#FASHIONFAB: Audra McDonald in Dolce & Gabbana at the 2025 Drama Desk Awards
Simply Love her!
#RHOA: Former guest of the Housewives Dwight Eubanks Shares Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star shared he was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year.
“I was shocked, I was angry,” the celebrity hairstylist told People in an interview published June 2. "I was just emotionally a wreck."
The 64-year-old—who has appeared on multiple seasons of the Bravo series as a friend of the cast—added, "When you hear the word cancer, you freak out. I'm human. Society has told us that cancer was just devastating and, you know, you just have days to live. So, of course I freaked out and I think I'm still freaked out."
Despite having no symptoms, Dwight decided to get bloodwork done during his church's health fair in January. His doctor's diagnosis came just one week later and a follow-up prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test in April confirmed the disease.
Dwight, who is HIV+, has had routine checkups with his doctor every six months for years. That's why he was stunned when he later learned he could have been diagnosed sooner.
After his doctors reviewed past medical records, they noticed that in 2022 he had high PSA levels that weren’t brought up.
“I was like, 'Are you kidding me?'" the TV personality recounted. "This was back in 2022 and nobody said anything to me. He just said, ‘You're undetectable, so you are fine.’ Never said anything about my prostate. I guess they just weren’t looking at that.”
However, Dwight is trying to look on the bright side. As he added, "I just have to laugh instead of crying about this whole journey."
Now, Dwight is focused on his treatment plans.
"We are exploring possibilities to see what route to go and we have not come up with that yet,” he explained. "I have a great team, about four different doctors: Two urologists, another specialist and my family physician. So, I'm comfortable and I'm forever grateful to have such a team and support. And we are going to figure it out he added, "I feel good."
Amid his battle, Dwight recently partnered with ZERO Prostate Cancer as their new brand ambassador to raise awareness and encourage other men—especially Black men—about the importance of getting screened in honor of Men's Health Month.
"What's amazing about it is that I feel like a higher power has been preparing me for this moment to be a light of hope for others," he shared. "I could not be silent with this because it could help people if they just get tested and don't wait too long."
"And most important," Dwight added, "ask questions, look at your records, investigate. I can't say what should have, could have, or would have been, but I just have to embrace where I am now and be grateful and try to help somebody else along the way.”
The Real Housewives of Atlanta airs Sundays a 8 p.m. on Bravo.
#MusicNews: Legends, Icons, And Final Goodbyes: 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® Unveils Star-Studded Lineup
This summer, the stage is set for one of the most anticipated cultural moments of the year. The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® will once again transform New Orleans into a vibrant symphony of sound, soul, and style—curating not just a concert series but an experience that speaks to the elegance, resilience, and brilliance of Black artistry across generations.
As ESSENCE Magazine celebrates 55 years of shaping the narrative of Black womanhood with unapologetic grace, the second wave of its festival lineup was announced today—and it is nothing short of extraordinary.
The newly added performers are a testament to the festival’s power to pair legacy with forward momentum. Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Babyface brings decades of melodic mastery, while the radiant Jill Scott will host an exquisitely curated Jill Scott & Friends performance—an homage to the city of Philadelphia and its soulful lineage. Joining her are the legendary Patti LaBelle, Jazmine Sullivan; and Scott herself.
Equally compelling is ESSENCE Flowers: A Quincy Jones Joint, a tribute to the man whose genius shaped the architecture of modern music. Under the creative direction of Jermaine Dupri, the tribute will feature a rich medley of artists who have either collaborated with or been influenced by the maestro himself—among them Tyrese, Al B. Sure!, Robin Thicke, SWV, Xscape, The Pharcyde, and Mobb Deep. The performance is set to be a masterclass in cross-genre brilliance and artistic homage, offering an evening that is at once reverent and radiant.
And in what promises to be an emotional farewell, New Orleans’ own Master P will take the Superdome stage for his final festival performance—a moment that not only honors his singular influence in hip-hop but cements his legacy as a pioneer of ownership and self-determination. Joined by the No Limit Soldiers, including Mia X and Silkk the Shocker, and special guests like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Dru Hill, and Keri Hilson, the set will be a Southern elegy, rich in grit and grandeur.
The festival’s famed Superlounge experience—long known for its role in launching careers and capturing lightning in a bottle—makes its highly anticipated return this year, reimagined with intimacy, edge, and a sense of discovery. It’s the place where tomorrow’s legends whisper their first notes into the world.
The broader lineup reflects the expansive range of Black music’s legacy and future: reggae legend Buju Banton, Grammy Award-nominated superstar GloRilla, the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Isley Brothers, lyrical legend Nas, soulful standout Summer Walker, beloved R&B singer and songwriter Donell Jones, and multifaceted hitmaker Muni Long.
To commemorate ESSENCE Magazine’s 55th anniversary, hip-hop icon Doug E. Fresh will lead a tribute performance—an imaginative mix of freestyle, beatbox, and cultural reflection—honoring the soundtrack of Black life, love, and legacy.
The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® is powered by major partners including AT&T, L’Oréal Groupe, and Target as the official retail partner. Attendees can secure access to daytime experiences via the E360 app, complete with exclusive offers, personalized schedules, and real-time updates throughout the festival weekend.
#HipHopNews: Is Joe Budden Considering Return To Rap?
