#MERRYCHRISTMASALL!
#RHOA: Kim Zolciak Facig New 6-Figure Tax Bill From IRS Ahead of Christmas Amid Bitter Divorce
Kim Zolciak was hit with a massive new six-figure tax bill days before Christmas, and The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum now owes over $1.3 million to the IRS, Us Weekly can exclusively report.
On December 11, the Internal Revenue Service filed a lien against the Bravo star over unpaid taxes for three years.
The government alleges Zolciak, 47, owes $104,009.82 for 2019, $24,471.87 for 2023 and $35,322.71 for 2024. The total of the lien is $163,804.30.
The address listed on the lien is a six-bedroom, six-bathroom, 5,711-square-foot home worth an estimated $1.3 million.
Zolciak and her estranged husband, Kroy Biermann, sold their seven-bedroom, 11-bathroom, 15,694-square-foot marital home in February for $2,750,000. The exes initially asked for $6 million but slashed the price due to the home facing foreclosure from the bank.
On November 24, the IRS filed a new lien against Biermann, 40, over unpaid taxes for 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2024. The government demanded Biermann pay $194,199.24.
Zolciak and Biermann, who have yet to finalize their divorce, had a federal tax lien filed against them in April 2023. Per the lien, which has not been released, the IRS accuses the reality stars of failing to pay $1,147,834 in back taxes for 2013 ($103,564), 2017 ($330,126) and 2018 ($714,143.38).
The total of Zolciak’s debt to the IRS, based on the two liens filed against her, is $1,311,638.
As Us previously reported, Zolciak and Biermann, who were married for 11 years from 2011 to 2023, are still fighting in divorce court.
Kroy Biermann Contacted the Wife of Kim Zolciak’s Rumored New Boyfriend Kyle Mowitz
In recent documents, Biermann accused Zolciak of refusing to turn over financial documents he asked her to produce. In addition, he alleged she violated an agreement they reached when she spoke about their divorce in the media. Biermann pointed to two interviews that Zolciak did with Kristin Cavallari and Andy Cohen as examples.
In his filing, Biermann alleged that Zolciak accused him of not contributing financially during the marriage and stealing her belongings after the split.
Zolciak denied Biermann’s claims that she violated an agreement by speaking publicly about their breakup.
Kim Zolciak Subpoenaed In $100 Million Divorce by Man’s Estranged Wife Demanding Answers Over Gifts
On top of her own legal battle, Zolciak was dragged into her boyfriend Kyle Mowitz’s ongoing divorce from his estranged wife, Jillian Green.
Green issued a subpoena to Zolciak demanding she answer questions about money that Mowitz and his company may have spent on her bills, gifts and travel expenses. Zolciak accused Green of serving her with legal documents at her son’s high school football game, which she claimed was completely unnecessary since her lawyer was already in contact with Green’s team.
As part of Mowitz’s divorce, Green accused him of transferring a substantial amount of money into a trust, which she has no control over, before the split. She believes the trust holds over $100 million in assets. Mowitz denied all claims of wrongdoing or that he diverted money from his ex.
Mowitz’s lawyer, Marvin Solomiany, previously told Us, “We are not going to litigate the facts surrounding our client’s divorce case outside of the applicable legal proceedings.”
He added, “As to Ms. Kim Zolciak, Ms. Mowitz’s decision to involve her in the divorce case is highly unnecessary as any relationship our client may have with her only began after the parties’ separation.”
On December 11, the Internal Revenue Service filed a lien against the Bravo star over unpaid taxes for three years.
The government alleges Zolciak, 47, owes $104,009.82 for 2019, $24,471.87 for 2023 and $35,322.71 for 2024. The total of the lien is $163,804.30.
The address listed on the lien is a six-bedroom, six-bathroom, 5,711-square-foot home worth an estimated $1.3 million.
Zolciak and her estranged husband, Kroy Biermann, sold their seven-bedroom, 11-bathroom, 15,694-square-foot marital home in February for $2,750,000. The exes initially asked for $6 million but slashed the price due to the home facing foreclosure from the bank.
On November 24, the IRS filed a new lien against Biermann, 40, over unpaid taxes for 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2024. The government demanded Biermann pay $194,199.24.
Zolciak and Biermann, who have yet to finalize their divorce, had a federal tax lien filed against them in April 2023. Per the lien, which has not been released, the IRS accuses the reality stars of failing to pay $1,147,834 in back taxes for 2013 ($103,564), 2017 ($330,126) and 2018 ($714,143.38).
The total of Zolciak’s debt to the IRS, based on the two liens filed against her, is $1,311,638.
As Us previously reported, Zolciak and Biermann, who were married for 11 years from 2011 to 2023, are still fighting in divorce court.
Kroy Biermann Contacted the Wife of Kim Zolciak’s Rumored New Boyfriend Kyle Mowitz
In recent documents, Biermann accused Zolciak of refusing to turn over financial documents he asked her to produce. In addition, he alleged she violated an agreement they reached when she spoke about their divorce in the media. Biermann pointed to two interviews that Zolciak did with Kristin Cavallari and Andy Cohen as examples.
In his filing, Biermann alleged that Zolciak accused him of not contributing financially during the marriage and stealing her belongings after the split.
Zolciak denied Biermann’s claims that she violated an agreement by speaking publicly about their breakup.
Kim Zolciak Subpoenaed In $100 Million Divorce by Man’s Estranged Wife Demanding Answers Over Gifts
On top of her own legal battle, Zolciak was dragged into her boyfriend Kyle Mowitz’s ongoing divorce from his estranged wife, Jillian Green.
Green issued a subpoena to Zolciak demanding she answer questions about money that Mowitz and his company may have spent on her bills, gifts and travel expenses. Zolciak accused Green of serving her with legal documents at her son’s high school football game, which she claimed was completely unnecessary since her lawyer was already in contact with Green’s team.
As part of Mowitz’s divorce, Green accused him of transferring a substantial amount of money into a trust, which she has no control over, before the split. She believes the trust holds over $100 million in assets. Mowitz denied all claims of wrongdoing or that he diverted money from his ex.
Mowitz’s lawyer, Marvin Solomiany, previously told Us, “We are not going to litigate the facts surrounding our client’s divorce case outside of the applicable legal proceedings.”
He added, “As to Ms. Kim Zolciak, Ms. Mowitz’s decision to involve her in the divorce case is highly unnecessary as any relationship our client may have with her only began after the parties’ separation.”
#MusicNews: Samara Joy Plans To Tour Early 2026
Samara Joy is taking a much-needed holiday break after recently wrapping up her final batch of 2025 tour dates. The natural born performer won’t be away from the concert stage for too long, though. Once the five-time GRAMMY winner finds out if she’ll be picking up more trophies at the 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards — where she’s up for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best Jazz Performance — on February 1st, Samara will be back on the road days later on a brand-new tour.
The Samara Joy And Her Septet! North American Tour kicks off in Miami on February 12th. She’ll visit a few more cities in Florida before moving on to Atlanta, Dallas, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Chicago, where she’ll perform with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The last show of this run will be in the native New Yorker’s home turf on May 16th.
Altogether, Samara and her septet will hit 18 cities and perform 20 shows (she has two nights of concerts on deck in both Atlanta and Los Angeles). These North American dates lead the rollout of her 2026 live performance schedule, which will undoubtedly take her around the globe as the year progresses.
Tickets to attend the Samara Joy And Her Septet! North American Tour are on sale now. Visit the tour page on her official website for links to each show date to purchase passes.
Samara Joy And Her Septet! North American Tour Spring 2026 dates:
Feb. 12 — Miami, FL — Arsht Center
Feb. 14 — Tampa, FL — David A. Straz, Jr. Center For The Performing Arts/Ferguson Hall
Feb. 15 — St. Augustine, FL — Fort Mose Historic State Park
Feb. 17 — Melbourne, FL — Maxwell C. King Center For The Performing Arts
Feb. 19 — Naples, FL — Artis
Mar. 25 — Atlanta, GA — Atlanta Symphony Hall
Mar. 26 — Atlanta, GA — Atlanta Symphony Hall
Mar. 28 — Wilmington, NC — Wilson Center
Mar. 29 — Greenville, SC — Peace Concert Hall
Apr. 01 — Dallas, TX — AT&T PAC/Winspear Opera House
Apr. 02 — Austin, TX — ACL Live
Apr. 04 — San Antonio, TX — Tobin Center/HEB Performance Hall
Apr. 07 — Salt Lake City, UT — Kingsbury Hall At The University Of Utah
Apr. 09 — Scottsdale, AZ — Highlands Church/Arizona Musicfest
Apr. 11 — Las Vegas, NV — The Smith Center For The Performing Arts
Apr. 13 — Stanford, CA — Bing Concert Hall
Apr. 15 — Los Angeles, CA — Blue Note Los Angeles
Apr. 16 — Los Angeles, CA — Blue Note Los Angeles
May 12 — Chicago, IL — Symphony Center
May 16 — New York, NY — David Geffen Hall
The Samara Joy And Her Septet! North American Tour kicks off in Miami on February 12th. She’ll visit a few more cities in Florida before moving on to Atlanta, Dallas, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Chicago, where she’ll perform with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The last show of this run will be in the native New Yorker’s home turf on May 16th.
Altogether, Samara and her septet will hit 18 cities and perform 20 shows (she has two nights of concerts on deck in both Atlanta and Los Angeles). These North American dates lead the rollout of her 2026 live performance schedule, which will undoubtedly take her around the globe as the year progresses.
Tickets to attend the Samara Joy And Her Septet! North American Tour are on sale now. Visit the tour page on her official website for links to each show date to purchase passes.
