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Paul Newman accomplished so much in his lifetime: He was an Academy Award-winning actor and a champion race car driver. But those who knew him best don't seem to focus on his immeasurable talents. Instead, they talk about the person he was inside—one of the most generous philanthropists in American history.

"Sometimes God makes perfect people, and Paul Newman was one of them," Sally Field told The Hollywood Reporter after his death.

“I loved that man with all my heart," said Elizabeth Taylor. "He was goodness and kindness and pure integrity ... Knowing him, being his friend, was as golden as the sunset and a privilege I’ll never forget. I thank God and feel so honored for that privilege."

Newman shared so much of himself with the world—and even after his death, continues to do so through Newman's Own, his food company that makes everything from salad dressing to frozen pizza and has donated over $600 million to charity since 1982. His legacy reminds us that anything is possible and that's why Paul Newman is today's quote of the day.

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Quote of the Day by Paul Newman

"The best thing you can give yourselves is the gift of possibility."

Newman is stating that when you give yourself the gift of positive thinking, you'll realize that anything is possible. He lived this philosophy in everything he did—from his acting and racing career to his philanthropy and family life. When we can accept and believe that anything is possible, it transforms life as we know it.

Related: Quote of the Day: Audrey Hepburn’s Life Advice is Just Like Her—Timeless

Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward pose for a portrait in 1958—the same year they got married.

Photo by Screen Archives on Getty Images

Deeper Meaning of Paul Newman's Quote: You Are Limitless

What makes this quote so powerful is that Newman once said, "I had no natural gift to be anything—not an athlete, not an actor, not a writer, not a director, a painter of garden porches—not anything." But he believed that with hard work and heart, anything is possible. "I've worked really hard, because nothing ever came easily to me."

That's the deeper meaning of this quote. Newman didn't just talk about possibility—he built it into everything he touched. After he and pal A.E. Hotchner created homemade salad dressing to give as holiday gifts one year, they turned it into one of the most generous philanthropic models in American history. Newman once said, "I'd like to be remembered as a guy who tried—who tried to be part of his times, tried to help people communicate with one another, tried to find some decency in his own life."

And that's the thing we so often forget: Every single one of us has the power to make a difference. You don't need to be a movie star or a millionaire. Newman started with a bottle of salad dressing and a calling to give. Possibility isn't something reserved for the extraordinary; it's something we all carry inside us. The only question is whether we choose to believe in it.

Newman holds his "Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award" statuette at the 1994 Oscars. It's bestowed upon an individual whose outstanding humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the film industry.

Photo by Vinnie Zuffante on Getty Images

More Inspiring Quotes by Paul Newman

• “Those who are most lucky should hold their hands out to those who aren’t.”
• "We are such spendthrifts with our lives. The trick of living is to slip on and off the planet with the least fuss you can muster."
• "A man with no enemies is a man with no character."
• "People stay married because they want to, not because the doors are locked."
• "I had no natural gift to be anything. So I've worked really hard, because nothing ever came easily to me."

Next, 1974 Classic That Hit No. 1 Sparked an On-Set Rivalry Between Two Movie Icons

Now that spring is finally here, it's time to let the sunshine in and give your playlist a seasonal update.

If you're looking for some tunes to shake off the winter blahs, Billboard came up with a list of the 15 best songs about spring, and their picks are guaranteed to get you in the mood for flowers, showers and all the rest. One standout option: Simon & Garfunkel's lovely folk ballad, "April Come She Will."

Originally on Paul Simon's solo album The Paul Simon Songbook, "April Come She Will" appeared on Simon & Garfunkel's second studio album, Sounds of Silence (1966), and was also included on the soundtrack for The Graduate a couple of years later, as well as the Mrs. Robinson EP (1968).

According to Songfacts, the lyrics were reportedly inspired by a nursery rhyme Simon heard recited by an English woman he was dating. They relate a girl's fluctuating moods to the changing of the seasons:

"April, come she will / When streams are ripe and swelled with rain / May, she will stay / Resting in my arms again / June, she'll change her tune / In restless walks she'll prowl the night / July, she will fly / And give no warning to her flight / August, die she must / The autumn winds blow chilly and cold / September, I'll remember / A love once new has now grown old"

Only 1:51 long, it's the shortest song on Sounds of Silence.

