#MAGFAB: Keke Palmer For Variety Magazine SXSW Edition!
In a new cover story for VARIETY, Keke Palmer speaks with Selome Hailu for the SXSW issue on getting political, child stardom, I LOVE BOOSTERS, her son, roles she’s played, her current career stage, and much more.
On getting political: “In order to be down with the people, you gotta be willing to bleed — but it’s like, ‘We can’t keep bleeding, y’all!’” Palmer says. “Because the people you keep asking to bleed are already dying. How many times can we keep asking people to lose their lives, and then nothing changes?”
On reading headlines lately: “It puts you in a position of ‘I just want to survive. I want to hold my son. I want to get out of here,’” she says. “But I also know my life is different.” She’s wary of falling into despair when she knows she has protection in the wealth she’s built. “Some people in the entertainment industry are just in it for the money and the fame, and that’s part of the problem.”
On child stardom: “Being a kid entertainer on networks such as Disney and Nickelodeon, there’s no machinery more dehumanizing than that, and I say ‘dehumanizing’ completely without sadness,” she says. “It’s just — you’re a product.”
On issues facing society and finding a connection to her “I Love Boosters” character: “Some of these things may not change in our lifetime — capitalism, racism, feeling isolated, unseen. There’s a maturation that happens with this character that I directly connect to: Maybe there’s no moment where this comes to a climax and the problems are solved. So now what do I do? How do I manage?”
On prioritizing bodily safety over radical action: “I’m always going to be that person that wants to fight with the people, but I’m also the person now, at 32, that wants people to live,” Palmer says. “I don’t want people to lose their lives, especially because the people usually losing their lives are the ones that are fighting to keep their lives.”
On wanting to give herself the love she gives to her son: “You start seeing how you’re loving the baby, and then you’re like, ‘I’m not loving myself right,’” Palmer says. “Because the way that this baby is being loved, and the way I see the baby responding to that love, suddenly I realize not just what I lacked, but what I’m responsible to give myself.” She doesn’t mean to criticize how her parents raised her: “I’m not a baby, so I can’t go back to Sharon and Larry and say, ‘Why didn’t you — ?’ That would be childish as hell. So I have to now say, ‘Well, whatever it was that I needed and didn’t get that I have the capacity to offer my son, I’m responsible to do it for me too.”
On her current stage of life and career: “I’m gonna do what feels right and what feels in alignment with me, as opposed to what I think I’m supposed to do,” she says. “That, to me, is what having integrity and true faith is.”
#RHOA: Kandi Burruss Reveals Why She Still Supports ‘RHOA’ After Her Unexpected Exit
Even though Kandi Burruss walked away from "Real Housewives of Atlanta" some time ago, the "No Scrubs" songwriter is still rooting for the franchise’s success.
Burruss spent 14 years on "RHOA" as a full-time cast member, and several of those seasons were spent at the center of the drama. However, she caught the Bravoverse off guard when she dropped the bombshell that she was leaving the show in 2024.
Burruss first joined "RHOA" as an official cast member in season 2, 2009. Since joining the series, Burruss has feuded with many of the program's big-name stars, including NeNe Leakes, Kenya Moore, Marlo Hampton, Porsha Williams, and Phaedra Parks.
Despite no longer being in front of the cameras, Burruss remains a major advocate for the show and frequently cheers on longtime friends like Shamea Morton.
During an appearance on the "Question Everything" podcast, Burruss explained why she's still a vocal supporter of the series despite walking away a few years ago.
"I think it's important to continue to support the franchise even though I'm not there because I was there for 14 seasons, and I want them to be successful," she said. "I want 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' to continue on another 15 years."
For those unfamiliar, Burruss announced her departure from "RHOA" in 2024 while walking the red carpet at the Grammy Awards.
At the time, she told Variety that it was time for a break after a 15-year run. She also hinted that the network’s delay in finalizing the season 15 cast played a role in her decision to move on.
"It’s been 14 seasons, and they allowed us to sit around for a little too long, but during that time I had started working on a lot of other things, and I got some nice big projects coming soon, so I’m super excited about those things," Burruss said.
Burruss also shared that she felt pushed to walk away from "RHOA" after those in her inner circle challenged her to think about her future.
"And I was like, ‘Well, I think because I’ve just been doing it for so long, it feels weird to think not to do it?’ So I was just like, ‘You know what? I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year,'" Burruss added.
Burruss didn't let her departure from "RHOA" keep her down. According to The Blast, the Xscape singer revealed she was "more than excited" to leave the show behind her after years in the hot seat.
The constant cast friction wasn't the only reason the mother of three left. In 2025, Burruss noted that stepping back from the series gave her the bandwidth she needed to focus on her growing business empire.
"I have big dreams, y'all," she said. "Y'all know I want to win a Tony [Award]."
Burruss confirmed that she and Todd Tucker were ending their 11-year marriage.
"I’m stepping into a new chapter pouring into my work, my family, and my own growth. I’m grateful to everyone who supported us throughout the years, and I ask for privacy, grace, and understanding as we navigate this transition with our family," she said.
To stay focused amidst the personal turmoil, the veteran TV star has poured her energy into her role as Angelique in the Broadway hit "& Juliet."
While promoting her 2026 run in the musical, Burruss described the timing as "f-cking perfect" and spoke about the therapeutic power of returning to the stage.
"This show is so much fun that no matter what's happening, it just takes you out of that space," she said.
Burruss is no stranger to the Broadway stage, as she previously starred in "Chicago" as "Matron Mama Morton."
Even though Kandi Burruss walked away from "Real Housewives of Atlanta" some time ago, the "No Scrubs" songwriter is still rooting for the franchise’s success.
Burruss spent 14 years on "RHOA" as a full-time cast member, and several of those seasons were spent at the center of the drama. However, she caught the Bravoverse off guard when she dropped the bombshell that she was leaving the show in 2024.
