Monday, February 24, 2025

The Daily Buzz For Feb 25☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Tyla for British Vogue, March 2025
Grammy-winning star Tyla graces the cover of British Vogue’s March 2025 issue, reflecting on her evolution since Water, her style, family, and new life in New York.
“Viral lyrics, captivating dance routines, and show-stopping fashion… In the blink of an eye, South African sensation Tyla has become music’s most intoxicating new mononym,” writes British Vogue about the Grammy-winning artist.

As she continues to take the world by storm, Tyla lands her first British Vogue cover for the magazine’s March 2025 issue. In the feature, she opens up about her journey, from her family and music to her style and new life in New York.
“I really feel like I’ve changed so much since Water and my debut album,” she reflects. “I’ve grown into a different version of myself – a little spicier, a little bolder. I’m excited to pour that into my music.”

Read the excerpts below.

On her music career
“Since I was little, whenever anyone asked what I wanted to be, I always said, ‘I’m going to be a singer.’”

On Rihanna being her inspiration
“Coming from somewhere outside the States, I really looked up to her. I used to think you’re only going to become famous if you were born in America. She made me realise there’s another way.”

On her family
“My parents have always been very protective. Even before Water, I would never go to the studio alone—I was very careful. But yeah, my parents are always worried.”

On adjusting to life in New York
“Hmm, it’s very different. Sometimes I just miss having the sun, a yard, and my whole family around. That’s why I love having my sister with me—she’s like a piece of home.”

On her style
“Playing dress-up is fun. And I love wearing heels. It just makes me feel more like a diva… I’m very hands-on with everything I put out. I know how I want to feel that day and how I want to look.”

Read the full interview here


#RHOA: Kandi Burruss 'More Than Excited' To Leave 'Real Housewives Of Atlanta' In The Past

Kandi Burruss may have spent 14 seasons on Bravo's hit series "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," but now that she's gone, she couldn't be more grateful for the break.
During an interview with Sherri Shepherd on her talk show, the reality star and musician discussed how she felt walking away from the series to which she had dedicated so much of her life.

Throughout Burruss' 14 seasons on "RHOA," the reality star was highly regarded for her laid-back demeanor. However, she was known to pop off on her co-stars from time to time.
While discussing the upcoming season on the talk show "Sherri," Burruss shared her feelings about being away from the drama for once and also teased whether she could see herself returning in the future.
After Shepherd asked Burruss if she was looking forward to her break, the mother of three replied, "I'm more than excited."

Although Burruss plans to support the show when it premieres on March 9, 2025, the "No Scrubs" boasted about using her free time to pursue other interests, including traveling and taking on new work opportunities.
After a rough 15th season, the network paused "RHOA" to decide how it wanted to move forward with the series. However, during a red carpet event for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, Burruss revealed Bravo waited too long, which prompted her to walk away from the show for good.

"I decided I’m not coming back this year. It’s been 14 seasons, and they allowed us to sit around for a little too long," she said.
Later, the multi-hyphenate, who's starred on Broadway and several seasons of Showtime's "The Chi," said that during the downtime, she began working on other projects that she was "super excited about."
She also revealed that after years in front of the camera, she decided to leave the series in her rearview after having a challenging conversation with a friend.
“It’s just like, after you really have time to think, and a friend of mine was like, ‘Why do you keep doing it?’ And I was like, ‘Well, I think because I’ve just been doing it for so long, it feels weird to think not to do it?’ So I was just like, ‘You know what? I’m going to take a break; I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year,'" she said.
Regarding her possible return to the series, Burruss told Shepherd, "I don't really see it right now. But, you never know in the future."

Elsewhere during her interview, Burruss seemingly hinted that another reason she left the show was that she was hoping to attract bigger opportunities that aligned more with her career and ambitions.
The "Understanding" singer mentioned her final season on "RHOA," where some of her co-stars challenged her for not spending enough time with the group.
During some of the episodes, watchers would catch scenes of Burruss in New York City prepping for work on Broadway or in Illinois rehearsing scenes for her role in "The Chi."

According to Burruss, she couldn't be around the group as much during that time because she was focusing on making her dreams a reality.
"I have big dreams, y'all," she said. "Y'all know I want to win a Tony [Award]."
Burruss Not Happy With Bravo Over This Situation
Despite her positive experience on Bravo and "The Real Housewives of Atlanta," the Grammy winner recently slammed the network during an Amazon Live event for their mistreatment of her best friend, Kenya Moore.

Moore, who joined the series during its fifth season, has been an integral part of the show. However, Bravo sidelined her during the production of season 16 after she allegedly displayed pictures of her castmate, Brit Eady, performing oral sex.
"I was pissed about that," Burruss said about Bravo's decision before blasting them again for not allowing Moore to have a cast photo.
"But I'm like, y'all couldn't even let her picture be a part of the show? The other friends of the show had pictures," she said.
Who Will Be On Season 16?
Although Burruss won't be on the newest season of "RHOA," watchers will still notice a few familiar faces.

Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, and Cynthia Bailey are all returning to the show as full-time cast members and a "friend of the show," respectively.
Shamea Morton, who also appeared in a guest role during previous seasons, will join as a housewife alongside other newcomers, such as Brit Eady, Kelli Ferrell, and Angela Oakley.
Another Bravo veteran returning is Drew Sidora, whose last two seasons focused primarily on her unhealthy relationship with her husband, Ralph Pittman, and the relationship her son has with his father.

Andy Cohen commented on the new season in January 2025, saying he believed people would love what they've done with the show.
"I'm really excited about 'The Real Housewives of Atlanta.' I think people have been waiting a long time to see what we’ve done," he said. "We’ve got great new housewives."


#MusicNews: Iconic and Legendary Grammy-winning singer Roberta Flack Dies at 88
Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer and pianist whose intimate vocal and musical style on “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and other hits made her one of the top recording artists of the 1970s and an influential performer long after, died Monday. She was 88.

