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Wednesday, November 29, 2023

The Daily Buzz For Nov 30 ☕📰☕

#FASHIONFILES: Rabanne H&M Capsule Collection

H&M is excited to announce its latest designer collaboration with Rabanne. A trailblazer on the French fashion scene thanks to its late founder Paco Rabanne’s era-defining 1960s creations, since 2013 the house has been reinvigorated by creative director Julien Dossena.
Nice! More loos HERE

#RHOA: Porsha Williams, NeNe Leakes And Cynthia Bailey Link Up In Dubai For A Fun Ladies Night
Real Housewives of Atlanta alums Porsha Williams, NeNe Leakes, and Cynthia Bailey linked up while celebrating her wedding anniversary in Dubai. The trio’s unexpected reunion had some fans pondering whether the ladies were plotting a return to the famous Bravo franchise.

On Nov. 26, Williams took to Instagram to share several videos and photos that captured her having a blast during her fun ladies night outing with Bailey and Leakes at a posh restaurant in the capital city. Real Housewives of Dubai stars Chanel Ayan and Lesa Milan were also present for the trio’s reunion.

Williams, 42, rocked a colorful paisley bodycon dress by Onalaja as she shared laughs and broke bread with her reality TV sisters. The star, who was celebrating her 1-year wedding anniversary with Nigerian businessman Simon Guobadia, paired the eye-catching ensemble with PVC kitten heels and a light brown studded clutch. Leakes, 55, opted for a see-through off the shoulder printed mini dress with matching leggings, while Bailey, 56, rocked a black leather maxi dress and cool shades.

“We celebrated our anniversary with some baddies,” Williams captioned her post. “Baby the Kiki we had was unmatched.”
In the comments section, fans and supporters penned that they were happy to see the ladies back together in action. Some wondered if the threesome would come back to RHOA.

“Y’all look too good. I need another season with you ladies!!!!! I would definitely tune in,” one user wrote. Another fan gushed, “Now this the real #RHOA crew and this what it should look like.”

A third person added,”Ya’ll are going to make me cry!!! Haven’t watched RHOA since ya’ll left.”
RHOA fans have been calling for the return of Leakes and Williams since their departures in Season 12 and Season 13. Diehard viewers claimed that the duo brought the perfect amount of drama and entertainment to the cast when they were on the long-running franchise.

Viewership has declined since the duo’s departure. According to TV Deets, Season 15 hit an all-time high viewership of 994,000 during part two of the reunion Sept. 10. In 2020 — Leakes’ final season — the show achieved a high of 2,008,000 viewers. In 2021, viewership ticked up again when Williams was still with the franchise, hitting a season-high of 1,434,000 viewers.

We would love to see the ladies come back for another messy season, but only time will tell.
In a follow-up post on Sunday, Williams sent fans down memory lane after she shared a video in which Leakes poked fun at her iconic line from the RHOA Season 5 reunion during their Dubai link-up. If you remember, in 2013, the reality TV maven threatened to “call Porsha” on her co-star Kenya Moore after the latter pulled Moore by the hair for talking smack throughout the season.

#MusicNews: Ledisi Announces ‘The Good Life’ Tour 2024 Dates
Grammy-winning artist Ledisi is headed on tour next year. The ‘Pieces of Me’ singer will crossing the United States on a 27-date tour that will touch down in most major cities — including stops in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charlotte, Nashville, Atlanta, New Orleans, Dallas and Oakland. Raheem DeVaughn and BJ The Chicago Kid will join the songbird on select dates.

Regarded as R&B’s best-kept-secret, Ledisi has had a distinguished two-decade career. She’s garnered a Grammy win, three Soul Train Music awards, an NAACP Theater Award and 12 NAACP Image Award nominations since arriving on the scene in the 2000s.
Most recently Ledisi gifted fans with a new musical treat – “Sell Me No Dreams.” The no-nonsense anthem is the follow-up to Ledisi’s “I Need To Know,” which topped Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart for two weeks.

Tickets for The Good Life Tour go on sale December 1 at 10 a.m.
Venue presale starts Thursday at 10 a.m., with code GOOD.

Purchase tickets on ticketmaster and via her website, http://www.ledisi.com

Ledisi The Good Life Tour dates:
March 6 York, PA Appell Center for the Performing Arts***
March 7 Newark, NJ Prudential Center*
March 8 Rochester, NY The Theater at Innovation Square***
March 9 Philadelphia, PA The Met Philadelphia*
March 12 Boston, MA The Wilbur***
March 13 New Haven, CT Shubert Theatre***
March 15 Oxon Hill, MD The Theater at MGM National Harbor*
March 16 Baltimore, MD The Lyric*
March 17 Durham, NC Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)*
March 19 Richmond, VA Dominion Energy Center*
March 21 Charlotte, NC Ovens Auditorium*
March 22 Louisville, KY Louisville Palace Theatre*
March 23 St. Louis, MO Stifel Theatre*
March 24 Nashville, TN Ryman Auditorium*
March 26 Columbus, OH Mershon Auditorium*
March 28 Indianapolis, IN Murat Theatre at Old National Centre*
March 29 Detroit, MI Fisher Theatre**
March 30 Chicago, IL The Chicago Theatre**
April 1 Atlanta, GA Atlanta Symphony Hall ***
April 3 Birmingham, AL Alabama Theatre*
April 5 New Orleans, LA Mahalia Jackson Theater*
April 6 Houston, TX Bayou Music Center*
April 7 Dallas, TX Music Hall at Fair Park**
April 10 Ft. Collins, CO The Lincoln Center***
April 12 Chandler, AZ Chandler Center for the Arts***
April 13 Inglewood, CA YouTube Theater*
April 14 Oakland, CA Fox Theater*

*Raheem DeVaughn performing
**BJ The Chicago Kid will open
***An Evening With… Performance

#HipHopNews: Busta Rhymes Presents his Blockbusta 2024 North American Tour: See the Dates
Busta Rhymes is coming to a city near you next year. On Tuesday (Nov. 28), the rapper announced his Blockbusta North American Tour, which will see him making stops across the United States and Canada starting in March.
The trek — to support Rhymes’ album of the same name released on Nov. 24 — will begin on March 13 at The Masonic in San Francisco. The Blockbusta Tour will also make stops in Phoenix, Denver, Houston, Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia and more before concluding with a hometown show at the Brooklyn Paramount in the New York City burough on April 21. A special guest who has not yet been announced will be joining the “I Know What You Want” rapper on tour for select cities.

Presale tickets are available now to Citi cardholders through Thursday, Nov. 30, at 10 p.m. local time. Additional presales will run through the rest of the week until the tickets hit general onsale on Friday, Dec. 1, at 10 a.m. local time at LiveNation.com.

