#MAGFAB: Travis Kelce Covers GQ’s September Issue as America’s Sweetheart
The countdown is on until the official start to the NFL season, and Travis Kelce is kicking things off as the cover star of GQ’s September issue.
Kelce was candid while speaking with GQ about his intense off-season training regime, mentally refocusing on the game, his humble start and family life, his relationship with Taylor Swift, and in addressing retirement rumors.
Addressing the troubling NFL seasons behind and looking ahead to his twelfth season with the Kansas City Chiefs…
“I think it might have slipped a little bit because I did have a little bit more focus trying to set myself up. And opportunities came up where I was excited to venture into a new world of acting and being an entertainer. I don’t say this as ‘I shouldn’t have done it.’ I’m just saying that my work ethic is such that I have so much pride in how I do things that I never want to be the product to tail off, and I feel like these past two years haven’t been my standard.”
On how he channels negative emotions during a game…
“When I’m out on the field, I can hit somebody, I can talk shit. That’s where the meaner side of me is or the asshole side of me.”
On how therapy helped him following his collegiate suspension for marijuana use…
“I had to sit down with a shrink for an hour a week. He got me to look at my life way more strategically. He got me to understand that you go through these emotions, and your reaction can either help you or hurt you or be indifferent. He walked me through all these different phases of my life. … I started to understand and process these emotions completely differently. You start to control it and not let it get too crazy.”
On how he feels about the rise in media scrutiny since dating Swift…
“You can’t block that [attention] out. If someone says something that they don’t like about you, you have to be able to understand how you are portraying yourself for them to say that. I’m a guy who doesn’t want anyone to say anything negative about me. Some people don’t give a fuck. I’m someone who does care.”
“I do want people to look at me like I’m doing good in the world. I’m influencing and being somebody that has done it the right way.”
“I find it funny. I joke about it. It is what it is. I’m just out here living life. I don’t necessarily want everyone to think that I’m an idiot…There’s always something to learn. Acting like you’re the smartest one in the room just isn’t the way to go.”
On sharing the spotlight in his relationship with Swift…
“I get to be the plus one. I get to go and be that fan. Because I am a fan. I’m a fan of the music. I’m a fan of art. And it’s so cool that I get to experience her being that plus one for me on the football field…I feel that same enjoyment every time she comes to my shows.”
On finding similarities between Swift and his mother, Donna…
“Their kindness, their genuineness, their ability to say hello to everyone in the room. Their ability to show love and support no matter what. And on top of that, their work ethic. I saw my mother reach goals that she had set for herself, go from being a teller to working all the way up in the KeyBank building. I’ve seen Taylor do the exact same thing of setting goals for herself and exceeding the expectations and really captivating the world in that regard.”
“I know that I want to stay around the football world as a profession and then dabble in other areas as well.”
“I do want to have free time. I do want to have the ability to be around my family. I don’t want to get too busy to where I’m traveling all over the world and I’m not present at home.”
#RHOA: Sheree Whitfield and Kim Zolciak might be returning to RHOA along with some others!
The Real Housewives of Atlanta is reportedly set to begin production soon!
The Bravo reality series recently wrapped it’s 16th season and though it hasn’t officially been announced to be renewed, will be returning for season 17.
In the last season, “new vibes and even higher stakes of glamour, glitz and juicy drama” ensued, bringing “back familiar faces and shocking revelations along with some dynamic new housewives ready to stir the pot and add some spice. With a whirlwind of divorces, rumors, strained relationships and redefined alliances, will the ladies be able to keep things peachy in the A?”
With a new season in the works, we’re taking a look at all of the alleged cast changes coming, including the potential return of a former housewife, several more returning once again and a few new faces who are in consideration.
The Bravo reality series recently wrapped it’s 16th season and though it hasn’t officially been announced to be renewed, will be returning for season 17.
In the last season, “new vibes and even higher stakes of glamour, glitz and juicy drama” ensued, bringing “back familiar faces and shocking revelations along with some dynamic new housewives ready to stir the pot and add some spice. With a whirlwind of divorces, rumors, strained relationships and redefined alliances, will the ladies be able to keep things peachy in the A?”
With a new season in the works, we’re taking a look at all of the alleged cast changes coming, including the potential return of a former housewife, several more returning once again and a few new faces who are in consideration.
Brit Eady, Cynthia Bailey and Kenya Moore will not be returning!
Sheree Whitfield – POSSIBLY RETURNING
Sheree Whitfield is being said to potentially returning in a guest role.
She is an original cast member for the first four seasons. She then returned as a friend of in season eight, before returning full time for seasons nine and ten. She then left again and returned as a guest in season 13, followed by a full-time return the next two seasons.
Kim Zolciak – POSSIBLY RETURNING
Sheree Whitfield is being said to potentially returning in a guest role.
Kim Zolciak – POSSIBLY RETURNING
Kim Zolciak is reportedly in talks to return to the show as a friend of, after returning to Bravo in the recent series Next Gen NYC alongside her daughter Ariana Biermann.
Also rumored is Eudoxie Bridges – IN TALKS
Eudoxie Bridges is rumored to be in talks to join the new season of Real Housewives of Atlanta.
She is a model, author and philanthropist, as well as the wife of rapper and actor Ludacris.
Pinky Cole Hayes – IN TALKS
She is the founder of Slutty Vegan ATL, a vegan restaurant in the city. She also released a cookbook, “Eat Plants, B*tch: 91 Vegan Recipes That Will Blow Your Meat-Loving Mind.
Tammy Rivera – IN TALKS
She is a singer, fashion designer, and businesswoman, and is most well known for appearing on the reality show Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta.
K Michelle – IN TALKS
She is best known as a singer, and has appeared on several other reality shows, including Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta, Marriage Bootcamp and her own series, K. Michelle: My Life, for three seasons.
Who is not in Talks? NeNe Leakes!
#NewMusic from Leela James ‘Honest’
Leela James keeps it all the way real on her new single “Honest.”
Over a velvety bassline, produced by Rex Rideout, James revels in her significant other’s love and can never get enough of it. “Ooh, if I’m being honest / You could never love me too much / Too much just ain’t enough,” she sings in the chorus.
Speaking on her new single, James exclusively tells Rated R&B, “To be honest, I just felt like I wanted to express the side of me that’s vulnerable and soft, while keeping it funky, edgy and unapologetically me.”
