#MAGFAB: Queen Muva Angela Bassett for Ebony Magazine!
ANGELA BASSETT, THE EXPLORER: Why a deep love of travel, the arts and theater feeds this award-winning actress’ soul.
In the opening scene of Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning, master spy Ethan Hunt listens to a familiar message one last time. “Your mission, should you choose to accept it” is enunciated by a voice that’s sultry, evocative and undeniably Angela Bassett’s. On another movie, this would be another set of memorized lines. However, Bassett knows the weight they carry in the franchise’s canon. She wanted some extra assurance she would articulate her words just right. “I was so nervous,” she laughs at the memory. “I literally had to say Lord, help me get through this, and then get to work.”
Bassett’s prayers were answered. Not only did she deliver the scene, but she’s along for the ride as the Mission: Impossible cast heads to its global premiere at the 78th Festival de Cannes. But before the actress steps on the palais steps, she’s in London mixing a little business with pleasure.
“There’s an energy, you know, in the streets, very much like New York,” says Bassett. “Soho is a nice walking area. Piccadilly. Then, I do a little window shopping, looking at the quaint shops… mom and pops stores we don’t see here in the states. And theater, of course. That’s my first love. I enjoy London quite a bit.”
The Big Smoke will be home for a few days as she begins promoting Mission: Impossible, where she’s reprising her role as Erika Sloane, CIA’s deputy director. For the final film, she has a noticeable job promotion: President of the United States. This year marks Bassett’s second time playing POTUS on screen. Last February, she starred opposite Robert de Niro in Netflix’s Zero Day, and now reteams with Tom Cruise as his Commander-in-Chief.
When asked what it means to play empowered women roles, especially when the United States has yet to elect a female president, Bassett says, “The representation is needed. It should not be impossible to be seen. I feel incredibly blessed. Not lucky, blessed with the roles that I’ve been able to portray on screen and stage.”
The Emmy-winning actress is spreading her blessings by turning them into opportunities for other Black and brown creatives in Hollywood. As the star and executive producer of her hit Fox series, 9-1-1, Bassett has a hand in ensuring that the set’s diverse behind the camera. “It’s a challenging club to break into but I have to support Black female directors and new writers. 9-1-1 is a well-oiled machine. We’re [producing] 18 episodes a year, so there’s an opportunity to give them a shot. I love that aspect of the job.”
Bassett extends this directive to the production company she runs with her husband, Country B. Vance, who she says is more in the trenches of the day-to-day running of Bassett/Vance Productions. “I’m 14 hours over here [filming 9-1-1.] I come in to open the door or close the deal,” she says before adding with a laugh. “I gotta sleep sometimes.”
Back in London, resting isn’t on Bassett’s agenda because this is one of her favorite cities. (Plus, she’s still buzzing from her first appearance at The Met gala, where, coincidentally, she was dressed by Burberry, London’s storied fashion house. She says of the historic evening celebrating Black style, “I felt like we understood the assignment.”) The moment her press obligations are done, she’s grabbing her walking shoes to explore the town. When traveling anywhere, that’s her modus operandi.
“It depends on the city. Is it a walking city? Is it an arts city? Or is there a music scene? Or is it more historical? Whatever it is, I just dive into and try to get to the nucleus of a city’s vibe,” she says. And what’s her essential traveling accessory? A good pair of sneakers. “I want to be comfortable, get around and have a good time. I want to get in the streets, meet people and have experiences.”
She remembers her very first trip abroad, back when she could finally afford “a good coach ticket” right after finishing her master’s at Yale’s School of Drama. “It was the Virgin Islands. It was so beautiful. I told myself, I’m gonna go to each and every one,” she remembers. “I’ve since been to about nine different islands [in the Caribbean]. But that first trip… seeing that beautiful vista, ocean air, expansive blue sky. It felt like home.”
Long before she would appear in films that would take her around the world, Bassett grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida. It’s there, on a “small town stage,” that she found her love of the written word as a form of self-expression. However, as many local and national cultural institutions—including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Kennedy Center—face losing financial support from the federal government, Bassett finds defunding the arts devastating. “Art is the illumination of the human experience that we’re all going through. It’s what makes life beautiful and bearable, poignant and joyous. You’ll never get rid of it. It eats in the souls of certain individuals. It’s who we are,” she says.
“There’s creativity in everything. I hope that we as a country will come together to save the art. We cannot live without it.”
Bassett knows this firsthand because the arts have fed her soul for over 40 years. “I love theater because it’s the actor’s medium,” she says. “Television is the writer’s medium, but theater—it’s you, the lip of the stage and the audience. We’re having this experience this night together. It’ll be a different experience with different souls the next night, and the next night, and so on and so forth. There’s no place to hide. You bare your soul and it either works, [laughs], and if it works, they let you know.” But Bassett’s eager for a chance to perform in front of a live audience. “New York is waiting for me and I can’t wait to get to the stage.”
In the opening scene of Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning, master spy Ethan Hunt listens to a familiar message one last time. “Your mission, should you choose to accept it” is enunciated by a voice that’s sultry, evocative and undeniably Angela Bassett’s. On another movie, this would be another set of memorized lines. However, Bassett knows the weight they carry in the franchise’s canon. She wanted some extra assurance she would articulate her words just right. “I was so nervous,” she laughs at the memory. “I literally had to say Lord, help me get through this, and then get to work.”
Bassett’s prayers were answered. Not only did she deliver the scene, but she’s along for the ride as the Mission: Impossible cast heads to its global premiere at the 78th Festival de Cannes. But before the actress steps on the palais steps, she’s in London mixing a little business with pleasure.
“There’s an energy, you know, in the streets, very much like New York,” says Bassett. “Soho is a nice walking area. Piccadilly. Then, I do a little window shopping, looking at the quaint shops… mom and pops stores we don’t see here in the states. And theater, of course. That’s my first love. I enjoy London quite a bit.”
When asked what it means to play empowered women roles, especially when the United States has yet to elect a female president, Bassett says, “The representation is needed. It should not be impossible to be seen. I feel incredibly blessed. Not lucky, blessed with the roles that I’ve been able to portray on screen and stage.”
The Emmy-winning actress is spreading her blessings by turning them into opportunities for other Black and brown creatives in Hollywood. As the star and executive producer of her hit Fox series, 9-1-1, Bassett has a hand in ensuring that the set’s diverse behind the camera. “It’s a challenging club to break into but I have to support Black female directors and new writers. 9-1-1 is a well-oiled machine. We’re [producing] 18 episodes a year, so there’s an opportunity to give them a shot. I love that aspect of the job.”
Bassett extends this directive to the production company she runs with her husband, Country B. Vance, who she says is more in the trenches of the day-to-day running of Bassett/Vance Productions. “I’m 14 hours over here [filming 9-1-1.] I come in to open the door or close the deal,” she says before adding with a laugh. “I gotta sleep sometimes.”
Back in London, resting isn’t on Bassett’s agenda because this is one of her favorite cities. (Plus, she’s still buzzing from her first appearance at The Met gala, where, coincidentally, she was dressed by Burberry, London’s storied fashion house. She says of the historic evening celebrating Black style, “I felt like we understood the assignment.”) The moment her press obligations are done, she’s grabbing her walking shoes to explore the town. When traveling anywhere, that’s her modus operandi.
“It depends on the city. Is it a walking city? Is it an arts city? Or is there a music scene? Or is it more historical? Whatever it is, I just dive into and try to get to the nucleus of a city’s vibe,” she says. And what’s her essential traveling accessory? A good pair of sneakers. “I want to be comfortable, get around and have a good time. I want to get in the streets, meet people and have experiences.”
Long before she would appear in films that would take her around the world, Bassett grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida. It’s there, on a “small town stage,” that she found her love of the written word as a form of self-expression. However, as many local and national cultural institutions—including the National Endowment for the Arts and the Kennedy Center—face losing financial support from the federal government, Bassett finds defunding the arts devastating. “Art is the illumination of the human experience that we’re all going through. It’s what makes life beautiful and bearable, poignant and joyous. You’ll never get rid of it. It eats in the souls of certain individuals. It’s who we are,” she says.
“There’s creativity in everything. I hope that we as a country will come together to save the art. We cannot live without it.”
Bassett knows this firsthand because the arts have fed her soul for over 40 years. “I love theater because it’s the actor’s medium,” she says. “Television is the writer’s medium, but theater—it’s you, the lip of the stage and the audience. We’re having this experience this night together. It’ll be a different experience with different souls the next night, and the next night, and so on and so forth. There’s no place to hide. You bare your soul and it either works, [laughs], and if it works, they let you know.” But Bassett’s eager for a chance to perform in front of a live audience. “New York is waiting for me and I can’t wait to get to the stage.”
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#RHOA: Angela Oakley Reveals Charles Oakley Marriage Issues: ‘I Can’t Stand Him’
Most of the cast members on Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 16 are going through divorces or are already divorced. Angela Oakley is one of the few women in the group who’s married, but on RHOA Season 16 Episode 14, we watched her celebrate her anniversary with Charles Oakley while thousands of miles apart.