Samara Joy And Her Septet! North American Tour Spring 2026 dates:
Feb. 12 — Miami, FL — Arsht Center
Feb. 14 — Tampa, FL — David A. Straz, Jr. Center For The Performing Arts/Ferguson Hall
Feb. 15 — St. Augustine, FL — Fort Mose Historic State Park
Feb. 17 — Melbourne, FL — Maxwell C. King Center For The Performing Arts
Feb. 19 — Naples, FL — Artis
Mar. 25 — Atlanta, GA — Atlanta Symphony Hall
Mar. 26 — Atlanta, GA — Atlanta Symphony Hall
Mar. 28 — Wilmington, NC — Wilson Center
Mar. 29 — Greenville, SC — Peace Concert Hall
Apr. 01 — Dallas, TX — AT&T PAC/Winspear Opera House
Apr. 02 — Austin, TX — ACL Live
Apr. 04 — San Antonio, TX — Tobin Center/HEB Performance Hall
Apr. 07 — Salt Lake City, UT — Kingsbury Hall At The University Of Utah
Apr. 09 — Scottsdale, AZ — Highlands Church/Arizona Musicfest
Apr. 11 — Las Vegas, NV — The Smith Center For The Performing Arts
Apr. 13 — Stanford, CA — Bing Concert Hall
Apr. 15 — Los Angeles, CA — Blue Note Los Angeles
Apr. 16 — Los Angeles, CA — Blue Note Los Angeles
May 12 — Chicago, IL — Symphony Center
May 16 — New York, NY — David Geffen Hall
#HipHopNews: Fat Joe Claims He Once Beat Up Young Buck, Gets Diss Song Response
Fat Joe and Young Buck‘s feud has been reignited after the Terror Squad capo claimed that he once beat up the former G-Unit soldier.
On the latest episode of his and Jadakiss‘ Joe and Jada podcast featuring guests Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda, Joey Crack shared a previously untold story about the time he allegedly put hands on Buck at the height of his beef with 50 Cent and G-Unit in the mid 2000s.
“I caught Young Buck during that time. He got two-piece legended. That n*gga tried to front on me,” he said, to Jadakiss, Uncle Murda and even Tony Yayo’s surprise.
“So I’m at a Winter Jam in Chicago. I had [my goons] with me. Everybody’s on [the bill] — Young Jeezy, Fab. There was a lot of witnesses. I’m coming off stage and it’s dumb dark and there was somebody up on the second [floor] like, ‘Yo, Crack! You hear me, n*gga?!'”
Joe continued: “I look up and it’s Young Buck. I got a water bottle in my hand. ‘Fuck outta here!’ I throw the water bottle at [him]. I said, ‘Come down, pussy!’ I’m going crazy. I just black out. So I’m waiting for the n*gga to come down the staircase. He had a bunch of Chicago dudes with him too.
“So the cops come and form a baricade to close the staircase so he won’t come. He took too long to come down, by the way. So when he comes down he tries to tell me, ‘Yo, this ain’t got nothing do with’ — but he was just talking crazy! He was testing me to see if Fat Joe is pussy.”
Fat Joe then claimed that Young Buck “poked his head out just one second over the cops,” enough time for Joe and his entourage to land a flurry of punches on the Tenneesee native. “Even the barber hit him!” he joked.
The “Lean Back” hitmaker then claimed that Buck began copping pleas and attempted to convince Joe that he meant nothing by his initial comments.
That’s not how Young Buck remembers things, though.
The former G-Unit rapper fired back by dropping a diss song aimed at Fat Joe called “CAPpuccino,” on which he attempts to set the record straight about their alleged scuffle.
“You told the story but you just had to go and twist it, thought I would miss it / You threw a bottle of water and didn’t think that I would risk it, huh? / I oughta take it there but I’m not gonna act like this is scripted / Just here to tell the truth so the fans can’t get conflicted,” Buck raps over a sample of Kanye West‘s “Drive Slow.”
He then mocks Joe’s use of weight loss drugs, spitting: “No hands was put on nobody, even though I attempted / I don’t know if it’s just you, Fat Joe, or the Ozempic / But speak facts when you say my name, this ain’t the Rucker Park, I don’t play them type of games.”
In response, Fat Joe doubled down on his version of events by commenting on Buck’s Instagram page: “Nah you know it’s facts old shit but [100 emoji] facts sorry beloved.”
Fat Joe and Young Buck‘s feud has been reignited after the Terror Squad capo claimed that he once beat up the former G-Unit soldier.
On the latest episode of his and Jadakiss‘ Joe and Jada podcast featuring guests Tony Yayo and Uncle Murda, Joey Crack shared a previously untold story about the time he allegedly put hands on Buck at the height of his beef with 50 Cent and G-Unit in the mid 2000s.
“I caught Young Buck during that time. He got two-piece legended. That n*gga tried to front on me,” he said, to Jadakiss, Uncle Murda and even Tony Yayo’s surprise.
“So I’m at a Winter Jam in Chicago. I had [my goons] with me. Everybody’s on [the bill] — Young Jeezy, Fab. There was a lot of witnesses. I’m coming off stage and it’s dumb dark and there was somebody up on the second [floor] like, ‘Yo, Crack! You hear me, n*gga?!'”
Joe continued: “I look up and it’s Young Buck. I got a water bottle in my hand. ‘Fuck outta here!’ I throw the water bottle at [him]. I said, ‘Come down, pussy!’ I’m going crazy. I just black out. So I’m waiting for the n*gga to come down the staircase. He had a bunch of Chicago dudes with him too.
“So the cops come and form a baricade to close the staircase so he won’t come. He took too long to come down, by the way. So when he comes down he tries to tell me, ‘Yo, this ain’t got nothing do with’ — but he was just talking crazy! He was testing me to see if Fat Joe is pussy.”
Fat Joe then claimed that Young Buck “poked his head out just one second over the cops,” enough time for Joe and his entourage to land a flurry of punches on the Tenneesee native. “Even the barber hit him!” he joked.
The “Lean Back” hitmaker then claimed that Buck began copping pleas and attempted to convince Joe that he meant nothing by his initial comments.
That’s not how Young Buck remembers things, though.
The former G-Unit rapper fired back by dropping a diss song aimed at Fat Joe called “CAPpuccino,” on which he attempts to set the record straight about their alleged scuffle.
“You told the story but you just had to go and twist it, thought I would miss it / You threw a bottle of water and didn’t think that I would risk it, huh? / I oughta take it there but I’m not gonna act like this is scripted / Just here to tell the truth so the fans can’t get conflicted,” Buck raps over a sample of Kanye West‘s “Drive Slow.”
He then mocks Joe’s use of weight loss drugs, spitting: “No hands was put on nobody, even though I attempted / I don’t know if it’s just you, Fat Joe, or the Ozempic / But speak facts when you say my name, this ain’t the Rucker Park, I don’t play them type of games.”
In response, Fat Joe doubled down on his version of events by commenting on Buck’s Instagram page: “Nah you know it’s facts old shit but [100 emoji] facts sorry beloved.”
Venus Williams announces marriage to Andrea Preti on social media
Venus Williams is a married woman.. The tennis superstar, 45, married actor Andrea Preti, 37, in Palm Beach, Florida, over the weekend, following an earlier wedding celebration in Italy back in September, according to Vogue.
"I can't describe how beautiful, calm, sacred, exciting, and exalting it was," Williams told the outlet of her Friday morning courthouse wedding, which took place following a week of wedding activities, including a yacht celebration gifted by Williams' sister Serena Williams. "It was just a dream."
Venus Williams confirms engagement after winning 1st singles match in 2 years
Along with the yacht celebration, Williams' week also included a bridal shower and a pool party.
The Palm Beach wedding was the couple's second ceremony, as they initially tied the knot in Ischia, Italy, on Sept. 18, according to Vogue.
"We had this dream to do our wedding in Italy," Williams told the outlet. "But we didn't have enough time to do the paperwork -- because I'm a foreigner, it can take about eight months. So we decided to have a second wedding."
For the courthouse portion of the Palm Beach wedding last week, Williams wore a Morilee New York dress, telling Vogue, "They made 10 dresses, all custom. The dress I ended up wearing was just divine. I also had an outfit to wear when we left so I wouldn't draw attention to myself. It was a classic short skirt and top, and I had the perfect headpiece for it."
Preti, meanwhile, said the courthouse ceremony "was very unique, emotional, and deep" and described it as "the second-best day of my life" after his and Williams' wedding day.
For the morning of the wedding ceremony -- a separate event over the weekend -- Williams told the outlet, "I got the most amazing nails by Gina Edwards, and I wore the most incredible dress by Georges Hobeika."
During the ceremony, Preti walked out to "I'll Be There" by the Jackson 5, while Williams walked out to "Ovunque Sarai" by Irama, according to Vogue.
The ceremony was followed by a reception and an after party.
"It was just the happiest, most beautiful, sweetest day," Williams told Vogue.
Venus Williams opens up about new book ‘Strive’
Williams and Preti got engaged in January 2025. Williams shared photos of her and Preti -- as well as a snap of her dog Harry snuggled up between the two of them -- in a December 2025 Instagram post, writing in the caption, "Engaged 1/31/25💫."
Williams previously confirmed the couple's engagement in a July 2025 interview after winning her first singles match in two years.
"My fiance is here, and he really encouraged me to keep playing," Williams said at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, D.C.
At the time, Williams said Preti had supported her as she pursued a strong comeback to professional tennis.
"Do you know how hard it is to play tennis? You guys don't know how much work goes into this, like, it's 9 to 5, except you're running the whole time, lifting weights, and just, like, dying. And then you repeat it the next day," she said. "So [Preti] encouraged me to get through this, and it's wonderful to be here."Venus Williams and Andrea Preti are married, the tennis great announced Tuesday on social media.
Williams and Preti became wife and husband over the weekend in Palm Beach, Florida, as part of a five-day celebration.
After becoming the second-oldest woman to win a tour-level singles match in July, the 45-year-old Williams gave thanks to her fiancé, who was in the stands at the Washington D.C. Open. Preti is a Danish-born Italian model and actor, according to IMDB.
Williams hadn't played in a tournament in 16 months until entering the event in Washington.
