The Daily Buzz For Aug 7☕📰☕

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#FASHIONFAB: Colman Domingo on THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING JIMMY FALLON

Colman Domingo sat down with Jimmy Fallon on THE TONIGHT SHOW STARRING Jimmy Fallon to walk through the demanding process behind his role as Joe Jackson in the film Michael, revealing that his transformation into the character required two and a half hours in the makeup chair. Domingo described the physical commitment the role demanded, giving Fallon and the studio audience a sense of just how involved the preparation was for the part.

The conversation also turned to Domingo's approach to his character in The Four Seasons, where he named Bea Arthur's turn on The Golden Girls as a direct inspiration. Domingo explained how he drew on Arthur's presence and delivery in shaping his own performance, offering a specific reference point for how he built the role.

Domingo used part of the appearance to look back on his time working on Euphoria, calling it an experience of a lifetime. He reflected on what that project meant to him, giving viewers a rare moment of reminiscence about the show rather than promotional talk about a current project.

The extended interview format allowed Domingo room to move between the three subjects, from the technical demands of Michael to the specific influence behind his Four Seasons character to his memories of Euphoria, giving the segment a broader career-spanning feel than a typical single-project promotional stop.

#RHOA: Porsha Williams & Kelli Potter Clash at RHOA Reunion After Fan Questions if Kelli is Jealous

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” stars Kelli Potter and Porsha Williams have been clashing all season. Interestingly, some of their costars suspect that Kelli is going hard because of Shamea Morton. As we reported, Shamea and Porsha’s friendship is unlikely to be repaired since their mothers were dragged into their feud. Although Porsha and Kelli appeared to make peace a couple of episodes ago, Kelli and Porsha were back in a shady place at the Season 17 reunion.

In a preview, a fan of the show wrote in to ask Kelli if she’s jealous of Porsha’s divorce outcome. They brought up that Kelli constantly refers to Porsha’s home as Simon’s house, even though Porsha was awarded the home.

Kelli tells Andy Cohen that she isn’t jealous.“I would never be jealous.”
Porsha says, “She can’t worry about Simon’s house when she’s living in Shamea’s house.”
Kelli responds, “Let’s be very clear, I stayed at Shamea’s house for two weeks until my home was ready.”
Porsha brought Kelli back to her original point.
“Well, you was out of your house. That’s the point.”

After Kelli said she chose to leave her home, Porsha says she has been putting her money into the home.
“The house that you’re calling Simon’s house, I have maintained and paid it very well.”
Kelli tells Porsha that she’s happy she is paying Simon’s bills, and Porsha calls her out.

“You shouldn’t be discrediting women while you’re looking for support,” says Porsha.
Kelli denies discrediting anyone, and Porsha isn’t having it.
“You absolutely did! I was going through the same thing that you were going through. And you sat here and online, ‘Simon’s house, Simon’s house!'”
She continues, “I was awarded the house. I know you’re not familiar with the terms.” The clip ends with Angela Oakley questioning whose home Kelli is currently living in.

#MusicNews: Jodeci Plans ‘Forever My Lady 35th Anniversary Tour’ For Fall
It’s been 35 years since Jodeci dropped their debut album Forever My Lady and forever changed R&B. Released on May 28, 1991, the set was an bonafide classic that landed the quartet in heavy rotation, where they’ve remained for over three decades. Much like ’90s R&B, Jodeci has staying power, and group members K-Ci Hailey, JoJo Hailey, Mr. Dalvin and DeVanté Swing have plans to celebrate their logevity and landmark debut on the Forever My Lady 35th Anniversary Tour.

Jodeci has already performed several concerts this year in preparation for this tour, which runs all fall from October through December. The massive 36-city trek produced by Day After Day Productions kicks off on the West Coast in San Francisco on October 24th before hitting three more cities in California. From there, the band will bounce around the United States to major markets, including Las Vegas, Detroit, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Baltimore, Memphis, Houston, New Orleans, Nashville, Jacksonville and Atlanta. The final show of the tour will take the fellas to Charlotte on December 19th, for what is sure to be a very special homecoming show for them.
The entire tour will be a special treat for fans of the foursome who have been there since the beginning. Jodeci is thankful for the unwavering support 35 years later.

“The love and connection we share with our fans is unmatched and this tour is for them — the people who stood by us from day one,” K-Ci and Mr. Dalvin remarked in a joint statement via press release. “Get ready, we’re going to leave everything on the stage for you.”

Add Jodeci’s Forever My Lady 35th Anniversary Tour to your autumn itinerary, and get ready to sing along to “Stay,” “Come & Talk To Me,” “Forever My Lady” and all their jams with your whole chest at these concerts. Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. local time today. Browse through all of the dates, cities and venues below, and visit the commemorative Jodeci35 website to purchase tickets.

Jodeci Forever My Lady 35th Anniversary Tour dates:
Oct 24 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
Oct 25 – Inglewood, CA – YouTube Theatre
Oct 27 – Ontario, CA – Toyota Arena
Oct 29 – El Cajon, CA – The Magnolia
Oct 30 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
Oct 31 – Las Vegas, NV – Palms Casino
Nov 4 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
Nov 6 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre
Nov 7 – Chicago, IL – Arie Crown Theater
Nov 8 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
Nov 10 – Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J. Brady Music Center
Nov 11 – Pittsburgh, PA – Citizens Live at The Wylie
Nov 12 – Oxon Hill, MD – MGM National Harbor
Nov 14 – Cleveland, OH – KeyBank State Theatre at Playhouse Square
Nov 15 – Bristol, VA – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol
Nov 18 – Jersey City, NJ – Loew’s Jersey Theatre
Nov 19 – Bensalem, PA – Parx Casino
Nov 20 – Baltimore, MD – The Paramount Baltimore
Nov 22 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace
Nov 24 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre
Nov 27 – Thackerville, OK – WinStar World Casino and Resort
Nov 28 – Norman, OK – Riverwind Casino
Nov 29 – Houston, TX – Arena Theater
Dec 1 – N. Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena
Dec 2 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre
Dec 3 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC Concert Hall
Dec 5 – Lake Charles, LA – Lake Charles Event Center
Dec 6 – Mobile, AL – Saenger Theatre
Dec 8 – Savannah, GA – Johnny Mercer Theater
Dec 10 – Nashville, TN – The Truth
Dec 11 – Columbia, SC – Township Auditorium
Dec 13 – St. Petersburg, FL – Duke Energy Center for the Arts
Dec 15 – Jacksonville, FL – Florida Theatre
Dec 16 – Miami, FL – The Fillmore Miami Beach
Dec 18 – Atlanta, GA – TBA
Dec 19 – Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium

#HipHopNews: Pooh Shiesty’s Album Receives Release Date for This Friday

A lil incarceration isn’t stopping Pooh Shiesty from dropping his next album. The rapper has announced All Eyes on Shiest for this Friday, according to HotNewHipHop.
Pooh Shiesty will remain behind bars after a federal judge rejected an unprecedented proposal that would have placed the Memphis rapper under around-the-clock private security while he awaited trial.

During a detention hearing in Dallas, attorneys for the rapper, born Lontrell Williams, offered to spend as much as $700,000 on a private security detail to monitor him 24 hours a day if he were released on bond. According to Texas Public Radio, a representative from the Houston-based security firm testified that the level of supervision would rival the protection typically provided to a state attorney general.

The proposal, however, failed to persuade Senior U.S. District Judge David Godbey, who denied Williams’ bond request for the second time.
In his ruling, Judge Godbey stated there was “no condition or combination of conditions” that could reasonably ensure public safety, ultimately determining that Williams posed a danger to the community.

Williams has pleaded not guilty to federal charges accusing him of kidnapping and attempting to extort fellow rapper Gucci Mane (Radric Davis) during an alleged confrontation at a Dallas recording studio in January. Prosecutors claim Williams, while armed with a Draco-style pistol, attempted to force Gucci Mane to release him from his contract with The New 1017 Records. Investigators have also cited surveillance video that they say captured portions of the alleged incident.

Federal prosecutors further argued that Williams should remain detained because the alleged offenses occurred while he was serving supervised release following his 2022 federal firearms conspiracy conviction.
According to court filings, authorities also allege that a former federal supervision officer improperly generated unauthorized travel passes that allowed Williams to leave home confinement for trips that had not been approved—including the day prosecutors say the alleged kidnapping took place. That employee was later terminated, according to court records.

For now, Pooh Shiesty remains in federal custody as he prepares to fight the charges. His trial is currently scheduled to begin in February 2027.

Miss North Carolina USA stripped of her crown; pageant says ‘standards and values’ not upheld
Miss North Carolina USA organizers have stripped the recently crowned winner of her title, saying Wednesday that she had failed to uphold the pageant’s “standards and values.”
Brittany Boltinhouse, 27, will not represent the Tar Heel State at the 75th annual Miss USA 2026 pageant on Aug. 27 in Miami, according to Blaize Productions, organizers of the North Carolina competition.

Instead, first runner-up Myla Hadley will represent North Carolina later this month.
“As an organization entrusted with selecting and preparing women to represent our states on the national stage, we must uphold the standards and values that our titleholders agree to embrace when accepting the honor of wearing the crown,” A Blaize Productions said in a statement.

“After careful consideration, multiple conversations and in consultation with the Miss USA Organization, A Blaize Productions has made the difficult decision to conclude Brittany Boltinhouse’s reign as Miss North Carolina USA 2026,” the statement added.
A Blaize didn’t elaborate on Boltinhouse’s alleged missteps, but Miss USA President and CEO Thom Brodeur issued a separate statement saying that the organization “does not tolerate racism, homophobia, transphobia, nor language that strips any person of their dignity — whoever they are.”
Boltinhouse could not immediately be reached for comment via publicly listed phone numbers on Thursday.
She posted a lengthy, cryptic warning Wednesday urging followers to be “careful who you take advice from.”

“Not everyone deserves a seat at the table when it comes to your dreams,” Boltinhouse wrote. “If someone has never built what you’re trying to build, never taken the risk you’re taking, or never achieved the goals you’re chasing, their opinion shouldn’t carry more weight than your vision. Take advice from people who have walked the path, not just people who have opinions. Dream big, work hard, and let your results do the talking.”

Wendy Williams Documentaries Reportedly Coming to Peacock and Netflix

Two major streaming platforms are reportedly locked in a race to secure the definitive story of former talk show host Wendy Williams as her health continues to be a subject of public concern.
Peacock and Netflix are both in the process of developing separate documentary projects focused on the media icon’s life and career, according to reports.

While the streaming giants have yet to officially announce the documentaries, reports suggest that both companies are working aggressively to complete their respective films ahead of the other. Peacock’s project is rumored to involve Suzanne Bass, a former executive producer who worked alongside Williams for years on “The Wendy Williams Show.”

Sources close to the production suggest that Bass initially secured interest in the project with the hope that Williams could participate in some capacity. However, recent developments indicate that communication between the two has stalled, raising questions about whether Williams will appear on camera. Internal reports allege that Williams’ current health status may make it impossible for her to provide new interviews or participate in filming.
This has led to speculation that the documentaries may rely heavily on archival footage, interviews with former associates, and family perspectives rather than new content from the host herself. The competition between Peacock and Netflix highlights the enduring public fascination with Williams, who dominated daytime television for over a decade before her show ended in 2022.

The 60-year-old broadcaster was the subject of a Lifetime documentary earlier this year, which drew significant viewership but also sparked criticism regarding the depiction of her cognitive decline. Representatives for neither Netflix nor Peacock have offered official statements regarding the production timelines or the specific focus of their films.

As the legal and medical guardianship over Williams continues to restrict her public appearances, the two streaming platforms face a complex path toward documenting the legacy of one of television’s most polarizing figures.

#RIPFloAnthony, Legendary Entertainment columnist, trailblazing celebrity journalist dies at 74
Florence “Flo” Anthony, the pioneering celebrity journalist who broke barriers at the New York Post’s Page Six and became a defining voice in African American entertainment journalism, has died. She was 74.
Jack Hirsch, biographer for her husband, boxing legend Michael Spinks, confirmed that she died early Thursday, Aug. 6. The two had worked together on Michael “Jinx” Spinks: An Authorized Biography, which was released in March. He said that she recently disclosed to him that she was battling cancer.

Her weekly “Go With The Flo” column became a fixture in The New York Amsterdam News dating back to 2001, as well as in publications including the Philadelphia Sunday Sun and the Columbus Times. She also contributed entertainment news to the New York Daily News, served as publisher and editor-in-chief of Black Noir magazine, and acted as editor-in-chief of Black Elegance magazine.
CNN entertainment journalist Lisa Respers France posted her reaction on social media upon learning of Anthony’s passing, saying in part: “As a Black woman who covers pop culture, I am deeply indebted to Florence ‘Flo’ Anthony, a syndicated columnist and author who did more than just cover gossip. She was so important to the culture.”

Anthony was known to walk into newsrooms and departments whose doors had once been barricaded against people of color—and particularly against African American women. She entered spaces where few people looked like her, where her presence alone challenged entrenched ideas about who could report the news, break a story, command a television screen, or become a trusted voice on celebrity culture.

She became the first woman to work in the sports department of the New York Post and the first African American to work in the newspaper’s entertainment and world‑renowned Page Six departments, according to her own account of her career. She also made history as the first African American woman to write a column for a supermarket tabloid, penning “Eye on the Stars” for the National Examiner.

For an African American woman rising through the overwhelmingly white, male, and notoriously insular world of tabloid journalism, these achievements were not merely promotions, but breaches in a wall.

Before becoming one of America’s most recognizable celebrity journalists and media personalities, Flo worked in public relations as a publicist for some of boxing’s most formidable figures, including Spinks, whom she began dating in 1987 and married in January 2026; Muhammad Ali; Larry Holmes; Butch Lewis; Mike McCallum; Matthew Saad Muhammad; Saoul Mamby; and Eddie Mustafa Muhammad. Her publicity work gave her a deep understanding of the relationship between journalists, publicists, and public figures, allowing her to fight for a client’s visibility long before she sat on the other side of the desk.

Many publicists owe some portion of their careers to Anthony, with a number of young representatives securing an early placement because she answered their call, opened their email, or recognized the potential in a story.

A graduate of Howard University, Anthony  initially came to New York with dreams of becoming an actress and also worked as a teacher. Her work with talent manager Tobe Gibson eventually expanded into publicity, sportswriting, and a position as an agate clerk in the New York Post’s sports department. From there, she began a historic ascent through sports, entertainment, and celebrity journalism.

Legendary journalist

Over the course of her career, she reported hundreds of exclusives, including the marriages of Mike Tyson and Robin Givens, Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger, and John McEnroe and Tatum O’Neal, as well as the news that Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman were adopting. Flo did not regard gossip journalism as the careless recycling of rumors. To her, a gossip columnist was a reporter who broke stories—and she took the responsibility of getting those stories right seriously.

Her influence expanded far beyond print. During the 1990s, she became a familiar and authoritative presence on daytime television, appearing on shows hosted by Joan Rivers, Ricki Lake, Rolonda Watts, Geraldo Rivera, Sally Jessy Raphael, Maury Povich, Leeza Gibbons, Tempestt Bledsoe, Bertice Berry, Vicki Lawrence, and others. She appeared on Court TV, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News Channel, and HLN, and contributed to entertainment‑news programs including “Inside Edition,” “The Insider,” and “Entertainment Tonight.”

For six seasons, she appeared as a contributor and later a co‑host on E! Entertainment Television’s “The Gossip Show,” and was featured in numerous installments of “E! True Hollywood Story.” She became a regular contributor to TV One’s “Unsung,” “Unsung Hollywood,” and “Life After.” Her television work placed an authoritative African American woman at the center of national conversations about celebrity, scandal, and popular culture at a time when such visibility remained far too rare.

Through her company, Dottie Media Group LLC, Flo extended her voice into syndicated radio with “Gossip on the Go With Flo” and “Flo Anthony’s Big Apple Buzz,” which aired in approximately 20 markets and introduced millions of listeners to her combination of insider knowledge, brisk reporting, and unmistakable personality.

At the Amsterdam News, she was more than a byline. She was family.

Flo was also the author of four novels: “Keeping Secrets, Telling Lies,” “Deadly Stuff Players,” “One Last Deadly Play,” and “Last Call for a Deadly Diva.” The books transformed decades of observing fame, ambition, deception, and power into fiction, bringing the practiced instincts of a journalist to the suspense and intrigue of a novelist.

“I’ve broken in roads that will never be broken in again,” Anthony said in a 2013 interview with Urbanbridgez.com. “So if I never wrote another sentence or got on radio again in life or got on TV, I would miss it yes but I feel I’ve done a lot of what God put me on this earth to do.”

Sen. Mitch McConnell Released From Rehab Center Following Concerning Fall

Sen. Mitch McConnell, 84, has been released from the rehab facility where he’d been recovering since a mid-June fall.
“Earlier today, I was discharged from the rehabilitation center to continue my recovery at home,” the #Kentucky Republican said in a statement, thanking his wife Elaine, well-wishers, and the medical staff who treated him. He hasn’t given a timeline for returning to the Senate, which is set to begin a five-week recess soon, and his office has faced criticism — including from Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear — for staying largely silent about his condition since he vanished from public view following his June 14 hospitalization.

The episode drew added scrutiny after police scanner audio obtained by NBC News revealed paramedics had performed CPR on someone in cardiac arrest at McConnell’s home. McConnell later said he’d been “briefly unconscious” after a fall, telling reporters on July 12 that doctors ruled out broken bones, a concussion, heart attack, stroke, tumors, or hemorrhaging, though he did develop a mild case of pneumonia during his recovery. #McConnell, who is retiring when his term ends in January, has weathered a string of health scares in recent years, including a week-long hospitalization for flu-like symptoms in February, a 2023 concussion, several on-camera freezing episodes that same year, and a fractured shoulder from a 2019 fall.

Judge Tosses Terrence Howard’s $325K-Per-Episode ‘Empire’ Pay Fight With CAA
Terrence Howard’s lawsuit accusing CAA of mishandling his Empire deal and putting its own interests first was dismissed after a judge found he couldn’t show real financial harm or that better negotiations would have changed Fox’s stance.
Howard claimed CAA’s conflicts of interest and failures cost him higher pay, profit participation, and side deals like an Empire-branded fragrance, HSN appearances, and other promotional opportunities, but the court ruled those arguments were too speculative.
CAA hailed the ruling as a full vindication, saying evidence showed it repeatedly tried to renegotiate Howard’s reported $325,000-per-episode salary, while Howard has separately reflected in interviews on how his own confrontational reputation may have cost him roles like Iron Man 2.

Terrence Howard has lost his long-running legal battle against Creative Artists Agency (CAA), with a California judge throwing out the actor's lawsuit over claims that the agency mishandled his Empire contract and put its own interests ahead of his.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the ruling ends a case Howard first filed in 2023, accusing CAA of failing to secure the kind of compensation and perks he believed he deserved while starring as Lucious Lyon on one of Fox's biggest television hits. Howard alleged the agency had a conflict of interest because it also represented Empire co-creators Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, along with production company Imagine Entertainment.

He also claimed his agents failed to tell him about business opportunities tied to the series—including discussions about a Terrence Howard signature fragrance, paid promotional appearances, and even a potential Home Shopping Network partnership.
But the court found Howard couldn't prove those alleged failures caused measurable financial harm. In her ruling, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Cherol Nellon said any increase in compensation from Fox would have gone first to Howard's loan-out company, Universal Bridges, not directly to the actor himself.

"The immediate economic result of an increase in compensation would have been an increase in revenue to Universal Bridges only," the judge wrote.
The court also concluded there was no evidence CAA's negotiating strategy changed the outcome. According to the ruling, the agency did attempt to reopen Howard's contract, but Fox refused every proposal. As the judge noted, Fox "rejected all attempts at renegotiation," making Howard's claims about what might have happened too speculative to warrant a trial.

CAA called the decision a complete vindication. "CAA is gratified that the Court summarily dismissed Mr. Howard's case prior to trial," an agency spokesperson said. "This confirms CAA's position from the beginning: that the agency advocated for its client and always acted in good faith."
The agency added that the evidence "directly contradicted the very foundation" of Howard's lawsuit by showing it repeatedly tried to renegotiate his deal before Fox declined.

The dismissal caps a legal dispute that steadily expanded over the past three years. Howard initially challenged his reported $325,000-per-episode salary on Empire, arguing he deserved profit participation and promotional opportunities similar to stars of prestige dramas like House of Cards and Mad Men.

More recently, he claimed his agents withheld discussions about an Empire-branded fragrance that allegedly included a $20,000 launch event, future paid appearances, an HSN spot, and the possibility of developing his own men's fragrance line.
The lawsuit unfolded alongside a series of headline-making interviews in which Howard reflected on his career and personal life. During a candid appearance on the PBD Podcast, the Oscar nominee acknowledged that his own confrontational approach may have cost him opportunities, including his role in Iron Man 2.

He also shared that he experienced childhood sexual abuse, saying the trauma shaped his relationships and ultimately made him fiercely protective of his children.

Meagan Good Wants Children With Husband Jonathan Majors

Meagan Good is ready for her next chapter—and she says Jonathan Majors is the reason motherhood finally feels right. During a recent appearance on The InnerMission Podcast, the actress revealed that after years of questioning whether she even wanted children, she now knows exactly what she wants: to start a family with her husband.

Good told host Danielle Brooks that she never liked the expectation that women were simply supposed to want kids. Even after warming to the idea, she admitted she worried about losing her independence.
But everything shifted once Majors entered the picture. "When Jonathan and I got together is when I became genuinely excited about it," she said. "I was like, 'Oh, I want to do this with you. I want what this is going to be.'"

The actress said turning 40 also changed her perspective. After decades in Hollywood, she feels she's already accomplished many of the goals she once chased.
"Everything else I want to do I'll do better as a mom," Good said. "What I want to do that I haven't done is be a mom."
Since getting married, Good and Majors have spoken openly about building a life together beyond the entertainment industry.

Most recently, they appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone Africa, where they discussed using their platform to mentor filmmakers and invest in Africa's creative community following their trip to Guinea, where they accepted citizenship after DNA testing linked their ancestry to the West African nation.
In the interview, Good described their relationship as "love that is generative," while Majors said they wanted their marriage to "produce opportunity for people who never had a hand extended to them."