She died at home surrounded by her family, publicist Elaine Schock said in a statement. Flack announced in 2022 she had ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, and could no longer sing.
Little known before her early 30s, Flack became an overnight star after Clint Eastwood used “The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face” as the soundtrack for one of cinema’s more memorable and explicit love scenes, between the actor and Donna Mills in his 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” The hushed, hymn-like ballad, with Flack’s graceful soprano afloat on a bed of soft strings and piano, topped the Billboard pop chart in 1972 and received a Grammy for record of the year. In 1973, she matched both achievements with “Killing Me Softly,” becoming the first artist to win consecutive Grammys for best record.

She was a classically trained pianist discovered in the late 1960s by jazz musician Les McCann, who later wrote that “her voice touched, tapped, trapped, and kicked every emotion I’ve ever known.” Versatile enough to summon the up-tempo gospel passion of Aretha Franklin, Flack often favored a more reflective and measured approach.

For Flack’s many admirers, she was a sophisticated and bold new presence in the music world and in the social and civil rights movements of the time, her friends including the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Angela Davis, whom Flack visited in prison while Davis faced charges — for which she was acquitted — for murder and kidnapping. Flack sang at the funeral of Jackie Robinson, major league baseball’s first Black player, and was among the many guest performers on the feminist children’s entertainment project created by Marlo Thomas, “Free to Be ... You and Me.”

Roberta Cleopatra Flack, the daughter of musicians, was born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and raised in Arlington, Virginia. A gospel fan as a child, she was so talented a piano player that at age 15 she received a full scholarship to Howard, the historically Black university.

Flack’s other hits from the 1970s included the cozy “Feel Like Makin’ Love” and two duets with her close friend and former Howard University classmate Donny Hathaway, “Where Is the Love” and ”The Closer I Get to You” — a partnership that ended in tragedy. In 1979, she and Hathaway were working on an album of duets when he suffered a breakdown during recording and later that night fell to his death from his hotel room in Manhattan.

“We were deeply connected creatively,” Flack told Vibe in 2022, upon the 50th anniversary of the million-selling “Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway” album. “He could play anything, sing anything. Our musical synergy was unlike (anything) I’d had before or since.”
She never matched her first run of success, although she did have a hit in the 1980s with the Peabo Bryson duet “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” and in the 1990s with the Maxi Priest duet “Set the Night to Music.” In the mid-90s, Flack received new attention after the Fugees recorded a Grammy-winning cover of “Killing Me Softly,” which she eventually performed on stage with the hip-hop group.

Overall, she won five Grammys (three for “Killing Me Softly”), was nominated eight other times and was given a lifetime achievement Grammy in 2020, with John Legend and Ariana Grande among those praising her.
“I love that connection to other artists because we understand music, we live music, it’s our language,” Flack told songwriteruniverse.com in 2020. “Through music we understand what we are thinking and feeling. No matter what challenge life presents, I am at home with my piano, on a stage, with my band, in the studio, listening to music. I can find my way when I hear music.”

In 2022, Beyoncé placed Flack, Franklin and Diana Ross among others in a special pantheon of heroines name-checked in the Grammy-nominated “Queens Remix” of “Break My Soul.”
Flack was briefly married to Stephen Novosel, an interracial relationship that led to tension with each of their families, and earlier had a son, the singer and keyboardist Bernard Wright. For years, she lived in Manhattan’s Dakota apartment building, on the same floor as John Lennon and Yoko Ono, who became a close friend and provided liner notes for a Flack album of Beatles covers, “Let It Be Roberta.” She also devoted extensive time to the Roberta Flack School of Music, based in New York and attended mostly by students between ages 6 to 14.

Flack had taught music in D.C.-area junior high schools for several years in her 20s, while performing after hours in clubs. She sometimes backed other singers, but her own shows at Washington’s renowned Mr. Henry’s attracted such celebrity patrons as Burt Bacharach, Ramsey Lewis and Johnny Mathis. The club’s owner, Henry Yaffe, converted an apartment directly above into a private studio, the Roberta Flack Room.

“I wanted to be successful, a serious all-round musician,” she told The Telegraph in 2015. “I listened to a lot of Aretha, the Drifters, trying to do some of that myself, playing, teaching.”
Flack was signed to Atlantic Records and her debut album, “First Take,” a blend of gospel, soul, flamenco and jazz, came out in 1969. One track was a love song by the English folk artist Ewan MacColl: “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” written in 1957 for his future wife, singer Peggy Seeger. Flack not only knew of the ballad, but used it while working with a glee club during her years as an educator.

“I was teaching at Banneker Junior High in Washington, D.C. It was part of the city where kids weren’t that privileged, but they were privileged enough to have music education. I really wanted them to read music. First, I’d get their attention. (Flack starts singing a Supremes hit) ‘Stop, in the name of love.’ Then I could teach them!” she told the Tampa Bay Times in 2012.
“You have to do all sorts of things when you’re dealing with kids in the inner-city,” she said. “I knew they’d like the part where (‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’) goes ‘The first time ever I kissed your mouth.’ Ooh, ‘Kissed your mouth!’ Once the kids got past the giggles, we were good.”
REST EASY QUEEN!


#HipHopNews: Wu-Tang Clan Announces ‘Wu-Tang Forever: The Final Chamber’ Last Group Tour

Wu-Tang Clan is ready to hit the road, one last time. On Monday (Feb. 24) the iconic Hip-Hop collective annnounced the start of their final tour Wu-Tang Forever: The Final Chamber tour. Set to kick off this spring, the trek is detailed as the last rendezvous for the group as a whole.

 The tour will be supported by hip-hop duo Run the Jewels.
“Wu-Tang Clan has shown the world many chambers throughout our career; this tour is called The Final Chamber. This is a special moment for me and all my Wu brothers to run around the globe together one more time and spread the Wu swag, music, and culture,” detailed RZA in a press statement.

