#MAGFAB: America Ferrera for Vogue Mexico - October 2025
Nice!
#RHOA: Kelli Ferrell Accused of Stiffing Ex-Employee Amid Drama With Neighbor
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kelli Ferrell is being dragged to court by a former employee who claims she was stiffed, Us Weekly can exclusively report.
On August 27, Saniyah Casey filed a lawsuit against Ferrell, 40, and her restaurant Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles. Casey accused the defendants of breach of contract, wage theft and causing her emotional distress.
Casey said they were hired on July 8 to work at Nana’s on July 8 and worked until August 15. She claimed to have received only one payment for services rendered during the time frame. She said she was owed over $2,000 in wages and back pay.
She said Ferrell failed to pay the “agreed-upon amount for services rendered, despite repeated demands for payment via verbal communication, text messages and emails.”
The suit asked for $5,000 for emotional distress.
Casey wrote, “The emotional toll this has taken on my mental health. The instability of not getting paid by my employer has been crushing.”
She added, “The uncertainty of when I’ll receive my wages, coupled with the emotional toll of giving my all at work while they knowingly go on with their lives and still withhold payment, has left me feeling devalued and deeply stressed. It’s a betrayal that has significantly impacted my mental well-being.”
Casey demanded a total of $18,788.52 in lost wages, back pay and unspecified damages, plus legal fees. She claimed she was considering pressing criminal charges against Ferrell for “knowingly withholding payment, paying without documentation and failure to pay and collect taxes on said wages.”
A rep for Ferrell tells Us, “Due to a routine administrative error that can occasionally occur when launching a new business, Ms. Casey’s payment was delayed by two weeks. Rather than accepting a certified check that was promptly offered to resolve the matter, she instead chose to pursue a civil suit — one that significantly exaggerates the damages she claims to have suffered during her brief one-month tenure at Nana’s Chicken & Waffles.”
The rep added, “If this situation had truly caused the level of emotional distress alleged, it stands to reason that she would have accepted the payment when it was repeatedly extended to her. Instead, it appears that Ms. Casey is attempting to leverage the fact that Ms. Potter-Ferrell is currently filming a nationally televised project, using this small and resolvable issue to draw attention and publicity.”
“We recognize that this type of scrutiny comes with the territory for Ms. Ferrell. Nonetheless, we sincerely wish Ms. Casey the best, both professionally and personally, and remain committed to resolving this matter swiftly and appropriately,” Ferrell’s spokesperson ended.
A couple of days later, a woman named Monualda Perri Cash obtained a temporary protective order against Ferrell.
Cash claimed Ferrell had to be “physically restrained and removed” from her home on August 9.
Ferrell’s rep denied the accusations. “Since the announcement of Kelli’s involvement with The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Mrs. Cash has engaged in a concerning pattern of behavior directed at Kelli and her family … Out of respect for all parties, we will not be commenting further at this time,” her rep told Us. “We strongly urge that Kelli’s privacy — and that of her family — be respected, and we caution against the spread of misinformation.”
The Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kelli Ferrell is being dragged to court by a former employee who claims she was stiffed, Us Weekly can exclusively report.
On August 27, Saniyah Casey filed a lawsuit against Ferrell, 40, and her restaurant Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles. Casey accused the defendants of breach of contract, wage theft and causing her emotional distress.
Casey said they were hired on July 8 to work at Nana’s on July 8 and worked until August 15. She claimed to have received only one payment for services rendered during the time frame. She said she was owed over $2,000 in wages and back pay.
She said Ferrell failed to pay the “agreed-upon amount for services rendered, despite repeated demands for payment via verbal communication, text messages and emails.”
The suit asked for $5,000 for emotional distress.
Casey wrote, “The emotional toll this has taken on my mental health. The instability of not getting paid by my employer has been crushing.”
She added, “The uncertainty of when I’ll receive my wages, coupled with the emotional toll of giving my all at work while they knowingly go on with their lives and still withhold payment, has left me feeling devalued and deeply stressed. It’s a betrayal that has significantly impacted my mental well-being.”
Casey demanded a total of $18,788.52 in lost wages, back pay and unspecified damages, plus legal fees. She claimed she was considering pressing criminal charges against Ferrell for “knowingly withholding payment, paying without documentation and failure to pay and collect taxes on said wages.”
A rep for Ferrell tells Us, “Due to a routine administrative error that can occasionally occur when launching a new business, Ms. Casey’s payment was delayed by two weeks. Rather than accepting a certified check that was promptly offered to resolve the matter, she instead chose to pursue a civil suit — one that significantly exaggerates the damages she claims to have suffered during her brief one-month tenure at Nana’s Chicken & Waffles.”
The rep added, “If this situation had truly caused the level of emotional distress alleged, it stands to reason that she would have accepted the payment when it was repeatedly extended to her. Instead, it appears that Ms. Casey is attempting to leverage the fact that Ms. Potter-Ferrell is currently filming a nationally televised project, using this small and resolvable issue to draw attention and publicity.”
“We recognize that this type of scrutiny comes with the territory for Ms. Ferrell. Nonetheless, we sincerely wish Ms. Casey the best, both professionally and personally, and remain committed to resolving this matter swiftly and appropriately,” Ferrell’s spokesperson ended.
A couple of days later, a woman named Monualda Perri Cash obtained a temporary protective order against Ferrell.
Cash claimed Ferrell had to be “physically restrained and removed” from her home on August 9.
Ferrell’s rep denied the accusations. “Since the announcement of Kelli’s involvement with The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Mrs. Cash has engaged in a concerning pattern of behavior directed at Kelli and her family … Out of respect for all parties, we will not be commenting further at this time,” her rep told Us. “We strongly urge that Kelli’s privacy — and that of her family — be respected, and we caution against the spread of misinformation.”
#NewMusicVideo from Eric Roberson “Fight Thru it All”
The video for Eric Roberson’s “Fight Thru It All” features a minimalist set where various individuals, including Eric Roberson himself, stand and sit while holding up white signs.
These signs display personal struggles and challenges such as “OBESITY,” “FEAR,” “ANXIETY,” “LUNG CANCER,” “DIABETES,” and “DEMENTIA”. The video emphasizes solidarity, support, and the process of overcoming adversity.
It concludes with a message of hope, encouraging viewers to not feel alone in their struggles.
The video for Eric Roberson’s “Fight Thru It All” features a minimalist set where various individuals, including Eric Roberson himself, stand and sit while holding up white signs.
These signs display personal struggles and challenges such as “OBESITY,” “FEAR,” “ANXIETY,” “LUNG CANCER,” “DIABETES,” and “DEMENTIA”. The video emphasizes solidarity, support, and the process of overcoming adversity.
It concludes with a message of hope, encouraging viewers to not feel alone in their struggles.
