#MAGFAB: Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird cover ELLE DECOR’s 2023 September Style Issue
Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird cover ELLE DECOR’s 2023 September Style Issue and open the doors to their ultra-stylish New York City apartment. In 2021, Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, one of the most decorated power couples in sports, found themselves in pursuit of a new kind of ornamentation: the interior design of their first home purchased together. For the former WNBA guard and the reigning U.S. Women’s National Team champion, the winning tip came from Rapinoe’s stylist, Karla Welch, who put her on to ELLE DECOR A-List designer Mark Grattan.
Rapinoe slid humbly into Grattan’s Instagram DMs: “My fiancée and I just got a place in SoHo and need HALP!” The place in question was a 1,650-square-foot, two-bedroom pied-à-terre with high ceilings, sweeping views onto the city, and a rooftop terrace to boot. “New York is a really special place to both of us,” Rapinoe says. “Sue is from here. It feels like the place where we fell in love—it feels like home in so many ways.” Grattan was charmed by the soccer star’s effusion of emojis. “I typically let people sweat a little bit,” he says. This time, he responded the same day.
Rapinoe and Bird were traveling constantly throughout the process, primarily living at their home in Seattle. When they were present, they recognized the strong teamwork at hand. “Athletes and artists aren’t that different,” Bird says. “There is a process. And you can’t skip steps, you just can’t.”
The biggest undertaking was the open-plan kitchen, which Pollack-Robbins, while looking for utensils for takeout during a meeting early on, noticed was missing functional drawers. By the time the Brazilian quartzite was installed—a variation called Crystal Tiffany used for the countertops, backsplash, and a custom-built island—even the drawer pulls were bespoke.
The project also allowed the designer the space, both literally and figuratively, to test new production methods. He successfully fabricated and installed a freestanding bent mirror behind the living room’s custom sectional sofa, a feat he’d been attempting for years. He also pulled in new processes from his work with Solange Knowles’s creative firm Saint Heron, collaborating with the artist Quincy Ellis of Brooklyn-based Fracture Studio to develop a resin material for the base of the triangular-glass-topped dining table, offset by an orange velvet banquette with leather piping.
This apartment provides a homecoming for the couple in another important way: Bird retired from the WNBA in 2022, and Rapinoe announced in July that this year’s Women’s World Cup would be her last. Grattan’s work sets the stage for this exciting new chapter in their lives. “Whenever I think about retirement and the future, I think about our friends and family sitting on the couch, sharing joy with each other,” Rapinoe says.
Bird echoes the sentiment, nodding to their one nonnegotiable—to install a television in the living room where they can gather and watch live sports. For two of the world’s greatest athletes, Grattan was game.
#RHOA: ‘He Is A FaceTime Father’ Kenya Moore Battles Her Estranged Husband Marc Daly In Court
Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kenya Moore is back fighting in divorce court with her ex-husband Marc Daly, given his recent demand that she be found in contempt of court due to their 4-year-old, Brooklyn, being near a fight during a scene on the popular Bravo reality television show. According to previous reporting from RadarOnline.com, Daly demanded Moore be found in contempt of court, as he accused Moore of violating a court order over their daughter Brooklyn.
Moore has primary custody of their daughter, with Daly having visitation. However, as part of their divorce proceedings, Daly doesn’t want their daughter Brooklyn to appear on Moore’s show, Real Housewives of Atlanta, which allows her to share all aspects of her life, including motherhood. Although the court ruled that their daughter could appear on the show, with one caveat, Moore had to notify Daly when their child was filming. Recently Daly claimed that Moore failed to inform him of a commercial she filmed with the toddler. Further, Daly said Brooklyn was present during filming when Moore’s co-star Marlo Hampton attempted to kick down Moore’s hotel room, where Brooklyn was sleeping. The scene ended up on a recent episode of the Bravo show.
In court documents retrieved by RadarOnline.com, Daly said in his motion that he “repeatedly requests calls and FaceTime with [Brooklyn] and provides available times” but claimed that Moore didn’t respond. He also revealed that he only has spoken to his daughter twice in June and accused Moore of failing to cooperate with in-person visits.
Moore clapped back at her estranged husband, claiming that Daly was aware of the commercial and agreed to it previously. Next, she addressed the RHOA accusations. Moore said that her daughter was never on the camera and that her child wasn’t aware of Hampton at the door, as she was in the bedroom, not near the living room door of her parlor hotel suite.
Moore also called out Daly for being an absentee father. According to RadarOnline.com, she claimed Daly isn’t too involved in their daughter’s life at all, only seeing her twice in two years. “The evidence will show that Father is simply a “FaceTime” father who is inconsistent with talking to his child at best. He doesn’t visit her, makes a promise to her that he does not keep, and continues to disrupt the normalcy that Mother has strived so very hard to provide for the minor child,” the motion read.
Moore’s lawyer continued, “For example, Mother planned (with Father’s consent) a trip to Disneyland, Father committed to coming, causing Mother to pay for the costs of travel for him and the child, and the cost of lodging for everyone. Father, after committing to show, failed to show up, disappointing the child who was excited with anticipation of seeing him and costing [Moore] thousands of dollars.”
The two are expected to face off in a divorce trial in the next couple of weeks. We hope that Moore and Daly can find a resolution for their daughter.
#MusicNews: Ciara Announces New Ep ‘Cici,’
Just a few days after dropping her latest single, “How We Roll,” Ciara announced her new EP Cici will be out this month. She revealed the news on Instagram over the weekend by sharing a snippet of the new track alongside a sexy photo of herself in a hot pink trench and matching boots. Fans can pre-save the album today.
"Cici" is notably Ciara’s first plunge back into the music seascape after her 2019 album, 'Beauty Marks'. This venture was exclusively produced and released on her independent label. It starred her major hit single "Level Up," and treated fans to impressive features from music moguls like Kelly Rowland, Macklemore, and Tekno.
#HipHopNews: Travis Scott Brings Out Kanye West at Circus Maximus Concert
On Monday (Aug. 7), Travis Scott performed at an ancient Roman chariot-racing stadium called Circus Maximus in Rome, Italy. The 32-year-old rapper was delivering some singles from his new Utopia album when suddenly he told his live DJ Chase B to cut the music off. Little did fans know, they were in for a surprise. In the clip below, Travis Scott speaks to Chase B about how far he's gotten into his career before praising Kanye West for sticking by him through thick and thin.
"It's been a long journey before we can get here, Chase B," Travis Scott tells the DJ in the video clip. "And I can only say that it's been only been one human being on this muthaf**kin' planet that has ever walked side by side with me through anything and every muthaf**kin' thing."
After Travis Scott calls out his DJ's name, Chase B introduces Ye's arrival by playing the Donda rhymer's 2021 single, "Praise God," featuring Travis Scott and Baby Keem. As the crowd gets hyped and recites some of the song's lyrics, Kanye West joins Travis Scott on stage for an unforgettable performance.
