Mental Floss

POP CULTURE

"So that's why I twitch in my sleep!"

While the COVID-19 pandemic was a driving force behind some of Mental Floss's most popular stories of 2020, the historical precedent of the 1918 pandemic was clearly of interest, too.

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Octavia E. Butler autographs a copy of Fledgling at a book signing.

Born in Pasadena, California, on June 22, 1947, science fiction author Octavia E. Butler was one of the most significant literary figures of the 20th century.

Kritika Agrawal




The Thatcher Estate // Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons

Some people remember former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as the quick-witted "Iron Lady" who resolutely lead the U.K. through the end of the Cold War. Others recall her as a heartless conservative hardliner who tore down labor unions while str

Nick Keppler


Jim Carrey in Kidding.

Elastic comedian-turned-actor Jim Carrey once had to defend himself in comedy clubs with broken beer bottles. He also had to endure the wrath of Tommy Lee Jones.

Jake Rossen








Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Over the course of its nine seasons, 'Seinfeld' created plenty of memorable moments—many of which came from the iconic sitcom's holiday-themed episodes. Read on to discover the best of them (and have a happy Festivus)!

Nick Mordowanec
Ella Fitzgerald sings in New York City as Dizzy Gillespie looks on.

Signs of Christmastime are different all over the world, as are Christmas traditions. But, no matter where you are or how you celebrate the holiday, one thing that is universal during the holiday season: Christmas music.

Olivia Truffaut-Wong


Silver Buffalo/Toynk

Treat your Golden Girl to some fun toys, mugs, and accessories based on the classic show about four women living together. Any 'Golden Girls' fan would love all the items on this gift guide this holiday season.

Molly Gregory






Seann William Scott and Ashton Kutcher star in Dude, Where's My Car? (2000).

There were many vital questions posed in 'Dude, Where's My Car?,' the 2000 stoner comedy that established Ashton Kutcher and Seann William Scott as two of their generation’s most lovable doofuses.

Jon O'Brien