#MAGFAB: Sarah Paulson Does 3 Covers for L’OFFICIEL Magazine
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#RHOA: Simon Guobadia Indicted on Federal Tax Charges
Simon Guobadia is in hot water with the feds ... he's been indicted for allegedly filing false tax returns ... TMZ has learned.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the ex-husband of "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Porsha Williams was indicted Tuesday in federal court in Georgia on 2 counts of assisting in the preparation and filing of a false federal tax return.
Prosecutors claim Simon filed paperwork in March 2021 reporting $0 in taxable income ... despite allegedly knowing he'd made more than he reported.
The feds also allege Simon underreported sales for his company, Simcol Petroleum Limited, which listed more than $45 million in gross sales on the paperwork.
And prosecutors say it happened again in July 2021 ... when Simon allegedly reported just $58,231 in taxable income, while his company listed nearly $31 million in gross sales.
The feds claim Simon knew his taxable income and gross sales were actually higher than what he reported.
Court records also show an arrest warrant was issued for Simon ... though it's unclear if he's been taken into custody.
Simon Guobadia is in hot water with the feds ... he's been indicted for allegedly filing false tax returns ... TMZ has learned.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the ex-husband of "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Porsha Williams was indicted Tuesday in federal court in Georgia on 2 counts of assisting in the preparation and filing of a false federal tax return.
Prosecutors claim Simon filed paperwork in March 2021 reporting $0 in taxable income ... despite allegedly knowing he'd made more than he reported.
The feds also allege Simon underreported sales for his company, Simcol Petroleum Limited, which listed more than $45 million in gross sales on the paperwork.
And prosecutors say it happened again in July 2021 ... when Simon allegedly reported just $58,231 in taxable income, while his company listed nearly $31 million in gross sales.
The feds claim Simon knew his taxable income and gross sales were actually higher than what he reported.
Court records also show an arrest warrant was issued for Simon ... though it's unclear if he's been taken into custody.
Simon, of course, is the ex-husband of 'RHOA' star Porsha Williams. The two married in November 2022, but Porsha filed for divorce in February 2024 after just 15 months together.
As TMZ previously reported ... Porsha scored a major victory in their messy divorce earlier this year, securing their multimillion-dollar Atlanta mansion and a seven-figure settlement.
Simon was also deported from the U.S. in 2025 amid immigration issues.
As TMZ previously reported ... Porsha scored a major victory in their messy divorce earlier this year, securing their multimillion-dollar Atlanta mansion and a seven-figure settlement.
Simon was also deported from the U.S. in 2025 amid immigration issues.
#MusicNews: Mary J. Blige Strikes Deal With Primary Wave Covering Her Song And Recording Catalogs
Primary Wave Music has struck a partnership with Mary J. Blige. The agreement covers the nine-time Grammy winner’s catalog of compositions and recordings, according to a press release issued on Monday (October 26).
Financial terms were not disclosed, and the announcement did not specify whether Primary Wave has acquired an ownership stake in the rights.
Most of Blige’s studio albums were originally released through MCA and Geffen, whose catalogs are now part of Universal Music Group.
Blige and her team will also gain access to Primary Wave’s marketing and publishing infrastructure, and the two sides may work together on new music marketing, branding, digital, and sync opportunities, the release added.
Primary Wave named Family Affair, My Life, Mary Jane (All Night Long), You Bring Me Joy, Be Happy, Be Without You, and I Can Love You among the songs covered by the deal.
Blige has sold more than 50 million records worldwide, and her discography spans 15 studio albums, two live albums, and 83 singles, the company said.
“From the moment I heard You Remind Me on NY’s KISS-FM, I became a Day 1 Mary J. Blige fan,” said Natalia Nastaskin, Primary Wave’s Partner and Chief Content Officer. “For over 30 years, she has gifted the world with hit after undeniable hit and in the process has created the soundtrack of our lives.
“To partner with the Queen herself on her extraordinary catalog and her everlasting legacy is an honor for me and for our entire Primary Wave team.”
You Remind Me, from Blige’s 1992 debut album What’s the 411?, reached No.29 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Her only Hot 100 No.1 came in 2001 with Family Affair, which held the top spot for six weeks.
Be Without You, from her album The Breakthrough, won two Grammy Awards in 2007, for Best R&B Song and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
“TO PARTNER WITH THE QUEEN HERSELF ON HER EXTRAORDINARY CATALOG AND HER EVERLASTING LEGACY IS AN HONOR FOR ME AND FOR OUR ENTIRE PRIMARY WAVE TEAM.” NATALIA NASTASKIN, PRIMARY WAVE
Blige’s 1994 album My Life was selected for the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry in 2025.
She has received 37 Grammy nominations in total and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024.
Blige received two Academy Award nominations for the 2017 film Mudbound, for Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Song (Mighty River).
Her first Las Vegas residency, titled My Life, My Story, opened at Dolby Live at Park MGM on May 1.
The 20-date run, which plays its last 2026 shows this week, is scheduled to conclude on February 20, 2027.
The Blige agreement is the latest in a run of catalog deals for the Larry Mestel-led company.
On October 13, Primary Wave partnered with Brian Vander Ark, frontman of The Verve Pipe, on his publishing and recorded music catalogs.
That followed a September 23 deal with the estate of Robert Palmer covering the late singer’s publishing and recording catalog, as well as a share of his name, image, and likeness rights.
Earlier that month, Primary Wave partnered with the estate of Wilson Pickett on a stake in the soul singer’s publishing catalog and his name, image, and likeness rights.
In June, it inked a deal with the estate of Donna Summer covering her catalog and recordings, as well as a share of her name, image, and likeness rights.
Unlike the Palmer, Pickett, and Summer agreements, the announcement of the Blige deal makes no reference to name, image, and likeness rights.
The deal also follows the closing of Primary Wave’s acquisition of Kobalt on July 7, in a transaction worth around USD $1.5 billion.
In April, the company closed its fourth music fund at USD $2.225 billion, exceeding both its USD $1.5 billion target and its USD $2 billion hard cap.
Primary Wave, which describes itself as “the leading independent publisher of iconic and legendary music in the world,” was founded by Mestel in 2006.
Its portfolio includes rights in the music of Bob Marley, Prince, Whitney Houston, James Brown, Ray Charles, and Smokey Robinson, among others.
Primary Wave Music has struck a partnership with Mary J. Blige. The agreement covers the nine-time Grammy winner’s catalog of compositions and recordings, according to a press release issued on Monday (October 26).
Financial terms were not disclosed, and the announcement did not specify whether Primary Wave has acquired an ownership stake in the rights.
Most of Blige’s studio albums were originally released through MCA and Geffen, whose catalogs are now part of Universal Music Group.
Blige and her team will also gain access to Primary Wave’s marketing and publishing infrastructure, and the two sides may work together on new music marketing, branding, digital, and sync opportunities, the release added.
Primary Wave named Family Affair, My Life, Mary Jane (All Night Long), You Bring Me Joy, Be Happy, Be Without You, and I Can Love You among the songs covered by the deal.
Blige has sold more than 50 million records worldwide, and her discography spans 15 studio albums, two live albums, and 83 singles, the company said.
“From the moment I heard You Remind Me on NY’s KISS-FM, I became a Day 1 Mary J. Blige fan,” said Natalia Nastaskin, Primary Wave’s Partner and Chief Content Officer. “For over 30 years, she has gifted the world with hit after undeniable hit and in the process has created the soundtrack of our lives.
“To partner with the Queen herself on her extraordinary catalog and her everlasting legacy is an honor for me and for our entire Primary Wave team.”
You Remind Me, from Blige’s 1992 debut album What’s the 411?, reached No.29 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Her only Hot 100 No.1 came in 2001 with Family Affair, which held the top spot for six weeks.
