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NASA's Perseverance rover almost had to let go of a precious drill bit on Mars after an attempt to collect a rock sample went awry.  

For the past week, the car-sized lab on wheels seemed to remain in its location on the rim of Jezero crater. Meanwhile, a team of scientists and engineers on Earth focused on how to free the tool from the rock. 

Anyone who has used a power drill around the house knows the frustration of getting one stuck in a board or wall, without being able to yank it back out. Well, sometimes the U.S. space agency has to retrieve a stuck drill, too — but from roughly 132 million miles away. 

Fortunately, Perseverance didn't have to sacrifice the coring bit. A NASA spokesperson provided an update on the status of the rover on Wednesday.

"The team was working to extract a drill bit from the most recent sample collection attempt, which was successfully accomplished as of late Tuesday night," NASA told Mashable. "This type of situation was planned for in the rover's design, and there are other drill bits onboard if needed."

SEE ALSO: Scientists found huge beaches on Mars likely from a long gone ocean NASA's Perseverance rover was engaged in a coring operation at Witch Hazel Hill on the outer rim of Jezero Crater on April 29, 2025. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech

Jezero Crater is a site on the Red Planet where scientists believe a river once emptied into a delta. The reason scientists now want to explore the rim is to look for ancient Martian bedrock rubble. Jezero formed when something substantial smacked into the planet close to 4 billion years ago. The impact could have churned up and tossed deep materials to the surface.  

Recently, Perseverance has been studying the makeup of layered rocks in an area NASA dubbed Witch Hazel Hill. Scientists want to understand the relationship between the alternating light and dark bands, as each likely formed under different conditions. Based on how layers are stacked, experts may be able to piece together a timeline for the Martian region.  

Earlier this month, the rover sampled one of the light-toned layers, which consisted of tiny rock pieces. In the latest coring attempt, the team was grabbing a sample of the darker grains. Raw images beamed back from the rover's cameras to Earth indicated the drill may have been stuck since April 22. 

Before Perseverance was launched, NASA equipped it with nine bits: one for Martian soil, two for removing the dust-covered outer layer of a rock, and six for drilling rock cores. It's unclear how many the rover still has in its arsenal and how many have succumbed to the rugged conditions of the Red Planet. 

Perseverance arrived on Mars with a backup supply of drill bits in case any broke or became dull during rock collections. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech

Since landing on Mars in 2021, Perseverance has filled sample tubes with rocks and dirt. NASA's goal has been to retrieve at least some of them and get them to Earth in the 2030s. 

Exceptional rock discoveries have only mounted pressure on NASA to solve the problems facing its Mars Sample Return mission, its plan to fly bits of rock, dust, and air collected by the rover back to Earth. Last summer, Perseverance discovered a spotted rock with the most compelling signs of ancient Martian life yet, though a sample would need to be shipped back home for confirmation.

But that mission has been in limbo since a review found it would cost upward of $11 billion and take nearly two decades to achieve. NASA engaged the greater aerospace industry for input on how to wrangle in spending.

The agency is now investigating two new approaches that could bring costs under $8 billion, involving either a commercial lander or the tried-and-true sky crane, the landing system that brought the Perseverance and Curiosity rovers to the Martian surface in the first place. The options could potentially shorten the timeframe to get the samples home.

NASA will spend the next year working on engineering plans for the revised mission.

DISNEY+ BUNDLES: Disney+ is offering bundle deals so you can stream the best of its library at a lower price.

The best Disney+ deals and bundles in May 2025: Best Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Best Basic Bundle Deal Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $10.99 per month Get Deal

Whether you're looking to jump into the latest superhero saga or journey to a galaxy far, far away, Disney+ is the streaming service for you.

Home to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and so much more, Disney+ offers a library that's stuffed-full of shows and films to keep both adults and kids entertained when it matters. This includes the highly-anticipated second season of Andor, which we said is the "best Star Wars show" that "goes out with a brilliant bang" in our review.

If you've had this streaming service on your radar but are unsure which plan is the best fit for you, we've got you covered with a selection of Disney+ streaming deals.

SEE ALSO: 'Andor' creator on Lucasfilm censoring f-bomb: 'They were right.'

There are quite a few bundle deals to check out with Disney+ right now, including the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle. This is a great investment for those who already own the other two streaming services and are looking to cut down on costs. And with streaming prices on the rise (Disney+ even increased its prices just last year), now's a great time to jump on a bundle like that.

We've detailed all of the available bundle deals below, alongside basic information on Disney+ plans if you just want the House of Mouse's service on its own.

Best Bundle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle $16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free Get Deal Why we like it

The Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle is one of the best available at the moment. Starting at $16.99 per month, you can have three excellent streaming services right in the palm of your hand, which is a great offer to take advantage of given streaming service prices keep going up. The $16.99 per month option is for the With Ads plan, but if you'd prefer to watch your favorite content without ads, the No Ads plan comes to $29.99 per month. Compared to what you'd pay for each of these on their own, you're saving 43% with the ad-supported plan and 42% with the ad-free plan.

• Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (with ads) — $16.99 per month (save 43%)

• Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle (no ads) — $29.99 per month (save 42%)

Best Basic Bundle Deal Opens in a new window Credit: Disney Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic Disney+ and Hulu with ads for $10.99 per month Get Deal Why we like it

If the Disney+, Hulu, and Max mega bundle feels like a bit too much, there are smaller bundle deals to check out instead. One of the most affordable bundle options the service has is the Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic plan. This brings together Disney+ and Hulu (With Ads) for $10.99 per month. This is a great way to gain access to both of their libraries for only $1 more than what you'd pay for their ad-supported plans on their own.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic — $10.99 per month

If you'd rather spring for the ad-free version of that bundle, Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium is what you need. This offers both Disney+ and Hulu without ads for $19.99 per month instead. Disney+ also has bundles that throw in ESPN+. The Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic plan, which has ads, runs for $16.99 per month, and the Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium plan without ads costs $26.99 per month.

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $19.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic — $16.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium — $26.99 per month

Disney+ monthly plans

Disney+ offers two standard plans if you just want the service on its own. The Disney+ Basic ad-supported plan comes to $9.99 per month while the ad-free Disney+ Premium plan will set you back $15.99 per month or $159.99 per year if you'd rather pay annually.

• Disney+ Basic (With Ads) — $9.99 per month

• Disney+ Premium (No Ads) — $15.99 per month, $159.99 per year

Disney+ has also created an "extra member" plan for people using your account that live outside of your household as they crack down on password sharing. If you're looking to add another person onto your account, you're only allowed one extra profile and can choose from the following add-on plans:

• Disney+ Basic — $6.99 per month

• Disney+ Premium — $9.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic — $7.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu Bundle Premium — $10.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Basic — $11.99 per month

• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ Bundle Premium — $14.99 per month

There's a wealth of shows and films to check out on Disney+ after you sign up. If you want some help finding something to watch, check out our roundups of the 12 best TV shows for adults on Disney+ and the 20 best movies on Disney+ to start building out your watchlist.