Burruss first joined "RHOA" as an official cast member in season 2, 2009. Since joining the series, Burruss has feuded with many of the program's big-name stars, including NeNe Leakes, Kenya Moore, Marlo Hampton, Porsha Williams, and Phaedra Parks.
Despite no longer being in front of the cameras, Burruss remains a major advocate for the show and frequently cheers on longtime friends like Shamea Morton.
During an appearance on the "Question Everything" podcast, Burruss explained why she's still a vocal supporter of the series despite walking away a few years ago.
"I think it's important to continue to support the franchise even though I'm not there because I was there for 14 seasons, and I want them to be successful," she said. "I want 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' to continue on another 15 years."
For those unfamiliar, Burruss announced her departure from "RHOA" in 2024 while walking the red carpet at the Grammy Awards.
At the time, she told Variety that it was time for a break after a 15-year run. She also hinted that the network’s delay in finalizing the season 15 cast played a role in her decision to move on.
"It’s been 14 seasons, and they allowed us to sit around for a little too long, but during that time I had started working on a lot of other things, and I got some nice big projects coming soon, so I’m super excited about those things," Burruss said.
Burruss also shared that she felt pushed to walk away from "RHOA" after those in her inner circle challenged her to think about her future.
"And I was like, ‘Well, I think because I’ve just been doing it for so long, it feels weird to think not to do it?’ So I was just like, ‘You know what? I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year,'" Burruss added.
Burruss didn't let her departure from "RHOA" keep her down. According to The Blast, the Xscape singer revealed she was "more than excited" to leave the show behind her after years in the hot seat.
The constant cast friction wasn't the only reason the mother of three left. In 2025, Burruss noted that stepping back from the series gave her the bandwidth she needed to focus on her growing business empire.
"I have big dreams, y'all," she said. "Y'all know I want to win a Tony [Award]."
Burruss confirmed that she and Todd Tucker were ending their 11-year marriage.
"I’m stepping into a new chapter pouring into my work, my family, and my own growth. I’m grateful to everyone who supported us throughout the years, and I ask for privacy, grace, and understanding as we navigate this transition with our family," she said.
To stay focused amidst the personal turmoil, the veteran TV star has poured her energy into her role as Angelique in the Broadway hit "& Juliet."
While promoting her 2026 run in the musical, Burruss described the timing as "f-cking perfect" and spoke about the therapeutic power of returning to the stage.
"This show is so much fun that no matter what's happening, it just takes you out of that space," she said.
Burruss is no stranger to the Broadway stage, as she previously starred in "Chicago" as "Matron Mama Morton."
#NewMusic from Keith D. Robinson “Different Languages”
Renowned actor and recording artist Keith D. Robinson has officially released his latest single, “Different Languages,” marking the third look at his highly anticipated forthcoming album, Love Episodic II. The full project is slated for a summer 2026 release.
Written by Robinson and produced by Niphkey, the track explores the complexities of emotional intimacy. Robinson describes the song as an “ode to the burning desire between lovers who yearn to be understood and heard by one another far beyond words, but more by their intention and vibration.”
The accompanying music video, directed by Brian Jara and starring Robinson alongside Angel Ann Craig, utilizes a palette of shifting colors and “vibrations” to symbolize the various phases of a romantic connection. The visual was edited by Julius “Bigfellow” Twum.
Written by Robinson and produced by Niphkey, the track explores the complexities of emotional intimacy. Robinson describes the song as an “ode to the burning desire between lovers who yearn to be understood and heard by one another far beyond words, but more by their intention and vibration.”
The accompanying music video, directed by Brian Jara and starring Robinson alongside Angel Ann Craig, utilizes a palette of shifting colors and “vibrations” to symbolize the various phases of a romantic connection. The visual was edited by Julius “Bigfellow” Twum.
LISTEN:
Fans of Robinson—who has maintained a dual career as a celebrated actor and an R&B mainstay—can expect to see the video entering high rotation this week across BET Soul and other BET Networks platforms.
Fans of Robinson—who has maintained a dual career as a celebrated actor and an R&B mainstay—can expect to see the video entering high rotation this week across BET Soul and other BET Networks platforms.
#HipHopNews: 50 Cent Taunts T.I. By Teasing ‘Surviving T.I. & Tiny’ Documentary
T.I. may soon be the next rival of 50 Cent‘s to have his alleged transgressions turned into a documentary.
After executive producing a Netflix docuseries on Diddy’s history of abuse allegations, it appears the G-Unit mogul is now turning the spotlight on Tip’s own checkered past.
In a since-deleted Instagram post on Thursday (March 5), Fif shared a screenshot of a news headline that read “50 Cent Reportedly Developing ‘Surviving T.I. & Tiny’ Documentary,” seemingly confirming the report.
“Remember how quiet I got before the Diddy doc, Dame thought I wasn’t coming. I hope this doesn’t mess up your promo tour,” he wrote in the caption, referencing the rollout of T.I.’s upcoming final album Kill the King.
“[T]hey’re gonna ask about your 20 sexual assault cases. You might want to talk to a crisis PR person.”T.I. has yet to respond.
50 Cent’s taunt only escalates the long-simmering tension between himself and T.I., which has reached fever pitch in recent weeks after the Atlanta rap legend once again challenged 50 to a Verzuz battle.
Fif responded by calling Tip “King Rat” and telling him to “keep my name out ya mouth,” prompting the Grand Hustle general to unleash an onslaught of diss records aimed at his longtime foe.
The most bruising of the bunch, “The Right One,” found T.I. using 50’s dead mother and baby mama Daphne Joy, who later became romantic with Diddy, as ammo.
“You ain’t that savage, n*gga, you 5-0, dispatcher / Ol’ tender dick n*gga, all mad ’cause Puff let your bitch have it / Gave her tartar sauce and mustard like a fish sammich,” he rapped on the hard-hitting track, before adding: “You hate women, guess that’s why you can’t keep one / You can’t love ’em, ’cause from your mama you received none.”
