#MAGFAB: Jonathan Bailey Becomes First Openly Gay Man To become People's Sexiest Man Alive 2025:
Jonathan Bailey is making history as the first openly gay man to be chosen as People’s Sexiest Man Alive!
The 37-year-old actor was named as the title-holder on Monday night (November 3) during a segment on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Jonathan was live in the studio to reveal the news, popping up in front of a giant photo of the cover.
“It’s a huge honor. Obviously I’m incredibly flattered. And it’s completely absurd. [Laughs] It’s been a secret, so I’m quite excited for some friends and family to find out,” Jonathan told the magazine.
In the issue, Jonathan revealed his first crush. He said, “I’d say Prince Eric [from The Little Mermaid], but also Trini in Power Rangers. I remember accidentally throwing two garden tools over the fence trying to be her.”
This is an exciting time for Jonathan right now as he’s gearing up for the premiere of his upcoming movie Wicked: For Good, in which he plays leading man Fiyero. You might also know Jonathan from his roles on the Netflix series Bridgerton, Showtime’s Fellow Travelers, and the recent blockbuster movie Jurassic World Rebirth.
Something else that’s interesting is that this is only the second time in the past 10 years that someone younger than 40 has been chosen as Sexiest Man Alive. The other time was in 2020 when 33-year-old Michael B. Jordan earned the title.
Jonathan Bailey is making history as the first openly gay man to be chosen as People’s Sexiest Man Alive!
The 37-year-old actor was named as the title-holder on Monday night (November 3) during a segment on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Jonathan was live in the studio to reveal the news, popping up in front of a giant photo of the cover.
In the issue, Jonathan revealed his first crush. He said, “I’d say Prince Eric [from The Little Mermaid], but also Trini in Power Rangers. I remember accidentally throwing two garden tools over the fence trying to be her.”
Something else that’s interesting is that this is only the second time in the past 10 years that someone younger than 40 has been chosen as Sexiest Man Alive. The other time was in 2020 when 33-year-old Michael B. Jordan earned the title.
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Says Castmate ‘Keeps Trying To Beef’ With Her
Cynthia Bailey is returning to Real Housewives of Atlanta as a friend of the cast in Season 17. Filming is already underway, but according to Cynthia, one particular castmate keeps poking her bear, looking to ignite reactions out of our resident 50 Cynt.
Cynthia Bailey doesn’t want “any smoke” and is trying to “stay neutral” on RHOA
On a recent episode of her podcast, Humble Brag with Crystal and Cynthia, Cynthia spoke about her recent trip with the ladies of RHOA. During Season 17, viewers will see these witty hot messes heading to a Scottish castle. And as Cynthia teased with her cohost, Crystal Kung Minkoff, this trip and this season are “giving.”
Crystal wondered, did this trip add new drama to their current storylines, or did it heal things instead? “Oh. Definitely more drama, and like, a little bit of healing,” Cynthia said.
As Cynthia further explained, “In the beginning, when you first start filming, certain people have drama with each other. And then they come to some [form] of closure, or they just let it play out. But I think what happened in Scotland was [that] things shifted a bit.”
But is Cynthia “beefing with anyone?” Laughing, Cynthia quipped, “You know, that’s a great question. I’m not beefing with anyone. But someone keeps trying to beef with me.”
Crystal next asked Cynthia how she was dealing with this unnamed instigator. “Well, I mean, if you come for me, I’m gonna have to respond,” Cynthia joked. But as she ended, “I don’t really want any smoke, to be honest. I am trying to stay as neutral as I can.”
Cynthia Bailey doesn’t want “any smoke” and is trying to “stay neutral” on RHOA
On a recent episode of her podcast, Humble Brag with Crystal and Cynthia, Cynthia spoke about her recent trip with the ladies of RHOA. During Season 17, viewers will see these witty hot messes heading to a Scottish castle. And as Cynthia teased with her cohost, Crystal Kung Minkoff, this trip and this season are “giving.”
Crystal wondered, did this trip add new drama to their current storylines, or did it heal things instead? “Oh. Definitely more drama, and like, a little bit of healing,” Cynthia said.
As Cynthia further explained, “In the beginning, when you first start filming, certain people have drama with each other. And then they come to some [form] of closure, or they just let it play out. But I think what happened in Scotland was [that] things shifted a bit.”
But is Cynthia “beefing with anyone?” Laughing, Cynthia quipped, “You know, that’s a great question. I’m not beefing with anyone. But someone keeps trying to beef with me.”
Crystal next asked Cynthia how she was dealing with this unnamed instigator. “Well, I mean, if you come for me, I’m gonna have to respond,” Cynthia joked. But as she ended, “I don’t really want any smoke, to be honest. I am trying to stay as neutral as I can.”
#NewMusic from Trevor Jackson Releases New EP “Goodbye”
Trevor Jackson, the multi-talented artist, actor, and creative visionary, has released his latest project, the “Goodbye” EP. This installment is the highly anticipated second part of his “I Love You, Goodbye” series, available now on all streaming platforms via UnitedMasters.
Following the successful “I Love You” EP, which celebrated the warmth of connection, “Goodbye” dives into the complex emotions that follow a split: heartbreak, healing, and clarity. Across five deeply personal tracks, Jackson reflects on the challenging emotional journey between holding on and moving forward.