Since 1998, AllHipHop.com has pioneered delivering Hip-Hop news. Get our daily email for exclusive, breaking news, and weekly digests, all curated for the true Hip-Hop enthusiast. Stay connected and informed with the heartbeat of Hip-Hop culture. Subscribe now!
Could Joe Budden be returning to the mic? A new clip just surfaced where Joe talks about jumping back into rap. Apparently, his longtime friend Ransom lit the spark—egging him on by saying something like, “You know you love rapping more than anything else!”
What’s wild is how much the game has changed. Honestly, part of me feels like he probably shouldn’t rap again. It’s kind of like Michael Jordan coming out of retirement (again). Rap today is a blood sport and not everyone survives the ring. And truthfully, I’m not even sure people would care anymore. They barely did back in the day. And let’s keep it real—rap sucks right now. That said, it doesn’t mean Joe’s lost his skill or his passion. He can still spit.
Look at Jadakiss. He’s doing the podcast thing too, but he never dropped the mic. He’s been consistently killing verses like nothing ever changed. No ring rust whatsoever.
BREAKING: New York Knicks fire coach Tom Thibodeau after 5 Seasons!
Fresh off their deepest playoff run in 25 years, the New York Knicks fired coach Tom Thibodeau on Tuesday
The decision comes two days after the Knicks were ousted from the Eastern Conference semifinals in six games by the Indiana Pacers, their longtime rivals. But it also comes after New York advanced further than expected with a relatively new core of players, knocking out the defending champion Boston Celtics in the second round.
Thibodeau, who ranks fourth all-time on the franchise list in victories and surpassed Pat Riley earlier this season, led the Knicks to back-to-back 50-win seasons since the first time 1995. He'd been the club's most successful coach by far over the past two plus decades and signed a three-year extension with the team just last summer.
The decision comes two days after the Knicks were ousted from the Eastern Conference semifinals in six games by the Indiana Pacers, their longtime rivals. But it also comes after New York advanced further than expected with a relatively new core of players, knocking out the defending champion Boston Celtics in the second round.
Thibodeau, who ranks fourth all-time on the franchise list in victories and surpassed Pat Riley earlier this season, led the Knicks to back-to-back 50-win seasons since the first time 1995. He'd been the club's most successful coach by far over the past two plus decades and signed a three-year extension with the team just last summer.
"Our organization is singularly focused on winning a championship for our fans," team president Leon Rose said in a statement. "This pursuit led us to the decision to inform Tom Thibodeau that we've decided to move in another direction. We can't thank Tom enough for pouring his heart and soul into each and every day of being the New York Knicks head coach.
"... Ultimately, we made the decision we feel is best for our organization moving forward. Tom will always be part of our Knicks family and we truly wish him nothing but the best in the future."
Thibodeau had a lengthy history with the Knicks, dating back to that 1990s era, when he was an assistant coach under Jeff Van Gundy. Rick Brunson, one of Thibodeau's assistant coaches, played for those Knick teams and often brought his son, Jalen -- now the franchise's superstar -- to practices and games.
Following the club's season-ending defeat in Indiana, Jalen Brunson was asked about Thibodeau's job status.
"Is that a real question right now? You just asked me if I believe he's the right guy? Yes. Come on."
The Knicks upset the Celtics despite being losing all four of their games to the club during the regular season -- with three of those losses coming by double digits -- and despite fielding an overhauled group.
The team's front office sent out five first-round picks for Brooklyn wing Mikal Bridges before dealing Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to Minnesota for All-NBA center Karl-Anthony Towns. The swaps left the Knicks with a bit less depth, but one of the most talented starting fives in the association.
As such, Thibodeau -- long known for playing his starters big minutes, even as the league moves toward utilizing rest in this load-management era -- leaned heavily on his starting five, playing them far more than any other five-man group in the NBA.
New York was the veteran coach's third head-coaching stop in the NBA, including time with the Chicago Bulls (2010-2015) and the Minnesota Timberwolves (2016-2019).
He has a .579 career win percentage as a head coach, the highest by any coach without a Finals appearance in NBA history (minimum 300 games coached)
Ryan Coogler Said There will be no “Sinners” Sequel!
Ryan Coogler confirmed he won’t make a sequel to Sinners despite its massive success, saying he always intended the vampire thriller to stand alone.
Ryan Coogler has no plans to revisit Sinners, his supernatural thriller that turned heads at the box office and featured Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as vampire twins.
The film, which became the only original title to crack the top 10 highest-grossing movies of 2025, won over audiences with its genre-bending style and fresh storyline.
But despite the commercial momentum, Coogler made it clear he’s not interested in turning it into a franchise.
Speaking to Ebony, the Black Panther director said he “never” intended to make a sequel.
“I’ve been in a space of making franchise films for a bit, so I wanted to get away from that,” Ryan Coogler said. “I was looking forward to working on a film that felt original and personal to me and had an appetite for delivering something to audiences that was original and unique.”
He added, “I wanted the movie to feel like a full meal: your appetizers, starters, entrees and desserts, I wanted all of it there. I wanted it to be a holistic and finished thing. That was how I was asked all about it. That was always my intention.”
Coogler’s career took off with 2013’s Fruitvale Station, which also starred Jordan.
He later stepped into franchise territory with Creed, a continuation of the Rocky saga, and Marvel’s Black Panther and Wakanda Forever, both of which became cultural landmarks and box-office juggernauts.
