The Daily Buzz For Sept 5☕📰☕

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#FASHIONFAB: Abercrombie & Fitch Unveils NFL Collection With New Campaign

Abercrombie & Fitch unveils its fall 2024 NFL collection campaign. Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
For fall 2024, Abercrombie & Fitch partners with the National Football League (NFL) again. This collaboration features a new campaign spotlighting the NFL collection alongside notable athletes.

The Abercrombie & Fitch x NFL advertisement features TJ Watt, linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers; Nick Chubb, running back for the Cleveland Browns; Fred Warner, linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers; and Rome Odunze, wide receiver for the Chicago Bears.

“Outside of football, I’ve always been a fan of Abercrombie,” shares TJ Watt. “I didn’t even realize how much product of theirs I wear until my wife let me know.” He adds, “The NFL Tees have a cool vintage look and feel.”
Fred Warner embraces a bold print in a leopard cardigan before sporting the Abercrombie & Fitch x NFL 49ers crew sweater. Photos: Abercrombie & Fitch

The Abercrombie & Fitch fall 2024 NFL collection embodies the spirit of all 32 NFL teams. It includes various apparel, from hoodies and T-shirts to sweatshirts, outerwear, and hats.
“We are excited to expand upon our successful Abercrombie x NFL franchise with an expanded assortment across men’s, women’s and kids for this upcoming season,” states Corey Robinson, Chief Product Officer of Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

Robinson further explains, “This collection has consistently exceeded our expectations, and we are thrilled to continue to innovate and expand our product offerings with this program, particularly with our authentic partnership with NFL players.”

Abercrombie & Fitch’s NFL collection celebrates football and reinforces the brand’s commitment to capturing the essence of sports culture in style.

#RHOA: Porsha Williams Gifts Her Daughter A $1500 Mini Tesla!

Porsha Williams is making sure her daughter, Pilar Jhena Mckinley, rides in style! The former Real Housewives of Atlanta star recently surprised her 5-year-old with a $1,500 mini Tesla Cybertruck.

The adorable moment was captured in a video Porsha shared on Instagram, where Pilar—affectionately known as PJ—was over the moon about her new toy.
Williams sweetly captioned the post, “Life is good. Just because you are my princess @pilarjhena #MyBlessing.”
Fans quickly flooded the comments with one person asking, “What she know about a Tesla?”

To which Porsha responded, “Girl, your guess [is] as good as mine. They said she saw one on the way to [the] tutor and told them mommy can’t afford that car.”

Meanwhile, Pilar has officially started kindergarten.
Last week, Porsha shared photos of her daughter on her first day of school. In one of the photos, PJ is all smiles as she poses with her mom and dad,Dennis Mckinley.
Porsha captioned, “This is going to be the best year yet! Mommy and Daddy are so proud of our lil’ princess and the G’mas too!” PJ’s first day of school sign offered a glimpse into the kindergartener’s world.
It revealed that PJ loves coloring, enjoys eating pizza, and reading her favorite book being All Star Kid. And when she grows up, she has her sights set on becoming a police officer.

Porsha has had a lot to celebrate lately, even amidst personal challenges.
During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen’s 15th-anniversary special on June 30, she opened up about life post-divorce from her estranged husband, Simon Guobadia.
“Life is good, my daughter is amazing,” she told host, Andy Cohen, at the time. “She’s doing really good with the transition.”

She added, “Her father is being really supportive, Dennis, you know, so. My mom is there.”

#NewMusic from Day26 “Day Ones”

With a release that comes as a bit of a surprise, R&B group Day26 makes its return with the brand new album “Day Ones”.
This is the third album overall from the group, and their first since “Forever In A Day” released in 2009. The release comes as the group are celebrating their 17 year anniversary since they first formed.

Featured on the album are all five original group members: Robert Curry, Willie Taylor, Michael “Big Mike” McCluney, Qwanell “Que” Mosley, & Brian Angel. Each of the group members has released solo music over the years, and the group has experienced a hiatus here and there, but they are back as one.

STREAM HERE: 

The group had also previously released the EP’s “The Return” in 2014, and “A New Day” in 2018.

#HipHopNews: Ice Spice Responds To Former Friend's Rant About Being 'mistreated' On Tour

Ice Spice has hit back after being aired out by a former friend in an explosive rant.
The drama began on Monday (August 2) when rapper Cleotrapa alleged that the “Munch” hitmaker had “mistreated” her on her Y2K! Tour, leading to them falling out.
Cleotrapa posted a five-part TikTok video series in which she claimed that Ice had invited her to open for her on the road and reassured her that they would share rooms and that she would be looked after.

However, things apparently started to go south when Cleo was allegedly neglected by Ice’s security and left to carry her own bags, while also being denied other amenities that were given to the Bronx rap star.

Cleo said she eventually confronted Ice about her luggage grievances, after which point she was further ostracized from the Y2K! rapper, including being denied access to Ice’s dressing room and told to change in a bathroom.
Cleo further claimed that the tour production team told her that she wasn’t in the budget and refused to pay for a chicken salad.
“This girl was really mad at me for saying something about that luggage,” she added. “She don’t want nobody to say nothing to her. She tried to lowkey torture me.”

The New Yorker suspects that she was asked to join Ice Spice on tour simply to “clean up” the rapper’s image following her previous spat with former friend Baby Storme.
In a separate post on X (formerly Twitter), Cleo claimed that she was not paid for performing on the tour, adding: “I was played, betrayed & unpaid.”

After Cleotrapa’s lengthy rant went viral, Ice Spice hopped on X Spaces to address the allegations.
“Crashing out is sad, you guys,” she said. “The scary part of fame, honestly, is the moment that somebody feels like they can no longer use your platform or they’re not getting exactly what they want out of a situation the way that they want it. That’s when they decide to crash out every single time. I’m noticing a pattern.

“This shit is sad because I genuinely was trying to help her […] What had actually happened is that we added another tour bus so I was like, ‘Now we have extra room, we have extra bunks.’ So I was like, ‘Oh, let me see if Cleo wants to come so she can do her songs.’ But that’s what the fuck I get for trying to be a good person.”
The 24-year-old also accused Cleo of deliberately omitting “so many” positive details about her tour experience, including them having fun together at an amusement park.

“For you to try to sit here and complain about a chicken salad? You never came to me talking about a chicken salad! What are you really talking about right now?!” she continued.
“You got less than 10,000 listeners and I’m sharing my stage with you, and you feeling so entitled, like you thinking that my peoples that are working for me are supposed to work for you too? That’s so crazy to me.”

Trump Campaign Ordered To Stop Using 'Hold On, I'm Coming' After Lawsuit From Isaac Hayes Estate

On Tuesday, September 3, U.S. District Judge Thomas Thrash Jr. issued a preliminary injunction ordering Donald Trump and his campaign to cease using the song "Hold On, I'm Coming" without a proper license. The injunction stemmed from a lawsuit filed by the estate of Isaac Hayes, who co-wrote the hit song with David Porter and died in 2008.

The lawsuit alleged that Trump's campaign had used the song without authorization at numerous rallies and events since 2020. The Hayes estate claimed that Universal Music Group and Warner Chappell Music, the song's publishers, had sent a cease-and-desist letter to Trump's campaign in 2020, but the use continued.

Judge Thrash's injunction prevents Trump from playing "Hold On, I'm Coming" at future events, but he declined to order the campaign to remove any existing videos that include the song. Ronald Coleman, an attorney for the Trump campaign, stated that they had already agreed to stop using the song and welcomed the court's recognition of First Amendment issues.

James Walker, an attorney for the Hayes estate, expressed satisfaction with the ruling, noting that it barred Trump from using Isaac Hayes' music in the future. Walker added that the case would continue to trial, where the estate intended to prove that Trump lacked a proper license to use the song.

The injunction is a significant victory for the Hayes estate and other artists who have objected to Trump's use of their music without permission. Many artists have faced challenges in preventing campaigns from playing their songs at rallies due to broad political use licenses obtained by campaigns from publishers and rights management companies.

Lady Gaga Confirms October Release For First Single From New Album 'LG7'

Lady GaGa has a packed schedule ahead of her. In addition to preparing for the premiere of her film "Joker: Folie a Deux", she is also working on her highly anticipated seventh studio album and gearing up to release her new single.
In a recent Instagram post, Gaga revealed her itinerary for the next month, which included premieres and press junkets for "Joker: Folie a Deux". At the bottom of the post, she teased the release of her new album's first single, stating, "XX October: LG7 first single."

Lady GaGa reveals her schedule for next month

This news comes after a series of teases from Gaga about her new album. At the end of her concert film Gaga Chromatica Ball released in May this year, she revealed the existence of the new record with the words "LG7 GAGA RETURNS" flashing on the screen. She also played two short snippets of new songs from the album for fans outside of her hotel following her performance at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

While fans anxiously await the release of "LG7", Gaga recently released "Die With a Smile," a romantic collaboration with Bruno Mars. The song debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking her highest charting track since her 2020 Ariana Grande team-up "Rain on Me." However, the Bruno Mars duet won't be included in her next studio installment.

Gaga is expected to kick-start her new musical era after the release of "Joker: Folie a Deux", which premieres on October 4. While an official release date for the first single from "LG7" has not yet been announced, it is expected to arrive sometime after that date.

Elton John, 77, reveals he's partially blind after 'severe eye infection'

Elton John, 77, revealed on social media that he has been grappling with an eye infection that has impacted his vision.
“Over the summer, I’ve been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye,” the EGOT winner shared in a statement on Instagram. “I am healing, but it’s an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye.”

Over the past several years, the “Benny and the Jets” singer has experienced some trouble with his health.
Last year, John slipped at his villa at Nice, France and visited a local hospital as a precaution but was able to recover at home and was “in good health,” according to TODAY.com reporting.

In 2022, fans became worried when tabloids reported that the “Rocket Man” star was using wheelchair. He responded on Instagram to explain why he needed a wheelchair during his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, which ended in July 2023.
“After another rousing 2.5 hour show, we arrived at Leipzig airport, just before curfew to find part of the airport had closed,” he said at the time. “It was an extremely long walk to get to the plane, so my team kindly laid on a wheelchair so I could rest my hip after the show. That’s all folks.”

John had undergone hip surgery after he “fell awkwardly on a hard surface,” in September 2021. After that procedure, he postponed some of his farewell tour dates.

He also delayed his tour after contracting COVID-19 in January 2022. The Associated Press reported at that time that John experienced “mild symptoms” during his infection and had been vaccinated and boosted.
For this recent eye infection, John says that he spent much of his summer “recuperating at home,” and feels grateful for the “excellent team of doctors and nurses and my family.” He says he's optimistic about his future health.

“(I) am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far."

'Very demure' TikTok creator still has a chance to trademark her phrase, says expert

The internet was up in arms after learning that TikTok influencer Jools Lebron now-viral ‘very demure, very mindful’ phrase was copyrighted by a Washington-state man. 
"I just invested so much time and money into this, and I feel like I did it wrong and didn't try hard enough," said LeBron in a tearful TikTok video last week. 

But experts say it's not over yet for Lebron. 
"Nothing has been trademarked yet," said Northeastern Law Professor Alexandra Roberts in an interview with FOX 5's Katie Barlow. "All that happened is a couple of different people applied to register phrases related to her viral videos as trademarks, but there's a lot left to happen in the United States Patent and Trademark Office before that actually turns into a registration."

Roberts says that the USPTO could reject the other applications or Lebron can oppose them and argue they should not be able to register the trademark. 
There are also rules in place around the intent to use the trademark. 

"In the United States, trademark rights are really based on use in commerce in connection with specific goods or services. There's a strategy where you can file based on an intent to use something as a trademark in the future, and that will kind of hold your place in line, and then you get a couple of years to start making the use. But again, you'd need the use for the registration. So if these folks don't actually start selling something or providing some service using the mark, you know, ‘very demure, very mindful or very cutesy’ or whatever it is that they applied to register, they will never actually get those rights," said Roberts. 

But while Lebron still could trademark her "very demure" phrase, Roberts says in a viral moment it makes sense to move quickly if you want to capitalize on it. 

"Once you have the trademark and the specific plan to use it, and you know what it is that you want to sell, what the goods and services are, you can go ahead and file the application. You don't need a lawyer to do that. And it only costs $250 per class, so kind of the category of goods or services. And that again will kind of hold your place in line so that once you're ready to start making use,you can access and get those, those trademark rights," said Roberts. 

Elle Macpherson Reveals She Was Diagnosed with Breast Cancer 7 Years Ago, Refused Chemotherapy

Elle Macpherson is opening up about a secret health battle.
In a new interview with Australia’s Women’s Weekly magazine published on Monday (September 2), the 60-year-old Australian supermodel revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer after undergoing a lumpectomy seven years ago.

Elle said that at the time, she was advised to undergo a mastectomy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and breast reconstruction surgery, but instead decided to treat her cancer without traditional message.
Instead, Elle decided on an “an intuitive, heart-led, holistic approach” to treatment after praying and meditating on a beach in Miami.

“It was a shock, it was unexpected, it was confusing, it was daunting in
 so many ways.And it really gave me an opportunity to dig deep in my inner sense to find a solution that worked for me,” Elle explained. “I realized I was going to need my own truth, my belief system to support me through it. And that’s what I did. So, it was a wonderful exercise in being true to myself, trusting myself and trusting the nature of my body and the course of action that I had chosen.”

Then in her upcoming memoir Elle, the model went into further detail about her decision to treat her cancer with a holistic approach.
“Saying no to standard medical solutions was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. But saying no to my own inner sense would have been even harder,” Elle wrote, according to an excerpt published by Women’s Weekly.

“Sometimes an authentic choice from the heart makes no sense to others … but it doesn’t have to,” she added. “People thought
I was crazy but I knew I had to make
a choice that truly resonated with
me. To me, that meant addressing emotional as well as physical factors associated with breast cancer. It was time for deep, inner reflection. And that took courage.”

Elle went on to say that her two sons, Flynn, 26, and Cy, 21, along with their father, her ex partner Arpad Busson all had mixed reactions to her using a holistic approach to treat her cancer.
“Cy simply thought that chemo kills you. And so he never wanted me to do it because he thought that was a kiss of death,” Elle wrote. “Flynn, being more conventional, wasn’t comfortable with my choice at all.”

While Arpad “didn’t agree with what I was doing,” he supported her decision. “He wrote to me to tell me how proud he was of the courage I was showing,” Elle wrote.

Now seven years later after her initial diagnosis, Elle said that she is cancer-free.
“In traditional terms, they’d say I’m in clinical remission, but I would say I’m in utter wellness,” Elle said. “And I am.”
In an interview from last year, Elle shared her true feelings about modeling.
Elle will be releasing Elle: Life, Lessons, and Learning to Trust Yourself on Nov. 19. You can pre-order the memoir at PenguinRandomHouse.com.

Michael Keaton & Winona Ryder Help Honor Tim Burton With Star On Hollywood Walk Of Fame

Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder join Tim Burton at this Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony held on Tuesday (September 3) in Hollywood.
The Beetlejuice Beetlejuice stars helped honor their director with a star on the Walk of Fame.
Also in attendance were their co-stars Danny DeVito and Monica Bellucci, who is also Tim‘s longtime love, as well as Winona‘s partner Scott Mackinlay Hahn.

Tim‘s star ceremony comes just days before Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set to hit theaters in the US!
During the ceremony, Michael gushed about Tim casting him as Batman.

“He hands me a script and goes, ‘Tell me what you think,’” he said, via Variety. “This is after Beetlejuice. After that performance. After that type of movie. He says to the studio, ‘I want that guy.’ I’ll never understand this why anyone cared. The uproar…you would’ve thought we were being invaded. It was unbelievable. The press was going crazy. But he stood by me. The guts it took to stand by that decision will always be appreciated by me.”

“What that [movie] spawned…there are a lot of people making a lot of money out there with their superhero movies because of his choice and his vision of what those movies could be, because he changed everything,” Michael added.

'The Neighborhood' Spinoff Series 'Crutch': Jermaine Fowler Joins Tracy Morgan In Paramount+ Comedy

Crutch is adding a new cast member! Jermaine Fowler has joined the upcoming The Neighborhood spinoff series which is set for Paramount+, Variety reveals.
The comedian and actor will be joining Tracy Morgan, who will play a new, reimagined character set in the same world as The Neighborhood.

Crutch centers on “Francois ‘Frank’ Crutchfield (Morgan) – or ‘Crutch’ to those that know him well – a Harlem widower whose empty nest plans are put on hold after his millennial son and free-spirited daughter move back home.”
Tracy originally played Curtis on The Neighborhood, who was Calvin’s (Cedric the Entertainer) brother, but Crutch is his cousin.
Jermaine‘s character will be Jake, who is described as “an Ivy League educated lawyer who forgoes a high-paying position at a swanky, white shoe law firm to provide low-cost legal aid in Harlem.”

The spinoff was first announced earlier this year with a series order.

Jada Pinkett Smith Goes Private on Instagram After Posting That ‘a Woman Is Told She Must Belong to Someone’

Jada Pinkett Smith has set her Instagram account to private.
The 52-year-old actress decided over the holiday weekend to remove public access to her Instagram profile.

Her decision follows her Monday, Sept. 2 post that included a photo of text that read: “A man can CHOOSE to belong to someone. And if he does… he is considered noble. A woman is told she MUST belong to someone or … she is not worthy.”
The post's caption read: "Even in some of our great religious traditions the goddess is rendered powerless without her male counterpart. And in others, the spiritual influence of the feminine, of Mother ... is not even recognized."

"We mere mortal women are worthy simply because we exist! And those of us who have cultivated our Queendom within our inner kingdom and have a deep relationship with the Great Supreme ... If we so CHOOSE to bond with someone from this space ... we will erect monumental love and give birth to treasures," continued the caption. "We need not bond in fear. You ... are ... greatness.❣️Walk with that this here Monday🫂♥️✨."
On Sunday, Sept. 1, she published an Instagram carousel, in which she officially said goodbye to summer.
Her set of photos featured a selfie by the beach and a video of her riding a jet ski with an unidentified man.

“Summer is coming to an end and my heart has been blooming in so many ways. Can’t wait to share. Till then…I’m just embracing the last of the summer vibez,” she captioned the post.

However, fans and followers asked who the unidentified man was, with some even joking that it was Will Smith.
Pinkett Smith's recent Instagram activity comes nearly a year after she opened up to PEOPLE about her relationship with the Bad Boys: Ride or Die star. “I’m going to be by his side,” she said of their relationship amid the release of her memoir Worthy last fall.

The couple, who tied the knot on New Year's Eve in 1997, have been married for 26 years and share two children: son Jaden, 26, and daughter Willow, 23. The King Richard actor also shares son Trey, 31, with ex-wife Sheree Zampino.
As for the state of her marriage to Smith, Pinkett Smith said they were "still figuring it out" and revealed that they had been separated since 2016.

“We’ve been doing some really heavy-duty work together," she added. "We just got deep love for each other and we are going to figure out what that looks like for us.”

Cardi B and Offset Reunite For Son Wave’s Airplane-Themed 3rd Birthday Party

Cardi B and Offset brought the family together over the weekend to celebrate youngest son Wave’s third birthday. According to reposts of Cardi’s Instagram Story of the event, the two MC’s — who are estranged after Cardi filed for divorce against the Migos rapper last month — went all out for the “last-minute” party that E! News reported took place at the American Dream water park in East Rutherford, N.J.

Cardi, who is pregnant with her third child with Offset, celebrated while cradling her baby bump, accented by a crop top and baggy jeans, with her pink hair tucked under a furry, floppy eared hat. The couple’s daughter, Kulture Kiari Cephus, 6, was there, alongside Offset’s three children from previous relationships, Jordan, Kody and Kalea.

With Wave looking ready to party in a white tank, dark shades, mini Timberland boots and jeans with a colorful pattern, footage from the party found the youngster flapping his arms and banging his head along with his dad before asking for an uppie. In a another clip, Cardi holds young Wave in her arms as Offset compliments his son’s “rizz,” as Wave tilts down his shades and gives a look.

Later, Offset says “don’t play” with his son, as he zooms in on Wave’s custom diamond-encrusted wave pendant. The party included a departure area a giant poster featuring a plane with a Wave logo on the side, an enormous four-tiered cake covered in marzipan planes, luggage and engines and food from MrBeast Burger.
Cardi, who has been teasing that her long-awaited sophomore album might be on the way soon, filed for divorce from Offset for a second time on August 1.

Cam’Ron Says Denzel Washington Starring In ‘The Equalizer’ At His Age Is No Longer Believable: ‘I’m Not Watching You Do Karate At 71-Years-Old’

Hip-hop veteran Cam’Ron thinks Hollywood has a serious problem. The rapper recently explained why he feels the movie capital is currently void of creativity, specifically taking issue with older actors like Denzel Washington being portrayed unrealistically.
During an episode of his podcast Come And Talk 2 Me with his fellow rapper Mase, Cam’Ron expressed his concerns that the same ideas keep circulating throughout Hollywood, stating:

“They keep doing the Smurfs, they on a new Ghost Busters…this the 7th Superman since I been alive…it’s like when its [something] gone be new.”
Going on, Cam’Ron declared his refusal to watch any more Rambo or The Equalizer movies – the latter of which stars Denzel Washington, adding:

“I love Denzel Washington as a actor, I’m not watching him doing karate at 71-years-old..I love him as a great actor but when n***as start doing karate in they 70’s, I can’t believe the movie…I can’t f**k with Denzel being the Equalizer at 70.”
In case you’re unfamiliar, the original Equalizer film starring Denzel Washington, 69, and directed by Antoine Fuqua hit theaters back in 2014. The movie sees Washington take on the persona of an ex-Marine and CIA officer who reluctantly returns to action to protect a teenage trafficking victim fleeing from the Russian mafia.

Despite mixed reviews from critics, the movie was a box office success and earned over $192 million on a budget of $55 – $73 million. Talks of a second film began as production was wrapping up the first movie and it wasn’t long before the standalone spurred into a trilogy, with The Equalizer 2 being released in 2018 and The Equalizer 3 in September of last year.

Earlier this year Washington, who has already hinted at retiring from his on-screen duties soon, stated that it’s “highly unlikely” that there will be any more movie additions to the franchise. He noted that his character’s story had come to an end. The story was also reimagined in TV form with Queen Latifah this time starring as the equalizer character. The show is currently airing its 4th season on Paramount +, with a 5th in the works.

Miami Rapper Trina Will Soon Unveil Her Life Story in a New Autobiography

As hip-hop autobiographies continue to be prevalent musical artifacts, rapper Trina is gearing up to unveil hers. 
The “Diamond Princess” will unveil “Da Baddest” on October 8th through Simon & Schuster.  Co-written by prolific writer Sesali Bowen, this highly anticipated book promises to be as bold, unfiltered, and captivating as Trina’s 20+ year career.  Her unapologetic lyrics in timeless hits such as “Da Baddiest B***h” and “Pull Over” have inspired fans and female hip-hop artists, especially those in the South.  As readers eagerly anticipate the release of her life story, there are several key points we hope Trina touches on in her book.

The life of her mother, Vernessa Taylor
Trina has been vocal about the role her mother, Vernessa Taylor played in her life and hustler mentality.  Before her tragic passing in 2019 from cancer, she was involved in real estate, which Trina learned from her at an early age. 

The challenges of being the only woman signed to Slip-N-Slide Records
Trina’s impact on the Southern rap scene cannot be overstated.  In her early career, she was signed to Trick Daddy’s Slip-N-Slide imprint, leading to several timeless collaborations between the two. Getting Trina’s insight on being the only woman on a male-dominated label will surely be a key element of “Da Baddest.”

Career struggles
While Trina has spoken chiefly highly of her career, behind the glitz and glamor, every female artist has faced challenges in the industry.  Trina is notably one of the most adored among her peers.  Therefore, it’ll be interesting to learn about the most complex times she endured as an artist, precisely the time between her 2010 studio album “Amazin'” and her 2019 project, “The One,” which was marked by conflict. 

Relationship insight
Trina has found herself in high-profile relationships with several famous figures, including professional basketball player Kenyon Martin and rappers Lil Wayne and French Montana.  Even after the breakups, Trina has kept many critical elements of those splits private, speaking mostly positively of her exes.  Now married, it’ll be fascinating to see if she takes a trip down memory lane. 

Trina’s autobiography promises to be a compelling read, offering a candid look at the life of a woman who has defied the odds to become a rap legend, selling millions of albums worldwide. 

Smash or Pass? Barbie and Krispy Kreme Release Limited-Edition Doughnuts

To celebrate Barbie‘s 65th anniversary, Krispy Kreme® has partnered with the iconic doll brand to launch a special collection of limited-edition doughnuts. Starting today, both Barbie and Krispy Kreme fans can enjoy four new doughnuts.

The collection features the Barbie™ Pink Doughnut, which takes the Original Glazed® Doughnut and fills it with pink buttercream, tops it with sparkly pink sugar, and finishes it off with Barbie sunglasses, capturing her signature pink look. Another treat, the Malibu Dream Party Doughnut, inspired by the Barbie DreamHouse™, comes as an unglazed shell doughnut filled with Cake Batter Kreme™. It’s dipped in Malibu blue icing with a sprinkle of sparkly graham sand, topped with a Barbie DreamHouse decoration, and finished with a white cloud piping to evoke that beachy vibe.

For those who prefer something fruity, the Barbie™ Berries ’n Kreme™ Doughnut offers an unglazed shell filled with Strawberry Kreme™, dipped in white icing, drizzled with purple and pink buttercream, and topped with a Barbie heart, delivering a sweet yet refreshing taste. To celebrate 65 years of Barbie, the Barbie™ Sweet 65th Doughnut takes the classic Original Glazed® Doughnut and dips it in chocolate icing, then decorates it with Barbie Sweet 65th sprinkles for a festive touch.

“We’re excited to celebrate Barbie’s 65th birthday with a collection of doughnuts that capture her iconic fashion sense and bring joy to fans,” said Dave Skena, Global Chief Brand Officer for Krispy Kreme.

Meredith Norrie, Vice President of Global Licensing and Consumer Products at Mattel, also noted that Krispy Kreme was the ideal partner to mark this milestone. “Barbie and Krispy Kreme are brands that bring joy and create sweet memories. This collaboration allows fans to enjoy a mix of flavor and style that nods to Barbie in every bite,” Norrie added.

For those looking to enjoy these unique treats outside of Krispy Kreme shops, a special 6-pack featuring the Barbie™ Pink Doughnut, Barbie™ Berries ’n Kreme™ Doughnut, and Barbie™ Sweet 65th Doughnut is available at select grocery stores. Fans can check the Krispy Kreme website to find the nearest location or grocery store that carries these limited-time doughnuts.

Serena Williams' new look at the US Open shocks fans with its strong resemblance... to her mother Oracene!

Serena Williams, known for her legendary tennis career and bold fashion statements, made a memorable return to the U.S. Open on Saturday, this time as a spectator.
Her appearance in the stands quickly became a talking point, as fans couldn't help but notice her striking resemblance to her mother, Oracene Price.

Serena Williams has always seen fashion as an integral part of her identity. "Ever since I was a little girl, I've used fashion as an outlet to express myself," she once said.
This sentiment was evident as she sat in Arthur Ashe Stadium, watching world No. 1 Jannik Sinner take on Chris O'Connell in the third round. But while the match was thrilling, it was Serena's outfit that caught everyone's attention.
Dressed in a denim skirt reminiscent of her 2004 U.S. Open look and a crisp white shirt, Serena's style echoed that of her mother, Oracene Price.

Her blonde curly hair and golden-framed sunglasses added to the resemblance, reminding fans of Oracene's iconic look-short blonde curls and stylish glasses-which she often sported while supporting Serena from the stands.
Social media quickly buzzed with fans pointing out the uncanny similarities between Serena and her mother.

One fan perfectly captured the sentiment, saying, "She get it from her mama," acknowledging the influence Oracene has had on Serena's style.
Another fan humorously noted, "Serena looks like Oracene but actually awake in the stands," referring to a famous moment when Oracene was seen dozing during one of Serena's matches.

The connection between Serena and Oracene extends beyond fashion. Serena has often spoken about how her mother inspired her love for beauty and fashion.
"My earliest beauty memory has to do with my mom. She wore red lipstick back then and still does now," Serena once recalled.
This influence led Serena to launch her own clothing brand, 'Serena,' in 2018, further solidifying her place in the fashion world.

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

Courtesy of P.O.Wm

Normal Day at Walmart

I have a feeling she doesn’t think there is anything wrong with this.

EVENING GOODIES: Meet Mr. Sultan

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The Daily Buzz For Sept 4☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Precious Lee for Elle U.K., October 2024

Precious Lee is part of a wave of women who are owning their power and redefining what it means to be a supermodel, says Naomi Pike.

BY NAOMI PIKEPUBLISHED For Elle UK
It takes me two weeks to pin down Precious Lee for this interview. She’s travelling, she’s shooting, she’s on set with ELLE. To put it plainly, she is ‘booked and busy’. As I align diaries with her people, nerves set in and I worry that, when we finally sit down, I might encounter a diva with somewhere else to be who rushes through answers. What I find is the opposite. Chatting with Lee feels like talking with an old friend. She’s the wise one, with encouraging words and advice to remember.

Lee breaks the ice by bringing up astrology. She’s a Virgo (‘like Beyoncé’), and wears all the attributes assigned to the zodiac’s most logical, practical and high-achieving sign on her sleeve.
She’s a life-long perfectionist, a very Virgo trait, and one she’s had since her childhood in Atlanta, where she balanced competitive cheerleading, Girl Scouts and dance team with debate club. She dreamt of becoming a lawyer.

Today, that capacity to juggle, while maintaining an attention to detail, defines Lee’s professional life. Whether she’s on set for her ELLE cover shoot, modelling in campaigns for Miu Miu, Calvin Klein and Fenty, or walking runways for the likes of Fendi and Versace, she demands the best from herself. ‘I want to get an amazing, one-of-a-kind, never-before-seen image,’ she shares, dialling in from her adopted city of New York. ‘I want to make it hard for the photographer to select, because I want them all to be good.’

It frustrates Lee that people assume modelling is just standing there in front of the camera. ‘Sometimes people think because you’re beautiful the photo is going to be beautiful, but that literally could not be more different from the truth,’ she says.
One of the striking things about Lee’s career is that she’s been able to move through the industry’s binary categories with ease and success; from the worlds of commercial ad campaigns to high-fashion runways, and back again. A new season of shows looms as we talk. At the autumn/winter 2024 presentations, there was a clear regression of diversity on the catwalk; ‘the return of size zero’ was a dominant talking point on the front row and beyond.

Lee’s presence at shows including Conner Ives, Ahluwalia and 16Arlington was a rare moment of size diversity, an all-too-rare representation of the vast majority of women. But she refuses to be boxed in by any single narrative, especially the ones about her body, or reduced to a type. ‘From the start of my career, I thought it was all kind of silly [that models were divided into categories], because I think a great model is a model that can do it all,’ she says.
A decade into her career, Precious has joined the illustrious pantheon of Supers who are known for their character, opinions and values, rather than just their look or ability to wear clothes – she’s a model in the spirit of Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista; women who paved the way for covergirls to become bona fide celebrities in their own right.

Within the industry, there’s been a slowly building feeling of change, where a new generation of supermodels who come without pre-assigned celebrity are achieving a hard-earned fame. Precious Lee, Paloma Elsesser, Vittoria Ceretti, Selena Forrest, Adut Akech, Mona Tougaard – women who are on the road to becoming mononyms, developing a sense of self on the world stage and revealing personas beyond the day job that require them to act in character.
‘All my life, every model that I have loved is able to be a trans- former,’ she says. ‘If you can’t transform on different sets or in different clothes or different locations behind different lenses, I think that it just means you have more work to do,’ she adds.

One model who has inspired her is Naomi Campbell. A serendipitous meeting in a lift in 2018 turned Lee’s one-time idol into a long-term mentor. ‘The reason why I’ve always admired Naomi, and why she was so powerful for me to witness when I was a little girl, was because she held this space with so much confidence,’ Lee says. ‘It’s what drew me to her. Now, I am just really grateful that we met. She’s always encouraging and checks in on me. There’s something so cool about having someone that you admire support you.’
Precious exudes a similar self-possession to that which she admires in Naomi. Some might call it a thick skin; the modelling industry remains a challenging place for women – and especially women of colour.

Yet Lee says her conviction has always been a part of her. It was instilled by her mother Anita, a teacher with an unwavering commitment to her daughter’s successes. A strong work ethic runs through her family; Precious’s father Rudy is an entrepreneur who owns a series of hair salons. She lost her older sister Charisma when she was still in primary school. ‘It’s a testament to my ancestors and my family. I had a laser vision. We should all have that and protect it. You should have that too,’ she tells me.

Lee says the longer she stays in the industry, the harder she must work to hold on to her sense of self-belief. ‘The confidence that I came into this industry with was indestructible,’ she says of her transition from Atlanta to New York immediately after graduation, adding, ‘I knew I was a model that the industry had never seen before.’ But with time, ‘I’ve realised it is really difficult to maintain that level of mental power. You can physically push yourself to do it, but you have to grow yourself emotionally and spiritually, as you also grow your career.’
Lee’s modelling aspirations began as a university student at the historically Black university Clark Atlanta, where she planned to study law. Her freshman year, she attended a local agency’s open call, a decision that set her on her way. A string of jobs eventually led her to New York, where she signed with Ford Models, but is now with IMG. ‘I think about it now and I crack up, remembering what I would wear to those first castings. I would be pumping around New York, going to castings with a red lip and a shirt tied up. That was just “no” – that’s not necessarily the protocol.’

Now, she says she’s a woman in transition, exploring who she wants to be. ‘I want to shift my personal and professional style this season,’ Lee says. She’s keen to move beyond the ‘super-glam’ personality she embodies on red carpets. ‘I guess perhaps my model style is snatched-corset-siren girl. But deep down, I’m the T-shirt girl. I want to show more of my versatility. This is my personal style. For example, yesterday, I wore a Bottega Veneta tennis dress that I got in Tokyo with Margiela shoes. My hair was in a bun. I just think it’s about sharing that chill side more,’ she says.

She’d like to see the fashion industry recover its joy, in a climate that has been challenging politically, economically and environmentally. ‘Don’t get me wrong, I love those serious runway moments that make you cry. But we have an opportunity right now to deliver a sense of joy. I’m excited to see if we can counter this moment in history and push things to a more positive place.’

Precious Lee is represented by IMG Models.

RHOA: Drew Sidora Reveals She Misses LaToya Howard On ‘RHOA’

Drew Sidora’s recent trip down memory lane has her hoping for LaToya Howard’s return to The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
In a recent interview with iHeartRadio’s Tyrik Wynn, the 39-year-old actress expressed her desire to see LaToya Howard, also known as LaToya Forever, return to the RHOA cast.

Drew Sidora said: “I actually miss Latoya. At the time we were bumping heads, but… it was fun, it was funny. It was just an interesting dynamic that I miss.” She’s grown so much. She’s had a beautiful baby. Our children are friends and they play a lot. I would love to see where she is now in her life. She’s funny and I enjoyed filming with her.”

Drew and LaToya’s relationship was notably contentious, with their on-screen drama escalating to a near physical altercation during season 13. The conflict began when LaToya made a derogatory remark about Drew’s wig, calling it a “pet wig” and naming it “Drewisha.” Later, Drew exposed LaToya for allegedly having relations with her prophet friend.

Despite their initial struggles, the two have since reconciled and now maintain a friendly relationship, with their children having regular playdates.

Do you miss Latoya?

#NewMusic from Tyrese “Beautiful Pain”

R&B superstar Tyrese is back with the brand new album “Beautiful Pain”. Although the singer had famously retired from new music following the release of his last album “Black Rose” in 2015, he keeps it going.

This is the seventh solo album overall from Tyrese, and the seventeen track project spans nearly an hour and half.
Guests featured on the project include Lenny Kravitz, Le’Andria Johnson, El DeBarge, October London, Tamar Braxton, Kenny G., and Eric Dawkins.

STREAM HERE:

The project includes the previously released singles “Love Transaction”, “Wildflower”, and “Don’t Think You Ever Loved Me”.
Currently, Tyrese has been on tour doing shows alongside his group TGT.

#HipHopNews: Lil Wayne, Juvenile, Turk, and B.G. to reunite as Hot Boys for 2024 Lil’ WeezyAna Fest

Lil Wayne announced the seventh annual Lil' WeezyAna Fest, which will see appearances from Rob49, Mannie Fresh, and more. In addition to headlining, the Young Money head honcho is bringing Juvenile, Turk, and B.G. to the big stage for a long-awaited Hot Boys reunion.

“Lil Wayne embodies the spirit of New Orleans, and Lil’ WeezyAna Fest is a stellar showcase of the city's dynamic and flourishing music scene,” said Live Nation Urban Vice President of Business Development and Operations Brandon Pankey in a press release. “Live Nation Urban celebrates this amazing event and is proud to continue to partner and cultivate the growth of this festival for years to come.”

Back in July, fans were hoping for a Hot Boys reunion during the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. While Birdman, Fresh, Juvenile, and B.G. did perform together, Wayne only appeared after those artists left for a solo set of his own.
In an interview with Geedy P, Birdman shot down rumors of any conflict with the “Lollipop” talent. “N**gas was talking about, ‘Wayne won’t do this and do that,’” the Cash Money CEO said during the livestream conversation. “Wayne wasn’t going to even do ESSENCE. I called my son and asked him to do it because I was doing ‘Birdman and Friends,’ and he did it. I asked him to do it right.”

He continued, “So we always knew that Wayne was going to have his own set because me and Juvie, Geezy, and Fresh, we rehearsed together every day, and we had our own set together. But we all knew that Wayne was going to have his own set because Wayne was only a surprise guest.”

Lil' WeezyAna Fest takes place in New Orleans’ Smoothie King Center on Nov. 2. Tickets and additional information can be found on the event's official website.

Tamar Braxton And Jessica Betts Honored During Atlanta Black Pride Weekend

Atlanta Black Pride Weekend and Global Black Pride concluded their historic collaboration by hosting the first-ever Global Black Pride in Atlanta over the 2024 Labor Day weekend with multiple events across the city.

During the 12th annual Pure Heat Community Festival, GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter, Tamar Braxton received the ICON Award, while R&B star Jessica Betts received the Trailblazer Award – presented by special guests Betts’ wife, Niecy Nash-Betts, and friends Da Brat and Jesseca Harris-Dupart. Additionally, Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Nik Harris (VP, Strategic Outreach & Engagement) received the annual Humanitarian Award with additional honorees including The Impulse Group; and a special voting call-to-action delivered from Miss Peppermint of Ru Paul’s Drag Race.

The weekend also featured the third annual Black Excellence Influencer’s Dinner, hosted by Gary With Da Tea RockStars Production and Traxx Girls at the Starling Hotel. The event served as a Fundraiser benefitting Global Black Pride Weekend and presented a unique opportunity for trailblazers, leaders, and influencers to celebrate accomplishments while highlighting individuals and organizations who significantly impact and contribute to the LGBTQIA+ community. The 2024 honorees included: Rashad Burgess, Lisa Cunningham, Funky Dineva, Judge Pierce Hand Seitz, Derek Ford, Devin Barrington, Adrienne Gates, Congress Woman Barbara Lee, and Earl D. Fowkles Jr.

Additional highlights from the nearly week-long affair include performances from Billy Porter, Saucy Santana, and more with special appearances from Arrington Foster, Bishop OC Allen III, Rashad Burgess, and Melissa “DJ M” Scott.

Will Smith Has been Named In $1 Million Infringement Lawsuit Over The 2019 Film ‘Gemini Man’

Movie star Will Smith and a few of his associates were recently hit with a million-dollar lawsuit.
An author accused the actor, in collaboration with numerous production studios, of stealing the plot for the 2019 movie Gemini Man from a novel he wrote.

According to documents obtained by In Touch, the complaint was filed by a man named Kissinger Sibanda. The plaintiff, who identified himself as an attorney and science fiction writer, named Will Smith, 55, Skydance Productions, Gemini Pictures, Paramount Pictures, David Ellison and others as defendants in the suit. Kissinger Sibanda alleged that the movie’s creators ripped off its concept from a book he released in 2011 titled The Return to Gibraltar.

Describing his novel, Sibanda wrote in the suit:“The book details an African American who is cloned and used in a time traveling program without his permission. In marketing the book, plaintiff Sibanda asserted that it would be a good fit for Will Smith as the lead. In 2019, Defendants released Gemini Man, directed by Ang Lee and starring Will Smith, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Clive Owen, and Benedict Wong. The [film] follows a former hitman who is targeted by a younger clone of himself while on the run from the government…The defendants struggled to make the movie until plaintiff released his book in 2011, thereafter they changed the film’s marketing strategy – taking themes, plots, characterizations, context and cultural subtexts from the book to create their movie, Gemini Man.”

As you may recall, the Smith-led project was released to an underwhelming box office performance, only bringing in $173 million worldwide from a budget of $138 million (before marketing). Smith stars in the movie as a 51-year-old professional assassin named Henry Brogan, who’s planning for retirement before getting hunted down by a younger, faster, cloned version of himself.

Before Smith signed on to star in the movie, Gemini Man was reportedly in production for over 20 years with several A-list celebs attached to it at various times. The original screenplay was reportedly written by a man named Darren Lemke in 1997, though – as Sibanda noted in the suit – production companies struggled to complete the project, allegedly due to plot holes. Sibanda went on in the complaint to double down on his copyright infringement claim, alleging that the movie only made it to completion after all that time because of his novel, writing:

“The publication of The Return to Gibraltar, provided a fee meal for the defendants; not only did the book detail the cultural importance of the protagonist as a black person in a cinematic form but it explained cloning and its science in the context of a complete story; not just “ideas and facts” but a complete narrative pace and climax, In addition to the literary tool of deception in a cloned army used against the protagonist. Interesting enough, the protagonist in The Return to Gibraltar is a Harvard man, similarly to the younger version of the Will Smith cloned in Gemini Man.”

Sibanda is seeking $1.7 million in damages.

'1,000-lb Sisters' star arrested at Tennessee zoo on drug possession, child endangerment charges

Reality TV star Amy Slaton Halterman was arrested on Labor Day at a Tennessee zoo on drug and child endangerment charges.
Halterman, 36, who stars along with her sister in TLC’s “1,000-lb Sisters,” was charged with illegal possession of Schedule I, illegal possession of Schedule VI, and two counts of child endangerment on Monday, the Crockett County Sheriff’s Department said. 

Deputies had responded to a call regarding a guest allegedly bitten by a camel at Tennessee Safari Park, a drive and walk through zoo, in Alamo. 
When deputies arrived they were “immediately overtaken by suspicious odors coming from the guest’s vehicle,” the sheriff’s office said. 
Authorities did not disclose what the cause of the smell was, but said Halterman and Brian Scott Lovvorn were in the vehicle and both were hit with the same charges. 

They were booked into the Crockett County Jail. A judge on Tuesday set bond at $10,000 for each of them. 
Halterman has two kids, Gage Deon Halterman, 4, and Glenn Allen Halterman, 2, with Michael Halterman, who filed for divorce in March 2023, People Magazine reports. 

It’s not clear who was bitten by the camel or if Halterman's children were with her at the time of the incident.
“1,000-lb Sisters” first aired on TLC in 2020 and follows the story of two Kentucky sisters — Halterman and her elder sister Tammy — on their weight loss journeys.

Olympic Runner Rebecca Cheptegei In Critical Condition After Set Ablaze By BF In Horrific Gasoline Attack

Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, who finished 44th in the women's marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, is fighting for her life as she sustained burns over 75 percent of her body after her boyfriend Dickson Ndiema allegedly doused her in gasoline and set her ablaze. The attack took place at her home in Trans Nzoia County, western Kenya, during a dispute on Sunday, September 1.

According to Trans Nzoia County Police Commander, Jeremiah ole Kosiom, the incident happened during a quarrel between Cheptegei and Ndiema over the land on which her home was built. "The couple were heard quarreling outside their house," Kosiom told journalists, per BBC. "During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her."

Ndiema also sustained serious burns in the fire, and both were rescued by neighbors and transported to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret for treatment. Police have collected a five-liter jerrican and a burned mobile phone for forensic analysis as part of their ongoing investigation.

Cheptegei's parents revealed that their daughter had purchased land in Trans Nzoia to be near its athletic training centers, an indication of her commitment to her sport.
Disturbingly, this is not the first time violence has struck the African athletic community. In 2023, Ugandan Olympic runner Benjamin Kiplagat was found dead with stab wounds, and in 2022, Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Damaris Muthee was found dead due to strangulation.

Rebecca Cheptegei's athletic career began in 2010, and she has since made significant accomplishments, including winning the Padova Marathon in April 2022 and securing second place in the women's 10,000-meter run at the Ugandan Championships in Kampala. The sports world now holds its breath, hoping for her recovery and seeking justice for this brutal act.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.

Drake Blocks Model Rebecca J, For Getting 'Presumptuous' About His Motive

Drake may be a certified lover boy, but that doesn't mean he always takes sexual advantage of every woman he knows. The Canadian superstar allegedly once got angry at a model for getting presumptuous about his motive after he slid into her DMs.

On a podcast episode, Jessenia Rebecca, better known as Rebecca J, and Amanda Nicole played "smash or pass" with rappers. After dismissing 6ix9ine, they got around to the subject of Drake. Amanda said she has been on a couple of dates with him. And although she called him "really cute" for his "dorky past," she noted that nothing happened.