Be Without You, from her album The Breakthrough, won two Grammy Awards in 2007, for Best R&B Song and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
“TO PARTNER WITH THE QUEEN HERSELF ON HER EXTRAORDINARY CATALOG AND HER EVERLASTING LEGACY IS AN HONOR FOR ME AND FOR OUR ENTIRE PRIMARY WAVE TEAM.” NATALIA NASTASKIN, PRIMARY WAVE
Blige’s 1994 album My Life was selected for the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry in 2025.
She has received 37 Grammy nominations in total and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024.
Blige received two Academy Award nominations for the 2017 film Mudbound, for Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Song (Mighty River).
Her first Las Vegas residency, titled My Life, My Story, opened at Dolby Live at Park MGM on May 1.
The 20-date run, which plays its last 2026 shows this week, is scheduled to conclude on February 20, 2027.
The Blige agreement is the latest in a run of catalog deals for the Larry Mestel-led company.
On October 13, Primary Wave partnered with Brian Vander Ark, frontman of The Verve Pipe, on his publishing and recorded music catalogs.
That followed a September 23 deal with the estate of Robert Palmer covering the late singer’s publishing and recording catalog, as well as a share of his name, image, and likeness rights.
Earlier that month, Primary Wave partnered with the estate of Wilson Pickett on a stake in the soul singer’s publishing catalog and his name, image, and likeness rights.
In June, it inked a deal with the estate of Donna Summer covering her catalog and recordings, as well as a share of her name, image, and likeness rights.
Unlike the Palmer, Pickett, and Summer agreements, the announcement of the Blige deal makes no reference to name, image, and likeness rights.
The deal also follows the closing of Primary Wave’s acquisition of Kobalt on July 7, in a transaction worth around USD $1.5 billion.
In April, the company closed its fourth music fund at USD $2.225 billion, exceeding both its USD $1.5 billion target and its USD $2 billion hard cap.
Primary Wave, which describes itself as “the leading independent publisher of iconic and legendary music in the world,” was founded by Mestel in 2006.
Its portfolio includes rights in the music of Bob Marley, Prince, Whitney Houston, James Brown, Ray Charles, and Smokey Robinson, among others.
#HipHopNews: LL Cool J Announces Las Vegas Residency
Rap legend LL Cool J announced he will headline the “Rock the Bells” residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM. The 58-year-old rapper/actor, real name James Todd Smith, made the announcement on Friday, Oct. 30. The 11-date residency will begin on May 15, 2027 and conclude on July 17, 2027.
The residency will feature LL Cool J’s classic hits accompanied by DJs and special guests to be announced at a later date.
“Hip-Hop started in a few neighborhoods in New York, and now it belongs to the whole world,” LL Cool J said in a statement. “Along the way it changed rock, R&B, pop, soul, dance music, all of it. Rock The Bells celebrates everybody who was part of that story.”
He continued: “This isn’t me doing a show in Vegas. It’s all of us. Artists from different generations and different genres, sharing one stage, for fans who were there at the beginning and kids hearing it for the first time. People from all over the world come to Vegas to celebrate, so this show belongs here.”
All performances are scheduled for 8 p.m. on the following dates:
May 15
May 16
May 19
May 21
May 22
July 9
July 10
July 11
July 14
July 16
July 17
Tickets will go on sale for Citi Card members on October 30, at 1 p.m. ET. Presales for MGM Rewards members and Live Nation and Ticketmaster customers will go on sale Saturday, October 31, at 1 p.m. ET.
Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday, November 2, at 1 p.m. ET.
Rap legend LL Cool J announced he will headline the “Rock the Bells” residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM. The 58-year-old rapper/actor, real name James Todd Smith, made the announcement on Friday, Oct. 30. The 11-date residency will begin on May 15, 2027 and conclude on July 17, 2027.
The residency will feature LL Cool J’s classic hits accompanied by DJs and special guests to be announced at a later date.
“Hip-Hop started in a few neighborhoods in New York, and now it belongs to the whole world,” LL Cool J said in a statement. “Along the way it changed rock, R&B, pop, soul, dance music, all of it. Rock The Bells celebrates everybody who was part of that story.”
He continued: “This isn’t me doing a show in Vegas. It’s all of us. Artists from different generations and different genres, sharing one stage, for fans who were there at the beginning and kids hearing it for the first time. People from all over the world come to Vegas to celebrate, so this show belongs here.”
All performances are scheduled for 8 p.m. on the following dates:
May 15
May 16
May 19
May 21
May 22
July 9
July 10
July 11
July 14
July 16
July 17
Tickets will go on sale for Citi Card members on October 30, at 1 p.m. ET. Presales for MGM Rewards members and Live Nation and Ticketmaster customers will go on sale Saturday, October 31, at 1 p.m. ET.
Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday, November 2, at 1 p.m. ET.
Haley Stevens Fiancé Hit With Alarming Claims After Her MAGA Endorsement
Haley Stevens’ former staffers are making alarming allegations about her fiancé after the congresswoman unexpectedly endorsed the Republican running against the Democrat who defeated her in Michigan’s Senate primary.
Stevens’ friend Jordan Acker claimed her fiancé, Jason Turkish, had taken away her phone—a claim Turkish denied—while former consultant Cailin Legacki described the couple’s relationship as “absolutely toxic” and said friends feared it was “emotionally abusive.”
The allegations emerged after Stevens appeared alongside Donald Trump-endorsed Mike Rogers on Sunday, reversing her support for Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed.
Turkish touted his endorsement of Rogers all over Fox News.
Acker, a University of Michigan regent, said in a lengthy X post Sunday that he had become “deeply troubled” by Turkish’s behavior.
“Yesterday morning, afternoon, and evening, I spoke with @HaleyforMI several times,” Acker wrote in a lengthy post after Stevens endorsed Rogers outside Perfecting Church on Detroit’s east side.
“At 8:58 this morning, she told me she intended to remain silent. I don’t know what changed in the two hours that followed.”
Acker then turned to Turkish, whom he said he respected as a “brilliant lawyer and advocate for disabled Americans.”
“But I have become deeply troubled by his behavior,” he said. “I’ve heard serious concerns about his treatment of Haley’s staff, friends, and allies. My own experiences have only deepened those concerns.”
When a user suggested that Acker speak to Stevens privately, he replied: “Her fiance took her phone away.”
Acker claimed that Stevens' fiancé took away her phone.
Turkish, meanwhile, disputed Acker’s account in a reply from his now-private X account, alleging that Stevens “turned off her phone because of the amount of incoming calls,” according to a post obtained by Zeteo reporter Prem Thakker.
“You are welcome to come over whenever you want. No need to make things up,” he wrote, adding that he “could not be prouder of [Stevens’] courage to make this difficult and personal decision.”
Turkish and a spokesperson for Stevens did not immediately respond to questions from the Daily Beast. More than half of Stevens’ staff, including her communications director, quit after she endorsed Rogers.
Cailin Legacki, a former consultant for Stevens who was ousted in July after her work with Palantir was exposed, also voiced concerns about Turkish during an appearance on the podcast Nobody Knows Anything, describing their relationship as “absolutely toxic.”
“I’ve spoken to some of Haley’s close personal friends who are concerned that it is emotionally abusive,” she said. “She’s on an island with this guy who’s like, not very nice to her.”
During the Democratic primary, Legacki recalled that Turkish would frequently send Stevens the “meanest” X posts about her while she was campaigning.
“It was just so clearly designed to spin her up, to make her distrustful of the people around her, to make her think that nobody actually cared about her,” she said.
Turkish, a disability advocate and lawyer who is Jewish, had announced last week that he would vote for Rogers over El-Sayed, citing tensions between the progressive Muslim and the Jewish community over his criticisms of Israel.
