This week’s solver stumper is a great example of how a crossword puzzle entry can be “freshened” for new generations. Instead of the typical clue about a classic character of literature and film, this entry stumped many of our solvers in the Thursday, Sept. 6 crossword puzzle because it was clued for the first time as one of a pair of internet comedy stars.

Previously, nearly all other clues for this entry had to do with RHETT Butler of “Gone With the Wind” fame, Clark Gable (the actor who portrayed him), or his relationship with the tempestuous Scarlett O’Hara. Last week marked the entry RHETT’s 93rd appearance in The New York Times Crossword, but this time, the clue had nothing to do with the dashing Southerner.

In Jeff Chen’s puzzle, the clue was “___ and Link (popular online comedy duo),” hinting at RHETT McLaughlin, whose “Good Mythical Morning” internet talk show with Charles Lincoln “ Link” Neal III has earned them more than 14 million subscribers. According to their website, Mythical.com, “in addition to ‘Good Mythical Morning,’ the duo's other successes include the award-winning audio/video podcast, ‘Ear Biscuits with Rhett & Link’ and the hit YouTube Red narrative series ‘Rhett & Link's BuddySystem.’ In October of 2017, they released their first book, ‘Rhett & Link's Book of Mythicality: A Field Guide to Curiosity, Creativity and Tomfoolery,' published by Crown Archetype, and embarked on a sold-out tour that continues into Fall 2018.”

Is this sudden change in cluing fair? Sure it is. By the time you get to the Thursday puzzle, you’re expected to know — or at least be willing to learn about — a hard-working comedy duo with more than 700,000 followers on Twitter.