See the full list of tour dates below.
3/13 — San Francisco, Calif. —The Masonic
3/15 — Los Angeles, Calif. — Hollywood Palladium
3/16 — Anaheim, Calif. — House of Blues
3/17 — San Diego, Calif. — SOMA
3/19 — Las Vegas, Nev. — House of Blues
3/20 — Phoenix, Ariz. — The Van Buren
3/22 — Denver, Colo. — Fillmore Auditorium
3/24 — Dallas, Texas — South Side Ballroom
3/26 — Austin, Texas — Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater
3/28 — Houston, Texas — 713 Music Hall
3/30 — Atlanta, Ga. — Coca Cola Roxy
4/1 — Orlando, Fla. — House of Blues
4/2 — Miami Beach, Fla. — Fillmore Miami Beach At Jackie Gleason Theatre
4/4 — Raleigh, N.C. — The Ritz
4/5 — Charlotte, N.C. — The Fillmore Charlotte
4/7 — Philadelphia, Penn. — The Fillmore Philadelphia
4/8 — Silver Spring, Md. — The Fillmore Silver Spring
4/9 — Boston, Mass. — House of Blues
4/11 — Detroit, Mich. — The Fillmore Detroit
4/12 — Toronto, ON — HISTORY
4/14 — Chicago, Ill. — Radius Chicago
4/17 — Nashville, Tenn. — Marathon Music Works
4/18 — Cincinnati, Ohio — Andrew Bradley Music Center
4/21 — Brooklyn, N.Y. — Brooklyn Paramount

Ms. Tina Defends Beyoncé Against Claims She “Wants To Be White”

Ms. Tina Knowles does not play when it comes to her family. On Tuesday (Nov. 28), the 69-year-old took to Instagram with a scorching message for those hating on her eldest child and those insinuating that Beyoncé “wants to be white” after photos emerged from the RENAISSANCE film premiere where Bey appears to have a lighter complexion than usual.

Knowles reposted a fan-made video that featured the 42-year-old’s empowering anthem, “BROWN SKIN GIRL” over clips of Bey throughout the years. Towards the end of the video, it read, “Beyoncé is a brown skin girl. Sometimes, more or less light. A brown skin girl is more than a skin color. It’s a culture, a pride, a strength.”
The recent divorcee began, “Came across this today and decided to post it after seeing all of the stupid ignorant self, hating racist statements about her, lightening her skin, and wearing platinum hair wanting to be white. She does a film, called the renaissance, where the whole theme is silver with silver hair, a silver carpet, and suggested silver attire and you bozos decide that she’s trying to be a white woman and is bleaching her skin?”

Knowles called out Black people who have perpetuated the “stupid narrative with hate and jealousy.” However, what upset her the most was a white woman from TMZ reaching out to Beyoncé’s hairstylist, Neal Farinah, for a statement on Bey “wanting to be white.”
“Well that made my blood boil — that this white woman felt so entitled to discuss her blackness,” Knowles wrote. “What’s really most disappointing is that the some Black people yes you bozos that’s on social media. Lying and faking and acting like you’re so ignorant that you don’t understand. That black women have worn platinum hair since the Etta James days. I am sick and tired of people attacking her.”

Knowles concluded, “Every time she does something that she works her a** off for and is a statement of her work ethic, talent and resilience, here you sad little haters come out the woodwork. Jealousy and racism, sexism , double standards , you perpetuate those things. Instead of celebrating a sister or just ignoring if you don’t like her, I am sick of you losers. I know that she is going to be pissed at me for doing this, but I am fed up! This girl minds her own business. She helps people whenever she can. She lifts up & promotes black women and underdogs at all times.”

Julez Smith — Bey’s nephew and Tina’s grandson — commented, “Talk to em grandma, They need it.” Others also rallied behind Mama Tina in defense of Beyoncé. Keke Palmer commented, “I love you so much, Ms. Tina! She deserves to be protected in this way!” Later, Cynthia Ervio chimed in, “Snaps to all this!! You have EVERY right to stand behind your baby girl!!!”
Beyoncé has not shared anything on her personal Instagram since releasing the final trailer for RENAISSANCE: A Film By Beyoncé. It will be released this Friday

Shannon Sharpe Blasted For Sexual Comments About Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion has been the apple of many men’s eyes since debuting on the music scene. Shannon Sharpe made his affinity for the Houston Hottie clear, but fans are not fond of how sexual his comments were.
The 55-year-old sports analyst went into explicit detail about what he would like to do with the “Cobra” artist on the Monday (Nov. 28) episode of Nightcap with his co-host Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson. “I’d have her stretched out like quarter to three,” Sharpe said. “I do it three ways, Ocho: deep, hard, and continuously… I’d have her opening up like saloon doors.”

One Instagram user was critical of the Hall Of Famer’s commentary and felt it did not reflect well on ESPN, his place of employment. “Love Shannon, but this is wildly inappropriate,” they wrote. “He is employed by ESPN. They don’t play that, he needs to tone it down on these types of comments. It’s not the 90s anymore.”

Another user brought up the many sexual assault lawsuits that have come to light over the last few weeks and encouraged men to consider how they discuss women. “In light of all the lawsuits, I just want men to chill for a min,” they wrote. “Like take a step back from the overt/public sex talk and stories and find something safe to chat about.”

One commenter felt Shannon Sharpe should’ve had more control given his age. “Giving perv vibes. Please go find something else to do cause this ain’t it,” they wrote. “Shannon is getting a bit too comfortable. He should relax, he’s giving old & creepy.”
Megan Thee Stallion recently spoke about her love life and how she is perceived. “It’s like, nobody be listening to my music,” she said in an Instagram Live. “They be like, ‘Megan Thee Stallion, I cannot believe she likes to have sex! I cannot believe Megan Thee Stallion f**ks!’ Bi**h, y’all be… But no, I am turning over a new leaf. And I’m stingy with the coochie cat. I’m not a freak anymore. Oh my God. I’m done. I’m done with the streets. So toxic in the streets. I’m tired with the streets.”

Michael Jackson's Nephew Jaafar Jackson Emulates The King Of Pop In First Pic From Biopic's Set

Jaafar Jackson was seen emulating his late uncle in the first photo from the set in Los Angeles.
In photos and a video obtained by Daily Mail and published on Tuesday, the son of Michael's elder brother Jermaine Jackson donned a pair of black trousers that featured a gold stripe on the sides as well as a plain white T-shirt. He layered the look with a button up that was left unfastened.

Jaafar appeared to copy one of Michael's stage looks, minus the signature hat. The actor could be seen standing in front of a white backdrop and showing his dance moves while rehearsing with an empty microphone before camera started rolling.
Jaafar was announced to be cast as his uncle in Antoine Fuqua's film back in January. "Proud to announce @jaafarjackson as Michael - the motion picture event that explores the journey of the man who became the King of Pop," the filmmaker shared the news via social media along with a picture of the 27-year-old wearing outfit similar to the one MJ sported in his "Billie Jean" era while dancing in front of mirrors.

