#MEDIAFAB: MICHAEL Starring Jaafar Jackson and Colman Domingo | Official Poster and New Images
MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.
Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
ABOUT THE MOVIE CREDITS:
Directed by: Antoine Fuqua
Written by: John Logan
Produced by: Graham King, John Branca, John McClain
Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, with Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo
U.S. Release Date: April 24, 2026
Directed by: Antoine Fuqua
Written by: John Logan
Produced by: Graham King, John Branca, John McClain
Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi, with Miles Teller, and Colman Domingo
U.S. Release Date: April 24, 2026
#RHOA: Da Brat Reveals Why She Wouldn’t Do ‘RHOA’
“It, kind of, has been a little conversation,” Da Brat, 51, exclusively told Us Weekly on Tuesday, February 3, while promoting her and wife Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart’s new book, The Way Love Goes: A Guide to Building a “Beaurtiful” and Everlasting Relationship. “I’m scared. [There’s going to be] conflict. They’re gonna throw something at you to make you want to be mad.”
She continued, “That’s just the way that it goes on those shows that brings the viewers, and you know that is going to happen. So, I just didn’t want to be that person because I feel like they know my temper is pretty short, and they’re definitely going to try me.”
Da Brat (real name Shawntae Harris) and wife Judy, 43, have been married since 2022, going on to form friendships with past and present RHOA stars including Porsha Williams, Kandi Burruss, Shamea Morton, Drew Sidora, Phaedra Parks, NeNe Leakes and Cynthia Bailey. Amid their respective friendships, Da Brat was even approached about potentially joining the Housewives.
“It made me nervous when we talked about it,” Da Brat acknowledged on Tuesday, before Judy revealed other reasons her spouse turned any offer down.
“My wife is a convicted felon,” Judy said, referring to Da Brat’s 2007 conviction for felony aggravated assault that resulted in a three-year prison sentence and probation. “So, the conversation [is that] she doesn’t necessarily want to do what’s considered ‘ensemble cast.’”
Da Brat and Judy, meanwhile, are no strangers to reality TV after chronicling moments of their daily lives on Brat Loves Judy from 2021 to 2023.
“We’ve told so much of our story on our reality show, Brat Loves Judy,” Da Brat told Us. “I think we might revisit it. It just depends on what the world is doing because there’s so much going on in the world, and film and TV is doing something weird right now as well, you know, and you know, we don’t know what’s going to happen so, but if we get the opportunity to do it later when [our 2-year-old son] is a bit older, we might dive into it.”
Da Brat and Judy, who welcomed son True in 2023, further revealed that their reality TV history inspired them to write a book about their relationship.
“My wife decided that, ‘Hey, we should probably go a little deeper and give them a little more because a lot of people say they miss us so much,” Da Brat said. “We wanted to do something where we could reach out to them and they can feel us again.”
Da Brat and Judy reflected on their respective pasts in the book — “no holds barred.”
“We started together, but then immediately realized we needed to do our part separately. And then eventually we came back together for other parts,” Judy explained. “But yeah, she had her time, I had my time, and then we had to have some time together. But we started, it was like, ‘I don’t think this would be good.’”
Da Brat, for her part, was particularly surprised to discover how certain stories brought up undisclosed feelings in her wife.
“It’s absolutely like a giant therapy session,” the musician said on Tuesday. “I think the part that makes me most emotional is when she talks about her dad because she really loves her dad, and he’s not with us anymore. He’s our guardian angel now, but it really, that really, you know, melts my heart and makes me really emotional.”
The Way Love Goes: A Guide to Building a “Beaurtiful” and Everlasting Relationship is available now.
#MusicNews: Ari Lennox Returns To The Stage With 2026 North American Tour
GRAMMY-nominated R&B powerhouse Ari Lennox is hitting the road in 2026 with her highly anticipated North American tour in support of her critically acclaimed third studio album Vacancy, Produced by Live Nation, the massive 31-city tour kicks off on Sunday, April 12 at WAMU Theater in Seattle making stops across North America in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Toronto, Brooklyn and more before wrapping up in Charlotte at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre on Saturday, June 6.
Ari’s new album, Vacancy, signals a sophisticated new chapter defined by creative autonomy, confidence, and growth. This critically acclaimed work reflects a three year recording process shaped by intention, patience, self-reflection, artistic freedom, and collaboration. With standout singles, including the recent release “Twin Flame” – listen HERE – produced by Tommy “TBHits” Brown and Leather Jacket, “Under the Moon” and the title track “Vacancy,” reuniting Ari with GRAMMY-winning hitmakers Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, the same powerhouse duo behind her Billboard-charting, RIAA platinum-certified hit “Pressure.”
In 2023, Ari celebrated her sophomore album Age/Sex/Location with a sold-out “The Age/Sex/Location” Tour, performing across major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, and more.
Vacancy is available now on all streaming platforms via Interscope Records.
TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with Citi presale (details below) beginning Tuesday, February 3 at 10am local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, February 6 at 10am local time at LiveNation.com.
PRESALE: Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Tuesday, February 3 at 10am local time until Thursday, February 5 at 10pm local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
VIP: The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, Meet & Greet and individual photo with Ari Lennox, exclusive autographed tour poster with a special message from Ari, early entry into the venue & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com!