Despite Tip’s best efforts to lure him into the ring for a full-fledged rap battle, 50 Cent has made it clear that he has no intention of hopping back into the booth.
Alongside a fake “Stupid-Ass N*gga Award” certificate that he posted on Instagram, the Power mogul wrote: “Goes to old rappers still trying to battle rap, ChatGPT told me that. I don’t need me to rap, YOU need me to rap. LOL get the Fvck off my page.”
T.I. may soon be the next rival of 50 Cent‘s to have his alleged transgressions turned into a documentary.
After executive producing a Netflix docuseries on Diddy’s history of abuse allegations, it appears the G-Unit mogul is now turning the spotlight on Tip’s own checkered past.
In a since-deleted Instagram post on Thursday (March 5), Fif shared a screenshot of a news headline that read “50 Cent Reportedly Developing ‘Surviving T.I. & Tiny’ Documentary,” seemingly confirming the report.
“Remember how quiet I got before the Diddy doc, Dame thought I wasn’t coming. I hope this doesn’t mess up your promo tour,” he wrote in the caption, referencing the rollout of T.I.’s upcoming final album Kill the King.
“[T]hey’re gonna ask about your 20 sexual assault cases. You might want to talk to a crisis PR person.”T.I. has yet to respond.
50 Cent’s taunt only escalates the long-simmering tension between himself and T.I., which has reached fever pitch in recent weeks after the Atlanta rap legend once again challenged 50 to a Verzuz battle.
Fif responded by calling Tip “King Rat” and telling him to “keep my name out ya mouth,” prompting the Grand Hustle general to unleash an onslaught of diss records aimed at his longtime foe.
The most bruising of the bunch, “The Right One,” found T.I. using 50’s dead mother and baby mama Daphne Joy, who later became romantic with Diddy, as ammo.
“You ain’t that savage, n*gga, you 5-0, dispatcher / Ol’ tender dick n*gga, all mad ’cause Puff let your bitch have it / Gave her tartar sauce and mustard like a fish sammich,” he rapped on the hard-hitting track, before adding: “You hate women, guess that’s why you can’t keep one / You can’t love ’em, ’cause from your mama you received none.”
Despite Tip’s best efforts to lure him into the ring for a full-fledged rap battle, 50 Cent has made it clear that he has no intention of hopping back into the booth.
Alongside a fake “Stupid-Ass N*gga Award” certificate that he posted on Instagram, the Power mogul wrote: “Goes to old rappers still trying to battle rap, ChatGPT told me that. I don’t need me to rap, YOU need me to rap. LOL get the Fvck off my page.”
Woman Arrested After Firing Shots Outside Rihanna's Home
Trouble ensued outside of Rihanna‘s house on Sunday afternoon (March 8).
A woman was taken into custody after reportedly firing several rounds towards the 38-year-old’s Beverly Hills home in the early afternoon, according to Los Angeles Times.
LAPD radio dispatch says the female suspect fired “approximately 10 shots” at the residence, with one hitting a wall of the home, from a vehicle across the street.
While the suspect fled, they were later arrested as law enforcement quickly responded.
According to reports, Rihanna was home at the time of the shooting, but it’s unclear if her partner A$AP Rocky or their children were present.
No injuries were reported from the incident.
Veteran Actress Tichina Arnold Signs First-Look Deal With CBS Studios
According to Deadline, actress, director, and producer, Tichina Arnold (The Neighborhood, Martin) celebrated 20 years with CBS Studios, by signing a first-look deal with the studio, under Queen Light Productions. “I am extremely excited to have a first look deal with CBS Studios,” she said to Deadline. “My sister Zenay and I started a company called Queens Light, and it’s amazing to continue working creatively with a studio and team that we’ve already been part of for so long.”
She continued, “I have a few projects that I’m working on. One project I’m not going to say because the last time I said it, it happened, but it didn’t happen with me, so I’m not going to put it out there yet. But it’s a project about a very prominent woman and singer who had a very interesting life. So I’m going to revisit that, but will leave you on a cliffhanger until I can share more.”
As part of her decades spent with CBS, she has starred on Everybody Hates Chris, which premiered in 2005, playing the mother of Chris Rock’s character, portrayed by Tyler James Williams. Additionally, Arnold is wrapping her time sent on CBS’ The Neighborhood, which premiered on the network in 2018 and is celebrating its final season after more than 150 episodes, with the finale airing in May. She told the outlet that she’s grateful for her time on the series, and the cast and crew as well as becoming a first-time director.
“Eight seasons of working on The Neighborhood have taught me so much. It taught me that my growth in this industry was needed at this very time. What made the experience so special was that everyone genuinely wanted to be there – it was the perfect storm and perfect mix of people, as if God-ordained. I wish I could bottle what we had and take it with me to every job. To have felt that level of camaraderie and love on the show is something truly special. You can’t beat it – and I don’t think anything else will ever match it,” she said.
She continued, “I’ve developed a great sixth sense when it comes to knowing whether a show is going to work, if it will resonate and go far. And from the very first table read of The Neighborhood, it just felt right.”
“As heartbreaking and bittersweet as it is, be grateful. We got to experience each other on a level that very few people in this business ever get to. When you lead with gratitude, it softens the sadness,” Arnold shared.
Trouble ensued outside of Rihanna‘s house on Sunday afternoon (March 8).
A woman was taken into custody after reportedly firing several rounds towards the 38-year-old’s Beverly Hills home in the early afternoon, according to Los Angeles Times.
LAPD radio dispatch says the female suspect fired “approximately 10 shots” at the residence, with one hitting a wall of the home, from a vehicle across the street.
While the suspect fled, they were later arrested as law enforcement quickly responded.
According to reports, Rihanna was home at the time of the shooting, but it’s unclear if her partner A$AP Rocky or their children were present.
No injuries were reported from the incident.