LISTEN HERE:
This song was released as a single on September 17, 2025, and is part of his album Beautifully All Over The Place.
#HipHopNews: Slick Rick, Andre Harrell & Fat Joe To Be Honored At Hip Hop Museum Gala
Slick Rick will be honored alongside the late Andre Harrell and Fat Joe at the Hip Hop Museum’s star-filled gala on Wednesday (October 15) in New York City, a black-tie affair aimed at raising funds for the museum’s long-awaited permanent home in the Bronx.
The event, titled “Building Hip Hop’s Forever Home,” will unfold at Cipriani Wall Street and spotlight nine honorees whose careers have left a lasting imprint on Hip-Hop culture.
Slick Rick, known for his storytelling prowess, will be presented with the Storytelling Vanguard Award, while Fat Joe will receive the People’s Champ Vanguard Award.
A posthumous Legacy Award will go to Andre Harrell, the Uptown Records founder and former Motown CEO who helped shape the sound of Hip-Hop and R&B in the late ’80s and ’90s. A special tribute during the evening will honor his influence on music and culture.
“This gala not only celebrates the legends who built Hip-Hop, but also the leaders carrying its spirit forward,” said Rocky Bucano, founder and CEO of The Hip Hop Museum. “If your business touches the culture, this is the moment to invest in the home that safeguards its history and powers its future.”
Other honorees include Sal Abbatiello, founder of Fever Enterprises, who will receive the All the Way Up Award.
Additional awardees are philanthropists Adam and Mindy Silverstein, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, author Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, Reservoir CEO Golnar Khosrowshahi, Velez Organization President Elizabeth Velez and artist La Reezy.
DJ Cassidy is set to perform, and organizers have teased surprise appearances throughout the night.
The gala supports the museum’s ongoing development of its 55,000-square-foot space in the Bronx, scheduled to open in fall 2026.
The museum, originally founded in 2015 as the Universal Hip Hop Museum, will feature traditional exhibits, interactive installations, digital displays and live performances.
Tickets and tables for the gala are available now on the museum’s official website. Home - The Hip Hop Museum
Slick Rick will be honored alongside the late Andre Harrell and Fat Joe at the Hip Hop Museum’s star-filled gala on Wednesday (October 15) in New York City, a black-tie affair aimed at raising funds for the museum’s long-awaited permanent home in the Bronx.
The event, titled “Building Hip Hop’s Forever Home,” will unfold at Cipriani Wall Street and spotlight nine honorees whose careers have left a lasting imprint on Hip-Hop culture.
Slick Rick, known for his storytelling prowess, will be presented with the Storytelling Vanguard Award, while Fat Joe will receive the People’s Champ Vanguard Award.
A posthumous Legacy Award will go to Andre Harrell, the Uptown Records founder and former Motown CEO who helped shape the sound of Hip-Hop and R&B in the late ’80s and ’90s. A special tribute during the evening will honor his influence on music and culture.
“This gala not only celebrates the legends who built Hip-Hop, but also the leaders carrying its spirit forward,” said Rocky Bucano, founder and CEO of The Hip Hop Museum. “If your business touches the culture, this is the moment to invest in the home that safeguards its history and powers its future.”
Other honorees include Sal Abbatiello, founder of Fever Enterprises, who will receive the All the Way Up Award.
Additional awardees are philanthropists Adam and Mindy Silverstein, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, author Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, Reservoir CEO Golnar Khosrowshahi, Velez Organization President Elizabeth Velez and artist La Reezy.
DJ Cassidy is set to perform, and organizers have teased surprise appearances throughout the night.
The gala supports the museum’s ongoing development of its 55,000-square-foot space in the Bronx, scheduled to open in fall 2026.
The museum, originally founded in 2015 as the Universal Hip Hop Museum, will feature traditional exhibits, interactive installations, digital displays and live performances.
Tickets and tables for the gala are available now on the museum’s official website. Home - The Hip Hop Museum
#BABYLOVE: Rihanna Welcomes Baby No. 3, Daughter Rocki, With A$AP Rocky
Rihanna is now, officially, a mother of three. On Thursday (Sept. 24), the “Needed Me” singer announced she and A$AP Rocky welcomed their newest addition to the family, a baby girl named Rocki Irish Mayers.
"Sept. 13, 2025,” RiRi captioned Rocki’s Instagram debut. She was dressed in a pink onesie, surrounded by pink bows. The next slide of the carousel included a pair of tiny boxing gloves laid across white sheets.
In the comments section, several fans and other celebrities congratulated Rihanna on the big news. “Welcome to the Navy family, princess!” one person wrote, while Victoria Monét penned, “Congratulations!” See the post here.
Funnily enough, in his ELLE feature published on Tuesday (Sept. 23), Rocky admitted he was hoping for a girl. While the interview may have taken place before Rocki’s birth, it’s amusing to think he might have already known. “We’re praying for a girl,” he told the magazine. “Our first time, we wanted to know the sex of the baby. The second time, we didn’t want to know. Third time, we don’t want to know until, you know.”
Rihanna first shared news of her pregnancy at the 2025 Met Gala, where she stunned in a pinstripe skirt and bustier that put her belly on display. Of course, she and Rocky already share two sons, Riot and RZA.
A$AP Rocky might’ve unintentionally dropped hints about the baby's gender earlier in the year, too. At the Smurfs world premiere in June, “Entertainment Tonight” co-host Kevin Frazier asked him, “Is that the girl you’ve been waiting for?” The rapper responded, “It is, man, it is.” Moments later, he held up a Smurfette plushie and said, “Right here.”
Rihanna got a similar question about the gender of baby No. 3. Though she admitted she was a little “jet lagged” from traveling, she played along with the Smurfs theme. “Let’s see if it’s a Smurfette! I don’t know. Could be a Papa Smurf. Who knows?” the Grammy Award-winning singer joked.
"Sept. 13, 2025,” RiRi captioned Rocki’s Instagram debut. She was dressed in a pink onesie, surrounded by pink bows. The next slide of the carousel included a pair of tiny boxing gloves laid across white sheets.
In the comments section, several fans and other celebrities congratulated Rihanna on the big news. “Welcome to the Navy family, princess!” one person wrote, while Victoria Monét penned, “Congratulations!” See the post here.
Funnily enough, in his ELLE feature published on Tuesday (Sept. 23), Rocky admitted he was hoping for a girl. While the interview may have taken place before Rocki’s birth, it’s amusing to think he might have already known. “We’re praying for a girl,” he told the magazine. “Our first time, we wanted to know the sex of the baby. The second time, we didn’t want to know. Third time, we don’t want to know until, you know.”
Rihanna first shared news of her pregnancy at the 2025 Met Gala, where she stunned in a pinstripe skirt and bustier that put her belly on display. Of course, she and Rocky already share two sons, Riot and RZA.
