#FASHIONFILES: Gucci 'Valigeria' Luggage by Panos Davios for Vogue Greece December 2022
What a difference seven weeks makes in the world of Gucci!
Upon reflection, Alessandro Michele — has done a great job at his time for Gucci!
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Dazzled in a Black Lace Jovani Dress for Porsha Williams’ Wedding
Porsha Williams’ wedding to Simon Guobadia over the weekend definitely brought out all the stars. Chief among them included several of The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum’s former castmates, including Drew Sidora, Kim Zolciak-Biermann, and Kandi Burruss, who rocked a sparkling black sleeveless gown for the occasion, pairing the look with long black opera gloves.
Another RHOA alum, Cynthia Bailey, joined the stylish lineup with her own stunning look. The businesswoman showed off several angles of the plunging black lace gown with a high leg slit in a November 28 Instagram post, putting her modeling skills to work in various poses on a staircase. The spaghetti-strap dress — which she paired with large gold hoop earrings, sky-high strappy black heels, and a long, sleek braid — was made by none other than Housewives-favorite designer Jovani.
“[C]ongratulations to [the Guobadias]!” Cynthia captioned her post. “[Porsha] you were BREATHTAKING! [S]uch a beautiful celebration of love.”
Cynthia also noted that her sister, Malorie Bailey, who joined her for the elegant soirée, “had a wonderful time,” and the two can be seen sharing a sweet smile together in the last photo of the series. Mal was just as glamorous as her sister in a sleek long-sleeve black dress with a high leg slit.
#MusicNews: SZA Reveals 'S.O.S.' Album Cover
SZA is sending out an S.O.S. Ahead of its imminent release next month, the singer has unveiled the cover art, which finds her sitting on the edge of a diving board in the middle of the ocean, wearing Timberland boots and a jersey that says “S.O.S.” on the back. She appears as a tiny spec hovering above the vast deep blue sea.
The cover art received praise from her famous friends including Kylie Jenner, Lizzo, Tinashe, and Chloe Bailey, who wrote, “this cover is INSANE.”
SZA has yet to reveal a release date, but she previously said that the album would arrive sometime in December. She is slated to perform on “SNL” this weekend.
The long-awaited follow-up to 2017’s Ctrl has already spawned a series of singles including “Good Days,” “I Hate U,” and “Shirt,” which was released last month.
In a cover story for Billboard, SZA revealed the title of the album, which is said to incorporate surf rock, grunge, and an acoustic guitar-driven ballad. “S.O.S. is an album that certainly justifies a five-year wait,” declares the magazine.
Earlier this month, SZA joined Lizzo on stage during the final stop of her “Special Tour” in L.A. where they performed their remix of “Special” for the first time.
#HipHopNews: Nas And 21 Savage Drop Surprise Collaboration 'One Mic, One Gun'
One love. Nas and 21 Savage are showing that there’s no love lost between them. After 21 sparked controversy with his comments about Nas’ relevancy, the two come together on their surprise collaboration “One Mic, One Gun.”
Over the triumphant Hit-Boy-produced beat, 21 starts off by referencing the controversy. “When you turn a legend, no such thing as relevance / They must’ve forgot that I’m a new rapper that got integrity,” he raps before adding, “I ain’t going against no legend / I’m tryna be next in line.”
Hot on the heels of his album King’s Disease III, Nas extends an olive branch to his younger peer. “I shook up the town, I shook up the city, I shook up the state / I’m with 21 on my second run, this shit come with age,” raps the hip-hop legend. “No back and forth / I did it back then, I do it right now / They tellin’ me that I’m the GOAT, I been here a while.”
During a Twitter Spaces chat earlier this month, 21 claimed that Nas was irrelevant in today’s music scene.
“He’s not relevant,” 21 said in a clip that circulated online. “He just has a loyal ass fanbase. He just has a loyal fanbase and he still makes good ass music.”
After facing backlash, he insisted that he was not disrespecting Nas. “I would never disrespect nas or any legend who paved the way for me y’all be tryna take stuff and run with it,” Savage tweeted.
Prior to the song’s release, Nas revealed why he decided to link with 21. “Only way we moving is with love, respect and unity,” he wrote. “The foundational principles of hip hop. Excited to collaborate with my young brother and I hope more artist use turbulent moments and turn them into a time to make new art. That’s what it’s about.”
#PRAYERS: Al Roker was rushed back to hospital 24 hours after being released
Al Roker leaves hospital after missing Thanksgiving Day Parade: ‘So very thankful’
Al Roker was rushed back to the hospital via ambulance the day after Thanksgiving amid his ongoing health scare due to blood clots.
The beloved “Today” anchor fell ill on Friday — just a day after he missed hosting the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for the first time in 27 years due to having just been released from the hospital.
The popular weatherman, 68, was taken away by ambulance as his frantic wife, Deborah Roberts, attempted to break into their malfunctioned Tesla to retrieve her mobile phone to follow her husband to the uptown Manhattan hospital, sources say.
ABC News journalist Roberts, 62, tried to smash her way through a reinforced glass window on the front side of the car with the help of a neighbor outside their Upper East Side home, say witnesses.
One witness told Page Six, “Al was taken from his home in a stretcher back to the hospital on Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. His condition was worrying, but once back in the hospital, he improved.
“His wife, Deborah, was understandably very upset. She had left her phone and other possessions inside their Tesla, which had malfunctioned and wouldn’t unlock, so she was trying to smash in a window.”
The onlooker said Roberts’ attempt to retrieve her belongings from inside the electric vehicle was “unsuccessful.”
“Deborah then went to the hospital by taxi with her daughter, where Al has since been surrounded by his family.”
Roker and Roberts — who have been married since 1995 — share daughter Leila, 24, and son Nicholas, 20. The meteorologist also has daughter Courtney, 35, with ex-wife Alice Bell.
Page Six reported earlier this month that Roker was hospitalized due to blood clots in his leg and lungs. The condition may be fatal if not discovered and treated early enough.
