Thursday, March 6, 2025

The Daily Buzz For Mar 7☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Love In Action: Meet The Couples Behind Ebony's 'love In Color' Issue
Black love, especially Black romantic love, is a powerful celebration of resilience, joy and connection that transcends the hardships faced by our communities. It’s a beautiful tapestry woven from shared history, culture and experiences that affirm our existence and strength.

For our people, showcasing Black love—including the LGBT+ community—serves as a vital reminder that love is multifaceted and deserving of visibility. It highlights the importance of representation, allowing us to see ourselves in the stories and relationships that shape all our narratives that challenge stereotypes, dismantle societal norms and inspire future generations to embrace their identities unapologetically.

In a world that often tries to erase us, celebrating all forms of Black love is not just an act of defiance; it’s a way to honor our truth and foster a sense of belonging for everyone within the spectrum of our rich, diverse identities.

Meet the nine couples gracing EBONY's February 2025 Love In Color Issue, captured by photographer Tayo Kuku Jr. HERE


#RHOA: Porsha Williams Tells ‘The View’ Divorce Is Like “A Death In The Family” Amidst Her Split From Estranged Husband Simon Guobadia
Porsha Williams got real about her ongoing divorce on this morning’s episode of The View. The Bravo star, who is returning to The Real Housewives of Atlanta for Season 16, stopped by the Hot Topics table to discuss her return to the show, what’s changed since she left and how she’s navigating her divorce from estranged husband Simon Goubadia as the cameras roll.

Williams, who was last on The View in 2014, told the ladies after she sat down, “I feel like I have aged a lot, but wisdom has come with it!”
She first appeared on RHOA that same year, but left the show in 2021 and came back this season after three years away.

Williams went on to explain, “I signed up to do the show again, but life lifed and things got turned upside down, but in true fashion for me, my life happens on camera and I’m just transparent and the cameras were able to follow what so many women in America and men in America have to go through.”
When the panel’s resident Bravo expert Alyssa Farah Griffin asked her guest, “What’s it like to navigate [divorce] in the public eye?” Williams was candid, noting that she’s now gone through divorce two times and likening the experience to “a death in the family.”

“Unfortunately for me, in that case I’ve done it twice. I was married before, still on the show when I first started. Same intention, was to show my beautiful family on the show. But in this case, now I’m a different Porsha. I have thicker skin, I trust who I am, I trust the decisions that I’m making for myself and for my child, and if you follow your heart and you live and you move with love, then you don’t have to question anything,” she said. “So even though divorce is a horrible thing, it’s like a death in the family, it was something that was right for me to do and something that was right for him as well.”

Goubadia, who is originally from Nigeria, was detained by ICE in February. People reported at the time that he was being held in Georgia’s Stewart Detention Center. Williams released a statement at the time via Instagram, where she wrote, “It’s disheartening to see my estranged husband make choices that have led to this outcome. At this moment my priority is moving forward with my family,” per People.

On The View this morning, Williams said she’s not listening to the comments about her personal life amidst her split.
“But the public eye, when that comes in, I just don’t pay attention to what people have to say. I’m not one of those people pleasers anymore. I’m a reformed people pleaser. I really used to be a people pleaser,” she said. “It started in being a people pleaser by only seeing myself through men’s eyes, which led to abuse in my past. Then when I joined the show I had millions of eyeballs telling me who I should be or who I am or judge me, and through just time and age and realizing, this is my life experience, it’s not gonna be perfect, I’ve decided to make this choice to share it with the world.”

She added, “And so I stand on who I am … I have a different level of confidence.”


#MusicNews: #RIP Roy Ayers, legendary 'Everyone Loves the Sunshine' musician, dies at 84

Roy Ayers, the legendary vibraphonist and musician behind 1976’s album “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” has died. He was 84.
His family members shared the news on Ayers’ Facebook on March 5, expressing their “great sadness.”
“It is with great sadness that the family of legendary vibraphonist, composer and producer Roy Ayers announce his passing which occurred on March 4th, 2025 in New York City after a long illness,” the statement reads. “He lived a beautiful 84 years and will be sorely missed.”

The statement noted that his family asks that people respect its privacy at this time. “A celebration of Roy’s life will be forthcoming,” the message concluded.
Born in Los Angeles in September 1940, Ayers grew up around a musical background and loved music from a young age.
“If I didn’t have music I wouldn’t even want to be here,” Ayers told the Los Angeles Times in 2011. “It’s like an escape when there is no escape. An escape for temporary moments.”

He shared how when he was 5 years old, he received his first set of mallets from vibraphonist and percussionist Lionel Hampton while at the Paramount Theater.
“At the time, my mother and father told me he laid some spiritual vibes on me,” Ayers said at the time, adding that later he picked up the vibraphones at age 17.“It’s funny, I started playing vibes when I was 17 and I still love it. The only difference now is that I’ve turned the 17 around to 71,” Ayers told the outlet. 
WATCH his Tiny Desk concert below! 

With a career spanning more than six decades, Ayers released his first album, “West Coast Vibes,” in 1963, followed by records such as “Virgo Vibes” (1967) and “Stoned Soul Picnic”1968), among dozen others.
Ayers became known as a pioneer in jazz-funk, with a slew of musicians sampling his music. He would go on to collaborate with R&B and hip-hop artists such as Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu, The Roots Mary J. Blige and Tyler, The Creator, among many others. 


#HipHopNews: Young Thug Announces First Show Post Release from Jail
Young Thug, who recently experienced a spectacular verdict in his case courtesy of lawyer Brian Steel, will be performing for the first time since the fiasco.

The rapper will be performing at the Les Ardentes Festival in Belgium on July 5th, 2025.
The four day festival will also be platforming artists such as J Balvin, Ken Carson, Laylow and more, with Thug gracing the third day of the festival.

While it seems likely that the rapper will announce more tour dates soon, some fans in the US were disappointed that the first concert is taking place outside America. Still, there is palpable relief in terms of Thug being free (or well, on propbation at least) to do what he does best as an entertainer.
All that is left to see is how the performance turns out, considering hopes will be high. Will there be new music to preview? What about the setlist? Stay tuned to find out as the story develops!


Tony! Toni! Toné! Updates Fans On D’Wayne Wiggins’ Health: “ It's One Day At A Time”

Tony! Toni! Toné! is reassuring fans regarding D’Wayne Wiggins‘ health. On Wednesday (Mar. 5), the band issued an update on one of its founding members following reports that he was receiving hospice care.
“We wanted to share that D’Wayne Wiggins is experiencing medical complications. He is working through it one day at a time,” the post reads. “We know how beloved he is by so many, and we are grateful for your prayers and concern. We also request that you respect the family’s privacy during this time. Much love, The Wiggins Family.”

As previously reported by Blanco Tarantino TV on Tuesday (Mar. 4), Wiggins was said to have been receiving end-of-life treatment after “battling serious health complications.” The post then goes on to detail why Wiggins’ brother, Raphael Saadiq, was allegedly pushing for a Tony! Toni! Toné! reunion tour in 2023 and why the footage from the show has yet to be released on DVD.
“Wiggins was recently assisted off-stage, raising concerns about his well-being. Fans, friends, and fellow artists have begun sending their prayers and positive energy, as he is said to need all the support he can get,” the post adds.

There hasn’t been an exact explanation of what D’Wayne Wiggins is currently diagnosed with.
D’Wayne Wiggins is one of the founding members of the funk, soul, and R&B band Tony! Toni! Toné!. The full band’s lineup is comprised of Wiggins, Raphael Saadiq, and their cousin, Timothy Christen, who made a splash on the scene in the late ’80s and ’90s. The band’s 1993 album, Sons of Soul, capitalized on the success of their 1990 effort, The Revival, and catapulted the trio into a new stratosphere. The LP featured hits like “(Lay Your Head On My) Pillow” and the timeless, elegant slow jam, “Anniversary.”

D’Wayne Wiggins, along with his bandmates, has inspired generations of musicians, including The Internet, Anderson .Paak, Maxwell, Bruno Mars, and more. VIBE sends a prayer to D’Wayne Wiggins, Tony! Toni! Toné!, and the rest of their family and friends.


Tasha K Granted $3.9M Payment Plan To Pay Cardi B After Filing Bankruptcy
Tasha K has officially secured a way out of bankruptcy, but her financial obligations to Cardi B remain unimpaired.
The embattled blogger, who lost a $3,900,000 defamation lawsuit to the Grammy-winner, now has a court-approved payment plan in place to settle the judgment — according to new legal documents obtained by TMZ Hip Hop.