Veteran Actress Tichina Arnold Signs First-Look Deal With CBS Studios
She continued, “I have a few projects that I’m working on. One project I’m not going to say because the last time I said it, it happened, but it didn’t happen with me, so I’m not going to put it out there yet. But it’s a project about a very prominent woman and singer who had a very interesting life. So I’m going to revisit that, but will leave you on a cliffhanger until I can share more.”
As part of her decades spent with CBS, she has starred on Everybody Hates Chris, which premiered in 2005, playing the mother of Chris Rock’s character, portrayed by Tyler James Williams. Additionally, Arnold is wrapping her time sent on CBS’ The Neighborhood, which premiered on the network in 2018 and is celebrating its final season after more than 150 episodes, with the finale airing in May. She told the outlet that she’s grateful for her time on the series, and the cast and crew as well as becoming a first-time director.
“Eight seasons of working on The Neighborhood have taught me so much. It taught me that my growth in this industry was needed at this very time. What made the experience so special was that everyone genuinely wanted to be there – it was the perfect storm and perfect mix of people, as if God-ordained. I wish I could bottle what we had and take it with me to every job. To have felt that level of camaraderie and love on the show is something truly special. You can’t beat it – and I don’t think anything else will ever match it,” she said.
She continued, “I’ve developed a great sixth sense when it comes to knowing whether a show is going to work, if it will resonate and go far. And from the very first table read of The Neighborhood, it just felt right.”
“As heartbreaking and bittersweet as it is, be grateful. We got to experience each other on a level that very few people in this business ever get to. When you lead with gratitude, it softens the sadness,” Arnold shared.
Royce Reed Addresses Dwight Howard Drama After His Wife Amy Luciani Speaks Out
Royce Reed is speaking out after recent allegations involving Dwight Howard resurfaced publicly through claims made by his wife, Amy Luciani.
Luciani recently posted emotional videos online in which she accused Howard of struggling with cocaine addiction and claimed the situation had escalated to the point where Child Protective Services had intervened.
Reed, who shares 17-year-old son Braylon with Howard, responded soon after, making it clear she feels the situation confirms concerns she has raised for years. In a series of posts and videos, Reed said the focus has always been the well-being of the children involved.
“Until you do right by me, it’s always been about the kids, bitch” she said. “It’s always been about the kids."
Reed also addressed Luciani directly, referencing the years she says she was dismissed or criticized for speaking out about Howard.
“Now you want to speak because he brought you into it,” Reed said. “Girl, keep me blocked! Becuz imma CLOCK IT!”
She added, "Are you serious right now? You called me crazy, right? You said I was jealous. You said I wanted him when it's always been about the damn kids and now you want to sit here and cry and sit here and be like 'it's because what everybody else did to him.' No! It's because of what he does to other people, shit. I was just fucking first. I was collateral damage."
The former Basketball Wives star said she is not celebrating the current turmoil but believes it highlights issues she has long tried to bring attention to. Reed has repeatedly argued that the situation surrounding Howard’s family has been mishandled and that the children involved should have been protected earlier.
“Who’s laughing? This is sad AF!” Reed wrote on social media. “These kids never should’ve been in his custody and she knew that! Look at the past!”
Reed also criticized Luciani for speaking publicly now, suggesting the concerns should have been raised sooner.
“Crying now because she caught him lying on her is selfish AF!” Reed said. “If it was about the kids she should’ve opened her damn mouth a long time ago instead of leaving them for weeks to fend for themselves while you went on trips overseas!”
She added, "This girl, the last girl, the one before that called me crazy [...] called me a liar [...] called me bitter [...] laughed at my downfall and threw their dreams in my face as mine turned into nightmares. Now I'm expected to be the bigger person? I'm5'2"...NAH! I'M RECLAIMING MY TIME!"
Howard, an eight-time NBA All-Star, has not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of publication. The controversy comes amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding Howard’s personal life. The former league star has five children from different relationships, including Braylon, whom he shares with Reed.
As the situation continues to unfold online, Reed stated the larger issue should remain centered on the children involved rather than the adults.
“No one is laughing,” she said. “This is about CHILDREN.”
Royce Reed is speaking out after recent allegations involving Dwight Howard resurfaced publicly through claims made by his wife, Amy Luciani.
Luciani recently posted emotional videos online in which she accused Howard of struggling with cocaine addiction and claimed the situation had escalated to the point where Child Protective Services had intervened.
Reed, who shares 17-year-old son Braylon with Howard, responded soon after, making it clear she feels the situation confirms concerns she has raised for years. In a series of posts and videos, Reed said the focus has always been the well-being of the children involved.
“Until you do right by me, it’s always been about the kids, bitch” she said. “It’s always been about the kids."
Reed also addressed Luciani directly, referencing the years she says she was dismissed or criticized for speaking out about Howard.
“Now you want to speak because he brought you into it,” Reed said. “Girl, keep me blocked! Becuz imma CLOCK IT!”
She added, "Are you serious right now? You called me crazy, right? You said I was jealous. You said I wanted him when it's always been about the damn kids and now you want to sit here and cry and sit here and be like 'it's because what everybody else did to him.' No! It's because of what he does to other people, shit. I was just fucking first. I was collateral damage."
The former Basketball Wives star said she is not celebrating the current turmoil but believes it highlights issues she has long tried to bring attention to. Reed has repeatedly argued that the situation surrounding Howard’s family has been mishandled and that the children involved should have been protected earlier.
“Who’s laughing? This is sad AF!” Reed wrote on social media. “These kids never should’ve been in his custody and she knew that! Look at the past!”
Reed also criticized Luciani for speaking publicly now, suggesting the concerns should have been raised sooner.
“Crying now because she caught him lying on her is selfish AF!” Reed said. “If it was about the kids she should’ve opened her damn mouth a long time ago instead of leaving them for weeks to fend for themselves while you went on trips overseas!”
She added, "This girl, the last girl, the one before that called me crazy [...] called me a liar [...] called me bitter [...] laughed at my downfall and threw their dreams in my face as mine turned into nightmares. Now I'm expected to be the bigger person? I'm5'2"...NAH! I'M RECLAIMING MY TIME!"
