#MAGFAB: Ebony Magazine Presents The Beacons, Baddies & Breakouts: This Year In Black Culture
From Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar to rising mayors and designers, these 25 moments turned a hostile 2025 into a time of defiant brilliance.
The year 2025 brought with it a new government regime and emboldened political ideology that, immediately upon President Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration, sought to diminish both past and present achievements of Black people in America.
The administration gaslight the term “D.E.I. hire” as a careless catchphrase to describe minorities of all racial and gender identities in the workplace, suggesting their positions weren’t earned through professional merit. Diversity and inclusion initiatives were albeit eliminated from universities to private sectors. And references to the historical accomplishments of Black Americans were scrubbed from national websites, as exhibits recognizing the history of slavery and honoring activists like Harriet Tubman were removed.
The year 2025 brought with it a new government regime and emboldened political ideology that, immediately upon President Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration, sought to diminish both past and present achievements of Black people in America.
The administration gaslight the term “D.E.I. hire” as a careless catchphrase to describe minorities of all racial and gender identities in the workplace, suggesting their positions weren’t earned through professional merit. Diversity and inclusion initiatives were albeit eliminated from universities to private sectors. And references to the historical accomplishments of Black Americans were scrubbed from national websites, as exhibits recognizing the history of slavery and honoring activists like Harriet Tubman were removed.
Yet present-day history cannot be erased from the minds of its observers, and this year we also bore witness to Black excellence in many forms. In the face of threats to our democracy and individual livelihoods, Black entertainers, political leaders and public personalities used academia, advocacy, athleticism and their artistry to set new records, mark impressive firsts and reclaim respect—and they looked good and had fun while doing it.
Here are 25 of the 2025 newsmakers who made us proud.
1. Beyoncé
2. Michael B. Jordan
3. One of Them Days became one of them ones
4. Kendrick Lamar televised his revolution
5. Doechii proved some bites do heal
6. Othello had a far from tragic theater box-office showing
7. Leon Thomas broke away from the pack
8. Coco Gauff gave her all—and then some
9. Alabama State University’s Honey Beez continued buzzing
10. Naomi Osaka launched Labubu looks
11. Three mayors rewrote their city’s crime statistics Brandon Johnson, Brandon M. Scott and Randall L. Woodfin
12. A$AP Rocky and Rihanna welcomed little Rocki
13. Black Style got its Met Moment
14. Olandria left her mark
15. Outkast got their due
16. The Clipse took us back in time with their NPR Tiny Desk concert
17. Mayor Mary Sheffield made history— again
18. Forever’s Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. reminded us of the beauty of young love
19. The Gilded Age‘s Denée Benton confronted uncomfortable truths onscreen
20. Grace Wales Bonner’s new gig marked a fashion first
21. Jamal Bryant led a fast that impacted Target well beyond 40 days
22. Debbie Allen got a Mattel makeover
23. Jalen Hurts hurt ‘em on the field
24. A’ja Wilson became the MVP of MVPs
25. Diarrha N’Diaye-Mbaye closed one door and opened another
Congrats to them!
#RHOA: SAY WHAT? Porsha Williams & Shamea Morton Nearly Come to Blows While Filming New Season of RHOA?
Porsha didn’t understand why Shamea was rehashing a past conflict they had with other people. She was under the impression that she and Shamea had moved past the issue. So Shamea’s actions came off shady to Porsha. Unfortunately, the reunion only worsened things between them. Porsha concluded that Shamea turned on her to have a storyline on the show. As for Shamea, she concluded that Porsha’s real issue is that she didn’t want to share her spotlight.
After the season ended, their feud then spilled over onto social media. Porsha posted a video of Shamea thanking Porsha for the flowers she sent her to celebrate her peach. She also shared a screenshot of Shamea referring to a past ceremony that Porsha attended as a wedding. In response, Shamea argued that the ceremony was not a wedding.
Well, it’s now being rumored that things have actually become more contentious. According to the Neighborhood Talk, Porsha and Shamea nearly came to blows during the cast’s trip to Scotland. Drew allegedly stepped in to keep the women from getting physical.
#MusicNews: Coco Jones to Perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” for Super Bowl LX Pregame
Coco Jones will be joining the party at Super Bowl LX in 2026. The NFL has announced that the Grammy-winning R&B star has been tapped to perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at the Super Bowl pregame show. The song is widely referred to as the "Black national anthem." She joins a star-studded lineup that also features award-winning singer/songwriter Charlie Puth, as well as eleven-time Grammy-winning artist Brandi Carlile.
"Super Bowl Sunday is the world's biggest entertainment stage, and we're proud to spotlight artists who embody the very best of music and culture," said Jon Barker, senior vice president of global event production for the NFL. "Beyond the game itself, the Super Bowl is a global celebration. These artists bring a distinct voice to the moment, helping set the tone for a day that will captivate fans around the world."
The news comes on the heels of a big year for Coco Jones. After taking home the 2024 Grammy for Best R&B Performance for her platinum hit "ICU," she’s nominated for Best R&B Album at the 2026 Grammys for her debut project, Why Not More?, which dropped earlier this year. Also, Jones currently stars on Peacock's Bel-Air, which is currently in its fourth and final season.