ARI LENNOX 2026 NORTH AMERICA TOUR DATES:
Sun Apr 12 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater
Wed Apr 15 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre Oakland
Thu Apr 16 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
Sat Apr 18 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live Sacramento
Sun Apr 19 – Las Vegas, NV – The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan
Tue Apr 21 – Tempe, AZ – Marquee Theatre
Thu Apr 23 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theater
Fri Apr 24 – San Diego, CA – SOMA
Sun Apr 26 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
Tue Apr 28 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
Thu Apr 30 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
Sat May 02 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Sun May 03 – New Orleans, LA – Fillmore New Orleans
Tue May 05 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre
Thu May 07 – Miami Beach, FL – Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater
Fri May 08 – Orlando, FL – Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts
Sun May 10 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
Wed May 13 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory
Fri May 15 – Milwaukee, WI – Landmark Credit Union Live
Sat May 16 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Sun May 17 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre Detroit
Wed May 20 – Toronto, ON – Massey Hall
Fri May 22 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Sat May 23 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Sun May 24 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia
Wed May 27 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
Sat May 30 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
Tue Jun 02 – Virginia Beach, VA – The Dome
Wed Jun 03 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
Fri Jun 05 – Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J Brady Music Center
Sat Jun 06 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
GRAMMY-nominated R&B powerhouse Ari Lennox is hitting the road in 2026 with her highly anticipated North American tour in support of her critically acclaimed third studio album Vacancy, Produced by Live Nation, the massive 31-city tour kicks off on Sunday, April 12 at WAMU Theater in Seattle making stops across North America in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Toronto, Brooklyn and more before wrapping up in Charlotte at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre on Saturday, June 6.
Ari’s new album, Vacancy, signals a sophisticated new chapter defined by creative autonomy, confidence, and growth. This critically acclaimed work reflects a three year recording process shaped by intention, patience, self-reflection, artistic freedom, and collaboration. With standout singles, including the recent release “Twin Flame” – listen HERE – produced by Tommy “TBHits” Brown and Leather Jacket, “Under the Moon” and the title track “Vacancy,” reuniting Ari with GRAMMY-winning hitmakers Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, the same powerhouse duo behind her Billboard-charting, RIAA platinum-certified hit “Pressure.”
In 2023, Ari celebrated her sophomore album Age/Sex/Location with a sold-out “The Age/Sex/Location” Tour, performing across major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, and more.
Vacancy is available now on all streaming platforms via Interscope Records.
TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with Citi presale (details below) beginning Tuesday, February 3 at 10am local time. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, February 6 at 10am local time at LiveNation.com.
PRESALE: Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Tuesday, February 3 at 10am local time until Thursday, February 5 at 10pm local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
VIP: The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, Meet & Greet and individual photo with Ari Lennox, exclusive autographed tour poster with a special message from Ari, early entry into the venue & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com!
ARI LENNOX 2026 NORTH AMERICA TOUR DATES:
Sun Apr 12 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater
Wed Apr 15 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theatre Oakland
Thu Apr 16 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
Sat Apr 18 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live Sacramento
Sun Apr 19 – Las Vegas, NV – The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan
Tue Apr 21 – Tempe, AZ – Marquee Theatre
Thu Apr 23 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theater
Fri Apr 24 – San Diego, CA – SOMA
Sun Apr 26 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
Tue Apr 28 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
Thu Apr 30 – Austin, TX – Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
Sat May 02 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Sun May 03 – New Orleans, LA – Fillmore New Orleans
Tue May 05 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre
Thu May 07 – Miami Beach, FL – Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater
Fri May 08 – Orlando, FL – Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts
Sun May 10 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
Wed May 13 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory
Fri May 15 – Milwaukee, WI – Landmark Credit Union Live
Sat May 16 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Sun May 17 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre Detroit
Wed May 20 – Toronto, ON – Massey Hall
Fri May 22 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Sat May 23 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Sun May 24 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia
Wed May 27 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
Sat May 30 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
Tue Jun 02 – Virginia Beach, VA – The Dome
Wed Jun 03 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
Fri Jun 05 – Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J Brady Music Center
Sat Jun 06 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre
Get them Tix!
#HipHopNews: Kendrick Lamar Passes JAY-Z As Rapper With The Most Grammy Awards
Kendrick Lamar now holds the record for most Grammy Award wins by a rapper, surpassing JAY-Z with 27 awards.
His 2026 wins include Best Rap Album for GNX and Record of the Year for “luther” featuring SZA.
He emphasized the importance of clean lyrics and thanked Luther Vandross’ estate for the sample clearance.
The Grammy Awards are turning into an annual celebration of Kendrick Lamar. After his haul at the 2026 ceremony, the Compton rapper has earned the distinction of being the rapper with the most Grammys of all time.
K. Dot has now sprinted, figuratively, past JAY-Z. Prior to Sunday’s (Feb. 1) Grammy Awards presentation, Hov held the title with 25 trophies to his name. However, by the end of the evening, the “squabble up” rapper held 27 Grammy Awards.