LISTEN HERE:
This EP sets the stage for his major upcoming release: the full-length album, “I Love You, Goodbye (The Greatest Breakup Album of All Time)”, arriving in November.
The “Goodbye” EP is spearheaded by the introspective single “Man of Steel,” a track that perfectly encapsulates Trevor Jackson’s signature blend of soulful R&B, pop, and alternative influences.
Other notable tracks on the EP include:
“This Doesn’t End Like The Movies”
“Kept It” (watch the video below)
“Bleed Next to a Shark”
Each song features sleek, cinematic production and offers fans an unfiltered look at vulnerability and resilience.
Jackson describes the intention behind this essential R&B project:
“‘Goodbye’ is about release, that moment when you finally accept that love changes, but it doesn’t have to disappear. It’s not the end, it’s the in-between.”
Produced by Trevor Jackson and Brunes Charles, the “Goodbye” EP continues the emotional narrative built throughout this era, exploring every phase of love with honesty.
With over 100 million global streams and a celebrated career spanning music, television, and film, Trevor Jackson continues to evolve as a major R&B artist and heartfelt storyteller. The “Goodbye” EP is a testament to this growth—a powerful reflection on endings that still make room for hope.
Stream the new Trevor Jackson $Goodbye$ EP now on Apple Music, Spotify, and all major streaming platforms!
This EP sets the stage for his major upcoming release: the full-length album, “I Love You, Goodbye (The Greatest Breakup Album of All Time)”, arriving in November.
The “Goodbye” EP is spearheaded by the introspective single “Man of Steel,” a track that perfectly encapsulates Trevor Jackson’s signature blend of soulful R&B, pop, and alternative influences.
Other notable tracks on the EP include:
“This Doesn’t End Like The Movies”
“Kept It” (watch the video below)
“Bleed Next to a Shark”
Each song features sleek, cinematic production and offers fans an unfiltered look at vulnerability and resilience.
Jackson describes the intention behind this essential R&B project:
“‘Goodbye’ is about release, that moment when you finally accept that love changes, but it doesn’t have to disappear. It’s not the end, it’s the in-between.”
Produced by Trevor Jackson and Brunes Charles, the “Goodbye” EP continues the emotional narrative built throughout this era, exploring every phase of love with honesty.
With over 100 million global streams and a celebrated career spanning music, television, and film, Trevor Jackson continues to evolve as a major R&B artist and heartfelt storyteller. The “Goodbye” EP is a testament to this growth—a powerful reflection on endings that still make room for hope.
Stream the new Trevor Jackson $Goodbye$ EP now on Apple Music, Spotify, and all major streaming platforms!
#HipHopNews: Young Bleed, No Limit Affiliate & Baton Rouge Rapper, Dead At 50
Young Bleed, the Baton Rouge lyricist who helped define Louisiana Hip-Hop in the late 1990s with his storytelling style and early collaborations with Master P, has died following complications from a brain aneurysm, according to his son. He was 50.
“Rip to the biggest legend I kno…. Young bleed!!!” he wrote in the caption. “Love u Dad so much and will definitely miss u… but imma carry the torch from here I got u #youngbleed #mydad # #myfather @therealyoungbleed I’m glad he went out in style!!!! One time fa the one time.”
Born Glenn Clifton Jr., Young Bleed rose to prominence under the No Limit banner with his 1998 album My Balls and My Word, which peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard 200 and became one of the label’s signature releases. The project featured the regional hit “How Ya Do Dat,” a collaboration with C-Loc and Master P that helped bring Baton Rouge’s rap scene to national attention.
Bleed collapsed in Las Vegas last week following his performance at the Cash Money vs. No Limit Verzuz event at ComplexCon. He was placed on a ventilator after being diagnosed with a brain aneurysm caused by internal bleeding.
Bleed had continued performing and releasing independent projects through his Trapdoor Entertainment imprint, maintaining a cult following for his Southern-fried storytelling and soulful delivery.
On social media, tributes poured in from Louisiana artists who credited him with opening doors for Baton Rouge Hip-Hop long before the rise of figures like Boosie Badazz and Kevin Gates.
Funeral details have not been announced.
“Rip to the biggest legend I kno…. Young bleed!!!” he wrote in the caption. “Love u Dad so much and will definitely miss u… but imma carry the torch from here I got u #youngbleed #mydad # #myfather @therealyoungbleed I’m glad he went out in style!!!! One time fa the one time.”
Born Glenn Clifton Jr., Young Bleed rose to prominence under the No Limit banner with his 1998 album My Balls and My Word, which peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard 200 and became one of the label’s signature releases. The project featured the regional hit “How Ya Do Dat,” a collaboration with C-Loc and Master P that helped bring Baton Rouge’s rap scene to national attention.
Bleed collapsed in Las Vegas last week following his performance at the Cash Money vs. No Limit Verzuz event at ComplexCon. He was placed on a ventilator after being diagnosed with a brain aneurysm caused by internal bleeding.
Bleed had continued performing and releasing independent projects through his Trapdoor Entertainment imprint, maintaining a cult following for his Southern-fried storytelling and soulful delivery.
On social media, tributes poured in from Louisiana artists who credited him with opening doors for Baton Rouge Hip-Hop long before the rise of figures like Boosie Badazz and Kevin Gates.
Funeral details have not been announced.
#RIP: Oscar-nominated actress Diane Ladd dies at 89
Diane Ladd, three-time Academy Award nominee and star of Wild at Heart, has died aged 89.