The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion plans to play in a 33rd straight season on the WTA Tour, starting in Auckland in January.
"I can't describe how beautiful, calm, sacred, exciting, and exalting it was," Williams told the outlet of her Friday morning courthouse wedding, which took place following a week of wedding activities, including a yacht celebration gifted by Williams' sister Serena Williams. "It was just a dream."
Venus Williams confirms engagement after winning 1st singles match in 2 years
Along with the yacht celebration, Williams' week also included a bridal shower and a pool party.
The Palm Beach wedding was the couple's second ceremony, as they initially tied the knot in Ischia, Italy, on Sept. 18, according to Vogue.
"We had this dream to do our wedding in Italy," Williams told the outlet. "But we didn't have enough time to do the paperwork -- because I'm a foreigner, it can take about eight months. So we decided to have a second wedding."
For the courthouse portion of the Palm Beach wedding last week, Williams wore a Morilee New York dress, telling Vogue, "They made 10 dresses, all custom. The dress I ended up wearing was just divine. I also had an outfit to wear when we left so I wouldn't draw attention to myself. It was a classic short skirt and top, and I had the perfect headpiece for it."
Preti, meanwhile, said the courthouse ceremony "was very unique, emotional, and deep" and described it as "the second-best day of my life" after his and Williams' wedding day.
For the morning of the wedding ceremony -- a separate event over the weekend -- Williams told the outlet, "I got the most amazing nails by Gina Edwards, and I wore the most incredible dress by Georges Hobeika."
During the ceremony, Preti walked out to "I'll Be There" by the Jackson 5, while Williams walked out to "Ovunque Sarai" by Irama, according to Vogue.
The ceremony was followed by a reception and an after party.
"It was just the happiest, most beautiful, sweetest day," Williams told Vogue.
Venus Williams opens up about new book ‘Strive’
Williams and Preti got engaged in January 2025. Williams shared photos of her and Preti -- as well as a snap of her dog Harry snuggled up between the two of them -- in a December 2025 Instagram post, writing in the caption, "Engaged 1/31/25💫."
Williams previously confirmed the couple's engagement in a July 2025 interview after winning her first singles match in two years.
"My fiance is here, and he really encouraged me to keep playing," Williams said at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, D.C.
At the time, Williams said Preti had supported her as she pursued a strong comeback to professional tennis.
"Do you know how hard it is to play tennis? You guys don't know how much work goes into this, like, it's 9 to 5, except you're running the whole time, lifting weights, and just, like, dying. And then you repeat it the next day," she said. "So [Preti] encouraged me to get through this, and it's wonderful to be here."Venus Williams and Andrea Preti are married, the tennis great announced Tuesday on social media.
Williams and Preti became wife and husband over the weekend in Palm Beach, Florida, as part of a five-day celebration.
After becoming the second-oldest woman to win a tour-level singles match in July, the 45-year-old Williams gave thanks to her fiancé, who was in the stands at the Washington D.C. Open. Preti is a Danish-born Italian model and actor, according to IMDB.
Williams hadn't played in a tournament in 16 months until entering the event in Washington.
The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion plans to play in a 33rd straight season on the WTA Tour, starting in Auckland in January.
Jason Collins: I have Stage 4 glioblastoma
Jason Collins played for six teams across his 13-year NBA career and was the first active, openly gay player in NBA history. He is currently undergoing treatment for Stage 4 glioblastoma. This is his story.
A few months ago, my family released a short statement saying I had a brain tumor. It was simple, but intentionally vague. They did that to protect my privacy while I was mentally unable to speak for myself and my loved ones were trying to understand what we were dealing with.
But now it's time for people to hear directly from me.
I have Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. It came on incredibly fast.
In May I married the love of my life, Brunson Green, at a ceremony in Austin, Texas, that couldn't have been more perfect. In August, we were supposed to go to the US Open, just as every year, but when the car came to take us to the airport, I was nowhere near ready. And for the first time in decades, we missed the flight because I couldn't stay focused to pack.
I had been having weird symptoms like this for a week or two, but unless something is really wrong, I'm going to push through. I'm an athlete.
Something was really wrong, though. I was in the CT machine at UCLA for all of five minutes before the tech pulled me out and said they were going to have me see a specialist. I've had enough CTs in my life to know they last longer than five minutes and whatever the tech had seen on the first images had to be bad.
According to my family, in hours, my mental clarity, short-term memory and comprehension disappeared -- turning into an NBA player's version of "Dory" from "Finding Nemo." Over the next few weeks we would find out just how bad it was.
What makes glioblastoma so dangerous is that it grows within a very finite, contained space -- the skull -- and it's very aggressive and can expand. What makes it so difficult to treat in my case is that it's surrounded by the brain and is encroaching upon the frontal lobe -- which is what makes you, "you."
My glioblastoma is "multiforme." Imagine a monster with tentacles spreading across the underside of my brain the width of a baseball.
Officially they had to do a biopsy to determine it was a glioblastoma, but when it's in a butterfly shape -- alr
A few months ago, my family released a short statement saying I had a brain tumor. It was simple, but intentionally vague. They did that to protect my privacy while I was mentally unable to speak for myself and my loved ones were trying to understand what we were dealing with.
But now it's time for people to hear directly from me.
I have Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer. It came on incredibly fast.
In May I married the love of my life, Brunson Green, at a ceremony in Austin, Texas, that couldn't have been more perfect. In August, we were supposed to go to the US Open, just as every year, but when the car came to take us to the airport, I was nowhere near ready. And for the first time in decades, we missed the flight because I couldn't stay focused to pack.
I had been having weird symptoms like this for a week or two, but unless something is really wrong, I'm going to push through. I'm an athlete.
Something was really wrong, though. I was in the CT machine at UCLA for all of five minutes before the tech pulled me out and said they were going to have me see a specialist. I've had enough CTs in my life to know they last longer than five minutes and whatever the tech had seen on the first images had to be bad.
According to my family, in hours, my mental clarity, short-term memory and comprehension disappeared -- turning into an NBA player's version of "Dory" from "Finding Nemo." Over the next few weeks we would find out just how bad it was.
What makes glioblastoma so dangerous is that it grows within a very finite, contained space -- the skull -- and it's very aggressive and can expand. What makes it so difficult to treat in my case is that it's surrounded by the brain and is encroaching upon the frontal lobe -- which is what makes you, "you."
My glioblastoma is "multiforme." Imagine a monster with tentacles spreading across the underside of my brain the width of a baseball.
Officially they had to do a biopsy to determine it was a glioblastoma, but when it's in a butterfly shape -- alr
eady in both hemispheres of the brain -- it is almost always a glio and it is impossible to fully resect without coming out of the surgery "different."
The biopsy revealed that my glio had a growth factor of 30%, meaning that within a matter of weeks, if nothing were to be done, the tumor would run out of room and I'd probably be dead within six weeks to three months.
My glio is extraordinary for all the wrong reasons, and is "wild type"-- it has all these mutations that make it even more deadly and difficult to treat. What's that mythical creature where you cut off one head, but it learns to grow two more? The Hydra. That's the kind of glio I have.
People ask me what it was like hearing all this bad news. Well, the good thing is I was totally out of it when they were explaining all this to my husband and family in the hospital, and I don't really remember. Brunson said I lost the desire to watch tennis while I was in the hospital, unable to move, and took a liking to calm, quiet Korean soap operas -- in Korean.
One thing I've always prided myself on is having the right people in my life. When I came out publicly as the first active gay basketball player in 2013, I told a lot of the people closest to me before I did so. I wasn't worried it would leak before the story came out, because I trusted the people I told. And guess what? Nothing leaked. I got to tell my own story, the way I wanted to. And now I can honestly say, the past 12 years since have been the best of my life. Your life is so much better when you just show up as your true self, unafraid to be your true self, in public or private. This is me. This is what I'm dealing with.
The biopsy revealed that my glio had a growth factor of 30%, meaning that within a matter of weeks, if nothing were to be done, the tumor would run out of room and I'd probably be dead within six weeks to three months.
My glio is extraordinary for all the wrong reasons, and is "wild type"-- it has all these mutations that make it even more deadly and difficult to treat. What's that mythical creature where you cut off one head, but it learns to grow two more? The Hydra. That's the kind of glio I have.
People ask me what it was like hearing all this bad news. Well, the good thing is I was totally out of it when they were explaining all this to my husband and family in the hospital, and I don't really remember. Brunson said I lost the desire to watch tennis while I was in the hospital, unable to move, and took a liking to calm, quiet Korean soap operas -- in Korean.
One thing I've always prided myself on is having the right people in my life. When I came out publicly as the first active gay basketball player in 2013, I told a lot of the people closest to me before I did so. I wasn't worried it would leak before the story came out, because I trusted the people I told. And guess what? Nothing leaked. I got to tell my own story, the way I wanted to. And now I can honestly say, the past 12 years since have been the best of my life. Your life is so much better when you just show up as your true self, unafraid to be your true self, in public or private. This is me. This is what I'm dealing with.
When my grandmother got sick with Stage 4 stomach cancer, she didn't like people saying the word "cancer." She never wanted that word being spoken. I am on the opposite end of the spectrum. I don't care if you say the word. I have cancer, but just like my grandmother fought it, I'm going to fight it.
When they gave my grandmother her diagnosis, her doctor told her she had six months to live. Well, she ended up outliving the doctor who gave her that prognosis. So when a doctor says this is what your time frame is, in my mind already like, 'Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know there's more in me. I know there's more fight in me.'
While I was in the hospital, friends and family came to visit me to presumably say their goodbyes. At that point, no one knew if I'd ever come out of the fog I was in.
My husband and family were researching and coming up with a plan, however. They had to get me out of the hospital so I could begin taking a drug called Avastin, which is one of the first treatments for tumors like mine. It was my best chance of stopping the growth of the tumor and regaining any quality of life back, they said. Then came radiation.
