#MAGFAB: Angela Bassett and her Stylist Jennifer Austin for The Hollywood Reporter - 29th March 2023
Acclaimed Los Angeles-based designer/stylist Jennifer Austin has been making Angela Bassett look ethereal and regal for years. Austin keeps a low profile but is always in the background, making moves for her longtime client and actress extraordinaire. Bassett has had a very successful red carpet run this year from her Black Panther performance, and it’s now been revealed that Austin has been behind those looks and, because of that, has been named by
The Hollywood Reporter one of the 25 Most Powerful Stylists. Rounding out the list were some of our favs like Jason Bolden, Wayman & Micah (who also fronted one of 4 covers), Kollin Carter, Georgia Medley, and Law Roach. She stars on the cover (lensed by Obidi Nzeribe) alongside muse/friend Bassett. What a stylist does is a lot like what an actor does — shaping the perception of someone. There are eyes on Bassett almost 24/7, whether on or off the screen; she’s never looked less than amazing. That’s because her stylist Austin is working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Austin is also a creative director and has been featured in Allure, Teen Vogue, Vogue Italia, and more. The stylist also has had a few other big-name clients, such as Jill Scott, Mel B, and Method Man. Austin once shared that she got her start as a stylist after an epiphany from a near-fatal car accident. Once she healed, she volunteered at Los Angeles Fashion Week, and fortunately, she never looked back. Now, she’s Angela Bassett’s one and only stylist since 2013.
Bassett’s statement on their relationship was touching. She told THR, “Our relationship is based on trust, which is very important to me. The time, attention, and care that Jennifer has dedicated to creating my looks and overall image for the world to see has been unmatched.” Austin’s goal is only to change perceptions, “I want to change the perception of what women of a particular age should look like and to create a new narrative in fashion, especially on the carpet. I dress the spirit and energy of Angela, not her age,” she shares with THR.
There are so many iconic looks stylists have curated through history that become memorable in pop culture. Austin is one of the most influential stylists of our time and now has rightfully received her flowers — and we are happy to see it.
#RHOA: Michael Sterling Vows to Win Eva Marcille Back After RHOA Alum Files for Divorce
Eva Marcille wants to divorce Michael Sterling, but he's not ready to call it quits on their relationship just yet.
On March 29, six days after the former cast member of Bravo's The Real Housewives of Atlanta filed papers to end their four-year marriage, her husband issued a defiant statement to theJasmineBRAND website. "I am not going to lose my wife," he said. "I am going to fight for her with every fiber in my being."
He added, "I love her and I plan to show her how much I love her and that our love is strong enough to get to the other side."
Eva has not responded to Michael's comments. Regarding her divorce filing, she told People in comments published March 28, "This has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make, but sometimes life takes your journey in a direction you were not expecting."
The reality star shares sons Michael Todd, 4, and Maverick, 3, with Michael and is also a mom to daughter Marley Rae Sterling, 9, from a previous relationship.
"Our children remain our biggest priority and the eight and half years we have spent together will always be cherished," she added in her statement. "We ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
According to the divorce documents obtained by People, the America's Next Top Model alum is seeking legal and primary custody of the couple's children and child support as well as support with "care and maintenance" and medical costs, plus "equitable division" of the assets and debt the 38-year-old and Michael gained during their marriage, as well as her own separate property.
#MusicNews: Ms. Lauryn Hill, Megan Thee Stallion To Headline 2023 ESSENCE Festival
The 2023 ESSENCE Fest lineup is here. Ms. Lauryn Hill and Megan Thee Stallion will headline this year’s festival when it returns to New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome from June 29-July 3.
According to Billboard, the five-day festivities will celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with a rap-centric lineup including Hill, who will perform her groundbreaking 1998 solo album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which turns 25 this year.
Jermaine Dupri and friends will front a 30th anniversary celebration of So So Def set. Doug E. Fresh will curate a special performance, while DJ Spinderella, DJ Kid Capri, and DJ Clark Kent will hit the turntables throughout the weekend.
Other performers on the bill include Wizkid, Monica, Coco Jones, and Kizz Daniel on the Festival of Culture stage.
This is not the only festival Megan Thee Stallion will headline this year. The Houston hottie has also been announced as a co-headliner for L.A.’s Pride in the Park in June.
Tickets are on sale now. More performers will be announced soon.
