Krispy Kreme chief brand and product officer, said in an official press release announcing the collaboration's return and the debut of two all-new flavors inspired by the beloved sandwich cookie.

Krispy Kreme's Oreo Menu Returns With 2 New Doughnut Flavors

According to Monday's announcement, Krispy Kreme's original Oreo Cookies & Kreme Doughnut will return to the doughnut case alongside two "dreamy" newcomers: the New Golden Oreo Doughnut and the Chocolate Oreo Dream Doughnut.

Related: Oreo’s New Cookie Comes With a Twist Fans Didn’t See Coming

“From golden cookie crumble to rich chocolate flavor and that iconic OREO black-and-white finish, these doughnuts are bold, craveable and unmistakably fun," the exec added.

• NEW Golden Oreo Doughnut – an Original Glazed doughnut topped with Golden Oreo Cookie-inspired flavored buttercreme, sprinkled with Golden Oreo cookie crumbles and rainbow sprinkles, and topped with a Mini Golden Oreo cookie.
• NEW Chocolate Oreo Dream Doughnut – an Original Glazed doughnut dipped in chocolate icing and Oreo cookie pieces, topped with chocolate flavored Kreme and an Oreo wafer cookie.
• Oreo Cookies & Kreme Doughnut – this everyday menu favorite is an unglazed doughnut filled with Cookies & Kreme filling, dipped in chocolate icing and topped with Oreo cookie pieces then drizzled with white icing.

Krispy Kreme x Oreo doughnut collection.

Krispy Kreme

According to the brand, all three Oreo-inspired doughnuts will be available in shops and drive-thrus nationwide, as well as for pickup or delivery via Krispy Kreme’s app and website for a limited time beginning today (Feb. 23). Fans can order them as individual treats, in a special three-pack or a Dozens Box that features three of each of the Oreo doughnuts, plus three Original Glazed doughnuts (prices may vary).

And if you haven't been to Krispy Kreme since it last offered its Oreo collab, just know the menu looks very different now—but in a good way. Recently, Krispy Kreme revamped its entire way of serving hot, fresh doughnuts, expanding its everyday menu to include even more options. Presently, Krispy Kreme customers can choose from 16 different doughnuts (including its rotating list of special limited-time collabs) every day.

To find a location near you, try the Krispy Kreme online locator.

Next: Dairy Queen’s New Spring Shake Sounds Like a Grand Slam

Actress and artist Jemima Kirke is willing to have a Girls reunion.

In a February 2026 interview with Dazed, Kirke was asked when fans would be "getting a Girls reunion." Throughout the HBO show's six-season run, which ended in 2017, Kirke played Jessa Johansson, a close friend of Hannah Horvath, portrayed by the show's creator, Lena Dunham.

While speaking to Dazed, Kirke shook her head and rolled her eyes slightly before responding, "I don't know." She clarified that she's not against a Girls reunion and encouraged fans of the series to make some waves.

"I don't know. I think if you guys rally and ask maybe we can get something going. I'm down," stated Kirke in the Dazed interview.

Jemima Kirke Got Candid About Her Time on 'Girls' in a 2023 Interview

Kirke got candid about her time playing Jessa in Girls during a 2023 interview on Call Her Daddy. She explained that Dunham, her friend from high school, requested her to co-star as the character, Charlotte, in her 2010 film, Tiny Furniture. After the film's release, Girls was greenlit for a pilot by HBO, and Dunham asked Kirke, who was not a professional actor, to portray Jessa, a character based on Charlotte, in the show. Kirke revealed she rejected the offer because she had intended to become a professional painter and was pregnant with her first child. In addition, she wasn't overly impressed with the show's script.

"I read it and it was slow. I thought no one's gonna be interested in this. It felt too realistic. And I guess that was exactly what people were drawn to," said Kirke in the podcast interview.

She said she was convinced to join the Girls cast after "they raised the amount of money that they were offering [her]." Kirke also said that she didn't regret appearing in Girls, which also starred Adam Driver, Allison Williams,Zosia Mamet, Andrew Rannells, and Christopher Abbott.

