#MAGFAB: Ashley Walters For the July/Aug issue of Men’s Health UK!
Ashley Walters thinks Adolescence has changed his parenting.
The 42-year-old star - who has Amaiya-Love, 10, and nine-year-old River with wife Danielle Isaie, is stepfather to her child, and also has adult kids Shayon, China, and Panera with former partner Natalie Williams, and Antonia and Ashley from another relationship - has become more present and engaged in doing things with his youngest son in particular since starring in the Netflix miniseries in order to encourage him away from the online world.
He told the new issue of Men's Health UK magazine: “[As parents] we’re really about uplifting and pushing the things that they love. He’s an animator, so he has a lot of animation software on his iPad and spends his time doing that.
"But sometimes, he’s not animating when we think he is. We’ve been very conscious about that and drawing back on his screen time. Half the week, he can’t even touch his device.
"And then actually, it’s about me stepping in as a dad and saying, ‘Let’s go fishing, let’s do more stuff,’ so he doesn’t want to be on there as much as he is.”
Ashley noted that parents often don't intervene with their children's screen time because they don't want their kids to feel left out, but believes Adolescence has empowered them to intervene more.
He added: “No one wants to be the ogre parent that comes in and goes, ‘All right, that’s it, everything off.” I don’t want them to feel like they’re not the same as their friends. You get caught up in all of that stuff as a parent, but I feel like around the world this show has allowed parents, to go, ‘F*** that s***. Adolescence says this could happen. Now we’re going to start having this conversation.’ I think that’s a good thing.”
The former So Solid Crew rapper played DI Luke Bascombe in Adolescence and though he'd love to reprise the role for a second series, he thinks that's unlikely to happen.
He said: “I'd love to, but I strongly believe that it will be completely different characters with a completely different story. I think that the constant will be the one-take process.”
The full interview with Ashley is available in the July/Aug issue of Men’s Health UK, HERE https://www.menshealth.com/uk/mental-strength/a65111319/ashley-walters-interview/ for more.
Ashley Walters thinks Adolescence has changed his parenting.
The 42-year-old star - who has Amaiya-Love, 10, and nine-year-old River with wife Danielle Isaie, is stepfather to her child, and also has adult kids Shayon, China, and Panera with former partner Natalie Williams, and Antonia and Ashley from another relationship - has become more present and engaged in doing things with his youngest son in particular since starring in the Netflix miniseries in order to encourage him away from the online world.
"But sometimes, he’s not animating when we think he is. We’ve been very conscious about that and drawing back on his screen time. Half the week, he can’t even touch his device.
"And then actually, it’s about me stepping in as a dad and saying, ‘Let’s go fishing, let’s do more stuff,’ so he doesn’t want to be on there as much as he is.”
He added: “No one wants to be the ogre parent that comes in and goes, ‘All right, that’s it, everything off.” I don’t want them to feel like they’re not the same as their friends. You get caught up in all of that stuff as a parent, but I feel like around the world this show has allowed parents, to go, ‘F*** that s***. Adolescence says this could happen. Now we’re going to start having this conversation.’ I think that’s a good thing.”
The former So Solid Crew rapper played DI Luke Bascombe in Adolescence and though he'd love to reprise the role for a second series, he thinks that's unlikely to happen.
He said: “I'd love to, but I strongly believe that it will be completely different characters with a completely different story. I think that the constant will be the one-take process.”
The full interview with Ashley is available in the July/Aug issue of Men’s Health UK, HERE https://www.menshealth.com/uk/mental-strength/a65111319/ashley-walters-interview/ for more.
#RHOA: NeNe Leakes is unsure she'd return to RHOA in a 'friend' role: 'First housewife, and now I'm a friend?'
Real Housewives of Atlanta star NeNe Leakes contended back in her season 2 tagline, "I don't keep up with the Joneses, I am the Joneses."
Five years since Leakes last appeared on the Bravo reality series, with fans still clamoring for her return, she may as well update that line to, "I'm not a friend of the Housewives, I am the Housewives."
Leakes recently expressed openness to the prospect of rejoining RHOA in January, but she's decidedly less enthusiastic about the prospect of joining in a "friend of the cast" capacity.
"I'm not mad at the 'friend' role. I just think, answering your question, if I were to ever step back on that platform and would I be a friend, I really feel like, I don't know that I would be a friend," Leakes said Monday while visiting the Humble Brag podcast, hosted by Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Crystal Kung Minkoff and her old RHOA castmate Cynthia Bailey. Leakes discussed her feelings about a potential Bravo return at length during the episode.
NeNe Leakes says she'd return to 'RHOA' if the 'opportunity was right' and 'check was on point'
Phaedra Parks teases 'The Real Housewives of Atlanta' return (exclusive)
Pressed by Bailey, who currently appears as a "friend" on season 16, Leakes said she "would have to look at it."
"I like the 'friend' role, I like the capacity, I don't have a problem with it at all," she said, "I just would think, NeNe, season 1, the first Housewife, and I'm a friend? I don't know."
Leakes was a member of the original quintet of Real Housewives of Atlanta stars, alongside Kim Zolciak, Sherée Whitfield, Lisa Wu, and DeShawn Snow. RHOA was the third installment in the reality franchise, which has since gone on to spawn several international sequels, hundreds of stars, an entire supplementary podcast industry, and even an annual fan convention.
Following The Real Housewives of Orange County in 2006 and The Real Housewives of New York City in early 2008, RHOA's premiere later that year marked the birth of the franchise and Bravo's first series with a majority Black cast. Leakes immediately stood out as the clear breakaway star.
She would go on to anchor the series for eight seasons (her eighth season, in fact, in a "guest" role), before segueing into other reality series like Celebrity Apprentice, scripted series like The New Normal and Glee, and stage roles in productions like Chicago.
Leakes returned for three seasons of RHOA between 2017 and 2020, announcing in September 2020 that after "an extremely, extremely long, exhausting, tiring, emotional negotiation" she had "made the very hard and difficult decision to not be a part of Real Housewives of Atlanta season 13."
Four seasons later, Leakes still hasn't returned, and her relationship with Bravo and its most public executive, Andy Cohen, have come under considerable strain in the ensuing years.
Following her exit, Leakes accused Cohen of racism and called him a "master manipulator" who, along with Bravo, had been "using me for ratings like they have always done." She then sued Cohen and the network in 2022, alleging racism and a hostile work environment, but dropped the suit four months later. In 2024 she lampooned her own reality star persona in Lifetime's satirical horror film Hunting Housewives, alongside RHOBH's Denise Richards.
Five years since Leakes last appeared on the Bravo reality series, with fans still clamoring for her return, she may as well update that line to, "I'm not a friend of the Housewives, I am the Housewives."
Leakes recently expressed openness to the prospect of rejoining RHOA in January, but she's decidedly less enthusiastic about the prospect of joining in a "friend of the cast" capacity.
"I'm not mad at the 'friend' role. I just think, answering your question, if I were to ever step back on that platform and would I be a friend, I really feel like, I don't know that I would be a friend," Leakes said Monday while visiting the Humble Brag podcast, hosted by Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Crystal Kung Minkoff and her old RHOA castmate Cynthia Bailey. Leakes discussed her feelings about a potential Bravo return at length during the episode.
NeNe Leakes says she'd return to 'RHOA' if the 'opportunity was right' and 'check was on point'
Phaedra Parks teases 'The Real Housewives of Atlanta' return (exclusive)
Pressed by Bailey, who currently appears as a "friend" on season 16, Leakes said she "would have to look at it."
"I like the 'friend' role, I like the capacity, I don't have a problem with it at all," she said, "I just would think, NeNe, season 1, the first Housewife, and I'm a friend? I don't know."
Leakes was a member of the original quintet of Real Housewives of Atlanta stars, alongside Kim Zolciak, Sherée Whitfield, Lisa Wu, and DeShawn Snow. RHOA was the third installment in the reality franchise, which has since gone on to spawn several international sequels, hundreds of stars, an entire supplementary podcast industry, and even an annual fan convention.