On Wednesday (March 5), a bankruptcy judge gave the green light to Tasha K’s financial plan, allowing her to gradually pay Cardi B from the income generated through her various projects. While this arrangement gives the Unwine With Tasha K creator more time to fulfill her obligation, it does not absolve her of the hefty sum.

In May 2023, Tasha K made the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, to which the court notified Cardi as well as 30 debtors including the IRS, the Broward County Tax Collector, the Florida Department of Revenue, and Bank of America. The filing, which took effect on June 2, temporarily halted all collection efforts as the courts worked through the Tasha K’s finances.

Per the U.S. Courts, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is commonly referred to as a “reorganization” bankruptcy. This typically allows the debtor to remain “in possession” of assets, retain the powers and duties of a trustee, and continue operating their business — sometimes even borrowing new funds with court approval. The official filing imposed an automatic stay on most collection activities, prohibiting creditors from suing, garnishing wages, repossessing property, or demanding repayment through mail or phone.

Beyond the financial aspect, Cardi’s legal team secured additional protections, including a non-disparagement clause that strictly bars Tasha K from making defamatory or derogatory remarks about the rapper or her family. The court is also enforcing transparency — Tasha must submit copies of her tax returns to Cardi’s attorney and provide quarterly financial reports detailing her earnings while the payment plan is in effect.

Cardi B’s legal battle with Tasha K dates back to 2019, when the rapper sued over a series of inflammatory videos published online. Cardi’s attorneys alleged that Tasha K deliberately engaged in a “malicious campaign” to damage the Bronx rapper’s reputation. Despite repeated warnings to take down the content, the blogger refused, leading to the eventual court ruling in Cardi’s favor. After losing her case, Tasha K attempted to appeal the verdict but was unsuccessful.

There was once a time when Cardi appeared open to the idea of letting Tasha off the hook—but that window has since closed. Now, after years of courtroom drama and legal maneuvering, the Unwine host has no choice but to pay up.


Quinton Aaron hospitalized after coughing up blood

Quinton Aaron, widely recognized for his moving performance as Michael Oher in the critically acclaimed film The Blind Side, has been hospitalized since Feb. 27 in Southern California. The 40-year-old actor was admitted after experiencing alarming symptoms including fever and bloody cough, raising concerns among fans and colleagues throughout the entertainment industry.

Medical professionals attending to Aaron believe he is battling a combination of Type A influenza and pneumonia, complicated by a persistent migraine. Despite these challenging circumstances, his condition shows promising improvement following initial treatment. After receiving a course of antibiotics, Aaron has reported that the bloody cough has subsided, marking a significant positive development in his recovery journey.

Healthcare providers plan to administer a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line) to facilitate direct medication delivery to his bloodstream. This medical intervention represents a crucial step toward Aaron’s recovery and potential discharge from the hospital in the coming days.

Maintaining positive outlook
Throughout this health ordeal, Aaron has demonstrated remarkable resilience and optimism. His ability to maintain a positive mindset amid physical discomfort speaks volumes about his character. The actor remains confident that his recovery is progressing well and anticipates returning to his normal activities soon.

In a moment of candor captured before being removed from social media, Aaron shared his experiences of hospital life, including the challenges of getting proper rest with frequent medical check-ups throughout the night. His ability to find moments of humor during this difficult time reflects his enduring spirit and determination to overcome this health challenge.

History of respiratory concerns
This isn’t Aaron’s first encounter with serious respiratory issues. In 2019, he faced similar health challenges when hospitalized for an upper respiratory infection and bronchitis exacerbation. During that previous incident, he disclosed that his illness had persisted for several months before seeking medical intervention. Following appropriate treatment and rest, Aaron made a complete recovery from those earlier health complications.

Industry and fan response
News of Aaron’s hospitalization has generated a wave of support across social media platforms and throughout the entertainment community. Fans, colleagues, and industry professionals have rallied around the actor, sending messages of encouragement and healing. This outpouring of goodwill demonstrates the significant impact Aaron has made through his work and personal interactions.

Cultural significance
Aaron’s portrayal of Michael Oher in The Blind Side resonated deeply with audiences and brought attention to important social issues. His work in the film helped highlight the struggles and triumphs of young people overcoming adversity through determination and support. As an influential figure in African American cinema, Aaron’s contributions extend beyond his performances to inspire individuals facing their own challenges.

Looking forward
As Aaron continues his recovery process, his focus remains firmly on regaining his health and strength. Medical professionals are monitoring his condition closely and adjusting treatment protocols as needed. The actor’s supporters eagerly await news of his improvement and eventual return to creative projects.

Aaron’s journey through this health crisis serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of health and the importance of timely medical intervention. His story also highlights the critical role that community support plays during difficult personal challenges, offering encouragement to others facing similar circumstances.
The entertainment industry continues to hold space for Aaron’s recovery, recognizing his valuable contributions to film and culture. His courageous battle with illness while maintaining optimism provides inspiration for fans around the world, reinforcing the power of positive thinking during health challenges.

As updates on Aaron’s condition become available, the public remains hopeful for his swift and complete recovery. His resilience in the face of health complications exemplifies the strength of spirit that has characterized his career and personal life, giving confidence that he will overcome this challenge as he has others before.


LeBron James reaches new NBA career points milestone
LeBron James has once again rewritten the NBA record books, becoming the first player in league history to surpass 50,000 combined points across regular season and playoff appearances. The milestone arrived during a commanding Los Angeles Lakers victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, with the final score of 136-115 reflecting the dominance James continues to display in his 22nd professional season.

As the Lakers surge to the second position in the Western Conference standings, this achievement highlights not just a statistical milestone but represents the unprecedented longevity of an athlete who entered the professional ranks directly from high school and has maintained elite performance well into what would typically be considered the twilight of a basketball career.

The 50,000-point milestone represents a scoring achievement that had previously seemed beyond reach for even the most prolific NBA scorers. While several legendary players have accumulated impressive career totals, the combination of regular season and playoff scoring at this volume requires both extraordinary individual talent and consistent team success over multiple decades.
James achieved this milestone while leading all scorers with 34 points in the victory over New Orleans, demonstrating that his path to the record came not through hanging on as a diminished version of himself but while maintaining his status as one of the most dominant forces in the current NBA landscape.

What makes this achievement particularly notable is the substantial distance between James and any potential challengers to the record. The closest active player trails thousands of points behind, meaning this combined scoring mark could stand unchallenged for generations, particularly as the NBA draft structure has eliminated the direct-from-high-school path that gave James his early professional start.

The record also reflects exceptional playoff durability, with James appearing in 10 NBA Finals across his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and now Lakers. Each deep playoff run has provided additional opportunities to accumulate postseason points that players on less successful teams simply never receive.
Perhaps most remarkable about this scoring achievement is the context in which it arrives. At age 40, James recently earned Western Conference Player of the Month honors for February, reflecting performance levels that would be exceptional for players in their prime years, let alone someone two decades into their professional career.

This continued excellence defies traditional basketball aging curves, with most NBA careers winding down significantly by the mid-30s. James instead remains central to his team’s success both as a scorer and playmaker, adapting his game as his physical tools have subtly evolved while maintaining effectiveness through basketball intelligence and unmatched conditioning regimens.

The mental approach fueling this sustained excellence involves maintaining enthusiasm for the demanding preparation professional basketball requires. James has discussed the challenge of remaining invested in daily practice routines, conditioning work and recovery protocols across a career spanning more than two decades.
This psychological component often proves more challenging than physical limitations for veteran players, particularly those who have already achieved championship success and financial security. The ability to approach each season with renewed focus despite having already secured his legacy distinguishes James from peers who found motivation waning after reaching career pinnacles.

The Lakers current seven-game winning streak coincides with their climb to the second position in the competitive Western Conference standings. With the recent addition of superstar Luka Doncic alongside James, the team has emerged as a legitimate championship contender heading toward the postseason.
This team context provides additional significance to James scoring milestone, as it arrives not during a farewell tour on a rebuilding team but amid legitimate championship aspirations. His continued elite production suggests the potential for further playoff success that could extend his scoring records even further beyond reach of future challengers.

The historical significance of the 50,000-point milestone extends beyond statistical records to broader questions about athletic longevity and career management. Young players throughout the NBA have studied James approach to physical maintenance, nutritional discipline and workload management as a blueprint for extending their own careers.