In February 2025, Lamar picked up five Grammys thanks to his Drake-dissing smash “Not Like Us.” The critical acclaim his 2024 album GNX received also made it a safe bet that Lamar had a shot at passing JAY-Z’s benchmark. When the 2026 Grammy nominations were announced back in November 2025, Lamar was at the top of the leaderboard with nine nods. Notably, Clipse, Doechii and Tyler, The Creator each earned five nominations of their own.
Lamar already had three new Grammy Awards before the live ceremony aired. He won in the categories for Best Rap Performance for his guest verse on Clipse’s “Chains & Whips,” Best Melodic Rap Performance for “luther,” featuring SZA, and Best Rap Song for “tv off.”
It was during the televised portion that the “Money Trees” artist asserted himself in a pair of major categories. His GNX project won Best Rap Album, beating entries like Tyler’s CHROMAKOPIA and Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out. Later on in the evening, he picked up Record of the Year for “luther,” which bested songs from Bad Bunny (“DtMF”), Doechii (“Anxiety”) and Lady Gaga (“Abracadabra”).
While accepting his Record of the Year award, Lamar mentioned that part of getting Luther Vandross’ estate to clear the song’s use of the “If This World Were Mine” sample was that the lyrics contain no curse words. “Being able to put our vocals [on] it, it proves that we were somewhat worthy to be just as great as them individuals,” Lamar said, referring to Vandross and Cheryl Lynn. “They granted us that. They said, ‘No cursing, though. Can't curse on it.’”
Lamar was also up for the Album of the Year. However, he ended up losing to Bad Bunny's DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS.
His 2026 wins include Best Rap Album for GNX and Record of the Year for “luther” featuring SZA.
He emphasized the importance of clean lyrics and thanked Luther Vandross’ estate for the sample clearance.
The Grammy Awards are turning into an annual celebration of Kendrick Lamar. After his haul at the 2026 ceremony, the Compton rapper has earned the distinction of being the rapper with the most Grammys of all time.
K. Dot has now sprinted, figuratively, past JAY-Z. Prior to Sunday’s (Feb. 1) Grammy Awards presentation, Hov held the title with 25 trophies to his name. However, by the end of the evening, the “squabble up” rapper held 27 Grammy Awards.
In February 2025, Lamar picked up five Grammys thanks to his Drake-dissing smash “Not Like Us.” The critical acclaim his 2024 album GNX received also made it a safe bet that Lamar had a shot at passing JAY-Z’s benchmark. When the 2026 Grammy nominations were announced back in November 2025, Lamar was at the top of the leaderboard with nine nods. Notably, Clipse, Doechii and Tyler, The Creator each earned five nominations of their own.
Lamar already had three new Grammy Awards before the live ceremony aired. He won in the categories for Best Rap Performance for his guest verse on Clipse’s “Chains & Whips,” Best Melodic Rap Performance for “luther,” featuring SZA, and Best Rap Song for “tv off.”
It was during the televised portion that the “Money Trees” artist asserted himself in a pair of major categories. His GNX project won Best Rap Album, beating entries like Tyler’s CHROMAKOPIA and Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out. Later on in the evening, he picked up Record of the Year for “luther,” which bested songs from Bad Bunny (“DtMF”), Doechii (“Anxiety”) and Lady Gaga (“Abracadabra”).
While accepting his Record of the Year award, Lamar mentioned that part of getting Luther Vandross’ estate to clear the song’s use of the “If This World Were Mine” sample was that the lyrics contain no curse words. “Being able to put our vocals [on] it, it proves that we were somewhat worthy to be just as great as them individuals,” Lamar said, referring to Vandross and Cheryl Lynn. “They granted us that. They said, ‘No cursing, though. Can't curse on it.’”
Lamar was also up for the Album of the Year. However, he ended up losing to Bad Bunny's DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS.
DJ Young Slade, son of Atlanta rapper Lil Jon, reported missing in Milton Ga
The son of popular Atlanta rapper Lil Jon was reported missing this week.
Nathan Smith, who goes by DJ Young Slade, was last seen around Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road in Milton on Tuesday at around 6 a.m., according to the Milton Police Department.
Officers said the 27-year-old ran out of his house and has been missing since, adding that he left on foot and doesn’t have a phone.
“He may be disoriented and in need of assistance,” police said. “Family and friends are concerned for his safety.”
Slade appeared on the MTV show “Family Legacy.” He also recently released a song called “Feels,” according to his Instagram.
A representative for Lil Jon released this statement to TMZ: “The family is asking for privacy at this time. We are also asking for continued prayers for Nathan to come home safe. Thank you.”
About four hours prior to the missing persons post on Facebook, police said they were in the Mayfield Park area for an “active police matter,” adding that there was no threat to the public. It is unknown if the two incidents are related.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Milton Police Department at 678-297-6300 (option 1).
The son of popular Atlanta rapper Lil Jon was reported missing this week.
Nathan Smith, who goes by DJ Young Slade, was last seen around Baldwin Drive and Mayfield Road in Milton on Tuesday at around 6 a.m., according to the Milton Police Department.
Officers said the 27-year-old ran out of his house and has been missing since, adding that he left on foot and doesn’t have a phone.
“He may be disoriented and in need of assistance,” police said. “Family and friends are concerned for his safety.”
Slade appeared on the MTV show “Family Legacy.” He also recently released a song called “Feels,” according to his Instagram.
