MAGFAB: The cast of Avatar: The Last Airbender strikes a pose for Entertainment Weekly!
“Boomerang’s flying!” is a phrase stunt coordinator Jeff Aro found himself shouting a lot while hanging with the cast of Avatar: The Last Airbender in mid January. The reason? Sokka, of course.
On a hot set at the Sunset Bronson Studios in Hollywood for EW’s cover shoot, Aro works with the four stars of the highly anticipated Netflix fantasy series to warm up their martial arts-inspired battle moves. Actor Gordon Cormier’s muscle memory quickly activates as he begins twirling Aang’s signature airbending staff, while Kiawentiio’s arms begin flowing almost like waves to emulate the waterbending abilities of the mononymous actress’ character, Katara. And their costar Dallas Liu casually stuns the room as he executes an unscripted air flip for cameras against a backdrop of real flames. (We told you it was a hot set.) “It just comes from my martial arts background, so I got it in my back pocket whenever we want to get a cool shot,” says the actor, who plays firebender Prince Zuko.
Then there’s Ian Ousley. While a martial artist in his own right, his character of Sokka is the rare member of the series’ core “Team Avatar” group who can’t manipulate one of the four natural elements. Instead, he has his trusty boomerang, a prop Netflix flew out to the location especially for the actor. “That’s kind of my whole personality,” Ousley jokes. Before shooting his big hero moment — tossing said boomerang — he motions for everyone to get back. He refuses to even start until he can see most of the crew standing at an acceptable distance away. “This thing’s made out of pure steel,” Cormier remarks, playfully miming what would happen if Ousley accidentally knocks him in the head. Thankfully, both costars are nimble, and Gordon catches it off camera before the four assemble on stage for their money shot.
“Twelve-year-old me would be so happy right now,” Aro mutters as he looks over the playback on the monitors.
All four young stars are equally vibrating with excitement at the thought of getting to talk about the new Netflix adaptation (which premieres Feb. 22). It’s something they haven’t been able to do since they shot it years earlier and are only now reuniting for a promotional tour. (For context, Cormier auditioned for the titular role at age 11 and is now 14. “I was cast at 14 and I’m about to be 18,” adds Kiawentiio.)
Still, they’re younger than the original Avatar, which emerged in 2005 as a Nickelodeon animated series and drew in legions of fans to its fantasy world of benders — individuals with the power to control either water, earth, fire, or air, and the singular Avatar able to manipulate all four. “It was abundantly clear that this was probably one of the only things where I could see people like me on these kids shows,” comments Elizabeth Yu, 21, who now portrays the live-action Princess Azula. “There's something very magical about that.”
But the true magic of Avatar, much like its titular reincarnating figure, was its ability to cross generations. Over the course of three seasons — as well as a sequel series, The Legend of Korra; companion books; comics; and video games — the franchise tackled concepts of morality, spirituality, found family, and other themes that went well beyond the bounds of a mere kids show. It also just happened to showcase some of the most exciting feats of animation on television.
Albert Kim, a former EW editor who now spearheads the live-action series as showrunner, is one of countless adults passionately invested in this material, having initially intended to watch the cartoon in order to explain its context to his daughter. “I thought she was going to have trouble understanding the story, but pretty soon the explanations fell by the wayside,” Kim recalls. “I was just watching alongside her, just pulled into this incredible world…. It was the memories I had with my daughter that really sold me on the idea of doing this.”
It’s this love from seemingly disparate fan groups that has long piqued Hollywood’s interest in creating a live-action version. M. Night Shyamalan notably made a 2010 movie called The Last Airbender — so as not to confuse it with James Cameron’s Avatar. That effort was quite spectacularly read to filth by every corner of the fandom at the time. And the critics didn't care for it, either. White actors were cast to play Asian and Indigenous figures, the special effects couldn’t hold a candle to the theatrics of the original animation, and all of season 1’s main events were skimmed over in less than a two-hour runtime. (Kim purposefully avoided watching the movie. As of press time, he still hasn’t seen it.) Now, with the benefit of modern VFX, authentic casting, a format of eight hourlong episodes, and a renewed faith in the anime-to-live-action Hollywood cycle (thanks, One Piece!), the next Avatar is looking — to quote the original intro — to change the world.
Kim previously confirmed Avatar: The Last Airbender does not begin the same way as the animated series. Though the opening maintains familiar elements, Jabbar Raisani, the executive producer and visual effects supervisor who directed the new sequence, had one goal: “We just wanted to make sure audiences didn’t think they were getting a kids’ show. We want to ensure that our show is for all ages."
Aang, a young and spirited airbender, discovers he’s the next Avatar, a reincarnated being who emerges every lifecycle. Serving as a bridge between the human and spirit worlds, the Avatar uses their unique dominion over all four elements to maintain balance. But Aang has been mysteriously missing for 100 years, which has allowed the Fire Nation to ignite a war for global domination that already wiped out the Air Nomads — an event the new series realizes on screen for the first time.
“I think the airbender genocide is really cool… Well, no! No! Not like that,” Cormier says, quickly correcting himself. Even when he’s not trying, the actor naturally channels elements of Aang, including a playful awkwardness. “I mean, yeah, my whole family's dead, of course. It's not a good thing, but watching it is going to be sick!” (He means for the airbending effects.)
Kim says there’s a good reason this particular event wasn’t depicted on the original show. “It's a cartoon, it's meant for kids,” he notes. “But I felt it was important that we see the event that creates the story of Avatar. The famous line is, ‘Everything changed when the Fire Nation attacked.’ I wanted to see that.” He also clarifies that moments like this do not make his Avatar a dark retelling. He points to episodes of the original, like season 3’s “The Puppetmaster,” which tackled the taboo practice of bloodbending, as well as the series finale battle between Aang and the tyrannical Fire Lord Ozai, leader of the Fire Nation — both of which were more mature than the goofier nature of the first season. “For fans of the second and third season, I think it's all in line with what they saw there,” he says of the live-action reimagining.
Daniel Dae Kim agrees. Having voiced characters in both Avatar animated offerings and now playing live-action Ozai, he says, “The kids who watched the animated version of Avatar are now grown-ups, and so they're ready for more grown-up fare.”
Get more at EW.
#RHOA: Phaedra Parks Brought To Tears By Son Ayden At His 13th Birthday Party
Phaedra Parks was deeply moved to tears by her son Ayden Nida at his 13th birthday party, which unfolded on a recent episode of “Married To Medicine.
In the touching moment captured on the reality show, the teenager delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude to his mom.
Ayden’s sweet tribute began with him saying, “There is no way I would ever be able to repay you for all that you do for us. Your love is so overwhelming sometimes, and it’s just…,” he trailed off, admitting his nervousness.
Undeterred, he continued, “But i have learned that that’s just you. One time i was getting stiches, you were crying more than i Was. I just want you to know i love you and you are my work.”
In response to Ayden’s heartfelt words, Phaedra said, “I am so proud to be his mom. Money can’t buy everything and so good parenting is a lot about time. Not just money. I just want them to know how much when i am with them, it matters.
The birthday bash, a carnival-themed extravaganza, cost a whopping $70,000 and took place in the backyard of Phaedra’s Buckhead Atlanta home on May 26, 2023. Ayden’s love for carnivals was brought to life with games, basketball, dancing, fire handlers, stilt walkers, and more. Celebrity party planner Tori Williams transformed Phaedra’s vision into reality, creating a memorable event for 120 guests.
Reflecting on the elaborate celebration, Phaedra described it as almost a “royal coronation,” making Ayden’s 13th birthday an unforgettable and impactful milestone in his life.
“He loves carnivals, so we had an actual Carnival company come and do the Carnival games,” she told The Messenger. “You could win gifts and toys, but then the kids also played basketball — we have a half court on my property — and they danced, and it was just a fun time. Then, the fire handler came and spewed fire, and then the stilt walkers gave us a great show. So I think it was entertaining to all.”
But the surprises didn’t end there. Phaedra went all out, gifting Ayden a staggering $150,000. “I gave him a piece of investment property, because he loves investments and money,” Parks revealed. “He wanted a dirt bike, [but I thought], ‘Let me get you something that you won’t kill yourself [on]. Let me get you something that’s going to be useful.'”
#NewMusic from Van Hunt ‘Our Love Lingers’
It’s a big day for our main man Van Hunt. The revered singer-songwriter who recently announced the start of his new label, OnTheHunt Music Group, takes a major step with the first output from the fledgling company. That output happens to be a brand-new single from Van himself that’s lovingly title “Our Love Lingers.”
LISTEN HERE
You don’t have to look far to find the inspiration for the track. Van is smitten with his lady love Halle Berry and the two don’t miss a moment to publicly show each other affection. “Our Love Lingers” is yet another example of that as Van sings of a love that has staying power.
He pulls out all the stops for the song’s instrumentation. Piano, strings, bass and various synths are all utilized at the beginning of this loving ode. Meanwhile, Van flexes his sizeable songwriting skills to wax poetic about the things that keep love hanging on despite the passage of time.
“You think time won’t deliver / On our promises? / You think I won’t remember / The things we said / With the echo so limber / Bouncing overhead,” he sings in a slightly distorted voice at one point. “Our love lingers / Our love lingers.” The next portion of the song then switches to programmed drums as things get funkier while still remaining flowery and romantic.
#HipHopNews: Jess Hilarious Confirms she’s the Permanent Co-Host Of "The Breakfast Club"
Jess Hilarious is officially joining Charlamagne Tha God and DJ Envy as the third co-host of their iHeart morning show, “The Breakfast Club.”
She shared the news on her Instagram page today (Jan. 29). The clip featured various DJs, bloggers, and podcasters like DJ Akademiks, Joe Budden, and Flakko discussing her potential role and doubting her earlier announcement statement.
Speculation about whether Jess was booted from the show arose after she called Charlamagne and Envy “old heads” for their comparison of SZA and Mary J. Blige. Her criticism led many to believe she prematurely lost the opportunity. Meanwhile, social media reactions ranged from assumptions that she spoke too soon to advice about not disclosing news until it’s confirmed.