This influence reflects how James has transformed professional basketball not just through on-court production but by elevating standards for how elite athletes approach their craft. The comprehensive approach to excellence he embodies has created new expectations for what constitutes proper professional preparation and career investment.
As James continues adding to his point total with no immediate signs of decline, basketball observers find themselves continually adjusting expectations about how long his remarkable career might continue. What once seemed like inevitable physical limitations have repeatedly failed to materialize, forcing a reconsideration of conventional wisdom about basketball aging.

With his son now entering the professional ranks, speculation grows about the possibility of them becoming the first father-son duo to play simultaneously in the NBA. This potentially unprecedented scenario would represent yet another way James continues breaking barriers previously thought insurmountable in professional basketball.

The significance of the 50,000-point achievement ultimately transcends basketball, representing an athletic journey that began with unprecedented teenage expectations and has culminated in a career that has systematically obliterated previous understanding of what athlete longevity could look like at the highest levels of professional sports.


Bill Murray, 74, Finally Addresses Rumors Claiming He Dated Kelis, 45: ‘That Raised My Cred’

Bill Murray has finally confirmed whether or not he ever dated 'Milkshake' singer Kelis.
"I met this girl named Kelis. I got great press that I was dating her. That really raised my cred a lot," the Ghostbusters star, 74, joked during an interview with Sirius XM's Sway in the Morning on Friday, February 28.

Murray revealed to host Sway that Kelis, 45, first caught his eye in the music video for Ol' Dirty Bastard's 1999 hit "Got Your Money," which featured a guest vocal from the singer.
"I’m going: ‘Who is the girl with the red hair?’ And it was Kelis, so I decided to meet her sometime. She turns out to be spectacular," the actor recalled.

Murray confirmed that, despite press reports to the contrary, he never actually dated Kelis — but that doesn’t mean he’s ruling out the possibility of a potential tryst in the future.
"You know, one of us could be on the rebound any second," he joked. "Anything could happen."
The comedy legend added that he was recently in touch with Kelis after learning that she'd purchased land in Kenya.

"She just out there and says, 'Maybe I'll move to Africa and start a farm,'" Murray noted.
Kelis and Murray were first rumored to be romantically linked in June 2023, when he was spotted attending her set at the Mighty Hoopla music festival in London. Later that month, Kelis was quizzed on the dating rumors during a fan Q&A via Instagram.

A fan asked the singer: "Ma’am would you care to address these Bill Murray allegations?!? Cuz damn! What he doing with all that?!"
Kelis coyly replied: "LOL no babe, I wouldn’t bother at all."
Kelis was married to hip-hop superstar Nas for seven years between 2003 and 2010, during which time they had a son named Knight. She wed photographer Mike Mora in 2014, and they later welcomed son Shepard and daughter Galilee.

Mora tragically died from stage IV stomach cancer in 2022 after being first diagnosed with the disease two years earlier.
A statement from Kelis at the time read: "After a tough two-year battle with cancer, we are devastated to have to confirm the loss of our beloved brother Mike. An amazing father, husband, and friend who gave so genuinely and cared so deeply for his family and friends. Through this difficult period, we ask that you respect the privacy of Kelis and her family at this time."
Murray has been married twice before, to Margaret Kelly from 1981 to 1996 and Jennifer Butler from 1997 to 2008. The actor has two sons, Homer and Luke, from his first marriage and four sons – Caleb, Jackson, Cooper, and Lincoln – from his second marriage. Butler died in 2021


A Fake Angie Stone GoFundMe Page Raised $12k
This week the family of the late Neo Soul singer, Angie Stone, warned her fans not to donate to any GoFundMe accounts started in her name 
Now it's being reported that one of the GoFundMe scammers raised just over $12k...

From TMZ
A fraudulent fundraiser claiming to support Angie Stone's legacy just days after her death has been banned by GoFundMe -- after raking in over $12K.
A GoFundMe spokesperson confirmed to TMZ that all donations have been refunded, and the organizer, going by the name "Lenda Peers," has been banned from any future fundraising.
Typically, on GoFundMe, a beneficiary is clearly named if funds are being raised for someone else.
But, this particular fundraiser never mentioned how the money would be used or how Angie’s family would be supported. Instead, the bio just gave a brief rundown of Angie's fame and her death.
Speaking to us, the spokesperson added ... "At no point did the organizer have access to any of the donations. GoFundMe has zero tolerance for the misuse of our platform and takes swift action against those who seek to take advantage of the generosity of our community.

It was definitely suspicious activity ... the $12K that was raised was just a fraction of the $25K goal -- but luckily, it was shut down before it hit its target.


Lin-Manuel Miranda Calls Off 'Hamilton' Kennedy Center Tour Stop After Takeover By Donald Trump

Lin-Manuel Miranda's blockbuster musical "Hamilton" will no longer perform at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts next season. This cancellation comes in response to President Donald Trump's controversial takeover of the institution.
The musical was originally set to be part of a celebration for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in March and April of 2026.

"Political disagreement and debate are vital expressions of democracy. These basic concepts of freedom are at the very heart of Hamilton," lead producer Jeffrey Seller said in a statement shared on social media. "However, some institutions are sacred and should be protected from politics. The Kennedy Center is one such institution."
Trump's recent moves included firing the Kennedy Center's leadership and installing his own supporters as trustees. This restructuring has been met with heavy criticism from many in the arts community.

Seller added that the Kennedy Center was intended to be "for all Americans, a place where we could all come together in celebration of the arts."
Seller and Miranda highlighted that their decision wasn't a blanket protest against Trump's administration but rather against the specific policies enacted following the takeover. "We are not acting against his administration, but against the partisan policies of the Kennedy Center as a result of his recent takeover," they stated.

This view was echoed in a New York Times joint statement where they mentioned that the Kennedy Center's spirit of nonpartisanship had been "destroyed" by recent changes.
"Hamilton is a large and global production, and it would simply be financially and personally devastating to the hundreds of employees of Hamilton if the new leadership of the Kennedy Center suddenly cancelled or re-negotiated our engagement," Seller noted.

The cancellation of Hamilton isn't isolated. Other prominent figures like Issa Rae, Ben Folds, Renee Fleming, Shonda Rhimes, and Melissa Errico also distanced themselves from the institution.
As President Trump plans to eliminate certain types of programming, community organizers and artists in D.C. are rallying for the reinstatement of diverse and inclusive events.


Tina Fey And Tracy Morgan Reunite For New NBC Comedy
The iconic comedy duo Tina Fey and Tracy Morgan, known for their hilarious chemistry on "30 Rock", are returning to NBC with a fresh new comedy series.
According to a network press release, NBC has ordered a pilot for the yet-to-be-named single-camera series, which features Morgan as a disgraced former football player on a mission to rehabilitate his image.

The project, the first comedy pilot NBC has greenlit this season, sees Fey, 54, and Morgan, 56, collaborating once again alongside Robert Carlock and Sam Means, both of whom are also veterans of "30 Rock".
Fey is set to executive produce the series but won't be part of the writing team, as Carlock and Means will handle the scripting duties. Additional executive producers include Eric Gurian, David Miner, and Rhys Thomas, who will also direct the pilot.

Morgan's character in this new venture aims to win back public opinion after falling from grace, a role that seems tailor-made for the actor known for his unpredictable comedic style.
This sentiment of overcoming adversity isn't limited to Morgan's fictional character; the actor himself survived a life-threatening car accident in 2014, making his return to TV even more poignant. "Just thank the Lord that I'm a part of this," Morgan told attendees at the "SNL50" red carpet event recently.

Fey and Carlock's collaboration history is extensive, marked by successful shows like "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt", "Mr. Mayor", and the critically acclaimed "30 Rock". Means, who cut his teeth writing episodes for "30 Rock" and "Parks and Recreation", is no stranger to the team, having co-executive produced "Mr. Mayor" with Carlock.

Morgan fans have more reason to celebrate, as he is also starring in Paramount+'s upcoming series "Crutch", a spin-off from CBS' "The Neighborhood". In "Crutch", he plays Francois "Crutch" Crutchfield, a Harlem widower facing familial upheaval when his children and grandchildren move in.
For viewers eager to see the "30 Rock" magic recreated, this upcoming series promises to deliver the sharp wit and dynamic performances that made Fey and Morgan household names.

As Tracy Morgan put it, 30 Rock "saved" him, and this new show could be a significant milestone in his prolific career, alongside the steadfast support from his long-time collaborator and friend, Tina Fey.


