#FASHIONFAB: Ruth Negga in Archival Ossie Clark at The Canne Film Festival.
It’s time we checked in on Cannes jury member Ruth Negga, who is not taking a page from her co-judge Demi Moore and unveiling one outrageous look after another. Instead, she kept things fairly clean and streamlined over the weekend
hNice, your thoughts?
#RHOA: Nene Leakes Reveals Where She Stands With Kim Zolciak Today
Nene Leakes is sharing some major updates on where she stands with Kim Zolciak. The Real Housewives of Atlanta alums have such a long history that dates back to when they were cast members together on RHOA Season 1. And they are both still living in Georgia today, so do they ever run into one another?
Nene spoke with Vulture earlier this month, where she stated that the "best reality TV feud" is between her and Kim. But they're not feuding anymore. "Kim and I are on a good page," she told the publication in a clip posted to Instagram. "We don't have any problems. I've bumped into her several times."
And Nene still keeps in contact with Kim. "I actually just DM'ed her the other day," she admitted. "Thank you."
Kim showed Nene some love on Instagram on Jan. 30 when Nene posted a photo of herself sitting down while wearing a burnt orange turtleneck maxi-dress with feathered sleeves. It was here that Kim left her friend several flame emojis in the comments of the post.
Nene will be making her return to Bravo when The Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip Roaring 20thpremieres on Bravo on August 9 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. In a photo posted to Bravo's Instagram account in January, Nene can be seen standing alongside the core cast of the show while wearing some very fabulous outfits.
Nene also took to Instagram on Jan. 14, where she posted a video opening up about her return to Bravo. "This has been a really long, long journey, and gosh, I'm happy, overjoyed to say that I will be returning to Bravo," she said. "I almost can't believe the words that are coming out of my mouth. I'm so happy. I'm excited to see all of you girls...It's going to be a time. Yes! Bitches, I am back. Now pick your faces off the floor. OK!? See you on Bravo. Love you."
The Georgia peaches are back, as The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 17 is officially underway, with new episodes airing Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock.
The returning RHOA Season 17 cast members include Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Shamea Morton Mwangi, Angela Oakley, and Kelli Ferrell, along with newcomers Pinky Cole and K. Michelle. The women are joined by friend Cynthia Bailey.
Things get spicy in the ATL, as Porsha juggles two potential new love interests. Viewers can also expect changes in friendships, major relationship news, tea spilling, and shade throwing.
Nene isn't the only person from RHOA or Bravo that Kim is still in touch with. The mom of six appeared on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in July 2025, where she opened up about who she is still friends with following her departure from RHOAin Season 5. "I was supposed to have lunch with Phaedra [Parks] last week," Kim told Andy Cohen. "Our schedules are just crazy."
Kim also revealed that she is still in contact with The Real Housewives of Orange County's Gretchen Rossi. "I love Gretchen," Kim continued. "We've been friends for a long time. We talk a lot, actually."
Nene Leakes is sharing some major updates on where she stands with Kim Zolciak. The Real Housewives of Atlanta alums have such a long history that dates back to when they were cast members together on RHOA Season 1. And they are both still living in Georgia today, so do they ever run into one another?
Nene spoke with Vulture earlier this month, where she stated that the "best reality TV feud" is between her and Kim. But they're not feuding anymore. "Kim and I are on a good page," she told the publication in a clip posted to Instagram. "We don't have any problems. I've bumped into her several times."
And Nene still keeps in contact with Kim. "I actually just DM'ed her the other day," she admitted. "Thank you."
Kim showed Nene some love on Instagram on Jan. 30 when Nene posted a photo of herself sitting down while wearing a burnt orange turtleneck maxi-dress with feathered sleeves. It was here that Kim left her friend several flame emojis in the comments of the post.
Nene will be making her return to Bravo when The Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip Roaring 20thpremieres on Bravo on August 9 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. In a photo posted to Bravo's Instagram account in January, Nene can be seen standing alongside the core cast of the show while wearing some very fabulous outfits.
Nene also took to Instagram on Jan. 14, where she posted a video opening up about her return to Bravo. "This has been a really long, long journey, and gosh, I'm happy, overjoyed to say that I will be returning to Bravo," she said. "I almost can't believe the words that are coming out of my mouth. I'm so happy. I'm excited to see all of you girls...It's going to be a time. Yes! Bitches, I am back. Now pick your faces off the floor. OK!? See you on Bravo. Love you."
The Georgia peaches are back, as The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 17 is officially underway, with new episodes airing Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock.
The returning RHOA Season 17 cast members include Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Shamea Morton Mwangi, Angela Oakley, and Kelli Ferrell, along with newcomers Pinky Cole and K. Michelle. The women are joined by friend Cynthia Bailey.
Things get spicy in the ATL, as Porsha juggles two potential new love interests. Viewers can also expect changes in friendships, major relationship news, tea spilling, and shade throwing.
Nene isn't the only person from RHOA or Bravo that Kim is still in touch with. The mom of six appeared on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in July 2025, where she opened up about who she is still friends with following her departure from RHOAin Season 5. "I was supposed to have lunch with Phaedra [Parks] last week," Kim told Andy Cohen. "Our schedules are just crazy."
Kim also revealed that she is still in contact with The Real Housewives of Orange County's Gretchen Rossi. "I love Gretchen," Kim continued. "We've been friends for a long time. We talk a lot, actually."
#MusicNews: BET Awards 2026 Nominations: Mariah the Scientist Leads Among R&B Acts
The BET Awards 2026 nominees have been revealed. Culture’s Biggest Night, hosted by Druski, airs live June 28 at 8 p.m. ET on BET. It will also simulcast on Paramount+, BET HER, MTV and VH1.
Rap act Cardi B leads the pack this year with six nods, including Best Female Hip Hop Artist. Meanwhile, Mariah The Scientist is the most-nominated R&B artist, earning her first five nods. Among her batch of nods is Album of the Year for Hearts Sold Separately.
Her fourth LP features her breakout single, “Burning Blue,” which is up for two awards: Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice. The Nineteen85-produced track debuted and peaked at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her highest-charting single to date.
Teyana Taylor and Olivia Dean are up for four awards, while Chris Brown, Kehlani and Jill Scott each have three nominations.
This year, BET is introducing two new award categories: Fashion Vanguard Award and Pulse Award. The former category “will recognize a global figure whose fashion presence has had long-standing cultural impact, has significantly influenced style narratives, and continues to elevate fashion as a form of storytelling across music, film, sports, and public life.”
Meanwhile, the Pulse Award “will recognize a creator, campaign, or content series that most powerfully moved Black culture forward in digital spaces by sparking conversation, building community, and defining the moment online.”
Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET, said: “All of our nominees represent the very best of Black culture across music, film, sports, and beyond, and with the introduction of the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award, we’re proud to honor even more of the ways our culture continues to show up and evolve.”
Circling back to Mariah The Scientist, Hearts Sold Separately was released Aug. 22, 2025, via Epic Records. It debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart, marking her first chart-topper. Executive produced by Nineteen85, the album also features the Kali Uchis-assisted “Is It A Crime.”
Earlier this month, she joined rising R&B-pop singer Chxrry on her single “Bottles & Lights” from her debut album, U, Me & My Ego, out May 29 via XO/Republic Records
See the nominations below.
BET Awards 2026 Nominations List
The Fashion Vanguard Award
A$AP Rocky
Bad Bunny
BeyoncΓ©
Cardi B
Colman Domingo
Doechii
Rihanna
Teyana Taylor
Zendaya
The Pulse Award
85 South Show
Baby, This Is Keke Palmer
Charlamagne Tha God
Don Lemon
Druski
It Is What It Is
Joe and Jada
On the Radar
R&B Money Podcast
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Ari Lennox
Coco Jones
Ella Mai
Jill Scott
Kehlani
Mariah the Scientist
Olivia Dean
SZA
Tems
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Brent Faiyaz
Bruno Mars
Bryson Tiller
Chris Brown
Durand Bernarr
GivΔon
Leon Thomas
October London
Usher
Best Group
41
Clipse
De La Soul
FLO
French Montana & Max B
Metro Boomin & DJ Spinz
Nas & DJ Premier
Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon
Wizkid & Asake
Best Collaboration
“Chains & Whips” — Clipse & Kendrick Lamar
“Errtime Remix” — Cardi B feat. Jeezy & Latto
“Go Girl” — Summer Walker feat. Latto & Doja Cat
“Good Flirts” — Baby Keem feat. Kendrick Lamar & Momo Boyd
“Is It a Crime” — Mariah the Scientist & Kali Uchis
“It Depends (The Remix)” — Chris Brown feat. Bryson Tiller & Usher
“Take Me Thru Dere” — Metro Boomin feat. Quavo, Breskii, YK Niece & DJ Spinz
“WGFT” — Gunna feat. Burna Boy
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
A$AP Rocky
Baby Keem
BigXthaPlug
DaBaby
Don Toliver
Drake
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
T.I.