“Sis, you had me for a minute. Good thing I didn’t comment before finishing the video or ‘The Breakfast Club’ was finna [have to ban] me,” Joseline Hernandez wrote underneath the post. B. Simone added, “Go time! Yes, baby.” Wallo, Jai Nice, Kam Williams, and more also shared their support.
The announcement cleared up the confusion following a recent “The Breakfast Club” interview with Cam Newton, where Charlamagne and Envy evaded questions about Jess’ role on the show. “Hold on. What happened? The people wanna know,” the former NFL player stated.
The confirmation video ended with a Feb. 5 date, hinting at her first day back on air. Jess previously appeared as a rotating guest among Claudia Jordan, Jason Lee, and Loren LoRosa following Angela Yee’s departure in December 2022.
Jess’ tenure also saw memorable moments, including a notable exchange with Sexyy Redd. The St. Louis native said, “I don’t mess with you. You be sneak dissing. I see everything. I was trying to make sure [Charlamagne and Envy] wasn’t sneak dissing before I came up here, too.”
Chita Rivera, ICONIC and pioneering Broadway Tony-winning dancer and singer, dies at 91
Chita Rivera, the dynamic dancer, singer and actress who garnered 10 Tony nominations, winning twice, in a long Broadway career that forged a path for Latina artists and shrugged off a near-fatal car accident, died Tuesday. She was 91.
Rivera's death was announced by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, who said she died in New York after a brief illness.
Rivera first gained wide notice in 1957 as Anita in the original production of "West Side Story" and was still dancing on Broadway with her trademark energy a half-century later in 2015’s “The Visit.”
"I wouldn't know what to do if I wasn't moving or telling a story to you or singing a song," she told The Associated Press then. "That's the spirit of my life, and I'm really so lucky to be able to do what I love, even at this time in my life."
In August 2009, Rivera was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor the U.S. can give a civilian. Rivera put her hand over her heart and shook her head in wonderment as President Barack Obama presented the medal. In 2013, she was the marshal at the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City.
Rivera rose from chorus girl to star, collaborating along the way with many of Broadway’s greatest talents, including Jerome Robbins, Leonard Bernstein, Bob Fosse, Gower Champion, Michael Kidd, Harold Prince, Jack Cole, Peter Gennaro and John Kander and Fred Ebb.
She rebounded from a car accident in 1988 that crushed her right leg and became an indefatigable star on the road. She was on Broadway in a raucous production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” in 2012 and the chilly “The Visit” in 2014, earning another best actress Tony nomination.
“She can’t rehearse except for full-out,” said playwright Terrence McNally in 2005. “She can’t perform except for full-out, no matter what the size of the house. She’s going to be there 101% for that audience.”
She won Tonys for “The Rink” in 1984 and “Kiss of the Spider Woman” in 1993. When accepting a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018, she said “I wouldn’t trade my life in the theater for anything, because theater is life.”
She was nominated for the award seven other times, for “Bye Bye Birdie,” which opened in 1960; “Chicago,” 1975; "Bring Back Birdie,” 1981; “Merlin,” 1983; “Jerry’s Girls,” 1985; “Nine,” 2003; and “Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life,” 2005.
“I don’t think we have enough original musicals,” she told The Associated Press in 2012. “I know I’m being old fashioned, but the theater is the place where music, lyrics, words, scenery and stories come together. And I’ve been blessed enough to have done several shows when they really did. They take you places and they’re daring. That’s what we need.”
Her albums include 16 tracks pulled from her original cast recordings and put out as part of Sony’s Legends of Broadway series and two solo CDs — “And Now I Sing” for a tiny record label in the 1960s and “And Now I Swing” in 2009 for Yellow Sound Label.
In the 1993 musical “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” Rivera played the title role, a glamorous movie star at the center of the fantasy life of an inmate in a South American prison. The story, from a novel by Manuel Puig, had already been made into an Oscar-winning 1985 movie.
In his review, then-Associated Press drama critic Michael Kuchwara wrote that Rivera “is more than a musical theater star. She’s a force of nature — which is exactly what is needed for the role of the Spider Woman. With her Louise Brooks haircut, brassy voice and lithe dancer’s body, Rivera dominates the stage whenever she appears.”
In 1975, she originated the role of Velma Kelly (to Gwen Verdon’s Roxie Hart) in the original Broadway production of “Chicago.” Rivera had a small role in the 2002 film version, while Catherine Zeta-Jones won the best supporting actress Oscar as Velma — just as Rita Moreno had picked up an Oscar for her portrayal of Anita in “West Side Story.”
The songwriters for “Chicago,” Kander and Ebb, also wrote Rivera’s first Tony-winning performance, for “The Rink.” In winning the Tony for best actress in a musical, Rivera topped the show’s top star, Liza Minnelli, who also had been nominated. The two played a mother and daughter who struggle to rebuild their relationship after a long estrangement; the setting is an old-fashioned roller rink that has seen better days.
“Spider Woman” had been her first Broadway show since 1986, when she suffered a broken leg in the traffic accident while she was appearing in “Jerry’s Girls,” a Broadway tribute to the songs of Jerry Herman.
At the Tony awards a few weeks later, she flashed her cast and belted out “Put on a Happy Face” from the musical “Bye, Bye, Birdie.”
It took months of physical therapy to bring back her dancing skills. She told The Associated Press: “It never entered my mind that I wouldn’t dance again. Never. I can’t explain to you why. It’s hard work getting back but that’s what I’m doing.”
“My spirit is still there.”
Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero was born Jan. 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C. Her Puerto Rican father, Pedro del Rivero, was a musician who played in the United States Navy Band, who died when she was 7. Her mother was Scottish and Italian descent.
She took dance classes and then entered the prestigious School of American Ballet in New York. Her first theater gig, at age 17, was in the touring company of “Call Me Madam.” That led to chorus stints in such shows as “Guys and Dolls” and “Can-Can.”
In her 2023 memoir, “Chita: A Memoir,” another woman steals scene after scene: her self-proclaimed alter ego, Dolores. Unapologetic and fiery, Dolores was the unfiltered version of Chita and served as motivation in times of self-doubt. In one chapter, Rivera writes that she doesn’t read reviews “or Dolores just might invest in a dozen voodoo dolls.”
“I consist of — and I think we all do — I consist of two people: Dolores and Conchita,” Rivera sain in an interview with the AP that year. “Conchita, she’s the one that has been taking all the glory, you know. She’s been doing all the shows, but Dolores is the one that’s pushed her into it. And she’s been keeping me on track, so I listen to Dolores. I listen to her. She’s growing in my head now as we speak.”
Among other early appearances on the New York stage were roles in “The Shoestring Revue,” 1955; a 1955 musical version of “Seventh Heaven” starring Ricardo Montalban; and “Mr. Wonderful,” a 1956 show starring Sammy Davis Jr.
“I can’t believe that I’ve been given the gift to look back and relive my life,” she told The Associated Press shortly before “The Dancer’s Life” opened on Broadway in late 2005. “It’s about how anybody can do it — if you really believe it, you have the good fortune, you do all the right things and you really work hard.”
Rivera, who had a relationship with the now-deceased Davis, married fellow “West Side Story” performer Tony Mordente in 1957. The marriage ended in divorce. Their daughter, Lisa Mordente, also became a performer who occasionally appeared on Broadway, garnering a Tony nomination in 1982 for “Marlowe.”
Shannon Sharpe Upsets The BeyHive After Suggesting Beyoncé Isn't "Moving The Needle" Like
NFL player Travis Kelce’s relationship with Taylor Swift has been making headlines all season, even amid news of the Kansas City Chiefs going to the Super Bowl this year.
After Sunday’s (Jan. 28) game, Front Office Sports reported that the pop singer generated roughly $331.5 million in revenue for the football team. The calculations came from print, digital, radio, TV, highlights, and social media mentioning Swift since she made an appearance at one of Kelce’s games on Sept. 24, 2023.
During a midnight (Jan. 29) stream, Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco Johnson debated whether any other artist or personality could achieve those figures. The former stated, “Tell me the other [musician] that’s going to do that. $331 million in value.”
Johnson responded, “Beyoncé. Hypothetically speaking, if she wasn’t with JAY-Z and not Travis Kelce… Yeah, Beyoncé. She’d move the needle.” However, Sharpe retorted, “Beyoncé is not like this… These eight to 15-year-old eyeballs. I love Beyoncé. Beyoncé ain’t moving the needle like this chick, Ocho. [Taylor Swift] is the closest thing to moving the needle like Michael Jackson that we’ve seen. This is it.”
“Beyoncé moves the needle just like Taylor, if not more… Beyoncé has those same set of eyes: Young, old, middle age, and old, including I,” Johnson argued. “Hypothetically speaking, Beyoncé would move the same way that Taylor is doing. It would be Beyoncé being shown all the time.”
Inevitably, bringing up two of the most popular women in music came with pushback from their respective audiences. Evidently, the BeyHive wasn’t happy with Sharpe downplaying Beyoncé’s influence.
Beyoncé and Swift had the highest-grossing treks in 2023. They were spotted together in October of that year for the premiere of the “Karma” artist’s concert film, The Eras Tour.
In a subsequent Instagram post, Swift praised Queen Bey and thanked her for coming out. She wrote, “I’m so glad I’ll never know what my life would’ve been like without [Beyonce’s] influence. The way she’s taught me and every artist out here to break [the] rules and defy industry norms.”
Caitlyn Jenner Threatens To Sue Son Brandon's Reality TV Show For Using Her As Clickbait
Caitlyn Jenner is not happy with how her son Brandon Jenner has been using her to promote his new TV show. The former star of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" allegedly isn't interested in making a cameo on "At Home With the Jenners", prompting Caitlyn to make a legal threat.
Sources close to Caitlyn claimed to TMZ that Brandon has been using Caitlyn's name as a clickbait without her authorization. Brandon allegedly claimed during interviews that the former Olympian will appear on the show, which has aired three episodes so far.
While Caitlyn did appear on the series as she was featured in a family dinner scene with David Foster, she allegedly had no idea that she would participate on the show. After finding out that she was used for promotions and was actually featured in one scene, her attorneys reportedly reached out to the UnchainedTV show's production company.