“Honest” follows “Right On Time,” also produced by Rex Rideout, which was released in May. “I am so excited to be 20 years in the game and that my music to be right on time,” James told Rated R&B about the song’s significance.
Before that, she released her “Whatcha Done Now (Remix)” with Kenyon Dixon in August 2024. James told Rated R&B, “Kenyon added another layer of seasoning sauce to the Soul of this record and it made for the perfect soulful R&B recipe.”
James is currently on the road touring, with upcoming stops in Los Angeles, Memphis, Little Rock, St. Louis and more.
Stream Leela James’ new song “Honest” HERE
Over a velvety bassline, produced by Rex Rideout, James revels in her significant other’s love and can never get enough of it. “Ooh, if I’m being honest / You could never love me too much / Too much just ain’t enough,” she sings in the chorus.
Speaking on her new single, James exclusively tells Rated R&B, “To be honest, I just felt like I wanted to express the side of me that’s vulnerable and soft, while keeping it funky, edgy and unapologetically me.”
“Honest” follows “Right On Time,” also produced by Rex Rideout, which was released in May. “I am so excited to be 20 years in the game and that my music to be right on time,” James told Rated R&B about the song’s significance.
Before that, she released her “Whatcha Done Now (Remix)” with Kenyon Dixon in August 2024. James told Rated R&B, “Kenyon added another layer of seasoning sauce to the Soul of this record and it made for the perfect soulful R&B recipe.”
James is currently on the road touring, with upcoming stops in Los Angeles, Memphis, Little Rock, St. Louis and more.
Stream Leela James’ new song “Honest” HERE
#HipHopNews: Raekwon and Mobb Deep Announce Joint Tour
The two staples of East Coast Hip-Hop will be going on the road together beginning in November.
Raekwon and Mobb Deep are going on tour together. The two mainstays of East Coast hip-hop are launching a joint trek on November 13 in Portland, OR. They’ll hit major markets like Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, New York, and other cities before wrapping in Miami Beach, FL. on December 15. The special co-headlining event is in celebration of the 30th anniversary of two classic releases from 1995 — Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... and Mobb Deep’s The Infamous.
The tour is produced by Live Nation and presented by LOUD Live; and both Raekwon and Havoc of Mobb Deep made the official announcement on Tuesday (Aug. 12).
“Me and Havoc from Mobb will be pure hip-hop at its finest,” Rae said via statement. “This is gonna take rap shows to the next level — guaranteed!”
“The fans can expect nothing less than pure, raw, unfiltered energy on stage,” Havoc added. “I’m excited to celebrate these two legendary albums—the world doesn’t exist to me without that purple tape in it. This will be a tour the fans will never forget.”
Both The Infamous and …Cuban Linx… are Loud Records releases, and LOUD Live CEO Steve Rifkind also shared his enthusiasm for the special tour.
“This tour defines what hip-hop means to the culture,” he stated. “30 years of greatness, and two Top 10 hip-hop albums of all time. Raekwon and Mobb Deep have supported each other for over three decades. The Loud, Wu-Tang family and Mobb Deep family have been through it all together. When this tour comes to your city, you’re definitely going to witness greatness at its best—with a ton of surprises.”
RAEKWON & MOBB DEEP - 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:
Thu Nov 13 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom
Sat Nov 15 – Berkeley, CA – The UC Theatre
Mon Nov 17 – San Diego, CA – SOMA
Tue Nov 18 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern
Fri Nov 21 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
Mon Nov 24 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Tue Nov 25 – Dallas, TX – South Side Ballroom
Fri Nov 28 – Chicago, IL – Riviera Theatr
Sat Nov 29 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
Mon Dec 01 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Tue Dec 02 – Toronto, ON – HISTORY
Wed Dec 03 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia
Sat Dec 06 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues
Sun Dec 07 – New York, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
Mon Dec 08 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring
Wed Dec 10 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte
Thu Dec 11 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
Sun Dec 14 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live (Co-Pro)
Mon Dec 15 – Miami Beach, FL – Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theatre
The two staples of East Coast Hip-Hop will be going on the road together beginning in November.
Raekwon and Mobb Deep are going on tour together. The two mainstays of East Coast hip-hop are launching a joint trek on November 13 in Portland, OR. They’ll hit major markets like Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, New York, and other cities before wrapping in Miami Beach, FL. on December 15. The special co-headlining event is in celebration of the 30th anniversary of two classic releases from 1995 — Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... and Mobb Deep’s The Infamous.
The tour is produced by Live Nation and presented by LOUD Live; and both Raekwon and Havoc of Mobb Deep made the official announcement on Tuesday (Aug. 12).
“Me and Havoc from Mobb will be pure hip-hop at its finest,” Rae said via statement. “This is gonna take rap shows to the next level — guaranteed!”
“The fans can expect nothing less than pure, raw, unfiltered energy on stage,” Havoc added. “I’m excited to celebrate these two legendary albums—the world doesn’t exist to me without that purple tape in it. This will be a tour the fans will never forget.”
Both The Infamous and …Cuban Linx… are Loud Records releases, and LOUD Live CEO Steve Rifkind also shared his enthusiasm for the special tour.
“This tour defines what hip-hop means to the culture,” he stated. “30 years of greatness, and two Top 10 hip-hop albums of all time. Raekwon and Mobb Deep have supported each other for over three decades. The Loud, Wu-Tang family and Mobb Deep family have been through it all together. When this tour comes to your city, you’re definitely going to witness greatness at its best—with a ton of surprises.”
RAEKWON & MOBB DEEP - 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR DATES:
Thu Nov 13 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom
Sat Nov 15 – Berkeley, CA – The UC Theatre
Mon Nov 17 – San Diego, CA – SOMA
Tue Nov 18 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern
Fri Nov 21 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
Mon Nov 24 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Tue Nov 25 – Dallas, TX – South Side Ballroom
Fri Nov 28 – Chicago, IL – Riviera Theatr
Sat Nov 29 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
Mon Dec 01 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Tue Dec 02 – Toronto, ON – HISTORY
Wed Dec 03 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia
Sat Dec 06 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues
Sun Dec 07 – New York, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
Mon Dec 08 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring
Wed Dec 10 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte
Thu Dec 11 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
Sun Dec 14 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live (Co-Pro)
Mon Dec 15 – Miami Beach, FL – Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theatre
Get them tix!