"Charlie, Brandi and Coco are generational talents, and we are honored to have them — alongside our extraordinary deaf performers — on Super Bowl LX's world stage," stated Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez. "This moment embodies the very best of culture, live performance, and our country, perfectly kicking off game day."
#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion Teams Up With Fanatics Sportsbook To Give Back This Holiday Season
The Houston Hip-Hop superstar built upon her partnership with Fanatics Sportsbook through her nonprofit, The Pete and Thomas Foundation, to give back to those in need.
As part of the partnership, Fanatics Foundation will donate winter gear to Thee Stallion’s foundation, which she started in 2022, that honors her late parents and works diligently to support women, children, senior citizens, and underserved communities through education, housing, and health and wellness initiatives.
Speaking with Essence about the partnership, Megan Thee Stallion said, “It’s special to work with a brand that shares your passion for giving back and cares about the community. I’m proud that the Fanatics Foundation came through and donated winter apparel as part of our community outreach.”
The “Lover Girl” crafter’s Pete and Thomas Foundation has hit the ground running since its inception. Earlier this year, a star-studded gala that raised $1.2 million, with plenty of big names in attendance, including her boyfriend, NBA superstar Klay Thompson.
Thee Stallion also revealed that this has been a “big” year for her foundation, telling Essence that through her foundation, she was able to provide gifts and snacks to 1450 senior citizens in her hometown of Houston, and on top of that, making this holiday season a merry one for 65 families by paying off their layaway balances.
As Klay Thompson said about his boo, she’s a “sweet lady,” and definitely a role model that we can all look up to, unlike some other rappers, who will remain nameless.
Richard Smallwood, Gospel Giant and Musical Visionary, Passes Away at 77
Richard Smallwood, a towering figure in gospel music whose compositions shaped the sound of worship for generations, has died. He passed away on December 30 in Maryland at the age of 77 due to complications from kidney failure, according to his publicist.
A celebrated singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer, Smallwood was one of the most influential names in gospel music nationwide. His work blended classical training with spiritual depth, creating songs that resonated far beyond church walls. His catalog produced chart-topping gospel hits and became foundational music for choirs, worship teams, and solo artists alike.
Smallwood’s impact reached across genres. His compositions were performed and recorded by major artists including Destiny’s Child, Whitney Houston, and Stevie Wonder; an achievement that spoke to both the power and universality of his music. Few gospel artists have seen their work embraced so broadly while remaining rooted in faith.
Throughout his career, Smallwood was known for musical excellence, lyrical integrity, and a commitment to ministry through sound. His songs didn’t just top charts; they became moments of worship, healing, and reflection for listeners around the world.
As one of the biggest names in gospel music, Richard Smallwood leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond awards or chart positions. His work helped define the sound of modern gospel and opened doors for future artists to blend excellence, faith, and artistry without compromise.
Though his physical presence is gone, his music will continue to live on.
Richard Smallwood, a towering figure in gospel music whose compositions shaped the sound of worship for generations, has died. He passed away on December 30 in Maryland at the age of 77 due to complications from kidney failure, according to his publicist.
A celebrated singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer, Smallwood was one of the most influential names in gospel music nationwide. His work blended classical training with spiritual depth, creating songs that resonated far beyond church walls. His catalog produced chart-topping gospel hits and became foundational music for choirs, worship teams, and solo artists alike.
Smallwood’s impact reached across genres. His compositions were performed and recorded by major artists including Destiny’s Child, Whitney Houston, and Stevie Wonder; an achievement that spoke to both the power and universality of his music. Few gospel artists have seen their work embraced so broadly while remaining rooted in faith.
Throughout his career, Smallwood was known for musical excellence, lyrical integrity, and a commitment to ministry through sound. His songs didn’t just top charts; they became moments of worship, healing, and reflection for listeners around the world.
As one of the biggest names in gospel music, Richard Smallwood leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond awards or chart positions. His work helped define the sound of modern gospel and opened doors for future artists to blend excellence, faith, and artistry without compromise.
D.L. Hughley Says Nicki Minaj Represents ‘Everything’ Charlie Kirk Was Against
D.L. Hughley has continued his critiques of Nicki Minaj. Hughley responded to Minaj’s surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest. The rapper was accompanied by Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika, on Sunday (Dec. 21).
Hughley played a clip of Minaj saying that she has the “utmost respect and admiration for our president.” He then showed videos of Kirk saying, “I don’t think that’s a good role model for 18-year-old Black girls. He was referring to Nicki.
“It’s not our job to open up our borders to every sad story around the planet,” Kirk said. As a child, Minaj immigrated to the US from Trinidad and Tobago with her family.
Hughley pointed out that Kirk would never endorse Minaj.
“Nicki Minaj is virtually everything that the man [Kirk] who started that movement was against. But, yet, she finds herself the keynote speaker at the very movement he founded,” Hughley said.
“I find it ironic that the members of MAGA would turn their back on their principles so swiftly for convenience’s sake. And it seems to be that MAGA hates everything. They call [themselves] Patriots, they call [themselves] Christians, but seem to hate everything except racists, pedophiles, and sellouts.
Hughley also shared that Minaj’s husband and her brother are pedophiles.