After the rappers delivered "Praise God," La Flame declared that his album Utopia would be nonexistent if it weren't for Ye. Travis Scott also alluded that the Chicago-based rapper has a huge role in his life.
"There is no Utopia without Kanye West," Travis Scott stated on stage in the clip below. "There is no Travis Scott without Kanye West."
WATCH HERE
Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird cover ELLE DECOR’s 2023 September Style Issue and open the doors to their ultra-stylish New York City apartment. In 2021, Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, one of the most decorated power couples in sports, found themselves in pursuit of a new kind of ornamentation: the interior design of their first home purchased together. For the former WNBA guard and the reigning U.S. Women’s National Team champion, the winning tip came from Rapinoe’s stylist, Karla Welch, who put her on to ELLE DECOR A-List designer Mark Grattan.
Rapinoe slid humbly into Grattan’s Instagram DMs: “My fiancée and I just got a place in SoHo and need HALP!” The place in question was a 1,650-square-foot, two-bedroom pied-à-terre with high ceilings, sweeping views onto the city, and a rooftop terrace to boot. “New York is a really special place to both of us,” Rapinoe says. “Sue is from here. It feels like the place where we fell in love—it feels like home in so many ways.” Grattan was charmed by the soccer star’s effusion of emojis. “I typically let people sweat a little bit,” he says. This time, he responded the same day.
Rapinoe and Bird were traveling constantly throughout the process, primarily living at their home in Seattle. When they were present, they recognized the strong teamwork at hand. “Athletes and artists aren’t that different,” Bird says. “There is a process. And you can’t skip steps, you just can’t.”
The biggest undertaking was the open-plan kitchen, which Pollack-Robbins, while looking for utensils for takeout during a meeting early on, noticed was missing functional drawers. By the time the Brazilian quartzite was installed—a variation called Crystal Tiffany used for the countertops, backsplash, and a custom-built island—even the drawer pulls were bespoke.
This apartment provides a homecoming for the couple in another important way: Bird retired from the WNBA in 2022, and Rapinoe announced in July that this year’s Women’s World Cup would be her last. Grattan’s work sets the stage for this exciting new chapter in their lives. “Whenever I think about retirement and the future, I think about our friends and family sitting on the couch, sharing joy with each other,” Rapinoe says.
Bird echoes the sentiment, nodding to their one nonnegotiable—to install a television in the living room where they can gather and watch live sports. For two of the world’s greatest athletes, Grattan was game.
BREAKING: 2023 Made in America festival in Philadelphia Featuring Lizzo has been canceled due to 'severe circumstances'!
PHILADELPHIA-The 2023 Made in America festival in Philadelphia has been canceled, according to a statement posted online Tuesday
Organizers said the cancelation was due to "severe circumstances outside of production control," but did not elaborate
All ticket holders will be refunded at the original point of purchase.
SZA and Lizzo were set to headline the festival on the Ben Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia on Sept. 2 and 3.
We are working to get additional details about the cancelation. This story will be updated when more information is available.
"Due to severe circumstances outside of production control, the 2023 Made In America festival will no longer be taking place. This decision has been difficult and has not been made lightly nor without immense deliberation," the statement said.
"Made in America has a legacy of delivering exceptional experiences for music fans and concertgoers, and it is our commitment to always deliver a top-tier festival experience," the statement continued. "We look forward to returning to Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the great city of Philadelphia in 2024."
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said he was disappointed by the announcement but looks forward to "bringing MIA back to the Parkway next year."
Organizers said the cancelation was due to "severe circumstances outside of production control," but did not elaborate
All ticket holders will be refunded at the original point of purchase.
SZA and Lizzo were set to headline the festival on the Ben Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia on Sept. 2 and 3.
We are working to get additional details about the cancelation. This story will be updated when more information is available.
"Due to severe circumstances outside of production control, the 2023 Made In America festival will no longer be taking place. This decision has been difficult and has not been made lightly nor without immense deliberation," the statement said.
"Made in America has a legacy of delivering exceptional experiences for music fans and concertgoers, and it is our commitment to always deliver a top-tier festival experience," the statement continued. "We look forward to returning to Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the great city of Philadelphia in 2024."
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said he was disappointed by the announcement but looks forward to "bringing MIA back to the Parkway next year."
#RHOA: ‘He Is A FaceTime Father’ Kenya Moore Battles Her Estranged Husband Marc Daly In Court
Moore has primary custody of their daughter, with Daly having visitation. However, as part of their divorce proceedings, Daly doesn’t want their daughter Brooklyn to appear on Moore’s show, Real Housewives of Atlanta, which allows her to share all aspects of her life, including motherhood. Although the court ruled that their daughter could appear on the show, with one caveat, Moore had to notify Daly when their child was filming. Recently Daly claimed that Moore failed to inform him of a commercial she filmed with the toddler. Further, Daly said Brooklyn was present during filming when Moore’s co-star Marlo Hampton attempted to kick down Moore’s hotel room, where Brooklyn was sleeping. The scene ended up on a recent episode of the Bravo show.
In court documents retrieved by RadarOnline.com, Daly said in his motion that he “repeatedly requests calls and FaceTime with [Brooklyn] and provides available times” but claimed that Moore didn’t respond. He also revealed that he only has spoken to his daughter twice in June and accused Moore of failing to cooperate with in-person visits.
Moore clapped back at her estranged husband, claiming that Daly was aware of the commercial and agreed to it previously. Next, she addressed the RHOA accusations. Moore said that her daughter was never on the camera and that her child wasn’t aware of Hampton at the door, as she was in the bedroom, not near the living room door of her parlor hotel suite.
Moore also called out Daly for being an absentee father. According to RadarOnline.com, she claimed Daly isn’t too involved in their daughter’s life at all, only seeing her twice in two years. “The evidence will show that Father is simply a “FaceTime” father who is inconsistent with talking to his child at best. He doesn’t visit her, makes a promise to her that he does not keep, and continues to disrupt the normalcy that Mother has strived so very hard to provide for the minor child,” the motion read.
Moore’s lawyer continued, “For example, Mother planned (with Father’s consent) a trip to Disneyland, Father committed to coming, causing Mother to pay for the costs of travel for him and the child, and the cost of lodging for everyone. Father, after committing to show, failed to show up, disappointing the child who was excited with anticipation of seeing him and costing [Moore] thousands of dollars.”
The two are expected to face off in a divorce trial in the next couple of weeks. We hope that Moore and Daly can find a resolution for their daughter.
#MusicNews: Ciara Announces New Ep ‘Cici,’
Just a few days after dropping her latest single, “How We Roll,” Ciara announced her new EP Cici will be out this month. She revealed the news on Instagram over the weekend by sharing a snippet of the new track alongside a sexy photo of herself in a hot pink trench and matching boots. Fans can pre-save the album today.