His upcoming slate includes Wrong Answer, another collaboration with Jordan, and the Disney+ series Eyes of Wakanda, a spinoff of the Black Panther universe.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Coogler is also expected to return for a third installment of the Black Panther film.
Sinners continues to hold strong in theaters as of Tuesday (May 14), with no sequel in sight.
Brian McKnight Jr. Honors Late Brother, Niko: “There Is No Me Without You”
His older brother, Brian McKnight Jr., has since paid tribute to his “favorite everything” on Instagram.
The fellow singer wrote, “I’ll live the rest of my life in a constant state of disbelief. My beautiful baby brother, I will love you until this plain ceases to exist. There is no me without you, so living just feels out of whack. The balance is gone, and will never be the same.”
He described the “entire world” as “bleak, and dim without you.” McKnight Jr. added, “I was the luckiest big brother in the universe. It almost seemed unfair at times.”
He continued, “Though I’ll never understand this, I’m so glad you are no longer in pain, and are now in the aether, playing upon the string theory we both believe in. Wait for me there. This is now officially a Niko stan page. Brothers in arms. Forever. Long live Johnny Boy.”
News of Niko’s death was confirmed by their mother, Julie, in a statement.
“It is with profound sadness that Julie McKnight and family announce the passing of her beloved son Cole Nikolas McKnight, affectionately known as ‘Niko’ on Thursday, May 29, 2025. Nikolas was a cherished husband, son, brother, grandson, uncle, and nephew whose warmth, laughter, and love touched the lives of all who knew him. Nikolas was a self taught artist of music and photography. His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family and all those who held him dear,” the statement read.
Page Six reported that their estranged father “did not contact or see Niko” before his death. The outlet noted that Niko was surrounded by “an abundance of love and support from those who truly mattered,” including his mother, brother, wife Carla, and other loved ones.
The anonymous source explained, “[Niko] was not alone, and he was deeply cherished every step of the way.”
‘King Of The Hill’ Voice Actor Jonathan Joss Fatally Shot By Neighbor Following An Argument
Jonathan Joss, known for voicing John Redcorn on King of the Hill from Season 2 through 13, has died after being shot by a neighbor in San Antonio, Texas.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, the actor got into a heated argument with his neighbor Sunday night (June 1), which escalated into violence. The neighbor, identified as Sigfredo Alvarez-Cega, pulled out a gun and fired several shots before fleeing the scene. Officers responded and arrested Alvarez-Cega one block from the residence. He was later charged with murder, and his bail was set at $200,000.
Despite life-saving efforts from first responders, Joss was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives are investigating to determine what caused the confrontation.
Condolences to Joss’ family and friends!Diddy’s Ex-Assistant Testifies She Was ‘Brainwashed’ Into Keeping In Touch w/ Mogul After Alleged R*pe
Diddy’s former assistant, testifying under the pseudonym “Mia,” told jurors she kept in touch with Combs after her job ended in 2017 because she was “brainwashed.”
Under cross-examination, defense attorney Brian Steel questioned her credibility, asking why she once dreamed of Combs saving her from R. Kelly if he had traumatized her.
“Because I was still brainwashed,” Mia said, explaining that the emotional highs and lows caused her to distrust her instincts. When Steel accused her of lying for financial gain, Mia pushed back: “I have never lied in this courtroom and I never will. Everything I said is true.”
Mia has accused the mogul of violently r*ping her during her employment. She has also testified that she witnessed him be v*olent against others.
CW Renews ‘All American’ For 8th & Final Season
Showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll said it’s “so hard to say goodbye to the thing that you love,” but expressed gratitude for the chance to end the story the way they envisioned. She thanked fans who took Spencer James’s mantra of “Dream Big. Stay Real” to heart and said,
“We see you. We salute you. Here’s to leaving it all on the field one last time.
Brad Schwartz, President of The CW Network, called the series “one of the greatest CW shows of all time.”
Robin Thicke, April Love Geary Get Married In Intimate Beachside Wedding
Robin Thicke and longtime partner April Love Geary officially tied the knot this past weekend in an intimate island ceremony at the luxurious Las Ventanas resort in Cabo, Mexico.
The romantic beachside wedding brought together close family, friends, and A-list guests, including Usher, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Ken Jeong.
According to People, the couple’s three children—Mia, 7, Lola, 6, and Luca, 4—were all in attendance, with little Luca stealing hearts as the ring bearer. Carrying a box labeled “Ring Security,” he added a playful yet touching touch to the heartfelt affair.
While the couple’s blended family was largely present, it remains unclear whether Thicke’s eldest son, Julian, 15, from his previous marriage to Paula Patton, was also there to witness the nuptials.
In a touching moment, Thicke walked down the aisle to Leonard Cohen’s timeless ballad “Hallelujah,” setting the emotional tone for the day.
A chair was left open in honor of his late father, actor Alan Thicke, marked with a sentimental banner that read: “In loving memory of Alan Thicke, Father of the groom. We remember … Although you cannot be here with us today, your love and light remain in our hearts.”
Geary recently shared that Thicke surprised her with a second proposal during a dream trip to Cannes.
“Robin surprised me during our trip to Cannes by proposing to me again with a new ring that one of my best friends @nikkiwhatnikkiwho @establishedjewelry made, I’m so obsessed with it, thank you!!!” she wrote in an Instagram post.
