Ask.com, one of the internet’s earliest search engine competitors, has shut down its search business after nearly 30 years, marking the latest contraction in a market dominated by a handful of major players.

Parent company IAC said the move reflects a broader strategic shift away from legacy search operations.

“As IAC continues to sharpen its focus, we have made the decision to discontinue our search business, which includes Ask.com,” the company said in a notice posted on its website. “After 25 years of answering the world’s questions, Ask.com officially closed on May 1, 2026.”

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Ask.com has shut down its search business after nearly 30 years. (Getty Images)

The shutdown underscores how the once-crowded search industry has consolidated over time, leaving smaller or legacy platforms unable to compete at scale.

The Ask Jeeves home page is seen in 2005. (Adam Berry/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

The message thanks users and employees and concludes: “Jeeves’ spirit endures.”

Ask.com was founded in 1996 and launched in 1997 as Ask Jeeves, featuring a butler mascot and a question-based search format that allowed users to enter queries in plain language.

IAC acquired the company in 2005, and it was rebranded as Ask.com in 2006 as part of an effort to broaden its appeal.

An image of the Ask.com website. (Newscast/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

The company stopped developing its own search technology around 2010 and later pivoted toward a question-and-answer format as competition intensified.

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Its closure marks the end of one of the web’s early search brands and reflects broader consolidation trends across the technology and digital advertising sectors.

LOS ANGELES — NBC has canceled the medical drama “Brilliant Minds” after two seasons, citing steep year-over-year viewership declines that made the Zachary Quinto-led series the network’s lowest-rated drama on linear television. The decision, announced Friday, marks one of the first cancellations ahead of the network’s 2026-27 upfront presentations and reflects broader challenges in broadcast scripted programming amid shifting audience habits.

“Brilliant Minds,” inspired by the life and work of neurologist Oliver Sacks, follows Dr. Oliver Wolf, an eccentric but brilliant neurologist with a unique perspective on treating complex psychological and neurological cases. The show earned strong critical praise, holding an 88% Rotten Tomatoes score, yet struggled to translate acclaim into consistent viewership.

Season 2 averaged just above 3 million viewers with seven days of linear viewing — the smallest total of any NBC drama this season. That figure represented double-digit declines from Season 1, which itself had modest numbers for a post-“The Voice” Monday night slot. In key advertiser demographics, particularly adults 18-49, the series frequently dipped below 0.2 ratings, with some episodes hitting historic lows around 0.10-0.12.

An early sign of trouble came in February 2026 when NBC pulled the series from its regular schedule to accommodate expanded two-hour episodes of “The Voice” following the Winter Olympics. At that point, only 14 of a planned 22 episodes had aired. The remaining six episodes will now burn off during summer starting May 27.

From Promising Start to Steep Decline

When “Brilliant Minds” premiered in September 2024, it showed early promise. The pilot drew solid initial numbers, benefiting from the powerhouse lead-in of “The Voice.” Season 1 averaged around 2.97 million viewers and a 0.23 rating in the 18-49 demo, ranking it among new dramas but still modest by traditional broadcast standards.

Expectations were higher for Season 2 with returning cast familiarity and critical momentum. Yet audiences failed to return in force. Live ratings eroded steadily through fall 2025 and into early 2026. Episodes in January and February frequently drew under 1.5 million same-day viewers, with total audience (including DVR) barely cracking 3 million in many cases.

Industry analysts point to multiple factors. Broadcast dramas face intense competition from streaming platforms, where shorter attention spans and on-demand viewing dominate. “Brilliant Minds” reportedly failed to crack Peacock’s top 10 charts consistently, limiting the streaming boost that often saves marginal network shows.

The series also competed internally against NBC’s stronger procedural franchises like “Chicago Med,” “Law & Order” and “The Hunting Party.” Monday nights, while anchored by “The Voice,” proved challenging for serialized medical storytelling that required viewer commitment week after week.

Critical Acclaim vs. Commercial Reality

Despite the ratings woes, “Brilliant Minds” stood out creatively. Reviewers praised Quinto’s nuanced performance as the neurodivergent Dr. Wolf, the show’s thoughtful exploration of mental health and neurological conditions, and strong supporting work from cast members including Tamberla Perry and Ashleigh LaThrop. Audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes hovered around 81%, indicating passionate fans who connected with its empathetic approach to patient stories.

Showrunners and producers aimed for a blend of medical procedural and character-driven drama, drawing from real neurological cases. Episodes tackled everything from phantom limb syndrome to rare cognitive disorders, often weaving in the personal struggles of Wolf and his team of interns. Many viewers and critics lauded the series for humanizing complex conditions without sensationalism.