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Cardi B
Coi Leray
Doechii
Doja Cat
GloRilla
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Monaleo
YK Niece
Video of the Year
“100” — Ella Mai
“Anxiety” — Doechii
“Burning Blue” — Mariah the Scientist
“Chanel” — Tyla
“Escape Room (Short Film)” — Teyana Taylor
“Folded” — Kehlani
“Let ‘Em Know” — T.I.
“Luther” — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Video Director of the Year
A$AP Rocky & Dan Streit
Anderson .Paak
Benny Boom
Cactus Jack
Cardi B & Patientce Foster
Cole Bennett
Director X
Hype Williams
Teyana “Spike-Tey” Taylor
Best New Artist
Belly Gang Kushington
Destin Conrad
JayDon
kwn
Miles Minnick
Monaleo
Olivia Dean
Raye
Trap Dickey
The BET Awards 2026 nominees have been revealed. Culture’s Biggest Night, hosted by Druski, airs live June 28 at 8 p.m. ET on BET. It will also simulcast on Paramount+, BET HER, MTV and VH1.
Rap act Cardi B leads the pack this year with six nods, including Best Female Hip Hop Artist. Meanwhile, Mariah The Scientist is the most-nominated R&B artist, earning her first five nods. Among her batch of nods is Album of the Year for Hearts Sold Separately.
Her fourth LP features her breakout single, “Burning Blue,” which is up for two awards: Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice. The Nineteen85-produced track debuted and peaked at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her highest-charting single to date.
Teyana Taylor and Olivia Dean are up for four awards, while Chris Brown, Kehlani and Jill Scott each have three nominations.
This year, BET is introducing two new award categories: Fashion Vanguard Award and Pulse Award. The former category “will recognize a global figure whose fashion presence has had long-standing cultural impact, has significantly influenced style narratives, and continues to elevate fashion as a form of storytelling across music, film, sports, and public life.”
Meanwhile, the Pulse Award “will recognize a creator, campaign, or content series that most powerfully moved Black culture forward in digital spaces by sparking conversation, building community, and defining the moment online.”
Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET, said: “All of our nominees represent the very best of Black culture across music, film, sports, and beyond, and with the introduction of the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award, we’re proud to honor even more of the ways our culture continues to show up and evolve.”
Circling back to Mariah The Scientist, Hearts Sold Separately was released Aug. 22, 2025, via Epic Records. It debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart, marking her first chart-topper. Executive produced by Nineteen85, the album also features the Kali Uchis-assisted “Is It A Crime.”
Earlier this month, she joined rising R&B-pop singer Chxrry on her single “Bottles & Lights” from her debut album, U, Me & My Ego, out May 29 via XO/Republic Records
See the nominations below.
BET Awards 2026 Nominations List
The Fashion Vanguard Award
A$AP Rocky
Bad Bunny
BeyoncΓ©
Cardi B
Colman Domingo
Doechii
Rihanna
Teyana Taylor
Zendaya
The Pulse Award
85 South Show
Baby, This Is Keke Palmer
Charlamagne Tha God
Don Lemon
Druski
It Is What It Is
Joe and Jada
On the Radar
R&B Money Podcast
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Ari Lennox
Coco Jones
Ella Mai
Jill Scott
Kehlani
Mariah the Scientist
Olivia Dean
SZA
Tems
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Brent Faiyaz
Bruno Mars
Bryson Tiller
Chris Brown
Durand Bernarr
GivΔon
Leon Thomas
October London
Usher
Best Group
41
Clipse
De La Soul
FLO
French Montana & Max B
Metro Boomin & DJ Spinz
Nas & DJ Premier
Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon
Wizkid & Asake
Best Collaboration
“Chains & Whips” — Clipse & Kendrick Lamar
“Errtime Remix” — Cardi B feat. Jeezy & Latto
“Go Girl” — Summer Walker feat. Latto & Doja Cat
“Good Flirts” — Baby Keem feat. Kendrick Lamar & Momo Boyd
“Is It a Crime” — Mariah the Scientist & Kali Uchis
“It Depends (The Remix)” — Chris Brown feat. Bryson Tiller & Usher
“Take Me Thru Dere” — Metro Boomin feat. Quavo, Breskii, YK Niece & DJ Spinz
“WGFT” — Gunna feat. Burna Boy
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
A$AP Rocky
Baby Keem
BigXthaPlug
DaBaby
Don Toliver
Drake
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
T.I.
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Cardi B
Coi Leray
Doechii
Doja Cat
GloRilla
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Monaleo
YK Niece
Video of the Year
“100” — Ella Mai
“Anxiety” — Doechii
“Burning Blue” — Mariah the Scientist
“Chanel” — Tyla
“Escape Room (Short Film)” — Teyana Taylor
“Folded” — Kehlani
“Let ‘Em Know” — T.I.
“Luther” — Kendrick Lamar & SZA
Video Director of the Year
A$AP Rocky & Dan Streit
Anderson .Paak
Benny Boom
Cactus Jack
Cardi B & Patientce Foster
Cole Bennett
Director X
Hype Williams
Teyana “Spike-Tey” Taylor
Best New Artist
Belly Gang Kushington
Destin Conrad
JayDon
kwn
Miles Minnick
Monaleo
Olivia Dean
Raye
Trap Dickey
Album of the Year
Am I The Drama? — Cardi B
Don’t Tap The Glass — Tyler, the Creator
Everything Is A Lot — Wale
Hearts Sold Separately — Mariah the Scientist
Let God Sort Em Out — Clipse
Mutt Deluxe: Heel — Leon Thomas
The Fall-Off — J. Cole
The Romantic — Bruno Mars
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
“Able” — Kirk Franklin
“Able (Remix)” — Darrel Walls, PJ Morton & Kim Burrell
“All to Thee” — BeBe Winans
“Already Good (Tasha Slide)” — Tasha Cobbs Leonard
“At the Cross” — CeCe Winans
“Church” — Tasha Cobbs Leonard & John Legend
“Do It Again” — Kirk Franklin
“Headphones” — Lecrae, Killer Mike & T.I.
Best Actress
Angela Bassett
Ayo Edebiri
Chase Infiniti
Coco Jones
Cynthia Erivo
Keke Palmer
Quinta Brunson
Regina Hall
Teyana Taylor
Best Actor
Aaron Pierre
Aldis Hodge
Anthony Mackie
Colman Domingo
Damson Idris
Delroy Lindo
Denzel Washington
Michael B. Jordan
Sterling K. Brown
YoungStars Award
Daria Johns
Graceyn “Gracie” Hollingsworth
Heiress Harris
Jazzy’s World TV
Lela Hoffmeister
North West
Thaddeus J. Mixson
VanVan
Best Movie
Highest 2 Lowest
Him
Number One on the Call Sheet
One Battle After Another
Relationship Goals
Ruth & Boaz
Sinners
Wicked: For Good
Sportswoman of the Year Award
A’ja Wilson — Basketball
Angel Reese — Basketball
Claressa Shields — Boxing
Coco Gauff — Tennis
Flau’jae Johnson — Basketball
Gabby Thomas — Track & Field
Jordan Chiles — Gymnastics
Naomi Osaka — Tennis
Sha’Carri Richardson — Track & Field
Sportsman of the Year Award
Aaron Judge — Baseball
Anthony Edwards — Basketball
Caleb Williams — Football
Jalen Brunson — Basketball
Jalen Hurts — Football
LeBron James — Basketball
Shedeur Sanders — Football
Stephen Curry — Basketball
BET Her
“Already Good (Tasha Slide)” — Tasha Cobbs Leonard
“Be Great” — Jill Scott feat. Trombone Shorty
“Beautiful People” — Jill Scott
“First” — Tems
“Girl, Get Up” — Doechii feat. SZA
“Go Girl” — Summer Walker feat. Latto & Doja Cat
“Gorgeous” — Doja Cat
“Lady Lady” — Olivia Dean
Viewers’ Choice
“Burning Blue” — Mariah the Scientist
“Chains & Whips” — Clipse feat. Kendrick Lamar
“Chanel” — Tyla
“Folded” — Kehlani
“I Just Might” — Bruno Mars
“It Depends” — Chris Brown feat. Bryson Tiller
“Man I Need” — Olivia Dean
“Outside” — Cardi B
“Raindance” — Dave & Tems
“Take Me Thru Dere” — Metro Boomin feat. Quavo, Breskii, YK Niece & DJ Spinz
The 2026 BET Awards air live Sunday, June 28, at 8 p.m. ET on BET. It will also simulcast on Paramount+, BET HER, CMT, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, Nickelodeon (NAN), POP, VH1, Comedy Central, and TV Land.