Sean “Diddy” Combs Files Amended Defamation Lawsuit Over “Outrageous Lies”
Sean “Diddy” Combs has filed an amended lawsuit and claimed the defendants listed conducted “willful schemes to fabricate and broadcast outrageous lies, to leverage those falsehoods to enrich themselves, gain social media fame, and promote their brands.” In a 25-page document filed on Monday (Aug. 11), the 55-year-old accused Courtney Burgess, his lawyer Ariel Mitchell, and Nexstar Media Inc. (NewsNation) of the aforementioned behaviors and is seeking no less than $100 million and a trial by jury.
“Social media protagonists, including but not limited to Defendants Burgess and Mitchell, have for over a year been fueling a media frenzy, fabricating outlandish claims, and stirring up baseless speculation about Mr. Combs, vying to outdo each other in a shameless competition to draw attention to themselves, with no regard for the truth,” detailed the filing viewed by VIBE.
“In this pitiful spectacle, all pretense of objectivity has been abandoned, as a global audience feasts at the all-you-can-eat buffet of wild lies and conspiracy theories.”
The alleged lies spread by the defendants include false claims of videos depicting sexual assaults of minors and celebrities, a police report corroborating fabricated rape allegations, and secret recordings to extort partners.
The legal document also highlighted that Mitchell was recently named in a Florida Bar complaint arising out of allegations that she bribed a witness to corroborate sexual assault claims, repeated her clients’ lies and knowingly published false statements on national television, including a claim that a police report corroborated allegations that Mr. Combs raped a woman in March 2018; in truth, no such report exists, and the actual report filed by her client alleged rape by two white men, not Mr. Combs, with police deeming those allegations unsubstantiated.
NewsNation is accused of amplifying the allegations despite knowing or recklessly disregarding their falsity.
Sean “Diddy” Combs attends the ceremony honoring him with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 2, 2008 on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. Vince Bucci/Getty Images
In November 2024, Burgess testified in front of a grand jury regarding Combs’ criminal trial. In interviews, he claimed he was contacted by agents from the Department of Homeland Security to appear in court. He shared that he did not “personally” know Combs, but claimed affiliation through professional connections. Burgess alleged himself to have the authentic, unedited version of the diary allegedly written by the late Kim Porter, as well as video evidence.
“Burgess has never met Mr. Combs and has never had any relationship with anyone in Mr. Combs’s family. Nevertheless, Burgess has claimed on multiple occasions that Kim Porter, the mother of four children with Mr. Combs, who died in 2018, provided him with a copy of her memoir and videos depicting Mr. Combs sexually assaulting inebriated celebrities and minors. Those close to Ms. Porter, including her children and her roommate for over twenty years, had never heard of Burgess before he made this utterly implausible and completely false claim,” detailed the complaint.
“NewsNation has likewise profited from repeating and amplifying Burgess’s and Mitchell’s lies, drawing viewers and promoting its programming based on wholly unsubstantiated lies that would have been revealed as false had NewsNation conducted even the most modest fact-checking and/or reasonably questioned its sources, who had a history of making things up.”
The lawsuit was initially filed against Burgess in January 2025 for $50 million. Since then, Combs has endured an eight-week criminal trial. The jury found the Harlem native guilty on two federal counts of transporting women across state lines for the purpose of prostitution, and not guilty of all racketeering and sex trafficking charges.
Combs has been ordered to remain behind bars until sentencing, despite being acquitted of the most serious charges.
“As for risk of flight or danger, Combs fails to meet his burden by clear and convincing evidence,” ruled Judge Arun Subramanian earlier this month. “Increasing the amount of the bond or devising additional conditions doesn’t change the calculus given the circumstances and heavy burden of proof that Combs bears.”
“Social media protagonists, including but not limited to Defendants Burgess and Mitchell, have for over a year been fueling a media frenzy, fabricating outlandish claims, and stirring up baseless speculation about Mr. Combs, vying to outdo each other in a shameless competition to draw attention to themselves, with no regard for the truth,” detailed the filing viewed by VIBE.
“In this pitiful spectacle, all pretense of objectivity has been abandoned, as a global audience feasts at the all-you-can-eat buffet of wild lies and conspiracy theories.”
The alleged lies spread by the defendants include false claims of videos depicting sexual assaults of minors and celebrities, a police report corroborating fabricated rape allegations, and secret recordings to extort partners.
The legal document also highlighted that Mitchell was recently named in a Florida Bar complaint arising out of allegations that she bribed a witness to corroborate sexual assault claims, repeated her clients’ lies and knowingly published false statements on national television, including a claim that a police report corroborated allegations that Mr. Combs raped a woman in March 2018; in truth, no such report exists, and the actual report filed by her client alleged rape by two white men, not Mr. Combs, with police deeming those allegations unsubstantiated.
NewsNation is accused of amplifying the allegations despite knowing or recklessly disregarding their falsity.
Sean “Diddy” Combs attends the ceremony honoring him with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 2, 2008 on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. Vince Bucci/Getty Images
In November 2024, Burgess testified in front of a grand jury regarding Combs’ criminal trial. In interviews, he claimed he was contacted by agents from the Department of Homeland Security to appear in court. He shared that he did not “personally” know Combs, but claimed affiliation through professional connections. Burgess alleged himself to have the authentic, unedited version of the diary allegedly written by the late Kim Porter, as well as video evidence.
“Burgess has never met Mr. Combs and has never had any relationship with anyone in Mr. Combs’s family. Nevertheless, Burgess has claimed on multiple occasions that Kim Porter, the mother of four children with Mr. Combs, who died in 2018, provided him with a copy of her memoir and videos depicting Mr. Combs sexually assaulting inebriated celebrities and minors. Those close to Ms. Porter, including her children and her roommate for over twenty years, had never heard of Burgess before he made this utterly implausible and completely false claim,” detailed the complaint.
“NewsNation has likewise profited from repeating and amplifying Burgess’s and Mitchell’s lies, drawing viewers and promoting its programming based on wholly unsubstantiated lies that would have been revealed as false had NewsNation conducted even the most modest fact-checking and/or reasonably questioned its sources, who had a history of making things up.”
