#MAGFAB: Ncuti Gatwa for Attitude Magazine UK June 2024
Doctor Who’s Ncuti Gatwa on embracing his identity to find pride and joy
This interview is taken from the new May/June issue of Attitude,
The first full outing of Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor Who has yet to drop, and cast and crew are already in full swing shooting the follow-up season. If ever there was a vote of confidence by a major broadcaster in the success of a return/revamp/re-tweak of a long-running franchise, this is it. As if the return of Russell T Davies as showrunner and scriptwriter wasn’t enough to create a buzz among the Whovians (as the committed Doctor Who fans are called), the epic series that celebrated its 60th anniversary last year is back and more relevant — and perhaps more needed — than ever before.
It’s relevant because the title role is being played by one of the most exciting British actors of his generation, a Black and queer man from Rwanda, making this incarnation of the Doctor — the 15th — a casting that is more reflective of the world around it. And it’s needed because, to quote two-time Doctor David Tennant, the world absolutely needs more kindness than ever before. “The Doctor is constantly fighting for every life, even his villains,” says Gatwa when we meet for his interview in a posh London hotel. “He shows mercy and compassion to all because he understands that there’s a need for everything, and that we need each other. It’s really nice to have a show like Doctor Who running after all these years in this era that we are in now.”
A breakout role in Sex Education as Eric would go on to make Gatwa more than just a global star. With his many intersectional identities, it helped him find balance and acceptance. As he shares in this interview, it was a gift that was more than just a job; it helped him find inner peace. As Sex Education wrapped, he found himself in a supporting role in Barbie, arguably the film of 2023, before taking ownership of the Tardis in its Christmas Day special.
Even after season two of Doctor Who wraps, Gatwa is not ready to slow down. His energy is in abundance as he vogues, poses, leaps, dances and shakes his tushy on set for his Attitude cover shoot. “I think this year my break will be to do something different creatively in between. Or another project, just, like, another character,” he teases. “That will be my mental break in between. But I dunno. We’ll see. We’ll see whether I work or take a holiday.”
Doctor Who’s Ncuti Gatwa on embracing his identity to find pride and joy
This interview is taken from the new May/June issue of Attitude,
The first full outing of Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor Who has yet to drop, and cast and crew are already in full swing shooting the follow-up season. If ever there was a vote of confidence by a major broadcaster in the success of a return/revamp/re-tweak of a long-running franchise, this is it. As if the return of Russell T Davies as showrunner and scriptwriter wasn’t enough to create a buzz among the Whovians (as the committed Doctor Who fans are called), the epic series that celebrated its 60th anniversary last year is back and more relevant — and perhaps more needed — than ever before.
A breakout role in Sex Education as Eric would go on to make Gatwa more than just a global star. With his many intersectional identities, it helped him find balance and acceptance. As he shares in this interview, it was a gift that was more than just a job; it helped him find inner peace. As Sex Education wrapped, he found himself in a supporting role in Barbie, arguably the film of 2023, before taking ownership of the Tardis in its Christmas Day special.
Even after season two of Doctor Who wraps, Gatwa is not ready to slow down. His energy is in abundance as he vogues, poses, leaps, dances and shakes his tushy on set for his Attitude cover shoot. “I think this year my break will be to do something different creatively in between. Or another project, just, like, another character,” he teases. “That will be my mental break in between. But I dunno. We’ll see. We’ll see whether I work or take a holiday.”
His enthusiasm is infectious. As we speak, Gatwa gesticulates wildly, his eyes widen, whether it’s to denounce the current government’s scapegoating of minorities to distract from its abysmal performance in power or to regale me with stories about his Oscar-worthy Academy Award performance. He also speaks freely about how therapy has helped him deal with internalised homophobia — an issue he didn’t realise he carried with him until Eric came along to show him otherwise — and even offers up the information that he’s currently happily dating a muggle — aka, a regular civilian and not a celebrity.
Are you still mid-shoot on Doctor Who?
Yeah, midway through season two at the moment. We’ve just finished episode five, [I] want to say? Yeah, we’ve got three more to go. So, it is going quickly.
And then you can have a holiday?
And then I can have a holiday. [But] maybe this other project’s building, so I might end up working all the way through.
Get more at Attitude UK
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Shares New Looks at Her Serene and Stunning House, Lake Bailey
On June 20, The Real Housewives of Atlanta friend hopped on her Instagram to share a view of her "happy place," as noted in several hashtags to describe her stunning, serene home in Georgia she's lovingly dubbed "Lake Bailey" (take a full tour in the video above).
In the photos, Cynthia first showed off a sunny selfie in which she rocked gorgeous "faux locs" via Atlanta stylist Junise Walker and a beautiful, simple smile.
Elsewhere in her carousel of images were several looks around Lake Bailey, including a peek at her living room with a cozy blue sofa against floor-to-ceiling windows, a glass coffee table with stones showcased in the middle, and a large bowl on top for several books and magazines.
WATCH HERE
Cynthia showed off other elements of the space, including a stylish checkerboard next to a window and the book she was reading at the moment: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
Perhaps Cynthia's favorite element of her Lake Bailey getaway? The lush nature and animals surrounding the property, including several geese, birds nesting in trees and areas of the home's exterior, and, of course, that glowing, glimmering lake.
