Mashable

Even the most devoted comedy nerd may not realize how many truly iconic comedies of past and present might never have existed if it weren't for a single theatrical production. Everything from Only Murders in the Building and Schitt's Creek to SCTV and Saturday Night Live can be linked back to a 1972 Toronto production of Godspell, which boasted such not-yet-famous performers as Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Gilda Radner, Victor Garber, Andrea Martin, Dave Thomas, Jayne Eastwood, and Paul Shaffer. 

Incredibly, over its much raved about (and protested) 14-month run, not a soul thought to video record this production for posterity. So, 53 years later, documentarian Nick Davis aims to bring us back to this pivotal time and place with the preposterously and perfectly titled You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution, Spread Love & Overalls, and Created a Community That Changed the World (in a Canadian Kind of Way). 

For the sake of brevity (and sanity), we'll refer to the film simply as You Had to Be There going forward. As in, You Had to Be There is so stuffed with interviews with comedy icons, remarkable anecdotes, and cheeky revelations that it's manna from heaven for comedy nerds. 

You Had to Be There has an incredible obstacle and even more incredible interviews. 

With a dismaying dearth of footage of the show itself, Davis instead relies on a two-pronged approach to usher audiences down memory lane for a bevy of comedy legends. First off, he offers interviews with much of the cast from the show's run, including Short, Levy, Thomas, Garber, Martin, Eastwood, Shaffer, Avril Chown, Don Scardino, Valda Aviks, and Rudy Webb. 

Many of them are now in their 70s, and they have the refreshing give-no-fucks air that is perfect for documentaries, looking back with fondness and candor to a time when everything felt possible — and vaguely terrifying because of that. Davis' thoughtful collection of interviews takes us back to 1972 Toronto, where the stuffy culture of the Canadian city was set alight with the arguably sacrilegious clown show that was Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak's Godspell, a musical that depicted the story of Jesus Christ through parables and willfully silly theatrics.  

Short, who laid out a lot of this history in his addictive memoir, I Must Say: My Life as a Humble Comedy Legend, proves an especially great interview, in part because of his lifelong dedication to keeping records of his work. However, You Had to Be There is most fun when the cut leaps from one individual interview to another, creating the sense that we're at a dinner party with some of the coolest people on the planet — recounting a party we weren't invited to. It's enchanting and bittersweet, especially as they talk about those who can't join the fun anymore, like Gilda Radner. 

You Had to Be There is a movie for comedy lovers by comedy lovers, which means Davis won't spend extra screen time reminding audiences who his subjects are, or what they suffered. The expectation is that you know the broad strokes.

Radner's friends remember her, warts and all, but warmly, putting forth chiefly that even when she struggled with disordered eating and terminal cancer, she was a light for all around her. (For more — and and more complicated — stories of Radner, do read Martin's book, as they dated for years and remained close for decades after.) 

For a greater sense of history beyond the personal, Davis invites some famous faces inspired by these groundbreakers for interviews. These talking heads include Lin-Manuel Miranda, Janeane Garofalo, Heidi Garner, and Mike Myers. This works to swiftly pave a path of legacy and brings some added star power without derailing the narrative.

You Had to Be There employs animation to fill the gaps. 

With little footage from the troupe's time in Toronto to pull from, Davis opts for animation in reenactments. This way, the audience won't be distracted by how well other actors are playing or impersonating modern comedy icons. By favoring a style of animation that's reminiscent of '70s cartoons like Schoolhouse Rock! and Scooby-Doo, Davis gifts us visuals that emotionally and artistically tie back to this era and its sense of free-love, optimism, and creative moxie.

Animators thoughtfully recreate the costumes from '72's Godspell, documented in promotional photos, and create caricatures of the twentysomething theater kids. This animation enhances the mischievous tone of many of the interviews. For instance, there's one story about how Levy's chest hair became a problem for producers, who feared a hirsute Jesus would be inappropriate for kids in the audience. (Remember how we noted 1972 Toronto was stuffy?) Well, as Short and Levy set up the story — one giddy, the other wry — the reveal of the compromise is illustrated through the cartoon as a sensationally silly punchline. 

You Had to Be There gets serious, too.

Of course, looking back not only on this production but on 50-some years in show business, not all the stories are funny. Props to Davis, who gives voice to one player in particular, actress/singer Avril Chown. She uses this platform to finally share her story, which includes a harrowing tale of abuse that came after Godspell's cast had taken their final bow. Before she recounts her heartbreaking experience, she asks simply, "How much blood do you want to give for something you love?"

Rather than feeling exploitative or like a tangent, this sequence provides a counterbalance to the more convivial stories of showbiz. Because of course, clowns make us laugh, but sometimes they cry. To show only one side of this would be to sanitize comedians, actors, and performers who built their careers and legacies on taking risks. 