A Stevens insider told The Washington Post that Turkish had lobbied Stevens to back Rogers, despite her private assurances to figures including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Former Michigan Gov. Jim Blanchard, another close ally, claimed Stevens told him she planned to double down on her support for El-Sayed just 48 hours before reversing course. At a dinner with Stevens and Turkish on Friday, Blanchard said he noticed that Turkish was “working her over,” in an interview with Gongwer News Service.
Blanchard claimed Turkish was “distraught” over Stevens’ support for El-Sayed.
“I let her know, he’s not a good influence,” he recounted. “She said, ‘I’m fine.’”
Stevens’ endorsement landed in the closing days of the Senate race, though a New York Times poll released Sunday showed El-Sayed leading Rogers 53 percent to 42 percent.
El-Sayed, for his part, received a record-breaking number of donations on Sunday. If elected, the Michigander would be the first Muslim senator.
Stevens’ friend Jordan Acker claimed her fiancé, Jason Turkish, had taken away her phone—a claim Turkish denied—while former consultant Cailin Legacki described the couple’s relationship as “absolutely toxic” and said friends feared it was “emotionally abusive.”
The allegations emerged after Stevens appeared alongside Donald Trump-endorsed Mike Rogers on Sunday, reversing her support for Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed.
Turkish touted his endorsement of Rogers all over Fox News.
Acker, a University of Michigan regent, said in a lengthy X post Sunday that he had become “deeply troubled” by Turkish’s behavior.
“Yesterday morning, afternoon, and evening, I spoke with @HaleyforMI several times,” Acker wrote in a lengthy post after Stevens endorsed Rogers outside Perfecting Church on Detroit’s east side.
“At 8:58 this morning, she told me she intended to remain silent. I don’t know what changed in the two hours that followed.”
Acker then turned to Turkish, whom he said he respected as a “brilliant lawyer and advocate for disabled Americans.”
“But I have become deeply troubled by his behavior,” he said. “I’ve heard serious concerns about his treatment of Haley’s staff, friends, and allies. My own experiences have only deepened those concerns.”
When a user suggested that Acker speak to Stevens privately, he replied: “Her fiance took her phone away.”
Acker claimed that Stevens' fiancé took away her phone.
Turkish, meanwhile, disputed Acker’s account in a reply from his now-private X account, alleging that Stevens “turned off her phone because of the amount of incoming calls,” according to a post obtained by Zeteo reporter Prem Thakker.
“You are welcome to come over whenever you want. No need to make things up,” he wrote, adding that he “could not be prouder of [Stevens’] courage to make this difficult and personal decision.”
Turkish and a spokesperson for Stevens did not immediately respond to questions from the Daily Beast. More than half of Stevens’ staff, including her communications director, quit after she endorsed Rogers.
Cailin Legacki, a former consultant for Stevens who was ousted in July after her work with Palantir was exposed, also voiced concerns about Turkish during an appearance on the podcast Nobody Knows Anything, describing their relationship as “absolutely toxic.”
“I’ve spoken to some of Haley’s close personal friends who are concerned that it is emotionally abusive,” she said. “She’s on an island with this guy who’s like, not very nice to her.”
During the Democratic primary, Legacki recalled that Turkish would frequently send Stevens the “meanest” X posts about her while she was campaigning.
“It was just so clearly designed to spin her up, to make her distrustful of the people around her, to make her think that nobody actually cared about her,” she said.
Turkish, a disability advocate and lawyer who is Jewish, had announced last week that he would vote for Rogers over El-Sayed, citing tensions between the progressive Muslim and the Jewish community over his criticisms of Israel.
A Stevens insider told The Washington Post that Turkish had lobbied Stevens to back Rogers, despite her private assurances to figures including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Former Michigan Gov. Jim Blanchard, another close ally, claimed Stevens told him she planned to double down on her support for El-Sayed just 48 hours before reversing course. At a dinner with Stevens and Turkish on Friday, Blanchard said he noticed that Turkish was “working her over,” in an interview with Gongwer News Service.
Blanchard claimed Turkish was “distraught” over Stevens’ support for El-Sayed.
“I let her know, he’s not a good influence,” he recounted. “She said, ‘I’m fine.’”
Stevens’ endorsement landed in the closing days of the Senate race, though a New York Times poll released Sunday showed El-Sayed leading Rogers 53 percent to 42 percent.
El-Sayed, for his part, received a record-breaking number of donations on Sunday. If elected, the Michigander would be the first Muslim senator.
Valkyries win WNBA championship in second season, beating Dream 68-63 in Game 7
Allisha Gray had 23 points and Rhyne Howard added 21 as the Atlanta Dream held off a late Valkyries rally to win Game 6 of the WNBA Finals.
Gabby Williams scored her team's final 11 points of the third quarter and dazzled through the fourth on the way to 30 points, and the Golden State Valkyries captured a championship in just their second season by beating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in a sensational first WNBA Finals Game 7 on Saturday night.
Jordin Canada scored 18 points, Allisha Gray 16 and Angel Reese had eight points and 12 rebounds for the Dream, denied another championship in the franchise's fourth try.
Gray made two free throws with 11 seconds left then Atlanta forced a jump ball — Gray against Williams — and Veronica Burton corralled it and converted two free throws with 5.1 seconds to go.
“I'm just so blessed, this is insane!” said Burton, cut by Dallas two years ago.
Ballhalla erupted in celebration Saturday night as the Valkyries outlasted the Dream in a Game 7 nailbiter to win the WNBA championship.
Rhyne Howard's layup tied it at 57 with 2:41 left only for Williams to answer once more with a clutch 3-pointer. She converted two free throws with 1:40 remaining, then Kiah Stokes scored a late basket. Stokes pulled down 13 rebounds and blocked two more shots to cap her spectacular postseason.
Williams left Seattle with a great feeling about joining Golden State and its close-knit culture, returning to the Bay Area where she played youth basketball to build something special with the Valkyries — and she’s now done that. Fans chanted “Gabby! Gabby!” throughout the fourth quarter.
“All it took was good people,” she said. “All we heard last year was we don’t have no stars. We don’t have no talent. Yeah right! We got good people. We got good people. We got winners. We got people who are ready to put their bodies on the floor to win a game.”
When the final buzzer sounded, the violet-clad sellout crowd at Chase Center went into a frenzy as players sprinted onto the floor to hug and celebrate as confetti fell from the rafters.
“Ballhalla” had become “Boohalla” for this far-but-haunted Halloween night in the raucous arena. Now, with a women's championship to its name right alongside the one earned by the Golden State Warriors in 2022.
“We gotta build a bigger trophy case,” co-owner Peter Guber said.
The team that led at halftime in the first six matchups had won every game so far, and the Dream were ahead 30-24 at the break. Atlanta also had been 16-0 this season when Reese made at least one 3. The Dream's DeWanna Bonner became the first player in WNBA history to reach 600 career postseason defensive rebounds.
Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase changed her starting lineup in a move that paid huge dividends after Golden State fell behind 2-1, inserting Kaila Charles and Tiffany Hayes and bringing Kayla Thornton and Cecilia Zandalasini off the bench.
The 37-year-old Hayes, who came out of retirement two years ago and spent 10 seasons with the Dream, scored 11 points in the winner-take-all Game 7 and brought energy all series that made Nakase want to win for the veteran guard as much as anybody.
Valkyries owner Joe Lacob guaranteed a championship within the first five years for this franchise three years ago when the Bay Area was granted an expansion team, and in improbable, joyful fashion, his team accomplished it in Year 2. That after becoming the first expansion organization to reach the playoffs in its inaugural year in 2025.
During the victory ceremony, Lacob shouted out the team and its leaders, while Nakase, general manager Ohemma Nyanin and President Jess Smith hugged. And Lacob thanked the fans who have sold out Chase Center for every game since Day 1.