“It astounds me that transgender people draw their ire more than pedophiles. I guess for Nicki, that would be par for the course,” Hughley added. “Her brother is a pedophile, her husband is a registered sex offender. We know that MAGA doesn’t have an aversion to that; that isn’t a disqualifier for them.”
Minaj’s husband, Kenneth “Zoo” Petty, is a registered sex offender. In 1995, a New York court convicted him of first-degree rape, and he served four years in prison. A judge sentenced Jelani Maraj, Minaj’s brother, to 25 years in prison for child rape.
Hughley first slammed Minaj after tweeting her disagreement about California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s support for trans kids.
“Nicki Minaj shouldn’t post anything about kids cuz her husband can’t be within 1000 ft of one!” he wrote. “It ain’t Gavin [Newsom] it’s Chris [Hansen] she should be worried about. It’s Chris Hanson she should be worried about.”
Hughley played a clip of Minaj saying that she has the “utmost respect and admiration for our president.” He then showed videos of Kirk saying, “I don’t think that’s a good role model for 18-year-old Black girls. He was referring to Nicki.
“It’s not our job to open up our borders to every sad story around the planet,” Kirk said. As a child, Minaj immigrated to the US from Trinidad and Tobago with her family.
Hughley pointed out that Kirk would never endorse Minaj.
“Nicki Minaj is virtually everything that the man [Kirk] who started that movement was against. But, yet, she finds herself the keynote speaker at the very movement he founded,” Hughley said.
“I find it ironic that the members of MAGA would turn their back on their principles so swiftly for convenience’s sake. And it seems to be that MAGA hates everything. They call [themselves] Patriots, they call [themselves] Christians, but seem to hate everything except racists, pedophiles, and sellouts.
Hughley also shared that Minaj’s husband and her brother are pedophiles.
“It astounds me that transgender people draw their ire more than pedophiles. I guess for Nicki, that would be par for the course,” Hughley added. “Her brother is a pedophile, her husband is a registered sex offender. We know that MAGA doesn’t have an aversion to that; that isn’t a disqualifier for them.”
Minaj’s husband, Kenneth “Zoo” Petty, is a registered sex offender. In 1995, a New York court convicted him of first-degree rape, and he served four years in prison. A judge sentenced Jelani Maraj, Minaj’s brother, to 25 years in prison for child rape.
Hughley first slammed Minaj after tweeting her disagreement about California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s support for trans kids.
“Nicki Minaj shouldn’t post anything about kids cuz her husband can’t be within 1000 ft of one!” he wrote. “It ain’t Gavin [Newsom] it’s Chris [Hansen] she should be worried about. It’s Chris Hanson she should be worried about.”
Styles P Talks Diddy Drama While Doubling Down On Family Growth & Faith
Styles P is not focused on Sean “Diddy” Combs, one of the key individuals that helped bring The Lox to national prominence. Instead, the 50-something offering a measured response rooted in maturity, perspective and personal grounding rather than online noise.
“Now? With things that happen in life, I’m going to tell you this, because I’m a lot older than you. I’m 51, he told AHH’s SlopsShotYa at a recent event. “I focus on myself, my family, and pray for all and may all get what they deserve, whether it’s good or bad, me included. So I don’t really take my time out to focus on what the algorithm tells me what to think about or what to do.”
The Yonkers MC continued by noting Diddy-type matters are often distractions from deeper realities.
“Usually when that’s happening, something else is happening that you’re missing,” he added. “So I don’t really get focused on what everybody else is focused on.”
He did seemed to tip his hat to the idea of Karma, both sides of it. Karma is the concept of an action or deed or even an individual’s intentions shape their future, leading to consequences (good or bad).
“May good be good, maybe bad be bad, may you pay for what you do, if you did it wrong, and may you be blessed if you did it right,” closing his commentary on Diddy.
The comments capped a wide ranging conversation that underscored where Styles P stands in this phase of his career. Despite persistent talk of retirement, he made it clear he is not stepping away from music completely.
“I don’t call it a retirement,” he said. “I just say as a soloist…I want to focus on lock joints and collab joints. And as a soloist, I put out a lot of more content than f##king the average person in my peer group or age group.”
On the music front, Styles confirmed that collaborative projects with Dave East are essentially complete. “Musically, we done. Got to tighten up,” he said. “I think we done for Beloved two and three, to be honest with you.”
Beyond the booth, Styles P continues to expand his entrepreneurial footprint.
He highlighted his Harlem based dispensary Strange for Life at 145th Street and Broadway, Juices for Life with five locations, and Kiss Cafe, while also leaning into media with the podcast Two Jews Three Black Dudes (2J3BD), a hybrid format blending conversation and sketch comedy.
“Do what you love, man. Do what you love. Do what you are into,” Styles said, reflecting on his evolution from street hustler to multifaceted creative. “The more you grow, the more you belong, the more you blossom.”
Styles P is not focused on Sean “Diddy” Combs, one of the key individuals that helped bring The Lox to national prominence. Instead, the 50-something offering a measured response rooted in maturity, perspective and personal grounding rather than online noise.
“Now? With things that happen in life, I’m going to tell you this, because I’m a lot older than you. I’m 51, he told AHH’s SlopsShotYa at a recent event. “I focus on myself, my family, and pray for all and may all get what they deserve, whether it’s good or bad, me included. So I don’t really take my time out to focus on what the algorithm tells me what to think about or what to do.”