Her daughter, actress Laura Dern, confirmed her death on Monday.
"My amazing hero and my profound gift of a mother, Diane Ladd, passed with me beside her this morning," Dern said in a statement, adding that her final moments were spent at home in California.
Dern, who starred with her mother in 1991's Rambling Rose, did not share Ladd's cause of death.
"She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have seemingly created," Dern said. "We were blessed to have her."
Ladd's career on stage and screen spanned decades. Her big break in film came as a waitress in Martin Scorsese's Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore in 1974, which earned her an Oscar nomination.
She went on to appear in dozens of films after that, including as recently as 2022, when she played a grandmother in the coming-of-age film Gigi & Nate, and also acted frequently on television shows.
She was married to actor Bruce Dern from 1960 to 1969. The couple had two children, Oscar-winner Laura Dern and a baby girl, Diane Elizabeth Dern, who died in an accident in 1962, when she was 18 months old.
"She fell into the pool. She hit her head and knocked herself out. And it all happened instantly. And she died, and you will never get over that," Ladd told the BBC's US partner CBS News in 2023.
Ladd had a close relationship with Laura, her second child, and they shared the screen many times. When Dern starred in David Lynch's Wild at Heart and later in the HBO series Enlightened, Ladd played her mother both times.
They were also the first mother-daughter pair to be nominated for an Academy Award for the same movie, Rambling Rose. Neither won that year.
In 2023, they wrote a book together called Honey, Baby, Mine: A Mother and Daughter Talk Life, Death, Love.
Ladd told CBS that she originally discouraged Dern from becoming an actress.
"She was only, like, 11 years old, and I said, 'Don't be an actress. Be a doctor, be a lawyer,'" she said. "Nobody cares if you put on weight or your chin points when you cry if you're a doctor. They just want you to be the best you can be. But an actress? They care, care, care, care, care."
Dern says she pushed back. "No. It is all I knew," she said.
Paying tribute to the actress, Scorsese said: "I have so many good memories of making Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, and my experiences with Diane are among the best.
"I felt that it was so important for the picture to let the actors run with their characters, and what an experience it was to watch Diane take the character of Flo and make something so vivid and funny and alive."
He added: "Diane was a great improvisational actor - a matter of technique and discipline, but most of all instinct and artistry - and she had it all."
Russell Simmons Pays Outstanding Settlements Over Sex Assault Claims
Russell Simmons has quietly resolved a protracted financial dispute with three women who accused him of sexual misconduct after failing to pay over $3 million in agreed settlements for more than a year.
The Def Jam co-founder reached a resolution with accusers Wendy Franco, Sil Lai Abrams and Sherri Abernathy just days after Rolling Stone sent detailed questions about his nonpayment to his legal team. The terms of the resolution remain confidential.
Simmons had signed settlement agreements in November 2023 totaling $3.045 million with the three women, but missed his payment deadline in October 2024.
Court documents revealed he owed Franco $515,000 and both Abrams and Abernathy $1,265,000 each for claims related to alleged sexual misconduct dating back to the 1980s and 1990s.
The Hip-Hop pioneer’s failure to honor the settlements caused additional emotional trauma for the women, who described the year-long delay as devastating. While Simmons missed his payment obligations, he maintained an active social media presence from his residence in Bali, Indonesia, where he has lived since 2018.
His Instagram account features yoga sessions, meditation posts and wellness content from his involvement with the Gdas Bali Health and Wellness Resort. The settlement delays occurred as Simmons faces additional financial pressures.
Court filings show that he owes at least $8 million to three other accusers—Tina Klein-Baker, Toni Sallie, and Alexia Jones—who claim he has paid only $220,000 of the agreed-upon settlements as of January 2025.
Simmons has also been battling his ex-wife, Kimora Lee, in court over millions of dollars in Celsius energy drink shares that federal authorities want to seize following money-laundering charges against Kimora’s ex-husband, Tim Leissner.
The music mogul filed a $20 million defamation lawsuit against HBO and documentary filmmakers in June 2025 over the 2020 film “On the Record,” which featured interviews with several of his accusers. HBO called the lawsuit lacking “both merit and substance.”
Simmons has repeatedly denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, stating in 2017 that “these horrific accusations have shocked me to my core and all of my relations have been consensual.”
The Def Jam co-founder reached a resolution with accusers Wendy Franco, Sil Lai Abrams and Sherri Abernathy just days after Rolling Stone sent detailed questions about his nonpayment to his legal team. The terms of the resolution remain confidential.
Simmons had signed settlement agreements in November 2023 totaling $3.045 million with the three women, but missed his payment deadline in October 2024.
Court documents revealed he owed Franco $515,000 and both Abrams and Abernathy $1,265,000 each for claims related to alleged sexual misconduct dating back to the 1980s and 1990s.
The Hip-Hop pioneer’s failure to honor the settlements caused additional emotional trauma for the women, who described the year-long delay as devastating. While Simmons missed his payment obligations, he maintained an active social media presence from his residence in Bali, Indonesia, where he has lived since 2018.
His Instagram account features yoga sessions, meditation posts and wellness content from his involvement with the Gdas Bali Health and Wellness Resort. The settlement delays occurred as Simmons faces additional financial pressures.
Court filings show that he owes at least $8 million to three other accusers—Tina Klein-Baker, Toni Sallie, and Alexia Jones—who claim he has paid only $220,000 of the agreed-upon settlements as of January 2025.