#HipHopNews: Tyga Declares Nicki Minaj The 'Best Female Rapper Of All Time'
Nicki Minaj is the queen of the rap game, according to Tyga. Just days after declaring Lil Wayne and Eminem the GOATs, he returned to Twitter to give the “Red Ruby Da Sleeze” hitmaker her flowers as the best female rapper to ever do it.
“Nicki is the best female rapper of all time no one comes close!” tweeted Tyga before revealing why. “World play , punchlines , delivery, pockets , beat selection, creativity. Inflictions.”
He also gave props to his “Freaky Deaky” collaborator Doja Cat, adding, “Doja is a really good rapper too..”
The former Young Money labelmates have collaborated throughout the years on songs including 2018’s “Dip” and 2009’s “BedRock.”
Nicki continues to receive praise from her Young Money family including Birdman and Wayne. She recently earned a spot in the top 10 on Billboard’s list of the Top 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time.
Tyga, who dropped his Chris Brown collaboration “Nasty” last year, has been randomly showing love to his peers. Just last week, he named Lil Wayne and Eminem as the best rappers of all time.
“Lil Wayne & Eminem are the best rappers of all time!” he tweeted. “Lyrical word play, delivery, flow ,pockets, originality , raw, intentional , clarity, generational influence.”
Donald Trump Has Been indicted by Manhattan grand jury on more than 30 counts related to business fraud
Donald Trump faces more than 30 counts related to business fraud in an indictment from a Manhattan grand jury, according to two sources familiar with the case – the first time in American history that a current or former president has faced criminal charges.
Trump is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
The indictment has been filed under seal and will be announced in the coming days. The charges are not publicly known at this time.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has been investigating the former president in connection with his alleged role in a hush money payment scheme and cover-up involving adult film star Stormy Daniels that dates to the 2016 presidential election. Grand jury proceedings are secret, but a source familiar with the case told CNN that a witness gave about 30 minutes of testimony before it voted to indict Trump.
The decision is sure to send shockwaves across the country, pushing the American political system – which has never seen one of its ex-leaders confronted with criminal charges, let alone while running again for president – into uncharted waters.
Trump released a statement in response to the indictment claiming it was “Political Persecution and Election Interference at the highest level in history.”
people realize exactly what the Radical Left Democrats are doing here. Everyone can see it. So our Movement, and our Party – united and strong – will first defeat Alvin Bragg, and then we will defeat Joe Biden, and we are going to throw every last one of these Crooked Democrats out of office so we can MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Trump was caught off guard by the grand jury’s decision to indict him, according to a person who spoke directly with him. While the former president was bracing for an indictment last week, he began to believe news reports that a potential indictment was weeks – or more – away.
“Is this a shock today? Hell yes,” the person said, speaking on a condition of anonymity as Trump’s team calculated its response.
Bragg’s office said it is in touch with Trump’s lawyers.
“This evening we contacted Mr. Trump’s attorney to coordinate his surrender to the Manhattan D.A.’s Office for arraignment on a Supreme Court indictment, which remains under seal,” the district attorney’s office said in a statement Thursday. “Guidance will be provided when the arraignment date is selected.”
The legal action against Trump jolts the 2024 presidential campaign into a new phase, as the former president has vowed to keep running in the face of criminal charges.
Trump has frequently called the various investigations surrounding him a “witch hunt,” attempting to sway public opinion on them by casting himself as a victim of what he’s claimed are political probes led by Democratic prosecutors. As the indictment reportedly neared, Trump urged his supporters to protest his arrest, echoing his calls to action following the 2020 election as he tried to overturn his loss to President Joe Biden.
Trump has long avoided legal consequences in his personal, professional and political lives. He has settled a number of private civil lawsuits through the years and paid his way out of disputes concerning the Trump Organization, his namesake company. As president, he was twice impeached by the Democratic-led House, but avoided conviction by the Senate.
In December, the Trump Organization was convicted on multiple charges of tax fraud, though Trump himself was not charged in that case.
Trump’s Republican allies – as well as his 2024 GOP rivals – have condemned the Manhattan district attorney’s office over the looming indictment.
“I think the unprecedented indictment of a former president of the United States on a campaign finance issue is an outrage,” former Vice President Mike Pence told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer in an interview Thursday night. “It appears to millions of Americans to be nothing more than a political prosecution that’s driven by a prosecutor who literally ran for office on a pledge to indict the former president.”