A representative for Lil Jon released this statement to TMZ: “The family is asking for privacy at this time. We are also asking for continued prayers for Nathan to come home safe. Thank you.”
About four hours prior to the missing persons post on Facebook, police said they were in the Mayfield Park area for an “active police matter,” adding that there was no threat to the public. It is unknown if the two incidents are related.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Milton Police Department at 678-297-6300 (option 1).
Gina Torres’ Los Angeles Home Broken Into, Robbers Take Over $200K In Possessions
Thousands of dollars in cash and over $200,000 in jewelry were stolen from the home of actor Gina Torres in the San Fernando Valley Friday night.
The Los Angeles Police Department tells NBC4 Investigates that officers responded to the home of the “Suits” actor at around 7 p.m. and saw windows smashed.
Police say a neighbor saw two men exit Torres’ home and load bags into a car.
Thieves stole over $25,000 in cash and over $200,000 in jewelry from Torres’ home, who was not home at the time of the break in.
No arrests have been made as the investigation continues.
The Los Angeles Police Department tells NBC4 Investigates that officers responded to the home of the “Suits” actor at around 7 p.m. and saw windows smashed.
Police say a neighbor saw two men exit Torres’ home and load bags into a car.
Thieves stole over $25,000 in cash and over $200,000 in jewelry from Torres’ home, who was not home at the time of the break in.
No arrests have been made as the investigation continues.
Baltimore judge: Gervonta Davis violated probation; warrant issued
A Baltimore judge has issued an arrest warrant for Gervonta Davis on grounds that he violated his probation one week after he was arrested in Miami on allegations of domestic violence.
Circuit Judge Althea M. Handy issued the warrant on Monday, according to the Baltimore Country court database.
Davis, 31, was on probation for a November 2020 hit-and-run in Baltimore that injured four people. He received 90 days of house arrest, three years of probation and 200 hours of community service. He later served 44 days in jail for violating the terms of his home detention.
Davis' latest legal issues stem from accusations of attacking his ex-girlfriend, Courtney Rossel, on Oct. 27, 2025, at a strip club in Miami, where she had been working as a VIP cocktail server. Rossel filed a civil suit days after the incident, which forced Davis out of his November fight with Jake Paul.
A warrant for his arrest was issued on Jan. 14 on charges of battery, false imprisonment and attempted kidnapping, but it took two weeks to track the boxer down. Miami Gardens Police Department and the United States Marshals fugitive task force conducted a three-county surveillance operation to find Davis, taking him into custody last Wednesday night without incident in the Miami Design District.
Davis was released the same day after posting an $8,500 bond and ordered to not have any contact with Rossel.
Circuit Judge Althea M. Handy issued the warrant on Monday, according to the Baltimore Country court database.
Davis, 31, was on probation for a November 2020 hit-and-run in Baltimore that injured four people. He received 90 days of house arrest, three years of probation and 200 hours of community service. He later served 44 days in jail for violating the terms of his home detention.
Davis' latest legal issues stem from accusations of attacking his ex-girlfriend, Courtney Rossel, on Oct. 27, 2025, at a strip club in Miami, where she had been working as a VIP cocktail server. Rossel filed a civil suit days after the incident, which forced Davis out of his November fight with Jake Paul.
A warrant for his arrest was issued on Jan. 14 on charges of battery, false imprisonment and attempted kidnapping, but it took two weeks to track the boxer down. Miami Gardens Police Department and the United States Marshals fugitive task force conducted a three-county surveillance operation to find Davis, taking him into custody last Wednesday night without incident in the Miami Design District.
Davis was released the same day after posting an $8,500 bond and ordered to not have any contact with Rossel.
Sha'Carri Richardson and Christian Coleman Plead Not Guilty
Track stars Sha'Carri Richardson and Christian Coleman have both entered not guilty pleas following last Thursday's arrests ... TMZ Sports has learned.
Alisia Adamson -- who is representing both sprinters -- filed the court docs earlier this week. Richardson was arrested on one charge of dangerous excessive speeding ... and cited for several driving violations.
Coleman was arrested for dr ug paraphernalia and resisting (without violence) during the traffic stop -- both of which are misdemeanors.
Sherri Shepherd Promises to Address Cancelation After Covid Recovery
Sherri Shepherd is receiving all of the love. Days after it was announced that her daytime talk show SHERRI would end after the current fourth season, the comedian offered an update on how she’s taken the news.
“Wow! I am completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for me and The @sherrishowtv ,” Sherri wrote alongside a picture displaying positive message in a Feb. 3 Instagram post. “You might’ve noticed that yesterday and today I was struggling because I wasn’t feeling up to speed. Well it turns out I have Covid.”
Despite feeling under the weather, the 58-year-old reassured her fans that she saw all their positive messages and would further address the cancellation upon her return.
“As soon as I feel better and return to the show, I will address all of the news that has come out,” she continued. “Until then, I am truly grateful that SHERRI has made such an impact on you! See ya soon #sherrishepherd #sherrishowtv #grateful #itsnotover.”
Sherri—which premiered in 2022 after the end of The Wendy Williams Show—is set to air it’s last episode in the fall. The news of the talk show’s end was shared by production company Debmar-Mercury as they celebrated the series’ success.