Simmons has also been battling his ex-wife, Kimora Lee, in court over millions of dollars in Celsius energy drink shares that federal authorities want to seize following money-laundering charges against Kimora’s ex-husband, Tim Leissner.
The music mogul filed a $20 million defamation lawsuit against HBO and documentary filmmakers in June 2025 over the 2020 film “On the Record,” which featured interviews with several of his accusers. HBO called the lawsuit lacking “both merit and substance.”
Simmons has repeatedly denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, stating in 2017 that “these horrific accusations have shocked me to my core and all of my relations have been consensual.”
Jhené Aiko & Big Sean Reportedly End Relationship After 10-Year Love Affair
Jhené Aiko and Big Sean, one of rap’s favorite couples for the longest, have officially parted ways. This is like a decade of love, music and family down the drain.
The split reportedly didn’t happen overnight. Sources say Aiko made the difficult decision after “multiple ultimatums” and ongoing disagreements about marriage. Big Sean got the dad bod…what happened?
“She wanted marriage — she wanted the commitment,” one source said. “Sean loves her deeply, but he just never wanted to take that final step.”
The couple share a 3-year-old son and have been “together” on and off since the mid-2010s. That’s been a minute. Their relationship was unique and they even have an album they gave birth to. Twenty88 was a game changing opus.
Friends say Aiko’s patience eventually ran out. “Eventually, she realized that ring wasn’t coming,” the insider said. “She decided it was time to move on.”
There’s no drama between the two, according to the chatter. “They’re in a great place — it’s peaceful. They both respect each other too much to let things get messy. They just want to do what’s best for their child,” the source said.
All of this took a couple days to break on social media.
Fans have noticed both artists focusing on solo music in recent months. Aiko has been spotted in the studio and Big Sean is reportedly preparing his next album. This does not feel like they are getting back. I thought they were headed for marriage after the baby, but I was wrong. That being said, time will tell.
Jhené Aiko and Big Sean, one of rap’s favorite couples for the longest, have officially parted ways. This is like a decade of love, music and family down the drain.
The split reportedly didn’t happen overnight. Sources say Aiko made the difficult decision after “multiple ultimatums” and ongoing disagreements about marriage. Big Sean got the dad bod…what happened?
“She wanted marriage — she wanted the commitment,” one source said. “Sean loves her deeply, but he just never wanted to take that final step.”
The couple share a 3-year-old son and have been “together” on and off since the mid-2010s. That’s been a minute. Their relationship was unique and they even have an album they gave birth to. Twenty88 was a game changing opus.
Friends say Aiko’s patience eventually ran out. “Eventually, she realized that ring wasn’t coming,” the insider said. “She decided it was time to move on.”
There’s no drama between the two, according to the chatter. “They’re in a great place — it’s peaceful. They both respect each other too much to let things get messy. They just want to do what’s best for their child,” the source said.
All of this took a couple days to break on social media.
Fans have noticed both artists focusing on solo music in recent months. Aiko has been spotted in the studio and Big Sean is reportedly preparing his next album. This does not feel like they are getting back. I thought they were headed for marriage after the baby, but I was wrong. That being said, time will tell.
Michelle Williams Says “Sexy Daddy” Is Destiny’s Child’s Most Underrated Song
#MichelleWilliams wants y’all to give some love to one of Destiny’s Child’s most slept-on tracks.
During a recent interview with PEOPLE at the 27th Annual Angel Ball in New York City, Michelle was asked to name the group’s most underrated song. Sharing her truth, she said, “Oh, ‘Sexy Daddy’ from the #Survivor album.” Survivor, #DestinysChild’s third studio album, released in 2001, produced several major hits including singles Survivor, #Bootylicious, and Emotion. The album itself was also a huge hit, securing the group an American Music Award, Grammy nomination, and TMF Award.
Do you agree with Michelle, is Sexy Daddy really one of Destiny’s Child’s most underrated tracks?
During a recent interview with PEOPLE at the 27th Annual Angel Ball in New York City, Michelle was asked to name the group’s most underrated song. Sharing her truth, she said, “Oh, ‘Sexy Daddy’ from the #Survivor album.” Survivor, #DestinysChild’s third studio album, released in 2001, produced several major hits including singles Survivor, #Bootylicious, and Emotion. The album itself was also a huge hit, securing the group an American Music Award, Grammy nomination, and TMF Award.
Do you agree with Michelle, is Sexy Daddy really one of Destiny’s Child’s most underrated tracks?
Paris Jackson Accuses Lawyers of Skimming Money from Michael Jackson's Estate
Last year Michael Jackson's children were temporarily cut off from their allowance after the executors of his estate fell behind on tax payment. Now Paris Jackson is accusing the estate lawyers of skimming money...
Michael Jackson's family is in a financial panic as a recent court filing revealed potential payouts for a pending six abuse lawsuit and other concerns – on top of previously alleged tax debts to Uncle Sam – that could decimate the King of Pop's estimated $788 million fortune and evaporate the hefty allowances of his heirs, RadarOnline.com can reveal.
The details came to light after peeved Paris Jackson accused lawyers of siphoning dough from her father's estate. She filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court demanding a full accounting of legal expenses after spotting alleged "irregular payments" made by John Branca and John McClain, executors of MJ's estate.