"Cici" is notably Ciara’s first plunge back into the music seascape after her 2019 album, 'Beauty Marks'. This venture was exclusively produced and released on her independent label. It starred her major hit single "Level Up," and treated fans to impressive features from music moguls like Kelly Rowland, Macklemore, and Tekno.
#HipHopNews: Travis Scott Brings Out Kanye West at Circus Maximus Concert
"It's been a long journey before we can get here, Chase B," Travis Scott tells the DJ in the video clip. "And I can only say that it's been only been one human being on this muthaf**kin' planet that has ever walked side by side with me through anything and every muthaf**kin' thing."
After Travis Scott calls out his DJ's name, Chase B introduces Ye's arrival by playing the Donda rhymer's 2021 single, "Praise God," featuring Travis Scott and Baby Keem. As the crowd gets hyped and recites some of the song's lyrics, Kanye West joins Travis Scott on stage for an unforgettable performance.
After the rappers delivered "Praise God," La Flame declared that his album Utopia would be nonexistent if it weren't for Ye. Travis Scott also alluded that the Chicago-based rapper has a huge role in his life.
"There is no Utopia without Kanye West," Travis Scott stated on stage in the clip below. "There is no Travis Scott without Kanye West."
WATCH HERE
Although the concert on Aug. 7 at Circus Maximus sold out pretty quickly, fans were given the option to livestream it via Travis Scott's website for $15. The show began at 3 p.m. EST.
Wayne Brady Has Come Out as pansexual.
The 51-year-old star has revealed that he's attracted to people regardless of their sex or gender.
Speaking to PEOPLE, Wayne explained, "In doing my research, both with myself and just with the world, I couldn't say if I was bisexual, because I had to really see what that was, especially because I really have not gotten a chance to act on anything. So, I came to pansexual because - and I know that I'm completely messing up the dictionary meaning - but to me, pan means being able to be attracted to anyone who identifies as gay, straight, bi, transsexual or non-binary."
"Being able to be attracted across the board. And, I think, at least for me for right now, that is the proper place. I took pan to mean that not only can I be attracted to any of these people or types physically, but I could be attracted to the person that is there," he further explained.
Wayne has been attracted to men at various points in his life - but he's never actually dated a man. The actor also concedes that he's lived "in the shadows" at times.
Wayne, who has been married two times, shared, "The world can absolutely go without knowing that Wayne identifies as pan. But that gave me license to still live in the shadows and to be secretive. What does that feel like to actually not be shameful, to not feel like, 'Oh, I can't be part of this conversation because I'm lying?' I had to break that behavior."
Despite this, Wayne acknowledges that he's "got some work to do still". He said, "I am single, but it's not about being with someone right now. I've got some work to do still. Then, Wayne as a single, open-minded pansexual can make a decision and be free and open to other people."
Chris Noth Shuts Down Sexual Assault Accusations As He Deems His Infidelity 'Isn't A Crime'
Chris Noth has shut down sexual assault allegations levelled at him. Facing the wrongdoing accusations from a number of women, the "Sex and the City" actor claimed that the encounters were consensual while deeming his infidelity in his marriage of 11 years is not "a crime."
The 68-year-old Hollywood star denied the accusations in an interview published on Monday, August 7. Speaking to USA Today, he stated, "There's nothing I can say to change anyone's mind when you have that kind of a tidal wave. It sounds defensive. I'm not. There's no criminal court. There's no criminal trial. There's nothing for me to get on the stand about and get my story out, get witnesses."
About the sexual assault allegations themselves, Chris commented, "And there's even more absurd add-ons that are completely ridiculous, that have absolutely no basis in fact." On the reason why he does not "like talking about it," he said, "Because as soon as I do, you'll get the Daily Mail or someone grabbing a part of it and doing it, and I don't want my kids seeing that."
Elsewhere in the interview, Chris admitted that he cheated on his wife of 11 years, Tara Wilson. While insisting that his infidelity is not "a crime," he confessed, "I strayed on my wife, and it's devastating to her and not a very pretty picture." He further explained, "You give yourself the same excuses that many men do; it's just a little side dance, and it's fun."
"You're not hurting anybody," the former "Law & Order" star continued sharing his thoughts on the matter. "No one's going to know about this, you know, and sex is just enjoyable. And suddenly, a lot of people want to have sex with you. It's like, 'Well, I'm not going to get this chance again.' "
This was not the first time Chris denied sexual assault accusations against him. Back in December 2021, he released a statement about the matter. "The accusations against me made by individuals I met years, even decades, ago are categorically false. These stories 'been from 30 years ago or 30 days ago - no always means no - that is a line I did not cross. The encounters were consensual," he said.
Chris has been plagued with sexual assault accusations since 2021. Two of his accusers, who used the pseudonyms Zoe and Lily, made the claim in December 2021. Zoe claimed to have been raped in his West Hollywood apartment in 2004, whereas Lily stated that he sexually assaulted her in 2015 when he was married to his wife Tara.
Sandra Bullock's partner Bryan Randall dies after private 3-year battle with ALS
Sandra Bullock's longtime partner, Bryan Randall, has died after a private battle with ALS, his family revealed on Monday. According to a statement obtained by Yahoo Entertainment, the photographer — who started dating the Oscar-winning actress in 2015 — "passed away peacefully" over the weekend. He was 57.
"It is with great sadness that we share that on Aug. 5, Bryan Randall passed away peacefully after a three-year battle with ALS," his family shared. "Bryan chose early to keep his journey with ALS private and those of us who cared for him did our best to honor his request. We are immensely grateful to the tireless doctors who navigated the landscape of this illness with us and to the astounding nurses who became our roommates, often sacrificing their own families to be with ours," his family added.
The Randall family concluded, "At this time we ask for privacy to grieve and to come to terms with the impossibility of saying goodbye to Bryan."
Instead of flowers, the Randall family requests any donations to be made to the ALS Association and the Massachusetts General Hospital.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, known as ALS, is a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, according to Mayo Clinic. The disease causes loss of muscle control and gets worse over time.
Bullock and Randall met when he photographed her son Louis's birthday in January 2015. They started dating shortly after, but the 59-year-old actress purposefully kept their relationship out of the spotlight. Bullock, who went through a very public divorce with Jesse James in 2010, called Randall the love of her life.
"I am someone who went through the divorce process," she explained on Red Table Talk in 2021. "I found the love of my life. We share two beautiful children — three children, his older daughter. It's the best thing ever."
Bullock — who is mother to son Louis, 13, and daughter Laila, 10 — ruled out getting married again.
"So, I don't want to say do it like I do it, but I don't need a paper to be a devoted partner or a devoted mother. I don't need to be told to be ever-present in the hardest of times. I don't need to be told to weather a storm with a good man," she added.
The Bird Box star said Randall is a "great" example of someone she wants around her kids.