SAVE $40: As of May 1, the Hisense 75-inch Class U6HF Series TV is on sale for $529.99 at Amazon. That's a 7% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Hisense Hisense 75-Inch Class U6HF Series $529.99 at Amazon
$569.99 Save $40 Get Deal

Deals on TVs are always a good excuse to upgrade, and when we're talking about a TV like the Hisense 75-inch Class U6HF Series, saying no is near impossible.

The Hisense 75-inch Class U6HF Series is down to its lowest-ever price on Amazon. As of May 1, this impressive Tmodel is priced at $529.99.

SEE ALSO: Score the Hisense 75-inch Class A7 Series TV at its lowest price yet

For this price, you're getting a seriously impressive TV. It's equipped with ULED technology, which improves color, contrast, brightness, and motion handling compared to standard LED TVs. It uses Quantum Dot for better color accuracy and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10 Plus for high dynamic range content.

The TV has up to 600 nits of peak brightness and 220 local dimming zones for more precise lighting control. It runs on Fire TV, so you can stream from apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video without needing a separate device, like a Fire TV Stick. It has a 60Hz native refresh rate, a 240 motion rate, and HDMI 2.1 with eARC.

It even comes with Alexa built in, controlled from a voice remote. It also includes Bluetooth for wireless audio connections.

Considering an upgrade yet? Head to Amazon to secure this record-low price.

Another day, another borderline nonsensical interview with the president of the United States.

It was only recently that Donald Trump's bizarre Time interview transcript went viral, but it's already been overtopped by a new interview — this time a sit-down, on-camera talk with ABC's Terry Moran, during which Trump tried repeatedly to convince the journalist that a clearly photoshopped image was, in fact, real.

"Now I understand why he's so proud of that Gulf of America poster. He thinks 'Gulf of America's actually written on top of the water!" says Daily Show host Desi Lydic in the clip above.

"What is so crazy is Terry Moran kept trying to change topics, but Trump wouldn't let him," Lydic continues. "I have never seen an interview where a reporter catches a politician in a gotcha and the politician is the one who says, 'Stop trying to move on! I am not done embarrassing myself!'"

Star Wars Day is an unofficial holiday celebrated every year on May 4 — as in, "May the 4th" (as in, "May the Force be with you"). And every year, we see retailers release limited-time discounts and product launches in honor of the geeky occasion.

In 2025, May the 4th happens to coincide with the 20th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, which was back in theaters for a short run in late April. As such, a lot of this year's releases embrace the Dark Side. (Is there anything that can't be turned into some variation of Darth Vader's helmet? Apparently not.)

SEE ALSO: All 12 Star Wars movies, ranked from worst to best

Below, we're keeping a running list of all the best May the 4th sales and drops from across the web. It must be said: These are the deals you're looking for.

The Lego Store — shop new sets and score some freebies

The Lego Store's busy Star Wars Day programming runs in stores and online from May 1 to 5. It's headlined by the release of several brand-new sets, including a 2,970-piece build of bounty hunter Jango Fett's starship (the latest addition to Lego's Ultimate Collector Series):

• Lego Star Wars Jango Fett's Firespray-Class Starship — $299.99

• Lego Star Wars Chopper (C1-10P) Astromech Droid — $99.99

• Lego Star Wars Jango Fett Helmet — $69.99

• Lego Star Wars Kylo Ren Helmet — $69.99

• Lego Star Wars Rebel U-Wing Starfighter — $69.99

• Lego Star Wars Kylo Ren’s Command Shuttle — $69.99

• Lego Star Wars Brick-Built Star Wars Logo — $59.99

• Lego Star Wars BrickHeadz Revenge of the Sith Heroes and Villains — $49.99

• Lego Star Wars BrickHeadz Luke Skywalker (Rebel Pilot) — $9.99

Shoppers who spend a certain amount of money on these or other Lego Star Wars sets can snag some exclusive freebies from the Lego Store, so long as they're signed up for its Lego Insiders rewards program. (It's free to join.) Starting May 1, purchases of $40 or more come with a free Millennium Falcon Mini-Build worth $4.99, and purchases of $160 or more unlock a free Kamino Training Facility set worth $29.99.

If you live near a Lego Store, swing by on Sunday, May 4 from 12 to 2 p.m. local time for a free make-and-take Grogu model.

Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Store Lego Store Star Wars Day sale Shop Now Casetify — shop new Star Wars tech accessories

Casetify is expanding its Star Wars collab with a new "Rebellion and Empire" collection packed with limited-edition designs for gadget cases, chargers, and charms. The (Death) star of the lineup is definitely the $138 Darth Vader AirPods Case Collector's Edition, which can play ominous breathing sound effects at the touch of a button. Prices start at $32.

Opens in a new window Credit: Casetify Star Wars x Casetify: Rebellion and Empire Shop Now Funko — buy two Star Wars items, get one free

The pop culture collectible company's online store has an extensive line of Star Wars-themed Funko Pop! figurines, including exclusive vinyl bobbleheads of the Mandalorian (with Grogu), Darth Vader, Rey Skywalker, Kylo Ren, and Admiral Ackbar. Add three items to your cart, and you'll get the cheapest one for free. Prices start at just $3.

Opens in a new window Credit: Funko Funko May the 4th sale Shop Now Nanoleaf — save on select lighting kits, including new Star Wars bundles

Nanoleaf's Star Wars Day sale features two new limited-edition smart lighting bundles that build into the shapes of Yoda and R2-D2 — a subtle way to rep your fandom in an office or gaming room. The sale runs through May 5, and prices start at $7.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: Nanoleaf Nanoleaf May the 4th sale Shop Now

The world’s most valuable company has become so reliant on Chinese suppliers and sales that it would be worth half as much or less without them.

In just over a decade, content creators have gone from digital outliers to industry power brokers. What began as a side hustle has evolved into a new form of celebrity — portable, profitable, and deeply in tune with audiences in ways traditional entertainment still struggles to match. And they’re not just behind the ring lights anymore; they’re headlining movies, writing screenplays, and directing studio-backed projects.

SEE ALSO: How content creators are redefining Hollywood's power structure

You’ve seen them on your For You page, and now, you’re seeing them on your screen. Here are the creators shaping the new face of Hollywood: 

Lilly Singh Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; Frazer Harrison/Zeynep Uyanik/via Getty Images

Lilly Singh used her quick comedic timing and cultural commentary to dominate YouTube before breaking late-night TV barriers as the host of A Little Late with Lilly Singh, later branching into acting in shows like The Muppets Mayhem and Dollface.

Bo Burnham Credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images for DGA

Bo Burnham began as a sharp-witted teenager posting musical comedy on YouTube in 2006 and has since evolved into a multi-hyphenate creative force — writing and directing the Sundance hit Eighth Grade, performing introspective specials, and acting in Oscar-winning films like Promising Young Woman.

Colleen Ballinger Credit: Leon Bennett/Getty Images

Colleen Ballinger turned her satirical alter ego Miranda Sings into a full-blown phenomenon, eventually bringing the cringe-comedy character to life in Netflix’s scripted series Haters Back Off, a rare transition from YouTube sketch to streaming original.