Simply put, You Had to Be There gifts audiences plenty of laughs, and so much more. This is not some fluffy celebration of comedians or even Godspell. Davis and company have come together to craft a documentary that is both informative, historical, entertaining, and deeply humane.

These stars let us into this time of their lives in such a sublimely personal way that by the film's final revelation — a long lost clip of one song's performance —  the audience gasps with excitement — just as its subjects do. The most incredible thing about You Had to Be There is that this film makes you feel like you were there, and these friends are your friends too. 

How to watch: You Had to Be There opens in NY theaters on Sept. 18 and nationwide on Sept. 25.

UPDATE: Sep. 17, 2026, 9:52 a.m. You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution, Spread Love & Overalls, and Created a Community That Changed the World (in a Canadian Kind of Way) was reviewed out its world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. This review has been republished to toast its theatrical debut.

SAVE $100: As of Sept. 18, the 13-inch MacBook Air M5 is on sale for $1,449 at Amazon. That's a 9% discount on the list price.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple MacBook Air M5 $1,449 at Amazon
$1,599 Save $150   Get Deal

Apple's newest MacBook Air is on sale at Amazon for a limited time, with $100 off the list price. That's welcome news in the wake of Apple price bumps.

As of Sept. 18, the 13-inch model is down to $1,449 across all four colorways. This is for the 16GB option without AppleCare+, but you can pay extra to include three years of coverage.

This model is one of Apple's best. In fact, the 15-inch model made our list of the best laptops for 2026.

There are many reasons we love this MacBook. The M5-powered Air is designed to handle everything from everyday browsing and office work to more demanding creative tasks. The M5 chip is what makes it so impressive, giving you a faster CPU, unified memory, a Neural Engine, and a GPU with Neural Accelerators for AI workloads. Apple Intelligence is also supported.

The battery life is rated for up to 18 hours, so you're set for working all day away from a power outlet. More than one day, even. And if you take lots of video calls, you'll appreciate the 12MP Center Stage camera, three-microphone setup, and four speakers with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

If you've been waiting for a discount on the MacBook Air M5, don't miss out on this deal.

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is on sale for $83.44 at Amazon — provided your invite request is accepted.

Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box $83.44 at Amazon
  Shop Now

The Pokémon TCG’s 30th anniversary expansion finally arrived on Sept. 16, and you can now score the Elite Trainer Box for below market price. Amazon has knocked a few more dollars off its already competitive preorder price, although actually buying something still depends on getting through the retailer’s invite system. 

As of Sept. 18, the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box is $83.44 at Amazon. It’s shipped and sold directly by Amazon.

This is essentially a second price drop, since its current list price matches its previous sale price after being reduced from $200+ last week, and it is far lower than its current TCGplayer market price of $168.03.

There is still no guarantee you’ll actually get one, however. Because this is a high-demand item, Amazon requires potential buyers to submit an invitation request via its "request invite" button rather than checking out normally. If you are randomly selected, you’ll then get an email letting you know that you’re now able to buy Pokémon’s 30th Celebration ETB for a limited time (usually 24 hours). Amazon won’t be able to grant every request, but yours will be kept on file for the foreseeable future, so you could receive an invitation after a potential restock. 

Inside the Elite Trainer Box are nine titular Pokémon 30th Celebration boosters, a full-art foil Nidorina promo, 16 foil Basic Energy cards, 65 sleeves, dice, a coin, dividers, a player’s guide, and a Pokémon TCG Live code. 

If your priority is just getting one of these boxes right now rather than the cheapest deal possible, Pokémon’s 30th Celebration ETBs are readily available to buy right now for $167.94 at TCGplayer — much more expensive than Amazon, but still under market price. If there are any chase cards you’re after from this special anniversary expansion, including the $1,800 Mew ex, single Pokémon 30th Celebration cards are also available to shop at TCGplayer. 

TL;DR: The Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration expansion has finally launched. A lot of product is already available to buy on Amazon and other top retailers, including the under-market-price deal for the Elite Trainer Box — still sold on Amazon for $83.44 per invite request.

The Pokémon 30th Celebration collection is causing a stir in the trading card game market. We've all been waiting impatiently for this one, and there's now more to buy compared to when Pitch Black and Chaos Rising launched. That's great news for collectors.

This expansion is incredibly special, with not only historic reprints (like the classic Charizard), but also special SIRs, and a rare Pikachu card in every booster pack. It's worth noting that only some products in the range are available to buy right away. Others are being made available later this year. 

With that, we've tracked down every available box, pack, blister, and collection you can immediately buy from the Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration. Plus, we've listed what you can already preorder for later in 2026.