In addition to The Graduate, "April Come She Will" has appeared in a number of other movies and shows, from The Simpsons to The Mindy Project to the Korean drama Angel Eyes. As Parks and Recreation fans will recall, the song was also played during the Season 3 episode "Andy and April's Fancy Party" when April (Aubrey Plaza) and Andy (Chris Pratt) got married.

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

The Black Crowes launched their highly anticipated 2026 tour in Melbourne, Australia last week, and the set list was full of unexpected picks.

As Ultimate Classic Rock reported, the 2026 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees got things started with "Profane Prophecy," one of the two songs released in January from their upcoming album, A Pound of Feathers. While they played one other new tune, "Pharmacy Chronicles," the set was otherwise made up mostly of popular Crowes standards like "Twice as Hard," "Jealous Again," "She Talks to Angels," "Remedy" and "Sting Me."

There were, however, a couple of rarities, including "Movin' On Down the Line" from their 2008 Warpaint album (which they haven't played live in over a decade), and a cover of Faces' "Three Button Hand Me Down," which they only played a few times during the '90s and haven't included in a concert for more than 35 years.

"Three Button Hand Me Down" is probably most famous song from Faces' 1970 debut album, First Step, released just a few months after the band took shape, made up of former members of Small Faces and The Jeff Beck Group (Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, Ian McLagan, Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood).

Though it's a classic today, "Three Button Hand Me Down" wasn't a huge success when it first came out. In the book Rock on Wood: Ronnie Wood — the Origin of a Rock & Roll Face, Lane said that the band "didn't really want to put out a single" and "didn't really care if it was a hit, but it would have been nice if it was."

The Black Crowes are planning more surprises for their U.S. tour

The Australian concert was likely a preview of what American audiences can expect when the Crowes kick off their Summer Hospitality tour in May.

"For the American tour, we're discussing bringing back some old things that we used to do, that people haven't heard in a long time, which is exciting," frontman Chris Robinson told UCR. "We love that people...that our music still means something [and] enough to people to come be a part of it and feel it — and jump up and down."

"Hopefully there's more jumping up and down than looking at phones," the singer continued, adding, "But, you know, a Sagittarian can dream, can't he?"

Related: '90s Rock Legends Announce Sprawling 2026 Summer Tour Including Historic Career First

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

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Sunday, April 5, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Sunday, April 5, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on April 5, 2026

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

• Yellow: Near the field of play.
• Green: Caw! Caw!
• Blue: Signal-callers.
• Purple: Mixed-up hoops.

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: THINGS ON AN NFL SIDELINE
• Green: NFL TEAMS WITH BIRD NICKNAMES
• Blue: NFC QUARTERBACKS
• Purple: ANAGRAMS OF NBA TEAMS

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 #559 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• THINGS ON AN NFL SIDELINE: CHAINS, BENCHES, COACHES, MEDICAL TENT
• NFL TEAMS WITH BIRD NICKNAMES: EAGLES, SEAHAWKS, RAVENS, CARDINALS
• NFC QUARTERBACKS: LOVE, HURTS, PURDY, YOUNG
• ANAGRAMS OF NBA TEAMS: HATE, PARROTS, THRONES, SCRAPE

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: This Gorgeous 4-Piece $10 Bowl Set at Hobby Lobby Is Bursting With Spring Style

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Throwing a spring party, hosting brunch, or entertaining guests? If so, a bar cart can get you one step closer to becoming a top-notch host. It’s an effortless and efficient way to serve refreshments to your friends and family and get the drinks flowing. Sound like something you need ASAP? This Vasagle Bar Cart at Target is a great option, and it doubles as a functional accent piece in your home when it’s not in use.

There’s no better time than right now to snag this bar cart because it’s currently on sale for up to 56% off! Normally retailing for $160, the black version is now marked down to just $70. You can also snag it in gold, which normally retails for $127, but is now $76. This bar cart is also available in a large size (in black, gold, and pink), with sale prices ranging between $86 and $90.  

Vasagle Bar Cart, From $70 (was $169) at Target

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

Whether you’re hosting a party or dining alfresco with your family in the backyard, this bar cart is a convenient way to keep everyone entertained. It’s fixed on four 360-degree swivel wheels that roll smoothly and comes with a push handle at the top, allowing you to transport food and drinks from one space to another effortlessly. Two of the locks are equipped with brakes so you can keep the cart stationary if needed. 