Yet in today’s television economy, even well-reviewed shows with solid but unspectacular numbers face cancellation. NBC, like other broadcast networks, prioritizes live-linear performance for ad revenue while hoping for streaming longevity. “Brilliant Minds” delivered neither at a level sufficient for renewal.

Broader Context for NBC’s Scripted Slate

The cancellation arrives as NBC evaluates its lineup ahead of upfronts. Alongside “Brilliant Minds,” the network axed freshman comedy “Stumble,” which averaged just 2.24 million viewers. Several other series, including “Law & Order” and “The Hunting Party,” remain on the bubble.

The moves signal a strategic shift. NBC has ordered multiple drama pilots for the coming season, seeking fresh voices and potentially higher-concept projects to combat cord-cutting and audience fragmentation. Medical dramas remain a staple, but networks increasingly favor established IP or star-driven vehicles with proven track records.

For “Brilliant Minds,” the end comes after 27 total episodes across two seasons. Producers have not commented publicly on future plans, though the show’s intellectual property and dedicated fanbase could spark interest in streaming revival talks elsewhere. Quinto, a proven draw with credits ranging from “Star Trek” to Broadway, may find new opportunities quickly.

Fan Reactions and Legacy

Social media erupted with disappointment following the announcement. Fans praised the series for its representation of neurological differences and thoughtful storytelling in an era of formulaic procedurals. Hashtags like #SaveBrilliantMinds and #RenewBrilliantMinds briefly trended, with calls for Peacock to pick up a third season.

One recurring theme in viewer comments: the show’s educational value. Many shared how episodes prompted discussions about mental health, empathy in medicine and neurodiversity. While not a massive commercial hit, “Brilliant Minds” left an impression on those who found it.

Television executives note that passionate but small audiences increasingly struggle in the linear model. Streaming metrics, which NBC does not always disclose, may have played a role, but insufficient linear delivery sealed the fate.

What’s Next for the Cast and Network

Quinto and the ensemble have wrapped production. The summer burn-off will give loyal viewers closure as the final six episodes air. Whether those installments can generate buzz or streaming numbers remains to be seen.

For NBC, the focus shifts to developing replacements for the Monday 10 p.m. slot. Early indications point to new drama pilots emphasizing broader appeal or franchise extensions. The network will also lean on proven performers like “The Voice,” “Chicago” series and “Law & Order” while testing fresh concepts.

The cancellation of “Brilliant Minds” underscores ongoing industry turbulence. Broadcast networks grapple with declining overall viewership, rising production costs and competition from unlimited streaming libraries. Shows that once would have survived on modest numbers now face swift axes unless they deliver breakout demos or strong delayed viewing.

As summer episodes roll out, “Brilliant Minds” exits not with a ratings bang but with quiet appreciation from fans and critics who valued its ambition. In an era where data drives decisions, the series proved that critical heart and audience connection do not always translate to renewal in the competitive television landscape. NBC moves forward, hoping its next medical drama finds the elusive balance of quality and commercial success.

The Justice Department filed a complaint against Minnesota on Monday over the state’s climate lawsuit against energy companies, arguing the case improperly attempts to regulate global greenhouse gas emissions and override federal authority.

The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, seeks to block enforcement of Minnesota’s state court lawsuit, which DOJ officials say burdens domestic energy development and conflicts with federal law.

The department said the filing advances President Donald Trump’s executive order directing the DOJ to protect American energy from what the administration describes as state overreach.

“President Trump promised to unleash American energy dominance, and Minnesota officials cannot undermine his directive by mandating that their woke climate preferences become the uniform policy of our Nation,” Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward said in a statement.

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This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Award-winning Contemporary Christian Music star Natalie Grant is recovering after a routine family outing turned into a medical emergency, with a simple slip-and-fall on a sidewalk leading to internal injuries, emergency surgery and a hospital stay.

Grant, known for hits like “Alive” and multiple Dove Awards, shared the dramatic update on social media Saturday, May 3, 2026, just hours after undergoing surgery. What she initially dismissed as possible rib fractures revealed far more serious damage: a bleeding kidney and a blood clot in her bladder.

“Moving Bella home from college didn’t end quite the way we planned,” Grant wrote in an Instagram post that quickly went viral among her fans. “On Thursday night, after packing boxes and loading the car, we walked to dinner. And somewhere between the hotel and the restaurant, I tripped on a sidewalk and took a hard fall. I mean, very hard fall. Basically I WIPED OUT.”

The incident occurred April 30 in Lakeland, Florida, near Lakeland Regional Health, where Grant received treatment. She sought medical attention believing the pain might stem from broken ribs, but scans uncovered the critical internal issues requiring immediate intervention.