“This decision is driven by the evolving daytime television landscape,” the statement to Variety said on Feb. 2. “And does not reflect on the strength of the show, its production – which has found strong creative momentum this season – or the incredibly talented Sherri Shepherd.”
Amid the news of her show’s end, Sherri had the support of her famous friends and colleagues.
“Not over! Not over!,” the comedian’s BFF Niecy Nash-Betts wrote in the comments of her Feb. 3 post. “Friend you lived your dream and I’m so proud of you!! Now let’s do it on your own terms WITH ownership.”
Fellow daytime talk show host Tamron Hall also celebrated Sherri’s many accomplishments noting that the show was just one of her many platforms.
“You just wrote your first children’s book,” Tamron wrote. “You are on an epic comedy tour, you have a podcast and you took over a daytime space and made it your own. I’m tired just listing all you have done!! And the list of next chapter moment will be famazing. Love you family.”
“Wow! I am completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for me and The @sherrishowtv ,” Sherri wrote alongside a picture displaying positive message in a Feb. 3 Instagram post. “You might’ve noticed that yesterday and today I was struggling because I wasn’t feeling up to speed. Well it turns out I have Covid.”
Despite feeling under the weather, the 58-year-old reassured her fans that she saw all their positive messages and would further address the cancellation upon her return.
“As soon as I feel better and return to the show, I will address all of the news that has come out,” she continued. “Until then, I am truly grateful that SHERRI has made such an impact on you! See ya soon #sherrishepherd #sherrishowtv #grateful #itsnotover.”
Sherri—which premiered in 2022 after the end of The Wendy Williams Show—is set to air it’s last episode in the fall. The news of the talk show’s end was shared by production company Debmar-Mercury as they celebrated the series’ success.
“This decision is driven by the evolving daytime television landscape,” the statement to Variety said on Feb. 2. “And does not reflect on the strength of the show, its production – which has found strong creative momentum this season – or the incredibly talented Sherri Shepherd.”
Amid the news of her show’s end, Sherri had the support of her famous friends and colleagues.
“Not over! Not over!,” the comedian’s BFF Niecy Nash-Betts wrote in the comments of her Feb. 3 post. “Friend you lived your dream and I’m so proud of you!! Now let’s do it on your own terms WITH ownership.”
Fellow daytime talk show host Tamron Hall also celebrated Sherri’s many accomplishments noting that the show was just one of her many platforms.
“You just wrote your first children’s book,” Tamron wrote. “You are on an epic comedy tour, you have a podcast and you took over a daytime space and made it your own. I’m tired just listing all you have done!! And the list of next chapter moment will be famazing. Love you family.”
Sparkle Responds to Niece Reshona Landfair’s ‘Grooming’ Claim Tied to R. Kelly
A new statement from R&B singer Sparkle is adding another layer to the ongoing conversation surrounding the R. Kelly case — and her niece, Reshona Landfair’s, recently released memoir.
Sparkle, born Stephanie Edwards, shared a written message on Instagram addressing allegations that she played any role in facilitating Landfair’s relationship with Kelly.
The Chicago singer, who rose to fame in the late ’90s as Kelly’s protégé and collaborator on the hit “Be Careful,” pushed back directly on claims of “grooming.”
“I am relieved that Reshona is finally free to speak her truth and begin her healing journey,” Sparkle wrote at the start of the post. “In addition to justice, I have always wanted healing and peace for her.”
She then addressed the accusation head-on: “Any suggestion that I groomed, facilitated, or enabled harm to my niece is untrue and deeply painful, especially given my documented actions at the time and throughout.”
Sparkle outlined the steps she claims she took when concerns first surfaced. “When I was informed her parents were allowing Reshona to spend unchaperoned time with R. Kelly, I immediately contacted DCFS,” she said. “When the tape surfaced and the state brought charges against him in 2008, I cooperated fully and testified under oath, despite immense pressure not to do so.”
She added, “Protecting my niece from abuse and telling the truth mattered more to me than money and my career.”
Sparkle has long been connected to the case. In the early 2000s, she identified Landfair as the teenager seen in the now-infamous “pee tape” and later testified during Kelly’s 2008 trial. Kelly was acquitted in that case but was later convicted in federal trials in 2021 and 2022.
The statement arrives as Landfair steps forward publicly for the first time with her memoir, Who’s Watching Shorty?, and a series of interviews about her experience.
In those conversations, Landfair describes how Kelly entered her family’s life through industry connections and details the grooming, isolation, and control she says followed.
“There’s no job that I can apply for where this isn’t the forefront of my life,” Landfair said in a recent interview. “Once I realized that I didn’t have peace or privacy [by hiding], I had to take ownership.”
She also emphasized reclaiming her identity: “I just really wanted to capture the fact that I was a human being… I was not just the ‘R. Kelly girl.’”
Sparkle closed her post by wishing her niece “continued healing and peace” and calling the memoir “the beginning of Reshona’s lengthy deprogramming journey.”
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or abuse, confidential support is available. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit online.rainn.org for help.
Sparkle, born Stephanie Edwards, shared a written message on Instagram addressing allegations that she played any role in facilitating Landfair’s relationship with Kelly.