Designed to meet all your entertaining needs, this cart features two spacious shelves that can hold drink essentials, dishes, snacks, and more. You can use it to serve cocktails and meals, or even transform it into a coffee cart or plant stand. To maximize storage space, this cart boasts two rows of glass holders and a three-bottle drink holder underneath the top tier. Not only do these holders free up space, but they'll also keep your wine bottles and stemware glasses secure when the cart is in motion. 

Vasagle Bar Cart, From $70 (was $169) at Target

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

Featuring a sleek silhouette with either a black or gold frame, this bar cart exudes elegance. The surface of the shelves is mirrored, making the cart feel glamorous and luxurious. When it’s not in use, it’ll look fabulous stored in your kitchen, dining room, or living room, doubling as a luxe piece of functional decor. Shoppers said they love the cart's aesthetic, describing it as “classy, beautiful, and absolutely adorable.” One shopper said that it “looks super expensive” and “holds a lot.” 

Related: Target's 'Super Soft' 5-Piece Reversible Comforter Set Is Now $27 and Comes in Dozens of Vibrant Prints

This bar cart measures around 23.6 inches wide, 15 inches long, and 30.5 inches tall, excluding the handle. With a slim profile, it’s ideal for both small and large spaces alike. This bar cart is made of steel, and reviewers noted that it’s sturdy. The top tier has a 65-pound weight capacity, and the lower tier has a 67-pound limit. Shoppers also said that it's simple to assemble, thanks to the labeled parts and included tools. 

Shop More Deals 

• Costway 3-Piece Folding Bistro Set, $140 (was $236) at Target
• Costway 4-piece Acacia Wood Furniture Set, $300 (was $580) at Target
• Costway 10-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart, From $46 (was $92) at Target

Wouldn’t it be nice to refresh your glass from your comfy seat without having to step back into the kitchen? You can make that happen if you snag the Vasagle Bar Cart at Target! Be sure to add it to your cart while it’s still on sale for as low as $70. 

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.

After much anticipation, Dan + Shay are officially back, marking their next chapter with the release of “Say So.”

Out now, this track finds the beloved country music duo, made up of Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, stepping into new territory. Known best for their romantic ballads, the emotional single has the Grammy-winning act digging into a more serious subject matter, touching on the topic of mental health.  

“I got a call from a friend who don’t call very often / Broke it to me and I couldn’t believe that we lost him / Really felt like it came out of nowhere / But it never really comes out of nowhere / It’s crazy the pain that we carry when nobody’s watchin,” the lyrics of the first verse goes before the duo serve up an uplifting message in the chorus that someone is always around to guide the one in the dark back into the light. 

The Song Was Inspired by a Real-Life Story

Inspired by the 2025 death of their mutual friend and mentor, Ben Vaughn, the head of Warner Chappell Music Publishing, Dan + Shay discussed their process behind penning the song alongside Jimmy Robbins and David Hodges.  

“We were talking about what we wanted to write that day, and we got to talking about Ben Vaughn….[a] big part of our career and a close personal friend ... .This happened a week or two after we had been hanging out at a little party at my house, celebrating “Bigger Houses” going No. 1 and “10,000 Hours” hitting a billion streams on Spotify. It was one of those things where no one saw it coming. At least we didn’t,” Smyers said of Vaughn, who had been there for Dan + Shay since day one, in an interview with Variety. 

The Song Brought Out New Emotions for the Country Duo

Smyers added that while the band’s love songs about their wife and kids are the duo’s “bread and butter,” this particular release helped them work through their own traumas. 

“I’ve personally dealt with mental health stuff over the last few years, more so than ever. We battle a lot of stuff inside and outside of ourselves. And as we were talking about Ben, we were just like, ‘Man, I wish we had known. I wish we could have reminded him that there’s always somebody on the other line,” he said. “At the time we wrote it, we were like, ‘I don’t know, man. It’s different from what we usually do. It’s not a love song.’ But it kind of is, I guess.”

Mooney added, “We were going back and forth asking, ‘Man, is this song too heavy for Dan + Shay?’ But I think people can look at us just as they see some of their friends and think, ‘There’s no way that they’re going through something. They look like they’re doing great.’ That’s just a sad reality of mental health, that no matter what it looks like on the outside, you never know what somebody’s battling with on the inside.”

The Music Video

Alongside the release, Dan + Shay paired “Say So” with a music video, which brings the lyrics to life on screen. That music video can be viewed below. 

