#MAGFAB: Michaela Coel for Harper's Bazaar US - March 2026
Nice get more HERE!
RHOP: The Real Housewives of Potomac Reunion Recap
In 2002, like most people with a pulse, I was obsessed with the movie Chicago. I simply could not stop quoting all of the numbers, despite having the voice of a wheezing goat. After my family and friends pleaded with me to stop singing, I finally started paying attention to the actual themes of the movie and musical, and what they said about celebrity and spectacle, particularly through the character Billy Flynn. Chicago may not have intended to be about reality television, but in many ways, it foreshadowed the shameless attention-seeking performance that it has become.
Fast forward nearly 25 years, and the show is now the longest-running musical on Broadway, with one of the most well-known stunt cast roles for Roxie Hart, who has, ironically enough, been portrayed by numerous Housewives. In a twisted way, it has become a meta-commentary on itself: What is the industry that relies on constant titillation and spectacle to keep consumers entertained and asking for more? Reality television fits that bill to a tee — to keep viewers onboard, castmembers progressively go through a sort of self-flanderization, creating a persona that increasingly caricaturizes their most sensational traits until they become a walking meme, because the opposite of shamelessness is irrelevance. Now, I’m not calling Andy Cohen Billy Flynn, but his careful warning to Stacey and the rest of the Potomac wives about the danger of letting internet fandom get to your head is remarkably similar to when Billy looks at Roxie Hart and says, “You are a phony celebrity. You’re a flash in the pan. In a couple of weeks, no one’s gonna give a shit about you.” Nothing encapsulates that appetite for chaos and pageantry like a Housewives reunion. Like Flynn says, “Give ‘em a show that’s so splendiferous, row after row will grow vociferous.”
Let’s get to the brass tacks, shall we? This week, we mainly focused on Stacey, Angel, and Wendy, three women who have been forced to address the distinction between their personas and actual lives in different ways. Stacey’s persona has taken her to cult-favorite heights while isolating her from the cast; Angel is fighting to reintroduce herself after being portrayed as a humorless sad sack; Wendy is fighting to reclaim her pedestal after her current legal troubles knocked the wind right out of her condescending sails. They are all in make-or-break positions, and for the most part, stepped up to the plate accordingly.
It may not look like it due to the fanfare, but Stacey is sitting atop a very fragile pedestal. Her QVC videos made her a star, as well as her ability to turn on her broadcaster sensibilities on a dime and master passive aggressiveness at levels I haven’t seen in a long time — but outside of Wendy, she has effectively been pushed onto an island, which can quickly become a road to nowhere. Stacey is a smart woman. She knows that being a cult favorite means very little if the women refuse to film with you. The fans may protest, but they would easily move on were she to be replaced. This is her shot to attempt to be a little conciliatory about her off-putting persona and find a road to forging new alliances.
The problem is, however, that Stacey is allergic to compromise. She indeed has the upper hand, but the women are not wrong for calling out her constant lying; where they failed is in refusing to let it go after they brought it up. Stacey did secretly launch a competing weed brand; she lied about who filed for divorce; she absolutely lied to Tia about why she couldn’t make dinner; and while the whole “contract” with TJ was definitely bunk from a legal perspective, there clearly seemed to be some understanding between the two, whatever it was. Instead of giving in a little to let Gizelle and Ashley feel like they won a victory, she goes to the Karen Huger school of deflecting: they know what its like to be embarrassed by men, and she has the right to her privacy. That tactic may work now as she is responding from a position of strength, but the fans won’t give her runway to lie without accountability forever. While Stacey’s on-camera persona is a clear success, her struggles to manage interpersonal tensions may be what ultimately takes her down if she’s not careful.
For Angel, this was her last shot at leaving an impression after a disastrous season — and while I may be grading on a bit of a curve due to how badly she flailed, I have to admit I was happy to see her show up and immediately try to reset the room. She apologized to Wendy for claiming that she was the one who said catfish (even though she definitely amped it up), and explained exactly why she chose not to argue with Keiarna on television around the chin-check remark. She confirmed that she did buy in Potomac, and reminded Ashley that she is somewhere on Virginia farmland and has no room to comment on her real estate. She made her issues with Ashley plain, pointing out fairly that it is egregious to call her sensitive when they continued to drag out the catfish bit to mock her. Wendy still got a few jabs in — responding to the Forrest Whitaker insult with James Earl Jones was truly inspired — but all said and done, Angel made very clear that she planned to get in the field this reunion, which is more than what we can say for Keiarna so far.
Wendy, unfortunately, is stuck in a paradox of her own construction: the character she portrays on TV is one of unyielding condescension and pretension, yet the legal predicament she finds herself in requires that she show humility and vulnerability to get empathy not just from the viewers, but from the cast. As someone who also can use my accolades as armor, it is obvious that Wendy is struggling with the idea that she has to let at least one wall down so that she has any chance of getting through her upcoming trials, both literal and metaphorical. We see it in glimmers — the opening scene of Wendy and Eddie looking at each other in distress as they try to make sense of the nightmare they’re in was particularly compelling, as was the moment that she revealed, while holding back tears, that her eldest son knew what happened and how they have to keep the kids in the loop now. The problem is, unfortunately, that the second she closes that opening back up, it’s hard to forget that what she is under suspicion of is fraud borne out of keeping up with the Joneses, and her naturally lofty and dismissive tone doesn’t help matters.
Ashley and Gizelle easily exploit that tension. They call out that her and Eddie seemed to be smiling and high in the photos, which she refutes. They point out that she seems to be approaching it with a sense of irreverence that is unbecoming for the legal circumstance she’s in, which she approaches with defensiveness. I believe that Wendy is indeed terrified, even if she’s afraid to express that fully amongst a cast that has left her to the wolves in previous years. The problem is that her the condescension that she once wielded as a weapon is now an obvious weakness — and there’s no more obvious indicator than Ashley quickly rebutting Wendy’s insult about her lack of accomplishments with a jab about the identity fraud claims. It’s a shame that it took Wendy five years to master her character, all for it to be moot due to her real life. If she can’t figure out how to rein that in quickly, I foresee this being a tough reunion for her.
• My sincerest apologies to Tia, whom I accidentally omitted from my end of season roundup. For a debut showing, I think Tia lands respectably in the middle of the road for me — she didn’t do too much, but sometimes the best think you can do as a newbie is ride the wave and see where everything settles. She clearly has a penchant for mess although she tries to throw rocks and hide her hands, like she did with the whole “eviction” argument. Despite her sloppy engineering, however, her willingness to go toe-to-toe when pressed will definitely do her favors as she continues to grow on the show. I foresee her complicated family dynamics offering a lot of fodder to comb through in the coming years — as long as she doesn’t spend the next season stuck under the thumb of Gizelle. 6.75/10
• The cheshire grin that spread across Stacey’s face as Wendy called her out for leaning on Nigerian branding just to get under Wendy’s skin genuinely gave me chills. Stacey may be a grandmaster of passive aggressiveness, and I was raised by the final boss of African guilt-tripping.
• Honestly, what is going on with Keiarna and Angel’s friendship? It feels like K is used to taking on the alpha role in their dynamic because her ease in just freely speaking over Angel is hard to watch play out on camera. It’s too bad that forthrightness didn’t come about during the season when Angel desperately needed an advocate.