Howard, an eight-time NBA All-Star, has not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of publication. The controversy comes amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding Howard’s personal life. The former league star has five children from different relationships, including Braylon, whom he shares with Reed.
As the situation continues to unfold online, Reed stated the larger issue should remain centered on the children involved rather than the adults.
“No one is laughing,” she said. “This is about CHILDREN.”
Lady Gaga teases imminent wedding
Lady Gaga has dropped a hint that she and her fiancé, Michael Polansky, will soon be tying the knot.
The pop superstar revealed during a call to Bruno Mars' iHeart Radio livestream Romantic Radio that a wedding is just around the corner.
"Hi, Bruno. Me and my fiancé have been travelling all year, but we're getting married soon," Gaga said in the voice message.
"We were hoping that maybe you could choose a special song for us."
"I know that voice," Mars responded. "That is my dear friend Lady Gaga."
"If you're looking for a song to dedicate to your husband, I would say, off this new album of mine, I would go with Risk It All, track one," Mars recommended.
The pop superstar revealed during a call to Bruno Mars' iHeart Radio livestream Romantic Radio that a wedding is just around the corner.
"Hi, Bruno. Me and my fiancé have been travelling all year, but we're getting married soon," Gaga said in the voice message.
"We were hoping that maybe you could choose a special song for us."
"I know that voice," Mars responded. "That is my dear friend Lady Gaga."
"If you're looking for a song to dedicate to your husband, I would say, off this new album of mine, I would go with Risk It All, track one," Mars recommended.
Michael Jackson Estate Responds to Cascio Family Lawsuit: 'Desperate Money Grab'
Members of the Cascio family, longtime friends of Michael Jackson, filed a lawsuit against his estate last month — a move the estate's attorney is now calling a “desperate money grab.”
Edward, Dominic, Aldo Cascio, and their sister Marie-Nicole Porte filed suit on February 27 in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
The filing marks the latest dispute between the Cascio family and Jackson’s estate. According to USA Today, the estate previously paid several members of the family $2.8 million each in 2019, a settlement the estate says it agreed to after the Cascios threatened to make new allegations unless they received what the estate described as “staggering sums.”
"This lawsuit is a desperate money grab by additional members of the Cascio family who have hopped on the bandwagon with their brother Frank, who is already being sued in arbitration for civil extortion," Marty Singer, the estate's attorney, said in a statement. "This new court filing is a transparent forum-shopping tactic in their scheme to obtain hundreds of millions of dollars from Michael's estate and companies."
Attorney Howard King, best known for representing Dr. Dre and Marilyn Manson, reportedly opened with a $213 million demand. He was then replaced by Mark Geragos — a former Jackson defense attorney who once called previous accusations against the pop star "a shakedown.”
Geragos reportedly made a $40 million demand on the family's behalf, but the parties did not reach a settlement. King was later rehired, and the family ultimately filed suit in federal court. "Still looking for their multi-million-dollar payday, the Cascios brought back Howard King and are grasping at straws through this frivolous filing," Singer said.
The lawsuit itself alleges that Jackson groomed and sexually abused members of the Cascio family over a period spanning more than a decade, beginning when some were children. The complaint also accuses Jackson’s companies and associates of enabling the alleged abuse and seeks damages from the estate and related entities.
But members of the Cascio family had previously defended Jackson publicly.
In 2010, Eddie, Frank, and Marie-Nicole appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, introduced as Jackson's secret "second family," and were asked directly whether Jackson had ever behaved inappropriately with them.
All three answered in unison: "Never, never."
The Cascio family's new Michael Jackson abuse claims have zero credibility.
They defended him fiercely for 25+ years calling him family and innocent, as seen on Oprah's TV Special: "If Michael ever laid a finger on me, I would not be in this chair right now."Why now?
Eddie volunteered that Jackson "couldn't harm a fly" and was "such a kind and gentle soul." He dismissed the charges from Jackson's 2005 criminal trial as "ridiculous," saying, "Michael was a target, and unfortunately, he was targeted." Jackson was unanimously acquitted after a five-month trial.
Singer noted that Frank's 2011 memoir contains dozens of passages making the same case that Jackson never harmed the family or anyone else.
"Notably, these shakedown attempts come more than 15 years after Michael's death, thus carrying no risk of being sued for defamation," Singer said. "Sadly, in death just as in life, Michael's talents and success continue to make him a target."
Members of the Cascio family, longtime friends of Michael Jackson, filed a lawsuit against his estate last month — a move the estate's attorney is now calling a “desperate money grab.”
Edward, Dominic, Aldo Cascio, and their sister Marie-Nicole Porte filed suit on February 27 in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
The filing marks the latest dispute between the Cascio family and Jackson’s estate. According to USA Today, the estate previously paid several members of the family $2.8 million each in 2019, a settlement the estate says it agreed to after the Cascios threatened to make new allegations unless they received what the estate described as “staggering sums.”
"This lawsuit is a desperate money grab by additional members of the Cascio family who have hopped on the bandwagon with their brother Frank, who is already being sued in arbitration for civil extortion," Marty Singer, the estate's attorney, said in a statement. "This new court filing is a transparent forum-shopping tactic in their scheme to obtain hundreds of millions of dollars from Michael's estate and companies."
Attorney Howard King, best known for representing Dr. Dre and Marilyn Manson, reportedly opened with a $213 million demand. He was then replaced by Mark Geragos — a former Jackson defense attorney who once called previous accusations against the pop star "a shakedown.”
Geragos reportedly made a $40 million demand on the family's behalf, but the parties did not reach a settlement. King was later rehired, and the family ultimately filed suit in federal court. "Still looking for their multi-million-dollar payday, the Cascios brought back Howard King and are grasping at straws through this frivolous filing," Singer said.
The lawsuit itself alleges that Jackson groomed and sexually abused members of the Cascio family over a period spanning more than a decade, beginning when some were children. The complaint also accuses Jackson’s companies and associates of enabling the alleged abuse and seeks damages from the estate and related entities.