"He's the example that I would want my children to have," Bullock added. "I have a partner who's very Christian and there are two different ways of looking at things. I don't always agree with him; he doesn't always agree with me. But he is an example, even when I don't agree with him, that I [think] if they can take away from that, if that is where they feel drawn to, then he's the exact right parent to be in this position. I'm stubborn, but sometimes I need to sit back and listen and go, 'You're saying it differently but we mean exactly the same thing.' It's hard to co-parent, because I just want to do it myself."
Jada Pinkett Smith Joked That Some of Her Hair Is Making a "Come Back"
While Jada Pinkett Smith hasn't been shy about her hair loss, she's giving her Instagram followers an update after a bit of a break. In her latest post, she joked that some of her hair was "try'n a make a come back," referencing her alopecia. She finished the zinger by saying that she was having "trouble spots" in her hair but that she was willing to see where the journey would be headed this time around.
"This here hair is act’n like it’s try’n a make a come back. Still have some trouble spots but — we’ll see✨" she wrote alongside her photos, which showed a current photo of her short hair and a second with slightly longer hair, which was bleached.
Previously, Pinkett Smith shared that she'd been treating her hair loss with steroids, but after it proved to be too much for her (and the results just weren't what she'd hoped for), she opened up about accepting her hair loss.
"Now at this point, I can only laugh," she said back in 2021. "Y'all know I've been struggling with alopecia and just all of a sudden one day, look at this line right here. Look at that."
At the time, she explained that she was coming forward with her story so that people would stop questioning her — and that her hair loss was getting to a point where she couldn't hide it anymore. She joked that instead of being quiet about the situation, she'd embellish her head with crystals and treat her alopecia like a crown.
"So it just showed up like that and this is going to be a little bit more difficult for me to hide," she continued. "So I thought I'd just share it so y'all are not asking any questions. But you know mama's going to put some rhinestones in there. I'm going to make me a little crown. That's what mama's going to do."
Disgraced former officer Tou Thao given 57-month sentence for role in George Floyd's death
Tou Thao was handed a sentence of 57 months for his role in the murder of George Floyd. He is the fourth and final former Minneapolis officer to be charged and sentenced, following Derek Chauvin, J. Alexander Kueng, and Thomas Lane. The time given will run concurrently with a roughly three-year stint that Thao is serving for federal charges related to the case. The U.S. Court of Appeals denied the 37-year-old’s appeal for said charges last week.
As reported by FOX 9, Judge Peter Cahill gave the defendant more time than the 51 months requested by prosecutors. “I was hoping for a little more remorse, regret, acknowledgment of some responsibility. And less preaching,” Cahill said to Thao in court.
Thao has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, claiming that he was focused on the crowd and not what his fellow officers were doing. According to him, he was acting as “a human traffic cone” when Chauvin, Kueng, and Lane were struggling with Floyd.
On May 25, 2020, Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, died after being handcuffed and pinned to the ground, with Chauvin holding his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes. Video footage of the tragic incident was recorded by passersby and shared via social media and news outlets, creating widespread outrage and worldwide protests as a result.
In 2021, a jury found Chauvin guilty for unintentional second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Along with federal charges for violating Floyd’s civil rights, he is serving more than 22 years in prison via concurrent sentences. The following year, a jury found Thao, Kueng, and Lane guilty of the same civil rights charge. Kueng was sentenced to 36 months in prison while Lane was given 30 months. Both also received an additional two years of supervised release.
Ashanti & Nelly Looking good together as they, Sing Along to Steamy Usher Song Together
Ashanti and Nelly haven’t confirmed that they’re an item again. However, the musical power pair is certainly continuing to give off that vibe.
Reports began to link the “Body On Me” hitmakers all the way back in April after they were spotted holding hands at a boxing match. The reunion rumors continued into the next month.
Months later, Ashanti and Nelly shared a video of themselves performing a steamy Usher song. Their chemistry in the clip has people wondering once again what’s going on with them!
On Monday (August 7), Nelly shared a brief clip of them singing Usher‘s throwback, very sexy hit “Nice & Slow.”
“I just want to take it nice and slow,” they sing in harmony before Ashanti sings about “making love ’til the sun comes up.” The whole time, they’re jamming along, laughing and having a great time together.
Nelly made sure to shout out Usher, writing that they were “on my bro shyt.”
If you were unaware, the duo previously dated on and off in the 2000s before splitting in 2013. They released two collaborations together – 2007′s “Switch” and 2008′s “Body on Me.”
We’ll keep you updated as we learn more about what’s going on with them in 2023!
Meet Beyonce's Bodyguard James Plaza His Pics Goes Viral
Beyonce is well-protected while on the road for her Renaissance World Tour, and members of the Bey Hive are doubly appreciative of her bodyguard, James, for keeping her safe and looking so good while he does so.
On Monday (August 7), a video of James standing in front of the stage went viral after fans noticed his reaction to Bey‘s performance of “Energy.” From there, it didn’t take long for them to find him on social media and learn more about him.
In the viral video, a smile breaks out on James‘ face as the crowd successfully manages to remain silent after Bey says “mute.” It’s a feat that every crowd has not pulled off.
The security guard when the crowd hits mute 😍,” a fan raved on Twitter. Others rushed to stan over him as well as their fav onstage.
“His grin,” one person wrote, pairing their praise with another heart-eyed emoji. “He’s so d-mn fine,” another opined. “Oh i would be P-SSED if he were in front of me during the concert,” someone wrote, explaining that he was “distracting as f-ck.”
One industrious member of the Bey Hive found James on Instagram.
Who is he? For starters, his full name is James Plaza, and he’s a professional athlete and bodybuilder who has won first place in multiple competitions. He’s shared videos of himself at competitions on YouTube.
It appears that he is taking the year off of competitions, seemingly to accompany Beyonce on tour. “I would love to compete this year but being away with work for most of the year means this physique will have to do for now,” he wrote alongside a post on Instagram back in April. The Renaissance World Tour started a few days after his pic went live.
Of course, as a bodybuilder, there is plenty of shirtless content on his grid. After finding his Instagram account, fans rushed to compliment him and thank him for protecting Beyonce in the comments section.
'Bachelorette' sends suitor packing with phrase that sends internet into a frenzy
Bachelorette Monday, and in doing so, this season’s main star dropped a phrase that has quickly resonated with viewers.
Charity Lawson, a 27-year-old child and family therapist from Columbus, Georgia — and also this season’s bachelorette — had narrowed the field of 25 men down to just three before heading out on a series of “overnight” dates on the islands of Fiji.
Up first was Xavier, a 27-year-old biomedical scientist from Carrboro, North Carolina. His daytime date consisted of a getaway on one of Fiji’s 333 islands — of the very small and private variety — that came complete with a performance by and a campfire sit-down with some of the country’s native people, with talks of wedding ceremonies being the main focal point.