“Most importantly to touch our fans and those who have supported us throughout the years. On this tour we’re playing songs we’ve never played before to our audience and me and our production team have designed a Wu-Tang show unlike anything you’ve ever seen. And to top it off we’ve got the amazing Run the Jewels on our side.”
Audiences can expect to celebrate the depth and breadth of Wu-Tang’s deep catalog with a setlist including songs that have never been performed live, deep cuts, and, of course, major hits from their debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), as well as the group’s Grammy-nominated and highest-selling second album Wu-Tang Forever.

Ahead of the tour, Amazon Music and Wu-Tang Clan partnered for an exclusive new live EP coming Monday, available for purchase here, available exclusively at Amazon Music streaming, and physically limited to 1500 vinyl units. The performance was recorded live at Wu-Tang Clan’s legendary NY State of Mind Tour in 2023 at Climate Pledge Arena.

Tickets go on sale Friday, at 10 AM local time. View tour dates for the Wu-Tang Forever: The Final Chamber tour below.

WU TANG: THE FINAL CHAMBER TOUR ROUTING:
Date    City, ST    Venue
06/06    Baltimore, MD    CFG Bank Arena
06/07    Raleigh, NC    Lenovo Center
06/10    Tampa, FL    Amalie Arena
06/11    Atlanta, GA    State Farm Arena
06/13    Fort Worth, TX    Dickies Arena
06/14    Houston, TX    Toyota Center
06/15    Austin, TX    Moody Center
06/16    Tulsa, OK    BOK Center
06/18    Phoenix, AZ    Footprint Center
06/20    Ontario, CA    Toyota Arena
06/21    San Diego, CA    Pechanga Arena San Diego
06/22    Los Angeles, CA    Crypto.com Arena
06/24    San Francisco, CA    Chase Center
06/26    Sacramento, CA    Golden 1 Center
06/28    Seattle, CA    Climate Pledge Arena
06/30    Vancouver, BC    Rogers Arena
07/01    Portland, OR    Moda Center
07/04    Greenwood Village, CO    Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre
07/07    Chicago, IL    United Center
07/08    Detroit, MI    Little Caesars Arena
07/09    Columbus, OH    Nationwide Arena
07/11    Boston, MA    TD Garden
07/13    Laval, QC    Place Bell
07/14    Toronto, ON    Scotiabank Arena
07/16    New York, NY    Madison Square Garden
07/17    Newark, NJ    Prudential Center
07/18    Philadelphia, PA    Wells Fargo Center

Get them tickets!


Isaac Hayes III ‘Apologizes’ To Franchesca Ramsey After Fanbase Controversy
Fanbase founder Isaac Hayes III has issued an “apology” to creator Franchesca Ramsey after a heated social media clash that had the internet buzzing over the weekend.
This drama traces back to January, when TikTok’s future was uncertain, and creators were scrambling to find alternative platforms.
Many urged Black creators to migrate to Fanbase, the Black-owned social media platform founded by Isaac Hayes III.
After some of her followers pressured her to join, Franchesca Ramsey posted a TikTok video questioning whether Fanbase was a high-quality app, noting that no one had provided a compelling reason to switch beyond the fact that it was Black-owned.

Her video quickly went viral, sparking a heated debate.
Some agreed with her concerns, while others criticized her for not supporting a Black-owned platform.

Franchesca later posted another video where she doubled down on the fact that she made the right decision in not supporting the app based on recent statements from Isaac.
It wasn’t long before Isaac Hayes III caught wind of the discourse.
His response? A 16-image Instagram carousel aimed at Franchesca Ramsey, in which he went so far as to dig up an old photo of her and her white ex-husband—seemingly implying she was “not like us.”

The post was eventually deleted, but not before Franchesca documented it in a TikTok for the world to see.
Fast forward to Sunday: countless users have deleted the Fanbase app, and women across social media have called out Isaac Hayes III for his behavior. Facing mounting backlash, he issued an “apology.” Franchesca Ramsey did NOT accept.
Unfortunately, social media antics like this only further tarnish Isaac Hayes III’s reputation and do little to boost Fanbase.
Hopefully, he learns from this fiasco and moves forward with the intent to do better.


Rihanna Will Headline The 2025 Glastonbury Music Festival

Music fans, get ready to lose your minds because RiRi is about to make history. The ultimate bad gal is reportedly set to headline Glastonbury 2025, and we’re literally shaking with excitement. Here’s everything you need to know about this game-changing comeback that’s about to break the internet.

Rihanna is reportedly bringing her magnetic presence to Somerset’s legendary Glastonbury Festival, and honestly? We’re not worthy. The five-day music extravaganza is about to get a whole lot more iconic with the Barbadian superstar commanding the Pyramid Stage.

A London takeover that’s too good to be true
The tea is piping hot: Word on the street is that RiRi isn’t stopping at Glastonbury. Sources suggest she’s planning a mind-blowing London residency from July 4-12, 2025. That’s right – multiple chances to witness the magic live.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – R9. It’s been nearly nine years since ANTI blessed our playlists, and the wait has been nothing short of torture. But here’s where things get interesting: Rihanna has finally found her sound, and it’s apparently nothing like what we expected.

The truth about those reggae rumors: Remember when everyone thought R9 would be a full-on Caribbean vibe? Plot twist – that theory was completely off base. Our girl RiRi is cooking up something entirely different, and we’re here for it.
The evolution is real: Rihanna hasn’t just been sitting around during her musical hiatus. She’s been evolving, growing, and refusing to settle for anything less than extraordinary. The perfectionist in her wants every single track to matter, and honestly? We respect that.