#HipHopNews: Rick Ross’ Orchestral Reunion Tour Reportedly Facing Slow Early Ticket Demand
Yikes. Rick Ross is encountering sluggish ticket movement ahead of his upcoming Port of Miami Orchestra Reunion Tour, with several venue seating charts reportedly showing large amounts of unsold inventory weeks before opening night.
The scheduled tour stops include:
Miami, FL (May 29, 2026) – Available at the James L. Knight Center.
Atlanta, GA (June 12, 2026) – Happening at the Fox Theatre.
San Antonio, TX (June 27, 2026) – Hosted at the Majestic Theatre.
Orlando, FL (July 24, 2026) – Set for the Walt Disney Theater.
The tour is designed as a more upscale reinterpretation of Ross’ music catalog, pairing the rapper with The Renaissance Orchestra for a formal concert experience centered around live orchestral arrangements and black-tie presentation.
The Format: This particular run features Rick Ross performing his classic catalog alongside the The Renaissance Orchestra, billing it as a high-end, black-tie orchestral experience.
Despite the ambitious concept, online ticket maps for multiple theater dates appear to show significant seating still available across both general admission areas and premium sections. Social media users have also pointed to discount offers being promoted in some markets as organizers work to drive additional interest before the shows begin.
The Promotion: To incentivize buyers, select cities are actively pushing a “buy one, get one 50% off” ticket deal.
Available Inventory: Primary ticketing maps for various theater stops show extensive availability in both standard seating and premium tiers.
While the early sales pace has generated discussion online, fans still looking to attend the performances can also find tickets through secondary marketplace platforms where entry-level pricing varies depending on the city and seating location.
Ross has not publicly addressed the ticket sales conversation surrounding the reunion run, which revisits music from across his career, including material connected to his breakout Port of Miami era.
Yikes. Rick Ross is encountering sluggish ticket movement ahead of his upcoming Port of Miami Orchestra Reunion Tour, with several venue seating charts reportedly showing large amounts of unsold inventory weeks before opening night.
The scheduled tour stops include:
Miami, FL (May 29, 2026) – Available at the James L. Knight Center.
Atlanta, GA (June 12, 2026) – Happening at the Fox Theatre.
San Antonio, TX (June 27, 2026) – Hosted at the Majestic Theatre.
Orlando, FL (July 24, 2026) – Set for the Walt Disney Theater.
The tour is designed as a more upscale reinterpretation of Ross’ music catalog, pairing the rapper with The Renaissance Orchestra for a formal concert experience centered around live orchestral arrangements and black-tie presentation.
The Format: This particular run features Rick Ross performing his classic catalog alongside the The Renaissance Orchestra, billing it as a high-end, black-tie orchestral experience.
Despite the ambitious concept, online ticket maps for multiple theater dates appear to show significant seating still available across both general admission areas and premium sections. Social media users have also pointed to discount offers being promoted in some markets as organizers work to drive additional interest before the shows begin.
The Promotion: To incentivize buyers, select cities are actively pushing a “buy one, get one 50% off” ticket deal.
Available Inventory: Primary ticketing maps for various theater stops show extensive availability in both standard seating and premium tiers.
While the early sales pace has generated discussion online, fans still looking to attend the performances can also find tickets through secondary marketplace platforms where entry-level pricing varies depending on the city and seating location.
Ross has not publicly addressed the ticket sales conversation surrounding the reunion run, which revisits music from across his career, including material connected to his breakout Port of Miami era.
New ‘Betty Boop’ Feature Project Underway with Quinta Brunson
It’s been almost 100 years since a baby voiced flapper named Betty Boop made her cartoon debut in Fleischer Studios’ 1930 Talkartoon short Dizzy Dishes, animated by Grim Natwick. After a few failed attempts in recent decades to adapt the original animated starlet to a big screen feature film, a new project developed by and set to star Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary) has just been announced.
As Variety reports, the film will trace the evolution of the character (who appeared as a minidress-sporting dog-girl before evolving into her fully human form, with all of her “It”) through the eyes of creator Max Fleischer, as he navigates the creative and commercial pressures of building up one of the first major animated icons — especially as she begins to take on a life of her own.
It is unclear whether this will be a live-action, fully-animated or hybrid project, but classic toon fans might hope for a little Out of the Inkwell style action based on that final note in the summary.
The project is being worked out by Brunson and Mark Fleischer, grandson of Max, in a collaboration between Brunson’s Fifth Chance Productions (overseen by Head of Creative Affairs, Erin Wehrenberg) and Fleischer Studios, of which Mark is CEO.
Brunson wrote in a statement: “Betty Boop is one of our nation’s most beloved cartoon characters, yet somehow still remains pleasantly niche. She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century. After Erin and I met with Mark and learned more about his grandfather’s creation of Betty, I realized there was a much deeper story to tell. One that could be explored in a way that feels refreshing, subversive, and timeless, much like Betty herself.”
Fleischer commented: “When Quinta first approached me with the unique concept of a movie about the relationship of my grandfather, Max Fleischer, and his creation, Betty Boop, I was breathtaken. Quinta so embodies Betty’s love of life, intelligence, humor, sassiness and compassion that the relationship between her as Betty and Max burst into life at its mere mention.”
Betty Boop appeared in 127 cartoons (89 in her own series plus Talkartoons, Screen Songs and Color Classics shorts) during her original theatrical run (1930-1939), voiced by golden age actresses including Margie Hines, Mae Questel, Bonnie Poe, Little Ann Little and Harriet Lee. The character was revived in two television specials from Peanuts producers Lee Mendelson and Bill Melendez in the 1980s, and starred in a brand-new TV series in 2016, produced by French studio Normaal Animation, Fleischer Studios and King Features. She memorably made a cameo in the 1988 feature Who Framed Roger Rabbit, voiced again by Questel at nearly 80 years old.
Betty’s adventures also expanded to comics and even a video game in 2007, in addition to the character’s massive global licensing & merchandising program which continues to score high profile partnerships. The Tony and Drama Desk Awards-nominated Boop! The Musical opened in 2023 in Chicago and ran for over 100 performances on Broadway in 2025.
Prior to this Brunson-Fleischer collab, a few attempts at a Betty Boop feature film have been announced and then abandoned; first in 1993 for a musical featuring the voices of Sue Raney and Jimmy Rowles, then another jazzy project set to star Bernadette Peters from Zanuck Co. and MGM, then another take announced in 2014 by Simon Cowell’s Syco, Fleischer Studios and Australian animation shop Animal Logic
It’s been almost 100 years since a baby voiced flapper named Betty Boop made her cartoon debut in Fleischer Studios’ 1930 Talkartoon short Dizzy Dishes, animated by Grim Natwick. After a few failed attempts in recent decades to adapt the original animated starlet to a big screen feature film, a new project developed by and set to star Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary) has just been announced.
As Variety reports, the film will trace the evolution of the character (who appeared as a minidress-sporting dog-girl before evolving into her fully human form, with all of her “It”) through the eyes of creator Max Fleischer, as he navigates the creative and commercial pressures of building up one of the first major animated icons — especially as she begins to take on a life of her own.
It is unclear whether this will be a live-action, fully-animated or hybrid project, but classic toon fans might hope for a little Out of the Inkwell style action based on that final note in the summary.
The project is being worked out by Brunson and Mark Fleischer, grandson of Max, in a collaboration between Brunson’s Fifth Chance Productions (overseen by Head of Creative Affairs, Erin Wehrenberg) and Fleischer Studios, of which Mark is CEO.
Brunson wrote in a statement: “Betty Boop is one of our nation’s most beloved cartoon characters, yet somehow still remains pleasantly niche. She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century. After Erin and I met with Mark and learned more about his grandfather’s creation of Betty, I realized there was a much deeper story to tell. One that could be explored in a way that feels refreshing, subversive, and timeless, much like Betty herself.”
Fleischer commented: “When Quinta first approached me with the unique concept of a movie about the relationship of my grandfather, Max Fleischer, and his creation, Betty Boop, I was breathtaken. Quinta so embodies Betty’s love of life, intelligence, humor, sassiness and compassion that the relationship between her as Betty and Max burst into life at its mere mention.”
Betty Boop appeared in 127 cartoons (89 in her own series plus Talkartoons, Screen Songs and Color Classics shorts) during her original theatrical run (1930-1939), voiced by golden age actresses including Margie Hines, Mae Questel, Bonnie Poe, Little Ann Little and Harriet Lee. The character was revived in two television specials from Peanuts producers Lee Mendelson and Bill Melendez in the 1980s, and starred in a brand-new TV series in 2016, produced by French studio Normaal Animation, Fleischer Studios and King Features. She memorably made a cameo in the 1988 feature Who Framed Roger Rabbit, voiced again by Questel at nearly 80 years old.