Angela opted to go on the cast trip to Grenada, leaving Charles at home to take care of their blended family. That seemingly caused some tension between the two, and Angela was very blunt about their icy dynamic.
At the beginning of last night’s RHOA episode, “Chapter 2: RENEW,” the cameras rolled while Angela tried to get a hold of her husband for the second day in a row. The call kept going to voicemail, prompting her to bluntly say, “I can’t stand him.”
The tension continued later that day when she finally managed to get Charles on the phone. He answered, but their conversation wasn’t necessarily warm and loving. He barely even asked her about the trip, and Angela theorized that he was being “petty” towards her because they didn’t spend the anniversary together.
“He’s not even paying attention,” Angela ranted in her confessional. “And that irritates me ’cause I want to kiki, I want to talk. Like, I want to tell him how my day went. And he’s just like, ‘Whatever. OK.'”
Later in the episode, when the ladies went to dinner, they surprised Angela with a cake to help her celebrate her anniversary. It was a sweet gesture, even though some of these same ladies were just spreading rumors about Charles being unfaithful. Either way, Angela said she felt happy to celebrate a relationship milestone.
“I’m just happy that we made it to [our] eight-year wedding anniversary,” Angela told the cast.
Earlier in the season, Angela admitted that she and Charles experienced some rough patches in their marriage. They went through a separation just a year after tying the knot. With all of that in mind, she’s pushing him for a vow renewal to resolidify their union.
Angela opted to go on the cast trip to Grenada, leaving Charles at home to take care of their blended family. That seemingly caused some tension between the two, and Angela was very blunt about their icy dynamic.
At the beginning of last night’s RHOA episode, “Chapter 2: RENEW,” the cameras rolled while Angela tried to get a hold of her husband for the second day in a row. The call kept going to voicemail, prompting her to bluntly say, “I can’t stand him.”
The tension continued later that day when she finally managed to get Charles on the phone. He answered, but their conversation wasn’t necessarily warm and loving. He barely even asked her about the trip, and Angela theorized that he was being “petty” towards her because they didn’t spend the anniversary together.
“He’s not even paying attention,” Angela ranted in her confessional. “And that irritates me ’cause I want to kiki, I want to talk. Like, I want to tell him how my day went. And he’s just like, ‘Whatever. OK.'”
Later in the episode, when the ladies went to dinner, they surprised Angela with a cake to help her celebrate her anniversary. It was a sweet gesture, even though some of these same ladies were just spreading rumors about Charles being unfaithful. Either way, Angela said she felt happy to celebrate a relationship milestone.
“I’m just happy that we made it to [our] eight-year wedding anniversary,” Angela told the cast.
Earlier in the season, Angela admitted that she and Charles experienced some rough patches in their marriage. They went through a separation just a year after tying the knot. With all of that in mind, she’s pushing him for a vow renewal to resolidify their union.
#MusicNews: R&B Out singer Khalid Gets emotional during his first-ever Pride show, thanks fans for support
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Khalid cried on stage at his first-ever Pride.
The "Better" singer got emotional on stage while performing at the WorldPride DC 2025 Free Street Festival & Closing Concert on Sunday, June 8. A video posted by Gaye Magazine shows Khalid teary-eyed on stage while the crowd chants his name.
"These are happy tears," said Khalid. "This is my first time performing at Pride. This is my first time being at Pride. Y'all got me choked up, oh my god."
Khalid continued wiping away tears as he addressed the crowd. "I want to thank you guys so much for accepting me and supporting me," the singer said. "It means the world to me. It makes me so happy. I feel like I'm home here on this stage."
Khalid was seen confessing, "I didn't know I was going to cry" as the video concluded.
And Khalid continued to cry backstage after the show as he interacted with fans.
The 26-year-old was shockingly outed online last November via a bitter exchange with a former romantic partner. Khalid responded by posting a rainbow flag alongside exclamation points on social media site X/Twitter, followed by, "There y'all go. Next topic please lol."
He later added, "I got outed and the world still continues to turn. Let's get this straight (lmao) I am not ashamed of my sexuality! In reality it ain't nobodies business! But I am okay with me. love y'all."
In a recent digital cover story with Billboard, Khalid shared that he's ready to embrace his queer identity and "flirty side."
"Finding that freedom comes from knowing I can just be myself and still be embraced and appreciated," he said. "That doesn't change because the world finds out I'm gay. Because I don't change because the world finds out I'm gay."
He also reflected on the universal appeal of his hits over the last decade, and his surprise at realizing that the fan connection hasn't changed since coming out.
"I'm singing these songs that — I was obviously gay when I wrote them, but the world may not have known," he said. "Everybody is singing them the same way they were before I was outed! So [that shows me] none of my fans care about my sexual preferences. I think they care about our mutual respect for music."
Khalid's latest single, "All I Know," featuring Rudimental, is now available on all music streaming services.
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Khalid cried on stage at his first-ever Pride.
The "Better" singer got emotional on stage while performing at the WorldPride DC 2025 Free Street Festival & Closing Concert on Sunday, June 8. A video posted by Gaye Magazine shows Khalid teary-eyed on stage while the crowd chants his name.
"These are happy tears," said Khalid. "This is my first time performing at Pride. This is my first time being at Pride. Y'all got me choked up, oh my god."
Khalid continued wiping away tears as he addressed the crowd. "I want to thank you guys so much for accepting me and supporting me," the singer said. "It means the world to me. It makes me so happy. I feel like I'm home here on this stage."
Khalid was seen confessing, "I didn't know I was going to cry" as the video concluded.
And Khalid continued to cry backstage after the show as he interacted with fans.
The 26-year-old was shockingly outed online last November via a bitter exchange with a former romantic partner. Khalid responded by posting a rainbow flag alongside exclamation points on social media site X/Twitter, followed by, "There y'all go. Next topic please lol."
He later added, "I got outed and the world still continues to turn. Let's get this straight (lmao) I am not ashamed of my sexuality! In reality it ain't nobodies business! But I am okay with me. love y'all."
In a recent digital cover story with Billboard, Khalid shared that he's ready to embrace his queer identity and "flirty side."
"Finding that freedom comes from knowing I can just be myself and still be embraced and appreciated," he said. "That doesn't change because the world finds out I'm gay. Because I don't change because the world finds out I'm gay."
He also reflected on the universal appeal of his hits over the last decade, and his surprise at realizing that the fan connection hasn't changed since coming out.
"I'm singing these songs that — I was obviously gay when I wrote them, but the world may not have known," he said. "Everybody is singing them the same way they were before I was outed! So [that shows me] none of my fans care about my sexual preferences. I think they care about our mutual respect for music."
Khalid's latest single, "All I Know," featuring Rudimental, is now available on all music streaming services.
#HipHopNews: Doechii Calls Out Donald Trump And ICE At 2025 BET Awards
Doechii has had a huge year, but she isn’t focused just on herself. She called out Donald Trump and ICE for their recent immigrant arrests in Los Angeles at the 2025 BET Awards.
The 26-year-old artist had just been given the award for Best Female Hip-Hop artist, beating out Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, Sexyy Red, GloRilla, Doja Cat, Latto, and Rapsody. However, her thoughts were elsewhere. “I do want to address what’s happening outside of the building,” she began.
“There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order. Trump is using military forces to stop a protest, and I want y’all to consider what kind of government it appears to be when every time we exercise our Democratic right to protest, the military is deployed against us. What type of government is that?”
Doechii reflected on immigrants being separated from their families and expressed her desire to use her platform to bring awareness to the horrific acts. “For Black people, for Latino people, for trans people, for the people in Gaza,” she added. “We all deserve to live in hope and not in fear, and I hope we stand together, my brothers and my sisters against hate, and we protest against it.” Watch the speech above.
The TDE artist added this BET award to her trophy case that already boasts a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Her 2024 mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal began as a cult favorite and slowly climbed up the Billboard 200, peaking at No. 10.
The project had one featured artist, Fetish, and included production from Camper, Childish Major, Kal Banx, Monte Booker, and more. Her most recent single, “Anxiety,” has taken over social media and peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The 26-year-old artist had just been given the award for Best Female Hip-Hop artist, beating out Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, Sexyy Red, GloRilla, Doja Cat, Latto, and Rapsody. However, her thoughts were elsewhere. “I do want to address what’s happening outside of the building,” she began.
“There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order. Trump is using military forces to stop a protest, and I want y’all to consider what kind of government it appears to be when every time we exercise our Democratic right to protest, the military is deployed against us. What type of government is that?”
Doechii reflected on immigrants being separated from their families and expressed her desire to use her platform to bring awareness to the horrific acts. “For Black people, for Latino people, for trans people, for the people in Gaza,” she added. “We all deserve to live in hope and not in fear, and I hope we stand together, my brothers and my sisters against hate, and we protest against it.” Watch the speech above.