Grace Helbig & Hannah Hart Credit: Charley Gallay/SAs 2014/Getty Images for DCP

Once DIY queens of YouTube comedy, Grace Helbig and Hannah Hart channeled their quirky chemistry into feature-length films like Camp Takota and a modern reboot of Electra Woman and Dyna Girl, proving their comedic chops beyond the platform.

Mamrie Hart Credit: Theo Wargo/Getty Images

Mamrie Hart, known for her boozy YouTube series and unfiltered humor, co-wrote and starred in millennial cult comedies like Camp Takota and Dirty 30, showing how creator-led stories could resonate on screen.

Shawn Mendes Credit: Frank Hoensch/Redferns via Getty Images

Shawn Mendes first gained attention on Vine with heartfelt acoustic covers, and quickly built a successful music career with pop singles like "Stitches," "Treat You Better," "There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back," and "Señorita." His smooth transition into acting began with a leading voice and music role in the family film Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, showcasing his range beyond the stage.

King Bach (Andrew Bachelor) Credit: Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images

King Bach (Andrew Bachelor), once the undisputed king of Vine — he holds the Guinness World Record for the most Vine followers with over 16 million — flipped short-form comedy into a prolific acting career, racking up credits in The Babysitter, Greenland, and To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before. And according to him, making the jump from smartphone feeds to the big screen was always part of his master plan.

Liza Koshy Credit: Noam Galai/Getty Images for Global Citizen

Liza Koshy went from physical comedy and skits on Vine and YouTube to starring roles in Netflix’s Work It, voiceovers in blockbuster franchises like Transformers, and hosting duties across major networks.

Lele Pons Credit: Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Images

Lele Pons parlayed her slapstick Vine persona into reality-style storytelling, starring in her own docuseries, The Secret Life of Lele Pons, and competing on Dancing with the Stars, blending digital and traditional fame.

Addison Rae Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; Paul Morigi/Leonidovich/via Getty Images

Addison Rae danced her way to TikTok superstardom and caught Hollywood’s attention with a multimillion-dollar Netflix deal, launching her acting career in the teen rom-com He’s All That while also exploring a pop music path.

Charli D’Amelio Credit: Bruce Glikas/Getty Images

Charli D’Amelio, once the reigning queen of TikTok dance trends, has built a multi-faceted career — starring in Hulu’s The D’Amelio Show, winning Dancing with the Stars, voicing animated characters, and recently making her Broadway debut in &Juliet.

Bella Poarch Credit: Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Images

Bella Poarch went viral with expressive lip-syncs on TikTok and is now carving a path in music with tracks like "Build a Bitch" and "Dolls," blending striking visuals and empowerment-driven themes. Her creative vision extends beyond music into fashion, recently debuting a bold HUGO capsule collection inspired by her EP.

Issa Rae Credit: Julia Beverly/Getty Images

Issa Rae took the raw honesty of her YouTube series Awkward Black Girl and transformed it into the award-winning HBO hit Insecure, establishing herself as a Hollywood powerhouse with roles in Barbie, The Photograph, and a growing slate of productions.

Quinta Brunson Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Quinta Brunson began as a viral sketch comedian at BuzzFeed and Instagram, then skyrocketed to mainstream acclaim as the creator, writer, and star of the Emmy-winning series Abbott Elementary.

Donald Glover Credit: Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images

Donald Glover started with online sketches as part of Derrick Comedy, then rewrote the rules of modern storytelling as the creator of Atlanta. He also starred in major franchises like Solo: A Star Wars Story and reinvented himself musically as Childish Gambino.

Markiplier (Mark Fischbach) Credit: Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

A YouTube giant known for his gaming videos and interactive series like In Space with Markiplier, Markiplier is now moving behind the camera with his feature film directorial debut Iron Lung, proving his storytelling talents extend well beyond Let’s Plays.

Rudy Mancuso Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; DBenitostock/Cindy Ord/via Getty Images

Rudy Mancuso went from music-infused sketches on Vine and YouTube to starring in and directing his own feature film, Música, showcasing his talents as a storyteller, actor, and musician with a unique comedic voice.

Noah Beck Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

First rising to fame through TikTok’s golden era with his athletic charm and choreographed trends, Noah Beck has since stepped into the spotlight as a model, reality personality, and actor, with a starring role in the upcoming teen film The QB Bad Boy and Me.

Chloe Cherry Credit: Gregg DeGuire/Variety via Getty Images

Originally gaining attention on adult content platforms and social media, Chloe Cherry made a striking mainstream debut as Faye in HBO’s Euphoria, where her deadpan delivery and screen presence earned her critical and fan acclaim.

Yasmin Finney Credit: Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

Yasmin Finney, who captivated TikTok with her trans advocacy and charisma, became a breakout star in Netflix’s Heartstopper and was cast as Rose in the Doctor Who universe — a groundbreaking moment for representation in the long-running franchise.

Bel Priestley Credit: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Warner Music

Bel Priestley built a loyal following through TikTok and YouTube by sharing her trans journey and fashion-forward perspective, leading to her acting debut in Season 2 of Netflix’s beloved teen drama Heartstopper.

Kalen Allen Credit: Jamie McCarthy/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images

Kalen Allen gained viral fame with hilarious YouTube reaction videos before proving his versatility as an actor in An American Pickle, A Black Lady Sketch Show, and multiple streaming features including Meet Me Next Christmas.

Alan Chikin Chow Credit: Gregg DeGuire/Variety via Getty Images

Alan Chikin Chow became a standout in the fast-paced world of YouTube Shorts, developing his own comedy universe and scoring roles in series like Grey’s Anatomy and Into the Dark, while also creating his own projects like Alan’s Universe.

Elsa Majimbo Credit: Zain bin Awais/Mashable Composite; Wellmony/Paras Griffin/via Getty Images

Elsa Majimbo turned her laid-back, sardonic humor into a global brand, landing roles in short films like Bitter Leaf and series like Yara Shahidi's Day Off, while continuing to explore storytelling across formats.

In 2025, the red carpet doesn’t just belong to movie stars anymore — it belongs to YouTubers, Twitch streamers, and TikTokkers-turned-Netflix leads. Hollywood has entered a new era where the most coveted currency isn’t box office numbers or awards season buzz, but follower counts, engagement rates, and the ability to move an audience with a single post.

As studios scramble to capture increasingly fractured attention, digital-native creators have become some of their safest bets. They arrive not only with talent but also with built-in fandoms — millions of subscribers who treat premiere dates like tour stops and merch drops. What used to be a gamble on an unknown actor is now a calculated investment in influence.

SEE ALSO: Hollywood's new stars were cast by the internet

The power balance is shifting. Many creators have already mastered storytelling, production, and marketing on their own terms. Now, with traditional media eager to tap into their reach, they’re negotiating roles, shaping projects, and even bypassing gatekeepers entirely. The question isn’t whether creators are Hollywood-ready — it’s whether Hollywood is still required at all.

The power of built-in audiences Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; Victoria Nigmatulina/Bill Diodato/adventtr/via Getty Images

Studios aren’t casting creators just because they’re trendy; they’re making strategic business decisions. Online stars bring direct access to potential viewers, along with a proven ability to spark conversation. In an industry where marketing budgets often rival production costs, creators offer a compelling proposition: promotion baked into the talent itself.