Betty’s adventures also expanded to comics and even a video game in 2007, in addition to the character’s massive global licensing & merchandising program which continues to score high profile partnerships. The Tony and Drama Desk Awards-nominated Boop! The Musical opened in 2023 in Chicago and ran for over 100 performances on Broadway in 2025.
Prior to this Brunson-Fleischer collab, a few attempts at a Betty Boop feature film have been announced and then abandoned; first in 1993 for a musical featuring the voices of Sue Raney and Jimmy Rowles, then another jazzy project set to star Bernadette Peters from Zanuck Co. and MGM, then another take announced in 2014 by Simon Cowell’s Syco, Fleischer Studios and Australian animation shop Animal Logic
Keisha Lance Bottoms wins Democratic nomination for Georgia governor
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms won the Democratic nomination to be Georgia’s next governor on Tuesday, setting up a November election where she hopes to win a seat that has eluded her party for more than two decades.
Bottoms snagged a rare endorsement from former President Joe Biden after serving in his administration. She has argued to voters that she was “battle-tested,” trying to make a virtue out of a mayoral term where she had to manage crime, disorder and the COVID-19 pandemic before her surprise decision not to seek reelection.
Following her win Tuesday night, Bottoms said she was going to work to make sure “every Georgian has an opportunity to succeed.”
“It means stopping Donald Trump every time his policies hurt Georgia, and also taking action here to make life better for people across the state,” she said.
She cites protecting the right to vote and expanding healthcare, affordable housing and better education as among her top issues.
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms won the Democratic nomination to be Georgia’s next governor on Tuesday, setting up a November election where she hopes to win a seat that has eluded her party for more than two decades.
Bottoms snagged a rare endorsement from former President Joe Biden after serving in his administration. She has argued to voters that she was “battle-tested,” trying to make a virtue out of a mayoral term where she had to manage crime, disorder and the COVID-19 pandemic before her surprise decision not to seek reelection.
Following her win Tuesday night, Bottoms said she was going to work to make sure “every Georgian has an opportunity to succeed.”
“It means stopping Donald Trump every time his policies hurt Georgia, and also taking action here to make life better for people across the state,” she said.
She cites protecting the right to vote and expanding healthcare, affordable housing and better education as among her top issues.
Chris Rabb wins Democratic primary for deep blue PA-3 seat in NW Philadelphia
A Democratic mainstay with generational name recognition and a well-funded political newcomer couldn’t stop progressive state Rep. Chris Rabb from coming out on top in Pennsylvania’s 3rd congressional district Democratic primary.
Rabb, who ran an unapologetically progressive campaign, set himself apart from the initially crowded field of candidates by describing himself as the “anti-establishment” Democrat in the race.
His progressive stances – and allyship with leftist organizations, including the Democratic Socialists of America and Working Families Party – proved to be key to his winning the deep blue seat against a party leader in Sharif Street and a tough newcomer in Dr. Ala Stanford.
“A couple of months ago, I was on the precipice of withdrawing from this race,” Rabb said to supporters at his election watch party. “I was reminded that tough times pass, but tough people last.”
The outspoken state lawmaker said Tuesday night that the progressive movement is larger than him, his campaign or anyone
“Purpose is so much bigger than positions.”
Rabb overtook Ala Stanford’s early lead around 9:45 p.m. – news that was met with loud cheers at his watch party when attendees refreshed their phone feeds. And just before 10 p.m., with roughly 50% of votes counted, Rabb’s lead extended to double digits. At that point, the dancing and cheering only increased at The Victorian, the venue in Philadelphia’s Germantown neighborhood where Rabb held his watch party.
Street and Stanford were able to hold their ground in parts of North and West Philadelphia, but Rabb’s dominance in the city’s Northwest neighborhoods, as well as Center City and parts of South Philadelphia, propelled him to the primary win.
The Associated Press called the race at 10:42 p.m., showing Rabb with a 14-point lead. When the race was called, Rabb sat at 44.2% of the vote, with Street at 29.5% and Stanford at 24.1%.
“This is not the end, this is just the beginning,” Rabb said Tuesday night. “I feel the weight of your love. That is what inspired me in this journey. Those people closest to the pain, I see you and I thank you.”
Dwight Evans’ retirement created an opening in the most partisan congressional district in the nation – PA-3 in Philadelphia – for the first time in a decade.
Given the district makeup, which includes Center City and parts of North and West Philadelphia, the Democratic primary field initially included as many as a dozen candidates. The field narrowed throughout the last few months, with three front-runners leading the way as the May primary election approached: Dr. Ala Stanford, state Sen. Sharif Street and state Rep. Chris Rabb. The fourth remaining candidate is a political newcomer, Shaun Griffith, a tax attorney who previously worked for the state government before opening his own firm in Roxborough.
Street had the name recognition and party connections to fuel a successful campaign from the jump, but has faced stiff competition for the deep blue seat. Rabb sought the progressive crowd and pitched himself as an anti-establishment candidate, while Stanford – who entered the race with a medical background, no legislative experience and the endorsement of Evans – balanced her message as being both a new kind of representative and an experienced public health professional with support from the incumbent.
Aside from the issues at home, the ongoing conflict in Gaza became a flashpoint during the campaign – another instance where Rabb seemed to set himself apart from the more moderate orators in Stanford and Street. Stanford, whose campaign was also accused of accepting funds from pro-Israel groups, had her response to the Israel-Palestine conflict become an albatross among progressive voters who attended community forums.
Sean Anthony, a Roxborough resident, said he was out on an exceptionally hot Primary Day because “votes here are being bought by corporate interests for the few” and his vote for Rabb is, in a way, a direct response to the overwhelming influence of money in politics.
“People only vote in presidential elections,” he added. “That’s like watching only the Super Bowl and not paying attention to the season – or any local sports.”
Anthony, a therapist and school guidance counselor working in West Philadelphia, pointed toward hyperpartisan congressional redistricting efforts taking place in several states, claiming Republicans are trying to “take away our 14th Amendment rights.”
Dave DeMarco of Manayunk told City & State he was voting for Rabb as well, saying he’s in support of the candidate who is strongly opposed to taking PAC money and not running “just on name recognition.”
He said he was also turned off by Stanford after hearing her forum responses related to the Israel-Palestine conflict, adding that she seemed to take questions “personally” and that her answer “wasn’t good enough.”
Inside Rabb’s campaign watch party, spirits were high from the beginning. Progressives from organizations like the Sunrise Movement, Philly DSA and more were in the crowd, which enjoyed a surprise appearance by U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, who campaigned with Rabb alongside the likes of U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Lee told City & State Tuesday night that Rabb’s win is a sign “the status quo is a sinking ship.”
“If we can show that we can win here in Philadelphia, that we can win on progressive values in Western Pennsylvania, then there’s nowhere else that we can’t do this right now,” Lee said. “This isn’t the story of one person, it’s not the story of one organization, it’s the story of what happens when the left comes together and what happens when we build a multiracial and multigenerational movement that meets the moment.”
Rabb, who ran an unapologetically progressive campaign, set himself apart from the initially crowded field of candidates by describing himself as the “anti-establishment” Democrat in the race.
His progressive stances – and allyship with leftist organizations, including the Democratic Socialists of America and Working Families Party – proved to be key to his winning the deep blue seat against a party leader in Sharif Street and a tough newcomer in Dr. Ala Stanford.
“A couple of months ago, I was on the precipice of withdrawing from this race,” Rabb said to supporters at his election watch party. “I was reminded that tough times pass, but tough people last.”
The outspoken state lawmaker said Tuesday night that the progressive movement is larger than him, his campaign or anyone
“Purpose is so much bigger than positions.”
Rabb overtook Ala Stanford’s early lead around 9:45 p.m. – news that was met with loud cheers at his watch party when attendees refreshed their phone feeds. And just before 10 p.m., with roughly 50% of votes counted, Rabb’s lead extended to double digits. At that point, the dancing and cheering only increased at The Victorian, the venue in Philadelphia’s Germantown neighborhood where Rabb held his watch party.
Street and Stanford were able to hold their ground in parts of North and West Philadelphia, but Rabb’s dominance in the city’s Northwest neighborhoods, as well as Center City and parts of South Philadelphia, propelled him to the primary win.
The Associated Press called the race at 10:42 p.m., showing Rabb with a 14-point lead. When the race was called, Rabb sat at 44.2% of the vote, with Street at 29.5% and Stanford at 24.1%.
“This is not the end, this is just the beginning,” Rabb said Tuesday night. “I feel the weight of your love. That is what inspired me in this journey. Those people closest to the pain, I see you and I thank you.”