But members of the Cascio family had previously defended Jackson publicly.
In 2010, Eddie, Frank, and Marie-Nicole appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, introduced as Jackson's secret "second family," and were asked directly whether Jackson had ever behaved inappropriately with them.
All three answered in unison: "Never, never."
The Cascio family's new Michael Jackson abuse claims have zero credibility.
They defended him fiercely for 25+ years calling him family and innocent, as seen on Oprah's TV Special: "If Michael ever laid a finger on me, I would not be in this chair right now."Why now?
Eddie volunteered that Jackson "couldn't harm a fly" and was "such a kind and gentle soul." He dismissed the charges from Jackson's 2005 criminal trial as "ridiculous," saying, "Michael was a target, and unfortunately, he was targeted." Jackson was unanimously acquitted after a five-month trial.
Singer noted that Frank's 2011 memoir contains dozens of passages making the same case that Jackson never harmed the family or anyone else.
"Notably, these shakedown attempts come more than 15 years after Michael's death, thus carrying no risk of being sued for defamation," Singer said. "Sadly, in death just as in life, Michael's talents and success continue to make him a target."
Cardi B lawsuit against Tasha K takes a turn as GoFundMe launched
Cardi B lawsuit against Tasha K takes a turn as GoFundMe launched originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The legal battle between Cardi B and blogger Tasha K has taken a new turn after Tasha K launched a GoFundMe campaign asking supporters to help her pay down the multimillion-dollar judgment she owes the rapper. As of this writing, the fundraiser has collected $6,125 toward a stated goal of $3.5 million.
The campaign was introduced with a message directed to Tasha K’s fan community, where she explained that she had previously declined requests to seek financial help but had recently reconsidered.
In the message, she wrote that the fundraiser was created “for one purpose only, to pay down the judgment debt so I can close this chapter and move forward without constant legal distractions.” She also stated that she is continuing to make her required payments, adding that she currently contributes $20,000 per month toward the court-ordered obligation.
Tasha K also told supporters that legal proceedings related to the debt have continued despite her payments. “Even while making my payments, creditors can still bring me back to court for examinations and filings,” she wrote, noting that those appearances come with additional legal costs and time commitments.
She added that any funds raised would go directly toward reducing the remaining balance and said financial records tied to the fundraiser would be shared quarterly for transparency.
The situation stems from a defamation lawsuit filed by Cardi B, who accused the blogger of spreading false claims about her personal life and alleged drug use. A jury ruled in favor of the rapper, awarding roughly $3.9 million in damages.
In March 2025, the two sides reached a settlement that established a payment plan requiring Tasha K to repay $1.2 million over five years. The agreement also required her to refrain from making further negative statements about Cardi B online and to provide periodic financial disclosures.
Recent court filings have shown that Cardi B’s legal team continues to monitor the payments tied to the judgment. The rapper has also requested detailed financial documentation from the blogger, including income records connected to her online platforms.
Treach Sounds Off After Daughter Egypt Criss Suffers Brutal Knockout In Boxing Debut
Treach is speaking out after his daughter Egypt Criss suffered a brutal knockout against Olympic champion Jade Jones.
Keeping it real with y’all. This is exactly what I was waiting for. I wanted to hear what Treach had to say after his daughter stepped into the ring and suffered a brutal knockout.
If you watched the fight, you already know the moment was tough to see. Egypt Criss, the daughter of Treach of Naughty By Nature and Pepa of Salt-N-Pepa, was knocked out in the second round of her boxing debut. The loss came at the hands of Jade Jones, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in Taekwondo who recently transitioned into professional boxing.
Pepa was in attendance and even got highlighted by the broadcast as a celebrity guest during the event. But once the bell rang, the tone quickly changed. Jones wasted little time asserting her dominance, flooring Egypt with a series of powerful left hooks before the fight was stopped in the second round.
Many observers say the matchup never made sense in the first place.
Egypt was essentially a novice stepping into a combat sport against an elite athlete with decades of high-level experience in martial arts. That is a dangerous gap in preparation and competition.
Before this fight, Egypt had been calling out Chrisean Rock, another celebrity who has flirted with boxing. Instead, she found herself across the ring from a decorated Olympic champion. That jump in competition proved costly.
Treach did not hold back when he addressed the situation publicly. He posted a message directed at his daughter and the people around her:
“To My Darling Daughter Egypt Pt.1, When you Marry a Clout Chasing Clown like this that Brainwashes you to take care of him & to have him train you & set you up what did you expect? I LOVE YOU. As far as him & the team around you, y’all put my daughter in harm’s way. That karma comes back quick. You reap what you sow.”
The legal battle between Cardi B and blogger Tasha K has taken a new turn after Tasha K launched a GoFundMe campaign asking supporters to help her pay down the multimillion-dollar judgment she owes the rapper. As of this writing, the fundraiser has collected $6,125 toward a stated goal of $3.5 million.
The campaign was introduced with a message directed to Tasha K’s fan community, where she explained that she had previously declined requests to seek financial help but had recently reconsidered.
In the message, she wrote that the fundraiser was created “for one purpose only, to pay down the judgment debt so I can close this chapter and move forward without constant legal distractions.” She also stated that she is continuing to make her required payments, adding that she currently contributes $20,000 per month toward the court-ordered obligation.
Tasha K also told supporters that legal proceedings related to the debt have continued despite her payments. “Even while making my payments, creditors can still bring me back to court for examinations and filings,” she wrote, noting that those appearances come with additional legal costs and time commitments.
She added that any funds raised would go directly toward reducing the remaining balance and said financial records tied to the fundraiser would be shared quarterly for transparency.
The situation stems from a defamation lawsuit filed by Cardi B, who accused the blogger of spreading false claims about her personal life and alleged drug use. A jury ruled in favor of the rapper, awarding roughly $3.9 million in damages.