Before releasing “Say So,” Dan + Shay had experienced a short hiatus, but they addressed their brief absence on social media, sharing a lengthy letter to their fans. 

A Message to the Fans

On Instagram on March 31, 2026, the duo wrote: “As you know, we've been quiet for a while, and we just wanted to start by saying thank you so much for being patient with us. No, we didn't almost break up again lol. In fact, our friendship is stronger than ever, and we're really proud of that.”

“Over the past year, we have gotten to spend more time in the studio together than we have since we made the Where It All Began album in 2013, and that has been so life-giving,” they continued. “Even though we've missed seeing everyone on the road (that changes soon - stay tuned), and keeping up with you on socials, we've had what we feel is the most inspired burst of creativity in our entire career, and we wanted to capture every bit of it.”

View this post on Instagram

The duo went on to say that the songs they’ve been working on, including “Say So,” are “more personal and honest than anything we have ever done before. Because the music means so much to us, we have held it close and obsessed over every detail, but now we are ready to start sharing it with the world.”

“Say So” serves as the first single from Dan + Shay’s forthcoming album. A specific release date for the project has not yet been announced.  

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

Related: Female Country Trio Announces Hiatus In Heartbreaking Post: 'Thank You For Being Part Of This Incredible Ride'

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 #763 on Sunday, April 5.

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: "Pouch perfect"

A hint for today's Strands game: A safe spot for kiddos.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• BI
• KA
• KO
• OP
• WO
• WA
• MA (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for April 5

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, April 5, 2026, is MARSUPIALS.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, April 5?

• BILBY
• KANGAROO
• KOALA
• OPOSSUM
• WOMBAT
• WALLABY
• SPANGRAM: MARSUPIALS

Related: McCormick Just Dropped 4 New Spice Blends That Promise to Make Your Cooking Taste More Layered

As Christina Koch heads to space on the historic Artemis II, she isn't just making history as the first woman to orbit the Moon. She'll also be finding her center of gravity in a gravity-less environment.

The Artemis II, which launched from Kennedy Space Center, sends a four-person crew around the Moon and back. The mission marks the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years and making Koch the first woman to travel that far into deep space.

Koch has openly shared that, during her previous 328-day mission aboard the International Space Station, yoga became a key part of her routine. In fact, she described it as "way more fun" in microgravity, where traditional poses transform into floating, dynamic movements. While standing poses are more challenging without gravity, she told Space Report News that stretching-based movements feel especially effective—and even freeing—in space.

“I did [a lot] of yoga when I was on board the ISS, and it's actually not that hard to do,” she said. "In some ways, way more fun to do ... There are some poses that are tough. The standing poses I don't necessarily get as much out of. But a lot of the stretching poses are great. So yes, yoga's fantastic."

NASA requires astronauts to work out while in space to counteract muscle loss and bone density decline in microgravity. But in a Q&A with the University of Queensland, Koch explained, while "the big muscle groups" tend to work fine (and may even get stronger in space), "all of the little stabilization muscles are really hard to work." That's where yoga can be hugely helpful.

Yoga can complement astronauts' workout routines by targeting smaller stabilizing muscles that are harder to engage. On Earth, a gamut of research shows yoga improves strength, flexibility, and balance—key components of maintaining physical function over time.

Beyond the physical benefits of "space yoga," however, Koch's practice highlights the scientifically backed mental benefits, which are particularly valuable in extreme environments like space. Studies have consistently found that yoga helps reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression while improving mood and emotional resilience. This is especially important in space, where astronauts face isolation, confinement, and high-pressure conditions. The combination of movement, breathwork, and mindfulness can help regulate the nervous system and support mental clarity.

There's also growing evidence that yoga can positively impact cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and even improve sleep quality—factors that are critical both in space and on Earth. Controlled breathing techniques, or pranayama, have been shown to enhance oxygen flow and reduce strain on the heart, while regular practice may strengthen immunity by lowering stress-related inflammation.

For Koch, bringing yoga into space isn't just about fitness; it's about maintaining a sense of humanity far from Earth. As she put it, adapting familiar practices like yoga to new environments reflects a fundamental part of who we are as humans.

"I think that one neat thing about humans in space is how we adapt the things that we love on Earth to space," she told Space Report News. "And it really just shows why exploration is [human], it's in our DNA, and adapting what we love to new environments is just something we naturally do."

Whether practiced on a mat or while floating high above the sky, yoga's benefits seem to translate, suggesting that even in space, wellness can still feel grounding.