A$AP Rocky might’ve unintentionally dropped hints about the baby's gender earlier in the year, too. At the Smurfs world premiere in June, “Entertainment Tonight” co-host Kevin Frazier asked him, “Is that the girl you’ve been waiting for?” The rapper responded, “It is, man, it is.” Moments later, he held up a Smurfette plushie and said, “Right here.”
Rihanna got a similar question about the gender of baby No. 3. Though she admitted she was a little “jet lagged” from traveling, she played along with the Smurfs theme. “Let’s see if it’s a Smurfette! I don’t know. Could be a Papa Smurf. Who knows?” the Grammy Award-winning singer joked.
Michael Jackson’s Accusers Demand $400 Million in Renewed Sexual Assault Lawsuit
Michael Jackson’s estate is being sued for $400 million price tag. Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who claim Jackson sexually abused them when they were children, are officially demanding the staggering amount in their ongoing lawsuit, according to newly surfaced court documents.
The revelation came to light in filings connected to a separate legal issue involving Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson. Executors of the estate, John Branca and John McClain, disclosed the $400 million figure while addressing Paris’ objections over legal fees the estate has been paying to law firms handling various lawsuits.
In their September 15 court filing, Branca and McClain expressed deep concern over Paris’ push to limit how legal fees are approved. They warned that a decision in her favor could trigger serious consequences, stating that it would have “profoundly destabilizing consequences for the estate.”
They added that the estate “would likely have to default in [Robson and Safechuck’s lawsuit], where numerous depositions, discovery matters, and other matters are scheduled to take place over the next several months, and where [Robson and Safechuck] are seeking $400 million.” They called such a scenario “disastrous.”
The executors further emphasized the turnaround they’ve led for Jackson’s finances.
“It has taken an Estate mired in almost half a billion dollars of debt to a multi-billion dollar powerhouse,” they stated, pushing back on Paris’ request that the court step in.
Paris, now 27, has questioned the scale of legal spending and wants the court to limit the executors’ powers in approving such fees. But the executors insist the charges are standard and essential to protecting the estate’s assets and ventures like “MJ: The Musical,” the MJ One Cirque show, and an upcoming feature film.
Robson and Safechuck, who previously shared their accounts in the HBO documentary Leaving Neverland, allege they were repeatedly abused by Jackson starting when they were just 7 and 10 years old. Safechuck said he met Jackson during a Pepsi commercial shoot in 1986 and was later invited into the pop star’s inner circle.
They are suing Jackson’s companies, MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures, which have denied all allegations.
Without legal support, the estate warns, it could not only lose this case but also jeopardize the management of Jackson’s intellectual property. “The Estate would also lose the benefit of counsel maintaining its intellectual property portfolio, the lifeblood of its businesses,” the motion reads.
With one of music’s most iconic legacies on the line, and a $400 million lawsuit in play, the fight over how the estate is run has never been more high-stakes.
Michael Jackson’s estate is being sued for $400 million price tag. Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who claim Jackson sexually abused them when they were children, are officially demanding the staggering amount in their ongoing lawsuit, according to newly surfaced court documents.
The revelation came to light in filings connected to a separate legal issue involving Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson. Executors of the estate, John Branca and John McClain, disclosed the $400 million figure while addressing Paris’ objections over legal fees the estate has been paying to law firms handling various lawsuits.
In their September 15 court filing, Branca and McClain expressed deep concern over Paris’ push to limit how legal fees are approved. They warned that a decision in her favor could trigger serious consequences, stating that it would have “profoundly destabilizing consequences for the estate.”
They added that the estate “would likely have to default in [Robson and Safechuck’s lawsuit], where numerous depositions, discovery matters, and other matters are scheduled to take place over the next several months, and where [Robson and Safechuck] are seeking $400 million.” They called such a scenario “disastrous.”
The executors further emphasized the turnaround they’ve led for Jackson’s finances.
“It has taken an Estate mired in almost half a billion dollars of debt to a multi-billion dollar powerhouse,” they stated, pushing back on Paris’ request that the court step in.
Paris, now 27, has questioned the scale of legal spending and wants the court to limit the executors’ powers in approving such fees. But the executors insist the charges are standard and essential to protecting the estate’s assets and ventures like “MJ: The Musical,” the MJ One Cirque show, and an upcoming feature film.
Robson and Safechuck, who previously shared their accounts in the HBO documentary Leaving Neverland, allege they were repeatedly abused by Jackson starting when they were just 7 and 10 years old. Safechuck said he met Jackson during a Pepsi commercial shoot in 1986 and was later invited into the pop star’s inner circle.
They are suing Jackson’s companies, MJJ Productions and MJJ Ventures, which have denied all allegations.
Without legal support, the estate warns, it could not only lose this case but also jeopardize the management of Jackson’s intellectual property. “The Estate would also lose the benefit of counsel maintaining its intellectual property portfolio, the lifeblood of its businesses,” the motion reads.
With one of music’s most iconic legacies on the line, and a $400 million lawsuit in play, the fight over how the estate is run has never been more high-stakes.
Mariah Carey On Anderson .Paak Dating Rumors: “He Likes Holding My Hand”
Anderson .Paak is apparently in Mariah Carey’s “hand-holding club.” At least that’s how the Queen of Christmas jokingly framed it during her sit-down on CBS Mornings with Gayle King on Wednesday (Sept. 24).
When asked about rumors of her dating .Paak — after the two were seen holding hands in Aspen last year — the Grammy-winning icon said, “He just likes to hold my hand. He just grabs my hand — I don’t know what he’s doing.” However, that wouldn’t be the last time the two were seen out.
Watch Carey address the dating rumors below.
Ahead of their May studio confirmation, Anderson .Paak and Mariah Carey had already set the internet ablaze with a series of very public hand-holding moments. In March, .Paak joined Carey on stage at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, where she received the prestigious Icon Award.
The two were spotted clasping hands in the audience, with cameras cutting to .Paak during Carey’s acceptance speech — only adding fuel to the already-burning speculation. He even escorted her to the stage to accept her honor, a gesture that suggested something more than friendship.
One user celebrated the pairing, writing on X, “This is a living LEGEND. Good for her. If they like it, I love it.” Another couldn’t resist dragging Nick Cannon into the conversation, joking, “I know Nick somewhere sliding down a wall… with his chest caved in like a Capri Sun.”
By May, .Paak made it official that he and Carey were indeed cooking in the studio. Fans will finally hear the results when her new album Here For It All drops tomorrow (Sept. 26). .Paak is featured on “Play This Song,” lending both his voice and pen to the track. He also has co-writing credits on “Type Dangerous.”
When asked about rumors of her dating .Paak — after the two were seen holding hands in Aspen last year — the Grammy-winning icon said, “He just likes to hold my hand. He just grabs my hand — I don’t know what he’s doing.” However, that wouldn’t be the last time the two were seen out.