The Yonkers MC continued by noting Diddy-type matters are often distractions from deeper realities.
“Usually when that’s happening, something else is happening that you’re missing,” he added. “So I don’t really get focused on what everybody else is focused on.”
He did seemed to tip his hat to the idea of Karma, both sides of it. Karma is the concept of an action or deed or even an individual’s intentions shape their future, leading to consequences (good or bad).
“May good be good, maybe bad be bad, may you pay for what you do, if you did it wrong, and may you be blessed if you did it right,” closing his commentary on Diddy.
The comments capped a wide ranging conversation that underscored where Styles P stands in this phase of his career. Despite persistent talk of retirement, he made it clear he is not stepping away from music completely.
“I don’t call it a retirement,” he said. “I just say as a soloist…I want to focus on lock joints and collab joints. And as a soloist, I put out a lot of more content than f##king the average person in my peer group or age group.”
On the music front, Styles confirmed that collaborative projects with Dave East are essentially complete. “Musically, we done. Got to tighten up,” he said. “I think we done for Beloved two and three, to be honest with you.”
Beyond the booth, Styles P continues to expand his entrepreneurial footprint.
He highlighted his Harlem based dispensary Strange for Life at 145th Street and Broadway, Juices for Life with five locations, and Kiss Cafe, while also leaning into media with the podcast Two Jews Three Black Dudes (2J3BD), a hybrid format blending conversation and sketch comedy.
“Do what you love, man. Do what you love. Do what you are into,” Styles said, reflecting on his evolution from street hustler to multifaceted creative. “The more you grow, the more you belong, the more you blossom.”
Ciara Says Men With 'A Lot' of Female Friends Are a Red Flag: 'That's a Little Concerning'
In a new interview for The Zeze Millz Show, the singer, who was described as the “guru of relationships,” rated the red flags of a few hypothetical dating scenarios.
One of those hypotheticals included a man with “loads” of female friends.
"Well, I think that when someone's in a serious relationship, we can't be too turnt up with friends, not too turned up," Ciara said near the 14-minute, 10-second mark in the video linked above.
"I don't trip about, like, a guy having friends, but if it's a lot, I think that's a little concerning," she said. "So we're gonna give it a seven."
Although Millz thought the rating was “quite high,” Ciara also explained why ranking the situation is complicated and circumstantial.
"There's some guys that get along with girls really, like, well … A lot of my close friends are girls, but I do get along really well with guys. One of my closest friends since I was 14 years old, his name is Jasper, and he's like one of my closest boys, and we don't talk every day, but we talk all the time. Russ knows him, like, it's all good.
"So I think that the dynamics are important. How about that? So it's hard for me to rate that because it depends on the situation, right? If I'm cool with the girls, and I know, I feel good, it's like, OK. Like, sometimes guys just get along really well with girls."
She also noted practical realities, saying, "People sometimes in business they have to work with girls sometimes in business."
Ciara later added, "I mean, I think that when men are in serious relationships, they don't have tons of female friends they talk to every day. Now they may have a lot of acquaintances, and that's fine."
The singer began dating Russell Wilson in 2015 and tied the knot the following year. After welcoming a son, 11-year-old Future Zahir, with her ex Future, Ciara welcomed three children with Wilson, including 8-year-old Sienna Princess, 5-year-old Win Harrison, and 1-year-old Amora Princess.
D4vd Reportedly Expected to Face Murder Charges in Celeste Rivas Death
D4vd is reportedly expected to be indicted on murder charges in the death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered inside a Tesla registered under his name.
According to TMZ, multiple sources said that authorities believe D4vd (real name David Anthony Burke) was somehow involved in Rivas’ death. An investigative grand jury was opened last month to hear the case, although the jury was to serve the purpose of gathering evidence to serve subpoenas or force witnesses to testify.
The jury has reportedly heard from several witnesses, and the jury members will vote on whether to bring forth indictments. The source claimed that prosecutor Beth Silverman is chief among those who think D4vd was involved.
The indictment isn’t expected to happen imminently, however, as it could be a few months before the grand jury hears witnesses, sources indicated. Initially, D4vd was not named as a suspect, but he was named a suspect in an ongoing investigation last month.
An investigation was launched into Rivas’ death by the Los Angeles Police Department in September shortly after her remains were discovered in an impounded Tesla, which was registered under D4vd’s government name.
Further details revealed that the victim, who was reported missing by her parents last year, had a tattoo on her finger that read, "Shhh." D4vd reportedly has a tattoo similar to one found on Rivas' remains.
The investigation was launched during D4vd’s tour in support of his debut studio album, Withered. The remaining dates of his tour were subsequently canceled, and a printed blood-stained white shirt was removed from his official merch store. As the investigation continued, detectives searched his rental home for any signs of blood, and photos surfaced online showing D4vd within the vicinity of Rivas’ family home.
Earlier this month, the president of D4vd’s touring company and the general manager of his record label, Robert Morgenroth, was grilled by a district attorney in front of the grand jury.
According to a report on his testimony, Morgenroth said that Silverman was "very pushy on why I didn’t call police." According to private investigator Steve Fischer, a "burn cage" incinerator was discovered at D4vd’s Hollywood Hills rental property.
