#MAGFAB: The Risque POWERHOUSE that is Rihanna for Interview Magazine!
Rihanna is stirring up plenty of commentary with another head-turning look, this time on the cover of Interview Magazine.
Shot by Nadia Lee Cohen, the image for the cover story, titled "Rihanna is Ready to Confess," features the multi-hyphenate star in a stripped-down nun look that includes an oversized white shirt slipping down off one shoulder and full habit. Channeling both the '90s and Betty Boop aesthetics, her makeup look includes glossy red lips, bold blue eyeshadow and pencil-thin brows to set off her kohl-rimmed eyes.
Comments on Interview's Instagram post promoting the cover were largely critical, with many people calling the look "unholy" and "disrespectful," many claiming the singer was mocking Christianity. But Rihanna hinted in the interview, conducted by her former stylist and Interview Editor-in-Chief Mel Ottenberg, that her spirituality remains intact.
Rihanna is stirring up plenty of commentary with another head-turning look, this time on the cover of Interview Magazine.
Shot by Nadia Lee Cohen, the image for the cover story, titled "Rihanna is Ready to Confess," features the multi-hyphenate star in a stripped-down nun look that includes an oversized white shirt slipping down off one shoulder and full habit. Channeling both the '90s and Betty Boop aesthetics, her makeup look includes glossy red lips, bold blue eyeshadow and pencil-thin brows to set off her kohl-rimmed eyes.
When Ottenberg asked how many children Rihanna plans to have, the singer responded, "As many as God wants me to have."
The rest of the conversation pinballed between casual and deeper observations in the fun way only two old friends can have, with Ottenberg going off-script by tossing out his team's questions and instead diving into their shared history.
Rihanna posted the images to her personal Instagram, captioning one particularly un-glamorous shot, "literally how i feel in postpartum with 2 under 2."
Octavia Spencer chimed in beneath the post with her support, commenting, "You're still slaying it. Some of us are living peri and meni extremes!!! So, we need to remember to cut our fellow sisters some slack and lift each other up when we can."
This isn't the first time the singer has flirted with Catholic imagery. She famously donned a Maison Margiela bustier dress, coat and bishop's hat (also called a mitre) -- all dripping in jewels and pearls -- for the "Heavenly Bodies"-themed Met Gala in 2018 where she acted as co-host for the evening.
#RHOSLC: Rihanna Wants Monica Garcia Back on RHOSLC
The interview naturally then turned to the much-discussed friendship between the newly separated Kyle Richards and country singer Morgan Wade. Does Rihanna think they’re dating? “I mean, duh. Listen, I love Kyle. It’s weird commenting on her relationship because I don’t know the facts,” she said, before delving into the reality star’s perceived psyche like only a Bravoholic could. “I just feel like she was able to re-observe her marriage through a new lens. For once, someone else made her feel valued, made her feel like she was cute and quirky and fun and all the great things that maybe were taken for granted before. And that’s why I believe that there’s something with Morgan, because sometimes, it takes that for you to fight for what you deserve.”
Just this past December, Rihanna ran into Richards in her natural habitat, Aspen’s Kemo Sabe, where Ri ironically offered up advice on how to deal with people speculating about her relationships. “She said, ‘Next time one of these women want to know all the details of the intimacies of your marriage, tell them, ‘Why do I need to give you the blueprint to my home when I’m already renovated?’” Richards shared on Kelly Ripa’s podcast. Though, to Rihanna’s credit, she did draw the line at talking about vaping medium Allison DuBois’s prediction of Richards’s divorce: “I’m not getting into that. You messy bitch … That was really fucked up. The flashback of that.” Now we just need DuBois to tell us when we’re getting new music, though I fear the answer won’t emotionally fulfill us. Know that!
#MusicNews: Tamia and Joe Announce Fall 2024 Tour Dates
Tamia and Joe Thomas have extended their co-headlining tour into the fall.The R&B veterans have announced four new shows, with more dates to be unveiled soon. The fall leg kicks off Sept. 13 at Landers Center in Memphis, Tennessee, and will include stops in South Carolina, Florida, and Texas.
Presale tickets will be available Wednesday, April 10, at 10 a.m. local time. Tickets go on sale to the public Friday, April 12, at 10 a.m. local time.
Tamia and Joe kicked off their tour in Washington, D.C., in February. Their upcoming stops include Baltimore, Raleigh, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and more, before concluding in St. Louis on May 4.
Earlier this year, Tamia joined musical duo Louis York on their sweet duet “Three Little Words.” It marked Tamia’s first release since her 2018 album, Passion Like Fire. The album included the No. 1 hit “Leave It Smokin,” which topped R&B radio (formerly urban adult contemporary).
As for Joe, the honey-voiced singer released his final album, #MyNameIsJoeThomas, in 2016. It debuted at No. 16 on the Billboard 200, and included the No. 1 single “So I Can Have You Back.”
“Many artists at times say that their current project is their best piece of work to date, however, I can honestly say that this truly is not only my best, but one of my favorite discs ever,” Joe said about the album. “I put my heart and soul into the creation and performance of this record, and I can only hope that I am giving fans what they wish for in a Joe record.”
See Tamia and Joe’s tour dates below.
Tamia and Joe Fall 2024 Tour Dates
Sep 13 – Memphis, TN @ Landers Center
Oct 4 – Columbia, SC @ Colonial Life Arena
Oct 19 – Orlando, FL @ Addition Financial Arena
Nov 16 – Houston, TX @ NRG Arena
Tamia and Joe’s Upcoming Spring 2024 Tour Dates
Apr 12 – Baltimore, MD @ Lyric Theater
Apr 13 – Raleigh, NC @ PNC Arena
Apr 19 – Las Vegas, NV @ The Theater At Virgin Hotels
Apr 20 – Los Angeles, CA @ Peacock Theater
May 3 – Chicago, IL @ Arie Crown Theatre
May 4 – St. Louis, MO @ Chaifetz Arena
Get tickets at http://www.ticketmaster.com
#HipHopNews: Metro Boomin And Future Reveal 'WE STILL DON'T TRUST YOU' Cover
The black-and-white artwork, shot on 35-millimeter film by photographer Matt Adam, featured the rapper-producer duo occupying four corners. Notably, Metro and Future wore the same attire from their WE DON’T TRUST YOU cover as well as the album trailer for the forthcoming body of work.
“Haven’t you two caused enough chaos? Ha,” wrote Elliott Wilson in the comment section. Another social media user shared, “Ready for this is beyond a statement. That first album was so good, I wonder if [Metro] can carry it and make [Future] the artist of 2024.” Rob49, Doe Boy, Zaytoven and more also showed support underneath the post.
Metro and Future confirmed the LP’s imminent launch last Thursday (April 4) with a menacing teaser clip. The 30-second video saw the pair navigate a dimly lit room in white suits surrounded by luxury cars before culminating in the reveal of the release date.
WE DON’T TRUST YOU saw major commercial success last month. It landed at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart with 251,000 album-equivalent units in its first week, according to Luminate. It’s also worth mentioning that the joint effort amassed the highest sales week for a Hip Hop project in 2024 so far.
Metro celebrated the achievement on Twitter. He wrote, “ALL PURELY OFF STREAMS. NO PHYSICALS. NO BUNDLES. JUST GREAT MUSIC AND EMBRACE FROM YOU ALL! THANK YOU.”
The album’s standout track, “Like That,” also topped the Hot 100. The Kendrick Lamar-assisted cut got a boost from the Compton emcee taking jabs at Drake and J. Cole. Other fan favorites from the body of work included “Cinderella” and “Type S**t” with Travis Scott and Playboi Carti.
Aoki Lee Simmons And Her 65-Year-Old Man, Vittorio Assaf, Have Officially Split
Just days after their relationship went public, it’s been confirmed that Aoki Lee Simmons and her 65-year-old boyfriend, Vittorio Assaf, have ended their romance—that was apparently “never a thing” from the beginning.
A source reportedly close to the Simmons family told PEOPLE, “Not only is it ‘over,’ it was never a thing. Aoki is learning to navigate her private life in a public sphere. And that can be difficult. However, Kimora was concerned to see her daughter in that kind of relationship due to what she herself went through.”
The retired supermodel was only 17 when she met her ex-husband, Russell Simmons. He was 18 years her senior.
In regards to Aoki and Vittorio, who have a 44-year age gap, another source also told Page Six, “It’s 100% done. They’re absolutely not dating.”
On Friday (April 5), the Harvard graduate was spotted kissing the Serafina restauranteur while vacationing in St. Barth’s. Later, Aoki appeared on Instagram Live with Vittorio off-camera as they explored the island and she pointed out her favorite shops including Cartier and Bulgari.
She repeatedly called him her “boyfriend” as he slipped up and revealed that Mary J. Blige wanted to be “his partner” at some point. Aoki quickly told him to hush and he didn’t expound further.
Aoki is the youngest daughter of Kimora and Russell. The latter professed his “unconditional love” for his daughter amid news of her new relationship. Kimora didn’t make a formal statement regarding Aoki’s love life, but did celebrate her recent campaign with BCBG.
Dave Chappelle Says Dinner With Kanye West And “Naked” Bianca Censori Was “Uncomfortable”
According to a Reddit user, who says they attended a Chappelle comedy performance on Monday evening (April 8), the veteran comic began to detail the encounter between West, Censori, and himself during his set.
The showgoer also noted West was the subject of numerous jokes told by Chappelle throughout the performance, but that Chappelle made it clear that the two were on good terms and had no beef with one another.
“I went to a dave chappelle show last night and he had multiple jokes directed at ye,” the user wrote on the digital platform. “He recently had dinner with ye and bianca but said it was the most uncomfortable dinner hes ever attended because bianca was basically naked. He said it looked like she woke up put some makeup on, slapped some duct tape on her tittys and shoved a cork up her p*ssy and walked out the door.”
Chappelle’s alleged jokes regarding West and Censori have yet to surface online, but follows a trend in discourse regarding her propensity for being scantily clad in public. Some have even criticized West for seemingly showcasing Censori’s body for public consumption, an assertion the rapper has taken umbrage with, going as far as defending his incessant posts of his wife on social media.
“Ima post my wife as much as I want, bro,” the Chicago native wrote on Instagram in February 2024. “It makes me happy. Some people don’t want you to be happy. They want you to make them happy. I decided to make myself happy, and I’m happy with that.”
West continued, “I just want to tell everybody I posted my wife three times on purpose. So what I’m saying is, I delivered the album. And people still in my comments talking ’bout, ‘Why you posting your wife?’ Cause she makes me happy. That’s why y’all happy with the music because I’m happy. You understand?”
“So don’t ever say nothing negative,” he added. “If you don’t like my page and don’t like what I’m posting, go f**k yourself. Seriously…leave the king the f**k alone…I don’t care bro. I’m going to post my wife as much as I want. Go post your wife on your f**king Instagram.”
Jason Kelce Earns First Emmy Nominations With Documentary 'Kelce'
Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has added Emmy nominee to his list of accomplishments. His Amazon Prime documentary, "Kelce", has been nominated in two categories at the 45th annual Sports Emmy Awards: Outstanding Long Documentary and Outstanding Editing.
The documentary follows Kelce through the 2022 NFL season, a period marked by both personal and professional milestones. It captures his initial contemplation of retirement, the birth of his third daughter, and the debut of his popular podcast, "New Heights", with brother Travis Kelce. The film culminates in the historic Super Bowl LVII, where Jason faced off against Travis and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Accompanying Jason's career journey, the documentary offers a glimpse into his family life, featuring interviews with his wife, Kylie, his parents and his brothers. It also charts the impact of Travis's relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift on the Kelce family dynamic.
Despite the affectionate teasing, Taylor and Travis Kelce have been enjoying a relaxing offseason, recently returning from a vacation in the Bahamas. The couple has been spotted in public, displaying their affection and delight in their relationship.
"Kelce" premiered on Prime Video in September 2023 and quickly became the streamer's most-watched documentary in the U.S. Kelce's Emmy nominations add to the film's success, showcasing the emotional depth and behind-the-scenes insights it offers into one of football's most beloved players and his remarkable family.
‘9-1-1’ Casts Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Nurse Connected to Bobby
Uh-oh, should we be ready for more heartbreak for one of the members of the 118? 9-1-1 has added The Resident‘s Malcolm-Jamal Warner to play a nurse, Amir, in four episodes, according to Deadline. He works in a hospital burn unit and has a connection to Captain Bobby Nash’s (Peter Krause) past.
As 9-1-1 has shown in flashbacks in the past—origins stories have been “Begins” episodes—before Bobby moved out to Los Angeles, he lost his entire family in an apartment fire, one he inadvertently caused; his wife died of her burn injuries in the hospital.
Now, we’re about to meet someone from his past just as he and his wife Athena (Angela Bassett) have gotten past a rough patch during their honeymoon cruise ship — the disaster actually led to them talking about problems that have been brewing for some time.
“With all of their fears and things like that exposed, I think it’s just going to make them a better, more committed and healthy couple. I kind of think we see that at the end of the episode when they’re home with the Hollywood T-shirts and the bag of fast food and then they start laughing and run into the bedroom to be together,” Krause told TV Insider after the third episode (and conclusion of that disaster arc). “I think that’s the essence of their relationship, really, and it’s really nice to see Bobby in a more playful place.”
He added, “I think that his tragic past has less of a grip on him now, and he’s able to be a more consistently cheerful person. And I like how that translates into more playfulness with Athena.”
So will Bobby be able to stay in that “playful place” with this blast from his past coming his way? Will his tragic past grab a hold of him again like in the past? How worried should we be about Bobby? Or might this end up helping in a way that moves him forward even more
What are you hoping to see with Warner’s upcoming arc? 9-1-1, Thursdays, 8/7c, ABC
Beyoncé investing in one of America's oldest Black-owned beauty schools
The smell of a flat iron and the sound of clippers, words of wisdom and belly-deep laughter — beauty salons and barber shops have long been a sacred space for Black women and men to commune about everyday life.
For 109 years, one family has been investing in that space through the Franklin Institute, a barber and cosmetology school in Houston, Texas.
"'The Franklin way is the right way,'" says fourth-generation owner Ron Jemison Jr.
The institute's roots date back to 1915, making it one of the country's longest-standing Black-owned businesses. Jemison's great-grandmother, Madam Nobia Franklin, founded a hairstyling salon in San Antonio and made her own hair products. Since then, the Franklin Beauty Culture School moved around to Fort Worth, Houston and Chicago before moving back to Houston in 1934.