The lawsuit was initially filed against Burgess in January 2025 for $50 million. Since then, Combs has endured an eight-week criminal trial. The jury found the Harlem native guilty on two federal counts of transporting women across state lines for the purpose of prostitution, and not guilty of all racketeering and sex trafficking charges.
Combs has been ordered to remain behind bars until sentencing, despite being acquitted of the most serious charges.
“As for risk of flight or danger, Combs fails to meet his burden by clear and convincing evidence,” ruled Judge Arun Subramanian earlier this month. “Increasing the amount of the bond or devising additional conditions doesn’t change the calculus given the circumstances and heavy burden of proof that Combs bears.”
Kirk And Rasheeda Frost’s Son Suspected In Murder Of Rapper T-Hood
Rapper T-Hood was shot and killed at his Georgia residence on Friday (Aug. 8), with cops now naming the son of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta stars Kirk and Rasheeda Frost as the prime suspect.
An incident report from the “Ready 2 Go” rapper’s death obtained by TMZ indicates that 24-year-old Ky Lasheed Frost is suspected of killing him, according to the Gwinnett County Police Department. T-Hood’s mother also told the outlet that, “the killer was the son of Rasheeda and Kirk Frost.”
T-Hood was also dating Kirk and Rasheeda‘s daughter, Kelsie, 30. The couple allegedly got into a “domestic dispute” at T-Hood’s home the same day he was killed. Kelsie, however, addressed “conspiracy theories” that have circulated connecting her to his death, according to Bossip. “I don’t even have time to grieve or say my respects in the right manner because I am defending myself, being attacked by people who are creating weird and sick rumors.”
Officers arrived to T-Hood, born Tevin Hood’s, Snellville, Georgia home Friday to find him shot. He was then transported to a local hospital, but later succumbed to his injuries. One unnamed person was detained in connection with the shooting and has been interviewed by police. Official charges have yet to be announced.
A rising Atlanta artist, T-Hood was best known for high-energy, trunk-rattling tracks like “READY 2 GO,” “Big Booty,” and “Perculator.” He was 33.
Rapper T-Hood was shot and killed at his Georgia residence on Friday (Aug. 8), with cops now naming the son of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta stars Kirk and Rasheeda Frost as the prime suspect.
An incident report from the “Ready 2 Go” rapper’s death obtained by TMZ indicates that 24-year-old Ky Lasheed Frost is suspected of killing him, according to the Gwinnett County Police Department. T-Hood’s mother also told the outlet that, “the killer was the son of Rasheeda and Kirk Frost.”
T-Hood was also dating Kirk and Rasheeda‘s daughter, Kelsie, 30. The couple allegedly got into a “domestic dispute” at T-Hood’s home the same day he was killed. Kelsie, however, addressed “conspiracy theories” that have circulated connecting her to his death, according to Bossip. “I don’t even have time to grieve or say my respects in the right manner because I am defending myself, being attacked by people who are creating weird and sick rumors.”
Officers arrived to T-Hood, born Tevin Hood’s, Snellville, Georgia home Friday to find him shot. He was then transported to a local hospital, but later succumbed to his injuries. One unnamed person was detained in connection with the shooting and has been interviewed by police. Official charges have yet to be announced.
A rising Atlanta artist, T-Hood was best known for high-energy, trunk-rattling tracks like “READY 2 GO,” “Big Booty,” and “Perculator.” He was 33.
Drake Targets UMG Boss Lucian Grainge Over Alleged Role in “Not Like Us” Defamation
Drake is pushing a federal court to compel Universal Music Group to hand over internal files from its CEO/chairman, Sir Lucian Grainge, accusing the executive of personally approving and promoting false claims in Kendrick Lamar’s monster diss track “Not Like Us.”
In a legal filing submitted Tuesday (August 12), attorneys for the Canadian rapper argued that Grainge played a direct part in circulating material that portrayed Drake as a sexual predator and exposed his home address.
The lawsuit, filed earlier this year, claims UMG’s actions not only damaged Drake’s reputation but also endangered his safety.
Grainge’s involvement, according to the filing, could reveal “actual malice”—a legal threshold Drake must meet to prove defamation. His lawyers say Grainge’s communications could show he knew the claims were false and pushed them anyway.
UMG initially tried to shield Grainge from discovery by labeling him an “apex” executive, a term used to argue that high-ranking officials shouldn’t be subject to routine document production.
That argument has since been dropped, but the label now insists Grainge had “no meaningful involvement” and that any relevant material would simply duplicate what’s already been collected from other executives.
Drake’s legal team isn’t buying it. They argue that even overlapping documents are essential to show what Grainge knew and when. “Plaintiff never agreed to delay requesting Grainge’s files,” the filing states.
To minimize the burden, Drake’s attorneys proposed using agreed-upon search terms to comb through Grainge’s records.
In a legal filing submitted Tuesday (August 12), attorneys for the Canadian rapper argued that Grainge played a direct part in circulating material that portrayed Drake as a sexual predator and exposed his home address.
The lawsuit, filed earlier this year, claims UMG’s actions not only damaged Drake’s reputation but also endangered his safety.
Grainge’s involvement, according to the filing, could reveal “actual malice”—a legal threshold Drake must meet to prove defamation. His lawyers say Grainge’s communications could show he knew the claims were false and pushed them anyway.
UMG initially tried to shield Grainge from discovery by labeling him an “apex” executive, a term used to argue that high-ranking officials shouldn’t be subject to routine document production.
That argument has since been dropped, but the label now insists Grainge had “no meaningful involvement” and that any relevant material would simply duplicate what’s already been collected from other executives.
Drake’s legal team isn’t buying it. They argue that even overlapping documents are essential to show what Grainge knew and when. “Plaintiff never agreed to delay requesting Grainge’s files,” the filing states.
To minimize the burden, Drake’s attorneys proposed using agreed-upon search terms to comb through Grainge’s records.
Octavia Spencer Paid for 'Ma' Co-Star Gianni Paolo's Publicist When He Was In Debt
Octavia Spencer is just as sweet as you’d expect in real life!
The 55-year-old actress’ Ma co-star Gianni Paolo recently opened up about a time that she helped him out when he was debt before the movie came out.