But it was during the dinner portion of the date that things started to go south for the hopeful couple. Xavier, knowing that infidelity was a major concern and very triggering for Charity, wanted to come clean about his most recent serious relationship, in which he was unfaithful.
And in the series of questions following Xavier’s admission — which included the response, “I should have taken more time to think about that answer” — Charity was not satisfied with what he had done to learn from and better himself after those actions.
So, as a woman who came on this show ready for commitment, Charity had heard all she needed and pretty much abruptly decided to walk Xavier to the minivan for his Bachelorette exit. And it was the words she said in the confessional interview following the rejection that instantly took on a life of their own on the internet.
“I sent Xavier home last night because Xavier is not ready for a commitment to one person,” Lawson said. “I’m not here to fix anybody, I’m not here to build a man. Like, this isn’t build-a-man workshop. I have no choice but to move forward.”
And with that line, a reference to the popular Build-A-Bear stuffed animal company where you can customize your own plush toy, Lawson set the world of social media ablaze.
And while the world of Bachelorette fandom immediately started working on how and when to use such a potent comment in their very own love lives, Charity was quickly focused on the “two great people” that remain: a 30-year-old integrative medicine specialist named Dotun, and a 27-year-old tennis pro named Joey, who both managed to make it to the morning portion for their “overnight dates.”
The Bachelorette airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on ABC.
Marvel Studios VFX workers move to unionize amid Hollywood labor unrest
Marvel Studios visual effects workers have taken a significant step toward unionization, in what would mark a first for a sector that has historically lacked guild representation.
Crew members at the Walt Disney Co.-owned superhero film and TV studio have filed for a union election, marking the first move of its kind for the VFX industry.
A supermajority of Marvel’s more than 50-worker visual effects crew has signed authorization cards indicating they want to be represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), the union said Monday.
The unionization effort comes as Hollywood contends with a rising tide of pro-labor sentiment, with actors represented by SAG-AFTRA and screenwriters represented by the Writers Guild of America on strike simultaneously for the first time in more than 60 years.
"For almost half a century, workers in the visual effects industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry," said Mark Patch, VFX organizer for IATSE, in a statement. "This is a historic first step for VFX workers coming together with a collective voice demanding respect for the work we do."
IATSE, which represents a variety of technical jobs on film sites, has been trying for more than a decade to extend union benefits to visual effects workers that are shared by their colleagues in the rest of the industry. Workers already represented by IATSE include costume designers, hair and makeup artists and script supervisors.
Marvel workers who voted to unionize have contributed to productions including the series "Loki" and the upcoming film "The Marvels" and work in New York and Atlanta.
VFX workers said that it's been challenging because protections given to other unionized workers don't apply to them, such as protected hours or overtime pay. Visual effects crew members are outliers among Hollywood's below-the-line workers, the majority of whom are unionized.
The VFX industry has been plagued with long, grueling hours amid the demand for big-budget, digital-effects-driven productions on streaming services and in theaters, workers say. Marvel in particular has faced criticism for its alleged treatment of VFX workers.
"The move signals a major shift in an industry that has largely remained non-union since VFX was pioneered during production of the first Star Wars films in the 1970s," IATSE said in a press release.
The National Labor Relations Board will now perform due diligence and is expected to later set a date for the union election, in which eligible workers will vote on whether they wish to join the union.
A Marvel spokesperson did not immediately return a request for comment.
The union election announcement comes as many productions have shut down in the midst of the two Hollywood strikes by film and TV actors and writers. WGA members have been on strike since early May, followed by film and TV actors who walked out in mid-July. Both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA are demanding higher streaming pay and protections against artificial intelligence.
"We are witnessing an unprecedented wave of solidarity that's breaking down old barriers in the industry and proving we're all in this fight together," said IATSE International President Matthew D. Loeb in a statement. "That doesn't happen in a vacuum. Entertainment workers everywhere are sticking up for each other's rights, that's what our movement is all about."
YouTuber Tasha K Can’t Afford to Pay Cardi B $4M Debt
*Tasha K, the controversial YouTuber who lost a $4 million defamation lawsuit to Cardi B, doesn’t have the funds to pay the judgment, EUR reported previously.
As RadarOnline.com reports, Tasha K (aka LaTasha Kebe), recently declared bankruptcy and informed the court of her financial situation.
Cardi sued the popular YouTuber [real name: Latasha Kebe] for defamation after she created videos accusing the hip-hop star of being a drug addict and former prostitute with an STD. Cardi B testified during the 2023 trial that she suffered extreme emotional distress and that her marriage to Migos rapper Offset was affected. A Georgia jury ultimately found Tasha K liable on four counts and awarded Cardi $4.05 million in damages.
We reported in June that Cardi B was ordered to halt attempts to collect on millions owed to her by Tasha K as part of a defamation suit.
As a result of Tasha K’s bankruptcy filing, a Georgia judge ordered Cardi to cease her collection efforts, according to court documents obtained by RadarOnline.com. Tasha’s pending legal matters were placed on hold until the Chapter 11 case was resolved, the judge declared.
Per Radar, in the documents filed in Tasha’s Chapter 11, she noted that her income is from being a “content creator/influencer” and she “earns her income by appearing on YouTube, Instagram, and other social media.”
Here’s more from Radar:
In her new filing, Tasha admitted the total value of her assets is $58,595 with the biggest asset being a Chevy Silverado, with a value of $46,750 and a $53,412 lien on the truck for purchase money financing.
She said without the truck her assets only total $12k. Tasha revealed the IRS has filed an estimated priority claim of $97k for taxes for 2021 and 2022. However, Tasha said she filed both returns and it appears the tax principal due is $150k with another $30k due in state income taxes.
“Clearly [Tasha] does not have the ability to pay the [Cardi] judgment in full,” Tasha’s lawyer said in court, per RadarOnline.
Brother of C-Murder’s Victim Criticizes Kim Kardashian, Says Only Celebrities Want Him Released From Prison
The brother of C-Murder's victim Steve Thomas has criticized Kim Kardashian for advocating for the release of the incarcerated rapper.
In a statement shared with TMZ, George Thomas said that recent advocacy for C-Murder's release has reopened old wounds related to his then-16-year-old brother's murder in 2002. He alleges that there's substantial evidence to indicate that C-Murder killed his brother and believes that it's only celebrities who want to see Master P's brother free again.
His criticism comes not long after Kim Kardashian shared a statement which suggested C-Murder, real name Corey Miller, had spent 21 years in prison "for a crime he did not commit." As she noted, his conviction is based on the testimony of two men who have since recanted their statements.
"There is no remaining evidence that even suggests that Corey Miller is any more culpable than the hundreds of patrons who were at the Platinum Club on January 12, 2022, when Steve Thomas was tragically shot," Kardashian continued. "Louisiana recently enacted a new law that provides innocent people with the ability to raise a post-conviction claim of factual innocence. ... Corey Miller deserves a day in court to test the veracity of the recanted statements and to prove that he did not shoot Steve Thomas."