Good also reflected on how her first marriage prepared her for the one she's in now. Calling her divorce "the biggest blessing for the both of us," she said the experience forced her to confront fear and ultimately made her a stronger partner.
"I know I'm a better wife because of that experience," she said, adding that she now loves "way deeper" because she's no longer driven by fear.

Tom Holland & Zendaya Celebrated Their Wedding This Week with a Party for Friends & Family

We have some wedding news regarding Tom Holland and Zendaya!
Reports have emerged today that the 30-year-old actor and 29-year-old actress, who co-starred in both The Odyssey and Spider-Man: Brand New Day this summer, celebrated their wedding on Tuesday (August 4) with family and friends.

This celebration apparently took place at the Beaverbrook Hotel, an English Country House, in Surrey Hills, England, which is about 20 miles outside of London, England. The hotel is also close to where Tom grew up in Kingston upon Thames, South West London.

They invited family and friends to the affair.
When did Tom Holland and Zendaya get married?
People‘s report indicates that their actual wedding happened earlier this year. Deuxmoi first reported the news.
If you didn’t see, months ago, celeb stylist Law Roach, who has worked with Zendaya for years, told reporters on the red carpet: “The wedding has already happened. You missed it.”
This led to weeks and weeks of fan speculation on whether or not the wedding had actually happened. Eventually, Tom did confirm he and Zendaya got married. But they never confirmed when they actually said “I do.”

Congrats to Tom and Zendaya!

Christian Hogue Says ‘I Am Not Gay’ After Being Linked to Pedro Pascal, Denies Being an Escort

Christian Hogue is speaking out in response to the rumors swirling around about him and Pedro Pascal after they were spotted hanging out on a yacht in Spain.
Pedro, 51, and Christian, 34, were among several celebs vacationing on a super yacht alongside Jason Bateman, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, and more. TMZ has the photos of them on the boat.

Rumors began to swirl after the photos went viral, with some people on social media dubbing the model as “Pedro’s boyfriend” and “Pedro’s escort.” Christian has responded to both rumors.

Christian Hogue responds to the Pedro Pascal rumors
In the comments section of an Instagram post, Christian responded to be calling Pedro‘s “boyfriend” and “escort.” The comment appears to have been deleted, but screencaps are spreading on Twitter.

Christian confirmed he’s straight and he’s not an escort.
I really don’t need to explain myself here but I am going to. Many of you are spinning this into something it’s not and it’s just sad. I am not gay nor am I for hire. I have been welcomed to this boat as a friend for many years. So it’s a damn shame to see how quickly everyone jumps to this conclusion, when it couldn’t be farther from the truth.

Christian has modeled for many brands, including Armani and Versace, and has appeared on the covers of several high fashion magazines. He is signed to IMG Models and DT Models.
Over the past few months, Pedro has been seen hanging out with Rafael Olarra. The two were spotted hanging out back in April on the set of his upcoming gay romance movie De Noche. He’ll be starring in Behemoth as well, due out in December, about gifted cellist Alex Serian (Pascal) who returns home to Los Angeles after 20 years on the road.

‘Beauty in Black’ Season 3 Trailer Teases Explosive Family Feud as Netflix Confirms Season 4
Beauty in Black is back. Season 3 of the hit Tyler Perry series arrives on Netflix on August 27, and the first trailer arrived on Wednesday (August 5).

Here’s a synopsis of Season 3:
Kimmie finally has a seat at the Bellarie table, but when a deadly family feud erupts, she’s forced into an uneasy alliance with Mallory. Together, they navigate a ruthless world of blackmail, revenge, and buried secrets as the family wages war against one of its own, threatening to bring the entire empire crashing down.

The 8-episode season features Taylor Polidore Williams, Crystle Stewart, Amber Reign Smith, Xavier Smalls, Ricco Ross, Julian Horton, Steven G. Norfleet, Richard Lawson, Terrell Carter, Bryan Tanaka, Charles Malik Whitfield, and Debbi Morgan.
The season also includes appearances by Bailey Tippen, Rodrigo Aburto, Randall J. Bacon, George Middlebrook, Greg Clarkson, Jasmine Burke, Aria Celeste Castillo, Gianmarco Duin, Philemon Chambers, Philip Boyd, Ty Anthony, Deeric Williams, Herb Magwood, Tre McBride, Kevin Savage, Jazmine Robinson, Kaja Brielle, Shay Mack, Steven Rho, Aaron Serotsky, Mikeal L. Dwayne Griggs, Sara Spadacene, D’kia Anderson, Antoine Williams, Ty Courtad, Raven Chambers, Michael Butler, Jillmarie Lawrence, and Jim Braswell.

Watch the trailer…HERE: 

Surprise! Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black is actually returning for a fourth season!
This is notable because, back in December, it was announced that the fan favorite Netflix hit was returning for a third season, but it was revealed that the show would be ending.

Man Accused Of Scamming NFL Players Out Of More Than $1 Million, Now He’s Been Found Dead In A Pool

A man accused of scamming NFL players has been found dead.
Mohamed Coulibaly, a 24-year-old entrepreneur accused of selling professional athletes stakes in questionable ecommerce stores, was discovered inside the swimming pool of a New Jersey home. According to 6abc Action News, officers found Coulibaly while conducting a welfare check at a Harrison Township residence after relatives raised concerns about his well being.

Authorities are now investigating Coulibaly’s death, but they have not publicly announced a cause or manner of death. Officials have also not said that foul play is suspected or connected his death to the athletes, investors, or business disputes surrounding him. A spokesperson for the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office had not released further details.

His death comes weeks after a Barron’s investigation accused Coulibaly of recruiting professional athletes to purchase ownership interests in Shopify powered web stores that appeared to generate steady sales. Three former NFL players told the publication that they collectively lost more than $1 million through separate investments connected to Coulibaly.

The investors allegedly received login information that allowed them to monitor their stores through Shopify dashboards. According to Barron’s, those dashboards displayed orders and revenue that gave the businesses the appearance of thriving online operations. The publication reported that many of the transactions appeared to have been manually entered by someone with access to the stores rather than created by actual customers purchasing products.

That alleged activity became a major part of the case against the man accused of scamming NFL players. The athletes believed they were watching their investments grow in real time, but Barron’s reported that the displayed sales could be entered through administrative tools available to store operators. The outlet said its review included investor contracts, merchant dashboards, store traffic, and conversations with the former athletes.

Former New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder is the only alleged victim publicly identified in the latest television reporting. Crowder told 6abc Action News that he met Coulibaly through a friend and became comfortable after seeing him around several people he knew. Crowder said conversations about investments eventually led him to place his entire savings into one of Coulibaly’s stores.

Crowder said that investment totaled $500,000.
“I saw him hanging out with a bunch of different guys that I know, which you know made me feel comfortable,” Crowder told 6abc. He said he repeatedly logged into the store and watched the displayed activity increase, but the payout he expected never arrived.

His account shows how trust allegedly moved through familiar sports relationships rather than traditional financial verification. Coulibaly was not simply approaching athletes as a stranger with a random online pitch. According to Crowder, he appeared connected to people within the same professional and social circles, which helped make the opportunity feel credible.

Barron’s reported that investors were allegedly offered ready made ecommerce stores in exchange for investments beginning around $50,000. The agreements reportedly promised that investors would receive their principal back after six months while keeping 80 percent of the profits generated through their stores. When the promised returns failed to arrive, Coulibaly allegedly offered investors a series of explanations for the delays.

The accusations against the man accused of scamming NFL players extended beyond individual websites. Barron’s reported that Coulibaly later promoted a proposed $215 million acquisition involving his company, Motion Ventures, and Middle East Venture Partners. Investors were allegedly encouraged to provide additional funding for more stores in exchange for a portion of the expected acquisition proceeds.

The publication also examined an alleged escrow agreement connected to the proposed deal. Barron’s reported that the document identified a JPMorgan Chase wealth adviser as an escrow agent. Chase reportedly told the publication that the agreement did not come from the bank. Middle East Venture Partners did not respond to Barron’s requests for comment about the proposed acquisition.

Several athletes told Barron’s that the presence of former Arizona Cardinals general manager Steve Keim increased their confidence in the operation. The players said Keim participated in video calls where the investment opportunities were discussed. Coulibaly told Barron’s that Keim served as the chief operating officer of Motion Ventures and helped coordinate with factories, vendors, and potential clients.

Keim was not accused in the reporting of manually creating store transactions or falsifying documents. A Klutch Sports representative told Barron’s that he was no longer employed by the agency. Keim did not provide additional comment following Coulibaly’s death, according to the publication.

Coulibaly denied operating a scam before he died. He told Barron’s that its analysis of the ecommerce activity resulted from a misunderstanding of the technology. Coulibaly also claimed investors had not received their expected returns because he had not received money associated with the planned acquisition of his company.

Those denials remain important because no court had ruled that Coulibaly committed fraud. According to 6abc, no criminal charges had been filed against him in connection with the alleged scheme as of August 6. The former athletes’ allegations were reported through interviews and investigative findings, but they were not resolved through a criminal conviction or final civil judgment before his death.

Sonn Law Group has announced that it is reviewing potential claims involving Coulibaly, Motion Ventures, Motion Apparelz, and related ecommerce businesses. The firm said the allegations described in the Barron’s investigation have not been proven in court and that Coulibaly disputed portions of the reporting.
Coulibaly’s death may make the search for answers more complicated. Former players still want to know where their money went, who controlled the stores, whether the displayed customers were real, and whether any remaining assets can be recovered.

At the same time, the death investigation remains separate from the financial allegations unless authorities establish otherwise. No public evidence currently links Coulibaly’s death to the athletes, the alleged ecommerce operation, or any person who claimed to have lost money.

The story now sits at the intersection of money, access, celebrity proximity, and trust. The athletes were allegedly presented with dashboards that looked active, business relationships that appeared legitimate, and familiar names that made the opportunity feel safer. Now, the man accused of scamming NFL players is dead, the official cause remains undisclosed, and the investors who trusted him are left searching for both their money and the full truth.

AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm

Listen… Whatever you’re into.

Hey now, hey now now,

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM

The Daily Buzz For Aug 4☕📰☕

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#FRAGRANCEFAB: SPIDER-MAN Star Zendaya for Prada’s Paradoxe Ad Campaign

Introducing Zendaya as the new Prada Beauty Global Ambassador, fronting Paradoxe. 


“I love how Paradoxe celebrates complexity, capturing both strength and vulnerability without trying to frame or define someone. For me, the fragrances we choose are a reflection of how we move through the world. 

Joining the brand feels like a completely natural extension of that mindset, especially since Paradoxe was already a personal favorite.” — Zendaya


#RHOA: Andy Asks Cynthia Bailey a Shocking Question in RHOA Season 17 Reunion Trailer: "Oh Lord"

The newly released sneak peek, which you can check out above, kicks off with host Andy Cohen and the RHOA cast — including Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Shamea Morton Mwangi, Angela Oakley, Kelli Potter, Pinky Cole, K. Michelle, and friend Cynthia Bailey — turning the reunion stage into a rave. Though the ladies gamely agree to "drop it" when it comes to dancing, their lingering Season 17 conflicts are another story.

Upon joining the cast on the sofas, Cynthia requests an update on what she's missed so far, and, well, it's a lot. The party vibes continue as Andy playfully fills her in, "K. Michelle's a gay man. Drew's divorced. Phaedra and Porsha both dated Mike [Bless]," amid laughter from the group.

The mood shifts once they all get down to business, however. In one shocking moment, for example, the Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen host asks Cynthia, "At what point did you decide you didn't like Shamea?" Though you'll have to tune in to hear what she has to say, jaws hit the floor, while Phaedra, for one, cries out, "Oh Lord!" in response to Andy revealing the extent of Cynthia and Shamea's unexpected rift.

Cynthia is hardly the only cast member with whom Shamea has unfinished business, however. Elsewhere in the reunion trailer, Shamea also goes toe to toe with Angela over the latter being "so invested" in her personal life, before also taking on family-related drama with Porsha in another heated confrontation.

Meanwhile, Andy brings up who was behind the "plot and plan" K. Michelle talked about on Season 17, prompting Drew to enters the fray, claiming, "I know who it is." From there, the WWHL host vaguely mentions some "news" about Drew's "friend-friend" Blakk Tatted, to which K. Michelle interjects, "That's why I didn't want a part of it." Their ensuing argument ends with Drew pulling out a clapperboard and calling, "Cut!"

And they're hardly the only peach-holders with some things left to get off their chests. Among the several other RHOA reunion faceoffs viewers can expect to see are Porsha vs. Kelli, K. Michelle vs. Porsha, Kelli vs. Angela, and Phaedra vs. Pinky.

The Georgia peaches are back, as The Real Housewives of AtlantaSeason 17 is officially underway, with new episodes airing Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock.

The returning RHOA Season 17 cast members include Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Shamea Morton Mwangi, Angela Oakley, and Kelli Ferrell, along with newcomers Pinky Cole and K. Michelle. The women are joined by friend Cynthia Bailey.

Things get spicy in the ATL, as Porsha juggles two potential new love interests. Viewers can also expect changes in friendships, major relationship news, tea spilling, and shade throwing.

#NewMusic from Ari Lennox “Hookah Baby”

Grammy-nominated R&B sensation Ari Lennox has officially returned to the airwaves with her brand-new single, “Hookah Baby.” Available now across all major digital streaming platforms, the track serves as a bold and infectious reminder of why Lennox remains one of the most distinct and celebrated voices in contemporary soul.Music & Audio

“Hookah Baby” perfectly encapsulates the smoky, late-night lounge atmosphere its title suggests. Built upon a foundation of warm, laid-back basslines, crisp percussion, and jazzy horn accents, the production creates an intoxicating groove that demands to be played on repeat.

Lennox’s signature buttery vocals glide effortlessly over the instrumental. Lyrically, she brings her trademark blend of witty storytelling, unapologetic sensuality, and relatable humor. The song paints a vivid picture of a casual romantic encounter, capturing the intoxicating, hazy energy of a carefree night out with a captivating love interest.

LISTEN HERE:

Since her breakout with the critically acclaimed debut album Shea Butter Baby and its hit follow-up age/sex/location, Lennox has consistently championed a sound that bridges the gap between classic 90s neo-soul and modern R&B. “Hookah Baby” continues this trajectory, showcasing her undeniable vocal agility and her knack for crafting melodies that feel instantly timeless yet refreshingly modern.

The release of “Hookah Baby” arrives as fans eagerly anticipate the next full-length  musical chapter from the Dreamville standout. While it remains unconfirmed if the single is a standalone release or the lead offering from an upcoming project, it firmly places Lennox back in the spotlight, dominating the R&B conversation as we head into the late summer months.

“Hookah Baby” is available to stream and download now on Spotify, Apple  Music, YouTube, and all other major digital platforms.Celebrities & Entertainment News.

#HipHopNews: Tupac Shakur Murder Trial Begins Next Month, Judge Allows Old Keefe D Police Interview as Evidence – Report

The Tupac Shakur murder trial is scheduled to begin next month, with the judge reportedly ruling yesterday that an old interview that suspect Duane "Keefe D" Davis gave to the police is admissible at trial.

Nearly 30 years after the rap icon's killing, the trial for the only person charged with the crime is slated ot being on Aug. 10, following multiple delays. During a pre-trial hearing on Tuesday (July 28), Las Vegas judge Carli Kierny made a ruling, allowing a 2008 police interview where Keefe D gave details about the murder to be used in court, The Associated Press reports. In the interview, Keefe D told police that suspected shooter Orlando Anderson "popped them," meaning shot Tupac and Suge Knight, in Las Vegas on Sept. 7, 1996.

Keefe D's defense attorney argued that the interview was supposed to be confidential and Keefe D was told it could not be used against him. The prosecution successfully argued that the interview was no longer inadmissible, since Keefe D wrote the tell-all book, Compton Street Legend, and has spoken openly in multiple interviews about what happened on the night of Tupac's murder.

The book will also be allowed in the trial, despite Keefe D's attorney's objections that it is a fictionalized account to make a profit. He also argued that Keefe was simply "exercising his First Amendment right to free speech, even though it is not in good taste."

After being a cold case for over two decades, police arrested Keefe D in 2023, after be admitted in his book and multiple interviews to being present and providing the gun used in Tupac's shooting, which was allegedly retaliation for a fight Tupac and Death Row members were involved in at the MGM Grand shortly before he and Suge were shot in a drive-by near the Las Vegas Strip. The other three men in the suspect car, including alleged shooter Orlando Anderson, have died since the shooting and were never charged.

Keefe D is facing life in prison if found guilty.

BoxOfficeNews: ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Weaved a web to n Astonishing $355 Million Debut, Second-Biggest Opening Weekend in Box Office History

Sony and Marvel‘s comic book adventure “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” obliterated box office expectations, collecting a jaw-dropping $355 million from 4,487 North American theaters. It’s the second-biggest debut in domestic box office history following 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame” with $357 million, not adjusted for inflation. “Brand New Day” could end up eclipsing the all-time record if Monday’s final tally lands above estimates. No other films have ever come close to surpassing $300 million in a single weekend. The third-largest domestic opening belongs to 2021’s “Spider-Man: No Way Home” with $260 million, followed by 2018’s “Avengers: Infinity War” with $257 million. Yes, Marvel Studios now boasts the four largest openings of all time at the domestic box office.

“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” collected $573 million at the international box office, bringing the grand total to a staggering $927 million worldwide and underscoring Peter Parker’s broad, global appeal. It’ll rank as the second-biggest worldwide debut after “Endgame,” which captured a mind-blowing $1.2 billion in its first weekend of release. Sony spent around $225 million to produce “Brand New Day,” not including marketing costs. Destin Daniel Cretton (“Shang-Chi and the

“This is a truly phenomenal opening, and we are grateful to audiences everywhere for coming out and experiencing our film the way it was meant to be seen,” said Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, who produced the movie. “This debut reflects the enduring power of Marvel’s characters, and the connection they continue to have with fans around the world — and, as audiences saw, it sets up exciting things to come.”

Even with the craze surrounding “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” remained a draw with $51 million in its third frame. Together, they have fueled the biggest collective weekend in box office history with roughly $430 million across all films. The top weekend prior to this was, of course, “Avengers: Endgame” ($402 million collectively), followed by “Avengers: Infinity War” ($314 million collectively).

Few in Hollywood had expected another movie to near the initial box office heights of “Avengers: Endgame,” which was touted as the epic culmination of 22 interconnected films. A $300 million-plus start seemed especially unlikely, not just because the pandemic upended the industry a few months later, but also because after the history-making finale of “Endgame,” Marvel experienced its first-ever bout of superhero fatigue. Post-COVID sequels such as 2023’s “The Marvels” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and 2025’s “Captain America: Brave New World,” “Thunderbolts*” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” all disappointing at the box office. There were hits, like “No Way Home,” 2022’s “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and 2024’s “Deadpool & Wolverine,” but audiences were no longer showing up to theaters just because a new superhero adventure was gracing the big screen.

“Audiences are tired of seeing the same thing. There are too many connected storylines, and it’s turning entertainment into homework,” says analyst Jeff Bock of Exhibitor Relations. “We need a fresh start.”

That’s part of the appeal of “Brand New Day,” which confirms there’s truly no such thing as Spider-Man fatigue. This Spidey adventure was promoted as a reset in the web-slinging series. That’s after the prior installment, “No Way Home,” ended on a massive cliffhanger: Tom Holland‘s Peter Parker made the difficult decision to erase his identity from the world in order to save the multiverse, leaving his girlfriend (Zendaya) and best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) to forget about him. Demand — to find out the ramifications of Spider-Man’s fateful choice, and to be among the first to find out who Sadie Sink was playing in the film — was so intense that some locations of major theater chains were scheduling showtimes every 15 minutes from dusk to dawn.

What’s more impressive about the debut is “Brand New Day” didn’t play in Imax, the most ubiquitous of the premium large formats, because “The Odyssey” has the network’s entire domestic footprint for three weekends. “Spider-Man 4” dominated the other PLFs, though, establishing new opening weekend records for Dolby ($10 million domestically), 4DX ($17 million globally) and ScreenX ($14.4 million globally).

“This weekend’s historic worldwide results remind me of what Clarence wrote to George Bailey in ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’: ‘Remember, no man is a failure who has friends,'” Sony’s motion picture group chair Tom Rothman said in a statement. “‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ is fundamentally a movie about friendship, about the balm of connection in all our lives, and that is resonant to audiences of all ages and all around the world. In troubled times, Sony is very proud to have united the world in celebrating a film about hope.”

Holland’s run as Spider-Man is the rare series to keep improving upon the last at the box office. His first outing, 2017’s “Homecoming,” launched to $117 million domestically and ended its run with $880 million worldwide. Then 2019’s sequel “Far From Home” ignited to $92 million domestically but powered to $1.13 billion worldwide. And, of course, “No Way Home” was colossal with $1.9 billion worldwide. That film was especially huge because all three Spider-Men — Holland, Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield — shared the screen in a crossover event for the ages. Holland’s future with the character is uncertain (he said recently that a succession plan is already in the works), but it’s hard to imagine the studio will want to part with the 30-year-old actor after this historic weekend. Meanwhile, Marvel will build on the success of “Brand New Day” with “Avengers: Doomsday,” which reunites a smattering of superheroes (and reintroduces Robert Downey Jr. not as Iron Man but as the villain Doctor Doom) in December.

Elsewhere, “The Odyssey” has surpassed $911 million at the box office, including $395.5 million domestically and $515 million overseas, after just three weekends in theaters. “The Odyssey” and “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” will imminently be the fourth and fifth releases of the year to surpass $1 billion, following June’s “Toy Story 5” ($1.02 billion) and April’s “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” ($1.001 billion) and “Michael” ($1.001 billion).

The staying power of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey” will determine whether this summer will become the second since COVID to cross the coveted $4 billion milestone. And with blockbusters like “Dune 3” and “Avengers: Doomsday” on the way, Hollywood is hoping that yearly grosses will hit $10 billion for the first time in the post-pandemic era. Revenues used to regularly eclipse the $10 billion mark before the great movie theater reset.