D4vd is reportedly expected to be indicted on murder charges in the death of 15-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered inside a Tesla registered under his name.
According to TMZ, multiple sources said that authorities believe D4vd (real name David Anthony Burke) was somehow involved in Rivas’ death. An investigative grand jury was opened last month to hear the case, although the jury was to serve the purpose of gathering evidence to serve subpoenas or force witnesses to testify.
The jury has reportedly heard from several witnesses, and the jury members will vote on whether to bring forth indictments. The source claimed that prosecutor Beth Silverman is chief among those who think D4vd was involved.
The indictment isn’t expected to happen imminently, however, as it could be a few months before the grand jury hears witnesses, sources indicated. Initially, D4vd was not named as a suspect, but he was named a suspect in an ongoing investigation last month.
An investigation was launched into Rivas’ death by the Los Angeles Police Department in September shortly after her remains were discovered in an impounded Tesla, which was registered under D4vd’s government name.
Further details revealed that the victim, who was reported missing by her parents last year, had a tattoo on her finger that read, "Shhh." D4vd reportedly has a tattoo similar to one found on Rivas' remains.
The investigation was launched during D4vd’s tour in support of his debut studio album, Withered. The remaining dates of his tour were subsequently canceled, and a printed blood-stained white shirt was removed from his official merch store. As the investigation continued, detectives searched his rental home for any signs of blood, and photos surfaced online showing D4vd within the vicinity of Rivas’ family home.
Earlier this month, the president of D4vd’s touring company and the general manager of his record label, Robert Morgenroth, was grilled by a district attorney in front of the grand jury.
According to a report on his testimony, Morgenroth said that Silverman was "very pushy on why I didn’t call police." According to private investigator Steve Fischer, a "burn cage" incinerator was discovered at D4vd’s Hollywood Hills rental property.
Idris Elba to be Awarded Knighthood by King Charles
Idris Elba made the list of honorees by King Charles to be knighted in an annual tradition celebrating professional excellence and community service. He will be recognized for his charity work with young people from anti-knife crime campaigns to his foundation that provides grants to organizations across the United Kingdom, United States and Africa.
As a teenager, Elba was a beneficiary of the Prince’s Trust, and was given a £1,500 grant to attend the National Youth Music Theatre program. He went on to appear as an actor in hit TV shows The Wire and Luther, and has released music and performed as DJ Big Driis at festivals across the world.
Nia Long & Larenz Tate's Upcoming Netflix Movie Adds Blair Underwood to the Cast
Nia Long and Larenz Tate are reuniting for another project at Netflix!
The Love Jones and Michael co-stars will star in the streamer’s upcoming romance movie Don’t Ever Wonder, and additional casting has been unveiled.
The plot is being kept under wraps at this time, but it said to be a romance inspired by Maxwell‘s Urban Hang Suite album. In fact, Maxwell is serving as an executive producer on the film!
Earlier this month, Netflix announced the full cast joining Nia and Larenz – Blair Underwood, Laz Alonso, Susan Kelechi Watson, Pauletta Washington, Dennis Haysbert, Chante Adams, Algee Smith, Grasie Mercedes, Navia Robinson and Yolonda Ross.
Principal photography took place in New Jersey and New York, with Eugene Ashe directing from a script he co-wrote with Kay Oyegun.
If you missed it, check out the trailer for the Michael Jackson biopic, where Nia plays his mother Katherine Jackson, and Larenz plays music producer Berry Gordy!
Nia Long and Larenz Tate are reuniting for another project at Netflix!
The Love Jones and Michael co-stars will star in the streamer’s upcoming romance movie Don’t Ever Wonder, and additional casting has been unveiled.
The plot is being kept under wraps at this time, but it said to be a romance inspired by Maxwell‘s Urban Hang Suite album. In fact, Maxwell is serving as an executive producer on the film!
Earlier this month, Netflix announced the full cast joining Nia and Larenz – Blair Underwood, Laz Alonso, Susan Kelechi Watson, Pauletta Washington, Dennis Haysbert, Chante Adams, Algee Smith, Grasie Mercedes, Navia Robinson and Yolonda Ross.
Principal photography took place in New Jersey and New York, with Eugene Ashe directing from a script he co-wrote with Kay Oyegun.
If you missed it, check out the trailer for the Michael Jackson biopic, where Nia plays his mother Katherine Jackson, and Larenz plays music producer Berry Gordy!
Ryan Coogler Says Chadwick Boseman Was Too Sick to Read His Original 'Black Panther 2' Script
Ryan Coogler is opening up about his original script for Black Panther 2.
The filmmaker recently revealed in a new interview that he sent the late Chadwick Boseman the original script, but the actor was too sick to read it.
“I finished it, and I hit him up to read it, and he was too sick to read, bro. That was kind of how the timing was,” Ryan said on the Happy Sad Confused podcast.
He also opened up more about the original idea, which of course, was altered after Chadwick passed away in 2020 from colon cancer.
“The big thing about the script was a thing called the Ritual of 8 where, [when] a prince is 8 years old, he has to go spend 8 days in the bush with his father,” he shared. “The rule is for those 8 days the prince can ask the father any question and the father has to answer. During the course of those 8 days, Namor [Tenoch Huerta] launches an attack … and it was a different version of Namor in that script, but he had to deal with someone who’s insanely dangerous, but because of this ritual, his son had to be joined at his hip the whole time … or else they’d have to violate this ritual that had never been broken. It was insane, and Chadwick was going to kill it, but life goes as it goes.”