According to a 2025 report from Digital Voices, user-generated content drives nine times more engagement than traditional brand messaging — a return on investment studios can’t afford to ignore, especially when there’s data that suggests millennials and Gen Z find social media content "more relevant than traditional TV shows and movies" and feel a stronger personal connection to social media creators than to actors and TV personalities. According to China Widener, vice chair of Deloitte LLP and U.S. technology, media and telecom leader, Gen Z spends “54 percent more time on their social platforms” than on traditional media platforms. 

As the influence of creators continues to redefine the power structure of Hollywood, the traditional systems — built on big studios, agents, and A-list actors — are being forced to adapt. No longer is it enough for a film or TV show to simply rely on star power; increasingly, it’s the creators who build and engage their own audiences that studios are looking to tap into. The question now is: How do traditional power players navigate this shift?

Seth Schachner, managing director of Strat Americas and a veteran of the media and tech industries, has observed firsthand how this shift is leaving some studios a step behind. "The studios are maybe a little bit clueless about this... is Tom Cruise or Brad Pitt really appealing to the 20-somethings or Gen Z?" he says.

Casting decisions have evolved to reflect this logic. As early as 2018, The New York Post reported that films were being cast with "social media quotas" in mind — a practice that has only deepened. In a 2025 podcast interview, Stranger Things star Maya Hawke confirmed that producers now hand directors "a sheet with the amount of collective followers" they expect a cast to bring. As Tiffany Little Canfield, the casting director for Jon M. Chu's Wicked, put it plainly: "I see social media numbers as a type of fame. Just a new way to quantify fame."

That redefinition of fame has rewritten the talent pipeline. Viral reach now rivals, and sometimes outranks, traditional credentials when it comes to landing roles, partnerships, and even production deals. But follower count alone no longer guarantees success, or even relevance.

"Someone with 10 million followers isn’t necessarily a big deal anymore," says Lindsay Nead, founder and CEO of Parker Management, a leading digital talent management agency. "It really comes down to the analytics — who their audience is, where they’re located, how much they engage. A huge following might look good on paper, but if no one’s actually watching, there’s no value. It’s not just a numbers game; it’s a data game now."

That shift has created a new class of stars: influencers whose reach is measurable, monetizable, and undeniable.

In 2021, Addison Rae signed a multimillion-dollar deal with Netflix off the viral success of He’s All That. Harsh reviews didn’t matter; the movie topped global charts, thanks in large part to Rae’s 88 million TikTok followers. Charli D’Amelio followed a similar trajectory, moving from dance videos to Dancing with the Stars, a reality series of her own (The D’Amelio Show), a Broadway debut, and a guest spot on the upcoming Apple series The Studio. Emma Chamberlain’s ironic YouTube humor has translated into high-fashion campaigns, red-carpet hosting, and production credits. YouTube vlogger-turned-filmmaker Casey Neistat is back directing original content after launching one of the most influential daily vlog channels of the 2010s.

SEE ALSO: The business of being Victoria Paris

And the next wave isn’t just in front of the camera. Creators like Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary) and Issa Rae (Insecure) began as viral stars; now they’re showrunners and producers shaping the future of scripted television. Even content houses like the Sway House and Hype House, once dismissed as Gen Z group projects, have launched production companies. 

"The old rules don't always apply," Schachner says. Think of creators as self-sustaining ecosystems: They write the scripts, build the audiences, and monetize directly, often without traditional gatekeepers.

Rather than hiring creators to promote a finished product, studios are increasingly bringing them on from day one, not just as stars, but as producers, writers, and world-builders. As Nead notes, after a wave of short-term campaigns, the industry is now swinging back toward long-term collaboration. "We’re definitely seeing a resurgence of longer-term partnerships," she says. "It’s more important than ever — both for impact and authenticity." That shift reflects a growing recognition that creators aren’t just promotional tools; they’re creative partners who understand their audiences better than anyone.

Studios want loyalty, not just reach. Micro-influencers with tight-knit communities are now prized above macro-names with passive followings. In this economy, engagement isn’t just a stat — it’s leverage.

"The most successful projects are the ones where creators are brought in from the beginning," Nead says. "They’re not just hired hands anymore — they’re shaping the direction, the creative, the entire vision. The industry is starting to realize that when you give creators ownership, you get better content."

For many creators, especially those from underrepresented communities, social media has become a launchpad not just for visibility but for legitimacy. Bypassing traditional casting calls and industry gatekeeping, creators have used their platforms to tell the stories Hollywood overlooked — and to prove there’s an audience for them. It’s a path that’s allowed queer voices, BIPOC talent, and disabled creators to build influence on their own terms, then carry that cultural capital into rooms that once ignored them.

YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Eugene Lee Yang, known for his work with The Try Guys, used digital media to explore queer identity and now develops projects that foreground LGBTQ+ storytelling. Drea Okeke (@dreaknowsbest) built a massive following through comedic skits rooted in her Nigerian-American upbringing — and parlayed that into brand deals, speaking gigs, writing opportunities, and a part in the Fuse Original Series We Need to Talk About America. Former Vine star Rudy Mancuso recently directed and starred in Musica, a feature-length film based on his life and Latinx heritage. And TikTok comedian Zarna Garg is currently starring in the Mindy Kaling-backed film A Nice Indian Boy. 

These aren’t one-off success stories; they’re proof that creators from marginalized backgrounds aren’t waiting for permission. They’re building influence on their own terms, then carrying that cultural capital into rooms that once ignored them.

"The opportunity that exists now is so powerful," Nead says. "Creators have a better shot at doing things on their own terms than ever before."

The culture-makers of now Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; Richard Darko/Larry Lee/via Getty Images

Creators are no longer just part of the zeitgeist; they are the zeitgeist. A single TikTok can sell out a lipstick, resurrect a ‘90s fashion trend, or send a decades-old song back up the charts. Alix Earle’s recommendation of a drugstore eyeliner triggered a viral sellout moment dubbed the #AlixEarleEffect. Influencer Monet McMichael’s honest beauty reviews and Sofia Richie Grainge’s minimalist "quiet luxury" aesthetic have each generated millions of views and shifted entire consumer trends, often without even trying.

But the power that creators wield is being met with growing scrutiny. Gen Z audiences are getting savvier, and a little more cynical, about over-curated lifestyles and brand-heavy content. "The end of the influencer era may finally have arrived," declared a recent New York Post op-ed, pointing to a shift toward creators who feel more real, raw, and reflective of everyday lives.

Authenticity is the new algorithm hack. The creators making the most impact today have "a super clear, unique voice," Nead says, offering a perspective and a relationship with their audience that feels unscripted.

A growing industry, still without guardrails

Yet behind the ring lights and revenue streams lies an industry still defining its rules, especially when it comes to young talent. As more families turn social media into a livelihood, questions are mounting around labor, consent, and exploitation. Netflix’s The Dark Side of Kidfluencing and other recent exposés have shed light on the blurred lines between childhood and content creation, and the lack of protections in place.

There’s precedent here: It took decades (and the Coogan Law) for Hollywood to implement child labor protections. The creator economy, now facing a similar reckoning, is still largely self-regulated. Burnout, blurred boundaries, and a lack of oversight remain endemic, particularly among teen and tween creators. 