Best Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration deal Opens in a new window Credit: The Pokémon Company Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box $83.44 at Amazon
  Shop Now Why we like it

The 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box officially launched on Sept. 16, but Amazon's $83.44 invite-only offer is still the price to beat. It takes a decent chunk off the market price, provided Amazon approves your request to buy.

Oddly, this is the only product from the 30th Celebration range to be added to Amazon’s high-demand, invite-only system. That may be because the U.S. retailer is testing the waters to gauge the impression it leaves with American customers. This system has been widely used on Amazon UK for the Pokémon TCG.

Amazon’s deal makes this the best place to buy readily available 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Boxes. TCGplayer's lowest current ETB listing is $150 plus $2.25 shipping, while Walmart has the box at $159.95.

Inside are nine 30th Celebration booster packs, a full-art foil Nidorina promo, 16 foil Basic Energy cards, 65 card sleeves, a player's guide, six damage-counter dice, a competition-legal coin-flip die, a plastic coin, a collector's box with dividers, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card.

Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration products you can buy right now 

The ETB isn't the only product launching on Sept. 16. Amazon has several other main collections available, while TCGplayer currently offers several products that aren't as easy to find elsewhere. Prices below are as of Sept. 16:

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Pokémon ex Box — four booster packs, one foil Sylveon ex or Greninja ex promo card, and an oversize foil version of the same Pokémon

  TCGplayer — Greninja ex from $67.32; Sylveon ex from $76.82

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Poster Collection — three booster packs, foil Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres promos, plus a double-sided poster

  TCGplayer — $43.69

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Tech Sticker Collection Lucario — three booster packs, Lucario foil promo card, and tech sticker sheet

  Amazon — $49.99

  TCGplayer — $42.99

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Tech Sticker Collection Alolan Exeggutor — three booster packs, Alolan Exeggutor foil promo card, and tech sticker sheet

  Amazon — $49.99

  TCGplayer — $42.99

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration 2-Pack Blister — two booster packs, an Eevee foil promo, and a plastic coin 

  TCGplayer — $47.69 

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Knock Out Collection — two booster packs, an Eevee foil promo card, and a plastic coin 

  Amazon — $37.99

  TCGplayer — $29.97 

• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration single booster pack — six foil cards in total, with the set guaranteeing a Pikachu rare in every pack

  TCGplayer — $18.97

Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration products you can preorder

Launch day is only the first part of Pokémon’s 30th Celebration rollout, with more products on the way. Several already have preorder listings live. Amazon doesn't have a matching listing for everything, so TCGplayer and Walmart fill some of the gaps below.

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Booster Bundle (early October) — six 30th Celebration booster packs

  Amazon — $136.75

  TCGplayer — $114.94

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Mini Tin (Oct. 2) — two booster packs, a sticker sheet, a collectible art card, and a Pokémon TCG Live code card

  Amazon — $71.68

  Walmart — $69.95

  TCGplayer — from $46.25; $354.06 for a 10-tin display, containing one of each design

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Binder Collection (early October) — five booster packs and a themed nine-pocket binder

  TCGplayer — $85.75

  Walmart — $136.99

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Battle Deck (Oct. 30) — an all-foil 60-card Espeon ex or Umbreon ex deck, damage counters, plastic coin, deck box, double-sided playmat and strategy sheet, and an online code card

  TCGplayer — Umbreon ex for $51.18

  Walmart — Espeon ex for $48.99

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Ditto Premium Collection (Nov. 6) — eight booster packs, a Ditto promo card, and an acrylic display for showing off that card or another pull from the set

  Walmart — $248.99

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Figure Collection (Nov. 6) — five booster packs, a foil promo and oversize foil card featuring either Mew or Mewtwo, plus a sculpted figure of the same Pokémon

  TCGplayer — Mewtwo for $96.60; Mew for $124.91

  Walmart — Mewtwo for $99.98; Mew for $194.49

• Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Ultra-Premium Collection (Nov. 6) — Pikachu and Espeon ex foil promos, 29 standard 30th Celebration boosters, one Classic Collection booster, a playmat, 65 sleeves, deck box, metal Espeon coin, dice, acrylic card display, and TCG Live code

  TCGplayer — $604.32

  Walmart — $548.99

SAVE $10: Through Sept. 27, you can get your first month of the Fox One streaming service for just $9.99 instead of $19.99 by signing up through Prime Video. That's 50% off the typical monthly rate.

Opens in a new window Credit: Fox One Fox One (Prime Video add-on) $9.99 for 1 months (save 50%) Get Deal

Navigating the complex world of live sports streaming is both an art and a science. Not only does it require an extensive lineup of streaming services, but it also requires a whole lot of money. For those who don't have an unlimited budget, saving a few bucks where you can is essential. Enter the latest Fox One streaming deal.