Following The Real Housewives of Orange County in 2006 and The Real Housewives of New York City in early 2008, RHOA's premiere later that year marked the birth of the franchise and Bravo's first series with a majority Black cast. Leakes immediately stood out as the clear breakaway star.
She would go on to anchor the series for eight seasons (her eighth season, in fact, in a "guest" role), before segueing into other reality series like Celebrity Apprentice, scripted series like The New Normal and Glee, and stage roles in productions like Chicago.
Leakes returned for three seasons of RHOA between 2017 and 2020, announcing in September 2020 that after "an extremely, extremely long, exhausting, tiring, emotional negotiation" she had "made the very hard and difficult decision to not be a part of Real Housewives of Atlanta season 13."
Four seasons later, Leakes still hasn't returned, and her relationship with Bravo and its most public executive, Andy Cohen, have come under considerable strain in the ensuing years.
Following her exit, Leakes accused Cohen of racism and called him a "master manipulator" who, along with Bravo, had been "using me for ratings like they have always done." She then sued Cohen and the network in 2022, alleging racism and a hostile work environment, but dropped the suit four months later. In 2024 she lampooned her own reality star persona in Lifetime's satirical horror film Hunting Housewives, alongside RHOBH's Denise Richards.
#MusicNews: Raphael Saadiq Announces Extension Of “No Bandwidth” Tour!
Following a sold out run of tour dates this Summer, R&B legend Raphael Saadiq has announced an expansion of his one-man show No Bandwidth: One Man, One Night, Three Decades of Hits with twenty-two new Fall tour dates.
The one-man-show offers a powerful blend of storytelling and emotionally evocative experience, with Saadiq guiding audiences through his celebrated 30+ year career. Attendees experience a rare glimpse into the life of the multi-talented artist, producer, instrumentalist, composer, and songwriter with never-before-told stories and performances celebrating his catalog from the early 90s to today – including Tony! Toni! Toné!, Saadiq’s solo albums, and selections from his ground-breaking production work. On No Bandwidth, Raphael shares,
“I’ve always wanted to do a one-man show. I want to challenge myself. My one-person show has three acts; I will be talking about my career, bringing a couple of instruments to express myself, singing my original music as well as covers of songs I wish I had written, and more. I want it to feel magical and like a Broadway show.”
Earlier this year, Saadiq announced the launch of the Raphael Saadiq Vinyl Club. The Vinyl Club sees Saadiq opening up his legendary vault for the first time and offering fans a never-before-seen glimpse into his iconic back catalog. This exclusive membership allows fans to receive exclusive quarterly releases of Saadiq’s most celebrated albums. This month, fans will receive Ray Ray – his 2004 self-released vintage-soul masterpiece.
Stay tuned for more exciting releases to come in 2025 and watch this space for a special live announcement from Saadiq coming soon.
#HipHopNews: Mariah The Scientist Announces New Album ‘HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY’
‘HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY’ will be Mariah The Scientist’s first full-length release since 2023’s ‘To Be Eaten Alive.’
Her latest single, “Burning Blue,” debuted at No. 2 on Apple Music’s U.S. chart, marking a major milestone in her comeback this year.
Fans are speculating about the album’s concept after Mariah teased symbolic cover art featuring a toy soldier.
Mariah The Scientist just shook up her fans with the announcement of her new album. The singer shared the update on Instagram, posting an image of a saluting green toy soldier on a vibrant pink carpet. The second photo in her carousel shows the same soldier lying on the ground in pieces with what appears to be a blurred-out tracklist positioned above it. The caption reads, “HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY… 08/22.”
The announcement follows the release of “Burning Blue,” her first single in nearly two years. Her last project, To Be Eaten Alive, was her first album to land on the Billboard 200 chart. “Burning Blue” quickly gained traction, debuting at No. 2 on Apple Music’s U.S. chart, making it the highest-charting release by a female artist on the platform so far this year.
Fans filled Mariah's comments section with excitement, referencing both the new announcement and her unreleased catalog. One user wrote, “SPENT 40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT!!! Now… can we get an EP of all the unreleased?” Another said, “I’m SEATED SO BADDDDDD,” expressing major anticipation for what’s next.
Mariah has gained a loyal following for her emotionally centered R&B, often drawing from personal experiences and relationships. Her previous album included themes of heartbreak, reflection and long-distance connection. It arrived during a period when her longtime partner, Young Thug, was incarcerated.
The two began dating in 2001, six months after she reached out to him about collaborating on a song during the early stages of her music career. After the rapper was arrested in May 2022, she remained by his side, committed to the relationship they had built. When he was released in October 2024, she shared her excitement with a WSB-TV reporter, saying, “This is more than what we prayed for. We are so grateful. This is the greatest opportunity we’ve ever been presented with.”
The tracklist and official features and production credits have yet to be revealed or confirmed at the moment. Still, the album announcement has generated even more anticipation for her next full-length release.
HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY is scheduled for release on Aug. 22, signaling a new chapter in Mariah’s catalog.
Her latest single, “Burning Blue,” debuted at No. 2 on Apple Music’s U.S. chart, marking a major milestone in her comeback this year.
Fans are speculating about the album’s concept after Mariah teased symbolic cover art featuring a toy soldier.
Mariah The Scientist just shook up her fans with the announcement of her new album. The singer shared the update on Instagram, posting an image of a saluting green toy soldier on a vibrant pink carpet. The second photo in her carousel shows the same soldier lying on the ground in pieces with what appears to be a blurred-out tracklist positioned above it. The caption reads, “HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY… 08/22.”
The announcement follows the release of “Burning Blue,” her first single in nearly two years. Her last project, To Be Eaten Alive, was her first album to land on the Billboard 200 chart. “Burning Blue” quickly gained traction, debuting at No. 2 on Apple Music’s U.S. chart, making it the highest-charting release by a female artist on the platform so far this year.
Fans filled Mariah's comments section with excitement, referencing both the new announcement and her unreleased catalog. One user wrote, “SPENT 40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT!!! Now… can we get an EP of all the unreleased?” Another said, “I’m SEATED SO BADDDDDD,” expressing major anticipation for what’s next.
Mariah has gained a loyal following for her emotionally centered R&B, often drawing from personal experiences and relationships. Her previous album included themes of heartbreak, reflection and long-distance connection. It arrived during a period when her longtime partner, Young Thug, was incarcerated.
The two began dating in 2001, six months after she reached out to him about collaborating on a song during the early stages of her music career. After the rapper was arrested in May 2022, she remained by his side, committed to the relationship they had built. When he was released in October 2024, she shared her excitement with a WSB-TV reporter, saying, “This is more than what we prayed for. We are so grateful. This is the greatest opportunity we’ve ever been presented with.”
The tracklist and official features and production credits have yet to be revealed or confirmed at the moment. Still, the album announcement has generated even more anticipation for her next full-length release.
HEARTS SOLD SEPARATELY is scheduled for release on Aug. 22, signaling a new chapter in Mariah’s catalog.
Michael Jackson Estate Files Court Petition Alleging $213 Million Extortion Plot by Frank Cascio
The Estate of Michael Jackson has filed an explosive petition in Los Angeles Superior Court accusing Frank Cascio, a man once described as Jackson’s “second family,” of masterminding a $213 million extortion plot to force payouts by threatening to flip decades of public support into salacious allegations about the King of Pop. The court action, exclusively obtained by Black Press USA, reveals in unprecedented detail how the estate contends that Cascio and unnamed associates used their proximity to Jackson—once proudly touted in books and interviews—to demand a fortune from the most successful celebrity estate in history. “For over 30 years, these individuals held themselves out as Michael Jackson’s most passionate defenders,” the petition states, quoting Cascio’s repeated assertions—under oath and on national television—that Jackson never harmed him or any child. “It was a shakedown,” the estate’s lawyers charged.