“This milestone weekend sets up a tremendous month of August,” says Rentrak’s head of marketplace trends, Paul Dergarabedian. “The likelihood of a $4 billion summer and a $10 billion year just went up exponentially.”

 

Howard University Reinstates 200+ Freshmen After Enrollment Crisis

Earlier this week, the Washington, D.C. university interim president, Wayne A. I. Frederick, MD took to social media to share encouraging words. The Trinidadian-American Howard alum, who is also a practicing cancer surgeon at Howard University Hospital, had an important update regarding the hundreds of perspective incoming freshmen who were disenrolled merely days before many were expected to arrive on campus for their first year at the storied HBCU. To the delight of many, approximately 200 students have reportedly had their fall 2026 status reinstated.

In a confident yet compassionate manner, Dr. Frederick explained that he understands the disappointment and uncertainty the disenrollment decision has caused. “Admission to Howard University represents the realization of a lifelong dream,” Frederick said adding that the school’s enrollment decisions impacted many first-time-in-college (FTIC) students and families. 

More of his clear, direct and seemingly heartfelt message is below.

Each year, Howard University, like all colleges and universities, establishes enrollment deadlines that enable us to prepare responsibly for the academic year. These deadlines allow us to finalize financial aid, housing assignments, course schedules, orientation, and the many academic and student support services that position students for success. As part of this process, we must also ensure students have satisfied academic, administrative, and financial requirements for enrollment.

From March through July, the University communicated these expectations through multiple channels, including financial aid notifications, personalized aid information, email reminders, instructional videos, Bison Prep programs and direct outreach. Students were also provided additional time beyond the original deadline to make the required good-faith tuition payment, enroll in an approved payment plan, or submit documentation of pending scholarships, veterans' educational benefits, or other anticipated financial resources.

These decisions were not intended to diminish students' aspirations or place institutional finances above opportunity. Rather, they reflect our responsibility to ensure that students begin their Howard experience with a documented and sustainable financial plan. Across higher education, students who enroll without a realistic plan to meet their educational expenses are significantly more likely to experience financial hardship, interrupt their studies, or leave college before earning a degree. We have a responsibility to help students persist, graduate, and thrive.

At the same time, we recognized that some students' individual circumstances warranted additional review. We have now completed a comprehensive evaluation of every unenrolled student. As a result, a significant number of students have had their enrollment restored after completing payments, verifying scholarships, student loans, veterans' educational benefits, and other financial aid, resolving billing issues, or providing documentation that supported reconsideration. Final notifications to all affected students are now being completed. 

For students whose enrollment cannot be restored this semester, we are actively exploring options to help them continue their educational journey, including opportunities for deferred enrollment at Howard in a future term.

This experience has reinforced the importance of continually strengthening how we serve students and families. While our enrollment expectations remain appropriate, we are committed to making this experience better for future students and families.

This year, Howard University received more than 36,000 applications for the fall 2026 academic year, reflecting the growing demand for a Howard education. Of those applicants, more than 2,200 students successfully completed all enrollment requirements to secure their place in the entering class. Enforcing established enrollment processes and deadlines is essential not only to responsibly managing an incoming class of this size, but also to ensuring that every enrolled student has access to the academic, financial, residential, and student support resources necessary to thrive. 

Amid this ordeal, some other colleges and universities have extended invitations to assist the disenrolled Howard students. The nearby, smaller HBCU, University of the District of Columbia is one such school. Maryland governor Wes Moore announced yesterday that the University System of Maryland will attempt to help those impacted. Even colleges and universities in the City University of New York (CUNY) and State University of New York (SUNY) systems beyond the DMV-area have offered to support said students as well.

#WEDDINGBELLS: Donovan Mitchell and Coco Jones Got Married in Greenwich ceremony

Donovan Mitchell and Coco Jones are now married.

The Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star and the Grammy Award-winning singer tied the knot in a ceremony in Greenwich, Connecticut, on Saturday. The two shared their first dance to Musiq Soulchild's 2000 hit song "Love," as seen in a video posted by sports agent Troy Payne on Instagram.

The wedding was attended by a strong cast of notable athletes and names, including Mitchell's Cavaliers teammates, Bam Adebayo and Josh Hart, as well as Russell Wilson and Ciara. Jalen Brunson and Jaylen Brown were both in attendance as well, with Brown capturing Brunson on the dance floor in a clip that went viral on social media.

Mitchell and Jones announced their engagement in July 2025. Rumors of their relationship had begun to swirl in September 2024, when they were spotted holding hands at an Usher concert in Las Vegas.

Mitchell is coming off a season in which he made the All-NBA second team and led the Cavaliers to a 52-30 record and an appearance in the Eastern Conference finals, where they lost to the New York Knicks. Jones' last album, "Why Not More?" was nominated for best R&B album at the 68th annual Grammy Awards.

Ariana Grande to take 'step back from visibility' due to 'endless' public scrutiny

Ariana Grande has announced she will step back from public-facing engagements after finishing her current tour, citing concerns about "endless, ongoing public scrutiny". There has been renewed public commentary surrounding Grande’s physical appearance following the release of her new album.

American singer-songwriter and Oscar-nominated actress Ariana Grande will “take a step back from visibility” after her ‘Eternal Sunshine’ tour, and has withdrawn from her planned West End debut.

Grande, 33, is wrapping up the North American leg of her tour and will begin a 10-date residency at London’s O2 Arena later this month. Her representative has confirmed that she will take a break from public appearances after these shows, which end on 1 September.

“Ariana will be taking a step back from visibility after she completes the ‘Eternal Sunshine’ tour,” the rep told People. “She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny.”

People also quoted a source close to Grande, who emphasised that she was in good health. “She performs a very physical show, and there is a lot of athleticism involved,” they said. “She performs healthily and successfully at a very high level night after night."

The decision to take a break comes after renewed public commentary surrounding Grande’s body and appearance - commentary which intensified online after she recently released the video for ‘Petal’ (see above), the title track from her new album which was released last Friday (31 July).

Grande has previously spoken out about having people comment on her physical appearance and health, and has also been open about her mental health following the Manchester Arena attack at her concert in May 2017 when a suicide bomber killed 22 people.

Ariana Grande concludes the US leg of her tour on 6 August and heads to her London residency at the O2 Arena on 15 August. The sold out shows conclude on 1 September.

Nicki Minaj Launches $10 X Subscription & Fans Have Questions

Nicki Minaj is betting on the Barbz once again! Are they still there for here financially? The internet is already split over this latest exploit by the one known now as MAGA Minaj.

She has officially launched a paid subscription on X, giving fans access to exclusive content for $10 per month. Nicki’s move is drawing extra attention because she has never done this with her massive following.

“I finally did it,” Nicki wrote to her 26.6 million followers while introducing the new feature. She described the subscription as a place where fans could laugh, debate, vent and simply enjoy each other’s company away from the rest of us heathens.

The package she offers includes exclusive posts, subscriber-only X Spaces and a special badge that appears next to subscribers’ names whenever they interact with Nicki. The Barbz are gonna love that! For years, many of these people have competed for Nicki’s attention, and now she can milk this $10 at a time.

The early numbers suggest plenty of fans are willing to put their money where their tweets are. So far there are like 1,100 paying members. At $10 per month, that works out to about $11,000 in monthly recurring revenue, or approximately $132,000 annually. I need to find a way to make this happen for me.

Under X’s Creator Subscriptions program, creators keep up to 97 percent of subscription revenue! That is before reaching $50,000 in lifetime earnings! Not bad…even with Apple Google and payment processing taking a piece. After that, it comes down to 90 percent. Not a bad take. Almost like highway robbery with the prices of nearly everything going way up.