“Last week I was admitted to the hospital with a blood clot in my leg which sent some clots into my lungs,” Roker wrote on Instagram on Nov. 18.
“After some medical whack-a-mole, I am so fortunate to be getting terrific medical care and on the way to recovery. Thanks for all the well wishes and prayers and hope to see you soon.”
On Thanksgiving, he posted a video of himself walking the hospital corridors and wrote how grateful he was to be going home.
“So much to be #thankful for on the #thanksgiving day. Leaving the hospital and home for #thanksgivingdinner,” he captioned the clip.
The ever-cheery anchor joked that his hospital departure was his “version of the Thanksgiving Day Parade.”
Later that day, the weathercaster uploaded a picture of himself watching the parade hosted by his “Today” colleagues Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb, plus fellow meteorologist and anchor Dylan Dreyer.
He wrote, “Back home in time to catch a little bit of the #macysthanksgivingparade. Missing being next to @savannahguthrie and @hodakotb.”
He also posted a photo of himself and his family, including wife Deborah and kids Courtney, Leila and Nicholas, writing, “So very #thankful to be able to be home for #thanksgivingdinner #dinner with #family.”
A second source told us that Roker was staying “positive,” despite his health concerns.
“Al is the most positive, upbeat, energetic person. Everyone is rooting for him.”
A spokesperson for “Today” told Page Six, “Al is forging ahead on the road to recovery. He has the unwavering love and support of Deborah, his children, and his entire TODAY family.
‘Good Morning America’ Anchors Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes Spotted Getting Cozy
A story line straight out of The Morning Show? Good Morning America’s Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes are sparking speculation about the nature of their relationship after being spotted together numerous times this month.
The coworkers, who are both married to other people, can be seen holding hands in a car in one photo, published by the Daily Mail on Wednesday, November 30. In another snap, they are enjoying drinks and laughs at a bar in New York City. One picture even shows Holmes playfully touching Robach’s backside as she packed up the car. The outlet reports that the images are from various outings in November.
Robach, 49, and Holmes, 45, have yet to publicly comment on the photos. Both members of the ABC morning show have been married to their respective partners for years. Robach, for her part, wed Andrew Shue in 2010. She was previously married to Tim McIntosh from 1996 to 2008 and shares daughter Ava and Analise with her former spouse. She’s also the stepmother of Shue’s kids — Nate, Aidan and Wyatt — from his previous union to Jennifer Hageney.
“We’re mentors who guide them and love them. My daughters have a stepmother with their father, and I look at it like, there are more people who love my kids,” Robach told Us Weekly in 2017, adding that the family has “been described as the Brady Bunch.”
The journalist last shared a photo with the Melrose Place alum in July via Instagram.
“Goodnight Athens,” she wrote alongside a snap of their trip to Greece over the summer.
Holmes has also been married twice. Following his 2007 divorce from Amy Ferson, with whom he shares daughter Brianna and son Jaiden, he wed attorney Marilee Fiebig in 2010. They welcomed a daughter named Sabine in January 2013.
The former CNN anchor joined ABC News in 2014, filling in at Good Morning America when needed until he scored his regular gig as cohost of GMA3 in September 2020. Robach, meanwhile, has been at the network since 2012 and has served as the co-anchor of 20/20 since 2018. She also makes appearances on GMA, cohosting the third hour of programming since March 2020.
Robach and Holmes have taken friendly snaps with each other shared via Instagram over the years. And while he has seemingly deactivated his social media account, eagle-eyes fans are returning to posts from her page in light of the report about their relationship.
“T.J. just loves it when we match 👯♀️,” Robach wrote on July 7 alongside a pic of them both wearing pink on GMA.
They also posed together on the Daytime Emmys red carpet in June.
“We may not have brought home the Emmy, but as they say it was an honor to be nominated and a blast cheering on all the winners, especially our @robinrobertsgma @abcgma3 #daytimeemmys,” she wrote.
Earlier that month, the colleagues even traveled together to cover Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee.
“What an absolute joy and honor to witness the celebrations here in London for Queen Elizabeth II — you can see it in our faces — just incredible to cover the pomp and circumstance, precision, respect and love here all in honor of her majesty’s 70 years on the throne. Couldn’t have asked for a better partner through it all ❤️,” she wrote via Instagram.
Daejhanae Jackson Arrested For Her Alleged Role In The Death Of Shanquella Robinson
Daejhanae Jackson, one of the friends who accompanied Shanquella Robinson to Mexico, was arrested in connection with her murder.
According to Yahoo, Jackson was arrested on the night of Nov. 28 by Interpol agents after Mexico issued an arrest warrant seeking Jackson’s extradition. She was then placed in federal custody while she awaits the beginning of her extradition process to Mexico.
The arrest warrant explicitly said that Shanquella Robinson was the victim of “femicide.
“This case is fully clarified, we even have a court order, there is an arrest warrant issued for the crime of femicide to the detriment of the victim and against an alleged perpetrator, a friend of her who is the direct aggressor,” said Mexican prosecutor Daniel de la Rosa Anaya. “Actually it wasn’t a quarrel, but instead a direct aggression. We are carrying out all the pertinent procedures such as the Interpol alert and the request for extradition to the United States of America. It’s about two Americans, the victim, and the culprit.”
What happened to Shanquella Robinson?
Robinson and as many as six of her friends arrived at Cabo on Oct. 28. The next day, she was allegedly shown on video footage being beaten up by another young woman. It appeared that at least two people were filming the violence – the person who recorded the video posted on social media and another person whose phone could also be seen recording the footage. During the violence, a man’s voice could be heard imploring “Quella” — the woman identified as Robinson — to “at least fight back.”
While Robinson’s friends blamed her death on alcohol poisoning, an autopsy performed by Mexican authorities determined that she did not have alcohol in her system.
A Mexican police report claims that a doctor from a local hospital was with Robinson and other people staying at the villa for almost three hours before she was pronounced dead on Oct. 29.