“This trip was such a dream. I love you so much @robinthicke. Also a huge thank you to @alilasky for clearing out the whole area and making sure there wasn’t a single person getting in the way.
Thicke and Geary began dating in 2014 and first got engaged in 2018, however, the pair held off on jumping over the broom before Thicke popped the question once again, reaffirming his love for Geary and turning her from his fiancée to his wife.
The couple’s dreamy ceremony marks a new chapter in a relationship nearly a decade in the making.
Roots Picnic Apologizes For Hours-Long Lines As Fans Demand Refunds
On Saturday, after fans had already begun lining up outside of the festival for its first day, festival organizers announced that gates would be opening at 1 p.m. instead of noon like originally scheduled. But shortly after 1 p.m., the festival posted on social media: “The picnic grounds need a little TLC after the recent storms, so we’ll be pushing doors open to 2PM.” But apparently, the line didn’t start moving until around 3:30, with many attendees unable to get into the festival until the evening. The schedule was adjusted to allow all the artists to perform.
Both the Roots Picnic Instagram and Questlove shared statements about the incident, citing the delay to inclement weather the night before making the site dangerous for concertgoers. Here’s Questlove’s statement:
Aight—— I know today wasn’t “ideal” for The Roots Picnic in this 18th year of 2025. (This year has been particularly challenging to say the least)
Transforming the Mann Center into our event takes about two weeks, but as many of you experienced, heavy rain from May 30th into the morning of the 31st caused significant damage (midnight to 7am). We nearly canceled The Picnic because conditions were unsafe for everyone involved.
Ultimately, we chose to take extra time to repair the site to ensure safety for all ticket holders, which is why there was a 3hr delay. (Yes I got numerous messages from attendees, family, everyone in the tristate) but we prioritized caution above all else.
After working hard to improve the site—factoring in the challenge of finding mulch to absorb excess water—we managed to revise the schedule so that all artists, including headliners Maxwell (whom we ALL owe an incredible amount of gratitude for doing us a solid with seconds on the clock) and Latto, could perform without violating city noise curfews.
(Im personally thanking all the Live Nation Staff ——led by Shawn Gee for moving at lightening speed in solving the many obstacle and puzzles it took to even make today happen)
It’s 3am and I wanna thank you for your understanding and patience through this adversity. This year has shown our ability to adapt and overcome challenges, much like we did in past years.
Tomorrow is a new day, and I’m excited to revisit the “Do You Want More” LP on the Mann stage. Please enjoy the picnic as we kick off summer together.
The 2025 Roots Picnic also featured Meek Mill, Lenny Kravitz, Kaytranada, Maxwell, Miguel, Tems, Latto, GloRilla, Jeezy, and more.
#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Kicks Up $63M Second Weekend, ‘Mission Impossible 8’ $27M+, ‘Karate Kid: Legends’ At $21M
Disney executives are skipping around the Burbank lot as Lilo & Stitch is catapulting the studio past the $1 billion mark at the domestic box office with a 30% market share. Disney is the first studio to pass that milestone YTD. Excluding 2020, Disney has grossed $1B+ domestically for 20 consecutive years since 2005, the only studio to accomplish this.
Sony is calling Karate Kid: Legends at $21M but others see it under $20M, like in the $19M range. Oh, no. I mean, if Sony called it at $20M given that everyone is in the high $19M range today, that’s not a big deal. But nobody knows where the extra $1M+ is coming from. Saturday was at $7.3M, off 5% from Friday/previews of $7.7M. If you back out the $2.3M previews, Saturday was an up day for the Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio team-up at +35%.
I’m told that Karate Kid: Legends came on tracking at $35M and dropped to the mid-$20Ms before this weekend. Oh, jeez.
Why wasn’t there a big rush to this film? Why is it under its projections? It’s the Cobra Kai streaming Netflix effect, dummy. With the Karate Kid audience conditioned to stay at home, what’s the big reason for them to run out and watch another fight tournament onscreen? Yes, as we said before, being in the shadow of Lilo & Stitch doesn’t help given the overlap of certain demos. Families are on a budget and they’re going to put their money toward the title that kids are nagging them to see (tracking does take this into consideration with kids under 12).
RelishMix noticed negative chatter, concentrated around the fear that Karate Kid: Legends wouldn’t live up to the hype and the success of previous installments. Comments included, “I mean the story is same as every Karate Kid film,” and, “I do not know how I feel about this. I’m half terrified.”
Call it what you will — $19M-$20M. Note that while it’s under expectations, the picture will be somewhat profitable. It’s an OK piece of business at a $45M net production cost, even though I’m sure Sony would have loved to see bigger numbers.
Let’s not forget the great exits, which should help the film hold.
Karate Kid: Legends was originally dated for June 7, 2024, before the strikes pushed it to December 13, 2024. When it came to business for this film, Sony had second thoughts and chose kids out of school for the summer over a crazy multiple over Christmas, thus moving Karate Kid: Legends back to a post-Memorial Day weekend slot.