Fast forward to 2024 and Jemison has put his own touch on the business, renaming it to Franklin Institute. He's also expanded it to include barbershop classes and diversified the racial makeup of students.
"This is the foundation. You're talented but you have to know the rules and regulations. You have to pass this test to move forward because you have people in your hands," he said. "You're actually putting chemicals on their hair that could actually have a reverse [effect] and all the hair falls out. So, that's why it's so important to go to school. We call them doctors, they're hair doctors."
Family ties
He says what makes the Franklin Institute stand out is a sense of family — but not just his own blood.
"It's that family love and feel that we give. It's how we know our students by name, not by number," he said.
One student you also probably know by name is Ms. Tina Knowles, who graduated from the beauty school in the '80s. Jemison refers to her as a pioneer in the industry and local community.
"She had a wonderful salon here in Houston. It wasn't that she just graduated from Franklin, she actually really impacted the Houston community with her salon," he underscored.
Headliners Salon was the first stage for Ms. Tina's daughter, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, performing for women in her mother's chair. Now, decades later the singer is returning to her roots with a new haircare line called Cécred, which she says honors a sacred space for the Black community. Ivy McGregor, executive director of Beyoncé's public charity BeyGOOD, grew up in that space, which she says feels like family dinners.
"It's where you will hear anything talked about. It's the conversation where you've got somebody that's hilarious and making everybody laugh. You've got some woman that's the tenured woman in the community that's offering everybody wisdom, right? You have all of these stories and everybody's in a safe space to share," McGregor shared. "It's an apex. It's a center of culture in our community."
The funding
As reviews for her haircare products pour in, Beyoncé is pouring $500,000 into the people who create those sacred spaces.
The Franklin Institute is one of five cosmetology schools across the U.S. chosen to be a recipient of the Cécred x BeyGOOD Student Scholarships fund.
"We wanted to recognize and tell this broader story of how cosmetology has been such a mainstay in our culture," McGregor said. "What a better school than Franklin Institute to tell that long-standing story, with a history of having served Houston and surrounding areas for so many years."
Other notable schools listed include Beaver Beauty Academy in Atlanta, Trenz Beauty Academy in Chicago, Universal College of Beauty in Los Angeles and Janas Cosmetology Academy in New Jersey.
The Cécred x BeyGOOD fund will also provide salon business grants in those same locations, which McGregor says were selected based on market research.
"It wasn't only based upon hair salons, but the concentration of cosmetology as a whole: cosmetology schools, cosmetology students, and then, also, the infiltration of licensed cosmetologists, as well," McGregor explained.
Each year, 25 students will receive $10,000 in financial aid scholarships and another 25 salon owners will receive $10,000 in grants through the Cécred x BeyGOOD Salon Business Grant. And these funds could be life-changing.
Continuing to support the cosmetology industry
Becoming a professional hair stylist starts with an average investment of nearly $14,000 in Texas, according to Cosmetology-License.com. Beauty Schools Directory says the national average is about $20,000.
"One of the foundations of BeyGOOD is economic equity. And so to think about that, the underbelly is that there is an inequity," McGregor said. "We believe that everybody has the right to thrive. And so the thing that we're excited about, while our tenets are education and entrepreneurship, both of them converge through this program."
McGregor says cosmetology is a forgotten industry, but not for long.
"When you think about loans and things that are salvaging industries that have had challenges, we've never heard of there being this attention specifically to cosmetology and so we are excited to do be able to do that through Mrs. Carter's heart, to uplift this entire industry," she continued.
And she's starting with her old stomping grounds."In her hometown of Houston, her commitment has never wavered, right? Every opportunity to give, first on her list is home. And so we're super excited to have this opportunity to really make an impact that will be sustainable," McGregor underscored. "And that's part of the goal; not just to create a ripple that is just for now, but to create something that for years and years and years to come, we can look back and say, 'We started the fire, but the fire is still burning and the fire is still lit.'"
Accompanying Jason's career journey, the documentary offers a glimpse into his family life, featuring interviews with his wife, Kylie, his parents and his brothers. It also charts the impact of Travis's relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift on the Kelce family dynamic.
Despite the affectionate teasing, Taylor and Travis Kelce have been enjoying a relaxing offseason, recently returning from a vacation in the Bahamas. The couple has been spotted in public, displaying their affection and delight in their relationship.
"Kelce" premiered on Prime Video in September 2023 and quickly became the streamer's most-watched documentary in the U.S. Kelce's Emmy nominations add to the film's success, showcasing the emotional depth and behind-the-scenes insights it offers into one of football's most beloved players and his remarkable family.
‘9-1-1’ Casts Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Nurse Connected to Bobby
As 9-1-1 has shown in flashbacks in the past—origins stories have been “Begins” episodes—before Bobby moved out to Los Angeles, he lost his entire family in an apartment fire, one he inadvertently caused; his wife died of her burn injuries in the hospital.
Now, we’re about to meet someone from his past just as he and his wife Athena (Angela Bassett) have gotten past a rough patch during their honeymoon cruise ship — the disaster actually led to them talking about problems that have been brewing for some time.
“With all of their fears and things like that exposed, I think it’s just going to make them a better, more committed and healthy couple. I kind of think we see that at the end of the episode when they’re home with the Hollywood T-shirts and the bag of fast food and then they start laughing and run into the bedroom to be together,” Krause told TV Insider after the third episode (and conclusion of that disaster arc). “I think that’s the essence of their relationship, really, and it’s really nice to see Bobby in a more playful place.”
He added, “I think that his tragic past has less of a grip on him now, and he’s able to be a more consistently cheerful person. And I like how that translates into more playfulness with Athena.”
So will Bobby be able to stay in that “playful place” with this blast from his past coming his way? Will his tragic past grab a hold of him again like in the past? How worried should we be about Bobby? Or might this end up helping in a way that moves him forward even more
What are you hoping to see with Warner’s upcoming arc? 9-1-1, Thursdays, 8/7c, ABC
Beyoncé investing in one of America's oldest Black-owned beauty schools
The smell of a flat iron and the sound of clippers, words of wisdom and belly-deep laughter — beauty salons and barber shops have long been a sacred space for Black women and men to commune about everyday life.
For 109 years, one family has been investing in that space through the Franklin Institute, a barber and cosmetology school in Houston, Texas.
"'The Franklin way is the right way,'" says fourth-generation owner Ron Jemison Jr.
The institute's roots date back to 1915, making it one of the country's longest-standing Black-owned businesses. Jemison's great-grandmother, Madam Nobia Franklin, founded a hairstyling salon in San Antonio and made her own hair products. Since then, the Franklin Beauty Culture School moved around to Fort Worth, Houston and Chicago before moving back to Houston in 1934.
Fast forward to 2024 and Jemison has put his own touch on the business, renaming it to Franklin Institute. He's also expanded it to include barbershop classes and diversified the racial makeup of students.
"This is the foundation. You're talented but you have to know the rules and regulations. You have to pass this test to move forward because you have people in your hands," he said. "You're actually putting chemicals on their hair that could actually have a reverse [effect] and all the hair falls out. So, that's why it's so important to go to school. We call them doctors, they're hair doctors."
Family ties
He says what makes the Franklin Institute stand out is a sense of family — but not just his own blood.
"It's that family love and feel that we give. It's how we know our students by name, not by number," he said.
One student you also probably know by name is Ms. Tina Knowles, who graduated from the beauty school in the '80s. Jemison refers to her as a pioneer in the industry and local community.
"She had a wonderful salon here in Houston. It wasn't that she just graduated from Franklin, she actually really impacted the Houston community with her salon," he underscored.
Headliners Salon was the first stage for Ms. Tina's daughter, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, performing for women in her mother's chair. Now, decades later the singer is returning to her roots with a new haircare line called Cécred, which she says honors a sacred space for the Black community. Ivy McGregor, executive director of Beyoncé's public charity BeyGOOD, grew up in that space, which she says feels like family dinners.
"It's where you will hear anything talked about. It's the conversation where you've got somebody that's hilarious and making everybody laugh. You've got some woman that's the tenured woman in the community that's offering everybody wisdom, right? You have all of these stories and everybody's in a safe space to share," McGregor shared. "It's an apex. It's a center of culture in our community."
The funding
As reviews for her haircare products pour in, Beyoncé is pouring $500,000 into the people who create those sacred spaces.
The Franklin Institute is one of five cosmetology schools across the U.S. chosen to be a recipient of the Cécred x BeyGOOD Student Scholarships fund.
"We wanted to recognize and tell this broader story of how cosmetology has been such a mainstay in our culture," McGregor said. "What a better school than Franklin Institute to tell that long-standing story, with a history of having served Houston and surrounding areas for so many years."
Other notable schools listed include Beaver Beauty Academy in Atlanta, Trenz Beauty Academy in Chicago, Universal College of Beauty in Los Angeles and Janas Cosmetology Academy in New Jersey.
The Cécred x BeyGOOD fund will also provide salon business grants in those same locations, which McGregor says were selected based on market research.
"It wasn't only based upon hair salons, but the concentration of cosmetology as a whole: cosmetology schools, cosmetology students, and then, also, the infiltration of licensed cosmetologists, as well," McGregor explained.
Each year, 25 students will receive $10,000 in financial aid scholarships and another 25 salon owners will receive $10,000 in grants through the Cécred x BeyGOOD Salon Business Grant. And these funds could be life-changing.
Continuing to support the cosmetology industry
Becoming a professional hair stylist starts with an average investment of nearly $14,000 in Texas, according to Cosmetology-License.com. Beauty Schools Directory says the national average is about $20,000.