• Gizelle delivered her compliment to Stacey with gritted teeth; it almost shocks me how much she can’t stand her.
• It’s amazing that the ladies can successfully celebrate 10 years, but why would Gizelle sit there and lie about loving Ashley as an addition to the show? Gizelle and Robyn spent the first three seasons hating her guts. It’s on tape!
• I personally found the back and forth between Stacey and Tia on accents and code switching to be quite crass and all predicated on the myth that the standard everyone should aspire to is something resembling European whiteness, or at the very least, standing next to it. Hated every second!
Fast forward nearly 25 years, and the show is now the longest-running musical on Broadway, with one of the most well-known stunt cast roles for Roxie Hart, who has, ironically enough, been portrayed by numerous Housewives. In a twisted way, it has become a meta-commentary on itself: What is the industry that relies on constant titillation and spectacle to keep consumers entertained and asking for more? Reality television fits that bill to a tee — to keep viewers onboard, castmembers progressively go through a sort of self-flanderization, creating a persona that increasingly caricaturizes their most sensational traits until they become a walking meme, because the opposite of shamelessness is irrelevance. Now, I’m not calling Andy Cohen Billy Flynn, but his careful warning to Stacey and the rest of the Potomac wives about the danger of letting internet fandom get to your head is remarkably similar to when Billy looks at Roxie Hart and says, “You are a phony celebrity. You’re a flash in the pan. In a couple of weeks, no one’s gonna give a shit about you.” Nothing encapsulates that appetite for chaos and pageantry like a Housewives reunion. Like Flynn says, “Give ‘em a show that’s so splendiferous, row after row will grow vociferous.”
Let’s get to the brass tacks, shall we? This week, we mainly focused on Stacey, Angel, and Wendy, three women who have been forced to address the distinction between their personas and actual lives in different ways. Stacey’s persona has taken her to cult-favorite heights while isolating her from the cast; Angel is fighting to reintroduce herself after being portrayed as a humorless sad sack; Wendy is fighting to reclaim her pedestal after her current legal troubles knocked the wind right out of her condescending sails. They are all in make-or-break positions, and for the most part, stepped up to the plate accordingly.
It may not look like it due to the fanfare, but Stacey is sitting atop a very fragile pedestal. Her QVC videos made her a star, as well as her ability to turn on her broadcaster sensibilities on a dime and master passive aggressiveness at levels I haven’t seen in a long time — but outside of Wendy, she has effectively been pushed onto an island, which can quickly become a road to nowhere. Stacey is a smart woman. She knows that being a cult favorite means very little if the women refuse to film with you. The fans may protest, but they would easily move on were she to be replaced. This is her shot to attempt to be a little conciliatory about her off-putting persona and find a road to forging new alliances.
The problem is, however, that Stacey is allergic to compromise. She indeed has the upper hand, but the women are not wrong for calling out her constant lying; where they failed is in refusing to let it go after they brought it up. Stacey did secretly launch a competing weed brand; she lied about who filed for divorce; she absolutely lied to Tia about why she couldn’t make dinner; and while the whole “contract” with TJ was definitely bunk from a legal perspective, there clearly seemed to be some understanding between the two, whatever it was. Instead of giving in a little to let Gizelle and Ashley feel like they won a victory, she goes to the Karen Huger school of deflecting: they know what its like to be embarrassed by men, and she has the right to her privacy. That tactic may work now as she is responding from a position of strength, but the fans won’t give her runway to lie without accountability forever. While Stacey’s on-camera persona is a clear success, her struggles to manage interpersonal tensions may be what ultimately takes her down if she’s not careful.
For Angel, this was her last shot at leaving an impression after a disastrous season — and while I may be grading on a bit of a curve due to how badly she flailed, I have to admit I was happy to see her show up and immediately try to reset the room. She apologized to Wendy for claiming that she was the one who said catfish (even though she definitely amped it up), and explained exactly why she chose not to argue with Keiarna on television around the chin-check remark. She confirmed that she did buy in Potomac, and reminded Ashley that she is somewhere on Virginia farmland and has no room to comment on her real estate. She made her issues with Ashley plain, pointing out fairly that it is egregious to call her sensitive when they continued to drag out the catfish bit to mock her. Wendy still got a few jabs in — responding to the Forrest Whitaker insult with James Earl Jones was truly inspired — but all said and done, Angel made very clear that she planned to get in the field this reunion, which is more than what we can say for Keiarna so far.
Wendy, unfortunately, is stuck in a paradox of her own construction: the character she portrays on TV is one of unyielding condescension and pretension, yet the legal predicament she finds herself in requires that she show humility and vulnerability to get empathy not just from the viewers, but from the cast. As someone who also can use my accolades as armor, it is obvious that Wendy is struggling with the idea that she has to let at least one wall down so that she has any chance of getting through her upcoming trials, both literal and metaphorical. We see it in glimmers — the opening scene of Wendy and Eddie looking at each other in distress as they try to make sense of the nightmare they’re in was particularly compelling, as was the moment that she revealed, while holding back tears, that her eldest son knew what happened and how they have to keep the kids in the loop now. The problem is, unfortunately, that the second she closes that opening back up, it’s hard to forget that what she is under suspicion of is fraud borne out of keeping up with the Joneses, and her naturally lofty and dismissive tone doesn’t help matters.
Ashley and Gizelle easily exploit that tension. They call out that her and Eddie seemed to be smiling and high in the photos, which she refutes. They point out that she seems to be approaching it with a sense of irreverence that is unbecoming for the legal circumstance she’s in, which she approaches with defensiveness. I believe that Wendy is indeed terrified, even if she’s afraid to express that fully amongst a cast that has left her to the wolves in previous years. The problem is that her the condescension that she once wielded as a weapon is now an obvious weakness — and there’s no more obvious indicator than Ashley quickly rebutting Wendy’s insult about her lack of accomplishments with a jab about the identity fraud claims. It’s a shame that it took Wendy five years to master her character, all for it to be moot due to her real life. If she can’t figure out how to rein that in quickly, I foresee this being a tough reunion for her.
• My sincerest apologies to Tia, whom I accidentally omitted from my end of season roundup. For a debut showing, I think Tia lands respectably in the middle of the road for me — she didn’t do too much, but sometimes the best think you can do as a newbie is ride the wave and see where everything settles. She clearly has a penchant for mess although she tries to throw rocks and hide her hands, like she did with the whole “eviction” argument. Despite her sloppy engineering, however, her willingness to go toe-to-toe when pressed will definitely do her favors as she continues to grow on the show. I foresee her complicated family dynamics offering a lot of fodder to comb through in the coming years — as long as she doesn’t spend the next season stuck under the thumb of Gizelle. 6.75/10
• The cheshire grin that spread across Stacey’s face as Wendy called her out for leaning on Nigerian branding just to get under Wendy’s skin genuinely gave me chills. Stacey may be a grandmaster of passive aggressiveness, and I was raised by the final boss of African guilt-tripping.
• Honestly, what is going on with Keiarna and Angel’s friendship? It feels like K is used to taking on the alpha role in their dynamic because her ease in just freely speaking over Angel is hard to watch play out on camera. It’s too bad that forthrightness didn’t come about during the season when Angel desperately needed an advocate.
• Gizelle delivered her compliment to Stacey with gritted teeth; it almost shocks me how much she can’t stand her.