Dwight Evans’ retirement created an opening in the most partisan congressional district in the nation – PA-3 in Philadelphia – for the first time in a decade.
Given the district makeup, which includes Center City and parts of North and West Philadelphia, the Democratic primary field initially included as many as a dozen candidates. The field narrowed throughout the last few months, with three front-runners leading the way as the May primary election approached: Dr. Ala Stanford, state Sen. Sharif Street and state Rep. Chris Rabb. The fourth remaining candidate is a political newcomer, Shaun Griffith, a tax attorney who previously worked for the state government before opening his own firm in Roxborough.
Street had the name recognition and party connections to fuel a successful campaign from the jump, but has faced stiff competition for the deep blue seat. Rabb sought the progressive crowd and pitched himself as an anti-establishment candidate, while Stanford – who entered the race with a medical background, no legislative experience and the endorsement of Evans – balanced her message as being both a new kind of representative and an experienced public health professional with support from the incumbent.
Aside from the issues at home, the ongoing conflict in Gaza became a flashpoint during the campaign – another instance where Rabb seemed to set himself apart from the more moderate orators in Stanford and Street. Stanford, whose campaign was also accused of accepting funds from pro-Israel groups, had her response to the Israel-Palestine conflict become an albatross among progressive voters who attended community forums.
Sean Anthony, a Roxborough resident, said he was out on an exceptionally hot Primary Day because “votes here are being bought by corporate interests for the few” and his vote for Rabb is, in a way, a direct response to the overwhelming influence of money in politics.
“People only vote in presidential elections,” he added. “That’s like watching only the Super Bowl and not paying attention to the season – or any local sports.”
Anthony, a therapist and school guidance counselor working in West Philadelphia, pointed toward hyperpartisan congressional redistricting efforts taking place in several states, claiming Republicans are trying to “take away our 14th Amendment rights.”
Dave DeMarco of Manayunk told City & State he was voting for Rabb as well, saying he’s in support of the candidate who is strongly opposed to taking PAC money and not running “just on name recognition.”
He said he was also turned off by Stanford after hearing her forum responses related to the Israel-Palestine conflict, adding that she seemed to take questions “personally” and that her answer “wasn’t good enough.”
Inside Rabb’s campaign watch party, spirits were high from the beginning. Progressives from organizations like the Sunrise Movement, Philly DSA and more were in the crowd, which enjoyed a surprise appearance by U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, who campaigned with Rabb alongside the likes of U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Lee told City & State Tuesday night that Rabb’s win is a sign “the status quo is a sinking ship.”
“If we can show that we can win here in Philadelphia, that we can win on progressive values in Western Pennsylvania, then there’s nowhere else that we can’t do this right now,” Lee said. “This isn’t the story of one person, it’s not the story of one organization, it’s the story of what happens when the left comes together and what happens when we build a multiracial and multigenerational movement that meets the moment.”
“Married to Medicine”'s Dr. Heavenly Concedes After Losing Georgia Primary: 'We Built a Real Movement'
Dr. Heavenly Kimes has conceded after losing the primary election in Georgia, on Tuesday, May 19
The Married to Medicine star was running in the Democratic primary to represent the state's 13th District in the U.S. House of Representatives
She congratulated Rep. Jasmine Clark, who won the primary, and told her supporters, "We made history"
Married to Medicine star Dr. Heavenly Kimes has conceded after losing her primary election in Georgia, on Tuesday, May 19, telling her supporters that they "made history" together.
Kimes, a cosmetic dentist based in Atlanta, was running in the Democratic primary for the U.S. House of Representatives in a bid to represent Georgia's 13th Congressional District. She came second to Rep. Jasmine Clark out of a pool of six candidates.
Clark, who has represented Georgia House District 108 since 2019, won the District 13 primary with more than half of the vote, according to NBC News. She will face Republican candidate Jonathan James Chavez, who won his party's primary in an uncontested race, on Tuesday, November 3.
"This is not over — we're going to come back. I've already called Jasmine Clark and congratulated the queen," Kimes said in an Instagram video. "I'm sure she'll do an amazing job. I'm so proud of her, but I'm also proud of you. We did something different; we made history."
She wrote alongside the video, "No matter what, I am so proud of what we built together. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everybody that believed in me, prayed for me, donated, volunteered, canvassed, texted, called voters, put up signs, and stood beside me through this journey."
She continued, "We came in second place. We beat elected officials. We built a real movement. And most importantly, we showed that everyday people still have a voice."
She thanked her husband, Dr. Damon Kimes, who stood beside her in the video, for "every sacrifice, every late night, every prayer, every conversation and all the time he poured into helping me through this process," and thanked her children for "sacrificing time with me while we fought for something bigger than ourselves."
Kimes' Married to Medicine costar Dr. Jackie Walters left a comment calling her a "rockstar," and added, "This is only the beginning for you."
District 13 is currently vacant after Rep. David Scott, who had represented the district since 2003, died on April 22, aged 80. At the time, Kimes paid tribute to Scott — who had been leading recent polls before his death — calling him a "dedicated advocate for his community, working to uplift families, support economic growth and champion issues that mattered to the people he served."
Kimes originally said she was going to run for Georgia state representative in District 93, sharing the news exclusively with PEOPLE last summer, before announcing in March that she would run for federal office instead.
"I'm not a career politician. I'm a mom, a doctor, a business owner — and I'm not afraid to stand up for what I believe in," she said in a statement at the time. "I'm running to serve, and I'm ready to work."
Dr. Heavenly Kimes has conceded after losing the primary election in Georgia, on Tuesday, May 19
The Married to Medicine star was running in the Democratic primary to represent the state's 13th District in the U.S. House of Representatives
She congratulated Rep. Jasmine Clark, who won the primary, and told her supporters, "We made history"
Married to Medicine star Dr. Heavenly Kimes has conceded after losing her primary election in Georgia, on Tuesday, May 19, telling her supporters that they "made history" together.
Kimes, a cosmetic dentist based in Atlanta, was running in the Democratic primary for the U.S. House of Representatives in a bid to represent Georgia's 13th Congressional District. She came second to Rep. Jasmine Clark out of a pool of six candidates.
Clark, who has represented Georgia House District 108 since 2019, won the District 13 primary with more than half of the vote, according to NBC News. She will face Republican candidate Jonathan James Chavez, who won his party's primary in an uncontested race, on Tuesday, November 3.
"This is not over — we're going to come back. I've already called Jasmine Clark and congratulated the queen," Kimes said in an Instagram video. "I'm sure she'll do an amazing job. I'm so proud of her, but I'm also proud of you. We did something different; we made history."
She wrote alongside the video, "No matter what, I am so proud of what we built together. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everybody that believed in me, prayed for me, donated, volunteered, canvassed, texted, called voters, put up signs, and stood beside me through this journey."
She continued, "We came in second place. We beat elected officials. We built a real movement. And most importantly, we showed that everyday people still have a voice."
She thanked her husband, Dr. Damon Kimes, who stood beside her in the video, for "every sacrifice, every late night, every prayer, every conversation and all the time he poured into helping me through this process," and thanked her children for "sacrificing time with me while we fought for something bigger than ourselves."
Kimes' Married to Medicine costar Dr. Jackie Walters left a comment calling her a "rockstar," and added, "This is only the beginning for you."
District 13 is currently vacant after Rep. David Scott, who had represented the district since 2003, died on April 22, aged 80. At the time, Kimes paid tribute to Scott — who had been leading recent polls before his death — calling him a "dedicated advocate for his community, working to uplift families, support economic growth and champion issues that mattered to the people he served."
Kimes originally said she was going to run for Georgia state representative in District 93, sharing the news exclusively with PEOPLE last summer, before announcing in March that she would run for federal office instead.
"I'm not a career politician. I'm a mom, a doctor, a business owner — and I'm not afraid to stand up for what I believe in," she said in a statement at the time. "I'm running to serve, and I'm ready to work."
Did John Boyega Quietly Marry Tae Heckard?
British actor John Boyega has fans doing serious investigative work right now as they suspect he may be married to model and actress Tae Heckard.
She set off the rumors with a recent post on Instagram where she posted a dump of photos, and the star of the show was the rock and wedding band shining on that finger. The ring triggered a flurry of congratulatory messages from followers virtually celebrating her tentative newlywed status.
The alleged couple, who have an estimated 14-year age gap, were spotted out together at Disneyland in April 2025, and most recently, Boyega was also spotted sporting a wedding band in public. What’s more, fans checked their Instagram pages and both actors only follow one person—each other. There are also rumors of a fan claiming to have run into Boyega, who allegedly revealed he had “just gotten married.”
Since that Disneyland date, the two have done an exceptional job keeping their relationship lowkey—if they are in one. The actor keeps his dating life private, so it’s no surprise that this relationship hasn’t been public. But he has been linked to some notable women over the years, including two former Love and Hip Hop stars: Maggie Carrie from the New York franchise, and Princess Love, previously of the Hollywood spinoff.