Gwyneth Paltrow trial: Actress found not at fault in Utah ski collision
A Utah jury has found Gwyneth Paltrow not liable in a 2016 ski collision case. Paltrow was also victorious in her counterclaim against the man who sued her. Terry Sanderson, a retired optometrist, sued Paltrow, an Oscar-winning actor and the founder and CEO of Goop, over lasting injuries he said he sustained when the two collided at the Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah more than seven years ago.
The jury in the civil trial deliberated for a little over two hours before returning their verdict in favor of Paltrow, who testified that it was Sanderson who skied into her back as she was down slope from him.
In a statement, Paltrow said: "I felt that acquiescing to a false claim comprised my integrity. I am pleased with the outcome and I appreciate all of the hard work of Judge Holmberg and the jury, and thank them for their thoughtfulness in handling this case."
The trial began on March 21.
Sanderson's attorney on Thursday asked the jury to consider his client's brain injury and life expectancy, suggesting the jury award $3.2 million to Sanderson. Sanderson's complaint alleged his damages were more than $300,000. Paltrow testified last week that Sanderson skied into her. She sought and was awarded $1 in damages, plus attorneys' fees in her counterclaim.
In closing arguments, Sanderson's attorney, Robert Sykes, rejected claims that Sanderson is seeking fame and attention.
That day, he said, Sanderson "never came home the same."
"Part of him will always be on that mountain," he said. "We hope that you will help bring Terry home off that mountain with a fair verdict for today."
Paltrow's attorney, Steve Owens, meanwhile, asserted in closing that for Paltrow, it's an issue of right and wrong and that it would be "easy" for Paltrow "to write a check and be done with it," but said that would be "wrong."
"It's actually wrong that he hurt her, and he wants money from her," he told the jury.
He added, later, "He's entitled to be here today, but he's not entitled to be rewarded for hurting her."
Paltrow's attorney James Egan, in his portion of closing, referred back to the opposing side's comments, saying: "Ms. Paltrow wants him off the mountain, too, but she should not be responsible for the cost of that."
Key testimony
Paltrow told the jury the collision happened on the first day of a trip to Deer Valley that she was on with her two kids, then-boyfriend Falchuck and his two children.
She testified that two skis came in between her skis, forcing her legs apart and that she heard a "grunting noise" when she felt a body pressing against her back before they both came crashing down together.
Paltrow said she did not ask about the condition of Sanderson after they collided but claimed she stayed on the mountain "long enough for him to say that he was OK" and to stand up.
During his testimony, Sanderson reiterated claims it was Paltrow who skied into her.
"I got hit in my back so hard and right at my shoulder blades and it felt like it was perfectly centered and the fists and the poles were right at the bottom of my shoulder blades, serious, serious smack and I've never been hit that hard," Sanderson testified. "All I saw was a whole lot of snow."
Sanderson disputed suggestions he sued Paltrow to exploit her fame and wealth.
"I thought, 'I'm not into celebrity worship,'" Sanderson told the jury about learning she was the other skier involved in their collision.
Jurors also heard from a number of expert witnesses, Sanderson's daughters and testimony from ski resort employees. Testimony from Paltrow's two children, Apple and Moses Martin, was also read to the jury during the trial.
TS Madison Calls Out Trans Model Lilah Gibney For Outing Rapper Kevin Gates
Ts Madison is calling out transgender model Lilah Gibney for her recent appearance on the Elena Demonetized podcast. The Zola actress had a bone to pick with the Fashion Nova muse after she confessed to having a one-night stand with Kevin Gates on the show.
“If You Trans and You out here Running to Social Media/blogs to detail your sexual experiences with “celebrity” Men I have a Question for you….. What is the reason?????” the trans activist and media star pondered in a Tweet she shared on Instagram.
Madison, 45, slammed Gibney for sensationalizing her alleged sexcapade with the hip-hop star all for a little “shock value.”
“Don’t be the continuous part of The “Down Low” stigma men are forced to adhere to surrounding their sexuality,” she added.
In the caption, the Fox Soul host went into further detail about her post noting how it was unsafe for trans women to “out” well-known celebrities.