• It’s amazing that the ladies can successfully celebrate 10 years, but why would Gizelle sit there and lie about loving Ashley as an addition to the show? Gizelle and Robyn spent the first three seasons hating her guts. It’s on tape!
• I personally found the back and forth between Stacey and Tia on accents and code switching to be quite crass and all predicated on the myth that the standard everyone should aspire to is something resembling European whiteness, or at the very least, standing next to it. Hated every second!
#MusicNews: Bruno Mars Unveils Tracklist For Upcoming Album “The Romantic”
Global superstar Bruno Mars has officially pulled back the curtain on his fourth solo studio album, The Romantic, revealing the full tracklist ahead of its worldwide release on February 27.
The announcement, shared via the artist’s official social media channels, follows a period of historic chart dominance for the singer-songwriter. Leading the project is the hit single “I Just Might,” which recently made history by debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track marks Mars’ first-ever No. 1 debut and his tenth overall chart-topper.
The arrival of The Romantic follows a string of monumental successes in 2024 and 2025 that have solidified Mars’ position as a premier force in the industry.
The Grammy-winning collaboration with Lady Gaga became the fastest song in Spotify history to reach 1 billion streams. His record-breaking duet with ROSÉ was recently named the IFPI Biggest-Selling Global Single of 2025. The track spent 12 weeks atop the Billboard Global 200 and secured “Song of the Year” at the 2025 MTV VMAs.
In January 2025, Mars became the first artist to surpass 150 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Mars continues to rewrite the record books regarding career longevity and commercial reach. As of 2026, he holds seven RIAA Diamond certifications. His breakout hit “Just the Way You Are” now stands as the highest-certified song in history at 21x Platinum. Additionally, his debut effort, Doo-Wops & Hooligans, remains the longest-running studio album by a solo male artist on the Billboard 200.
The upcoming album features nine tracks, including the aforementioned “I Just Might.” Fans can currently pre-save the digital album or pre-order an exclusive vinyl edition through official retail channels.
Risk It All
Cha Cha Cha
I Just Might
God Was Showing Off
Why You Wanna Fight?
On My Soul
Something Serious
Nothing Left
Dance With Me
Global superstar Bruno Mars has officially pulled back the curtain on his fourth solo studio album, The Romantic, revealing the full tracklist ahead of its worldwide release on February 27.
The announcement, shared via the artist’s official social media channels, follows a period of historic chart dominance for the singer-songwriter. Leading the project is the hit single “I Just Might,” which recently made history by debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track marks Mars’ first-ever No. 1 debut and his tenth overall chart-topper.
The arrival of The Romantic follows a string of monumental successes in 2024 and 2025 that have solidified Mars’ position as a premier force in the industry.
The Grammy-winning collaboration with Lady Gaga became the fastest song in Spotify history to reach 1 billion streams. His record-breaking duet with ROSÉ was recently named the IFPI Biggest-Selling Global Single of 2025. The track spent 12 weeks atop the Billboard Global 200 and secured “Song of the Year” at the 2025 MTV VMAs.
In January 2025, Mars became the first artist to surpass 150 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Mars continues to rewrite the record books regarding career longevity and commercial reach. As of 2026, he holds seven RIAA Diamond certifications. His breakout hit “Just the Way You Are” now stands as the highest-certified song in history at 21x Platinum. Additionally, his debut effort, Doo-Wops & Hooligans, remains the longest-running studio album by a solo male artist on the Billboard 200.
The upcoming album features nine tracks, including the aforementioned “I Just Might.” Fans can currently pre-save the digital album or pre-order an exclusive vinyl edition through official retail channels.
Risk It All
Cha Cha Cha
I Just Might
God Was Showing Off
Why You Wanna Fight?
On My Soul
Something Serious
Nothing Left
Dance With Me
#HipHopNews: JAŸ-Z’s “Dead Presidents” Hits Streaming Services for 30th Anniversary
Produced by Ski Beatz and recorded at D&D Studios, the track was originally released independently through Roc-A-Fella Records. Despite its lasting impact, “Dead Presidents” did not appear on JAŸ-Z’s groundbreaking debut album, Reasonable Doubt.
The anniversary rollout celebrates the song’s legacy and influence, offering longtime listeners and collectors the chance to revisit a foundational moment in JAŸ-Z’s rise. The release also introduces the record to a new generation of fans through modern streaming access.
“Dead Presidents” remains one of JAŸ-Z’s most defining early recordings, helping shape the blueprint for his legendary career.
Gabourey Sidibe's Husband Brandon Frankel Reveals Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis
Gabourey Sidibe‘s husband Brandon Frankel has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer after previously having surgery to have it removed.
The 35-year-old shared a few photos of him and Gabourey together in selfies taken at the hospital on Instagram on Friday (February 20), along with a lengthy caption containing details about his health.
“Things I never thought I’d have to post: I was diagnosed with Stage I Papillary Thyroid cancer,” he wrote. “I found it very early because I pushed for an ultrasound my doctor didn’t think I needed.”
Brandon said he “refused to ‘wait and see’” or return in “6-9 months.”
“I made the calls. I leveraged connections. I chased cancellations. I made a LOT of noise. It worked. Surgery went well. I’m okay for now,” he continued.
He said that though they caught it early, “pathology showed a more aggressive cell type,” so there will be “more monitoring ahead.”
“Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Early detection didn’t just possibly save my life. Access and advocating for myself did,” Brandon wrote. “I had insurance. I had time. I had people who could help move things faster. Too many don’t.”
From there, his caption went on to lobby for healthcare being a “basic human right,” as he said it should not be “reward the loudest, the most connected, or the most financially secure. It shouldn’t require strategy, privilege, and stamina just to feel safe.”
“My wife carried our family through all of this- holding everything down while I handled appointments, surgery, and recovery. I don’t know how anyone does this without that kind of love and support,” he wrote.
Brandon included several selfies taken from the hospital along with a couple with him and his kids. He and Gabourey have 21-month-old twins, one boy and one girl, named Cooper, and Maya.
Gabourey Sidibe‘s husband Brandon Frankel has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer after previously having surgery to have it removed.
The 35-year-old shared a few photos of him and Gabourey together in selfies taken at the hospital on Instagram on Friday (February 20), along with a lengthy caption containing details about his health.
“Things I never thought I’d have to post: I was diagnosed with Stage I Papillary Thyroid cancer,” he wrote. “I found it very early because I pushed for an ultrasound my doctor didn’t think I needed.”
Brandon said he “refused to ‘wait and see’” or return in “6-9 months.”
“I made the calls. I leveraged connections. I chased cancellations. I made a LOT of noise. It worked. Surgery went well. I’m okay for now,” he continued.
He said that though they caught it early, “pathology showed a more aggressive cell type,” so there will be “more monitoring ahead.”
“Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Early detection didn’t just possibly save my life. Access and advocating for myself did,” Brandon wrote. “I had insurance. I had time. I had people who could help move things faster. Too many don’t.”
From there, his caption went on to lobby for healthcare being a “basic human right,” as he said it should not be “reward the loudest, the most connected, or the most financially secure. It shouldn’t require strategy, privilege, and stamina just to feel safe.”
“My wife carried our family through all of this- holding everything down while I handled appointments, surgery, and recovery. I don’t know how anyone does this without that kind of love and support,” he wrote.