According to the police report, an hour into Gutiérrez’s house visit Robinson began to have a seizure. 911 was called shortly after by one of the housemates. By this point, Shanquella Robinson was struggling to survive. She was suffering from difficulty breathing and a lowered pulse. At 4:49 p.m. Gutierrez detected Robinson had stopped having a pulse. They quickly began giving her CPR.
The report says police arrived at 5:25 p.m. and paramedics “administered a total of 14 rounds of CPR, five doses of adrenaline, and six discharges (AED shocks) without success.”
Shanquella Robinson was pronounced dead at 5:57 p.m.
There is a legal precedent for extradition. An international treaty with provisions for extraditions to and from Mexico has been in place for 45 years. The Extradition Treaty Between the United States of America and the United Mexican States dates back to 1978 and was ratified in 1998 by President Bill Clinton, who said it was meant to “enhance cooperation between the law enforcement communities of both countries.”
About three years later, two U.S. citizens were ordered extradited to Mexico for the killings of two other U.S. citizens. Both suspects were arrested in the U.S. and then extradited to Mexico.
Notably, the announcement of the extraditions by the Southern District of California’s U.S. Attorney said: “The proceedings were held pursuant to the Extradition Treaty between the United States and Mexico, which obligates each nation to extradite offenders wanted in the other country.”
Jennifer Hudson And Common Spotted Together Again Months After Their Dating Rumors Swirled
While Jennifer Hudson and Common have been quiet amid the talks about their alleged romance, they apparently still see each other these days. The pair have fueled their dating rumors after they were spotted together again over the weekend.
On Sunday, November 27, the rapper/actor picked up with former "American Idol" finalist from the filming site of her talk show in Burbank, California. In pictures obtained by Daily Mail, the pair did not show any PDA, but they looked close as they walked alongside each other, deep in conversation, before getting into Common's car together.
Common sat behind the wheels, while J-Hud took the front passenger seat next to him. It's unclear where they went to that night, but the two looked in good spirits as they were seen laughing while preparing to head off.
The 41-year-old EGOT dressed casually in a hoodie and leggings, paired with boots as she had her sunglasses hung on the collar of her hoodie. Her hair was pulled back in a high ponytail. The 50-year-old musician, meanwhile, matched her style in a gray sweater, jeans and sneakers.
Jennifer and Common's dating rumors first surfaced in July as they were filming upcoming action thriller "Breathe" together. That month, they were caught on a date in Philadelphia, where they were filming the movie.
Later in August, the two were seen attending a back to school event for the youth in Chicago. In a picture taken at the event, the pair who are both from Chicago, looked comfortable around each other. The "Glory" hitmaker was seen casually putting his hand on the "Dreamgirls" star's shoulder while she wrapped her arm around his waist as they posed with people at the event.
In September, J-Hud got coy when asked about the dating rumors. In an interview with E! News' Daily Pop, she had a friendly banter with Justin Sylvester after the presenter teased her as saying, "Honey, if Common walks in it's a one."
Hoping to get a clue, Justin tried to press "The Jennifer Hudson Show" host by asking, "Do you call him by his government name?" Sensing his attempt to trick her into spilling the beans, she said with a smile, "I like you. You've tried me."
'Power Rangers' Star Jason David Frank Committed Suicide After Wife Left Him No More Than 10 Minutes
Jason David Frank's widow has confirmed his cause of death. In a heartbreaking confession she made after the "Power Rangers" alum's sudden death on November 20, his wife Tammie Frank has revealed that he committed suicide during what was supposed to be "a fun weekend getaway" after reconciling their relationship.
"My name is Tammie Frank, and my husband was Jason David Frank, who tragically lost his life to suicide just last week," she says to PEOPLE. "While Jason was a well-known name to some, we lived a very normal life with ups and downs, just like anyone else. It has shocked and saddened me beyond belief to see that the media has turned my family's tragedy into a tall tale. Since Jason's death, I have been harassed online and can no longer stand to watch my husband's good name slandered."
"I loved my husband, and we were trying to work through our problems. His death comes as much a shock to me as anyone else," she continues. "The truth is, I had no idea that Jason was thinking of ending things. Yes, he had struggled with mental health issues and depression before, but I could never predict what would happen that night."
Tammie says Jason's mental health issue was partly attributed to the loss of her daughter Shayla, whom the actor helped "raise as his own." She explains how it took a toll on their marriage, "Between losing her and helping raise her baby son, Jason and I started having marital issues. For anyone who has known the pain of losing a child, I know you understand how such a loss changes things in your marriage."
Tammie says they "initially planned to separate, not knowing what else to do." However, about six weeks ago, they decided to rekindle their romance after a close family friend "helped us realize that we still loved each other and we should not give up just yet."
As the couple decided to "work out any issues," Jason planned a two-night getaway. Tammie says, "It was meant to be a fun weekend getaway, and instead, I lost the love of my life. Jason was a good man, but he was not without his demons. He was human, just like the rest of us."
"We danced and stayed out at the event until the bar closed," she recalls. "When we got back to the hotel, Jason and I were having a heartfelt and emotional talk in his room. To help Jason relax and sober up before turning down to sleep, I went downstairs to get us snacks from the lobby. I must've been gone no more than 10 minutes. I went back upstairs and began knocking on the door to no answer. I knocked repeatedly and kept calling for his name to open the door."
Insisting that they were "not arguing or fighting" that night, Tammie continues, "I don't know if the hotel staff or a guest called the police, but after I was taken downstairs by the police, they were able to open the door and found that Jason took his life."
"These were the 'disturbances' that has been brought up numerous times online," she stresses, before asking that people "stop making assumptions and leave my family to grieve peacefully." She adds, "All we want is to remember Jason and our happiest memories, and move on from the pain of losing a loved one. I only ask for sympathy and understanding during this difficult time."
"To all the fans and supporters of Jason and our family, thank you for your kind words and wishes and God bless you all," Tammie concludes her lengthy statement.
When confirming his passing in November, Jason's rep told PEOPLE, "Unfortunately, it is true. Please respect the privacy of his family and friends during this horrible time as we come to terms with the loss of such a wonderful human being." His cause of death was not disclosed at the time.