Watch Carey address the dating rumors below.
Ahead of their May studio confirmation, Anderson .Paak and Mariah Carey had already set the internet ablaze with a series of very public hand-holding moments. In March, .Paak joined Carey on stage at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, where she received the prestigious Icon Award.
The two were spotted clasping hands in the audience, with cameras cutting to .Paak during Carey’s acceptance speech — only adding fuel to the already-burning speculation. He even escorted her to the stage to accept her honor, a gesture that suggested something more than friendship.
One user celebrated the pairing, writing on X, “This is a living LEGEND. Good for her. If they like it, I love it.” Another couldn’t resist dragging Nick Cannon into the conversation, joking, “I know Nick somewhere sliding down a wall… with his chest caved in like a Capri Sun.”
By May, .Paak made it official that he and Carey were indeed cooking in the studio. Fans will finally hear the results when her new album Here For It All drops tomorrow (Sept. 26). .Paak is featured on “Play This Song,” lending both his voice and pen to the track. He also has co-writing credits on “Type Dangerous.”
Cardi B partners with MTA to on a PSA to promote safety on subways
Many things can make riding the MTA in New York City unpleasant. Fortunately, Cardi B is here to try to bring some daily cheer to subway riders.
The official MTA X account announced on Tuesday (Sept. 23) that the Bronx star will voice public service announcements that will play in subway stations throughout their system. They shared footage of the “Outside” rapper recording specific warnings in her own unique way.
“We’re walking here! Steps are for stepping, not sitting. Move it, bucko!” she exclaimed. “These trains don’t move without you, so make sure you pay that fare and keep it real. Stop subway surfing! Ride safe, keep it cute, and keep it moving. Okurrrr!”
Commuters can hear these announcements on the MTA PA system at various train stations. Check out the soon-to-be mother of four walking throughout the stations and leading by example below.
This is the latest aspect of the Grammy winner’s extensive rollout for her new album, Am I The Drama? The Sept. 19 release closed an over seven-year gap since her game-changing debut LP Invasion of Privacy. The new album features Janet Jackson, Selena Gomez, Lizzo, Tyla, Kehlani, Cash Cobain, and more. This week, she released the “Bonus Edition” with the new track “Don’t Do Too Much” and “ErrTime Edition,” which added Latto to the initial solo effort “ErrTime.”
Cardi unloaded the latest visual for the Kehlani-assisted “Safe,” which pays homage to TLC and shows the ups and downs of a relationship. It followed the video for “Imaginary Playerz,” which flips Jay-Z’s classic record “Imaginary Players.”
Drama? was initially projected to sell between 120,000 and 150,000 album-equivalent units in its first week, per Hits Daily Double, but it soon jumped up to around 200,000. Though that is still some distance from Privacy, which moved 255,000 units in its first week, it would still place her among the top sellers in 2025.
Tyra Banks to Guest Star in Season 4 of ‘Bel-Air’
Tyra Banks is set to make her way back to Bel-Air. The supermodel will guest star in the fourth final season of the drama series. The appearance comes more than 30 years since she played Jackie Ames, Will’s ex-girlfriend from Philadelphia, in the original Fresh Prince of Bel-Air sitcom.
In the updated version, the 51-year-old has been cast as a former college classmate with a big personality, with whom Aunt Viv (Cassandra Freeman) is reluctantly reunited. Additional details about her role have not been shared; however, the upcoming season brings new horizons for Will (Jabari Banks) and the rest of the family.
It was announced in December 2024 that the series would end with the fourth season, with only eight episodes compared to the previous seasons, which all had 10. Additional former Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air talent who have appeared in the reboot include Tatyana Ali, Joseph Marcell, Vernee Watson-Johnson, and Daphne Maxwell Reid.
Bianca Belair, Bill Bellamy, Justin Cornwell, Andra Day, Melissa De Sousa, Nicholas Duvernay, Dulé Hill, Anna Maria Horsford, April Parker Jones, Melanie Liburd, Jazlyn Martin, Vic Mensa, DK Metcalf, Saweetie, Alycia Pascual-Peña, David Ramsey, Karrueche Tran, Joivan Wade, and Marlon Wayans have all guest-starred in the Peacock series.
The official description for anticipated new season reads as follows:
“In season four of Peacock’s successful one-hour drama series ‘Bel-Air,’ Will tries to balance the fun and excitement of senior year with the expectations that have brought him to this moment. Carlton tests his own resolve as he deals with the fallout of some very big decisions that could threaten his future. Together, both boys will help each other through this pivotal time in their lives. An unexpected power shift will threaten the brotherhood between Phil and Geoffrey, whose loyalties to the Banks family will be tested. Viv struggles with reinventing herself as she looks at motherhood from a different perspective. It’s Ashley’s freshman year in high school and she’s working through a rebellious phase but quickly learns that the status quo may no longer serve her. Hilary goes on a journey of self-exploration.”
Season four of Bel-Air is set to premiere on Peacock on Monday, November 24.
In the updated version, the 51-year-old has been cast as a former college classmate with a big personality, with whom Aunt Viv (Cassandra Freeman) is reluctantly reunited. Additional details about her role have not been shared; however, the upcoming season brings new horizons for Will (Jabari Banks) and the rest of the family.
It was announced in December 2024 that the series would end with the fourth season, with only eight episodes compared to the previous seasons, which all had 10. Additional former Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air talent who have appeared in the reboot include Tatyana Ali, Joseph Marcell, Vernee Watson-Johnson, and Daphne Maxwell Reid.
Bianca Belair, Bill Bellamy, Justin Cornwell, Andra Day, Melissa De Sousa, Nicholas Duvernay, Dulé Hill, Anna Maria Horsford, April Parker Jones, Melanie Liburd, Jazlyn Martin, Vic Mensa, DK Metcalf, Saweetie, Alycia Pascual-Peña, David Ramsey, Karrueche Tran, Joivan Wade, and Marlon Wayans have all guest-starred in the Peacock series.
The official description for anticipated new season reads as follows:
“In season four of Peacock’s successful one-hour drama series ‘Bel-Air,’ Will tries to balance the fun and excitement of senior year with the expectations that have brought him to this moment. Carlton tests his own resolve as he deals with the fallout of some very big decisions that could threaten his future. Together, both boys will help each other through this pivotal time in their lives. An unexpected power shift will threaten the brotherhood between Phil and Geoffrey, whose loyalties to the Banks family will be tested. Viv struggles with reinventing herself as she looks at motherhood from a different perspective. It’s Ashley’s freshman year in high school and she’s working through a rebellious phase but quickly learns that the status quo may no longer serve her. Hilary goes on a journey of self-exploration.”
Season four of Bel-Air is set to premiere on Peacock on Monday, November 24.