Elsewhere this weekend is A24’s Bring Her Back — an excellent, original gross movie with great exits. Beyond the B+ CinemaScore, there’s 80% audience on Rotten Tomatoes with a big hug from critics at 90% certified fresh. Just like A24 was trying to campaign for Toni Colette for Hereditary, there’s an awards push to be done here for Sally Hawkins. Though the movie is at the top of its forecasted range with $7M, it’s a bit surprising it didn’t overindex more and do a number beyond the Philippou brothers’ first movie, Talk to Me ($10.4M), or at least on par. Remember that when it comes to these indie labels, it’s a business of margins and slide rules in regards to P&A spend, from theatrical yield to profiting in the home windows. A 3x-4x multiple off a movie’s opening (Midsommar, Heretic) is typically A24’s theatrical goal on these genre movies; Talk to Me had a 4.6x (final domestic was $48.2M). That movie eased 39% in its second weekend. We’ll see if Bring Her Back can bring more back.
Bring Her Back played best in the East and West and even throughout the U.S. and Canada. AMC Burbank was the pic’s highest-grossing location with just under $30,000.
As we said all weekend, even if the numbers for Karate Kid: Legends and Bring Her Back aren’t dazzling, let’s celebrate depth. All movies grossed an estimated $151M, up 130% from the same post-Memorial Day frame a year ago. I mean, Lilo & Stitch‘s second weekend at $63M reps 95% of what most movies grossed a year ago at $66M.
1. Lilo & Stitch Total $280.1M/Wk 2
2. Mission: Impossible – Total $122.6M/Wk 2
3. Karate Kid: Legends 3,809 theaters, $21M/Wk 1
4. Final Destination: Bloodlines =Total $111.7M/Wk 3
5. Bring Her Back $7.08M/Wk 1
6.) Sinners Total $267M/Wk 7
7.) Thunderbolts Total $181.8M/Wk 5
8.) Friendship Total $12.3M/Wk 4
9.) Last Rodeo $10.75M/Wk 2
10.) J-Hope Tour: Hope on Stage 2-day $939K/Wk 1
Can we talk about Jennifer Hudson’s disastrous Eddie Murphy interview
The May 29 episode started innocently enough, but things went sideways faster than you could say “awkward silence.” Murphy came on the show with exciting family news to share, but Hudson’s handling of the situation left viewers scratching their heads and reaching for their phones to tweet about the train wreck they were witnessing.
The family announcement that went completely wrong
Eddie Murphy had some genuinely sweet news to share: his son Eric had recently tied the knot with Jasmin Lawrence, daughter of comedy legend Martin Lawrence. This was literally a comedy dynasty merger that should have been the highlight of any entertainment interview. Two legendary funny families coming together? That’s gold content right there.
Instead of celebrating this beautiful moment, Hudson somehow managed to completely miss the point. She kept asking Murphy about singing at the wedding, even after he clearly explained that the couple had opted for an intimate ceremony with just the two of them. The confusion was so intense that viewers at home were getting secondhand embarrassment.
Murphy, being the professional he is, tried multiple times to clarify the situation. He explained that Eric and Jasmin had decided on a quiet, private ceremony just weeks before the interview. But Hudson seemed stuck in some kind of loop, continuously circling back to questions about wedding performances that never happened because, well, there wasn’t really a traditional wedding to perform at.
Social media couldn’t handle the secondhand embarrassment
The internet did what it does best: it went absolutely wild. Clips from the interview spread across social media platforms like wildfire, with viewers expressing their disbelief at what they had just witnessed. The comment sections were filled with people pointing out how Murphy repeatedly tried to explain the situation while Hudson seemed to be operating on a completely different wavelength.
Fans were particularly frustrated because Hudson kept trying to steer the conversation toward her own singing career instead of letting Murphy enjoy his moment as a proud father. The whole thing felt like watching someone miss every social cue possible while being broadcast to millions of people.
The criticism wasn’t necessarily mean-spirited, but viewers were genuinely confused about how such a straightforward conversation could go so wrong. Many people felt bad for Murphy, who was clearly trying to share happy family news but kept getting interrupted by questions that didn’t make sense given what he had just explained.
Theories about what went wrong
Naturally, people started speculating about what could have caused such a bizarre interview moment. Some viewers suggested that Hudson might have been getting conflicting information through her earpiece from producers, which could explain why she seemed so distracted and confused.
Others wondered if Hudson simply hadn’t prepared adequately for the interview. After all, if you’re interviewing Eddie Murphy and he mentions his son’s recent wedding, that seems like something you’d want to follow up on properly rather than asking irrelevant questions.
There were also theories that Hudson was dealing with nerves, considering this was a reunion with her Dreamgirls co-star after nearly two decades. Sometimes when people are nervous, they don’t process information as clearly as they normally would.
The mysterious editing situation
Here’s where things get even more interesting: three days after the original episode aired, The Jennifer Hudson Show uploaded a heavily edited version of the interview to YouTube. This new version conveniently removed most of the awkward moments and reframed the entire conversation.
The edited clip focused more on the possibility of a future celebration for the newlyweds rather than highlighting Hudson’s confusion about the actual wedding that had already happened. It was clearly damage control, but it also made the original awkwardness even more obvious by comparison.
Interestingly, Hudson‘s social media channels didn’t share the original clips that showcased the confusion. Instead, they promoted the sanitized version, which felt like an attempt to sweep the whole thing under the rug.
A missed opportunity for a great reunion
The whole situation was particularly disappointing because fans had high expectations for this interview. Hudson and Murphy’s collaboration in Dreamgirls was iconic, and people were excited to see them catch up after all these years.