While appearing on Harry Jowsey‘s Boyfriend Material podcast, Gianni revealed she paid for his publicist and set him up with the team she uses before they started press for the movie, which came out in 2019.
“I didn’t have any money for a publicist because at this time, this was pre-Ma-coming-out and I was like, I just can’t spend $5,000 a month for a publicist,” he recalled. “I only made $6,000 on the movie. I’m in $20,000 worth of credit card debt. So, I’m like, I’m just not going to get a publicist.”
Prior to starting the movie’s press tour, Gianni shared that Octavia invited the cast over to her house for dinner.
“She was talking about doing press for the movie and this was my first real big thing. So, I didn’t know anything,” Gianni said. “And she basically was like, we’re going to do press [get a] publicist. And I told her, I don’t have the money to do that. I’m not going to get a publicist.”
The dinner took place on Friday night, and by Monday, he dished that it was handled by her.
“She had called her publicist, paid for it completely, and then set me up with her whole team,” he revealed. “And then [she] said, ‘Now you have a publicist.’ She didn’t ask for the money back. Never.”
While she may not have asked to be repaid, Gianni says he made sure to repay her after filming the first episode of Power Book II: Ghost, which came out the year after Ma.
If you missed it, it was recently revealed that Octavia will return for a Ma sequel. Gianni‘s return is currently unknown.
Power Book II: Ghost may have come to an end, but Gianni will next be seen on the big screen once again in the new movie Trust, which will be released on August 22nd!
Octavia Spencer is just as sweet as you’d expect in real life!
The 55-year-old actress’ Ma co-star Gianni Paolo recently opened up about a time that she helped him out when he was debt before the movie came out.
While appearing on Harry Jowsey‘s Boyfriend Material podcast, Gianni revealed she paid for his publicist and set him up with the team she uses before they started press for the movie, which came out in 2019.
“I didn’t have any money for a publicist because at this time, this was pre-Ma-coming-out and I was like, I just can’t spend $5,000 a month for a publicist,” he recalled. “I only made $6,000 on the movie. I’m in $20,000 worth of credit card debt. So, I’m like, I’m just not going to get a publicist.”
Prior to starting the movie’s press tour, Gianni shared that Octavia invited the cast over to her house for dinner.
“She was talking about doing press for the movie and this was my first real big thing. So, I didn’t know anything,” Gianni said. “And she basically was like, we’re going to do press [get a] publicist. And I told her, I don’t have the money to do that. I’m not going to get a publicist.”
The dinner took place on Friday night, and by Monday, he dished that it was handled by her.
“She had called her publicist, paid for it completely, and then set me up with her whole team,” he revealed. “And then [she] said, ‘Now you have a publicist.’ She didn’t ask for the money back. Never.”
While she may not have asked to be repaid, Gianni says he made sure to repay her after filming the first episode of Power Book II: Ghost, which came out the year after Ma.
If you missed it, it was recently revealed that Octavia will return for a Ma sequel. Gianni‘s return is currently unknown.
Power Book II: Ghost may have come to an end, but Gianni will next be seen on the big screen once again in the new movie Trust, which will be released on August 22nd!
Wendy Williams’ Neurological Diagnosis Triggers Guardian’s Push To Pause A&E Lawsuit
Wendy Williams’ medical evaluation is now complete, according to her court-appointed guardian, Sabrina E. Morrissey, who is asking to pause ongoing litigation with A&E over its 2024 documentary.
In an August 5 filing, Morrissey said “medical specialists have formed an opinion concerning [Wendy’s] current neurological condition and diagnosis, including whether she has the ability to make decisions” regarding the lawsuit. The opinion followed extensive medical and neuropsychological testing, including brain imaging.
Morrissey cited “complications” from challenges to the guardianship by Wendy’s family and others, requesting a three-month pause until the guardianship court rules on its status. A&E agreed to the delay but asked for an early deposition of Wendy, citing concerns over her “purported progressive neurological disease.”
Morrissey sued A&E in 2024 over “Where Is Wendy Williams?,” which chronicled her talk show’s end and the guardianship’s beginning. Wendy’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, recently said the guardianship “sickens” him, and Wendy has compared it to a luxury prison.
In an August 5 filing, Morrissey said “medical specialists have formed an opinion concerning [Wendy’s] current neurological condition and diagnosis, including whether she has the ability to make decisions” regarding the lawsuit. The opinion followed extensive medical and neuropsychological testing, including brain imaging.
Morrissey cited “complications” from challenges to the guardianship by Wendy’s family and others, requesting a three-month pause until the guardianship court rules on its status. A&E agreed to the delay but asked for an early deposition of Wendy, citing concerns over her “purported progressive neurological disease.”
Morrissey sued A&E in 2024 over “Where Is Wendy Williams?,” which chronicled her talk show’s end and the guardianship’s beginning. Wendy’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, recently said the guardianship “sickens” him, and Wendy has compared it to a luxury prison.
Beyoncé Wins First Primetime Emmy For ‘Beyoncé Bowl’ Netflix Special
Beyoncé is now halfway in achieving EGOT status. After being nominated for ten Emmys in the past, Queen B finally wins her first-ever Primetime Emmy Award for the Beyoncé Bowl Netflix special.
The special captures the 2024 NFL Christmas Day halftime performance during the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans game.
The Television Academy announced the first winners of the categories in the Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards on August 13 (PH Time). The Grammy Award winner won as a costume designer in the Outstanding Costumes for Variety, Nonfiction, or Reality Programming category, which was voted by peer panels instead of through nominations and voting.
The award is also shared with her costume design team: Shiona Turini, Erica Rice, Molly Peters, Chelsea Staebell, and Timothy White.
Aside from the Costume Design category, the special is also nominated for the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) and Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special categories.
Produced by the singer’s Parkwood Entertainment, the show received critical acclaim and broke viewership records. The performance was cited as a success for both Netflix and the NFL, which has slowly made Christmas Gameday and important cultural event in the sport, even likening to the Super Bowl.
The juried awards are scheduled to be presented at the 77th Creative Arts Emmy Awards on September 6 and 7.
The special captures the 2024 NFL Christmas Day halftime performance during the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans game.
The Television Academy announced the first winners of the categories in the Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards on August 13 (PH Time). The Grammy Award winner won as a costume designer in the Outstanding Costumes for Variety, Nonfiction, or Reality Programming category, which was voted by peer panels instead of through nominations and voting.