“I’ve always stated there is NO SAFE space on any front for the men to live their authentic lives! The Women won’t accept them…The MEN won’t accept them. The Trans wanna ‘out em.’ We all the problem…….” her caption read.
Outing is the act of disclosing an LGBTQ person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without the person’s consent. Whether an outing is deliberate or unintentional, it violates someone’s privacy. And it could adversely affect an individual’s physical, mental and financial well-being. Outing can lead to extremely dangerous situations like suicide and harassment.
Lilah Gibney claims Kevin Gates was okay with her being trans during their alleged sexual encounter
During her March 24 appearance, the model, who boasts 57k followers on Instagram, alleged that she slept with Gates after the rapper took her to dinner.
Gates allegedly took Gibney to a fancy restaurant where she ordered everything and even “tried caviar for the first time.” She claimed that the “Breakfast“ rhymer was staring “deep into her soul” throughout the entire date.
After dinner, the 37-year-old hip-hop star took her back to his place where they allegedly had sex. At one point during their steamy exchange, Gates stopped because he noticed something different about Gibney’s nether regions.
That’s when she confessed to being trans.
“I told him I was trans, like mid-spread eagle, pussy flaps, scars and all,” she told host Elena Genevinne.
Gates didn’t seem to have a problem with it, according to Gibney.
“He literally was like ‘baby, I don’t give a fuck. God raised us equal,'” she said of his positive reaction.
The rapper blocked her on social media shortly after their alleged sexual encounter.
Kevin Gates hasn’t spoken out about Gibney’s claims.
You can watch the full interview HERE.
Adidas retracts attempt to stop Black Lives Matter application for a three-stripe trademark
Earlier today sportswear brand Adidas announced that they were retracting their bid to have the U.S. Trademark Office reject a Black Lives Matter application for a similar trademark.
“Adidas will withdraw its opposition to the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation’s trademark application as soon as possible,” the company said in a statement.
On Monday (March 27), just two days prior, Adidas informed the trademark office in a filing that the BLM Global Network Foundation’s design, three yellow parallel stripes, was very similar to their signature mark and could cause confusion.
The sportswear company attempted to block the foundation’s application from using such a design on purchasable items. According to Reuters, a source close to the company alleged the quick turnaround from their initial course was due to “concern that people could misinterpret Adidas’ trademark objection as criticism of Black Lives Matter’s mission.”
The news comes nearly a week after reports of Beyoncé and Adidas mutually agreeing to part ways hit the internet. The two high-profile brands decided to team up in 2018 through the singer’s Ivy Park wear. Beyoncé and Adidas have worked together through the years to see several creative designs brought to life. However, a source told The Hollywood Reporter that creative differences ultimately led to the end of the partnership.
Black Lives Matter is a brand of its own and has been the staple of a revolution created in 2013, 17 months after neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman shot and killed Trayvon Martin, an unarmed Black teen. Black people reignited in 2020 after the senseless killing of George Floyd and others in America.
In the fall of 2020, BLM Global Network Foundation applied for the U.S. trademark for a yellow three-stripe design for use on branded merchandise. The foundation has yet to comment on the Adidas filing or its retraction.
Tory Lanez Files Appeal In Shooting Conviction, Claims Prosecutors Set Him Up With “Irrelevant”
According to court documents, the artist’s lawyer, Jose Baez, stated that prosecutors submitted a shirtless photo of his client with a firearm on his chest. Prosecutors stated during the trial that it was for identification purposes. Nonetheless, as reported by TMZ, Baez believes they did it to persuade the jury that his client had a penchant for weapons. Additionally, the criminal lawyer claims it was a reversible error for prosecutors to present the jury with Lanez’s rap lyrics.
Per the legal documents, the jury also heard an 80-minute interview with Kelsey Harris, who was in the vehicle when Megan was shit. Although the audio impacted the outcome of the case, Harris later recanted her interview statements.
Baez also noted it was wrong to admit that an Instagram post that included a comment from one of Megan’s producers claimed cops matched fragments in her foot to the bullets from Tory’s gun. He said it was also wrong to allow statements Megan made to police that Tory reportedly said to her after the shooting, “Please don’t say anything because I’m on probation.”
As previously reported, Tory Lanez regrets listening to his lawyer and not testifying during the trial. The conviction came after a July 2020 incident in which Lanez allegedly shot Megan Thee Stallion in the foot. This conviction has sparked debate about the justice system’s handling of cases involving celebrities and high-profile individuals. It has also raised questions about the use of motions to reduce or dismiss charges against those accused of serious crimes.