Gabby Williams scored her team's final 11 points of the third quarter and dazzled through the fourth on the way to 30 points, and the Golden State Valkyries captured a championship in just their second season by beating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in a sensational first WNBA Finals Game 7 on Saturday night.
Jordin Canada scored 18 points, Allisha Gray 16 and Angel Reese had eight points and 12 rebounds for the Dream, denied another championship in the franchise's fourth try.
Gray made two free throws with 11 seconds left then Atlanta forced a jump ball — Gray against Williams — and Veronica Burton corralled it and converted two free throws with 5.1 seconds to go.
“I'm just so blessed, this is insane!” said Burton, cut by Dallas two years ago.
Ballhalla erupted in celebration Saturday night as the Valkyries outlasted the Dream in a Game 7 nailbiter to win the WNBA championship.
Rhyne Howard's layup tied it at 57 with 2:41 left only for Williams to answer once more with a clutch 3-pointer. She converted two free throws with 1:40 remaining, then Kiah Stokes scored a late basket. Stokes pulled down 13 rebounds and blocked two more shots to cap her spectacular postseason.
Williams left Seattle with a great feeling about joining Golden State and its close-knit culture, returning to the Bay Area where she played youth basketball to build something special with the Valkyries — and she’s now done that. Fans chanted “Gabby! Gabby!” throughout the fourth quarter.
“All it took was good people,” she said. “All we heard last year was we don’t have no stars. We don’t have no talent. Yeah right! We got good people. We got good people. We got winners. We got people who are ready to put their bodies on the floor to win a game.”
When the final buzzer sounded, the violet-clad sellout crowd at Chase Center went into a frenzy as players sprinted onto the floor to hug and celebrate as confetti fell from the rafters.
“Ballhalla” had become “Boohalla” for this far-but-haunted Halloween night in the raucous arena. Now, with a women's championship to its name right alongside the one earned by the Golden State Warriors in 2022.
“We gotta build a bigger trophy case,” co-owner Peter Guber said.
The team that led at halftime in the first six matchups had won every game so far, and the Dream were ahead 30-24 at the break. Atlanta also had been 16-0 this season when Reese made at least one 3. The Dream's DeWanna Bonner became the first player in WNBA history to reach 600 career postseason defensive rebounds.
Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase changed her starting lineup in a move that paid huge dividends after Golden State fell behind 2-1, inserting Kaila Charles and Tiffany Hayes and bringing Kayla Thornton and Cecilia Zandalasini off the bench.
The 37-year-old Hayes, who came out of retirement two years ago and spent 10 seasons with the Dream, scored 11 points in the winner-take-all Game 7 and brought energy all series that made Nakase want to win for the veteran guard as much as anybody.
Valkyries owner Joe Lacob guaranteed a championship within the first five years for this franchise three years ago when the Bay Area was granted an expansion team, and in improbable, joyful fashion, his team accomplished it in Year 2. That after becoming the first expansion organization to reach the playoffs in its inaugural year in 2025.
During the victory ceremony, Lacob shouted out the team and its leaders, while Nakase, general manager Ohemma Nyanin and President Jess Smith hugged. And Lacob thanked the fans who have sold out Chase Center for every game since Day 1.
Martha Stewart Apologizes After Backlash Over Dressing As A Homeless Person For Halloween
Martha Stewart is apologizing after her Halloween costume sparked backlash online.
The 85-year-old lifestyle mogul faced criticism after sharing a photo of herself dressed as a homeless person, wearing ripped clothing, a beanie and makeup that made her face appear dirty.
She also held a sign that read, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
The photo appeared in an Instagram post promoting her QVC candles, which she later deleted following criticism.
Initially, Martha defended her intentions, explaining that the costume was meant to raise awareness about homelessness.
“I am distressed that my Halloween costume yesterday, which was intended to bring more awareness to the very serious subject of homelessness, has offended people, which was never my intention.”
She also pointed to her charitable work supporting organizations that address homelessness.
However, following continued backlash, Martha issued a second statement acknowledging that her original response fell short.
“It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up. My earlier statement didn’t go far enough.I know many people are economically struggling. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I’m very sorry.”
The costume sparked mixed reactions, with critics questioning why homelessness was portrayed as a Halloween costume, particularly as many Americans struggle financially. Others defended Martha, arguing that the backlash was excessive.
Lenny Kravitz’s Rep Debunks Reports He Was Aboard the Learjet 60 That Crashed in Florida
Lenny Kravitz‘s rep is responding to reports that he was aboard the plane that crashed en route to the Bahamas.
If you did not see, a Learjet 60 left Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, headed towards North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas on Sunday (November 1) when it crashed in South Florida. All 9 passengers on board were killed.
A post on X went viral from a pilot, Emily Shelton, who had announced she was flying with Lenny.
“Honored to be flying the one and only Lenny Kravitz from [Austin-Bergstrom International Airport] to [North Eleuthera Airport, Bahamas] tomorrow. Looking forward to having him on board,” her deleted Facebook post read.
Emily was apparently NOT the pilot on the plane. One of the co-pilots on the plane was Nathalia Gadelha, 20, the New York Post reports.
“The reports are untrue and incorrect,” Lenny‘s rep confirmed to BocaNewsNow.
Our thoughts are with the victims and those who lost loved ones in this horrific tragedy.
Martha Stewart is apologizing after her Halloween costume sparked backlash online.
The 85-year-old lifestyle mogul faced criticism after sharing a photo of herself dressed as a homeless person, wearing ripped clothing, a beanie and makeup that made her face appear dirty.
She also held a sign that read, “I AM HUNGRY HELP ME!!”
The photo appeared in an Instagram post promoting her QVC candles, which she later deleted following criticism.
Initially, Martha defended her intentions, explaining that the costume was meant to raise awareness about homelessness.
“I am distressed that my Halloween costume yesterday, which was intended to bring more awareness to the very serious subject of homelessness, has offended people, which was never my intention.”
She also pointed to her charitable work supporting organizations that address homelessness.
However, following continued backlash, Martha issued a second statement acknowledging that her original response fell short.
“It’s hard to admit when you’ve really screwed up. My earlier statement didn’t go far enough.I know many people are economically struggling. Wearing a costume like I did was insensitive and not funny. I’m very sorry.”
The costume sparked mixed reactions, with critics questioning why homelessness was portrayed as a Halloween costume, particularly as many Americans struggle financially. Others defended Martha, arguing that the backlash was excessive.
Lenny Kravitz’s Rep Debunks Reports He Was Aboard the Learjet 60 That Crashed in Florida
If you did not see, a Learjet 60 left Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, headed towards North Eleuthera Airport in the Bahamas on Sunday (November 1) when it crashed in South Florida. All 9 passengers on board were killed.
A post on X went viral from a pilot, Emily Shelton, who had announced she was flying with Lenny.
“Honored to be flying the one and only Lenny Kravitz from [Austin-Bergstrom International Airport] to [North Eleuthera Airport, Bahamas] tomorrow. Looking forward to having him on board,” her deleted Facebook post read.
Emily was apparently NOT the pilot on the plane. One of the co-pilots on the plane was Nathalia Gadelha, 20, the New York Post reports.
“The reports are untrue and incorrect,” Lenny‘s rep confirmed to BocaNewsNow.
Our thoughts are with the victims and those who lost loved ones in this horrific tragedy.
Timbaland Accuses Former Managers of Fraud, Civil Theft in $15 Million Lawsuit
“Defendants used their entrusted authority to enrich themselves and others, conceal financial misconduct and deplete Timbaland’s valuable assets,” the filing states
Producer and rapper Timbaland, also known as Timothy Mosley, sued his former manager and business manager for over $15 million Friday, accusing the pair of fraud, breach of fiduciary duty and civil theft.