Some change is slowly underway. Lawmakers in states like Illinois, Utah, and California are exploring creator-specific labor laws, while SAG-AFTRA is assessing how to adapt traditional union protections to include digital-native performers. Most recently, the union launched an Influencer Committee to advocate for fair pay, contract transparency, and protections against exploitation in the creator economy, including potential benefits like health insurance and pensions. It’s a signal that legacy institutions are beginning to take influencers seriously as workers. 

But in most cases, the burden still falls on creators — and their families — to self-police, set boundaries, and build sustainable careers in a system not built to protect them.

A new era of fame Credit: Jeffrey Hazelwood/Mashable Composite; TebNad/JdawnInk/via Getty Images

As the lines between creator and celebrity blur — and between platform and production company collapse — one thing is clear: influence is no longer a side hustle. It’s a career path, a cultural force, and increasingly, a source of power. Hollywood used to make stars. Now it recruits them from the internet: already followed, already fully formed.

"If they’re not forward-thinking about how to integrate creators into their strategy, I don’t know how they’re going to keep up," says Nead. "Traditional media just isn’t what it once was. It’s time to evolve or risk being left behind."

The rules have changed, and the people writing them are holding the cameras themselves.

TL;DR: Save 86% on the Luminar Neo photo editor, a video training course, and six packs of preset photo filters.

Opens in a new window Credit: Skylum The Award-Winning Luminar Neo Lifetime Bundle $89.99
$682 Save $592.01 Get Deal What is Luminar Neo?

Luminar Neo is an easy-to-use photo editor that allows everyone to edit their photos with beginner and advanced tools.

What can Luminar Neo do?

Start with the bare-bone essentials like layers, masking, and local adjustments, then explore the AI-powered photo-editing tools:

• Enhance and retouch skin

• Replace skies

• Upscale image quality

• So, so much more

How much is Luminar Neo’s lifetime subscription?

For everything included in this lifetime bundle — the editing software, video training, and preset filters — you only have to pay $89.99 (regularly a $682 value).

What’s included with this purchase?

There are three components. One: The Luminar Neo photo editor, which is available for Windows, Mac, or as a plugin for Photoshop or Lightroom.

Two: A video training course on photo-editing techniques. You’ll learn how to modify your approach depending on which shots you’re working with, like cityscapes, forests, or portraits, while using Luminar Neo.

Three: Six packs of preset photo filters to use with the editor. With just one click, you can instantly transform your photos instead of manually editing them. Try out Frosty Winter or Wintertime, or something like Tender Blushing Skies or Tranquil Dawn Skies. 

Is Luminar Neo good for professionals?

For photographers who don’t want to spend time learning the intricacies of Photoshop, yes. You’ll have advanced tools, but the assistance of AI to fill in any knowledge gaps. Plus, this photo editor doesn’t require any subscription fees.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Learn something new daily with lifetime access to EDU Unlimited by StackSkills, now just $19.97 (reg. $600) for a little while longer.

Opens in a new window Credit: StackSkills EDU Unlimited by StackSkills: Lifetime Access $19.97
$600 Save $580.03 Get Deal

Who couldn't use more flexibility? Whether you're a student, a business owner, a freelancer, or a stay-at-home mom, being able to adapt things to your busy schedule is priceless. Online courses offer just that, letting you chip away at topics on your time. 

If you've been meaning to learn a new skill, dive deep into a topic, or make a total career change, EDU Unlimited by StackSkills is ready to help. And you can score lifetime access to this wealth of over 1,000 online courses for just $19.97 (reg. $600) if you purchase before supplies run out.

Lifetime learning that fits your busy schedule

Learning new things has never been more convenient in the digital age. Instead of heading back to the classroom, log onto StackSkills and start absorbing new content. Its easy-to-use interface and progress-tracking features make it easy to jump right in (and hop out if needed) without any deadlines or restrictions. 

With beginner to advanced course options, StackSkills is filled with more than 1,000 courses. Lifetime access puts them all at your fingertips, so starting a side hustle, earning a promotion, or switching to a totally new field is possible — and for less than the price of a textbook you'd need at a community college.  

There are courses on blockchain, iOS development, graphic design, finance, business, IT, marketing, and more. They're taught by over 350 highly-rated, elite instructors who are experts in their respective fields. 

Tackle as much or as little as you'd like with this lifetime access, which includes new courses added monthly. 

Learn for life with lifetime access to EDU Unlimited by StackSkills, now $19.97 (reg. $600) for a little while longer. Inventory is selling out!

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Play golf at home with your own clubs using the Phigolf Golf Simulator, only $89.97 for a little while longer.

Opens in a new window Credit: Phigolf Phigolf Home Golf Game Simulator Sensor & Generic Swing Stick Set (Open Box) $89.97
$199.99 Save $110.02 Get Deal

Love golf? You might be surprised how easy it is to take your favorite game home with you. Quality golf simulators used to be pretty expensive and take up a whole room in your house, but now you can hit 18 holes on your own TV with Phigolf. 

This home golf simulator has over 38,000 courses to play on, and you even have the option to play with your own clubs or the retractable Swing Stick. It feels like the real thing and even simulates the feeling of hitting a real ball. Instead of dropping $199, you can get Phigolf for just $89.97 — but we don't have many left in stock. 

A golf simulator everyone can enjoy

Phigolf World Tour Edition is part game, part training tool. The Smart Motion Sensor and 3D Data-Analysis System capture every detail of your swing, from tempo to club path, and provide real-time feedback. Whether you're practicing your drive, chipping onto the green, or fine-tuning your putts, this simulator could really help you improve. You can even analyze your swing with slow-motion playback to spot areas for adjustment.

If you’re feeling competitive, Phigolf lets you take on golfers from around the world. Play solo or go head-to-head in online matches and tournaments. You might even recognize some of the courses you get to play on. 

There are only a few days left to get your own Phigolf Home Golf Simulator on sale for just $89.97. Act now while supplies are still available.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, Max, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each one!

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand-new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of this week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're craving culinary excellence, crackling comedy, wild twists, zombie drama, unicorn carnage or an espionage thriller taut with sexual tension, we've got something just for you.

Here's what's new on streaming, from worst to best.

7. Conan O'Brien: The Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor

After successfully hosting the Academy Awards, Conan O'Brien was honored at the Kennedy Center's Mark Twain Prize for American Humor for his storied career and his signature blend of smarts and silliness. Of course, this honors ceremony is for comedians, by comedians. So alongside touching speeches, there's also a fair amount of roasting.

For those of us who couldn't make it into this epic event, Netflix is bringing the laughs directly to our homes with Conan O'Brien: The Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Alongside a slew of beloved comedians, the show also brings out classic characters from O'Brien's talk show, like Triumph the Insult Comic Dog and the masturbating bear. What more can you want? — Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko

Starring: Nikki Glaser, Will Ferrell, David Letterman, Kumail Nanjiani, Tracy Morgan, Adam Sandler, Andy Richter, Reggie Watts, Bill Burr, John Mulaney, Sarah Silverman, Stephen Colbert, Sean Evans, and Robert Smigel

How to watch: Conan O'Brien: The Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor debuts on Netflix on May 4.