The award is also shared with her costume design team: Shiona Turini, Erica Rice, Molly Peters, Chelsea Staebell, and Timothy White.
Aside from the Costume Design category, the special is also nominated for the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) and Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special categories.
Produced by the singer’s Parkwood Entertainment, the show received critical acclaim and broke viewership records. The performance was cited as a success for both Netflix and the NFL, which has slowly made Christmas Gameday and important cultural event in the sport, even likening to the Super Bowl.
The juried awards are scheduled to be presented at the 77th Creative Arts Emmy Awards on September 6 and 7.
Boxer Gervonta Davis’ Domestic Violence Case Dropped After Victim Declines To Prosecute
Gervonta Davis’ domestic violence case has been dropped.
According to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, “This case was dropped as the victim is declining to prosecute, per her victim attorney, Lindsey Chase, Esq., and her sentiments were directly confirmed by the Assistant State Attorney handling the prosecution.”
Officials also confirmed that the alleged victim’s mother, who was listed as a witness, “failed to cooperate” despite being subpoenaed.
If you recall, in June, Davis was accused of striking a woman while picking up his children. The woman claimed he hit her in the back of the head, slapped her face, and caused a minor lip injury.
Gervonta Davis’ domestic violence case has been dropped.
According to the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, “This case was dropped as the victim is declining to prosecute, per her victim attorney, Lindsey Chase, Esq., and her sentiments were directly confirmed by the Assistant State Attorney handling the prosecution.”
Officials also confirmed that the alleged victim’s mother, who was listed as a witness, “failed to cooperate” despite being subpoenaed.
If you recall, in June, Davis was accused of striking a woman while picking up his children. The woman claimed he hit her in the back of the head, slapped her face, and caused a minor lip injury.
Sha'Carri Richardson publicly apologizes to Christian Coleman in wake of domestic violence arrest
The case has been cleared, and Coleman said at the USA Track and Field Championships that he forgave Richardson and doesn't believe she should have been arrested
Team USA sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson publicly apologized Tuesday to fellow track athlete Christian Coleman, the boyfriend whom she shoved at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport last month before being arrested for domestic violence.
Coleman reportedly refused to press charges after the incident, and the case was quickly cleared.
"I apologize to Christian. He came into my life and gave me more than a relationship but a greater understanding of unconditional love from what I’ve experienced in my past. Due to my past trauma and pain," Richardson wrote on Instagram, "I was blind and blocked off to not only receive it but give it. I love him and to him I can’t apologize enough. My apologize (sic) should be just as loud as my actions honestly louder. To Christian I love you and I am so sorry."
Both Richardson and Coleman competed at the USA Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon, the weekend following the incident.
There, Coleman told reporters that he forgave Richardson and didn't believe she should have been arrested.
"For me personally, I feel like it was a sucky situation all round," Coleman said, per USA Today. "I don't feel like she should have been arrested. I mean people have discussions and emotions and stuff like that. She has things that she needs to work on for herself, of course. So do I, so do you, so does everybody. But I'm the type of guy who's in the business of extending grace, and mercy and love."
TMZ published security footage of the incident, which occurred in the Seattle airport on July 27 and, according to the police report USA Today obtained, included a verbal altercation as Richardson and Coleman exited through airport security.
The footage shows Richardson pulling and pushing Coleman as he walks around the concourse, at one point shoving him into a large column. Richardson is seen following Coleman as he tried to create distance between the two of them, and police said Richardson even threw a pair of headphones at Coleman, per USA Today.
Police arrested Richardson after seeing the security tape. She was held in South Correctional Entity in Des Moines, Washington, for close to 24 hours and was released on July 28, according to jail records.
Richardson, who won gold in the 4x100 meter relay and silver in the 100 during the 2024 Paris Olympics, is the reigning world champion in the 100.
So even though she pulled out of the 100-meter semifinals at the USATF Championships earlier this month, she has automatically qualified for the event at the World Championships in Tokyo this September.
Last week track star, Sha'Carri Richardson, was arrested on domestic violence charges at Seattle-Tacoma International for attacking her boyfriend, sprinter Christian Coleman [click here if you missed that].
Team USA sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson publicly apologized Tuesday to fellow track athlete Christian Coleman, the boyfriend whom she shoved at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport last month before being arrested for domestic violence.
Coleman reportedly refused to press charges after the incident, and the case was quickly cleared.
"I apologize to Christian. He came into my life and gave me more than a relationship but a greater understanding of unconditional love from what I’ve experienced in my past. Due to my past trauma and pain," Richardson wrote on Instagram, "I was blind and blocked off to not only receive it but give it. I love him and to him I can’t apologize enough. My apologize (sic) should be just as loud as my actions honestly louder. To Christian I love you and I am so sorry."
Both Richardson and Coleman competed at the USA Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon, the weekend following the incident.
There, Coleman told reporters that he forgave Richardson and didn't believe she should have been arrested.
"For me personally, I feel like it was a sucky situation all round," Coleman said, per USA Today. "I don't feel like she should have been arrested. I mean people have discussions and emotions and stuff like that. She has things that she needs to work on for herself, of course. So do I, so do you, so does everybody. But I'm the type of guy who's in the business of extending grace, and mercy and love."
TMZ published security footage of the incident, which occurred in the Seattle airport on July 27 and, according to the police report USA Today obtained, included a verbal altercation as Richardson and Coleman exited through airport security.
The footage shows Richardson pulling and pushing Coleman as he walks around the concourse, at one point shoving him into a large column. Richardson is seen following Coleman as he tried to create distance between the two of them, and police said Richardson even threw a pair of headphones at Coleman, per USA Today.
Police arrested Richardson after seeing the security tape. She was held in South Correctional Entity in Des Moines, Washington, for close to 24 hours and was released on July 28, according to jail records.
Richardson, who won gold in the 4x100 meter relay and silver in the 100 during the 2024 Paris Olympics, is the reigning world champion in the 100.
So even though she pulled out of the 100-meter semifinals at the USATF Championships earlier this month, she has automatically qualified for the event at the World Championships in Tokyo this September.
Last week track star, Sha'Carri Richardson, was arrested on domestic violence charges at Seattle-Tacoma International for attacking her boyfriend, sprinter Christian Coleman [click here if you missed that].