Lanez is facing 22 years in prison for 3 felony firearms violations, and his sentencing is scheduled for next month.
Fans also chimed in and believed the appeal will be thrown out based on the evidence from the trial.
After learning the case update, fans believe there might be different outcomes regarding Lanez’s motion. One fan wrote, “The judge is going to toss the appeal, and even if the judge didn’t, what are they going to do about all the other evidence?”‘
'General Hospital' Cast Honors Late Sonya Eddy in Special Tribute Episode
Sonya Eddy is being remembered by her General Hospital cast members.
Back in December 2022, Octavia Spencer confirmed that the actress, best known for playing nurse Epiphany Johnson on the long-running soap opera, had sadly passed away at the age of 55.
Three months after her death, General Hospital paid tribute to Sonya in a special episode on Wednesday (Match 29) where the cast remembered their late friend and colleague.
“She was just — one word that I can think of is joy,” Maurice Benard.
“I’m getting emotional talking about it,” Kirsten Storms shared. “She was one of the most positive people that has ever worked in this building…I told her once she gave good hugs, and from that point on she hugged me every time she saw me.”
Lynn Herring said, “Sonya was such a beautiful soul. Her smile would light up everybody’s day. She never complained about being tired. She was a spark of joy.”
“She had a big spirit and a light around her,” Donnell Turner gushed. “You knew when she was in the room but I mean that in all the best ways.”
“I know she was the head nurse of GH but she truly was that figure in our personal lives,” Rebecca Herbst shared. “It’s been really hard.”
“She had such a mix of humor and strength,” Finola Hughes said of Sonya. “She would laugh at anything and gave the best hugs I ever had.”
General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC.
Tyra Banks Reacts to Julianne Hough Replacing Her on 'DWTS,' Reveals Who She'll Miss From the Show
It was recently revealed that Tyra Banks is officially leaving Dancing with the Stars as the show’s co-host. The day after this news was revealed, Julianne Hough was announced as Tyra‘s replacement.
Julianne is no stranger to the DWTS stage, having won a few seasons as a pro dancer and acted as a judge on other seasons as well.
Now, Tyra has issued a statement reacting to the news, and revealed who and what she’ll miss.
“The businesswoman in me sees how Julianne is great on multiple levels. She’s a professional dancer. She is the sister of Derek [Hough], a DWTS multi-champion, who is now a stellar judge. It’s going to be a family affair in that ballroom which people will love to watch. And she has so much personality and strong opinions backed by expertise. She’s a perfect choice! She’s gonna crush it!” Tyra told Us Weekly.
‘Blue Bloods’ Renewed as Stars, Producers Take 25 Percent Pay Cut
Sources close to the Tom Selleck production say the stars and key producers all agreed to the pay reduction in order to keep the Friday night cop drama running and keep the hundreds of production staffers employed for another season.
With the renewal, Blue Bloods becomes CBS’ second-longest-running current scripted series as NCIS: Los Angeles is ending this season after 14 seasons. Only the flagship NCIS series, which was recently renewed for its 21st season, has aired longer than Blue Bloods.
“Blue Bloods has dominated Friday nights since its premiere and remained an important anchor for CBS’ winning lineup,” said Amy Reisenbach, CBS Entertainment president. “Led by the outstanding Tom Selleck, and an incredible cast and creative team, viewers continue to embrace the Reagans, their law enforcement family, and the series’ dramatic storytelling. We can’t wait to pull a chair up to the Reagan family dinner table for another fantastic season.”
Produced in-house at CBS Studios, Blue Bloods has been a cash cow for Paramount Global, thanks in part to rich syndication and international deals. The drama remains one of CBS’ most watched originals and anchors its Friday night primetime lineup. The show is broadcast’s No. 3 drama in total viewers, averaging more than 9.5 million per episode. With delayed viewing, that number grows to top 11 million.
Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan, Will Estes and Len Cariou star alongside Selleck in the series, for which (alongside SWAT) CBS had sought budget reductions. The fate of SWAT, a co-production between Sony TV and CBS, remains unclear. Co-creator Shawn Ryan recently told THR podcast TV’s Top 5 that the SWAT renewal hinges on both studios coming up with more favorable economics.