"So, I just came outside and this little guy here was sitting right outside my front door," the Atlanta mom said in a video that showed the turtle in front of her home. Cynthia noted in the caption of the post that turtles were a sign of "wisdom [and] knowledge," along with "patience" and "protection."
"My favorite thing about Lake Bailey is being surrounded by nature. Was curious to see what turtles symbolize after this little fellow showed up," Cynthia added in the caption of the Instagram. "This is what I found, so interesting."
Further in the carousel of images and videos, Cynthia revealed how her good friend redirected the "little guy" back to the water. "Thank you [Chandler Butler] for putting big boy back in the lake for me," Cynthia concluded in her caption.
#MusicNews: Eric Benét Releases New Single “Something We Can Make Love To” Featuring Tamar Braxton
Legendary singer Eric Benét makes his much anticipated return with the brand new single “Something We Can Make Love To” featuring Tamar Braxton.
The new song was produced by Laney Stewart and features smooth and passionate vocals from both singers set to an intimate and romantic mood.
To coincide with the release of the new single, the Michael Rainin directed video is also out now. Benét adds about the release:
“I’ve been friends with Tamar for quite a while and after years of running into each other saying ‘we got to get into the studio’ it finally happened- and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the result. I’m so honored that my single off my new album is not only with an incredible vocalist; but with a good friend.”
The single comes ahead of Benét’s EP and album “Duets”, which will be released later this year through his company, JBR Creative Group. This will be his first new album in nearly eight years, since he released his self titled project in 2016.
#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion Is Reborn With Her Third Studio Album ‘Megan’
Hot Girl Summer has officially began now that Megan Thee Stallion has dropped her long-anticipated third studio album, Megan.
At midnight (June 28), the Grammy-winning rapper dropped the 16-track LP with musical assistance from Victoria Monét, GloRilla, UGK, Big K.R.I.T., Buddah Bless, Yuki Chiba, and Kyle Ricch. The album follows her collaborative track, “Wanna Be” with GloRilla, and snake-themed album singles, “Cobra,” “Hiss,” and “Boa.”
“MEGAN THEE ALBUM IS OUT NOW EVERYWHERE [egg emojis],” she announced via Instagram showing a cover art of her emerging from a very sticky egg.
Megan is considered the 29-year-old’s “rebirth,” according to an interview she did with L’Officiel last month.
“This is music I would like if I wasn’t Megan Thee Stallion,” she admitted. “I don’t want to say I’m tapping into other genres. I’m just tapping into other sounds. But it’s still very much Megan Thee Stallion. It won’t feel like I went so left. It’ll feel true to me. You’ll almost be like, ‘I wouldn’t have thought she would’ve rapped over that, but this sounds great.’”
Speaking to the different moods found on the project (due to the many emotions she’s felt since her last album) Meg declared, “I’m really not focused on the negativity on my album. I have a lot of different songs on the album because my emotion doesn’t stop at anger. My emotion doesn’t stop at sadness, because I did grow and I did start feeling more things. I started feeling really happy. So you have songs on the album that are about the positive times that I’m starting to have. You get a little bit of everything.”
Megan follows the now-indie artist’s last and final release under music labels 1501 and 300 Entertainment, Traumazine. At the time of moving on from the labels, she told Adweek, “It feels so great. It feels so empowering. I hope that a lot of artists see it doesn’t matter how many no’s, how many obstacles, how many terrible experiences that you may have in this [business] – you shouldn’t give up. Because there is a light on the other side.”
She added, “It doesn’t matter how you get there, as long as you take the journey, and you don’t quit. Because if I would’ve quit, I would’ve never made it here.”
To further promote her latest drop, Meg continues her Hot Girl Summer Tour trek with GloRilla in Atlanta on July 2 and in Charlotte the following day, before heading overseas. The Hot Girl coach will return to the U.S. to conclude her headlining tour on July 27 for Broccoli City Festival and August 1 for Lollapalooza in Chicago.
Eddie Murphy Slams 'SNL' Bosses For Allowing David Spade's 'Racist' Joke
Perhaps Cynthia's favorite element of her Lake Bailey getaway? The lush nature and animals surrounding the property, including several geese, birds nesting in trees and areas of the home's exterior, and, of course, that glowing, glimmering lake.
"So, I just came outside and this little guy here was sitting right outside my front door," the Atlanta mom said in a video that showed the turtle in front of her home. Cynthia noted in the caption of the post that turtles were a sign of "wisdom [and] knowledge," along with "patience" and "protection."
"My favorite thing about Lake Bailey is being surrounded by nature. Was curious to see what turtles symbolize after this little fellow showed up," Cynthia added in the caption of the Instagram. "This is what I found, so interesting."
Further in the carousel of images and videos, Cynthia revealed how her good friend redirected the "little guy" back to the water. "Thank you [Chandler Butler] for putting big boy back in the lake for me," Cynthia concluded in her caption.
#MusicNews: Eric Benét Releases New Single “Something We Can Make Love To” Featuring Tamar Braxton
Legendary singer Eric Benét makes his much anticipated return with the brand new single “Something We Can Make Love To” featuring Tamar Braxton.