Wendy Williams' Ex-Husband Speaks Out After Requesting Monthly Payments Amid Her Financial Issues
Wendy Williams' ex-husband is defending himself. Kevin Hunter has publicly explained his decision to ask the former "The Wendy Williams Show" host monthly payments despite her ongoing financial problems.
Making use of his Instagram Story on Wednesday, November 30, the former spouse of the former TV daytime queen wrote, "Everybody wanna kno what's really goin on..the fact is I'm not being silent anymore."
"This don't have nothing to do with Wendy but has everything to do with the people trying to steal Hard earned money that I worked for and help build," Kevin explained. "I have a slew of experts to help substantiate all my claims and I'm tired of the bulls**t."
Kevin went on, "I didn't forfeit as much as I did for my son to go through this." Kevin, who was an executive producer on "The Wendy Williams Show", then concluded his message as saying, "Miss me with the double standard s**t as well ITS ON!!!!"
Kevin Hunter defended his decision to ask Wendy Williams for monthly payments despite her ongoing financial struggles.
Kevin's post came after his attempt to ask Wendy to continue making monthly payments to him met with backlash. In the shocking court filing obtained by The Sun, Kevin claimed his monthly payments which were made by Wendy as agreed to in their divorce, suddenly stopped in February of 2022.
Kevin asked that the court order Wendy's guardian "to make payments as contractually required under the MSA and Severance Agreement." Wendy was placed in a financial guardianship earlier this year after Wells Fargo Bank froze her accounts over concerns that she "was of unsound mind," and the bank suspected "financial exploitation, dementia, or undue influence."
In his motion, Kevin told the court that he one hundred percent depends on the payments, which were agreed to in their marital settlement agreement, to live. "I have fallen behind on most of my bills. I currently live in a community that requires payments to the homeowners association and I'm behind on that bill," he stated.
"If the homeowners association fees are not paid foreclosure will soon follow," Kevin said in his pleading to the court about the home he shares with his mistress and their love child. He continued, "My car insurance hasn't been paid as a result of not receiving monthly severance payments. I'm behind on credit card payments because I have no money since the severance payments were suspended. My life has been greatly affected since the plaintiff stopped making payments under our settlement agreement."
Kevin also claimed that he doesn't have health insurance and that he needs hip surgery which he can't afford without the insurance. As a result of non-treatment, he lives with daily pain. "The fact that I am unable to sustain my life and pay my bills in order is extremely emergent to me. I cannot pay my bills and sustain my day-to-day living," he stressed.
Wendy is currently set for a widely anticipated comeback with the upcoming release of her podcast called "The Wendy Williams Experience" with a premiere date having yet to be announced.
Senior Buckingham Palace Official Quits After Claims Of Racism
Buckingham Palace announced that one of their own “has stepped aside from her honorary role with immediate effect.”
Yesterday (Nov. 29), domestic abuse activist and charity founder Ngozi Fulani attended an event at Buckingham Palace to raise awareness about violence against women. While there, Prince William’s godmother and the late queen’s lady-in-waiting Lady Susan Hussey made shocking comments to the esteemed guest.
The event was hosted by Queen Camilla, and Buckingham Palace has since released a statement announcing Hussey has resigned amid the racist accusations. The statement confirmed “unacceptable and deeply regrettable comments” were made. Before tweeting a transcript of the controversial conversation, Fulani wrote, “Mixed feelings about yesterday’s visit to Buckingham Palace. Ten mins after arriving, a member of staff, Lady SH, approached me, moved my hair to see my name badge. The conversation below took place. The rest of the event is a blur.” When asked where she was from, Fulani informed Hussey that she’s from Sistah Space, a support group for African and Caribbean heritage women affected by abuse based in Hackney.
Hussey, unsatisfied with that response, asked, “No, what part of Africa are you from?” Fulani informed the Buckingham Palace official that she is from the United Kingdom. The lady-in-waiting continued to press the guest, asking her nationality and where her people came from. “‘My people,’ lady, what is this? I am a British national, my parents came here in the 50s,” Fulani shared. The odd discussion eventually ended with the charity founder feeling offended. Buckingham Palace’s statement from today (Nov. 30) continued, “We take this incident extremely seriously and have investigated immediately to establish the full details.”
Buckingham Palace added, “We have reached out to Ngozi Fulani on this matter and are inviting her to discuss all elements of her experience in person if she wishes. In the meantime, the individual concerned would like to express her profound apologies for the hurt caused and has stepped aside from her honorary role with immediate effect. All members of the household are being reminded of the diversity and inclusivity policies which they are required to uphold at all times.”
Prince William & Kate Middleton Sit Courtside at Celtics Game in Boston
Prince William and Kate Middleton are spending the first night of their Boston trip at a basketball game!
The Prince and Princess of Wales made a surprise appearance at the Boston Celtics game versus the Miami Heat on Wednesday night (November 30) at the TD Garden in Boston, Mass.
Will and Kate, both 40, sat courtside with former professional basketball player and Massachusetts Governor-Elect Maura Healey, Celtics legend Thomas “Satch” Sanders, and the team’s two principal owners and their wives.
The Royal Couple landed in Boston earlier that day for a three-day trip where they will learn about the environmental challenges Boston faces, as well as meeting those who are combating the effects of climate change in the area.
On Friday, December 2, Will and Kate will be attending the 2022 Earthshot Prize Awards in Boston.
Will Smith Makes First Red Carpet Appearance Since The 2022 Oscars For 'Emancipation' Premiere
Will Smith has arrived for his first red carpet in over eight months for the premiere of Emancipation held at Regency Village Theatre on Wednesday night (November 30) in Los Angeles.
The 54-year-old actor was joined at the event by his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, and children, Trey, Jaden and Willow.
This marks Will‘s first public appearance since he slapped Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars in March. He recently opened up about what he was going through on that night.
In another interview, he explained why he understood if fans were hesitant to support Emancipation because of it, as well.