In a post shared on Instagram, C-Murder thanked Kardashian for her support. "It’s been a fight, and long journey for Justice," he wrote alongside screenshots of her statement on the matter. "Thank you @kimkardashian 🙏🏾 and EVERYONE involved over the years (praying, advocating and believing) in my innocence."
C-Murder was arrested in connection with Steve Thomas' murder in 2002 and was sentenced to life in prison in 2009. His conviction was upheld in 2011. The rapper has long maintained his innocence.
Earlier this year, he announced he was on a hunger strike in protest of "inhumane" prison conditions. "Jan. 17, 2023, marked 21 years I Corey Miller have been in the Louisiana Penal system," he wrote. “I have been fighting for my health and freedom against this wrongful conviction and simultaneously fighting for my constitutional rights that were stripped away and violated by the penal system of Louisiana. An appeal was filed late December of 2022 and the DA & Judge of Louisiana has 30 days from Feb. 7, 2023 to answer"
In 2021, he claimed that concealed documents with DNA evidence in the case could prove his innocence.
Wayne Brady Has Come Out as pansexual.
The 51-year-old star has revealed that he's attracted to people regardless of their sex or gender.
Speaking to PEOPLE, Wayne explained, "In doing my research, both with myself and just with the world, I couldn't say if I was bisexual, because I had to really see what that was, especially because I really have not gotten a chance to act on anything. So, I came to pansexual because - and I know that I'm completely messing up the dictionary meaning - but to me, pan means being able to be attracted to anyone who identifies as gay, straight, bi, transsexual or non-binary."
"Being able to be attracted across the board. And, I think, at least for me for right now, that is the proper place. I took pan to mean that not only can I be attracted to any of these people or types physically, but I could be attracted to the person that is there," he further explained.
Wayne has been attracted to men at various points in his life - but he's never actually dated a man. The actor also concedes that he's lived "in the shadows" at times.
Wayne, who has been married two times, shared, "The world can absolutely go without knowing that Wayne identifies as pan. But that gave me license to still live in the shadows and to be secretive. What does that feel like to actually not be shameful, to not feel like, 'Oh, I can't be part of this conversation because I'm lying?' I had to break that behavior."
Despite this, Wayne acknowledges that he's "got some work to do still". He said, "I am single, but it's not about being with someone right now. I've got some work to do still. Then, Wayne as a single, open-minded pansexual can make a decision and be free and open to other people."
Chris Noth Shuts Down Sexual Assault Accusations As He Deems His Infidelity 'Isn't A Crime'
The 68-year-old Hollywood star denied the accusations in an interview published on Monday, August 7. Speaking to USA Today, he stated, "There's nothing I can say to change anyone's mind when you have that kind of a tidal wave. It sounds defensive. I'm not. There's no criminal court. There's no criminal trial. There's nothing for me to get on the stand about and get my story out, get witnesses."
About the sexual assault allegations themselves, Chris commented, "And there's even more absurd add-ons that are completely ridiculous, that have absolutely no basis in fact." On the reason why he does not "like talking about it," he said, "Because as soon as I do, you'll get the Daily Mail or someone grabbing a part of it and doing it, and I don't want my kids seeing that."
Elsewhere in the interview, Chris admitted that he cheated on his wife of 11 years, Tara Wilson. While insisting that his infidelity is not "a crime," he confessed, "I strayed on my wife, and it's devastating to her and not a very pretty picture." He further explained, "You give yourself the same excuses that many men do; it's just a little side dance, and it's fun."
"You're not hurting anybody," the former "Law & Order" star continued sharing his thoughts on the matter. "No one's going to know about this, you know, and sex is just enjoyable. And suddenly, a lot of people want to have sex with you. It's like, 'Well, I'm not going to get this chance again.' "
This was not the first time Chris denied sexual assault accusations against him. Back in December 2021, he released a statement about the matter. "The accusations against me made by individuals I met years, even decades, ago are categorically false. These stories 'been from 30 years ago or 30 days ago - no always means no - that is a line I did not cross. The encounters were consensual," he said.
Chris has been plagued with sexual assault accusations since 2021. Two of his accusers, who used the pseudonyms Zoe and Lily, made the claim in December 2021. Zoe claimed to have been raped in his West Hollywood apartment in 2004, whereas Lily stated that he sexually assaulted her in 2015 when he was married to his wife Tara.
Sandra Bullock's partner Bryan Randall dies after private 3-year battle with ALS
Sandra Bullock's longtime partner, Bryan Randall, has died after a private battle with ALS, his family revealed on Monday. According to a statement obtained by Yahoo Entertainment, the photographer — who started dating the Oscar-winning actress in 2015 — "passed away peacefully" over the weekend. He was 57.
"It is with great sadness that we share that on Aug. 5, Bryan Randall passed away peacefully after a three-year battle with ALS," his family shared. "Bryan chose early to keep his journey with ALS private and those of us who cared for him did our best to honor his request. We are immensely grateful to the tireless doctors who navigated the landscape of this illness with us and to the astounding nurses who became our roommates, often sacrificing their own families to be with ours," his family added.
The Randall family concluded, "At this time we ask for privacy to grieve and to come to terms with the impossibility of saying goodbye to Bryan."
Instead of flowers, the Randall family requests any donations to be made to the ALS Association and the Massachusetts General Hospital.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, known as ALS, is a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, according to Mayo Clinic. The disease causes loss of muscle control and gets worse over time.
Bullock and Randall met when he photographed her son Louis's birthday in January 2015. They started dating shortly after, but the 59-year-old actress purposefully kept their relationship out of the spotlight. Bullock, who went through a very public divorce with Jesse James in 2010, called Randall the love of her life.
"I am someone who went through the divorce process," she explained on Red Table Talk in 2021. "I found the love of my life. We share two beautiful children — three children, his older daughter. It's the best thing ever."
Bullock — who is mother to son Louis, 13, and daughter Laila, 10 — ruled out getting married again.
"So, I don't want to say do it like I do it, but I don't need a paper to be a devoted partner or a devoted mother. I don't need to be told to be ever-present in the hardest of times. I don't need to be told to weather a storm with a good man," she added.
The Bird Box star said Randall is a "great" example of someone she wants around her kids.
"He's the example that I would want my children to have," Bullock added. "I have a partner who's very Christian and there are two different ways of looking at things. I don't always agree with him; he doesn't always agree with me. But he is an example, even when I don't agree with him, that I [think] if they can take away from that, if that is where they feel drawn to, then he's the exact right parent to be in this position. I'm stubborn, but sometimes I need to sit back and listen and go, 'You're saying it differently but we mean exactly the same thing.' It's hard to co-parent, because I just want to do it myself."