“Right now, it’s up in the air whether SWAT will get picked up for a seventh season, and that has nothing to do with ratings. You would never see that situation 15 years ago,” he said. “SWAT is third in the demo at CBS; there’s no reason why the show shouldn’t be picked up other than the economics of the business are changing. CBS and Sony will or will not figure out a way to economically make a season seven work.”
Blue Bloods joins CSI: Vegas, The Equalizer, all three of Dick Wolf’s FBI shows, rookies Fire Country and So Help Me Todd, NCIS and its spinoff, NCIS: Hawai’i, as CBS dramas that earned early renewals. The network’s comedy roster for the 2023-24 season includes Bob Hearts Abishola, Ghosts and The Neighborhood, all of which also were renewed early. Left on the bubble are SWAT and first-year shows East New York and True Lies, the latter of which debuted in March. The network has already picked up Justin Hartley drama Tracker for next season.
Nick Cannon doesn’t give mothers of his 12 kids a ‘monthly allowance’
Nick Cannon, who has fathered 12 children by six different women, has opened up about how he supports his expanding family.
“The Masked Singer” host revealed that, although it’s not easy, he doesn’t give his babies’ mothers a set “amount of money” or a “monthly allowance.”
“What they need, they get it,” said Cannon, who clarified that he is “not on the government.”
“There’s never been something that one of the mothers of my children has asked for and they didn’t receive,” he explained during an interview on “The Home Team Morning Show” this week.
Cannon’s current brood includes 12 children between the ages of 3 months and 11 years, including twins Monroe and Moroccan, whom he shares with pop diva Mariah Carey.
Despite any personal relationship upheaval, the “Wild 'N Out” creator — who joked “that’s why they call me the provider” — said he has a deep appreciation for the multiple women he’s impregnated.
“When you really understand, like, ‘Yo, this woman has given the greatest sacrifice and sacrificed her body to bring a child [into the world], and that’s the best gift any man could ask for,’” he shared. “So regardless of what goes on in any scenario, I’mma always show love and respect. I’ll never say anything disrespectful or bad about any of the mothers of my children.”
The 42-year-old lupus survivor also credited the group of women — which includes “Selling Sunset” castmate Bre Tiesi, former “Price Is Right” model LaNisha Cole and former radio personality Abby De La Rosa — for putting up with his lifestyle.
“Anybody that could put up with me and everything from my schedule to ... being in the media and stuff like that, like, that’s a queen,” he shared. “I truly just honor everybody in my family because it ain’t easy.”
Last week, Cannon went viral for revealing that his former girlfriend and co-star Christina Milian is one particular ex he wishes would have been on his list of baby mamas.
However, in speaking with “The Home Team,” he said he doesn’t know if he will father any more children.
Claudia Jordan Ruffles Feathers After She Issues Warning About Black Men Dating White Women, Following Jonathan Majors Being Accused of Assault
Claudia Jordan issued a PSA for all of her “brothers” in interracial relationships following the recent domestic assault allegations placed on Jonathan Majors.
In the most recent episode of FOX Soul’s “Cocktails With Queens,” Jordan and her co-hosts Syleena Johnson, LisaRaye McCoy, and Vivica Fox discussed the multiple counts of assault Majors was charged with after a woman, whom TMZ reported as his girlfriend, claimed that he hit and choked her while they were inside a taxi cab.
Claudia Jordan issues PSA to Black men that date white women. (Photo: @claudiajordan/Instagram)
While each lady had a chance to speak their own individual opinion concerning the news, Jordan decided to head in a different direction as she spoke directly to the camera and sent out a cryptic message to men of color.
“Brothers, brothas, I’m talking to you my brothas,” the 49-year-old said as her colleagues sipped their wine and egged her on to finish the statement.
“Come on, man, you know you can’t get away with it with them. They already looking, they looking,” she said.
While Johnson and Fox appeared to relate with their shady facial expressions, McCoy insisted that her co-worker be more specific regarding those to whom she was referring.
“When you say them what you mean — them as women or them as white folks? What you talking about” McCoy asked.
While “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” alum acknowledged that she comes from an interracial relationship, she also suggested that black men “watch” themselves around white women.
“It’s been a couple white women,” Jordan said, “that are saying – not saying you can’t interracially date because I wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for that. I’m just saying you gotta watch yourself because they’re gonna believe your accuser before they believe you.”
