#MAGFAB: Actor Laura Harrier for Flaunt Magazine 187!
American actor Laura Harrier covers Flaunt Magazine Issue 187, wearing a sleek, siren, modern-jazz-age silhouette from Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello on the cover.
Laura Harrier was seen last Friday August 18, with fellow Aerie lingerie brand partners Aly Raisman, Ava Phillippe, and Cara Delevingne at the NYC Gansevoort Plaza pop-up, Aerie’s Hidden Gems Marketplace.
In an act of brilliant marketing, an Aerie bra-fitting station came to Manhattan’s Meatpacking district to unveil the brand’s Fall 2023 collection, flanked by other New York treasures brands.
Florist Brooklyn Blooms allowed visitors to craft their own bouquets, while Inked By Dani decorated attendees with trendy temporary tattoos.
American actor Laura Harrier covers Flaunt Magazine Issue 187, wearing a sleek, siren, modern-jazz-age silhouette from Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello on the cover.
Laura Harrier was seen last Friday August 18, with fellow Aerie lingerie brand partners Aly Raisman, Ava Phillippe, and Cara Delevingne at the NYC Gansevoort Plaza pop-up, Aerie’s Hidden Gems Marketplace.
In an act of brilliant marketing, an Aerie bra-fitting station came to Manhattan’s Meatpacking district to unveil the brand’s Fall 2023 collection, flanked by other New York treasures brands.
"Aerie is a hidden gem itself, so we were inspired by the hidden gems of New York City," said Stacey McCormick, Aerie's chief marketing officer. "We have over 400 local stores within many, many communities all across the country. So localization is such a big deal for us."
#RHOA: Source Denies Real Housewives of Atlanta Reboot Plans: ‘Nothing Official’
Just hours after news began swirling about a potential Real Housewives of Atlanta reboot, that may not yet be the case.
Many fans have voiced their disappointment over the latest season of RHOA. Whether it be some of the cast, the storylines, or the lack of exciting drama, it’s clear that Season 15 failed to hit the mark. Consequently, watchers have called for a complete reboot — RHONY style.
According to Love B Scott, producers of the Real Housewives of Atlanta were dissatisfied with the upcoming two-part reunion and planned to axe the entire cast.
“A source close to production tells us that Bravo is beyond thrilled with the reception of the recently rebooted Real Housewives of New York, so they’re fully onboard with production’s decision to recast RHOA.”
But before we get too excited (and yes, I can admit, I was a little excited), a source has officially told us to pump the brakes.
No RHOA shake-up just yet
Despite the disapproval from fans, “nothing official has been decided” regarding the next season of RHOA, a source told Page Six. They also said that producers have been searching for notable women to film with; however, nobody wants to come out to play.
“They haven’t found any famous people of note that want to be on the reboot, and if they can’t find any famous people that want to be on the show, then they can’t reboot the entire show.”
Additionally, a second source told Entertainment Tonight that “no decisions” will be made until after the reunion commercial special airs.
For now, you can continue watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta every Sunday at 8/7c.
#MusicNews: Kirk Franklin “Try Love”
Kirk Franklin has returned with a fresh new song, “Try Love,” the second single off his upcoming album, Father’s Day.
Written and produced by the Grammy-winning gospel singer, Franklin encourages listeners to choose peace and love when faced with life’s many challenges.
The accompanying music video, which premiered alongside the track’s release on August 25, reflects the theme of the song by showing people of different races, ages and backgrounds coming together in an effort to show love.
“Try Love” follows the album’s lead single, “All Things,” which debuted in May.
LISTEN HERE
Father’s Day is expected to arrive on October 6.
#HipHopNews: Doja Cat Changes 'Scarlet' Album Cover Amid Copy Cat Design Controversy
Doja Cat revealed an altered album cover for her forthcoming record, Scarlet. The swift redesign followed raised eyebrows over the art’s eerie resemblance to that of German hardcore metal band Chaver’s upcoming LP, Of Gloom. The initial images sported remarkably similar paintings of dark pink spiders, which were both creations by Dusty Ray.