In the filing, which was obtained and viewed by TheWrap, Timbaland claimed that Gary Marella, his former manager, “stole millions in unauthorized commissions, fees and reimbursements.” He also accused Marella of using his money to pay employees and falsifying “financial records and communications to conceal unauthorized payments” to mislead him.
Bruce Seckendorf, Timbaland’s former business manager, is also named in the suit and is accused of failing “to pay Mosley’s mortgage and allow[ing] his home to reach the brink of foreclosure.”
“[Seckendorf’s firm] failed to timely pay substantial federal taxes, causing millions in penalties and interest,” the document stated, “while continuing to pay themselves, the Marella Defendants, and other professionals millions in commissions, fees, and purported loan repayments.”
“Defendants used their entrusted authority to enrich themselves and others, conceal financial misconduct, and deplete Timbaland’s valuable assets,” the suit added. “Plaintiffs seek to recover their losses, compel an accounting, and stop the continuing unauthorized use of Timbaland’s name for Defendants’ benefit.”
According to the filing, the producer only discovered the alleged misconduct after he received a foreclosure notice on his home in 2025. Timbaland’s camp alleged that the rapper reached out to Seckendorf following the notice, but the latter was unable to “clearly explain why his office had failed to make the mortgage payments without informing Mosley.”
The filing stated that Timbaland then sought out independent legal counsel and new financial representatives, who allegedly uncovered “unauthorized payments, concealed credit-card arrangements, falsified communications, undisclosed liabilities, and purported loans Mosley had never knowingly agreed to.”
“The foreclosure was not caused simply because Plaintiffs had no money,” the complaint further claimed. “Seckendorf Defendants thus prioritized nearly $900,000 in payments to Defendants and attorneys they engaged in five months, while failing to pay for twelve months of mortgage arrears they caused and concealed from Mosley.”
It’s said Marella and Seckendorf were terminated from their positions in 2025.
In response to the suit, Marella told TheWrap, “I dispute these allegations. Unfortunately, Tim is attempting to shift responsibility for his own overspending and financial decisions onto someone else (again) as he did before we managed him.”
“When I began managing him in 2017, long after producing his biggest hits, he was already broke and in debt, had spent all of his money, and was living in a rental. His financial problems did not begin with me. I came in to help rebuild his business,” he continued. “Over approximately nine years, we generated roughly $75 million in business. Despite that, Tim continued spending beyond his means, ultimately having to sell his home last year due to his actions and move into a rental in Coral Gables. Those were the consequences of his own financial decisions, no one else. My role was artist management. His business manager handled his finances and paid our management commissions. The allegation that I paid myself without his knowledge is simply absurd. Managing his finances was not my role.”
A representative for Seckendorf did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment.
“Defendants used their entrusted authority to enrich themselves and others, conceal financial misconduct and deplete Timbaland’s valuable assets,” the filing states
Producer and rapper Timbaland, also known as Timothy Mosley, sued his former manager and business manager for over $15 million Friday, accusing the pair of fraud, breach of fiduciary duty and civil theft.
In the filing, which was obtained and viewed by TheWrap, Timbaland claimed that Gary Marella, his former manager, “stole millions in unauthorized commissions, fees and reimbursements.” He also accused Marella of using his money to pay employees and falsifying “financial records and communications to conceal unauthorized payments” to mislead him.
Bruce Seckendorf, Timbaland’s former business manager, is also named in the suit and is accused of failing “to pay Mosley’s mortgage and allow[ing] his home to reach the brink of foreclosure.”
“[Seckendorf’s firm] failed to timely pay substantial federal taxes, causing millions in penalties and interest,” the document stated, “while continuing to pay themselves, the Marella Defendants, and other professionals millions in commissions, fees, and purported loan repayments.”
“Defendants used their entrusted authority to enrich themselves and others, conceal financial misconduct, and deplete Timbaland’s valuable assets,” the suit added. “Plaintiffs seek to recover their losses, compel an accounting, and stop the continuing unauthorized use of Timbaland’s name for Defendants’ benefit.”
According to the filing, the producer only discovered the alleged misconduct after he received a foreclosure notice on his home in 2025. Timbaland’s camp alleged that the rapper reached out to Seckendorf following the notice, but the latter was unable to “clearly explain why his office had failed to make the mortgage payments without informing Mosley.”
The filing stated that Timbaland then sought out independent legal counsel and new financial representatives, who allegedly uncovered “unauthorized payments, concealed credit-card arrangements, falsified communications, undisclosed liabilities, and purported loans Mosley had never knowingly agreed to.”
“The foreclosure was not caused simply because Plaintiffs had no money,” the complaint further claimed. “Seckendorf Defendants thus prioritized nearly $900,000 in payments to Defendants and attorneys they engaged in five months, while failing to pay for twelve months of mortgage arrears they caused and concealed from Mosley.”
It’s said Marella and Seckendorf were terminated from their positions in 2025.
In response to the suit, Marella told TheWrap, “I dispute these allegations. Unfortunately, Tim is attempting to shift responsibility for his own overspending and financial decisions onto someone else (again) as he did before we managed him.”
“When I began managing him in 2017, long after producing his biggest hits, he was already broke and in debt, had spent all of his money, and was living in a rental. His financial problems did not begin with me. I came in to help rebuild his business,” he continued. “Over approximately nine years, we generated roughly $75 million in business. Despite that, Tim continued spending beyond his means, ultimately having to sell his home last year due to his actions and move into a rental in Coral Gables. Those were the consequences of his own financial decisions, no one else. My role was artist management. His business manager handled his finances and paid our management commissions. The allegation that I paid myself without his knowledge is simply absurd. Managing his finances was not my role.”
A representative for Seckendorf did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment.
Rick Ross Escapes Felony Battery Charge, Gets Hit With Two Misdemeanors Instead
Rick Ross was recently accused by his ex-girlfriend of domestic violence, and now, prosecutors are officially filing charges.
Rick Ross has caught a small break amidst legal issues stemming from allegations that he abused his ex-girlfriend. According to TMZ, the artist has been charged with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor battery/domestic violence. However, the felony battery charge has been dropped entirely. Prosecutors say there was insufficient evidence for it.
As we previously reported, Ross was supposed to have a hearing last week; however, prosecutors had never filed their charges. In the end, the prosecution needed an extra week to review evidence and figure out their course of action.
Ross has already pleaded not guilty to the charges. A few weeks ago, he was arrested in Miami after being accused of slapping and choking his ex during an alleged domestic dispute. He eventually turned himself in, and then became a viral meme immediately after being released.
Rick Ross has caught a small break amidst legal issues stemming from allegations that he abused his ex-girlfriend. According to TMZ, the artist has been charged with misdemeanor battery and misdemeanor battery/domestic violence. However, the felony battery charge has been dropped entirely. Prosecutors say there was insufficient evidence for it.
As we previously reported, Ross was supposed to have a hearing last week; however, prosecutors had never filed their charges. In the end, the prosecution needed an extra week to review evidence and figure out their course of action.
Ross has already pleaded not guilty to the charges. A few weeks ago, he was arrested in Miami after being accused of slapping and choking his ex during an alleged domestic dispute. He eventually turned himself in, and then became a viral meme immediately after being released.
Halle Berry Suffers Major Blow In Custody Battle w/ Ex-Husband Olivier Martinez As Judge Awards Him Primary Physical Custody Of Their Son
Halle Berry has suffered a major setback in her bitter custody battle with ex-husband Olivier Martinez, although she did score one legal victory.
According to TMZ, a judge has awarded Olivier primary physical custody of their 13-year-old son, Maceo, and ruled that Halle can no longer have overnight visits with him. The decision comes after Halle’s legal team reportedly pushed to restore the former couple’s previous 50/50 custody arrangement. However, the judge rejected that request while agreeing to dissolve the dome$tic v!olence restraining order against the actress. Olivier’s attorney called the custody ruling a “huge victory,” while Halle’s rep clarified that she still shares joint legal custody and has the final say if the parents cannot agree on a decision. The judge will reportedly revisit custody issues sometime next month.