Teyana Taylor Talks Not Putting a Label on Aaron Pierre Relationship, What It Was Like Working With Him On Her 'Bed of Roses' Music Video
Teyana Taylor is opening up about working alongside Aaron Pierre! The 34-year-old singer and actress and the 31-year-old actor were first linked earlier this year, and have since taken their relationship public.
In a new interview, Teyana addressed their relationship and not putting a label on it, as well as what it was like having him be a part of her “Bed of Roses” music video.
“I just go with the flow, and I’m trying things a little differently,” she told InStyle of her relationship, adding that she is “just protecting my peace and privacy.”
Though he stars in her latest music video, and her sharing an Instagram slideshow for his birthday back in June, she says that doesn’t count as a “hard launch.”
She also dished on having him star in her music video.
“It’s always easier to go to work when it’s with people that you love, cherish, and appreciate, and when it’s with people that don’t play about you,” she said of choosing collaborators, including Aaron. “I’ve had a lot of ups and downs within this music industry, like my love-hate relationship with music, different things like that. [Her new album] Escape Room is for people to escape anything.”
Teyana Taylor is opening up about working alongside Aaron Pierre! The 34-year-old singer and actress and the 31-year-old actor were first linked earlier this year, and have since taken their relationship public.
In a new interview, Teyana addressed their relationship and not putting a label on it, as well as what it was like having him be a part of her “Bed of Roses” music video.
“I just go with the flow, and I’m trying things a little differently,” she told InStyle of her relationship, adding that she is “just protecting my peace and privacy.”
Though he stars in her latest music video, and her sharing an Instagram slideshow for his birthday back in June, she says that doesn’t count as a “hard launch.”
She also dished on having him star in her music video.
“It’s always easier to go to work when it’s with people that you love, cherish, and appreciate, and when it’s with people that don’t play about you,” she said of choosing collaborators, including Aaron. “I’ve had a lot of ups and downs within this music industry, like my love-hate relationship with music, different things like that. [Her new album] Escape Room is for people to escape anything.”
Pregnant Rihanna Flaunts Her Baby Bump as She Rocks a Cropped Pink Hoodie Out in Los Angeles
Rihanna is stepping out as she gets ready to welcome her newest little one
The pregnant singer was pictured wearing a cropped hoodie and baring her bump
Rihanna is expecting her third baby with partner A$AP Rocky
The "Disturbia" singer, 37, was photographed in Beverly Hills, Calif., rocking a baby pink zip-up, cropped hoodie that stopped just at the top of her belly. Rihanna paired the sweatshirt with low-rise baggy jeans and a pair of boots.
The pregnant mom of two added big sunglasses and layered pearl necklaces over a few chains, finishing off her accessories with a big ring on her left hand.
Rihanna is already mom to sons Riot, 23 months, and RZA, 3, whom she shares with partner A$AP Rocky. She announced her pregnancy with her third baby at the 2024 Met Gala.
Earlier this month, the Fenty founder stepped out in Los Angeles wearing a floor-length pastel-colored dress with a structured neckline. The sleeveless ensemble featured a pink and yellow pattern with subtle baby blue and neon yellow accents.
The mom of two added lime green sneakers, oversized earrings and a rose ring for accessories.
In July, Rihanna spoke with Extra on the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her new film Smurfs and was asked if her two sons are excited to become older siblings.
"They’re delighted,” Rihanna replied. Although she didn't reveal the sex of her baby on the way, the "Disturbia" singer did say she has always wanted a girl.
“I’ve always wanted a girl,” the singer said. “But God knows best, right? And I love my boys.”
That same month, a source told PEOPLE that Rihanna and Rocky are "thrilled" as they're getting ready to welcome their newest little one.
"Rihanna and Rocky couldn’t be more thrilled to be growing their family again with baby number three," the insider told PEOPLE of the pair. "They’ve really embraced this chapter and their bond has only deepened since becoming parents."
Rocky "has been incredibly attentive and nurturing throughout this pregnancy," said the source.
"He’s so hands-on with RZA and Riot, changing diapers, doing bedtime routines, and keeping them entertained so Rihanna can rest," they continued. "He’s completely tuned into her needs."
The pregnant singer was pictured wearing a cropped hoodie and baring her bump
Rihanna is expecting her third baby with partner A$AP Rocky
The "Disturbia" singer, 37, was photographed in Beverly Hills, Calif., rocking a baby pink zip-up, cropped hoodie that stopped just at the top of her belly. Rihanna paired the sweatshirt with low-rise baggy jeans and a pair of boots.
The pregnant mom of two added big sunglasses and layered pearl necklaces over a few chains, finishing off her accessories with a big ring on her left hand.
Rihanna is already mom to sons Riot, 23 months, and RZA, 3, whom she shares with partner A$AP Rocky. She announced her pregnancy with her third baby at the 2024 Met Gala.
Earlier this month, the Fenty founder stepped out in Los Angeles wearing a floor-length pastel-colored dress with a structured neckline. The sleeveless ensemble featured a pink and yellow pattern with subtle baby blue and neon yellow accents.
The mom of two added lime green sneakers, oversized earrings and a rose ring for accessories.
In July, Rihanna spoke with Extra on the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her new film Smurfs and was asked if her two sons are excited to become older siblings.
"They’re delighted,” Rihanna replied. Although she didn't reveal the sex of her baby on the way, the "Disturbia" singer did say she has always wanted a girl.
“I’ve always wanted a girl,” the singer said. “But God knows best, right? And I love my boys.”
That same month, a source told PEOPLE that Rihanna and Rocky are "thrilled" as they're getting ready to welcome their newest little one.
"Rihanna and Rocky couldn’t be more thrilled to be growing their family again with baby number three," the insider told PEOPLE of the pair. "They’ve really embraced this chapter and their bond has only deepened since becoming parents."
Rocky "has been incredibly attentive and nurturing throughout this pregnancy," said the source.
"He’s so hands-on with RZA and Riot, changing diapers, doing bedtime routines, and keeping them entertained so Rihanna can rest," they continued. "He’s completely tuned into her needs."