Heckard’s exes include rapper Nelly, NBA player Brandon Jennings, with whom she has a child, and NFL player Stefon Diggs.
Boyega, who is famous for his roles in Attack the Block, The Woman King, and They Cloned Tyrone, has been a fan favorite because of his loud and proud love for Black women.
During an interview with GQ magazine in 2022, he gave insight into his dating preferences and relationship goals.
“I only date Black,” he said, adding, “it’s about chemistry, personality, goals. Is there a synergy? Can I help you? Can you help me?” The actor also comes from parents who have been married for decades, so he has seen firsthand what Black love can be. They are the muse for the type of relationship he aspires to build and may have attained.
“Being in the public eye, they would prefer if you had the wife and family,” he told the publication at the time. “It’s the ultimate PR package. But my parents have been together for 35 years. There’s nothing that this world can do in terms of pressure to make me be inspired by anything else but my parents.”
The Golden Globe winner is also very specific about the type of Black women he likes: “Brown and thick, melanin levels past 75 percent. Thick levels. You have to be looking good,” he said on SiriusXM’s Bevelations in 2022. Heckard definitely meets the mark on those specs.
Neither Heckard nor Boyega has addressed the rumors, so I guess we’ll have to wait and see if congratulations truly are in order.
British actor John Boyega has fans doing serious investigative work right now as they suspect he may be married to model and actress Tae Heckard.
She set off the rumors with a recent post on Instagram where she posted a dump of photos, and the star of the show was the rock and wedding band shining on that finger. The ring triggered a flurry of congratulatory messages from followers virtually celebrating her tentative newlywed status.
The alleged couple, who have an estimated 14-year age gap, were spotted out together at Disneyland in April 2025, and most recently, Boyega was also spotted sporting a wedding band in public. What’s more, fans checked their Instagram pages and both actors only follow one person—each other. There are also rumors of a fan claiming to have run into Boyega, who allegedly revealed he had “just gotten married.”
Since that Disneyland date, the two have done an exceptional job keeping their relationship lowkey—if they are in one. The actor keeps his dating life private, so it’s no surprise that this relationship hasn’t been public. But he has been linked to some notable women over the years, including two former Love and Hip Hop stars: Maggie Carrie from the New York franchise, and Princess Love, previously of the Hollywood spinoff.
Heckard’s exes include rapper Nelly, NBA player Brandon Jennings, with whom she has a child, and NFL player Stefon Diggs.
Boyega, who is famous for his roles in Attack the Block, The Woman King, and They Cloned Tyrone, has been a fan favorite because of his loud and proud love for Black women.
During an interview with GQ magazine in 2022, he gave insight into his dating preferences and relationship goals.
“I only date Black,” he said, adding, “it’s about chemistry, personality, goals. Is there a synergy? Can I help you? Can you help me?” The actor also comes from parents who have been married for decades, so he has seen firsthand what Black love can be. They are the muse for the type of relationship he aspires to build and may have attained.
“Being in the public eye, they would prefer if you had the wife and family,” he told the publication at the time. “It’s the ultimate PR package. But my parents have been together for 35 years. There’s nothing that this world can do in terms of pressure to make me be inspired by anything else but my parents.”
The Golden Globe winner is also very specific about the type of Black women he likes: “Brown and thick, melanin levels past 75 percent. Thick levels. You have to be looking good,” he said on SiriusXM’s Bevelations in 2022. Heckard definitely meets the mark on those specs.
Neither Heckard nor Boyega has addressed the rumors, so I guess we’ll have to wait and see if congratulations truly are in order.
Snoop Dogg’s Company Denies Liability In Drakeo The Ruler Concert Death Lawsuit
Snoop Dogg has filed new court documents asserting that his company is not responsible for the tragic death of Drakeo the Ruler at a 2021 Los Angeles hip-hop festival.
In motions submitted on Tuesday, May 19, Snoop Dogg and his company, Snoop Dogg’s LLC (SDLLC), are seeking to dismiss wrongful death claims related to the fatal stabbing of Drakeo the Ruler during the Once Upon a Time in LA festival in December 2021. The rapper, whose real name was Darrell Caldwell, was attacked backstage by a large group and died from stab wounds.
Following the incident, multiple negligence lawsuits were filed by Drakeo the Ruler’s family members, including his mother and brother. These suits accuse several entities involved with the event, such as Live Nation and C3 Presents, of failing to provide adequate security. The lawsuits also name SDLLC, claiming the company helped organize and promote the festival, thus bearing some responsibility for the security lapses that led to the fatal attack.
However, Snoop Dogg explicitly denies these allegations in his court declarations. The rapper, whose legal name is Calvin Broadus Jr., states that SDLLC “had no role in management of the festival” and “did not supervise security personnel” at the event.
Legal representatives for SDLLC further explain that the only contract between Snoop Dogg’s company and Once Upon a Time in LA was a $500,000 agreement for Snoop Dogg’s one-hour performance. They emphasize that this contract does not obligate SDLLC or the artist to manage the event or control the venue.
Supporting their stance, SDLLC’s attorneys point to video footage from the incident which they say “confirms SDLLC’s lack of involvement.” According to the legal memos, “no employee, agent or representative of SDLLC was present at the backstage area at the time of the altercation.”
The company is now requesting a summary judgment to end its participation in the lawsuit permanently. Lawyers representing Drakeo the Ruler’s mother and brother had not responded to requests for comment as of Wednesday, May 20, but they are expected to reply to the motion in writing in the coming months.
If SDLLC’s motion is denied, the claims against the company will proceed to a larger trial planned for September. That trial will address all wrongful death claims filed by Drakeo the Ruler’s mother, brother, and son. Besides SDLLC, defendants in the case include Live Nation, other festival promoters, and security personnel. Live Nation has denied any wrongdoing, stating that Drakeo the Ruler’s death was “unforeseeable.”
The lawsuits initially also named the operators of BMO Stadium, the venue hosting parts of the Once Upon a Time in LA festival. However, Judge James I. Montgomery dismissed those claims earlier this month, ruling that the stabbing occurred in an area of the festival grounds not owned by the stadium.
This ongoing litigation highlights the complex legal responsibilities surrounding large live events and the tragic consequences when security measures fall short. As the case moves forward, the courts will determine the extent to which the various parties involved bear liability for the fatal incident.
In motions submitted on Tuesday, May 19, Snoop Dogg and his company, Snoop Dogg’s LLC (SDLLC), are seeking to dismiss wrongful death claims related to the fatal stabbing of Drakeo the Ruler during the Once Upon a Time in LA festival in December 2021. The rapper, whose real name was Darrell Caldwell, was attacked backstage by a large group and died from stab wounds.
Following the incident, multiple negligence lawsuits were filed by Drakeo the Ruler’s family members, including his mother and brother. These suits accuse several entities involved with the event, such as Live Nation and C3 Presents, of failing to provide adequate security. The lawsuits also name SDLLC, claiming the company helped organize and promote the festival, thus bearing some responsibility for the security lapses that led to the fatal attack.
However, Snoop Dogg explicitly denies these allegations in his court declarations. The rapper, whose legal name is Calvin Broadus Jr., states that SDLLC “had no role in management of the festival” and “did not supervise security personnel” at the event.
Legal representatives for SDLLC further explain that the only contract between Snoop Dogg’s company and Once Upon a Time in LA was a $500,000 agreement for Snoop Dogg’s one-hour performance. They emphasize that this contract does not obligate SDLLC or the artist to manage the event or control the venue.
Supporting their stance, SDLLC’s attorneys point to video footage from the incident which they say “confirms SDLLC’s lack of involvement.” According to the legal memos, “no employee, agent or representative of SDLLC was present at the backstage area at the time of the altercation.”
The company is now requesting a summary judgment to end its participation in the lawsuit permanently. Lawyers representing Drakeo the Ruler’s mother and brother had not responded to requests for comment as of Wednesday, May 20, but they are expected to reply to the motion in writing in the coming months.
If SDLLC’s motion is denied, the claims against the company will proceed to a larger trial planned for September. That trial will address all wrongful death claims filed by Drakeo the Ruler’s mother, brother, and son. Besides SDLLC, defendants in the case include Live Nation, other festival promoters, and security personnel. Live Nation has denied any wrongdoing, stating that Drakeo the Ruler’s death was “unforeseeable.”
The lawsuits initially also named the operators of BMO Stadium, the venue hosting parts of the Once Upon a Time in LA festival. However, Judge James I. Montgomery dismissed those claims earlier this month, ruling that the stabbing occurred in an area of the festival grounds not owned by the stadium.