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 #1029 onSunday, April 5, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, April 5, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday'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 Sunday, April 5

1. The basics of matter.
2. Elementary, my dear Watson!
3. Heads or tails?
4. Like slime or oatmeal.

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 Sunday, April 5:

1. ATOMIC STRUCTURE TERMS: ELECTRON, NUCLEUS, ORBIT, SHELL
2. PARTS OF A SHERLOCK HOLMES COSTUME: DEERSTALKER, MAGNIFYING GLASS, PIPE, VIOLIN
3. THINGS TO FLIP: COIN, LIGHT SWITCH, PANCAKE, THE BIRD
4. STARTING WITH SYNONYMS FOR "SLUSH": GOOGOL, MUSHROOM, PASTEURIZE, PULPIT

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: KitchenAid's First Major Mixer Upgrade in 70 Years Receives Mixed Response from Fans: 'What a Let Down'

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 #1751 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels and one sometimes vowel 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 no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

A hint for today’s Wordle is: a messenger or representative, usually on a diplomatic mission.

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 #1751 on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, April 5, 2026, is ENVOY.

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

Related: Dollar General's Vibrant $6 Find Is Perfect for Hosting This Spring

38 years ago today, on April 5, 1988, Cheap Trick released their timeless power ballad “The Flame.” Though the song served as the band’s first No.1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and went on to become a staple in their catalog, it almost didn’t get cut. 

Written by tunesmith’s Bob Mitchell and Nick Graham, and appearing on Cheap Trick’s Lap of Luxury album, “The Flame” was originally meant to be recorded by English rock and jazz singer Elkie Brooks. When she passed on it, the demo made its way to Cheap Trick’s then label, Epic Records, where it became one of two options for the rock band to record. 

The Song Could’ve Been Given to Chicago

With a choice between “The Flame” or a song called “Look Away,” Cheap Trick settled on the former while the latter was given to fellow rock band Chicago, according to American Songwriter. Despite opting for one tune over the other, actually getting Cheap Trick into the studio took effort and convincing from producer Richie Zito, who decided to focus on each band member one by one to record studio takes, beginning with lead singer Robin Zander. 

"I had to be talked into doing it," Cheap Trick’s guitarist Rick Nielsen admitted, per Ultimate Classic Rock, having tossed the demo penned by outside writers across the room. "Guess that shows how much I know."

The Song Reignited This Band’s Mainstream Success

Zito’s persuasion worked, and it’s a good thing it did, as the romantic love song, which includes the lyrics: ‘Wherever you go, I'll be with you / Whatever you want, I'll give it to you,” sparked a major career comeback for Cheap Trick. The song, named one of the “Sappiest and Greatest Power Ballads of All Time” by metalsludge.tv, was an international smash, taking them out of a years-long commercial slump, following earlier top 10 hits like “I Want You To Want Me” and “Surrender.” 

Aside from topping the Hot 100 chart the summer following its release, the song also reached No. 1 in Canada and Australia.

The soft rock song’s success also helped push two other songs from Lap of Luxury into the Top 40. They were “Don’t Be Cruel,” anElvis Presley cover, which peaked at No. 4, and “Ghost Town,” which became a Top 40 single. Despite the band’s continued success, “The Flame” remains Cheap Trick’s only tune to ever top the Billboard Hot 100.

Related: 1987 Soft-Rock Theme for a Comedy Cult Classic Was a No. 1 Hit 39 Years Ago Today

Few science fiction novels have had the lasting cultural impact of Ender's Game.

The bestselling book by Orson Scott Card has been ranked the "best science fiction" novel of all time on Goodreads, based on reader votes. The distinction highlights the book's enduring popularity and influence, with generations of readers continuing to engage with its story.

Originally published in 1985, Ender's Game follows Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a gifted child recruited into a military training program designed to prepare young minds for an interstellar war. As Ender rises through the ranks, he is pushed to his limits, mentally, emotionally and ethically, in a system that values victory above all else.

The novel is widely praised for its exploration of complex themes, including leadership, morality, isolation and the psychological cost of war. Its focus on a child protagonist navigating such high-stakes decisions set it apart within the genre and helped it connect with a broad audience.

Ender's Game quickly became a major success, winning both the Nebula Award and the Hugo Award, two of the most prestigious honors in science fiction. Its influence has extended beyond literature, shaping discussions around ethics in warfare and artificial intelligence.