Last year Michael Jackson's children were temporarily cut off from their allowance after the executors of his estate fell behind on tax payment. Now Paris Jackson is accusing the estate lawyers of skimming money...
Michael Jackson's family is in a financial panic as a recent court filing revealed potential payouts for a pending six abuse lawsuit and other concerns – on top of previously alleged tax debts to Uncle Sam – that could decimate the King of Pop's estimated $788 million fortune and evaporate the hefty allowances of his heirs, RadarOnline.com can reveal.
The details came to light after peeved Paris Jackson accused lawyers of siphoning dough from her father's estate. She filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court demanding a full accounting of legal expenses after spotting alleged "irregular payments" made by John Branca and John McClain, executors of MJ's estate.
"As painful as it is to say in print, the present records suggest that a group of closely knit, highly compensated lawyers is exploiting Executors' lack of oversight to skim money from the Estate, in plain view," her lawyer wrote in a 16-page document.
"Even worse, these payments appear, at least in part, to consist of lavish gratuities bestowed upon already well-compensated counsel."
Paris also asked the judge to halt all legal payments until her petition is resolved.
However, the executors vehemently denied the charges and filed court papers stating the estate is fending off a series of lawsuits, including the long-standing claim by Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who charge MJ molested them as children while his employees turned a blind eye.
What's more, the executors asked the judge in their motion to reject Paris' petition to halt all legal payments because if certain expenses were not compensated 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," adding that the two accusers are seeking $400 million in damages. The ruling is pending.
Alleged Fake Drake Streams Are At The Center Of A New Spotify Lawsuit
Spotify is being accused in a new class-action lawsuit of allowing billions of fraudulent streams, with Drake specifically being named as someone whose numbers were doctored.
On Sunday (Nov. 2), rapper RBX filed a complaint against the music streaming service in United States District Court for the Central District of California, on behalf of himself and "on behalf of all other members of the general public similarly situated." The suit claims Spotify has allowed large-scale fraud on its platform, which has resulted in billions of fake streams gained through illegal methods.
"Data analysis shows that billions of fraudulent streams have been generated with respect to songs of 'the most streamed artist of all time,'" the filing reads. "Aubrey Drake Graham, professionally known as Drake ('Drake'). But while the streaming fraud with respect to Drake’s songs may be one example, it does not stand alone."
RBX insists that from January of 2022 and September of 2025, a large of amount of Drake's 37 billion streams were "inauthentic and appeared to be the work of a sprawling network of Bot Accounts."
He notes in his allegations that, through his research, Spotify listeners listen to 10 songs a day on average. However, he claims that in some cases Drake "users" listened exclusively to Drake's music for 23 hours a day. He also notes that many of Drake's streams were "concentrated around areas whose populations could not support the volume of streams."
RBX is requesting a jury trial and damages to be determined.
In response to the new lawsuit, a spokesperson for Spotify has released the following statement to XXL.
“We cannot comment on pending litigation," the statement reads. "However, Spotify in no way benefits from the industry-wide challenge of artificial streaming. We heavily invest in always-improving, best-in-class systems to combat it and safeguard artist payouts with strong protections like removing fake streams, withholding royalties, and charging penalties. Our systems are working: In a case from last year, one bad actor was indicted for stealing $10,000,000 from streaming services, only $60,000 of which came from Spotify, proving how effective we are at limiting the impact of artificial streaming on our platform.”
#FASHIONFAB: Cynthia Erivo in Schiaparelli Couture At The LACMA Art + Film Gala 2025
Cynthia Erivo said “All eyes on me, please.” The star of the upcoming Wicked: For Good has not yet opted to return to her Elphaba cosplay ways leading up to the no-doubt exhaustive and exhausting promotional tour. Instead, she came to the LACMA Art + Film Gala, usually seen as one of the opening salvos in awards campaigning season in a boldly unusual Schiaparelli without any witchy vibes
Nice!
Dick Cheney, influential Republican vice president to George W. Bush, Dies at 84
Dick Cheney, America’s most powerful modern vice president and chief architect of the “war on terror,” who helped lead the country into the ill-fated Iraq war on faulty assumptions, has died, according to a statement from his family. He was 84.
The 46th vice president, who served alongside Republican President George W. Bush for two terms between 2001 and 2009, was for decades a towering and polarizing Washington power player. In his final years, however, Cheney, still a hardline conservative, nevertheless became largely ostracized from his party over his intense criticism of President Donald Trump whom he branded a “coward” and the greatest-ever threat to the republic.
In an ironic coda to a storied political career, he cast his final vote in a presidential election in 2024 for a liberal Democrat, and fellow member of the vice president’s club, Kamala Harris, in a reflection of how the populist GOP had turned against his traditional conservatism.
Cheney was plagued by cardiovascular disease for most of his adult life, surviving a series of heart attacks, to lead a full, vigorous life and lived many years in retirement after a heart transplant in 2012 that he hailed in a 2014 interview as “the gift of life itself.”
Cheney, a sardonic former Wyoming representative, White House chief of staff and defense secretary, was enjoying a lucrative career in the corporate world when he was charged by George W. Bush with vetting potential vice-presidential nominees. The quest ended with Cheney himself taking the oath of office as a worldly number two to a callow new president who arrived in the Oval Office after a disputed election.
While caricatures of Cheney as the real president do not accurately capture the true dynamics of Bush’s inner circle, he relished the enormous influence that he wielded from behind the scenes.