The director also said in a statement, "It's incredibly exciting to watch Jaafar bring Michael to life. There was such a spiritual connection when I first met Jaafar, who has a natural ability to emulate Michael and such a great chemistry with the camera."
In a recent interview with EW, Antoine said he's "blown away" by Jaafar's "uncanny" resemblance to the late King of Pop. "It's uncanny how much he's like Michael," he said. "Sounds like him, dances like him, sings. It's really uncanny. Graham King, who is a fantastic producer, found him, and introduced him to me, and I was blown away."

Asked about his approach to the film, which is scheduled to arrive in 2025, he said, "Just to tell the facts as we know it, about the artist, about the man, about the human being. You know, the good, bad, and the ugly."

Dez Bryant Accuses Malika Andrews Of Bias Over Josh Giddey Scandal
Dez Bryant didn’t hold back when it came to ripping ESPN‘s Malika Andrews for her alleged bias on covering news about NBA player, Josh Giddey. The OKC Thunder player has been accused of having an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl.
Bryant took to his X account on Monday (Nov. 27), accusing the NBA Today host for not only having bias about the incident, but also delaying coverage compared to other players she’s reported on in a timely manner. Andrews reportedly spoke about the scandal on-air the same day Bryant sent out his sentiments.

In a series of posts, the former Dallas Cowboys star wrote, “@malika_andrews you went out your way to crucify Brandon Miller on draft day over something he didn’t even do. Why haven’t you said nothing about Josh Giddey. I advise you not to make this a black or white thing.”

“Your parents really raised you wrong and just because you went to a private school don’t make you better,” he went on. “You appeal and I know your kind. You just a puppet. I dont know how a former or current nba player could sit there across from you and look at you with some kind of respect.”
Social Media immediately caught wind of the shots fired, leaving many in agreement with the 35-year-old athlete while others took Andrews’ side.

“Lol she gave a 45 second segment on it. I believe she’s waiting on more evidence to come up like most ESPN figure heads,” one person responded to Bryant, as Spank Horton clarified that Andrews did mention the incident on the show.
“It was by public demand! They felt the heat!” Bryant clapped back. “They waited forever to make a statement. Certain athletes get the privilege, innocent till proven guilty. Certain athletes are guilty until proven innocent and by that time who gives a f**k. You already got the label on you. Ain’t nobody going to tell me how this game go. It’s sick.”

Giddey is reportedly under investigation by the NBA for allegations of participating in an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl. Following photos of Giddey and the minor surfacing, the 21-year-old Australian player’s $40 million sponsorship is now reportedly at risk.

Brandon Miller’s case, which was brought up by Bryant, saw the Charlotte Hornets player being accused of a wrongful death last month by the family of a 23-year-old woman named Jamea Harris. Harris died from a shooting in January near the University of Alabama campus. Although Miller was not charged with killing Harris, police reportedly alleged that Miller was asked by his former teammate, Darius Miles, to grab his gun and bring it to where Miles was located.

Upon public scrutiny of Andrews’ coverage of Miller, social media began pointing out the difference in how she covered Miller’s story compared to Giddey’s. Bryant believes Andrews “tried to ruin” his 2023 draft moment.”
Passionately, Bryant spoke on why he felt moved to call the 28-year-old reporter out, while also mentioning the harm that media can do to someone’s livelihood.

“[Miller’s] going to have kids one day and I’m sure that clip will appear again… You media people know exactly what y’all are doing. Don’t ask questions like I’m not hip to the bullsh*t,” he wrote in a comment to a user questioning why he’s more investing in Giddey’s scandal than the NBA.

Jada Pinkett Smith says she and Will Smith are 'staying together forever' after 2016 separation

Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith are in it for the long haul. In a preview clip from an with Drew Barrymore on The Drew Barrymore Show set to air Tuesday, the actress, who is promoting her memoir Worthy, confirms that she and the Men in Black star will continue in their marriage.
“I feel like maybe your and his shadow separated in a way in this book, whether they stay together forever or not,” Barrymore says. “It sounds like you’re staying together forever.”

“We’re staying together forever,” Pinkett Smith responds. “I tried. We tried,” alluding to the couple’s several years long separation that ultimately didn’t take.

Pinkett Smith had previously stated that she and Smith separated in 2016. "I think we were both stuck in our fantasy of what we thought the other person should be,” she said on The Today Show. Later, at a publicity event for Worthy, she said, “The truth of the matter is I'm not leaving Will's side and he's not going to leave mine. We've been on a powerful quest. And I'm happier than I've ever been."
Pinkett Smith had also said that her husband’s altercation with Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards marked a turning point in their relationship. “Being there with him that night, what I did know, was that I might not have walked in there as his wife, but I left that night as his wife,” she said in an interview with CBS Mornings. “And as I sit here today, I am going to be by his side, always.”

Elsewhere in the Barrymore interview, Pinkett Smith also discusses her time making Girls Trip. “We had a good time on that movie,” she says. “I would say we did a lot of improving on that movie and it would always be jumped off by Tiffany [Haddish]. Tiffany was always coming up with something wild to do in the scene and we would play off of her.”

Barrymore also asks about a potential sequel to the 2017 comedy. “I mean, look, they keep talking about it so we’ll see,” Pinkett Smith responds. “It would be lovely to do.”

Lori Harvey and Damson Idris Spotted Together at Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” World Tour Concert Film Premiere
A source tells PEOPLE that the two left the premiere "side by side" and that "they didn’t look happy but looked together and exited that way”
Lori Harvey and Damson Idris were spotted together at the Renaissance World Tour concert film premiere on Saturday in Los Angeles.

The outing comes three weeks after the model, 26, and actor, 32, announced that they had broken up in a joint statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
A source tells PEOPLE that the two left the premiere "side by side" and that "they didn’t look happy but looked together and exited that way."

Representatives for Harvey and Idris did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.
The former couple announced their separation after a little over a year of dating. "We are at a point in our lives where our individual paths require our full attention and dedication. We part ways remaining friends with nothing but love and respect for each other and the time we shared together," their joint statement to THR read.

The two were first spotted together during a night out in Los Angeles in December and made their relationship Instagram official in January. That same month, the two were also seen leaving Harvey's birthday bash holding hands.
During their time together, Harvey would often showcase the Swarm actor on Instagram. Multiple of her uploads included moments from their time together, which included attending a Beyoncé concert in May and taking a trip to Saint-Tropez in July.

The former couple would also support each other's career and business ventures. Harvey attended the premiere of the final season of Idris' show Snowfall in February. In August, the two posed for photos at a launch party for Yevrah Swim, Harvey’s swimwear brand sold exclusively at Revolve.
In September, Harvey shared a sweet tribute to Idris in her Instagram Story post in honor of his birthday. The post included a photo of Idris smiling as he posed in front of two chrome helium balloons. The entrepreneur wrote on top of the photo, "Happyyyy Birthdayyyy twinnn!!!! I love youuuu."