Curry Brand Introduces “The Series 7,” The Future of Basketball Performance Footwear
The first of its kind “super shoe” from Curry Brand brings next-level performance to the hardwood—designed for speed, control, and endurance
No one plays basketball like Stephen Curry. Known worldwide for his jaw-dropping range and clutch mentality, what’s often overlooked is the relentless pace of his game. From tip-off to the final buzzer, Stephen never stops moving—cutting, pivoting, and changing direction with boundless energy. That kind of motion demands a sneaker that can keep up.
Forged to meet the demands of Stephen’s constant motion and explosive playing style, the Series 7 introduces a brand-new silhouette that also delivers a performance edge that few can match. Combining cutting-edge innovation with a laser focus on court control and feel, this is a basketball shoe engineered for the future of the game.
For years, the running world has led the charge in “super shoe” innovation—pushing boundaries to help athletes go faster and farther. Now, Curry Brand brings that same mindset to the hardwood. With the Series 7, Curry Brand is raising the bar for what basketball footwear can do—fusing lightweight agility, long-haul durability, and elite responsiveness into one complete package.
No one plays basketball like Stephen Curry. Known worldwide for his jaw-dropping range and clutch mentality, what’s often overlooked is the relentless pace of his game. From tip-off to the final buzzer, Stephen never stops moving—cutting, pivoting, and changing direction with boundless energy. That kind of motion demands a sneaker that can keep up.
Forged to meet the demands of Stephen’s constant motion and explosive playing style, the Series 7 introduces a brand-new silhouette that also delivers a performance edge that few can match. Combining cutting-edge innovation with a laser focus on court control and feel, this is a basketball shoe engineered for the future of the game.
For years, the running world has led the charge in “super shoe” innovation—pushing boundaries to help athletes go faster and farther. Now, Curry Brand brings that same mindset to the hardwood. With the Series 7, Curry Brand is raising the bar for what basketball footwear can do—fusing lightweight agility, long-haul durability, and elite responsiveness into one complete package.
Inspired by his comment and the recent advancements in our own running technology, we set out to create a “super shoe” for hoops that would also meet Stephen’s standards for court feel and support. This led to the Series 7 – built to withstand the grind of a playoff series with no compromises, simply the best of the best. When we started wear-testing the shoes, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive and we knew we wanted to share this sneaker with basketball players everywhere.”
At the heart of the Series 7 is a supercritical foam midsole paired with an all-new high-abrasion UA Flow™ outsole, delivering an unprecedented combination of cushioning, grip and enhanced durability. And weighing just 10.7 ounces, it allows players to stay light on their feet while making hard cuts, stopping on a dime and accelerating with confidence.
Unlike anything else on the court, UA Flow™ offers the kind of traction that has redefined how athletes move. That level of grip requires balance—so the Series 7 features a 3D-molded external shank at the midfoot, offering torsional rigidity and lateral stability for full control on every cut and crossover.
While performance starts from the ground up, it’s locked in at the top. A whisper-thin mesh upper keeps things ultra-light and breathable, while a structured underlay provides strategic support. A molded tongue and lace loops keep laces tight and secure, eliminating distractions to maximize on-court flow.
With its sleek, futuristic silhouette, the Series 7 serves up bold style through its striking use of color and eye-catching metallic finishes. The sneaker features the ability for two-toned outsoles, allowing for different colors on the forefoot and heel, while a gradient paint fade and speckled midsole add playful visual interest. Suede underlays beneath the mesh upper create depth and contrast, and metallic accents on the eyestay overlay and midfoot shank provide an extra pop of shine. Curry’s number “30” appears just below the laces, while a lenticular Curry Brand logo tops off the tongue.
“The whole concept behind the Series 7 was to create something completely new—taking that super-critical foam typically used in running shoes and bringing it to the basketball court,” said Stephen Curry, Curry Brand President.
"I’ve never worn a shoe that feels this light yet this sturdy, with the perfect balance of court feel and cushioning. Hands down, it’s the best basketball shoe I’ve ever worn.”
As the Curry Brand World Tour kicks off this week, the Series 7 will get court time with the top basketball athletes at Curry Camp in San Francisco and in Chongqing. To match the global energy, Curry Brand is debuting the sneaker in a bold first colorway: ‘Curry World Tour’.
This colorway makes an immediate statement with a majestic purple mesh upper and metallic eyestay overlays with hot pink accents on the tongue, laces and underlay designs. Vibrant colors also anchor the sneaker, with the outsole going from a breakthrough blue to a daiquiri orangey-pink with a spark of bright yellow across the midsole. A shimmery finish on the midfoot shank and orangey-pink speckles on the midsole complete this colorway story.
Retailing at $160, the Series 7 by Curry Brand officially launches on Friday, August 22 at Under Armour Brand Houses, on UA.com, and through select distribution partners.
Bed Bath & Beyond Rebrands as “Bed Bath & Beyond Home” with Nashville Grand Opening
Bed Bath & Beyond is making a retail comeback with a twist: a new name and a nod to loyal customers. The first Bed Bath & Beyond Home store opens Friday in Nashville, more than two years after the company filed for bankruptcy.
The relaunch is being led by The Brand House Collective, formerly Kirkland’s, which manages brands including Bed Bath & Beyond Home, Bed Bath & Beyond, Buy Buy Baby, and Overstock.
“We will be testing and learning the right inventory mix by category and by brand, but the look and feel of the stores will be a transition from the original Bed Bath and Beyond stores with a tighter focus on Seasonal Home Decor, Bedroom furnishings, and Bath and Laundry products,” said Starr Hudgens, chief of staff at The Brand House Collective.
To bring back shoppers, the company will accept legacy Bed Bath & Beyond coupons, those familiar big white and blue slips. Hudgens called it “an opportunity to re-engage consumers.”
CEO Amy Sullivan said, “We’re proud to reintroduce one of retail’s most iconic names with the launch of Bed Bath & Beyond Home, beautifully reimagined for how families gather at home today.”
Four more Nashville-area stores are planned in 2025. Hudgens noted the team will “be in an aggressive learn and react posture” to guide future openings in 2026.
The move follows years of financial struggles, failed strategies, and store closures. At its peak, Bed Bath & Beyond operated thousands of locations worldwide before shuttering over 300 U.S. stores during bankruptcy in 2023. Overstock.com acquired the brand later that year.
John Bringardner of Debtwire called the reopening “a massive turnaround effort” but warned the company’s “underlying financials remain deeply troubled” and success will be challenging.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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