Teyana Taylor And Aaron Pierre Are ‘Secure’ In Their Relationship
Teyana Taylor and Aaron Pierre are secure in their relationship. Appearing on Tuesday’s episode of Sherri, she was asked how she’s been enjoying her “apple pie,” a nickname for her partner that uses his initials.
“I mean Luther [Vandross] said ‘Never Too Much,’ right?” Taylor, before breaking into song. “Never too much apple pie.”
Taylor also shared that she gets “all blushy” whenever Pierre’s name is mentioned. She also called him “apple pie with a la mode,”
“I feel good. And it feels good to feel good,” Tayloe continued.
During her appearance Taylor was he was asked asked by a guest in the audeince her formular for finding love.
“I think the most important thing is, no matter where you come from, whether it’s a heartbreak, wherever, I think the best thing is to be willing to love unarmored,” she explained.
“I think if you come with a wall built, it’ll block your blessings, you know? And who that person is, may not be who that person was,” Taylor continued. “So it’s kind of like, I walk a straight line, unarmored, and I walk a straight line ready to receive whatever is mine to hold.”
Where Sherri Shepherd asked about her “sexual chemistry” with Leonardo DiCaprio in One Battle After Another, Taylor said she was just doing her job.
You can’t tell me that was work, Mama!” Shepherd joked.
“Babe, did you see my apple pie?” Taylor responded.
“My eyes is on my prize, so when I step on set, I’m here to do a job,” Tayloe continued. “I’m a team player. We’re all players on this team, and we’re here to win, and we’re here to make magic. So when I get on set, it’s kind of like, ‘When the whistle blow, it’s time to get to work. And I get to work and I go my ass home.”
Taylor also explained how Pierre handles with her sensual scenes on-camera
Taylor said, “I mean, we’re both very secure. And when we understand what the prize is, we’re not worried about if anybody is stepping outside of that prize trying to look for another one.”
Teyana Taylor and Aaron Pierre are secure in their relationship. Appearing on Tuesday’s episode of Sherri, she was asked how she’s been enjoying her “apple pie,” a nickname for her partner that uses his initials.
“I mean Luther [Vandross] said ‘Never Too Much,’ right?” Taylor, before breaking into song. “Never too much apple pie.”
Taylor also shared that she gets “all blushy” whenever Pierre’s name is mentioned. She also called him “apple pie with a la mode,”
“I feel good. And it feels good to feel good,” Tayloe continued.
During her appearance Taylor was he was asked asked by a guest in the audeince her formular for finding love.
“I think the most important thing is, no matter where you come from, whether it’s a heartbreak, wherever, I think the best thing is to be willing to love unarmored,” she explained.
“I think if you come with a wall built, it’ll block your blessings, you know? And who that person is, may not be who that person was,” Taylor continued. “So it’s kind of like, I walk a straight line, unarmored, and I walk a straight line ready to receive whatever is mine to hold.”
Where Sherri Shepherd asked about her “sexual chemistry” with Leonardo DiCaprio in One Battle After Another, Taylor said she was just doing her job.
You can’t tell me that was work, Mama!” Shepherd joked.
“Babe, did you see my apple pie?” Taylor responded.
“My eyes is on my prize, so when I step on set, I’m here to do a job,” Tayloe continued. “I’m a team player. We’re all players on this team, and we’re here to win, and we’re here to make magic. So when I get on set, it’s kind of like, ‘When the whistle blow, it’s time to get to work. And I get to work and I go my ass home.”
Taylor also explained how Pierre handles with her sensual scenes on-camera
Taylor said, “I mean, we’re both very secure. And when we understand what the prize is, we’re not worried about if anybody is stepping outside of that prize trying to look for another one.”
William Shatner Shares Update After Hospitalization: 'I Over Indulged'
It was said that legendary Captain James T. Kirk actor William Shatner was rushed to the hospital after suffering from a medical event.
Now, the 94-year-old Star Trek actor is providing an update that he is doing “perfectly fine” amid all the articles about his alleged health scare!
On Instagram on Thursday (September 25), William shared the following caption, “I over indulged. I thank you all for caring but I’m perfectly fine.”
He also shared an image that read, “Rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated!”
Initially, it was reported that William had been facing a blood sugar issue and emergency medical service workers were called in to assist.
We wish William Shatner a quick and speedy recovery!
Now, the 94-year-old Star Trek actor is providing an update that he is doing “perfectly fine” amid all the articles about his alleged health scare!
On Instagram on Thursday (September 25), William shared the following caption, “I over indulged. I thank you all for caring but I’m perfectly fine.”
He also shared an image that read, “Rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated!”
Initially, it was reported that William had been facing a blood sugar issue and emergency medical service workers were called in to assist.
We wish William Shatner a quick and speedy recovery!
David Archuleta Got Engaged to 3 Women Before Coming Out
David Archuleta is opening up about his love life. The 34-year-old “Crème Brulée” singer and American Idol finalist spoke out about his experiences with dating women before coming out as queer in 2021 during an appearance on The Zach Sang Show. During the appearance, he revealed he’d been engaged to three different women.
“Mormons get engaged really fast because you’re supposed to get married. And you’re not supposed to do anything before marriage,” he explained of his religious upbringing.
“So naturally, those impulses and those urges lead to ‘Let’s get married fast because we’re feeling a lot of urges.’ And just wanting to be intimate with each other.”
David also discussed how the church views the LGBTQ+ community, and how there’s a difference between people who experience attraction to members of the same sex, and people who actively indulge in that attraction.
“Because it’s like, ‘Well, you’re not gay; you just struggle with same-sex attraction. There’s a difference because gay people live out their life, which they shouldn’t. But people who struggle with same-sex attraction acknowledge that they have the urges, but they don’t act on them. And that’s okay with God,’” he said that he was told.
“They’re like, ‘Well, if you get married, God will bless you.’ And so I thought by doing that I will naturally fall more and more in love with my girlfriend, and I’ll have enough faith where this won’t be an issue,” David added, saying he was “grateful” he never actually married any of the women.
“I just realized, you know, yeah… I feel like these girls deserve better than this,” he admitted.
“I know a lot of people do follow through with it and have kids, and they’re like, ‘Oh, I’m still queer or I’m still gay.’ I was just like…I can’t be dishonest. I’ve been told all my life to not be dishonest, so why would I suddenly make a decision for the rest of my life where I would be being dishonest?” Watch the appearance above.
More recently, he said that he’s still open to dating women.
David Archuleta is opening up about his love life. The 34-year-old “Crème Brulée” singer and American Idol finalist spoke out about his experiences with dating women before coming out as queer in 2021 during an appearance on The Zach Sang Show. During the appearance, he revealed he’d been engaged to three different women.
“Mormons get engaged really fast because you’re supposed to get married. And you’re not supposed to do anything before marriage,” he explained of his religious upbringing.