Diddy Steps Away From His Media Company and Charter School

Following accusations of sexual assault from three different women, multiple organizations are distancing themselves from Sean “Diddy” Combs. It was announced on Tuesday that Combs would be temporarily stepping down as chairman of Revolt, the media company he founded in 2013. A statement posted to Revolt’s Instagram confirmed the news.
“While Mr. Combs has previously had no operational or day-to-day role in the business,” it read, “this decision helps to ensure that Revolt remains steadfastly focused on our mission to create meaningful content for the culture and amplify the voices of all Black people throughout this country and the African diaspora.”

Capital Prep Harlem, a charter school opened by Combs in 2016, has also announced that it will be parting ways with the rapper. The school released a statement from Dr. Steve Perry, the founder of Capital Preparatory Schools.
“Following a comprehensive evaluation, a decision has been made to end the partnership between Capital Preparatory Schools and Sean Combs,” the statement read. “While this decision was not made lightly, we firmly believe it is in the best interest of our organization’s health and future.”

Earlier this month, Combs was sued by former girlfriend Cassie (real name Cassandra Ventura). She claimed that the hip-hop mogul was physically and sexually abusive to her and that he would provide her with “copious amounts of drugs.” Combs settled the case the day after she filed.
A week later, two more women came forward to accuse Combs of sexual assault in lawsuits of their own. The first woman, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, alleges that Combs and singer Aaron Hall raped her and her friend at Hall’s apartment in the early ’90s. A few days later, her filing states, Combs showed up to her home and choked her until she passed out.

The second woman, Joi Dickerson-Neal, alleges that Combs drugged and sexually assaulted her while she was a student at Syracuse University in 1991. Dickerson-Neal says that she “reluctantly” went on a date with Combs, during which he “intentionally drugged” her before taking her “to a place he was staying to sexually assault her.”

All three cases fell under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which allowed victims of sexual assault one year to sue their alleged abusers, even in cases where the statute of limitations had run out. In a statement to Variety, a spokesperson for Combs claimed that Dickerson-Neal was a “scammer” exploiting the Adult Survivors Act in a “money grab.” He similarly denied Doe’s allegations, writing off the contents of the suits as “fabricated.”

In a statement to NBC, Dickerson-Neal said, “For 32 years, the only people I have been able to confide in were my close friends and therapists. I’m feeling as if the darkness has been lifted and I can freely move forward in achieving my full potential.”

Taraji P. Henson, Fantasia Barrino, & Danielle Brooks Promote 'The Color Purple' in NYC
Taraji P. Henson, Fantasia Barrino, and Danielle Brooks are stepping out to promote their highly-anticipated new movie musical. The ladies attended the SAG-AFRTA Foundation’s The Color Purple press event on Tuesday (November 28) held at the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Robin Williams Center in New York City.

The Color Purple, based on the classic novel by Alice Walker and the beloved Steven Spielberg movie, is a decades-spanning tale of one woman’s journey to independence. Celie faces many hardships in her life, but ultimately finds extraordinary strength and hope in the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.

The musical version of The Color Purple has already had two Broadway productions and now it has been turned into a movie with Oprah Winfrey as one of the producers.

H.E.R., Halle Bailey, and Aunjanue Ellis also star in the new movie.
The Color Purple hits theaters on December 25

Max says “Looney Tunes” removal was 'error' and shows 'will continue streaming' after fan backlash
Kindly lower your pitchforks, Bugs Bunny fans: Looney Tunes isn’t going anywhere.
On Monday, Max inspired a fan outcry across social media after announcing that the already reduced library of classic Looney Tunes shorts would be leaving the service entirely in December. The monthly list of titles exiting the service included not only the iconic Looney Tunes shorts from the legendary studio’s history, but The Looney Tunes Show, and Looney Tunes: Back in Action.

Hours later, the Warner Bros-Discovery platform issued a statement saying this was an accident. A revised version of the list includes the following statement: "Looney Tunes was included in error as a title leaving the platform. This is not the case and the show will continue streaming on Max."

Per the revised list, the only Looney Tunes property leaving Max will be the 2003 film, Looney Tunes: Back in Action.
Bugs Bunny and friends haven’t had the easiest time, as of late. Last year, Max removed over 250 episodes of the Looney Tunes shorts, leaving only the first 15 of 31 seasons.

The thought of the remaining cartoons leaving was especially frustrating in the eyes of fans following the news that Warner Bros scrapped the completed movie Coyote vs. Acme as a tax write-off. The film was set to follow in the footsteps of Batgirl and Scoob! Holiday Haunt, two titles which were abruptly pulled from WB's release schedule last year for the tax benefit.
While it has since been announced that director Dave Green will be allowed to shop the hybrid live-action/animated movie to other potential distributors for a theatrical or streaming release, the initial announcement was heavily criticized. According to The Hollywood Reporter, several filmmakers canceled upcoming meetings with Warner Bros. after the news broke.

Between the write-off cancellations and various shows being pulled from the platform, the streamer has garnered a reputation for disappearing titles — which is why Looney Tunes fans were quick to voice their anger when it seemed the studio was dropping the anvil on their own iconic cartoons.

Chaka Khan Reveals She Regrets “Nothing” From Her Past: “It Was Part Of My Life Experience”

Chaka Khan opens up about her musical journey and past drug addiction. As the renowned vocalist was recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, she engaged in a conversation with CBS News, reflecting on her close relationship with Prince, her past battles with addiction, and the resurgence of her music. Khan rose to fame in 1984 as the “I Feel For You” track, a song written by Prince featuring the rapper Melle Mel, quickly climbed the charts. However, it seems that not everyone shared the same enthusiasm for its iconic intro, including Chaka Khan herself.

“I was embarrassed,” she said. “I didn’t like anybody saying my name over, I said, ‘I gotta live with this.'”
By the 1980s, Khan had become a widely recognized figure, and her close bond with Prince continued to flourish. Their collaboration extended to 1998 when he played a pivotal role in co-writing and producing her “Come 2 My House” album.

“We both read the same stuff, and we talked a lot of philosophy. And then we decided we wanted to work together,” Khan added. “We did that whole CD in two weeks’ time. I’d give him the lyrics. And he’d come back the next night to the track. Unbelievable.”
In 2016, Prince tragically passed away due to an accidental drug overdose. When asked if whether she was aware of Prince’s struggles toward the end of his life, Khan said she had “no clue.”

“No, I did not. I knew that he had some breaks – his hip, and his ankles, and all that stuff,” she added. “But, I mean, you know, at one point in my life I was an avid druggie myself. You’d think I could recognize that. But I just didn’t. He was a very giving, loving, open, yet private person. And I just had no clue.”