Live now through Sept. 27, Prime Video subscribers (Prime members) can add Fox One to their streaming lineup for the month for only $9.99 instead of the typical $19.99. That's 50% or $10 in savings. A Prime Video add-on works the same way as a classic streaming subscription, except that you'll be billed through your Prime account, and you can access Fox One directly through the Prime Video app.

SEE ALSO: How to watch the NFL online for free

While it's only been around a year, Fox One has quickly become a main pillar in the sports streaming world — particularly for football. It gives cord-cutters live access to Sunday afternoon NFL games on the network, as well as Big Ten college football matchups and plenty of national Fox broadcasts.

After your discounted month of streaming, the price will jump back up, and you'll have to figure out another way to save (I believe in you), but one month will get you access to a surprising number of games. This weekend alone would grant you access to the Texas Tech vs. Houston matchup on Friday night, then Big Noon Kickoff Saturday, followed by Ohio State vs. Kent State, Utah vs. Utah State, and Northwestern vs. Colorado. Sunday, you'll be able to watch the in-network NFL games on Fox (depending on your region).

When you're not watching live sports, Fox One also gives you access to your local Fox station and Fox Entertainment on demand, including movies, TV shows (like MasterChef and The Simpsons), and more. For less than $10, your next month of streaming just got a whole lot more exciting.

TL;DR: Watch Monaco vs. Lens in the Ligue 1 for free on CazéTV. Access this free livestream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Ligue 1 action continues as top-of-the-table contenders Monaco host Lens.

It's been a really strong start to the season for Monaco. They've picked up three wins and a draw from their first four games, and are only being kept off the top spot by goal difference. Lens haven't won a game since their season opener. Can they upset the in-form Monaco?

If you're interested in watching Monaco vs. Lens in the Ligue 1 from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Monaco vs. Lens?

Monaco vs. Lens in the Ligue 1 kicks off at 2.45 p.m. ET on Sept. 18. This fixture takes place at the Stade Louis II.

How to watch Monaco vs. Lens for free

Monaco vs. Lens in the Ligue 1 is available to live stream for free on CazéTV.

CazéTV is geo-restricted to Brazil, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Brazil, meaning you can live stream Monaco vs. Lens for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Monaco vs. Lens for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Brazil

4. Visit CazéTV

5. Watch Monaco vs. Lens for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Monaco vs. Lens without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture (plus Premier League action) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for Ligue 1?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on CazéTV, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries, including Brazil

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices, including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Monaco vs. Lens for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

There are food celebrations taking place every week. Not so long ago, we had National French Fry Day and National Hot Dog Day. Earlier this week, we had National Guacamole Day. They're not all bangers, but National Cheeseburger Day? This is big.

All the big players are jumping on National Cheeseburger Day. We're seeing limited-time offers and freebies from the likes of Five Guys, McDonald’s, Burger King, and Smashburger. We don't know if you had big plans for this weekend, but you do now. It's time to indulge your passion.

National Cheeseburger Day takes place on Sept. 18. We've lined up our favorite offers to help you make the most of this special occasion.

Applebee’s

Grab a Classic Burger or Classic Cheeseburger with fries for $8.99 (dine-in or to-go).

Bad Daddy's Burger Bar

Get a Jalapeño Business burger with a classic side for $10 (dine-in only).

Big Buns

Get 50% off the Classic Burger with Cheese. This offer is exclusive to members of its Thompson Table Rewards loyalty program.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

On National Cheeseburger Day, get an All American Smash Burger with a choice of personal-size signature Pizookie for only $13.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Buy one burger, get a second burger of equal or lesser value free on National Cheeseburger Day.

Burger King

Royal Perks members can claim a free Bacon Cheeseburger with a $3 minimum purchase in the BK app on Sept. 18.

Dairy Queen

Get a free single Original Cheeseburger Stackburger with any $1+ app order running through Sept. 18.

Dog Haus

Get a Cheeseburger with your Dog Haus Rewards account to score a free cheeseburger for a future visit.

Five Guys

Buy any burger and get a second burger for free with the promo code BOGOBURGER in the Five Guys app or on the website.

Grubhub

Grubhub has canceled delivery and service fees on restaurant orders of $50+ on Sept. 18. You can also score these deals from favorite brands:

• Burger King: Buy one Whopper Jr., get one free on Sept. 18

• Outback: Get 20% off your order of $55+ through Sept. 20

• Wendy’s: Get a free Baconator on orders of $20+ on Sept. 18.

Hardee's

On Sept. 18, members of the My Rewards loyalty program can buy one Famous Star cheeseburger and get one for free.

McDonald’s

Score a free Double Cheeseburger with any $1 minimum in-app purchase for MyMcDonald’s Rewards members on Sept. 18.