The TDE artist added this BET award to her trophy case that already boasts a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Her 2024 mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal began as a cult favorite and slowly climbed up the Billboard 200, peaking at No. 10.
The project had one featured artist, Fetish, and included production from Camper, Childish Major, Kal Banx, Monte Booker, and more. Her most recent single, “Anxiety,” has taken over social media and peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The 2025 BET Awards Here are the Winners
At Monday night’s (June 9) 2025 BET Awards, Kendrick Lamar entered Peacock Theater at L.A. Live as the top nominee and he left the night’s top winner, taking home five awards from 10 nominations.
On the telecast, Lamar accepted the album of the year prize for GNX, but he also took home best male hip hop artist, best collaboration (“Luther” with SZA), video of the year (“Not Like Us”) and video director of the year alongside Dave Free.
But who else left winners? You can find the full winners list below.
Album of the Year
$ome $exy $ongs 4 U — Drake & Partynextdoor
11:11 Deluxe — Chris Brown
Alligator Bites Never Heal — Doechii
Cowboy Carter — Beyoncé
Glorious — GloRilla
WINNER: GNX — Kendrick Lamar
Hurry Up Tomorrow — The Weeknd
We Don’t Trust You — Future & Metro Boomin
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Ari Lennox
Ayra Starr
Coco Jones
Kehlani
Muni Long
Summer Walker
WINNER: SZA
Victoria Monét
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Bruno Mars
WINNER: Chris Brown
Drake
Fridayy
Leon Thomas
Teddy Swims
The Weeknd
Usher
Best Group
41
Common & Pete Rock
Drake & Partynextdoor
Flo
WINNER: Future & Metro Boomin
Jacquees & Dej Loaf
Larry June, 2 Chainz, The Alchemist
Maverick City Music
Best Collaboration
“30 For 30” — SZA feat. Kendrick Lamar
“Alter Ego” — Doechii feat. JT
“Are You Even Real” — Teddy Swims feat. GivÄ“on
“Beckham” — Dee Billz feat. Kyle Richh, Kai Swervo, KJ Swervo
Bless — Lil Wayne, Wheezy & Young Thug
“Like That” — Future & Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar
WINNER: “Luther” — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
“Sticky” — Tyler, The Creator feat. GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne
“Timeless” — The Weeknd feat. Playboi Carti
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Cardi B
WINNER: Doechii
Doja Cat
GloRilla
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Nicki Minaj
Rapsody
Sexyy Red
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
BigXthaPlug
Bossman DLow
Burna Boy
Drake
Future
WINNER: Kendrick Lamar
Key Glock
Lil Wayne
Tyler, The Creator
Video of the Year
“3AM in Tokeyo” — Key Glock
“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” — Shaboozey
“After Hours” — Kehlani
“Denial Is a River” — Doechii
“Family Matters” — Drake
WINNER: “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar
“Timeless” — The Weeknd feat. Playboi Carti
“Type Shit” — Future, Metro Boomin, Travis Scott & Playboi Carti
Video Director of the Year
Anderson .Paak
B Pace Productions & Jacquees
Benny Boom
Cactus Jack
Cole Bennett
WINNER: Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Dave Meyers
Foggieraw
Tyler, The Creator
Best New Artist
41
Ayra Starr
BigXthaPlug
BossMan Dlow
Dee Billz
WINNER: Leon Thomas
October London
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
“A God (There Is)” — Common & Pete Rock feat. Jennifer Hudson
“Amen” — Pastor Mike Jr.
“Better Days” — Fridayy
“Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams feat. Sir The Baptist & Donald Lawrence (Terry Hunter Remix)
“Constant” — Maverick City Music, Jordin Sparks, Chandler Moore & Anthony Gargiula
“Deserve to Win” — Tamela Mann
“Faith” — Rapsody
WINNER: “Rain Down on Me” — GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Viewer’s Choice Award
WINNER: “Residuals” — Chris Brown
“Denial Is a River” — Doechii
“Nokia” — Drake
“Like That” — Future & Metro Boomin feat. Kendrick Lamar
“TGIF” — GloRilla
“Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar
“Luther” — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
“Brokey” — Latto
Best International Act
Any Gabrielly (Brazil)
Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
Basky (UK)
Black Sherif (Ghana)
Ezra Collective (UK)
Joé Dwèt Filé (France)
MC Luanna (Brazil)
Rema (Nigeria)
SDM (France)
Tyla (South Africa)
Uncle Waffles (Swaziland)
Best New International Act
Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
Ajulicosta (Brazil)
Amabbi (Brazil)
Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
Dr Yaro (France)
KWN (UK)
Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)
Merveille (France)
Odeal (UK)
Shallipopi (Nigeria)
TxC (South Africa)
BET Her
“Beautiful People” — Mary J. Blige
“Blackbiird” — Beyonce feat. Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy & Reyna Roberts
“Bloom” — Doechii
“Burning” — Tems
“Defying Gravity” — Cynthia Erivo feat. Ariana Grande
WINNER: “Heart of a Woman” — Summer Walker
“Hold On” — Tems
“In My Bag” — Flo & GloRilla
Best Movie
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
WINNER: Luther: Never Too Much
Mufasa: The Lion King
One of Them Days
Rebel Ridge
The Piano Lesson
The Six Triple Eight
Best Actor
Aaron Pierce
Aldis Hodge
Anthony Mackie
Colman Domingo
WINNER: Denzel Washington
Jamie Foxx
Joey Bada$$
Kevin Hart
Sterling K. Brown
Will Smith
Best Actress
Andra Day
Angela Bassett
Coco Jones
WINNER: Cynthia Erivo
Keke Palmer
Kerry Washington
Quinta Brunson
Viola Davis
Zendaya
Young Stars Award
Akira Akbar
WINNER: Blue Ivy Carter
Graceyn “Gracie” Hollingsworth
Heiress Harris
Melody Hurd
Thaddeus J. Mixson
Tyrik Johnson
VanVan
Sportswoman of the Year Award
A’ja Wilson
WINNER: Angel Reese
Claressa Shields
Coco Gauff
Dawn Staley
Flau’jae Johnson
Juju Watkins
Sha’Carri Richardson
Simone Biles
Sportsman of the Year
Aaron Judge
Anthony Edwards
Deion Sanders
WINNER: Jalen Hurts
Jayson Tatum
LeBron James
Saquon Barkley
Stephen Curry
At Monday night’s (June 9) 2025 BET Awards, Kendrick Lamar entered Peacock Theater at L.A. Live as the top nominee and he left the night’s top winner, taking home five awards from 10 nominations.
On the telecast, Lamar accepted the album of the year prize for GNX, but he also took home best male hip hop artist, best collaboration (“Luther” with SZA), video of the year (“Not Like Us”) and video director of the year alongside Dave Free.
But who else left winners? You can find the full winners list below.
Album of the Year
$ome $exy $ongs 4 U — Drake & Partynextdoor
11:11 Deluxe — Chris Brown
Alligator Bites Never Heal — Doechii
Cowboy Carter — Beyoncé
Glorious — GloRilla
WINNER: GNX — Kendrick Lamar
Hurry Up Tomorrow — The Weeknd
We Don’t Trust You — Future & Metro Boomin
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Ari Lennox
Ayra Starr
Coco Jones
Kehlani
Muni Long
Summer Walker
WINNER: SZA
Victoria Monét
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Bruno Mars
WINNER: Chris Brown
Drake
Fridayy
Leon Thomas
Teddy Swims
The Weeknd
Usher
Best Group
41
Common & Pete Rock
Drake & Partynextdoor
Flo
WINNER: Future & Metro Boomin
Jacquees & Dej Loaf
Larry June, 2 Chainz, The Alchemist
Maverick City Music
Best Collaboration
“30 For 30” — SZA feat. Kendrick Lamar
“Alter Ego” — Doechii feat. JT
“Are You Even Real” — Teddy Swims feat. GivÄ“on
“Beckham” — Dee Billz feat. Kyle Richh, Kai Swervo, KJ Swervo
Bless — Lil Wayne, Wheezy & Young Thug
“Like That” — Future & Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar
WINNER: “Luther” — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
“Sticky” — Tyler, The Creator feat. GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne
“Timeless” — The Weeknd feat. Playboi Carti
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Cardi B
WINNER: Doechii
Doja Cat
GloRilla
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Nicki Minaj
Rapsody
Sexyy Red
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
BigXthaPlug
Bossman DLow
Burna Boy
Drake
Future
WINNER: Kendrick Lamar
Key Glock
Lil Wayne
Tyler, The Creator
Video of the Year
“3AM in Tokeyo” — Key Glock
“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” — Shaboozey
“After Hours” — Kehlani
“Denial Is a River” — Doechii
“Family Matters” — Drake
WINNER: “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar
“Timeless” — The Weeknd feat. Playboi Carti
“Type Shit” — Future, Metro Boomin, Travis Scott & Playboi Carti
Video Director of the Year
Anderson .Paak
B Pace Productions & Jacquees
Benny Boom
Cactus Jack
Cole Bennett
WINNER: Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Dave Meyers
Foggieraw
Tyler, The Creator
Best New Artist
41
Ayra Starr
BigXthaPlug
BossMan Dlow
Dee Billz
WINNER: Leon Thomas
October London
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
“A God (There Is)” — Common & Pete Rock feat. Jennifer Hudson
“Amen” — Pastor Mike Jr.