Ben Foster, Paul Ben-Victor, Ronnie Gene Blevins, Austin Alexander, Jordyn McIntosh, Grant Harvey, Jayson Warner Smith, Clyde Risley Jones, and Gilbert Owuor also joined Will on the carpet.
Tiffany Haddish and Ben‘s wife, Laura Prepon, were also there to support.
Gloria Estefan on why she didn’t want gay daughter Emily to come out to her mother: ‘Life is complicated’
Gloria Estefan is opening up about why she didn't want her daughter, Emily Estefan, 27, to come out as a lesbian to her mom, Emily’s grandmother Gloria Fajardo, before Fajardo's death in 2017.
"In the Latin community, a lot of these subjects aren't touched, they're taboo," Estefan, 65, said in a sit-down interview with CNN's Chris Wallace. "People see, but they don’t want to talk about it. They don’t want to see it."
"I have all these people that have loved me through the years and supported, and I want them to realize that we’re all just families trying to get through the difficult moments in life," the queen of Latin pop added, before explaining the reasoning for wanting to shield her elderly mother from Emily's sexual identity.
"Emily, I thought, would feel comfortable coming out to me. We’ve been very, very open about the support for the LGBTQ community our entire lives," she said. "At the same time, I had a mother with ulcerative colitis that, even if I brought up a bill or something that was not even important, would get very upset and would get sick," she explained, referring to the “inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract,” according to the Mayo Clinic. “So yeah, and life is complicated, life is tough."
The Cuban singer explained that she and Emily wanted to share their story so that people "realize these are conversations we need to have."
Gloria previously spoke about her daughter's coming out journey in an interview with the Sunday Times.
"It was a bit of a surprise to me that she didn’t feel comfortable enough to say from the beginning what she was feeling," Gloria told the outlet earlier this month. "But then she is a private person, like me, so I understood that. She was very anxious."
Adding that she and Emily have attended therapy together, the singer noted, "Sometimes it’s just an objective ear that is not emotionally invested in your pain that is important. For Emily and me it was incredibly useful to have someone there while we were discussing things and pointing things out. It was healing."
The duo previously shared their experience in an Oct. 2020 episode of Red Table Talk, during which they reflected on Emily's initial attempt to tell her parents about her sexuality.
"We were in the car and you, like, leaned over very excitedly and asked your dad and I, ‘Guys, do you think that I might be gay?'" Gloria recalled.
Emily later recalled what her mother said in response: "You said, ‘Only you can know that,’" she said. “But when I asked you that question, it was like testing the waters because I was afraid. I was having conversations in my head trying to figure out ... who am I? What is this? Where do I fit? I was learning that I preferred women."
The young Estefan went on to reveal the struggles she had with her sexuality and admitted that she dated both men and women to figure things out after feeling like “something was wrong with me.”
Gloria then replied, “For any parent, we love unconditionally and what we were trying to do was to protect you, and ended up hurting you, which kills me. And I hate that that happened."
Quinta Brunson Talks Confidence, Oprah and Her Surprising Journey to Making Abbott Elementary
Quinta Brunson joins Matthew McConaughey, Mila Kunis and Jennifer Hudson as one of PEOPLE's 2022 People of the Year! Look for all four covers on newsstands this week and read more below from Brunson's revealing interview in the new issue.
What a difference a year can make. In late 2021 Quinta Brunson was working on her passion project, a sitcom about a public school in Philadelphia. As its creator, writer, showrunner and star, she was eagerly anticipating the Dec. 7 premiere of Abbott Elementary on ABC. "I wanted to bring back the straightforward 22-minute workplace comedy," says Brunson, 32, whose previous credits include roles on HBO's A Black Lady Sketch Show and TBS's Miracle Workers. The Philly native loosely based her Abbott character — hopelessly optimistic second-grade teacher Janine Teagues — on her mother, a former kindergarten teacher.
Abbott was an instant hit, logging more than 7 million total viewers and becoming ABC's highest-rated comedy since the Modern Family finale. A season 2 renewal followed — Brunson even persuaded the network to redirect marketing money to buy school supplies for real teachers — and so did seven Emmy nominations and three wins, including outstanding writing for a comedy series for Brunson, making her the second Black woman to take that prize.
Looking back on what she has accomplished this year, Brunson, who has been married to Kevin Jay Anik since 2021, admits she's playing with house money: "I just wanted to make a good show with good people, so everything else has been exciting additions to the plan."
It's almost 2023, but thinking back to one year ago, did any of this year's accomplishments make your list of New Year's resolutions last year?
No, not necessarily. My main priority was just making Abbott. All of the things that have been happening are because I got to make that and make it the way I wanted.
What did it take to bring Abbott Elementary to life — and who didn't see the vision?
To be honest, I didn't have to deal with much "I don't see it." There was one other network that will remain nameless that didn't understand the value of it, but that's how it goes. ABC won that bidding war. My co-showrunners Justin Halpern and Patrick Schumacker also saw the vision right away. I was fortunate. It's most certainly not a common L.A. story for Black creators, but I think [I'm] a sign that times are changing.
Speaking of origin stories, what's yours, starting with your name? It means "fifth" in Spanish, right?
My name's really simple. I'm the fifth child, and my parents [Norma Jean and Rick Brunson] weren't necessarily creative, but I love it. My siblings [brothers Kwei and Kalid and sisters Njia and Kiyana] all have real names that mean things, and they have a lot to live up to. My name is just a number, and I could decide it meant whatever I wanted.
Long before Abbott Elementary, you made a name for yourself as a content creator, making popular comedy sketches on Instagram and BuzzFeed. What was life like back then?
I was doing improv around L.A. and broke. Very, very, very broke. A hearty meal was a banana and a Cup Noodles. If I could get both or get two bananas in one day, I was doing well. I was working at [an] Apple [Store], but I still loved comedy so much. At the time SNL was kind of a goal. Then Instagram added video. I loved making my friends laugh, and then it took off, and that kind of changed my life.
Where do you get your confidence?