Shake Shack

Score a $5 single ShackBurger or single Cheeseburger with any purchase. To qualify, use the code BURGERDAY in the Shack App, on the website, and at in-store kiosks.

Smashburger

Get any single Smash burger for $1 (Classic, Bacon Stack, Truffle Mushroom) when ordering in-app or online as a SmashRewards member.

Sonic

Get a Jr Double Cheeseburger for $1.99 when you order in-store or via the Sonic app on National Cheeseburger Day.

Wendy's

On Sept. 18, Wendy’s Rewards members can add a Dave’s Single Cheeseburger for $1.99 to any order.

TL;DR: Watch Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin in the Bundesliga for free on BBC iPlayer. Access this free livestream from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The Bundesliga season continues with Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin.

Bayern will see this game as an opportunity to make up some lost ground. They haven't made quite the unstoppable start to the 2026/27 season that most fans expected, with two wins out of a possible three. They're currently fourth in the league, and star striker Harry Kane has only netted one goal in three games.

Union Berlin are still looking for their first win of the season. Can they score an upset win over the defending Bundesliga champions?

If you're interested in watching Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin in the Bundesliga from anywhere in the world, we've got all the information you need.

When is Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin?

Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin in the Bundesliga kicks off at 2.30 p.m. ET on Sept. 18. This fixture takes place at the Allianz Arena.

How to watch Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin for free

Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin in the Bundesliga is available to live stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

BBC iPlayer is geo-restricted to the UK, but anyone can secure access with a VPN. These tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in the UK, meaning you can live stream Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin for free from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin for free by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a streaming-friendly VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in the UK

4. Visit BBC iPlayer

5. Watch Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but they do tend to offer generous money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can watch Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin without committing your cash. This is obviously not a long-term strategy, but it gives you enough time to stream this fixture (plus Premier League action) before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the Bundesliga?

ExpressVPN is the best choice for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport on BBC iPlayer, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries, including the UK

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices, including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and usually offers a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99.

Live stream Bayern Munich vs. Union Berlin for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Curious about AdultFriendFinder but nervous about what kind of personal information you'll have to provide to a well-known hookup site with a history of data breaches? You're right to be cautious about your data, but we're here to reassure you that you can sign up to AFF with a minimal contribution of personal information. 

Here's the info you'll need to provide to AdultFriendFinder to sign up for both a free and a paid account.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdultFriendFinder AdultFriendFinder   Learn More Free accounts

Because free accounts are extremely limited in what they can do on the site, there are very few actual requirements for signing up. At a minimum, you will need to provide AFF with your email address, date of birth, and location, as well as your marital status and sexual orientation. Unlike many other dating sites, which also require a public-facing profile photo, AFF allows you to browse the site anonymously, without having a single photo uploaded to your profile. 

If even this paltry amount of information puts you off, consider that you can use a burner email address and not give away sensitive info, though if you want to earn verified status on AFF in the future, you will need to correct the record to match your government-issued identification. 

Paid accounts

If you decide you enjoy the AdultFriendFinder experience and want to give yourself more freedom on the site to explore and message people, you'll need a premium membership, which means providing even more (and more accurate!) personal information about yourself.

Aside from the credit card number, you'll also need to provide an accurate address, including your country, city, state, and ZIP code. 

If even that data commitment makes you nervous, but you still want to explore the site as a premium member, you can actually bypass having to provide a credit card (and the physical address needed to verify it) if you use one of their alternative payment methods, like a mail-in check, digital gift card, or prepaid debit card. 

Not all of these payment options are available in every country, but if you really prize anonymity and data security, the prepaid account option is the most secure.

If you've spent some time on AdultFriendFinder, you might be interested to know that there's a larger network of sites that share its architecture and design philosophy. These sites are part of the FriendFinder Network, which encompasses a wide variety of sites, from mainstream dating sites to religiously focused dating services and even live cam sites. 

Here are three of the most popular AFF alternatives run by the FriendFinder Network:

ALT

ALT is one of the largest kinksters-only dating sites on the web, with a much greater BDSM influence than even AdultFriendFinder. The user interface and site aesthetics are clearly inspired by AFF, but there's a much greater emphasis on connecting individuals to couples or couples to individuals, and the user base is largely well-schooled in the basics of BDSM. 

If you're looking for a dedicated dom or want to explore the intricacies of Shibari with someone in your area, ALT offers a large number of like-minded daters. Sign up with an open mind, and you're guaranteed to have a good time. 

BigChurch

If you've spent any time on AFF, it may surprise you to learn that one of the other sites under the FriendFinder network umbrella is a Christian dating site, but apart from the aesthetics and user interface, BigChurch has almost nothing in common with its naughty sibling.