“Better Days” — Fridayy
“Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams feat. Sir The Baptist & Donald Lawrence (Terry Hunter Remix)
“Constant” — Maverick City Music, Jordin Sparks, Chandler Moore & Anthony Gargiula
“Deserve to Win” — Tamela Mann
“Faith” — Rapsody
WINNER: “Rain Down on Me” — GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music
Viewer’s Choice Award
WINNER: “Residuals” — Chris Brown
“Denial Is a River” — Doechii
“Nokia” — Drake
“Like That” — Future & Metro Boomin feat. Kendrick Lamar
“TGIF” — GloRilla
“Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar
“Luther” — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
“Brokey” — Latto
Best International Act
Any Gabrielly (Brazil)
Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
Basky (UK)
Black Sherif (Ghana)
Ezra Collective (UK)
Joé Dwèt Filé (France)
MC Luanna (Brazil)
Rema (Nigeria)
SDM (France)
Tyla (South Africa)
Uncle Waffles (Swaziland)
Best New International Act
Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
Ajulicosta (Brazil)
Amabbi (Brazil)
Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
Dr Yaro (France)
KWN (UK)
Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)
Merveille (France)
Odeal (UK)
Shallipopi (Nigeria)
TxC (South Africa)
BET Her
“Beautiful People” — Mary J. Blige
“Blackbiird” — Beyonce feat. Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy & Reyna Roberts
“Bloom” — Doechii
“Burning” — Tems
“Defying Gravity” — Cynthia Erivo feat. Ariana Grande
WINNER: “Heart of a Woman” — Summer Walker
“Hold On” — Tems
“In My Bag” — Flo & GloRilla
Best Movie
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
WINNER: Luther: Never Too Much
Mufasa: The Lion King
One of Them Days
Rebel Ridge
The Piano Lesson
The Six Triple Eight
Best Actor
Aaron Pierce
Aldis Hodge
Anthony Mackie
Colman Domingo
WINNER: Denzel Washington
Jamie Foxx
Joey Bada$$
Kevin Hart
Sterling K. Brown
Will Smith
Best Actress
Andra Day
Angela Bassett
Coco Jones
WINNER: Cynthia Erivo
Keke Palmer
Kerry Washington
Quinta Brunson
Viola Davis
Zendaya
Young Stars Award
Akira Akbar
WINNER: Blue Ivy Carter
Graceyn “Gracie” Hollingsworth
Heiress Harris
Melody Hurd
Thaddeus J. Mixson
Tyrik Johnson
VanVan
Sportswoman of the Year Award
A’ja Wilson
WINNER: Angel Reese
Claressa Shields
Coco Gauff
Dawn Staley
Flau’jae Johnson
Juju Watkins
Sha’Carri Richardson
Simone Biles
Sportsman of the Year
Aaron Judge
Anthony Edwards
Deion Sanders
WINNER: Jalen Hurts
Jayson Tatum
LeBron James
Saquon Barkley
Stephen Curry
Congrats to all the winners!
Misty Copeland Announces Retirement from American Ballet Theatre After 25 Years
Misty Copeland is officially stepping away from American Ballet Theatre, the company she joined as a teenager and helped transform from within. In an exclusive interview with the Associated Press, the barrier-breaking ballerina announced her retirement after 25 years, capping off a career that made her the first Black female principal dancer in ABT’s 75-year history.
“It’s time for me to move to the next stage,” Copeland, 42, told the AP. “It’s been 25 years at ABT, and I think it’s time.”
Copeland will make her farewell appearance on October 22, in a special performance featuring ABT dancers, film clips, and speeches—culminating in her return to the stage for the Romeo and Juliet pas de deux with longtime partner Herman Cornejo. Oprah Winfrey and Caroline Kennedy will serve as honorary chairs for the night.
Copeland became a household name in 2015 when her promotion to principal was announced in a rare press conference, following her lead performance in Swan Lake. That moment brought a new level of visibility—and diversity—to ballet’s traditionally white spaces.
Her rise wasn’t just about solo performances. “I feel like this is me saying thank you to the company,” she told the AP. “But it won’t be the end of me dancing. Never say never.”
While her visibility has opened doors, Copeland acknowledged that systemic change has been slow. “It’s definitely concerning,” she said, referencing the lack of other Black female principals at ABT since her historic promotion. “There’s only so much I can do on a stage.”
Since becoming a mother three years ago, Copeland says her outlook has broadened. “I just have a lighter and brighter outlook on life,” she said, adding that ballet prepared her well for parenting—teaching her patience, resilience, and empathy.
“It’s time for me to move to the next stage,” Copeland, 42, told the AP. “It’s been 25 years at ABT, and I think it’s time.”
Copeland will make her farewell appearance on October 22, in a special performance featuring ABT dancers, film clips, and speeches—culminating in her return to the stage for the Romeo and Juliet pas de deux with longtime partner Herman Cornejo. Oprah Winfrey and Caroline Kennedy will serve as honorary chairs for the night.
Copeland became a household name in 2015 when her promotion to principal was announced in a rare press conference, following her lead performance in Swan Lake. That moment brought a new level of visibility—and diversity—to ballet’s traditionally white spaces.
Her rise wasn’t just about solo performances. “I feel like this is me saying thank you to the company,” she told the AP. “But it won’t be the end of me dancing. Never say never.”
While her visibility has opened doors, Copeland acknowledged that systemic change has been slow. “It’s definitely concerning,” she said, referencing the lack of other Black female principals at ABT since her historic promotion. “There’s only so much I can do on a stage.”
Since becoming a mother three years ago, Copeland says her outlook has broadened. “I just have a lighter and brighter outlook on life,” she said, adding that ballet prepared her well for parenting—teaching her patience, resilience, and empathy.
Ts Madison Responds To Backlash Over Dating Preferences During NeNe Leakes Interview
Ts Madison is addressing criticism following her appearance on NeNe Leakes’ new show, where the two discussed dating and sexuality—specifically NeNe’s comments about not dating “gay men.”
In a detailed Instagram caption, Madison educated her followers while standing firm on her perspective.
“If you are a female that’s dated multiple men in your life, it’s a possibility that one of those men have experienced something you may deem ‘gay,’” she began.
She went on to clarify, “Men who identify as GAY do not date or desire Trans Women,” and emphasized that “Trans women are desirable to men who identify as straight.”
Madison also broke down the difference between identities and orientations, explaining terms like “Trans,” “Queer,” “Non-binary,” and “Pansexual.”
She closed by thanking NeNe for hosting the conversation: “This is a difficult conversation for a lot of people. Thanks for having fun with me.”
Did you enjoy the conversation, What do you think?
Ts Madison is addressing criticism following her appearance on NeNe Leakes’ new show, where the two discussed dating and sexuality—specifically NeNe’s comments about not dating “gay men.”
In a detailed Instagram caption, Madison educated her followers while standing firm on her perspective.
“If you are a female that’s dated multiple men in your life, it’s a possibility that one of those men have experienced something you may deem ‘gay,’” she began.
She went on to clarify, “Men who identify as GAY do not date or desire Trans Women,” and emphasized that “Trans women are desirable to men who identify as straight.”
Madison also broke down the difference between identities and orientations, explaining terms like “Trans,” “Queer,” “Non-binary,” and “Pansexual.”
She closed by thanking NeNe for hosting the conversation: “This is a difficult conversation for a lot of people. Thanks for having fun with me.”
Did you enjoy the conversation, What do you think?
Sean "Diddy" Combs Trial: What He Mouthed to His Mom While in Court
Sean “Diddy” Combs is giving his loved ones a message.
Indeed, as the rap mogul’s mom Janice Combs entered the courtroom June 9 for day 19 of the sex trafficking trial, he expressed his gratitude for her presence, according to NBC News reporters in the room.
After the courtroom returned from lunch, Combs mouthed to his mother, “I love you, mommy.”
But it isn’t the first time the 55-year-old—who pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, as well as transportation to engage in prostitution—has shared a message as he sat by his defense team.
In fact, when the trial was unfolding in May, Combs made a heart gesture with his hands as he entered the New York City courtroom. He later verbally addressed those inside the room May 20 as the court was adjourning, saying aloud, “I love you all. Yeah. Love.”
He then spoke to a woman in the gallery, telling her in what seemed to be a reference to his son Justin Combs, 31, “Please let Justin know I'm thinking of him."
As Combs' legal battle moves forward, his family has continued to support him in the courtroom, including his mom and kids Justin, 31, Quincy Brown, 34, Christian "King" Combs, 27, Chance Combs, 19, and 18-year-old twins D'Lila Combs and Jessie Combs.