I think it's always been there. I was a very confident kid. My parents always taught me to look at people and situations like everything's equal. Nothing seems too intimidating to not be confident. I think the most intimidating situation I was in recently was meeting Malala [Yousafzai, the Pakistani education rights activist].
You played Oprah Winfrey in the recent Weird Al Yankovic biopic. Was that intimidating?
When the script got sent to my agent, and they said Daniel Radcliffe was playing Weird Al, I was like, "Yeah, I would love to come hang with him." And then they said Oprah, and I was like, "Whoa, hold on!" But I read it and thought I could do it justice. It wasn't too serious, but it also wasn't too dumb, because I didn't want to insult Oprah or tarnish her legacy. The movie is so stupid, and I say that in the best way. I love dumb comedies. Austin Powers in Goldmember was my favorite movie growing up. My mom wanted to burn the DVD. She hates stupid stuff.
What's been your husband Kevin's highlight from this past year?
I don't talk about my relationship that often, because it's something that I like to keep sacred and safe. Nor do I bring him out to be analyzed or attacked by the world. We've had such a year together. He truly has been by my side and supportive every step of the way, so for him to be there with me at the Emmys and help me up to get my award and to be able to thank him was so special.
What was going through your head in that moment?
To be honest, I felt very confident about my chances, so it wasn't shocking to me. It was just like, "Wow, I'm really winning an Emmy right now." [My costar] Sheryl [Lee Ralph] had been working for so long to get that [outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series] acknowledgment, and I felt like I just got here. I'm extremely grateful.
Did Jimmy Kimmel lying on the ground during your speech take away from that moment at all?
Afterwards someone told me what was going on [online], and I was like, "Really?" I'm a comedian, and I know him, so I just went along with it. It wasn't a big deal to me, but that doesn't change how people feel. It made them feel a way, and that's just the way it is.
You won for your writing on Abbott, but you wear so many hats on the show. Now, while you're in the midst of season 2, how do you keep it all together?
I don't have a method. I just feel like I'm passionate about it. I recently talked with Mindy Kaling, who's running two shows, and you just care about it so much that you're able to organize stuff.
What fan encounter touched you most this year?
I don't go out that much to public places. I have a little bit of social anxiety that I'm working through. The biggest risk I'll take is Universal Studios, 'cause I kind of feel like that's my turf, even though I have no right to say that. But I had a really interesting fan interaction at a party recently, where a girl came up to me and said she had a friend she was watching Abbott with before she passed away. One of the things her friend asked her to do was to finish the show. And now I'm crying at this party. Part of me was like, "Why would you tell me that right now?" But also I'm so happy she did. It put into perspective what a good comedy can do. The best thing I can hear is that it's bringing people together.
Danny Masterson rape case ends in mistrial as jury is deadlocked
A mistrial has been declared in Danny Masterson's rape case. The That '70s Show star, 46, was charged with forcibly raping three women from 2001 to 2003. Masterson pleaded not guilty and maintained his innocence through his lawyers, but opted not to take the stand during high-profile trial at the Los Angeles Superior Courthouse. Masterson faced up to 45 years in prison if he'd been convicted on all counts.
In a note to the judge, jurors said, "We are not even close to coming to a unanimous decision on any count, and are convinced this will not change," per Variety.
Jurors initially deliberated for three days beginning on Nov. 15, but the group couldn't reach a unanimous decision on the three charges of forcible rape. The judge released the panel on Nov. 18 and ordered the members back to court 10 days later. When jurors returned on Monday, they had to start deliberations over as two members tested positive for COVID-19 over the break. The judge replaced those jurors with two alternates. The jury originally comprised seven women and five men, and later six men and six women. On Wednesday afternoon, the jury said it was deadlocked.
A retrial date has been set for March 27, 2023.
Despite the defense team's best effort to distance the case from the Church of Scientology, of which Masterson is one if the most prominent members, the controversial religion loomed large over the month-long trial. Three Jane Does who accused Masterson of rape are former Scientologists and claimed their allegations against the actor were suppressed by the church. They claim they've been threatened and harassed in recent years to keep quiet. The church has denied such allegations.
"There are no charges against Scientology. But Scientology cannot be avoided," Deputy Los Angeles County District Attorney Reinhold Mueller said in his closing arguments, pointing to rules within the organization that caused the Jane Does to remain silent for so long. "Fear of going to law enforcement… certain statements about what is rape and what is not rape. You can't avoid it. These are victims who have had the church as part of their life."
Masterson's defense lawyer claimed the prosecution kept bringing up Scientology to bias the jury against his client. During closing statements, attorney Philip Cohen tried to discredit the women over "inconsistencies" in their stories.
Jane Doe No. 1 took the stand and claimed she was anally penetrated her against her will in 2002. She testified she had to speak with a church ethics officer and was "forced to make peace" with Masterson. In 2003, she claimed she was raped at Masterson's house after she believes he slipped something in her drink while she was in the Jacuzzi. Jane Doe No. 1 emotionally told the jury how she remembered waking up in in the actor's bed with him on top of her, and when she tried to shove him away, he held her down and grabbed her throat.
"I just couldn't breathe," she sobbed, adding she thought "I was going to die."
The woman claimed she reported what happened to a Scientologist Ethics Officer and claimed the person covered it up. Although Jane Doe No. 1 was scared of being excommunicated from the church, she went to the police and filed a report in 2004. Soon after, the accuser was paid $400,000 in installments in order to sign a non-disclosure agreement, which she broke at trial.
Jane Doe No. 2 testified she was raped by Masterson after he invited her to his house in 2003. The actor purportedly gave her a glass of wine and told her to get in the Jacuzzi when she started to feel "numb." The woman alleged she was later penetrated against her will, telling the jury after she felt "awful. Out of it. Scared. In pain. Just a rag doll — not totally in charge of my faculties." She couldn't process that what happened was rape.
"In the church, he was more important than me at the time. That would have made my life horrible. You're not allowed to accuse someone of anything that's against the law," she said.