As recently as 2011, Cascio promoted his memoir My Friend Michael, describing a warm, fatherly relationship with Jackson. “I want to be precise and clear, on the record, so that everyone can read and understand,” he wrote. “Michael’s love for children was innocent, and it was profoundly misunderstood.” He doubled down in dozens of interviews. During a 2005 ABC Primetime Live broadcast, Cascio—then using the name Frank Tyson—declared: “If Michael ever laid a finger on me, I would not be in this chair right now.” In a 2011 sit-down with Wendy Williams, he said with conviction, “Nothing at all. And that’s what makes me so upset,” when asked whether Jackson had ever acted inappropriately. Even years later, one of the respondents continued to insist Jackson was a target of “liars,” telling Oprah Winfrey during a televised interview: “Michael couldn’t harm a fly. He’s such a kind and gentle soul. Michael was a target.” In 2019, when HBO’s controversial Leaving Neverland documentary ignited a fresh wave of criticism and threatened multiple Jackson-related projects—including Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson ONE”—estate co-executors John Branca and John McClain, along with the Michael Jackson Company, sought Cascio’s support. Instead, they say, Cascio turned on them.
Facing mounting public pressure and what they describe as repeated threats to invent new claims, the estate entered into a confidential settlement on January 10, 2020. Under the agreement, Cascio and his associates would receive millions over five years—$3 million each, according to sources familiar with the negotiations—in exchange for comprehensive waivers, a sweeping nondisclosure clause, and an ironclad promise to arbitrate any disputes. The estate said it acted reluctantly to protect Jackson’s children and preserve projects that would cement the late artist’s legacy. “We have a fiduciary responsibility to maximize the income of the estate,” Branca said in an earlier interview. “Our counsel insisted we sign the agreement. They didn’t want it disclosed either because Michael’s fans would have gone after these people.” The settlement contained an unusually strict provision barring even the disclosure of the agreement’s existence.
Despite having collected payments under that deal, Cascio, through lawyers, allegedly re-emerged in July 2024 with a stunning ultimatum: Pay $213 million more, or face a media spectacle. According to the court filing, Cascio’s legal team—then led by attorney Howard King—threatened to “expand the circle of knowledge” and leak allegations to the buyer of Jackson’s $600 million music catalog if their demands were not met. In one email sent August 29, 2024, King wrote, “We expect a substantive response by the end of day tomorrow. Otherwise, we will be forced to expand the ‘circle of knowledge.’” The estate called this an extortionate threat designed to pressure them into paying for silence. The estate responded by initiating a confidential arbitration proceeding on September 17, 2024, accusing Cascio of civil extortion and anticipatory breach of contract. Days later, Cascio’s lawyers delivered draft lawsuits “riddled with outlandish scurrilous allegations” that directly contradicted his years of public statements.
By January 2025, Cascio had replaced his counsel with Mark Geragos—ironically, Jackson’s former defense lawyer who had proclaimed to Good Morning America that “there’s nothing sexual going on” and that Jackson was “100 percent innocent.” In his 2013 book Mistrial, Geragos wrote of Jackson’s 2005 acquittal: “The evidence was overwhelming that he never touched this kid, and the entire thing was a huge shakedown.” He also appeared on The Megyn Kelly Show in December 2021 to blast Leaving Neverland, calling it “a complete rewrite of history” and an “absolute travesty.” However, now Geragos has taken the opposite stance, representing Cascio in a renewed effort to file public litigation. According to the estate’s filing, Geragos lowered the demand to $44 million but warned that if the estate refused, they would sue for defamation, emotional distress, and an alleged “cover-up.” The estate insists these claims are “bogus” and barred by the original settlement’s releases and arbitration clauses. The petition points out that the agreement explicitly requires arbitration for any disputes, even the question of whether a claim is arbitrable. “The question of arbitrability is itself a question to be resolved finally by the arbitrator,” the contract states.
This latest legal battle comes as the Jackson estate continues to flourish. Since Jackson died in 2009, Branca and McClain have transformed a $500 million debt into an empire generating over $3 billion. Projects include the record-breaking concert film Michael Jackson’s This Is It, Cirque du Soleil productions, and the upcoming Antoine Fuqua biopic MICHAEL, starring Jackson’s nephew Jaafar. Yet Branca says managing the estate means protecting it from opportunistic attacks. “Michael was acutely aware of the racial undertones in how he was perceived,” Branca told Black Press USA in a prior interview, recalling Jackson’s lament: “Sinatra’s the chairman of the board. Elvis is the king. Springsteen is the boss. But what do they call me? The Gloved One…that’s racist.” Branca added, “I definitely believe there’s a racist element in the media coverage of Michael Jackson since the 1980s. Michael got so big many were jealous.” The estate has requested that the court order Cascio into arbitration and award legal fees. If the petition is granted, any subsequent proceedings would take place in private. For now, the estate is vowing not to yield. “We will continue to manage the estate with the integrity and dedication that Michael deserved,” Branca said. “Attempts like this to tarnish his memory for financial gain will not succeed.”
Angel Reese shines as NBA 2K26 WNBA cover athlete, unveiled signature shoe
Previous cover athletes included Candace Parker, Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird, Sabrina Ionescu, and A'ja Wilson.
Reese, 23, will join reigning NBA MVP and champion Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and future hall of famer and Baltimore native Carmelo Anthony on this year's cover.
On the cover, you can see Reese wearing her first announcement of the day, the 'Angel Reese 1', presented by Reebok.
"Of course we do everything BIG. Why not debut my signature shoe on the cover of NBA2K ?!?!" Reese said on X.
The Baltimore native has been hitting her stride as of late as a member of the Chicago Sky, while also becoming the first player in WNBA history with five straight games with 15+ rebounds.
Reese recently earned her second All-Star nod and will play for Minnesota Lynx star forward Napheesa Collier in this year's All-Star game as they are set to battle Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and her squad.
All-Star Weekend will take place on July 18 and 19 in Indianapolis.
The skills competition and three-point contest will occur Friday, July 18, and the All-Star Game is set for Saturday, July 19, at 8:30 p.m.
Reese, 23, will join reigning NBA MVP and champion Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and future hall of famer and Baltimore native Carmelo Anthony on this year's cover.
On the cover, you can see Reese wearing her first announcement of the day, the 'Angel Reese 1', presented by Reebok.
"Of course we do everything BIG. Why not debut my signature shoe on the cover of NBA2K ?!?!" Reese said on X.
The Baltimore native has been hitting her stride as of late as a member of the Chicago Sky, while also becoming the first player in WNBA history with five straight games with 15+ rebounds.
Reese recently earned her second All-Star nod and will play for Minnesota Lynx star forward Napheesa Collier in this year's All-Star game as they are set to battle Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and her squad.
All-Star Weekend will take place on July 18 and 19 in Indianapolis.
The skills competition and three-point contest will occur Friday, July 18, and the All-Star Game is set for Saturday, July 19, at 8:30 p.m.
Actor Braxton Wells Accuses Tyler Perry Studios SVP Mark E. Swinton Of Rape
Actor Braxton Wells has made rape allegations against Mark E. Swinton, the Senior Vice President of Scripted Programming at Tyler Perry Studios. Wells has also listed additional names as complicit in a criminal coverup, including Tyler Perry himself, in a series of videos and screenshots shared to Instagram.
“I’m not about to sit here and be afraid and be silenced by people knowing that they did me wrong,” shared Wells in a video. “I’m calling out Tyler Perry Studios. I’m calling out Mark Swinton. I’m calling out Genie Harrison. I’m calling out Michael Roberts. I’m calling out Tyler Perry. I’m calling out Mark Temple. And I’m calling out Chris Giovanni.”
“I want you guys to know what you guys did to me was very unlawful, and me being a retired vet, US Army vet, going through post-traumatic stress disorder … you all covered it up. You all covered up a felony crime of what Mark Swinton has done to me,” he continued. “2022. My incident. I get sexually assaulted and raped. Drugged. Blacked out. That’s a felony crime.”