Cynthia Erivo Will Headline This Year’s World Pride DC Festival

If you found yourself enchanted by Cynthia Erivo’s powerful voice on the big screen, you’re in luck—you’ll have the chance to hear her live, and for free, at the WorldPride DC 2025 festival.
This year’s WorldPride, which will span from Saturday, May 17, to Sunday, June 8, marks the festival’s 50th year in operation. To celebrate the milestone, nonprofit Capital Pride Alliance has promised a star-studded lineup of performances during the festival’s culminating weekend.

Erivo will perform on the Capitol Stage after the WorldPride parade on Saturday, June 7. Her act will be part of a two-day, free-to-attend concert and street fair across multiple DC music venues.
Other marquee celebrations across the month include DC Black Pride, Trans Pride Washington DC, and a choral festival featuring the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC.

“Even more exciting headline announcements to come,” reads the WorldPride website. “This is just the start!”


Hannah Berger Responds to Backlash After Awkward Megan Thee Stallion Oscars 2025 Interview Goes Viral
Hannah Berner is apologizing after an awkward interview with Megan Thee Stallion went viral.
The 33-year-old Giggly Squad podcast host spoke out following intense backlash on social media for her choice of words when interviewing the 30-year-old “Body” rapper on the red carpet at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party on Sunday (March 2) in Los Angeles.

During the interview, Hannah pointed out that she watched Megan‘s In Her Words Prime Video documentary, and excitedly said “your music has literally — when I want to fight someone, I listen to your music.”
Megan responded with: “Because you want to throw that fighting s—t out the window and you want to get cute and be a bad b—h.”
Hannah went on and said: “When people are talking s—t, I go, ‘Turn on Megan Thee Stallion!’”
Many viewers felt that the interaction was a “microaggression,” labeling it as “racist” and expressing confusion and anger for associating Megan‘s music with fighting, which is not subject matter she brings up in her songs.

Others also pointed out that Megan even intentionally tried to sway the conversation at least twice to the actual subject matter of her songs, saying “Body-ody-ody, I look beautiful, I look so great!”
Megan has even spoken out about her aversion to fighting in the past.

“My God let me tell you fighting is so ugly,” she said in a 2020 interview with Genius. “Look, nails long. Girls is paying $80 to get their nails done… Do you know nails just go up.”
Less than one week later, Hannah spoke out on her Instagram Story.
“Interviewing Megan Thee Stallion was a dream of mine. I love her music and It’s my go to whenever I need to boost my confidence before a show,” she began.

“Looking back at the interview, I wish I used any other word except ‘fight’ to describe how her songs impact me.”
“It was a careless choice of words and though there was no ill intent, I recognize and acknowledge that what I said has a deeper meaning and I am so sorry to Megan. I appreciate everyone who brought this to my attention,” she went on to say.


Dolly Parton Issues Statement Following Death of Her Husband Carl Dean

Dolly Parton spoke out following the loss of her longtime husband and love Carl Dean.
On Monday (March 3), the husband of the country music icon passed away at the age of 82.
They kept their relationship out of the spotlight. However, he and Dolly have been together for over 60 years.

She took to social media on Thursday (March 6) to issue a statement and to thank fans and loved ones for their support.
“This is a love note to family, friends, and fans. Thank you for all the messages, cards, and flowers that you’ve sent to pay your respects for the loss of my beloved husband Carl. I can’t reach out personally to each of you but just know it has meant the world to me. He is in God’s arms now and I am okay with that. I will always love you,” she wrote in a post on Instagram.

Our continued thoughts go out to Dolly and everyone else who knew and loved Carl at this difficult time.


Director Responds After Prince Documentary Shelved Over Concerns of ‘Generational Harm’ to His Image
*Oscar-winning filmmaker Ezra Edelman is addressing the cancellation of his long-awaited Prince documentary after Netflix and the singer’s estate decided to go in a different direction.
During a March 4 appearance on the Pablo Torre Finds Out podcast, Edelman reacted to the decision, which was announced last month. His documentary, years in the making, was shelved in favor of a different project on the legendary Purple Rain artist.

The film had been described as an in-depth look at Prince’s career and personal life, incorporating rare vault footage and interviews with over 70 people. A 2023 report from The New York Times detailed how the documentary explored Prince’s childhood struggles, the loss of his infant son with ex-wife Mayte Garcia, and even allegations of physical abuse from a former girlfriend.

One particularly shocking moment reportedly included an interview with singer Jill Jones, who alleged that Prince punched her repeatedly during an incident in 1984.
Despite the documentary’s deep dive into Prince’s life, Netflix ultimately decided to move forward with a different vision for the project, leaving Edelman’s work unreleased.

“The estate, here’s the one thing they were allowed to do: Check the film for factual inaccuracies. Guess what? They came back with a 17-page document full of editorial issues — not factual issues,” he said, per PEOPLE. “You think I have any interest in putting out a film that is factually inaccurate?”
Edelman stated that the estate’s concerns revolve around “who has control” over the documentary’s content.
“This is reflective of Prince himself, who was notoriously one of the most famous control freaks in the history of artists,” he added. 

“The lawyer who runs the estate essentially said he believed that this would do generational harm to Prince,” said Edelman. “In essence, that the portrayal of Prince in this film — what people learn about him — would deter younger viewers and fans, potentially, from loving Prince. They would be turned off.”
He continued, “This is, I think, the big issue here: I’m like, ‘This is a gift — a nine-hour treatment about an artist that was, by the way, f—ing brilliant.’ Everything about who you believe he is is in this movie. You get to bathe in his genius. And yet you also have to confront his humanity, which he, by the way, in some ways, was trapped in not being able to expose because he got trapped in his own myth about who he was to the world, and he had to maintain it.”


Jamie Foxx to Develop and Produce Content for Fox Entertainment Studios

*Jamie Foxx has signed a new first-look deal with Fox Entertainment Studios, extending his long-standing relationship with the network. 
The award-winning actor and producer will now develop and produce both scripted and unscripted content through his production company, Foxxhole Productions.
“We are ready and excited to kick-start this very promising new creative partnership with Jamie as we build on Fox’s longtime association with him — initiated by our CEO Rob Wade and network president Michael Thorn,” said Fernando Szew, president and head of Fox Entertainment Studios, per Deadline.

“Jamie is a renowned multifaceted talent, so as a studio, we want to support his tremendous creativity with access to the full scope of our genres, formats and brands. Together we will deliver unexpected, unforgettable content to audiences everywhere. At Fox Entertainment Studios we are expanding our reach and portfolio, and this is a keystone creative partnership as we build.” 

Under the new deal, Foxx will act as an executive producer and originator for scripted series in various genres, including comedy, drama, and animation, with Fox Entertainment Studios securing first rights to the projects. Additionally, the deal grants exclusive rights to Foxx’s unscripted content through Fox Alternative Entertainment.
Foxx has worked with Fox for several years, co-hosting the game show “Beat Shazam” with his daughter Corinne and executive producing “Alert: Missing Persons Unit,” which is set to enter its third season. He also starred in “In Living Color” during the early 90s.

Earlier this year, Foxx topped Netflix’s charts this week with his new spy movie, “Back in Action,” co-starring Cameron Diaz.
Deadline reports that from January 13 to 19, the film garnered an impressive 46.8 million views, making it the platform’s most-watched title during that period. It dethroned “The Secret Life of Pets 2” from the top spot on the English films list. Netflix also revealed that “Back in Action” had the strongest opening weekend for an English-language film since “The Adam Project.”
It’s been nearly a decade since Diaz last appeared on the big screen, and she’s making her return with “Back in Action,” reuniting with her Foxx, her “Any Given Sunday” and “Annie” co-star. 


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
I Feel Pretty

This man means business, and there's no way he's going to get caught anywhere not looking fabulous!


HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM 

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

The Daily Buzz For Mar 6 ☕📰☕

FOLLOW US ON BLUESKY!

#FASHIONFAB: Debra Shaw in Dior Cruise 2025 
Maria Grazia Chiuri staged her Dior Cruise 2025 show in the gardens of Drummond Castle in Scotland, with bagpipes making the occasion. The winter Luxe issue of Grazia UK [IG] features top model Debra Shaw wearing key pieces from the Dior Cruise 2025 collection, lensed by Silvana Trevale [IG] at the Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire, Scotland.
“Scotland is an important reference in the fashion world,” Chiuri told press before the 2025 Cruise show, “and I wanted to interpret it in a different way. For my generation, it’s so associated with punk, but there is another way to go into it, and that’s through the textiles.
Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri Always Finds the Unique Makers for Her Collections

In fashion we concentrate so much on shape, Chiuri continued: “But textiles are a big part of our job—what you can do with them, and the changes you can make through them.” So, Chiuri went to the traditional—the tartan and cashmeres, the tweeds and the Argyles—and deftly filtered them into a collection which variously drew on the geopolitics of fabrics.