Within days, I started coming out of my fog. They had to wheel me into my first radiation treatment. By the third one I could walk. By the middle of October I started to go on short walks around my neighborhood. My husband even gave me back my phone. (Apparently I was sending very weird text messages and watching mindless TikToks for hours while I was out of it.)
I started researching glioblastoma and all of my options. I wanted to know everything about what I was facing.
As an athlete you learn not to panic in moments like this. These are the cards I've been dealt. To me it's like, 'Shut up and go play against Shaq.' You want the challenge? This is the challenge. And there is no bigger challenge in basketball than going up against prime Shaquille O'Neal, and I've done that.
There is a doctor we work with out of Duke, Henry Friedman, and he loves athletes because of their drive. We don't get to our level by accident. It's through a lot of hard work, determination, seeing an obstacle and figuring out how to overcome it.
Early in this process, I had a conversation with my twin brother, Jarron. We were both emotional, but he sat right in front of me on the couch and said, 'You have to fight. No matter what, you have to fight."
I know how to do that. When I was making my decision to come out publicly, I remembered a scene in the movie "Moneyball" where Red Sox owner John Henry (Arliss Howard) says to Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) that the first person through the wall always gets bloodied.
I feel like I'm right back in that position now, where I might be the first person through this wall. We aren't going to sit back and let this cancer kill me without giving it a hell of a fight.
We're going to try to hit it first, in ways it's never been hit: with radiation and chemotherapy and immunotherapy that's still being studied but offers the most promising frontier of cancer treatment for this type of cancer.
Due to my tumor's genetic makeup, the standard temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy for glioblastoma doesn't work on it. Currently I'm receiving treatment at a clinic in Singapore that offers targeted chemotherapy -- using EDVs -- a delivery mechanism that acts as a Trojan horse, seeking out proteins only found in glioblastomas to deliver its toxic payload past the blood-brain barrier and straight into my tumors.
The goal is to keep fighting the progress of the tumors long enough for a personalized immunotherapy to be made for me, and to keep me healthy enough to receive that immunotherapy once it's ready.
Because my tumor is unresectable, going solely with the "standard of care" -- radiation and TMZ -- the average prognosis is only 11 to 14 months. If that's all the time I have left, I'd rather spend it trying a course of treatment that might one day be a new standard of care for everyone.
I'm fortunate to be in a financial position to go wherever in the world I need to go to get treatment. So if what I'm doing doesn't save me, I feel good thinking that it might help someone else who gets a diagnosis like this one day.
After I came out, someone I really respect told me that my choice to live openly could help someone who I might never meet. I've held onto that for years. And if I can do that again now, then that matters.
About a week before I went into the hospital, I fell upstairs at our house in Los Angeles. I couldn't figure out how to turn off this cooler we have on our bed. There's an app, but the tumor was clearly affecting my brain by then. So rather than use the app, I bent down, tried to unplug it from the wall and fell. I caught myself in a plank position and just stayed there.
I couldn't figure out how to get myself up, how to put my knee down and balance to push myself up. I couldn't do that for some reason. That was very scary.
But all I could think while I was down there was, 'This is not how you're going to find me. I'm not going to be like Elvis on the toilet. If something goes bad here, this is not how you're going to find me. I'm going to figure out how to solve this puzzle. If I don't panic, I will figure this out. I will get myself up.
You're reading this now because I eventually got myself up and figured it out. Anyone who knows me knows not to underestimate me on this, either.
DK Metcalf's 2-game suspension upheld after Steelers WR swung at Lions fan
Pittsburgh Steelers wideout DK Metcalf was suspended for two games following a sideline altercation with a fan during the team's 29-24 win over the Detroit Lions in Week 16, the league announced Monday.
As a result, Metcalf will miss the final two games of the regular season. He appealed the suspension, but it was upheld Tuesday, according to multiple reports.
"Metcalf’s actions violate league policy, which specifies that 'players may not enter the stands or otherwise confront fans at any time on game day and … if a player makes unnecessary physical contact with a fan in any way that constitutes unsportsmanlike conduct or presents crowd-control issues and/or risk of injury, he will be held accountable,'" the league said in a statement, in part.
The suspension will cost Metcalf $277,778 per game, or $555,556 in total salary.
The upheld suspension also raises a considerably more significant financial risk. It will void $45 million in future guaranteed money over the next two years, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Metcalf's current four-year, $132 million contract notes that if he "fails ... to practice or play with the Club for any reason," including a suspension, his guarantees will "be null and void," according to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones. Metcalf could still earn that money over the next two seasons, but it's no longer guaranteed. Metcalf had $25 million of his salary guaranteed next season and $20 million guaranteed in 2027.
Steelers reportedly remain committed to Metcalf
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported Tuesday after Metcalf's suspension was upheld that "the Steelers have already reaffirmed their commitment to Metcalf for 2026 and beyond."
Of course, reaffirming a commitment and a binding contract are two different things. And the Steelers still have the option of voiding that previously guaranteed money if they're compelled to part with Metcalf for whatever reason.
But Metcalf's 28 years old and in his physical prime, and the Steelers signed him to that contract because they want him on their roster. Per Pelissero's report, nothing has changed on that front.
Pelissero also reported Tuesday that neither the NFL nor the Lions will take action against the fan because "there was no violation of the fan code of conduct."
The incident occurred in the second quarter of the contest Sunday at Ford Field. While the Lions' offense was on the field, Metcalf approached a fan sitting in the front row and wearing a blue wig. After exchanging words with the fan, Metcalf appeared to throw a punch at the fan's head. It was unclear whether the punch connected.
While the incident was captured on the broadcast, it was not seen by officials.
Because of that, Metcalf was not penalized and was not ejected from the contest. He finished the game with four catches and 42 yards on nine targets.
The contest ended in dramatic fashion, as a last-second touchdown by the Lions was taken off the board due to a penalty. Officials needed to chat for multiple minutes to sort out the situation, which resulted in the Steelers winning the game.
The fan was ejected from the contest, per the Detroit Free Press. The fan claimed Metcalf threw a punch because the fan taunted the wideout with his full name, DeKaylin Zecharius.
On Monday, however, sources told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network that the fan used a derogatory term when taunting Metcalf about his mother. That source also claimed the fan called Metcalf "something we both know you don't call a Black man."
Metcalf and the fan reportedly have history, as the wideout apparently reported the fan to NFL security in 2024, when Metcalf was a member of the Seattle Seahawks. The team traveled to Detroit to play the Lions in Week 4 last season.
The fan's attorney released a statement Monday calling the allegations against the fan, Ryan Kennedy, "completely false."
"Ryan Kennedy categorically denies using the "N-word," the "C-word," or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur during the incident that occurred on December 21, 2025 at Ford Field during the Pittsburgh Steelers-Detroit Lions game.
Metcalf did not speak with reporters after the game, leaving the locker room quickly. When asked about the situation after the game, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said he'd heard about the altercation but had not seen it. At the time, Tomlin said he had not talked to Metcalf about the incident and wasn't going to comment further.
During his Tuesday news conference, Tomlin said that although he doesn't condone Metcalf's actions, he supports the wide receiver.
Following Sunday's game, the NFL said it would investigate the altercation. The league was expected to make a quick decision on the situation, which led to Monday's announcement.
The Steelers enter this week's contest against the Browns with a 9-6 record. They currently hold the lead in the AFC North, which they can secure with a win over Cleveland. That would lead to the team's third straight postseason appearance.
Jasmine Crockett Rips Into Vance’s ‘Racist’ Attack on Her as a ‘Street Girl
Texas Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett has torn into JD Vance after the vice president hurled a “racist” insult at her during a conservative event.
Trump’s No. 2 thought it appropriate to call Crockett, who is vying to take Texas Republican John Cornyn’s Senate seat, a “street girl” at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday.
“Jasmine Crockett! Oh, Jasmine Crockett, the record speaks for itself. She wants to be a senator, though her street-girl persona is about as real as her nails!” he said to thunderous applause from the young Republican crowd.
The Senate hopeful didn’t take the comments lying down, replying with a sharp rebuke on MS NOW. Crockett, 44, told The Weekend: Primetime host Antonia Hylton that Vance was “trying to rile up his base.”
She defended her “credentials” and added, “At the end of the day, I am who I am, and I am authentic. And that is actually what they are fearful of, my authenticity. Because it rings true with every single American, whether they’re a Texan or not.
“It rings true that I am fighting for real, everyday people. And instead of talking about policy, when you’re talking about the record speaks for itself, baby, let’s talk about your record.”
She added that she had encountered the same “racist tropes” throughout her life. “And somehow, I ascended and became a U.S. Congresswoman. It will not be different when I become a U.S. Senator, and we can have a conversation when I get to the Senate floor, if he wants to talk,” Crockett added.
Hylton herself said that Vance had tried to create a “caricature” of Crockett that “every Black woman recognizes” as a malicious insult.
Crockett submitted paperwork to enter the Senate race just hours before the state’s Dec. 8 filing deadline.
The Democratic primary has shaped up as a two-person race, with Crockett leading at 51 percent and state Representative James Talarico trailing at 43 percent. Early voting begins Feb. 17, 2026, ahead of the March 3 primary election.
On the Republican ticket, Cornyn has entered a nasty war of words with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who announced his Senate campaign in April. According to the polls, Paxton is ahead, with 29 percent. Cornyn isn’t far behind, on 24.
Crockett, meanwhile, also replied to Vance on social media. “Imagine commenting on someone’s nails while at the same time ignoring that the only reason you got your political ‘dream’ job was because your boss incited a violent mob who wanted to hang your predecessor for, oh I don’t know, honoring his oath to the Constitution?!” Crockett posted on her X account.
This is a reference to President Donald Trump and the events of Jan. 6, 2021, when his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol, while the hanging comment refers to then–Vice President Mike Pence. Trump has consistently denied inciting the crowd.
During the riot, some participants chanted “Hang Mike Pence” after he refused to block certification of the Electoral College results.