The Chicago singer, who rose to fame in the late ’90s as Kelly’s protégé and collaborator on the hit “Be Careful,” pushed back directly on claims of “grooming.”
“I am relieved that Reshona is finally free to speak her truth and begin her healing journey,” Sparkle wrote at the start of the post. “In addition to justice, I have always wanted healing and peace for her.”
She then addressed the accusation head-on: “Any suggestion that I groomed, facilitated, or enabled harm to my niece is untrue and deeply painful, especially given my documented actions at the time and throughout.”
Sparkle outlined the steps she claims she took when concerns first surfaced. “When I was informed her parents were allowing Reshona to spend unchaperoned time with R. Kelly, I immediately contacted DCFS,” she said. “When the tape surfaced and the state brought charges against him in 2008, I cooperated fully and testified under oath, despite immense pressure not to do so.”
She added, “Protecting my niece from abuse and telling the truth mattered more to me than money and my career.”
Sparkle has long been connected to the case. In the early 2000s, she identified Landfair as the teenager seen in the now-infamous “pee tape” and later testified during Kelly’s 2008 trial. Kelly was acquitted in that case but was later convicted in federal trials in 2021 and 2022.
The statement arrives as Landfair steps forward publicly for the first time with her memoir, Who’s Watching Shorty?, and a series of interviews about her experience.
In those conversations, Landfair describes how Kelly entered her family’s life through industry connections and details the grooming, isolation, and control she says followed.
“There’s no job that I can apply for where this isn’t the forefront of my life,” Landfair said in a recent interview. “Once I realized that I didn’t have peace or privacy [by hiding], I had to take ownership.”
She also emphasized reclaiming her identity: “I just really wanted to capture the fact that I was a human being… I was not just the ‘R. Kelly girl.’”
Sparkle closed her post by wishing her niece “continued healing and peace” and calling the memoir “the beginning of Reshona’s lengthy deprogramming journey.”
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or abuse, confidential support is available. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit online.rainn.org for help.
Amazon Pulls ‘Melania’ From Movie Theater Due to Jokes on Its Marquee
Amazon MGM Studios has pulled the documentary "Melania" from a suburban Oregon movie theater after the theater used its marquee to poke fun at the film and its subject, First Lady Melania Trump.
The Lake Theater & Cafe in Lake Oswego, a Portland-area suburb known for cheeky and irreverent marquee messages, stopped screening the film after receiving a call from Amazon, according to the theater's management.
"The studio was not happy and/or did not appreciate my take on marketing their film to our own public," Jordan Perry, the theater's manager, told The Oregonian.
The controversy centered on marquee messages advertising the film's opening, including "Does Melania wear Prada? Find out Friday" and a quote attributed to Sun Tzu: "To defeat your enemy, you must know them. Melania starts Friday."
After the studio intervened, the theater replaced the marquee with a new message.
"Amazon called. Our marquee made them mad. All Melania showings cancelled. Show your support at Whole Foods instead," it read.
Another message added: "Join Amazon Prime for Free Two-Day Shipping."
The episode unfolded amid broader tensions around the documentary, which chronicles the 20 days leading up to President Donald Trump's second inauguration and was directed by Brett Ratner.
Amazon acquired the film for tens of millions of dollars and has released it nationwide, where it has drawn sharp political reactions alongside relatively strong box-office numbers for a documentary.
Perry said the Lake Theater also faced backlash from patrons upset that the cinema was showing the film at all.
In an Instagram post, the theater wrote that it received "countless emails and voicemails and Google / Yelp reviews (Google / Yelp took them down) wondering why the hell we had Melania here, or disdaining our disparaging of her."
Financially, the impact was minimal. Perry said the theater sold $196 worth of tickets during the single weekend it screened the film.
In a blog post explaining his decision, Perry said booking "Melania" during a slow movie week was meant as a joke rather than a political statement.
"Wouldn't it be exponentially weirder, to the point of being funny, to show (‘Melania') here, at your obviously anti-establishment, occasionally troublemaking, neighborhood cinema?" he wrote.
For now, "Melania" is gone from the Lake Theater's screen. Its next feature, "Wuthering Heights," opens Feb. 12.
The Lake Theater & Cafe in Lake Oswego, a Portland-area suburb known for cheeky and irreverent marquee messages, stopped screening the film after receiving a call from Amazon, according to the theater's management.
"The studio was not happy and/or did not appreciate my take on marketing their film to our own public," Jordan Perry, the theater's manager, told The Oregonian.
The controversy centered on marquee messages advertising the film's opening, including "Does Melania wear Prada? Find out Friday" and a quote attributed to Sun Tzu: "To defeat your enemy, you must know them. Melania starts Friday."
After the studio intervened, the theater replaced the marquee with a new message.
"Amazon called. Our marquee made them mad. All Melania showings cancelled. Show your support at Whole Foods instead," it read.
Another message added: "Join Amazon Prime for Free Two-Day Shipping."
The episode unfolded amid broader tensions around the documentary, which chronicles the 20 days leading up to President Donald Trump's second inauguration and was directed by Brett Ratner.
Amazon acquired the film for tens of millions of dollars and has released it nationwide, where it has drawn sharp political reactions alongside relatively strong box-office numbers for a documentary.
Perry said the Lake Theater also faced backlash from patrons upset that the cinema was showing the film at all.