She continued, “Love who you love, like who you like, hang out with who you want to hang out with, but you gotta button it up when you’re at this level.”
Before this segment ended, the talk show host wrapped up her speech by reiterating her initial point.
“Brothers be careful because it’s getting worse again. We’re going through the same cycle again.”
After Jordan’s message hit FOX Soul’s Instagram page, a few fans shared mixed opinions about her concern for men, especially since she has been called out previously for making problematic statements about Black men and women.
“LisaRaye reaction. Because Claudia Jordan you are one of them you are a half white woman. Who hates her black father,” one user suggested.
That person continued, “Claudia Jordan looks forward to dragging black people. Don’t be a foul black community she’s good at pretending to like her black skin. When she really wishes she was a white woman like her mom.”
Another fan showed to agree with Jordan, writing, “I love how Claudia is willing to say what needs to be said.”
Fans looking to hear takes like this and more can keep up with “Cocktails With Queens” every Monday.
Carl Lewis Documentary in the Works from Executive Producer LeBron James
*LeBron James and his business partner Maverick Carter will executive produce a documentary about track and field legend Carl Lewis.
The film will be co-directed by Noah Media Group’s Gabriel Clarke and Chris Hay, with James, Carter, Jamal Henderson, and Philip Byron executive producing for Uninterrupted, Variety reports.
During his 18-year track and field career, Lewis won nine Olympic gold medals. The International Olympic Committee named him Sportsman of the Century. The film will chronicle his rise as a superstar athlete and feature exclusive insight from Lewis’ family and closest friends. The doc will also include rare archival footage showing the impact of his career.
Clarke said: “We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with Carl to tell his timely and important story. The aim has always been to capture the true scale of his sporting and cultural impact, making LeBron, Maverick and the brilliant Uninterrupted team the ideal production teammates.”
Lewis recently said that the secret to his success is the numerous sacrifices he had to make to achieve greatness.
“The greatest thing about sport is that the basics will never change. It is hard work, dedication and sacrifice. And that sacrifice is practicing day in and day out. Maybe, you can’t go to places…[or be in] relationships. Everyone that has success has the same message—hard work, focus, dedication and sacrifice. We want to tell the young people that hey it works. Everybody told me that and now I am telling them that,” Lewis told Mid-Day while at the Indian Sports Honours at a Juhu hotel last week.
“I wanted to jump 8.90m and run a world record in the 100m. I wanted to be very rich and famous. So every day at practice, I had those four things in mind. But I knew that [being] rich and famous won’t happen without hard work and dedication,” he continued.
“Now, we are in an era of social media. A lot of young people think that it replaces a lot of the work. It doesn’t. You still have to speak well. You must have a good story and you have to work hard,” added Lewis.
Ryan Coogler Working on ‘Diverse’ Reboot of ‘The X-Files’
*Ryan Coogler is working on a reboot of “The X-Files,” according to the show’s creator, Chris Carter.
The “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” director is said to be developing a “diverse” reimagining of the popular sci-fi series. During a recent interview on the CBC radio show On the Coast With Gloria Macarenko, Carter spoke about the upcoming 30th anniversary of “The X-Files” when he dropped Coogler’s name, THR reports.
“I just spoke to a young man, Ryan Coogler, who is going to remount The X-Files with a diverse cast,” he said.
Carter also noted that the reboot will take fans much deeper into conspiracy theories than the original series.
“[Coogler] has his work cut out for him because we covered so much territory,” said Carter.
“The X-Files” starred David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson and ran from 1993-2002 on Fox and spawned a couple of feature films. While Anderson has previously said she is done playing Agent Scully, Duchovny has made clear that he is open to reprising the role of Agent Mulder.
Speaking to The Guardian, Duchovny said: “I know what Gillian said, but there’s no reason for me to say anything like that.
“Maybe she said it just so that people would stop asking her. But for me, life is life: I don’t know anything about what’s coming, I don’t just say no to things like that. It’s not how I function.”
Per The Independent, when asked if he ever tired of playing Mulder, Duchovny said: “Oh, no… What was interesting when we went back to do like the reboot seasons, was how daunting it was at first. How do I do this guy again? Who is this guy? He was a bit lost to me at first. But then I thought, well, now he’s older. He’s different. And so am I. So it’s not like trying to do the same thing.”