Brandon included several selfies taken from the hospital along with a couple with him and his kids. He and Gabourey have 21-month-old twins, one boy and one girl, named Cooper, and Maya.
‘The Jennifer Hudson Show’ Renewed For 5th Season
“The Jennifer Hudson Show” will return for a fifth season, extending the daytime talk program through the 2026–27 television season. The renewal, announced Thursday, reflects continued support from station groups and steady audience engagement across broadcast and digital platforms.
Host Jennifer Hudson, an EGOT winner known for her music and acting career, credited the show’s team and viewers for its longevity.
“I could not be more honored to continue this journey alongside a phenomenal group of brilliant producers, dedicated crew, and collaborative partners,” Hudson said in a statement released with the renewal news.
The syndicated series launched in 2022 and quickly carved out a niche with a mix of celebrity interviews, musical performances and community-focused segments. Its format emphasizes personal storytelling and moments of connection with studio audiences.
Hudson highlighted the importance of viewers in sustaining the show’s momentum.
“It is such a joy to connect with people in meaningful ways every day… None of this would be possible without our incredible audience,” she said.
Television analysts say reaching a fifth season is a notable milestone in daytime syndication, where competition for viewers remains intense. Talk shows must balance entertainment value with consistent booking and strong local station relationships.
Fox Television Stations and producing partners have continued to back the program, citing its positive tone and reliable performance in key markets. The show has also built a significant online presence, with clips frequently circulating on social media.
Hudson’s background as a performer shapes the program’s identity. Episodes often include live singing, audience participation and emotional conversations with guests ranging from actors to community leaders.
The renewal arrives as daytime television evolves, with networks seeking shows that can resonate both on air and online. Programs that generate shareable moments and loyal fan communities are increasingly valued.
Industry observers note that Hudson’s personal story, from “American Idol” finalist to Oscar winner, contributes to the show’s appeal. Her openness during interviews often sets a conversational tone that encourages guests to share candid experiences.
Production will continue in Los Angeles, where the show tapes before a live audience. New episodes are expected to maintain the established format while exploring additional digital features designed to reach viewers beyond traditional broadcasts.
Reaching a fifth season signals stability for the series and underscores Hudson’s growing influence in daytime television. With continued backing from stations and a dedicated audience, the show appears positioned to remain a fixture in the daytime lineup.
“The Jennifer Hudson Show” will return for a fifth season, extending the daytime talk program through the 2026–27 television season. The renewal, announced Thursday, reflects continued support from station groups and steady audience engagement across broadcast and digital platforms.
Host Jennifer Hudson, an EGOT winner known for her music and acting career, credited the show’s team and viewers for its longevity.
“I could not be more honored to continue this journey alongside a phenomenal group of brilliant producers, dedicated crew, and collaborative partners,” Hudson said in a statement released with the renewal news.
The syndicated series launched in 2022 and quickly carved out a niche with a mix of celebrity interviews, musical performances and community-focused segments. Its format emphasizes personal storytelling and moments of connection with studio audiences.
Hudson highlighted the importance of viewers in sustaining the show’s momentum.
“It is such a joy to connect with people in meaningful ways every day… None of this would be possible without our incredible audience,” she said.
Television analysts say reaching a fifth season is a notable milestone in daytime syndication, where competition for viewers remains intense. Talk shows must balance entertainment value with consistent booking and strong local station relationships.
Fox Television Stations and producing partners have continued to back the program, citing its positive tone and reliable performance in key markets. The show has also built a significant online presence, with clips frequently circulating on social media.
Hudson’s background as a performer shapes the program’s identity. Episodes often include live singing, audience participation and emotional conversations with guests ranging from actors to community leaders.
The renewal arrives as daytime television evolves, with networks seeking shows that can resonate both on air and online. Programs that generate shareable moments and loyal fan communities are increasingly valued.
Industry observers note that Hudson’s personal story, from “American Idol” finalist to Oscar winner, contributes to the show’s appeal. Her openness during interviews often sets a conversational tone that encourages guests to share candid experiences.
Production will continue in Los Angeles, where the show tapes before a live audience. New episodes are expected to maintain the established format while exploring additional digital features designed to reach viewers beyond traditional broadcasts.
Reaching a fifth season signals stability for the series and underscores Hudson’s growing influence in daytime television. With continued backing from stations and a dedicated audience, the show appears positioned to remain a fixture in the daytime lineup.
A$AP Rocky Throws Surprise Party for Rihanna's 38th Birthday!
A$AP Rocky is going all out for Rihanna‘s 38th birthday! The 37-year-old “Sundress” rapper threw a surprise birthday party for the “We Found Love” singer at Italian restaurant Giorgio Baldi on Friday night (February 20) in Santa Monica, Calif.
For the party, Rocky was seen wearing a red plaid shirt and tan pants while Rihanna donned a sheer black dress, matching heels and faux fur jacket.
For the party, Rocky was seen wearing a red plaid shirt and tan pants while Rihanna donned a sheer black dress, matching heels and faux fur jacket.
Last week, the longtime couple, and parents of three, was in New York City for Fashion Week where Rocky debuted his third AWGE collection. Rihanna was spotted sitting front row at the show!
If you didn’t see, Rocky just recently announced that he will be hitting the road on his Don’t Be Dumb World Tour!
If you didn’t see, Rocky just recently announced that he will be hitting the road on his Don’t Be Dumb World Tour!
America’s Next Top Model Documentary: Most Shocking Moments Not Included on Netflix
America’s Next Top Model is making headlines again after the release of Netflix’s bombshell documentary, Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model. The three-part series explores how the cultural phenomenon was created, and it spares none of the gritty behind-the-scenes details. The doc includes testimonials from former contestants who accuse Tyra Banks and production of exposing their insecurities and personal trauma for ratings. And let’s not forget the alarming number of highly offensive photoshoots the show aired throughout the years. It’s a harrowing piece of media, to say the least.
The release of the doc sent me on a trip down ANTM memory lane, and it wasn’t pleasant. You may find this hard to believe, but there are quite a few controversial moments that the doc failed to touch on. Let’s dive into some of the worst moments together.
The ANTM Netflix documentary left out some shocking moments
America’s Next Top Model is a double-edged sword. In some ways, it was revolutionary and ahead of the curve. The 2000s weren’t exactly a celebration of diversity. ANTM, for all its faults, did showcase more diversity than many other TV programs at the time. In the doc, Season 1 contestant Ebony Haith speaks about the power of being able to show a queer relationship on national television in 2003. But minutes later, she speaks about facing racial prejudice on the show, recalling moments when hairstylists made fun of her hair texture and production did nothing. There were good moments, but right now, we can’t help but focus on the shocking ones.
Here are the five standout moments the doc missed:
Tyra Banks tells a model she acts too gay
You may remember Kim Stolz from Cycle 5. She was an out and proud lesbian who had multiple girls in the house questioning their sexuality. ANTM was always a beacon for queer representation, so fans were confused when Tyra criticized Kim for being unapologetically herself. One day at panel, Kim told Tyra she wanted to live her life out and proud, which Tyra warned against.
“I think there’s … being proud, like, *I’m* Black and proud, but I’m not walking down the red carpet all like, ‘I’m Black! I’m proud!'” she said.