6. The Walking Dead: Dead City, Season 2

If The Last of Us isn't satisfying your craving for post-apocalyptic, zombie-infested, serialized TV drama, then the return of The Walking Dead: Dead City will be a gruesome treat.

Season 1 of this Walking Dead spinoff series followed Maggie (Lauren Cohan) and Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) on her search for her kidnapped son Hershel (Logan Kim). But even after recovering him, their hardships are far from over. Separated from Negan, Maggie and Hershel must decide whether to risk their own lives to return to Manhattan, where Negan is being pressured to join a battle for power. Thankfully, he's got his trusty bat. It's going to be electrifying. — K.P.

Starring: Lauren Cohan, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Gaius Charles, Željko Ivanek, Mahina Napoleon, Lisa Emery, Logan Kim, Dascha Polanco, and Kim Coates

How to watch: The Walking Dead: Dead City, Season 2 premieres on on AMC and AMC+ on May 4.

5. Chef's Table: Legends

Can you believe it's been 10 years since the first season of Netflix's Chef's Table aired? We'll never forget when we first feasted on that sumptuous cinematography hovering over Massimo Bottura's "Oops I Dropped The Lemon Tart" in Modena's Osteria Francescana. Tipping a toque to seven seasons and five spinoffs over a decade, this latest installment is all about legends. We're talking Jamie Oliver, José Andrés, Alice Waters, and Thomas Keller. Settle in for a bit of pukka tukka, truly decadent shots of extraordinary dishes, and personal stories of culinary success. — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

Starring: Jamie Oliver, José Andrés, Alice Waters, and Thomas Keller

How to watch: Chef's Table: Legends is now streaming on Netflix.

4. Carême

The Bear Season 4 may not be out yet, but Hot Chef Summer is already here thanks to Carême. This French-language drama follows legendary real-life chef Marie-Antoine Carême (Benjamin Voisin), a charismatic pastry genius whose skills land him a job working in Napoleon's kitchens. But cooking isn't the only thing Carême is doing. In order to help his imprisoned father, Carême becomes a spy within the Tuileries Palace, plying his targets with food and sex in order to get what he needs. Carême serves up a sumptuous tale of espionage, lust, and patisserie, and the result is nothing less than a treat for the senses. — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Benjamin Voisin, Lyna Khoudri, Jérémie Renier, and Alice Da Luz

How to watch: Carême is now streaming on Apple TV+.

3. The Four Seasons

Tina Fey reimagines Alan Alda's 1981 film The Four Seasons in this Netflix miniseries about three couples who take seasonal vacations together. As the group travels from eco resorts to ski lodges, the series charts the ever-changing dynamic between them, including the huge shift that occurs when Nick (Steve Carell) leaves his wife Anne (Kerri Kenney-Silver) and begins dating the much younger Ginny (Erika Henningsen).

The Four Seasons' cast alone makes it worth the watch. Who doesn't want to watch Fey, Carell, Will Forte, and Colman Domingo take gorgeous vacations together? But The Four Seasons is more than just a hilarious, breezy summer binge. (Although it certainly fits that bill, too.) Instead, it raises poignant questions about marriage and friendship, and the work that is needed to maintain both over time. As I wrote in my review, "It's the substance that sneaks up on you that really makes The Four Seasons a winner, even if it's a slower burn from the jump." — B.E.

Starring: Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Colman Domingo, Marco Calvani, Kerri Kenney-Silver, Will Forte, and Erika Henningsen

How to watch: The Four Seasons is now streaming on Netflix.

3. Death of a Unicorn

Want something wacky, weird, and splashed with mythical violence? Then you'll treasure A24's Death of a Unicorn.

SEE ALSO: 'Death of a Unicorn' review: A24's fantastical monster parable is rich in laughs and gore

The directorial debut of writer/helmer Alex Scharfman, this fantasy-action-comedy stars Paul Rudd as a meek dad trying to balance the whims of his demanding clients — a family of Big Pharma billionaires — while also rebuilding the strained relationship with his college-focused daughter (Jenna Ortega). But when this fractured family accidentally kills a baby unicorn, what should have been a weekend getaway with a side of business becomes a life-or-death struggle against homicidal, horn-headed horses. A bit wonky, but overall, Death of a Unicorn is a wild time.

Starring: Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Will Poulter, Téa Leoni, and Richard E. Grant

How to watch: Death of a Unicorn is now available for rent or purchase on Prime Video.

2. Another Simple Favor

Leading ladies Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively reunite with director Paul Feig to serve up a splashy sequel to the funny thriller A Simple Favor. Set five years after the first film, Another Simple Favor reveals single mom Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) has gone from vlogging to true crime memoirist, but her book tour gets a major boost when her near-fatal frenemy Emily Nelson (Lively) is sprung from prison and bound to be wed in Capri. Naturally, this femme fatale wants her former bestie to be her maid of honor. What could go wrong?

In Mashable's SXSW review of Another Simple Favor, I cheered the zany premise and all the wild twists it brings. "Like Emily Nelson, Another Simple Favor is a shapeshifting creature, transforming in tone moment to moment to revel in biting humor, relish in mob drama, plunge into the delicious depths of mad women in the psycho-biddy subgenre, and showcase fashion, telling, sensational, and shocking." It mostly works, and it's undoubtedly a good time. So raise a martini glass, and cheers to the bride!* — K.P.

Starring: Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, Ian Ho, Michele Morrone, Elena Sofia Ricci, Elizabeth Perkins, Alex Newell, and Allison Janney

How to watch: Another Simple Favor is now streaming on Prime Video.

1. Black Bag

Spy thriller Black Bag is coming to Peacock, so you can watch Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender go head-to-head as married British intelligence agents from the comfort of your couch. Director Steven Soderbergh and screenwriter David Koepp's espionage thriller sees the stars as Kathryn and George Woodhouse, whose bond is tested when there's suspicion of treason afoot.

"As they have with the psychological thriller Kimi and the mysterious haunted house movie Presence, this terrific pairing of writer and director has cherry-picked elements of a genre, without submitting to its expectations," Mashable's Kristy Puchko wrote in her review. "In this case, Black Bag will satisfy spy fans who demand a cast of suave rogues, sexual allure, intense interrogations, exotic globe-trekking, dubious allies, and a powerful MacGuffin that must be kept out of dangerous hands." — S.C.

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Michael Fassbender, Pierce Brosnan, Marisa Abela, Naomie Harris, Regé-Jean Page, and Tom Burke

How to watch: Black Bag begins streaming on Peacock on May 2.

TL;DR: With grocery prices still climbing — the price of eggs has jumped nearly 20% — and everyday essentials putting a dent in your wallet, it’s more important than ever to shop smart. If you're tired of hopping between Aldi, Target, and other shops just to find the best deals, it might be time to join BJ’s Wholesale Club for just $20.

Opens in a new window Credit: BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. $20 for a 1-year The Club Card Membership $20
$60 Save $40 with BJ’s Easy Renewal Get Deal

You might be glad you waited to grab a BJ's membership, since the Club Card membership is now only $20 (reg. $60) — but only for two more days. You'll be able to enjoy an entire year of savings, perks, and convenience.