This ongoing litigation highlights the complex legal responsibilities surrounding large live events and the tragic consequences when security measures fall short. As the case moves forward, the courts will determine the extent to which the various parties involved bear liability for the fatal incident.
Aaliyah’s Estate Appears to Suggest Fans Cover R. Kelly’s Face on Album Reissue
Aaliyah's estate says they hope fans follow their "instructions" upon copping the vinyl reissue of her debut album, with some fans believing that means covering R. Kelly's face on the cover.
After the rereleased vinyl edition of Age Ain't Nothing but a Number hit retailers last week, Aaliyah's official social media accounts, which her estate manages, shared a cryptic message that got some fans talking.
We hope that y’all listened to instructions carefully While bumpin’ “Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number” the just released reissue on your record players this week…Aaliyah’s got a 90’s swing So be careful and share your copy with us please Yeah, hmm… - Team Aaliyah π€
"We hope that y'all listened to instructions carefully While bumpin' 'Age Ain't Nothing But A Number' the just released reissue on your record players this week,” shared the account. “Aaliyah's got a 90's swing So be careful and share your copy with us please Yeah, hmm... - Team Aaliyah.”
With their post, the estate attached a TikTok video from a fan who showed off their copy, with a hype sticker strategically covering R. Kelly’s face. They also place their thumb over his face on the back cover.
It’s worth noting that other videos and photos circulating online of the vinyl still sealed in its retail plastic show a hype sticker placed directly over R. Kelly's face on the album cover.
Kelly played a major role in Aaliyah's 1994 debut album after the pair met through Aaliyah's uncle Barry Hankerson, who managed Kelly at the time. Kelly worked as a writer, producer, and performer on the project and reportedly helped shape Aaliyah's early career, as explained by Biography.com
Not long after the album's release, rumors began circulating that the two were romantically involved and had secretly married. Aaliyah had previously described their relationship as "fun" and "really close," but speculation intensified in January 1995 when Vibe published what it claimed was a copy of their marriage certificate. The document reportedly listed Kelly as 27 years old and Aaliyah as 18, though she would have only been 15 at the time.
Despite years of public speculation, neither Aaliyah nor Kelly ever publicly confirmed the marriage.
Reports later claimed Aaliyah filed to have the marriage annulled and cut professional ties with Kelly shortly afterward. In 1997, she also reportedly petitioned to have the marriage record removed from her file.
Aaliyah seemingly refused to speak about her relationship with Kelly on numerous occasions. She died in a plane crash near the Bahamas in 2001 at age 22 after filming the music video for “Rock the Boat.”
In a 2016 interview with GQ, Kelly described his relationship with Aaliyah as “best friends” and “deep friends.” He opted not to speak on the marriage rumors “out of respect for her mother … and father who has asked me not to personally.”
Kelly was acquitted on child pornography charges in 2008. In 2021, he was convicted on federal racketeering and sex trafficking charges involving women and underage girls. Two years later, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for child sex crimes.
Aaliyah's estate says they hope fans follow their "instructions" upon copping the vinyl reissue of her debut album, with some fans believing that means covering R. Kelly's face on the cover.
After the rereleased vinyl edition of Age Ain't Nothing but a Number hit retailers last week, Aaliyah's official social media accounts, which her estate manages, shared a cryptic message that got some fans talking.
We hope that y’all listened to instructions carefully While bumpin’ “Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number” the just released reissue on your record players this week…Aaliyah’s got a 90’s swing So be careful and share your copy with us please Yeah, hmm… - Team Aaliyah π€
"We hope that y'all listened to instructions carefully While bumpin' 'Age Ain't Nothing But A Number' the just released reissue on your record players this week,” shared the account. “Aaliyah's got a 90's swing So be careful and share your copy with us please Yeah, hmm... - Team Aaliyah.”
With their post, the estate attached a TikTok video from a fan who showed off their copy, with a hype sticker strategically covering R. Kelly’s face. They also place their thumb over his face on the back cover.
It’s worth noting that other videos and photos circulating online of the vinyl still sealed in its retail plastic show a hype sticker placed directly over R. Kelly's face on the album cover.
Kelly played a major role in Aaliyah's 1994 debut album after the pair met through Aaliyah's uncle Barry Hankerson, who managed Kelly at the time. Kelly worked as a writer, producer, and performer on the project and reportedly helped shape Aaliyah's early career, as explained by Biography.com
Not long after the album's release, rumors began circulating that the two were romantically involved and had secretly married. Aaliyah had previously described their relationship as "fun" and "really close," but speculation intensified in January 1995 when Vibe published what it claimed was a copy of their marriage certificate. The document reportedly listed Kelly as 27 years old and Aaliyah as 18, though she would have only been 15 at the time.
Despite years of public speculation, neither Aaliyah nor Kelly ever publicly confirmed the marriage.
Reports later claimed Aaliyah filed to have the marriage annulled and cut professional ties with Kelly shortly afterward. In 1997, she also reportedly petitioned to have the marriage record removed from her file.
Aaliyah seemingly refused to speak about her relationship with Kelly on numerous occasions. She died in a plane crash near the Bahamas in 2001 at age 22 after filming the music video for “Rock the Boat.”
In a 2016 interview with GQ, Kelly described his relationship with Aaliyah as “best friends” and “deep friends.” He opted not to speak on the marriage rumors “out of respect for her mother … and father who has asked me not to personally.”
Kelly was acquitted on child pornography charges in 2008. In 2021, he was convicted on federal racketeering and sex trafficking charges involving women and underage girls. Two years later, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for child sex crimes.
Lauryn Hill Says Rohan Marley ‘Never Cheated’ on Her
In an Instagram post celebrating his birthday, Ms. Lauryn Hill shared that her former partner, Rohan Marley, the son of late reggae icon Bob Marley, “never cheated” on her.
The 8-time Grammy winner, who shares 5 children with Marley, including vocalist YG Marley and model Selah Marley, commemorated her ex’s birthday in an Instagram carousel on Tuesday (May 19). In the post were pictures of Hill and Marley with their children when they were younger, along with more recent photos. Hill also has a youngest child, Micah, whom she does not share with Marley.
The former couple were in a long-term relationship from 1996 to 2009. In 2020, Marley divorced his second wife, model and vocalist Barbara Fialho, after a year of marriage. The Jamaican businessman was previously married to Geraldine Khawly from 1993 to 1996.
“Happy Birthday @romarley! We have been through a lot, but I will always be grateful to you and for you as my protector, my defender and Father to our beautiful children,” Hill captioned the post.
“I hope you’re being celebrated and appreciated today and every day,” she continued. “For those who didn’t know better, @romarley never cheated on me! I remember the beginning when we were young, majestic, and uniting our worlds. Have a blessed one, King.”
In a 2011 Instagram post, per Revolt, Hill denied being “abandoned” by Marley despite their split. “We have had long periods of separation over the years, but our 5 children together remain a joy to both of us,” she wrote at the time.
In an interview with The Voice around the same year, Marley said that although he didn’t consider Hill a “bad person,” there were “certain things” he was unable to “accept” about their relationship.”
“[Our relationship] is good as in …in terms of being a mother and father to our children, it’s good. It’s not as perfect as one might want it to be. It’s just the way the road went,” he continued.
The 8-time Grammy winner, who shares 5 children with Marley, including vocalist YG Marley and model Selah Marley, commemorated her ex’s birthday in an Instagram carousel on Tuesday (May 19). In the post were pictures of Hill and Marley with their children when they were younger, along with more recent photos. Hill also has a youngest child, Micah, whom she does not share with Marley.
The former couple were in a long-term relationship from 1996 to 2009. In 2020, Marley divorced his second wife, model and vocalist Barbara Fialho, after a year of marriage. The Jamaican businessman was previously married to Geraldine Khawly from 1993 to 1996.
“Happy Birthday @romarley! We have been through a lot, but I will always be grateful to you and for you as my protector, my defender and Father to our beautiful children,” Hill captioned the post.
“I hope you’re being celebrated and appreciated today and every day,” she continued. “For those who didn’t know better, @romarley never cheated on me! I remember the beginning when we were young, majestic, and uniting our worlds. Have a blessed one, King.”
In a 2011 Instagram post, per Revolt, Hill denied being “abandoned” by Marley despite their split. “We have had long periods of separation over the years, but our 5 children together remain a joy to both of us,” she wrote at the time.
In an interview with The Voice around the same year, Marley said that although he didn’t consider Hill a “bad person,” there were “certain things” he was unable to “accept” about their relationship.”
“[Our relationship] is good as in …in terms of being a mother and father to our children, it’s good. It’s not as perfect as one might want it to be. It’s just the way the road went,” he continued.
198 Pounds of Cocaine Found Hidden in Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS Shapewear
Kim Kardashian denies any connection to $9 million worth of cocaine found hidden in a shipment of her Skims underwear.