Jaeda and the uncomfortable kiss
In Cycle 7, contestant Jaeda Nichole was forced to kiss a male model who made a racially insensitive comment. Before the shoot, the male model assigned to Jaeda said he didn’t like Black women. The comment clearly upset Jaeda, but production forced her to continue with the shoot. At panel, she was criticized for showing her discomfort on set. The judges eliminated her that week.
Photographer Yu Tsai called Winnie Harlow a panda on set
During a photoshoot in Cycle 21, photographer Yu Tsai called model Winnie Harlow, who has a condition called vitiligo, a panda and a cow. Winnie confronted Yu about the comments. In a confessional, she said she knew Yu didn’t mean harm, but she worried the comments would negatively impact viewers living with vitiligo. Yu was dismissive of Winnie, crushing the possibility of a teachable moment. Sigh.
Tyra calls out a model for being “unattractive”
In Cycle 3, Tyra took issue with contestant Yaya DaCosta’s African pride. During a challenge that required the models to style a look based around a hat of their choice, Yaya chose a cowboy hat and added details from her African roots. At panel, the guest judge criticized Yaya for her “intensity to prove her Africaness,” calling it “overbearing.” Yaya tried to defend herself, but Tyra was not having it. She told the model, “You’re being very defensive and it’s not attractive.”
The girl who had to pose in a grave
In Cycle 4, the ANTM producers instructed contestant Kahlen Rondot to pose in a grave less than 24 hours after her friend’s death. The model opened up about the controversial shoot in an interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2023. She told the outlet was pre-planned, saying it was just an unfortunate coincidence.
“I was bawling and a mess,” she said, recalling the event. “I turned around at one point and started to walk away.
Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model is available to stream on Netflix.
America’s Next Top Model is making headlines again after the release of Netflix’s bombshell documentary, Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model. The three-part series explores how the cultural phenomenon was created, and it spares none of the gritty behind-the-scenes details. The doc includes testimonials from former contestants who accuse Tyra Banks and production of exposing their insecurities and personal trauma for ratings. And let’s not forget the alarming number of highly offensive photoshoots the show aired throughout the years. It’s a harrowing piece of media, to say the least.
The release of the doc sent me on a trip down ANTM memory lane, and it wasn’t pleasant. You may find this hard to believe, but there are quite a few controversial moments that the doc failed to touch on. Let’s dive into some of the worst moments together.
The ANTM Netflix documentary left out some shocking moments
America’s Next Top Model is a double-edged sword. In some ways, it was revolutionary and ahead of the curve. The 2000s weren’t exactly a celebration of diversity. ANTM, for all its faults, did showcase more diversity than many other TV programs at the time. In the doc, Season 1 contestant Ebony Haith speaks about the power of being able to show a queer relationship on national television in 2003. But minutes later, she speaks about facing racial prejudice on the show, recalling moments when hairstylists made fun of her hair texture and production did nothing. There were good moments, but right now, we can’t help but focus on the shocking ones.
Here are the five standout moments the doc missed:
Tyra Banks tells a model she acts too gay
You may remember Kim Stolz from Cycle 5. She was an out and proud lesbian who had multiple girls in the house questioning their sexuality. ANTM was always a beacon for queer representation, so fans were confused when Tyra criticized Kim for being unapologetically herself. One day at panel, Kim told Tyra she wanted to live her life out and proud, which Tyra warned against.
“I think there’s … being proud, like, *I’m* Black and proud, but I’m not walking down the red carpet all like, ‘I’m Black! I’m proud!'” she said.
Jaeda and the uncomfortable kiss
In Cycle 7, contestant Jaeda Nichole was forced to kiss a male model who made a racially insensitive comment. Before the shoot, the male model assigned to Jaeda said he didn’t like Black women. The comment clearly upset Jaeda, but production forced her to continue with the shoot. At panel, she was criticized for showing her discomfort on set. The judges eliminated her that week.
Photographer Yu Tsai called Winnie Harlow a panda on set
During a photoshoot in Cycle 21, photographer Yu Tsai called model Winnie Harlow, who has a condition called vitiligo, a panda and a cow. Winnie confronted Yu about the comments. In a confessional, she said she knew Yu didn’t mean harm, but she worried the comments would negatively impact viewers living with vitiligo. Yu was dismissive of Winnie, crushing the possibility of a teachable moment. Sigh.
Tyra calls out a model for being “unattractive”
In Cycle 3, Tyra took issue with contestant Yaya DaCosta’s African pride. During a challenge that required the models to style a look based around a hat of their choice, Yaya chose a cowboy hat and added details from her African roots. At panel, the guest judge criticized Yaya for her “intensity to prove her Africaness,” calling it “overbearing.” Yaya tried to defend herself, but Tyra was not having it. She told the model, “You’re being very defensive and it’s not attractive.”
The girl who had to pose in a grave
In Cycle 4, the ANTM producers instructed contestant Kahlen Rondot to pose in a grave less than 24 hours after her friend’s death. The model opened up about the controversial shoot in an interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2023. She told the outlet was pre-planned, saying it was just an unfortunate coincidence.
“I was bawling and a mess,” she said, recalling the event. “I turned around at one point and started to walk away.
Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model is available to stream on Netflix.
Former "American Idol" contestant Caleb Flynn charged with murder, staging crime scene in wife's death in Ohio
Authorities in Ohio have charged a former contestant on "American Idol" with shooting and killing his wife and staging the crime scene to mislead investigators.
Caleb Flynn, 39, was arrested by Tipp City police on Thursday, Feb. 19, at his home and booked into the Miami County Jail, according to court records. He pleaded not guilty Friday to charges of murder, assault and tampering with evidence.
"I just want to take care of my daughters. I'm not a risk," he told Judge Samuel Huffman in a video of his arraignment from jail.
The judge set his bond at $2 million. Caleb Flynn appeared in season 12 of "American Idol." In an interview posted to the show's YouTube channel in 2013, he described himself as a music pastor.
"The thing that makes me unique ... I absolutely love the Lord. I love my wife more than anything. She is very, very, very pretty," he said. "I'm just a normal person who absolutely loves to sing more than anything in the world."
Ashley Flynn, a 37-year-old middle school volleyball coach and former teacher, was found dead Monday after officers received a report of a burglary and shooting at a Tipp City home, according to a news release by Tipp City Police. Her husband and two children were inside the home when officers arrived.
In a 911 call released by authorities, a frantic Caleb Flynn tells a dispatcher someone broke into his home and killed his wife. He says she was shot multiple times in the head and he doesn't know whether the intruder was still there.
"There's blood everywhere, oh my god, oh my god, oh my god," he says.
His attorney, Patrick Mulligan, said in a statement on Saturday that he and Flynn were "disappointed and concerned about the short timeline and seeming rush to judgment in this case." Police arrested Flynn on Thursday. "When the government runs out of leads or can't develop leads and looks at a surviving spouse in cases such as these, the chance of a wrongful conviction increases," the statement said.
Tipp City Police Chief Greg Adkins defended the investigation, saying in an email on Saturday that it had "not moved fast."
"Rather, it has progressed at a pace dictated by a thorough and deliberate investigative process," he said.
In a statement to CBS affiliate WHIO-TV, Ashley Flynn's family said they believe law enforcement officials took "proper steps" in the arrest of Caleb Flynn.