In this clip, labeled “PART1” of nine uploads, Wells referenced the lawsuit actor Derek Dixon filed against Tyler Perry, accusing the filmmaker of sexual harassment, assault, and coercion. Wells claims he has been ignored and compares his alleged lack of help to the assistance Dixon allegedly received to move forward with his civil claim.
Wells also uploaded a screenshot to support his claim that he made his accusations prior to Dixon’s lawsuit.
“Just so people know I came out about this situation way before Derek Dixon! They told me to take down the video threaten me and even my own lawyer threaten me while I was trying to go to law enforcement! I post everything on my page for people to read not to glance,” explained Wells.
Continuing his lengthy series of Instagram uploads, Wells detailed his alleged experience in a wordy caption under a photo of Swinton and Perry. The post began with religious text from the Bible.
“Mark E. Swinton, you groomed and raped me while I was under your influence, flying me from Los Angeles to Georgia under false pretenses. You abused your position as Vice President of Tyler Perry Studios — a company that claims to stand for faith — to commit unspeakable evil behind closed doors,” claimed the actor.
“Tyler Perry, you built your empire on the image of a God-fearing man, yet when darkness crept in through your own executive, you chose silence. You retained a predator in your house and helped cover it up, protecting your brand over a broken human life. That’s not faith — that’s fraud.Yahweh Elohim sees all. He is not mocked.”
He continued to write, “You hid behind Hollywood politics, lawyers, and NDAs. You thought your money could bury truth. But no contract signed under duress, no manipulation by a corrupt attorney, and no celebrity circle will stop Yahweh’s judgment.”
Wells’ traumatic Instagram dump also featured screenshots uploaded in an effort to substantiate the claims made against Harrison, Roberts, Temple, and Giovanni in “PART1” of the allegations.
“They told me to take down the video threaten me and even my own lawyer threaten me while I was trying to go to law enforcement! I post everything on my page for people to read not to glance,” Wells claimed. The actor also claims he was “forced to sign” a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) under “mental and emotional stress.”
Wells also issued a call-to-action to other alleged survivors of Swinton. He instructed, “If Mark Swinton has harmed you or you have evidence of abuse, it’s time to come forward,” and added details to contact a detective in the Roswell Police Department regarding an open criminal investigation.
According to his IMDb profile, Wells was born in Columbus, GA, and served in the U.S. Army for two years. He attended the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and majored in the BFA acting program. He made his film debut in On a Whim in 2020 and is most known for television roles in Tyler Perry’s The Oval (2022) and Clean Slate (2025).
None of the accused has made public statements regarding the various claims made by Wells. R
Actor Braxton Wells has made rape allegations against Mark E. Swinton, the Senior Vice President of Scripted Programming at Tyler Perry Studios. Wells has also listed additional names as complicit in a criminal coverup, including Tyler Perry himself, in a series of videos and screenshots shared to Instagram.
“I’m not about to sit here and be afraid and be silenced by people knowing that they did me wrong,” shared Wells in a video. “I’m calling out Tyler Perry Studios. I’m calling out Mark Swinton. I’m calling out Genie Harrison. I’m calling out Michael Roberts. I’m calling out Tyler Perry. I’m calling out Mark Temple. And I’m calling out Chris Giovanni.”
“I want you guys to know what you guys did to me was very unlawful, and me being a retired vet, US Army vet, going through post-traumatic stress disorder … you all covered it up. You all covered up a felony crime of what Mark Swinton has done to me,” he continued. “2022. My incident. I get sexually assaulted and raped. Drugged. Blacked out. That’s a felony crime.”
In this clip, labeled “PART1” of nine uploads, Wells referenced the lawsuit actor Derek Dixon filed against Tyler Perry, accusing the filmmaker of sexual harassment, assault, and coercion. Wells claims he has been ignored and compares his alleged lack of help to the assistance Dixon allegedly received to move forward with his civil claim.
Wells also uploaded a screenshot to support his claim that he made his accusations prior to Dixon’s lawsuit.
“Just so people know I came out about this situation way before Derek Dixon! They told me to take down the video threaten me and even my own lawyer threaten me while I was trying to go to law enforcement! I post everything on my page for people to read not to glance,” explained Wells.
Continuing his lengthy series of Instagram uploads, Wells detailed his alleged experience in a wordy caption under a photo of Swinton and Perry. The post began with religious text from the Bible.
“Mark E. Swinton, you groomed and raped me while I was under your influence, flying me from Los Angeles to Georgia under false pretenses. You abused your position as Vice President of Tyler Perry Studios — a company that claims to stand for faith — to commit unspeakable evil behind closed doors,” claimed the actor.
“Tyler Perry, you built your empire on the image of a God-fearing man, yet when darkness crept in through your own executive, you chose silence. You retained a predator in your house and helped cover it up, protecting your brand over a broken human life. That’s not faith — that’s fraud.Yahweh Elohim sees all. He is not mocked.”
He continued to write, “You hid behind Hollywood politics, lawyers, and NDAs. You thought your money could bury truth. But no contract signed under duress, no manipulation by a corrupt attorney, and no celebrity circle will stop Yahweh’s judgment.”
Wells’ traumatic Instagram dump also featured screenshots uploaded in an effort to substantiate the claims made against Harrison, Roberts, Temple, and Giovanni in “PART1” of the allegations.
“They told me to take down the video threaten me and even my own lawyer threaten me while I was trying to go to law enforcement! I post everything on my page for people to read not to glance,” Wells claimed. The actor also claims he was “forced to sign” a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) under “mental and emotional stress.”
Wells also issued a call-to-action to other alleged survivors of Swinton. He instructed, “If Mark Swinton has harmed you or you have evidence of abuse, it’s time to come forward,” and added details to contact a detective in the Roswell Police Department regarding an open criminal investigation.
According to his IMDb profile, Wells was born in Columbus, GA, and served in the U.S. Army for two years. He attended the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and majored in the BFA acting program. He made his film debut in On a Whim in 2020 and is most known for television roles in Tyler Perry’s The Oval (2022) and Clean Slate (2025).
None of the accused has made public statements regarding the various claims made by Wells. R
Essence Fest Owns Up to Delays After Lauryn Hill Played to a Nearly Empty Arena at 2:30 A.M.
Essence Festival organizers have taken responsibility for a concert that ran so far behind schedule that Lauryn Hill wound up taking the stage at around 2:30 in the morning.
Delays completely derailed the opening day of the 31st annual event, which returned to the Superdome in New Orleans this past weekend. According to Nola.com, opening night Friday, July 4, featured a whopping eight acts, with Hill joining the lineup just two days before the concert. As the show got underway, it was quickly beset by scheduling issues that only got worse as the night wore on.
GloRilla, the fourth act to play, finished her set 45 minutes after the Isley Brothers were originally set to take the stage. Maxwell, who was supposed to start his performance at 11:15 p.m., took the stage at 12:55 a.m.
When Hill arrived on stage at 2:31 a.m., most of the Superdome was empty. Still, the Fugees legend found ways to make the most of a strange situation, chatting with the fans who stuck around and even taking some left-field requests, like “I Gotta Find Peace of Mind” and “Tell Him.” Her set finished, officially, at 3:37 a.m.
While Hill has a history of showing up late to concerts, Essence Fest organizers insisted the Friday night/Saturday morning debacle was in no way her fault. “She arrived on schedule, stepped on that stage, and delivered the kind of performance only a legend can,” the festival wrote on Instagram.
Organizers continued: “The delay? Not hers. We will take that. The moment? One for the books. The legacy? Still unmatched. Put some respect on her name. Keep the takes, but keep her out of them. All love and deep profound admiration for Ms. Lauryn Hill.”
By all accounts, nights two and three of Essence Fest ran a bit more smoothly. Saturday’s show, for instance, saw performances from Davido, Buju Banton, Erykah Badu, and Jill Scott, with the latter closing out the night at the slightly more reasonable hour of 1:30 a.m.