Cheney was in the White House, with the president out of town on the crisp, clear morning of September 11, 2001. In the split second of horror when a second hijacked plane hit the World Trade Center in New York, he said he became a changed man, determined to avenge the al Qaeda-orchestrated attacks and to enforce US power throughout the Middle East with a neo-conservative doctrine of regime change and pre-emptive war.
“At that moment, you knew this was a deliberate act. This was a terrorist act,” he recalled of that day in an interview with CNN’s John King in 2002.
Cheney reflected in later years on how the attacks left him with overwhelming sense of responsibility to ensure such an assault on the homeland never happened again. Perceptions however that he was the sole driving force behind the war on terror and US ventures into Iraq and Afghanistan are misleading.
Contemporary and historic accounts of the administration show that Bush was his own self-styled “The Decider.”
The 46th vice president, who served alongside Republican President George W. Bush for two terms between 2001 and 2009, was for decades a towering and polarizing Washington power player. In his final years, however, Cheney, still a hardline conservative, nevertheless became largely ostracized from his party over his intense criticism of President Donald Trump whom he branded a “coward” and the greatest-ever threat to the republic.
In an ironic coda to a storied political career, he cast his final vote in a presidential election in 2024 for a liberal Democrat, and fellow member of the vice president’s club, Kamala Harris, in a reflection of how the populist GOP had turned against his traditional conservatism.
Cheney was plagued by cardiovascular disease for most of his adult life, surviving a series of heart attacks, to lead a full, vigorous life and lived many years in retirement after a heart transplant in 2012 that he hailed in a 2014 interview as “the gift of life itself.”
Cheney, a sardonic former Wyoming representative, White House chief of staff and defense secretary, was enjoying a lucrative career in the corporate world when he was charged by George W. Bush with vetting potential vice-presidential nominees. The quest ended with Cheney himself taking the oath of office as a worldly number two to a callow new president who arrived in the Oval Office after a disputed election.
While caricatures of Cheney as the real president do not accurately capture the true dynamics of Bush’s inner circle, he relished the enormous influence that he wielded from behind the scenes.
Cheney was in the White House, with the president out of town on the crisp, clear morning of September 11, 2001. In the split second of horror when a second hijacked plane hit the World Trade Center in New York, he said he became a changed man, determined to avenge the al Qaeda-orchestrated attacks and to enforce US power throughout the Middle East with a neo-conservative doctrine of regime change and pre-emptive war.
“At that moment, you knew this was a deliberate act. This was a terrorist act,” he recalled of that day in an interview with CNN’s John King in 2002.
Cheney reflected in later years on how the attacks left him with overwhelming sense of responsibility to ensure such an assault on the homeland never happened again. Perceptions however that he was the sole driving force behind the war on terror and US ventures into Iraq and Afghanistan are misleading.
Contemporary and historic accounts of the administration show that Bush was his own self-styled “The Decider.”
Diarrha N’Diaye Named Executive Vice President Of Kim Kardashian’s Skims Beauty Brand
Diarrha N’Diaye, the visionary founder behind the beauty brand Ami Colé, has been appointed Executive Vice President of Beauty and Fragrance at Kim Kardashian’s Skims Beauty, marking a major new chapter in her career.
In her new role, N’Diaye will oversee product development, innovation, and brand strategy, helping to shape the beauty arm of the billion-dollar Skims empire as it expands beyond its core apparel offerings.
“I have sat on salon floors, worked eight-hour shifts at beauty retailers, started a company, and am now taking an executive seat at a beauty brand promising to bring a fresh approach to beauty,” N’Diaye tells The Cut exclusively.
“I have been around the block, and I’m happy to bring this vault of knowledge to Kim’s beauty closet to work on a new wave of inclusive beauty for all. The sky really is the limit, and I want every little brown girl to know that.”
In a press release, N’Diaye said she’s “excited to bring in best-in-class formulas and a customer-first mentality to Skims Beauty.” Kardashian echoed the excitement, adding, “I want Skims Beauty to be a place where everyone feels represented, and there was no better person to help us do that than Diarrha.”
The announcement follows the September 30 closure of N’Diaye’s beloved brand Ami Colé, which she founded in 2021 to celebrate melanin-rich skin.
“I meant what I said about my love, dedication, and obsession with our beloved beauty industry. I am proud to have lived my dream out loud, failed, and dusted myself off into an amazing new opportunity to continue to do the work,” N’Diaye said.
Her move to Skims Beauty signals a powerful new era—one focused on inclusivity, innovation, and authenticity.
Diarrha N’Diaye, the visionary founder behind the beauty brand Ami Colé, has been appointed Executive Vice President of Beauty and Fragrance at Kim Kardashian’s Skims Beauty, marking a major new chapter in her career.
In her new role, N’Diaye will oversee product development, innovation, and brand strategy, helping to shape the beauty arm of the billion-dollar Skims empire as it expands beyond its core apparel offerings.
“I have sat on salon floors, worked eight-hour shifts at beauty retailers, started a company, and am now taking an executive seat at a beauty brand promising to bring a fresh approach to beauty,” N’Diaye tells The Cut exclusively.
“I have been around the block, and I’m happy to bring this vault of knowledge to Kim’s beauty closet to work on a new wave of inclusive beauty for all. The sky really is the limit, and I want every little brown girl to know that.”