"Our hearts are shattered. Ashley brought endless light to our world, and we are trying to navigate this immense loss," the family said in the statement. "Our family believes this arrest was made carefully and not without serious consideration. After speaking with both local police and federal authorities, we trust the proper steps were taken, and the process is being handled appropriately."
Ashley Flynn was also a substitute teacher, Tipp City Schools said on its Facebook page.
"She was known for her beautiful smile, warmth, kindness, and the positive impact she had on so many—both in and out of the classroom and on the court," the post said.
Caleb Flynn, 39, was arrested by Tipp City police on Thursday, Feb. 19, at his home and booked into the Miami County Jail, according to court records. He pleaded not guilty Friday to charges of murder, assault and tampering with evidence.
"I just want to take care of my daughters. I'm not a risk," he told Judge Samuel Huffman in a video of his arraignment from jail.
The judge set his bond at $2 million. Caleb Flynn appeared in season 12 of "American Idol." In an interview posted to the show's YouTube channel in 2013, he described himself as a music pastor.
"The thing that makes me unique ... I absolutely love the Lord. I love my wife more than anything. She is very, very, very pretty," he said. "I'm just a normal person who absolutely loves to sing more than anything in the world."
Ashley Flynn, a 37-year-old middle school volleyball coach and former teacher, was found dead Monday after officers received a report of a burglary and shooting at a Tipp City home, according to a news release by Tipp City Police. Her husband and two children were inside the home when officers arrived.
In a 911 call released by authorities, a frantic Caleb Flynn tells a dispatcher someone broke into his home and killed his wife. He says she was shot multiple times in the head and he doesn't know whether the intruder was still there.
"There's blood everywhere, oh my god, oh my god, oh my god," he says.
His attorney, Patrick Mulligan, said in a statement on Saturday that he and Flynn were "disappointed and concerned about the short timeline and seeming rush to judgment in this case." Police arrested Flynn on Thursday. "When the government runs out of leads or can't develop leads and looks at a surviving spouse in cases such as these, the chance of a wrongful conviction increases," the statement said.
Tipp City Police Chief Greg Adkins defended the investigation, saying in an email on Saturday that it had "not moved fast."
"Rather, it has progressed at a pace dictated by a thorough and deliberate investigative process," he said.
In a statement to CBS affiliate WHIO-TV, Ashley Flynn's family said they believe law enforcement officials took "proper steps" in the arrest of Caleb Flynn.
"Our hearts are shattered. Ashley brought endless light to our world, and we are trying to navigate this immense loss," the family said in the statement. "Our family believes this arrest was made carefully and not without serious consideration. After speaking with both local police and federal authorities, we trust the proper steps were taken, and the process is being handled appropriately."
Ashley Flynn was also a substitute teacher, Tipp City Schools said on its Facebook page.
"She was known for her beautiful smile, warmth, kindness, and the positive impact she had on so many—both in and out of the classroom and on the court," the post said.
House speaker denies request for Rev. Jesse Jackson to lie in honor at U.S. Capitol or Fly Flags at Half staff
The request was made by Rev. Jesse Jackson’s family. The honor is typically reserved for former Presidents and military leaders, but Rev. Billy Graham and Rosa Parks have also lain in state in the Rotunda.
The late Rev. Jesse Jackson will not lie in honor in the United States Capitol Rotunda after a request for the commemoration was denied by the House Speaker Mike Johnson's office due to past precedent.
Johnson’s office said it received a request from the family to have Jackson’s remains lie in honor at the Capitol, but the request was denied, because of the precedent that the space is typically reserved for former presidents, the military and select officials.
The civil rights leader died this week at the age of 84. The family and some House Democrats had filed a request for Jackson to be honored at the U.S. Capitol.
Amid the country’s political divisions, there have been flare ups over who is memorialized at the Capitol with a service to lie in state, or honor, in the Rotunda. During such events, the public is generally allowed to visit the Capitol and pay their respects.
Recent requests had similarly been made, and denied, to honor Charlie Kirk, the slain conservative activist, and former Vice President Dick Cheney.
There is no specific rule about who qualifies for the honor, a decision that is controlled by concurrence from both the House and Senate.
The Jackson family has announced scheduled dates for memorial services beginning next week that will honor the late reverend's life in Chicago, Washington, D.C. and South Carolina. In a statement, the Jackson family said it had heard from leaders in both South Carolina, Jackson’s native state, and Washington offering for Jackson to be celebrated in both locations. Talks are ongoing with lawmakers about where those proceedings will take place. His final memorial services will be held in Chicago on March 6 and 7.
Typically, the Capitol and its Rotunda have been reserved for the “most eminent citizens,” according to the Architect of the Capitol’s website. It said government and military officials lay in state, while private citizens in honor.
In 2020, Congressman John Lewis, another veteran of the Civil Rights movement, was the first Black lawmaker to lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda after a ceremony honoring his legacy was held outside on the Capitol steps due to pandemic restrictions at the time.
Later that year, then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi allowed services for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg at the Capitol’s Statuary Hall after agreement could not be reached for services in the Capitol’s Rotunda.
It is rare for private citizens to be honored at the Capitol, but there is precedent – most notably Civil Rights icon Rosa Parks, in 2005, and the Reverend Billy Graham, in 2018.
A passionate civil rights leader and globally-minded humanitarian, Jackson's fiery speeches and dual 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns transformed American politics for generations. Jackson's organization, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, became a hub for progressive organizers across the country.
His unapologetic calls for a progressive economic agenda and more inclusive policies for all racial groups, religions, genders and orientations laid the groundwork for the progressive movement within the Democratic Party.
Jackson also garnered a global reputation as a champion for human rights. He conducted the release of American hostages on multiple continents and argued for greater connections between civil rights movements around the world, most notably as a fierce critic of the policies of Apartheid South Africa.
The request was made by Rev. Jesse Jackson’s family. The honor is typically reserved for former Presidents and military leaders, but Rev. Billy Graham and Rosa Parks have also lain in state in the Rotunda.
The late Rev. Jesse Jackson will not lie in honor in the United States Capitol Rotunda after a request for the commemoration was denied by the House Speaker Mike Johnson's office due to past precedent.
Johnson’s office said it received a request from the family to have Jackson’s remains lie in honor at the Capitol, but the request was denied, because of the precedent that the space is typically reserved for former presidents, the military and select officials.
The civil rights leader died this week at the age of 84. The family and some House Democrats had filed a request for Jackson to be honored at the U.S. Capitol.
Amid the country’s political divisions, there have been flare ups over who is memorialized at the Capitol with a service to lie in state, or honor, in the Rotunda. During such events, the public is generally allowed to visit the Capitol and pay their respects.
Recent requests had similarly been made, and denied, to honor Charlie Kirk, the slain conservative activist, and former Vice President Dick Cheney.
There is no specific rule about who qualifies for the honor, a decision that is controlled by concurrence from both the House and Senate.
The Jackson family has announced scheduled dates for memorial services beginning next week that will honor the late reverend's life in Chicago, Washington, D.C. and South Carolina. In a statement, the Jackson family said it had heard from leaders in both South Carolina, Jackson’s native state, and Washington offering for Jackson to be celebrated in both locations. Talks are ongoing with lawmakers about where those proceedings will take place. His final memorial services will be held in Chicago on March 6 and 7.
Typically, the Capitol and its Rotunda have been reserved for the “most eminent citizens,” according to the Architect of the Capitol’s website. It said government and military officials lay in state, while private citizens in honor.