Instead of getting a nostalgic conversation about their shared history or Murphy’s current projects, viewers got a masterclass in how not to conduct an interview. The focus shifted entirely from Murphy’s achievements and family happiness to Hudson’s apparent inability to follow a simple conversation.
The incident serves as a reminder that good interviewing requires active listening, preparation, and the ability to adapt when your guest shares unexpected news. Unfortunately, Hudson seemed to struggle with all three during this particular segment.
While everyone has off days, this interview will likely be remembered as a cautionary tale about the importance of staying present and engaged, especially when someone is sharing personal milestones on your show.
SWAT spinoff ignites bitter feud between former co-stars
The cancellation of CBS’s long-running series SWAT after eight seasons has created unexpected drama among cast members following the network’s rapid announcement of spinoff series SWAT Exiles. The controversy centers on the exclusion of several original cast members from the new project, with tensions reaching a boiling point through public social media exchanges and divided fan reactions.
The timeline of events has intensified emotions surrounding the transition, as CBS announced the spinoff just two days after the original series aired its final episode on May 16, 2025. This quick turnaround has raised questions about transparency and consideration for the actors who contributed to the show’s success over nearly a decade of production.
SWAT previously faced cancellation after its sixth season in 2023, but CBS reversed that decision and granted the show a seventh season renewal. This reprieve demonstrated the series’ continued value to the network and suggested ongoing support for the cast and crew who had developed the show’s identity over multiple seasons.
The network’s decision to ultimately conclude the series after eight seasons came despite this previous vote of confidence, creating uncertainty about the reasoning behind the final cancellation. The show’s longevity and previous renewal suggest that factors beyond simple ratings considerations may have influenced the network’s ultimate decision.
The transition from renewal to cancellation to spinoff announcement within a relatively short timeframe has created confusion and frustration among cast members who had expected continued involvement in the franchise’s future development.
David Lim, who portrayed Officer Victor Tan throughout the series’ eight-season run, used Instagram to express his disappointment about being excluded from the spinoff project. His emotional post reflected on the honor of participating in SWAT while highlighting the strong relationships formed with fellow cast members during production.
Lim’s statement emphasized the collaborative effort required to build the show’s success from its initial episodes, suggesting that the spinoff announcement overlooked the contributions of actors who helped establish the series’ foundation. His comments indicated feeling undervalued despite years of commitment to the show’s development.
The actor’s public response described the timing of the spinoff announcement as particularly difficult, coming just two days after the series finale without acknowledgment of the original cast’s role in creating the show’s legacy and fanbase.
Lim’s Instagram post generated significant engagement from fans who expressed varying perspectives on the spinoff controversy. Supportive comments praised his honesty and acknowledged his contributions to the show’s success, while also criticizing the network’s handling of the transition process.
However, other social media users criticized Lim’s public response, suggesting that actors should accept professional transitions without public complaints and pursue new opportunities rather than expecting guaranteed inclusion in related projects. These contrasting reactions reflect broader debates about professional expectations and public discourse.
The polarized fan responses demonstrate how deeply audiences connected with the original cast members and their investment in seeing familiar faces continue in the franchise. The emotional investment of longtime viewers has created additional pressure on the network and remaining cast members.
Network hints at potential guest appearances
Katherine Pope, president of Sony Pictures TV Studios, suggested that excluded cast members might still participate in SWAT Exiles through guest appearances or other arrangements. Her comments about exploring a clear world that could include favorite characters provide some hope for reunification.
This possibility of limited involvement represents a compromise approach that could address some concerns about cast exclusion while maintaining the new series’ distinct identity. However, guest appearances differ significantly from regular cast roles in terms of both creative involvement and financial compensation.
The suggestion of potential appearances also indicates that the network recognizes the value of maintaining connections to the original series while developing new storylines and character dynamics for the spinoff project.
Shemar Moore, who will reprise his role as Sgt. Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson Jr. while also serving as executive producer, has addressed the controversy through social media content defending his position in the spinoff. His response included comparisons to NFL quarterback Tom Brady, emphasizing leadership and commitment themes.
Moore’s defense of the spinoff included expressions of gratitude toward former co-stars, including Lim specifically, while emphasizing family-like relationships formed during production. His approach attempts to balance acknowledgment of past collaborations with commitment to moving forward with new projects.
The actor’s dual role as both star and executive producer places him in a unique position regarding casting decisions and creative direction, potentially creating additional scrutiny of his choices and public statements about the controversy.
The SWAT spinoff controversy illustrates broader challenges facing television networks and production companies when transitioning successful series into new projects. Balancing creative renewal with respect for original cast contributions creates complex professional and personal dynamics.
The situation reflects ongoing questions about how entertainment industry transitions should handle longtime cast members who contributed to series success but may not fit new creative directions. These decisions affect both individual careers and industry relationships.
The public nature of this dispute may influence how future franchise transitions are managed, potentially encouraging more transparent communication and consideration for all cast members during development processes.
Spinoff development involves complex financial calculations regarding cast salaries, production costs, and creative direction that may influence inclusion decisions beyond simple performance considerations. Networks must balance budget constraints with creative continuity and fan expectations.
The decision to exclude certain original cast members may reflect efforts to differentiate the spinoff from its predecessor while managing production costs and creating opportunities for new storylines and character development.