Khan endured a lengthy battle with drug addiction that spanned several decades. In her 2003 memoir titled “Chaka! Through the Fire,” she candidly revealed, “Whenever I started feeling stuff that I didn’t want to feel, I got high.”
“That was one of the reasons I got high,” Khan said. “I enjoyed it as well, at some point, to some extent. You know, it was part of my life experience.”

When questioned about any regrets from her past, Khan promptly dismissed the idea, indicating that she holds no regrets.
Nevertheless, Khan’s songs continue to inspire and resonate with a fresh generation of listeners and artists. In 2002, following a car accident, Kanye West creatively sampled a sped-up rendition of Chaka Khan’s track “Through the Fire” for his own song titled “Through the Wire.”

“That was a very meaningful song,” she continued. “He called me, and he still had his mouth wired. And after he told me about the horrific accident and all that, I said, ‘Well, of course. I’d be happy to be a part of that.'”

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

Courtesy of P.O.Wm

Nothing to see here sir, carry on.

This cute dino says Hi!

EVENING GOODIES: Meet Mr Black

Meet Mr. Black! You can see more when GO HERE TO SEE THE PICS! And remember to exercise CAUTION AT WORK!

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HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!

EFREM

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

The Daily Buzz For Nov 29 ☕📰☕

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#BEEFCAKE: Australian Firefighters Calendar 2024

The wait is over…..the most popular calendar in the world is back! The highly anticipated 2024 Australian Firefighters Calendar has just been launched and is now in its 31st year of production. The annual photoshoot brings Australia’s favourite heroes and animals together to produce the worlds most iconic calendars.

Since its launch in 1993, the calendar has donated over 3.4 million dollars to charities across Australia. The calendar’s proud history of supporting animal refuges and Australian Wildlife in the past, will continue into the future. Australia’s Rural Firefighters and children suffering from Cancer will also once again benefit from donations.

The Australian Firefighters Calendar is found on the walls of supporters in over 90 countries around the world. The firefighters from the calendar are in hot demand to appear on some of the most popular TV shows and magazines around the world. From Germany to Taiwan, to the US and Japan, the firefighters from the calendar use their popularity to continue the message of conservation for Australian Wildlife.
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#RHOA: Porsha Williams' One-Year Anniversary Gift From Simon Guobadia Made Our Jaws Drop
Back in November 2022, Porsha Williams noted she was still "obsessed" with her beau, Simon Guobadia, in an Instagram post as she reflected on their extravagant engagement photo shoot that took place in Dubai. “Unforgettable [nine] days in the UAE. To God we give the Glory," Simon added about the trip that happened ahead of their just-as-extravagant Atlanta weddings.

Now, one year later, the couple again jetted off to the United Arab Emirates to celebrate their anniversary, of course doing so in impeccable style. In addition to sharing their incredible looks for the occasion (more on that later), Porsha was also sure to show off what they gifted each other after one year of marriage — and trust us when we say we were not ready for it!

On November 26, Porsha hopped on her Instagram Stories to share some videos and photos from a night out with her hubby and several pals — a few from the Bravoverse, to be exact, including The Real Housewives of Dubai's Chanel Ayan and Lesa Milan as well as RHOA alum Cynthia Bailey.
Additionally, Porsha flaunted her incredible anniversary gift from Simon: an enormous sparkly silver cuff with a chevron design and what appeared to be several stunning diamonds. "Anniversary gift number 1st!" Porsha wrote over the video while showing off her new accessory.

The Atlanta mom was also sure to give us another look at her massive emerald-cut diamond on a pavé diamond band engagement ring which we haven't stopped thinking about since last year. Moreover, we were in love with Porsha's extra-long coffin-shaped nails with silver designs.

In addition to her head-turning accessories, we also couldn't get enough of Porsha's fashion and beauty choices for the occasion. In several posts from the trip, we took note of the Georgia peach's colorful long-sleeve midi dress from Onalaja.
Porsha paired her orange, blue, and purple-colored midi dress with clear strappy heels and a Bottega Veneta clutch, wearing her raven-colored locks in long, luscious waves and opting for smoky eye glam with a mauve pink lip.

What's more, Chanel gave Bravoholics a peek into the love-filled getaway with a tender shot of the married couple having a dance together to celebrate the occasion.
"Happy anniversary how beautiful," she wrote over the snap, adding how much she was "in love" with Porsha and Simon's special connection.

#MusicNews: Dolly Parton’s ‘Rockstar’ Roars In Atop Country, Rock & Alternative Album Charts
The legend adds her ninth No. 1 on Top Country Albums and her first on Top Rock & Alternative Albums.
Dolly Parton’s 30-song set Rockstar, released Nov. 17, blasts in atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums and Top Rock & Alternative Albums charts (dated Dec. 2). The legend adds her ninth No. 1 on the former and her first on the latter.

The rock-influenced LP earned 128,000 equivalent album units, with 118,000 in album sales, in the week ending Nov. 23, according to Luminate.
The album opens at No. 3 on the all-genre Billboard 200, marking Parton’s third top 10 and highest career rank. She previously visited the tier with Blue Smoke (No. 6 in 2014) and Trio, a collaborative set with Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris (No. 16 in 1987).

Rockstar additionally debuts at the summit on the all-genre Top Album Sales chart, becoming Parton’s first No. 1. Its first-week sales were bolstered by its availability at outlets including Barnes & Noble, Cracker Barrel, Dollar General and Target.
The set more than doubles Parton’s previous biggest sales week for an album, notched when Slow Dancing With the Moon sold 50,500 copies in its second chart week (March 20, 1993).

The star-studded Rockstar is being promoted as Parton’s first rock album, its recording initiated following her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. She initially declined the honor but after entering being enshrined went all-in with the release of Rockstar.

The collection mixes original songs and covers and boasts a long list of prominent credited guests, including Pat Benatar, Miley Cyrus, Melissa Etheridge, Mick Fleetwood, Peter Frampton, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts, Elton John, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks, Chris Stapleton, Ringo Starr, Sting and Steven Tyler.

Parton first reached Top Country Albums with the aptly named Hello, I’m Dolly in November 1967. She scored the first of her 49 top 10s with Just Between You and Me, with Porter Wagoner (No. 8, March 1968), and her first No. 1 with her 34th entry, 1977’s New Harvest…First Gathering, which led for a week that May.

Rockstar is Parton’s first Top Country Albums No. 1 since A Holly Dolly Christmas in 2020. “I am so proud and humbled to have my album reach No. 1 on the Billboard country and holiday charts,” she beamed to Billboard that week. “Boy, what a great early Christmas present for me!”

Meanwhile, Parton leads Top Rock & Alternative Albums in her first appearance on the chart. (Rockstar also rules Top Rock Albums, likewise marking her first visit to the survey.)
The new album’s “World On Fire” debuted and peaked at No. 26 on Hot Rock & Alternative Songs in May.