In 2020, Congressman John Lewis, another veteran of the Civil Rights movement, was the first Black lawmaker to lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda after a ceremony honoring his legacy was held outside on the Capitol steps due to pandemic restrictions at the time.
Later that year, then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi allowed services for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg at the Capitol’s Statuary Hall after agreement could not be reached for services in the Capitol’s Rotunda.
It is rare for private citizens to be honored at the Capitol, but there is precedent – most notably Civil Rights icon Rosa Parks, in 2005, and the Reverend Billy Graham, in 2018.
A passionate civil rights leader and globally-minded humanitarian, Jackson's fiery speeches and dual 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns transformed American politics for generations. Jackson's organization, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, became a hub for progressive organizers across the country.
His unapologetic calls for a progressive economic agenda and more inclusive policies for all racial groups, religions, genders and orientations laid the groundwork for the progressive movement within the Democratic Party.
Jackson also garnered a global reputation as a champion for human rights. He conducted the release of American hostages on multiple continents and argued for greater connections between civil rights movements around the world, most notably as a fierce critic of the policies of Apartheid South Africa.
Former ‘ANTM’ Runway Coach Miss J. Alexander Now Requires ‘Full-Time’ Care After Stroke Has launched a $100K GoFundMe
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Miss J. Alexander following the devastating stroke he suffered in late 2022 — a medical emergency he recently detailed in the “America’s Next Top Model” Netflix documentary.
Titled “Support Miss J. Alexander’s Road to Recovery,” the fundraiser is seeking $100,000 to assist with his ongoing medical needs.
According to the campaign, “On December 27, 2022, Miss J. suffered a debilitating stroke and was found unresponsive in his apartment by his niece.” After spending five weeks in a coma, he was left unable to walk or speak and spent nearly a year and a half in a rehabilitation center. The recovery period included additional mini-strokes, seizures, and four more hospitalizations.
The page notes he is currently confined to a wheelchair, with his right arm immobile, and requires full-time care along with regular physical, speech, and occupational therapy.
“This GoFundMe has been created to help Miss J. focus on healing without the stress of mounting bills and medical expenses.”
Titled “Support Miss J. Alexander’s Road to Recovery,” the fundraiser is seeking $100,000 to assist with his ongoing medical needs.
According to the campaign, “On December 27, 2022, Miss J. suffered a debilitating stroke and was found unresponsive in his apartment by his niece.” After spending five weeks in a coma, he was left unable to walk or speak and spent nearly a year and a half in a rehabilitation center. The recovery period included additional mini-strokes, seizures, and four more hospitalizations.
The page notes he is currently confined to a wheelchair, with his right arm immobile, and requires full-time care along with regular physical, speech, and occupational therapy.
“This GoFundMe has been created to help Miss J. focus on healing without the stress of mounting bills and medical expenses.”
New York Salsa Legend and Percussionist Willie Colón has died at 75
Willie Colón, the pioneering salsa musician whose innovative trombone work and groundbreaking compositions helped transform Latin music into a global phenomenon, has died at age 75.
His family confirmed Saturday that the Bronx-born legend passed away peacefully in New York, surrounded by loved ones. The announcement, shared on his social media accounts, brought an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians around the world who recognized Colón as one of the most influential figures in Latin music history.
Colón had been hospitalized in recent days with respiratory problems, though his family has not released specific details about his medical condition. His longtime collaborator Rubén Blades was among the first major artists to publicly acknowledge the loss, writing that he was devastated by news he had initially resisted believing.
Born William Anthony Colón Román in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Colón displayed extraordinary musical talent from childhood. His grandmother Antonia Román, whom he called Doña Toña, gave him his first instrument, a trumpet, when he was just 11 years old. That gift changed his life forever and set him on a path that would reshape Latin music.
By age 16, Colón recorded his first album, El Malo, launching a career that would span more than five decades and produce over 40 albums. His approach to salsa was revolutionary, incorporating elements of jazz, rock and traditional Caribbean rhythms in ways that expanded the genre’s boundaries and appeal.
Colón became known as the Nuyorican, a term reflecting his dual Puerto Rican and New York identities. That cultural duality infused his music with a unique energy that resonated with Latino communities across the Americas while also attracting mainstream audiences who had never heard salsa before.
Willie’s collaboration with singer Héctor Lavoe under the Fania Records label produced some of salsa’s most enduring masterpieces. Together, they created what became known as the New York salsa sound during the 1960s and 1970s, recording classics including Calle Luna, Calle Sol and La Murga.
The partnership between Colón’s innovative arrangements and Lavoe’s powerful voice gave Latin music a new sound identity that influenced countless artists who followed. Their work together transcended the music itself, representing the struggles, dreams and cultural pride of Latino communities in New York and beyond.
Lavoe died in 1993, but Colón continued creating music and collaborating with other legendary artists including Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades. Each partnership produced memorable recordings that expanded salsa’s reach and cemented Colón’s reputation as a musical visionary.
Willie’s influence reached far beyond his recordings. He appeared in films and television shows including Vigilante, Salsa and Miami Vice, becoming a familiar cultural figure throughout the Latino world. He used his platform to advocate for social justice and political causes affecting Puerto Rico and Latino communities.
His Grammy nominations and gold and platinum records testified to his commercial success, but Colón’s true legacy lies in how he shared Latin music with audiences worldwide. He helped elevate salsa from a regional genre to an internationally recognized art form.
In his final social media post on February 15, Colón shared thoughts seemingly directed at younger generations, ending with a message about protecting those who are coming. It was the responsibility of elders to recognize danger and protect their flock, he wrote, offering wisdom that now reads as a poignant farewell.
Willie Colón, the pioneering salsa musician whose innovative trombone work and groundbreaking compositions helped transform Latin music into a global phenomenon, has died at age 75.
His family confirmed Saturday that the Bronx-born legend passed away peacefully in New York, surrounded by loved ones. The announcement, shared on his social media accounts, brought an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians around the world who recognized Colón as one of the most influential figures in Latin music history.
Colón had been hospitalized in recent days with respiratory problems, though his family has not released specific details about his medical condition. His longtime collaborator Rubén Blades was among the first major artists to publicly acknowledge the loss, writing that he was devastated by news he had initially resisted believing.
Born William Anthony Colón Román in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, Colón displayed extraordinary musical talent from childhood. His grandmother Antonia Román, whom he called Doña Toña, gave him his first instrument, a trumpet, when he was just 11 years old. That gift changed his life forever and set him on a path that would reshape Latin music.
By age 16, Colón recorded his first album, El Malo, launching a career that would span more than five decades and produce over 40 albums. His approach to salsa was revolutionary, incorporating elements of jazz, rock and traditional Caribbean rhythms in ways that expanded the genre’s boundaries and appeal.
Colón became known as the Nuyorican, a term reflecting his dual Puerto Rican and New York identities. That cultural duality infused his music with a unique energy that resonated with Latino communities across the Americas while also attracting mainstream audiences who had never heard salsa before.
Willie’s collaboration with singer Héctor Lavoe under the Fania Records label produced some of salsa’s most enduring masterpieces. Together, they created what became known as the New York salsa sound during the 1960s and 1970s, recording classics including Calle Luna, Calle Sol and La Murga.