The comeback of the century: This isn’t just any return – it’s a cultural reset waiting to happen. Glastonbury 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era in pop music. With potentially new music, a headline slot at one of the world’s most prestigious festivals, and a London residency, Rihanna is about to remind everyone why she’s one of the most influential artists of our generation.
Let’s be real – Rihanna’s return to music isn’t just another comeback story. It’s a masterclass in knowing your worth and refusing to compromise. In an industry that demands constant content, she chose quality over quantity, authenticity over expectations, and artistic growth over quick wins.

The stars are aligning for what could be the most iconic musical comeback of the decade. Rihanna’s potential Glastonbury headline slot isn’t just a performance – it’s a statement. It’s proof that sometimes the best things in life are worth waiting for.
And let’s be honest, if anyone can make a nine-year wait feel worth it, it’s Rihanna.
Stay tuned, because 2025 is about to be wild. The Navy isn’t ready for what’s coming – but then again, are we ever ready for what Rihanna has up her sleeve?


Tony Buzbee Denied Ability to Practice Law in Southern District of New York
Tony Buzbee no longer has permission to practice law in the Southern District of New York.
That means the high-profile attorney can’t litigate cases in New York, Bronx, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, and Sullivan counties in the state, which includes New York City's five boroughs. Buzbee has filed more than a dozen individual cases against Sean "Diddy" Combs in the city.

His lawsuit against Jay-Z is dismissed and not coming back, and now Tony Buzbee is trying to ensure he can keep litigating his other lawsuits against Diddy because his admission application in the Southern District of New York was denied.
According to Meghann Cuniff, the ruling came from the Committee on Grievances for the Southern District of New York, which investigates complaints of attorney misconduct.

Cuniff tweets that Buzbee failed to ask for permission to practice in the district before submitting for admission on Jan. 29, 2025. He reportedly did so recently because his negligence was pointed out in a lawsuit accusing Jay-Z and Diddy of sexual assault. Buzbee was subsequently denied the ability to practice.
As the order says, Buzbee can seek “pro hac vice” admission, and that’s what he’s doing now in the Diddy lawsuits. Or trying to at least.
The judge in this particular lawsuit (McCrary v. Combs) ordered Buzbee to apply for pro hac vice admission after she figured out what was going on.

"The Court has been informed that Mr. Buzbee is not admitted to practice in the Southern District of New York.
That means the trial lawyer will have to include the denial letter every time he requests permission to litigate in the district. At this point, it’s unknown what will happen with Buzbee’s civil suits against Diddy.

Earlier this month, Buzbee voluntarily dismissed the sexual assault case he brought against Diddy and Hov. The lawsuit alleged that the two music moguls raped a 13-year-old girl in 2000.
Following the dismissal of the lawsuit, Roc Nation and Jay-Z issued a statement: “Today is a victory. The frivolous, fictitious and appalling allegations have been dismissed. This civil suit was without merit and never going anywhere. The fictional tale they created was laughable, if not for the seriousness of the claims. I would not wish this experience on anyone. The trauma that my wife, my children, my loved ones and I have endured can never be dismissed."

Last week, Jay shared in court that the case made him feel like he had a “gun to his head.” Days before that, he filed a declaration that claimed Roc Nation lost out on contracts that would have earned him income totaling "$20 million per year."


Cardi B and Tasha K Settle Defamation Lawsuit

Three years ago gossip vlogger Tasha K was ordered to pay rapper Cardi B $3.8 million after Cardi successfully sued Tasha for defamation of character 
Now Cardi and Tasha have come to an agreement after Tasha filed for bankruptcy...

According to Dennis Byron Cardi B has accepted Tasha K's five year payment plan and the judgment has been slashed to about $1.5 million. 
Per terms of the agreement Tasha cannot mention Cardi B and must keep rigorous accounting of her income and restitution or the agreement is off. 
According to Dennis Byron the deal was contingent on Cardi B's agreement. 


#BoxOfficeNews: Box Office: Captain America is still #1 but drops and THE MONKEY Posts Best Horror Debut of 2025
Staying in the top spot, Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World took a big -68% tumble in its second frame with an estimated $28.2M on 4,105 screens (n/c) for a $6,870 Per Screen Average. That racks up the domestic total to $141.2M, placing it ahead of low bars The Incredible Hulk ($134.8M) and The Marvels ($84.5M). At this pace it’s probable the new film could best 2011 entry Captain America: The First Avenger‘s $176.65M, but just as likely it won’t clear $200M domestic before ending its run. Still, the strength of this film alongside The Monkey drove the box office over 20% above this same frame last year.

Disney was likely bracing for a serious drop on this title after wretched reviews and MCU record-low audience scores last weekend. Fortunately it held stronger than The Marvels (-78%) and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (-70%) while performing on-par with the second frame of Eternals ($26.8M). Black Widow also dropped -68% in Frame 2 for a $25.8M weekend… but it was simultaneously available on Disney+’s premium streaming platform.

Overall Brave New World definitely feels of a piece with all those other MCU black sheep in the overarching narrative of post-Endgame‘s lack of focus or payoff for the Marvel brand. The Kevin Feige-led silo has definitely overestimated the audience’s willingness to accept products that are deeply middlebrow/safe while focusing on B or C-level characters from the obscure corners of their cinematic universe. That last description could also be the logline for May’s Thunderbolts*.

Internationally Brave New World continues to slightly outperform domestic with $35.3M in 52 material territories for an overseas total of $148.2M and global total of $289.4M. With all international markets open, the Top 3 so far are the UK ($16.7M), China ($13.5M), and Mexico ($10.7M). Global IMAX grosses this frame were $4.6M for a $23.3M total. As with domestic, the Anthony Mackie-led movie is now ahead of globals for The Incredible Hulk ($265.57M) and The Marvels ($199.7M) on its way to hopefully besting Captain America ($370.56M), Black Widow ($379.7M), and Eternals ($401.7M).