“I loved that script. I put so much into that version of the movie because I felt like I had gotten to know Chadwick as a performer,” he added. “I threw a lot at Chad in the first Panther, but I realized I was just scratching the surface.”
If you missed it, Ryan is set to return for a third Black Panther movie and he addressed rumors that Chadwick‘s character T’Challa would be recast.
“I’m in it for my heart. I got this movie on my heart,” Ryan said of skeptics of a third installment. “And yeah, from the outside looking in, you might say, ‘Man, why this f–king dude making another one of those?’ But that’s totally fine, that question makes sense. And it’s my job as a filmmaker to show why.”
The filmmaker recently revealed in a new interview that he sent the late Chadwick Boseman the original script, but the actor was too sick to read it.
“I finished it, and I hit him up to read it, and he was too sick to read, bro. That was kind of how the timing was,” Ryan said on the Happy Sad Confused podcast.
He also opened up more about the original idea, which of course, was altered after Chadwick passed away in 2020 from colon cancer.
“The big thing about the script was a thing called the Ritual of 8 where, [when] a prince is 8 years old, he has to go spend 8 days in the bush with his father,” he shared. “The rule is for those 8 days the prince can ask the father any question and the father has to answer. During the course of those 8 days, Namor [Tenoch Huerta] launches an attack … and it was a different version of Namor in that script, but he had to deal with someone who’s insanely dangerous, but because of this ritual, his son had to be joined at his hip the whole time … or else they’d have to violate this ritual that had never been broken. It was insane, and Chadwick was going to kill it, but life goes as it goes.”
“I loved that script. I put so much into that version of the movie because I felt like I had gotten to know Chadwick as a performer,” he added. “I threw a lot at Chad in the first Panther, but I realized I was just scratching the surface.”
If you missed it, Ryan is set to return for a third Black Panther movie and he addressed rumors that Chadwick‘s character T’Challa would be recast.
“I’m in it for my heart. I got this movie on my heart,” Ryan said of skeptics of a third installment. “And yeah, from the outside looking in, you might say, ‘Man, why this f–king dude making another one of those?’ But that’s totally fine, that question makes sense. And it’s my job as a filmmaker to show why.”
NASCAR's Denny Hamlin Loses Father From House Fire, Mother Is In Critical Condition
Denny Hamlin‘s father Dennis has sadly passed away.
The 45-year-old NASCAR driver’s 75-year-old father died from injuries sustained in a house fire on Sunday (December 28), according to NASCAR.com.
Denny‘s mother, Mary Lou Hamlin, was also injured and is currently in critical condition and is “actively being treated,” according to news release.
First responders reportedly arrived at a home in Gaston County, North Carolina, after a reported fire at 6:19pm ET. Authorities noted two persons were found outside the home when emergency services arrived, and they were both taken to a nearby hospital.
Sadly, Dennis died from his injuries at the hospital, and Mary Lou was transferred to another hospital.
According to The Athletic, 10-15 fire departments responded to the home due to it’s size, and it’s location in a remote wooded area. It took more than two hours for the fire to be extinguished.
While the house has been deemed a total loss, there were reportedly “some really expensive cars in the garage and some racing memorabilia” that were able to be saved and undamaged.
Our thoughts go out to Denny Hamlin and his loved ones during this difficult time.
Denny Hamlin‘s father Dennis has sadly passed away.
The 45-year-old NASCAR driver’s 75-year-old father died from injuries sustained in a house fire on Sunday (December 28), according to NASCAR.com.
Denny‘s mother, Mary Lou Hamlin, was also injured and is currently in critical condition and is “actively being treated,” according to news release.
First responders reportedly arrived at a home in Gaston County, North Carolina, after a reported fire at 6:19pm ET. Authorities noted two persons were found outside the home when emergency services arrived, and they were both taken to a nearby hospital.
Sadly, Dennis died from his injuries at the hospital, and Mary Lou was transferred to another hospital.
According to The Athletic, 10-15 fire departments responded to the home due to it’s size, and it’s location in a remote wooded area. It took more than two hours for the fire to be extinguished.
While the house has been deemed a total loss, there were reportedly “some really expensive cars in the garage and some racing memorabilia” that were able to be saved and undamaged.
Our thoughts go out to Denny Hamlin and his loved ones during this difficult time.
Kids Charged After Brutal Attack on Chicago Mom and Son Goes Viral
Authorities have filed charges against seven children involved in a November assault on a Chicago mother and her son that gained widespread attention online.
According to NBC Chicago, the group includes three 10-year-old boys, one 10-year-old girl, an 11-year-old girl, a 12-year-old boy, and a 13-year-old girl. Each faces one or more misdemeanor counts of battery causing bodily harm. Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event. The charges stem from an incident that left the victims hospitalized initially in serious condition.
The attack targeted 33-year-old Corshawnda Hatter and her nine-year-old son as they walked home from Orville Bright Elementary School in the South Deering neighborhood. Video footage captured the group confronting, following, and repeatedly striking the family. Community members gathered outside the school the following day to demand accountability.