The new song was produced by Laney Stewart and features smooth and passionate vocals from both singers set to an intimate and romantic mood.
To coincide with the release of the new single, the Michael Rainin directed video is also out now. Benét adds about the release:
“I’ve been friends with Tamar for quite a while and after years of running into each other saying ‘we got to get into the studio’ it finally happened- and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the result. I’m so honored that my single off my new album is not only with an incredible vocalist; but with a good friend.”
The single comes ahead of Benét’s EP and album “Duets”, which will be released later this year through his company, JBR Creative Group. This will be his first new album in nearly eight years, since he released his self titled project in 2016.
#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion Is Reborn With Her Third Studio Album ‘Megan’
At midnight (June 28), the Grammy-winning rapper dropped the 16-track LP with musical assistance from Victoria Monét, GloRilla, UGK, Big K.R.I.T., Buddah Bless, Yuki Chiba, and Kyle Ricch. The album follows her collaborative track, “Wanna Be” with GloRilla, and snake-themed album singles, “Cobra,” “Hiss,” and “Boa.”
“MEGAN THEE ALBUM IS OUT NOW EVERYWHERE [egg emojis],” she announced via Instagram showing a cover art of her emerging from a very sticky egg.
Megan is considered the 29-year-old’s “rebirth,” according to an interview she did with L’Officiel last month.
“This is music I would like if I wasn’t Megan Thee Stallion,” she admitted. “I don’t want to say I’m tapping into other genres. I’m just tapping into other sounds. But it’s still very much Megan Thee Stallion. It won’t feel like I went so left. It’ll feel true to me. You’ll almost be like, ‘I wouldn’t have thought she would’ve rapped over that, but this sounds great.’”
Speaking to the different moods found on the project (due to the many emotions she’s felt since her last album) Meg declared, “I’m really not focused on the negativity on my album. I have a lot of different songs on the album because my emotion doesn’t stop at anger. My emotion doesn’t stop at sadness, because I did grow and I did start feeling more things. I started feeling really happy. So you have songs on the album that are about the positive times that I’m starting to have. You get a little bit of everything.”
Megan follows the now-indie artist’s last and final release under music labels 1501 and 300 Entertainment, Traumazine. At the time of moving on from the labels, she told Adweek, “It feels so great. It feels so empowering. I hope that a lot of artists see it doesn’t matter how many no’s, how many obstacles, how many terrible experiences that you may have in this [business] – you shouldn’t give up. Because there is a light on the other side.”
She added, “It doesn’t matter how you get there, as long as you take the journey, and you don’t quit. Because if I would’ve quit, I would’ve never made it here.”
To further promote her latest drop, Meg continues her Hot Girl Summer Tour trek with GloRilla in Atlanta on July 2 and in Charlotte the following day, before heading overseas. The Hot Girl coach will return to the U.S. to conclude her headlining tour on July 27 for Broccoli City Festival and August 1 for Lollapalooza in Chicago.
Eddie Murphy Slams 'SNL' Bosses For Allowing David Spade's 'Racist' Joke
Eddie Murphy, the iconic comedian and actor, hasn't always had it smooth. Reflecting on a particularly rough episode during his career, Murphy recalls a 1995 incident on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) that struck a personal chord.
In a New York Times interview, Murphy recounted a painful jab from David Spade during the "Weekend Update" segment. As a photo of Murphy was displayed, Spade quipped, "Look children, it's a falling star. Make a wish." At that time, Murphy was dealing with the box office failure of his film, "Vampire in Brooklyn".
The joke, he felt, hit below the belt. "Most people that get off that show, they don't go on and have these amazing careers. It was personal," Murphy reflected, expressing his disappointment.
For Murphy, who had been a lifeline for "SNL" during its early years from 1980 to 1984, the joke wasn't just hurtful - it felt racially charged. "It was like, 'Yo, how could you do that?' My career? Really? A joke about my career? So I thought that was a cheap shot. And it was kind of, I thought - I felt it was racist."
Even more troubling for Murphy was the realization that the joke had passed through multiple layers of approval. "The show would have been off the air if I didn't go back on the show, and now you got somebody from the cast making a crack about my career? And I know that he can't just say that," he added.
"A joke has to go through these channels. So the producers thought it was OK to say that. And all the people that have been on that show, you've never heard nobody make no joke about anybody's career."
The aftermath of the joke led to a phone call between Spade and Murphy. Spade, who later admitted in his book that he "took [his] beating," expressed his regret. The incident did not mark the end of Murphy's association with "SNL". In fact, Murphy returned triumphantly in 2019 to host the show, showcasing his legendary comedic talents once again.
"In the long run, it's all good," Murphy shared, highlighting his capacity for forgiveness. "Worked out great. I'm cool with David Spade. Cool with Lorne Michaels. I went back to 'SNL.' I'm cool with everybody. It's all love."
Eddie Murphy's journey through this ordeal is a testament to his resilience and ability to forgive. It's a narrative that resonates deeply, reminding us all that, despite setbacks and hurtful moments, it's possible to rise above and keep shining.