In a press release, N’Diaye said she’s “excited to bring in best-in-class formulas and a customer-first mentality to Skims Beauty.” Kardashian echoed the excitement, adding, “I want Skims Beauty to be a place where everyone feels represented, and there was no better person to help us do that than Diarrha.”
The announcement follows the September 30 closure of N’Diaye’s beloved brand Ami Colé, which she founded in 2021 to celebrate melanin-rich skin.
“I meant what I said about my love, dedication, and obsession with our beloved beauty industry. I am proud to have lived my dream out loud, failed, and dusted myself off into an amazing new opportunity to continue to do the work,” N’Diaye said.
Her move to Skims Beauty signals a powerful new era—one focused on inclusivity, innovation, and authenticity.
Pras Michel Ordered To Pay $64M To Government Amid Federal Conspiracy, Illegal Lobbying Convictions
Pras Michel, the Grammy-winning rapper and founding member of The Fugees, has been ordered to pay nearly $65 million to the federal government following his conviction on multiple conspiracy-related charges.
According to court documents obtained by Complex, federal Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ruled that Pras had “obtained proceeds in the amount of at least $64,923,226 from his offense” for failing to register as an agent of China, conspiracy, and witness tampering.
Michel was found guilty in April 2023 on 10 criminal counts, including conspiracy and foreign lobbying.
The charges stemmed from his alleged role in helping Malaysian financier Jho Low gain political access to former U.S. presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, while also participating in schemes to illegally fund parts of their respective presidential campaigns.
“They already took 100 [million] from him and now they want another 64 [million],” Pras’ spokeswoman Erica Dumas told Billboard, expressing frustration over the mounting financial penalties the artist faces.
Michel’s legal troubles have been compounded by health concerns. His sentencing, originally scheduled for September, was postponed after he underwent emergency surgery for colon cancer.
“Due to emergency surgery to treat colon cancer, Pras was unable to appear at Friday’s scheduled sentencing,” Dumas told Rolling Stone at the time. “We are hopeful for his swift healing and recovery during this challenging chapter.”
Adding further controversy to the case, in 2024, Pras’ lawyer David Kenner pleaded guilty to criminal contempt of court for leaking confidential grand jury materials to Bloomberg News. Kenner had represented Michel throughout the high-profile federal conspiracy proceedings.
The rapper is now expected to be sentenced in December, where he faces up to 10 years in federal prison, though his attorneys have requested a reduced sentence of three years in light of his medical condition and cooperation with authorities.
According to court documents obtained by Complex, federal Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ruled that Pras had “obtained proceeds in the amount of at least $64,923,226 from his offense” for failing to register as an agent of China, conspiracy, and witness tampering.
Michel was found guilty in April 2023 on 10 criminal counts, including conspiracy and foreign lobbying.
The charges stemmed from his alleged role in helping Malaysian financier Jho Low gain political access to former U.S. presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, while also participating in schemes to illegally fund parts of their respective presidential campaigns.
“They already took 100 [million] from him and now they want another 64 [million],” Pras’ spokeswoman Erica Dumas told Billboard, expressing frustration over the mounting financial penalties the artist faces.
Michel’s legal troubles have been compounded by health concerns. His sentencing, originally scheduled for September, was postponed after he underwent emergency surgery for colon cancer.
“Due to emergency surgery to treat colon cancer, Pras was unable to appear at Friday’s scheduled sentencing,” Dumas told Rolling Stone at the time. “We are hopeful for his swift healing and recovery during this challenging chapter.”
Adding further controversy to the case, in 2024, Pras’ lawyer David Kenner pleaded guilty to criminal contempt of court for leaking confidential grand jury materials to Bloomberg News. Kenner had represented Michel throughout the high-profile federal conspiracy proceedings.
The rapper is now expected to be sentenced in December, where he faces up to 10 years in federal prison, though his attorneys have requested a reduced sentence of three years in light of his medical condition and cooperation with authorities.
Ariana Grande Will Miss 'Wicked' Brazil Premiere Due to Flight Issues
Ariana Grande has sadly told fans that she will be missing the upcoming Brazil premiere of Wicked: For Good due to travel issues she’s facing.
The 32-year-old singer and actress took to her Instagram Stories in the early morning hours of Tuesday (November 4) to share the upsetting news.
“Brazil, I can’t believe this is happening and I am beyond devastated to be sending this message,” she began the open letter.
Ariana continued, “A few hours ago, my team and I had to deplane our flight, as they had to do maintenance on the plane due to a safety issue and it will not be taking off until 11am tomorrow which means that I would not be making it in time for the Wicked For Good Sao Paulo premiere.”
“My team and Universal have tried every single thing possible to fix this, we’ve searched every other flight, overnight, early morning, connecting flights, commercial and also private options and absolutely nothing was available or possible that would get us there in time, even in attempting a private option, there is a permit necessary in order to fly from here that takes time to attain,” Ariana said.
“I am so heartbroken that I’m unable to be there with you all. We sincerely tried everything we could and I apologize from the bottom of my heart,” she concluded. “Please shower my incredible castmates with all of the love that I wish I could be showering you with and have the most beautiful celebration. And again, I am so, so very sorry.”
The first screening of Wicked: For Good took place last week in New York City for members of the Broadway company of the musical!
Premieres will take place in Sao Paulo on November 4, Paris on November 7, London on November 10, Singapore on November 13, and New York on November 17.