"One of the foundations of BeyGOOD is economic equity. And so to think about that, the underbelly is that there is an inequity," McGregor said. "We believe that everybody has the right to thrive. And so the thing that we're excited about, while our tenets are education and entrepreneurship, both of them converge through this program."
McGregor says cosmetology is a forgotten industry, but not for long.
"When you think about loans and things that are salvaging industries that have had challenges, we've never heard of there being this attention specifically to cosmetology and so we are excited to do be able to do that through Mrs. Carter's heart, to uplift this entire industry," she continued.
And she's starting with her old stomping grounds."In her hometown of Houston, her commitment has never wavered, right? Every opportunity to give, first on her list is home. And so we're super excited to have this opportunity to really make an impact that will be sustainable," McGregor underscored. "And that's part of the goal; not just to create a ripple that is just for now, but to create something that for years and years and years to come, we can look back and say, 'We started the fire, but the fire is still burning and the fire is still lit.'"
It's a full-circle moment, inspiring the next generation of hairstylists.
"I think the scholarship will definitely help motivate the young lady that's been dreaming of being a cosmetologist but just didn't know the steps to take," Jemison said. "And so to see somebody that they might idolize, somebody that comes from the same hometown as they do, that has made it, has used their platform to give back to the community and also show a statement of, 'You can do it!'"
The Parents Of MI School Ethan Crumbley Shooter Each Get 10-15 Years
Jennifer and James Crumbley, Ethan Crumbley’s parents, were sentenced immediately after several parents of the victims gave emotional impact statements in an Oakland County courtroom.
“Not only did your son kill my daughter, but you both did as well,” Nicole Beausoleil, the mother of Madisyn Baldwin, 17, told the court as she wept. James Crumbley sat impassively while his wife Jennifer hung her head.
Arizona Supreme Court upholds 160-year-old abortion ban
On (April 9), the Arizona Supreme Court upheld a 160-year-old abortion ban. The ban, dating back to pre-statehood, mandates imprisonment of two-to-five years for individuals aiding in abortions except when necessary to save the mother's life. Despite being only "prospectively enforced," its potential implementation could halt legal abortions in Arizona, causing concern among reproductive rights activists who fear increased health risks for women.
"The near-total Civil War-era ban that continues to hang over our heads only serves to create more chaos for women and doctors in our state," said Governor Katie Hobbs in a press conference following the decision. "I promise I will do everything in my power to protect our reproductive freedoms."
In 2023, Hobbs issued an executive order assigning abortion law enforcement to the state attorney general. The person currently holding that position, Kris Mayes, has already pledged not to enforce any abortion bans. “This is far from the end of the debate on reproductive freedom, and I look forward to the people of Arizona having their say in the matter,” Hayes wrote in her official statement. “And let me be completely clear, as long as I am attorney general, no woman or doctor will be prosecuted under this draconian law in this state.”
The ruling has galvanized efforts for a ballot measure aimed at preserving reproductive rights, with Arizona for Abortion Access stating that they've already surpassed the required number of signatures. The impending ballot measure's impact extends beyond reproductive rights, potentially influencing state legislative elections due to heightened Democratic turnout.
Originating in the 1864 Howell Code, Arizona's abortion ban resembled similar laws across the United States and was rigorously enforced until the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973. Planned Parenthood's legal challenge against the ban in 1971 initially failed, but the subsequent Roe v. Wade decision led to an injunction against the pre-statehood law. For nearly five decades, legal abortions were protected, until the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization ruling in 2022, which eroded Roe protections and emboldened Republican politicians to seek enforcement of the 1864 law.
Judge rules that Ja Morant acted in self-defense against teen
This decision follows a civil immunity hearing that took place back in December 2023, during which Morant testified that he had thrown the first punch to protect himself after Holloway allegedly instigated the confrontation during a pickup basketball game. During the game in question, Holloway, reportedly frustrated by losses, threw a pass at Morant's face.
Subsequently, Morant asserted that Holloway advanced toward him, prompting Morant to react defensively by punching him. Morant's friend, Davonte Pack, also became involved in the altercation and was later arrested for misdemeanor assault, although the charge against him was ultimately dismissed.
Judge Chumney was said to have invoked Tennessee's self-defense immunity statute in the court filing, stating that Morant is entitled to "a presumption of civil immunity." The burden of proof was then shifted to Holloway and his legal team to refute Morant's claim.
Despite this ruling, Holloway's attorney expressed disappointment and reiterated their commitment to advocating for their client's interests. "We will continue to take the steps necessary to protect and advocate for Joshua," said lawyer Rebecca Adelman to ESPN.