With the Stephen King adaptation The Monkey, Neon took a gamble on a horror comedy from their new golden boy director Osgood Perkins that has paid off in an estimated $14.2M opening at #2 on 3200 screens for a $4,438 PSA. That’s the biggest horror debut of the year, as well as Neon’s second-biggest opener ever behind Perkins’ Longlegs ($22.4M). The opening bow is on par with several recent Stephen King adaptations, including 2019’s Doctor Sleep ($14.1M before $31.5M total), 2023’s The Boogeyman ($12.35M before $43.2M domestic total), and 2013’s Carrie remake ($16.1M before $35.26M total).

Neon’s Chief Distribution Officer Elissa Federoff said in a statement, “This is a phenomenal debut for The Monkey. Masters of horror Osgood Perkins, James Wan and Stephen King crafted a shocking thrill ride that has subverted the horror genre and created a raucous good time for audiences across the country. Our second collaboration with Osgood gave us the opportunity to create a campaign that embraced the fun of the film and the collective rush audiences would experience in the theater. The Monkey is a singular film from a singular filmmaker, we look forward to it playing theatrically for weeks to come.”

This is below our prediction panel’s low-end forecast for this movie, which may have been over-influenced by positive pre-release buzz, high Fandango pre-sales, and the heat from last year’s Longlegs. Walk-up business clearly wasn’t as strong as it could have been, and word of mouth may have been divisive if the “C+” CinemaScore and 2 1/2 star PostTrak are any indication. Rotten Tomatoes critical was 77% fresh alongside 62% audience score, although PostTrak definite recommend was 49% which is high for the genre. As we wrote on Wednesday, there was always a possibility the gallows humor and extreme gore of the film might be a turnoff for crowds that come to horror for traditional date night jump scares.

The Monkey is the third comedic horror movie of the year behind Companion and Heart Eyes to receive positive critical notices but disappoint at the box office. However, if The Monkey can have a solid second frame hold ala Heart Eyes (which admittedly got a Valentine’s Day +19% boost) against no real competition next weekend that could give it a second wind.


Nearly $2 Million Worth of Nike Shoes Stolen from Train Heists

Sneakers continue to be a huge target for criminals, and according to new reports from the LA Times, nearly $2 million worth of Nike footwear has been stolen from freight trains in California and Arizona within the last year—including pairs of the much-anticipated Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4 collab.

The latest incident occurred on Jan. 13 in Perrin, Arizona, where thieves reportedly cut the air hose off a BNSF freight train and stole 1,985 pairs of unreleased Nike and Air Jordans valued over $440,000. Per a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Phoenix and acquired by the LA Times, a bulk of the offloaded shoes were Sylvester's "Brick by Brick" Jordan 4 scheduled to hit retailers in mid-March.

The federal complaint confirmed that the offloaded cases of Nikes and Jordans were tossed to the sides of the roads and were later picked up by trucks. Authorities were able to locate the vehicles through the tracking devices placed within the boxes, and thus far, 11 people have been arrested and charged for the crimes.

For sneaker fans who are interested in legally purchasing a pair of the Nigel Sylvester x Air Jordan 4, the collab releases on March 14 at Nike.com and at select Jordan Brand stockists for $225.


The SAG Awards 2025: Full Winners List
The 2025 SAG Awards delivered a mix of victories and snubs across the realms of film and television. Despite a series of recent high-profile wins, "Anora" failed to pocket any awards on Sunday night, February 23.
Star Mikey Madison, though, managed to capture some limelight with an emotional speech about her career during the "I'm an actor" segment, and later presented clips from the film alongside co-stars Mark Eydelshteyn and Yura Borisov.

In one of the evening's most surprising turn of events, "Conclave" clinched the top prize for best cast, following its recent BAFTA award for best film. Ralph Fiennes led the acceptance speech, poking fun at the election.
"I've not been elected to speak - I've been designated to speak on before of our conclave, our ensemble," he quipped. "People have spoken so eloquently and movingly about community. I don't want to add more, but I think we do recognize the supreme importance of it in our work and in the world."

Another unexpected winner, Timothee Chalamet, took home the best actor award for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in "A Complete Unknown". This marked Chalamet's breakthrough in major awards for this role after repeated losses during this awards season. It was the only win secured by the biopic though.

The night also saw a heartening moment for Demi Moore, who won the SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Lead Role for her role in "The Substance".

"I was thinking about this night, and I realized I hadn’t thought back to when I got my membership to this incredible organization," she said in her acceptance speech. "It gave me purpose. It gave me direction. I was a kid who had no blueprint for life."
In the television arena, Martin Short emerged as a major winner. The veteran actor won his first SAG Award for his role in "Only Murders in the Building" even though he couldn't attend due to COVID-19. His absence was felt, but he shared a heartfelt message thanking his peers for the recognition.

In a double victory, the TV show also took home the Comedy Ensemble trophy, a testament to the show's gripping charm and ensemble performance.
Meanwhile, "The Bear", despite four nominations, didn't win any awards, joining "Anora" in the list of tonight's snubs.

MOTION PICTURES:

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothee Chalamet - "A Complete Unknown"
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Demi Moore - "The Substance"
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin - "A Real Pain"
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana - "Emilia Perez"
Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture: "Conclave"
Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture: "The Fall Guy"

TELEVISION PROGRAMS:

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Colin Farrell - "The Penguin"
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Gunning - "Baby Reindeer"
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series: Hiroyuki Sanada -"Shogun"
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series: Anna Sawai - "Shogun"
Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Martin Short - "Only Murders in the Building"
Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart -"Hacks"
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: "Shogun"
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series: "Only Murders in the Building"
Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series: "Shogun"

Congrats to all the winners!


Lester Holt is leaving ‘NBC Nightly News’
Longtime NBC Nightly News anchor Lester Holt has announced he is stepping down after a decade at the helm of the esteemed position.
Holt, who served in the dual role of anchor and managing editor, will end his illustrious decade-long tenure at the beginning of the summer, NBC News reports.