As with many other FriendFinder sites, signing up is totally free, and BigChurch has a strong community aspect, with a biblical bent nearly everywhere you look. The homepage serves up not only a Bible verse (Genesis 2:24: "A man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" — what else!) but also a search bar, so instead of finding partners by shared kinks, you can find someone who shares your passion for Ephesians. 

Cams.com

If you're more of a visual learner and want your dating experience to match, Cams.com is a great alternative to the more common, text-based approach to online dating. As with AFF, free members are somewhat restricted in what they can do on the site, though you can browse webcam feeds. If you upgrade to a paid account, the fun really begins, with HD webcam feeds and the option to tip, private message, or live video chat with other users. 

There's also a very robust search filter, so you can find models of all ages, genders (trans-inclusive!), and ethnicities. One big caveat, though: as with AFF, there are scammers on Cams.com, often using pre-recorded video feeds, so take a second to verify the person you're watching is real before you spend a token on them or send them a message. 

SAVE $26: As of Sept. 18, the Paramount+ discount code p2mcs26prem is still live. Enter it at checkout to get two months of Paramount+ Premium for just $0.99 per month. That's $13 per month in savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Paramount+ Paramount+ Premium $0.99
$13.99 Save $13 *for 2 months* with code p2mcs26prem Get Deal

Not to brag, but I've now scored six months of ad-free Paramount+ Premium for around $6 total. Yes, that's less than a single month of other streaming services and yes, I'm going to let you in on my secret.

As of Sept. 18, the secret Paramount+ discount code I wrote about last month is still active. There's no telling how long, so I suggest using it to sign up ASAP. New and returning subscribers can secure two months of streaming on Paramount+ Premium for just $0.99 per month by entering the code p2mcs26prem at checkout. That's less than $2 for two full months. Typically $13.99 per month, you'll save $26 total.

Be sure to choose the monthly Premium ad-free plan. Then click on "Have a promo code?" on the checkout page and enter p2mcs26prem. The discount will then automatically apply, knocking the monthly cost down to $0.99.

Paramount+ has become an essential streaming service for sports fans — particularly UFC fans. It's the exclusive home of UFC's marquee events, as well as 30 Fight Nights, including the historic championship rematch between Van and Pantoja this weekend (Sept. 19 at 9 p.m. ET). It's also where NFL fans without cable can watch live local AFC games on Sundays.

It has a lot more than just sports, though. It's also the home of your local CBS Network live, the entirety of Showtime's catalog (Yellowjackets, Dexter, etc.), Paramount Pictures theatrical releases (Scream 7, Passenger, etc.), nostalgic Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, and MTV shows, and of course, Paramount+ Originals like Criminal Minds: Evolution, Dutton Ranch, and Golden Axe.

Remember to cancel before the two-month promo period is up, or the price will jump back up to $13.99 per month. Pro tip: If the code is still live after your two months end, you can sign up for another two months at 99 cents a pop.

TL;DR: The new Apple iPhone 18 Pro is available for free with T-Mobile. To claim, switch and bring your number or trade in an eligible phone in any condition on an Experience Beyond plan.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple T-Mobile: Free Apple iPhone 18 Pro   Get Deal

We've been blessed by a number of major smartphone drops in recent months. We got a new Motorola Razr lineup, new Google Pixels, and foldable phones from Samsung. But all of that feels sort of insignificant now, because Apple has taken over the news cycle.

After months of speculation, rumors, and leaks, Apple finally announced new iPhones, Apple Watches, AirPods, and more. If you're interested in investing in the latest iPhones, T-Mobile is the place to be.

The Apple iPhone 18 Pro is available for free right now with T-Mobile. There are two ways to take advantage of this limited-time deal:

• Switch and bring your existing phone number on an Experience Beyond plan

• Trade in a qualifying phone (in any condition) on an Experience Beyond plan

The full savings are distributed as monthly credits over a 36-month payment plan. As long as you intend to stay locked into T-Mobile’s top data tier for three years, it's easily one of the best ways to score Apple's premier hardware without a major hit to your budget.

T-Mobile does require you to pay local sales tax on the phone's full retail value upfront, plus a standard $35 device connection fee per line at checkout. That's a minor inconvenience to score the latest iPhone without a huge upfront cost.

Score the iPhone 18 Pro for free from T-Mobile.

While there's still been plenty of world-hopping, Dark Matter Season 2 has added an element of psychological family drama to its sci-fi mix.

In short, the Dessens are struggling. And while the family of three have tried their best to settle into something resembling a normal life, episode 4 suggests that dream is still a long way off.

So, what happens, and why does Daniela (Jennifer Connelly) leave at the very end? We've unpacked it below.

SEE ALSO: The 41 best Apple TV shows, ranked What happens at the end of Dark Matter Season 2, episode 4?