Chaver seemingly announced their project first on Wednesday (Aug. 31) while lauding the designer for his craftsmanship. “The striking cover art, masterfully crafted by Dusty Ray [who has been with us since our first album], serves as a captivating contrast to the album’s intense music, setting the stage for a trip to a place of pain,” the band shared in their initial Instagram post. The caption has since changed following the controversy
Meanwhile, Doja’s fans were left puzzled when they noticed the overlapping imagery after the artist debuted her version. One user wrote, “Who the f**k designed THE SAME [cover] for two clients?” Though Ray acknowledged his participation in both projects on social media, neither the graphic designer nor the musical acts have directly addressed the uncanny coincidence.
Moreover, the rapper replaced the single spider artwork with a pair of arachnids appearing to lock mouths. The change arrived amid anticipation building for Scarlet. The LP is preceded by teaser singles like “Attention” and “Paint the Town Red,” which have already created a buzz due to fan speculation and recurring demonic themes.
Though Doja has kept mum about the tracklist so far, she hasn’t been shy about stirring excitement for her upcoming “The Scarlet Tour.” It kicks off on Oct. 31 with supporting acts Ice Spice and Doechii.
Before the voyage commences, Doja is slated to attend “The Victoria’s Secret World Tour.” Regarding the lingerie brand’s first runway show in over five years, the musician shared, “Victoria’s Secret has always been such a fun, go-to brand for me since early on, and I love that I can still say that today. Being a part of a global phenomenon like the tour has been an incredible experience.”
Madonna Offers Glimpse Into Her End-Of-Summer Party
Madonna has shared a series of images from her huge end-of-summer party as she continues to fight back from her "serious bacterial infection." The Queen of Pop, 65, gave fans a glimpse into a bash she held with friends, family and tour dancers as she recovers at home from the health scare that left her hospitalized in June and prompted the postponement of her "Celebration Tour".
She posted a carousel of images from a party including images of her adopted twins Estere and Stella, both 11, as well as her 17-year-old daughter Mercy. In one image, Madonna is seen wearing a dark blue button-up shirt and a matching pair of wide-legged pants as she chilled poolside.
#RHOA: Source Denies Real Housewives of Atlanta Reboot Plans: ‘Nothing Official’
Many fans have voiced their disappointment over the latest season of RHOA. Whether it be some of the cast, the storylines, or the lack of exciting drama, it’s clear that Season 15 failed to hit the mark. Consequently, watchers have called for a complete reboot — RHONY style.
According to Love B Scott, producers of the Real Housewives of Atlanta were dissatisfied with the upcoming two-part reunion and planned to axe the entire cast.
“A source close to production tells us that Bravo is beyond thrilled with the reception of the recently rebooted Real Housewives of New York, so they’re fully onboard with production’s decision to recast RHOA.”
But before we get too excited (and yes, I can admit, I was a little excited), a source has officially told us to pump the brakes.
No RHOA shake-up just yet
Despite the disapproval from fans, “nothing official has been decided” regarding the next season of RHOA, a source told Page Six. They also said that producers have been searching for notable women to film with; however, nobody wants to come out to play.
“They haven’t found any famous people of note that want to be on the reboot, and if they can’t find any famous people that want to be on the show, then they can’t reboot the entire show.”
Additionally, a second source told Entertainment Tonight that “no decisions” will be made until after the reunion commercial special airs.
For now, you can continue watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta every Sunday at 8/7c.
#MusicNews: Kirk Franklin “Try Love”
Kirk Franklin has returned with a fresh new song, “Try Love,” the second single off his upcoming album, Father’s Day.
Written and produced by the Grammy-winning gospel singer, Franklin encourages listeners to choose peace and love when faced with life’s many challenges.
The accompanying music video, which premiered alongside the track’s release on August 25, reflects the theme of the song by showing people of different races, ages and backgrounds coming together in an effort to show love.
“Try Love” follows the album’s lead single, “All Things,” which debuted in May.
LISTEN HERE
Father’s Day is expected to arrive on October 6.