“So naturally, those impulses and those urges lead to ‘Let’s get married fast because we’re feeling a lot of urges.’ And just wanting to be intimate with each other.”
David also discussed how the church views the LGBTQ+ community, and how there’s a difference between people who experience attraction to members of the same sex, and people who actively indulge in that attraction.
“Because it’s like, ‘Well, you’re not gay; you just struggle with same-sex attraction. There’s a difference because gay people live out their life, which they shouldn’t. But people who struggle with same-sex attraction acknowledge that they have the urges, but they don’t act on them. And that’s okay with God,’” he said that he was told.
“They’re like, ‘Well, if you get married, God will bless you.’ And so I thought by doing that I will naturally fall more and more in love with my girlfriend, and I’ll have enough faith where this won’t be an issue,” David added, saying he was “grateful” he never actually married any of the women.
“I just realized, you know, yeah… I feel like these girls deserve better than this,” he admitted.
“I know a lot of people do follow through with it and have kids, and they’re like, ‘Oh, I’m still queer or I’m still gay.’ I was just like…I can’t be dishonest. I’ve been told all my life to not be dishonest, so why would I suddenly make a decision for the rest of my life where I would be being dishonest?” Watch the appearance above.
More recently, he said that he’s still open to dating women.
Sherri Shepherd Spent 8 Days in Jail After Previous Rapture Belief
Sherri Shepherd is not falling for the same ruse twice. After a widespread rumor had many people believing the Rapture—a Biblical event in which Christians are ascended into heaven while the rest of civilization is left on Earth—was set to occur on Sept. 23, the daytime talk show host shared why she didn’t fall for the doomsday speculation.
“I have been through this before,” Sherri admitted during the Sept. 24 episode of Sherri. “I used to be in a religion that told me that the rapture was coming. They told us to get our house in order. And I said, ‘Why? I'm not going to need a house where I am going. I don't need those worldly possessions.’”
Indeed, Sherri was so convinced the world was ending, she stopped following through on any of her typical responsibilities.
“I didn't pay my bills,” she recalled. “I didn't pay my taxes. I did not pay my traffic tickets because why would I pay anything when the world's about to end? My registration had been expired for two years. I had seriously $10,000 worth of unpaid moving violations.”
But the 58-year-old thought she had more important priorities than her Earthly dues.
“Why would I show up to court when the world is about to end and I'm about to get taken up to heaven?" Sherri posited. “Jesus don't care about no parking tickets!"
When the world kept turning though, her unwavering faith in eternal salvation led her to some temporary Earthly damnation.
“I went to jail,” she recalled, showing a photo of herself wearing a multi-colored T-shirt and matching high heels. “I was on my way to perform at the Comedy Store in Hollywood and I didn't know, so they picked me up.”
As she joked, “I went to jail for eight days and because I fell for the Rapture, I became a hardened criminal.”
Sherri’s experience is far from extreme when considering posts shared online ahead of the supposed Sept. 23 Rapture—a rumor that seemingly originated from a YouTube video shared by Joshua Mhlakela, a South African pastor, in June.
In the days leading up to the supposed end of the world, the Rapture hashtag earned over 300,000 videos on TikTok, in which many people detailed—either genuinely or satirically—selling their possessions or sharing corroborating evidence for why they believed the apocalypse was here.
“There has been so much that I really do believe this is happening,” one woman said in a Sept. 21 TikTok that garnered over one million views. “I’m not going to say 100 percent that it will, but the confirmations God has given me, seem to be pointing to next week.”
“I have been through this before,” Sherri admitted during the Sept. 24 episode of Sherri. “I used to be in a religion that told me that the rapture was coming. They told us to get our house in order. And I said, ‘Why? I'm not going to need a house where I am going. I don't need those worldly possessions.’”
Indeed, Sherri was so convinced the world was ending, she stopped following through on any of her typical responsibilities.
“I didn't pay my bills,” she recalled. “I didn't pay my taxes. I did not pay my traffic tickets because why would I pay anything when the world's about to end? My registration had been expired for two years. I had seriously $10,000 worth of unpaid moving violations.”
But the 58-year-old thought she had more important priorities than her Earthly dues.
“Why would I show up to court when the world is about to end and I'm about to get taken up to heaven?" Sherri posited. “Jesus don't care about no parking tickets!"
When the world kept turning though, her unwavering faith in eternal salvation led her to some temporary Earthly damnation.
“I went to jail,” she recalled, showing a photo of herself wearing a multi-colored T-shirt and matching high heels. “I was on my way to perform at the Comedy Store in Hollywood and I didn't know, so they picked me up.”
As she joked, “I went to jail for eight days and because I fell for the Rapture, I became a hardened criminal.”
Sherri’s experience is far from extreme when considering posts shared online ahead of the supposed Sept. 23 Rapture—a rumor that seemingly originated from a YouTube video shared by Joshua Mhlakela, a South African pastor, in June.
In the days leading up to the supposed end of the world, the Rapture hashtag earned over 300,000 videos on TikTok, in which many people detailed—either genuinely or satirically—selling their possessions or sharing corroborating evidence for why they believed the apocalypse was here.
“There has been so much that I really do believe this is happening,” one woman said in a Sept. 21 TikTok that garnered over one million views. “I’m not going to say 100 percent that it will, but the confirmations God has given me, seem to be pointing to next week.”
Jimmy Kimmel Came Back With His Biggest Ratings in a Decade
After a week of silence and backlash, Jimmy Kimmel returned to late-night Tuesday and proved his voice still matters, to the tune of 6.26 million viewers.
According to early Nielsen numbers, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” scored one of its biggest nights ever following a weeklong suspension by ABC. The spike followed public outrage over comments Kimmel made about the shooter involved in the Charlie Kirk incident. That controversy led to an unprecedented clash between government officials, media giants, and freedom of expression advocates.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr accused Kimmel of engaging in “some of the sickest conduct possible” and pressured ABC to act. “Find ways to change conduct, to take action, frankly, on Kimmel, or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead,” Carr said. On Monday, he tried to walk that back, claiming “that did not happen in any way, shape or form.”
The drama intensified when local station groups Nexstar and Sinclair pulled Kimmel’s show from the air. “We strongly object to recent comments made by Mr. Kimmel concerning the killing of Charlie Kirk,” Nexstar said, vowing to “preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! for the foreseeable future.”
Despite the blackout, Kimmel’s return became a cultural moment. He pulled the highest adult 18–49 rating for a regularly scheduled episode in more than 10 years with a 0.87, and Disney reports his opening monologue has already racked up more than 26 million views across YouTube and other platforms.
One week off-air, one massive comeback, and a reminder that controversy doesn’t always kill careers. Sometimes, it supercharges them.
After a week of silence and backlash, Jimmy Kimmel returned to late-night Tuesday and proved his voice still matters, to the tune of 6.26 million viewers.