They threatened to take legal action unless Caitlyn was removed from the series. In response to the threat, it's said that the production staff has now scrubbed her appearances in the already aired episodes as well as upcoming episodes.
The "I Am Caitlyn" alum allegedly called Brandon when she learned about everything. She didn't hesitate to express her anger. Brandon appeared to understand as she was eventually scrubbed.
Despite her move, Caitlyn reportedly wishes nothing but the best for Brandon. She's currently in the middle of contract renewals with FOX and is not interested in working with other different networks as she doesn't want to risk her contract with FOX.
In other news, Brandon previously revealed that he's determined to be a "present father" for his and Cayley Stoker's three-year-old twins Bo and Sam unlike his parents. "I would say that the thing that I do most differently is just be really present. Both my parents, my mom and my dad, were really busy when I was growing up. I really try to be involved with them. I really try to do fun stuff. I'm just a very present father as much as I can be," he said.
Brandon, who also has eight-year-old daughter Eva with his former partner Leah James, added, "I think that's kind of the biggest thing is that the life that I'm really trying to lead is kids first and everything else kind of comes afterwards."
He further admitted that he's back in regular contact with Caitlyn as their relationship is "better" than ever. He explained, "I talk to my dad almost every day. We have a lot of things in common."
Issa Rae May Go Independent “Down The Line” Due To Show Cancellations with Black Creators!
Issa Rae revealed she may become an independent creative “down the line.” During an interview with Net-A-Porter, the California native spoke about the changing TV landscape. Issa explained that due to diversity trends and hires getting “canned,” it’s become difficult to tell “Black stories.” Rae explained that the amount of Black shows being canceled, including her own, has made her “pessimistic” about the future.
“You’re seeing so many Black shows get canceled, you’re seeing so many executives, especially on the DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) side, get canned. You’re seeing very clearly now that our stories are less of a priority,” she said. “I am pessimistic because there’s no one holding anybody accountable, and I can, sure, but also at what cost? I can’t force you to make my stuff. It’s made me take more steps to try to be independent down the line if I have to.”
Later in the interview, the creative explained that she wants to enter a space of “service” in a decade. The Insecure creator explained that helping people through philanthropic endeavors is ultimately her end goal. But while she’s in entertainment, she plans on going hard. Issa Rae also said she has much more to do regarding dream collaborators and has “barely scratched the surface.”
“I want, in 10 years’ time, to be transitioning towards service,” she added. “[My Hollywood career] is fun, but at some point, it’ll feel like not enough – and I want to be able to do more. [But], this year is really about firing on all cylinders. That’s what I’m excited about.”
Issa’s revelation arrives on the heels of her show, Rap Sh!t, being canceled. According to Variety, HBO notified the show’s team that the series wouldn’t return for a third season. Rae released an official statement regarding the end of her show. “I’m so proud of and grateful for Syreeta Singleton, our cast, writers, and crew that made this show possible,” Rae said. “Thanks to Sarah Aubrey and Suzanna Makkos for championing the cause.
Reba McEntire to Star in NBC Sitcom Pilot From Reba EP
Reba McEntire is reuniting with an old friend on a new TV show. The country music legend is set to star in a new NBC sitcom, TVLine has learned, with Reba veteran Kevin Abbott signed on as writer and executive producer.
NBC has ordered a pilot for the untitled multi-cam comedy, which stars McEntire as a woman who “inherits her father’s restaurant and is less than thrilled to discover that she has a new business partner in the half-sister she never knew she had,” according to the official description.
McEntire, of course, is no stranger to the small screen. In addition to selling tens of millions of albums as a country music superstar, McEntire starred in the self-titled sitcom Reba, which ran for six seasons on The WB and The CW. She later headlined the ABC comedy Malibu Country and recently recurred on CBS’ Young Sheldon and joined the cast of ABC’s Big Sky for its third and final season.
McEntire also serves as a coach on NBC’s The Voice and reunited with Reba co-star Melissa Peterman in last year’s Lifetime movie The Hammer. She’s set to sing the national anthem at Super Bowl LVIII next month.
Oprah Winfrey Celebrates 70th Birthday with a Run on the Beach: 'Health Is the Best Gift'
Winfrey turned 70 on Monday and celebrated by getting active, sharing a video to Instagram of herself going for a run on the beach. She paired the video with Jill Scott's "Golden," writing, "This is 70!"
“Celebrating 70 with a run on the beach. #healthisthebestgift,” she captioned the post. “Thank you for all the birthday love 🥳”
Last month, the media mogul told PEOPLE that she's feeling stronger than ever after incorporating more fitness into her life.
She admitted that she recently got a better handle on how to maintain a healthy weight long-term by using a holistic approach that includes regular exercise and other lifestyle tweaks. Winfrey also confirmed she has also added a weight-loss medication to her regimen.
Weight fluctuations "occupied five decades of space in my brain, yo-yoing and feeling like why can’t I just conquer this thing, believing willpower was my failing," said Winfrey, whose dogged rehabilitation after knee surgery in 2021 kick-started what has been steady weight loss over the last two years.
"After knee surgery, I started hiking and setting new distance goals each week. I could eventually hike three to five miles every day and a 10-mile straight-up hike on weekends," she said. "I felt stronger, more fit and more alive than I’d felt in years."
When she spoke to PEOPLE for a cover story in December, Winfrey said, "Gratitude really is my religion," adding that her 1985 movie The Color Purple "was a spiritual opening for me to see my life in a different way" at that time in her life.
She added that her lifelong purpose is to help uplift others.
"I still continue to rise, and I’m in a space now where my offering is to help other people to rise," said Winfrey. "The principle that is the underbelly, the cornerstone for how I operate in the world. ... Life is better when you share it."
Oprah: Her Incredible Life also features a 1985 interview from the PEOPLE archives, when Winfrey was on the brink of global stardom. She said at the time, "What works best in television is your ability to feel comfortable in front of the camera — and I feel real good."
Jason Derulo, Atlantic Recording Corp. Seek Dismissal From Woman’s Suit
Jason Derulo and Atlantic Recording Corp. are seeking dismissal as defendants in a lawsuit filed by an aspiring singer who alleges the singer signed her to his record company, then later threatened and fired her after she resisted his sexual advances.
Emaza Gibson claims in her Los Angeles Superior Court suit that Derulo hired her in 2021 and “promised to make multiple music albums” with her as part of a joint venture with Atlantic Recording Corp. and his label, Future History, which were named as co-defendants.
On Friday, lawyers for Derulo, 34, and Atlantic filed court papers with Judge Kerry Bensinger stating that the lawsuit’s claims against those defendants should be tossed out.
The attorneys note that Gibson alleges Derulo told her that in order to be successful in the music industry, an artist needs to partake in “goat skin and fish scales.” Both are slang phrases in which “goat skin” means to drink alcohol and “fish scales” refers to cocaine, according to the Derulo-Atlantic attorneys’ court papers.
“Ignoring the actual meanings of the words, plaintiff offers only the conclusory assertion that `goat skin’ instead refers to a sexual ritual involving goat’s blood and that she understood that Mr. Derulo was propositioning her for sex,” the defense attorneys further state in their court papers. “Her false allegation as to the meaning of two specifically defined phrases is ridiculous on its face and does not need to be accepted by the court.”
Further, there are no allegations that anyone at Atlantic mistreated Gibson, nor does she allege that Derulo was Atlantic’s employee or agent, the Derulo-Atlantic lawyers maintain in their court papers.
“In the end, none of the alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, violence or intimidation…,” the defense attorneys argue in their court papers.
According to Gibson’s lawsuit, “goat skin and fish scales” is a Haitian reference referring to conducting sex rituals, sacrificing a goat, goat blood and doing cocaine.
The lawsuit contends that “the manner and timing of such a statement meant that Derulo was demanding sexual acts from plaintiff in order for Derulo to fulfill his role as her mentor, supervisor and musical collaborator. This explicit demand for sex-in-exchange-for-success was reinforced through Derulo’s subsequent behavior.”
Derulo later began regularly inviting Gibson to have drinks or dinner, requests she declined in an effort to keep their relationship professional, according to the lawsuit filed Oct. 5, which further states she eventually insisted that her mother/manager be present during all of their future meetings or recording sessions, allegedly angering Derulo and causing him to stop answering her texts.
Gibson was fired in September 2022, the suit states, and she was never able to get a response from Atlantic executives about her allegations of “sexually, emotionally and physically inappropriate behavior.”
Gibson allegedly suffered breakdowns, weight loss, mood swings, hopelessness , loss of motivation and feelings of betrayal and deception and had to seek mental health treatment, leading to a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.
US Identifies Three Georgia Soldiers Killed in Attack in Jordan
The three US soldiers killed in the drone attack on a US military outpost in Jordan were identified Monday as Sgt. William Rivers, 46, of Carrollton, Georgia; Specialist Kennedy Sanders, 24, of Waycross, Georgia; and Specialist Breonna Moffett, 23, of Savannah, Georgia, according to the Defense Department.
They were all assigned to the 718th Engineer Company, a US Army Reserve unit based out of Fort Moore, Georgia, Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said at a briefing.
More than 40 were injured in the attack, according to Singh, a number that could increase. The drone hit a housing facility on the base where many service members were asleep in the early morning hours, leading to a high number of casualties, she said.
Singh said Monday that eight personnel who were medically evacuated were taken to Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center. Three of those service members will be transported to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center for follow-on care and the other five are expected to return to duty after being assessed for mild traumatic brain injuries. A US official previously told CNN that all eight had been evacuated to Landstuhl.
The drone approached the US military outpost, Tower 22, around the same time an American drone was returning to the base, which led to uncertainty over whether it was hostile and caused a delay to the US response, two US officials told CNN.
The enemy drone followed the American drone as it approached, but it is not clear whether the enemy drone intentionally followed the American one or if it was a coincidence, one of the officials said. The enemy drone also flew low, which may have allowed it to evade the base’s air defenses, officials said. US officials are also still assessing the drone’s point of origin.