"I said, 'Fine I'll do the pilot.' But just sort of hoping everything would fall into place. And it did, just not in the way I wanted it to at first. But actually I'm happy," said Kirke in the interview.

In addition, she said that while she wasn't sad about Girls coming to an end after six seasons, "it was slightly shocking."

"I just remember going into my dressing room after we wrapped and I was like, 'Oh my god, it's done,'" said Kirke on the podcast.

In addition, she stated that she "was sad to lose the paycheck" when Girls ended.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Some accents can elevate your room in the most unexpected ways. A piece that's both decorative and functional can have a huge impact, especially when it's an upscale take on a basic. A luxe mirror, for example, can be so much more than just a utilitarian piece that leans against the wall.

A good example is the Antok Arched Floor Mirror, an elegant take on a basic that can instantly elevate any room. With its distinctive curved silhouette and full length, it exudes a softer vibe than more conventional rectangular frames. While it looks far more expensive, this $54 vintage-style mirror is marked down to just $40 at Amazon in your choice of gold or black.

Antok Arched Floor Mirror, $40 (was $54) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Standing 58 inches tall by 19 inches wide, the mirror is a commanding addition to the room no matter how you choose to set it up. It comes with a stand, so you can position it anywhere in a room without having to worry about finding wall space. It brings a little visual interest to empty corners or any spot where you might want to fill a gap.

If you prefer a more permanent location, you can hang it on the wall. For a more relaxed option, you can simply prop it up against the wall wherever space allows. It's an effortlessly cool styling touch that looks a little less formal, but that still feels polished thanks to the mirror's beautiful design. In any position, the mirror moves things in a more refined direction.

Related: Amazon's $60 Farmhouse Coffee Bar Cabinet Is a ‘Warm’ and ‘Inviting’ Kitchen Upgrade

Mirrors have the added advantage of opening up a room. They increase depth and bounce light around the room, visually expanding the space even if it's on the compact side. Even dim and narrow rooms can feel bigger and brighter with a mirror. Because you can position this in so many ways, it can easily free up floor space or establish a bit of airiness in any room.

A good mirror is essential for your requisite outfit check before you head out the door, making it a sensible choice for the bedroom. This arched style is so versatile, though, that you can really work it into any layout with ease. It looks beautiful in an open entryway, for example, and it can add an interesting touch to a hallway or a basement.

The aluminum frame is designed to stand the test of time, while the glass offers the kind of high-definition reflection that prevents distortion. It's backed with a protective material that prevents shattering, a safety feature that will give you added peace of mind when setting it up at home.

"This mirror is extraordinary," one reviewer raved, adding that it's "very sturdy and doesn't wobble." Another person called it "absolutely beautiful," adding that the "soft and elegant" arch sets it apart while offering a "clean, high-end look."

Shop More Deals

• Caktraie Stackable Closet Storage Bins Set, $34 (was $55) at Amazon
• Partphoner Ceramic Table Lamp Set, $40 (was $60) at Amazon
• Olanly Shaggy Area Rug, $13 (was $20) at Amazon

The good news is you don't have to pay a high-end price to add the Antok Arched Floor Mirror to your living space. It has a much more premium feel, but without the sticker shock you can feel comfortable making it a new addition to your interior design.

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 Monday, February 23, 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 Monday, February 23, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Amorphous shape in a lava lamp — HINT: Ends with the letter "B"

5 Across: "Wonderful performance!" —HINT: Starts with the letter "B"

6 Across: Social media currency — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

7 Across: Cars that move around a miniature map — HINT: Starts with the letter "U"

8 Across: Partner of relaxation — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Offer money corruptly — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

2 Down: Canada has an estimated 2 million of them, the most of any country in the world — HINT: Starts with the letter "L"

3 Down: In-your-face — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

4 Down: Work overseer — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

5 Down: Memory of a hectic day, perhaps — HINT: Starts with the letter "B"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Monday, February 23, 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: Amorphous shape in a lava lamp — BLOB

5 Across: "Wonderful performance!" —BRAVO

6 Across: Social media currency — LIKES

7 Across: Cars that move around a miniature map — UBERS

8 Across: Partner of relaxation — REST

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Offer money corruptly — BRIBE

2 Down: Canada has an estimated 2 million of them, the most of any country in the world — LAKES

3 Down: In-your-face — OVERT

4 Down: Work overseer — BOSS

5 Down: Memory of a hectic day, perhaps — BLUR

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Sunday, February 22, 2026

The bracket is officially set.