Delays completely derailed the opening day of the 31st annual event, which returned to the Superdome in New Orleans this past weekend. According to Nola.com, opening night Friday, July 4, featured a whopping eight acts, with Hill joining the lineup just two days before the concert. As the show got underway, it was quickly beset by scheduling issues that only got worse as the night wore on.
GloRilla, the fourth act to play, finished her set 45 minutes after the Isley Brothers were originally set to take the stage. Maxwell, who was supposed to start his performance at 11:15 p.m., took the stage at 12:55 a.m.
When Hill arrived on stage at 2:31 a.m., most of the Superdome was empty. Still, the Fugees legend found ways to make the most of a strange situation, chatting with the fans who stuck around and even taking some left-field requests, like “I Gotta Find Peace of Mind” and “Tell Him.” Her set finished, officially, at 3:37 a.m.
While Hill has a history of showing up late to concerts, Essence Fest organizers insisted the Friday night/Saturday morning debacle was in no way her fault. “She arrived on schedule, stepped on that stage, and delivered the kind of performance only a legend can,” the festival wrote on Instagram.
Organizers continued: “The delay? Not hers. We will take that. The moment? One for the books. The legacy? Still unmatched. Put some respect on her name. Keep the takes, but keep her out of them. All love and deep profound admiration for Ms. Lauryn Hill.”
By all accounts, nights two and three of Essence Fest ran a bit more smoothly. Saturday’s show, for instance, saw performances from Davido, Buju Banton, Erykah Badu, and Jill Scott, with the latter closing out the night at the slightly more reasonable hour of 1:30 a.m.
Jonathan Majors Checks Troll Asking Wife Meagan Good For Her Number In Front Of Him
Jonathan Majors isn’t playing about his love for wife Meagan Good, as the Magazine Dreams actor stepped to a “fan” who asked the beauty for a photo — and her phone number — in front of him.
In recently surfaced video shared by Art Of Dialogue, Good, 43, and Majors, 35, are seen taking photos with a fan in what appears to be an Apple Store. After snapping a pic with one fan, the troll holding the camera asks if he can also take a photo — and get Good’s digits.
“You’re beautiful in person, just to let you know,” he tells Good before asking for a pic, “and possibly, like, your number.”
“I’m sorry, what’d you say?” Majors interjects, with the camera guy continuing to troll, “I said, like, a number?”
“Whose number?” Major’s replied while moving closer to the man.
“My number? No, that’s my man,” Good adds, pointing to the Creed 3 actor, before he tells the troll, “Won’t you go Google something, bro?” before the man turns away, saying, “Nah, I didn’t know!” See the clip below.
Good stood beside Majors during his highly-publicized assault trial, where he was found guilty of harassing and assaulting ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari. Despite the incident, the couple moved forward, with the pair announcing their engagement in November 2024 and eloping in March 2025.
“She just motivates me so much and she guides me. I guide her,” Majors gushed in an interview with ET, where he slipped up and called Good his wife. “I think Meagan and I do a good job of dealing with each other where we’re at, and you don’t know anybody until you’ve been through all the seasons with them.”
Jonathan Majors isn’t playing about his love for wife Meagan Good, as the Magazine Dreams actor stepped to a “fan” who asked the beauty for a photo — and her phone number — in front of him.
In recently surfaced video shared by Art Of Dialogue, Good, 43, and Majors, 35, are seen taking photos with a fan in what appears to be an Apple Store. After snapping a pic with one fan, the troll holding the camera asks if he can also take a photo — and get Good’s digits.
“You’re beautiful in person, just to let you know,” he tells Good before asking for a pic, “and possibly, like, your number.”
“I’m sorry, what’d you say?” Majors interjects, with the camera guy continuing to troll, “I said, like, a number?”
“Whose number?” Major’s replied while moving closer to the man.
“My number? No, that’s my man,” Good adds, pointing to the Creed 3 actor, before he tells the troll, “Won’t you go Google something, bro?” before the man turns away, saying, “Nah, I didn’t know!” See the clip below.
Good stood beside Majors during his highly-publicized assault trial, where he was found guilty of harassing and assaulting ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari. Despite the incident, the couple moved forward, with the pair announcing their engagement in November 2024 and eloping in March 2025.
“She just motivates me so much and she guides me. I guide her,” Majors gushed in an interview with ET, where he slipped up and called Good his wife. “I think Meagan and I do a good job of dealing with each other where we’re at, and you don’t know anybody until you’ve been through all the seasons with them.”
Ice Cube Responds to Selena Gomez’s Childhood Crush Confession
Selena Gomez may have blushed over Ice Cube as a kid, but the rapper-turned-actor isn’t sweating the revelation. “A lot of ‘em like me, homie,” the 56-year-old N.W.A alum said on the 3’s and Ones podcast. “What? Wassup? I heard this years ago.” Gomez, 32, was chatting with fellow pop star Karol G, 34, about their picks for the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) rappers last month when she revealed, “I had the biggest crush on (Ice Cube) when I was, like, 5.” Ice Cube—whose real name is O’Shea Jackson—returned the favor by sharing one of his own childhood crushes:
Vanity, the lead singer of the 1980s hit group Vanity 6. “Bring her in here and see what happens,” the Friday actor joked, before adding that he had “about four” such crushes growing up. Vanity, who died from kidney failure in 2016, is best known for singing the steamy 1982 hit “Nasty Girl,” written and produced by Prince. Ice Cube has been married to Kimberly Woodruff since 1992, while Gomez is engaged to star producer Benny Blanco.
Mariah Carey Gives Epic Three-Word Verdict on Bezos Wedding
Mariah Carey proved she was unbothered by Jeff Bezos’ extravagant wedding, which she was notably absent from, in just three words.
The 56-year-old popstar responded to photographers Monday about the Amazon CEO’s lavish nuptials with Lauren Sánchez in a now-viral moment.
“What did you think about Jeff Bezos’ wedding?” a photographer asked Carey as she walked down the street in sunglasses.
”I wasn’t there,” the Always Be My Baby singer simply replied.
“Were you not invited or what?” the photographer pressed on.
“Oh, don’t turn this into that,” she said laughing.
Fans were quick to point out how similar Carey’s response was to another one of her viral moments, when the German TV program taff asked her in 2003 what she thought about Jennifer Lopez.
“I don’t know her,” she said at the time, her response soon turning into a viral meme.
One X user commented a gif of Carey throwing shade at Lopez under the post of her addressing the Bezos wedding.
“Who? What wedding she doesn’t know it 😂” another user joked, someone else saying that “I don’t think she knows them😭.”
“I sincerely hope she wouldn’t attend,” one user commented, seemingly relieved that Carey was absent from Bezos and Sánchez’s wedding.
The $50 million Italian wedding that Bezos and Sánchez enjoyed almost two weeks ago was surrounded in controversy, drawing criticism from Venice residents who opposed the billionaire’s decision to turn their city into a “playground for oligarchs.
Following protests, the couple ultimately decided to move their wedding venue from central Venice to a former medieval shipyard on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
Despite the local pushback, around 200 A-list guests still made it to the three-day wedding extravaganza.
Some of the celebrities and public figures in attendance were Oprah Winfrey, Sydney Sweeney, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner.
Bezos also invited President Donald Trump, but he couldn’t attend due to scheduling conflicts.
The newlyweds are now enjoying their honeymoon on a yacht in Capri with Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry, who recently split after almost 10 years together.
Perry was also notably absent from the wedding ceremony, Bloom instead attending all the ceremonies alone.
Mariah Carey proved she was unbothered by Jeff Bezos’ extravagant wedding, which she was notably absent from, in just three words.
The 56-year-old popstar responded to photographers Monday about the Amazon CEO’s lavish nuptials with Lauren Sánchez in a now-viral moment.
“What did you think about Jeff Bezos’ wedding?” a photographer asked Carey as she walked down the street in sunglasses.
”I wasn’t there,” the Always Be My Baby singer simply replied.
“Were you not invited or what?” the photographer pressed on.
“Oh, don’t turn this into that,” she said laughing.