Lester Holt will remain at NBC after stepping down
The news station did not immediately name Holt’s successor. But Holt will not leave the station entirely; he will continue to serve full-time as principal anchor of the hit news show “NBC Dateline.”
Holt’s rise at the network began after steering weekend editions of the news broadcast for eight years and co-anchoring “Weekend TODAY” for 12 years. He has served as principal anchor of “Dateline” since September 2011.

As the anchor for “NBC Nightly News” beginning in 2015, Holt’s role accorded him one-on-one audiences with American and world leaders including President Trump, former President Joe Biden, former Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Barack Obama, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and many others.
Holt’s era at NBC also included covering the political emergence and success of Trump, the coronavirus pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the attack in Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza.

“A smile comes to my face when I think that with ‘Nightly News,’ and ‘Dateline,’ I have now anchored two of the most successful and iconic television news programs in broadcast history,” Holt wrote in a note Monday to ‘Nightly’ and “Dateline” staffers. “As a 20-year-old radio reporter on the police beat chasing breaking news around San Francisco, I could never have imagined my career path would unfold in the way it has. What an amazing ride.”


Chloe Bailey Sued For Allegedly Failing To Credit Songwriter In Album 'Trouble In Paradise'
Chloe Bailey is being sued by a songwriter. In a lawsuit filed on February 20, the singer and her record labels - Columbia Records and Parkwood Entertainment - are accused of not properly compensating or crediting Melvin Moore for his contributions to her 2024 album "Trouble In Paradise".

According to the legal complaint, Grammy-nominated Moore, whose stage name is OneInThe4Rest or simply 4Rest, played a pivotal role in shaping three tracks on the album, such as "Favorite", "Same Lingerie", and "Might as Well".
According to Moore, these songs are deeply personal, with lyrics and narratives stemming from his own intimate life experiences. "In particular, the lyrics and narratives were derived from intimate and real-life situations, reflecting [Moore's] relationships, emotions, and personal struggles," the complaint asserts.

Despite this substantial contribution, Moore claims he was neither compensated nor acknowledged appropriately, as Bailey and her labels allegedly "failed to seek permission from [Moore] to commercially exploit" his work and "failed to engage in good-faith negotiations" before the songs' official release.
Moore's credentials in the music industry are significant, having collaborated with big names like Usher, Drake, Kanye West, John Legend, and Bangtan Boys. His lawsuit emphasizes the breach of good faith, pointing out that, despite his extensive experience, Bailey's team exploited his work without proper professional writing credit or compensation.

Not stopping at just a lawsuit, Moore issued a cease-and-desist letter rejecting any future rights to the label or Bailey for the disputed songs. He seeks immediate cessation of all unauthorized uses and demands a royalty allocation of 2% per master recording, along with additional publishing rights.

Furthermore, Moore demands the removal of the songs from all digital music services, websites, blogs, and social media platforms until a mutual agreement is reached.
The legal action aims for substantial damages, including up to $150,000 per willful infringement and punitive damages of $5 million per song.
As this legal saga unfolds, all eyes are on how Bailey and Columbia Records will respond to these serious allegations.


Beyoncé shows off body-hugging Levi's jeans, latest collection in new ad
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is showing just how perfect her Levii's jeans fit and introducing her latest collection in collaboration with the brand in an all-new ad.
The megastar and the denim powerhouse both posted the new commercial on Instagram on Monday, promoting the second chapter of Beyoncé's and Levi's "Reimagine" campaign titled "Pool Hall."

In the video, which is a nod to Levi's 1991 ad of the same name, Yoncé rocks a denim-on-denim look as she faces actor Timothy Olyphant in a high-stakes game of pool. Of course, the clip is set to Beyoncé's 2024 song featuring Post Malone, "Levii's Jeans" from her eight studio album "Cowboy Carter."

In the caption, Beyoncé simply wrote "iin my jeans." Meanwhile, her Parkwood entertainment company shared more photos of the singer donning another denim-on-denim Levi's look. And many fans took note of just how perfect the jeans hug the superstar.
Beyoncé first revealed the collaboration with Levi's in September. She followed up the announcement by teasing her first drop, "Chapter 1: Launderette," in a cheekily nostalgic ad. In the video, the "Cowboy Carter" creator strips down as she recreates the brand's 1985 "Launderette" commercial, which featured model Nick Kamen in his underwear.

"I am honored to work with Levi's to create quintessential American iconography," the superstar said in a statement previously shared by Business Wire. "Denim on denim has often been seen through a male lens, so this reimagining campaign, which celebrates the iconic female perspective, is important to me."

WATCH HERE 
Of course, the second drop comes on the heel of Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour announcement. It kicks off April 28 in Los Angeles, and from the looks of it, many fans will be preparing for the concert by getting their hands on a pair of Levi's.


Irv Gotti's Brother Breaks Silence On His Real Cause Of Death

A clearer picture of Irv Gotti's death has been revealed thanks to his older brother, Chris Lorenzo.
The Murder Inc. Records co-founder's sibling recently shed light on the late entertainer's health and how his poor lifestyle choices allegedly influenced his death.

Irv Gotti's brother's confessions come weeks after the music icon reportedly suffered a "massive hemorrhagic stroke" on February 5. Lorenzo broke his silence about Gotti's death during a recent appearance on the "2way" podcast. He alleged his younger sibling's demise was influenced by his irregular visits to the hospital, implying the music producer had a penchant for avoiding doctors.
According to Lorenzo, Gotti was eating Chinese food and playing poker with friends at night when he suffered a medical emergency.