Her phrase “the geopolitics of fabrics” drove Anne into a deep research breakthroughs on women’s history.
The history of women living in what is now Scotland — we learned that beyond their work in domestic responsibilities, women were also active in providing agricultural labor.

Less known is the reality women were also involved in trade and crafts. Many women engaged in spinning, weaving, and dyeing, producing textiles that were used within their communities or traded for other goods. In some instances, women could wield significant influence within the clan structure, particularly in matrilineal societies where lineage and inheritance were traced through the mother's line. Moreover, women could act as mediators and peacekeepers, using their familial connections to resolve disputes.

It’s indisputable that women’s early lives in Scotland were a more expansive tableau of responsibilities and influence.
The period Middle Ages is considered to begin with the fall of the Western Roman Empire and ends around the start of the Renaissance, generally spanning from 500 AD to 1500 AD. It begins with the fall of the Western Roman Empire and ends with the start of the Renaissance. 

Sending Love Always to Maria Grazia Chiuri at Dior
Yes, ALL of these questions, research and learnings were triggered by a Grazia UK fashion story featuring Maria Grazia Chiuri’s Dior Cruise 2025 show, held in the gardens of Drummond Castle in Scotland, with bagpipes making the occasion.  


#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Finally Reveals Identity of Her New Younger Boyfriend After Almost a Year of Dating!
Cynthia Bailey is ready to share her new romance with the world!
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star, 58, was recently spotted at Los Angeles International Airport with her new man, LePrince, a musician from the Netherlands.
“He’s a musician. He has music out. He’s from Amsterdam,” Bailey shared with a photographer in a video published by TMZ on Tuesday, March 4.

“It’s good,” she added of their relationship. “We’ve been dating for almost a year now. It wasn’t easy [to keep it under wraps].”
LePrince told the outlet that he is a singer, producer and DJ. According to his website, he is 38 and specializes in a fusion of reggae and electronic music. LePrince was inspired to become a musician after seeing Michael Jackson perform.
Bailey has previously teased her romance with LePrince, however, she kept his identity a tight secret.
“I’m very much in love,” Bailey exclusively told Us Weekly on the Bravo Fan Fest red carpet in Miami last November “You know, dating is really not easy, especially at this point in my life.”

She continued, “I am, you know, a little up there, [a] woman of a certain age, but I will say that I just said to God, send me my person. I didn’t give him a list or anything, and Amsterdam showed up, and it’s been almost eight months now, and I’m really happy.”
During a panel later in the night, Bailey gushed over her new beau and revealed that he is on the younger side. “I’m dating an amazing young guy, from Amsterdam,” she said. “I wasn’t looking for a young guy. He found me.”

Speaking with Us, Bailey shared the story of how she first met the younger man. “Well, we actually saw each other for the first time at an event in L.A. and we didn’t talk, but he did slide into my DMs a couple of days later, and it worked,” she said.
Bailey returns as a “friend” on the Real Housewives of Atlanta season 16, which premieres on Bravo on Sunday, March 9, and shared with Us that we might see LePrince make an appearance.
“You might see some snippets,” she teased. “I come back as an official ‘friend’ for season 16 and there was, like, several times where I was FaceTiming with him. They may have caught him on the show.”

Bailey was previously married to Peter Thomas from 2010 to 2017 and Mike Hill from 2020 to 2022. Both marriages were captured on RHOA.


#MusicNews: Jon B. Announces ‘Waiting on You’ Album Release Date!

R&B veteran Jon B. has finally confirmed a release date for his new album, Waiting On You. 
The project will be released independently March 21 via Vibezelect. 
As previously reported, Waiting On You will include features from Tank, Donell Jones, Rick Ross, and Alex Isley. 

According to press materials, the 11-track album is “a continuation of his artistic expression and musicianship that has captivated the hearts of R&B enthusiasts since his debut album, Bonafide.”
Tank appears on the title track, which was released in November 2023 as the album’s lead single. 
“‘Waiting On You’ describes the feeling of anticipating love in your life, the seasons of waiting,” Jon B. explained. “No matter the timing, even when it seems like it’s taking forever, you have to be patient for your partner in life. Not giving up makes it all worth the wait.”

In November 2024, Jon B. released the second single “Natural Drug,” which he wrote and produced by himself. 
Regarding the song, he said, “There is no aphrodisiac like the natural drug a woman is. Through her love, inspiration naturally flows to me. She is why I dig so deep in my creativity, searching for the gems that reflect her brilliance.”
Donell Jones appears on “Understand,” which was released back in April 2019. “We put out [‘Understand’] featuring Donell Jones, and then everything shut down with the pandemic,” Jones told BET.

“After being shut down for two years, I went back to make sure I was happy with the project. It gave me an excuse to put a magnifying glass on it. I also got the opportunity to work with Rick Ross, which was an incredible experience.”

Waiting On You will mark Jon B.’s first album in 13 years, following 2012’s Comfortable Swagg. The latter album included the singles “Only One” and the titular track. 

Jon B.’s new album will arrive just two months before the 30th anniversary of his debut album, Bonafide. 
The gold-selling album, released in May 1995 via 550 Music/Epic Records, included his Grammy-nominated hit “Someone to Love” featuring Babyface.
The smooth ballad, written and produced by Babyface was nominated for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals at the 38th Grammy Awards. It also peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Jon B.’s Waiting On You Album Tracklist
Chozen
Hills to the Hood featuring Rick Ross
Still Got Love
Priceless
Show Me featuring Alex Isley
Waiting on You featuring Tank
Natural Drug
Pick Me Up
Bandit In the Night
Understand 
Drift’n


#HipHopNews: Doechii Finally Releases ‘Anxiety’ Single: Listen
Doechii has finally dropped the official version of her ‘Anxiety’ song which has been making waves on the internet for a while.
‘Anxiety’ has been trending on TikTok over the last two to three weeks after it resurfaced. The origin is Doechii performing the raw version five years ago on her YouTube channel where she sampled Gotye‘s Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit ‘Somebody That I Used to Know’ featuring Kimbra from 2011.

“Swamp I heard y’all loud n clear !” as she announced the release an hour before dropping the song on DSPs. “Anxiety/ Keep on trying me/ I feel it quietly/ Tryna silence me, yeah/ My anxiety/ Can’t shake it off of me/ Somebody’s watching me/ And my anxiety,” the GRAMMY winner sings on the track (similar vocal also appears on this feature on the Sleepy Hallow track). 
Listen to it HERE 


Southern University Frat Members Reportedly Lied About Where Pledge’s Death Took Place

Additional details have emerged regarding the death of Caleb Wilson, a Southern University student who died last week during a “fraternity ritual.” WAFB reports a source close to the situation said fraternity members initially fabricated important facts about what happened that night.

On Feb. 27, Wilson collapsed after being punched in the chest during an alleged ritual for Omega Psi Phi as a pledge. He was transported to Baton Rouge General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Originally, the fraternity members reported the situation took place off campus at a park. However, the source stated to WAFB that the ritual took place at a warehouse and none of the members were ever at the park that night.

They allegedly “gathered at an undisclosed location to discuss the events of the evening,” where they created the story that Wilson collapsed at the park. An investigation was launched shortly after his confirmed death and is ongoing
Wilson was a junior at Southern University majoring in mechanical engineering. He was also a musician and a member of Human Jukebox, the school’s marching band. His family has shared his talents took him to performances in Europe and Cuba, and he even has played alongside Trombone Shorty.

“The loss of Caleb has left an unimaginable void in our hearts, but your kindness and compassion have provided some solace,” the Wilson family said in a statement. “Caleb was a bright and talented young man with a promising future ahead of him. His passion for life, his dedication to his studies, and his love for music and the Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ Marching Band were just a few of the many qualities that made him an extraordinary person.”

The HBCU also issued a statement at the time of his death, writing, “Southern University and A&M College is aware of an off-campus incident that may have resulted in the death of student Caleb Wilson, a junior from New Orleans majoring in mechanical engineering. The campus community extends condolences to his family, classmates, and loved ones.”


Several House Democrats Protest And Leave During Donald Trump’s Address To Congress!
During Donald Trump‘s address to Congress on Tuesday (March 4), several Democrats exited the House chamber in an apparent protest to his administration.
Among those who walked out were Rep. Jasmine Crockett (Texas), Maxwell Frost (Fla.), Melanie Stansbury (New Mexico), LaMonica McIver (N.J.), and Lateefah Simon (Calif.). Some of them removed their formal attire to reveal black t-shirts with messages like “No Kings live here” and “RESIST.”

In a statement, per The Hill, Frost stated, “Donald Trump is many things— a liar, a grifter, a wanna-be-dictator— but no matter how hard he tries and how many Republicans in Congress bend the knee and kiss the ring: he will never be king. Tonight, the American people saw a desperate liar stand in front of a podium and spit out excuse after excuse as to why he hasn’t been able to make your life better.”
House Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (Fla.) claimed the vacated seats as Rep. Nancy Mace (S. C.) tweeted, “Jasmine Crockett and Maxwell Frost just left. I love when the trash takes itself out.”

As Trump continued his remarks, other Democratic Representatives left including Mark Pocan (Wisc.), Lloyd Doggett (Texas), Judy Chu (Calif.), Ayanna Pressley (Mass.), Veronica Escobar (Texas), Pramila Jayapal (Wash.), Ilhan Omar (Minn.), Jamie Raskin (Md.), and Jared Huffman (Calif.).
Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) had been escorted out earlier at the request of Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) when Green “interrupted Trump’s address and refused to sit down,” The Hill reported. Other protests erupted within the chamber as other Democrats held up signs that read “Save Medicaid” and “Musk Steals.”


Billy Porter’s mom was told she’d burn for loving him

Billy Porter’s mother was told she would “burn in the fiery pits of hell for loving her gay son”. These cruel words came from members of her own community who couldn’t reconcile their religious beliefs with a mother’s unconditional love.

“My mother was the greatest woman who ever walked the face of this earth,” the 55-year-old actor and singer – who came out as gay when he was 16 – has paid tribute to the way his Christian mother Cloerinda Jean Johnson Porter-Ford accepted his sexuality despite her own religious beliefs. Her strength in the face of such opposition became a guiding force in Porter’s life and career.
He told the ‘Dish from Waitrose’ podcast: “She is the personification of what true Christianity means. She didn’t understand me. She didn’t understand my gayness. She didn’t understand this theatre thing. She didn’t understand any of it. And yet and still, she was my biggest supporter. She said, ‘Whatever God has called you to do, and I believe you when you say that to me, go do that’.” Parental acceptance can be life-changing for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating their identities.

“And I’m so grateful that she lived long enough to see the fruits of her labor. Cause it wasn’t easy for her, you know, her community was not kind to her. You know, they would call her on her telephone and tell her that she was going to burn in the fiery pits of hell for loving her gay son and she did it anyway.” Many religious LGBTQ+ individuals and their families often face discrimination within their faith communities.
Billy’s mother died in February 2024, aged 79, but the Broadway star has revealed she “really got to see” his success before her death. Her passing came after witnessing her son’s numerous accomplishments, including his Tony Award win and Emmy-winning role in “Pose.”

For the last eight years of her life, she was in the Actors Fund nursing home in Englewood, New Jersey, and it was there she really understood her son’s achievements on stage. The Actors Fund, now known as Entertainment Community Fund, has provided a supportive community for entertainment professionals and their families for decades.

He added: “Because she wasn’t in the business, she didn’t really realize – and this is before like the television and the fashion and all of this, this was like ‘Kinky Boots’. But like, I’d been in the theatre business and everybody knew me for like 28 years at that point, right? So, she’s at the Actors Fund nursing home with all of these-old theatre people and blah, blah, blah, blah. Like four or five months in, she calls me, and she said, ‘Son, these people have found out that I am your mother. And these white people are losing their minds!’ She’s like, ‘Who are you?’ ” Porter’s role in “Kinky Boots” earned him a Tony Award, marking a pivotal moment in his long career.
In 2017, the ‘Pose’ star told how his mother was “born with a degenerative disability that has only progressed and worsened”, but her drive inspired him. Her perseverance through physical challenges taught Porter resilience that would serve him throughout his career in an often challenging industry.

In an interview for Build Series, he said at the time: “That woman has got out of bed every single day of her life and has fought for her life when everybody on the planet said that he shouldn’t even bother. I don’t know how to be anything else when you have an example like that. You can’t be anything else.” Strong family support systems can significantly impact quality of life for those living with chronic conditions.

Dish from Waitrose is available on all podcast providers. The podcast features conversations with notable personalities about their relationships with food and family.
Porter‘s story highlights the powerful impact of parental acceptance, particularly within religious communities where LGBTQ+ issues can be contentious. Familial support is one of the most significant factors in LGBTQ+ wellbeing.

The Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award-winning performer continues to honor his mother’s legacy through his advocacy work and artistic expressions. In recent interviews, Porter has emphasized the importance of creating spaces where faith and LGBTQ+ identity can coexist harmoniously.
His mother’s example of love transcending doctrine has become central to Porter’s personal philosophy and public messaging about inclusion and acceptance. As he continues his celebrated career spanning Broadway, television, music, and fashion, her influence remains evident in both his artistic choices and his activism.


Mike Epps confirms that ‘Last Friday’ is in production
Comedian Mike Epps has confirmed what fans have been waiting over two decades for: Ice Cube has finally gotten the green light to make Last Friday. The original ‘Friday’ film spawned a litany of stars
Epps starred in the second and third installments of the comedy classic that began in 1995 with Friday that starred household names like Ice Cube, Chris Tucker, John Witherspoon, Bernie Mac, Tommy Lister Jr., Faizon Love, Regina King, Nia Long, Anna Marie Horsford and many others.

Epps, 54, was able to parlay his starring roles as Day-Day Jones into a prosperous career in films and comedy specials, most notably All About the Benjamins, Roll Bounce, Meet the Blacks, Hangover, Soul Men and Uncle Drew. Epps also used that platform to power his many comedy specials, the latest of which he is promoting on “The Breakfast Club” morning radio show.
‘Friday’ has finally been green-lit after years of rotting on the shelves
“The Breakfast Club” host Charlamagne Tha God wasted no time asking if the fourth and final installment of the Friday franchise was going to be made.

“He called me the other day, said we just finished the deal,” Epps said about the conversation he had with Ice Cube. “So, we doing the last Friday, man. And big shout-out to Cube; that’s another brother that has put so many brothers on, man, and don’t really get the props for it. Put me, Chris Tucker, Bernie Mac, I mean name ’em. This dude gave dudes opportunities.”

Epps said Ice Cube, 55, has yet to send over the script, but that the deal has been signed and shooting is imminent. Epps told the hosts that he wants Friday to continue to introduce newer comics to a wider audience.
“I haven’t seen the script, but I’m pretty sure it’s good,” Epps said. “And we’re gonna bring in the new comics. We’re gonna put the DC Young Flys and all of them in with the OGs. It’s going to be a good a– time.”

Will Chris Tucker reprise his revered role of Smokey?
One of the biggest wonders of the final Friday film is if Chris Tucker will reprise the iconic role as Smokey. Tucker, 53, rocketed to superstardom by playing in box office blockbuster films such as the Rush Hour trilogy, Dead Presidents and Money Talks.

“People still love Chris Tucker, he’s still Smokey,” Epps said. “He laid it down, he positioned me to do it. So Chris, if you’re listening, we need you, baby boy. Come on back.”
To be sure, Tucker is open to making a comeback with Smokey, as he stated on Atlanta’s “Big Tigger” radio show last year.
“It’s studios, and they gotta want to do it, and then it’s producers and all that stuff,” Tucker said. “It’s a lot that goes with it.”


Faith Evans & CJ Wallace Honor Voletta Wallace With Heartfelt Tributes

R&B singer Faith Evans recently shared a heartfelt tribute to Ms. Voletta Wallace, the mother of the legendary rapper Notorious B.I.G., following her passing on February 21, 2025.
Voletta Wallace, who had been in hospice care, transitioned to her heavenly home at her residence in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

In a touching message posted on her Instagram, Faith Evans, who was married to Biggie from 1994 to 1997, expressed her deep admiration for the matriarch of the Wallace family.
Although words cannot truly capture the incredible impact you have had on all of us, I will always remember your strength, effortless grace, and your commitment to protecting BIG’s legacy.
May your spirit live on in the lives you’ve touched, and your wisdom continue to be a lesson to us all.

Take your well-deserved rest, Ms. Wallace, with BIG once again by your side—until we meet again. 🕊️🕊️
Alongside Faith Evans, CJ Wallace, the son of Notorious B.I.G. and Voletta’s grandson, also took to social media to share an emotional tribute to his late grandmother.
In his message, CJ reflected on his relationship with Voletta and the strength she had shown throughout her life:

You prepared me for this moment more than you know. It’s crazy to think during our last conversation, you barely brought up your health.
You never wanted me to worry, and I always wondered why you did that. They don’t make ‘em like you anymore. The most gentle gangster ever created.

How can one have so much grace yet be so stern? You carried this family for a long time. You can rest easy knowing you did more than enough.I wish I would’ve called more. I wish I would’ve asked more questions. But it puts my mind at ease to know you are no longer in pain. Love you, Mema 🤍🧶🕊️
Ms. Voletta Wallace, who was predeceased by her son, Christopher Wallace (Notorious B.I.G.), who was tragically shot in Los Angeles on March 9, 1997, will always be remembered for her profound influence on the family and her efforts to preserve Biggie’s legacy.Mike Epps confirms that ‘Last Friday’ is in production


NBA superstar Kyrie Irving suffers season-ending injury 
NBA superstar and Dallas guard Kyrie Irving learned Tuesday that it was a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury to his left knee that he suffered during the Mavericks’ home loss to the Sacramento Kings on Monday, March 3.
Irving made two free throws before being helped off the court by teammates. Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd lamented the team’s spate of injuries this season after the Kings won 122-98.
“The injuries that we’ve had this season, guys are trying to hold it together,” Kidd said. “You get other bodies back, and it just seems that every time we’re close to getting someone back, someone goes down. Both Hardy and Kyrie go down, and so we’re running out of bodies here, but guys keep fighting.”

Irving could miss beginning of next season
ACL injuries can take nine months, sometimes even longer, to heal, but a great athlete like Irving may push himself to be ready for the start of the 2025-2026 NBA season, which begins in November, eight months from now.
Irving, 32, averaged 24.7 points this season and was named to his ninth NBA All-Star team earlier in the year. He will enter the final year of his contract next season and is eligible for an extension this summer. The injury likely will affect the team’s decisions on whether to keep him or let him go.

It has been a tumultuous five-week period for the Mavericks, as they traded Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis at the beginning of February.  Davis was injured in his first game with the Mavericks and has yet to return.  Irving is gone for the season, and fans will not see the pair on the floor together until next season.


Basketball hits Jennifer Hudson in face during Knicks game

Jennifer Hudson was hit in the face by a basketball during Tuesday’s New York Knicks game in a courtside experience that was anything but common.
The 43-year-old titular talk show host and rapper beau Common were caught off guard when the ball flew into the crowd, with Knicks Point Guard Miles McBride rushing over to try and stop the ball from making contact with Hudson’s face, according to TNT footage making the rounds on social media.

Despite his best efforts, the 24-year-old athlete failed to save the day as the ball knocked Hudson’s glasses off her face. “Protect Jennifer Hudson!” said one commentator, while another remarked that the glasses “looked real expensive.”
The Oscar-winning couple was a bit shaken, with 52-year-old Common shaking McBride’s hand as a reeling Hudson folded her glasses against her shirt and blinked and could be seen mouthing, “Wow,” as Common rubbed her shoulder.

The commentators determined that the “Silo” star, real name Lonnie Rashid Lynn, “tried” to shield Hudson.
Playback footage also shows both Hudson and Common bracing for the incoming impact of the ball.
The Bleacher Report’s tweet showing the incident, which took place before the Golden State Warriors beat the Knicks 114-102, has been viewed at least 2.2 million times on X alone.

The “Dreamgirls” star and Common confirmed their relationship in January 2024, though they were initially linked in 2022 while working on the film, “Breathe.” That year was a big one for Hudson, as it also solidified her EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony winner) when she won the Tony for Best Musical as a producer for “A Strange Loo


David Arquette Confirmed To Return For 'Scream 7'
David Arquette is coming back from the dead in "Scream" franchise. The actor will be reviving his role as Dewey Riley, a character who became a cornerstone of the series since the 1996 movie before it met his demise in the fifth installment.
Alongside him, Scott Foley and Matthew Lillard are also returning, despite both characters facing brutal endings in earlier films.

Kevin Williamson, who originally penned "Scream," steps into the director's chair for this eagerly awaited entry, set to hit theaters in 2026. The plot details remain under wraps.
Mason Gooding even hinted to Variety, "It feels like an amplification of what's came before, and there's no better indication of that than Kevin Williamson, who wrote the original, coming back now to direct."
While some faces are returning, others won't be making a comeback. Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, stars of the first two reboot movies, are not part of the seventh film due to various commitments and controversies. Additionally, Patrick Dempsey's return as detective Mark Kincaid was thwarted by scheduling conflicts.

The ensemble cast of the upcoming "Scream 7" is a blend of franchise veterans and fresh faces. Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown are slated to return while newcomers like Mckenna Grace, Celeste O'Connor, Joel McHale, Asa Germann, Sam Rechner, and Anna Camp are joining the fray.
Before Arquette's return was confirmed, his ex-wife Cox had advocated for his character revival, pointing out Dewey's importance to the fans. "Dewey is so loved by 'Scream' fans. They have to figure it out," Cox told Variety.

The franchise's longevity and renewed vigor are apparent with its sixth installment achieving the highest domestic box office gross while the "Scream" films have collectively grossed more than $900 million worldwide.
With this new ensemble cast, "Scream 7" promises to be a blood-curdling, heart-stopping addition to the franchise. Mark your calendars for February 27, 2026 - the ghost face stalking the shadows is far from done.


Winnie Harlow Details Kyle Kuzma Proposal, Reveals She Was Clueless & 'Super Sick' at the Time!

Winnie Harlow is opening up about her engagement to Kyle Kuzma!
The 30-year-old model and the 29-year-old basketball star got engaged over Valentine’s Day weekend a few weeks ago.
While appearing on the latest episode of Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper, Winnie shared details about how the engagement went down, how sick she was and how she had no idea it was about to happen.

“It’s so funny because I’m telling the story, but I was the last one to know about it. Everyone, my whole team was like, ‘Did you not realize that we’ve been avoiding you for the last two weeks?’ I was none the wiser. It was so cute,” Winnie dished. “Kyle told me that he wanted to go to Turks for Valentine’s Day and I was like, ‘That is so cute.’ It’s my favorite place other than Jamaica, because I’m Jamaican, but we went. I got super sick.”

“Classic. I got super sick and I feel like everyone was super scared like, ‘Is this gonna ruin the trip?’ and Kyle was like, ‘Don’t worry. Once this goes down, she will forget she’s completely sick,’ and rightfully so. He was so right. This whole trip was incredible,” she continued. “I got ready. I took a shower in the morning and he came into the bathroom and he was like, ‘You look good,’ and I was like, ‘Thank you. This is gonna be a good trip. We’re gonna have a great time.’ He was like, ‘Yeah. We’re gonna have a great time. This is gonna be a great trip.’”

She then went in on the actual proposal.
“We were getting on the plane to go to the trip and he opened the door and it was decorated to the nines and I was like, ‘This is so cute for Valentine’s Day. Babe, like stop.’ I already started watering up, but it was like, ‘Okay, stop. Get it together,’” Winnie shared. “He wants to read me a poem that he wrote, and so Kyle just got traded from the Wizards to Milwaukee and we were joking, you know, he’s like, ‘I’m going off to work now. I’ll see you soon. Can’t wait for you to come to Milwaukee.’ I was like, ‘Write me a love letter, my sergeant. Send me a love letter,’ and it was just a joke, you know, but he took that and wrote me a love letter to propose. It was the cutest ever. I was tearing up, crying, but crying just because it was so cute. I still had no idea.”

Alex interjected, “So first, you’re like, he decks out this plane, you’re on this gorgeous PJ. You’re like, ‘Okay. My man is really spoiling me.’ Then he is reading you a love letter, and you’re like, ‘I am so in love with you.’ Already you’re happy. You’re ready to go. You’re like, ‘I’m good.’”

“Exactly. It’s gonna be a great trip. Absolutely. This is gonna be an amazing Valentine’s Day,” Winnie continued. “It was the day before [Valentine's Day] … So, at the end of the poem, the way he wrote it, it was as if he was gonna say, ‘Will you be my Valentine?’ and it was, ‘Will you be my wife?’ and [I] literally just went into shock. I was already crying and just flooded with tears at that point and he pulled out the box, got down on one knee and I was like, ‘Yes.’ I don’t even need to see it. I don’t need to see it. Yes, yes, yes.”
Kyle even surprised her by having both of their families at the house in Turks & Caicos waiting for them to celebrate the engagement!


Justin Timberlake Reportedly Considering Drastic Career Move In Bid To Win Back Fans Amid Tour Issues

Justin Timberlake is reportedly reconsidering his solo act as he hopes to win back the hearts of his fans.
The singer came under fire from fans after he canceled the final show of his US tour at the last minute, claiming he was sick. He has also had to deal with a tumultuous period in his career after his DWI arrest.

Insiders now claim Justin Timberlake is planning to reunite with his old boyband NSYNC to get back in the good graces of fans.
Timberlake is said to be mulling over a major shift in his career as he looks to win fans over following some setbacks in his career.
The "SexyBack" singer has been in the news for all the wrong reasons recently, including when he left fans sneering after canceling his US tour in Columbus, Ohio, saying he was sick.

Before then, his Forget Tomorrow world tour had been riddled with issues, including an embarrassing wardrobe malfunction and low ticket sales.
Timberlake was also embroiled in a legal standoff after he was arrested and subsequently handed a DWAI charge, which he predicted was "going to ruin the tour."
Concertgoers were also not happy with him for performing too many new songs from his latest album instead of fan favorites.
He was said to be "embarrassed" as he asked fans to sing along, only to realize they didn't know the songs.
Timberlake also faced major criticism following the release of his ex Britney Spears' memoir, "The Woman In Me," where she claimed he cheated on her and that she had an abortion at 19 because he "wasn't ready" to be a father.

According to the Daily Mail, reports suggest the "Friends With Benefits" actor is now considering reuniting with his old boy band NSYNC in a move to keep his career alive and win fans over.
A source close to Timberlake's camp told the news outlet that he "understands why people are upset with him for canceling some of his shows or disappointed in his concerts for not having enough of his old music."
Despite that, Timberlake is allegedly not planning to change his set list and refuses to apologize for playing new tunes as the insider explained that he "loves his recent album."

"He made a decision on what his tour was going to be all about, and he stuck with it," the source said. "He loves his recent album and loves performing it."
However, the response to the album "made him realize what needs to be next, and that's an NSYNC reunion."
The insider explained that Timberlake knows a reunion will "get him back on track and in the good graces with fans that he may have lost," adding that "it will reinvigorate his career, and he is ready for a reset."

Timberlake, alongside JC Chasez, Joey Fatone, Chris Kirkpatrick, and Lance Bass, made up NSYNC, which was formed in 1995, before going on an indefinite hiatus in 2002.
They were given a run for their money by their biggest rival, Backstreet Boys, who have announced a massive takeover of the Las Vegas Sphere this summer, including multiple sold-out tour dates.
The source who spoke to the news outlet confirmed that Timberlake will "monitor" their shows "because when NSYNC comes back, there is a big decision on whether or not they should tour or have a residency."

They added that when he rounds up his tour, which includes shows in Argentina, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and more, Timberlake will spend time with his family, consider doing a film, and potentially "reunite with his boys."
According to the Daily Mail, Lance Bass previously shared his hopes for their reunion, saying his "fingers [are] crossed."

The "Rock Your Body" hitmaker took to his Instagram account on Monday to celebrate his wife Jessica Biel, who turned 43. In the photo he shared, Timberlake and Biel gave couple goals as they engaged in an intimate hug.
"Happy Birthday to my rock. My best friend. My favorite. My GOAT. To the one that believes in me when I don't believe in myself… The one that makes me laugh like nobody else can. To the one that showed me a real love," he wrote.

Timberlake continued, "I adore you, my heart. Here's to many, many more!!! Happy Jess Day!!!!"
Biel thought the message was sweet, responding in her husband's comments section with a row of red heart emojis.
Timberlake's run-in with the law last year seemingly affected his relationship with Biel. However, a source told US Weekly they're back on solid ground and are "rebuilding trust" in their marriage.
"Jessica and Justin are spending more time together and are happier and more relaxed," the source shared, noting that his arrest tested their marriage.
"Justin has taken time to reevaluate his priorities," the insider continued. "He hasn't been going out as much and is staying in more with Jessica and the kids."

The "Palmer" actor is reportedly "finding new ways to connect" with his loved ones, as Biel is said to be supportive of him but has been holding him accountable.
"Jessica is showing patience and compassion while also maintaining firm expectations of him," the source explained, adding that the couple is "prioritizing their strength as a family."


Ashanti Reveals She Tried to Extend Olive Branch to Irv Gotti Before His Death

*Ashanti is sharing her feelings about her relationship with Irv Gotti in the months leading up to his passing. 
During an interview on Angie Martinez’s IRL, Ashanti reflected on the impact of Irv’s death, admitting she initially struggled to process it. Despite their complicated history, she revealed that she had ‘extended an olive branch’ to him before his passing.”

“I was really sad and I’m still sad that it ended like this, because there was a time where things were just amazing,” the singer said on the podcast. “And I know my heart always just wanted peace for both of us and for us to be cordial. I wished peace for him. I prayed for him to be at peace and you just don’t really see this – it really just came out of nowhere.”

Ashanti and Irv had a rocky history, especially after he publicly shared details about their past relationship in his Murder Inc. docuseries on BET. Despite the controversy, Ashanti said she still chose to “extend the olive branch.”
“I really wanted it to happen because like I said, we made history together,” she added. “That is infinite. Like, talking about my son – my son is gonna know that we made these records together! I’m sad that the last few years we weren’t seeing eye to eye. What I do know is that I tried. I do know that I extended the olive branch. I just want things to be cool.”


Melba Moore to Receive Legacy Award At Black Enterprise’s 19th Annual Women of Power Summit 

*Legendary singer Melba Moore is set to receive a tribute at BLACK ENTERPRISE’s 19th Annual Legacy Awards Gala that begins the 2025 Women of Power Summit in Las Vegas from March 5-9.
The gala honors iconic women who exemplify resilience, strength, and excellence. Moore’s 50-plus-year career has proven her legacy and power.
In 2023, she was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. First lady Michelle Obama also honored Moore, who spoke to her power as an artist and someone who lets her voice resonate in a world that may not always appreciate it.

“There is power in allowing yourself to be known and heard,” Obama wrote. “In owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.”
The thespian and singer has had a career of firsts, using her voice to travel the difficult road to success. Moore is the first Black American woman to win a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her work in “Purlie” in 1970.

In 1972, Moore hosted The Melba Moore/Clifton Davis Hour, a primetime variety show on CBS. In 1985, Moore was one of only three Black women nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Female Rock Performance category.
Some may forget the maverick’s accomplishments, but Moore’s voice is embedded in the community’s psyche as one of the singers of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” also known as the Negro National Anthem.

Though the song was written by James Weldon Johnson and first performed by the Stanton School Choir in 1900, Moore’s version is preserved in Congressional records for posterity.
At 79, Moore continues to perform internationally. “How do you say thank you?” she told Forbes. “And how do you inspire other people to do the same thing? It’s not all about you.”


#RIP:Texas Rep. Sylvester Turner Passes Away After Medical Emergency Following Trump’s Address to Congress
Texas Representative Sylvester Turner, the former Houston mayor, has died suddenly at 70 years old, just two months after joining Congress.
Current Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced Turner’s passing during a city council meeting on Wednesday, March 5. According to Whitmire, Turner was rushed to the hospital late Tuesday night, shortly after attending Trump’s address to Congress. He was later pronounced dead.

“This comes as a shock to everyone,” Whitmire said, adding that flags across Houston would be lowered to half-staff in his honor. “I would ask Houstonians to come together, pray for his family, and join us in celebrating this remarkable public servant.”
Turner, who served as Houston’s mayor from 2016 to 2024, was known for leading the city through major crises, including Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic. In November 2024, he was elected to represent Texas’ 18th congressional district, filling the seat left vacant after the passing of longtime Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who died of pancreatic cancer.

Turner’s cause of death has not yet been determined. He was previously diagnosed with bone cancer in 2022 and underwent surgery and radiation treatment.
A lifelong Houston resident, Turner attended the University of Houston before earning his law degree from Harvard Law School. He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Page Turner, and his grandson.



AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Cute Doggo

I need some booze and cold pizzas please?


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM

The Daily Buzz For Mar 7☕📰☕

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