The ruling follows weeks of serious allegations and courtroom drama. Olivier accused Halle of ch*king their son during an altercation, which she has denied, while Halle alleged that her ex coached Maceo. Their son ultimately testified behind closed doors, with both parents excluded from the courtroom. Halle has yet to publicly address the situation, although an #InstagramStory that appeared on her account earlier this week read, “If kids disrespect their mom, the root cause often traces back to their relationship with the father.” However, sources close to Halle claim her account was hacked and that she did not share the message.
Halle Berry has suffered a major setback in her bitter custody battle with ex-husband Olivier Martinez, although she did score one legal victory.
According to TMZ, a judge has awarded Olivier primary physical custody of their 13-year-old son, Maceo, and ruled that Halle can no longer have overnight visits with him. The decision comes after Halle’s legal team reportedly pushed to restore the former couple’s previous 50/50 custody arrangement. However, the judge rejected that request while agreeing to dissolve the dome$tic v!olence restraining order against the actress. Olivier’s attorney called the custody ruling a “huge victory,” while Halle’s rep clarified that she still shares joint legal custody and has the final say if the parents cannot agree on a decision. The judge will reportedly revisit custody issues sometime next month.
The ruling follows weeks of serious allegations and courtroom drama. Olivier accused Halle of ch*king their son during an altercation, which she has denied, while Halle alleged that her ex coached Maceo. Their son ultimately testified behind closed doors, with both parents excluded from the courtroom. Halle has yet to publicly address the situation, although an #InstagramStory that appeared on her account earlier this week read, “If kids disrespect their mom, the root cause often traces back to their relationship with the father.” However, sources close to Halle claim her account was hacked and that she did not share the message.
Prince's Legendary 2007 Las Vegas Concert Is Finally Coming to Theaters
Prince’s estate will bring Prince: 3121 Las Vegas Concert to theaters December 3, showcasing his January 2007 performance in 4K with Dolby Atmos, including “Kiss” and “Purple Rain”; tickets go on sale November 11.
An expanded edition of 3121 arrives December 11 with seven previously unreleased songs, acoustic recordings and a concert Blu-ray, following a separate live album for Record Store Day on November 27.
The Purple Rain stage musical will begin Broadway previews March 12, 2027, ahead of an April 12 opening at the Majestic Theatre, featuring roughly 20 Prince songs and live onstage instrumentation.
Prince is returning to the big screen, and this time, it's a concert from one of the busiest stretches of his career. The late music icon's previously unreleased 2007 Las Vegas performance is getting a theatrical release on December 3, giving audiences a chance to experience a full-length Prince show nearly two decades after it was recorded.
Titled Prince: 3121 Las Vegas Concert, the 154-minute film captures his January 20, 2007, performance during a five-month Las Vegas residency. According to Twin Cities Pioneer Press, the concert has been restored in 4K with Dolby Atmos sound and features a setlist spanning his career, including "Kiss," "Cream," "U Got the Look," "If I Was Your Girlfriend," and "Purple Rain."
Tickets go on sale November 11, with participating theaters expected to be announced ahead of the limited engagement.
The timing of the original performance is particularly significant. Just weeks after filming the concert, Prince took the stage at Super Bowl XLI in Miami, delivering a halftime performance that remains among the most celebrated in the event's history.
His Las Vegas residency, which ran from November 2006 through April 2007, also came during a major commercial resurgence fueled by his 2006 album 3121.
That album became Prince's first to debut atop the Billboard 200, marking his fourth No. 1 record overall and earning five Grammy nominations. Now, the Prince Estate is revisiting the project with an expanded edition featuring seven previously unreleased songs, alongside acoustic recordings of "The Word," "Love," and "Te Amo Corazon."
The collection arrives December 11 on digital platforms, vinyl, and CD, with a Blu-ray edition of the Las Vegas concert included. A separate live album will also be released for Record Store Day on November 27.
The estate has already offered a preview of the archival material, releasing a live performance of "Black Sweat" alongside "Time Of Ur Life" from the expanded album. Tamar Davis, who collaborated with Prince during the 3121 sessions and performed with him during his smaller-venue tour earlier in 2006, reflected on the experience in a statement.
"Collaborating with Prince and the talented musicians on '3121' was an honor," Davis said. "I remain grateful to have contributed my voice to this record and to have been part of such a remarkable creative experience."
The theatrical release also arrives as another major Prince project prepares for Broadway. A stage adaptation of his landmark 1984 film Purple Rain, which premiered in Minneapolis in 2025, is scheduled to begin previews at New York's Majestic Theatre on March 12, 2027, ahead of its April 12 opening.
An expanded edition of 3121 arrives December 11 with seven previously unreleased songs, acoustic recordings and a concert Blu-ray, following a separate live album for Record Store Day on November 27.
The Purple Rain stage musical will begin Broadway previews March 12, 2027, ahead of an April 12 opening at the Majestic Theatre, featuring roughly 20 Prince songs and live onstage instrumentation.
Prince is returning to the big screen, and this time, it's a concert from one of the busiest stretches of his career. The late music icon's previously unreleased 2007 Las Vegas performance is getting a theatrical release on December 3, giving audiences a chance to experience a full-length Prince show nearly two decades after it was recorded.
Titled Prince: 3121 Las Vegas Concert, the 154-minute film captures his January 20, 2007, performance during a five-month Las Vegas residency. According to Twin Cities Pioneer Press, the concert has been restored in 4K with Dolby Atmos sound and features a setlist spanning his career, including "Kiss," "Cream," "U Got the Look," "If I Was Your Girlfriend," and "Purple Rain."
Tickets go on sale November 11, with participating theaters expected to be announced ahead of the limited engagement.
The timing of the original performance is particularly significant. Just weeks after filming the concert, Prince took the stage at Super Bowl XLI in Miami, delivering a halftime performance that remains among the most celebrated in the event's history.
His Las Vegas residency, which ran from November 2006 through April 2007, also came during a major commercial resurgence fueled by his 2006 album 3121.
That album became Prince's first to debut atop the Billboard 200, marking his fourth No. 1 record overall and earning five Grammy nominations. Now, the Prince Estate is revisiting the project with an expanded edition featuring seven previously unreleased songs, alongside acoustic recordings of "The Word," "Love," and "Te Amo Corazon."
The collection arrives December 11 on digital platforms, vinyl, and CD, with a Blu-ray edition of the Las Vegas concert included. A separate live album will also be released for Record Store Day on November 27.
The estate has already offered a preview of the archival material, releasing a live performance of "Black Sweat" alongside "Time Of Ur Life" from the expanded album. Tamar Davis, who collaborated with Prince during the 3121 sessions and performed with him during his smaller-venue tour earlier in 2006, reflected on the experience in a statement.
"Collaborating with Prince and the talented musicians on '3121' was an honor," Davis said. "I remain grateful to have contributed my voice to this record and to have been part of such a remarkable creative experience."
The theatrical release also arrives as another major Prince project prepares for Broadway. A stage adaptation of his landmark 1984 film Purple Rain, which premiered in Minneapolis in 2025, is scheduled to begin previews at New York's Majestic Theatre on March 12, 2027, ahead of its April 12 opening.
Run-DMC's DMC Involved in Los Angeles Garbage Truck Car Crash
Run-DMC’s Darryl "DMC" McDaniels rode as a passenger in an SUV that collided with a garbage truck on Los Angeles' 105 Freeway on October 30.
Citizen App footage showed the SUV facing against traffic beside the truck before crews towed it away.
The crash fell on the 24th anniversary of Jam Master Jay's murder; Jay Bryant pleaded guilty in April to helping the killers enter the Run-DMC DJ's studio and faces 15 to 20 years.