Marlon Wayans Announces ‘Wild Child’ Stand-Up Comedy Tour
Marlon Wayans is coming to a city near you this fall with his “Wild Child” stand-up comedy tour.
The comedian and actor will embark on a 16-date tour kicking off at the Red Rock Casino in Las Vegas on Saturday, September 14, 2024, and the tour (unless additional dates are added) will wrap on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
See the full list of dates below.
Marlon Wayans ‘Wild Child’ Tour Dates
Saturday, September 14, 2024 – Red Rock Casino, Las Vegas, NV
Thursday, September 19, 2024 – Adler Theatre, Davenport, IA
Friday, September 20, 2024 – Grossinger Motors Arena, Bloomington, IL
Saturday, September 21, 2024 – The Genesee, Waukegan, IL
Sunday, September 22, 2024 – Rialto Theatre, Joliet, IL
Thursday, September 26, 2024 – Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, FL
Friday, September 27, 2024 – Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL
Saturday, September 28, 2024 – Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Ft Myers, FL
Friday, October 4, 2024 – Charleston Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC
Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Saturday, October 19, 2024 – Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem, PA
Friday, November 1, 2024 – Spotlight 29 Casino, Coachella, CA
Friday, November 8, 2024 – Tulsa Theater, Tulsa, OK
Saturday, November 16, 2024 – DPAC, Durham, NC
Sunday, November 17, 2024 – Carpenter Theatre, Richmond, VA
Thursday, November 21, 2024 – DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids, MI
In a New York Times interview, Murphy recounted a painful jab from David Spade during the "Weekend Update" segment. As a photo of Murphy was displayed, Spade quipped, "Look children, it's a falling star. Make a wish." At that time, Murphy was dealing with the box office failure of his film, "Vampire in Brooklyn".
The joke, he felt, hit below the belt. "Most people that get off that show, they don't go on and have these amazing careers. It was personal," Murphy reflected, expressing his disappointment.
For Murphy, who had been a lifeline for "SNL" during its early years from 1980 to 1984, the joke wasn't just hurtful - it felt racially charged. "It was like, 'Yo, how could you do that?' My career? Really? A joke about my career? So I thought that was a cheap shot. And it was kind of, I thought - I felt it was racist."
Even more troubling for Murphy was the realization that the joke had passed through multiple layers of approval. "The show would have been off the air if I didn't go back on the show, and now you got somebody from the cast making a crack about my career? And I know that he can't just say that," he added.
"A joke has to go through these channels. So the producers thought it was OK to say that. And all the people that have been on that show, you've never heard nobody make no joke about anybody's career."
The aftermath of the joke led to a phone call between Spade and Murphy. Spade, who later admitted in his book that he "took [his] beating," expressed his regret. The incident did not mark the end of Murphy's association with "SNL". In fact, Murphy returned triumphantly in 2019 to host the show, showcasing his legendary comedic talents once again.
"In the long run, it's all good," Murphy shared, highlighting his capacity for forgiveness. "Worked out great. I'm cool with David Spade. Cool with Lorne Michaels. I went back to 'SNL.' I'm cool with everybody. It's all love."
Eddie Murphy's journey through this ordeal is a testament to his resilience and ability to forgive. It's a narrative that resonates deeply, reminding us all that, despite setbacks and hurtful moments, it's possible to rise above and keep shining.
Marlon Wayans Announces ‘Wild Child’ Stand-Up Comedy Tour
The comedian and actor will embark on a 16-date tour kicking off at the Red Rock Casino in Las Vegas on Saturday, September 14, 2024, and the tour (unless additional dates are added) will wrap on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
See the full list of dates below.
Marlon Wayans ‘Wild Child’ Tour Dates
Saturday, September 14, 2024 – Red Rock Casino, Las Vegas, NV
Thursday, September 19, 2024 – Adler Theatre, Davenport, IA
Friday, September 20, 2024 – Grossinger Motors Arena, Bloomington, IL
Saturday, September 21, 2024 – The Genesee, Waukegan, IL
Sunday, September 22, 2024 – Rialto Theatre, Joliet, IL
Thursday, September 26, 2024 – Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, FL
Friday, September 27, 2024 – Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL
Saturday, September 28, 2024 – Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Ft Myers, FL
Friday, October 4, 2024 – Charleston Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC
Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Saturday, October 19, 2024 – Wind Creek Event Center, Bethlehem, PA
Friday, November 1, 2024 – Spotlight 29 Casino, Coachella, CA
Friday, November 8, 2024 – Tulsa Theater, Tulsa, OK
Saturday, November 16, 2024 – DPAC, Durham, NC
Sunday, November 17, 2024 – Carpenter Theatre, Richmond, VA
Thursday, November 21, 2024 – DeVos Performance Hall, Grand Rapids, MI
Do you plan to pull up to see Marlon Wayans live?
Serena Williams Blasted Over Unrecognizable Look Allegedly Due To Plastic Surgery
Serena Williams has sparked chatter over her unrecognizable look. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion found herself in hot water for allegedly trying to look white with plastic surgery.
Recently, the 42-year-old athlete treated social media users to a video from her trip to Paris, France. In the short clip, it could be seen that she was strolling around the City of Love. She was filming herself while showing off the buildings around her.