After sending Charlie (Oakes Fegley) off to college in a version of Chicago where technology is a long way behind that of "our" world, Jason (Joel Edgerton) and Daniela sit in their suddenly too-quiet apartment drinking tea. But it's not long before Daniela starts to share something that's troubling her.

"We're not the people we used to be," she says. "I guess it was crazy to think that we could be. I think you feel it too. It's... something's wrong with me."

Jason asks her what's going on, and Daniela alludes to the hallucinations she's been having ever since they came to this version of Chicago.

"It's like I'm being followed," she says. "And I keep thinking I see these versions of you. But... it's something else. I'm scared of things that I see in you. But I don't know what to do with what I've done."

When Jason asks what he can do, Daniela says there's nothing.

"I think I need to go away," she finishes.

The episode ends with her leaving — going where, exactly, we don't know — while reassuring Jason that they'll always be each other's person.

Why does Daniela leave?

It seems pretty clear at this point that most of the characters who've used the Box to travel to other versions of reality are suffering varying degrees of psychological damage as a result. Amanda (Alice Braga) has already confessed to Ryan (Jimmi Simpson) that she's experiencing a form of PTSD from her time travelling between realities with Jason in Season 1. And given that she herself is a psychiatrist, it seems likely that her diagnosis is correct.

Daniela, meanwhile, has not just travelled between realities; back in Season 2, episode 1, she even had to kill another version of her husband, who'd tracked the family to the world they were living in and who may have posed a threat. If travelling between worlds can give you PTSD, what does killing someone who looks exactly like your husband — who essentially is your husband — do to your mental health?

Probably not great things, as is evidenced by Daniela's increasing paranoia in Season 2. It's also complicated by the fact that she lives with a constant reminder of the person she shot dead. All of which is to say, Daniela's decision to leave the Dessen household in order to try to get better actually makes quite a lot of sense.

Will she be gone for ever? Almost certainly not. What she says to Jason before she leaves makes that clear enough. But perhaps she'll go on her own journey for a few episodes in an attempt to seek help, and to heal from the many traumas she's suffered.

Dark Matter Season 2 is streaming on Apple TV, with new episodes dropping every Friday.

We're now at the First Quarter Moon, when roughly half of the lunar surface visible from Earth is illuminated. The Moon will continue to get more illuminated each night until we reach the Full Moon.

What is today’s Moon phase?

As of Friday, Sept. 18, NASA's Daily Moon Guide tracker tells us the Moon is in the First Quarter phase, with 45% of its surface visible.

You should be able to spot Mare Crisium, Mare Serenitatis, and Mare Fecunditatis with the naked eye. If you have binoculars, they'll also help you see the Endymion Crater, Posidonius Crater, and the Mare Nectaris. Finally, if you have access to a telescope, you'll see the Apollo 11 and 17 landing spots, and the Rupes Altai.

When is the next Full Moon?

The next Full Moon will take place on September 26.

What are Moon phases?

The Moon doesn't look the same from night to night. As it travels around Earth, which takes about 29.5 days, we see different portions of its illuminated side. This is what creates the lunar phases, with the Moon gradually progressing from a thin crescent to a half Moon and then a Full Moon before the cycle starts over. According to NASA, the phase we see is determined by the Moon's position relative to both Earth and the Sun.

The eight phases are:

New Moon - The Moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the Moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-Moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the Moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The Moon starts losing light on the right side. (Northern Hemisphere)

Third Quarter (or Last Quarter) - Another half-Moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

Looking for spoiler-free NYT Connections hints or just wondering why Connections is trending today? We've got what you need to understand the clues for today's puzzle without spoiling any of the answers.

Of course, Mashable has also provided daily hints and answers for Connections, Wordle, and Strands for years, so we can help you if that's also what you need.

While we are focused more on meanings than hints in this story, sometimes learning that many of the words have completely unrelated meanings is a clue in and of itself. Connections frequently includes clues that involve words within words and other visual clues.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for September 18, 2026 Pillow meaning

A cushion designed for aesthetics or resting.

Cruise meaning

A leisurely trip taken via watercraft.

Upper meaning

The higher part of something.

Step meaning

A part of a journey.

Flight meaning

When a plane or jet travels from one place to another.

Stair meaning

Steps used to ascend or descend.

Platter meaning

A tray used for serving food.

Landing meaning

An area at the top or bottom of a flight of steps.

Round meaning

A circular shape.

Stage meaning

A place where performances are held.

Takeoff meaning

When an aircraft leaves the ground.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

Medley meaning

A combination of things, often related to music.

Brief meaning

A short amount of time.

Boarding meaning

To enter a plane, train, or boat.

Sampler meaning

Small amounts of items for testing or variety.

Phase meaning

A part of a process.

Have you learned the meanings and still want the things? Check out the hints and answers for today's NYT Connections puzzle.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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.