It’s not clear if Coogler’s update will feature Duchovny and Anderson.
Nike Legal Case Reveals Stockx Sold 38 Pairs Of Fake Jordan 1’s
At the end of last year, Nike sued Stockx, the reseller platform, for allegedly selling counterfeit sneakers and having an unreliable authentication process. As the suit continues to be underway, it has been revealed that a reseller once received 38 pairs of fake Air Jordan 1s from StockX.
According to Nice Kicks, they exclusively spoke to the reseller involved in the Nike vs. StockX case. He bought many University Blue, Mocha, and Hyper Royal Jordan 1s on StockX when the price had dropped with the intent of holding and flipping later. However, it turned out that 38 of them were fake.” The court document reveals that StockX had “authenticated” the shoes. An exciting fact is that since the scandal in November 2022, the company has removed the word “authenticated” from its site. Following the claim that the sneakers were fake, Nike visited the reseller and confirmed that 38 pairs of sneakers received by the customer from StockX had indeed been fake.
StockX released the following statement, “We take customer protection extremely seriously, and we’ve invested millions to fight the proliferation of counterfeit products that virtually every global marketplace faces today. Nike’s latest filing is not only baseless but also is curious given that their own brand protection team has communicated confidence in our authentication program, and that hundreds of Nike employees – including current senior executives – use StockX to buy and sell products. This latest tactic amounts to nothing more than a panicked and desperate attempt to resuscitate its losing legal case against our innovative Vault NFT program that revolutionizes the way that consumers can buy, store, and sell collectibles safely, efficiently, and sustainably. Nike’s challenge has no merit and clearly demonstrates their lack of understanding of the modern marketplace.”
StockX has since accepted the reseller’s returns and provided a full refund. The litigation between the two companies is still underway.
Jason Derulo Hosts New Talent Show, Offering Opportunity To Join His Label
R&B/Pop singer Jason Derulo is keeping busy these days. He now has a new talent show called Project Icon. Formed with his business partner, Frank Harris, the “Wiggle” singer wanted the talent show to be more relatable to the music industry.
Unlike other talent-seeking shows, Project Icon focuses on helping the contestants make music that performs well on social media. They also teach the artists how to perfect their brands.
The ten contestants will also be critiqued on their interview skills and relatability. The winner of Project Icon will record a song with Derulo and perform at Radio 1’s Big Weekend. The winner will also be signed to Derulo’s label, Future History.
Based in the UK, Project Icon will air six episodes starting on March 26th on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer. The contestants are all from the UK as they specialize in different genres such as country, hip hop, rock, and R&B. Some of the artists already have a fan base, and some are unknown. They will be judged by Becky Hill, Harris, and Derulo himself.
Social media, mainly TikTok, is the reason for this show. The “Whatcha Say” singer has built a following on TikTok, amassing over 50 million followers. The popular social platform has helped further his career. It also proves that the music industry has changed and is more than just about music.
Derulo makes a statement about his new show and the current music industry:
“The world of music has changed and being a superstar with staying power today requires a lot more than just singing. Project Icon is the first TV show that will challenge contestants on all realistic skills an artist today should have for a real shot at being an Icon.”
12-Year-Old Charged With Killing A Man To Steal His Guns In Milwaukee
A 12-year-old could be facing a life sentence after he killed his neighbor in an effort to steal his guns.
The boy, who will not be named because of his age, allegedly carried out a fatal shooting of 34-year-old Brandon Felton. The shooting happened on March 15, and all because Felton refused to sell his gun to them. Police discovered the crime all from a pizza receipt.
After a series of inconsistent statements from the boy, police tied a pizza receipt from the night of the killing. Before finally acknowledging he was home during the killing, he then said he was playing video games and blamed the homicide on someone else.
Police then found text messages from the defendant, “I’m gonna do it to Brandan [sic],” the court document stated.
The text conversation shows the defendant saying he has a gun and asking, “should I kill him (right now)?” the complaint said. Another person in the conversation replied, “Noooo,” but the defendant allegedly replied, “I’m belting him don’t got time for dude going after my family,” the documents show.
Eventually, the boy confessed to his mother and intended to steal Felton’s guns.
The child’s bond was set to $100,000 with a preliminary hearing on April 14.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Thugs of the Multiverse
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM