The Daily Buzz For Oct 30☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Bad Bunny as Vanity Fair’s October 2023 Cover Star

Radhika Jones has got her finger firmly on the pulse of what’s happening within the world of fashion, entertainment and pop culture, and it’s reflected with the editor’s choice of cover subjects for Vanity Fair. Following the impressive A-list lineup we saw for the magazine’s annual Hollywood issue, 2023’s cover stars have included Gisele Bündchen, Abel Tesfaye (aka The Weeknd), Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Riley Keough.

Bad Bunny now graces the publication for October 2023, with the Puerto Rican rapper and singer-songwriter posing for photographer Szilveszter Mako against a textured green studio backdrop. In the intriguing cover photograph, stylist Nicole Chapoteau dressed Bad Bunny in a checkerboard Valentino coat, shirt and pants (also from Valentino) and Bottega Veneta shoes. 

Nice!


#RHOA: Hot or NOT? Porsha Williams In a Nude, Sparkling Dress

Porsha Williams knows how to command attention — and anything else she wants. In an October 25 Instagram post, The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum shared a video of herself rocking a sheer, sparkly dress that could only be summed up in one word: wow.

In her caption, Porsha playfully noted: "This her world, she’s getting whatever she wants," and tossed in a fire emoji. She also gave shout-outs to the brand and glam-squad members who gave her the head-turning look, starting with her own hair extension, wig, and lash collection. "HAIRRR: [Go Naked]" she wrote proudly.

The Atlanta mama's thick, lustrous waves weren't the only eye-popping aspect of her look. With makeup by Biggles LLC, Porsha showed off a full set of minky lashes, shimmery purple eyeshadow, glimmering pink cheeks, and a glossy pink lip with a high-shine finish. As she fluffed her shiny locks, she displayed her butterfly wrist tattoo and gloden hoop earrings.

Porsha's look centered on her curve-clinging dress, which was selected for her by someone very special. "Styled by [Simon Guobadia]," she wrote in her caption, playfully tagging her husband. Simon has good taste.
The sheer, sparkling dress made a dazzling ensemble, and it looked even better when paired with black heels decked with gold chains, a matching chainlink bracelet, and Porsha's megawatt engagement and wedding rings. To show off the look in her video, Porsha did a slow twirl, and she looked justifiably pleased with her shimmering style.

Of course, this isn't the first time Porsha has dazzled in a dress that can help her get "whatever she wants." Ths past February, she showed off an incredible travel wardrobe while she and her new hubby took their honeymoon in Malta.

While enjoying the romantic vacation on the Mediterranean island, the RHOA alum rocked a bright red long-sleeved curve-hugging maxi dress with numerous sheer panels, completing her look with a gold cuff, gold hoop earrings, and long wavy locks.

PJ's mama showed off the details of the sultry ankle-length sheath again in another series of photos snapped by Simon. “A lovely dinner[,] now a late-night snack,” she quipped in the caption of the post, also putting her classic French manicure and dusty pink and cinnamon-colored makeup on display.


#MusicNews: Mary J. Blige Releases New Single “Still Believe in Love”

Legendary R&B icon Mary J. Blige returns with the release of the brand new single “Still Believe in Love”. The song features Vado and was produced by DJ Cassidy and Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman.

LISTEN HERE

“Still Believe in Love” comes with an accompanying video to match the track featuring Blige on an epic vacation in Italy.


#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion Announces New Single "Cobra"

Megan Thee Stallion announced her upcoming single titled “Cobra.” Slated to hit streaming platforms next Friday (Nov. 3), the artist shared its cover poster on social media alongside a pre-save link.

Earlier in the week, she released a teaser video captioned “ACT ONE.” The brief clip highlighted her mouth as she pronounced, “Just as a snake sheds its skin, we must shed our past, over and over again.” Furthermore, filmmaker Douglas Bernardt is set to direct the visual accompaniment for the upcoming offering.

“Cobra” will also mark Megan’s solo track since settling her legal battle with 1501 Certified Entertainment. Announced on Oct. 19, attorneys for the Houston native’s former record label revealed that the two parties “mutually reached a confidential settlement.”

In a statement, they shared, “Both Megan and 1501 are pleased to put this matter behind them and move forward with the next chapter of their respective businesses.” President Carl Crawford also wished the musician “the very best in her life and career.”

During an Instagram Live earlier this month, Megan revealed that her upcoming music will be released without major label backing. The rapper stated, “This part of my album is definitely very much funded by Megan Thee Stallion because we’re trying to get off [1501 Certified]. I have no label right now, and we’re doing everything funded straight out of Megan Thee Stallion’s pockets. So, the budget is coming from me. Motherf**kin’ Hot Girl Productions.”

She continued, “We in my pockets, Hotties, so let’s do our big one… I’m so excited to be doing something for the first time independent since it was just me and my mama. [I’m] so excited because it’s really just me this go-round until we sign to a new label. I don’t want to sign to a new label right now because I just want to do it myself until I’m completely out of [this deal].”

Earlier this year, Megan also joined Cardi B for their joint effort “Bongos,” which marked the former’s first lead single of 2023.


Matthew Perry's Family Speaks Out After the Star's 'Tragic' Death: 'We Are Heartbroken'

Matthew Perry's family is speaking out. After the actor died by an apparent drowning at age 54 on Saturday, his family tells PEOPLE in an exclusive statement that they are "heartbroken" by his "tragic" death.

"We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother," the family says. "Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend."
They add: "You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love."

Matthew was found dead at a Los Angeles-area home on Saturday. TMZ reported that Perry was found in a jacuzzi at the residence, and first responders were called to the residence for cardiac arrest.

No drugs were found at the scene and no foul play was reported, TMZ added.

A Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson later told PEOPLE on Saturday that officers responded to a call at Matthew's address regarding the death of a male in his 50s, though authorities would not confirm the deceased's identity.
Following his death, Warner Bros. TV, which produced Friends, said in a statement about the beloved actor: “We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans."

Matthew was raised by his father, John Bennett Perry, mother, Suzanne Morrison, and stepfather, Dateline journalist Keith Morrison.
John and Suzanne welcomed Matthew in 1969, but they split less than a year later. (Both John and Suzanne remarried and welcomed more children with their respective partners: Suzanne wed Keith in 1981, while John married wife Debbie the same year.)

Matthew — who has five siblings from his parents' later marriages — grew up in Ottawa, Canada, with his mother before moving to California to live with his father as a teenager. He followed in his dad's acting footsteps, and the two shared the screen on many occasions, including when the elder Perry appeared on Matthew's hit show Friends in 1998.

Matthew's parents were also by his side throughout his long struggle with addiction. When he was hospitalized in 2018 after his colon burst due to years of opioid use, they rushed to the hospital to be with their son. “They were both standing at the edge of my bed,” Matthew recalled to Diane Sawyer on ABC News in October 2022. “I was like, ‘Whoa, I must be really sick for this to be happening.’ ”


Richard Moll, who played towering bailiff on 'Night Court,' dies at 80

Actor Richard Moll died Thursday at his home in Big Bear Lake, Calif. He was 80.
The deep-voiced, 6 foot 8 inch actor was best known for the role of the bailiff Bull Shannon in “Night Court,” co-starring Harry Anderson and John Larroquette, from 1984 to 1992.

Moll was nominated for a Saturn award for the 1985 horror movie “House.” He voiced the role of Harvey Dent/Two-Face on “The Adventures of Batman & Robin,” as well as Scorpion on “Spider-Man: The Animated Series. He also had parts in “The Flintstones,” “Jingle All the Way,” “Casper Meets Wendy” and “Scary Movie 2.”

He had a recurring role on sitcom “Getting By” starring Cindy Williams and voiced the bodyguard in “Mighty Max.”
Moll went on to appear in the 1999 satire “But I’m a Cheerleader” with Natasha Lyonne, in which he played a gay man who shepherded teenagers sent to a re-education camp by parents who suspected they were homosexual.

His other television appearances included “Sabrina, the Teenage Witch,” “7th Heaven” and “Smallville.” After appearing in the horror movie “Nightmare Man” in 2006, he starred in “Thomas Kinkade’s Christmas Cottage” opposite Peter O’Toole, Marcia Gay Harden and Ed Asner and later appeared in “Cold Case” and “Anger Management.” He also appeared in made-for-television films including “No Place Like Home” and “The Headless Horseman.”

Born in Pasadena on Jan. 13, 1943, he graduated UC Berkeley and began acting at the Will Geer Theatre performing in works of Shakespeare.
The actor was an avid bird watcher and nature lover and retired to Big Bear Lake.
He is survived by his children Chloe and Mason Moll; ex-wife Susan Moll and stepchildren Cassandra Card and Morgan Ostling.


Earvin 'Magic' Johnson is the world's newest billionaire.

Johnson, who retired from the NBA in 1991 after being diagnosed with HIV, owns a minority stake in the NFL's Washington Commanders, following billionaire Josh Harris' $6.05 billion purchase of the team in May.
The 64-year-old Johnson also owns stakes in a trio of Los Angeles professional sports franchises, including the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers and the MLS’ LAFC.

Forbes now estimates his net worth to be $1.2 billion—the result of his stakes in those teams, and major investments in a slate of industries, including a 60% stake in Iowa-based life insurance company EquiTrust he purchased in 2015.
EquiTrust makes up the largest portion of Johnson’s personal net worth—since the purchase, the Iowa-based company’s assets have skyrocketed from $16 billion to $26 billion, with annual revenues of roughly $2.6 billion.

Over the past three decades, Johnson has launched a chain of movie theaters in a partnership with Loews, setting up theaters in predominantly Black neighborhoods in major cities across the country, including Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston and New York City — he also began a 50/50 venture with Starbucks to open cafes in Black neighborhoods.

The 12-time NBA All-Star also owns a minority stake in a PepsiCo bottling plant outside Washington D.C. he purchased in a $60 million deal with investor Earl Graves in 1990.


Kelly Rowland Denies A Destiny’s Child Reunion

Fans have been on the edge of their seats for quite some time now ever since rumors circulated that girl group, Destiny’s Child, may be planning a reunion. Now, former member Kelly Rowland has shut those rumors down in a new interview.
In a conversation with The Messenger, Rowland explained that the three members are all working on their own projects at the moment.

“Bey wrapping up Renaissance and getting ready for her movie, Michelle in the thick of her solo projects that she’s doing, and me in my solo space and all the things that I’m doing, that’s where my head is,” Rowland shared.

“That’s where my heart is. That’s what I’m most excited about, with all due respect to Destiny’s Child. And should there be a space for that, we’ll see what happens. But as for right now, I’m so excited as to what I’m doing.”
With the group’s 25-year anniversary coming up, fans have been awaiting some sort of announcement from the trio’s camp. The official Destiny’s Child website updated its look to reflect the anniversary and with the craze around Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour, it seemed to be a glimpse of hope for those looking to hear Survivor once more.

As for now though, Rowland says shes just simply looking forward to how people continue to keep the group’s legacy alive during times like Halloween.
“I just love to be surprised on Halloween, to be honest,” Rowland shared. “I remember one year, Saweetie did ‘Bootylicious.’ Another year, this couple did Nelly and Kelly, ‘Dilemma,’ which I absolutely love. So when those pop up on my timeline and my feed, I always touch my heart. It’s so cool to be a part of culture in that kind of way.”


Lizzo defended by tour company amid legal battle with ex-dancers

Lizzo has the support of nearly two dozen employees who have spoken out in defense of the singer amid her legal battle with three former dancers. As previously reported by REVOLT, the entertainer, her touring company, and her dance captain, Shirlene Quigley, were named in a suit brought against them by dancers Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez in August.

The three women alleged that they faced disability discrimination and sexual and religious harassment and that they were forced to inappropriately interact with nude dancers at a sex show in Amsterdam. The “Rumors” singer countersued, and in an open letter, she shot down the disappointing claims.

However, according to Variety, a new motion to dismiss the ex-dancers’ suit was filed on Friday (Oct. 27) in the Los Angeles Superior Court. In the documents, 18 members of Lizzo’s Big Grrrl production company wrote declarations debunking claims that the Grammy Award winner was verbally abusive, body-shamed crew members, and helped cultivate a hostile working environment.

Dancer Melissa Locke claimed that Davis and Rodriguez both boasted about the fun they had with Lizzo in the Red Light District. She stated that at no point did the women indicate that they felt pressured or that their jobs were at stake if they did not participate in the night’s festivities. “They were very enthusiastic about what a great night out they had… They agreed that it was a fun night and told me that they went out in the Red Light District after. They did not complain or sound upset in any way,” wrote Locke in her declaration.

Lizzo’s attorney, Martin D. Singer, said the former dancers’ lawsuit is a “fabricated sob story” filed “out of spite and in pursuit of media attention, public sympathy, and a quick payday with minimal effort.” The motion further claims the former dancers exhibited unprofessional behavior, including showing up to rehearsal hungover and missing flights, and that the quality of dancing had begun to decline.

It is also alleged that the women “entered into consensual sexual relationships with male crew members on tour” and that they “conspired to make and disseminate an unauthorized recording of a creative meeting with Lizzo and the dance cast.”
Last month, the entertainer earned high honors at the Black Music Action Coalition when she received the Quincy Jones Humanitarian Award for her hit show, “Watch Out For The Big Grrrls.”


Suspected gunman Robert Card found dead days after mass shooting killed 18 in Maine

An intensive two-day manhunt for an Army reservist suspected of killing more than a dozen people this week in a mass shooting in Maine has come to an end.

Authorities confirmed on Friday (Oct. 27) evening that Robert Card was found dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to CNN. His deceased body was located close to a recycling plant, which he had recently been fired from, and near the Androscoggin River in Lisbon Falls. His abandoned white Subaru Outback was previously located not far from the river.

“Like many Maine people, I breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Robert Card is no longer a threat to anyone else. I know there are many people who share that sentiment. I also know that his death may not bring solace to the victims of this tragedy,” said Governor Janet Mills in a released statement. “While this search has concluded, I know that law enforcement continues to fully investigate this tragedy so that we can bring what closure we can to the victims and their families.”

“This was a tragic two days for the families in Maine who have been devastated by gun violence… Americans should not have to live like this,” said President Joe Biden in a statement Friday. “I call on Republicans in Congress to fulfill their obligation to keep Americans safe. And I will continue doing everything in my power to end this gun violence epidemic.” The tragedy is the deadliest shooting since the Uvalde, Texas, massacre in 2022.

Card, 40, is accused of using a semiautomatic weapon in a shooting rampage on Oct. 25 at Just-in-Time Recreation and Schemengees Bar & Grille in Lewiston. A total of 18 people were killed, and 13 others were injured. Authorities have yet to release details of a possible motive.

The victims, who ranged in age from 14 to 76, are identified as Ronald G. Morin, 50; Peyton Brewer-Ross, 40; Joshua A. Seal, 36; Bryan M. MacFarlane, 41; Joseph Lawrence Walker, 57; Arthur Fred Strout, 42; Maxx A. Hathaway, 35; Stephen M. Vozzella, 45; Thomas Ryan Conrad, 34; Michael R. Deslauriers II, 51; Jason Adam Walker, 51; Tricia C. Asselin, 53; William A. Young, 44; Aaron Young, 14; Robert E. Violette, 76; Lucille M. Violette, 73; William Frank Brackett, 48; and Keith D. Macneir, 64.


Will Smith and Pepa of Salt-N-Pepa stir up questions about their past after revealing they went on a date

Will Smith fans are trying to fill in the gaps of a hilarious first date story he shared on his new podcast celebrating hip hop, “Class of ’88.” Back in the day, Smith had the biggest crush on Pepa of the trailblazing group Salt-N-Pepa. In his sit-down with the ladies, he made sure that listeners were entertained by his and the female lyricist’s recollection of the night’s events.

“We went on a date one time. Remember that?” the Hollywood juggernaut first asked. “Yes, I do… I know exactly what happened,” said Pepa before taking a few seconds to contemplate if it was a story she should share. Smith excitedly reassured her, saying, “We’re allowed to talk about it! We’ve matured! We ain’t do nothin’.”

After exchanging a few looks with Salt, Pepa began, “Okay, you were very nice,” but Smith interjected, adding that they were in Los Angeles and “went for a drive.” She would go on to say that their date took place in 1989 after Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff won their first Grammy for Best Rap Performance. Despite their victory, their win was not televised and sparked a boycott of the awards ceremony, including other hip hop figures like Russell Simmons, LL Cool J, and Salt-N-Pepa.

The New York artist continued, “We were out, and then you saw a homeless person, and you gave the homeless person $100, and it was so nice. And then we went to the Hollywood sign.” At the time, Smith said Pepa and Treach of Naughty by Nature had been broken up for a minute, though he still had concerns about a possible run-in with the New Jersey rapper.

“So in my mind, when I was like, I was trying to spit my game, but I ain’t really had nothin’… ’cause my concern was that I was gon’ get killed,” he said. When Salt suggested, “That was a legit concern,” the trio broke out into laughter.
Fans weighing in found the story comical and full of major plot points. “Lmao a lot more happened on this date for sure with all these stutters and beats,” read a comment on Instagram. On TikTok, where Smith also shared a clip, someone else wrote, “They literally ain’t say nothing about the d**n date. [Something] happened.”


#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s’ is at #1 with a $78M Opening

Universal and Blumhouse’s Five Nights at Freddy’s is off to a historic start at the domestic box office, helping drive overall revenue
The latest horror offering from Universal and Blumhouse opened to a record-smashing $78 million, despite debuting simultaneously on sister streaming service Peacock. It started off with a monstrous Friday haul of $39.5 million, including $10.3 million in Thursday previews.

The pic — which came in notably ahead of industry expectations — scared up the third-biggest horror opening of all time behind New Line’s two It movies, as well as the best showing ever for Halloween weekend. It’s also the biggest horror opening of 2023 to date, besting Scream VI ($44.4 million), and the second-biggest opening of all time for a video-game adaptation behind The Super Mario Bros. Movie ($146.3 million), not adjusted for inflation.

The news is just as good overseas, where Five Nights at Freddy’s opened to an estimated $52.6 million from 60 markets for a global start of $130.6 million against a modest $25 million production budget. It supplants New Line’s The Nun II ($88.1 million) to boast the year’s biggest worldwide start for a horror film.

Freddy’s passed up Halloween, which started off with $76.2 million in 2018, to mark the biggest domestic opening ever for Blumhouse, not adjusted for inflation. It is also Blumhouse’s top global launch. Other honorable mentions: Freddy’s supplants The Mummy Returns ($68.1 million) to rank as the top opening ever for a horror pic rated PG-13, not adjusted for inflation.

While most critics bashed Freddy’s, the audience graced the movie with an A- CinemaScore (it is rare for a horror pic to receive an A or any variation thereof).
Universal insiders say the decision to do a day-and-date release is a win-win for the overall ecosystem (only paid-tier Peacock subscribers have access). Those who want the communal experience of watching a horror movie in a theater can do so, while Peacock can woo much-needed subscribers. Streamers see notable growth in October because of Halloween-themed offerings.

Before the pandemic, most theaters would have outright refused to book a title already available in the home. The COVID-19 crisis changed everything, however, with the traditional 72- to 90-day theatrical window shrinking dramatically to as little as three weeks for films that open to less than $50 million. Day-and-date releases aren’t the norm, but no cinema operator was going to refuse to play Five Nights at Freddy’s.

Directed by Emma Tammi, Freddy‘s stars Josh Hutcherson as a washed-up security guard who has no choice but to take a crappy job safeguarding a long-shuttered family-themed pizza restaurant. The only problem — the pizzeria’s giant animatronic animal characters spring to life and go on murderous rampages. He’s also trying to maintain sole custody of his 10-year-old sister (Piper Rubio) and prevent her from falling into the clutches of their Aunt Jane (Mary Stuart Masterson).

Things go from bad to worse when a group of local toughs hired by Jane break into Freddy’s while Mike is off-duty to trash the joint so he’ll lose his job. Needless to say, the giant animatronic animals don’t like the intrusion and try to exact their revenge.

Kat Conner Sterling and Matthew Lillard also star. Jim Henson’s Creature Shop created the animatronic characters.

 
Chris Brown Sued for Allegedly Beating Up a Man at a London Nightclub

Abe Diaw claims that the "Go Crazy" singer hit him in the head with a bottle of tequila in February
Chris Brown is being sued for allegedly beating up a man at a London nightclub.
In a lawsuit filed on Thursday and obtained by PEOPLE, Abe Diaw claims that the "Under the Influence" singer hit him in the face with a bottle of Don Julio 1942 tequila in February at TAPE in London.

According to the lawsuit, Brown, 34, was "beating" Diaw in the head with "crushing blows" and knocked him unconscious. Then, Brown allegedly "continued to ruthlessly stomp" on him for "30 seconds."
Diaw, who was 43 at the time, "ended up in the hospital with lacerations on his head and torn ligaments in his leg," the lawsuit states, adding that it left with him "permanent" damage and "severe emotional distress."

Diaw claims that TAPE caught the altercation on surveillance footage.
Brown is being sued by Diaw for damages and is demanding a trial by jury, per the lawsuit.

The singer's rep and lawyers did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.
Brown has a long history of legal trouble, beginning in 2009 when he physically assaulted then-girlfriend Rihanna. Rihanna was left with visible facial injuries and was hospitalized; Brown was subsequently charged with felony assault and making criminal threats on March 5. He pleaded guilty to a felony on June 22 of that year and accepted a plea deal of community labor, five years' probation and domestic violence counseling.

After completing the yearlong domestic violence course in 2010, Brown posted to Twitter, "I have enough self respect and decency to be proud of accomplishing this DV class. Boyz run from [their] mistakes. Men learn from them!!!"
Most recently, in May, Brown and Usher reportedly got into a fight the day before they took the stage at Lovers & Friends music festival in Las Vegas.

Brown allegedly got into an argument with Usher, 45, during his birthday party at the Skate Rock City roller rink, as seen in a video obtained by TMZ. Hollywood Unlocked was first to report the news.

Per TMZ, Brown was attempting to talk to Teyana Taylor and became angry when she ignored him, which caused Usher to intervene and try to calm the singer. The outlet said that Brown then told his crew they were leaving, and they exited the facility, though Usher followed after them.
Usher then returned from meeting the group behind a series of charter buses with what appeared to be a bloody nose, according to TMZ, which cited an eyewitness.


Former Abercrombie & Fitch Models File A Lawsuit Against The Company Over Alleged Sex

Former Abercrombie & Fitch models are suing the company, alleging that the retailer allowed CEO Mike Jeffries to operate a sex-trafficking ring.
Abercrombie & Fitch is facing a class action lawsuit with dozens of men as plaintiffs. They allege that the company’s former CEO was apart of a sex trafficking scheme that spanned a decade. The complaint accuses Jeffries of taking advantage of attractive young men who hope to become Abercrombie models.

Additionally, the 21-count lawsuit accuses Abercrombie & Fitch of being aware of the abuse but choosing to ignore it. The legal action also claims that Jeffries withdrew substantial amounts of money from corporate accounts to compensate victims.
The lawsuit follows BBC’s report, which featured claims from eight men who stated that Jeffries exploited them sexually. According to the individuals, they were recruited by a middleman who’s apart of a network of recruiters. In return, the individuals reportedly received payments ranging from $500 to $1,000 for each referral they brought into the operation.

Shortly after, Abercrombie & Fitch initiated an internal investigation into the allegations.

“The company’s current executive leadership team and board of directors were not aware of the allegations of sexual misconduct by Mr. Jeffries,” the retailer said earlier this month. “For close to a decade, a new executive leadership team and refreshed board of directors have successfully transformed our brands and culture into the values-driven organization we are today. We have zero tolerance for abuse, harassment or discrimination of any kind.”

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

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Mmmm cheese.

I can already smell it.

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The Daily Buzz For Oct 27☕📰☕

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#FASHIONFAB: Paul Mescal for Gucci’s Horsebit 1953 Loafer Ad Campaign

Introduced in 1953, the Gucci Horsebit loafer has distinguished itself as an icon of the House and an essential part of the wardrobe. Today, 70 years after it was introduced, Paul Mescal and Xiao Zhan [not pictured here] are each captured wearing the original style, portraying how the Horsebit Loafer has anchored the heritage of the House in a legacy of ingenuity, continuing to inspire generation after generation.


#RHOA: Nene Leakes Reveals Heartbreaking Last Moments With Late Husband Gregg Leakes

Former Real Housewives of Atlanta star Nene Leakes is opening up about the final days she shared with her late husband, Gregg Leakes.

In a new, nearly 15-minute-long video titled “I’m Lost Without You” posted to YouTube on Monday, the RHOA alum shared how “her life changed” on Sep. 1st, 2021, the day her husband died. For context, Gregg had been battling colon cancer since 2018. Though he was in remission for two years, the cancer aggressively returned in 2021.

WATCH

“My life was turned upside down after losing my husband Gregg, now I’m forced to navigate life alone after sharing it with my partner of 27 years,” she captioned in the video. “I have taken time to reflect and now look forward to new beginnings. I’m hopeful for what life will bring and welcome you to witness my journey.”

As the video began, Nene recalled the morning when she noticed Gregg looked different than the days prior. He had been receiving around the clock home hospice caretakers in the last weeks leading up to his death, but on that day, he looked and acted different.
“That morning I came downstairs, Gregg looked totally different than the way he had previously looked and I got really upset. “I was like, ‘Oh my God, what happened to Gregg? What have you guys done to him?’” she explained. “He was pulling and fighting and kind of like, just trying to take his shirt off and he was just totally different. He had not ever been this way. Yes, I knew he was passing but I just thought somebody had done something to Gregg.”

She went on to share how her husband was ‘very confused, he wasn’t aware anymore” and was struggling to breath. After being assessed by his nurse, Nene gave the OK to administer a small amount of morphine to him to help him relax—though Gregg previously stated he preferred not to receive it as he wanted to “go naturally.” It wasn’t long after that he fell asleep and never woke up again.

Prior to his passing, their family and close friends had been on a rotating visiting schedule with him to talk and keep him company. In the moments leading up to his passing, Nene said that they all gathered in the foyer of their home to pray. Afterwards, when she was informed that he had transitioned, Nene called for the arrangements she set up prior to come get his body and hold him in a private location before the blogs and news sites could find out.

“Gregg, we miss you so much. I love you so much,” she tearfully said later in the video. “You said to me before we passed, ‘it’s gonna be hard. It’s gonna be hard baby, but you can do this.’ And I want you to know that it is hard, but I am doing it. I am doing it, but it is hard. You told me ‘you’ll find another love one day.’ But I don’t want to find another love, oh my God. It’s not that way, I love you Gregg. I love you, I miss you.”


#MusicNews: The Shindellas Release New Album “Shindo”

Nashville based trio The Shindellas have just released their sophomore album called “Shindo”.
The group use the project to continue to pave their own lane while building upon their brand of New American Soul

“Shindo” is produced by Louis York aka Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony who the trio have collaborated with since joining the Weirdo Workshop. It is led by the current hit single “Last Night Was Good For My Soul”.

STREAM HERE
The Shindellas, made up of Tamara Chauniece, Stacy Johnson and Kasi Jones, continue to establish themselves as a force in the music industry which ease release.

#HipHopNews: Nicki Minaj Reschedules 'Pink Friday 2' For Her Birthday

Nicki Minaj has kept her fans on their toes with numerous changes to the release date of her much-anticipated album, Pink Friday 2. Initially slated for Oct. 20, then pushed to Nov. 17, the LP will now be liberated on Dec. 8, the rapper’s birthday.

In an Instagram Live video, she explained the reason behind the shifts. “I have never in my life been so in love with something that I’m working on,” Minaj said. She also cited writer’s block during her pregnancy and a desire not to include “freaky” content as key factors for the delay.

The timing also avoids a clash with Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz’s new project, Welcome 2 Collegrove. Their joint effort is set to drop on Nov. 17. The “Super Freaky Girl” hitmaker acknowledged the New Orleans legend didn’t plan his release on the same day as hers with ill intent, but rather, he knew that she had already bumped it to December.

“It’s been changed for some time now behind the scenes. As you can tell, Weezy and 2 Chainz, they announced their date, and you know how me and Weezy play,” Minaj stated. “He would never do that if that was my album date, so I wanted to make sure you guys were aware of that. ‘Cause I saw some of you guys questioning that.”

The reschedule also holds sentimental value as it will mark the New York rapper’s 41st birthday. “The new album date for this incredible body of work that I am so proud of is on a very special day to me and to the Barbz,” she affirmed.

In addition to the update, Minaj revealed a new fragrance, also named Pink Friday 2, set to launch on Dec. 13 and 26 through J.C. Penney and Amazon, respectively.

Pink Friday 2 is the artist’s first album in five years, following her 2018 release, Queen. During her time as host of the 2023 MTV VMAs, Minaj teased “Big Difference,” which is currently not confirmed to be on the LP.

Manhunt continues after Lewiston mass shooting at bar, bowling alley kills at least 15

At least 15 people are dead in Lewiston as police continue to search for a person of interest in a mass shooting event, ABC reports.

“It’s a shock. It’s hard for me to explain,” Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque told Maine's Total Coverage at the reunification center. Levesque says victims of the shooting are people of all ages.

On Wednesday evening, Maine State police responded to an active shooter situation at the Spare Time Bowling Alley on Mollison Way and Schemengees Bar on Lincoln Street.

Multiple law enforcement agencies from across New England were brought in to investigate as officials urged residents to stay inside and lock their doors.

Lewiston, Lisbon and Bowdoing have shelter in place orders for their communities as police search for Robert Card of Bowdoin.

Card was identified as a person of interest by Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck during a press conference Wednesday night.

He should be considered armed and dangerous.

Earlier in the night, authorities released an image of a person asking for help in identification.

Deputies ask you to email dispatch@androscoggincountymaine.gov. Officials have not said if the person below is Robert Card.

Officials confirm a vehicle they were searching for was found in Lisbon, where a shelter in place order is ongoing.

Riley Dumont told ABC News her 11-year-old daughter was bowling in a children's league at Spare Time Bowling Alley when she heard several shots.

Dumont's father, a retired offer, corralled their family into a corner.

"I was laying on top of my daughter. My mother was laying on top of me," Dumont told ABC News.

Dumont said she saw three or four apparent victims.

Central Maine Medical Center has called the incident a 'mass casualty event, mass shooter event.'

CMMC says they are working with area hospitals to take in patients and do not have any specific information to share on casualties.

At the reunification center in mayor Levesque said the following: “This is a happier place right now in the area. This is a reunification center for people and witnesses who saw traumatic events coming together with families, but on the flip side, we’re seeing the turmoil and the trauma that they’re going through.”

In a message from their Facebook Page, Maine State Police state: "Please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911."

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation and will continue to receive updates. According to Sen. King’s office, the president called the senator to offer federal assistance.

Ja Rule Deems 50 Cent 'Clown,' Defends Dramatic 'One Of Us' Performance

Ja Rule has deemed 50 Cent "a clown" in a recent interview. More than one month after his dramatic performance at the 2023 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards, the "Livin' It Up" rapper went public with his opinion on the "Straight to the Bank" spitter while defending his onstage performance.

When making an appearance at the Pencils of Promise gala, the 47-year-old hip-hop artist opened up about his performance at the music event and Fif's offensive statement about it. Speaking to Page Six, he stated, "I do not feel like I need to explain myself." He went on to say, "He is just a clown, a troll."

During his September 6 performance, Ja Rule was tied to a wooden column while delivering his song "One of Us", which is featured in his biblically titled album "Rule 3:36". "I was not on the cross. I was actually on a stake, which is what [Jehovah's Witnesses] actually believe Jesus died on," he further clarified to the outlet. He additionally stressed, "A stake versus a cross."

"I feel like I've sacrificed a lot in this industry. Not nothing in the realm of Jesus Christ, don't get me wrong," Ja Rule explained. "What people fail to realize is they act like Jesus was the only one up there, and they were many men being crucified at that moment, too… They just so happen to be criminals. Maybe I am not mocking Jesus, maybe I am one of the criminals."

Shortly after Ja Rule performed, 50 Cent did not hesitate to voice his opinion via social media. On September 7, Fif uploaded on Instagram a video from the gig and wrote in the caption of the post, "[Eyes emoji] look at this s**t head, is he supposed to be Jesus. [laughing face emoji] WTF you can't make this s**t up. LOL so stupid ! #bransoncognac #lecheminduroi."

It did not take long for Ja Rule to fire back. He let out a clip highlighting several incidents that involved Fif throughout his career in the hip-hop music industry. Among the footage was one that showed a woman's injuries following Fif's microphone throw incident. Along with the video, Ja Rule penned, "We ain't forget… Enjoy those criminal charges and lawsuit d**khead!!!"

Desus Had The Time Of His Life On ‘The Daily Show’ While Going In On His Rival DJ Envy

Work is work and life is life, but it’s important to squeeze some joy out of your job, right? This week’s Daily Show guest host Desus Nice gets it. He’s two days into this high profile temp job and having a time, hanging out with his old friend AOC on night one and embracing the chance to go in on his rival, Breakfast Club host DJ Envy, on night two in a moment people have been waiting for since news broke that the radio personality might be in trouble for his alleged role in a possible house flipping ponzi scheme.

While Desus didn’t make a reunion with Kid Mero happen to break this all down (check out our interview with him for insight into why that was never going to happen this week, when Desus is getting his chance to shine solo), he definitely brings his A-Game. This isn’t a quick meal, either.

Shortly after the 3:30 mark above, Desus is savoring it, giving a cliffs notes version of his (and Mero’s) feud with DJ Envy and gently mocking his leaning on “The Lehman Brothers of hip-hop” for financial advice while summoning all his powers of restraint to avoid passing out from the irony-rich laughter. It’s great stuff unless you’re DJ Envy… who was, like the rest of us, probably waiting for Desus to enter the chat while rueing the timing. Then again, he may have more pressing matters on his mind.

Daily Show correspondent Dulcé Sloan joins near the end of the clip to double down, but the high point is Desus’ ice cold closing line: “DJ Envy’s a DJ, a man who turns tables. And now the tables have turned.” Damn. There really is nothing as inspiring as seeing someone really taking pride in and getting pure happiness from their work.

Usher Invites A’ja Wilson Of Las Vegas Aces To Residency After Missing Championship Parade

After the Las Vegas Aces won the WNBA championship for the second consecutive year on Sunday (Oct. 15), A’ja Wilson — Aces’ Center and 2023 WNBA Finals MVP — invited the King of Las Vegas, Usher, to celebrate with the team in their championship parade.

Despite being unable to party with the women, Ursher offered Wilson a much better alternative. In a special video shared on Wednesday (Oct. 25), the crooner stated, “Shoutout to the defending champs, the Vegas Aces — A’ja Wilson, I got yo’ message. I see you. I hear you. Couldn’t be at the parade, but wanted to send this out to you to say congratulations and all the lovely ladies that once again, did it again. That’s right, back-to-back baby!”

He, then, invited the 27-year-old star athlete to his My Way residency. “Come see me do it my way here in Vegas. We stick together. We love one another. Congratulations on this date and I’ll see you soon.”

Upon seeing the personal invitation, Wilson figuratively swooned as shared in a follow-up tweet.

Wilson made history during Game 4 of the Finals by becoming the first player to score at least 20 points and 15 rebounds — securing their victory.

“This is what it’s all about, to have your name etched in history right now with other teams,” Wilson stated following the win. “We never gave up, and this is a moment that we need to celebrate. This is a moment that not a lot of people get a chance to do it, and for us to do it shorthanded, it is truly amazing. It just makes winning that much better.”

Dozens of states come together in lawsuit against Meta Platforms

Thirty-three states have initiated a lawsuit against Meta Platforms and its Instagram division. The lawsuit accuses the company of creating and fueling mental health concerns in young people who use the app. In the complaint, filed Tuesday (Oct. 24), the attorneys general of participating states said that the company has repeatedly misled the public about the mental health concerns connected with its social media platforms.

According to the filing, Meta knowingly encouraged compulsive and addictive social media use in youth while misrepresenting the dangers of using these platforms. The goal, according to the complaint, was profits.

The states’ lawsuit claims research has clearly shown children who use social media platforms run by the company experience a range of negative outcomes. Problems reportedly include mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, physical health concerns such as insomnia, and interference with activities of daily living and education.

In response, Meta revealed its disappointment with the lawsuit. In a statement, it expressed the desire to work productively with other businesses to create age-appropriate standards for popular apps, rather than attempting to resolve issues in the courtroom.

In addition to the joint suit filed by the states, eight others and Washington, D.C. filed related lawsuits on the same day, according to Reuters. With a total of 42 authorities bringing action against the platform, shares dropped 0.6 percent on Tuesday.

Meta is facing civil penalties that could reach as high as $50,000 for each violation of various state laws. The basis for much of the lawsuit comes from documents released in 2021 that indicate the company knew Instagram had a negative effect on body image for many teen girls and was addictive for many users, the outlet adds.

This lawsuit is not the first of its kind. Google’s YouTube and ByteDance’s TikTok are both facing hundreds of lawsuits on behalf of both children and school districts.

 

Lady Gaga Performs 'Shallow' with U2 During Surprise Appearance at Las Vegas' The Sphere!

Lady Gaga is taking over The Sphere! On Wednesday night (October 25), the 37-year-old entertainer made a surprise appearance during U2‘s latest residency show at The Sphere in Las Vegas.

Gaga came out in a black leather jacket, sky-high pleaser heels, and sunglasses as she joined Bono and his bandmates on stage.

During the show, Gaga and U2 gave a very special performance of her Oscar-winning song “Shallow” from A Star Is Born. You can watch a clip of the performance on Twitter here.

Gaga‘s performance with U2 comes a few weeks after she checked out one of the band’s show at The Sphere with boyfriend Michael Polansky.

Lil Rel Howery and Ludacris Are Santa and a Grinch in Charming Dashing Through the Snow Trailer

Chris “Ludacris” Bridges is a total Grinch, and it’s up to Lil Rel Howery to help him find the Christmas spirit in the trailer for the upcoming film Dashing Through the Snow, premiering Friday, Nov. 17 on Disney+.

Press PLAY BELOW for a sneak peek at the holiday hijinks in store. 

The movie stars Bridges as Eddie Garrick, an all-around good man and social worker for the Atlanta police department who has turned his back on Christmas “due to a traumatic childhood experience,” per the official synopsis. But when his wife Allison (played by The Marvels’ Teyonah Parris), from whom he is separated, asks him to take their nine-year-old daughter Charlotte (Madison Skye Validum) out with him on Christmas Eve, they encounter a mysterious man in a red suit named Nick (Lil Rel Howery).

Like any sensible person, Eddie believes Nick is delusional and in need of professional help. But when Eddie “evokes the wrath of a local politician (The Office’s Oscar Nuñez),” he and his daughter “are taken on a magical adventure that just might restore his faith in Christmas.”

Scott Rosenberg (Venom, Jumanji: The Next Level) wrote the script. Meanwhile, Tim Story (The Blackening, Shaft) directed the film and executive-produces alongside Johanna Byer, Ross Fanger and Zac Unterman. John Jacobs (Family Guy, American Dad!) and Will Packer (Queens Court, Girls Trip) also produce.

New Dwayne Johnson Wax Figure Unveiled as Paris Museum Admits Original Was ‘Whiter Than It Should Have Been’ and an ‘Honest Mistake’

France’s Musée Grévin took Dwayne Johnson’s comments and social media outcry over the star’s botched wax figure to heart. Within 24 hours, his figure was updated by artists who gave it a slightly darker skin tone with meticulous strokes of oil painting. Johnson’s suburban dad-esque outfit, however, has remained.

“We found his reaction rather friendly when addressing the fact that his figure was indeed whiter than it should have been,” said Veronique Berecz, the museum’s head of PR who has been at the iconic museum for over four decades and worked closely with the likes of Michael Jackson, Nicolas Cage and Donald Sutherland on their wax figures.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t get to meet Dwayne Johnson so we used several photos — but as it turns out, pictures can be very tricky because the nuances of skin tones can differ depending on the lighting on photos,” she said. “Every time, the sculptor has to determine the exact face and body shapes, the volumes and it’s always a very complicated challenge if we haven’t met the person.”

Berecz revealed that Johnson’s figure required special treatment from the museum from the get-go. “We conducted a casting of models based on his body measurements, and that wasn’t a small undertaking because we had to find a man who had roughly the same body type as Dwayne Johnson — a height of 6’5″ with those huge muscles — and we found our model in a bodybuilding club!” Berecz said.

Asked about her thoughts on accusations of the museum “whitewashing” Johnson’s figure, she said it didn’t cross anyone’s minds. “This has nothing do with it — we just made an honest mistake based on the photos we looked at,” she said. “After we saw all these reactions on different blogs and social networks, we changed it immediately.”

Johnson’s wax figure made his debut at the Grévin Museum a week ago after the “Fast & Furious” actor won the inaugural Grévin Awards by a landslide. The prize is voted on by fans who choose their favorite pop culture icon for the museum to immortalize in wax.

But as reported by Today, the light-skinned wax figure sparked uproar among Johnson’s fans and drew comparisons to Mr. Clean. It took a video from comedian James Andre Jefferson Jr. comparing him to David Beckham to prompt a reaction from Johnson, who announced on Instagram that his team would be reaching out to the Paris museum.