“How about you stop worrying about me, until we are on the Senate floor together & work to stop your boss from bankrupting our country while engaging in the largest corruption scheme we’ve ever seen?!” Crockett added.
Representatives for the vice president have been asked for comment. The White House has also been contacted for comment.
Pittsburgh Steelers wideout DK Metcalf was suspended for two games following a sideline altercation with a fan during the team's 29-24 win over the Detroit Lions in Week 16, the league announced Monday.
As a result, Metcalf will miss the final two games of the regular season. He appealed the suspension, but it was upheld Tuesday, according to multiple reports.
"Metcalf’s actions violate league policy, which specifies that 'players may not enter the stands or otherwise confront fans at any time on game day and … if a player makes unnecessary physical contact with a fan in any way that constitutes unsportsmanlike conduct or presents crowd-control issues and/or risk of injury, he will be held accountable,'" the league said in a statement, in part.
The suspension will cost Metcalf $277,778 per game, or $555,556 in total salary.
The upheld suspension also raises a considerably more significant financial risk. It will void $45 million in future guaranteed money over the next two years, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Metcalf's current four-year, $132 million contract notes that if he "fails ... to practice or play with the Club for any reason," including a suspension, his guarantees will "be null and void," according to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones. Metcalf could still earn that money over the next two seasons, but it's no longer guaranteed. Metcalf had $25 million of his salary guaranteed next season and $20 million guaranteed in 2027.
Steelers reportedly remain committed to Metcalf
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported Tuesday after Metcalf's suspension was upheld that "the Steelers have already reaffirmed their commitment to Metcalf for 2026 and beyond."
Of course, reaffirming a commitment and a binding contract are two different things. And the Steelers still have the option of voiding that previously guaranteed money if they're compelled to part with Metcalf for whatever reason.
But Metcalf's 28 years old and in his physical prime, and the Steelers signed him to that contract because they want him on their roster. Per Pelissero's report, nothing has changed on that front.
Pelissero also reported Tuesday that neither the NFL nor the Lions will take action against the fan because "there was no violation of the fan code of conduct."
The incident occurred in the second quarter of the contest Sunday at Ford Field. While the Lions' offense was on the field, Metcalf approached a fan sitting in the front row and wearing a blue wig. After exchanging words with the fan, Metcalf appeared to throw a punch at the fan's head. It was unclear whether the punch connected.
While the incident was captured on the broadcast, it was not seen by officials.
Because of that, Metcalf was not penalized and was not ejected from the contest. He finished the game with four catches and 42 yards on nine targets.
The contest ended in dramatic fashion, as a last-second touchdown by the Lions was taken off the board due to a penalty. Officials needed to chat for multiple minutes to sort out the situation, which resulted in the Steelers winning the game.
The fan was ejected from the contest, per the Detroit Free Press. The fan claimed Metcalf threw a punch because the fan taunted the wideout with his full name, DeKaylin Zecharius.
On Monday, however, sources told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network that the fan used a derogatory term when taunting Metcalf about his mother. That source also claimed the fan called Metcalf "something we both know you don't call a Black man."
Metcalf and the fan reportedly have history, as the wideout apparently reported the fan to NFL security in 2024, when Metcalf was a member of the Seattle Seahawks. The team traveled to Detroit to play the Lions in Week 4 last season.
The fan's attorney released a statement Monday calling the allegations against the fan, Ryan Kennedy, "completely false."
"Ryan Kennedy categorically denies using the "N-word," the "C-word," or any racial, misogynistic, or hate-based slur during the incident that occurred on December 21, 2025 at Ford Field during the Pittsburgh Steelers-Detroit Lions game.
Metcalf did not speak with reporters after the game, leaving the locker room quickly. When asked about the situation after the game, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said he'd heard about the altercation but had not seen it. At the time, Tomlin said he had not talked to Metcalf about the incident and wasn't going to comment further.
During his Tuesday news conference, Tomlin said that although he doesn't condone Metcalf's actions, he supports the wide receiver.
Following Sunday's game, the NFL said it would investigate the altercation. The league was expected to make a quick decision on the situation, which led to Monday's announcement.
The Steelers enter this week's contest against the Browns with a 9-6 record. They currently hold the lead in the AFC North, which they can secure with a win over Cleveland. That would lead to the team's third straight postseason appearance.
Jasmine Crockett Rips Into Vance’s ‘Racist’ Attack on Her as a ‘Street Girl
Trump’s No. 2 thought it appropriate to call Crockett, who is vying to take Texas Republican John Cornyn’s Senate seat, a “street girl” at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference in Phoenix, Arizona, on Sunday.
“Jasmine Crockett! Oh, Jasmine Crockett, the record speaks for itself. She wants to be a senator, though her street-girl persona is about as real as her nails!” he said to thunderous applause from the young Republican crowd.
The Senate hopeful didn’t take the comments lying down, replying with a sharp rebuke on MS NOW. Crockett, 44, told The Weekend: Primetime host Antonia Hylton that Vance was “trying to rile up his base.”
She defended her “credentials” and added, “At the end of the day, I am who I am, and I am authentic. And that is actually what they are fearful of, my authenticity. Because it rings true with every single American, whether they’re a Texan or not.
“It rings true that I am fighting for real, everyday people. And instead of talking about policy, when you’re talking about the record speaks for itself, baby, let’s talk about your record.”
She added that she had encountered the same “racist tropes” throughout her life. “And somehow, I ascended and became a U.S. Congresswoman. It will not be different when I become a U.S. Senator, and we can have a conversation when I get to the Senate floor, if he wants to talk,” Crockett added.
Hylton herself said that Vance had tried to create a “caricature” of Crockett that “every Black woman recognizes” as a malicious insult.
Crockett submitted paperwork to enter the Senate race just hours before the state’s Dec. 8 filing deadline.
The Democratic primary has shaped up as a two-person race, with Crockett leading at 51 percent and state Representative James Talarico trailing at 43 percent. Early voting begins Feb. 17, 2026, ahead of the March 3 primary election.
On the Republican ticket, Cornyn has entered a nasty war of words with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who announced his Senate campaign in April. According to the polls, Paxton is ahead, with 29 percent. Cornyn isn’t far behind, on 24.
Crockett, meanwhile, also replied to Vance on social media. “Imagine commenting on someone’s nails while at the same time ignoring that the only reason you got your political ‘dream’ job was because your boss incited a violent mob who wanted to hang your predecessor for, oh I don’t know, honoring his oath to the Constitution?!” Crockett posted on her X account.
This is a reference to President Donald Trump and the events of Jan. 6, 2021, when his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol, while the hanging comment refers to then–Vice President Mike Pence. Trump has consistently denied inciting the crowd.
During the riot, some participants chanted “Hang Mike Pence” after he refused to block certification of the Electoral College results.
“How about you stop worrying about me, until we are on the Senate floor together & work to stop your boss from bankrupting our country while engaging in the largest corruption scheme we’ve ever seen?!” Crockett added.
Representatives for the vice president have been asked for comment. The White House has also been contacted for comment.
Todd Chrisley’s Son Kyle Arrested After Punching Cops & Threatening To ‘KiIl’ Them During Domestic Dispute Call
Kyle Chrisley, the 34-year-old son of reality TV star #ToddChrisley, was recently arrested in Tennessee after a domestic incident turned violent, according to the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were called after Kyle’s wife reported erratic and threatening behavior, including him walking in the middle of a street and making violent statements. When approached by law enforcement, Kyle allegedly became confrontational, punched three officers, resisted arrest and threatened to “k!ll” them before being subdued with OC spray, officials said. He admitted to consuming a large amount of alcohol and appeared intoxicated at the scene.
Kyle now faces a number of charges, including three counts of a$$ault on a law officer, domestic v!olence, public intoxication, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, along with additional counts tied to alleged retaliation. This latest arrest adds to his history of legal troubles, which include a 2023 aggravated a$$ault case and a 2019 dr*g possession arrest. His relationship with his dad and stepmom #JulieChrisley, who adopted his daughter amid his struggles with substance abuse, has been complicated despite attempts at reconciliation.
Kyle Chrisley, the 34-year-old son of reality TV star #ToddChrisley, was recently arrested in Tennessee after a domestic incident turned violent, according to the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were called after Kyle’s wife reported erratic and threatening behavior, including him walking in the middle of a street and making violent statements. When approached by law enforcement, Kyle allegedly became confrontational, punched three officers, resisted arrest and threatened to “k!ll” them before being subdued with OC spray, officials said. He admitted to consuming a large amount of alcohol and appeared intoxicated at the scene.
Kyle now faces a number of charges, including three counts of a$$ault on a law officer, domestic v!olence, public intoxication, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, along with additional counts tied to alleged retaliation. This latest arrest adds to his history of legal troubles, which include a 2023 aggravated a$$ault case and a 2019 dr*g possession arrest. His relationship with his dad and stepmom #JulieChrisley, who adopted his daughter amid his struggles with substance abuse, has been complicated despite attempts at reconciliation.
‘She’s So Pregnant: Fans Speculate After Recent Zendaya & Tom Holland Sightings
The internet had to get in one more pregnancy rumor before 2026.
This time, Zendaya and her fiancé, #TomHolland, are fueling the rumor mill, with fans convinced the couple may be expecting their first child together. The pair are currently spending the #Christmas holiday in #London with Tom’s family and have been spotted out several times in recent weeks, including a visit to The Traitors: Live Experience on December 21, a restaurant outing, and a walk through a local park. In photos from those appearances, fans pointed out Zendaya’s oversized sweater in one look and a large coat in another, sparking speculation that she may be attempting to conceal a baby bump.
Social media quickly chimed in, with one person on X declaring, “She’s so pregnant,” while another added, “The coats and jackets are hiding something.” Beyond pregnancy rumors, fans are also questioning whether the longtime couple may have already tied the knot. With more than a year having passed since their engagement, and both #Zendaya and Tom famously keeping their relationship private, some online theories suggest a secret wedding might not be entirely out of the question.