The attack on Sunday marked a significant escalation after roughly 165 attacks on US and coalition forces since October 17, further raising concerns over a broader conflict breaking out in the Middle East while the US and its allies navigate rising tensions on multiple fronts. A US official told CNN that there have been six attacks since Friday, including Sunday’s drone attack and a multi-rocket attack on Patrol Base Shaddadi in Syria on Monday morning.
While Iran-backed militia groups have launched continuous attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria — leading to one serious injury and dozens of others that officials have described as fairly minor — the US has also been taking action against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen for their attacks on commercial shipping. Meanwhile, Israel is continuing its campaign in Gaza against Hamas, and launching attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon.
The consensus is that an Iran-backed militia group is behind the deadly drone attack, though the US is still working to determine which group specifically is responsible. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told CNN’s Phil Mattingly on Monday that the White House believes “the group was supported by Kataib Hezbollah, which is one of the main IRGC Revolutionary Guard-core backed groups in Iraq and Syria.”
“This one had lethal consequences in ways that previous ones didn’t,” Kirby said, “but that doesn’t mean that the intent of the previous attacks weren’t also lethal, it’s just that we were able to defeat them.”
Singh also said Monday that the attack bore the “fingerprints” of Kataib Hezbollah.
The US has already struck sites in Iraq associated with the group in recent weeks, and earlier this month targeted a member of the group that a US official said had “US blood on his hands.”
On Monday morning ahead of a meeting at the Pentagon with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed his “outrage and sorrow” over the deaths of the three American troops.
“Let me start with my outrage and sorrow for the death of three brave US troops in Jordan, and for the other troops who were wounded,” Austin said. “The President and I will not tolerate attacks on US forces, and we will take all necessary actions to defend the US and our troops.”
Family members talk about their loved ones
Sanders’ parents told CNN’s Erin Burnett they want their daughter to be remembered for her service, sacrifice, and how she lived.
“I just want people to remember that you know, even though her time was short on Earth, she lived her life to the fullest and she enjoyed her life. In any situation that she was in, she made it enjoyable. Even being deployed she found different things to do to pass her time,” like learning a new language, practicing jiu-jitsu or crocheting, Oneida Oliver-Sanders said Monday on “OutFront.”
Asked about a US response to the deadly attack, Oliver-Sanders said, “Whatever is decided will not ease our pain at any level. Kennedy still has battle buddies who are still left there, and I know if it was her decision, she would be very concerned about their safety, so you know, whatever happens, won’t change our situation at all.”
Sanders’ parents confirmed they have a call scheduled with the Biden administration.
Moffett’s mother, Francine, told CNN’s Abby Phillip she was the first woman in the family to join the military and that her daughter had decided on the same career path.
“She became the second female in the family to join the military. And she was very proud of herself. And I was always very proud of her because if that’s the route she wanted to take, I wanted her to do that. She honored her service, and she was always proud to be in the military,” she said on “NewsNight.”
Moffett’s parents said she was thinking of re-enlisting. They said that when she deployed for the first time last August she had not known what to expect.
Francine Moffett said that in her last conversation with her daughter, she “wanted me to send her a package, and I did. And in that package was her real estate book, and some clothes.
But most important that was to her, was her strawberry shortcake snack cakes – and her sunflower seeds. She’s like, ‘Do not forget that.’ She had not had it and that’s what she wanted.”
She continued, “We just talked about her care package, and she was just like smiling. She was actually getting ready to go to chow when I talked to her last time. She’s like, ‘Mom, I’mma call you back.’ And I didn’t hear from her again. I didn’t hear from her.”
R&B Legend Uncle Charlie Wilson receives Walk of Fame star in Hollywood
A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was unveiled Monday honoring Grammy-nominated artist Charlie Wilson, a co-founder and lead singer of the Gap Band, successful solo artist and outspoken activist urging Black men to be tested for prostate cancer.
Jimmy Jam Harris was scheduled to emcee the ceremony in front of the Eastown apartments at 6201 Hollywood Blvd. Among those expected to speak at the event were Wilson's manager and president/CEO of P Music Group Michael Paran, Grammy winner Babyface and frequent Wilson collaborator Snoop Dogg.
The ceremony was on Wilson's 71st birthday, on the very street where Wilson used to sleep while homeless due to drug and alcohol addiction in the 1990s.
A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Wilson and his brothers would often sing in church, where their father was a minister and their mother accompanied them on piano. The brothers -- Charlie, Robert and Ronnie -- later joined forces to create the Gap Band, releasing their debut album in 1974.
The band was best known for hits including "You Dropped a Bomb on Me," "Oops Upside Your Head" and "Yearning for Your Love." The band churned out 15 albums before finally disbanding in 2010, but by then Charlie Wilson had already launched a solo career, starting with his first album, "Bridging the Gap" in 2000.
Despite his success with the Gap Band, Wilson fell victim to cocaine and alcohol, with his addiction leaving him homeless and living on the streets of Hollywood in the mid-1990s. While in rehab, however, he met Mahin Tat, a social worker at the drug rehabilitation program where he was being treated. The pair married in 1995, and he has been sober ever since.
Wilson has been a fixture throughout his career on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop chart. He worked with some of the biggest names in the genre in 2010 when he collaborated with Kanye West on his album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." His work with West led him to collaborate with artists including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, Rihanna and Common.
Wilson received a BET Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. He has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards during his career and has also received a Soul Train Icon Award and an NAACP Music Makes a Difference Award.
Wilson was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008, but thanks to early detection and treatment, he has been cancer free for 16 years. His experiences prompted him to partner with the Prostate Cancer Foundation and he has worked to encourage Black men to get tested to increase the chances of early detection. He has also regularly taken part in Stand Up 2 Cancer fundraising telethons.
The star is the 2,770th since the completion of the Walk of Fame in 1961 with the initial 1,558 stars.
NYC Councilman Yusef Salaam Cancels Ride-Along with NYPD After Cops Pull Him Over for No
*NYC councilmember Yusef Salaam, one of the exonerated “Central Park Five,” is speaking out after police pulled him over for no apparent reason.
“Last night, while driving with my wife and children and listening in to a call with my Council colleagues on speakerphone, I was pulled over by an NYPD officer in my beloved Village of Harlem within the 28th Precinct. I introduced myself as Councilman Yusef Salaam, and subsequently asked the officer why I was pulled over. Instead of answering my question, the officer stated, ‘We’re done here,’ and proceeded to walk away,” Salaam explained in a statement released Saturday morning, NBC New York reports.
Salaam was on a call on speakerphone with other council members discussing police stops when he was pulled over.
USA Today reports that the NYPD defended the officer’s actions during Friday’s traffic stop, saying Salaam was pulled over for tinted windows. The department posted a statement along with the body-cam footage, saying, in part, “As the video shows, throughout this interaction, the officer conducted himself professionally and respectfully,” the department statement said.
“This officer should be commended for his polite, professional, and respectful conduct and for using his discretion appropriately so the councilmember could complete his official duties,” the statement continued.
In the footage, the officer does not explain why he pulled Salaam over. The traffic stop comes amid an ongoing City Hall battle over a police transparency law called the “ How Many Stops Act.”
NYC Mayor Eric Adams recently “vetoed two city council bills last week — one which would require more transparency in police encounters with civilians,” per NBC New York.
“This experience only amplified the importance of transparency for all police investigative stops because the lack of transparency allows racial profiling and unconstitutional stops of all types to occur and often go unreported,” Salaam said, USA Today reports.
“Many of us in the council know what it’s like to feel vulnerable and powerless when stopped by an officer because we have personally experienced triggering interactions like I had last night,” Salaam said the morning after the incident. “It is our duty as public servants to collect the data necessary to determine the pervasiveness of these stops and solutions to build the trust necessary to make our neighborhoods safer.”
Adams reportedly invited Salaam and other councilmembers to participate in a ride-along with NYPD. Salaam was set to attend on Saturday but backed out after the previous night’s traffic stop.
“In light of this encounter and coupled with the lack of logistical details provided by Mayor Adams’ office in advance, I will no longer be participating in tonight’s scheduled ride-along with the Mayor and NYPD. It is critical that I begin to organically develop constructive relationships with all of the precincts in City Council District 9,” Salaam said in a statement.
Chrisean Rock Abandoned By Over 200k Instagram Followers After Debuting Blueface Tattoo On Her Face
Chrisean Rock's devotion for Blueface has seemingly cost her a significant numbers of followers on social media. The reality TV star has lost over 200,000 followers on Instagram after she debuted a new Blueface tattoo.
As noted by TMZ, the raptress' official account on the photo-sharing platform saw a slightly smaller audience after she showed off the huge tattoo portrait of her on-and-off boyfriend on her face. Within a day, her follower number dropped from 5.3 million to 5.1 million, which is believed to be caused by a post in which she unveiled the new face tattoo.
On Sunday, January 28, the 23-year-old took to Instagram to share a clip of her getting the new tattoo. In the video, she was seen sitting down while getting the portrait of the rapper inked on the face before she showed the complete piece.
The reference photo is from his mugshot which was taken just a few weeks ago. The huge tattoo sits right next another of one of Chrisean's Blueface tribute tattoos. The older one, which sits just above her eyebrow, boasts his birth name in bold cursive letters.
The reactions to Chrisean's new tattoo were mostly negative, with one person saying, "You ruined your face girl." Another quipped, "Lord I pray I'm never this in love and delusional over no n***a AMEN!!" A third mocked the "Baddies" star as commenting, " 'Dummy Of The Year' award goes to Rock!"
Some others, however, doubted that the tattoo is a permanent one. "This gotta be a joke. I pray it's fake," one person remarked. Some fans also suspected that Chrisean's post was a PR stunt and the ink will eventually wear off. She indeed did not show redness or swelling associated with fresh ink which raised the suspicion.
Chrisean debuted the new tattoo tribute for Blueface after she revealed that she and her child moved back into his house. The rapper himself remains in jail following arrest for violating his probation on January 12.
Britney Spears Apologizes for Explosive Book Claims, Praises Justin Timberlake’s New Song
Britney Spears seemingly offered an apology to ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake for the explosive details shared in her memoir.