#HipHopNews: Doja Cat Changes 'Scarlet' Album Cover Amid Copy Cat Design Controversy
Chaver seemingly announced their project first on Wednesday (Aug. 31) while lauding the designer for his craftsmanship. “The striking cover art, masterfully crafted by Dusty Ray [who has been with us since our first album], serves as a captivating contrast to the album’s intense music, setting the stage for a trip to a place of pain,” the band shared in their initial Instagram post. The caption has since changed following the controversy
Meanwhile, Doja’s fans were left puzzled when they noticed the overlapping imagery after the artist debuted her version. One user wrote, “Who the f**k designed THE SAME [cover] for two clients?” Though Ray acknowledged his participation in both projects on social media, neither the graphic designer nor the musical acts have directly addressed the uncanny coincidence.
Moreover, the rapper replaced the single spider artwork with a pair of arachnids appearing to lock mouths. The change arrived amid anticipation building for Scarlet. The LP is preceded by teaser singles like “Attention” and “Paint the Town Red,” which have already created a buzz due to fan speculation and recurring demonic themes.
Though Doja has kept mum about the tracklist so far, she hasn’t been shy about stirring excitement for her upcoming “The Scarlet Tour.” It kicks off on Oct. 31 with supporting acts Ice Spice and Doechii.
Before the voyage commences, Doja is slated to attend “The Victoria’s Secret World Tour.” Regarding the lingerie brand’s first runway show in over five years, the musician shared, “Victoria’s Secret has always been such a fun, go-to brand for me since early on, and I love that I can still say that today. Being a part of a global phenomenon like the tour has been an incredible experience.”
Madonna Offers Glimpse Into Her End-Of-Summer Party
Madonna has shared a series of images from her huge end-of-summer party as she continues to fight back from her "serious bacterial infection." The Queen of Pop, 65, gave fans a glimpse into a bash she held with friends, family and tour dancers as she recovers at home from the health scare that left her hospitalized in June and prompted the postponement of her "Celebration Tour".
She posted a carousel of images from a party including images of her adopted twins Estere and Stella, both 11, as well as her 17-year-old daughter Mercy. In one image, Madonna is seen wearing a dark blue button-up shirt and a matching pair of wide-legged pants as she chilled poolside.
Another snap showed the Grammy winner riding horseback during a getaway to an estate and in other images she serenades partygoers before a group photo showed her pals sitting on her lap. One more shows a man who appears to be one of her dancers flashing his bum on a lawn. Mum-of-six Madonna, who also has sons Rocco, 23, and David, 17, as well as 26-year-old daughter Lourdes Leon, earlier this month paid tribute to twins Estere and Stella on their 11th birthday by posting a video documenting their lives together set to the Gary Jules version of the song "Mad World".
She said, "It is indeed a Mad world that we live in. And where would we be without the innocence and imagination of our children to remind us that Magic is all around us and anything is possible! Happy birthday to Estere and Stella Mwale!! How could you be 11 years old already Because you are The Most magical Twins in The World!! When I look at older videos of you Speaking Chichewa And having tea parties or dancing with a trance-like joy, I want to cry!! Time is a cruel mistress who leaves us with our memories never again to re-live them Only to try desperately to remember."
Madonna also reflected in the post on the past decade with the twins, who graduated from elementary school in June, and spoke of the first time she had the chance to meet the little girls, who she adopted in Machinji, Malawi.
She added, "I will never forget The first time we met you in Machinji. Your eyes held the whole world in them. The same way we now hold you locked inside of our hearts. In a way… we are all displaced children, looking for connection. looking for love. Looking for a home which is ultimately ourselves!"
She signed off the post with "Zikomo," the Malawi word for "Thank you." Also earlier this month, Madonna announced her greatest hits tour's rescheduled dates after having to postpone it following her illness. The worldwide shows will launch on October 14 in London before the North American leg starts on December 13.
Lizzo Debuts Blonde And Pink Mullet Amid Sexual Harassment Lawsuit
Lizzo had fun during her trip to Tokyo, Japan. Making use of her Instagram account, the "About Damn Time" hitmaker treated her 13.2 million followers to several pictures and a video of her debuting her new hair 'do.
In the Wednesday, August 30 post, Lizzo showcased her new blonde bob, which was dip-dyed pink on the ends. While the front of her bob was cut at chin length, she had the back of her hair long enough to graze past her collarbones.
The snap also saw The "Truth Hurts" singer rocking a colorful metallic set while posing in front of a big window. She completed her look with a silver purse with tentacles and a face. "Lizzo-San," so Lizzo wrote in the caption.