He claimed his brother experienced a "massive hemorrhagic stroke," which the National Institute of Health notes occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding into the brain.
Gotti's brother stressed that he suffered from a series of health issues because he rarely went to the doctor. Additionally, his avoidance of hospitals made it difficult to accept his diabetes diagnosis when he finally caved and went for a physical checkup, per TMZ.
Although the medical examiner has not revealed Gotti's cause of death publicly, Lorenzo insisted that he knew exactly what led to his brother's passing. He remained adamant about his younger sibling's poor lifestyle influencing his health problems, an issue the late entertainer once confirmed.

Following his diabetes diagnosis, Gotti opened up about his struggle to take insulin and confessed he was trying to change his diet to take better care of himself. If Lorenzo's is to be believed, it seems the record producer failed to eat cleanly and curb his bad habits.
Gotti's family announced his passing in a poignant statement, noting that he was surrounded by friends and loved ones in his final moments. They added that he was "leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched."


'Beyond the Gates' Cast List & Character Descriptions: All the Info for CBS' New Soap Opera!
It’s Beyond the Gates premiere day!
While watching, you may want to see this character guide that will tell you who is in the cast of the new CBS soap opera, what role they portray and more. Daphnee Duplaix, Tamara Tunie, Clifton Davis, and Karla Mosley are leading a great cast in the new series!

Beyond the Gates Synopsis:
Here’s the show’s synopsis: Beyond the Gates is set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington, D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you’ll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those who live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have “made it” and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

Beyond the Gates Character Descriptions:
Tamara Tunie stars as Anita Dupree, matriarch of the family. A famous singer back in the day, Anita worked hard for her success, and raised two daughters with her now-retired senator husband. But underneath her glamorous and refined exterior is a fierceness she gained from her humble beginnings in Chicago. Tamara Tunie is a seasoned daytime star appearing on “As the World Turns” for many years. Also, she originated the role of medical examiner Dr. Melinda Warner with a now landmark 23 seasons on the legendary series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” In addition, she has held recurring roles on shows including BLUE BLOODS, THE GOOD WIFE and ELEMENTARY for the Network.

Daphnee Duplaix stars as Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson, daughter of Anita, and Dani’s sister, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson is a high-achieving and competitive philanthropist and psychiatrist, and exudes warmth, empathy and compassion. Nicole’s success in life extends to her marriage to her surgeon husband. She has the perfect life … from the outside. Daphnee Duplaix boasts an illustrious acting career that has spanned over two decades, most notably earning her an NAACP Award nomination for her outstanding portrayal of Rachel Gannon on “One Life to Live.”

Karla Mosley stars as Dani Dupree, Anita’s other daughter, and a former model turned momager who gave up her career for love. Dani was the Dupree family wild child. Free-spirited, headstrong and uninhibited, she dropped out of school to pursue a high-flying modeling career and she has always marched to the beat of her own drum. Karla Mosley starred as Maya Avant Forrester on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL, for which she was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. Additional credits include “Guiding Light,” “Gossip Girl,” “Hart of Dixie,” “Deadly Cheer Mom” and “Burn After Reading.”

Maurice Johnson stars as Ted Richardson, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson’s husband and father to Martin and Katerine “Kat”. Ted is a brilliant plastic surgeon with an ultra-exclusive private practice and women clamor to put their faces and bodies in what they call his blessed hands. Ted has created an impeccable life with his wife – whom he loves passionately – and sleeps well at night, secure that his past will never disrupt his perfect world. Maurice Johnson’s credits include “Chicago Fire,” “Good Girls” and “To Catch a Killer.”

Brandon Claybon stars as Martin Richardson, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson and Ted Richardson’s son and older brother of Katherine “Kat” Richardson. Martin is a congressman who lives outside “the gates” in a Washington, D.C., brownstone with his husband and two adopted children. Following his grandfather’s path into politics, he has ambition to be the first openly gay Black President. Brandon Claybon’s credits include “Grey’s Anatomy,” Tyler Perry’s “Zatima,” and “General Hospital.”

Colby Muhammad stars as Katherine “Kat” Richardson, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson and Ted Richardson’s miracle baby. She is the younger sister of Martin Richardson and lives in her parents’ guest house. Kat’s been indulged all her life, which has made her spoiled, entitled and dismissive of those she considers beneath her. She’s confident and secure and has never doubted herself or her privileged position in the world. She doesn’t like to share but doesn’t know that the day when she is forced to may be fast approaching. Colby Muhammad recently starred in the first national tour of the Broadway hit play “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.”

Sean Freeman stars as Andre Hamilton, the sophisticated nephew of Ted Richardson. Andre tragically lost his parents in a plane crash and inherited a double fortune, which allows him to live his bliss as a photographer. Nicole and Ted stepped up for Andre when his parents died, and he depends on their support and wise counsel. A playboy who is smooth on the surface, there is something elusive about Andre that occasionally makes people question his intentions. Sean Freeman’s credits include “Finding Happy,” “Tales” and “Boxed In.”

THE HAMILTONS
Timon Durrett stars as Bill Hamilton, Dani Dupree’s ex-husband and father to Naomi and Chelsea. Bill is an opportunist, publicity hound and narcissist, according to his ex-wife, Dani. He is a charismatic and calculated criminal defense attorney who is well-connected, well-received and gets what he wants by any means necessary. Timon Durrett’s credits include “Cheaper by the Dozen,” “Queen Sugar” and “Stuck with You.”

Arielle Prepetit stars as Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne, Dani Dupree and Bill Hamilton’s oldest daughter and Chelsea’s older sister. Naomi lives outside “the gates” in Washington, D.C., where she humbly serves as a civil attorney. She’s whip smart and the only one in the Dupree family who inherited her grandmother Anita Dupree’s gift for singing, which bonds them. Arielle Prepetit’s credits include “BMF,” “Found” and “The System.”