Fans were quick to point out how similar Carey’s response was to another one of her viral moments, when the German TV program taff asked her in 2003 what she thought about Jennifer Lopez.
“I don’t know her,” she said at the time, her response soon turning into a viral meme.
One X user commented a gif of Carey throwing shade at Lopez under the post of her addressing the Bezos wedding.
“Who? What wedding she doesn’t know it 😂” another user joked, someone else saying that “I don’t think she knows them😭.”
“I sincerely hope she wouldn’t attend,” one user commented, seemingly relieved that Carey was absent from Bezos and Sánchez’s wedding.
The $50 million Italian wedding that Bezos and Sánchez enjoyed almost two weeks ago was surrounded in controversy, drawing criticism from Venice residents who opposed the billionaire’s decision to turn their city into a “playground for oligarchs.
Following protests, the couple ultimately decided to move their wedding venue from central Venice to a former medieval shipyard on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
Despite the local pushback, around 200 A-list guests still made it to the three-day wedding extravaganza.
Some of the celebrities and public figures in attendance were Oprah Winfrey, Sydney Sweeney, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner.
Bezos also invited President Donald Trump, but he couldn’t attend due to scheduling conflicts.
The newlyweds are now enjoying their honeymoon on a yacht in Capri with Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry, who recently split after almost 10 years together.
Perry was also notably absent from the wedding ceremony, Bloom instead attending all the ceremonies alone.
Young Nobel Battled Depression and Financial Hardship Before His Passing
Last week The Outlawz rapper Young Noble passed away after taking his own life
According to new reports Young Noble was battling with depression and money issues...
Tupac Shakur's protégé Young Noble died by suicide with a gunshot to the head on the morning of July 4 ... TMZ Hip Hop has confirmed. The Outlawz rapper's wife told police at the scene he had been battling significant depression.
According to new reports Young Noble was battling with depression and money issues...
Tupac Shakur's protégé Young Noble died by suicide with a gunshot to the head on the morning of July 4 ... TMZ Hip Hop has confirmed. The Outlawz rapper's wife told police at the scene he had been battling significant depression.
According to police records, obtained by TMZ Hip Hop, Gwinnett County officers responded to a 911 call at 9 AM on Independence Day after someone claimed to have seen a man lying dead in the pool of a country club in Snellville, a distant suburb of Atlanta.
Police say they saw a man in tan cargo shorts and a black T-shirt sunken at the bottom of the pool with what appeared to be a gunshot wound to the right side of his head.
Cops say there was a spent shell casing on the bottom of the pool located about a foot away from the body, as well as a small black Beretta Tomcat .32 pistol.
Young Noble's wife told officers she last spoke to Noble around 2 AM, when he told her he was "going to drive around to clear my head" ... but she says he never returned, and her calls went to voicemail.
She noted Young Noble used to work in the music industry, but things had taken a turn for the worse. Because of his mounting depression, she told officers she had actively been trying to get him help.
She said Young Noble usually watched over the kids while she went to work -- they have a child with autism who can't be left alone -- but when he didn't return, she decided to drop off the kids at a relative's house, and she later spotted his parked car.
Noble's daughters also confirmed their father was depressed and facing financial hardship.
He was also working as an advocate in the fight against diabetes up until his death. Young Noble's family has since started a GoFundMe account to cover expenses.
The 47-year-old is now the 5th Outlawz member, including Tupac, to pass away.
LiAngelo Ball Files for Divorce Days After Pregnancy Announcement
LiAngelo Ball has filed for divorce from Rashida Nicole days after the influencer publicly announced they were expecting a child together.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ Sports, the 25-year-old former basketball player and current rapper submitted the divorce paperwork at a Southern California courthouse on July 3. The timing of the filing has fans up in arms as it came just one week after Nicole revealed her pregnancy on June 26.
Ball had made the situation even more confusing when he interacted positively with Nicole's recent pregnancy post by liking it and leaving a heart emoji with a lock and key in the comments, which led many to believe he was seemingly confirming their relationship and excitement about the baby.
While it's unclear exactly when the couple got married, they were spotted leaving a Southern California courthouse in February, dressed in matching all-white outfits and carrying a large envelope. The scene led fans to believe they had tied the knot.
Breakups are a constant thing in Ball's personal life. Earlier this year, his ex and the mother of his two children, Nikki Mudarris, accused him of walking out on their family shortly after the birth of their second child. In an emotional Instagram post, she claimed Ball had left to pursue a new relationship, which fans believed seemed to refer to Nicole.
"We spent 3 1/2 years together, and last week he decided to walk out on his kids and tell me he got someone else pregnant," Mudarris wrote at the time.
Despite the personal turbulence, Ball appeared upbeat during a recent appearance on streamer Kai Cenat's broadcast, making no mention of the divorce or the pregnancy.
LiAngelo Ball has filed for divorce from Rashida Nicole days after the influencer publicly announced they were expecting a child together.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ Sports, the 25-year-old former basketball player and current rapper submitted the divorce paperwork at a Southern California courthouse on July 3. The timing of the filing has fans up in arms as it came just one week after Nicole revealed her pregnancy on June 26.
Ball had made the situation even more confusing when he interacted positively with Nicole's recent pregnancy post by liking it and leaving a heart emoji with a lock and key in the comments, which led many to believe he was seemingly confirming their relationship and excitement about the baby.
While it's unclear exactly when the couple got married, they were spotted leaving a Southern California courthouse in February, dressed in matching all-white outfits and carrying a large envelope. The scene led fans to believe they had tied the knot.
Breakups are a constant thing in Ball's personal life. Earlier this year, his ex and the mother of his two children, Nikki Mudarris, accused him of walking out on their family shortly after the birth of their second child. In an emotional Instagram post, she claimed Ball had left to pursue a new relationship, which fans believed seemed to refer to Nicole.
"We spent 3 1/2 years together, and last week he decided to walk out on his kids and tell me he got someone else pregnant," Mudarris wrote at the time.
Despite the personal turbulence, Ball appeared upbeat during a recent appearance on streamer Kai Cenat's broadcast, making no mention of the divorce or the pregnancy.
Shaq Buys Dresses for Customers at Staten Island Boutique After Stopping to Use Bathroom
Shaquille O’Neal showed just how big his heart is by picking up the tab for several customers at O’ Couture Boutique in Staten Island.
Last week, Shaq made a surprise visit to the boutique store while in town to film the Amazon Prime series Gravesend. Shaq was looking for a restroom, but his brief visit quickly turned into a memorable experience for customers and staff.
In a video shared online, the basketball hall of famer helped a young woman zip up the back of a black ball gown and spoke to a store employee before reportedly buying dresses for a bridal party and a young woman for her quinceañera. The boutique shared the moment on Instagram with a caption celebrating his surprise visit.
“LOOK WHO’S IN THE HOUSE TODAY. @shaq the ONE & ONLY stopped into @o_coutureboutique_ today,” the business wrote in their Instagram post of the moment. “We don’t lie when we say this is the best place to be in NYC. With Shaq in the building everyone gets a dress!! @shaq Thank you for coming in and truly making the employees and customers day! Always a fun day here a O’Couture.”
O’Neal is no stranger to random generosity. In recent years, he has done things such as giving a waitress a $4,000 tip, covering the expenses for a young man’s funeral, and buying an engagement ring for a complete stranger. Shaq also has the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation, which supports underprivileged children, and he also serves as a national spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Club.
Last week, Shaq made a surprise visit to the boutique store while in town to film the Amazon Prime series Gravesend. Shaq was looking for a restroom, but his brief visit quickly turned into a memorable experience for customers and staff.
In a video shared online, the basketball hall of famer helped a young woman zip up the back of a black ball gown and spoke to a store employee before reportedly buying dresses for a bridal party and a young woman for her quinceañera. The boutique shared the moment on Instagram with a caption celebrating his surprise visit.