Serena was sporting a black top under a matching hoodie. She looked stunning with her natural makeup, including magenta matte lipstick and matching blush on her cheeks. In addition, her long honey blonde hair was styled in a simple straight hairdo, let loose and parted in the middle. She appeared to have bleached her eyebrows to match her tresses.
The footage was later shared by a blog via Instagram. Its users quickly noticed Serena's different look, with some of them suggesting that she looked unrecognizable in the video. Moreover, a few of them assumed that she intentionally altered her look by going under the knife.
In the comments section of the post, one in particular wrote, "I LOVE Serena! But It's like she took a copy of 'White Chicks' to her doctor and told them to do their thing !" Making a reference to her husband Alexis Ohanian, another chimed in, "Damn...I thought that was Marlon Wayans in White chicks! Serena girl, that white man married you the way you 'were'!"
A third stated, "She's looking like that Cat Lady who had multiple surgeries." A fourth argued, "She don't even look the same. She really need to call Fantasia MUA to get her face & hair right." A fifth, in the meantime, asked, "Wonder what made her bleach her skin and wear a blond wig?? It's really sending a self hate vibes!"
Serena has been flaunting her honey blonde hair during her European trip. On Thursday, June 20, she showcased the long bleached tresses, which were parted to the side, when she stepped out in Paris. At that time, she opted to wear a sporty ensemble and embraced her makeup-free face.
Lady Gaga played no role in Sean 'Diddy' Combs' getting dumped by NYC law firm: Team asserts
A recent high-profile split rocked Tinseltown. Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs and his longtime legal team, the NYC powerhouse Grubman, Shire, Meiselas & Sacks, went their separate ways. Reports say that Diddy was dropped by the law firm known for handling A-list titans of music, which is true. However, soon after, rumours erupted that the split was sparked by none other than pop queen Lady Gaga, another client of the firm. This claim was strongly denied by her legal team, who alleged her no involvement in the case.
Lady Gaga seemingly calls the shots by giving powerhouse NYC law firm an ultimatum about dropping Diddy.
“The decision to part ways with Mr. Combs was proactively made by the partners in the firm a number of months ago as they felt it was the right thing to do,” a spokesperson of the law firm told Page Six on Saturday. The statement comes after initial reports linked Diddy’s dramatic exit from his longtime legal firm to Gaga, who is also a client at the firm, issuing an ultimatum.
After a series of bombshell accusations against the now disgraced artist Diddy, who faces over five cases including sexual assault, battery, harassment, and trafficking among other charges, many music A-listers such as The Weeknd, Usher, Drake, Kevin Hart, and others have severed ties with him. Reports indicate that Combs was dropped by his law firm at least eight weeks ago due to the severity and volume of these allegations.
The first report suggested the influence of the "Poker Face" singer considered 'too big to risk losing'. NewsNation reported on Friday that the firm parted ways with Combs under pressure from Gaga, who allegedly indicated she would leave if they did not drop Diddy from their roster.
Concerned about losing their top-tier clients, the New York City law firm eventually chose to dissolve their relationship with Combs, who had been their go-to client for more than two decades. This choice was probably made out of worry that Gaga’s exit could tarnish their well-deserved standing in the legal field.
Moreover, the renowned attorney Allen Grubman was said to have had a strong bond with the notorious musician. On the other hand Combs has stayed off the radar following the searches of his homes in Miami and Los Angeles, which were linked to accusations of involvement in sex trafficking.
“The report that the decision was the result of client pressure just isn’t true,” the spokesperson of the firm said addressing the report. The source also alleged that the claim where Gaga threatened to leave the firm, “That convo never happened.”
This isn't the first time companies have cut ties with the Bad Boy record producer. Recently, a leaked CNN tape showed him physically assaulting his former partner Cassie Ventura, who accused him of sexual harassment last November. Since then, Diddy has lost numerous major brand ambassador roles and studio affiliations. Earlier this month, New York Mayor Eric Adams requested that the controversial artist return the City's key as result of viral clip
Primetime Ratings at CNN Reach 33-Year Low as Insiders Brace for 'Bloodbath' of Staff Cuts
Less than an average of 80,000 people aged 25 to 54 tuned into CNN last week during its primetime line-up — a ratings low that dated back all the way to 1991.
Ratings data from Nielsen that shows CNN averaged just 77,000 viewers in the coveted 25-54 demographic, a benchmark considered in television to lure advertising dollars.
The challenge puts significant pressure on CNN’s high-priced superstar anchors.
The challenge puts significant pressure on CNN’s high-priced superstar anchors including Erin Burnett, Anderson Cooper, and Kaitlin Collins who are at the epicenter of the network’s struggle to compete with MSNBC and Fox News.
As this site previously reported, Collins and Abby Phillip, who fronts the hour after The Source with Kaitlan Collins, have been called "uncomfortable anchors" who are increasingly seen across the industry as an "irreparable failure."
One high-level talent agent was even overheard referring to Phillip as “Ambien Phillip” because she is so staid and lifeless as an anchor.
CNN’s ongoing woes will doubtless lead to a “bloodbath” of staff firings expected to come from new chief executive officer Mark Thompson, according to a network insider who spoke to RadarOnline.com.