The Combs clan has been in the room behind the Bad Boy Records founder. However, his daughters did step out May 13 during his ex Cassie Ventura’s graphic testimony, in which she accused her then-boyfriend of physically, emotionally and financially abusing her.
Although D'Lila, Jessie and Chance haven’t returned since the beginning of the trial, Janice, Justin, King and Quincy have made regular appearances. Combs’ loved ones were in the room as his ex, who is going by “Jane” in the trial and “Victim-2” in the indictment, shared insight into the alleged abuse in their relationship.
Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
“Jane” revealed that a large part of their relationship, which lasted from 2021 to 2024, revolved around “hotel nights,” the details of which are nearly identical to Ventura's experience at “freak offs.”
“I said I wanted to stop having sex with other men,” she testified June 9 that she told Combs. “I texted, ‘I am tired. I need a break.’ I said, ‘sex is sacred to me. I have brain fog and can’t concentrate. I couldn't focus because of all the drugs. Sean said, ‘I don't want that from you’ and I said, ‘I need a break.’”
However, since she was financially dependent on Combs, she said it “made me feel like I had to perform since I got the home in April of 2023.”
“Jane,” who has broken down during her emotional testimony, added, “I don't want to feel obligated to have sex with you to put a roof over my head.”
Indeed, as the rap mogul’s mom Janice Combs entered the courtroom June 9 for day 19 of the sex trafficking trial, he expressed his gratitude for her presence, according to NBC News reporters in the room.
After the courtroom returned from lunch, Combs mouthed to his mother, “I love you, mommy.”
But it isn’t the first time the 55-year-old—who pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, as well as transportation to engage in prostitution—has shared a message as he sat by his defense team.
In fact, when the trial was unfolding in May, Combs made a heart gesture with his hands as he entered the New York City courtroom. He later verbally addressed those inside the room May 20 as the court was adjourning, saying aloud, “I love you all. Yeah. Love.”
He then spoke to a woman in the gallery, telling her in what seemed to be a reference to his son Justin Combs, 31, “Please let Justin know I'm thinking of him."
As Combs' legal battle moves forward, his family has continued to support him in the courtroom, including his mom and kids Justin, 31, Quincy Brown, 34, Christian "King" Combs, 27, Chance Combs, 19, and 18-year-old twins D'Lila Combs and Jessie Combs.
The Combs clan has been in the room behind the Bad Boy Records founder. However, his daughters did step out May 13 during his ex Cassie Ventura’s graphic testimony, in which she accused her then-boyfriend of physically, emotionally and financially abusing her.
Although D'Lila, Jessie and Chance haven’t returned since the beginning of the trial, Janice, Justin, King and Quincy have made regular appearances. Combs’ loved ones were in the room as his ex, who is going by “Jane” in the trial and “Victim-2” in the indictment, shared insight into the alleged abuse in their relationship.
Jemal Countess/Getty Images for Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
“Jane” revealed that a large part of their relationship, which lasted from 2021 to 2024, revolved around “hotel nights,” the details of which are nearly identical to Ventura's experience at “freak offs.”
“I said I wanted to stop having sex with other men,” she testified June 9 that she told Combs. “I texted, ‘I am tired. I need a break.’ I said, ‘sex is sacred to me. I have brain fog and can’t concentrate. I couldn't focus because of all the drugs. Sean said, ‘I don't want that from you’ and I said, ‘I need a break.’”
However, since she was financially dependent on Combs, she said it “made me feel like I had to perform since I got the home in April of 2023.”
“Jane,” who has broken down during her emotional testimony, added, “I don't want to feel obligated to have sex with you to put a roof over my head.”
Adam 'Pacman' Jones charged with assaulting a police officer, booked in Northern Kentucky jail
Former NFL cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones is facing a new list of criminal charges in Northern Kentucky, jail records show.
Jones was booked on June 7 into the Kenton County Jail on charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct and assaulting a police officer. Jail records show he was arrested by Covington police.
Court records related to Jones' arrest were not immediately available. Attorney information was also not immediately available.
Officers were called to the Second Story Bar on West Seventh Street just before 1 a.m. on June 7 following a report of a "disturbance involving a customer and an employee," police said in a news release.
When police arrived, they were alerted to a car trying to leave the area, officials said. Officers then stopped the car being driven by 41-year-old Jones.
Police arrested Jones "on charges related to his level of intoxication and his behavior," the release states. Officials said he'd been consuming alcohol.
"The Covington Police Department takes incidents of this nature very seriously. We are committed to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all who live in or visit Covington," the department's release reads. "Adam Jones is being held to the same standard of conduct as any other individual in our community."
A year earlier, Jones pleaded guilty to a disorderly conduct charge in Boone County District Court.
The former Bengal was arrested early Sept. 11 after Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport police responded to a call about an unruly passenger on a United Airlines flight, court records show.
He was sentenced to 30 days in jail, but that sentence was conditionally discharged for two years, so long as Jones avoided new criminal charges.
Former NFL cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones is facing a new list of criminal charges in Northern Kentucky, jail records show.
Jones was booked on June 7 into the Kenton County Jail on charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct and assaulting a police officer. Jail records show he was arrested by Covington police.
Court records related to Jones' arrest were not immediately available. Attorney information was also not immediately available.
Officers were called to the Second Story Bar on West Seventh Street just before 1 a.m. on June 7 following a report of a "disturbance involving a customer and an employee," police said in a news release.
When police arrived, they were alerted to a car trying to leave the area, officials said. Officers then stopped the car being driven by 41-year-old Jones.
Police arrested Jones "on charges related to his level of intoxication and his behavior," the release states. Officials said he'd been consuming alcohol.
"The Covington Police Department takes incidents of this nature very seriously. We are committed to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all who live in or visit Covington," the department's release reads. "Adam Jones is being held to the same standard of conduct as any other individual in our community."
A year earlier, Jones pleaded guilty to a disorderly conduct charge in Boone County District Court.
The former Bengal was arrested early Sept. 11 after Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport police responded to a call about an unruly passenger on a United Airlines flight, court records show.
He was sentenced to 30 days in jail, but that sentence was conditionally discharged for two years, so long as Jones avoided new criminal charges.
Justin Baldoni's $400 million defamation suit against Blake Lively dismissed
A federal judge has dismissed actor Justin Baldoni's $400 million defamation lawsuit against actor Blake Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds and the New York Times.
Baldoni directed the 2024 movie It Ends With Us, which he co-starred in with Lively. The movie is based on a popular novel by Colleen Hoover. A few months after the movie was released, Lively filed a legal complaint against Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios, the movie's production company which Baldoni co-founded, alleging she was sexually harassed during the making of the movie.
The legal complaint coincided with an article in the New York Times detailing the public relations/crisis management machine working on behalf of Baldoni.
In response, Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively and Reynolds, alleging defamation and extortion.
Wayfarer Studios also originally sued the New York Times in a separate $250 million libel lawsuit. That suit was dismissed after the Times was added as a defendant in the $400 million defamation suit.
In an opinion issued Monday, Judge Lewis J. Liman stated Baldoni failed to show that actual malice was involved in Lively's allegations.
As for the Times, the judge wrote, "The alleged facts indicate that the Times reviewed the available evidence and reported, perhaps in a dramatized manner, what it believed to have happened."
"Today's opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively," read a statement from Lively's lawyers, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb. "This '$400 million' lawsuit was a sham, and the Court saw right through it."
NPR has reached out to the legal team representing Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios.
Baldoni directed the 2024 movie It Ends With Us, which he co-starred in with Lively. The movie is based on a popular novel by Colleen Hoover. A few months after the movie was released, Lively filed a legal complaint against Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios, the movie's production company which Baldoni co-founded, alleging she was sexually harassed during the making of the movie.
The legal complaint coincided with an article in the New York Times detailing the public relations/crisis management machine working on behalf of Baldoni.
In response, Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively and Reynolds, alleging defamation and extortion.
Wayfarer Studios also originally sued the New York Times in a separate $250 million libel lawsuit. That suit was dismissed after the Times was added as a defendant in the $400 million defamation suit.
In an opinion issued Monday, Judge Lewis J. Liman stated Baldoni failed to show that actual malice was involved in Lively's allegations.
As for the Times, the judge wrote, "The alleged facts indicate that the Times reviewed the available evidence and reported, perhaps in a dramatized manner, what it believed to have happened."
"Today's opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively," read a statement from Lively's lawyers, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb. "This '$400 million' lawsuit was a sham, and the Court saw right through it."
NPR has reached out to the legal team representing Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios.
Michelle Obama Unpacks Style, Love and Power of Change in New Book ‘The Look’
Michelle Obama just revealed her new project, The Look, a deeply personal book that explores her evolution through fashion, hair, and identity.
The former FLOTUS took to the Gram on Thursday, June 5, to share the book’s cover and speak candidly about what inspired her to tell this story now.