Rebecca, on the other hand, never got a chance to know Drake personally despite him allegedly asking her out. "So Drake actually slid into my DMs," Rebecca claimed. "Girl, he blocked me after!" she said with a laugh. "Drake, you better not block this girl because of me."

Rebecca then admitted that she made Drizzy mad because she presumed he would want something sexual. "Basically, he wanted to take me out. And just because my Instagram is so overly sexual, I was just like, 'You know, I'll go out with you, but I'm just kind of establishing the boundary. Like, just so you know, I'm not that type of girl,' " she recalled.

"And he got so pissed, girl," Rebecca continued. "He sent me a freaking paragraph this long. Like, 'I can't believe you think I'm that type of guy, you're so presumptuous for thinking that. You've listed all these great qualities in a woman and you don't...' Like, just this whole rattle. Girl, [he] hammered in on me."

Apparently feeling offended by Rebecca's assumption, Drake went as far as blocking her. "He just started un-sending the messages and then blocked me. I was like, this guy's incredible. Anyways, moving on...," she said. They then asked again whether the "No Face" MC was a "smash or pass," and Rebecca answered with "I guess we'll never know."

South Carolina basketball star Ashlyn Watkins reportedly arrested on assault, kidnapping charges

South Carolina women’s basketball star Ashlyn Watkins was arrested on kidnapping and assault charges on Saturday in Columbia, South Carolina, according to The Post and Courier.
Though specifics of the incident aren’t clear, Watkins reportedly “forcefully” grabbed the victim’s face, pulled her arms and pushed her at a student housing center on South Carolina’s campus. She also allegedly "grabbed the victim's head and forced her to walk down the hall, thus controlling her movement while preventing her from leaving," according to a warrant obtained by WLTX19.

The woman then escaped and pulled a fire alarm, per the report, and was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Watkins was charged with first-degree assault and battery, and kidnapping after the incident. She was released on bond and is due in court in October. South Carolina reportedly said it was aware of the arrest and was gathering information, but had not released a formal statement.
Watkins is entering her third season with the Gamecocks. She averaged 9.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game last season as a sophomore while helping the program to a national championship. South Carolina went 38-0 and beat Iowa in the national championship game to claim its second title in the past three seasons.

The Gamecocks are set to open their season Nov. 10 against North Carolina State.

R&B Legendary Singer Freddie Jackson Has been diagnosed with Kidney Disease Diagnosis

Veteran R&B crooner Freddie Jackson took to social media on Tuesday to reveal that he has been diagnosed with kidney disease.

In a video posted on his Instagram page, the “You Are My Lady” singer shared that he has partnered with the National Kidney Foundation to raise awareness and support others facing the same condition.

In the caption of the post, Freddie wrote:

Hey everyone! Freddie Jackson here with a very personal and important announcement. It is with an open heart that I share some personal news: I have been diagnosed with kidney disease.

This journey has been challenging, but I am not facing it alone. My close friends, my manager and music family, and all of you are here with me, keeping me going.
I am also proud to announce my partnership with the @nationalkidneyfoundation to raise awareness and support for others affected by this condition.

Your love and support mean the world to me as I take this step forward for my health and well-being.
Together, we can make a difference. I love you and blessings to you all! 💜 #KidneyAwareness #StayStrong #nationalkidneyfoundation”

Mase Has unveiled His 70-Pound Weight Loss

Harlem rapper turned talk-show host Mase kicked off season five of his “What It Is” show with a viral freestyle and a youthful new look after reportedly losing 70lbs. 
During the Monday (September 2) premiere of the online sports talk show, co-host Cam’ron kicked off the show by showering Mase with praise, especially noting how sharp the 49-year-old rapper looked, from his fresh haircut to his impressive 70-pound weight loss. 

Killa Cam didn’t hesitate to dig for details on how his co-host managed to shed the pounds—and whether he might have had a little extra help.
“You took the needle,” Cam'ron teased, referring to the popular weight loss drug Ozempic. "Nah," Mase replied with a grin, "That's the hate I want. That's the hate I needed."

However, the “Feel So Good” emcee quickly shared that his transformation was due to a change in his diet. “I signed up with this coach named Ricky Moore, that's a professional bodybuilder, and he just put me on the alkaline diet,” Mase explained. “I’m only eating fruit, vegetables, and water for now.”

During the episode, Mase proved that his rap skills are just as fresh as his youthful appearance, delivering a 2-minute freestyle over Common and Kanye West’s 2005 track, “The Corner.”

Lil Nas X’s Hilarious Take On Gay Rapper Struggles: Calls For More “Homosexual Vixens” 

Lil Nas X joked about being a gay rapper, complaining about the lack of “known homosexual vixens” in Hip-Hop. 
Lil Nas X shared his hilarious take on the struggles of being a gay rapper, complaining about a lack of homosexual vixens in the Hip-Hop community. 

He took to social media on Sunday night (September 1), joking about his gripe. “Being a gay rapper is hard,” he began. According to Lil Nas, the gay Hip-Hop community is lacking personalities like Lori Harvey and the Clermont Twins. 
“Straight n##### got all the baddies,” he added. “We need more known homosexual vixens! where are our clermont twins, where is OUR lori harvey, we deserve a brittany renner too!” 

Meanwhile, in other Lil Nas X news, the polarizing artist recently shared some advice about starting over, urging people to take the next step to improve their lives. He posted a video message on social media encouraging fans to keep going. 
“Starting over is embarrassing and you just have to do it anyway,” he began. “People are going to tell you how good things used to be and how great you were and how the past was so much better than right now.” 

He continued, saying you must start wherever you are and stand on your dreams and ideas. “Stop trying to cling on to what was so that you can become that next version of you,” he added. “I haven’t even had my next big things yet, but I know it’s coming. It can feel embarrassing having all these eyes on you while you start something new. You have to let them watch. Enjoy the f###### show.” 

Kelly Rowland stuns at the 2024 amfAR gala in Venice

Kelly Rowland is at it again. The style chameleon shut down the red carpet at the 2024 amfAR gala in Venice, Italy, on Sept. 1. Draped in an intricate white couture gown, the “Motivation” singer embodied elegance, modern flair and high-fashion vibes. Rowland’s look was everything we expect from the fashionista — plus more.

Futuristic couture vibes
Rowland, who is currently taping Netflix’s “Building the Band,” arrived at the swanky event looking fabulous. Dripping in diamonds from head to toe, she owned the carpet, commanding the cameras like the posh powerhouse she is.
All eyes were on Rowland’s gown. Her dress, from Cheney Chan’s Fall-Winter 2024 couture collection, blended avant-garde design with classic elegance. Every inch of her dress was carefully crafted, and Rowland’s fit figure looked amazing in it. The gown featured layered fabric in a dramatic sculpted silhouette, with a structured bodice that cinched Rowland’s waist and flared into a cone-like hip design. This hip detail oozed futuristic fashion with a touch of old Hollywood glam.

Accessorizing the look
Styled by Wilford Lenov, Rowland complemented her glamorous, futuristic look with white platform pumps and serious bling. From her ears and neck to her wrists and waist, the Texas native dripped in diamonds. Her hair and makeup were equally a vibe, featuring her signature platinum blonde bob with dark roots and soft, wavy curls. Her makeup was luminous, dewy and natural, with a smoky eye and nude, glossy lips completing the look.

Performance highlights
As if her red carpet slay wasn’t enough, Rowland also performed at the annual event. According to social media, the starlet switched into a green sequin ensemble for her night set, showcasing her versatility. Rowland regularly supports and attends the amfAR gala, which builds awareness and raises funds for HIV and AIDS.

Cardi B responds to controversy over maternity shoot graffiti

Cardi B recently found herself at the center of controversy after sharing maternity shoot photos that some fans interpreted as a subtle jab at fellow rapper Nicki Minaj. The photos, which feature Cardi sitting on a motorbike in front of a store in New York City, include graffiti that reads “homesick pedophile.” This sparked speculation about whether Cardi was throwing shade at Minaj.