CNN’s ongoing woes will doubtless lead to a “bloodbath” of staff firings expected to come from new chief executive officer Mark Thompson.
“The CNN business model is dead and that means hundreds of jobs are on the line and most of them are going to come from the high-priced side of the business: creating television,” the source told RadarOnline.com.
“What is the point of creating expensive television if no-one is watching? Everyone is bracing for impact. It is going to be a bloodbath.”
CNN has been at the center of controversy for years — going from one boss to another — ever since RadarOnline.com revealed one-time leader Jeff Zucker had engaged in a scandalous affair with the network’s public relations chief.
Zucker was forced to resign in the wake of the scandal, leading to the ill-fated Chris Licht era which also saw the demise of one-time popular host Don Lemon after a series of behind-the-scenes problems.
The supposed most trusted name in news is also facing a billion-dollar defamation lawsuit from a decorated U.S. Navy veteran who was slandered in secret, internal correspondences, as we revealed.
Network stars Jake Tapper and Alex Marquardt linked Zachary Young to black market operations and the exploitation of individuals trapped in Afghanistan through charging exorbitant prices for their liberation.
But prior to the broadcast, Young — who served four years in the Navy — informed CNN’s Marquardt his proposed segment was full of inaccuracies.
Marquardt and Tapper aired it regardless, after it received approval from the network’s top brass of senior, upper-level executives and internal monitors, whose approval was required for stories of a potentially damaging nature.
CNN is also facing a billion-dollar defamation lawsuit from a U.S. Navy veteran who was slandered in secret correspondences between Jake Tapper and Alex Marquardt.
As this publication first detailed, internal communications exposed in the Florida case revealed how CNN staffers believed the report was “very much not ready for prime time” and was “full of holes like Swiss cheese” — but nevertheless broadcast it in a supposed “rush."
While the network will see record numbers when it broadcasts the first presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, the viewership windfall will be short-lived, most predict.
“Thompson and his digital growth chief Alex MacCallum are mere weeks away from unveiling their plan to transform the network into a multi-platform business,” said media watcher Dylan Byers, a correspondent at Puck News and former CNN staffer.
“That plan will require implementing a new round of staff cuts across the organization. These layoffs, which will be announced in July, will certainly be far more strategic than the hundreds of exits that Chris Licht implemented in late 2022—and, uncomfortable as they may be, they represent meaningful forward momentum. But they’ll still be substantial, and painful.”
Beyers said CNN would inevitably return to the “exact same circumstances in which it finds itself today” after the debate: averaging half a million total viewers on any given night, and “struggling to assert its value in a crowded news environment.”
Morgan Freeman Criticizes “Scam” Using AI Version of His Voice
The Oscar-winning actor, who is known for his voiceover work, took to social media Friday to express his appreciation for fans who have notified him about AI-generated imitations of his voice.
“Thank you to my incredible fans for your vigilance and support in calling out the unauthorized use of an A.I. voice imitating me,” Freeman posted to X (formerly Twitter) on Friday. “Your dedication helps authenticity and integrity remain paramount. Grateful.” Hashtags on his post included “scam” and “IdentityProtection.”
According to media reports, a TikTok user describing herself as Freeman’s niece had recently posted videos to the platform that allegedly feature narration from an AI-generated version of the actor’s voice.
Freeman’s legitimate voice work includes narrating the film March of the Penguins and the Netflix series Life on Our Planet, in addition to serving as the voice of CBS News.
Freeman’s post follows Scarlett Johansson having threatened legal action last month against OpenAI for allegedly copying and imitating her voice after she declined to license it to the company. In a statement at the time, Johansson said that after she turned down OpenAI’s request to be a voice called “Sky” for its AI system, the company founded by Sam Altman then mimicked her voice.
“When I heard the released demo, I was shocked, angered and in disbelief that Mr. Altman would pursue a voice that sounded so eerily similar to mine that my closest friends and news outlets could not tell the difference,” her statement read.
Taraji P. Henson Teases She'll Be 'Showcasing Yet Another' of Her Talents as 2024 BET Awards Host
Viewers may not be ready for what they're about to see from Taraji P. Henson. Before the 53-year-old Oscar-nominated actress takes the stage as host of the 2024 BET Awards for the third time on June 30, she's opening up about her plans for the annual ceremony — which include something unexpected
"I'm showcasing yet another talent that a lot of you don't know that I can do. Some of you know, but not all of you," Henson tells PEOPLE, adding that she's been wanting to display the talent for quite some time. "I just haven't had the stage. I have, actually, once. But everybody didn't see it. This is culture's biggest night. The world will know."
Even after two times hosting the show, the Color Purple star still gets jitters before the event kicks off — but she likes it that way.
"I love nerves. I still get nervous. I get nervous on the first day of shooting. It's a live show. Anything can go right or wrong, you know, but that's what's so exciting," says Henson. "That's what I love about live theater. It keeps you on your toes."
"It's the not knowing that drives my adrenaline through the roof, but nerves are good. It just means you're alive," she continues. "If I'm not nervous, I would be nervous."
Henson hasn't been to the BET Awards since she last emceed in 2022, but she would've served as host last year if 2023 panned out differently for actors.