“During our family’s time in the White House, the way I looked was constantly being dissected — what I wore, how my hair was styled,” Michelle begins in the post’s lengthy caption.
“For a while now, I’ve been wanting to reclaim more of that story, to share it in my way. I’m thankful to be at a stage in life where I feel comfortable expressing myself freely — wearing what I love and doing what feels true to me. And I’m excited to share some of what I’ve learned along the way.”
The highly anticipated book is not just a glossy photo diary of gowns and glamour. It delves deeper into the fabric of who she is and how style has become a tool for both self-expression and resistance. Michelle makes it clear that every outfit tells a story beyond the seams.
“It’s a reflection on my lifelong journey with fashion, hair, and beauty. Inside, you’ll find some of the outfits that have meant the most to me, but more importantly, the moments that I lived through in them — big and small, personal and political, historic and ordinary — that were as memorable as the clothes themselves.”
Get this, in The Look, Michelle also gives love to the team who helped shape her iconic style and stood beside her through the spotlight and scrutiny.
“You’ll also get to know the incredible team that supported me through it all and defined my look — my thoughtful stylist @MeredithKoop, my talented makeup artist @CarlRayMUA, and my wonderful hairstylists @JohnnyWright220, @YeneDamtew, and @KitchenTalkwithNjeri. Each of them brings their own story, heart, and perspective to this journey,” she added.
Moreover, this book encompasses more than just fashion moments and public appearances. It’s a celebration of confidence and the right to define beauty on your terms.
“The Look is about more than fashion. It’s about confidence. It’s about identity. It’s about the power of authenticity. My hope is that this book sparks conversation and reflection about the ways we see ourselves — and the way our society defines beauty,” Michelle shared.
Michelle Obama just revealed her new project, The Look, a deeply personal book that explores her evolution through fashion, hair, and identity.
The former FLOTUS took to the Gram on Thursday, June 5, to share the book’s cover and speak candidly about what inspired her to tell this story now.
“During our family’s time in the White House, the way I looked was constantly being dissected — what I wore, how my hair was styled,” Michelle begins in the post’s lengthy caption.
“For a while now, I’ve been wanting to reclaim more of that story, to share it in my way. I’m thankful to be at a stage in life where I feel comfortable expressing myself freely — wearing what I love and doing what feels true to me. And I’m excited to share some of what I’ve learned along the way.”
The highly anticipated book is not just a glossy photo diary of gowns and glamour. It delves deeper into the fabric of who she is and how style has become a tool for both self-expression and resistance. Michelle makes it clear that every outfit tells a story beyond the seams.
“It’s a reflection on my lifelong journey with fashion, hair, and beauty. Inside, you’ll find some of the outfits that have meant the most to me, but more importantly, the moments that I lived through in them — big and small, personal and political, historic and ordinary — that were as memorable as the clothes themselves.”
Get this, in The Look, Michelle also gives love to the team who helped shape her iconic style and stood beside her through the spotlight and scrutiny.
“You’ll also get to know the incredible team that supported me through it all and defined my look — my thoughtful stylist @MeredithKoop, my talented makeup artist @CarlRayMUA, and my wonderful hairstylists @JohnnyWright220, @YeneDamtew, and @KitchenTalkwithNjeri. Each of them brings their own story, heart, and perspective to this journey,” she added.
Moreover, this book encompasses more than just fashion moments and public appearances. It’s a celebration of confidence and the right to define beauty on your terms.
“The Look is about more than fashion. It’s about confidence. It’s about identity. It’s about the power of authenticity. My hope is that this book sparks conversation and reflection about the ways we see ourselves — and the way our society defines beauty,” Michelle shared.
CNN Correspondent Jason Carroll Detained By LAPD, Camera Crew Arrested
CNN National Correspondent Jason Carroll, who has been reporting on the unrest in Los Angeles for the past few days, found himself a part of the story tonight when he was detained and briefly questioned by police in Los Angeles.
During a live shot, Carroll is heard telling police his name and then seen being walked away with his hands behind his back.
A police officer is then heard saying, “We’re letting you go. You can’t come back. If you come back, you will be arrested.”
Carroll is heard to say, “Ok.”
CNN later reported that, while Carroll was released, two members of his camera crew were arrested.
Carroll described the scene to Laura Coates back in the studio: “I was walking over to the officer, tried to explain who I was, who I was with. He said, I’d like you to turn around. I turned around, I put my hands behind my back. They did not put me in zip ties, but they did grab both my hands as I was escorted over to the side, they said, you are being detained.”
Carroll is not the first member of the press to get caught between police and protesters. On Sunday, Lauren Tomasi, the U.S. correspondent for Australia’s 9News, appeared to be shot by a rubber bullet while reporting on the immigration protests. Nick Stern, a British news photographer, reportedly needed emergency surgery over the weekend after sustaining a leg wound during the clashes.
A coalition of 27 press and civil liberties advocacy groups wrote to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem today “to express alarm that federal officers may have violated the First Amendment rights of journalists covering recent protests and unrest related to immigration enforcement in the Los Angeles area.”
The coalition, led by the Los Angeles Press Club, First Amendment Coalition and Freedom of the Press Foundation, further wrote that “The press plays an essential role in our democracy as the public’s eyes and ears. The timely reporting of breaking news is necessary to provide the public with complete information, especially about controversial events.
“A number of reports suggest that federal officers have indiscriminately used force or deployed munitions such as tear gas or pepper balls that caused significant injuries to journalists. In some cases, federal officers appear to have deliberately targeted journalists who were doing nothing more than their job covering the news.”
The LA Press Club referred to at least 24 “documented” instances of journalists being targeted by law enforcement while covering the protests in Los Angeles between June 6-8, and multiple media workers report having been shot by police with less-than-lethal munitions.
Those journalists included Southern California News Group’s Ryanne Mena, freelance journalists Anthony Cabassa and Sean Beckner-Carmitchel, The Southlander’s Ben Camacho, British photojournalist Nick Stern, and LA Taco’s Lexis Olivier-Ray.
During a live shot, Carroll is heard telling police his name and then seen being walked away with his hands behind his back.
A police officer is then heard saying, “We’re letting you go. You can’t come back. If you come back, you will be arrested.”
Carroll is heard to say, “Ok.”
CNN later reported that, while Carroll was released, two members of his camera crew were arrested.
Carroll described the scene to Laura Coates back in the studio: “I was walking over to the officer, tried to explain who I was, who I was with. He said, I’d like you to turn around. I turned around, I put my hands behind my back. They did not put me in zip ties, but they did grab both my hands as I was escorted over to the side, they said, you are being detained.”
Carroll is not the first member of the press to get caught between police and protesters. On Sunday, Lauren Tomasi, the U.S. correspondent for Australia’s 9News, appeared to be shot by a rubber bullet while reporting on the immigration protests. Nick Stern, a British news photographer, reportedly needed emergency surgery over the weekend after sustaining a leg wound during the clashes.
A coalition of 27 press and civil liberties advocacy groups wrote to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem today “to express alarm that federal officers may have violated the First Amendment rights of journalists covering recent protests and unrest related to immigration enforcement in the Los Angeles area.”
The coalition, led by the Los Angeles Press Club, First Amendment Coalition and Freedom of the Press Foundation, further wrote that “The press plays an essential role in our democracy as the public’s eyes and ears. The timely reporting of breaking news is necessary to provide the public with complete information, especially about controversial events.
“A number of reports suggest that federal officers have indiscriminately used force or deployed munitions such as tear gas or pepper balls that caused significant injuries to journalists. In some cases, federal officers appear to have deliberately targeted journalists who were doing nothing more than their job covering the news.”
The LA Press Club referred to at least 24 “documented” instances of journalists being targeted by law enforcement while covering the protests in Los Angeles between June 6-8, and multiple media workers report having been shot by police with less-than-lethal munitions.
Those journalists included Southern California News Group’s Ryanne Mena, freelance journalists Anthony Cabassa and Sean Beckner-Carmitchel, The Southlander’s Ben Camacho, British photojournalist Nick Stern, and LA Taco’s Lexis Olivier-Ray.
Warner Bros. Discovery to Split Into Two Companies
Warner Bros. Discovery, grappling with declines in its overall business, said Monday it planned to divide the company into two publicly-traded entities, one devoted to streaming and content production and one devoted to traditional television.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav will remain as the leader of the streaming-focused entity, while Gunnar Wiedenfels, the company’s CFO who has become known for finding new ways to cut old costs, will lead the TV company. The separation is expected to be completed by mid-2026, subject to closing and other conditions, and the bulk of the current company’s debt — nearly $38 billion –will be assigned to the TV entity.
“By operating as two distinct and optimized companies in the future, we are empowering these iconic brands with the sharper focus and strategic flexibility they need to compete most effectively in today’s evolving media landscape,” Zaslav said in a statement.
The company is emulating a strategy recently put into place by rival Comcast. That conglomerate is breaking up NBCUniversal, with plans to place the bulk of its cable networks in a new publicly-traded spinoff called Versant while keeping its broadcast and streaming assets under the better-known entity, NBC.