On Sunday, the pop superstar took to Instagram to extend an olive branch to her N’SYNC ex, who was the topic of many different accounts throughout the book. In her post, Spears wrote, “I wanna apologize for some of the things I wrote about in my book. If I offended any of the people I genuinely care about I am deeply sorry.”
Timberlake faced scrutiny after Spears’ claims in the book. According to the “Toxic” singer, Timberlake would use a blaccent when speaking with certain Black artists. One of the most notable people he allegedly used the exaggerated accent with was R&B performer Ginuwine. Spears also shared how she got an abortion while pregnant from Timberlake due to him not being ready for fatherhood. Shortly before “The Woman In Me” was released, several sources alleged to multiple sources that Timberlake was nervous about what Spears might reveal.
After her apology, Spears also shared some praise to Timberlake on his new music.
“Also wanted to say I am in love with Justin Timberlake’s new song ‘Selfish.’ It is soo good and how come every time I see Justin and Jimmy together I laugh so hard ???” she wrote.
Spears has since switched her account to private despite having over 42 million followers, though it’s unknown if the post now going viral played a role in that.
“Boomerang’s flying!” is a phrase stunt coordinator Jeff Aro found himself shouting a lot while hanging with the cast of Avatar: The Last Airbender in mid January. The reason? Sokka, of course.
Then there’s Ian Ousley. While a martial artist in his own right, his character of Sokka is the rare member of the series’ core “Team Avatar” group who can’t manipulate one of the four natural elements. Instead, he has his trusty boomerang, a prop Netflix flew out to the location especially for the actor. “That’s kind of my whole personality,” Ousley jokes. Before shooting his big hero moment — tossing said boomerang — he motions for everyone to get back. He refuses to even start until he can see most of the crew standing at an acceptable distance away. “This thing’s made out of pure steel,” Cormier remarks, playfully miming what would happen if Ousley accidentally knocks him in the head. Thankfully, both costars are nimble, and Gordon catches it off camera before the four assemble on stage for their money shot.
“Twelve-year-old me would be so happy right now,” Aro mutters as he looks over the playback on the monitors.
All four young stars are equally vibrating with excitement at the thought of getting to talk about the new Netflix adaptation (which premieres Feb. 22). It’s something they haven’t been able to do since they shot it years earlier and are only now reuniting for a promotional tour. (For context, Cormier auditioned for the titular role at age 11 and is now 14. “I was cast at 14 and I’m about to be 18,” adds Kiawentiio.)
Still, they’re younger than the original Avatar, which emerged in 2005 as a Nickelodeon animated series and drew in legions of fans to its fantasy world of benders — individuals with the power to control either water, earth, fire, or air, and the singular Avatar able to manipulate all four. “It was abundantly clear that this was probably one of the only things where I could see people like me on these kids shows,” comments Elizabeth Yu, 21, who now portrays the live-action Princess Azula. “There's something very magical about that.”
But the true magic of Avatar, much like its titular reincarnating figure, was its ability to cross generations. Over the course of three seasons — as well as a sequel series, The Legend of Korra; companion books; comics; and video games — the franchise tackled concepts of morality, spirituality, found family, and other themes that went well beyond the bounds of a mere kids show. It also just happened to showcase some of the most exciting feats of animation on television.
Albert Kim, a former EW editor who now spearheads the live-action series as showrunner, is one of countless adults passionately invested in this material, having initially intended to watch the cartoon in order to explain its context to his daughter. “I thought she was going to have trouble understanding the story, but pretty soon the explanations fell by the wayside,” Kim recalls. “I was just watching alongside her, just pulled into this incredible world…. It was the memories I had with my daughter that really sold me on the idea of doing this.”
It’s this love from seemingly disparate fan groups that has long piqued Hollywood’s interest in creating a live-action version. M. Night Shyamalan notably made a 2010 movie called The Last Airbender — so as not to confuse it with James Cameron’s Avatar. That effort was quite spectacularly read to filth by every corner of the fandom at the time. And the critics didn't care for it, either. White actors were cast to play Asian and Indigenous figures, the special effects couldn’t hold a candle to the theatrics of the original animation, and all of season 1’s main events were skimmed over in less than a two-hour runtime. (Kim purposefully avoided watching the movie. As of press time, he still hasn’t seen it.) Now, with the benefit of modern VFX, authentic casting, a format of eight hourlong episodes, and a renewed faith in the anime-to-live-action Hollywood cycle (thanks, One Piece!), the next Avatar is looking — to quote the original intro — to change the world.
Kim previously confirmed Avatar: The Last Airbender does not begin the same way as the animated series. Though the opening maintains familiar elements, Jabbar Raisani, the executive producer and visual effects supervisor who directed the new sequence, had one goal: “We just wanted to make sure audiences didn’t think they were getting a kids’ show. We want to ensure that our show is for all ages."
Aang, a young and spirited airbender, discovers he’s the next Avatar, a reincarnated being who emerges every lifecycle. Serving as a bridge between the human and spirit worlds, the Avatar uses their unique dominion over all four elements to maintain balance. But Aang has been mysteriously missing for 100 years, which has allowed the Fire Nation to ignite a war for global domination that already wiped out the Air Nomads — an event the new series realizes on screen for the first time.
“I think the airbender genocide is really cool… Well, no! No! Not like that,” Cormier says, quickly correcting himself. Even when he’s not trying, the actor naturally channels elements of Aang, including a playful awkwardness. “I mean, yeah, my whole family's dead, of course. It's not a good thing, but watching it is going to be sick!” (He means for the airbending effects.)
Kim says there’s a good reason this particular event wasn’t depicted on the original show. “It's a cartoon, it's meant for kids,” he notes. “But I felt it was important that we see the event that creates the story of Avatar. The famous line is, ‘Everything changed when the Fire Nation attacked.’ I wanted to see that.” He also clarifies that moments like this do not make his Avatar a dark retelling. He points to episodes of the original, like season 3’s “The Puppetmaster,” which tackled the taboo practice of bloodbending, as well as the series finale battle between Aang and the tyrannical Fire Lord Ozai, leader of the Fire Nation — both of which were more mature than the goofier nature of the first season. “For fans of the second and third season, I think it's all in line with what they saw there,” he says of the live-action reimagining.
Daniel Dae Kim agrees. Having voiced characters in both Avatar animated offerings and now playing live-action Ozai, he says, “The kids who watched the animated version of Avatar are now grown-ups, and so they're ready for more grown-up fare.”
Get more at EW.
#RHOA: Phaedra Parks Brought To Tears By Son Ayden At His 13th Birthday Party
In the touching moment captured on the reality show, the teenager delivered a heartfelt speech expressing gratitude to his mom.
Ayden’s sweet tribute began with him saying, “There is no way I would ever be able to repay you for all that you do for us. Your love is so overwhelming sometimes, and it’s just…,” he trailed off, admitting his nervousness.
Undeterred, he continued, “But i have learned that that’s just you. One time i was getting stiches, you were crying more than i Was. I just want you to know i love you and you are my work.”
In response to Ayden’s heartfelt words, Phaedra said, “I am so proud to be his mom. Money can’t buy everything and so good parenting is a lot about time. Not just money. I just want them to know how much when i am with them, it matters.
The birthday bash, a carnival-themed extravaganza, cost a whopping $70,000 and took place in the backyard of Phaedra’s Buckhead Atlanta home on May 26, 2023. Ayden’s love for carnivals was brought to life with games, basketball, dancing, fire handlers, stilt walkers, and more. Celebrity party planner Tori Williams transformed Phaedra’s vision into reality, creating a memorable event for 120 guests.
Reflecting on the elaborate celebration, Phaedra described it as almost a “royal coronation,” making Ayden’s 13th birthday an unforgettable and impactful milestone in his life.
“He loves carnivals, so we had an actual Carnival company come and do the Carnival games,” she told The Messenger. “You could win gifts and toys, but then the kids also played basketball — we have a half court on my property — and they danced, and it was just a fun time. Then, the fire handler came and spewed fire, and then the stilt walkers gave us a great show. So I think it was entertaining to all.”
But the surprises didn’t end there. Phaedra went all out, gifting Ayden a staggering $150,000. “I gave him a piece of investment property, because he loves investments and money,” Parks revealed. “He wanted a dirt bike, [but I thought], ‘Let me get you something that you won’t kill yourself [on]. Let me get you something that’s going to be useful.'”
#NewMusic from Van Hunt ‘Our Love Lingers’
It’s a big day for our main man Van Hunt. The revered singer-songwriter who recently announced the start of his new label, OnTheHunt Music Group, takes a major step with the first output from the fledgling company. That output happens to be a brand-new single from Van himself that’s lovingly title “Our Love Lingers.”
LISTEN HERE
You don’t have to look far to find the inspiration for the track. Van is smitten with his lady love Halle Berry and the two don’t miss a moment to publicly show each other affection. “Our Love Lingers” is yet another example of that as Van sings of a love that has staying power.
He pulls out all the stops for the song’s instrumentation. Piano, strings, bass and various synths are all utilized at the beginning of this loving ode. Meanwhile, Van flexes his sizeable songwriting skills to wax poetic about the things that keep love hanging on despite the passage of time.
“You think time won’t deliver / On our promises? / You think I won’t remember / The things we said / With the echo so limber / Bouncing overhead,” he sings in a slightly distorted voice at one point. “Our love lingers / Our love lingers.” The next portion of the song then switches to programmed drums as things get funkier while still remaining flowery and romantic.
#HipHopNews: Jess Hilarious Confirms she’s the Permanent Co-Host Of "The Breakfast Club"
She shared the news on her Instagram page today (Jan. 29). The clip featured various DJs, bloggers, and podcasters like DJ Akademiks, Joe Budden, and Flakko discussing her potential role and doubting her earlier announcement statement.
Speculation about whether Jess was booted from the show arose after she called Charlamagne and Envy “old heads” for their comparison of SZA and Mary J. Blige. Her criticism led many to believe she prematurely lost the opportunity. Meanwhile, social media reactions ranged from assumptions that she spoke too soon to advice about not disclosing news until it’s confirmed.