"What works with Ender's Game is Ender's community-building," Card told WIRED in a rare interview. "There's a disparate group of kids who could be rivals, and he's able to bind them together through his personal service to them, through his loyalty, his trustworthiness. They know he'll never waste them, that he's not exploiting them for his own gain. I certainly was not conscious of it as I was writing him—I'm not much of a follower, and I'm not a good team player—and yet I created the kind of guy that I would follow."

The story was later adapted into a film in 2013, introducing the narrative to a new generation of viewers and further cementing its place in pop culture.

"Ender's Game seems to have struck a chord with a lot of people," Card told DeseretNews. "I have no idea why. If I could do it every time, I would. But I am happy with the readership that every single one of the books has achieved."

Decades after its release, Ender's Game remains a cornerstone of science fiction, an enduring classic that continues to challenge readers while holding its place at the top of Goodreads' ranking.

Related: Best-Selling Author, With Classic No. 1 Novel, Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books’ on Goodreads

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No matter the time of year, it's always great to have a duffel bag on hand that securely stores your belongings while looking stylish. Luckily, Walmart just rolled out a fantastic deal on an option that fits the bill perfectly. The retailer is now offering its bestselling zip-around weekender duffel bag for just $20, a nearly 40% drop from its original $33 price tag.

This Gynky Duffel Bag is not only budget-friendly, but also available in a whopping 19 colors, making it a versatile choice for everyone. This bag doesn’t disappoint when it comes to capacity, either. Measuring 19.7 inches by 9.5 inches by 13.8 inches, it's roomy enough to be the ideal weekender bag. 

Gynky Weekender Duffel Bag, From $20 (was $33) at Walmart Shop at Walmarrt

Thanks to this duffel's multiple compartments, including a handy wet pocket, you can neatly store all your essentials without worry. Heading to the gym or a trip to the ballpark? This bag can easily transition from an overnight bag to a day bag, making it perfect for any adventure. It has a dedicated shoe compartment so that you can keep your footwear or wet gym clothes separate from the rest of your items. 

Whether you’re heading off for a weekend getaway or a business trip, shoppers agreed that this bag works perfectly as a stylish carry-on.

"It's a very well-made tote, and I really like the soft and durable material," one shopper said. I chose the burgundy color, and it's so pretty. I'm very happy with my purchase." 

Related: Walmart’s 'Handy' $30 Garden Kneeler Is a Storage-Friendly Outdoor Upgrade for Spring

"Very lightweight," another shopper wrote. "I bought a hospital bag for my daughter when she delivers. She loved it, and it was much bigger than I had expected."

Don't miss your chance to score the Gynky Duffel Weekender Bag for only $20 at Walmart! With over 1,600 five-star reviews, this bestseller is evidently a fan-favorite.

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In 1972, The Staple Singers released a song that would define their legacy and leave a lasting mark on music history.

Their hit, "I'll Take You There," climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the group's biggest crossover success. Decades later, it continues to earn recognition, frequently ranking among the greatest songs of all time, including a list by Rolling Stone.

Built around a laid-back groove and a distinctive, hypnotic bass line, the track blends elements of gospel, soul and funk. Lead singer Mavis Staples delivers a powerful vocal performance, guiding listeners through a song that feels both intimate and expansive.

"My father taught me: 'Mavis, if you sing from your heart, you'll reach the people, because what comes from the heart reaches the heart,'" Staples told The Guardian. "So when the spirit hits me, you’re gonna see Mavis looking like a zombie up there."

At its core, "I'll Take You There" is more than just a hit single; it's an anthem rooted in themes of hope, community and spiritual connection. The song's call-and-response structure, paired with its uplifting message, helped it resonate deeply during a time of social change in the United States.

The Staple Singers, a family group led by Roebuck "Pops" Staples, had already built a reputation through gospel music before crossing over into mainstream success. This track marked a turning point, bringing their message to a wider audience while maintaining the emotional depth that defined their sound.

"My siblings and I started singing around 1950," Staples told Garden & Gun. "At the time, my father was singing with an all-male group, the Trumpet Jubilees. But those guys wouldn’t come to rehearsal. Pops would go and two or three would show up. The third time it happened, he came home disgusted and went straight to the closet where he had a little guitar he had bought at the pawnshop. He called us children into the living room—there were four of us—had us sit in a circle on the floor, and began giving us parts that he and his sisters and brothers would sing growing up in Mississippi."