Warner has had to contend with many obstacles since being formed by the combination of AT&T’s WarnerMedia — the company once known as Time Warner — and the former Discovery Communications, Under Zaslav, Warner has fiddled with streaming strategies and deprived top cable networks of TNT and TBS of the original content they need to flourish. Warner recently lost long-held rights to televise NBA games, a contract that gave its networks a major sporting franchise that drew large crowds on the regular. And it has written down the value of its cable properties.
Warner has recently appeared to find some rhythm. The Max service has developed solid audiences for programs including “The Pitt” and “White Lotus,” and the company has recently articulated a strategy of targeting audiences interested in premium content, rather than a broader crowd. And Warner has struck new distribution deals with cable and satellite companies that call for what are seen internally as favorable terms, despite the loss of the NBA.
The streaming company will encompass the Warner TV and movie studios, HBO and HBO Max and a games and experiences division. The company will focus on building out the HBO Max streaming service and investing in programming. Meanwhile, the TV company will include Warner’s TV networks around the world along with specific digital brands tied to the TV entities, including Discovery+, Bleacher Report and CNN’s new streaming products.
Warner’s move is likely to spur new speculation about potential consolidation in the media sector. Part of the strategy behind Comcast’s Versant is its ability to do deals. Paramount Global, owner of CBS, is also under financial pressure and may have to consider new rounds of cost cutting if it cannot consummate a deal it has in place to be acquired by Skydance Media.
During an investor call Monday, executives suggested the two companies might continue to be aligned. Ad sales may represent both sides of the split, executives said, and sports, while being placed with the TV company, will likely continue to stream on HBO Max for the foreseeable future, though those plans could change as the two companies plot their own strategies in the future. “The U.S. sports rights will reside at the global networks, and its management team will determine how best to monetize the streaming and digital rights over time,” Wiedenfels said.
Sherri Shepherd Finally Reveals the Actress Who 'Forcefully' Accused Her of Throwing Shade at the“ Othello” Opening
On June 9, Sherri Shepherd finally revealed that Nia Long was allegedly the "unnamed celebrity” who “forcefully” accused her of throwing shade at the Othello Broadway premiere
During an appearance on The Breakfast Club, Shepherd said, “I think Nia Long maybe confused me with someone… I have no idea who she thought was shading her, but it was not me. I have no beef with Nia Long. I'm a fan of hers"
The TV personality first made the claims about the alleged encounter with Long during the March 24 episode of her talk show Sherri
Sherri Shepherd is spilling the tea about her alleged uncomfortable encounter at the premiere of Othello on Broadway.
More than two months after the talk show host, 58, shared that an "unnamed celebrity” “forcefully” accused her of throwing shade at the event, Shephard revealed who was allegedly behind the incident during an appearance on The Breakfast Club.
“It was Nia Long,” she said. “I don't know who Nia Long had me confused with.”
“The only time I've ever talked about Nia Long is when she went through with her partner [when] there was infidelity,” she said, seemingly referring to the actress’ split from Ime Udoka, who allegedly had an affair with a female subordinate within the team's organization. “I supported her and… [said] she deserves to have a good man to be with her.”
She continued, “I think Nia Long maybe confused me with someone… I have no idea who she thought was shading her, but it was not me. I have no beef with Nia Long. I'm a fan of hers.”
She noted that both her and Long, 54, are “grown women,” adding, “We’re both the same age so we can discuss it. That's why I invited her on my show.”
Representatives for Long did not immediately return request for comment.
Shepherd also addressed people being surprised she spoke out about the incident — albeit without initially naming names.
She said, “A lot of people say, well, why would you say something like that publicly? Well, number one, I never said her name. There's a lot of women that attended the Othello premiere. And number two, I’m a stand up comic. So everything that happens in my life is material for me. And my stage, my comedy stage, is the talk show.”
“So I got on stage and I just talked about it, and I said, you know… this happened,” she added.
The television personality reiterated that she doesn’t have “any beef,” explaining, “I don't like to tear down people. But I honestly was just confused. And I also don't like when you touch me and you pull at me. I don't like that…[she] grabbed me and spun me around.”
“I'm cool. I'm so cool. It's done,” she added. “If Nia Long would love to come on my show, I would love [that], I'm a fan. We're both actresses. I would love to talk to her and just clear it up.”
During the March 24 episode of her talk show Sherri, Shepherd recalled, “This unnamed celebrity actress, who shall remain nameless, I'm standing there talking, somebody grabbed my arm, and they forcefully turned me around."
Shepherd shared that she had been "in a good mood" and started a conversation with the star, saying, "I go, 'Hi! What's going on?' Cause I know her. And she says to me, she goes, 'You've been shading me a lot.' That's what she said to me."
She quickly denied the accusation, recalling, "I said to her, I said, 'No, I haven't.' Because I was really confused. And she goes, 'Yes, you have.' And then she just walked off."
"Now, let me tell you something. First of all, I know who I shade because I don't shade many people. It might be one person I shade. And I never have shaded this unnamed celebrity," she added. "And so she came up to me in front of everybody going, 'You shaded me.' And then she walks off. So I was mad. I was really mad, and I said, 'You know what? You don't freaking get to do that to me.'"
During the talk show, she also addressed the celebrity directly. "I would say to unnamed celebrity, because you think I shaded you — which means you watch my show — I don't know who you think I am. I think you get me confused with somebody, one of the bloggers or the influencers, because I know I didn't shade you."
On June 9, Sherri Shepherd finally revealed that Nia Long was allegedly the "unnamed celebrity” who “forcefully” accused her of throwing shade at the Othello Broadway premiere
During an appearance on The Breakfast Club, Shepherd said, “I think Nia Long maybe confused me with someone… I have no idea who she thought was shading her, but it was not me. I have no beef with Nia Long. I'm a fan of hers"
The TV personality first made the claims about the alleged encounter with Long during the March 24 episode of her talk show Sherri
Sherri Shepherd is spilling the tea about her alleged uncomfortable encounter at the premiere of Othello on Broadway.
More than two months after the talk show host, 58, shared that an "unnamed celebrity” “forcefully” accused her of throwing shade at the event, Shephard revealed who was allegedly behind the incident during an appearance on The Breakfast Club.
“It was Nia Long,” she said. “I don't know who Nia Long had me confused with.”
“The only time I've ever talked about Nia Long is when she went through with her partner [when] there was infidelity,” she said, seemingly referring to the actress’ split from Ime Udoka, who allegedly had an affair with a female subordinate within the team's organization. “I supported her and… [said] she deserves to have a good man to be with her.”
She continued, “I think Nia Long maybe confused me with someone… I have no idea who she thought was shading her, but it was not me. I have no beef with Nia Long. I'm a fan of hers.”
She noted that both her and Long, 54, are “grown women,” adding, “We’re both the same age so we can discuss it. That's why I invited her on my show.”
Representatives for Long did not immediately return request for comment.
Shepherd also addressed people being surprised she spoke out about the incident — albeit without initially naming names.
She said, “A lot of people say, well, why would you say something like that publicly? Well, number one, I never said her name. There's a lot of women that attended the Othello premiere. And number two, I’m a stand up comic. So everything that happens in my life is material for me. And my stage, my comedy stage, is the talk show.”
“So I got on stage and I just talked about it, and I said, you know… this happened,” she added.
The television personality reiterated that she doesn’t have “any beef,” explaining, “I don't like to tear down people. But I honestly was just confused. And I also don't like when you touch me and you pull at me. I don't like that…[she] grabbed me and spun me around.”
“I'm cool. I'm so cool. It's done,” she added. “If Nia Long would love to come on my show, I would love [that], I'm a fan. We're both actresses. I would love to talk to her and just clear it up.”
During the March 24 episode of her talk show Sherri, Shepherd recalled, “This unnamed celebrity actress, who shall remain nameless, I'm standing there talking, somebody grabbed my arm, and they forcefully turned me around."
Shepherd shared that she had been "in a good mood" and started a conversation with the star, saying, "I go, 'Hi! What's going on?' Cause I know her. And she says to me, she goes, 'You've been shading me a lot.' That's what she said to me."
She quickly denied the accusation, recalling, "I said to her, I said, 'No, I haven't.' Because I was really confused. And she goes, 'Yes, you have.' And then she just walked off."
"Now, let me tell you something. First of all, I know who I shade because I don't shade many people. It might be one person I shade. And I never have shaded this unnamed celebrity," she added. "And so she came up to me in front of everybody going, 'You shaded me.' And then she walks off. So I was mad. I was really mad, and I said, 'You know what? You don't freaking get to do that to me.'"
During the talk show, she also addressed the celebrity directly. "I would say to unnamed celebrity, because you think I shaded you — which means you watch my show — I don't know who you think I am. I think you get me confused with somebody, one of the bloggers or the influencers, because I know I didn't shade you."