These business considerations, while understandable from industry perspectives, create personal and professional consequences for affected actors that extend beyond immediate employment concerns to long-term career trajectories and industry relationships.
The ongoing controversy may influence the spinoff’s reception and success, as fan loyalty to excluded cast members could affect viewership and critical reception. The network’s handling of the situation may impact both immediate ratings and long-term franchise development.
Potential resolutions could include expanded guest appearances, recurring roles, or other arrangements that acknowledge original cast contributions while maintaining the spinoff’s distinct identity. However, such compromises require balancing multiple competing interests and expectations.
The ultimate success of SWAT Exiles may depend partly on how effectively it honors the original series’ legacy while establishing its own identity, a challenge complicated by the current controversy and divided fan reactions.
The SWAT franchise transition demonstrates how professional decisions in the entertainment industry can create unexpected personal conflicts and public controversies that extend far beyond simple business considerations, affecting relationships, careers, and fan communities in complex and lasting ways.
David Geffen's Estranged Husband Seeking Division of Assets
Looks like Donovan is going for the bag...David Andrew Armstrong (aka Donovan Michaels) filed a response to Geffen's divorce petition. In the docs, obtained by TMZ, Armstrong's lawyer, Samantha Spector, checked a box that asks the judge to "Determine rights to community and quasi-community assets and debts."
That's significant, because TMZ has previously reported, Geffen, an 82-year-old whose wealth is estimated at $8.7 BILLION, has been retired for 15 years. Our understanding is he has no income other than investments, including property sales and dividends from stocks and equities. Those assets are all separate property.
Apparently, 32-year-old Armstrong is not convinced. He is also asking for spousal support, which Geffen agreed to pay when his lawyer, disso queen Laura Wasser, filed divorce docs.
The 2 have been married for just under 2 years, and under Cali law, Armstrong would only be entitled to 1 year of spousal support.
As we reported, there is no prenup, so a fight over alleged community property could get contentious.
Rodney Jerkins Cashes Out With Catalog Deal With HarbourView
Rodney Jerkins has sold the royalty rights to his chart-topping catalog in a move that cements his legacy just weeks before his Songwriters Hall of Fame induction.
The Grammy-winning producer, known professionally as Darkchild finalized the deal with HarbourView, which now owns royalty income from some of the most recognizable tracks in modern R&B and pop.
The acquisition includes hits such as “The Boy Is Mine” by Brandy and Monica, “Say My Name,” and many others.
The deal was confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on Thursday (May 29).
Jerkins, who has worked with a wide range of artists, including Justin Bieber and Sam Smith, said he was looking for a buyer who respects the creative process and values transparency.
“HarbourView truly understands the value of music and the people who create it,” Rodney Jerkins told The Hollywood Reporter. “Music creators deserve respect and clarity when it comes to selling their life’s work and working with both HarbourView and Chapter Two has made that process feel seamless.”
HarbourView, led by Sherrese Clarke Soares, has spent the past two years quietly building a portfolio of culturally significant music.
The firm has previously acquired portions of catalogs from artists such as T-Pain, Wiz Khalifa, Kane Brown, Full Force and Jeremih, among others.
The purchase reflects a broader trend in the music industry, where legacy artists and producers are increasingly monetizing their catalogs in exchange for upfront capital and long-term preservation.
According to Bloomberg, music rights deals have surged in recent years as investors seek stable, long-term revenue streams.
The timing of the sale comes just ahead of Jerkins’ induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, scheduled for June 12, 2025.
The honor recognizes his decades-long influence on the music industry and his contributions to some of the most enduring songs of the past 30 years.
Mary J Blige Has Been Officially Served in Misa Hylton Lawsuit
Mary has been officially served...Accordng to AllHipHop
Mary J. Blige has officially been served in a $5 million lawsuit filed by longtime friend and stylist Misa Hylton, who accuses the Grammy-winning singer of interfering with her business relationship with rapper Vado.
Mary J. Blige confirmed she received and was served the lawsuit on Friday (May 30), marking the official start of what could be a lengthy legal battle.
While both sides have agreed on how to proceed in court, Blige and her legal team have not waived any defenses. The court has given her until July 28, 2025, to respond.
Gabrielle Union Highlights Stepdaughter Zaya Wade's Courage After 18th Birthday Celebration
Zaya Wade just turned 18 and she celebrated at her “Venus Ascension Ball” alongside her friends, family, and community!
Zaya was joined at the event by dad Dwyane Wade and stepmom Gabrielle Union, who took to Instagram to share a touching message.
Gabrielle wrote, “Your transparency should be studied, @zayawade. They say parents are the ones to raise and show their children ‘the way,’ but you’ve been the one to show us what true strength, vulnerability, and love really look like. At just 18, you’ve already shown the world what it means to be brave. Your courage lights the way for so many to follow, and we’re right beside you every step of the way.”
Zaya‘s birthday party, held on Saturday (May 31) at NeueHouse Hollywood, also celebrated the one-year anniversary of Translatable, an organization Zaya and Dwyane Wade established as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ youth to express themselves and to serve as a resource hub for parents, families, and support systems.
MAC donated $100k to the Trans Wellness Center in honor of Zaya’s birthday and there was a check presentation on-stage at the party!