Following two weeks of intense qualifier battles, Tournament of Champions season 7 now has its full 32-chef lineup heading into the main event, which premieres Sunday, March 1 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Food Network.

After eight chefs battled their way through the qualifying rounds, they now join the 20 previously announced competitors in what promises to be the most unpredictable season yet.

RELATED: Fans Think Bobby Flay Is One of ‘Tournament of Champions’ Season 7’s Secret Icons

What We Know About the TOC VII Bracket

As revealed during Tournament of Champions VII: The Bracket Reveal, the chefs are divided into four regions and will compete in head-to-head, single-elimination battles. Blind judging remains in place, and every matchup will be determined by the Randomizer.

However, the biggest twist of season 7 remains under wraps.

This year’s No. 1 seeds in each division are culinary “industry icons” who have never competed on Tournament of Champions before—though they may have judged TOC. Their identities will not be revealed until the moment they enter the arena for their first battle.

“Year after year, chefs up their gameplay and strategy, so we need to constantly raise the stakes to keep the competition next level,” host Guy Fieri said in a statement. “This year, we put four industry icons in the top seed, immediately putting targets on their backs for the win-hungry competitors. And that alone is the secret ingredient for the most epic season yet.”

RELATED: ‘Tournament of Champions’ Season 7 Qualifiers Night 1: Eliminations and Winners Revealed

The TOC VII BracketA Division

No. 1 Unknown vs No. 8 Aarti Sequeira
No. 2 Jet Tila vs No. 7 Ashleigh Shanti
No. 3 Tobias Dorzon vs No. 6 Claudette Zepeda
No. 4 Jonathon Sawyervs No. 5 Karen Akunowicz

After the initial battles, the winner of 1 vs 8 will take on the winner of 4/5, and the winner of 2/7 will take on the winner of 3/6. And the A and B divisions meet in the final four, while the C and D divisions meet on the other side of the bracket.

B Division

No. 1 Unknown vs No. 8 Katsuji Tanabe
No. 2 Britt Rescigno vs No. 7 Giuseppe Tentori
No. 3 Kevin Lee vs No. 6 Adam Greenberg
No. 4 Nini Nguyen vs No. 5 Joe Sasto

RELATED: ‘Tournament of Champions’ Season 7 Qualifiers Night 2: Final 4 Bracket Spots Decided

C Division

No. 1 Unknown vs No. 8 Viet Pham
No. 2 Sara Bradley vs No. 7 Dan Jacobs
No. 3 Bryan Voltaggio vs No. 6 Carlos Anthony
No. 4 Dale Talde vs No. 5 Shirley Chung

D Division

No. 1 Unknown vs No. 8 Kenny Gilbert
No. 2 Lee Anne Wong vs No. 7 Stephanie Izard
No. 3 Marcel Vigneron vs No. 6 David Viana
No. 4 Kaleena Bliss vs No. 5 Adam Sobel

After 31 head-to-head battles across eight weeks, one chef will claim the Tournament of Champions belt and take home the $150,000 grand prize during the finale on Sunday, April 19.

The season 7 premiere airs Sunday, March 1 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Food Network and streams the following day on HBO Max and discovery+.

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Dodgers star Freddie Freemanand his wife, Chelsea Freeman, let fans know that their family is expanding.