Ariana Grande has sadly told fans that she will be missing the upcoming Brazil premiere of Wicked: For Good due to travel issues she’s facing.
The 32-year-old singer and actress took to her Instagram Stories in the early morning hours of Tuesday (November 4) to share the upsetting news.
“Brazil, I can’t believe this is happening and I am beyond devastated to be sending this message,” she began the open letter.
Ariana continued, “A few hours ago, my team and I had to deplane our flight, as they had to do maintenance on the plane due to a safety issue and it will not be taking off until 11am tomorrow which means that I would not be making it in time for the Wicked For Good Sao Paulo premiere.”
“My team and Universal have tried every single thing possible to fix this, we’ve searched every other flight, overnight, early morning, connecting flights, commercial and also private options and absolutely nothing was available or possible that would get us there in time, even in attempting a private option, there is a permit necessary in order to fly from here that takes time to attain,” Ariana said.
“I am so heartbroken that I’m unable to be there with you all. We sincerely tried everything we could and I apologize from the bottom of my heart,” she concluded. “Please shower my incredible castmates with all of the love that I wish I could be showering you with and have the most beautiful celebration. And again, I am so, so very sorry.”
The first screening of Wicked: For Good took place last week in New York City for members of the Broadway company of the musical!
Premieres will take place in Sao Paulo on November 4, Paris on November 7, London on November 10, Singapore on November 13, and New York on November 17.
GLAAD Names Black Queer Creative Summit Winners in Partnership with Starz Initiative
*GLAAD has announced the winners of its TV Pilot Pitch Competition held during the recent Black Queer Creative Summit.
As Deadline reports, Jules Crosby claimed first place with “Don’t Try This at Home,” while Carlton V Bell II secured second with “un-United,” and Chas Jackson took third with “Miss Behavior.”
The competition, conducted in partnership with Starz and its #TakeTheLead diversity initiative, awarded cash prizes alongside participation in an eight-week virtual mentorship lab running from October through December. The program aims to provide customized guidance from industry professionals on script development, packaging, and pitching strategies. The curriculum addresses logline refinement, pilot structure, world-building, and script reviews. The top three winners also receive global Soho House memberships.
This year’s judging panel included director, writer, and producer Lee Daniels. “This competition is about more than great stories — it’s about making sure Black queer creators have the platform and support to share them. Their voices are vital, and their impact will be undeniable,” Daniels said.
Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming at Starz, emphasized the partnership’s significance. “We are honored to partner with GLAAD and its Black Queer Creative Summit. The three winners represent the bold and spirited ingenuity we celebrate and we are excited to work with these talented writers to craft and mold dynamic projects.”
Crosby received $5,000 for a project about friends protecting their queer wrestling league. Bell earned $3,500 for a post-apocalyptic story where HIV-positive individuals become humanity’s saviors. Jackson won $1,500 for a tale following an Oakland principal facing professional and personal crises. Three special runner-ups—Jonathan Horton, Amber J. Phillips, and Azure D. Osborne-Lee—each received $1,000 and group mentorship sessions.
As Deadline reports, Jules Crosby claimed first place with “Don’t Try This at Home,” while Carlton V Bell II secured second with “un-United,” and Chas Jackson took third with “Miss Behavior.”
The competition, conducted in partnership with Starz and its #TakeTheLead diversity initiative, awarded cash prizes alongside participation in an eight-week virtual mentorship lab running from October through December. The program aims to provide customized guidance from industry professionals on script development, packaging, and pitching strategies. The curriculum addresses logline refinement, pilot structure, world-building, and script reviews. The top three winners also receive global Soho House memberships.
This year’s judging panel included director, writer, and producer Lee Daniels. “This competition is about more than great stories — it’s about making sure Black queer creators have the platform and support to share them. Their voices are vital, and their impact will be undeniable,” Daniels said.
Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming at Starz, emphasized the partnership’s significance. “We are honored to partner with GLAAD and its Black Queer Creative Summit. The three winners represent the bold and spirited ingenuity we celebrate and we are excited to work with these talented writers to craft and mold dynamic projects.”
Crosby received $5,000 for a project about friends protecting their queer wrestling league. Bell earned $3,500 for a post-apocalyptic story where HIV-positive individuals become humanity’s saviors. Jackson won $1,500 for a tale following an Oakland principal facing professional and personal crises. Three special runner-ups—Jonathan Horton, Amber J. Phillips, and Azure D. Osborne-Lee—each received $1,000 and group mentorship sessions.
Six Flags America Says Goodbye After 50 Years
Six Flags America, a family favorite in Bowie, Maryland, officially closed its doors for good over the weekend after entertaining generations for 50 years.
Originally opened in 1974 as The Wildlife Preserve, the location evolved into a Six Flags property in 1999. The park hosted its final guests on Sunday, November 2, offering one last round of rides and memories before locking its gates.
“Thank you, Six Flags America fans, for 50 years of family fun. We will always cherish the memories made together,” the park posted on social media.
Six Flags America, a family favorite in Bowie, Maryland, officially closed its doors for good over the weekend after entertaining generations for 50 years.
Originally opened in 1974 as The Wildlife Preserve, the location evolved into a Six Flags property in 1999. The park hosted its final guests on Sunday, November 2, offering one last round of rides and memories before locking its gates.
“Thank you, Six Flags America fans, for 50 years of family fun. We will always cherish the memories made together,” the park posted on social media.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Pick up truck
Now that's some service.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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