“LOOK WHO’S IN THE HOUSE TODAY. @shaq the ONE & ONLY stopped into @o_coutureboutique_ today,” the business wrote in their Instagram post of the moment. “We don’t lie when we say this is the best place to be in NYC. With Shaq in the building everyone gets a dress!! @shaq Thank you for coming in and truly making the employees and customers day! Always a fun day here a O’Couture.”
O’Neal is no stranger to random generosity. In recent years, he has done things such as giving a waitress a $4,000 tip, covering the expenses for a young man’s funeral, and buying an engagement ring for a complete stranger. Shaq also has the Shaquille O’Neal Foundation, which supports underprivileged children, and he also serves as a national spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Club.
Cierra Ortega Breaks Her Silence on 'Love Island USA' Exit Following Racial Slur Controversy
Cierra Ortega is speaking out for the first time following her exit from Love Island USA.
During the July 6 episode of the Peacock reality dating series, it was announced that Cierra was removed from the villa. Her exit came after a resurfaced post started circulating on social media in which she used a racial slur.
In a new Instagram video posted on Wednesday (July 9), Cierra addressed the situation.
“Now that I’ve been back in the U.S. for about 48 hours, and I’ve had the chance to process,” Cierra said. “I now feel like I’m at a space where I can speak about this without being highly emotional, because I am not the victim in this situation.”
She then acknowledged that she had used a racial slur toward the Asian community.
“While I was in the villa, there were some posts that resurfaced from my past where I was very naively using an incredibly offensive and derogatory term,” Cierra said. “I want to first start by addressing not just anyone that I have hurt or deeply offended, but most importantly, the entire Asian community—I am deeply, truly, honestly so sorry.
She continued, “I had no idea that the word held as much pain, as much harm, and came with the history that it did, or I never would have used it. I had no ill intention when I was using it. But that’s absolutely no excuse, because intent doesn’t excuse ignorance.”
Cierra also said that she wanted to “take accountability” for her resurfaced post and said that it has been a “true learning moment.”
“I do want it to be known that I genuinely had no idea that it was a slur,” Cierra said. “I had no idea of its meaning, and it wasn’t until I made the public story post in 2024 when a follower of mine reached out to correct me and let me know that what I was saying was incredibly hurtful.”
She went on to say that she deleted the post and “immediately” removed the word from her vocabulary, adding that she has done “so much growing” since she initially shared the post.
Cierra also said that she understands Peacock’s decision to remove her from Love Island USA.
“I completely agree with the network’s decision to remove me from the villa,” Cierra said. “This is something that deserved punishment, and the punishment has absolutely been received, for sure. I think the backlash has obviously been very hard to deal with, but I understand that people are kind of confused on why I would have even said it.”
Cierra also addressed the situation on her Instagram Story, writing in a statement, “I do not, and have never, condoned racism or the repression of any cultural group in any form. I would never intentionally use any word, especially a slur, to tear down anyone’s culture or community.”
Cierra Ortega is speaking out for the first time following her exit from Love Island USA.
During the July 6 episode of the Peacock reality dating series, it was announced that Cierra was removed from the villa. Her exit came after a resurfaced post started circulating on social media in which she used a racial slur.
In a new Instagram video posted on Wednesday (July 9), Cierra addressed the situation.
“Now that I’ve been back in the U.S. for about 48 hours, and I’ve had the chance to process,” Cierra said. “I now feel like I’m at a space where I can speak about this without being highly emotional, because I am not the victim in this situation.”
She then acknowledged that she had used a racial slur toward the Asian community.
“While I was in the villa, there were some posts that resurfaced from my past where I was very naively using an incredibly offensive and derogatory term,” Cierra said. “I want to first start by addressing not just anyone that I have hurt or deeply offended, but most importantly, the entire Asian community—I am deeply, truly, honestly so sorry.
She continued, “I had no idea that the word held as much pain, as much harm, and came with the history that it did, or I never would have used it. I had no ill intention when I was using it. But that’s absolutely no excuse, because intent doesn’t excuse ignorance.”
Cierra also said that she wanted to “take accountability” for her resurfaced post and said that it has been a “true learning moment.”
“I do want it to be known that I genuinely had no idea that it was a slur,” Cierra said. “I had no idea of its meaning, and it wasn’t until I made the public story post in 2024 when a follower of mine reached out to correct me and let me know that what I was saying was incredibly hurtful.”
She went on to say that she deleted the post and “immediately” removed the word from her vocabulary, adding that she has done “so much growing” since she initially shared the post.
Cierra also said that she understands Peacock’s decision to remove her from Love Island USA.
“I completely agree with the network’s decision to remove me from the villa,” Cierra said. “This is something that deserved punishment, and the punishment has absolutely been received, for sure. I think the backlash has obviously been very hard to deal with, but I understand that people are kind of confused on why I would have even said it.”
Cierra also addressed the situation on her Instagram Story, writing in a statement, “I do not, and have never, condoned racism or the repression of any cultural group in any form. I would never intentionally use any word, especially a slur, to tear down anyone’s culture or community.”
Big Sean Addresses Viral Rumors That He Had Ab Implants
Big Sean is addressing the rumors about his physique.
On Monday (July 7), fitness influencer Blake Sanburg posted a video on Instagram where he analyzed the 37-year-old “Mercy” rapper’s body and attempted to answer if Big Sean had undergone any surgeries to enhance his physique.
In the video, Blake added several photos and Big Sean shirtless, saying that the rapper has extremely defined abs” that appear to be “sitting on top of a bubble gut.”
The influencer reached his own conclusion that Big Sean either received ab etching or had taken steroids, before adding that regardless, he has “very interesting genetics.”
After the video started to circulate on social media, Big Sean went to the comment section to set the record straight and shut down the speculation.
“Bro, unfortunately mine are real lol,” Big Sean wrote. “I got love for the fake [ab] community tho, to each its own, but what makes this funnier is the way God made me. I just happen to look like a chewed up tootsie roll when I’m outta shape lol.”
He added, “But I can only speak for myself. I only have to say something cause this ‘s–t’ is getting way outta hand.”
Blake then shared a follow-up video where he shared that Big Sean messaged him directly.
“I commented on your video, this s–t is funny cause thats the way i was made,” Big Sean wrote. “i just gained Dad weight n had to crack down on working out as i got older bro.”
“So my body has gone thru a lot lol. No surgery though,” he added. “Cant believe i have to explain myself.”
On Monday (July 7), fitness influencer Blake Sanburg posted a video on Instagram where he analyzed the 37-year-old “Mercy” rapper’s body and attempted to answer if Big Sean had undergone any surgeries to enhance his physique.
In the video, Blake added several photos and Big Sean shirtless, saying that the rapper has extremely defined abs” that appear to be “sitting on top of a bubble gut.”
The influencer reached his own conclusion that Big Sean either received ab etching or had taken steroids, before adding that regardless, he has “very interesting genetics.”
After the video started to circulate on social media, Big Sean went to the comment section to set the record straight and shut down the speculation.
“Bro, unfortunately mine are real lol,” Big Sean wrote. “I got love for the fake [ab] community tho, to each its own, but what makes this funnier is the way God made me. I just happen to look like a chewed up tootsie roll when I’m outta shape lol.”
He added, “But I can only speak for myself. I only have to say something cause this ‘s–t’ is getting way outta hand.”
Blake then shared a follow-up video where he shared that Big Sean messaged him directly.
“I commented on your video, this s–t is funny cause thats the way i was made,” Big Sean wrote. “i just gained Dad weight n had to crack down on working out as i got older bro.”
“So my body has gone thru a lot lol. No surgery though,” he added. “Cant believe i have to explain myself.”
George Santos I'm Not Suicidal ...Just in Case Something Happens in Prison!!!
George Santos wants to be clear ... he's not suicidal or depressed -- and, his followers shouldn't believe prison officials if they try to claim he is.
The former Congressman from New York is just a couple weeks away from the deadline to turn himself in to the Federal Bureau of Prisons ... and, he took to X to put the state of his mental health on the record.