A former longtime girlfriend of Masterson's, known as Jane No. 3, testified that the actor raped her while she was sleeping in 2001. After having a glass or two of wine during dinner, the woman woke up the next morning in his home and "noticed my whole body hurt. The back of my head hurt and I noticed that I was injured in my bottom."
Jane Doe No. 3 said she confronted Masterson.
"I asked him, ‘what happened last night?’ I asked him if I had fallen because I was hurting 'down there,'" she testified. "He laughed at me and said he had sex with me there." The woman claimed she asked Masterson if she was unconscious the whole time. "He said 'yes.'"
The woman said there was "no asking, no loving" when it came to their sex-life.
"A lot of times, it would happen where I would be asleep and I would wake up to him having sex with me," she said. "That was normal. It was the only thing I knew … that was just how it was."
Jane Doe No. 3, who is involved in a separate civil case against Scientology, said she's not after money but is trying to stop the "terror campaign that this criminal organization has put upon me or my family."
A fourth accuser, who was never a member of the Church of Scientology, was allowed to testify despite objections from the defense. Jane Doe No. 4 claimed Masterson raped her twice, though her allegations didn't lead to charges. Her story mirrored those of the other women as she claimed in 1996, she fell asleep in Masterson's home and later awoke with him having sex on top of her.
Masterson has been out on $3.3 million bail since his 2020 arrest. Sexual assault allegations first surfaced against the actor, whose credits also include Face/Off, Dracula 2000 and the series The Ranch, in 2016 and the Los Angeles Police Department launched an investigation. Public scrutiny intensified when the #MeToo movement swept through Hollywood the following year.
Masterson has been married to Bijou Phillips, who is also a Scientologist, since 2011 and the two share an 8-year-old daughter. Phillips has publicly supported Masterson amid the scandal and showed up to court every day for four weeks. Actor Billy Baldwin, who is married to Bijou's younger singer, Chynna Phillips, also appeared in court to support the family. Meanwhile, ex-Scientologist Leah Remini publicly lent support to many of Masterson's accusers
University of Florida QB Jalen Kitna Arrested for Alleged Possession of Child Pornography, Suspended Indefinitely
University of Florida quarterback Jalen Kitna was arrested on several counts related to child pornography, according to ESPN.
Kitna, 19, will appear in court Thursday morning where he’s expected to face two counts of distribution of child exploitation material and three counts of possession of child pornography. TMZ reports the Gainesville Police Department executed a search warrant of Kitna’s home in Florida on Wednesday, where his electronic devices were seized.
The search revealed he was allegedly “in possession of three additional images of child sexual abuse material.”
Authorities were made aware of a Discord user who shared “an image of child sexual abuse material” on the platform, and an investigation found that the account belonged to Kitna. Officers asked him about two images distributed on Discord, to which he said he “remembered sharing the two images but believed them to be ‘legal,’ since he found them online.”
The University of Florida Athletic Association announced Kitna has been suspended indefinitely. “We are shocked and saddened to hear of the news involving Jalen Kitna,” the UAA statement reads. “These are extremely serious charges and the University of Florida and the UAA have zero tolerance for such behavior.”
Kitna, a three-star prospect out of Burleson High School in Texas, committed to Florida in 2020. He is the son of former NFL quarterback Jon Kitna, who played 14 seasons in the league and received the Comeback Player of the Year award in 2003.
LeBron James Says Media Haven’t Asked Him About Jerry Jones Photo But Were ‘Quick to Ask’ About Kyrie Irving
LeBron James has questioned why the media hasn’t asked him about the photo of Jerry Jones at a 1957 desegregation protest but were "quick to ask” about Kyrie Irving sharing a link to an anti-Semitic documentary.
"I got one question for you guys before you guys leave. I was thinking when I was on my way over here, I was wondering why I haven't gotten a question from you guys about the Jerry Jones photo," said the Laker, referring to the recently surfaced photo of the Dallas Cowboys owner in a group of white students who attempted to block six Black students from desegregating North Little Rock High School in 1957. "But when the Kyrie [Irving] thing was going on, you guys were quick to ask us questions about that."
Following criticism from the Jewish community, Irving apologized last month for sharing a link to a documentary that has been widely condemned as anti-Semitic.
"When I watch Kyrie talk and he says, 'I know who I am, but I want to keep the same energy when we're talking about my people and the things that we've been through,' and that Jerry Jones photo is one of those moments that our people, Black people, have been through in America,” LeBron continued. “And I feel like as a Black man, as a Black athlete, as someone with power and a platform, when we do something wrong, or something that people don't agree with, it's on every single tabloid, every single news coverage, it's on the bottom ticker. It's asked about every single day.”
Reebok CEO Todd Krinsky on Jay-Z, 50 Cent, and Shaq | The Complex Sneakers Podcast
By comparison, he suggested that the photo of Jones, who was 14 at the time, has already been brushed aside. "But it seems like to me that the whole Jerry Jones situation, photo—and I know it was years and years ago and we all make mistakes, I get it—but it seems like it's just been buried under,” he said. “Like, 'Oh, it happened. OK, we just move on.' And I was just kind of disappointed that I haven't received that question from you guys."
Amid the controversy with Irving—who has gotten in trouble in the past for sharing conspiracy theories including one from certified far-right loon Alex Jones—LeBron was asked about the situation and said that he did not condone Irving’s actions. He later said that while he didn’t support sharing “hurtful information,” he did think the Brooklyn Nets point guard should be able return to court despite his 5-game suspension. The film Irving shared, Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America, includes Holocaust denial, quotes from Adolf Hitler, and claims that Jewish people control the media.
Jones has also faced a lot of criticism for the photo of him at the Arkansas school. When he was asked about the situation, the NFL franchise owner said he was only present in the photo because he was “curious” about what was going on. "I didn't know at the time the monumental event really that was going on," Jones said. "I'm sure glad that we're a long way from that. I am. That would remind me [to] just continue to do everything we can to not have those kinds of things happen."
Ye Looking To Bring Back Donda Academy With The Help Of Los Angeles Church
Following the abrupt closing of his Donda Academy, Ye is looking for new locations to house the school.