"I was ready last year to host and then we had the [SAG and WGA] strike. So, I'm really excited this year. It's gonna be an incredible show," she says. "It's culture's biggest night. The performances are gonna blow us all away. We got Will Smith, guys. I am so excited to see what he has up his sleeve."
In addition to Smith, whose new song "You Can Make It" is out now, performers at the 2024 BET Awards will also include GloRilla, Latto, Muni Long, Sexyy Red, Shaboozey, Victoria Monét, Lauryn Hill, YG Marley, Ice Spice, Tanner Adell, Tyla, Megan Thee Stallion, Chlöe, Childish Gambino (a.k.a. Donald Glover), Keke Palmer, Summer Walker, Marsha Ambrosius and Coco Jones.
Drake led this year's nominations with seven, followed by Nicki Minaj with six, while J. Cole, Sexyy Red, SZA, and Monét each earned five, and 21 Savage, Beyoncé, Doja Cat, Megan, Tyla and Usher each received four.
"Usher is getting his flowers, and I'm so honored to host the show where he's receiving his flowers. I'm just proud of him," continues Henson of the R&B icon, who will take home the lifetime achievement award at the show. "It's a proud moment for the culture."
The 2024 BET Awards will air live on BET at 8 p.m. ET from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 30.
Is Riley Burruss Ava Dash & Ming Lee Simmons Filming a Reality TV Show?
Are y’all feeling this?
Anika Noni Rose Dreams of Bruno Mars Remix for “Special Spice” in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
“Special Spice” stands out as a pivotal element of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, set to open soon at Walt Disney World and later this year at Disneyland Resort. The song is not only performed by Anika but also by members of a jazz band at the ride’s conclusion, featuring characters like Louis, Ray, and Mama Odie. This lively performance promises to be a joyous finale to the magical journey.
During our conversation at the preview event, Anika Noni Rose expressed her excitement about the song and the ride. When asked who she would love to see on a remix of “Special Spice,” she enthusiastically replied, “Ummm, I’d say Bruno Mars—I know he would put some stank on it.” The idea of a collaboration with Bruno Mars adds an extra layer of excitement to the already captivating track.
Anika also shared what constitutes the “special spice” in her life, helping her prepare for new challenges. “Oh, I think that the special spice in my life may be nothing more exciting than determination. It’s just continuing, just getting up every day and doing whatever it is again and again and again. In spite of the no’s or the may-says.”
The lyrics of “Special Spice” beautifully encapsulate the core themes of The Princess and the Frog, reflecting resilience and celebration. This message of persistence mirrors the journey of Princess Tiana herself, making the song an anthem of hope and joy.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, with “Special Spice” at its heart, is set to become a must-visit attraction for Disney fans and music lovers alike. The soundtrack is available now on Walt Disney Records across all streaming platforms, allowing everyone to experience the magic of New Orleans and the spirit of Tiana’s journey.
Prepare to be captivated by “Special Spice” and the enchanting experience of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World, opening today, and at Disneyland Resort, opening later this year. The song, and the dream of a Bruno Mars remix, promise to keep the magic alive both in the parks and beyond.
Legendary and Iconic Model and Former Soap Opera Star Renauld White Dies at 80
Trailblazing model Renauld White, who led the way for greater diversity in magazines and on designers’ runways, died June 26 at the age of 80.
White was under hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan at the time of his death, according to his friend Jeffrey Banks, the fashion designer. The cause of death was not immediately known.
White’s funeral will be held on July 12 at 11 a.m. at the Whigham Funeral Home in his hometown of Newark, N.J.
Throughout his career, White called for greater representation in the fashion industry. In November 1979, White became the second Black model to appear on the cover of GQ. Contrary to other media reports, the first Black model to have had that honor was Urs Althaus in November 1977. And 10 years earlier the musician Sammy Davis Jr. had become the first Black man to land a cover on the Conde Nast-owned men’s magazine.
White helped forge greater diversity on designer runways by modeling for leading ones like Bill Blass in 1969, as well as shows for Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan. White also was said to have done work for Yves Saint Laurent, Jean Charles de Castelbajac, Versace, Armani and Cerutti. White came out of retirement in 2023 to appear in an ad campaign for Dolce & Gabbana that was shot by Steven Meisel.
Banks said Saturday that White “was a groundbreaker. There were very few Black models at the time. He really broke barriers. When they had a party for him in Newark for his 50-year anniversary in the fashion industry, he was very proud of the progress and how he opened the doors for other people.”
White, who was said to have attended Rutgers University for a stint, started modeling in the 1960s. Banks remembered how as a teenager he had seen a 1969 Look magazine feature about the fashion designer Stephen Burrows that included a photograph of White, Pat Cleveland and a few others. Two years later, while working for Ralph Lauren as his second assistant, Banks first met White at a fitting. The model had been booked for a fashion show that Lauren was staging at the 21 Club.
White came of age along with models Denis LaMarsh, Rob Yoh, Kalani Durdan, Bob Clement, Joe McDonald and Bob Menna. Recalling how White was a pioneer for other models, Banks said others like Charles Williamson and Althaus benefited. In addition to breaking down barriers in the industry, White took pride in his lengthy career, which extended “way beyond” when many people would have stopped modeling, Banks said.