Plus, Parton’s cover of Prince and the Revolution’s “Purple Rain” enters the Rock Digital Song Sales chart at No. 14 (1,000 sold). It’s the sixth song from Rockstar to make the ranking, with three having hit the top 10 prior to the album’s release. “World On Fire” led for a week in May and her versions of The Beatles’ “Let It Be” (featuring McCartney and Starr) and Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball” (featuring Cyrus) hit Nos. 2 and 6 in September and November, respectively.

#HipHopNews: Lil Durk's Verse Has Been Added Back To Kanye West's "Vultures"

Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign have officially unveiled the version of their new track “Vultures” that features Lil Durk. While many people online heard snippet versions of the new exciting track with the famous Chicago lyricist, the original version did not include him.

Initially, the track was aired on Chicago radio with his contribution but was released on streaming platforms without it on Nov. 22. The version featured a sole guest appearance from Bump J and is anticipated to be the first single from West and Ty Dolla’s upcoming album.

Seemingly reacting to his verse being cut, Durk shared a message on his Instagram Story. It read, “Be lucky I’m humble. Look at it as your blessing.” The response seemingly addressed the removal but did not give precise details of what was happening.
“Vultures” already received considerable attention for Ye’s controversial bars. In his verse, West spoke on his accusations of anti-Semitism. He rapped, “How I’m antisemitic? I just f**ked a Jewish b**ch.” In the same track, West also targeted his former manager, Scooter Braun, with the line: “I just f**ked Scooter’s b**ch, and we ran up like Olympics / Got pregnant in the threesome, so whose baby is it?”

West hosted a release party for the new single in Dubai that was attended by Ty Dolla, Chris Brown, CyHi the Prynce, Vory, Bianca Censori and more. There have been countless videos and photos of the decorated emcee celebrating the song’s release in a nightclub with his collaborators.

Friday (Nov. 24), Durk posted a photo of his iced-out watch on his story after the release went live, captioned “Dubai” with the goat emoji.

Teyana Taylor Laughs Off Pregnancy Rumors Following Gotham Awards Appearance Amid Divorce
Teyana Taylor is not having a bun in the oven. The singer/actress has been forced to address the pregnancy speculation, which sparked on the Internet following her appearance at the 2023 Gotham Awards.
For the 33rd edition of the ceremony honoring independent films, the 32-year-old showed off her curves in a black sling dress that perfectly fitted her body. Baring her cleavage with the low-cut, the model/dancer could not hide her stomach, which looked a bit bloated that night.

After photos and video of her pose on the red carpet were posted online, many began speculating that Teyana flashed a baby bump at the event. "She's pregnant," one person reacted to the "Dark Fantasy" singer's look at the award show.
Another commented, "She has like a 10 pack flat abs so unless she just ate she's def preg." A third weighed in, "Uh oh I know I ain't the only one thinking ...is there a baby otw." A fourth person asked, "is she pregnant??" while another similarly inquired, "Is that a baby bump."

Others, meanwhile, begged to differ as one social media user claimed, "I thought she was pregnant for sec but she's always been that's girl." Another clapped back at the speculators, "So bloating and having a big meal doesn't exist anymore? y'all see a little tummy and go straight to pregnant."

Apparently catching wind of the comments on Hollywood Unlocked's post about her look that night, Teyana quickly set the record straight. In the comments section of the same post, she denied that she's having a bun in the oven and that she was just having a full bladder.

"Auntey ain't preggo y'all! I just had to pee. Y'all know that pee pouch ain't nothing to play wit," she wrote with a slew face with tears of joy emojis. "My kangaroo head a**," she added, before correcting herself, "kangaroo pouch."
Teyana announced her split from Iman Shumpert, with whom she shares two children together, in September. Earlier this month, it was revealed that she had filed for divorce from the former NBA star months before the split confirmation.

She later released a statement expressing her disappointment that the divorce news got leaked to the public. "It is very heartbreaking that someone would take out the time to make such a private matter public for the world to see," she wrote on her Instagram Story.

NBA Player Josh Giddey’s $40 Million Sponsorship Deal At Risk Over His Alleged Relationship with a Minor

NBA player Josh Giddey could possibly lose out on millions after allegations surfaced accusing him of having an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl. According to reports, the NBA is looking into the claims against the Oklahoma City Thunder shooting guard, which sparked via social media last week.

The investigation kicked off after photos began circulating online of Josh Giddey, 21, posing shirtless with an alleged high school junior. In one of the images, the professional basketball player is seen with his arm around the unidentified girl.
During the Thunder’s recent press conference, the Australian native had no comment when asked about the allegations. He said,
“I understand the question obviously but no, there is no further comment right now. I get the questions guys, I completely understand you want guys want to know about it, but just for right now I don’t have anything to say.”

While Giddey continues to make a name for himself in the NBA, it’s no surprise that the 6-foot-8 athlete reportedly struck a four-year, $40 million deal with Australian cereal brand Weet-Bix.

However, according to recent reports, Giddey is at risk of losing his multi-million-dollar sponsorship deal due to his alleged relationship with the minor. Reportedly, Weet-Bix wasted no time cleaning its social media pages of Giddey.
The company said that they are aware of the claims and are following along with the NBA’s investigation until more details are provided. A spokesperson for Weet-Bix said,

“We are obviously aware of news surrounding Josh Giddey and are waiting for facts to be confirmed. We are in contact with Josh’s management team and waiting on further detail at this point.”

What are your thoughts on this entire situation?

Prosecutor says Young Thug was ‘proclaimed leader’ of violent street gang at racketeering trial openings

Prosecutors accused Grammy-winning rapper Young Thug of leading a criminal street gang that committed murder and a slew of violent crimes in the Atlanta area over the past decade during opening statements of his racketeering trial Monday.
Fulton County Chief Deputy District Attorney Adriane Love said YSL – the acronym for Young Thug’s label, Young Stoner Life Records – in fact stands for Young Slime Life, an Atlanta-based criminal street gang led by the rapper and affiliated with the national Bloods gang.

“YSL operated as a pact,” she said, and Young Thug was “King Slime.” His home was allegedly filled with drugs and guns, and gang members would reach out for permission to kill and to provide him with stolen items, according to Love.
“They created a crater in the middle of Fulton County’s Cleveland Avenue community that sucked in the youth, the innocence and even the lives of some of its youngest members,” Love said.

5 things to know about Young Thug and the YSL RICO case
Young Thug, whose given name is Jeffery Williams, is one of the music industry’s most innovative and influential hip-hop artists, pushing not just musical boundaries but often cultural ones too – including in his decision to wear a purple dress for the cover of his 2016 album, “Jeffery.”

He was charged last year alongside more than two dozen other people under the state’s expansive Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act – known as RICO. It’s the same law Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis used to indict former President Donald Trump and 18 co-defendants in August in connection with their alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election.