This legal victory comes at a pivotal time for Morant, who has faced various challenges in the past year, including suspensions imposed by the NBA for incidents involving firearms. These suspensions, coupled with a season-ending injury after only playing nine games of the 2023-2024 season, have disrupted Morant's performance on the court. As of this article, the Grizzlies hold a record of 27-51, the third worst in the league's Western Conference
Fantasia Launches Entertainment Company with Artist Manager Yvonne McNair
*Fantasia Barrino and live event producer and artist manager Yvonne McNair have joined forces to establish Rock Soul Productions, an entertainment company headquartered in Charlotte, NC.
This venture encompasses divisions dedicated to management, production, and various entertainment ventures, positioning itself as a full-service operation in the industry.
With Fantasia serving as CEO and McNair as president, Rock Soul aims to significantly impact the entertainment world, offering opportunities for artists and creators to thrive under its guidance and support.
Per Variety, Rock Soul seeks to be “the intersection where creativity and excellence in entertainment meet.
“The formation of Rock Soul feels like a natural progression for me personally. It is the manifestation of my evolution as an artist, a creative and a businesswoman,” said Fantasia.
“After 20 years, you can’t help but to take stock and look back at all the things you have done, and I wanted to use those experiences to inform my opportunities going forward. Advocating for myself and other artists to become the change agents in telling their own stories and taking the reins in shaping their own narrative and success is what I’m passionate about. I am also so excited to control and shape the art and entertainment experiences that we will be sharing with the world,” the Grammy-winner singer continued.
“Yvonne is the perfect partner for me to embark on this journey with as I quickly realized that she is a real dynamo, and I knew that I wanted that kind of visionary thinking at the table with me. With Rock Soul Productions, we are creating something powerful, and we aim to touch each and every facet of entertainment.”
McNair added, “Fantasia is not only a once-in-a-lifetime kind of talent, but she is also an incredibly savvy businesswoman.”
She continued, “As an artist at the top of her craft, she brings a singularly unique perspective to Rock Soul Productions that truly sets us apart. For me, as a live event producer and entrepreneur for over 20 years, this is the dream realized. Rock Soul presents an opportunity for us to build something new and innovative that breaks up the traditional models and industry standards,” McNair said.
“We are committed to making a positive impact through our work, upholding the highest standards of integrity in everything we do and ensuring that each creation leaves a lasting impression on our audiences,” she continued. “With this company, we will continue to push boundaries, ignite imaginations, and shape the future of entertainment. I am incredibly proud to partner with Fantasia to bring the Rock Soul experience to life.”
Billy Dee Williams Advocates for Blackface Immunity Among Actors
During a recent episode of “Club Random” with Bill Maher, the ‘Star Wars’ legend served up his thoughts like a questionable dish at a spaceport cantina.
Singing praises for Laurence Olivier’s blackface gig in “Othello,” Billy Dee finds humor in a performance that most find cringe-worthy.
“When he did Othello, I fell out laughing,” Williams said of Olivier, who wore blackface in the 1965 screen adaptation of “Othello,” the Shakespearean tragedy. He stuck his ass out and walked around because Black people are supposed to have big asses,” the “Star Wars” actor went on, prompting Maher to jokingly reference the controversy Bradley Cooper received for wearing a prosthetic nose to play composer Leonard Bernstein in “Maestro. I thought it was hysterical. I loved it.”
When Maher dares to suggest that perhaps blackface has been relegated to the trash compactor of history, Billy Dee Williams’ reaction is as baffling as trying to navigate an asteroid field blindfolded.
“Why not?” he muses, as if societal progress is just another Sith conspiracy.
Their exchange feels like watching two speeder bikes collide in slow motion, with Billy Dee and Bill Maher careening through the wreckage of common decency and cultural sensitivity.
In the end, Billy Dee Williams’ parting shot about avoiding a “victimhood mentality” lands with all the grace of a bantha stampede. But fear not, citizens of the galaxy, for while Lando may be chill with the idea, the rest of us are content to leave the blackface parade parked in the Mos Eisley junkyard where it belongs.
Meanwhile, as you can imagine, Billy Dee’s comments are not finding favor with a lot of folks. One in particular is former Ghetto Boys rapper and podcaster Willie D, who reacted by calling Williams a hypocrite, among other things.
Chris Webber Releases Highly Anticipated Memoir ‘By God’s Grace’
‘Basketball Hall of Fame legend Chris Webber has unveiled his long-awaited memoir, “By God’s Grace,” offering readers an intimate glimpse into his remarkable journey. The memoir, penned by Webber himself, promises to deliver a candid account of his life, from the soaring highs of his career to the challenging lows he faced along the way.
In a recent announcement on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Webber expressed his excitement about the release, stating, “My new book ‘By God’s Grace’ is officially out. 🙌🏿 I’ve poured every ounce of my story into it so I hope you enjoy it.”
The memoir delves into Webber’s personal experiences, including the devastating lows he endured, such as his infamous timeout during the national championship game and the years of infertility he and his wife faced before the birth of their twins. Throughout these trials, Webber credits his faith, or “God’s grace,” for guiding him through the tumultuous moments of his life.
Readers can expect an in-depth exploration of Webber’s rise to prominence, from his days as a standout high school recruit in Michigan to his tenure with the famed Fab Five at the University of Michigan. As part of this iconic group, Webber helped revolutionize college basketball, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s culture.
The memoir also shines a light on Webber’s 15-year NBA career, including his experiences with various teams and the pivotal role his family played in supporting him through both triumphs and setbacks. Additionally, Webber shares poignant anecdotes about his parents, Mayce Webber and Doris Johnson, whose sacrifices and resilience inspired him to pursue his dreams.
“By God’s Grace” is not just a recounting of Webber’s basketball achievements but a tribute to the community that shaped him. Through his self-named publishing company, the Webber Publishing Group, Webber aims to share authentic stories with purpose and significance, ensuring that his memoir resonates with readers on a profound level.
For fans eager to secure a piece of basketball history, a special edition of the memoir is available for a limited time, complete with a signed autograph from Chris Webber himself. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a journey of resilience, perseverance, and faith with one of basketball’s most beloved icons.
Grab your copy of “By God’s Grace” today and discover the inspiring story behind this Michigan legend.
Sylvester Stallone Accused of Belittling 'Tulsa King' Extras, Director Denies Allegations as Casting Agency Exits Series
According to multiple reports, extras on the show were hired through various entertainment casting companies for the second season of Tulsa King before filming recently began in Atlanta. But conditions on set allegedly went bad with the presence of Stallone and an unnamed director, who were accused of disparaging background actors. In one Facebook group, Stallone and the director were accused of rudely calling some of the extras a "tub of lard" and "fat guy with a cane," apparently making fun of their disabilities.
It was also alleged that Sylvestor made a comment about wanting someone to "bring in pretty young girls to be around me."
Tulsa King director and executive producer Craig Zisk has denied that the improper comments were made, noting that Sylvester's wife, Jennifer Flavin, was on set during filming, per TMZ. Zisk acknowledged that while there were older background actors for one bar scene despite a request for individuals in their 20s and 30s, the performers were "polite and did their jobs."
But the allegations were distasteful enough for another casting company, Catrett Locke Casting, to pull out of the show, announcing its departure on Facebook over the weekend.
The accusations flew on other Facebook pages, with one user supporting CL Casting's decision.
Created by the prolific Taylor Sheridan, Tulsa King follows Dwight “The General” Manfredi (Stallone), a New York mafia leader who's released from prison after a 25-year bid. He's exiled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he establishes a new crime organization.
Megan Thee Stallion Addresses Nose Job Rumors
"They be like, 'Oh my gosh, she got her nose done,'" Meg said sarcastically in the video below. "Y'all h*es wish I got my nose done. Y'all h*es need to comprehend how much the recovery surgery take. Y'all need to comprehend the recovery time it take."
She continued, "I've been on your f**ling throats since 2017. At what point in life I had time to lay down and let you h*es breathe? Keep up h*e."
In a separate clip, Meg also said she tends to tune out the hate anyway since she doesn't even open her Instagram DM's.
Meg has faced allegations of getting a nose job for months now, with trolls going so far as to post side-by-side photos of Meg to try and prove that she got plastic surgery.
Bronny James Declares For The NBA Draft
After only one year at the University of Southern California, Bronny James, the oldest son of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, will be taking his talents to the NBA.
In a statement on his Instagram, Bronny shared his decision with his followers.
“I’ve had a year with some ups and downs but all added to growth for me as a man, student, and athlete," Bronny wrote. "I’ve made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility, and will also be entering the NCAA transfer portal."
"Thank you to USC for an amazing Freshman year, and as always thankful for my family, friends, doctors, athletic trainers, and fans for their support," Bronny's statement continued
A highly touted high school player, Bronny received McDonald's All-American honors and signed a letter of intent to attend USC in May. But his basketball future hung in the balance after he suffered a cardiac arrest in July at the USC training facility. Eventually, he underwent a procedure to treat a congenital heart defect that took him out of action for five months.
In December, Bronny made his long-awaited debut with USC where he posted four points, three rebounds and two assists in 16 minutes. For his freshman year, the 6‘4” guard averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19 minutes a game.
After Andy Enfield, former head coach at USC, left to take over at SMU on Monday, many speculated on whether Bronny might have his sights set on another school
On Tuesday (April 2), LeBron, who has expressed his desire to play in the NBA with his son, said that Bronny had “some tough decisions to make” following the Laker's win over the Toronto Raptors.
“At the end of the day, Bronny’s his own man,” LeBron said after the game when asked if Bronny making himself eligible for the transfer portal.
“He has some tough decisions to make, and when he’s ready to make those decisions, he’ll let us all know. But as his family, we’re going to support whatever he does.”
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Walmartian Transformer Edition
What kind of sorcery is this?
What kind of sorcery is this?
EVENING GOODIES: Meet BIG ORI
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EFREM