Lizzo also shared a video of her happily flaunting her new look. The Grammy-winning musician swished around her new hair before smiling at the end of the clip. "The bob is bobbing @theshelbyswain," she captioned it. In another post, the singer revealed that she'd named the new haircut "Robert."
The hair transformation arrived amid her legal battle against her former dancers, who filed a lawsuit against the singer earlier this month. In the suit, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez accused Lizzo of sexual harassment and toxic work environment among others.
Recently, Lizzo's lawyer Martin Singer threatened to take "malicious prosecution" action against the accusers. Singer noted that her clients' case is peppered with a "range of factual inaccuracies," adding that he has pictures of Lizzo and the dancers having a blast backstage at Paris' Crazy Horse cabaret. The plaintiffs claimed they were forced to attend and participate in sex shows there.
"These irrefutable photos and videos, along with additional substantial evidence, prove the glaring contradictions between what the plaintiffs claim in their bogus lawsuit and what is actually proven by the facts," Singer said.
"The lawsuit is a sham," the lawyer went on to say. "Lizzo intends to sue for malicious prosecution after she prevails and these specious claims are dismissed. Clearly, even at this early stage of the process, their case has been irreparably damaged."
Mississippi Democrat wins primary, set to become the state’s first openly gay lawmaker
Mississippi will have its first-ever openly gay state legislator after a House candidate won his Democratic primary election runoff Tuesday.
Fabian Nelson, a 38-year-old realtor from Byram, prevailed over Roshunda Harris-Allen, an education professor at Tougaloo College and alderwoman in Byram. The race to represent the House district in the south Jackson metro area was decided in a runoff after neither Nelson nor Allen received a majority vote in the Aug. 8 primary. A local pastor finished a distant third and did not advance to the runoff.
Nelson’s victory comes on the heels of a historic wave of restrictions passed by Republican-controlled legislatures targeting the rights of transgender people. LGBTQ+ advocates say they’ve seen a record number of measures aimed at their community in 2023. In February, Mississippi enacted a ban on gender-affirming hormones or surgery for anyone in the state younger than 18.
Republicans did not field a candidate for the general election, so Nelson will go on to represent the district. He will be sworn in before the next legislative session in January. His win marks the fulfillment of a goal he’s had since visiting the Capitol on an elementary school field trip and telling his teacher he’d sit on the House floor one day.
Former death row inmate in Mississippi to be resentenced to life with possibility of parole
“I still think I’m in a dream. I’m still trying to process it and take it in,” Nelson said in an interview Wednesday. “It’s still shocking to me, I have to be honest.”
Nelson was endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest organization devoted to LGBTQ+ rights. In June, the organization declared a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ people in the U.S., pointing to the passage of bills it deems discriminatory.
“It sends a real message in a time when we are seeing attacks legislatively and through violence against the LGBTQ+ community that the majority of people reject that kind of animus,” Rob Hill, state director of the Human Rights Campaign’s Mississippi chapter, said in an interview after Nelson’s victory. “I think a lot of youth around the state who have felt like their leaders are rejecting them or targeting them won’t feel as lonely today.”
The Hinds County district includes Southwest Jackson and part of Byram, Salem and Terry. Nelson said he connected with voters by relying on his deep local ties. In office, he wants to increase health care access for low-income people by pushing for Medicaid expansion.
“Don’t get me wrong, it’s great being first, but ultimately what won this campaign is the fact that I’m in touch with my community and the issues my community is facing,” Nelson said.
He also wants to be a voice against policies that harm marginalized communities, he said.
“At the end of the day, I put my suit on the same way every other person who walks in that statehouse does,” Nelson said. “I’m going to walk in there, and I’m going to be a sound voice as to why things like this can’t continue to go on in the state of Mississippi.”
In a statement, Annise Parker, president of the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, said Mississippi is “one of the last two states to achieve the milestone of electing an out LGBTQ+ lawmaker. ”
“Voters in Mississippi should be proud of the history they’ve made but also proud to know they’ll be well-represented by Fabian,” Parker said.
One of the authors of Mississippi’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, Republican Rep. Nick Bain from Corinth, was trailing Wednesday in a nail-biting primary runoff in north Mississippi. The race still had not been called Wednesday, but Bain trailed fellow Republican Brad Mattox, who owns a gun shop called Big Bang Trading Company.