RhonniRose Mantilla stars as Chelsea Hamilton, Dani Dupree and Bill Hamilton’s youngest daughter and Naomi’s younger sister. Chelsea is a social media influencer and has been a successful but reluctant high fashion model since she was 18. Her career expertly guided by Dani, Chelsea is charged with recreating the life her mother gave up, which doesn’t fit her own life vision. She has a lot of money, which allows her to follow her dream of designing a line of purses and building her brand. Chelsea indulges in the good things in life, like beautiful people, parties, her new condo in D.C. and the freedom to experiment. RhonniRose Mantilla recently starred in “Harmony the Musical” on Broadway.

Marquita Goings stars as Hayley Lawson, a paralegal at Bill Hamilton’s firm. Hayley is gorgeous, intelligent, charming, witty and the new fiancée of Dani Dupree’s ex-husband, Bill Hamilton. Considered a husband-stealing tramp in Dani’s circle, Hayley is nothing if not confident. With time, patience, charm and effort, she will try to win them over – and if not, so what? Hayley has what matters: Bill. Marquita Goings’ credits include “Woke” and Tyler Perry’s “Zatima.”

THE THOMASES
Trisha Mann-Grant stars as Dana “Leslie” Thomas, Eva Thomas’ mom and a long-time waitress and bartender. Dana “Leslie” is not wrapped all that tight and intense, but she’s charming and easy out in the world. The only person who sees what’s disturbing about her is her daughter, Eva, and very soon all will see what is unsettling about her, too. Trisha Mann-Grant’s credits include “Family Business” and “A Royal Christmas Surprise.”

Ambyr Michelle stars as Eva Thomas, Dana “Leslie” Thomas’ daughter and Nicole Dupree Richardson’s new assistant, who vibrates with intensity and purpose. Eva is determined to right a grievous wrong done to her mother as soon as the opportunity presents itself. Ambyr Michelle’s credits include “The Runarounds,” “Running Point” and “Snowfall.”

Clifton Davis stars as Vernon Dupree, the Dupree family patriarch married to Anita and father to Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson and Dani Dupree. A venerable former senator, Vernon is gentle, humble and generous with his knowledge and experience. Retired now, Vernon was at the forefront of the civil rights movement. Clifton Davis is a veteran actor with a 60-year career that spans television, film, Motown and nine Broadway shows. His most recent recurring roles include the series “Clipped,” “Godfather of Harlem” and MADAM SECRETARY on the Network. Recently on Broadway he played Dr. Dillamond in “Wicked” and originated the role of The Sultan in “Aladdin.” Davis is a Tony Award nominee for “Two Gentlemen of Verona,” a Theatre World Award winner for the Gershwin Review “Do It Again” and a GRAMMY nominee for writing “Never Can Say Good-bye” for The Jackson 5.

Jibre Hordges stars as Jacob Hawthorne, Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne’s husband and a robbery/homicide detective with the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. Jacob hails from a family of law enforcement. He is proud of his wife, the family he comes from, serving the community and seeking justice for victims. Jibre Hordges’ credits include “Grown-ish,” “9-1-1” and “The Resident.”

Mike Manning stars as Bradley “Smitty” Smith, husband to Congressman Martin Richardson and father to teenagers Tyrell and Samantha. A former political reporter turned househusband, Smitty is a fantastic dad who has guided his children with warmth and good humor. Smitty is thinking of resuming his writing career but is hesitant to tell Martin, who likes their home life the way it is. Mike Manning’s credits include “The Bay,” “Days of Our Lives” and “This Is Us.”

Jen Jacob stars as Ashley Morgan, Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne’s best friend, who is the only child of a young single mother. Ashley was a latchkey kid who has never been afraid of rolling up her sleeves. She is a nurse at Washington D.C.’s Garland Memorial Hospital and has the perfect temperament for her profession – positive, cheerful, brisk, resourceful and independent. She can be serious but is also fun-loving with a smile that lights up a room. Jen Jacob’s credits include “The Union” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime.”

Ben Gavin stars as Derek Baldwin, a devoted firefighter in a relationship with Ashley Morgan and best friend to Jacob Hawthorne. Derek is fearless, holds nothing back and goes into a zone when he fights fire – which is almost personal for him rather than just a professional calling. Incredibly handy, Derek can fix almost anything. Ben Gavin’s credits include “Super 8,” “The Dark Tower,” “My Christmas Love” and “Missing at 17.” His recent roles include the films “A Place Called Home,” “Going for Two” and “Winterset.”

Lauren Buglioli stars as Vanessa McBride, a high-end real estate agency owner who specializes in luxury property and is neighbors with Dani Dupree and best friend to Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson. The mother of twins, Vanessa is in a loveless marriage with her high school sweetheart. Lauren Buglioli’s credits include “Bad Monkey,” “Florida Man” and “A Jazzman’s Blues.”

Alex Alegria stars as Tomas “Tom” Navarro, a handsome and confident young attorney at Bill Hamilton’s law firm. Tomas has an eye for Katherine “Kat” Richardson. Alex Alegria’s credits include CSI and “Gossip Girl.”
Beyond the Gates will air every weekday at 2pm ET/1pm PT. It will be available to stream on Paramount+ as well.


Emilia Perez's Karla Sofia Gascon to Attend Oscars 2025, Netflix Will Fund Expenses After Initially Scaling Back Support

Emilia Perez‘s Karla Sofia Gascon has been skipping all awards season shows and events after her controversial tweets resurfaced, however, it’s being reported that she’s attending the 2025 Academy Awards. She is nominated for Best Actress.
Even more interesting, Netflix has reportedly agreed to finance her attendance.
If you don’t recall, the streamer pulled back their support of Karla amid awards season, and they also stopped paying for her accommodations to attend events.

Variety is reporting that while she will be attending, it’s unclear if she will walk the red carpet, do any interviews on the red carpet, and if she will be seated with the Emilia Perez team including Zoe Saldana and Selena Gomez.
The Oscars will air live on ABC and stream live on Hulu on Sunday (March 2) at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, with the official live red carpet show airing at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Thugs of the Multiverse
Whazz Good!


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM

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