“What I thought might be a fractured rib turned into a hospital stay — a serious internal situation with a bleeding kidney, a blood clot in my bladder and surgery this morning to fix it all,” she continued. “What in the world?! Who trips and falls on a sidewalk and injures a couple organs?!”

Despite the frightening ordeal, Grant’s message radiated faith and gratitude. “But thank you Jesus, it went well today, I’m on the mend and will make a full recovery,” she posted. “Thanking God for incredible doctors, nurses, and hospital staff at Lakeland Regional Health who moved quickly, cared deeply, and got me through a pretty scary situation.”

She also thanked her husband, Grammy-winning producer and composer Bernie Herms, for his support during the crisis. The couple shares three daughters, including Bella, whose college move prompted the family trip.

A Career Built on Faith and Resilience

Natalie Grant has long been a pillar in the Christian music industry. With multiple Grammy nominations and four consecutive Female Vocalist of the Year wins at the Dove Awards in the 2000s, she built a career blending powerful vocals with transparent faith. Her music often addresses life’s storms, a theme that resonates even more poignantly now.

Grant’s openness about personal challenges is nothing new. She has previously shared about thyroid cancer surgery years ago and family life’s joys and pressures. This latest health scare, however, stands out for its suddenness — a stark reminder of life’s fragility even during ordinary moments.

The Christian music community quickly rallied. Fellow artists, pastors and fans flooded social media with prayers and encouragement. Hashtags like #PrayForNatalieGrant and #NatalieGrantRecovery trended as her post garnered thousands of comments within hours. Many recalled how her songs provided comfort in their own trials, now returning the support.

One fan commented, “Praying for speedy recovery and strength. Jesus still heals today.” Another wrote, “I’ll be praying for you, Natalie! Your songs brought me closer to the Lord.”

Medical Details and Recovery Outlook

While specific medical timelines remain private, Grant assured followers of a full recovery. Bleeding kidney injuries, or renal hematomas, often result from blunt trauma like falls and can lead to significant blood loss if untreated. Blood clots in the bladder add complexity, potentially causing pain and requiring surgical intervention to prevent complications like infection or further bleeding.

Doctors at Lakeland Regional Health acted swiftly, performing surgery Saturday morning. Grant’s positive update indicates the procedure successfully addressed the issues without long-term damage anticipated. Recovery from such injuries typically involves rest, pain management, monitoring for infection and gradual return to normal activity.

No official word yet on impacts to her touring or recording schedule. Grant had been promoting recent projects, including worship releases and family-focused content. Industry sources suggest any postponements would likely be short-term given her expressed optimism.

Broader Lessons from a CCM Icon

Grant’s closing words carried pastoral weight: “I sure would appreciate your prayers for a quick recovery. Hug your people. Slow down. And maybe… watch where you’re walking.” The message struck a chord, blending vulnerability with practical wisdom and faith.

In an era of high-speed living, her story highlights everyday risks and the importance of community. Christian leaders noted how such testimonies strengthen believers, turning personal pain into shared encouragement. Grant’s history of using trials — from vocal health concerns to family dynamics — as ministry opportunities suggests this chapter may inspire future songs or writings.

Her husband Bernie Herms, a respected producer who has worked with top artists, remains by her side. The family’s tight-knit dynamic, often shared on social platforms, provides a strong support network during recovery.

Fan Reactions and Industry Impact

Social media buzz continues to grow. Posts from outlets like K-LOVE, Air1 and Gospel Music Association amplified the news, prompting widespread prayer chains. Fellow CCM artists offered public support, underscoring the genre’s close-knit nature.

This incident follows other health stories in Christian music, reminding fans that even stars face unexpected battles. Grant’s graceful response models resilience rooted in faith, a hallmark of her three-decade career.

As she rests and heals, the focus remains on gratitude. Grant has expressed deep appreciation for medical professionals who turned a scary fall into a manageable recovery story. Her update ends on hope, aligning with the redemptive themes in her music.

Looking Ahead

Natalie Grant’s road to full strength may take weeks, but her prognosis is excellent. Supporters anticipate her return stronger, perhaps with fresh perspective on life’s unpredictability. In the meantime, the CCM community holds her in prayer, echoing her own lyrics of survival and praise.

For now, the singer who has lifted millions with her voice rests, surrounded by family and faith. Her message resonates beyond entertainment: slow down, cherish loved ones and trust in God’s care even when sidewalks — and life — surprise you.

Fans continue sharing well-wishes online, many attaching favorite Grant songs as virtual encouragement. As one commenter put it, “We’re singing ‘Alive’ over you, Natalie — full recovery in Jesus’ name.”