This time, Zendaya and her fiancé, #TomHolland, are fueling the rumor mill, with fans convinced the couple may be expecting their first child together. The pair are currently spending the #Christmas holiday in #London with Tom’s family and have been spotted out several times in recent weeks, including a visit to The Traitors: Live Experience on December 21, a restaurant outing, and a walk through a local park. In photos from those appearances, fans pointed out Zendaya’s oversized sweater in one look and a large coat in another, sparking speculation that she may be attempting to conceal a baby bump.
Social media quickly chimed in, with one person on X declaring, “She’s so pregnant,” while another added, “The coats and jackets are hiding something.” Beyond pregnancy rumors, fans are also questioning whether the longtime couple may have already tied the knot. With more than a year having passed since their engagement, and both #Zendaya and Tom famously keeping their relationship private, some online theories suggest a secret wedding might not be entirely out of the question.
Nicki Minaj Banned From LGBTQ Clubs & Playlists
Nicki Minaj and MAGA BFFs and the rumor mill is on fire this week. The rap superstar who once felt untouchable in Hip-Hop and deeply embraced by LGBTQ audiences is now getting the cold shoulder for good reason.
According to the chatter in group chats, clubs and social media spaces, the relationship between Nicki and a major part of her longtime base is fractured beyond repair.
Let’s keep this squarely in the realm of rumors and reactions. Nicki’s increasingly visible alignment with Donald Trumpand right leaning voices has crossed a psychological line for people who once saw her as an icon of empowerment and freedom. The latest eyebrow raiser was her sit down with the ex wife of Charlie Kirk. Internet detectives immediately resurfaced old clips where Kirk criticized Nicki in harsh terms. That visual alone had people asking why this bridge was even being built.
Online social media posts say DJs are quietly pulling her records from rotation. Some have even said she has not put out anything notable recently anyway. Sounds like that is why she’s moving different anyway. Several LGBTQ owned spaces are reportedly choosing silence, but acting in accord with the banning.
There is also a big sense of betrayal. Some fans feel Nicki courted queer audiences early in her career with language and imagery that suggested solidarity, only to later pivot to MAGA.
She is now being hostile to Black women, immigrants and queer people. Comparisons are even being made to figures like Kid Rock, artists accused of benefiting from Hip-Hop culture before embracing movements that stand against it. MAGA SHMAGA!
Will there be an apology tour? I doubt it. The belief is Nicki knows exactly where she stands and is choosing to plant her flag. In Hip-Hop, loyalty cuts both ways. It may be time to just say “Good-Bye”…
Nicki Minaj and MAGA BFFs and the rumor mill is on fire this week. The rap superstar who once felt untouchable in Hip-Hop and deeply embraced by LGBTQ audiences is now getting the cold shoulder for good reason.
According to the chatter in group chats, clubs and social media spaces, the relationship between Nicki and a major part of her longtime base is fractured beyond repair.
Let’s keep this squarely in the realm of rumors and reactions. Nicki’s increasingly visible alignment with Donald Trumpand right leaning voices has crossed a psychological line for people who once saw her as an icon of empowerment and freedom. The latest eyebrow raiser was her sit down with the ex wife of Charlie Kirk. Internet detectives immediately resurfaced old clips where Kirk criticized Nicki in harsh terms. That visual alone had people asking why this bridge was even being built.
Online social media posts say DJs are quietly pulling her records from rotation. Some have even said she has not put out anything notable recently anyway. Sounds like that is why she’s moving different anyway. Several LGBTQ owned spaces are reportedly choosing silence, but acting in accord with the banning.
There is also a big sense of betrayal. Some fans feel Nicki courted queer audiences early in her career with language and imagery that suggested solidarity, only to later pivot to MAGA.
She is now being hostile to Black women, immigrants and queer people. Comparisons are even being made to figures like Kid Rock, artists accused of benefiting from Hip-Hop culture before embracing movements that stand against it. MAGA SHMAGA!
Will there be an apology tour? I doubt it. The belief is Nicki knows exactly where she stands and is choosing to plant her flag. In Hip-Hop, loyalty cuts both ways. It may be time to just say “Good-Bye”…
Iyanla Vanzant Returns To OWN With ‘Iyanla: The Inside Fix,’ Revisiting Healing From The Inside Out
OWN is officially welcoming back a familiar and powerful voice. The network has released a first-look trailer for its new series, “Iyanla: The Inside Fix,” marking the long-anticipated return of Iyanla Vanzant to television.
The series premieres Saturday, January 17 at 8 pm et/pt on OWN, and Frens, this one feels like required viewing for the soul.
For nearly fifteen years, Iyanla served as a spiritual mirror for the culture, helping guests confront generational trauma, toxic relationships, and deeply rooted pain during her award-winning run of “Iyanla: Fix My Life.”
Now, she is back with a fresh lens and an even deeper mission.
Instead of fixing what is happening on the outside, “Iyanla: The Inside Fix” invites viewers inward.
The new series revisits some of the most influential episodes from Iyanla’s past work, reexamining them through today’s social realities while uncovering new truths and fresh takeaways.
More than a retrospective, the show expands the conversation by introducing new practices centered on what Iyanla calls “spiritual hygiene,” reminding us that healing is not a one-time event but an ongoing commitment.
As Iyanla explains, there comes a moment when fixing the outside is no longer enough.
When the noise fades, the demands disappear, and the only work left is the work within.
This is where healing becomes holy.
The series promises honest reflection, deeper accountability, and the reminder that becoming your best self is a lifelong journey. Growth does not clock out.
Healing does not retire. And self-work stays on the schedule.
“Iyanla: The Inside Fix” premieres Saturday, January 17 at 8 pm et/pt on OWN.
The series premieres Saturday, January 17 at 8 pm et/pt on OWN, and Frens, this one feels like required viewing for the soul.
For nearly fifteen years, Iyanla served as a spiritual mirror for the culture, helping guests confront generational trauma, toxic relationships, and deeply rooted pain during her award-winning run of “Iyanla: Fix My Life.”
Now, she is back with a fresh lens and an even deeper mission.
Instead of fixing what is happening on the outside, “Iyanla: The Inside Fix” invites viewers inward.
The new series revisits some of the most influential episodes from Iyanla’s past work, reexamining them through today’s social realities while uncovering new truths and fresh takeaways.
More than a retrospective, the show expands the conversation by introducing new practices centered on what Iyanla calls “spiritual hygiene,” reminding us that healing is not a one-time event but an ongoing commitment.
As Iyanla explains, there comes a moment when fixing the outside is no longer enough.
When the noise fades, the demands disappear, and the only work left is the work within.
This is where healing becomes holy.
The series promises honest reflection, deeper accountability, and the reminder that becoming your best self is a lifelong journey. Growth does not clock out.
Healing does not retire. And self-work stays on the schedule.
“Iyanla: The Inside Fix” premieres Saturday, January 17 at 8 pm et/pt on OWN.
Halle Bailey's Hairstylist Apologizes for Posting Halo on Social Media
Halle Bailey's hairdresser has issued an apology after she shared photos of the actress's son, Halo, without consent.
The stylist, Jehcara Y. Nelson, also known as strandsoflifehair on Instagram, sparked outrage after she uploaded two posts of the two-year-old, not realizing that doing so broke a court order.
In a statement posted online, Nelson took accountability for her actions and deleted the post.
'I want to address an [Instagram Stories] I posted earlier that included Halo,' she said. 'I did not have consent from Halle to post him, and this was my mistake entirely.
'I was not aware that sharing his image would conflict with an existing court agreement, and there was absolutely no intent to cross any boundaries or cause harm.'
Nelson added that Hollywood star Bailey, 25, was 'not aware that I posted the content.'
She continued: 'As soon as it was brought to my attention, I took responsibility and removed.
'I sincerely apologize for the oversight and for any concern it caused. I respect Halle and her family deeply.
Halle Bailey's hair stylist has apologized for sharing photos of the actress's son without permission
The Little Mermaid actress and her ex-partner have been ordered by the courts to not share any photographs of their son, Halo, seen here with Bailey before the court order
Actress and singer Bailey shares two-year-old son Halo with her ex-boyfriend DDG, real name Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr.
Earlier this year, both parents were ordered by the court to avoid posting images of Halo on social media.
According to court documents obtained by People, the Little Mermaid actress and the Youtuber, 27, cannot post or share any 'photographs, images and/or information' of their son.
'For reasons discussed on the record, and with no objection from either party, the Court orders both parties to refrain from posting, uploading, or disseminating on the internet or social media platforms, photographs, images and/or information regarding the minor child or causing any other person to engage in such posting, uploading or dissemination,' read the documents filed by the family division of the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.
Nelson, however, added two posts of Halo to her Instagram Stories.
The first upload was a video of the back of Halo's head during a styling treatment alongside the caption: 'Famous baby chronicles: Guess the famous baby.'
The second post showed the tot's new braids as he looked at the camera.
She captioned the photo: 'Second birthday loading.'
Bailey and her ex welcomed Halo in December 2023 before splitting in October 2024
The hairdresser stressed that Hollywood star Bailey was 'not aware that I posted the content.' The actress is seen in June 2024
Fans were quick to notice the post and many criticized the stylist for the move.
Voicing their opinion online, one asked: 'Why would you ever post someone else's child without parents' consent?
'I don't care who the baby is, it's a minor and you shouldn't be posting them without asking first.'
'Why would you post someone's child bro?' asked another.
Bailey and her ex split in October 2024 after nearly three years together. Back in August actress Halle Bailey and her son Halo's father, streamer DDG, were court ordered not to post Halo on social media after both accused the other of abuse and demanded sole custody
Halle's hairstylist apologizes after posting Halo on her Instagram stories while braiding his hair...
Halle Bailey's hairdresser has issued an apology after she shared photos of the actress's son, Halo, without consent.