Several defendants took plea deals last December – including rapper Gunna – while others were severed from the case. Young Thug is among six defendants who have pleaded not guilty to all charges and are standing trial in an Atlanta courtroom.
Young Thug’s defense attorney Brian Steel has said the rapper is innocent of all counts and has previously told CNN he “committed no crime whatsoever.”

The prosecution’s opening statements marked the start of what’s expected to be a monthslong trial that will be a test of the state’s expansive RICO law, prosecutors’ highly controversial decision to use rap lyrics as evidence and of Willis’ reputation ahead of Trump’s coming trial.

The first day of opening statements already saw several delays, prompted first by a juror issue and then by defense attorney complaints. Already, the trial has featured heated exchanges between prosecutors and Young Thug’s defense attorney, who made a motion for a mistrial that was denied by the judge.
Marquavius Huey, Deamonte Kendrick (known as Yak Gotti), Quamarvious Nichols, Rodalius Ryan and Shannon Stillwell are the other five defendants in the trial.

Stillwell’s attorney, Maxwell Schardt, delivered his opening statements Monday afternoon, saying his client was not guilty of the charges he’s facing, including murder.
Shortly after, court adjourned for the day. Attorneys for other defendants are expected to deliver additional opening statements starting Tuesday morning.

Mark Cuban Exiting ‘Shark Tank’ After Over 10 Years

Cuban announced the departure in a recent episode of the “All The Smoke” podcast, telling hosts and ex-NBA players Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson “it’s time.”
The billionaire Dallas Mavericks owner told Forbes on Monday he had nothing to add in addition to his comments on the podcast, and that he’s “still got a whole new season to shoot!”

Cuban’s withdrawal from the show hasn’t been confirmed by ABC.
Cuban told “All The Smoke” after years of investing in startups on the show, he’s slightly down on a cash basis, but the value of many of his investments are still doing well, name-dropping companies he’s invested in like BeatBox Beverages and Dude Wipes.
Cuban told Barnes and Jackson he loves the show “because it sends the message the American dream is alive and well,” adding that he feels the show and its entrepreneurial hosts have trained generations of entrepreneurs.

We estimate Cuban’s net worth at $6.2 billion, ranking him within the top 500 wealthiest people in the world. Cuban, who sold Broadcast.com for $5.7 billion in 1999, makes his money through varying ownership stakes in sectors including sports, media and technology.
Forbes Daily: Get our best stories, exclusive reporting and essential analysis of the day’s news in your inbox every weekday.

Cuban joined “Shark Tank” as a guest during season two and became a regular on the show in season three. The long-running show, now in its fifteenth season, gives up-and-coming entrepreneurs a chance to pitch their businesses and products to five “Sharks,” accomplished entrepreneurs who can then make investments in the businesses or turn them down. Cuban told Forbes last year he was considering leaving “Shark Tank,” saying he wasn’t worried about the show's longevity and that it would “survive fine without me.” The billionaire will have plenty to keep him busy once he exits the show, as he continues on as the owner of the Dallas Mavericks and the cofounder of Cost Plus Drugs among other business ventures. Cuban co-founded Cost Plus Drugs last year, which offers low prescription drug prices amid rising costs.

SURPRISING FACT
Some of the deals struck between contestants and sharks are ultimately called off, or their terms are changed significantly after taping, Forbes reported earlier this year. Cuban said these changes are often because of new information that arises during the sharks’ due diligence process, or due to entrepreneurs who “just came for the commercial.”

Man who stripped naked on Disneyland ride was on drugs, police say

Disneyland guests on “It’s a Small World” got an unexpected and unwelcome show Sunday when a man stripped nearly naked and got up close and personal with some of the set pieces on the iconic ride.

Officers with the Anaheim Police Department responded to the theme park at around 1:30 p.m. to assist Disney security with the incident.
Video of the streaker obtained by KTLA shows the man, eerily lit in blue, orange and pink lights, walking around nearly in the buff to the sound of Christmas music.

“I am on Small World and there was a streaker, I cannot believe this happening,” Ashley Esqueda posted to X, formerly Twitter.
Disneyland officials told KTLA that the man stepped out of the ride’s vehicle as the attraction was in operation and that park employees stopped the ride as soon as they were made aware of the situation.
“At some point, somebody snapped him outside of the ride … and it looks like he went for the full birthday suit look out in the sunshine,” TMZ reported.

Indeed, another video (warning) shows the man fully naked and wading in the water near the ride’s entrance as a worker approaches.
His clothes were photographed sitting in a pile on the floor inside.
The 26-year-old man was arrested for indecent exposure and being under the influence of a controlled substance. He was first taken to a hospital as a precaution, Anaheim police told KTLA.

His name was not immediately released.

Chris Brown Responds to Antisemitism Allegations After Dancing to New Kayne West Song
Chris Brown is the subject of criticism after he was seen dancing to a new Kanye West song. In a video posted to social media on Thursday (November 23), the 34-year-old singer can be seen partying with Kanye, Ty Dolla Sign, and others in Dubai as Kanye‘s song “Vultures” plays in the background.

On the track, Kanye raps, “How I’m antisemitic? I just f—ed a Jewish b–tch / I just f—ed Scooter’s b–ch, and we ran her like Olympics / Got pregnant in the threesome, so whose baby is it? Whose baby is it?”

Chris came under fire for his apparent enjoyment of the lyrics.He responded to the backlash in a pair of Instagram Story posts on Sunday (November 26), which have since been deleted.
“Let me make this perfectly clear before y’all try to use me as a pawn,” her wrote, according to XXL. “Ima Piru, I aint Muslim or Jewish so don’t start no s–t wont be no s–t!!! Im trying to be peaceful but please do not wake up the demon in me. Go on about your f–king day.”

In his second message, Chris outright denied being antisemitic.
“In no way shape or form am I antisemetic [sic] !!! I’m pro life and I make music for the entire world!!!!!! So please do not get tricked into thinking I spread hate or am kool with it! This [is] for the million of young kids that look up to [me] and [may] be confused,” the post read.

Kanye has created his fair share of controversies recently, as the “Heartless” rapper has made antisemitic comments on multiple occasions.

Whoopi Goldberg Blasts Critics of Dolly Parton's NFL Thanksgiving Halftime Show Outfit

Whoopi Goldberg is speaking out in defense of Dolly Parton‘s wardrobe choices. On Thursday (November 23), Dolly, 77, took the stage during halftime of the NFL’s Thanksgiving day matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders in Arlington, Texas.
For her performance, the “Stairway to Heaven” singer donned a Cowboys cheerleader uniform made up of a blue crop top under a tiny white vest and short white shorts.

On Monday’s (November 27) episode of The View, Whoopi addressed the backlash Dolly received for wearing a revealing outfit.