According to early Nielsen numbers, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” scored one of its biggest nights ever following a weeklong suspension by ABC. The spike followed public outrage over comments Kimmel made about the shooter involved in the Charlie Kirk incident. That controversy led to an unprecedented clash between government officials, media giants, and freedom of expression advocates.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr accused Kimmel of engaging in “some of the sickest conduct possible” and pressured ABC to act. “Find ways to change conduct, to take action, frankly, on Kimmel, or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead,” Carr said. On Monday, he tried to walk that back, claiming “that did not happen in any way, shape or form.”
The drama intensified when local station groups Nexstar and Sinclair pulled Kimmel’s show from the air. “We strongly object to recent comments made by Mr. Kimmel concerning the killing of Charlie Kirk,” Nexstar said, vowing to “preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! for the foreseeable future.”
Despite the blackout, Kimmel’s return became a cultural moment. He pulled the highest adult 18–49 rating for a regularly scheduled episode in more than 10 years with a 0.87, and Disney reports his opening monologue has already racked up more than 26 million views across YouTube and other platforms.
One week off-air, one massive comeback, and a reminder that controversy doesn’t always kill careers. Sometimes, it supercharges them.
Kamala Harris Endorses Mamdani in New York Mayor’s Race
Former vice president Kamala Harris officially endorsed New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani in an interview on MSNBC’s “The Rachel Maddow Show” on Monday.
During Harris’ visit to Maddow’s show, to promote her candid book “107 Days”, she offered a tepid endorsement of the candidate before turning to other up-and-coming names in the democratic party.
“Look, as far as I’m concerned, he’s the Democratic nominee and he should be supported,” Harris said when asked about her thoughts on Mamdani and why some in the party have been slow to back him. “I support the Democrat in this race, absolutely.”
“So I hope that we don’t so over-index on New York City that we lose sight of the stars throughout our country who are right now running for mayor and many other offices, governor and so on,” Harris said. “So that’s where I am. We got a big tent and we got a lot of stars.”
Mamdani has also won strong backing from progressive leaders, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat who represents parts of the Bronx and Queens, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont.
Several top Democrats have held off on endorsing Mamdani. Last week, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie endorsed Mamdani. But, notably, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, both New Yorkers, have not yet given him their backing. Jay Jacobs, the state Democratic Party chair in New York, said last week that he wouldn’t endorse the Democratic mayoral nominee.
During Harris’ visit to Maddow’s show, to promote her candid book “107 Days”, she offered a tepid endorsement of the candidate before turning to other up-and-coming names in the democratic party.
“Look, as far as I’m concerned, he’s the Democratic nominee and he should be supported,” Harris said when asked about her thoughts on Mamdani and why some in the party have been slow to back him. “I support the Democrat in this race, absolutely.”
“So I hope that we don’t so over-index on New York City that we lose sight of the stars throughout our country who are right now running for mayor and many other offices, governor and so on,” Harris said. “So that’s where I am. We got a big tent and we got a lot of stars.”
Mamdani has also won strong backing from progressive leaders, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat who represents parts of the Bronx and Queens, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont.
Several top Democrats have held off on endorsing Mamdani. Last week, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie endorsed Mamdani. But, notably, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, both New Yorkers, have not yet given him their backing. Jay Jacobs, the state Democratic Party chair in New York, said last week that he wouldn’t endorse the Democratic mayoral nominee.
Tennessee State University: Group with MAGA hats, 'inflammatory' signs removed from #HBCU
A group wearing "Make America Great Again" hats and carrying signs with "inflammatory" messages was removed from the campus of Tennessee State University, a historically Black, public school in Nashville.
The group appeared on campus around 3 p.m. on Sep. 23, according to a Facebook post from the Nashville chapter of the NAACP. The group was called Fearless Debates and carried signs that read "DEI should be illegal" and "deport all illegals now," according to the post.
"They attempted to draw students into conversations centered on these messages, which were framed as debate but functioned as provocation," the post read.
A statement posted to TSU's Facebook page said the group was unaffiliated with the university and not authorized to be there. Campus police and staff responded, and the group was escorted off the grounds without issue.
"At all times, TSU students conducted themselves in a professional and respectful manner," the TSU statement read. "The safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff remain our highest priority. TSU will continue to uphold university policies and ensure that campus remains a safe, welcoming and orderly environment for all members of our community."
Advocates 'infuriated and alarmed' over MAGA group at TSU
Social media accounts that appear to belong to the group state it is inspired by Charlie Kirk. The Turning Point USA founder was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
Posts by the group to social media appear to show TSU students shouting at its members, filming them and following along as campus police escorted them off campus. Videos also showed people taking signs from the group and flipping them off. One video zoomed in on a student holding a screwdriver. The group also posted a video of them leaving campus by car as security officers escorted them. People inside the car could be heard saying students were hitting the car. At one point, the shot panned to a drink cup that was thrown onto the roof.
TSU President Dwayne Tucker told The Tennessean an investigation is underway into how the group gained access to campus. He said he plans to host meetings with students in the days to come to discuss what happened.
NAACP Nashville said it was "infuriated and alarmed" that groups like the one that visited TSU are targeting historically Black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, with "rhetoric that echoes a long history of exclusion, racism, and systemic oppression." The chapter urged other HBCUs, NAACP partners and Black leaders to be vigilant and prepared for more activity by the group and others like them.
"This incident was not an isolated act of political expression — it was an intentional effort to antagonize, disrupt, and instill fear in a space created to be safe, affirming and supportive of Black students," NAACP Nashville said. "While we recognize and respect that free speech is a constitutional right, there is a clear and urgent distinction between constructive dialogue and rhetoric deliberately designed to provoke, demean, and endanger the psychological safety of students at HBCUs."
A group wearing "Make America Great Again" hats and carrying signs with "inflammatory" messages was removed from the campus of Tennessee State University, a historically Black, public school in Nashville.
The group appeared on campus around 3 p.m. on Sep. 23, according to a Facebook post from the Nashville chapter of the NAACP. The group was called Fearless Debates and carried signs that read "DEI should be illegal" and "deport all illegals now," according to the post.
"They attempted to draw students into conversations centered on these messages, which were framed as debate but functioned as provocation," the post read.
A statement posted to TSU's Facebook page said the group was unaffiliated with the university and not authorized to be there. Campus police and staff responded, and the group was escorted off the grounds without issue.
"At all times, TSU students conducted themselves in a professional and respectful manner," the TSU statement read. "The safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff remain our highest priority. TSU will continue to uphold university policies and ensure that campus remains a safe, welcoming and orderly environment for all members of our community."