Santos tells his nearly 200K followers he's "not suicidal. I’m not depressed. I have no intentions of harming myself, and I will not willingly engage in any sexual activity while I’m in there."
He says if anything comes out to the contrary, then it's total BS ... and, it should be taken with a grain of salt.
Santos cites stats he says he's read about the horrors that befall gay men in prison ... and, he doesn't want people to think he's another statistic, because he promises he wouldn't kill himself.
George pled guilty to wire fraud and identity theft charges ... and, he was sentenced to 87 months -- that's more than 7 years -- in a federal penitentiary. He's also been ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in restitution.
Santos claimed way back in April there would be an "international nightmare" if he's brutalized in prison ... and, he even told fellow former Congressman Matt Gaetz he'd prefer solitary confinement while behind bars.
Prison's a dangerous place ... but, it sounds like George wants it known that he's not a danger to himself.
George Santos wants to be clear ... he's not suicidal or depressed -- and, his followers shouldn't believe prison officials if they try to claim he is.
The former Congressman from New York is just a couple weeks away from the deadline to turn himself in to the Federal Bureau of Prisons ... and, he took to X to put the state of his mental health on the record.
Santos tells his nearly 200K followers he's "not suicidal. I’m not depressed. I have no intentions of harming myself, and I will not willingly engage in any sexual activity while I’m in there."
He says if anything comes out to the contrary, then it's total BS ... and, it should be taken with a grain of salt.
Santos cites stats he says he's read about the horrors that befall gay men in prison ... and, he doesn't want people to think he's another statistic, because he promises he wouldn't kill himself.
George pled guilty to wire fraud and identity theft charges ... and, he was sentenced to 87 months -- that's more than 7 years -- in a federal penitentiary. He's also been ordered to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in restitution.
Santos claimed way back in April there would be an "international nightmare" if he's brutalized in prison ... and, he even told fellow former Congressman Matt Gaetz he'd prefer solitary confinement while behind bars.
Prison's a dangerous place ... but, it sounds like George wants it known that he's not a danger to himself.
Tori Kelly Reveals She’s Pregnant, Expecting First Baby With Husband André Murillo in Sweet Video
Tori Kelly was made for loving her family, which will be growing very soon. On Wednesday (July 9), the singer announced that she is pregnant with her first baby, marking a major milestone with husband André Murillo.
In a video posted to her socials, Kelly and the basketball player kiss and snuggle in some shots while dancing on the beach in others. In a song that plays over the footage, the Grammy winner sings, “I’m ready for what comes next/ Let’s make a baby.”
“This year has already been full of highs — getting to perform in stadiums all summer, writing the most personal songs of my career and now getting to start a family with my amazing husband,” she told People in an exclusive statement. “We are just so grateful for what’s to come and can’t wait to meet this little gift from God.”
Kelly and Murillo first started dating in 2016 and got engaged the following year. The soon-to-be first-time parents then got married in May 2018.
A few years later, the athlete was by Kelly’s side when she experienced an alarming health scare. After reports surfaced that doctors had found blood clots in her legs and lungs, Murillo gave fans an update, writing on his Instagram Story at the time, “Tori is smiling again and feeling stronger … Not fully out of the woods but we see the sun … Your love and kindness has been overwhelming.”
Kelly is currently on tour in Europe with Ed Sheeran. Her last album, TORI., arrived in April 2024.
In a video posted to her socials, Kelly and the basketball player kiss and snuggle in some shots while dancing on the beach in others. In a song that plays over the footage, the Grammy winner sings, “I’m ready for what comes next/ Let’s make a baby.”
“This year has already been full of highs — getting to perform in stadiums all summer, writing the most personal songs of my career and now getting to start a family with my amazing husband,” she told People in an exclusive statement. “We are just so grateful for what’s to come and can’t wait to meet this little gift from God.”
Kelly and Murillo first started dating in 2016 and got engaged the following year. The soon-to-be first-time parents then got married in May 2018.
A few years later, the athlete was by Kelly’s side when she experienced an alarming health scare. After reports surfaced that doctors had found blood clots in her legs and lungs, Murillo gave fans an update, writing on his Instagram Story at the time, “Tori is smiling again and feeling stronger … Not fully out of the woods but we see the sun … Your love and kindness has been overwhelming.”
Kelly is currently on tour in Europe with Ed Sheeran. Her last album, TORI., arrived in April 2024.
Prepare to Burn for Regé-Jean Page's Latest Role
Regé-Jean Page is on his way to becoming the ultimate heartthrob.
After stealing the hearts of romance lovers while playing Simon Basset in Bridgerton back in 2020, E! News has learned that the 37-year-old will be returning to the genre to star in and executive produce Apple TV+’s series adaptation of Elissa Sussman’s 2022 novel Funny You Should Ask.
As for how Page is preparing to steal hearts this time around? Well, the book follows Chani Horowitz, a young journalist desperately trying to make a name for herself, as she navigates a complicated relationship with her ultimate celebrity crush, Gabe Parker, after she is hired to write a profile of him.
Yes, Page will be playing the heartthrob in question, who is busy navigating his feeling for Chani amid PR disasters and failed marriages.
When it comes to what Page—who is dating soccer player Emily Brown—looks for in a partner in real life, however, he previously revealed that he is drawn to people who are comfortable and confident.
"For me, it's bit like when people are comfortable in their outfit," he told InStyle in 2022. "I think when someone feels comfortable in this scent and in front of other people. That's a very abstract idea, but I get a very specific feeling when someone's scent is comfortable."
Beyond Page’s new project, it seems BookTok has also been calling for other Bridgerton stars to bring their favorite books to life.
After Hannah Dodd—who plays Francesca Bridgerton on the hit Netflix series—shared that she finished reading Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses last year, fans expressed their hopes that she might play the upcoming series’ lead character. And it was an idea she quickly got on board with.
"Help, I'm in love with a fictional character," Hannah wrote on her Instagram Stories last July. "Hannah Feyre Katie Dodd is what I will respond to now."
Now, while you wait patiently for Funny You Should Ask to hit TV screens, keep reading to see all the books that are becoming TV shows and movies.
Regé-Jean Page is on his way to becoming the ultimate heartthrob.
After stealing the hearts of romance lovers while playing Simon Basset in Bridgerton back in 2020, E! News has learned that the 37-year-old will be returning to the genre to star in and executive produce Apple TV+’s series adaptation of Elissa Sussman’s 2022 novel Funny You Should Ask.
As for how Page is preparing to steal hearts this time around? Well, the book follows Chani Horowitz, a young journalist desperately trying to make a name for herself, as she navigates a complicated relationship with her ultimate celebrity crush, Gabe Parker, after she is hired to write a profile of him.
Yes, Page will be playing the heartthrob in question, who is busy navigating his feeling for Chani amid PR disasters and failed marriages.
When it comes to what Page—who is dating soccer player Emily Brown—looks for in a partner in real life, however, he previously revealed that he is drawn to people who are comfortable and confident.
"For me, it's bit like when people are comfortable in their outfit," he told InStyle in 2022. "I think when someone feels comfortable in this scent and in front of other people. That's a very abstract idea, but I get a very specific feeling when someone's scent is comfortable."
Beyond Page’s new project, it seems BookTok has also been calling for other Bridgerton stars to bring their favorite books to life.
After Hannah Dodd—who plays Francesca Bridgerton on the hit Netflix series—shared that she finished reading Sarah J. Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses last year, fans expressed their hopes that she might play the upcoming series’ lead character. And it was an idea she quickly got on board with.
"Help, I'm in love with a fictional character," Hannah wrote on her Instagram Stories last July. "Hannah Feyre Katie Dodd is what I will respond to now."
Now, while you wait patiently for Funny You Should Ask to hit TV screens, keep reading to see all the books that are becoming TV shows and movies.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Is that a polo t-shirt dress? Or a giant pickle?
Confusing AF!
Is that a polo t-shirt dress? Or a giant pickle?
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
No comments:
Post a Comment