Not everyone is reaching for their wallets.

Some people clapped for Nicki for finding yet another way to get money from her dedicated fanbase. Does anything Nicki do warrant a $10 monthly fee?

I’m putting gas in my car and $10 gets actually gets me here and there.

Madonna & Kylie Minogue Debut Long-Awaited Collaboration at Surprise WorldPride 2026 Performance: ‘Are We in Gay Heaven?’

Madonna and Kylie Minogue are finally uniting on a song after decades of demand from fans.

The “I Feel So Free” and “Love at First Sight” pop icons surprised the crowd with a live debut of a new remix of Madonna‘s “Love Sensation” featuring Kylie at WorldPride 2026 on Saturday night (August 1) in Amsterdam. Madonna and Kylie Minogue together at WorldPride in Amsterdam 202646

Madonna launched her latest official “Club Confessions” party at the LGBTQ+ Pride party following stops in West Hollywood, London, Paris and New York City, taking to the stage alongside longtime collaborator Stuart Price and Honey Dijon, as well as RuPaul’s Drag Race fan-favorites Symone and Gigi Goode, who hyped up the crowd.

The Queen of Pop danced along and performed selections from her No. 1 new album Confessions II including “I Feel So Free,” “Bring Your Love,” “Danceteria” and “One Step Away” before launching into “Love Sensation” and announcing Kylie to the stage.

The two got up on the DJ booth and performed their new remix of the track together, as Madonna declared to the roaring crowd: “Are we in gay heaven?”

Madonna and Kylie Minogue together at WorldPride in Amsterdam 202646

They happily hugged and embraced afterward, as Madonna then launched into “Sorry” alongside Kylie, performing the Confessions on a Dance Floor song properly live for the first time since 2006, as well as the global smash “Hung Up.”

Following the surprise appearance, Kylie posted a video showcasing her spinning around backstage in Confessions II-era style purple and silver ensemble, as well as footage from the historic meet-up onstage. Watch above!

Madonna also shared the first snippet of the “Love Sensation” Afterhours Mix featuring Kylie.

‘Hadestown’ Producers Confirm Geno Segers’ Departure From Broadway Production Amid

Geno Segers will no longer be joining the cast of Broadway’s Hadestown after his alleged past social media posts have come to light.

Known for his work on TV shows including Pair of Kings, Knight Squad, and Henry Danger, the 49-year-old actor was supposed to make his Broadway debut in the production as Hades. Other cast members were also confirmed for the September 1 start date for the New York City production.

The producers of Hadestown confirmed that Geno Segers will no longer be playing the role

In a statement to Just Jared, the producers released the following: “The producers of Hadestown and Geno Segers have mutually agreed that Mr. Segers will no longer join the Broadway production. Additional casting will be announced shortly.”

What social media activity was unearthed? OnStageBlog says that there were anti-transgender posts unearthed on his social media.

Some videos allegedly had text that read, “TRANS FAIRNESS?” and “NO MORE TRANS?”

The outlet also reported allegations that Segers had criticized pronoun usage and expressed opposition to trans women participating in women’s sports.

Segers has not publicly commented on the reported social media activity or the decision for him to no longer join the Broadway production of Hadestown.

Mahershala Ali Calls Out Marvel For Canceling ‘Blade’: “If They Wanted to Do It, We Would’ve Done It”

After years of delays, rewrites, director changes, and release-date shuffling, it appears Marvel Studios’ long-troubled “Blade” reboot is officially dead.

Oscar-winning actor Mahershala Ali, who was supposed to play the titular character, has broken his silence on the project’s collapse, and apparently — the decision wasn’t his (via GQ).

You had me under contract, they have billions of dollars. If they wanted to do the movie, we would’ve done the movie… I feel ready to move on from the Blade questions. Those questions are for them.

This is what I would call Ali throwing shade at Marvel and Kevin Feige. There’s no way around it.

Marvel Studios unveiled Ali as the new Blade at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019, and many believed it was perfect casting. However, what followed became one of the MCU’s most infamous development stories.

The film cycled through multiple writers (at least six) and directors (at least three), reportedly underwent numerous rewrites, lost release dates, and was eventually removed from Marvel’s schedule altogether.

Throughout the process, rumors suggested the studio struggled to find the right creative direction for the vampire hunter while also trying to fit him into the MCU’s increasingly interconnected storyline.

Ali’s comments suggest the delays weren’t because of scheduling conflicts or creative indecision on his part. Instead, he places the responsibility squarely on Marvel, which most likely overcomplicated what should have been one of its simplest and most efficient projects. What a massive missed opportunity.

The studio overcomplicated what could have been a simple, standalone vampire action movie starring Ali instead of worrying so much about fitting it into the larger MCU.

Wesley Snipes’ return as Blade in “Deadpool & Wolverine” has also made his “there’s only one Blade” joke even funnier in hindsight. With Ali’s version seemingly dead, that line now feels unintentionally prophetic.

John Legend to play Harry Belafonte in apartheid-era drama

The Road Home centers on Hugh Masekela and explores how African music drew international attention to the fight against apartheid.

The Bill Condon-directed film also stars Cynthia Erivo, Guy Pearce, Johnny Flynn, and Thabo Rametsi, with production underway in South Africa.

John Legend previously described Harry Belafonte as a friend and mentor, reflecting on how he showed artists how they can engage in social justice work.

On Thursday (July 30), Deadline revealed that John Legend will portray Harry Belafonte in The Road Home, an upcoming musical drama centered on South African jazz giant and anti-apartheid activist Hugh Masekela.

The "All of Me" artist joins a cast led by South African actor Thabo Rametsi as Masekela. Cynthia Erivo will portray singer and activist Miriam Makeba, while Guy Pearce and Johnny Flynn were tapped to play Archbishop Trevor Huddleston and Paul Simon, respectively. Production is currently underway in South Africa.

Directed by Bill Condon from a script written by Michael Bronner, the film will explore Masekela’s belief that African music could bring international attention to the fight against apartheid. The story also examines the controversy surrounding Simon’s Graceland, which featured South African musicians despite a United Nations-backed cultural boycott of the country’s apartheid government.

Legend shared that accepting the role carries personal significance because of the relationship he developed with Belafonte before the legendary performer’s death in 2023.

“I was honored to know Mr. Belafonte as my friend, mentor, and collaborator in the struggle for justice,” Legend said. He added that Belafonte established a standard for artists who use their platforms to confront social and political issues.

Belafonte became a prominent supporter of the Civil Rights Movement during the 1950s and ’60s, working closely with Martin Luther King Jr., organizing demonstrations, and providing financial support for movement activities. His activism later extended to international causes, including opposition to apartheid and advocacy concerning humanitarian issues across Africa.

How Harry Belafonte’s activism helped inspire John Legend

Legend previously named Belafonte among the artists who shaped his understanding of how entertainers could participate in movements for social change. During a 2024 appearance at Georgetown University, he cited Belafonte and Nina Simone as role models who used their music, money, and public platforms to support protesters and organizers.

Legend’s acting credits include "Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert," while his song “Glory” from Selma, recorded with Common, earned him an Academy Award. He became the first Black man — and the youngest person — to achieve EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) status in 2018.

Studiocanal is financing The Road Home and will distribute the film across several international markets. A release date wasn't given at the time of the announcement.

AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES

Courtesy of P.O.Wm

Interesting choice for a day out with the kids 🤔

Didn’t understand until I read the shirt. 🤦

HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!

EFREM