Jada Pinkett Smith Joked That Some of Her Hair Is Making a "Come Back"
"This here hair is act’n like it’s try’n a make a come back. Still have some trouble spots but — we’ll see✨" she wrote alongside her photos, which showed a current photo of her short hair and a second with slightly longer hair, which was bleached.
Previously, Pinkett Smith shared that she'd been treating her hair loss with steroids, but after it proved to be too much for her (and the results just weren't what she'd hoped for), she opened up about accepting her hair loss.
"Now at this point, I can only laugh," she said back in 2021. "Y'all know I've been struggling with alopecia and just all of a sudden one day, look at this line right here. Look at that."
At the time, she explained that she was coming forward with her story so that people would stop questioning her — and that her hair loss was getting to a point where she couldn't hide it anymore. She joked that instead of being quiet about the situation, she'd embellish her head with crystals and treat her alopecia like a crown.
"So it just showed up like that and this is going to be a little bit more difficult for me to hide," she continued. "So I thought I'd just share it so y'all are not asking any questions. But you know mama's going to put some rhinestones in there. I'm going to make me a little crown. That's what mama's going to do."
Disgraced former officer Tou Thao given 57-month sentence for role in George Floyd's death
Tou Thao was handed a sentence of 57 months for his role in the murder of George Floyd. He is the fourth and final former Minneapolis officer to be charged and sentenced, following Derek Chauvin, J. Alexander Kueng, and Thomas Lane. The time given will run concurrently with a roughly three-year stint that Thao is serving for federal charges related to the case. The U.S. Court of Appeals denied the 37-year-old’s appeal for said charges last week.
As reported by FOX 9, Judge Peter Cahill gave the defendant more time than the 51 months requested by prosecutors. “I was hoping for a little more remorse, regret, acknowledgment of some responsibility. And less preaching,” Cahill said to Thao in court.
Thao has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, claiming that he was focused on the crowd and not what his fellow officers were doing. According to him, he was acting as “a human traffic cone” when Chauvin, Kueng, and Lane were struggling with Floyd.
On May 25, 2020, Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man, died after being handcuffed and pinned to the ground, with Chauvin holding his knee on his neck for more than nine minutes. Video footage of the tragic incident was recorded by passersby and shared via social media and news outlets, creating widespread outrage and worldwide protests as a result.
In 2021, a jury found Chauvin guilty for unintentional second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Along with federal charges for violating Floyd’s civil rights, he is serving more than 22 years in prison via concurrent sentences. The following year, a jury found Thao, Kueng, and Lane guilty of the same civil rights charge. Kueng was sentenced to 36 months in prison while Lane was given 30 months. Both also received an additional two years of supervised release.
Ashanti & Nelly Looking good together as they, Sing Along to Steamy Usher Song Together
Ashanti and Nelly haven’t confirmed that they’re an item again. However, the musical power pair is certainly continuing to give off that vibe.
Reports began to link the “Body On Me” hitmakers all the way back in April after they were spotted holding hands at a boxing match. The reunion rumors continued into the next month.
Months later, Ashanti and Nelly shared a video of themselves performing a steamy Usher song. Their chemistry in the clip has people wondering once again what’s going on with them!
On Monday (August 7), Nelly shared a brief clip of them singing Usher‘s throwback, very sexy hit “Nice & Slow.”
“I just want to take it nice and slow,” they sing in harmony before Ashanti sings about “making love ’til the sun comes up.” The whole time, they’re jamming along, laughing and having a great time together.
Nelly made sure to shout out Usher, writing that they were “on my bro shyt.”
If you were unaware, the duo previously dated on and off in the 2000s before splitting in 2013. They released two collaborations together – 2007′s “Switch” and 2008′s “Body on Me.”
We’ll keep you updated as we learn more about what’s going on with them in 2023!
Meet Beyonce's Bodyguard James Plaza His Pics Goes Viral
On Monday (August 7), a video of James standing in front of the stage went viral after fans noticed his reaction to Bey‘s performance of “Energy.” From there, it didn’t take long for them to find him on social media and learn more about him.
In the viral video, a smile breaks out on James‘ face as the crowd successfully manages to remain silent after Bey says “mute.” It’s a feat that every crowd has not pulled off.
The security guard when the crowd hits mute 😍,” a fan raved on Twitter. Others rushed to stan over him as well as their fav onstage.
“His grin,” one person wrote, pairing their praise with another heart-eyed emoji. “He’s so d-mn fine,” another opined. “Oh i would be P-SSED if he were in front of me during the concert,” someone wrote, explaining that he was “distracting as f-ck.”
One industrious member of the Bey Hive found James on Instagram.
Who is he? For starters, his full name is James Plaza, and he’s a professional athlete and bodybuilder who has won first place in multiple competitions. He’s shared videos of himself at competitions on YouTube.
It appears that he is taking the year off of competitions, seemingly to accompany Beyonce on tour. “I would love to compete this year but being away with work for most of the year means this physique will have to do for now,” he wrote alongside a post on Instagram back in April. The Renaissance World Tour started a few days after his pic went live.
Of course, as a bodybuilder, there is plenty of shirtless content on his grid. After finding his Instagram account, fans rushed to compliment him and thank him for protecting Beyonce in the comments section.
'Bachelorette' sends suitor packing with phrase that sends internet into a frenzy
Charity Lawson, a 27-year-old child and family therapist from Columbus, Georgia — and also this season’s bachelorette — had narrowed the field of 25 men down to just three before heading out on a series of “overnight” dates on the islands of Fiji.
Up first was Xavier, a 27-year-old biomedical scientist from Carrboro, North Carolina. His daytime date consisted of a getaway on one of Fiji’s 333 islands — of the very small and private variety — that came complete with a performance by and a campfire sit-down with some of the country’s native people, with talks of wedding ceremonies being the main focal point.
But it was during the dinner portion of the date that things started to go south for the hopeful couple. Xavier, knowing that infidelity was a major concern and very triggering for Charity, wanted to come clean about his most recent serious relationship, in which he was unfaithful.
And in the series of questions following Xavier’s admission — which included the response, “I should have taken more time to think about that answer” — Charity was not satisfied with what he had done to learn from and better himself after those actions.
So, as a woman who came on this show ready for commitment, Charity had heard all she needed and pretty much abruptly decided to walk Xavier to the minivan for his Bachelorette exit. And it was the words she said in the confessional interview following the rejection that instantly took on a life of their own on the internet.
“I sent Xavier home last night because Xavier is not ready for a commitment to one person,” Lawson said. “I’m not here to fix anybody, I’m not here to build a man. Like, this isn’t build-a-man workshop. I have no choice but to move forward.”
And with that line, a reference to the popular Build-A-Bear stuffed animal company where you can customize your own plush toy, Lawson set the world of social media ablaze.