“Sis, you had me for a minute. Good thing I didn’t comment before finishing the video or ‘The Breakfast Club’ was finna [have to ban] me,” Joseline Hernandez wrote underneath the post. B. Simone added, “Go time! Yes, baby.” Wallo, Jai Nice, Kam Williams, and more also shared their support.
The announcement cleared up the confusion following a recent “The Breakfast Club” interview with Cam Newton, where Charlamagne and Envy evaded questions about Jess’ role on the show. “Hold on. What happened? The people wanna know,” the former NFL player stated.
The confirmation video ended with a Feb. 5 date, hinting at her first day back on air. Jess previously appeared as a rotating guest among Claudia Jordan, Jason Lee, and Loren LoRosa following Angela Yee’s departure in December 2022.
Jess’ tenure also saw memorable moments, including a notable exchange with Sexyy Redd. The St. Louis native said, “I don’t mess with you. You be sneak dissing. I see everything. I was trying to make sure [Charlamagne and Envy] wasn’t sneak dissing before I came up here, too.”
Chita Rivera, ICONIC and pioneering Broadway Tony-winning dancer and singer, dies at 91
Rivera's death was announced by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, who said she died in New York after a brief illness.
Rivera first gained wide notice in 1957 as Anita in the original production of "West Side Story" and was still dancing on Broadway with her trademark energy a half-century later in 2015’s “The Visit.”
"I wouldn't know what to do if I wasn't moving or telling a story to you or singing a song," she told The Associated Press then. "That's the spirit of my life, and I'm really so lucky to be able to do what I love, even at this time in my life."
In August 2009, Rivera was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor the U.S. can give a civilian. Rivera put her hand over her heart and shook her head in wonderment as President Barack Obama presented the medal. In 2013, she was the marshal at the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City.
Rivera rose from chorus girl to star, collaborating along the way with many of Broadway’s greatest talents, including Jerome Robbins, Leonard Bernstein, Bob Fosse, Gower Champion, Michael Kidd, Harold Prince, Jack Cole, Peter Gennaro and John Kander and Fred Ebb.
She rebounded from a car accident in 1988 that crushed her right leg and became an indefatigable star on the road. She was on Broadway in a raucous production of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” in 2012 and the chilly “The Visit” in 2014, earning another best actress Tony nomination.
“She can’t rehearse except for full-out,” said playwright Terrence McNally in 2005. “She can’t perform except for full-out, no matter what the size of the house. She’s going to be there 101% for that audience.”
She won Tonys for “The Rink” in 1984 and “Kiss of the Spider Woman” in 1993. When accepting a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018, she said “I wouldn’t trade my life in the theater for anything, because theater is life.”
She was nominated for the award seven other times, for “Bye Bye Birdie,” which opened in 1960; “Chicago,” 1975; "Bring Back Birdie,” 1981; “Merlin,” 1983; “Jerry’s Girls,” 1985; “Nine,” 2003; and “Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life,” 2005.
“I don’t think we have enough original musicals,” she told The Associated Press in 2012. “I know I’m being old fashioned, but the theater is the place where music, lyrics, words, scenery and stories come together. And I’ve been blessed enough to have done several shows when they really did. They take you places and they’re daring. That’s what we need.”
Her albums include 16 tracks pulled from her original cast recordings and put out as part of Sony’s Legends of Broadway series and two solo CDs — “And Now I Sing” for a tiny record label in the 1960s and “And Now I Swing” in 2009 for Yellow Sound Label.
In the 1993 musical “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” Rivera played the title role, a glamorous movie star at the center of the fantasy life of an inmate in a South American prison. The story, from a novel by Manuel Puig, had already been made into an Oscar-winning 1985 movie.
In his review, then-Associated Press drama critic Michael Kuchwara wrote that Rivera “is more than a musical theater star. She’s a force of nature — which is exactly what is needed for the role of the Spider Woman. With her Louise Brooks haircut, brassy voice and lithe dancer’s body, Rivera dominates the stage whenever she appears.”
In 1975, she originated the role of Velma Kelly (to Gwen Verdon’s Roxie Hart) in the original Broadway production of “Chicago.” Rivera had a small role in the 2002 film version, while Catherine Zeta-Jones won the best supporting actress Oscar as Velma — just as Rita Moreno had picked up an Oscar for her portrayal of Anita in “West Side Story.”
The songwriters for “Chicago,” Kander and Ebb, also wrote Rivera’s first Tony-winning performance, for “The Rink.” In winning the Tony for best actress in a musical, Rivera topped the show’s top star, Liza Minnelli, who also had been nominated. The two played a mother and daughter who struggle to rebuild their relationship after a long estrangement; the setting is an old-fashioned roller rink that has seen better days.
“Spider Woman” had been her first Broadway show since 1986, when she suffered a broken leg in the traffic accident while she was appearing in “Jerry’s Girls,” a Broadway tribute to the songs of Jerry Herman.
At the Tony awards a few weeks later, she flashed her cast and belted out “Put on a Happy Face” from the musical “Bye, Bye, Birdie.”
It took months of physical therapy to bring back her dancing skills. She told The Associated Press: “It never entered my mind that I wouldn’t dance again. Never. I can’t explain to you why. It’s hard work getting back but that’s what I’m doing.”
“My spirit is still there.”
Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero was born Jan. 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C. Her Puerto Rican father, Pedro del Rivero, was a musician who played in the United States Navy Band, who died when she was 7. Her mother was Scottish and Italian descent.
She took dance classes and then entered the prestigious School of American Ballet in New York. Her first theater gig, at age 17, was in the touring company of “Call Me Madam.” That led to chorus stints in such shows as “Guys and Dolls” and “Can-Can.”
In her 2023 memoir, “Chita: A Memoir,” another woman steals scene after scene: her self-proclaimed alter ego, Dolores. Unapologetic and fiery, Dolores was the unfiltered version of Chita and served as motivation in times of self-doubt. In one chapter, Rivera writes that she doesn’t read reviews “or Dolores just might invest in a dozen voodoo dolls.”
“I consist of — and I think we all do — I consist of two people: Dolores and Conchita,” Rivera sain in an interview with the AP that year. “Conchita, she’s the one that has been taking all the glory, you know. She’s been doing all the shows, but Dolores is the one that’s pushed her into it. And she’s been keeping me on track, so I listen to Dolores. I listen to her. She’s growing in my head now as we speak.”
Among other early appearances on the New York stage were roles in “The Shoestring Revue,” 1955; a 1955 musical version of “Seventh Heaven” starring Ricardo Montalban; and “Mr. Wonderful,” a 1956 show starring Sammy Davis Jr.
“I can’t believe that I’ve been given the gift to look back and relive my life,” she told The Associated Press shortly before “The Dancer’s Life” opened on Broadway in late 2005. “It’s about how anybody can do it — if you really believe it, you have the good fortune, you do all the right things and you really work hard.”
Rivera, who had a relationship with the now-deceased Davis, married fellow “West Side Story” performer Tony Mordente in 1957. The marriage ended in divorce. Their daughter, Lisa Mordente, also became a performer who occasionally appeared on Broadway, garnering a Tony nomination in 1982 for “Marlowe.”
Shannon Sharpe Upsets The BeyHive After Suggesting Beyoncé Isn't "Moving The Needle" Like
NFL player Travis Kelce’s relationship with Taylor Swift has been making headlines all season, even amid news of the Kansas City Chiefs going to the Super Bowl this year.
After Sunday’s (Jan. 28) game, Front Office Sports reported that the pop singer generated roughly $331.5 million in revenue for the football team. The calculations came from print, digital, radio, TV, highlights, and social media mentioning Swift since she made an appearance at one of Kelce’s games on Sept. 24, 2023.
During a midnight (Jan. 29) stream, Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco Johnson debated whether any other artist or personality could achieve those figures. The former stated, “Tell me the other [musician] that’s going to do that. $331 million in value.”
Johnson responded, “Beyoncé. Hypothetically speaking, if she wasn’t with JAY-Z and not Travis Kelce… Yeah, Beyoncé. She’d move the needle.” However, Sharpe retorted, “Beyoncé is not like this… These eight to 15-year-old eyeballs. I love Beyoncé. Beyoncé ain’t moving the needle like this chick, Ocho. [Taylor Swift] is the closest thing to moving the needle like Michael Jackson that we’ve seen. This is it.”
“Beyoncé moves the needle just like Taylor, if not more… Beyoncé has those same set of eyes: Young, old, middle age, and old, including I,” Johnson argued. “Hypothetically speaking, Beyoncé would move the same way that Taylor is doing. It would be Beyoncé being shown all the time.”
Inevitably, bringing up two of the most popular women in music came with pushback from their respective audiences. Evidently, the BeyHive wasn’t happy with Sharpe downplaying Beyoncé’s influence.
Beyoncé and Swift had the highest-grossing treks in 2023. They were spotted together in October of that year for the premiere of the “Karma” artist’s concert film, The Eras Tour.
In a subsequent Instagram post, Swift praised Queen Bey and thanked her for coming out. She wrote, “I’m so glad I’ll never know what my life would’ve been like without [Beyonce’s] influence. The way she’s taught me and every artist out here to break [the] rules and defy industry norms.”
Caitlyn Jenner Threatens To Sue Son Brandon's Reality TV Show For Using Her As Clickbait
Sources close to Caitlyn claimed to TMZ that Brandon has been using Caitlyn's name as a clickbait without her authorization. Brandon allegedly claimed during interviews that the former Olympian will appear on the show, which has aired three episodes so far.
While Caitlyn did appear on the series as she was featured in a family dinner scene with David Foster, she allegedly had no idea that she would participate on the show. After finding out that she was used for promotions and was actually featured in one scene, her attorneys reportedly reached out to the UnchainedTV show's production company.
They threatened to take legal action unless Caitlyn was removed from the series. In response to the threat, it's said that the production staff has now scrubbed her appearances in the already aired episodes as well as upcoming episodes.
The "I Am Caitlyn" alum allegedly called Brandon when she learned about everything. She didn't hesitate to express her anger. Brandon appeared to understand as she was eventually scrubbed.