In south Mississippi, Felix Gines, a Biloxi City Council member first elected as a Democrat, lost a Republican runoff to Zachary Grady, a former police officer.
Rodney Hall, a recent aide to GOP Congressman Trent Kelly and former Army veteran, won the Republican primary in a northeast Mississippi district and faces no opponent in November. He is set to become the first Black Republican elected to the state Legislature since the 1890s.
Khloé Kardashian Officially Changes Son Tatum's Name Over a Year After His Birth
Khloé Kardashian was originally undecided on a moniker for her son Khloé Kardashian has legally changed the name of her and Tristan Thompson's baby boy.
After learning that the Good American co-founder, 39, initially listed her son Tatum's name as Baby Kardashian on his birth certificate — as she had yet to decide on a moniker at the time — documents obtained by PEOPLE confirm that the two have legally changed his name.
On Thursday, a Los Angeles county judge granted the name change for the now 13-month-old, officially decreeing him Tatum Thompson.
Per California law, new parents can pick whether they'd like their child to have the father's last name, the mother's last name or a combination of both, with whatever the parent chooses being permanent unless a court order dictates otherwise.
Kardashian and Thompson, 32, welcomed their son in July 2022. The pair also share daughter True, 5.
Kardashian announced last year that she had welcomed her son via surrogate. The reality star revealed Tatum’s name in the season three 3 of The Kardashians in May and opened up later on in the series about her struggles with bonding with her son after the surrogacy.
Showing her support for her daughter, mom Kris Jenner told Kardashian that she needed to go easier on herself because she is a doting mom.
"I wish I wasn't so critical of myself," Kardashian said during a confessional, "because I'm very kind to everyone else, I'm just not very kind to myself. But being a mom is truly one of, just the most magical experiences ever."
Beyoncé Shopping New Renaissance Visual Album That Was Shot in Secret By Nadia Lee Cohen
Beyoncé is coming to Los Angeles this weekend to play three sold-out shows at SoFi Stadium as part of her Renaissance World Tour, and there will surely be plenty of Hollywood executives in the crowd — including some lucky executives who have already seen a piece of Beyoncé-produced media that the general public does not yet know exists.
To that end, Above the Line has exclusively learned that Queen Bey and her Parkwood Entertainment banner are shopping a new Renaissance visual album to studios and streamers, though there haven’t been any takers just yet.
The film was directed by Nadia Lee Cohen, a British artist, photographer, and rising filmmaker who has shot numerous magazine covers and music videos, having worked with artists such as Tyler the Creator, A$AP Rocky, Katy Perry, and Kali Uchis, and brands including Adidas, Balenciaga, Gucci, and Valentino.
Sources say that Renaissance is “artsy” and in line with Beyoncé’s other visual albums Lemonade and Black Is King, but also “weirder,” saying it hasn’t been Disney-fied like the latter film, which won an Emmy for its striking costumes.
“It’s a visual album movie, but it’s like an art film, and I’ve also heard it’s better than Black Is King,” added the source.
The individual said that Renaissance has been completed, but that it remains in limbo, explaining that select studios and streamers actually got a look at the project between four and six months ago, but they passed at the time. Asked why, the source could only speculate, saying, “I’m guessing the price and lack of replay value for the casual viewer” is why it hasn’t sold yet, though they also suggested the possibility that “maybe Beyoncé didn’t like how it turned out? I don’t know…”
Beyoncé helped direct her first visual album Lemonade, which began streaming on her husband Jay-Z‘s Tidal platform in April 2016 before being released on HBO and earning four Emmy nominations. She then wrote, directed, and executive produced her next visual album, Black Is King, which debuted on Disney+ on July 31, 2020.
With studios and streamers growing increasingly hungry for content in lieu of Hollywood’s ongoing double strike, it’s possible that one could reconsider its earlier pass on Renaissance — that is if, in fact, the film is still on the market. According to our source, it is, though it’s always possible that a stealth deal has been made.