The partnership between Colón’s innovative arrangements and Lavoe’s powerful voice gave Latin music a new sound identity that influenced countless artists who followed. Their work together transcended the music itself, representing the struggles, dreams and cultural pride of Latino communities in New York and beyond.
Lavoe died in 1993, but Colón continued creating music and collaborating with other legendary artists including Celia Cruz and Rubén Blades. Each partnership produced memorable recordings that expanded salsa’s reach and cemented Colón’s reputation as a musical visionary.
Willie’s influence reached far beyond his recordings. He appeared in films and television shows including Vigilante, Salsa and Miami Vice, becoming a familiar cultural figure throughout the Latino world. He used his platform to advocate for social justice and political causes affecting Puerto Rico and Latino communities.
His Grammy nominations and gold and platinum records testified to his commercial success, but Colón’s true legacy lies in how he shared Latin music with audiences worldwide. He helped elevate salsa from a regional genre to an internationally recognized art form.
In his final social media post on February 15, Colón shared thoughts seemingly directed at younger generations, ending with a message about protecting those who are coming. It was the responsibility of elders to recognize danger and protect their flock, he wrote, offering wisdom that now reads as a poignant farewell.
R&B Legend Teddy Riley Regrets Saying He Would Work With R. Kelly Again
Most artists might typically avoid working with R. Kelly for obvious reasons. Currently, the “Pied Piper of R&B” is serving 30 years in prison for racketeering, sex trafficking, and various charges related to abuse. However, there is a vocal minority that insists upon his innocence, particularly in his fan base. Moreover, some of his contemporaries like Teddy Riley have stuck behind R. Kelly due to his musicianship.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, he emphasized that Kelly has done all the things someone ought to do when they commit heinous crimes. Consequently, Riley argued that Kelly is deserving of a second chance and that he would work with him on new music given the chance. “Everybody deserves a second chance,” Teddy Riley stressed. “Everyone deserves to repent, and everyone gets forgiven by God when you come to him. People miss his music. I’m the messenger to bring R&B back.”
Naturally, Riley’s fans were a bit upset at this wholehearted embrace of R. Kelly. After some heat came down upon him, he expressed a bit of remorse and addressed his comments accordingly on Instagram.
“I want to address the ‘Los Angeles Times’ interview directly,” Riley said in the caption. “As a producer, I’ve always been excited about the possibilities of music and creative collaboration. That excitement has defined my career. But I also understand that words carry weight, and I never want my passion for music to overshadow the very real pain that many people have experienced.”
“If my comments caused hurt, I sincerely apologize,” Teddy Riley continued. “That was never my intention. I take seriously the impact that abuse and misconduct have had on survivors and their families. Their experiences matter, and they deserve to be acknowledged with care and respect.”
Furthermore, Riley clarified that his mind was solely focused on the prospect of making music with someone he recognizes as a legend. The weight of R. Kelly’s actions didn’t fully process for him and he doesn’t condone it in the slightest. As a result, he thanked his supporters for holding him accountable and hoped they would still support his upcoming memoir.
“I have spent my life building a legacy rooted in innovation, integrity, and love for the art form. That remains my focus. I appreciate the dialogue, and I remain committed to moving forward with intention and accountability,” Teddy Riley concluded.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, he emphasized that Kelly has done all the things someone ought to do when they commit heinous crimes. Consequently, Riley argued that Kelly is deserving of a second chance and that he would work with him on new music given the chance. “Everybody deserves a second chance,” Teddy Riley stressed. “Everyone deserves to repent, and everyone gets forgiven by God when you come to him. People miss his music. I’m the messenger to bring R&B back.”
Naturally, Riley’s fans were a bit upset at this wholehearted embrace of R. Kelly. After some heat came down upon him, he expressed a bit of remorse and addressed his comments accordingly on Instagram.
“I want to address the ‘Los Angeles Times’ interview directly,” Riley said in the caption. “As a producer, I’ve always been excited about the possibilities of music and creative collaboration. That excitement has defined my career. But I also understand that words carry weight, and I never want my passion for music to overshadow the very real pain that many people have experienced.”
“If my comments caused hurt, I sincerely apologize,” Teddy Riley continued. “That was never my intention. I take seriously the impact that abuse and misconduct have had on survivors and their families. Their experiences matter, and they deserve to be acknowledged with care and respect.”
Furthermore, Riley clarified that his mind was solely focused on the prospect of making music with someone he recognizes as a legend. The weight of R. Kelly’s actions didn’t fully process for him and he doesn’t condone it in the slightest. As a result, he thanked his supporters for holding him accountable and hoped they would still support his upcoming memoir.
“I have spent my life building a legacy rooted in innovation, integrity, and love for the art form. That remains my focus. I appreciate the dialogue, and I remain committed to moving forward with intention and accountability,” Teddy Riley concluded.
Lil Jon Pays Tribute to Son Nathan Smith After His Death at 25
*Lil Jon is grieving the loss of his son, Nathan Smith, days after the 25-year-old was found deceased in Milton, Georgia.
Nathan, who performed as DJ Young Slade, had been reported missing on February 3 before authorities recovered a body from a pond on February 6. In the days since, Lil Jon has publicly honored his son’s life and legacy. Nathan was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 18, the first day of Ramadan, and the rapper marked the moment with a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
“In this holy month, I’m asking for extra du’a for him and for our family. Please pray that Allah grants him Jannah and grants us sabr, mercy, and strength,” he wrote, PEOPLE reports. “I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength.” He also thanked those who offered support, adding, “I will make sure the world knows your talent and never forgets your name. Nathan Murray Smith.”
In his earlier statement, Lil Jon described Nathan as “the kindest human being you would ever meet.”
He continued, “He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted – he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.” Calling him “an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and graduate of NYU,” the rapper said, “We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him.”
Police said Nathan was last seen around on February 3 after leaving home without his phone. Officials stated there is “no indication of foul play,” though the case remains open as the Fulton County Medical Examiner determines the cause of death.
*Lil Jon is grieving the loss of his son, Nathan Smith, days after the 25-year-old was found deceased in Milton, Georgia.
Nathan, who performed as DJ Young Slade, had been reported missing on February 3 before authorities recovered a body from a pond on February 6. In the days since, Lil Jon has publicly honored his son’s life and legacy. Nathan was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 18, the first day of Ramadan, and the rapper marked the moment with a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
“In this holy month, I’m asking for extra du’a for him and for our family. Please pray that Allah grants him Jannah and grants us sabr, mercy, and strength,” he wrote, PEOPLE reports. “I love you, son. Life will never be the same without you. Allah, give me strength.” He also thanked those who offered support, adding, “I will make sure the world knows your talent and never forgets your name. Nathan Murray Smith.”
In his earlier statement, Lil Jon described Nathan as “the kindest human being you would ever meet.”
He continued, “He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted – he loved his family and the friends in his life to the fullest.” Calling him “an amazingly talented young man; a music producer, an artist and engineer, and graduate of NYU,” the rapper said, “We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him.”
Police said Nathan was last seen around on February 3 after leaving home without his phone. Officials stated there is “no indication of foul play,” though the case remains open as the Fulton County Medical Examiner determines the cause of death.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
Enjoy!
"Find The Kale" scavenger hunt!
Bowtie included
AND NOW Meet: Justin
It's Justin! You can see more HERE
DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.
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HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD ALL!!!
EFREM
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