“Seventy-seven-year-old superstar Dolly Parton stole the show on Thanksgiving at the Cowboys-Commanders game dressed as a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, but some critics told her to act her age,” she said. “Bite me! Everybody that participated in this, you should be ashamed of yourself.”
Co-host Sunny Hostin followed Whoopi‘s comments by sharing the same sentiment.
“If I look like that in one of them Cowboys things, I might have everything out,” she said. “I don’t know if that’s a belly ring or what, but I want what she has.”

Woman Involved in Montgomery Riverfront Brawl Sentenced to Anger Management Classes – Second Defendant Given Jail Time
Two people involved in a melee at an Alabama riverfront dock that caught national headlines over the summer were sentenced, with one receiving jail time and the other ordered to go to anger management classes.
Richard Roberts pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault for his part in the August brawl on a Montgomery river dock. He was sentenced to 32 days, which he will serve on weekends over the course of four months. Roberts will also have to perform 100 hours of community service and pay court costs.

Another defendant, Mary Todd, 21, pleaded guilty to harassment as part of a prearranged plea agreement. She was sentenced to anger management classes and has 90 days to complete the classes and must pay court costs associated with her case.
Three other defendants, Allen Todd, 24, Reggie Ray, 42, and Zachary Shipman, 26, had their cases continued.

The Todds and Shipman were each charged with one count of third-degree assault in the August 5 brawl in Montgomery. Roberts was charged with two counts of third-degree assault, and Ray was charged with disorderly conduct.
After the court accepted his guilty plea, Roberts apologized to victims Damien Pickett and Daniel Moore.

The fracas, which some believe may have been racially motivated, erupted after a dispute over a dockside parking spot.
It started when the co-captain of the Harriott II cruise ship – carrying 227 passengers – tried to dock in its reserved spot but found a private boat docked in its space, Montgomery Police Chief Darryl Albert said in August.

The Harriott II and its passengers waited about 45 minutes as the co-captain, Damien Pickett, tried to reach the occupants of the docked boat using a PA system. But “they were only responded to with obscene gestures, curse words and taunting,” Albert said.
Pickett was then picked up by a young dockworker in another vessel and taken to the dock so he could try to speak with the boat occupants and get them to move, Albert said. There, the boat occupants confronted the captain in a “very hostile manner,” the chief said.
Pickett was “attacked by several members of the private boat” and was treated at a hospital that night, the chief said. Several Harriott II crew members came to Pickett’s defense, according to the chief.

The incident, which was caught on video, largely broke down along racial lines in a city with both a fraught history of racial violence and a proud place in the civil rights movement.
Police said Pickett, the Black co-captain of the Harriott II, and the 16-year-old White boy who helped take Pickett to the dock to try to speak with the owner of the private boat were both assaulted.

The mother of the White teen said she heard racist comments directed at Pickett.
“You could hear men yelling ‘f**k that n***er’” as Pickett tried to move a pontoon boat occupying the riverboat’s docking location, the teen’s mother said in a sworn statement to police.

But Pickett has told police he didn’t think the attack was racially motivated. Pickett was in the courtroom on Friday.
“We believe what he is saying, and what he is saying is that he does not believe it was racially motivated whatsoever,” Albert said in August. “If more evidence comes forward. If there’s more proof that this leaned toward more of a hate crime, we will amend those charges and charge appropriately then.”

CNN has reached out to Montgomery police for an update on the investigation.
The last of the five defendants taken into custody, Ray, allegedly wielded a folding chair during the brawl. His civil attorney said Ray, the lone Black defendant, was “roped into” the melee due to a “white mob.”

“Mr. Ray was involuntarily roped into the disorderly conduct initiated by a violent white mob,” attorney Lee Merritt said in a statement to CNN after Ray turned himself in to authorities. “Mr. Ray will continue to participate with the ongoing investigation concerning the same and is committed to being forthcoming about his limited role in the brawl.”

The attorney representing another defendant said he has received “threatening letters.” Attorney Richard White said he hopes the case will be tried strictly on evidence and will not be influenced by any possible preconceived notions.
“I don’t care if you’re Republican or Democrat, African American, White, whatever. It has no business in courts, in the city of Montgomery or anywhere else in our country. And that’s the only thing I ask for,” said White, who is representing Roberts.
Investigators looked into hate crime charges
The police chief said local investigators worked with the FBI to determine whether to file hate crime charges in this case.

“We were unable to present any inciting-a-riot or racially biased charges at this time,” Albert said in August.
Steven Reed, Montgomery’s first Black mayor, said “it’s important for us to understand that there was a young White dock worker or someone who worked on the boat who also tried to help and who was attacked as well.”

And the city’s Black police chief said he did not take the investigation lightly.
“Knowing Montgomery’s history, knowing all the civil rights things that we went through here in the city of Montgomery and what the means to the nation, we were very amped-up to get this right,” Albert said.
Montgomery played a central role in the transatlantic slave trade when enslaved people would arrive on its riverfront to be sold in the city’s slave markets.

It later became the birthplace of the civil rights movement, after Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her bus seat to a White man in December 1955 led to the Montgomery Bus Boycott – the first major protest against segregation.

‘Mr. Big Stuff’ Songstress Jean Knight Passes Away at 80

Jean Knight, the iconic ‘Mr. Big Stuff’ songstress passed away last Wednesday, as confirmed by her family.
In a released statement, Jean’s family celebrated her remarkable career, spanning from JetStream Records to Stax Records, and notably, her initiative in founding her own label, Comstar

“Jean Knight’s legacy is not just a musical one; it is a testament to the enduring love between an artist, her hometown, and the fans who adored her. As we bid farewell to this iconic soulstress, New Orleans and her global fan base join together in gratitude for the indelible mark she left on the world,” the family said in a statement.

The singer was most known for her famous hit ‘Mr. Big Stuff.’
While Jean recorded numerous songs in her career, none matched the success of “Big Stuff.”
Other notable singles include “My Toot Toot,” “You Think You’re Hot Stuff,” “Carry On,” “Helping Man,” “Do Me,” and “Jesse Joe (You Got to Go).”

Carolina Panthers Part Ways With Coach Frank Reich After 11 Games
The Carolina Panthers have fired head coach Frank Reich after a disappointing season thus far, holding a record of 1-10. Remarkably, this marks the second consecutive year that Reich has found himself released mid-season, as the Colts similarly relieved him of his duties last season.

The Carolina Panthers traded their first-round pick this year to move up to draft Quarterback Bryce Young, who has struggled immensely this season. The Carolina Panthers haven’t scored 20 points since their week six loss against the Dolphins.
The Carolina Panthers find themselves at the bottom of the league, ranking last in both total yards and passing yards. Their performance in rushing yards and points is not much better, placing them at 29th. The disappointment of this season is evident, and team owner David Tepper seems to have a penchant for cycling through head coaches as if they were leased cars. He will be hiring his seventh coach since 2018. Some would say a new owner is needed, not a new Quarterback or Coach. But you can’t fire the owner.

On Monday, Tepper made the announcement that Panthers fans were desperately looking for after a deflating season.