Cohen did not respond to multiple requests for comment, and the director’s manager at Anonymous Content had no comment, referring ATL‘s inquiry to Parkwood, which also did not respond, nor did Beyoncé’s personal publicist. Stay tuned for more details, as I have a feeling we’ll be hearing more about this project once legacy media outlets start asking Team Beyoncé for comment…
Chloe Bailey Teases When We Can Expect New Chloe x Halle Music
Chloe Bailey is giving us hope that new Chloe x Halle music is on the way! The 25-year-old singer/actress and her 23-year-old sister took some time off as a music duo when Halle went off to film The Little Mermaid and have continued to do separate solo projects over the past few years.
Chloe of course released her solo album earlier this year, and had a movie and a TV series release, while Halle dropped a solo single, had one movie out and has another on the way.
However, during a recent interview, Chloe dished that they will be coming back as a duo soon!
“I am so excited for the top of next year when we start honing in again on our third album. I know we’re really excited. It’s going to be so special,” Chloe told Popsugar. “We’ve both lived a lot and we’ve grown a lot. And then we’ll be able to put our minds together again for an even more special project. I think that, in this time, sis and I have grown great individual fan bases and it’ll even help when it comes back to our duo project for people to really pay attention and have more eyes and ears on it than Ungodly Hour did.”
Taylor Swift's 'The Eras Tour' Is Hitting the Big Screen!
It’s official and finally happening – The Eras Tour concert movie!!! Taylor Swift shared the exciting news that her massively successful tour is going to the big screen this fall.
Fans noticed cameras at her SoFi Stadium shows in Los Angeles and speculated that a concert movie was in the works, and that’s exactly what was happening!
“The Eras Tour has been the most meaningful, electric experience of my life so far and I’m overjoyed to tell you that it’ll be coming to the big screen soon 😆 Starting Oct 13th you’ll be able to experience the concert film in theaters in North America! Tickets are on sale now. Eras attire, friendship bracelets, singing and dancing encouraged 🫶 1, 2, 3 LGB!!!! (iykyk)” Taylor shared on Instagram.
WATCH HERE
Taylor Swift The Eras Tour Concert Film will be available exclusively at AMC Theatres starting October 13th. Tickets are going for $19.89 for adults and for $13.13 for children. Purchase your tickets HERE!
AMC will also be giving out mini posters, while supplies last. For concessions, fans will also be available to purchase an Eras Tour popcorn bucket ($14.99) and collectible cup ($11.99), both also while supplies last.
'Breaking Bad' actors Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul join forces on picket line
The cast of “Breaking Bad” has reunited to call upon Hollywood studios to resume negotiations with striking screen actors.
“We want you to come back to the table with us,” Bryan Cranston said in a plea to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers outside Sony Pictures Studios on Tuesday.
Cranston was joined by Aaron Paul, Jesse Plemons and other members of the “Breaking Bad” universe in an effort to energize picket lines more than a month after SAG-AFTRA joined striking Hollywood writers.
Both guilds are seeking to address issues brought about by the dominance of streaming services, which have changed all aspects of production and pay in the industry.
“The way things were structured 10 years ago made a lot of sense and it made it more possible for journeymen-type actors, actors in the middle that are working just as a hard or harder,” Plemons said.
By its final season, which aired more than a decade ago, “Breaking Bad” was one of the most watched and highest rated cable TV shows ever.
The AMC hit series has achieved enduring popularity on Netflix, but its stars say that has not been reflected in their pay.
“I don’t get a piece from Netflix on ‘Breaking Bad’ to be totally honest and that’s insane to me,” Paul said. “I think a lot of these streamers know that they have been getting away with not paying people a fair wage and now it’s time to pony up.”
Cranston said they chose Sony for their reunion as the studio behind the Emmy-winning hit, along with its spinoff projects, the AMC prequel series “Better Call Saul” and the Netflix film, “El Camino.”
“We’re not making them the enemy. They are not villains. These are people that we all will be working with once again at some point,” Cranston said. “We just want them to see reality.”
Several other casts have joined picket lines during the strike, including actors from “Parks and Recreation” and the cult hit “Jury Duty,” drawing a link between popular shows and the actors’ strike goals.
Cranston also affirmed SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher’s recent comments to The Associated Press that these dual Hollywood strikes are galvanizing a broader movement throughout the country.
“Without organized labor, management will just keep stuffing their pockets. They don’t and will not ever just go, ‘You know what? I don’t think this is being fair to those people. I’m going to pay them more.’ It’s just not what they do,” he said.