In an Instagram post, the theater wrote that it received "countless emails and voicemails and Google / Yelp reviews (Google / Yelp took them down) wondering why the hell we had Melania here, or disdaining our disparaging of her."
Financially, the impact was minimal. Perry said the theater sold $196 worth of tickets during the single weekend it screened the film.
In a blog post explaining his decision, Perry said booking "Melania" during a slow movie week was meant as a joke rather than a political statement.
"Wouldn't it be exponentially weirder, to the point of being funny, to show (‘Melania') here, at your obviously anti-establishment, occasionally troublemaking, neighborhood cinema?" he wrote.
For now, "Melania" is gone from the Lake Theater's screen. Its next feature, "Wuthering Heights," opens Feb. 12.
#RIPLaMonteMcLemore: Founding 5th Dimension Member Dies at 90
*LaMonte McLemore, founding member of The 5th Dimension, has died at age 90. He passed away from natural causes on Tuesday, Feb. 3 (2026), at his home in Las Vegas. His family was by his side, and he had been recovering from a prior stroke.
Born Herman LaMonte McLemore in St. Louis on Sept. 17, 1935, he helped launch one of pop-soul’s most iconic groups. His representative, Jeremy Westby, confirmed the news, and tributes poured in nationwide. Fans and music outlets remembered his joyful energy and smooth tenor voice.
In the 1960s, McLemore co-founded The 5th Dimension, known for its soaring harmonies and genre-blending sound. Their mix of pop, soul, R&B, and psychedelic touches created a fresh musical style. He performed alongside Marilyn McCoo, Florence LaRue, Billy Davis Jr., and Ron Townson.
The group earned six Grammy Awards and multiple platinum records. “Up, Up and Away” won Record of the Year in 1967, and “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1969. McLemore’s voice and charm helped bring their message of hope to millions
Beyond the stage, McLemore shaped culture through photography
McLemore was also a groundbreaking photographer with work featured in Jet and Ebony magazines. He captured stars, athletes, and cultural figures during pivotal moments in Black history. His photography gave him a second platform for storytelling beyond music. Out of that effort came McLemore’s book: “Black Is Beautiful: JET Beauties of the Week.”
Whether behind the lens or center stage, McLemore brought vision and heart. His work contributed to how Black excellence was seen and celebrated. He proved artistry can take many forms and still make a lasting impact.
Following news of LaMonte McLemore’s death, media outlets like Billboard, CNN, and The Hollywood Reporter honored his legacy. Fans on social media called him a pioneer, a gentleman, and a joyful force in music. Colleagues say he embodied harmony in both music and spirit.
The 5th Dimension’s catalog continues to resonate in films, playlists, and memories. McLemore’s voice helped define an era of unity, style, and uplifting sound. His contributions still inspire today’s musicians and creatives alike
McLemore is survived by his wife of 30 years, Mieko McLemore, daughter Ciara, and adopted son Darin. His family shared that he passed peacefully and with dignity. They request privacy as they reflect on his remarkable life.
He leaves behind more than music—he leaves a blueprint for how to live with passion and purpose. As fans revisit his work, the emotion behind his performances remains timeless. His family and fans continue to honor his joyful legacy.
LaMonte McLemore’s life was about more than fame. He showed what was possible when talent, hard work, and grace came together. From the streets of St. Louis to world stages and magazine covers, his journey inspired millions.
He helped shape a group that broke musical boundaries and brought people together. His lens captured power and pride in Black culture. As generations continue to discover The 5th Dimension, McLemore’s impact only grows.
The Washington Post Lays Off Over 300 Journalists — Cuts Sports, Local, and Global Coverage
A major shakeup is underway at The Washington Post as the newsroom confronts one of the most sweeping rounds of job cuts in its history.
The Washington Post informed employees on Wednesday that it has begun laying off roughly 30 percent of its workforce, including more than 300 journalists from a newsroom of about 800 people, according to individuals familiar with the decision. The reductions affect editorial and business operations and are expected to significantly scale back local, international, and sports coverage.
The layoffs come after years of financial strain under owner Jeff Bezos, whose investment initially fueled newsroom growth before revenue declines and shrinking audiences reversed that expansion. Digital traffic has fallen sharply, and subscription growth has slowed across the industry.
On a morning call with staff, executive editor Matt Murray said the organization could no longer sustain its losses and needed to refocus its mission.
“If anything, today is about positioning ourselves to become more essential to people’s lives in what is becoming more crowded, competitive, and complicated media landscape,” Murray said. “And after some years, when, candidly, The Post has had struggles.”
In a follow-up email, Murray wrote that the paper had become “too rooted in a different era, when we were a dominant, local print product,” noting that online search traffic had dropped by nearly half over the last three years. He also said the newsroom’s “daily story output has substantially fallen in the last five years.”
Structural changes are already taking shape. The sports section will close, though some reporters will move to features roles focused on sports culture. The metro desk will shrink, the books section will shut down, and the Post Reports daily podcast will end. International coverage will be reduced, with layoffs hitting bureaus in the Middle East, India, and Australia, though reporters will remain in nearly a dozen global locations.
As layoff notices arrived by email, staff members alerted colleagues in blunt messages. “Eliminated,” the notes read.