The NYT Connections puzzle today is not too difficult if you like to travel.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. 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 today's 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?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. 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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Pips hints, answers for September 18, 2026 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Parts

• Green: Refreshments

• Blue: Travel-related

• Purple: Same second word

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

Here are today's Connections categories

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

• Yellow: Segment of a process

• Green: Assortments of food/drink

• Blue: Parts of a flight

• Purple: Same second word

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 #1195 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Segment of a process: PHASE, ROUND, STAGE, STEP

• Assortments of food/drink: FLIGHT, MEDLEY, PLATTER, SAMPLER

• Parts of a flight: BOARDING, CRUISE, LANDING, TAKEOFF

• __ case: BRIEF, PILLOW, STAIR, UPPER

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

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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.

Today's NYT Strands hints will be easy if you're good at finding common ground.

Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game, requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

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

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for September 18, 2026 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Shake on it

The words are related to decisions.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words describe arrangements.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Let's Make a Deal.

NYT Strands word list for September 18

• Pact

• Contract

• Agreement

• Let's Make a Deal

• Covenant

• Treaty

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and 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 Strands.

Today's Wordle answer should be easy to solve if you're ready for cooler weather.

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 hints today: Clues, answers for September 18, 2026 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 Pips hints, answers for September 18, 2026 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Describing a weather condition.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

No letters appear twice.

Want more tech and digital culture news delivered to your inbox daily or sent straight to your device? Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletter or get Mashable push alerts today.

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

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

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...

SNOWY

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.

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

Meet The Mashable 101: Our list of the content creators shaping the internet today

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.

TL;DR: Create children’s books in minutes with this IllustratorMagic Pro Plan lifetime subscription, on sale now for just $39.99 (reg. $499).

Opens in a new window Credit: IllustratorMagic lllustratorMagic Pro Plan: Lifetime Subscription $39.99
$499 Save $459.01   Get Deal

AI has opened up a whole new world of side hustles. Want to become a children’s book author? Thanks to AI, that’s now easier than ever — just supply the ideas and let IllustratorMagic handle the rest. This powerful tool turns your concepts into fully illustrated children’s books.

Right now, you can secure a lifetime subscription to the IllustratorMagic Pro Plan for only $39.99.

Have a great idea for a kids’ book but no idea where to start? IllustratorMagic makes the process a breeze, letting you create storybooks, comic books, or even coloring books in no time.

With IllustratorMagic, the power of AI turns your concept into a publish-ready output. It helps generate your story, the illustrations for every page, and even the layout. Once you’re done, you can export it in the size that works best for your project — for ebooks, self-publishing platforms, and more.

You don’t have to worry about your projects sounding like they were written by a robot filled with stock characters. You can create the characters from scratch, or base them on real-life children that you know to create a great personalized gift or custom publishing project. They will be consistent throughout the book, unlike many generic AI image tools that don’t recreate characters the same way.

You can use IllustratorMagic in any browser, so it works anywhere with an internet connection. When you receive your finished project, you also have full commercial rights, so you can use it wherever and however you would like.

Your lifetime subscription to the Pro Plan gives you access to create up to 20 books per month and up to 1,000 books total. It also includes all future updates as they roll out.

Snag this IllustratorMagic Pro Plan lifetime subscription, on sale now for just $39.99 (reg. $499).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Get Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more with no monthly fee, only $29.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Microsoft Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows: Lifetime License $29.97
$219.99 Save $190.02   Get Deal

Paying a monthly subscription for apps only really makes sense if you’re doing it for a short time. For apps like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint that you end up using indefinitely, buying them outright is a much smarter, way cheaper option over time. That’s why more people are canceling Microsoft 365 and moving back to Microsoft Office.

A lifetime license for Microsoft Office Pro is only $29.97 (reg. $219.99).

This version of Microsoft Office comes with

• Word

• Excel

• PowerPoint

• Outlook

• Teams (free version)

• OneNote

• Publisher

• Access

We know what you’re thinking, but rest assured, this isn’t some stripped-down lite version either. It’s the real deal. Whether you’re writing reports, crunching numbers, building presentations, managing emails, or wrangling databases, the lifetime version of Microsoft Office has you covered.

It’s a one-time download for one Windows PC, so once it’s yours, it’s yours. The full pro-level toolkit, minus the stress of a subscription. Plus, with instant license delivery and free customer support, getting started is as painless as your new spreadsheet workflow.

No more “trial expired” pop-ups. No more surprise charges. Just the latest versions of Microsoft’s best apps, ready to support all of your work and personal needs.

You don’t need to pay a monthly fee to get basic apps anymore. It’s only $29.97 to get a Microsoft Office Lifetime License.

StackSocial prices subject to change.