Cast members of “Better Call Saul” were also on the picket lines, including Rhea Seehorn and Patrick Fabian, along with the series co-creator, Peter Gould, who has been on strike with the Writers Guild of America since May.
Jamie Foxx to Play God in Comedy Film ‘Not Another Church Movie’
*Jamie Foxx and Hollywood veteran actor Mickey Rourke have teamed to star in the upcoming film “Not Another Church Movie.”
Deadline reports that the comedy was shot prior to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes and is set to open theatrically early next year. The cast also includes Kevin Daniels, Vivica A. Fox, Tisha Campbell, Jasmine Guy, Kyla Pratt, and Lamorne Morris.
Foxx is playing the role of God in the movie, while Rourke portrays the devil.
Directed by Johnny Mack, the comedy centers on Taylor Pharry (Daniels), an ambitious young man given a holy mission from God himself: to tell his family’s stories and inspire his community. His only concern? His family and community. What he doesn’t know is that the Devil has plans of his own, per Deadline.
“We are thrilled to have Mr. Foxx be a part of this hilarious comedy and bring his incredible talent to the role of God, working with Foxx and Johnny Mack was a true blessing,” the film’s producer, James Michael Cummings, told Deadline. “This film is a unique blend of new and established talent, and we can’t wait to hear the laughs and for audiences to see the magic that happens on the big screen. This movie will not disappoint.”
Executive producer Valerie McCaffrey said, “The name talent that has come together for this fun comedy is unprecedented. You see all the actors having fun, especially Foxx playing God.”
Foxx was hospitalized in April for an “medical complication,” his daughter Corrine disclosed at the time. He took to Instagram recently to share an update on his health.
“You’re lookin’ at a man who is thankful… finally startin’ to feel like myself…” Foxx wrote. “It’s been an unexpected dark journey… but I can see the light… I’m thankful to everyone that reached out and sent well wishes and prayers… I have a lot of people to thank… u just don’t know how much it meant…
He added: “I will be thanking all of you personally… and if you didn’t know… GOD IS GOOD… all day every day… #swipeleft #imbackandimbetter #nobaddays”
Capitol physician medically clears McConnell after health scares prompt new questions over his leadership position
Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell is medically cleared to continue his schedule, the US Capitol physician said Thursday, after he froze for the second time in as many months in public.
The statement comes as McConnell moved behind the scenes to reassure his allies and donors he can do his job – even as questions persist over how long the 81-year-old Kentuckian will stay as Republican leader.
“I have consulted with Leader McConnell and conferred with his neurology team. After evaluating yesterday’s incident, I have informed Leader McConnell that he is medically clear to continue with his schedule as planned,” Dr. Brian Monahan, the attending doctor for the Capitol, said in a statement released through McConnell’s office.
“Occasional lightheadedness is not uncommon in concussion recovery and can also be expected as a result of dehydration,” added Monahan. McConnell’s office has previously said that his freezes were due to lightheadedness and dehydration.
McConnell, who has served for 16 years as the GOP leader, the longest of any Senate leader in history, has repeatedly made clear he’s staying in his job until the end of next year when the 118th Congress ends – something his confidantes say hasn’t changed even after his recent health scares.
But McConnell has consistently sidestepped questions about whether he would run for leader in the next Congress, which begins in 2025. And there’s some initial chatter among a handful of rank-and-file Republicans to try to force a special conference meeting to talk about their party’s leadership after McConnell’s latest incident, according to a person familiar with the matter.
No meeting has been called and it’s unclear if one will be. It takes just five GOP senators to call for a meeting, and then at that point it would be scheduled by Sen. John Barrasso, the GOP conference chairman. Even if they have a meeting, there’s no mechanism to force a vote on the party’s leadership. That wouldn’t happen until after the 2024 elections. But such a meeting would draw more focus on McConnell’s health.
While it’s uncertain if Republicans will force such a meeting, the Senate GOP conference is set to meet for its usual weekly meeting next Wednesday, giving the GOP leader the opportunity to address his conference for the first time on the matter.
Following a recent concussion after falling and hitting his head in March, coupled with his two public frozen moments, Republican senators and aides told CNN they are doubtful he will try to run for the job again – potentially opening up the GOP leadership role for the first time since McConnell took the reins in 2007.