Hatter described the confrontation during a public statement. “They were literally waiting (along) the way we walk home, just to jump all of us,” she said. She recounted attempting to cross the street to evade the group, only to be pursued. “So we kept walking. They followed us all the way. … And then they fought my son and hit my son first. … Then they dragged me in the grass and pulled my little baby’s hair out.”
She linked the violence to the ongoing bullying her child faced at school and vowed to seek a resolution. “I’m trying to get justice for my son,” she said. Hatter later shared the emotional aftermath, stating, “I can’t sleep because I wake up in the middle of the night with that vision in my head of my son calling my name to help him, and I couldn’t do anything for him. That really hurt me the most.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the act in a statement on X. “I was deeply disturbed to see the video of young people attacking a mother and her child … That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence.,” he said.
Johnson emphasized the need for more mental health support in schools and teaching non-violent conflict resolution.
The young suspects received referrals for counseling before being released from custody.
According to NBC Chicago, the group includes three 10-year-old boys, one 10-year-old girl, an 11-year-old girl, a 12-year-old boy, and a 13-year-old girl. Each faces one or more misdemeanor counts of battery causing bodily harm. Officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event. The charges stem from an incident that left the victims hospitalized initially in serious condition.
The attack targeted 33-year-old Corshawnda Hatter and her nine-year-old son as they walked home from Orville Bright Elementary School in the South Deering neighborhood. Video footage captured the group confronting, following, and repeatedly striking the family. Community members gathered outside the school the following day to demand accountability.
Hatter described the confrontation during a public statement. “They were literally waiting (along) the way we walk home, just to jump all of us,” she said. She recounted attempting to cross the street to evade the group, only to be pursued. “So we kept walking. They followed us all the way. … And then they fought my son and hit my son first. … Then they dragged me in the grass and pulled my little baby’s hair out.”
She linked the violence to the ongoing bullying her child faced at school and vowed to seek a resolution. “I’m trying to get justice for my son,” she said. Hatter later shared the emotional aftermath, stating, “I can’t sleep because I wake up in the middle of the night with that vision in my head of my son calling my name to help him, and I couldn’t do anything for him. That really hurt me the most.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the act in a statement on X. “I was deeply disturbed to see the video of young people attacking a mother and her child … That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence.,” he said.
Johnson emphasized the need for more mental health support in schools and teaching non-violent conflict resolution.
The young suspects received referrals for counseling before being released from custody.
Viral Mom Torrance Mchie Dies After Insurance Company Allegedly Cuts Life-Saving Cancer Coverage
The internet is heartbroken and outraged following the tragic passing of Torrance Mchie, a 28-year-old mother who lost her life after a devastating battle with cancer.
Torrance’s story is sparking a heated conversation about the healthcare system after reports surfaced that her insurance company allegedly cut her coverage because she couldn’t keep up with $5,000 monthly payments. What started as an early-stage, treatable diagnosis reportedly exploded into deadly Stage 4 cancer once she was forced off her life-saving chemotherapy.
Despite the physical toll and unbearable pain, Torrance’s final mission was to make sure her young son had one last Christmas with his mother. She managed to hold on just long enough to see the holiday through, smiling for her baby boy before slipping away just days later. While she leaves behind a loving family, the circumstances of her death have many calling out a system that prioritizes corporate profits over human lives.
A GoFundMe was originally set up by her sister, Ashley Mchie, to help cover the costs of chemotherapy, medication, and transportation to appointments that the insurance company wouldn’t cover. Now that Torrance has passed, those funds can go toward supporting her son as he navigates life without his mother.
The campaign currently has a goal of $40,000, and thanks to the overwhelming support of the community, it has already reached over $35,000.
Ye Shuts Down Viral Bucket List That Included Pole Dancing, Denies It’s His Handwriting
The internet tried to give Ye a new set of life goals, and he shut it all the way down.
Over the weekend, a handwritten bucket list started circulating online and was quickly credited to Ye. Multiple outlets reported the lists, which popped up via the Instagram account @styleconcept001 and featured a mix of travel dreams, lifestyle flexes, and creative curiosities. Among the items listed were climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, owning a pug, buying homes in Jamaica and New York, visiting landmarks like the Great Wall of China and Christ the Redeemer, learning to paint, and yes, learning how to pole dance.
On Monday evening, Ye addressed the chatter directly on his official Twitter account and made it clear he was not behind the list.
“That so called bucket list is fake. It’s not my hand writing.” The message was short, direct, and enough to put the rumor to bed.
Even before Ye spoke up, fans were already poking holes in the list. Some pointed out that one of the goals included buying a home in New York, something Ye already crossed off years ago. He previously owned a SoHo condo that he bought in 2004 and sold in 2019. Others noted that he had already visited Christ the Redeemer, having been photographed there with Kim Kardashian during a Brazil trip in 2013.
It remains unclear where the list originated from. However, Ye has shut it down for good.Viral Mom Torrance Mchie Dies After Insurance Company Allegedly Cuts Life-Saving Cancer Coverage [Video]
Over the weekend, a handwritten bucket list started circulating online and was quickly credited to Ye. Multiple outlets reported the lists, which popped up via the Instagram account @styleconcept001 and featured a mix of travel dreams, lifestyle flexes, and creative curiosities. Among the items listed were climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, owning a pug, buying homes in Jamaica and New York, visiting landmarks like the Great Wall of China and Christ the Redeemer, learning to paint, and yes, learning how to pole dance.