In a February 22 Instagram post, Freddie and Chelsea, who have three sons, Frederick "Charlie" Charles Freeman II, 9, Brandon John Freeman, 5, and Maximus Turner Freeman, 5, shared that they'll soon have another child. The post, uploaded on both Freddie and Chelsea's Instagram accounts, showed the family of five posing together. Chelsea held up an ultrasound.

In the caption of the post, Chelsea and Freddie suggested that they were having their fourth child with the help of a surrogate.

"Worth the wait Baby #4 is on the way and our hearts are already so full. We are incredibly grateful for the amazing woman helping bring our baby into our lives, and we’re choosing to honor her privacy as we walk this chapter," stated the couple in the caption.

In addition, the Freemans asked their fans to guess whether the new baby would be a boy or a girl.

"What do you think… brother or sister?" read the caption.

Several Fans Shared Their Congratulations

Several fans flocked to the post's comments section to share their congratulations for the Dodgers' first baseman and his wife of 11 years.

"Soooo exciting! I say triplet boys to round it out!" wrote a commenter.

"Yayayaya so so excited!!!!! Congrats you guys!!!" added another.

"Ahhhhh SO exciting!!!!" shared a different person.

"Congrats to our fav fam!" commented a fan.

Chelsea & Freddie Freeman Opened up About Their 'Twins With a Twist'

While speaking to ESPN in 2021, alongside Freddie, Chelsea discussed having difficulty getting pregnant following Charlie's birth. Due to experiencing infertility, Chelsea and her husband opted for the surrogacy route.

"We tried for a couple of years, and it didn't happen. We were talking with doctors, and they suggested surrogacy. We jumped at that, because we wanted to be blessed with more kids," said Freddie in the interview.

Unexpectedly, Chelsea also got pregnant, with either Brandon or Maximus, in 2020, and the couple ended up having "twins with a twist."

Australian reporter Michael Rowland of the ABCannounced his exit from the network after nearly 40 years, as he leaves to care for his sick wife.

"After almost four decades in the grinding environment of daily news and current affairs, and having watched luck run out for so many people, I’ve decided now is a good time to step away," Rowland said in an on-air statement Monday morning, according to Daily Mail. "My wife, Nikki, who you all know, has been unwell over the last year or so, and I'm wanting to spend more time with her and family and move at a gentler pace."

Rowland—who joined the network in 1987 at just 18 years old—added that it was "not an easy decision," but the right one for him and his family.

"It's bittersweet. I know this is the right decision for me, my family and my life going forward. But I'll miss the viewers. I still get a wonderful reception when I travel around Australia," he continued.

The ABC reporter later clarified via social media that his wife is not "at death's door."

While he did not specify her apparent illness, Rowland added, "Nicki has been unwell over the last year or so but is well and truly bouncing back."

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If you're the type of person that doesn't have a green thumb or have the time to cater to real plants, artificial ones are an excellent alternative. Fake plants have greatly evolved to look shockingly realistic, and they can provide your space with a look that's more lush and homey. According to Walmart shoppers, the Dr. Planzen Artificial Ficus Tree is one of the best fake plants they've ever had, and it happens to be on sale for an incredible price. 

The 6-foot version of this tree used to be $67, but now you can get it for only $37. Reviewers said they were "shocked at how beautiful this tree is" and noted that it "adds such a natural, stylish touch" to a space. Reviewers were even more pleased that they were able to get it at such a great discount! 

Dr. Planzen 6-Foot Artificial Ficus Tree, $37 (was $67) at Walmart

Over 1,100 shoppers have awarded this artificial tree with a five-star rating for a variety of reasons. Judging by the reviews, the 6-foot size is the most popular option, but it's also available in 4-foot, 5-foot, and 7-foot variations. This tree isn't actually completely artificial, because the trunk is made from real wood, which definitely enhances the look of this tree as a whole. 

Related: Walmart’s $4 Doormat Is the 'Sassy' Spring Upgrade Your Front Door Needs

The tree leaves are made with silk and are perfectly shaped. Silk is arguably the best material to use when making fake flowers or plants, because it lends itself to a super lifelike, natural appearance. The leaves and thin plastic branches are spaced out to perfection, and create an abundant full look. This tree does come with a simple small black pot, but many shoppers opted to place it in a larger one to help balance out the look.