In a 2011 interview, White said he had called on agents at Wilhemina models to allow more people of color to compete in the industry. He said, “I wanted to bring about change. I really confronted the Establishment about why there were not more Black male images. At first, I thought I was going to get thrown in jail and beaten up because of my approach. But then they realized that they were wrong and that they were behind society and behind the times, and that they had to listen to me.”
In that interview, White said he was offered a modeling contract because they thought that he would fail. But he proved himself eventually – modeling in campaigns for Black Tie cologne, Macy’s, Vitalis, and Arrow Shirts. Throughout his career, White was fastidious about staying physically fit and maintaining his appearance. With a black belt in karate, White worked out every day – frequenting the YMCA near his Upper West Side apartment and also toning up with at-home exercise equipment. Aside from his dark hair turning a little salt and pepper, White showed no signs of his age and used to appear in ads with models who were half his age, according to Banks.
Another pioneering model, Bethann Hardison, described White as “a great male model of the late Seventies and Eighties.” Having met White, who was a friend of her cousin, in the late Sixties, Hardison recalled Saturday, “We all used to dance at the Latin club the Palladium on Broadway in our late teens and early 20s. He was a nice and charming guy.”
As an early successful Black male model, White was protective of his legacy, Hardison said. “He worked for all the men’s designer brands, doing lots of advertising, catalogs, editorials and landing a beautiful GQ cover as well [in 1979].”
Some soap opera fans know White from his two-year run on CBS’ “The Guiding Light” in the mid-Eighties. Knowing that models often have a limited shelf life, White’s goal was to transition into acting, according to Banks. He did performances at La MaMa Experimental Theater in downtown Manhattan, and appeared in other plays. The musician Aretha Franklin would occasionally call White to escort her to events in New York City, Banks said.
David Neeman of the Loyalty Foundation, an organization that helps underserved communities, described White, a former advisory board member, as “an extraordinary man, so kind, so patient, so thoughtful and a tremendous mentor.”
Neeman “vividly remembered” the story White told children in the Open Minds Mentorship Program in 2019 about “bursting into Wilhelmina, demanding to be seen, then getting an appointment the next day and how being booked changed his life,” Neeman said. “He is an absolute legend and pioneer and not just in fashion.”
White once said in an interview that he talked to as many young people as he could, encouraging them to follow their dreams and to aspire to greater things beyond modeling. “Modeling is only a bridge. What are you going to do after modeling is over?” White said, “I had a 30-plus year career. They don’t make those anymore. I encourage them to do amazing things. Take the money, go to school, open up a business, be an entrepreneur, and be self-reliant.”
“He was the perfect gentleman. He was kind and he was helpful. I think that’s why his death has been such a shock to people, because he was such a good person,” said Banks.
RIP Sir!
New Baby Alert? Is Cardi B Is Expecting Baby No. 3
The “Bodak Yellow” star wore a black sequin jersey with the number 11 stitched in silver. Oversized clothing has become synonymous with celebrity pregnancies, and social media now believes Cardi is using this style strategy to conceal her growing belly. Pregnancy whispers began to swirl in May when she performed at Madison Square Garden with Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla. However, following her BET show, the chatter is much louder online, with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.
Whether Cardi and Offset are expecting or not, the status of her highly anticipated sophomore album remains unknown. She has long been teasing the album, even suggesting an announcement might arrive soon. For now, her well-being is at the forefront, and if she is preparing for a new baby, a safe and healthy delivery will surely take precedence over the project.
Adult film actor Austin Wolf posessed 100s of child pornography files, some featuring small children: DOJ
Adult film actor Justin Heath Smith, also known by his stage name “Austin Wolf,” was charged with distributing hundreds of videos of child pornography, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
A Friday release from U.S. Attorney’s Office Southern District of New York said Smith used an anonymous Telegram account to exchange videos with another person between March 24 and March 28, 2024.
However, the other person ended up being a target of an FBI investigation and had his phone seized in relation to a search warrant.
After seizing that person’s phone, the FBI then had an undercover agent engage in a conversation with Smith, who shared details that revealed his identity to federal investigators.
On April 21, 2024, the FBI searched Smith’s Manhattan apartment, where they found an SD card that contained hundreds of other videos containing child pornography.
According to prosecutors, the videos showed children as young as infants and contained violent sexual battery.
“As alleged, Justin Heath Smith received and distributed hundreds of recordings containing child pornography, including a ghastly video showing a young child bound, beaten, and raped,” U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said.
Smith was charged with one count of distribution and receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. If convicted on both charges, the defendant faces a maximum combined sentence of 30 years in prison.
“I want to make it clear: those who distribute child sexual abuse images prey upon the most vulnerable in our society,” FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said. “Each image is a crime scene, leaving lasting scars on innocent victims. The FBI is relentless in our pursuit of these perpetrators. We will track them down, arrest them, and ensure they face justice for the harm they cause.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office urged anyone with additional information on the situation to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or to submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Disappearing Act
But this mom might have not noticed that the goods in her cart were beginning to make her child disappear.
EVENING GOODIES: Meet Big Man Brett
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