On Monday evening, Ye addressed the chatter directly on his official Twitter account and made it clear he was not behind the list.
“That so called bucket list is fake. It’s not my hand writing.” The message was short, direct, and enough to put the rumor to bed.
Even before Ye spoke up, fans were already poking holes in the list. Some pointed out that one of the goals included buying a home in New York, something Ye already crossed off years ago. He previously owned a SoHo condo that he bought in 2004 and sold in 2019. Others noted that he had already visited Christ the Redeemer, having been photographed there with Kim Kardashian during a Brazil trip in 2013.
It remains unclear where the list originated from. However, Ye has shut it down for good.Viral Mom Torrance Mchie Dies After Insurance Company Allegedly Cuts Life-Saving Cancer Coverage [Video]
Former child actor Daniel Curtis Lee criticized for filming homeless actor Tylor Chase
Former child actor Tylor Chase has been homeless for years since falling on hard times. He is best known for his role as a fast-talking nerd on Nickelodeon’s show “Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide”.
Now 36, Tylor roams the streets of Riverside, California, eating out of garbage cans and picking up discarded items off the streets. He sleeps wherever he can and allegedly buys drugs with the money kindhearted people give him.
Footage of Tylor circulated on social media over the weekend, and celebrities reached out with offers of help.
Actor Shaun Weiss, who played Goldberg in “The Mighty Ducks,” offered to help Tylor if he would enter drug rehab. But Tylor declined.
Then Tylor’s former co-star, Daniel Curtis Lee drove 50 miles to Riverside to track Tylor down.
Daniel brought a cameraman to film their reunion.
TMZ published an emotional video of Daniel checking Tylor into a Riverside motel for the night.
Daniel tells TMZ that he spent part of the day with Tylor walking around and catching up over pizza before checking him into the motel.
Daniel says he plans to stay in touch with Tylor and support him whenever he can.
But X users criticized Daniel for filming Tylor for social media clout.
They say Daniel and his castmates knew Tylor was homeless months ago – and Daniel only helped Tylor after he went viral this week.
Daniel spoke about Tylor’s homeless situation on a podcast back in September. Fans wonder why he didn’t offer to help Tylor then.
Daniel even said he was “upset” because someone “put a camera on [Tylor’s] face in hard times.”
Influencer Colin Rugg also shamed Daniel for filming Tylor.
Colin tweeted: “Hopefully this filming trend can end and they can actually get him into a rehab center.”
Former child actor Tylor Chase has been homeless for years since falling on hard times. He is best known for his role as a fast-talking nerd on Nickelodeon’s show “Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide”.
Now 36, Tylor roams the streets of Riverside, California, eating out of garbage cans and picking up discarded items off the streets. He sleeps wherever he can and allegedly buys drugs with the money kindhearted people give him.
Footage of Tylor circulated on social media over the weekend, and celebrities reached out with offers of help.
Actor Shaun Weiss, who played Goldberg in “The Mighty Ducks,” offered to help Tylor if he would enter drug rehab. But Tylor declined.
Then Tylor’s former co-star, Daniel Curtis Lee drove 50 miles to Riverside to track Tylor down.
Daniel brought a cameraman to film their reunion.
TMZ published an emotional video of Daniel checking Tylor into a Riverside motel for the night.
Daniel tells TMZ that he spent part of the day with Tylor walking around and catching up over pizza before checking him into the motel.
Daniel says he plans to stay in touch with Tylor and support him whenever he can.
But X users criticized Daniel for filming Tylor for social media clout.
They say Daniel and his castmates knew Tylor was homeless months ago – and Daniel only helped Tylor after he went viral this week.
Daniel spoke about Tylor’s homeless situation on a podcast back in September. Fans wonder why he didn’t offer to help Tylor then.
Daniel even said he was “upset” because someone “put a camera on [Tylor’s] face in hard times.”
Influencer Colin Rugg also shamed Daniel for filming Tylor.
Colin tweeted: “Hopefully this filming trend can end and they can actually get him into a rehab center.”
A$AP Rocky Helps Pay Rent for All the Tenants in His Childhood Apartment Building
From Realtor
Rewards platform Bilt has teamed up with ASAP Rocky to bring some star-studded generosity to New York City's Harlem neighborhood by covering rent for every tenant in the building where the rapper spent his teenage years.
The exclusive partnership, announced by Bilt founder and CEO Ankur Jain, coincides with the upcoming release of the star's long-awaited album, "Don’t Be Dumb," which comes out Jan. 16.
In a press release shared with Realtor.com®, the rewards platform revealed that it helped the multihyphenate star give back to his community of Harlem.
"The donation will cover January 2026 rent for all tenants in the building—supporting the community that shaped the artist and helping to ease the financial burden during an expensive time of year for many," according to a Bilt press release.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Enjoy!
Driving back and forth on the road yelling, "Ho, Ho, Ho!"
I'm surprised that toy Tesla didn't break
I'm surprised that toy Tesla didn't break
AND NOW Meet: Shawn
It's Shawn! 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 DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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