Reviewers said that "this tree is drop-dead gorgeous," and they were "very happy with the quality." What surprised them most is how "realistic" it is, and said that once you fluff it up after assembly it looks absolutely "wonderful." Shoppers also noted that putting it together was very simple, and that you'll have this tree set up in minutes. 

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We're having trouble finding any cons about the Dr. Planzen Artificial Ficus Tree — it's all pros here! It's expertly crafted, looks like the real deal, and can instantly add a bit of brightness that's perfect for spring. Shoppers are snapping the bestseller up fast, and we're ready to add it to our carts before it sells out!

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.

Team USA won Olympic gold over Canada on Sunday, Feb. 22, marking a historic triumph that was 46 years in the making. The last time the men's hockey team reigned victorious was at the famed “Miracle on Ice” in 1980 when they defeated the Soviet Union 4-3, in Lake Placid, New York. 

This time, Team USA took home the gold medal against The Great White North at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, going into a 3-on-3 overtime for a 2-1 win against their bitter rival.

JACK HUGHES DELIVERS AMERICA'S GOLDEN MOMENT IN OVERTIME. pic.twitter.com/4foFDOri53

— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 22, 2026

USA Goalie Connor Hellebuyck delivered an incredible performance. He stopped 41 shots to keep both teams tied, as Canada kept its momentum throughout the game. But it was Jack Hughes, who scored the winning goal to secure Team USA’s success, as seen in the X post above. 

The Team Celebrated Their Win in the Locker Room

He didn’t claim the epic victory without losing his front two teeth, though — a moment that saw him taking a hockey stick to the mouth during the third period of the game. Despite losing those pearly whites, all members of Team USA celebrated their historic win, showing off their American pride in the locker room post-game. 

They Sang Along to Toby Keith’s ‘Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue’

Making their moment even more memorable, the teammates kicked the party into high gear by blasting Toby Keith’s iconic patriotic 2002 hit, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American).” A video shared on X by Team USA alternate captain Charlie McAvoy showcases the group still dressed in their jersey as they sing along to the lyrics of the iconic country classic while sporting gold medals around their necks. 

Oh they are having A TIME pic.twitter.com/VZ2RZIZjis

— alicia (@LeeshaMae31) February 22, 2026

“I love my country 🇺🇸🇺🇸,” Hughes also captioned a post on his Instagram page, in celebration of the victory.

View this post on Instagram The Team Paid Tribute to Fallen NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau

One person missing from the celebration was fallen NHL team member Johnny Gaudreau. He was tragically killed in 2024 by an alleged drunk driver. Before taking to the locker room, Team USA members made a point to honor Gaudreau, bringing him into the heart of the festivities by skating around their beloved friend and teammate's No. 13 jersey.

Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau's children and Dad's sweater.
Good Lord, I'm a puddle. pic.twitter.com/exvV6eOiuH

— BucciOT.Com (@Buccigross) February 22, 2026

Gaudreau’s kids, daughter Noa, 3, and sonJohnny Jr., 2, were also brought down to the ice to remember their late father with Team USA. 

Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” belongs on his eighth studio album, Unleashed.

Related: ‘90s Country Icon Toby Keith Reaches Major Career Milestone With Two Songs Decades After Their Release

Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi may have had their ups and downs over the years, but these Jersey Shore castmates are always there for each other when it really counts. 

After Polizzi, 38, publicly revealed her stage 1 cervical cancer diagnosis earlier this week, Sorrentino, 43, took to social media to send his longtime reality TV costar a message. 

“Sending prayers full of love, promotion and healing to our girl @snooki,” Sorrentino wrote via X, along with sharing a throwback photo of the pair posing with fellow Jersey Shore stars Jenni “JWoww” Farley and Paul “DJ Pauly D” DelVecchio. 