In March 2025, the two sides reached a settlement that established a payment plan requiring Tasha K to repay $1.2 million over five years. The agreement also required her to refrain from making further negative statements about Cardi B online and to provide periodic financial disclosures.
Recent court filings have shown that Cardi B’s legal team continues to monitor the payments tied to the judgment. The rapper has also requested detailed financial documentation from the blogger, including income records connected to her online platforms.
Treach Sounds Off After Daughter Egypt Criss Suffers Brutal Knockout In Boxing Debut
Treach is speaking out after his daughter Egypt Criss suffered a brutal knockout against Olympic champion Jade Jones.
Keeping it real with y’all. This is exactly what I was waiting for. I wanted to hear what Treach had to say after his daughter stepped into the ring and suffered a brutal knockout.
If you watched the fight, you already know the moment was tough to see. Egypt Criss, the daughter of Treach of Naughty By Nature and Pepa of Salt-N-Pepa, was knocked out in the second round of her boxing debut. The loss came at the hands of Jade Jones, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in Taekwondo who recently transitioned into professional boxing.
Pepa was in attendance and even got highlighted by the broadcast as a celebrity guest during the event. But once the bell rang, the tone quickly changed. Jones wasted little time asserting her dominance, flooring Egypt with a series of powerful left hooks before the fight was stopped in the second round.
Many observers say the matchup never made sense in the first place.
Egypt was essentially a novice stepping into a combat sport against an elite athlete with decades of high-level experience in martial arts. That is a dangerous gap in preparation and competition.
Before this fight, Egypt had been calling out Chrisean Rock, another celebrity who has flirted with boxing. Instead, she found herself across the ring from a decorated Olympic champion. That jump in competition proved costly.
Treach did not hold back when he addressed the situation publicly. He posted a message directed at his daughter and the people around her:
“To My Darling Daughter Egypt Pt.1, When you Marry a Clout Chasing Clown like this that Brainwashes you to take care of him & to have him train you & set you up what did you expect? I LOVE YOU. As far as him & the team around you, y’all put my daughter in harm’s way. That karma comes back quick. You reap what you sow.”
Arike Ogunbowale arrested on battery charge after Unrivaled win
Dallas Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale was arrested in Miami early Thursday morning following the Unrivaled championship after she allegedly punched a man in the face at a nightclub, according to police records in Miami-Dade County. Ogunbowale was charged with misdemeanor battery.
"The league is aware of an incident involving Arike Ogunbowale and we are in the process of gathering additional information," an Unrivaled spokesperson said in a statement to ESPN. "We're in contact with Arike and her representatives."
The arrest happened at 4:20 a.m. outside of the E11EVEN nightclub in Miami. According to the police report, Ogunbowale punched a man with a closed fist, causing him to fall to the ground. Footage from the nightclub captured the incident, the report said, and confirmed the man's account.
Ogunbowale was out celebrating winning the Unrivaled championship with the Mist. Ogunbowale had 19 points in the final. She is a four-time WNBA All-Star and a two-time WNBA All-Star Game MVP.
"The Wings are aware of an incident involving Arike Ogunbowale and are in the process of gathering more information," the team said in a statement to ESPN. "Further comments will be provided once we have more details."
"The league is aware of an incident involving Arike Ogunbowale and we are in the process of gathering additional information," an Unrivaled spokesperson said in a statement to ESPN. "We're in contact with Arike and her representatives."
The arrest happened at 4:20 a.m. outside of the E11EVEN nightclub in Miami. According to the police report, Ogunbowale punched a man with a closed fist, causing him to fall to the ground. Footage from the nightclub captured the incident, the report said, and confirmed the man's account.
Ogunbowale was out celebrating winning the Unrivaled championship with the Mist. Ogunbowale had 19 points in the final. She is a four-time WNBA All-Star and a two-time WNBA All-Star Game MVP.
"The Wings are aware of an incident involving Arike Ogunbowale and are in the process of gathering more information," the team said in a statement to ESPN. "Further comments will be provided once we have more details."
Halle Berry Explains Why She Stopped Doing Interviews For a Decade
Halle Berry is opening up about not doing interviews for several years.
The 59-year-old actress shared in a new interview that headlines about her personal life caused her to retract and stop doing much press as it was often the same thing being asked all the time.
“After my third divorce, people started to say, ‘What’s wrong with her? She’s crazy. She can’t keep a man,’” she told The Cut. “And I would always argue, ‘Who says I want to keep a man if he’s not the right man?’”
“I’m in the best relationship I have ever had,” Halle added, referring to fiancé Van Hunt. “I pretty much stopped doing interviews for a decade because I got tired of the same old story. It was always: ‘Poor Halle — Unlucky in Love Again.’”
She was then asked if she wanted to come up with her own headlines.
“Hmm. ‘Halle Berry Is Not a Damsel in Distress,’” she said before pausing. “‘Halle Berry Is Not a Victim of Failed Relationships.’”
Another longer pause happened, and she added, “‘Halle Berry Never Said It’s Anyone Else’s Fault.’”
Halle Berry is opening up about not doing interviews for several years.
The 59-year-old actress shared in a new interview that headlines about her personal life caused her to retract and stop doing much press as it was often the same thing being asked all the time.
“After my third divorce, people started to say, ‘What’s wrong with her? She’s crazy. She can’t keep a man,’” she told The Cut. “And I would always argue, ‘Who says I want to keep a man if he’s not the right man?’”
“I’m in the best relationship I have ever had,” Halle added, referring to fiancé Van Hunt. “I pretty much stopped doing interviews for a decade because I got tired of the same old story. It was always: ‘Poor Halle — Unlucky in Love Again.’”
She was then asked if she wanted to come up with her own headlines.
“Hmm. ‘Halle Berry Is Not a Damsel in Distress,’” she said before pausing. “‘Halle Berry Is Not a Victim of Failed Relationships.’”
Another longer pause happened, and she added, “‘Halle Berry Never Said It’s Anyone Else’s Fault.’”