Despite her move, Caitlyn reportedly wishes nothing but the best for Brandon. She's currently in the middle of contract renewals with FOX and is not interested in working with other different networks as she doesn't want to risk her contract with FOX.
In other news, Brandon previously revealed that he's determined to be a "present father" for his and Cayley Stoker's three-year-old twins Bo and Sam unlike his parents. "I would say that the thing that I do most differently is just be really present. Both my parents, my mom and my dad, were really busy when I was growing up. I really try to be involved with them. I really try to do fun stuff. I'm just a very present father as much as I can be," he said.
Brandon, who also has eight-year-old daughter Eva with his former partner Leah James, added, "I think that's kind of the biggest thing is that the life that I'm really trying to lead is kids first and everything else kind of comes afterwards."
He further admitted that he's back in regular contact with Caitlyn as their relationship is "better" than ever. He explained, "I talk to my dad almost every day. We have a lot of things in common."
Issa Rae May Go Independent “Down The Line” Due To Show Cancellations with Black Creators!
Issa Rae revealed she may become an independent creative “down the line.” During an interview with Net-A-Porter, the California native spoke about the changing TV landscape. Issa explained that due to diversity trends and hires getting “canned,” it’s become difficult to tell “Black stories.” Rae explained that the amount of Black shows being canceled, including her own, has made her “pessimistic” about the future.
“You’re seeing so many Black shows get canceled, you’re seeing so many executives, especially on the DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) side, get canned. You’re seeing very clearly now that our stories are less of a priority,” she said. “I am pessimistic because there’s no one holding anybody accountable, and I can, sure, but also at what cost? I can’t force you to make my stuff. It’s made me take more steps to try to be independent down the line if I have to.”
Later in the interview, the creative explained that she wants to enter a space of “service” in a decade. The Insecure creator explained that helping people through philanthropic endeavors is ultimately her end goal. But while she’s in entertainment, she plans on going hard. Issa Rae also said she has much more to do regarding dream collaborators and has “barely scratched the surface.”
“I want, in 10 years’ time, to be transitioning towards service,” she added. “[My Hollywood career] is fun, but at some point, it’ll feel like not enough – and I want to be able to do more. [But], this year is really about firing on all cylinders. That’s what I’m excited about.”
Issa’s revelation arrives on the heels of her show, Rap Sh!t, being canceled. According to Variety, HBO notified the show’s team that the series wouldn’t return for a third season. Rae released an official statement regarding the end of her show. “I’m so proud of and grateful for Syreeta Singleton, our cast, writers, and crew that made this show possible,” Rae said. “Thanks to Sarah Aubrey and Suzanna Makkos for championing the cause.
Reba McEntire to Star in NBC Sitcom Pilot From Reba EP
NBC has ordered a pilot for the untitled multi-cam comedy, which stars McEntire as a woman who “inherits her father’s restaurant and is less than thrilled to discover that she has a new business partner in the half-sister she never knew she had,” according to the official description.
McEntire, of course, is no stranger to the small screen. In addition to selling tens of millions of albums as a country music superstar, McEntire starred in the self-titled sitcom Reba, which ran for six seasons on The WB and The CW. She later headlined the ABC comedy Malibu Country and recently recurred on CBS’ Young Sheldon and joined the cast of ABC’s Big Sky for its third and final season.
McEntire also serves as a coach on NBC’s The Voice and reunited with Reba co-star Melissa Peterman in last year’s Lifetime movie The Hammer. She’s set to sing the national anthem at Super Bowl LVIII next month.
Oprah Winfrey Celebrates 70th Birthday with a Run on the Beach: 'Health Is the Best Gift'
Winfrey turned 70 on Monday and celebrated by getting active, sharing a video to Instagram of herself going for a run on the beach. She paired the video with Jill Scott's "Golden," writing, "This is 70!"
“Celebrating 70 with a run on the beach. #healthisthebestgift,” she captioned the post. “Thank you for all the birthday love 🥳”
Last month, the media mogul told PEOPLE that she's feeling stronger than ever after incorporating more fitness into her life.
She admitted that she recently got a better handle on how to maintain a healthy weight long-term by using a holistic approach that includes regular exercise and other lifestyle tweaks. Winfrey also confirmed she has also added a weight-loss medication to her regimen.
Weight fluctuations "occupied five decades of space in my brain, yo-yoing and feeling like why can’t I just conquer this thing, believing willpower was my failing," said Winfrey, whose dogged rehabilitation after knee surgery in 2021 kick-started what has been steady weight loss over the last two years.
"After knee surgery, I started hiking and setting new distance goals each week. I could eventually hike three to five miles every day and a 10-mile straight-up hike on weekends," she said. "I felt stronger, more fit and more alive than I’d felt in years."
When she spoke to PEOPLE for a cover story in December, Winfrey said, "Gratitude really is my religion," adding that her 1985 movie The Color Purple "was a spiritual opening for me to see my life in a different way" at that time in her life.
She added that her lifelong purpose is to help uplift others.
"I still continue to rise, and I’m in a space now where my offering is to help other people to rise," said Winfrey. "The principle that is the underbelly, the cornerstone for how I operate in the world. ... Life is better when you share it."
Oprah: Her Incredible Life also features a 1985 interview from the PEOPLE archives, when Winfrey was on the brink of global stardom. She said at the time, "What works best in television is your ability to feel comfortable in front of the camera — and I feel real good."
Jason Derulo, Atlantic Recording Corp. Seek Dismissal From Woman’s Suit
Emaza Gibson claims in her Los Angeles Superior Court suit that Derulo hired her in 2021 and “promised to make multiple music albums” with her as part of a joint venture with Atlantic Recording Corp. and his label, Future History, which were named as co-defendants.
On Friday, lawyers for Derulo, 34, and Atlantic filed court papers with Judge Kerry Bensinger stating that the lawsuit’s claims against those defendants should be tossed out.
The attorneys note that Gibson alleges Derulo told her that in order to be successful in the music industry, an artist needs to partake in “goat skin and fish scales.” Both are slang phrases in which “goat skin” means to drink alcohol and “fish scales” refers to cocaine, according to the Derulo-Atlantic attorneys’ court papers.
“Ignoring the actual meanings of the words, plaintiff offers only the conclusory assertion that `goat skin’ instead refers to a sexual ritual involving goat’s blood and that she understood that Mr. Derulo was propositioning her for sex,” the defense attorneys further state in their court papers. “Her false allegation as to the meaning of two specifically defined phrases is ridiculous on its face and does not need to be accepted by the court.”
Further, there are no allegations that anyone at Atlantic mistreated Gibson, nor does she allege that Derulo was Atlantic’s employee or agent, the Derulo-Atlantic lawyers maintain in their court papers.
“In the end, none of the alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, violence or intimidation…,” the defense attorneys argue in their court papers.
According to Gibson’s lawsuit, “goat skin and fish scales” is a Haitian reference referring to conducting sex rituals, sacrificing a goat, goat blood and doing cocaine.
The lawsuit contends that “the manner and timing of such a statement meant that Derulo was demanding sexual acts from plaintiff in order for Derulo to fulfill his role as her mentor, supervisor and musical collaborator. This explicit demand for sex-in-exchange-for-success was reinforced through Derulo’s subsequent behavior.”
Derulo later began regularly inviting Gibson to have drinks or dinner, requests she declined in an effort to keep their relationship professional, according to the lawsuit filed Oct. 5, which further states she eventually insisted that her mother/manager be present during all of their future meetings or recording sessions, allegedly angering Derulo and causing him to stop answering her texts.
Gibson was fired in September 2022, the suit states, and she was never able to get a response from Atlantic executives about her allegations of “sexually, emotionally and physically inappropriate behavior.”
Gibson allegedly suffered breakdowns, weight loss, mood swings, hopelessness , loss of motivation and feelings of betrayal and deception and had to seek mental health treatment, leading to a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.
US Identifies Three Georgia Soldiers Killed in Attack in Jordan
The three US soldiers killed in the drone attack on a US military outpost in Jordan were identified Monday as Sgt. William Rivers, 46, of Carrollton, Georgia; Specialist Kennedy Sanders, 24, of Waycross, Georgia; and Specialist Breonna Moffett, 23, of Savannah, Georgia, according to the Defense Department.
They were all assigned to the 718th Engineer Company, a US Army Reserve unit based out of Fort Moore, Georgia, Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said at a briefing.
More than 40 were injured in the attack, according to Singh, a number that could increase. The drone hit a housing facility on the base where many service members were asleep in the early morning hours, leading to a high number of casualties, she said.
Singh said Monday that eight personnel who were medically evacuated were taken to Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center. Three of those service members will be transported to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center for follow-on care and the other five are expected to return to duty after being assessed for mild traumatic brain injuries. A US official previously told CNN that all eight had been evacuated to Landstuhl.
The drone approached the US military outpost, Tower 22, around the same time an American drone was returning to the base, which led to uncertainty over whether it was hostile and caused a delay to the US response, two US officials told CNN.
The enemy drone followed the American drone as it approached, but it is not clear whether the enemy drone intentionally followed the American one or if it was a coincidence, one of the officials said. The enemy drone also flew low, which may have allowed it to evade the base’s air defenses, officials said. US officials are also still assessing the drone’s point of origin.
The attack on Sunday marked a significant escalation after roughly 165 attacks on US and coalition forces since October 17, further raising concerns over a broader conflict breaking out in the Middle East while the US and its allies navigate rising tensions on multiple fronts. A US official told CNN that there have been six attacks since Friday, including Sunday’s drone attack and a multi-rocket attack on Patrol Base Shaddadi in Syria on Monday morning.
While Iran-backed militia groups have launched continuous attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria — leading to one serious injury and dozens of others that officials have described as fairly minor — the US has also been taking action against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen for their attacks on commercial shipping. Meanwhile, Israel is continuing its campaign in Gaza against Hamas, and launching attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon.