Darryl "DMC" McDaniels was involved in an accident after an SUV he was riding in crashed in Los Angeles.
According to TMZ, the Run-DMC rapper was a passenger in a vehicle that was riding through the West Athens neighborhood on the 105 freeway on Friday (October 30). The SUV collided with a garbage truck, which was reported to the Citizen App, while a call to authorities came at 11:43 A.M.
Video posted to the Citizen App shows the SUV stopped in a freeway lane and its front turned opposite traffic against the truck. The SUV was towed away shortly after authorities arrived at the scene.
McDaniels, 62, co-founded Run-DMC with Joseph "Run" Simmons and late DJ Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell. Friday's crash concidentally fell on the 24th anniversary of Jam Master Jay's death. The musician was shot and killed at 37 years old in his recording studio in Jamaica, Queens, on October 30, 2002.
In April, the case’s final suspect, Jay Bryant, pleaded guilty and admitted he helped aid the killers in entering the studio. He faces 15 to 20 years.
"In 2002, in Queens NY, I agreed with others who were known drug dealers and involved with a drug deal with Jason Mizell to possess and distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine," Bryant said during the hearing.
"On October 30, 2002, in Queens NY, I helped them kill Jason Mizell by helping them gain entry to the recording studio," he continued. "I knew a gun was going to be used to shoot Jason Mizell. I knew what I was doing was wrong and a crime."
Run-DMC’s Darryl "DMC" McDaniels rode as a passenger in an SUV that collided with a garbage truck on Los Angeles' 105 Freeway on October 30.
Citizen App footage showed the SUV facing against traffic beside the truck before crews towed it away.
The crash fell on the 24th anniversary of Jam Master Jay's murder; Jay Bryant pleaded guilty in April to helping the killers enter the Run-DMC DJ's studio and faces 15 to 20 years.
Darryl "DMC" McDaniels was involved in an accident after an SUV he was riding in crashed in Los Angeles.
According to TMZ, the Run-DMC rapper was a passenger in a vehicle that was riding through the West Athens neighborhood on the 105 freeway on Friday (October 30). The SUV collided with a garbage truck, which was reported to the Citizen App, while a call to authorities came at 11:43 A.M.
Video posted to the Citizen App shows the SUV stopped in a freeway lane and its front turned opposite traffic against the truck. The SUV was towed away shortly after authorities arrived at the scene.
McDaniels, 62, co-founded Run-DMC with Joseph "Run" Simmons and late DJ Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell. Friday's crash concidentally fell on the 24th anniversary of Jam Master Jay's death. The musician was shot and killed at 37 years old in his recording studio in Jamaica, Queens, on October 30, 2002.
In April, the case’s final suspect, Jay Bryant, pleaded guilty and admitted he helped aid the killers in entering the studio. He faces 15 to 20 years.
"In 2002, in Queens NY, I agreed with others who were known drug dealers and involved with a drug deal with Jason Mizell to possess and distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine," Bryant said during the hearing.
"On October 30, 2002, in Queens NY, I helped them kill Jason Mizell by helping them gain entry to the recording studio," he continued. "I knew a gun was going to be used to shoot Jason Mizell. I knew what I was doing was wrong and a crime."
Paris Jackson Calls Estate Executor’s $109 Million Fee Request “Offensive,” Seeks Reduction
Michael Jackson's daughter claims attorney John Branca failed to justify the hefty compensation rate
Paris Jackson is reigniting her feud with the executor of her father’s estate, accusing John Branca of “persistent incompetence” and asking a judge to reject his nearly $110 million fee request for work on the late pop star’s estate from 2023 through 2024.
In a new motion filed Friday and obtained by Rolling Stone, Michael Jackson’s only daughter claims Branca missed his own self-selected Sept. 15 deadline to submit complete financial accountings for 2023 and 2024, instead filing documents that were either incomplete or “nothing more than a placeholder.” Despite the alleged deficiencies, she says, Branca sought $109,219,648 in combined compensation for himself, his lawyers, and his late co-executor, John McClain, who died in May at age 71.
“It is unclear how executor could calculate and distribute such an amount with any confidence and yet be unable to file complete and accurate accountings years later,” her new 12-page motion states. “Paris respectfully submits that the gap between executor’s level of compensation and his persistent incompetence is intolerable.”
Calling the fee request “particularly offensive” in light of the allegedly “delinquent” financial accountings, Paris is asking the retired judge overseeing the long-running estate to reduce Branca’s compensation from 15 percent to 10 percent of the estate’s gross entertainment-related income. She wants the reduction applied retroactively to 2003 and kept in place until Branca submits complete and accurate accountings through 2006.
“It is an understatement to say that this motion is completely without merit,” a spokesperson representing the Branca-led estate said in a statement shared with Rolling Stone. “[Paris’] attorneys have motioned for a reduction in executor compensation, when in fact the executors waived that from the estate’s beginning, and have never taken any executor compensation. They are paid a separate, court-ordered management fee for operating the hugely successful Michael Jackson business.”
Michael Jackson was 50 when he died on June 25, 2009, from an accidental overdose of the surgery-strength anesthetic propofol at his rented mansion in Los Angeles. Branca quickly stepped in to manage his affairs, and his lawyers have long credited him with transforming Jackson’s estate from one saddled with more than $500 million in debt into an enterprise valued at roughly $2 billion.
Paris’ new motion comes nearly six months after she won a separate legal battle to force three lawyers who worked for her father’s estate to return $625,000 in bonuses authorized by Branca. In an April 29 ruling, the retired judge, Mitchell Beckloff, found that the estate had failed to demonstrate the payments were “just and reasonable based on the information provided.”
“In fact, on the evidence presented, the bonus amounts paid appear arbitrary — what Mr. Branca determined was appropriate,” Beckloff wrote. “While Mr. Branca may, in fact, know better than anyone about the value of legal fees, there must be some specific and detailed factual basis for an order finding fees are just and reasonable.”
Paris, 28, is a beneficiary of her father’s estate along with her brothers, Prince, 29, and Bigi, 24. In other recent court filings obtained by Rolling Stone, her lawyers said she did not undertake her battle with Branca lightly.
“This litigation is painful for Paris. It is a distraction from her own life and her own career,” they wrote.
Paris Jackson is reigniting her feud with the executor of her father’s estate, accusing John Branca of “persistent incompetence” and asking a judge to reject his nearly $110 million fee request for work on the late pop star’s estate from 2023 through 2024.
In a new motion filed Friday and obtained by Rolling Stone, Michael Jackson’s only daughter claims Branca missed his own self-selected Sept. 15 deadline to submit complete financial accountings for 2023 and 2024, instead filing documents that were either incomplete or “nothing more than a placeholder.” Despite the alleged deficiencies, she says, Branca sought $109,219,648 in combined compensation for himself, his lawyers, and his late co-executor, John McClain, who died in May at age 71.
“It is unclear how executor could calculate and distribute such an amount with any confidence and yet be unable to file complete and accurate accountings years later,” her new 12-page motion states. “Paris respectfully submits that the gap between executor’s level of compensation and his persistent incompetence is intolerable.”
Calling the fee request “particularly offensive” in light of the allegedly “delinquent” financial accountings, Paris is asking the retired judge overseeing the long-running estate to reduce Branca’s compensation from 15 percent to 10 percent of the estate’s gross entertainment-related income. She wants the reduction applied retroactively to 2003 and kept in place until Branca submits complete and accurate accountings through 2006.
“It is an understatement to say that this motion is completely without merit,” a spokesperson representing the Branca-led estate said in a statement shared with Rolling Stone. “[Paris’] attorneys have motioned for a reduction in executor compensation, when in fact the executors waived that from the estate’s beginning, and have never taken any executor compensation. They are paid a separate, court-ordered management fee for operating the hugely successful Michael Jackson business.”