FIU College Republicans Exposed In Leaked Chat Filled With Extreme Racism And Slurs
A group chat intended for conservative students at Florida International University (FIU) has ignited a firestorm of condemnation after leaked logs revealed a culture of rampant bigotry and graphic calls for racial violence.
The WhatsApp group, reportedly created by Abel Alexander Carvajal, secretary of the Miami-Dade Republican Party and an FIU law student, became a hub for racist, antisemitic, and homophobic vitriol just weeks after its inception in September 2025.
According to investigative reports, participants used variations of the N-word more than 400 times. The most extreme messages were attributed to William Bejerano, who posted a massive, graphic list of violent acts targeting Black people.
The leaked logs included the following text: “William: Kill niggers. Behead niggers. Roundhouse kick a nigger into the concrete. Slam dunk a nigger baby into the trashcan. Crucify filthy blacks. Defecate in a niggers food. Launch niggers into the sun. Stir fry niggers in a wok. Toss niggers into active volcanoes. Urinate into a niggers gas tank. Judo throw niggers into a wood chipper. Twist niggers heads off. Report niggers to the IRS. Karate chop niggers in half. Curb stomp pregnant black niggers. Trap niggers in quicksand. Crush niggers in the trash compactor. Liquefy niggers in a vat of acid. Eat niggers. Dissect niggers. Exterminate niggers in the gas chamber. Stomp nigger skulls with steel toed boots. Cremate niggers in the oven. Lobotomize niggers. Mandatory abortions for niggers. Grind nigger fetuses in the garbage disposal. Drown niggers in fried chicken grease. Vaporize niggers with a ray gun. Kick old niggers down the stairs. Feed niggers to alligators. Slice niggers with a katana.”
The chat’s recruitment chair, Dariel Gonzalez, reportedly dismissed the violent rhetoric as “how edgy” and frequently urged others to “avoid the coloreds like the plague.” The logs also exposed deep seated antisemitism; at one point, the group’s name was changed to “Gooning in Agartha,” a reference to a mythical civilization promoted by Nazi leader Heinrich Himmler, which Gonzalez described as “Nazi heaven sort of.”
Carvajal has denied having knowledge of the most offensive messages until recently, stating, “I guess to an extent, I bear some responsibility, cause I created a chat.”
However, records show that dozens of messages were deleted before the logs were made public, and Carvajal himself reportedly used coded slurs to refer to Black women and children.
The fallout has led to an immediate wave of demands for accountability and resignations from high-ranking party officials.
Kevin Cooper, the first Jewish chair of the Miami-Dade Republican party, condemned the group chat in a statement published to X and called for Carvajal’s resignation. “The majority of our board voted to request Carvajal’s resignation. We have commenced removal proceedings and look forward to resolution from the Republican Party of Florida,” Cooper stated.
This sentiment was echoed by State Representative Juan Porras and a joint statement from Florida State Senators Alexis Calatayud, Ileana Garcia, and Ana Maria Rodriguez, who declared, “The individuals in the group chat have exposed how profoundly misaligned their beliefs are to the views of the Republican party of Florida.
The WhatsApp group, reportedly created by Abel Alexander Carvajal, secretary of the Miami-Dade Republican Party and an FIU law student, became a hub for racist, antisemitic, and homophobic vitriol just weeks after its inception in September 2025.
According to investigative reports, participants used variations of the N-word more than 400 times. The most extreme messages were attributed to William Bejerano, who posted a massive, graphic list of violent acts targeting Black people.
The leaked logs included the following text: “William: Kill niggers. Behead niggers. Roundhouse kick a nigger into the concrete. Slam dunk a nigger baby into the trashcan. Crucify filthy blacks. Defecate in a niggers food. Launch niggers into the sun. Stir fry niggers in a wok. Toss niggers into active volcanoes. Urinate into a niggers gas tank. Judo throw niggers into a wood chipper. Twist niggers heads off. Report niggers to the IRS. Karate chop niggers in half. Curb stomp pregnant black niggers. Trap niggers in quicksand. Crush niggers in the trash compactor. Liquefy niggers in a vat of acid. Eat niggers. Dissect niggers. Exterminate niggers in the gas chamber. Stomp nigger skulls with steel toed boots. Cremate niggers in the oven. Lobotomize niggers. Mandatory abortions for niggers. Grind nigger fetuses in the garbage disposal. Drown niggers in fried chicken grease. Vaporize niggers with a ray gun. Kick old niggers down the stairs. Feed niggers to alligators. Slice niggers with a katana.”
The chat’s recruitment chair, Dariel Gonzalez, reportedly dismissed the violent rhetoric as “how edgy” and frequently urged others to “avoid the coloreds like the plague.” The logs also exposed deep seated antisemitism; at one point, the group’s name was changed to “Gooning in Agartha,” a reference to a mythical civilization promoted by Nazi leader Heinrich Himmler, which Gonzalez described as “Nazi heaven sort of.”
Carvajal has denied having knowledge of the most offensive messages until recently, stating, “I guess to an extent, I bear some responsibility, cause I created a chat.”
However, records show that dozens of messages were deleted before the logs were made public, and Carvajal himself reportedly used coded slurs to refer to Black women and children.
The fallout has led to an immediate wave of demands for accountability and resignations from high-ranking party officials.
Kevin Cooper, the first Jewish chair of the Miami-Dade Republican party, condemned the group chat in a statement published to X and called for Carvajal’s resignation. “The majority of our board voted to request Carvajal’s resignation. We have commenced removal proceedings and look forward to resolution from the Republican Party of Florida,” Cooper stated.
This sentiment was echoed by State Representative Juan Porras and a joint statement from Florida State Senators Alexis Calatayud, Ileana Garcia, and Ana Maria Rodriguez, who declared, “The individuals in the group chat have exposed how profoundly misaligned their beliefs are to the views of the Republican party of Florida.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Wonka
Wally Wonka
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