The consensus is that an Iran-backed militia group is behind the deadly drone attack, though the US is still working to determine which group specifically is responsible. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told CNN’s Phil Mattingly on Monday that the White House believes “the group was supported by Kataib Hezbollah, which is one of the main IRGC Revolutionary Guard-core backed groups in Iraq and Syria.”
“This one had lethal consequences in ways that previous ones didn’t,” Kirby said, “but that doesn’t mean that the intent of the previous attacks weren’t also lethal, it’s just that we were able to defeat them.”
Singh also said Monday that the attack bore the “fingerprints” of Kataib Hezbollah.
The US has already struck sites in Iraq associated with the group in recent weeks, and earlier this month targeted a member of the group that a US official said had “US blood on his hands.”
On Monday morning ahead of a meeting at the Pentagon with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed his “outrage and sorrow” over the deaths of the three American troops.
“Let me start with my outrage and sorrow for the death of three brave US troops in Jordan, and for the other troops who were wounded,” Austin said. “The President and I will not tolerate attacks on US forces, and we will take all necessary actions to defend the US and our troops.”
Family members talk about their loved ones
Sanders’ parents told CNN’s Erin Burnett they want their daughter to be remembered for her service, sacrifice, and how she lived.
“I just want people to remember that you know, even though her time was short on Earth, she lived her life to the fullest and she enjoyed her life. In any situation that she was in, she made it enjoyable. Even being deployed she found different things to do to pass her time,” like learning a new language, practicing jiu-jitsu or crocheting, Oneida Oliver-Sanders said Monday on “OutFront.”
Asked about a US response to the deadly attack, Oliver-Sanders said, “Whatever is decided will not ease our pain at any level. Kennedy still has battle buddies who are still left there, and I know if it was her decision, she would be very concerned about their safety, so you know, whatever happens, won’t change our situation at all.”
Sanders’ parents confirmed they have a call scheduled with the Biden administration.
Moffett’s mother, Francine, told CNN’s Abby Phillip she was the first woman in the family to join the military and that her daughter had decided on the same career path.
“She became the second female in the family to join the military. And she was very proud of herself. And I was always very proud of her because if that’s the route she wanted to take, I wanted her to do that. She honored her service, and she was always proud to be in the military,” she said on “NewsNight.”
Moffett’s parents said she was thinking of re-enlisting. They said that when she deployed for the first time last August she had not known what to expect.
Francine Moffett said that in her last conversation with her daughter, she “wanted me to send her a package, and I did. And in that package was her real estate book, and some clothes.
But most important that was to her, was her strawberry shortcake snack cakes – and her sunflower seeds. She’s like, ‘Do not forget that.’ She had not had it and that’s what she wanted.”
She continued, “We just talked about her care package, and she was just like smiling. She was actually getting ready to go to chow when I talked to her last time. She’s like, ‘Mom, I’mma call you back.’ And I didn’t hear from her again. I didn’t hear from her.”
R&B Legend Uncle Charlie Wilson receives Walk of Fame star in Hollywood
Jimmy Jam Harris was scheduled to emcee the ceremony in front of the Eastown apartments at 6201 Hollywood Blvd. Among those expected to speak at the event were Wilson's manager and president/CEO of P Music Group Michael Paran, Grammy winner Babyface and frequent Wilson collaborator Snoop Dogg.
The ceremony was on Wilson's 71st birthday, on the very street where Wilson used to sleep while homeless due to drug and alcohol addiction in the 1990s.
A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Wilson and his brothers would often sing in church, where their father was a minister and their mother accompanied them on piano. The brothers -- Charlie, Robert and Ronnie -- later joined forces to create the Gap Band, releasing their debut album in 1974.
The band was best known for hits including "You Dropped a Bomb on Me," "Oops Upside Your Head" and "Yearning for Your Love." The band churned out 15 albums before finally disbanding in 2010, but by then Charlie Wilson had already launched a solo career, starting with his first album, "Bridging the Gap" in 2000.
Despite his success with the Gap Band, Wilson fell victim to cocaine and alcohol, with his addiction leaving him homeless and living on the streets of Hollywood in the mid-1990s. While in rehab, however, he met Mahin Tat, a social worker at the drug rehabilitation program where he was being treated. The pair married in 1995, and he has been sober ever since.
Wilson has been a fixture throughout his career on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop chart. He worked with some of the biggest names in the genre in 2010 when he collaborated with Kanye West on his album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." His work with West led him to collaborate with artists including Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross, Rihanna and Common.
Wilson received a BET Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. He has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards during his career and has also received a Soul Train Icon Award and an NAACP Music Makes a Difference Award.
Wilson was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008, but thanks to early detection and treatment, he has been cancer free for 16 years. His experiences prompted him to partner with the Prostate Cancer Foundation and he has worked to encourage Black men to get tested to increase the chances of early detection. He has also regularly taken part in Stand Up 2 Cancer fundraising telethons.
The star is the 2,770th since the completion of the Walk of Fame in 1961 with the initial 1,558 stars.
NYC Councilman Yusef Salaam Cancels Ride-Along with NYPD After Cops Pull Him Over for No
*NYC councilmember Yusef Salaam, one of the exonerated “Central Park Five,” is speaking out after police pulled him over for no apparent reason.
“Last night, while driving with my wife and children and listening in to a call with my Council colleagues on speakerphone, I was pulled over by an NYPD officer in my beloved Village of Harlem within the 28th Precinct. I introduced myself as Councilman Yusef Salaam, and subsequently asked the officer why I was pulled over. Instead of answering my question, the officer stated, ‘We’re done here,’ and proceeded to walk away,” Salaam explained in a statement released Saturday morning, NBC New York reports.
Salaam was on a call on speakerphone with other council members discussing police stops when he was pulled over.
USA Today reports that the NYPD defended the officer’s actions during Friday’s traffic stop, saying Salaam was pulled over for tinted windows. The department posted a statement along with the body-cam footage, saying, in part, “As the video shows, throughout this interaction, the officer conducted himself professionally and respectfully,” the department statement said.
“This officer should be commended for his polite, professional, and respectful conduct and for using his discretion appropriately so the councilmember could complete his official duties,” the statement continued.
In the footage, the officer does not explain why he pulled Salaam over. The traffic stop comes amid an ongoing City Hall battle over a police transparency law called the “ How Many Stops Act.”
NYC Mayor Eric Adams recently “vetoed two city council bills last week — one which would require more transparency in police encounters with civilians,” per NBC New York.
“This experience only amplified the importance of transparency for all police investigative stops because the lack of transparency allows racial profiling and unconstitutional stops of all types to occur and often go unreported,” Salaam said, USA Today reports.
“Many of us in the council know what it’s like to feel vulnerable and powerless when stopped by an officer because we have personally experienced triggering interactions like I had last night,” Salaam said the morning after the incident. “It is our duty as public servants to collect the data necessary to determine the pervasiveness of these stops and solutions to build the trust necessary to make our neighborhoods safer.”
Adams reportedly invited Salaam and other councilmembers to participate in a ride-along with NYPD. Salaam was set to attend on Saturday but backed out after the previous night’s traffic stop.
“In light of this encounter and coupled with the lack of logistical details provided by Mayor Adams’ office in advance, I will no longer be participating in tonight’s scheduled ride-along with the Mayor and NYPD. It is critical that I begin to organically develop constructive relationships with all of the precincts in City Council District 9,” Salaam said in a statement.
Chrisean Rock Abandoned By Over 200k Instagram Followers After Debuting Blueface Tattoo On Her Face
As noted by TMZ, the raptress' official account on the photo-sharing platform saw a slightly smaller audience after she showed off the huge tattoo portrait of her on-and-off boyfriend on her face. Within a day, her follower number dropped from 5.3 million to 5.1 million, which is believed to be caused by a post in which she unveiled the new face tattoo.
On Sunday, January 28, the 23-year-old took to Instagram to share a clip of her getting the new tattoo. In the video, she was seen sitting down while getting the portrait of the rapper inked on the face before she showed the complete piece.
The reference photo is from his mugshot which was taken just a few weeks ago. The huge tattoo sits right next another of one of Chrisean's Blueface tribute tattoos. The older one, which sits just above her eyebrow, boasts his birth name in bold cursive letters.
The reactions to Chrisean's new tattoo were mostly negative, with one person saying, "You ruined your face girl." Another quipped, "Lord I pray I'm never this in love and delusional over no n***a AMEN!!" A third mocked the "Baddies" star as commenting, " 'Dummy Of The Year' award goes to Rock!"
Some others, however, doubted that the tattoo is a permanent one. "This gotta be a joke. I pray it's fake," one person remarked. Some fans also suspected that Chrisean's post was a PR stunt and the ink will eventually wear off. She indeed did not show redness or swelling associated with fresh ink which raised the suspicion.
Chrisean debuted the new tattoo tribute for Blueface after she revealed that she and her child moved back into his house. The rapper himself remains in jail following arrest for violating his probation on January 12.
Britney Spears Apologizes for Explosive Book Claims, Praises Justin Timberlake’s New Song
Britney Spears seemingly offered an apology to ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake for the explosive details shared in her memoir.
On Sunday, the pop superstar took to Instagram to extend an olive branch to her N’SYNC ex, who was the topic of many different accounts throughout the book. In her post, Spears wrote, “I wanna apologize for some of the things I wrote about in my book. If I offended any of the people I genuinely care about I am deeply sorry.”
Timberlake faced scrutiny after Spears’ claims in the book. According to the “Toxic” singer, Timberlake would use a blaccent when speaking with certain Black artists. One of the most notable people he allegedly used the exaggerated accent with was R&B performer Ginuwine. Spears also shared how she got an abortion while pregnant from Timberlake due to him not being ready for fatherhood. Shortly before “The Woman In Me” was released, several sources alleged to multiple sources that Timberlake was nervous about what Spears might reveal.
After her apology, Spears also shared some praise to Timberlake on his new music.
“Also wanted to say I am in love with Justin Timberlake’s new song ‘Selfish.’ It is soo good and how come every time I see Justin and Jimmy together I laugh so hard ???” she wrote.
Spears has since switched her account to private despite having over 42 million followers, though it’s unknown if the post now going viral played a role in that.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
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