And while the world of Bachelorette fandom immediately started working on how and when to use such a potent comment in their very own love lives, Charity was quickly focused on the “two great people” that remain: a 30-year-old integrative medicine specialist named Dotun, and a 27-year-old tennis pro named Joey, who both managed to make it to the morning portion for their “overnight dates.”
The Bachelorette airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on ABC.
Marvel Studios VFX workers move to unionize amid Hollywood labor unrest
Marvel Studios visual effects workers have taken a significant step toward unionization, in what would mark a first for a sector that has historically lacked guild representation.
Crew members at the Walt Disney Co.-owned superhero film and TV studio have filed for a union election, marking the first move of its kind for the VFX industry.
A supermajority of Marvel’s more than 50-worker visual effects crew has signed authorization cards indicating they want to be represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), the union said Monday.
The unionization effort comes as Hollywood contends with a rising tide of pro-labor sentiment, with actors represented by SAG-AFTRA and screenwriters represented by the Writers Guild of America on strike simultaneously for the first time in more than 60 years.
"For almost half a century, workers in the visual effects industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry," said Mark Patch, VFX organizer for IATSE, in a statement. "This is a historic first step for VFX workers coming together with a collective voice demanding respect for the work we do."
IATSE, which represents a variety of technical jobs on film sites, has been trying for more than a decade to extend union benefits to visual effects workers that are shared by their colleagues in the rest of the industry. Workers already represented by IATSE include costume designers, hair and makeup artists and script supervisors.
Marvel workers who voted to unionize have contributed to productions including the series "Loki" and the upcoming film "The Marvels" and work in New York and Atlanta.
VFX workers said that it's been challenging because protections given to other unionized workers don't apply to them, such as protected hours or overtime pay. Visual effects crew members are outliers among Hollywood's below-the-line workers, the majority of whom are unionized.
The VFX industry has been plagued with long, grueling hours amid the demand for big-budget, digital-effects-driven productions on streaming services and in theaters, workers say. Marvel in particular has faced criticism for its alleged treatment of VFX workers.
"The move signals a major shift in an industry that has largely remained non-union since VFX was pioneered during production of the first Star Wars films in the 1970s," IATSE said in a press release.
The National Labor Relations Board will now perform due diligence and is expected to later set a date for the union election, in which eligible workers will vote on whether they wish to join the union.
A Marvel spokesperson did not immediately return a request for comment.
The union election announcement comes as many productions have shut down in the midst of the two Hollywood strikes by film and TV actors and writers. WGA members have been on strike since early May, followed by film and TV actors who walked out in mid-July. Both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA are demanding higher streaming pay and protections against artificial intelligence.
"We are witnessing an unprecedented wave of solidarity that's breaking down old barriers in the industry and proving we're all in this fight together," said IATSE International President Matthew D. Loeb in a statement. "That doesn't happen in a vacuum. Entertainment workers everywhere are sticking up for each other's rights, that's what our movement is all about."
YouTuber Tasha K Can’t Afford to Pay Cardi B $4M Debt
As RadarOnline.com reports, Tasha K (aka LaTasha Kebe), recently declared bankruptcy and informed the court of her financial situation.
Cardi sued the popular YouTuber [real name: Latasha Kebe] for defamation after she created videos accusing the hip-hop star of being a drug addict and former prostitute with an STD. Cardi B testified during the 2023 trial that she suffered extreme emotional distress and that her marriage to Migos rapper Offset was affected. A Georgia jury ultimately found Tasha K liable on four counts and awarded Cardi $4.05 million in damages.
We reported in June that Cardi B was ordered to halt attempts to collect on millions owed to her by Tasha K as part of a defamation suit.
As a result of Tasha K’s bankruptcy filing, a Georgia judge ordered Cardi to cease her collection efforts, according to court documents obtained by RadarOnline.com. Tasha’s pending legal matters were placed on hold until the Chapter 11 case was resolved, the judge declared.
Per Radar, in the documents filed in Tasha’s Chapter 11, she noted that her income is from being a “content creator/influencer” and she “earns her income by appearing on YouTube, Instagram, and other social media.”
Here’s more from Radar:
In her new filing, Tasha admitted the total value of her assets is $58,595 with the biggest asset being a Chevy Silverado, with a value of $46,750 and a $53,412 lien on the truck for purchase money financing.
She said without the truck her assets only total $12k. Tasha revealed the IRS has filed an estimated priority claim of $97k for taxes for 2021 and 2022. However, Tasha said she filed both returns and it appears the tax principal due is $150k with another $30k due in state income taxes.
“Clearly [Tasha] does not have the ability to pay the [Cardi] judgment in full,” Tasha’s lawyer said in court, per RadarOnline.
Brother of C-Murder’s Victim Criticizes Kim Kardashian, Says Only Celebrities Want Him Released From Prison
The brother of C-Murder's victim Steve Thomas has criticized Kim Kardashian for advocating for the release of the incarcerated rapper.
In a statement shared with TMZ, George Thomas said that recent advocacy for C-Murder's release has reopened old wounds related to his then-16-year-old brother's murder in 2002. He alleges that there's substantial evidence to indicate that C-Murder killed his brother and believes that it's only celebrities who want to see Master P's brother free again.
His criticism comes not long after Kim Kardashian shared a statement which suggested C-Murder, real name Corey Miller, had spent 21 years in prison "for a crime he did not commit." As she noted, his conviction is based on the testimony of two men who have since recanted their statements.
"There is no remaining evidence that even suggests that Corey Miller is any more culpable than the hundreds of patrons who were at the Platinum Club on January 12, 2022, when Steve Thomas was tragically shot," Kardashian continued. "Louisiana recently enacted a new law that provides innocent people with the ability to raise a post-conviction claim of factual innocence. ... Corey Miller deserves a day in court to test the veracity of the recanted statements and to prove that he did not shoot Steve Thomas."
In a post shared on Instagram, C-Murder thanked Kardashian for her support. "It’s been a fight, and long journey for Justice," he wrote alongside screenshots of her statement on the matter. "Thank you @kimkardashian 🙏🏾 and EVERYONE involved over the years (praying, advocating and believing) in my innocence."
C-Murder was arrested in connection with Steve Thomas' murder in 2002 and was sentenced to life in prison in 2009. His conviction was upheld in 2011. The rapper has long maintained his innocence.
Earlier this year, he announced he was on a hunger strike in protest of "inhumane" prison conditions. "Jan. 17, 2023, marked 21 years I Corey Miller have been in the Louisiana Penal system," he wrote. “I have been fighting for my health and freedom against this wrongful conviction and simultaneously fighting for my constitutional rights that were stripped away and violated by the penal system of Louisiana. An appeal was filed late December of 2022 and the DA & Judge of Louisiana has 30 days from Feb. 7, 2023 to answer"
In 2021, he claimed that concealed documents with DNA evidence in the case could prove his innocence.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Chewy!
Bacca!
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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