For Polizzi’s part, she shared her health news via TikTok on Friday, February 20.

“Now I’m transferred over to the oncologist. My results came back from my cone biopsy, you guys, and it came back stage 1 cervical cancer. Obviously not the news that I was hoping for. But also not the worst news just because they caught it so early, thank freaking God,” The mother of three, who shares children Lorenzo, Giovanna, and Angelo with husband Jionni LaValle, began. 

Related: Snooki’s Cervical Cancer Warning Hits Hard, Echoing a Country Star’s Tragic Fight

“And that’s why I’m literally telling you guys to get your Pap smears done. I’m 38 years old. I’ve been struggling with abnormal Pap smears for, like, three [to] four years now, and now look at me. Instead of just putting it off because I didn’t wanna go and it hurt and I was scared, no, I just went and did it, and it was there. Cancer’s in there, and it’s only stage 1,” Polizzi added.

Though Polizzi assured fans her cancer is “curable,” she still has quite a journey ahead. First, she will be undergoing a PET scan to determine if the cancer has spread. 

“Then after that, I’m gonna probably get the hysterectomy because the oncologist said you can either do chemo, radiation, or the hysterectomy,” Polizzi explained. “Obviously, I think the smart choice here is a hysterectomy. I’ll still keep my ovaries, which is a good sign, but gotta get the cervix and the uterus out. And then possibly lymph nodes, because it can go to that. So, I guess it all depends on the PET scan.”

Spoiler warning for The TraitorsSeason 4 Episode 10!

Rob Rausch has dominated season 4 of The Traitors as an original traitor. He successfully outlasted his fellow traitors, earned a dagger from a mission, and recruited a new traitor. Rob's dagger allows him to vote twice at banishment. Mark Ballas revealed after episode 10 aired that the faithfuls had a plan that would've made the dagger irrelevant.

Mark Ballas Reveals Plan to Tie Votes Between Natalie Anderson and Rob Rausch View this post on Instagram

The Dancing With the Stars dancer posted a video of himself walking down a street on Instagram on February 22. "Currently walking down the street thinking about how we had the numbers if we had followed through on 'The Plan,'" read the text over the video. "Tara, Nat, Johnny, Me vote Rob = 4[.] Rob 'has 2 votes[.]' Maura & Eric vote Nat = 4. Makes it a tie. We all vote again only for Rob or Nat but the dagger has been flushed so now it's 4 votes Rob 3 votes Nat...DAMN."

Mark, 39, captioned the video with, "PSA this is a joke & meant to be funny. Be nice to each other." The episode showed Tara Lipinski and Natalie Anderson suspecting Rob of being a traitor. However, Johnny Weir and Maura Higgins weren't on board with voting Rob. There was a suspicion that Natalie, a winner of Survivor, was tricking them. She was banished and revealed to be a faithful.

Rob recruited Eric Nam as a traitor, and he avoided suspicion this episode. Mark's video might be a sign that the faithfuls could be onto Rob at the finale. Tara, 43, backed out of the plan to target Rob at the roundtable when it seemed like Johnny, 41, wasn't going to vote with them.

"I truthfully don't want to play this game anymore," she said at the roundtable. "I feel like a fool. I have made mistakes. But seriously I am OK with being murdered tonight."

The traitors get to murder one more faithful. The finale will be released on Peacock on February 26.

The Traveling Wilburys have officially been crowned the Best “Rock Supergroup” of all time byCollider, placing the 1988 all-star band above other legendary acts in a new ranking published this week.

The list compared some of rock’s most famous supergroups—bands formed by musicians who were already successful on their own. But when the final spot was revealed, it was The Traveling Wilburys who took the No. 1 position.

Formed in 1988 in Los Angeles, the band brought together five Rock and Roll Hall of Fame artists: George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison and Tom Petty.

What started as a simple B-side recording session for Harrison’s single “This Is Love” quickly turned into something bigger. When the group recorded “Handle With Care,” the chemistry was so strong that they decided to make a full album together.