BJ’s isn’t just about bulk deals, though you’ll find plenty of those. Members can save up to 25% off grocery store prices, which is a game changer since inflation is making even the basics feel like a splurge. You’ll also find top national brands at wholesale prices, from snacks and fresh produce to cleaning supplies and pet food.

Beyond groceries, your BJ's membership also unlocks exclusive deals on furniture, electronics, home goods, and even holiday decor. You can even enjoy extra member services, BJ’s Home Improvement, Optical, Tire Center, and Travel services, plus everyday low gas prices. Another bonus? BJ’s is one of the few wholesale clubs that accepts manufacturer coupons, and you can stack them with BJ’s own coupons for even deeper discounts.

BJ's isn't just about finding better bang for your buck — you'll be able to enjoy incredible convenience since this wholesale shop offers shopping features like ExpressPay to skip the line, Curbside Pickup to avoid crowds, and even same-day delivery on select items.

Whether you're stocking up the fridge for your family or simply want to minimize your shopping trips, BJ’s can help stretch your budget further.

You have until May 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT to join BJ’s with this one-year The Club Card membership, now just $20 while supplies last.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

In the summer of 1995, Robert Williams, then director of the Space Telescope Science Institute, which manages the Hubble Space Telescope's research program, was paid two visits by the renowned astronomer John Bahcall, considered one of Hubble's founding fathers.

Bahcall had, in hindsight, a strange request.

He urged Williams not to train the powerful NASA telescope into an uncharted region of space, where the school bus-sized observatory would stare for days in an attempt to observe profoundly distant, never-before-seen galaxies. It was a proposed endeavor to capture an unprecedented "deep field" view of the cosmos, allowing humanity to look back billions of years, near the dawn of time.

Though Bahcall believed Hubble would make many astronomical advances, he didn't think it would observe any new, undiscovered galaxies — even in its lofty position above Earth's image-distorting atmosphere. Crucially, a failed attempt would bring more shame to a telescope that was already an orbiting object of ridicule: After launching in 1990, a flawed mirror captured blurry images in what was then the most expensive science project in history, requiring astronauts to visit Hubble and install a refrigerator-sized instrument to act as Hubble's "correcting eyeglasses."

So Williams knew the deep field was indeed a risk. Still, he told Bahcall he was compelled to take it.

"I told him that I'm willing to fall on my sword," Williams told Mashable.

SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.

Soon after those meetings, Williams directed Hubble — which, in April 2025, celebrated its 35-year anniversary of launching — to peer at a seemingly empty patch of space for 10 straight days. The space telescope beamed home iconic imagery, a "cosmic zoo" of some 3,000 galaxies. It changed everything.

"It was mind-blowing," Jennifer Wiseman, a postdoctoral researcher at the time, today the Hubble Space Telescope's senior project scientist, told Mashable. "To actually see thousands of smudges of light — and now we know each of them can contain billions to hundreds of billions of stars and planetary systems — is a feast for the mind."

"It was mind-blowing."

Behold, the central portion of the first Hubble Deep Field. This is a view from a patch of sky the size of a grain of sand held at arm's length.

The central portion of the Hubble Deep Field, captured between Dec. 18 and 28, 1995. Credit: NASA / Robert Williams / Hubble Deep Field Team (STScI) The endeavor to capture Hubble's Deep Field

The year NASA first landed astronauts on the moon, 1969, was when the first real rumblings of a space telescope began. That year, the National Academy of Sciences published a report called "Scientific Uses of the Large Space Telescope." In the mid-'70s the idea progressed, and by 1977 Congress had approved the first funding for the "Large Space Telescope project," amounting to $36 million. The very next year, work began on Hubble's nearly eight-foot mirror. By 1983, the developing telescope was named for astronomer Edwin Hubble — the scientist who discovered that innumerable galaxies exist in space beyond our Milky Way.

But the same year Hubble launched, in 1990, the astronomer Bahcall released a prominent paper that concluded, in no uncertain terms, "We do not expect HST to reveal a new population of galaxies."

"That really got me worried," Ray Villard, the Hubble Space Telescope news chief who has worked on the mission for decades, told Mashable.

It was worrying that Hubble — decades in planning and at a steep cost — might not break through the galactic boundaries of Earth-based observatories, Villard explained. That would be hard to explain to the public.

"Someone has to try it."

Why might Bahcall, a prominent advocate for the mission, have such dampened hopes? Before launching, Bahcall and other astronomers sought to simulate what Hubble would see, Williams explained. The calculations were complicated, and they required some assumptions, one of which was that galaxies had relatively smooth levels of brightness across their surfaces. But, in fact, they don't. Most galaxies have regions of robust star formation that create luminous areas, allowing powerful telescopes like Hubble to observe them at profound distances. Bahcall's calculations, however, concluded that Hubble was not likely to resolve such distant galaxies.

By 1995, these discouraging expectations were amplified by a hostile cultural climate. Hubble required a Space Shuttle repair mission costing over $1 billion to remedy its blurry cosmic images. "The telescope had become a big joke," Williams said. "Political cartoons lambasted NASA." What's more, if Hubble failed to view farther into space than land-based telescopes, the federal government — the primary financial patron for astronomy — would almost certainly decrease funding for Hubble and reject another such project, at least anytime soon. But Williams, quite simply, swung for the fences.

"If you want to make discoveries, one must take risks," he said. "Someone has to try it."

In April 1990, a crew of five astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle deployed the Hubble Space Telescope into orbit. Credit: NASA Astronauts installing the Corrective Optics Space Telescope Axial Replacement on the Hubble Space Telescope in 1993. Credit: NASA

Even picking a deep field target was a contested issue. Williams wanted to observe a black, largely blank field of space, to avoid a known or prominent object dominating the image. The majority of Hubble's advisory committee disagreed, thinking it was too risky to choose an uncharted region of space. "That was a big debate," Williams recalled. But, as director, Williams had a card to play, known as "Director's Discretionary Time," which can be used relatively sparingly to bypass a long review process.

He played the card. Months later, Hubble viewed a seemingly empty part of space near the handle of the Big Dipper.

Thousands of galaxies popped up in a previously black ether. Where previously ground-based telescopes took humanity about halfway across the universe, Hubble's first deep field took us most of the way, some 12 billion miles (the universe is about 13.7 billion years old).

"Hubble opened up an undiscovered country," Villard marveled.

When the Space Telescope Science Institute revealed the Hubble Deep Field to the public, it was difficult to contain the anticipation. The institute made a 10-foot poster of the cosmic vista, and covered it up for a great unveiling. "People kept peeking under the sheet," Villard said.

The full view of 1995's Hubble Deep Field, comprising 342 exposures. Credit: R. Williams (STScI) / the Hubble Deep Field Team / NASA / ESA The Deep Field was just the beginning

Thirty years later, the deep field's impact hasn't faded.

"Hubble is the first to open our eyes to the full richness of the universe, especially through cosmic time," Wiseman, Hubble's senior project scientist, said.