Over the years, "I'll Take You There" has remained a staple of classic soul playlists and continues to influence artists across genres.

More than 50 years after its release, the song stands as both a chart-topping hit and a cultural touchstone, proof that its message and sound still resonate just as strongly today.

Related: 1974 Country Classic Was No. 1 Hit Song 52 Years Ago Today

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 Sunday, April 5, 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 Sunday, April 5, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Like this lyric: Contents of an Easter basket — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

5 Across: Check out the contents of someone else's medicine cabinet, say —HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

6 Across: Menzel of Broadway — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

7 Across: Carrier of an Easter basket — HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"

8 Across: Org for Rory McIlroy — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Turn out to be — HINT: Ends with the letter "P"

2 Down: "Where do you think you're ____?" — HINT: Ends with the letter "G"

3 Down: About to, slangily — HINT: Starts with the letter "G"

4 Down: Sterilize, as a cat — HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"

5 Down: Brother or sister, for short — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Sunday, April 5, 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: Like this lyric: Contents of an Easter basket — EGGS

5 Across: Check out the contents of someone else's medicine cabinet, say —SNOOP

6 Across: Menzel of Broadway — IDINA

7 Across: Carrier of an Easter basket — BUNNY

8 Across: Org for Rory McIlroy — PGA

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Turn out to be — ENDUP

2 Down: "Where do you think you're ____?" — GOING

3 Down: About to, slangily — GONNA

4 Down: Sterilize, as a cat — SPAY

5 Down: Brother or sister, for short — SIB

Related: This Gorgeous 4-Piece $10 Bowl Set at Hobby Lobby Is Bursting With Spring Style

Great news for Broadway and Daniel Radcliffe fans alike: The Harry Potter star's live-filmed musical, Merrily We Roll Along, is now streaming on Netflix!

Related: Daniel Radcliffe Ranks This British Rock Band as the Best Concert He’s Ever Seen

Radcliff stared alongside Jonathan Groff and Lindsay Mendez in the Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim’s beloved musical in 2023 and 2024, and the live recording debuted in theaters in 2025. Now, fans can finally watch it at home on the streaming platform.

And if you haven't seen it, you probably should; the film is Radcliffe's top-rated film on Rotten Tomatoes, edging out on the critic-rated Tomatometer only by Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (which has a 96% rating compared to MWRA's 95%), and it beats the fantasy film 95% to 89% on the fan-voted Popcornmeter, making it both "Verified Hot" and "Certified Fresh" on the platform.

Additionally, all three stars of the film were recognized for their performances. Radcliffe and Groff took home Tony Awards for Best Featured Actor and Best Actor, while Mendez earned a Best Feature Actress nomination.

If you're not familiar with the musical based on George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart’s 1939 play of the same title, Netflix describes it as being about "a bright composer [who] abandons his friends to become a big-time film producer."

"This is the story of their unraveling — in reverse," it concludes. The story spans three decades and features some of Sondheim's most famous songs.

Related: Tom Felton Lights the Empire State Building to Celebrate Return to ‘Harry Potter’ Role

"I love doing this show so much, I love doing it with the people I get to do it with. I'm going to miss it so much when it's done," he told Variety during his Broadway run. "It's an amazing group to work with so it's very special."

Merrily We Roll Along is now streaming on Netflix.

Former Here Comes Honey Boo Boo star Lauryn 'Pumpkin' Efird is apologizing to fans on April 4, one day after multiple extremely explicit and graphic sexual videos were posted to her Instagram account amid a "nightmare" hacking situation.

"My deepest apologies for the content that was posted," she wrote in the caption of a new video explaining what happened. "Although it was not me, I still feel I owe it to everyone to apologize." She added that while she does "post spicy things" on her OnlyFans account, sharing NSFW content to her Instagram is "never me nor my character."

Related: Mama June Shannon Opens Up About Cancer Scare 2 Years After Daughter’s Death

"This been stressful and has it been literally a nightmare of my f--king life," she continued in the video while explaining that she was hacked on April 3, got into her account briefly, posted that she was "hacked" on her Stories, and then lost access again. "But now it's officially me. I am running the page. I've got it back and we're all secure and ready to go," she said.

View this post on Instagram

She also insisted the person in the videos could not have been her (despite the face being obscured) because she has "very distinctive chest tattoos" that were clearly not present in the clips. "I've had them since I was 15, so, for anybody that thinks it was me or I was providing someone, absolutely was not me," she concluded.