Reaction from within and beyond the newsroom was swift. Jeff Stein, the paper’s chief economics correspondent, called it “a tragic day for American journalism, the city of Washington and the country as a whole,” adding, “They are being punished for mistakes they did not cause.”
Former executive editor Marty Baron said the day “ranks among the darkest days in the history of one of the world’s greatest news organizations,” warning that the public would lose vital ground-level reporting at a critical moment.
The Washington Post informed employees on Wednesday that it has begun laying off roughly 30 percent of its workforce, including more than 300 journalists from a newsroom of about 800 people, according to individuals familiar with the decision. The reductions affect editorial and business operations and are expected to significantly scale back local, international, and sports coverage.
The layoffs come after years of financial strain under owner Jeff Bezos, whose investment initially fueled newsroom growth before revenue declines and shrinking audiences reversed that expansion. Digital traffic has fallen sharply, and subscription growth has slowed across the industry.
On a morning call with staff, executive editor Matt Murray said the organization could no longer sustain its losses and needed to refocus its mission.
“If anything, today is about positioning ourselves to become more essential to people’s lives in what is becoming more crowded, competitive, and complicated media landscape,” Murray said. “And after some years, when, candidly, The Post has had struggles.”
In a follow-up email, Murray wrote that the paper had become “too rooted in a different era, when we were a dominant, local print product,” noting that online search traffic had dropped by nearly half over the last three years. He also said the newsroom’s “daily story output has substantially fallen in the last five years.”
Structural changes are already taking shape. The sports section will close, though some reporters will move to features roles focused on sports culture. The metro desk will shrink, the books section will shut down, and the Post Reports daily podcast will end. International coverage will be reduced, with layoffs hitting bureaus in the Middle East, India, and Australia, though reporters will remain in nearly a dozen global locations.
As layoff notices arrived by email, staff members alerted colleagues in blunt messages. “Eliminated,” the notes read.
Reaction from within and beyond the newsroom was swift. Jeff Stein, the paper’s chief economics correspondent, called it “a tragic day for American journalism, the city of Washington and the country as a whole,” adding, “They are being punished for mistakes they did not cause.”
Former executive editor Marty Baron said the day “ranks among the darkest days in the history of one of the world’s greatest news organizations,” warning that the public would lose vital ground-level reporting at a critical moment.
Bahama Breeze Is Closing Restaurants Nationwide and Phasing Out After 30 Years
End of an Era: Bahama Breeze Is Closing Restaurants Nationwide and Phasing Out After 30 Years
Darden Restaurants revealed Tuesday that it plans to wind down its Bahama Breeze brand, bringing an end to nearly three decades of Caribbean-themed dining.
The Orlando-based restaurant company said it will permanently close half of the chain’s footprint, shutting down 14 of Bahama Breeze’s 28 locations. The remaining restaurants will be transitioned into other concepts within Darden’s portfolio. According to the company, the locations slated for permanent closure will continue serving guests through April 5.
For the 14 restaurants being converted, Darden said the process will take an estimated 12 to 18 months. Those locations will remain open during most of the transition, with only temporary closures expected if renovations are required.
Darden did not disclose which of its brands will replace Bahama Breeze at the converted sites. Its portfolio includes Olive Garden, Yard House, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Eddie V’s, and several other concepts.
In a statement, the company explained its strategy, saying, “The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio. Going forward, the primary focus will continue to be on supporting team members, including placing as many as possible in roles within the Darden portfolio.”
Geographically, most of the restaurants being converted are located in Florida, with additional sites in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The locations scheduled for permanent closure are spread across Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.
Despite the brand shakeup, Darden’s broader business appears steady. Shares of the company are up more than 14 percent so far this year, signaling continued investor confidence as it reshapes its restaurant lineup.
End of an Era: Bahama Breeze Is Closing Restaurants Nationwide and Phasing Out After 30 Years
Darden Restaurants revealed Tuesday that it plans to wind down its Bahama Breeze brand, bringing an end to nearly three decades of Caribbean-themed dining.
The Orlando-based restaurant company said it will permanently close half of the chain’s footprint, shutting down 14 of Bahama Breeze’s 28 locations. The remaining restaurants will be transitioned into other concepts within Darden’s portfolio. According to the company, the locations slated for permanent closure will continue serving guests through April 5.
For the 14 restaurants being converted, Darden said the process will take an estimated 12 to 18 months. Those locations will remain open during most of the transition, with only temporary closures expected if renovations are required.
Darden did not disclose which of its brands will replace Bahama Breeze at the converted sites. Its portfolio includes Olive Garden, Yard House, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Eddie V’s, and several other concepts.
In a statement, the company explained its strategy, saying, “The company believes the conversion locations are great sites that will benefit several of the brands in its portfolio. Going forward, the primary focus will continue to be on supporting team members, including placing as many as possible in roles within the Darden portfolio.”
Geographically, most of the restaurants being converted are located in Florida, with additional sites in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The locations scheduled for permanent closure are spread across Delaware, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.
Despite the brand shakeup, Darden’s broader business appears steady. Shares of the company are up more than 14 percent so far this year, signaling continued investor confidence as it reshapes its restaurant lineup.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Juice WRLD at Walmart 👘
He’s back?
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