Michael Jackson was 50 when he died on June 25, 2009, from an accidental overdose of the surgery-strength anesthetic propofol at his rented mansion in Los Angeles. Branca quickly stepped in to manage his affairs, and his lawyers have long credited him with transforming Jackson’s estate from one saddled with more than $500 million in debt into an enterprise valued at roughly $2 billion.
Paris’ new motion comes nearly six months after she won a separate legal battle to force three lawyers who worked for her father’s estate to return $625,000 in bonuses authorized by Branca. In an April 29 ruling, the retired judge, Mitchell Beckloff, found that the estate had failed to demonstrate the payments were “just and reasonable based on the information provided.”
“In fact, on the evidence presented, the bonus amounts paid appear arbitrary — what Mr. Branca determined was appropriate,” Beckloff wrote. “While Mr. Branca may, in fact, know better than anyone about the value of legal fees, there must be some specific and detailed factual basis for an order finding fees are just and reasonable.”
Paris, 28, is a beneficiary of her father’s estate along with her brothers, Prince, 29, and Bigi, 24. In other recent court filings obtained by Rolling Stone, her lawyers said she did not undertake her battle with Branca lightly.
“This litigation is painful for Paris. It is a distraction from her own life and her own career,” they wrote.
Druski Inks Multi-Year Netflix Deal To Develop Original Content
Comedian and viral entertainer Druski has been on a legendary run, and he just took it up another notch.
Netflix announced today that the Webby and BET Award winner in company with his 4LIFERS Entertainment company, will be developing and producing original content series exclusively for the streaming platform.
The news come not long after Druski released his viral and widely contentious megachurch skit, which received both positive and negative feedback, the latter even come from some megachurch pastors. In the notorious spoof, Druski shares that he was wearing Louboutin red bottom shoes because he was infamously "stepping on the blood of Jesus." The character quickly became another viral moment for the comedian, with some people regarding him as a cultural anthropologist for how accurate his skits are. Now, one of his most viral characters is receiving an even bigger platform for his persona.
The first series to emerge from the deal will be Collect & Praise, which premieres December 1. According to the official description, "faith comes second to fortune" for a money-hungry megachurch pastor, played by Druski, and his unpredictable deacon, portrayed by comedian Mike Epps. Together, the pair scheme their way through the scandals, chaos and controversies that come with leading a congregation in the semi-scripted comedy series.
And Collect & Praise is just the beginning. Under the multi-year agreement, Druski and 4LIFERS Entertainment will develop several original projects for Netflix, expanding his signature brand of character-driven comedy into longform programming.
For fans who have followed his career online, the transition feels like a natural next step. Druski has already built a formidable digital entertainment portfolio through projects like Coulda Been Records, where he hosts nationwide auditions for aspiring artists to join his fictional music label, and Coulda Been Love, a dating show reminiscent of early VH1 reality television staples like Flavor of Love and I Love New York. His Coulda Been franchise has helped establish him as more than a social media comedian, giving audiences original programming and recurring characters to follow beyond his viral sketches.
And Collect & Praise is just the beginning. Under the multi-year agreement, Druski and 4LIFERS Entertainment will develop several original projects for Netflix, expanding his signature brand of character-driven comedy into longform programming.
For fans who have followed his career online, the transition feels like a natural next step. Druski has already built a formidable digital entertainment portfolio through projects like Coulda Been Records, where he hosts nationwide auditions for aspiring artists to join his fictional music label, and Coulda Been Love, a dating show reminiscent of early VH1 reality television staples like Flavor of Love and I Love New York. His Coulda Been franchise has helped establish him as more than a social media comedian, giving audiences original programming and recurring characters to follow beyond his viral sketches.
Netflix will also license select titles from Druski's existing catalog, including Coulda Been Love, Coulda Been Daddy, Coulda Been Records Auditions and several of his comedic skits, bringing some of his most popular work to an even wider audience.
“I’ve built my platform by creating characters and comedy that resonate with people,” Druski said of the partnership. “This partnership with Netflix will give me the resources to build on that comedy foundation and bring my work to a new global audience.”
John Derderian, VP of Next Gen Content at Netflix, echoed that enthusiasm, noting Druski's ability to create memorable characters and connect with audiences. “We want the best talent in the world to bring us their most ambitious work, reach new audiences and build their brands,” he said. “Collect & Praise is just the beginning, and we welcome Druski to Netflix.”
The deal marks another major milestone for the Atlanta native, who was recently named Rolling Stone's No. 1 Most Influential Creator of 2026 and is set to host Saturday Night Live on November 7.
Comedian and viral entertainer Druski has been on a legendary run, and he just took it up another notch.
Netflix announced today that the Webby and BET Award winner in company with his 4LIFERS Entertainment company, will be developing and producing original content series exclusively for the streaming platform.
The news come not long after Druski released his viral and widely contentious megachurch skit, which received both positive and negative feedback, the latter even come from some megachurch pastors. In the notorious spoof, Druski shares that he was wearing Louboutin red bottom shoes because he was infamously "stepping on the blood of Jesus." The character quickly became another viral moment for the comedian, with some people regarding him as a cultural anthropologist for how accurate his skits are. Now, one of his most viral characters is receiving an even bigger platform for his persona.
The first series to emerge from the deal will be Collect & Praise, which premieres December 1. According to the official description, "faith comes second to fortune" for a money-hungry megachurch pastor, played by Druski, and his unpredictable deacon, portrayed by comedian Mike Epps. Together, the pair scheme their way through the scandals, chaos and controversies that come with leading a congregation in the semi-scripted comedy series.
And Collect & Praise is just the beginning. Under the multi-year agreement, Druski and 4LIFERS Entertainment will develop several original projects for Netflix, expanding his signature brand of character-driven comedy into longform programming.
For fans who have followed his career online, the transition feels like a natural next step. Druski has already built a formidable digital entertainment portfolio through projects like Coulda Been Records, where he hosts nationwide auditions for aspiring artists to join his fictional music label, and Coulda Been Love, a dating show reminiscent of early VH1 reality television staples like Flavor of Love and I Love New York. His Coulda Been franchise has helped establish him as more than a social media comedian, giving audiences original programming and recurring characters to follow beyond his viral sketches.
And Collect & Praise is just the beginning. Under the multi-year agreement, Druski and 4LIFERS Entertainment will develop several original projects for Netflix, expanding his signature brand of character-driven comedy into longform programming.
For fans who have followed his career online, the transition feels like a natural next step. Druski has already built a formidable digital entertainment portfolio through projects like Coulda Been Records, where he hosts nationwide auditions for aspiring artists to join his fictional music label, and Coulda Been Love, a dating show reminiscent of early VH1 reality television staples like Flavor of Love and I Love New York. His Coulda Been franchise has helped establish him as more than a social media comedian, giving audiences original programming and recurring characters to follow beyond his viral sketches.
Netflix will also license select titles from Druski's existing catalog, including Coulda Been Love, Coulda Been Daddy, Coulda Been Records Auditions and several of his comedic skits, bringing some of his most popular work to an even wider audience.
“I’ve built my platform by creating characters and comedy that resonate with people,” Druski said of the partnership. “This partnership with Netflix will give me the resources to build on that comedy foundation and bring my work to a new global audience.”
John Derderian, VP of Next Gen Content at Netflix, echoed that enthusiasm, noting Druski's ability to create memorable characters and connect with audiences. “We want the best talent in the world to bring us their most ambitious work, reach new audiences and build their brands,” he said. “Collect & Praise is just the beginning, and we welcome Druski to Netflix.”
The deal marks another major milestone for the Atlanta native, who was recently named Rolling Stone's No. 1 Most Influential Creator of 2026 and is set to host Saturday Night Live on November 7.
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