One follower who had seen one of the hacker videos commented, "That video was the first thing on my feed when I opened Instagram and not gonna lie, it was shocking lol." Another agreed, "Oh thank gosh that wasn't you gurl. I was like she wouldn't go this far. I was worried for you @pumpkin. Thank you for this."

While some fans sent support and were happy to see Mama June Shannon's daughter get her page pack, others criticized her for often posting suggestive photos to direct followers to her OnlyFans account for steamier content. "No shade gurl but please make a separate page for this either way…" said one follower, while another commented, "Never put your kids on the same page you post adult content. Ever."

Elton John's 1970 hit "Your Song" is one of the greatest love songs ever written. The romantic ballad came together in record time, with John composing the melody in just 20 minutes after his songwriting partner Bernie Taupin gave him the lyrics he had scribbled down.

In 2018, Taupin told the Independent, "The original lyric was written very rapidly on the kitchen table of Elton's mother's [house] in Northwood Hills in the suburbs of London, if I recall, on a particularly grubby piece of exercise paper."

The songwriter added, "It's the voice of someone who hasn't experienced love in any way. It's a very virginal song."

Taupin shared, "I think 'Your Song' is a gem. Our classic, I'm not sure. I'll let others decide that. But it's like an old friend, it means so many things on equally as many levels. It's certainly proved its worth, and I've heard it sung a million times."

"It's like a good dog, it's always there," he added.

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In a 2013 Rolling Stone interview, John opened up about how Taupin's lyrics inspired him to fill out the melody of "Your Song" very quickly.

"What can I say, it's a perfect song. It gets better every time I sing it," he shared.

"I remember writing it at my parents' apartment in North London, and Bernie giving me the lyrics, sitting down at the piano and looking at it and going, 'Oh, my God, this is such a great lyric, I can't f**k this one up,'" the singer explained.

John noted, "It came out in about 20 minutes, and when I was done, I called him in and we both knew. I was 22, and he was 19, and it gave us so much confidence."

"Empty Sky [his debut album] was lovely, but it was very naive. We went on to do more esoteric stuff like 'Take Me to the Pilot,' of course, but musically, this was a big step forward," he shared. "And the older I get, the more I sing these lyrics, and the more they resonate with me."

"Your Song" ranked #6 on a 2025 Billboard list of staffer picks for "50 Best Rock Love Songs"

Related: Elton John May Be Retired, But His Net Worth in 2026 Is Certainly 'Still Standing'

38 years after it debuted on Broadway, Chess is finally back, and it’s getting a new cast recording on April 10.

Featuring Glee alum Lea Michele alongside Aaron Tveit and Nicholas Christopher, Chess was brought back to Broadway in late 2025. Opening at the Imperial Theatre as it did in the 80s, the musical features songs from lyricist Tim Rice and ABBA members Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson. 

Chess tells the story of a world chess championship around the time of the Cold War. In the revival, Michele plays the lead role of Florence Vassy, who finds herself in a love triangle with the American Freddie Trumper (Tveit) and the Soviet Anatoly Sergievsky (Christopher). Michele’s “Nobody’s Side” from Chess was released on March 19 to tease the upcoming soundtrack.

"I feel like I was born to sing this music," Michele said in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. "I feel like I was born to sing Tim Rice's lyrics. It just feels like it's been a part of me without me even knowing."

A second song from the soundtrack, “Anthem,” sung by Christopher, was released on April 3. His performance as Sergievsky was named by People as one of the best Broadway performances of 2025. In an article, they called him “revelatory” and claimed that he delivers the production’s “most arresting performance.”

As fans anticipate the release of Chess’s new cast recording, they’ve already been raving about “Nobody’s Side” and “Anthem.”

“I treasure the moment Anthem ended and my mom repeatedly hit my arm in the blackout because of Nicholas’ astounding performance,” one fan joked in Playbill’s comment section.

When Billboard posted on Instagram about “Nobody’s Side,” even Ariana Grande’s vocal coach, Eric Vetro, took to the comments to show his support.

“LEA! You are truly a BRILLIANT artist,” Vetro said. “That gorgeous voice combined with so much passion and emotion… just SPECTACULAR!”

The full cast recording will be available on streaming platforms on Friday, April 10. In the meantime, Chess has posted a video from Christopher’s performance of “Anthem.” Watch it here: