KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN Starring Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna, and Tonatiuh Images
JLO needs a great revival. She’s made a lot of career and personal decisions over the last half decade that haven’t helped her brand, but we felt like she could get the public back with the right career move. Yes, that’s terribly cynical of us to say but we’re 99% sure she’d phrase it exactly the same way. The buzz on the movie version of the musical of The Kiss of the Spider Woman was pretty good and we were hoping that the early great reviews of Jenny from the Block were warranted. Turns out?
They absolutely were! J Lo got her Evita.
JLO needs a great revival. She’s made a lot of career and personal decisions over the last half decade that haven’t helped her brand, but we felt like she could get the public back with the right career move. Yes, that’s terribly cynical of us to say but we’re 99% sure she’d phrase it exactly the same way. The buzz on the movie version of the musical of The Kiss of the Spider Woman was pretty good and we were hoping that the early great reviews of Jenny from the Block were warranted. Turns out?
BREAKING: Sly Stone, Legendary Funk Soul Musician, Has Died at 82
The legendary singer, songwriter, and musician Sly Stone has died due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health issues. The leader of Sly and the Family Stone was 82 years old. Find a statement from Stone’s family below.
Sly Stone was born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, and he was raised in Vallejo, California. He ventured into the world of music when he worked as a disc jockey, in the 1960s, at San Francisco’s KSOL. He soon formed Sly and the Stoners, the band that morphed into the iconic Sly and the Family Stone.
Stone formed Sly and the Family Stone with three of his younger siblings, the singer and guitarist Freddie, singer and keyboardist Rose, and background singer Vet. They were joined in the band by bassist and vocalist Larry Graham, saxophonist Jerry Martini, trumpeter, Cynthia Robinson, and drummer Greg Errico.
Sly and the Family Stone were known for wearing flamboyant stage attire, as well as their adventurous blend of funk, R&B, soul, and Motown arrangements. Their music tackled a range of subject matter; from free-spirited dance tracks to songs confronting discrimination and political unrest.
Sly and the Family Stone released their first album, A Whole New Thing, in 1967. Several essential records—including Dance to the Music, the 1971 masterpiece There’s a Riot Goin’ On, and Fresh—followed before the original lineup released its last album, Small Talk, in 1974. The next year, Sly Stone released his debut solo album, High on You, which still featured a number of his Family Stone bandmates. Sly and the Family Stone released their final album, Ain’t but the One Way, in 1982.
Following the dissolution of his band, Sly Stone grew more reclusive, although he did attend the group’s 1993 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Later, in 2006, Stone gave his first public performance since 1987 at the 2006 Grammy Awards as part of a Family Stone tribute.
In recent years, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson released his documentary Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius). Additionally, Stone released his memoir, Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). Soon, High Moon Records will release The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967, an album capturing Sly and the Family Stone’s earliest known concert recording.
The legendary singer, songwriter, and musician Sly Stone has died due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health issues. The leader of Sly and the Family Stone was 82 years old. Find a statement from Stone’s family below.
Sly Stone was born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, and he was raised in Vallejo, California. He ventured into the world of music when he worked as a disc jockey, in the 1960s, at San Francisco’s KSOL. He soon formed Sly and the Stoners, the band that morphed into the iconic Sly and the Family Stone.
Stone formed Sly and the Family Stone with three of his younger siblings, the singer and guitarist Freddie, singer and keyboardist Rose, and background singer Vet. They were joined in the band by bassist and vocalist Larry Graham, saxophonist Jerry Martini, trumpeter, Cynthia Robinson, and drummer Greg Errico.
Sly and the Family Stone were known for wearing flamboyant stage attire, as well as their adventurous blend of funk, R&B, soul, and Motown arrangements. Their music tackled a range of subject matter; from free-spirited dance tracks to songs confronting discrimination and political unrest.
Sly and the Family Stone released their first album, A Whole New Thing, in 1967. Several essential records—including Dance to the Music, the 1971 masterpiece There’s a Riot Goin’ On, and Fresh—followed before the original lineup released its last album, Small Talk, in 1974. The next year, Sly Stone released his debut solo album, High on You, which still featured a number of his Family Stone bandmates. Sly and the Family Stone released their final album, Ain’t but the One Way, in 1982.
Following the dissolution of his band, Sly Stone grew more reclusive, although he did attend the group’s 1993 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Later, in 2006, Stone gave his first public performance since 1987 at the 2006 Grammy Awards as part of a Family Stone tribute.
In recent years, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson released his documentary Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius). Additionally, Stone released his memoir, Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). Soon, High Moon Records will release The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967, an album capturing Sly and the Family Stone’s earliest known concert recording.
Statement From the Family of Sly Stone:
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family. While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come.
Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable. In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2024.
We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time. We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly's life and his iconic music.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support.
#RHOP: Monique Samuels Announces Surprising Return To 'Real Housewives Of Potomac' Ahead Of Season 10
Bravo is pulling out all the stops to make season 10 of "The Real Housewives of Potomac" a must-watch series, and that includes bringing back Monique Samuels.
In a new statement, a source close to the reality star, who dramatically quit the show in 2020 after her physical altercation with Candiace Dillard Bassett, announced that Monique Samuels is ready to showcase a new side of herself when the show returns in late 2025.
According to PEOPLE, Samuels, 41, has officially signed on to appear as a "friend of the show" in the long-running reality series, which began shooting its tenth season in the summer of 2025.
Samuels' return comes as a major surprise to Bravo viewers, considering the last time fans saw her on the show was during the explosive aftermath of a physical fight with Bassett during season 5.
"Monique's in a totally different place now, and fans will see that," a source told the publication about Samuels' return. "She’s excited to show who she is now — not as a wife, not as just a mom, but as a woman starting over and taking on life on her own terms."
Samuels sparked widespread chaos in the Bravosphere in 2020, among viewers and her castmates, after physically assaulting Bassett amid an explosive conversation about their relationship.
The subsequent reunion was equally contentious, with host Andy Cohen criticizing Samuels for her behavior and what was perceived as a lack of remorse. Her reunion performance led many to believe the network would have fired her; however, she confirmed after the gathering finished airing that she had "received an offer," but decided not to return.
"... when I saw episode three of the reunion, I said, ‘You know what? I can’t do this anymore,’” she recalled.
Samuels also opened up about how challenging filming a reality show like "The Real Housewives of Potomac" can actually be.
“It’s not easy doing reality TV, and to be quite honest, I’m over it,” she told fans, according to a previous report. “I appreciate everything that people have done for me, everybody that’s been Team Monique — I love y’all, I thank y’all — but when you cross certain lines, there’s no going back."
During her initial run on the Bravo show, Samuels showcased her lavish lifestyle behind the gates in Potomac, Maryland, alongside her then-husband, former NFL player Chris Samuels, and their three children. This time around, however, the reality star is returning to the Potomac social circle as a single mother following her divorce from the ex-football player in 2023.
The Samuels spoke briefly about their marital woes during a season of the OWN reality show "Love & Marriage: DC," and in a 2022 YouTube video, they stated that they were "struggling in some areas."
"It was a lot of confusion, it was crazy building up to that 10-year marker of our marriage and when you’ve been married that long and when you have things that you’re like, 'Listen, this is being unmet or I’ve been unheard’ you start to get frustrated and it’s like, ‘Oh, my God, is this what life is going to be? I can’t take it anymore,'" the Bravo alum added. "So what y'all saw on 'Love & Marriage: DC' last season, it was my cry for help."
In a new statement, a source close to the reality star, who dramatically quit the show in 2020 after her physical altercation with Candiace Dillard Bassett, announced that Monique Samuels is ready to showcase a new side of herself when the show returns in late 2025.
According to PEOPLE, Samuels, 41, has officially signed on to appear as a "friend of the show" in the long-running reality series, which began shooting its tenth season in the summer of 2025.
Samuels' return comes as a major surprise to Bravo viewers, considering the last time fans saw her on the show was during the explosive aftermath of a physical fight with Bassett during season 5.
"Monique's in a totally different place now, and fans will see that," a source told the publication about Samuels' return. "She’s excited to show who she is now — not as a wife, not as just a mom, but as a woman starting over and taking on life on her own terms."
Samuels sparked widespread chaos in the Bravosphere in 2020, among viewers and her castmates, after physically assaulting Bassett amid an explosive conversation about their relationship.
The subsequent reunion was equally contentious, with host Andy Cohen criticizing Samuels for her behavior and what was perceived as a lack of remorse. Her reunion performance led many to believe the network would have fired her; however, she confirmed after the gathering finished airing that she had "received an offer," but decided not to return.
"... when I saw episode three of the reunion, I said, ‘You know what? I can’t do this anymore,’” she recalled.
Samuels also opened up about how challenging filming a reality show like "The Real Housewives of Potomac" can actually be.
“It’s not easy doing reality TV, and to be quite honest, I’m over it,” she told fans, according to a previous report. “I appreciate everything that people have done for me, everybody that’s been Team Monique — I love y’all, I thank y’all — but when you cross certain lines, there’s no going back."
During her initial run on the Bravo show, Samuels showcased her lavish lifestyle behind the gates in Potomac, Maryland, alongside her then-husband, former NFL player Chris Samuels, and their three children. This time around, however, the reality star is returning to the Potomac social circle as a single mother following her divorce from the ex-football player in 2023.
The Samuels spoke briefly about their marital woes during a season of the OWN reality show "Love & Marriage: DC," and in a 2022 YouTube video, they stated that they were "struggling in some areas."
"It was a lot of confusion, it was crazy building up to that 10-year marker of our marriage and when you’ve been married that long and when you have things that you’re like, 'Listen, this is being unmet or I’ve been unheard’ you start to get frustrated and it’s like, ‘Oh, my God, is this what life is going to be? I can’t take it anymore,'" the Bravo alum added. "So what y'all saw on 'Love & Marriage: DC' last season, it was my cry for help."
#MusicNews: Amerie Performs Classics on NPR’s ‘Tiny Desk’
Amerie stopped by NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C., for a nostalgic Tiny Desk concert.
The D.C. native, joined by legendary go-go band Backyard Band, opened her seven-song set with “Talkin’ to Me,” the second single from her beloved 2002 debut album, All I Have. Sticking to that era for a bit, she went into her summer-ready hit “Why Don’t We Fall in Love.”
After warming up the audience with familiar songs, she delivered a live rendition of her latest single “Mine,” produced by Troy Taylor. The mesmerizing track was released in March and will appear on her upcoming album (more on that later).
The latter half of the set was dedicated to her sophomore album, Touch, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in April. After performing the deep cut “Rolling Down My Face,” Amerie went into horn-filled “Talkin’ About.” She closed out the show with her go-go-driven hit “1 Thing,” which peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Amerie stopped by NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C., for a nostalgic Tiny Desk concert.
The D.C. native, joined by legendary go-go band Backyard Band, opened her seven-song set with “Talkin’ to Me,” the second single from her beloved 2002 debut album, All I Have. Sticking to that era for a bit, she went into her summer-ready hit “Why Don’t We Fall in Love.”
After warming up the audience with familiar songs, she delivered a live rendition of her latest single “Mine,” produced by Troy Taylor. The mesmerizing track was released in March and will appear on her upcoming album (more on that later).
The latter half of the set was dedicated to her sophomore album, Touch, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in April. After performing the deep cut “Rolling Down My Face,” Amerie went into horn-filled “Talkin’ About.” She closed out the show with her go-go-driven hit “1 Thing,” which peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
WATCH:
Amerie’s Tiny Desk Concert is part of NPR’s campaign for Black Music Month, where they will celebrate milestone anniversaries for landmark albums from artists such as Keyshia Cole, Beenie Man, E-40, Cece Winans and more.
Circling back to Touch, the album was released April 26, 2005, via Columbia Records. The Rich Harrison-produced album debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 with 124,000 copies sold in the first week. By August of the same year, Touch was certified gold by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies.
After releasing Touch, Amerie returned in 2009 with her third album, In Love & War. Since then, the singer and author has released a few EPs, including Drive (2016), 4AM Mulholland and After 4AM. The latter two projects dropped on the same day in 2018.
As noted above, Amerie is gearing up to release her next album independently, which will mark her first full-length project in over 15 years. She confirmed that she was back in the studio in November 2024, where she went live on Instagram to show her recording new tunes.
While we await the new album, Amerie is gearing up to publish her first novel, This Is Not A Ghost Story, on June 10 via William Morrow/HarperCollins Publishers.
“My novel is about a ghost—a Black man who is the first person to come back from the Other Side—but it isn’t really a ghost story. It’s an exploration of identity, race, celebrity culture, how we see the world and the people around us, and, perhaps most importantly, how we see ourselves,” she explained.
Amerie’s Tiny Desk Concert is part of NPR’s campaign for Black Music Month, where they will celebrate milestone anniversaries for landmark albums from artists such as Keyshia Cole, Beenie Man, E-40, Cece Winans and more.
Circling back to Touch, the album was released April 26, 2005, via Columbia Records. The Rich Harrison-produced album debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 with 124,000 copies sold in the first week. By August of the same year, Touch was certified gold by the RIAA for selling over 500,000 copies.
After releasing Touch, Amerie returned in 2009 with her third album, In Love & War. Since then, the singer and author has released a few EPs, including Drive (2016), 4AM Mulholland and After 4AM. The latter two projects dropped on the same day in 2018.
As noted above, Amerie is gearing up to release her next album independently, which will mark her first full-length project in over 15 years. She confirmed that she was back in the studio in November 2024, where she went live on Instagram to show her recording new tunes.
While we await the new album, Amerie is gearing up to publish her first novel, This Is Not A Ghost Story, on June 10 via William Morrow/HarperCollins Publishers.
“My novel is about a ghost—a Black man who is the first person to come back from the Other Side—but it isn’t really a ghost story. It’s an exploration of identity, race, celebrity culture, how we see the world and the people around us, and, perhaps most importantly, how we see ourselves,” she explained.
#HipHopNews: Lil Wayne Links Up With U2's Bono For 'Tha Carter VI'
Lil Wayne has finally dropped Tha Carter VI and its tracklist features an unexpected guest in the form of U2 lead singer, Bono.
The two link up on the anthemic “The Days” which was previously debuted during a promo for the NBA Finals.
On the track, Wayne references his status as an elder statesman in Hip Hop, rapping: “I ain’t getting younger, but I’m getting better / No time to waste that’s another man’s treasure / They say every dog has hit day.”
While Bono, who has previously worked with Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West, sings: “The time of our lives / The time of our youth / We bow down to beauty and truth / These are the days.”
Tha Carter VI is Wayne’s first solo album in five years and the first in his Tha Carter series since 2018.
The 19 track project features an array of guest artists including 2 Chainz, Kodak Black, Machine Gun Kelly and Big Sean.
Tha Carter VI also features more eclectic artists such as opera singer Andrea Bocelli, country star Jelly Roll and Fugees legend Wyclef Jean.
Fans were hoping that Wayne was going to reunite with Drake and Nicki Minaj on the project but no song featuring the Young Money trio made the album.
Weezy recently unveiled a new roster of Young Money talent as he looks to push the label into a modern new era.
In a new episode of his Young Money radio show on Apple Music, Wayne introduced and re-introduced all of his new artists, which also includes Jay Jones, Allan Cubas, Domiio, Poppy and Lucifena.
A trio of artists who have been with the label for years – Lil Twist, Cory Gunz and Euro – also remain with the storied label that was once home to Drake and Minaj as well as Tyga, DJ Khaled and Kidd Kidd.
None of the current crop of Young Money artists feature on Tha Carter VI.
The two link up on the anthemic “The Days” which was previously debuted during a promo for the NBA Finals.
On the track, Wayne references his status as an elder statesman in Hip Hop, rapping: “I ain’t getting younger, but I’m getting better / No time to waste that’s another man’s treasure / They say every dog has hit day.”
While Bono, who has previously worked with Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West, sings: “The time of our lives / The time of our youth / We bow down to beauty and truth / These are the days.”
Tha Carter VI is Wayne’s first solo album in five years and the first in his Tha Carter series since 2018.
The 19 track project features an array of guest artists including 2 Chainz, Kodak Black, Machine Gun Kelly and Big Sean.
Tha Carter VI also features more eclectic artists such as opera singer Andrea Bocelli, country star Jelly Roll and Fugees legend Wyclef Jean.
Fans were hoping that Wayne was going to reunite with Drake and Nicki Minaj on the project but no song featuring the Young Money trio made the album.
Weezy recently unveiled a new roster of Young Money talent as he looks to push the label into a modern new era.
In a new episode of his Young Money radio show on Apple Music, Wayne introduced and re-introduced all of his new artists, which also includes Jay Jones, Allan Cubas, Domiio, Poppy and Lucifena.
A trio of artists who have been with the label for years – Lil Twist, Cory Gunz and Euro – also remain with the storied label that was once home to Drake and Minaj as well as Tyga, DJ Khaled and Kidd Kidd.
None of the current crop of Young Money artists feature on Tha Carter VI.
The 2025 Tony Awards 2025 Winners List
The cast and crew of Maybe Happy Ending accept the award for Best Musical during the 78th Annual Tony Awards.
The 78th Annual Tony Awards hosted by Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, will be held Sunday at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The award show will be airing on CBS, and streaming on Paramount+. Below is the full list of 2025 Tony Award nominees.
Best Musical
Buena Vista Social Club
Dead Outlaw
Death Becomes Her
Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
Buena Vista Social Club
Dead Outlaw
Death Becomes Her
Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
Operation Mincemeat
Best Play
English
The Hills of California
John Proctor Is the Villain
Oh, Mary!
Purpose ((WINNER))
Best Revival of a Musical
Floyd Collins
Gypsy
Pirates! The Penzance Musical
Sunset Boulevard ((WINNER))
Best Revival of a Play
Eureka Day ((WINNER))
Our Town
Romeo + Juliet
Yellow Face
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Darren Criss: Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
Andrew Durand: Dead Outlaw
Tom Francis: Sunset Boulevard
Jonathan Groff: Just in Time
James Monroe Iglehart: A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical
Jeremy Jordan: Floyd Collins
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Megan Hilty: Death Becomes Her
Audra McDonald: Gypsy
Jasmine Amy Rogers: BOOP! The Musical
Nicole Scherzinger: Sunset Boulevard ((WINNER))
Jennifer Simard: Death Becomes Her
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play
George Clooney: Good Night, and Good Luck
Cole Escola: Oh, Mary! ((WINNER))
Jon Michael Hill: Purpose
Daniel Dae Kim: Yellow Face
Harry Lennix: Purpose
Louis McCartney: Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play
Laura Donnelly: The Hills of California
Mia Farrow: The Roommate
LaTanya Richardson Jackson: Purpose
Sadie Sink: John Proctor Is the Villain
Sarah Snook: The Picture of Dorian Gray ((WINNER))
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical
Brooks Ashmanskas: Smash
Jeb Brown: Dead Outlaw
Danny Burstein: Gypsy
Jak Malone: Operation Mincemeat ((WINNER))
Taylor Trensch: Floyd Collins
Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical
Natalie Venetia Belcon: Buena Vista Social Club ((WINNER))
Julia Knitel: Dead Outlaw
Gracie Lawrence: Just in Time
Justina Machado: Real Women Have Curves
Joy Woods: Gypsy
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play
Glenn Davis: Purpose
Gabriel Ebert: John Proctor Is the Villain
Francis Jue: Yellow Face ((WINNER))
Bob Odenkirk: Glengarry Glen Ross
Conrad Ricamora: Oh, Mary!
Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play
Tala Ashe: English
Jessica Hecht: Eureka Day
Marjan Neshat: English
Fina Strazza: John Proctor Is the Villain
Kara Young: Purpose ((WINNER))
Best Direction of a Musical
Saheem Ali: Buena Vista Social Club
Michael Arden: Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
David Cromer: Dead Outlaw
Christopher Gattelli: Death Becomes Her
Jamie Lloyd: Sunset Boulevard
Best Direction of a Play
Knud Adams: English
Sam Mendes: The Hills of California
Sam Pinkleton: Oh, Mary! ((WINNER))
Danya Taymor: John Proctor Is the Villain
Kip Williams: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Kip Williams: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Best Book of a Musical
Will Aronson and Hue Park: Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
Itamar Moses: Dead Outlaw
Marco Pennette: Death Becomes Her
Marco Ramirez: Buena Vista Social Club
David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson, Zoë Roberts: Operation Mincemeat
Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre
David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna: Dead Outlaw
Will Aronson and Hue Park: Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
Noel Carey and Julia Mattison: Death Becomes Her
Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez: Real Women Have Curves
David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson, Zoë Roberts: Operation Mincemeat
Best Choreography
Joshua Bergasse: Smash
Camille A. Brown: Gypsy
Christopher Gattelli: Death Becomes Her
Jerry Mitchell: BOOP! The Musical
Justin Peck and Patricia Delgado: Buena Vista Social Club ((WINNER))
Best Orchestrations
Bruce Coughlin: Floyd Collins
David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber: Sunset Boulevard
Marco Paguia: Buena Vista Social Club ((WINNER))
Andrew Resnick and Michael Thurber: Just in Time
Will Aronson: Maybe Happy Ending
Best Scenic Design of a Musical
Rachel Hauck: Swept Away
Dane Laffrey and George Reeve: Maybe Happy Ending ((WINNER))
Arnulfo Maldonado: Buena Vista Social Club
Derek McLane: Death Becomes Her
Derek McLane: Just in Time
Best Scenic Design of a Play
Marsha Ginsberg: English
Rob Howell: The Hills of California
Marg Horwell and David Bergman: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Miriam Buether and 59: Stranger Things: The First Shadow ((WINNER))
Scott Pask: Good Night, and Good Luck
Best Costume Design of a Musical
Dede Ayite: Buena Vista Social Club
Gregg Barnes: BOOP! The Musical
Clint Ramos: Maybe Happy Ending
Paul Tazewell: Death Becomes Her ((WINNER))
Catherine Zuber: Just in Time
Best Costume Design of a Play
Brenda Abbandandolo: Good Night, and Good Luck
Rob Howell: The Hills of California
Marg Horwell: The Picture of Dorian Gray (WINNER)
Holly Pierson: Oh, Mary!
Brigitte Reiffenstuel: Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Best Lighting Design of a Musical
Ben Stanton: Maybe Happy Ending
Jack Knowles: Sunset Boulevard ((WINNER))
Tyler Micoleau: Buena Vista Social Club
Justin Townsend: Death Becomes Her
Scott Zielinski and Ruey Horng Sun: Floyd Collins
Best Lighting Design of a Play
Natasha Chivers: The Hills of California
Jon Clark: Stranger Things: The First Shadow ((WINNER))
Heather Gilbert and David Bengali: Good Night, and Good Luck
Natasha Katz and Hannah Wasileski: John Proctor Is the Villain
Nick Schlieper: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Best Sound Design of a Musical
Jonathan Deans: Buena Vista Social Club (WINNER)
Adam Fisher: Sunset Boulevard
Peter Hylenski: Just in Time
Peter Hylenski: Maybe Happy Ending
Dan Moses Schreier: Floyd Collins
Best Sound Design of a Play
Paul Arditti: Stranger Things: The First Shadow (WINNER)
Palmer Hefferan: John Proctor Is the Villain
Daniel Kluger: Good Night, and Good Luck
Nick Powell: The Hills of California
Clemence Williams: The Picture of Dorian Gray
Special Tony Awards will be presented to:
The musicians who make up the band of Buena Vista Social Club - Marco Paguia (Music Director, Conductor/Piano); David Oquendo (Associate Music Director, Guitar); Renesito Avich (Tres); Gustavo Schartz (Bass); Javier Días, Román Diaz, Mauricio Herrera (Percussion); Jesus Ricardo (Trumpet); Eddie Venegas (Trombone); Hery Paz (Woodwinds); Leonardo Reyna (Piano);
The Illusions & Technical Effects of Stranger Things: The First Shadow (Jamie Harrison, Chris Fisher, Gary Beestone & Edward Pierce).
As previously announced, the 2025 Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre will be presented to Great Performances, Michael Price, New 42, and The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. The Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award will be presented to Celia Keenan-Bolger. Harvey Fierstein will receive the Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.
Taraji P. Henson says that Hollywood went silent after her Oscar nod—until Tyler Perry called
Taraji P. Henson and Sherri Shepherd spoke about being respected and treated fairly by Tyler Perry as professionals and why that means so much to them during a press run for their new NETFLIX film 'Straw."
On Friday, Tyler Perry released his second full-length film of 2025. His latest psychological thriller— “Straw” —stars Taraji P. Henson, Sherri Shepherd, and singer, Teyana Taylor. Prior to its release, Bevy Smith hosted a town hall on SiriusXM Bevy Smith featuring all of the aforementioned actors plus Tyler Perry himself, to talk about the film and their time in Hollywood.
Henson has been very vocal and honest about the fact that Tyler Perry was the first person to pay her equitably for a role, famously sharing that she was paid $500,000 for her starring role in 2009’s “I Can Do Bad All By Myself.” So in a recent conversation with Bevy Smith, both she and Sherri Shepherd got emotional when speaking about their treatment in Hollywood and praised Perry for being who he is and how he respects and treats actors. Henson, in particular, spoke about that time in her life when she took the role in Perry’s 2009 film…and why.
“I’m just gonna say this. Like I remember when I got nominated for the Oscar, you know, the Oscar run is crazy. The phone is ringing. You gotta be here. You gotta be there. They gotta… And then the day after the Oscars, the phone stops ringing. Like, it’s weird ’cause it’s like, you don’t, your senses, your nervous system is shocked because you’re so used to going and all of a sudden nothing,” said Henson reflecting on 2009, when she was nominated for “Best Supporting Actress” for her role in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”
“This Black man understood me”: Sherri Shepherd tears up reflecting on Tyler Perry’s support
It makes sense that being nominated for an Oscar would lead to many opportunities and inquiries for roles in upcoming films. And yet…
“No phone calls. You know who called me? This man right here (Perry). For, a leading role. Not supporting, a leading role. And it was, ‘I Can Do Bad All By Myself,’” she continued.
Which answers a question that a lot of people, especially on social media, have asked regarding how and why she “ended up” in a Perry film coming off an Oscar nomination. As it turns out, even people on her team were questioning the move, which Henson passionately addressed.
“You know, people started asking me on my team, ‘Why you gonna do a Tyler Perry…’ I said, ‘Nobody called, no one called to offer me a number one position in the film. He did.’ And then told me what to ask for. Gave me a quote who, I didn’t have a quote until this man right here. And so, to this day, I’m going to, I don’t care how big I got, I don’t care how many awards I win. Whenever he calls, I’m there.”
She said what she said.
So the next time you wonder why you see Taraji (and likely other actors you know and love) in Tyler Perry films, the answer might lie somewhere in and around Henson’s response: Tyler Perry shows up when others don’t and he shows up big.
“Straw” is currently streaming on Netflix.
On Friday, Tyler Perry released his second full-length film of 2025. His latest psychological thriller— “Straw” —stars Taraji P. Henson, Sherri Shepherd, and singer, Teyana Taylor. Prior to its release, Bevy Smith hosted a town hall on SiriusXM Bevy Smith featuring all of the aforementioned actors plus Tyler Perry himself, to talk about the film and their time in Hollywood.
Henson has been very vocal and honest about the fact that Tyler Perry was the first person to pay her equitably for a role, famously sharing that she was paid $500,000 for her starring role in 2009’s “I Can Do Bad All By Myself.” So in a recent conversation with Bevy Smith, both she and Sherri Shepherd got emotional when speaking about their treatment in Hollywood and praised Perry for being who he is and how he respects and treats actors. Henson, in particular, spoke about that time in her life when she took the role in Perry’s 2009 film…and why.
“I’m just gonna say this. Like I remember when I got nominated for the Oscar, you know, the Oscar run is crazy. The phone is ringing. You gotta be here. You gotta be there. They gotta… And then the day after the Oscars, the phone stops ringing. Like, it’s weird ’cause it’s like, you don’t, your senses, your nervous system is shocked because you’re so used to going and all of a sudden nothing,” said Henson reflecting on 2009, when she was nominated for “Best Supporting Actress” for her role in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”
“This Black man understood me”: Sherri Shepherd tears up reflecting on Tyler Perry’s support
It makes sense that being nominated for an Oscar would lead to many opportunities and inquiries for roles in upcoming films. And yet…
“No phone calls. You know who called me? This man right here (Perry). For, a leading role. Not supporting, a leading role. And it was, ‘I Can Do Bad All By Myself,’” she continued.
Which answers a question that a lot of people, especially on social media, have asked regarding how and why she “ended up” in a Perry film coming off an Oscar nomination. As it turns out, even people on her team were questioning the move, which Henson passionately addressed.
“You know, people started asking me on my team, ‘Why you gonna do a Tyler Perry…’ I said, ‘Nobody called, no one called to offer me a number one position in the film. He did.’ And then told me what to ask for. Gave me a quote who, I didn’t have a quote until this man right here. And so, to this day, I’m going to, I don’t care how big I got, I don’t care how many awards I win. Whenever he calls, I’m there.”
She said what she said.
So the next time you wonder why you see Taraji (and likely other actors you know and love) in Tyler Perry films, the answer might lie somewhere in and around Henson’s response: Tyler Perry shows up when others don’t and he shows up big.
“Straw” is currently streaming on Netflix.
Diddy Almost Removed From Court For Staring At Jurors
Diddy was almost removed from the court in his own sex trafficking trial for allegedly making facial gestures towards the jury.
Judge Arun Subramanian accused the rap mogul of making faces and nodding towards the jury while witnesses were being questioned.
Subramanian said to Diddy’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo: “Mr. Agnifilo, your client was looking at jurors and nodding vigorously. This can’t continue or I will give a limiting instruction you won’t like, or other measures including barring your client from the courtroom. Do you understand?”
Agnifilo said: “It’s not going to happen again.”
Subramanian then warned: “This cannot happen again.”
Diddy is known to have been an active presence in the court room, frequently being seen passing notes to his attorneys while court is in session.
He has also been seen blowing kisses to his mother while she watches the trial from the public gallery
It was revealed earlier this week that Diddy paid $100,000 for the infamous video of him assaulting Cassie in a hotel corridor.
In the Bad Boy mogul’s ongoing sex trafficking trial, Eddy Garcia, a former security guard at the InterContinental Hotel where the assault took place, began giving evidence.
Garcia told the court: “He said it had to be the only copy and that he didn’t want it getting out and if I was sure nothing was on the cloud.”
Garcia claimed that Diddy handed him an envelope with $100,000 inside.
The amount of money was split between three people with Garcia’s boss Bill Madrano receiving $50,000 with the other half split between two security guards.
Diddy also forced Garcia to sign a non disclosure agreement that came with a $1 million penalty if breached.
Garcia claimed that he handed Diddy a USB drive in return for the money.
Garcia further alleged that he FaceTimed with Cassie and that she told him she also wanted the footage squashed.
Diddy and his legal team had attempted to have the footage excluded from the trial with them claiming that it had been doctored by unnamed parties, however the prosecution said that they had obtained the original recording and experts had ruled the video was legitimate.
Teyana Taylor and Aaron Pierre confirm romance with a kiss while celebrating his 31st birthday
Teyana Taylor and Aaron Pierre confirmed their relationship after months of romance rumors.
A video circulating on social media showed the couple kissing as the “Gonna Love Me” singer surprised the “Mufasa” star with a party for his 31st birthday.
Prior to that, Taylor took to Instagram to share a flirty post for Pierre’s big day on Saturday.
“Cheers to Thirty-WON & many more wins around the sun. 🌹 H”AP”PY BIRTHDAY Woody 🎈,” she captioned the post alongside two cozy photos of the pair together.
The first snap was a selfie of Taylor, 34, blowing a kiss as Pierre smiled and tilted his head near her shoulder.
The second photo showed the “Rebel Ridge” star staring into the R&B singer’s eyes as he stood between her legs while they were on set.
In response to the sweet post, Pierre took to the comments section to thank Taylor for the love.
“Now and always. Thank you Tey 🌹,” he wrote.
The post also garnered supportive comments from celebrity pals, including Taraji P. Henson, who wrote, “Soooooooo good babe 😍😍😍🔥🔥🔥🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.”
“❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🙏🏾,” added Gabrielle Union.
“Smiling! 😍🙌🏽🙌🏽,” wrote Andra Day.
“Happy birthday!!!🎁🎂🎊🎈,” commented Kandi Burruss.
Taylor and Pierre first sparked romance rumors when they were seen seated together at the American Black Film Festival Honors in February.
The following month, the mom of two seemingly confirmed they were an item after she shared photos of them together at the 2025 Oscars.
“Oscar night in black & white, no grey area. 🤍,” she captioned the cozy photos.
The “Maybe” singer then fueled romance rumors after the “Old” actor posted a shirtless snap of himself on his Instagram Story.
In response, Taylor wrote on her Story, “on di wey” with an exhaling emoji.
Last week, the choreographer released the hot and steamy music video for her new single, “Long Time,” which features a cameo by Pierre.
Taylor’s rumored new romance came nearly a year after she and her ex-husband, Iman Shumpert, finalized their divorce in July 2024.
The “A Thousand and One” actress and the former NBA star, who were married for seven years, share daughters Junie, 9, and Rue, 4.
A video circulating on social media showed the couple kissing as the “Gonna Love Me” singer surprised the “Mufasa” star with a party for his 31st birthday.
Prior to that, Taylor took to Instagram to share a flirty post for Pierre’s big day on Saturday.
“Cheers to Thirty-WON & many more wins around the sun. 🌹 H”AP”PY BIRTHDAY Woody 🎈,” she captioned the post alongside two cozy photos of the pair together.
The first snap was a selfie of Taylor, 34, blowing a kiss as Pierre smiled and tilted his head near her shoulder.
The second photo showed the “Rebel Ridge” star staring into the R&B singer’s eyes as he stood between her legs while they were on set.
In response to the sweet post, Pierre took to the comments section to thank Taylor for the love.
“Now and always. Thank you Tey 🌹,” he wrote.
The post also garnered supportive comments from celebrity pals, including Taraji P. Henson, who wrote, “Soooooooo good babe 😍😍😍🔥🔥🔥🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.”
“❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🔥🙏🏾,” added Gabrielle Union.
“Smiling! 😍🙌🏽🙌🏽,” wrote Andra Day.
“Happy birthday!!!🎁🎂🎊🎈,” commented Kandi Burruss.
Taylor and Pierre first sparked romance rumors when they were seen seated together at the American Black Film Festival Honors in February.
The following month, the mom of two seemingly confirmed they were an item after she shared photos of them together at the 2025 Oscars.
“Oscar night in black & white, no grey area. 🤍,” she captioned the cozy photos.
The “Maybe” singer then fueled romance rumors after the “Old” actor posted a shirtless snap of himself on his Instagram Story.
In response, Taylor wrote on her Story, “on di wey” with an exhaling emoji.
Last week, the choreographer released the hot and steamy music video for her new single, “Long Time,” which features a cameo by Pierre.
Taylor’s rumored new romance came nearly a year after she and her ex-husband, Iman Shumpert, finalized their divorce in July 2024.
The “A Thousand and One” actress and the former NBA star, who were married for seven years, share daughters Junie, 9, and Rue, 4.
Simone Biles Stands Up for Trans Youth, Slams Riley Gaines Over Anti-Trans Attacks
The world of competitive athletics witnessed a heated social media confrontation recently when Olympic gymnastics legend Simone Biles directly challenged former collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines over her stance against transgender athletes participating in women’s sports. The exchange, which unfolded on X (formerly Twitter), has amplified an already contentious national debate about fairness, inclusion and the future of competitive sports.
The dispute erupted after Gaines criticized a Minnesota high school girls’ softball team celebrating their state championship victory. The team included a transgender athlete, prompting Gaines to question their decision to disable comments on their celebratory social media posts. Gaines suggested the team was attempting to avoid criticism by preventing public discourse on their achievement.
Rather than remaining silent on the controversy, Biles chose to confront Gaines head-on with characteristic directness. The seven-time Olympic medalist accused Gaines of harboring personal resentment following her own competitive disappointment, when she tied for fifth place with transgender swimmer Lia Thomas at the NCAA Championships.
Biles declared that Gaines was truly sick and accused her of campaigning against transgender athletes simply because she lost a race, calling her a straight-up sore loser. The message struck at what many perceive as the underlying motivation behind Gaines’ activism against transgender participation in women’s sports.
The gymnastics champion didn’t stop there. She proposed what she considered a constructive solution while simultaneously criticizing Gaines’ approach to the issue. Biles suggested creating separate competitive categories specifically for transgender athletes across all sports, arguing this could provide opportunities without the current controversy.
Biles further stated that perhaps there should be a transgender category in all sports, but instead of pursuing constructive solutions, Gaines chooses to bully transgender athletes. She emphasized her belief that no one in sports is safe with Gaines around, highlighting her view that Gaines’ methods were harmful rather than helpful.
The tension between these perspectives traces back to the NCAA Division I Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships, where University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas became the first transgender woman to win a national collegiate swimming championship. Thomas’ participation generated significant controversy, particularly after she tied with Gaines in the freestyle preliminary races.
Following widespread criticism and debate, World Aquatics, the sport’s international governing body, implemented new regulations prohibiting transgender women who experienced male puberty from competing in women’s elite competitions. The decision reflected growing pressure from various stakeholders concerned about competitive balance and fairness.
Gaines has since become a prominent voice opposing transgender participation in women’s sports, frequently speaking at events and using social media platforms to advocate for what she describes as protecting women’s athletics. Her critics, including Biles, argue that such positions contribute to discrimination and exclusion of vulnerable individuals.
The Olympic champion’s intervention represents a different philosophical approach to addressing transgender participation in sports. Rather than seeking to exclude transgender athletes entirely, Biles has suggested creating additional competitive pathways that could accommodate everyone while addressing concerns about fairness.
This perspective aligns with growing calls from some quarters for more nuanced solutions to what has become one of the most divisive issues in contemporary sports. Advocates for transgender inclusion argue that sports should serve as platforms for empowerment and community building, not exclusion and discrimination.
The debate reflects broader societal tensions about transgender rights, particularly as they intersect with traditional competitive structures that have historically separated participants based on biological sex assigned at birth. Sports organizations worldwide continue grappling with policies that balance inclusion with competitive integrity.
The Minnesota softball team at the center of this latest controversy represents thousands of young athletes navigating these complex dynamics. High school sports participation continues growing among transgender youth, creating practical challenges for administrators, coaches and families seeking to balance inclusion with existing competitive frameworks.
Educational institutions increasingly find themselves at the center of these debates, with some states implementing legislation restricting transgender participation while others pursue more inclusive policies. The patchwork of different approaches creates uncertainty for athletes and families across the country.
Simone Biles‘ decision to enter this debate carries significant weight given her status as one of the most accomplished and respected athletes in American sports history. Her advocacy for mental health awareness and athlete welfare has already established her as a voice extending beyond gymnastics competition.
The gymnast’s approach emphasizes constructive solutions rather than exclusionary policies, suggesting ways to expand opportunities rather than restrict them. This philosophy reflects her broader commitment to using her platform for positive social change and supporting marginalized communities.
As this debate continues evolving, the exchange between Biles and Gaines illustrates the stark differences in approach among those seeking to address transgender participation in sports. While some advocate for restrictions based on concerns about competitive fairness, others push for creative solutions that expand rather than limit opportunities.
The sports community faces ongoing pressure to develop policies that acknowledge the legitimate concerns of all stakeholders while protecting the rights and dignity of transgender athletes. Finding common ground requires moving beyond personal grievances toward collaborative problem-solving that serves everyone’s interests.
The conversation sparked by Biles‘ intervention demonstrates that these issues will continue generating passionate responses from athletes, advocates and observers alike. The ultimate resolution will likely require the kind of thoughtful, inclusive approach that Biles herself has advocated – one that seeks to build bridges rather than walls in the world of competitive athletics.
#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Lilo & Stitch’ still #1 as it Holds Off ‘Ballerina’ at Weekend Box Office
Disney’s live-action sequel Lilo & Stitch remained atop the North American box office for a third consecutive weekend (through June 8) with an estimated $32.5 million in ticket sales, holding off the debut of Lionsgate’s From the World of John Wick: Ballerina with $25 million in revenue.
Originally earmarked for Disney+, Lilo & Stitch continues to resonate with moviegoers, reaching $335.8 million in revenue across North American screens, and $772 million globally.
Overseas, Ballerina opened in 82 countries taking in an estimated $26 million for a global start of $51 million. Key international territories included the U.K., Mexico and China, where the movie was the No. 1 new openers in those markets. Ballerina will open in Japan and Italy in the weeks ahead.
Ballerina is a new character not introduced in any of the previous John Wick films. The storyline takes place during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. The film follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), who is beginning her training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma.
“This is a weak opening for an action thriller spin-off,” David A. Gross, with industry newsletter FranchiseRE, wrote in a post. “The weekend figure is below average, and the estimated 65% drop from the last ‘John Wick’ opening is steep.”
Gross contends that action spin-offs consistently open well below the previous episode’s opening (on average 46% below). He says that among the 13 action spin-offs before Ballerina, none of opened close to the previous release.
“The movie itself is well-received: Critics’ reviews are very good and the audience score is excellent,” Gross wrote. “Audiences are enthusiastic about the movie, they just aren’t attending in big numbers.”
Elsewhere, Paramount Pictures’ Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning added $15 million in third-weekend ticket sales, upping its North American tally near $150 million and $450 million worldwide.
Sony Pictures’ Karate Kid: Legends sold $8.7 million worth of tickets in its sophomore weekend box office, upping its North American haul to $35 million and $74 million globally.
Warner Bros. Pictures’ Final Destination Bloodlines added $6.4 million in its fourth weekend, upping its North American total to $123 million and $257 million globally.
Originally earmarked for Disney+, Lilo & Stitch continues to resonate with moviegoers, reaching $335.8 million in revenue across North American screens, and $772 million globally.
Overseas, Ballerina opened in 82 countries taking in an estimated $26 million for a global start of $51 million. Key international territories included the U.K., Mexico and China, where the movie was the No. 1 new openers in those markets. Ballerina will open in Japan and Italy in the weeks ahead.
Ballerina is a new character not introduced in any of the previous John Wick films. The storyline takes place during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. The film follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), who is beginning her training in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma.
“This is a weak opening for an action thriller spin-off,” David A. Gross, with industry newsletter FranchiseRE, wrote in a post. “The weekend figure is below average, and the estimated 65% drop from the last ‘John Wick’ opening is steep.”
Gross contends that action spin-offs consistently open well below the previous episode’s opening (on average 46% below). He says that among the 13 action spin-offs before Ballerina, none of opened close to the previous release.
“The movie itself is well-received: Critics’ reviews are very good and the audience score is excellent,” Gross wrote. “Audiences are enthusiastic about the movie, they just aren’t attending in big numbers.”
Elsewhere, Paramount Pictures’ Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning added $15 million in third-weekend ticket sales, upping its North American tally near $150 million and $450 million worldwide.
Sony Pictures’ Karate Kid: Legends sold $8.7 million worth of tickets in its sophomore weekend box office, upping its North American haul to $35 million and $74 million globally.
Warner Bros. Pictures’ Final Destination Bloodlines added $6.4 million in its fourth weekend, upping its North American total to $123 million and $257 million globally.
Megan Thee Stallion Fan Reportedly Nearly Kicked Out of Event for Inappropriate Touching
Fan almost got kicked out of Megan Thee Stallion’s meet and greet after he got too handsy. 👀
A hairstylist, who goes by thereal_kingparis on Instagram, has certainly heard the negative responses to his actions during the meet-and-greet for Megan’s tequila brand Chicas Divertidas over the weekend.
King Paris shared a looped video on Instagram earlier today where he appears to say, “Can I grab it?,” which was included over the post.
“And to the bitch ass hoes in the back @theestallion loves me ❤️ get tf outta here !!!!,” the caption reads. “I definitely asked the queen👑”
It’s unclear how exactly Megan responded to the question.
In a series of posts on Instagram Stories, King Paris has been relishing in the coverage and newfound attention, claiming people are “making fake narratives,” while also maintaining Megan “knows it was all love.”
“Bitch Meg loves me and you hoes are mad about it!!!,” the final Instagram Stories post, as of this writing, reads.
Megan has not addressed the incident.
Fan almost got kicked out of Megan Thee Stallion’s meet and greet after he got too handsy. 👀
A hairstylist, who goes by thereal_kingparis on Instagram, has certainly heard the negative responses to his actions during the meet-and-greet for Megan’s tequila brand Chicas Divertidas over the weekend.
King Paris shared a looped video on Instagram earlier today where he appears to say, “Can I grab it?,” which was included over the post.
“And to the bitch ass hoes in the back @theestallion loves me ❤️ get tf outta here !!!!,” the caption reads. “I definitely asked the queen👑”
It’s unclear how exactly Megan responded to the question.
In a series of posts on Instagram Stories, King Paris has been relishing in the coverage and newfound attention, claiming people are “making fake narratives,” while also maintaining Megan “knows it was all love.”
“Bitch Meg loves me and you hoes are mad about it!!!,” the final Instagram Stories post, as of this writing, reads.
Megan has not addressed the incident.
Brittany Renner Confirms Divorce From Kevin Gates After 52-Day Marriage
Brittany Renner has revealed her brief relationship with Kevin Gates has come to an end.
In an interview with REAL 92.3 LA published on Saturday, the 33-year-old influencer and Basketball Wives star revealed that she and the 39-year-old rapper were married but had gotten divorced after just 52 days of marriage.
"We got married April 6 and divorced May 28," Renner said, adding that she has no regrets and expressed peace with how things turned out. "I don't feel like it's a sucky situation because what is meant to be is always going to be."
She continued, "I followed my heart, and that's what more than most people can say, and I think when you do that, you get all the clarity you need, and there's no stone left unturned, and there's no regret [...] A lot of people, their issue is, even just in dating, in marriage, it's people just don't give it their all. They don't just go for it. But I feel like when you do, you're at peace with whatever happens because I gave 100 percent."
Just weeks earlier, Renner had spoken glowingly of her then-husband, telling PEOPLE in May, "All I can say is, is that I'm with the person that I quite literally dreamed of. And to be able to just wake up next to him and spend time with him, even to have him here behind me, it's like so surreal. He's just the most beautiful person inside and out that I've ever met."
Representatives for Renner and Gates have not commented publicly on the split. Renner shares a 4-year-old child with Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington from a previous relationship, while Gates has four children.
In an interview with REAL 92.3 LA published on Saturday, the 33-year-old influencer and Basketball Wives star revealed that she and the 39-year-old rapper were married but had gotten divorced after just 52 days of marriage.
"We got married April 6 and divorced May 28," Renner said, adding that she has no regrets and expressed peace with how things turned out. "I don't feel like it's a sucky situation because what is meant to be is always going to be."
She continued, "I followed my heart, and that's what more than most people can say, and I think when you do that, you get all the clarity you need, and there's no stone left unturned, and there's no regret [...] A lot of people, their issue is, even just in dating, in marriage, it's people just don't give it their all. They don't just go for it. But I feel like when you do, you're at peace with whatever happens because I gave 100 percent."
Just weeks earlier, Renner had spoken glowingly of her then-husband, telling PEOPLE in May, "All I can say is, is that I'm with the person that I quite literally dreamed of. And to be able to just wake up next to him and spend time with him, even to have him here behind me, it's like so surreal. He's just the most beautiful person inside and out that I've ever met."
Representatives for Renner and Gates have not commented publicly on the split. Renner shares a 4-year-old child with Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington from a previous relationship, while Gates has four children.
Kara Young Wins Second Consecutive Tony Award as 'Purpose' Takes Best Play at Tonys 2025!
It’s a big night for the play Purpose at the 2025 Tony Awards! The show’s supporting star, Kara Young, took home her second consecutive Tony win on Sunday (June 8) at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Kara won the award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her work in the new play. This is her fourth consecutive year being nominated in the category and her second consecutive year winning after picking up the award last year for Purlie Victorious.
She was joined at the event by her nominated co-stars LaTanya Richardson Jackson (who was joined by husband Samuel L. Jackson and presented with him on stage), Harry Lennix, Jon Michael Hill, and Glenn Davis.
Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins accepted the award for Best Play that evening.
It’s a big night for the play Purpose at the 2025 Tony Awards! The show’s supporting star, Kara Young, took home her second consecutive Tony win on Sunday (June 8) at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Kara won the award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her work in the new play. This is her fourth consecutive year being nominated in the category and her second consecutive year winning after picking up the award last year for Purlie Victorious.
She was joined at the event by her nominated co-stars LaTanya Richardson Jackson (who was joined by husband Samuel L. Jackson and presented with him on stage), Harry Lennix, Jon Michael Hill, and Glenn Davis.
Playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins accepted the award for Best Play that evening.
Jared Leto denies sexual misconduct allegations from multiple women, some who say they were underage
Nine women interviewed in a new report have accused the actor and Thirty Seconds to Mars musician of impropriety.
Jared Leto is denying allegations of sexual misconduct from multiple women, including some who say they were underage when they met him.
Nine women accused the actor and Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman of impropriety in an Air Mail story published on Friday. Some of the allegations include assaulting a 17-year-old, walking nude in front of a different 17-year-old, and engaging in sexually explicit conversations with a 16-year-old.
A representative for Leto has denied the allegations to Air Mail. Entertainment Weekly has reached out to representatives for Leto for further comment.
One of the women, Los Angeles-based DJ Allie Teilz, sparked conversation on social media after reposting a 2012 Facebook status to her Instagram Stories last month, Air Mail reported. "You're not really in L.A. until Jared Leto tries to force himself on you backstage… In a kilt. And a snow hat," she wrote at the time. She also referred to the Dallas Buyers Club Oscar winner as "Hollywood's most persistent predator in a kilt."
In a follow-up story, Teilz claimed she was "assaulted and traumatized by this creep when I was 17," alleging that "he knew my age and didn't care. What he did was predatory, terrifying, and unacceptable," per Air Mail.
"Ms. Teilz's allegations are demonstrably false," Leto's representative told the outlet.
Smokey Robinson accused of sexual assault and hostile work environment in new lawsuit from former housekeepers
Russell Brand charged with rape and sexual assault of 4 women
Another woman, former model Laura La Rue, said she met Leto at an animal rights benefit in Los Angeles when she was 16, which led to email correspondence between them that eventually resulted in her visiting him in April 2009. "I remember him teasing me the whole time I was there," La Rue told Air Mail. "He was flirting with me. He'd lean in close, then pull away, like it was a game."
The outlet reported that when La Rue was 17, Leto "walked out of a room completely naked" in the model's presence. "He just walked out, dick out, like it was normal," she told Air Mail. "I thought maybe this was just what adult men do."
Shannon Leto and Jared Leto of Thirty Seconds to Mars perform at The O2 Arena in June 2024 in London.
A representative for Leto denied that anything untoward occurred between the actor and La Rue. "Their communications contain nothing sexual or inappropriate," the representative told Air Mail, "and Ms. La Rue later applied to work as Mr. Leto's personal assistant, further underscoring the absence of anything inappropriate in any of their interactions."
However, La Rue denied submitting an application for the position to Air Mail.
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Another woman, whose name Air Mail did not publish, said she was an underage actress when she began texting with Leto, and alleged that the relationship took a sexual turn when she turned 18. The woman claimed that at one point, Leto began masturbating in her presence and grabbed her hand. "He leaned in and said, 'I want you to spit on it,'" she claimed.
A fourth woman alleged that she began texting Leto after meeting him at a cafe when she was 16 and that "the conversations turned sexual," according to the outlet. "He'd ask things like, 'Have you ever had a boyfriend? Have you ever sucked a dick?'" she said.
A representative for Leto told Air Mail, "All of the allegations are expressly denied."
Jared Leto is denying allegations of sexual misconduct from multiple women, including some who say they were underage when they met him.
Nine women accused the actor and Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman of impropriety in an Air Mail story published on Friday. Some of the allegations include assaulting a 17-year-old, walking nude in front of a different 17-year-old, and engaging in sexually explicit conversations with a 16-year-old.
A representative for Leto has denied the allegations to Air Mail. Entertainment Weekly has reached out to representatives for Leto for further comment.
One of the women, Los Angeles-based DJ Allie Teilz, sparked conversation on social media after reposting a 2012 Facebook status to her Instagram Stories last month, Air Mail reported. "You're not really in L.A. until Jared Leto tries to force himself on you backstage… In a kilt. And a snow hat," she wrote at the time. She also referred to the Dallas Buyers Club Oscar winner as "Hollywood's most persistent predator in a kilt."
In a follow-up story, Teilz claimed she was "assaulted and traumatized by this creep when I was 17," alleging that "he knew my age and didn't care. What he did was predatory, terrifying, and unacceptable," per Air Mail.
"Ms. Teilz's allegations are demonstrably false," Leto's representative told the outlet.
Smokey Robinson accused of sexual assault and hostile work environment in new lawsuit from former housekeepers
Russell Brand charged with rape and sexual assault of 4 women
Another woman, former model Laura La Rue, said she met Leto at an animal rights benefit in Los Angeles when she was 16, which led to email correspondence between them that eventually resulted in her visiting him in April 2009. "I remember him teasing me the whole time I was there," La Rue told Air Mail. "He was flirting with me. He'd lean in close, then pull away, like it was a game."
The outlet reported that when La Rue was 17, Leto "walked out of a room completely naked" in the model's presence. "He just walked out, dick out, like it was normal," she told Air Mail. "I thought maybe this was just what adult men do."
Shannon Leto and Jared Leto of Thirty Seconds to Mars perform at The O2 Arena in June 2024 in London.
A representative for Leto denied that anything untoward occurred between the actor and La Rue. "Their communications contain nothing sexual or inappropriate," the representative told Air Mail, "and Ms. La Rue later applied to work as Mr. Leto's personal assistant, further underscoring the absence of anything inappropriate in any of their interactions."
However, La Rue denied submitting an application for the position to Air Mail.
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Another woman, whose name Air Mail did not publish, said she was an underage actress when she began texting with Leto, and alleged that the relationship took a sexual turn when she turned 18. The woman claimed that at one point, Leto began masturbating in her presence and grabbed her hand. "He leaned in and said, 'I want you to spit on it,'" she claimed.
A fourth woman alleged that she began texting Leto after meeting him at a cafe when she was 16 and that "the conversations turned sexual," according to the outlet. "He'd ask things like, 'Have you ever had a boyfriend? Have you ever sucked a dick?'" she said.
A representative for Leto told Air Mail, "All of the allegations are expressly denied."
Michael Jackson Biopic in Limbo with Conflict Over ‘What it’s About’
Looks like the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic will continue to be highly anticipated. With no sign of a release date.
Referencing an earnings call from Lionsgate on May 22, the studio making the film, Showbiz411 reports the biopic will not come out in 2025, with a possible 2026 arrival listed as “Maybe.”
According to the site, “a number of outlets” mention “a four-hour cut of scenes not edited together. Despite the footage, the delay seems to be caused by a lack of focus with those involved with the biopic not agreeing on what their project is about.
“All the reasons the movie isn’t working out are also the ones why ‘MJ The Musical’ is a hit on Broadway,” Showbiz411 co-founder and Editor-In-Chief Roger Friedman wrote in his assessment of the situation. “MJ” stops after “Thriller” and “Bad” are released. It tells the Michael Jackson story right up to the point where weirdness set in.
Friedman notes the turmoil in Jackson’s life that started in 1993, particularly the music icon having stay overnight and sleeping in his bed, in addition to the Jordan Chandler scandal, which resulted in Jackson settling the case to the tune of $15 to $20 million.
Further low points highlighted by the writer included the start of Jackson’s changing managers, being taken advantage of by “a lot of greedy people,” and leveraging the Beatles’ catalog to stay financially afloat, as well as lawyers handling his legal situations involving molestation accusations, payoffs, and settlements.
The “You Are Not Alone” entertainer’s bizarre relationships, as well as a trial foreshadowing his death in Los Angeles on June 25, 2009, only add more negative weight to the challenge of putting together a worthwhile life story on the man many still hold in high regard.
“Does anyone want to see all that?” Friedman asks. “How could it be explained positively? Answer: it can’t.”
“MJ” is a celebration of Michael, telling the Jackson story and how it led to Michael working with Quincy Jones and their outsized success with three solo albums. That’s the same place the movie should end,” he continued.”
“Going beyond that barrier, there’s no upside. It’s dark, twisted, and there’s no way out. Michael became addicted to drugs. His bizarre relationships with Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando’s family. It just gets worse and worse.”
Although he acknowledged that Lionsgate is “considering two movies” centering on the King of Pop, Friedman considers that “a mistake” that would only undermine Jackson’s musical legacy.
“The second one would be brutal, and not favorable to Michael,” he voiced while giving his take on how Lionsgate should approach the biopic. “No one asked me, but they should make one great concert movie and leave it at that. End it in 1990 with Michael on top of the world. What happened next was deeply tragic, and to tell it truthfully means undermining the music.”
Looks like the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic will continue to be highly anticipated. With no sign of a release date.
Referencing an earnings call from Lionsgate on May 22, the studio making the film, Showbiz411 reports the biopic will not come out in 2025, with a possible 2026 arrival listed as “Maybe.”
According to the site, “a number of outlets” mention “a four-hour cut of scenes not edited together. Despite the footage, the delay seems to be caused by a lack of focus with those involved with the biopic not agreeing on what their project is about.
“All the reasons the movie isn’t working out are also the ones why ‘MJ The Musical’ is a hit on Broadway,” Showbiz411 co-founder and Editor-In-Chief Roger Friedman wrote in his assessment of the situation. “MJ” stops after “Thriller” and “Bad” are released. It tells the Michael Jackson story right up to the point where weirdness set in.
Friedman notes the turmoil in Jackson’s life that started in 1993, particularly the music icon having stay overnight and sleeping in his bed, in addition to the Jordan Chandler scandal, which resulted in Jackson settling the case to the tune of $15 to $20 million.
Further low points highlighted by the writer included the start of Jackson’s changing managers, being taken advantage of by “a lot of greedy people,” and leveraging the Beatles’ catalog to stay financially afloat, as well as lawyers handling his legal situations involving molestation accusations, payoffs, and settlements.
The “You Are Not Alone” entertainer’s bizarre relationships, as well as a trial foreshadowing his death in Los Angeles on June 25, 2009, only add more negative weight to the challenge of putting together a worthwhile life story on the man many still hold in high regard.
“Does anyone want to see all that?” Friedman asks. “How could it be explained positively? Answer: it can’t.”
“MJ” is a celebration of Michael, telling the Jackson story and how it led to Michael working with Quincy Jones and their outsized success with three solo albums. That’s the same place the movie should end,” he continued.”
“Going beyond that barrier, there’s no upside. It’s dark, twisted, and there’s no way out. Michael became addicted to drugs. His bizarre relationships with Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando’s family. It just gets worse and worse.”
Although he acknowledged that Lionsgate is “considering two movies” centering on the King of Pop, Friedman considers that “a mistake” that would only undermine Jackson’s musical legacy.
“The second one would be brutal, and not favorable to Michael,” he voiced while giving his take on how Lionsgate should approach the biopic. “No one asked me, but they should make one great concert movie and leave it at that. End it in 1990 with Michael on top of the world. What happened next was deeply tragic, and to tell it truthfully means undermining the music.”
Sexyy Red Slams “Cornball” Ray J Over False Hookup Claim: “N***as Lie on They D**k Everyday”
Sexyy Red has slammed Ray J for falsely claiming they slept together. After his comments went viral Saturday, the St. Louis rapper wasted no time shutting it all down. She reposted the clip of Ray J’s livestream where he said, “I slept with Sexyy Red, n***a” and fired back, “N***as lie on they d**k everyday b.”
She didn’t stop there. Sexyy later called Ray J a “cornball” for pushing a story that never happened. Ray J, seemingly trying to clean up the mess, returned to social media to “clarify” that while he said they slept together, what he meant was they once slept on the same flight. He also apologized to her, but it was too late.
“Even to b sayin we ‘slept’ on the plane together I said hi and kept it pushin is you coo cuh?!” Sexyy tweeted in disbelief.
Fans aren’t buying the backpedal either. Many are calling out Ray J for clout-chasing and disrespecting Sexyy Red in the process.
She didn’t stop there. Sexyy later called Ray J a “cornball” for pushing a story that never happened. Ray J, seemingly trying to clean up the mess, returned to social media to “clarify” that while he said they slept together, what he meant was they once slept on the same flight. He also apologized to her, but it was too late.
“Even to b sayin we ‘slept’ on the plane together I said hi and kept it pushin is you coo cuh?!” Sexyy tweeted in disbelief.
Fans aren’t buying the backpedal either. Many are calling out Ray J for clout-chasing and disrespecting Sexyy Red in the process.
Latinas for Trump Co-Founder Ileana Garcia Slams Trump’s Immigration Raids: “This Ain’t What We Voted For”
Florida State Senator Ileana Garcia, the Cuban-American powerhouse who co-founded Latinas for Trump, is breaking her silence—and her loyalty. After years of standing firm behind Donald Trump, Garcia is now calling out the administration’s latest immigration crackdown, calling it “unacceptable and inhumane.”
“This is not what we voted for,” Garcia said in a bold public statement. “I have always supported Trump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane.”
Her comments come as Trump’s aggressive immigration agenda ramps up in South Florida. Under new pressure from senior advisor Stephen Miller, federal agents have been sweeping into Miami courthouses, detaining immigrants—even those showing up for scheduled hearings—and placing them in fast-tracked deportation proceedings. These actions have sparked fear in immigrant-heavy communities that largely supported Trump, including Cubans and Venezuelans.
Garcia, known for her deep conservative values and support for law enforcement, drew the line at what she sees as “arbitrary” arrests of immigrants trying to follow legal procedures.
“I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens,” she said, “but what we’re witnessing are measures that feel more like a manhunt than a policy.”
In her statement, she called out Stephen Miller, the controversial force behind much of Trump’s immigration agenda. Taking it personal, she said her own parents, who fled Cuba for freedom, are “more American than Miller.”
Garcia now finds herself in a rare political lane—standing up for immigrants while staying conservative. She’s not backing down, insisting on “real solutions” and fairness in how America treats people chasing safety and stability.
Next week, Miami’s Republican delegation is set to meet with Trump’s Homeland Security secretary to press for answers—and Garcia will be watching closely.
Florida State Senator Ileana Garcia, the Cuban-American powerhouse who co-founded Latinas for Trump, is breaking her silence—and her loyalty. After years of standing firm behind Donald Trump, Garcia is now calling out the administration’s latest immigration crackdown, calling it “unacceptable and inhumane.”
“This is not what we voted for,” Garcia said in a bold public statement. “I have always supported Trump, through thick and thin. However, this is unacceptable and inhumane.”
Her comments come as Trump’s aggressive immigration agenda ramps up in South Florida. Under new pressure from senior advisor Stephen Miller, federal agents have been sweeping into Miami courthouses, detaining immigrants—even those showing up for scheduled hearings—and placing them in fast-tracked deportation proceedings. These actions have sparked fear in immigrant-heavy communities that largely supported Trump, including Cubans and Venezuelans.
Garcia, known for her deep conservative values and support for law enforcement, drew the line at what she sees as “arbitrary” arrests of immigrants trying to follow legal procedures.
“I understand the importance of deporting criminal aliens,” she said, “but what we’re witnessing are measures that feel more like a manhunt than a policy.”
In her statement, she called out Stephen Miller, the controversial force behind much of Trump’s immigration agenda. Taking it personal, she said her own parents, who fled Cuba for freedom, are “more American than Miller.”
Garcia now finds herself in a rare political lane—standing up for immigrants while staying conservative. She’s not backing down, insisting on “real solutions” and fairness in how America treats people chasing safety and stability.
Next week, Miami’s Republican delegation is set to meet with Trump’s Homeland Security secretary to press for answers—and Garcia will be watching closely.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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