Jakub Jan Konkel, a truck driver from Poland, was sentenced to prison for smuggling 198 pounds of cocaine (worth $9.4 million) in a shipment of Kim Kardashian’s Skims shapewear brand.
Konkel, 40, was driving a truck carrying 28 pallets of Skims shapewear from the Netherlands to England when he was stopped by border officers in Essex in September.
The National Crime Agency said Konkel stopped along his route to pick up 198 pounds of cocaine which he concealed inside panels in the truck’s doors.
The Crime Agency said the shipment of clothing was legitimate and that neither the exporter nor importer knew about the smuggled drugs.
Konkel initially denied knowing about the cocaine, but he eventually confessed that he agreed to transport the drugs for $5,243 (USD), according to the agency.
He was sentenced to 13.5 years in prison for drug smuggling.
A rep for Skims told TMZ, “SKIMS is aware of the recent news involving a shipment with our products. We want to be absolutely clear: SKIMS had no knowledge whatsoever about this criminal activity. We had no connection to the smuggling operation, the driver, or the truck.”
Kim Kardashian denies any connection to $9 million worth of cocaine found hidden in a shipment of her Skims underwear.
Jakub Jan Konkel, a truck driver from Poland, was sentenced to prison for smuggling 198 pounds of cocaine (worth $9.4 million) in a shipment of Kim Kardashian’s Skims shapewear brand.
Konkel, 40, was driving a truck carrying 28 pallets of Skims shapewear from the Netherlands to England when he was stopped by border officers in Essex in September.
The National Crime Agency said Konkel stopped along his route to pick up 198 pounds of cocaine which he concealed inside panels in the truck’s doors.
The Crime Agency said the shipment of clothing was legitimate and that neither the exporter nor importer knew about the smuggled drugs.
Konkel initially denied knowing about the cocaine, but he eventually confessed that he agreed to transport the drugs for $5,243 (USD), according to the agency.
He was sentenced to 13.5 years in prison for drug smuggling.
A rep for Skims told TMZ, “SKIMS is aware of the recent news involving a shipment with our products. We want to be absolutely clear: SKIMS had no knowledge whatsoever about this criminal activity. We had no connection to the smuggling operation, the driver, or the truck.”
‘American Horror Story’ Season 13: John Carroll Lynch Returning as Twisty the Clown, More Cast Additions Revealed
American Horror Story season 13 is underway and we have even more exciting cast updates to share!
The highly anticipated 13th installment of the FX anthlogy series will feature an all-star cast full of returning fan-favorites, and two more names were just added to the cast list today. They both previously appeared in American Horror Story: Freak Show.
Who was previously confirmed to star in the new season?
Ariana Grande, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Jessica Lange, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, John Waters and Leslie Grossman are all starring.
Who was newly announced to the cast on May 20, 2026?
John Carroll Lynch as Twisty the Clown – Returning for AHS Season 13!
John Carroll Lynch is set to return as his fan favorite slasher clown character, Twisty, Deadline reports.
He portrayed the role in both American Horror Story: Freak Show, as well as in AHS: Cult.
Mat Fraser – Returning as Paul the Illustrated Seal!
Mat Fraser starred in American Horror Story: Freak Show as Paul, and he’ll be back for season 13 as the character.
Mena Suvari is officially joining the cast.
She previously played Elizabeth Short / The Black Dahlia in the AHS universe. Her role for season 13 is being kept under wraps at this time.
Berto ColΓ³n has joined the cast, and he’s never been featured in the AHS universe before.
Deadline reports he’ll be playing an employee for Jessica Lange‘s character named Joe the Doorman.
The highly anticipated 13th installment of the FX anthlogy series will feature an all-star cast full of returning fan-favorites, and two more names were just added to the cast list today. They both previously appeared in American Horror Story: Freak Show.
Who was previously confirmed to star in the new season?
Ariana Grande, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters, Angela Bassett, Kathy Bates, Jessica Lange, Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Gabourey Sidibe, John Waters and Leslie Grossman are all starring.
Who was newly announced to the cast on May 20, 2026?
John Carroll Lynch as Twisty the Clown – Returning for AHS Season 13!
John Carroll Lynch is set to return as his fan favorite slasher clown character, Twisty, Deadline reports.
He portrayed the role in both American Horror Story: Freak Show, as well as in AHS: Cult.
Mat Fraser – Returning as Paul the Illustrated Seal!
Mat Fraser starred in American Horror Story: Freak Show as Paul, and he’ll be back for season 13 as the character.
Mena Suvari is officially joining the cast.
She previously played Elizabeth Short / The Black Dahlia in the AHS universe. Her role for season 13 is being kept under wraps at this time.
Berto ColΓ³n has joined the cast, and he’s never been featured in the AHS universe before.
Deadline reports he’ll be playing an employee for Jessica Lange‘s character named Joe the Doorman.
Tennessee Man Arrested For Charlie Kirk Meme Missed Granddaughter’s Birth While In Jail — Now He’s Getting A $835,000 Check
A Tennessee man who spent more than a month in jail over Facebook memes tied to the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has reached an $835,000 settlement with local officials after a case that sparked national debate around free speech rights.
Larry Bushart, a 61-year-old retired police officer, was arrested in September 2025 after posting memes about Kirk’s assassination in a Facebook comment section connected to a local vigil in Perry County, Tennessee. Authorities claimed one of the posts caused fear in the community and suggested violence toward a nearby high school. Prosecutors later dropped the felony charge, and Bushart sued Perry County, Sheriff Nick Weems, and the investigator who secured the arrest warrant, according to AP News.
According to court filings and statements from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, the meme at the center of the case featured Donald Trump alongside the phrase “We have to get over it,” referencing Trump’s reaction to the 2024 Perry High School shooting in Iowa. Bushart added the caption, “This seems relevant today…” after Kirk’s killing.
Perry County Sheriff Nick Weems acknowledged the meme referenced the Iowa school shooting, but investigators argued residents could interpret it as a threat against Perry County High School in Tennessee. Bushart was arrested on a felony charge related to threatening mass violence and held on a $2 million bond.
During his 37 days in jail, Bushart lost his post-retirement transportation job and missed both his wedding anniversary and the birth of his granddaughter, according to the lawsuit.
Settlement Ends High-Profile First Amendment Case
On Wednesday, attorneys announced the county agreed to pay Bushart $835,000 to settle the federal lawsuit.
“I am pleased my First Amendment rights have been vindicated,” Bushart said in a statement. “The people’s freedom to participate in civil discourse is crucial to a healthy democracy. I am looking forward to moving on and spending time with my family.”
Cary Davis, an attorney with FIRE, said the settlement should serve as a warning to law enforcement agencies nationwide.
“It’s in times of turmoil and heightened tensions that our national commitment to free speech is tested the most,” Davis said. “When government officials fail that test, the Constitution exists to hold them accountable.”
A Tennessee man who spent more than a month in jail over Facebook memes tied to the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has reached an $835,000 settlement with local officials after a case that sparked national debate around free speech rights.
Larry Bushart, a 61-year-old retired police officer, was arrested in September 2025 after posting memes about Kirk’s assassination in a Facebook comment section connected to a local vigil in Perry County, Tennessee. Authorities claimed one of the posts caused fear in the community and suggested violence toward a nearby high school. Prosecutors later dropped the felony charge, and Bushart sued Perry County, Sheriff Nick Weems, and the investigator who secured the arrest warrant, according to AP News.
According to court filings and statements from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, the meme at the center of the case featured Donald Trump alongside the phrase “We have to get over it,” referencing Trump’s reaction to the 2024 Perry High School shooting in Iowa. Bushart added the caption, “This seems relevant today…” after Kirk’s killing.
Perry County Sheriff Nick Weems acknowledged the meme referenced the Iowa school shooting, but investigators argued residents could interpret it as a threat against Perry County High School in Tennessee. Bushart was arrested on a felony charge related to threatening mass violence and held on a $2 million bond.
During his 37 days in jail, Bushart lost his post-retirement transportation job and missed both his wedding anniversary and the birth of his granddaughter, according to the lawsuit.
Settlement Ends High-Profile First Amendment Case
On Wednesday, attorneys announced the county agreed to pay Bushart $835,000 to settle the federal lawsuit.
“I am pleased my First Amendment rights have been vindicated,” Bushart said in a statement. “The people’s freedom to participate in civil discourse is crucial to a healthy democracy. I am looking forward to moving on and spending time with my family.”
Cary Davis, an attorney with FIRE, said the settlement should serve as a warning to law enforcement agencies nationwide.
“It’s in times of turmoil and heightened tensions that our national commitment to free speech is tested the most,” Davis said. “When government officials fail that test, the Constitution exists to hold them accountable.”
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
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