In response to the backlash, Cardi defended her choice of location on X, stating, “First of all we literally picked a random street because paparazzi was hounding us everywhere.” She explained that the shoot was rushed due to leaks about her pregnancy, and she did not have time to review every detail of the background. Cardi emphasized, “I’m ALWAYS with the s—s but I’m not using MY MATERNITY shoot to be funny. Are you dumb?” This statement was made in response to a fan who suggested that the graffiti was inappropriate for a maternity shoot.

Some fans speculated that the choice of words was intentional rather than a mere coincidence.
The graffiti reference also ties into a larger narrative surrounding Nicki Minaj’s family. Her brother, Jelani Maraj, was convicted of predatory sexual assault in 2017 and sentenced to 25 years to life in 2020. Additionally, her husband, Kenneth Petty, faced legal issues for failing to register as a sex offender, stemming from a 1995 attempted rape conviction.

These legal troubles have been a topic of discussion in the hip-hop community, especially after Megan Thee Stallion referenced Megan’s Law in her diss track “Hiss,” which calls for public disclosure of registered sex offenders.
As the drama unfolds, it highlights the complexities of celebrity culture and the scrutiny that comes with it. Cardi B’s maternity shoot, meant to celebrate her pregnancy, became a focal point for discussions about personal history and public perception.

Giannis Antetokounmpo And Mariah Riddlesprigger Say 'I Do'!

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo and longtime girlfriend Mariah Riddlesprigger tied the knot quietly over the weekend.
According to media reports, the couple had a private three-day event that included a Nigerian-themed party and a White Party at the Costa Navarino resort near Pylos in the Peloponnese.

The NBA star and his longtime love said, "I do" at a "hybrid" Greek Orthodox and Catholic ceremony in Greece over the weekend. The Proto Thema newspaper reported that the couple wanted their wedding to be private with zero media coverage.
"The demands for privacy were extremely high, with measures ensuring that no one could approach, except the guests and staff of the reception, while reportedly the only way to approach someone was through... drone," the newspaper reported.

"Remarkably, everyone working on the wedding has signed a confidentiality agreement to ensure the couple's complete privacy."
Bucks forward Khris Middleton, who has been Antetokounmpo's teammate since 2013, served as best man. Also in attendance were LeBron James, Serena Williams, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Jrue Holiday, and the Bucks' owners, among around 200 others.
Photos shared on social media earlier this year had some people wondering if the couple already tied the knot or were maybe just celebrating their engagement.

Riddlesprigger shared photos from her sister's Instagram page that show her wearing a diamond ring and a white dress looking into a mirror that had "It's a Forever Kind of Thing" and "M|G" written on it.
Another Instagram Story shared by Riddlesprigger shows champagne glasses under white balloons and the words, "Mrs. Antetokounmpo."
Antetokounmpo and Riddlesprigger met and began dating in 2014. They are now parents to three children, sons Liam, 4, and Maverick, 3, and daughter Eva, born in September 2023.

Last October, during an Instagram Live, Riddlesprigger revealed that Antetokounmpo wants more kids...many more kids!
"We want a large family. I don't think we're done," Riddlesprigger said. "We're definitely not done."
She also made it a point to reveal how many kids Antetokounmpo hopes to have.

"Giannis would have 10 if he could," she said. "But I think five or six the most." Antetokounmpo then yelled from the other room, "Five? You said seven!
During the Instagram Live, Riddlesprigger shared the two sides of Antetokounmpo - the basketball side and the non-basketball side.

"The basketball Giannis, we know his routines and follow his routine and I try to make his life easier. And with the boys and Eva just trying to surround him with as much love when he's not on the court because he has so much stress and everything going on there," Riddlesprigger said.

"And then on the other side is fun Giannis, which people get glimpses of here and there. It's really awesome both ways. The season is a little more stressful, a bit more organized. We have our routines; we have our days. Then the off-season, when he does have breaks, it's just a really good time. We have a really good time together. It's just so much fun. He's really funny, so it's a good time."
Riddlesprigger started an annual drive after they welcomed their second son in 2021. The driving force was realizing how expensive it is to have two children in diapers at the same time. To celebrate Maverick's arrival into the world, the couple held Maverick's Diaper Mission in collaboration with Milwaukee Diaper Mission.

Since then, the event has become the annual BIG Give Back, and they both help out with the cause each year.
"There's no way I can help the whole world, but you can start somewhere," Riddlesprigger said at a news conference, according to Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. "I think this is where we start and we continue to build and help as many people as we possibly can."

Antetokounmpo added, "There's a lot of families out there that are in need of diapers. My family was one of them. It was hard. Growing up, I didn't understand all the sacrifices people have to make in order for them to raise their kids."

Elon Musk Stirs Controversy with AI-Generated Image of Kamala Harris as a Communist Dictator

Elon Musk is once again at the center of a social media firestorm, this time for sharing an AI-generated image of Vice President Kamala Harris dressed as a communist dictator. The billionaire CEO of X (formerly Twitter) posted the image in response to a September 1st post from Harris, where she shared a poster featuring Donald Trump with the caption: “Donald Trump vows to be a dictator on day one.”

“We won’t let him,” Harris wrote defiantly.
Musk was quick to respond, initially accusing Harris of dishonesty by replying, “You’re lying.” But he didn’t stop there. Later, Musk escalated the exchange by posting an AI-generated image of Harris in a red communist uniform, accompanied by the caption: “Kamala vows to be a communist dictator on day one. Can you believe she wears that outfit!?”

The post quickly sparked backlash across the platform, with X users criticizing Musk for using AI to depict Harris in such a provocative manner. Many users began to counter Musk’s post with AI-generated images of their own, turning the tables on the tech mogul.

Marlon Wayans on Losing Out on Robin Role in 'Batman Returns': 'I Was Hurt'

Marlon Wayans has opened up about losing the role of Robin in the 1992 film Batman Returns and how that turned his career around for the better.
During his appearance on The School of Greatness, Wayans discussed how people can take lessons from losses and opened up about his own experiences. One of those experiences was when he was cast as Robin in Tim Burton's Batman Returns but ended up losing the role as producers wrote the character out of the script.

According to the 52-year-old, he was initially upset that the role was axed but later understood the lessons that came from it and opened up a new path to take his career to the next level.
"When I was 19, I got Batman," said Wayans. "I was going to be the first Black person besides Billy D [Williams] to be in one of these big movies. [It] was with Tim Burton, and I was going to be Robin, and I got a phone call from Tim Burton and Denise Denovi in a letter saying that I wasn't."

He continued, "I was going to be off to the races. Batman [and] Robin, you know what my career would have been? But it didn't happen, and immediately, I was like I was hurt. But I said no, I'm going to start writing these movies. I'm going to start creating my own show. I'm going to start doing things that that I know put the ball in my own hand. Had that Robin happened, I would have had a different career."
When asked where he thought his career would be now if the role wasn't removed from the script, Wayans stated he probably would've wasted his life away as he wouldn't know what to do with all the success and money that would've come from the film. He also stated that God placed him on a journey to create independently, and he had to learn things the longer way instead of taking shortcuts.

Even though producers took Robin out of the Batman Returns script, Wayans claimed he was paid for the role and still receives residual checks. In 2009, Wayans revealed Burton wanted him to have the role in the threequel film Batman Forever, but the director was replaced by Joel Schumacher, which changed the whole direction of the film.
Losing Robin's role led Wayans to make a name for himself and create his show with his brother Shawn, titled The Wayans Bros., which ran from 1995 to 1999. He also had a hand in writing several cult films such as Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, the first two Scary Movie films, White Chicks, and more.

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