“You know Black ass Samoan The Rock? That’s how Paris thinks he looks,” Jefferson Jr. says in the video. “They turned The Rock into a pebble!… it looks like The Rock has never seen the sun a day in his life… You make the rock look like he David Beckham. It looks like The Rock is going to be a part of the royal family. Did y’all even Google him?”

Along with reposting Jefferson Jr.’s video, Johnson wrote on Instagram that he wanted the Grévin to work on “‘updating’ my wax figure here with some important details and improvements — starting with my skin color.” However, Johnson didn’t seem too miffed about it, saying he’d stop by the museum for a drink the next time he’s in Paris.

Rep. Bowman Charged with Pulling Fire Alarm in House Office Building When There Wasn’t An Emergency

Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman of New York has been charged by the DC attorney general with triggering a fire alarm in a House office building when there was not an emergency.

Bowman has been summoned to appear in DC Superior Court at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, where the congressman is expected to plead guilty. He will also be booked, fingerprinted, and processed on the misdemeanor charge.

If he abides by the conditions of a deal with the DC attorney general’s office, including three months of probation, the misdemeanor charge will be dropped. The deal also requires Bowman to provide a formal apology to the US Capitol Police and pay a $1,000 fine for wrongly pulling a fire alarm, his office told CNN.

“I’m thankful for the quick resolution from the District of Columbia Attorney General’s office on this issue and grateful that the United States Capitol Police General Counsel’s office agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings,” Bowman said in a statement Wednesday. “I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped.”

The DC attorney general’s office said in a statement that Bowman was “treated like anyone else who violates the law in the District of Columbia.” The office added: “Based on the evidence presented by Capitol Police, we charged the only crime that we have jurisdiction to prosecute. He is pleading guilty and has agreed to pay the maximum fine.”

Bowman was caught on tape pulling the fire alarm in the Cannon House Office Building in late September, shortly before the House was scheduled to vote on a government funding bill. The building was subsequently evacuated. 

The congressman said following the incident that it had been an accident.

“I was trying to get to a door. I thought the alarm would open the door, and I pulled the fire alarm to open the door by accident,” Bowman said at the time, adding: “I was just trying to get to my vote and the door that’s usually open wasn’t open, it was closed.”

In an interview with a USCP officer after the incident, Bowman said that he was “attempting to exit the building” when he “pushed on a door and pulled the lever next to it, which must have been the alarm.”

Bowman said that the door “was a usual door he uses” and that he did not intend to cause a security concern or disrupt the congressional proceeding, an affidavit written by the USCP officer states. The officer noted that there were several emergency exit signs posted at that door.

“The defendant stated the door still did not open and he went to the first floor to exit,” the affidavit states.

Bowman told the officer that he heard alarm sounds, according to the affidavit, and that “he was hurried because votes were called, and he did not want to miss the votes to keep the government funded.” He did not tell anyone about what had happened despite walking past several USCP officers immediately after the incident, it said.

Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors Spark Marriage Rumors

*Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors sparked marriage rumors last month when the “Creed III” star referred to her as his “missus” at an event.

The pair attended the Congressional Black Caucus’ eighth annual Black and White Gala in September, where Majors’ comment about his lady-love quickly went viral and prompted fans to speculate that they two tied the knot

“We’re just so happy to be here with y’all tonight, celebrating us, celebrating the moves we’re making, celebrating the way we love and support each other, the way that we shift the world. Let’s enjoy ourselves!” Good told the crown, People reports.

“So many beautiful Black faces. I love us, y’all! We are so beautiful! That’s all I got. I’m just happy to be here and I love y’all!” she said before turning to Majors. “Babe, you want to say anything?”

When Majors spoke into the mic, he said, “Y’all heard the missus, so that’s what it is.”  

We reported previously that Good’s romance with Majors is apparently her first serious dating adventure since her divorce from DeVon Franklin.  The pair confirmed their relationship weeks after Majors was arrested in NYC in March for allegedly physically assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. He is facing several counts of assault and harassment. If convicted, Majors could be jailed for up to a year.

On Wednesday (Oct. 25), a Manhattan judge set a November 29 trial date after denying Majors’ motion to dismiss the charges in his domestic violence case, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The “Creed III” star was arrested on March 25 in New York City following a domestic dispute with Jabbari. Majors is accused of assault and aggravated harassment, but his legal team has alleged that Jabbari was the aggressor.

Majors’ legal team filed a motion to dismiss the cases, claiming the state withheld evidence that would clear the “Ant-Man 2” star.

“I’m sure she’s not the first person who stood behind a man who might be wrongfully judged for something that he may or may not have done. I don’t know the guy personally, though,” said Good’s former “Cousin Skeeter” costar, Robert Ri’chard, in an interview with TMZ about her relationship with Majors.

Hershey’s and Reese’s Launch New Frozen Chocolate-Covered Fruit At Walmart

Got a sweet tooth? Well, head over to Walmart and grab a box of frozen chocolate-covered fruit by Hershey’s and Reese’s.

The candy companies have added a fruity treat to their sweet lineup: chocolate-coated frozen fruit. It’s a Walmart-exclusive offer until 2024. Then the lineup will be on the shelves of other major grocery stores, PEOPLE reported.

The Hershey treats come in four different fruit and chocolate combos, the company confirmed to PEOPLE.

Hershey’s white creme and Milk Chocolate frozen blueberries and Hershey’s white creme and Milk Chocolate frozen raspberries feature two chocolate layers covering the berries.

And it doesn’t stop there. Hershey added a crunch to the mix. The Hershey’s cookies n’ creme frozen strawberries line comes smothered in white creme and chocolate cookie bits. As for the Reese’s option, it comes as frozen fruit banana slices over chocolate and peanut butter.

The frozen goods range from $7 to $8 for an eight oz. bag.

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

Courtesy of P.O.Wm

Only at Walmart

Some people are just beyond funny

EVENING GOODIES: Meet Daddy Persian Bear

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