Timbaland Defends AI Artist Amid Backlash Over ‘A-Pop’ Launch
*Timbaland is pushing forward with his vision of an AI-powered future in music, even as backlash mounts over his latest project: the creation of an artificial pop genre, or “A-pop,” led by a digital artist named TaTa.
As Hot 97 reports, the influential producer addressed critics directly on Instagram Friday, June 6, following growing concern about the implications of artificial intelligence in the music industry. “I know I’m trolling, but let’s have a real conversation,” Timbaland wrote. “I love my independent artists. This doesn’t mean I’m not working with real artists anymore.”
He went on to clarify his stance on AI training: “And nah, I don’t train ai off y’all music. This just means more creativity for creators.”
Alongside his comments, Timbaland shared a video featuring music executive Ray Daniels, who backed the concept of AI-generated performers. “Why the f**k wouldn’t you?” Daniels said, referencing animated icons like Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny. “He’s gonna make a character that he can have sing songs and sell products. That’s all these cartoonists and young kid TV shows are doing anyway, so why are y’all mad at him?”
Daniels noted, “Mickey Mouse is an AI character. Donald Duck is an AI character. Bugs Bunny is an AI character.”
British DJ Shy FX criticized Timbaland’s project in the comment section. “You call it trolling, but the moves you are making are not jokes. They are choices, and they come at the cost of real artists who are already fighting to be seen and heard,” he wrote.
Veteran hip-hop journalist Rob Markman also weighed in, challenging Daniels’ comparison to cartoon characters.
“None of those things the guy mentioned (Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny) are AI characters; those are characters created, written, and animated by PEOPLE. Do you not see the resounding rejection you’re facing for this?” Markman added.
As Hot 97 reports, the influential producer addressed critics directly on Instagram Friday, June 6, following growing concern about the implications of artificial intelligence in the music industry. “I know I’m trolling, but let’s have a real conversation,” Timbaland wrote. “I love my independent artists. This doesn’t mean I’m not working with real artists anymore.”
He went on to clarify his stance on AI training: “And nah, I don’t train ai off y’all music. This just means more creativity for creators.”
Alongside his comments, Timbaland shared a video featuring music executive Ray Daniels, who backed the concept of AI-generated performers. “Why the f**k wouldn’t you?” Daniels said, referencing animated icons like Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny. “He’s gonna make a character that he can have sing songs and sell products. That’s all these cartoonists and young kid TV shows are doing anyway, so why are y’all mad at him?”
Daniels noted, “Mickey Mouse is an AI character. Donald Duck is an AI character. Bugs Bunny is an AI character.”
British DJ Shy FX criticized Timbaland’s project in the comment section. “You call it trolling, but the moves you are making are not jokes. They are choices, and they come at the cost of real artists who are already fighting to be seen and heard,” he wrote.
Veteran hip-hop journalist Rob Markman also weighed in, challenging Daniels’ comparison to cartoon characters.
“None of those things the guy mentioned (Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny) are AI characters; those are characters created, written, and animated by PEOPLE. Do you not see the resounding rejection you’re facing for this?” Markman added.
Wu-Tang Clan Launches New Video Game “Rise of the Deceiver” 25 Years After Original Debut
Wu-Tang Clan is stepping back into the gaming world after a 25-year break, this time with a bold new vision. Their latest project, “Wu-Tang Clan: Rise of the Deceiver,” is a co-op RPG created in partnership with Brass Lion and unveiled during the Summer Game Festival.
Set in a collapsing mystical universe, the game gives players supernatural powers inspired by Wu-Tang themselves, merging martial arts and hip-hop culture into one high-octane experience.
The story is rooted in “Angel of Dust,” a film concept from Ghostface Killah and directed by RZA. Brass Lion CEO Bryna Dabby Smith explained, “We lifted narrative elements from the film and reimagined them in interactive form.”
And this isn’t just fan service. “This isn’t set dressing,” she said. “It’s built by the culture, for the culture. Wu-Tang’s legacy is struggle, innovation, and storytelling.”
Rather than recycling old tracks, the game features a dynamic soundtrack engine that remixes Wu-Tang classics in real time. “You’re not just hearing the music,” Dabby Smith said. “You’re experiencing it, reshaped in real time.”
Lead writer Evan Narcisse added, “We’re taking legacy and transforming it into something fresh.”
“Wu-Tang are superheroes,” he said. “Now, the game reflects that power.”
Back in 1999, the iconic rap group released their very first video game, “Wu-Tang: Shaolin Style,” which resonated deeply with fans. The latest announcement drops just as the group kicks off their farewell tour, reminding fans that Wu-Tang is still forever, in music and pixels.
Wu-Tang Clan is stepping back into the gaming world after a 25-year break, this time with a bold new vision. Their latest project, “Wu-Tang Clan: Rise of the Deceiver,” is a co-op RPG created in partnership with Brass Lion and unveiled during the Summer Game Festival.
Set in a collapsing mystical universe, the game gives players supernatural powers inspired by Wu-Tang themselves, merging martial arts and hip-hop culture into one high-octane experience.
The story is rooted in “Angel of Dust,” a film concept from Ghostface Killah and directed by RZA. Brass Lion CEO Bryna Dabby Smith explained, “We lifted narrative elements from the film and reimagined them in interactive form.”
And this isn’t just fan service. “This isn’t set dressing,” she said. “It’s built by the culture, for the culture. Wu-Tang’s legacy is struggle, innovation, and storytelling.”
Rather than recycling old tracks, the game features a dynamic soundtrack engine that remixes Wu-Tang classics in real time. “You’re not just hearing the music,” Dabby Smith said. “You’re experiencing it, reshaped in real time.”
Lead writer Evan Narcisse added, “We’re taking legacy and transforming it into something fresh.”
“Wu-Tang are superheroes,” he said. “Now, the game reflects that power.”
Back in 1999, the iconic rap group released their very first video game, “Wu-Tang: Shaolin Style,” which resonated deeply with fans. The latest announcement drops just as the group kicks off their farewell tour, reminding fans that Wu-Tang is still forever, in music and pixels.
About 700 Marines Headed to L.A.—During the Protests
500 Marines Deployed to Guantanamo to Expand Migrant Operations Center for Deportees
It’s getting tense in Los Angeles as the U.S. military prepares to deploy about 700 Marines to the city, with more National Guard troops expected to follow. This move comes amid growing protests sparked by Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement actions, which have led to massive unrest in Southern California.
According to a U.S. official who spoke to Reuters, the Marines will be temporarily stationed in L.A. to assist with crowd control and support operations as protests continue to swell. While the Insurrection Act hasn’t been invoked—yet—this marks one of the largest military mobilizations in the city since the George Floyd protests.
Over the weekend, roughly 300 members of the California National Guard were already deployed. Governor Gavin Newsom called the use of military force to control peaceful demonstrations “unlawful,” but the federal government appears to be pressing forward.
Officials expect National Guard numbers to increase to 2,000 by midweek. Until then, the Marines will step in to fill the gap. It’s still unclear exactly what their role will be, as the U.S. military is legally restricted from performing law enforcement duties without a specific order under the Insurrection Act.
This deployment highlights just how serious the unrest has become. Protests have erupted for three consecutive days in response to Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, including high-profile ICE raids and family detentions. With military boots hitting city streets, some worry this is less about public safety and more about intimidation.
The situation remains fluid, and federal officials say plans could change quickly. For now, L.A. looks like it’s bracing for a showdown—one that has national implications and the whole world watching.
It’s getting tense in Los Angeles as the U.S. military prepares to deploy about 700 Marines to the city, with more National Guard troops expected to follow. This move comes amid growing protests sparked by Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement actions, which have led to massive unrest in Southern California.
According to a U.S. official who spoke to Reuters, the Marines will be temporarily stationed in L.A. to assist with crowd control and support operations as protests continue to swell. While the Insurrection Act hasn’t been invoked—yet—this marks one of the largest military mobilizations in the city since the George Floyd protests.
Over the weekend, roughly 300 members of the California National Guard were already deployed. Governor Gavin Newsom called the use of military force to control peaceful demonstrations “unlawful,” but the federal government appears to be pressing forward.
Officials expect National Guard numbers to increase to 2,000 by midweek. Until then, the Marines will step in to fill the gap. It’s still unclear exactly what their role will be, as the U.S. military is legally restricted from performing law enforcement duties without a specific order under the Insurrection Act.
This deployment highlights just how serious the unrest has become. Protests have erupted for three consecutive days in response to Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, including high-profile ICE raids and family detentions. With military boots hitting city streets, some worry this is less about public safety and more about intimidation.
The situation remains fluid, and federal officials say plans could change quickly. For now, L.A. looks like it’s bracing for a showdown—one that has national implications and the whole world watching.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Condom Lockdown at Walmart
People of Walmart have stolen so many condoms that henceforth, condoms will stay locked. People of Walmart who want condoms, will have to be escorted by an employee until they pay.
People of Walmart have stolen so many condoms that henceforth, condoms will stay locked. People of Walmart who want condoms, will have to be escorted by an employee until they pay.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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