Advocates 'infuriated and alarmed' over MAGA group at TSU
Social media accounts that appear to belong to the group state it is inspired by Charlie Kirk. The Turning Point USA founder was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
Posts by the group to social media appear to show TSU students shouting at its members, filming them and following along as campus police escorted them off campus. Videos also showed people taking signs from the group and flipping them off. One video zoomed in on a student holding a screwdriver. The group also posted a video of them leaving campus by car as security officers escorted them. People inside the car could be heard saying students were hitting the car. At one point, the shot panned to a drink cup that was thrown onto the roof.
TSU President Dwayne Tucker told The Tennessean an investigation is underway into how the group gained access to campus. He said he plans to host meetings with students in the days to come to discuss what happened.
NAACP Nashville said it was "infuriated and alarmed" that groups like the one that visited TSU are targeting historically Black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, with "rhetoric that echoes a long history of exclusion, racism, and systemic oppression." The chapter urged other HBCUs, NAACP partners and Black leaders to be vigilant and prepared for more activity by the group and others like them.
"This incident was not an isolated act of political expression — it was an intentional effort to antagonize, disrupt, and instill fear in a space created to be safe, affirming and supportive of Black students," NAACP Nashville said. "While we recognize and respect that free speech is a constitutional right, there is a clear and urgent distinction between constructive dialogue and rhetoric deliberately designed to provoke, demean, and endanger the psychological safety of students at HBCUs."
Controversial GOP Education Official Ryan Walters Quits To Lead Anti-Teachers Union Group
Ryan Walters, the Oklahoma superintendent of public instruction, is resigning after three controversial years in the role to lead a right-wing group he said will “destroy the teachers unions.”
Walters, who was elected in November 2022 and began serving the following January, spent his entire tenure making headlines for his attacks on teachers unions, including baselessly smearing educators as child abusers
It appears Walters is ready to take his grudge against teachers to a national stage by becoming CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, which bills itself as an “alternative” to teachers unions.
“We’re going to destroy the teachers unions,” Walters said Wednesday night on Fox News, as he announced his resignation and new role. “We’ve seen [them] use money and power to corrupt our schools.”
He did not mention his resignation at the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s monthly meeting on Thursday. Instead, he used his opening remarks to speak about Charlie Kirk, the CEO of Turning Point USA who was fatally shot in Utah earlier this month, and gave the floor over to a TPUSA employee.
Walters announced on Tuesday that every high school in Oklahoma would have a TPUSA chapter on campus. Kirk toured college campuses through his work with the organization, and often spread racist and misogynistic rhetoric to his young audiences.
When a local reporter asked on Tuesday what would happen to schools that decline to establish a chapter, he threatened to revoke their accreditation. “They would be in danger of not being a school district if they decided to reject a club that is here to promote civic engagement,” he said.
It’s unclear whether the plan to establish Turning Point USA chapters at high schools will move forward after Walters leaves office.
The Oklahoma schools chief has been embroiled in a string of controversies and scandals.
Walters has spent the past three years claiming without evidence that Oklahoma public schools are awash in sexually explicit material. He appointed right-wing influencer Chaya Raichik to a library advisory committee in January 2024, despite her lack of experience. Raichik gained notoriety through her Libs of Tik Tok account on X (formerly Twitter), where she posts videos of teachers who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
After Donald Trump won the 2024 election, Walters proposed a rule for Oklahoma schools that would require districts to collect citizenship data, a measure that could have caused immigrant parents to pull their children from school. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1982 that all children, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to enroll in a public school, but Walters’ proposal was in line with Trump’s hard-line immigration policies.
The Christian right has been attempting to inject religion into the public school system, and Walters has been at the forefront of the movement. In June 2024, Walters ordered Oklahoma public schools to use the Bible in instruction, even though the U.S. Constitution prohibits the government from favoring one religion over another. He also attempted to purchase Bibles for schools that would enrich Trump ally Lee Greenwood, but was subsequently sued and blocked from implementing the policy.
Some organizations are celebrating his departure from Oklahoma schools.
“This is a win for Oklahomans. They’re better off without Walters,” Rachel Laser, the CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to keeping the government secular, said in a statement. “At every turn Ryan Walters abused the power of his government office as he attempted to impose his personal religious beliefs on Oklahoma school children.”
Walters, who was elected in November 2022 and began serving the following January, spent his entire tenure making headlines for his attacks on teachers unions, including baselessly smearing educators as child abusers
It appears Walters is ready to take his grudge against teachers to a national stage by becoming CEO of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, which bills itself as an “alternative” to teachers unions.
“We’re going to destroy the teachers unions,” Walters said Wednesday night on Fox News, as he announced his resignation and new role. “We’ve seen [them] use money and power to corrupt our schools.”
He did not mention his resignation at the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s monthly meeting on Thursday. Instead, he used his opening remarks to speak about Charlie Kirk, the CEO of Turning Point USA who was fatally shot in Utah earlier this month, and gave the floor over to a TPUSA employee.
Walters announced on Tuesday that every high school in Oklahoma would have a TPUSA chapter on campus. Kirk toured college campuses through his work with the organization, and often spread racist and misogynistic rhetoric to his young audiences.
When a local reporter asked on Tuesday what would happen to schools that decline to establish a chapter, he threatened to revoke their accreditation. “They would be in danger of not being a school district if they decided to reject a club that is here to promote civic engagement,” he said.
It’s unclear whether the plan to establish Turning Point USA chapters at high schools will move forward after Walters leaves office.
The Oklahoma schools chief has been embroiled in a string of controversies and scandals.
Walters has spent the past three years claiming without evidence that Oklahoma public schools are awash in sexually explicit material. He appointed right-wing influencer Chaya Raichik to a library advisory committee in January 2024, despite her lack of experience. Raichik gained notoriety through her Libs of Tik Tok account on X (formerly Twitter), where she posts videos of teachers who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
After Donald Trump won the 2024 election, Walters proposed a rule for Oklahoma schools that would require districts to collect citizenship data, a measure that could have caused immigrant parents to pull their children from school. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1982 that all children, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to enroll in a public school, but Walters’ proposal was in line with Trump’s hard-line immigration policies.
The Christian right has been attempting to inject religion into the public school system, and Walters has been at the forefront of the movement. In June 2024, Walters ordered Oklahoma public schools to use the Bible in instruction, even though the U.S. Constitution prohibits the government from favoring one religion over another. He also attempted to purchase Bibles for schools that would enrich Trump ally Lee Greenwood, but was subsequently sued and blocked from implementing the policy.
Some organizations are celebrating his departure from Oklahoma schools.
“This is a win for Oklahomans. They’re better off without Walters,” Rachel Laser, the CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to keeping the government secular, said in a statement. “At every turn Ryan Walters abused the power of his government office as he attempted to impose his personal religious beliefs on Oklahoma school children.”
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Caveman
Hey looks it’s Mr/Ms. Slate
Hey looks it’s Mr/Ms. Slate
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
No comments:
Post a Comment