According to TMZ, Ye has been in talks with Pastor Ronald Nagin of Cornerstone Christian Church to lease space on the church grounds for Donda Academy. Nagin’s church is located in the Northridge neighborhood in Los Angeles.
According to Nagin, he and Ye have had 3 face-to-face meetings in the last month and Ye believes that the Cornerstone Christian Church is the perfect location because it would provide larger classrooms and a sanctuary. Nagin added that the church lawyers are working on drafting a contract for Ye to sign.
As for Ye’s recent anti-Semitic remarks, Nagin said that he is not concerned about the Donda artist’s behavior.
Following Donda Academy’s closure, an email was sent to parents and faculty just hours later about the school’s reopening. For the last month or so, the school has been operating out of the Chatsworth neighborhood in Los Angeles.
Aside from multiple location changes, many students and faculty left the school after Ye’s string of anti-semitic remarks and has been running a “barebones” operation since.
Kevin Hart And Hartbeat Announces ‘Cold As Balls’ Season 7 Feat. Allen Iverson, Dwight Howard And More
Kevin Hart and his Hartbeat media company have announced the seventh season of his sports talk show Cold As Balls. The seventh season premieres today, Nov. 29, on LOL! Network.
With deeper conversations that result in startling admissions from the biggest names and personalities in sports, season seven will take us back to the locker room. As usual, Cold as Balls host Kevin Hart will ask the scathing, pointed questions that have propelled the show to over 1.3 billion views and allowed viewers to learn more about their favorite sportsmen.
“Seeing Cold as Balls grow over the past six seasons has been so rewarding, and I can’t wait for fans to see what’s to come in Season 7,” says Kevin Hart. “This season you can expect outrageous stories and even more laughs while I deep dive into the lives of some of the greatest guests I’ve had the pleasure of icing with yet.”
“Building this show with Kevin to reach more than a billion people for the better half of a decade has been nothing short of an incredible and humbling experience,” said Michael D. Ratner, founder & CEO of OBB Media. “We’re so proud to launch season seven; with each new season our audience grows and their support for the series never ceases to amaze me. We’re very grateful to the fans for their continued support.”
Joining Hart for the season will be Dwight Howard, Allen Iverson, Austin Ekeler, John Wall, Kelsey Plum, and Patrick Beverley. The series will bring back Old Spice as the presenting sponsor. Yiu can see the Preview HERE
Deshaun Watson Accusers Plan To Attend Cleveland Browns Game Upon His Return
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is expected to return to the NFL field after his 11-game suspension following sexual misconduct allegations.
Watson was the center of attention earlier this year after 24 women reported sexual misconduct accusing the football player of inappropriate behavior during massage therapy appointments, which included allegedly exposing himself. Twenty-three out of 24 lawsuits have since been settled.
Watson will return to play football this Sunday in Houston at the NRG Stadium. And it looks like his accusers want a front row to the game.
“Some of my clients asked to go,” the accusers’ attorney Tony Buzbee told PEOPLE. “They thought it important to make clear that they are still here and that they matter. I was proud of them for that. I have made that opportunity available to them. I haven’t been to a Texans game in many years. But, because they are going, I will go.”
He added, “I think it’s important to note each of these women is different. You can’t paint them with a broad brush. I would never encourage any of them to attend. Some never want to hear Watson’s name again. Others have put it in the past. Some are still angry. Others are defiant. Makes me proud they want to stand up and be counted rather than quietly go away. Good on them!”
Buzbee said the women want to “make the statement,” like, “‘Hey, we’re still here. We matter. Our voice was heard, and this is not something that’s over. [Sexual harassment and assault] happen every day in the United States.'”
The Cleveland Browns’ season has been like every other, defeating. However, last Sunday, the Browns had a turnaround of events, beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17-23. The Buccaneers’ loss also fueled further rumors that Tom Brady is having difficulty adjusting to his divorce from Giselle Bündchen.
Watson’s initial suspension was for six games but was bumped up to 11 games. Once a disciplinary action was made, Watson was thankful and released a statement.
“I apologize once again for any pain this situation has caused,” he said. “I take accountability for the decisions I made. My focus going forward is on working to become the best version of myself on and off the field and supporting my teammates however possible while I’m away from the team. I’m excited about what the future holds for me in Cleveland.”
Wife of Virgil Abloh Says Many People Claimed to be His “Best Friend” After His Death to Get a Hold of His Legacy
Shannon Abloh, the wife of prolific fashion designer Virgil Abloh, is opening up about carrying on his legacy, despite the two never getting an opportunity to outline how he wanted to be remembered.
Abloh passed away suddenly in 2021 after a private two-year battle with cardiac angiosarcoma, an aggressive form of cancer. According to Medscape, patients typically live between 15 and 24 months after the diagnosis. Abloh learned he had the rare disease in 2019. Despite these grim odds, Abloh continued his work as artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection, a role he held since March 2018, while continuing to run Off-White, which he founded in 2012.
“We never had the ‘this is the legacy that I want you to work toward’ discussion,” Shannon told The New York Times. “But because I was with him for so long, I knew every inch of him. I knew every inch of his brain.”
She revealed that multiple designers had approached her to help with Abloh’s incomplete projects. However, the 41-year-old mother of two feels solely responsible for carrying on what her late husband started.
“It belongs to me. It belongs to his children,” Shannon explained before admitting that many people who weren’t as close to Abloh came forward after his death, claiming to be his “best friend” to “help his legacy.” She was not sold on these offers and instead chose to work closely with Abloh’s business advisor, Howard Feller, to maintain his creations. She has assumed the roles of chief executive and managing director at Virgil Abloh Securities.
“I have to stay on this train because if I don’t, I don’t know where it’s going to go. That’s my place and my position,” she added.
Off-White x Nike products remain in production, while Louis Vuitton continues to showcase Abloh’s creations and visions through exhibits and capsules.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
GET NAKED
It takes a lot of balls to not only walk naked through Walmart, but to do it in the refrigerated section.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!
EFREM
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