Unlike many supergroups that struggle with egos or creative clashes, the Traveling Wilburys had one clear rule: don’t take it too seriously. Studio footage often shows them laughing, sharing stories and enjoying the process.

That relaxed energy translated into their debut album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1, released in 1988. The record became a major hit, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and earning triple-platinum status in the United States. It later won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group.

Recently, Jeff Lynne reflected on their first session together, telling Far Out Magazine, “That was probably the very first one that George had half written, and we went over to Bob’s studio to record it. That was the first time we ever did a Wilburys session… it contains all the elements of the Wilburys at their best.”

He added that hearing Orbison sing harmony with Petty during “Handle With Care” was a thrill. That moment, he suggested, captured the band’s magic from the very start.

Their success wasn’t just about star power. Each member respected the others. Instead of fighting for the spotlight, they shared it. Songs like “End of the Line,” “Tweeter and the Monkey Man” and “Heading for the Light” showed off different voices while still sounding unified.

Sadly, Orbison died just months after the album’s release in December 1988. The remaining members regrouped for Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3 in 1990, intentionally skipping “Vol. 2” as a playful joke — but they later admitted it wasn’t the same without him.

Collider’s ranking placed the Wilburys above other well-known supergroups, including Cream, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Bad Company, Audioslave, Temple of the Dog, Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Velvet Revolver, Asia and Them Crooked Vultures.

Related: '70s Rocker Earned First-Ever No. 1 Album 52 Years Ago Today

When it comes to musical genres, a near endless array of subdivisions exist that go far, far beyond simple terms like "rock" or "country" or "rap"...especially as far as the charts are concerned. Case in point: In the mid-90's, Billboard created the earliest incarnation of their "Adult Alternative" chart to measure the popularity of songs targeting "adult" listeners with a wide range of styles, from indie rock to alternative (as the title implies) to folk and more.

So what's considered the greatest adult alternative song of all time? All these years later, interestingly enough, the #1 song on Billboard's list is from around the same time the chart first started...but more on that later.

First, let's take a look at the other songs in the top five, which demonstrate just how diverse this genre can be. Coming in at #5 was Train's "Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)" from their 2001 album Drops of Jupiter...and as anyone who turned on a radio that year can tell you, it was a giant hit indeed. In fourth place was Portugal. The Man's "Feel It Still," which took some time to climb the charts but ended up winning the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the Grammys in 2018.

Third place went (somewhat appropriately) to Matchbox 20 and the uber-popular "3AM" (1997), while Coldplay's beloved "Clocks" (2002) came in second.

Related: Rob Thomas Opens Up About His Exciting New Chapter and 'How to Be Happy' (EXCLUSIVE)

So which tune took the crown for best adult alternative song of all time? That honor went to The Wallflowers and their biggest hit, "One Headlight," from the 1996 album Bringing Down the Horse (it was released as a single in January of 1997).

In a 2021 interview with Billboard, Wallflowers frontman Jakob Dylan looked back on the process of writing "One Headlight."

"I recall thinking that we hadn’t played something quite like this before — which was good because we needed to expand what we were doing," he said. "If anything, I recall believing the song had a lot of potential. I wasn’t sure if we were quite good enough to explore its possibilities."

When asked what kind of feeling "One Headlight" gave him while he was working on it, Dylan explained, "It still gives me the same feeling. It’s still a song that when I sing it, it’s positive. I lean towards those songs usually. No matter what you’re describing, I think you can find a shred of positivity in it, and I think that that song is about perseverance and positivity. When I sing it I still feel like that."

"Over time though, songs change," he continued. "It’s hard to ask someone 25 years later what they felt or what they meant at the time. Sometimes you just follow your nose and you get to reinterpret it year after year, so I sing it now and I don’t sing it like somebody who’s 25 years old. It’s a different song to me now. Because I’m different."

Dylan might be different, but fans clearly still love "One Headlight" just the same.

Related: 1991 No. 1 Song Voted 'Best Ballad of the '90s' Was One of the Best-Selling Singles of All Time