Crucially, the aging telescope is enabling new and innovative science, including complementary studies with other observatories. "Hubble is actually more scientifically productive now than ever before," Wiseman emphasized, noting the number of scientific papers based on Hubble data is at a record high. Astronomers have used Hubble to detect a rogue black hole, scrutinize the expansion of the universe, advance our grasp of galactic evolution, detect atmospheres on distant exoplanets, and beyond.

Hubble's Deep Field also showed us what to strive for. "Hubble baked the cake," Villard said. Now, powerful observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope, designed to peer beyond Hubble's view, are the frosting.

"Hubble baked the cake."

"We wouldn't even know it was worth looking if it weren't for Hubble's Deep Field," Wiseman said. Webb has now peered back at galaxies formed just some 300 million years after the Big Bang.

More Hubble deep fields followed the 1995 success. And numerous astronaut servicing missions improved the telescope's cosmic-viewing abilities. In 2002, astronauts installed the Advanced Camera for Surveys, or ACS, providing even sharper images. That year, Hubble captured an image of the warped "Tadpole Galaxy," backed by a pond of thousands of diverse galaxies.

"My jaw dropped," Villard said of the 2002 view. "I don't want to get religious, but it was almost god-like vision."

The Tadpole Galaxy as viewed by the Hubble Space Telescope in 2002. Credit: NASA / H. Ford (JHU) / G. Illingworth (UCSC/LO) / M.Clampin (STScI) / G. Hartig (STScI) / the ACS Science Team / ESA; The ACS Science Team: H. Ford, G. Illingworth, M. Clampin, G. Hartig, T. Allen, K. Anderson, F. Bartko, N. Benitez, J. Blakeslee, R. Bouwens, T. Broadhurst, R. Brown, C. Burrows, D. Campbell, E. Cheng, N. Cross, P. Feldman, M. Franx, D. Golimowski, C. Gronwall, R. Kimble, J. Krist, M. Lesser, D. Magee, A. Martel, W. J. McCann, G. Meurer, G. Miley, M. Postman, P. Rosati, M. Sirianni, W. Sparks, P. Sullivan, H. Tran, Z. Tsvetanov, R. White, and R. Woodruff A graphic showing how far Hubble Deep Fields viewed back in time. The bottom row shows the James Webb Space Telescope, which launched in December 2021. Credit: NASA / ESA

Decades later, the view Williams risked Hubble's public credibility for, and his own, evokes in him the same feeling he gets when peering at the cosmos atop a mountain on a starry, moonless night.

"I am overcome," Williams said.

Staring deeply into the Hubble Deep Field is peering far into cosmic history, a look at these far-off galaxies as they existed billions of years ago. But it's also where we came from, as ancient exploding stars birthed the ingredients for new stars and dispersed the essential ingredients, like the iron in our blood, throughout new realms of the universe. If you look deeply, you're looking at yourself, too.

"We're looking at our origins," Williams said.

SAVE $70: As of May 1, the Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro is on sale for $199.95 at Amazon. That's a 26% saving on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: BISSELL Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro $199.95 at Amazon
$269.99 Save $70.04 Get Deal

We love our pets, but it's not tough to admit that we don't love the mess they leave behind, especially on your carpets and soft furnishings. Balls of fluff embedded into rugs, floating strands of hair landing here, there, and everywhere, and of course, muddy paw prints that have you scrubbing on your hands and knees.

This is why you need a good pet vacuum, and we've found just the deal at Amazon. As of May 1, you can pick up the Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro vacuum for under $200, currently priced at $199.95. For this price you will receive the vacuum as well as two tangle-free brush rolls, two pet-friendly multi-surface formulas, and a rinse and clean out storage tray.

SEE ALSO: The Eufy X10 Pro Omni robot vacuum is back down to its lowest-ever price

Not only does it vacuum and pick up hair with ease, it washes your floors at the same time. It can work across everything from rugs and vinyl to sealed wood and tile with the two-tank system that keeps clean and dirty water separate. For tough, long pet hairs, the tangle-free brush roll helps stop them from getting wrapped around rollers. And a built-in strainer even catches larger debris to help keep your sink clear when emptying.

And every purchase of a Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro vacuum saves an animal. The Bissell Pet Foundation works to help save homeless pets.

This is a limited-time deal from Amazon, so act fast to save big.

SAVE $80: As of May 1, the RENPHO Shiatsu Foot Massager is on sale for $149.97 at Amazon. That's a 35% saving on the list price. And for a limited time, get an extra $20 off with an on-site coupon.

Opens in a new window Credit: RENPHO RENPHO Shiatsu Foot Massager $149.97 at Amazon
$229.97 Save $80 Get Deal

Mother's Day is just around the corner, so why not treat mom to some relaxation with this incredible RENPHO Shiatsu Foot Massager deal at Amazon? It was even our top pick for foot massagers.

As of May 1, you can save $80 on list price and get it for just $149.97. But that's not all, for a limited time you can save another $20 off the price with an on-site coupon. Just click the orange coupon box below the price, and see your additional discount applied at the checkout. With both these discounts, this foot massager is just $129.97.

SEE ALSO: Amazon deal of the day: Our favorite budget earbuds are on sale for under $65

This is a great gift to give, especially for Mother's Day. It uses a combination of rotating balls, rolling sticks, and gentle heat to mimic the feel of a deep shiatsu massage, perfect for relaxing after a long day on your feet. With three kneading and three air compression levels, it’s easy to adjust to your preference. And if mobility restrictions are an issue, the intuitive foot-controlled panel means there’s no need to bend down to turn it on.

The foot chambers are roomy and lined with removable, washable cloth covers to keep it clean. It’s FSA and HSA eligible, too.

Get this deal in time for Mother's Day at Amazon.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, May 1, 2025:

AcrossQuestion that looks like today's date

• The answer is MayI.

Marvel's "The Avengers," e.g.

• The answer is Comic.

Bring to mind

• The answer is Evoke.

Like notebook paper

• The answer is Lined.

An Australian millipede holds the record for the most in the animal kingdom, at 1,306

• The answer is Legs.

DownMarvel's "The Avengers," e.g.

• The answer is Movie.

Surrounded by

• The answer is Among.

"That is not good!"

• The answer is Yikes.

Like some coffee orders

• The answer is Iced.

Where to find ribosomes and mitochondria

• The answer is Cell.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: To put up with

• Green: Team mascots

• Blue: They share a first name

• Purple: Where you'd watch a hockey game

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Endure

• Green: NWSL teams

• Blue: Joshes

• Purple: First words of NHL arena names

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #220 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Endure- OVERCOME, SURVIVE, WEATHER, WITHSTAND

• NWSL teams - CURRENT, PRIDE, SPIRIT, WAVE

• Joshes - ALLEN, GIBSON, HART, JACOBS

• First words of NHL arena names- AMALIE, BELL, CLIMATE, SCOTIABANK

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A spy.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

NINJA

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Unsteady.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for May 1, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

SHAKY

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Specialty.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 1 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for May 1, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

FORTE

Hurdle Word 4 hint

The opposite of best.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for April 29 Hurdle Word 4 answer

WORST

Final Hurdle hint

Vague.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

FAINT

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for May 1 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for May 1, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

To be really good at something.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter A.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

ADEPT.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for May 1

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.