Saquon Barkley Named Cover Athlete for ‘Madden NFL 26’
Electronic Arts Inc. and EA SPORTS announced today that Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley will be the cover athlete for Madden NFL 26. Barkley is the first Eagle to appear on the cover in two decades and the first player to be inducted into the Madden NFL 26 ‘99 Club.’ His historic 2024 season included setting the NFL record for rushing over 2,500 yards in a single season, including playoffs, and leading Philadelphia to a Super Bowl LIX win against the Kansas City Chiefs.
“Starring on the cover of Madden NFL 26 and being named to the Madden NFL ‘99 Club’ are both dreams come true,” said Barkley. “I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, and Eagles fans for their support, and I can’t wait to hit the field again to give Madden players more highlight-reel moments in Madden NFL 26.”
Barkley will appear on two unique covers, one highlighting his memorable reverse hurdle from last season. Madden NFL 26 will launch globally on August 14 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via the EA app for Windows, Steam, and Epic Games Store. New game features will be revealed on Wednesday, June 4.
Fans can pre-order the Madden NFL 26 Deluxe Edition now to receive 3-day early access, 4,600 Madden Points, and other extras. The EA SPORTS MVP Bundle offers deluxe editions of both Madden NFL 26 and EA SPORTS College Football 26 with 3-day early access and rewards for both games. EA Play subscribers will enjoy a 10-hour early access trial and monthly in-game bonuses for Madden NFL 26.
Madden NFL 26 is developed by EA SPORTS studios in Orlando, Florida, and Madrid, Spain. Follow the Madden NFL 26 journey on the official website and social media channels for the latest updates and the trailer and feature reveal on June 4.
“Starring on the cover of Madden NFL 26 and being named to the Madden NFL ‘99 Club’ are both dreams come true,” said Barkley. “I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, and Eagles fans for their support, and I can’t wait to hit the field again to give Madden players more highlight-reel moments in Madden NFL 26.”
Barkley will appear on two unique covers, one highlighting his memorable reverse hurdle from last season. Madden NFL 26 will launch globally on August 14 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via the EA app for Windows, Steam, and Epic Games Store. New game features will be revealed on Wednesday, June 4.
Fans can pre-order the Madden NFL 26 Deluxe Edition now to receive 3-day early access, 4,600 Madden Points, and other extras. The EA SPORTS MVP Bundle offers deluxe editions of both Madden NFL 26 and EA SPORTS College Football 26 with 3-day early access and rewards for both games. EA Play subscribers will enjoy a 10-hour early access trial and monthly in-game bonuses for Madden NFL 26.
Madden NFL 26 is developed by EA SPORTS studios in Orlando, Florida, and Madrid, Spain. Follow the Madden NFL 26 journey on the official website and social media channels for the latest updates and the trailer and feature reveal on June 4.
New FEMA Chief David Richardson Tells Staff He Didn’t Know There Was a Hurricane Season
FEMA staff were left dumbfounded on Monday when agency head David Richardson reportedly said he didn’t know the U.S. has a hurricane season, according to four insiders.
The comment came just a day after the 2024 hurricane season officially kicked off. NOAA has forecast up to ten hurricanes this year. Richardson, who took over FEMA in early May, made the remark during a daily staff briefing.
“It was not clear to staff whether he meant it literally, as a joke, or in some other context,” a source shared.
He also said there would be no new disaster plan, despite telling staff in May to expect one.
“I will not be issuing a new disaster plan because I do not want to make changes that might counter the FEMA Review Council,” Richardson said. The council, formed under Donald Trump, includes DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and several governors.
Richardson’s lack of disaster experience has been a sore point, especially after FEMA’s significant staff cuts and canceled training sessions. Three sources said his comment spread quickly, fueling fears about his familiarity with FEMA operations.
He had previously said a plan, including exercises, would be ready by May 23rd. Instead, staff are now grappling with mixed messages and limited guidance.
Richardson still leads DHS’s counter-WMD office and has leaned on his past as a Marine artillery officer. He replaced Cameron Hamilton, fired after clashing with Trump’s vision to downsize FEMA. Over 2,000 FEMA staff have exited since Trump took office, and hurricane prep efforts have been scaled back dramatically.
FEMA staff were left dumbfounded on Monday when agency head David Richardson reportedly said he didn’t know the U.S. has a hurricane season, according to four insiders.
The comment came just a day after the 2024 hurricane season officially kicked off. NOAA has forecast up to ten hurricanes this year. Richardson, who took over FEMA in early May, made the remark during a daily staff briefing.
“It was not clear to staff whether he meant it literally, as a joke, or in some other context,” a source shared.
He also said there would be no new disaster plan, despite telling staff in May to expect one.
“I will not be issuing a new disaster plan because I do not want to make changes that might counter the FEMA Review Council,” Richardson said. The council, formed under Donald Trump, includes DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and several governors.
Richardson’s lack of disaster experience has been a sore point, especially after FEMA’s significant staff cuts and canceled training sessions. Three sources said his comment spread quickly, fueling fears about his familiarity with FEMA operations.
He had previously said a plan, including exercises, would be ready by May 23rd. Instead, staff are now grappling with mixed messages and limited guidance.
Richardson still leads DHS’s counter-WMD office and has leaned on his past as a Marine artillery officer. He replaced Cameron Hamilton, fired after clashing with Trump’s vision to downsize FEMA. Over 2,000 FEMA staff have exited since Trump took office, and hurricane prep efforts have been scaled back dramatically.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
No comments:
Post a Comment