The stylist, Jehcara Y. Nelson, also known as strandsoflifehair on Instagram, sparked outrage after she uploaded two posts of the two-year-old, not realizing that doing so broke a court order.
In a statement posted online, Nelson took accountability for her actions and deleted the post.
'I want to address an [Instagram Stories] I posted earlier that included Halo,' she said. 'I did not have consent from Halle to post him, and this was my mistake entirely.
'I was not aware that sharing his image would conflict with an existing court agreement, and there was absolutely no intent to cross any boundaries or cause harm.'
Nelson added that Hollywood star Bailey, 25, was 'not aware that I posted the content.'
She continued: 'As soon as it was brought to my attention, I took responsibility and removed.
'I sincerely apologize for the oversight and for any concern it caused. I respect Halle and her family deeply.
Halle Bailey's hair stylist has apologized for sharing photos of the actress's son without permission
The Little Mermaid actress and her ex-partner have been ordered by the courts to not share any photographs of their son, Halo, seen here with Bailey before the court order
Actress and singer Bailey shares two-year-old son Halo with her ex-boyfriend DDG, real name Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr.
Earlier this year, both parents were ordered by the court to avoid posting images of Halo on social media.
According to court documents obtained by People, the Little Mermaid actress and the Youtuber, 27, cannot post or share any 'photographs, images and/or information' of their son.
'For reasons discussed on the record, and with no objection from either party, the Court orders both parties to refrain from posting, uploading, or disseminating on the internet or social media platforms, photographs, images and/or information regarding the minor child or causing any other person to engage in such posting, uploading or dissemination,' read the documents filed by the family division of the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.
Nelson, however, added two posts of Halo to her Instagram Stories.
The first upload was a video of the back of Halo's head during a styling treatment alongside the caption: 'Famous baby chronicles: Guess the famous baby.'
The second post showed the tot's new braids as he looked at the camera.
She captioned the photo: 'Second birthday loading.'
Bailey and her ex welcomed Halo in December 2023 before splitting in October 2024
The hairdresser stressed that Hollywood star Bailey was 'not aware that I posted the content.' The actress is seen in June 2024
Fans were quick to notice the post and many criticized the stylist for the move.
Voicing their opinion online, one asked: 'Why would you ever post someone else's child without parents' consent?
'I don't care who the baby is, it's a minor and you shouldn't be posting them without asking first.'
'Why would you post someone's child bro?' asked another.
Bailey and her ex split in October 2024 after nearly three years together. Back in August actress Halle Bailey and her son Halo's father, streamer DDG, were court ordered not to post Halo on social media after both accused the other of abuse and demanded sole custody
Halle's hairstylist apologizes after posting Halo on her Instagram stories while braiding his hair...
Ariana Grande Reacts After Barbra Streisand Praises Her Right Before Christmas: 'You Made My Life!'
Ariana Grande is in shock after Barbra Streisand shared an appreciation post for her on Tuesday (December 23).
The 32-year-old and the 83-year-old singers and actresses are no strangers, having collaborated together in the past.
This week, Barbra took to her Instagram to give some praise to Ariana, even shouting out her recent hosting stint on Saturday Night Live.
“Ariana is a young woman with an amazing talent. She has a beautiful voice like no one else, and so much more,” Babs wrote. “She can act, she can dance, she can be funny! She’s also sweet, kind and thoughtful. I’m very proud of you Ariana and thanks for singing with me on my album… Big hug, Barbra”
She then added, “P.S. you were wonderful on Saturday Night Live and looked so pretty @arianagrande!”
Ariana took to the comments to share her surprise and thanks.
“WHAT,” she shared in one comment.
“Barbra !!!!!!!! what !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🥹🥺 oh my goodness, thank you so much for this kindest surprise today! you made my day, my year, my life!” Ariana added in a second comment. “this means so much, coming from you. i just love you so. i miss you and i hope i get to hug you soon… all my love and appreciation. thank you.”
If you recall, Ariana and Barbra collaborated on the latter’s The Secret of Live: Partners, Volume Two duets album, teaming on the song “One Heart, One Voice” with Mariah Carey.
The ladies are also both part of the Meet the Parents universe. Barbra played Ben Stiller‘s mom Roz Focker in Meet the Fockers and Little Fockers, while Ariana will appear in the upcoming fourth movie, Focker In-Law, playing Ben‘s soon-to-be daughter-in-law!
The 32-year-old and the 83-year-old singers and actresses are no strangers, having collaborated together in the past.
This week, Barbra took to her Instagram to give some praise to Ariana, even shouting out her recent hosting stint on Saturday Night Live.
“Ariana is a young woman with an amazing talent. She has a beautiful voice like no one else, and so much more,” Babs wrote. “She can act, she can dance, she can be funny! She’s also sweet, kind and thoughtful. I’m very proud of you Ariana and thanks for singing with me on my album… Big hug, Barbra”
She then added, “P.S. you were wonderful on Saturday Night Live and looked so pretty @arianagrande!”
Ariana took to the comments to share her surprise and thanks.
“WHAT,” she shared in one comment.
“Barbra !!!!!!!! what !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🥹🥺 oh my goodness, thank you so much for this kindest surprise today! you made my day, my year, my life!” Ariana added in a second comment. “this means so much, coming from you. i just love you so. i miss you and i hope i get to hug you soon… all my love and appreciation. thank you.”
If you recall, Ariana and Barbra collaborated on the latter’s The Secret of Live: Partners, Volume Two duets album, teaming on the song “One Heart, One Voice” with Mariah Carey.
The ladies are also both part of the Meet the Parents universe. Barbra played Ben Stiller‘s mom Roz Focker in Meet the Fockers and Little Fockers, while Ariana will appear in the upcoming fourth movie, Focker In-Law, playing Ben‘s soon-to-be daughter-in-law!
SZA Celebrates Andrew Tate and Jake Paul Boxing Losses: 'Merry Christmas Everyone'
SZA has let it be known that the outcome of two recent boxing matches has given her a reason to celebrate this holiday season.
On Monday (December 22), the TDE singer hopped into the comments section of an Instagram post shared by Irish Strongman, Pa O'Dwyer. The post discussed how Andrew Tate lost a boxing match against Chase DeMoor, while also highlighting Jake Paul's highly-publicized loss to Anthony Joshua.
"Wow Tate and Jake Paul bodied in one week? Merry Christmas everyone," SZA wrote.
View post on Instagram
Tate’s fight against DeMoor ended via majority decision at the Misfits Mania event on December 19. The highly controversial and outspoken Tate, who has previous experience in Mixed Martial Arts, tried to explain a few days later why he felt he lost during a livestream.
"I've not yet had time to process why he beat me. I got tired after the second round, and I don't know why," she said. "[In] the first and second round, he couldn’t touch me. If I didn’t get tired, I would’ve won. I'm a better boxer. But I did get tired. Maybe it's ring rust, maybe I'm too old. Maybe he's too heavy and he kept leaning on me. I don't know why. But he did beat me."
Meanwhile on the IMPAULSIVE podcast, Paul gave a better explanation for his loss.
"I mean, it’s not that hard to get your ass beat," Paul joked. "Actually, I won two rounds, then he won two, then I got dropped. But yeah, I was doing good. I just think my cardio, the mental pressure of the big guy, and sparring the big people, is different than the 10-ounce gloves. So I was feeling his power more. But it was great experience. I learned a lot in there."
SZA has let it be known that the outcome of two recent boxing matches has given her a reason to celebrate this holiday season.
On Monday (December 22), the TDE singer hopped into the comments section of an Instagram post shared by Irish Strongman, Pa O'Dwyer. The post discussed how Andrew Tate lost a boxing match against Chase DeMoor, while also highlighting Jake Paul's highly-publicized loss to Anthony Joshua.
"Wow Tate and Jake Paul bodied in one week? Merry Christmas everyone," SZA wrote.
View post on Instagram
Tate’s fight against DeMoor ended via majority decision at the Misfits Mania event on December 19. The highly controversial and outspoken Tate, who has previous experience in Mixed Martial Arts, tried to explain a few days later why he felt he lost during a livestream.
"I've not yet had time to process why he beat me. I got tired after the second round, and I don't know why," she said. "[In] the first and second round, he couldn’t touch me. If I didn’t get tired, I would’ve won. I'm a better boxer. But I did get tired. Maybe it's ring rust, maybe I'm too old. Maybe he's too heavy and he kept leaning on me. I don't know why. But he did beat me."
Meanwhile on the IMPAULSIVE podcast, Paul gave a better explanation for his loss.
"I mean, it’s not that hard to get your ass beat," Paul joked. "Actually, I won two rounds, then he won two, then I got dropped. But yeah, I was doing good. I just think my cardio, the mental pressure of the big guy, and sparring the big people, is different than the 10-ounce gloves. So I was feeling his power more. But it was great experience. I learned a lot in there."
Mariah Carey Wins $92,000 in "All I Want For Christmas" Legal Victory
Mariah Carey’s Christmas season just got a little better thanks to a dismissed lawsuit that was filed against her.
According to legal documents obtained by Complex, a judge who dismissed a lawsuit against her over her hit song "All I Want For Christmas Is You" has ordered sanctions against its filers, Andy Stone and Troy Powers, arguing that it lacked merit and determined there was good reason to stop people from filing baseless lawsuits.
Carey was awarded $92,303.20 in sanctions according to the documents, and nearly $20,000 was ordered to be paid to other individuals who are a part of the case.
In 2023, Stone and Powers sued Carey and claimed that there were a lot of similarities between "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and their song of the same name that was allegedly recorded in 1989. In their lawsuit, Stone and Powers claim their version of the song received extensive airplay during the holiday season of 1993, and Carey’s version came out in 1994.
Their lawsuit was similar to a previous one that they filed in 2022 before it was dropped just five months later.
Carey’s recent legal victory comes days before Christmas, when "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is currently one of the biggest songs in the United States. Billboard reports that the track extended its previously set record with a 21st week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In total, the track is on its 78th week on the Hot 100, surpassing Dua Lipa’s "Levitating" as the longest-charted song ever from a female artist.
According to legal documents obtained by Complex, a judge who dismissed a lawsuit against her over her hit song "All I Want For Christmas Is You" has ordered sanctions against its filers, Andy Stone and Troy Powers, arguing that it lacked merit and determined there was good reason to stop people from filing baseless lawsuits.
Carey was awarded $92,303.20 in sanctions according to the documents, and nearly $20,000 was ordered to be paid to other individuals who are a part of the case.
In 2023, Stone and Powers sued Carey and claimed that there were a lot of similarities between "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and their song of the same name that was allegedly recorded in 1989. In their lawsuit, Stone and Powers claim their version of the song received extensive airplay during the holiday season of 1993, and Carey’s version came out in 1994.
Their lawsuit was similar to a previous one that they filed in 2022 before it was dropped just five months later.
Carey’s recent legal victory comes days before Christmas, when "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is currently one of the biggest songs in the United States. Billboard reports that the track extended its previously set record with a 21st week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In total, the track is on its 78th week on the Hot 100, surpassing Dua Lipa’s "Levitating" as the longest-charted song ever from a female artist.
Robyn Crawford Says Homophobia Forced Whitney Houston to Hide Her True Self
*In her 2019 memoir “A Song for You: My Life with Whitney Houston,” Robyn Crawford described a romantic relationship with the pop icon in the early 1980s. Crawford says they fell in love as teens and lived their truth privately—until the pressures of fame and homophobia forced Houston to choose her career over their physical connection.
She says Whitney Houston ended the intimate part of their relationship around 1982, telling her, “If people find out, they’ll use it against us.” Houston had just signed with Clive Davis and was preparing to launch her career in a deeply conservative music industry.
Crawford revealed that Whitney’s mother, gospel legend Cissy Houston, disapproved of their closeness, calling it “unnatural.” Combined with homophobic attitudes in the church and the Black community, this led Houston to distance herself physically.
Still, Crawford says the emotional bond remained. Houston allegedly struggled with internalized fear, denying rumors about her sexuality and even making homophobic remarks publicly. Crawford sees this as a reflection of the era’s toxic views—not Whitney’s true heart.
During her rise to fame, Houston pushed back hard against whispers about her sexuality. At one point, she even made a now-infamous comparison between homosexuality and bestiality—remarks that critics still point to as evidence of internalized shame.
Privately, Crawford says Houston pressured her to deny their past more forcefully. Despite this, Crawford believes Whitney never stopped loving her, but was torn by the weight of public expectation and religious judgment.
While Crawford said her book was written to honor their bond, many readers—and fans of Houston—remain skeptical of her story. Some see her memoir as exploitative, especially since Houston isn’t alive to confirm or deny the claims.
One online user wrote: “I don’t believe nothing Robyn has said about Whitney because why didn’t she say all this when she was alive. Why wait now to say all of this made up BS when she can’t tell us if what you are saying is true or not.” Others accuse Crawford of profiting from the late singer’s name.
Another source of controversy surrounds the age gap between Crawford and Houston when their relationship began. Crawford was 19 or 20; Houston was 16 or 17.
Critics online have asked why more people aren’t questioning the ethics of that early relationship. One user posted: “They don’t ever mention how Robyn at 19/20 years old was trying to turn a 16/17 year minor Whitney out. I mean we’re talking about a MINOR child. Whitney didn’t want that woman.”
Some commenters have speculated that Crawford, now married to a white woman, may have ulterior motives. One person opined, “Robyn clearly wasn’t a true friend because she would be talking about her like this and I wouldn’t be surprised if Robyn’s snow bunny wife is the one putting her up to say this to make them some coins.”
While there’s no evidence supporting these claims, they reflect ongoing discomfort around queerness, race, and relationships in the public eye—especially when one party is no longer alive to speak for themselves.
Despite the backlash, Crawford’s memoir continues to influence how the world sees Whitney Houston. Many fans believe her words provide a valuable lens into Houston’s personal struggles with identity, addiction, and public image.
The story underscores how homophobia, both external and internalized, shaped one of music’s brightest stars. Whether fans see Crawford’s account as truth or betrayal, it has undeniably reopened conversations about acceptance, legacy, and the emotional cost of hiding who you are.
*In her 2019 memoir “A Song for You: My Life with Whitney Houston,” Robyn Crawford described a romantic relationship with the pop icon in the early 1980s. Crawford says they fell in love as teens and lived their truth privately—until the pressures of fame and homophobia forced Houston to choose her career over their physical connection.
She says Whitney Houston ended the intimate part of their relationship around 1982, telling her, “If people find out, they’ll use it against us.” Houston had just signed with Clive Davis and was preparing to launch her career in a deeply conservative music industry.
Crawford revealed that Whitney’s mother, gospel legend Cissy Houston, disapproved of their closeness, calling it “unnatural.” Combined with homophobic attitudes in the church and the Black community, this led Houston to distance herself physically.
Still, Crawford says the emotional bond remained. Houston allegedly struggled with internalized fear, denying rumors about her sexuality and even making homophobic remarks publicly. Crawford sees this as a reflection of the era’s toxic views—not Whitney’s true heart.
During her rise to fame, Houston pushed back hard against whispers about her sexuality. At one point, she even made a now-infamous comparison between homosexuality and bestiality—remarks that critics still point to as evidence of internalized shame.
Privately, Crawford says Houston pressured her to deny their past more forcefully. Despite this, Crawford believes Whitney never stopped loving her, but was torn by the weight of public expectation and religious judgment.
While Crawford said her book was written to honor their bond, many readers—and fans of Houston—remain skeptical of her story. Some see her memoir as exploitative, especially since Houston isn’t alive to confirm or deny the claims.
One online user wrote: “I don’t believe nothing Robyn has said about Whitney because why didn’t she say all this when she was alive. Why wait now to say all of this made up BS when she can’t tell us if what you are saying is true or not.” Others accuse Crawford of profiting from the late singer’s name.
Another source of controversy surrounds the age gap between Crawford and Houston when their relationship began. Crawford was 19 or 20; Houston was 16 or 17.
Critics online have asked why more people aren’t questioning the ethics of that early relationship. One user posted: “They don’t ever mention how Robyn at 19/20 years old was trying to turn a 16/17 year minor Whitney out. I mean we’re talking about a MINOR child. Whitney didn’t want that woman.”
Some commenters have speculated that Crawford, now married to a white woman, may have ulterior motives. One person opined, “Robyn clearly wasn’t a true friend because she would be talking about her like this and I wouldn’t be surprised if Robyn’s snow bunny wife is the one putting her up to say this to make them some coins.”
While there’s no evidence supporting these claims, they reflect ongoing discomfort around queerness, race, and relationships in the public eye—especially when one party is no longer alive to speak for themselves.
Despite the backlash, Crawford’s memoir continues to influence how the world sees Whitney Houston. Many fans believe her words provide a valuable lens into Houston’s personal struggles with identity, addiction, and public image.
The story underscores how homophobia, both external and internalized, shaped one of music’s brightest stars. Whether fans see Crawford’s account as truth or betrayal, it has undeniably reopened conversations about acceptance, legacy, and the emotional cost of hiding who you are.
Trump Administration says Student Loan Garnishments Restart in January
The U.S. Department of Education under Donald Trump will resume wage garnishment for federal student loan borrowers who are in default beginning in early January 2026, restarting a collection tool that had been largely paused since the pandemic. Notices will go out to roughly 1,000 borrowers during the week of January 7, with the number of people targeted increasing each month thereafter, the department confirmed, The Washington Post reports.
Federal wages can be garnished only after borrowers receive formal notice and an opportunity to address their debt, either by repaying the amount owed, entering a repayment plan, or disputing the default status. Under current rules, up to 15 percent of a borrower’s disposable after-tax income can be withheld and applied to their outstanding student loan debt.
This action follows the end of pandemic-era relief policies that halted most default collections beginning in March 2020. After years of moratoriums and a subsequent “on-ramp” period, the Education Department resumed some default collections in May 2025, including intercepting tax refunds and certain federal benefits for borrowers in default. Wage garnishment had not been implemented at that time but was delayed and set to begin next year.
According to the department’s most recent figures, more than five million federal borrowers are currently in default, meaning they have failed to make payments for more than 270 days. Those in default face multiple collection tools, including garnishment, until their loans are brought out of default or otherwise resolved.
The move represents a significant shift from policies under the prior administration that extended relief and paused many enforcement actions. The Education Department has framed the resumption of wage garnishment as part of efforts to restore normal loan repayment and collection practices after years of suspension.
Federal wages can be garnished only after borrowers receive formal notice and an opportunity to address their debt, either by repaying the amount owed, entering a repayment plan, or disputing the default status. Under current rules, up to 15 percent of a borrower’s disposable after-tax income can be withheld and applied to their outstanding student loan debt.
This action follows the end of pandemic-era relief policies that halted most default collections beginning in March 2020. After years of moratoriums and a subsequent “on-ramp” period, the Education Department resumed some default collections in May 2025, including intercepting tax refunds and certain federal benefits for borrowers in default. Wage garnishment had not been implemented at that time but was delayed and set to begin next year.
According to the department’s most recent figures, more than five million federal borrowers are currently in default, meaning they have failed to make payments for more than 270 days. Those in default face multiple collection tools, including garnishment, until their loans are brought out of default or otherwise resolved.
The move represents a significant shift from policies under the prior administration that extended relief and paused many enforcement actions. The Education Department has framed the resumption of wage garnishment as part of efforts to restore normal loan repayment and collection practices after years of suspension.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Enjoy!
Praise the Lord
It clearly says Lofd. So. Praise the Lofd.
AND NOW Meet: DADDY MARK
It's ! You can see more HERE
DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.
Enjoy!
HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS ALL!!!
EFREM
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