McConnell's frozen moment renews questions about America's aged leaders
McConnell, who disdains the focus on his health, has so far refused to publicly disclose the reason why he froze up for roughly 30 seconds two separate times this summer – the latest on Wednesday in Covington, Kentucky – other than his aides saying he felt “lightheaded” and that he would consult a physician.
The topic did not come up when the GOP leader later attended a Wednesday fundraiser for Rep. Jim Banks, who is running for a Senate seat in Indiana. Several sources said that McConnell didn’t discuss his viral moment from earlier in the day.
But two attendees told CNN that he engaged with the crowd and acted normally, reassuring his donors and allies that he can do the job. Asked about McConnell, Banks said that the Republican leader was “sharp” and “engaging” and “very dialed in on my race and following closely.”
“Tough as nails,” another attendee said when describing McConnell’s demeanor.
President Joe Biden told reporters Thursday that he spoke earlier in the day with McConnell.
“You know, he was his old self on the telephone, and having a little understanding of dealing with neurosurgeons and people,” Biden said. “One of the leading women on my staff’s husband is a neurosurgeon as well. It’s not at all unusual to have a response … when you got a severe concussion, it’s part of recovery. And so I’m confident he’s going to be back to his old self.”
And following the episode on Wednesday, McConnell was on the phone with several GOP senators – including his potential successors – to tell them he was fine.
“The leader sounded like his usual self and was in good spirits,” said Ryan Wrasse, a spokesman for Senate GOP Whip John Thune, who spoke to the GOP leader.
Kelley Moore, a spokeswoman for Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, confirmed McConnell spoke with the West Virginia Republican, a member of his leadership team.
“Sen. Capito said the leader sounded fine and she looks forward to seeing him on Tuesday when the Senate returns,” Capito’s spokeswoman said.
McConnell’s last freeze-up occurred right before senators left for a five-week August recess. Some at the time wanted more information about McConnell’s health – questions that are bound to intensify next week when they return to session.
“Obviously his first responsibility is to the voters of Kentucky,” GOP Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota told CNN in July. “But once you become the leader, your responsibilities obviously are with other constituents, mainly, at least in his case, 48 of his closest friends.”
Cramer said at the time that McConnell “should tell us if something bigger is going on,” adding: “Clearly there’s a greater responsibility for transparency.
Thune and Barrasso and Sen. John Cornyn are seen as likely successors to McConnell, but they have continued to support him even during his health scares.
Asked before the recess if he was preparing to run for leader, Cornyn said: “Those elections won’t be until November 2024. So just the short answer is, there’s nothing to prepare for.”
50 Cent Under Criminal Investigation For Hitting Power 106 Radio Host With Microphone
50 Cent could face criminal charges after throwing a microphone that struck Power 106 radio host Bryhana Monegain in the face. The incident took place during the G-Unit founder’s Wednesday show in Los Angeles. The concert was part of his Final Lap tour, which he has suggested may be his final city-to-city run. As fans gathered to celebrate his many classics from his iconic debut album, “Get Rich Or Die Trying,” things seemingly took a turn for the worst in L.A. when 50 tossed his mic from the stage. According to TMZ, 50 was likely trying to throw the microphone to the production area near the crowd. However, Monegain filed a police report stating that the rapper was aware that she was at the show and stared directly at her before lunging the device, implying that the hit was intentional.
Images surfaced on Instagram showing the media personality’s bloody face with a gash on her forehead as she lay in a hospital bed. The popular host has since gone silent. Authorities have now launched a criminal felony battery investigation into 50 and what prompted him to throw the mic. Video footage of the rapper on stage shows him seemingly agitated for throwing one mic down before pitching another one with much more force.
Even if the assault doesn’t land 50 in jail, matters such as these often lead to lawsuits, as many fans have pointed out online. Last month, Cardi B also struck a concertgoer with a mic after they threw a drink on. While criminal charges were dropped, civil action could be taken.
50 Cent has not yet commented on the matter.
Proud Boys Leader Joseph Biggs Hit With 17-Year Sentence For Organizing Capitol Attack
Proud Boys leader Joseph Biggs has 17 years to think about his role in the infamous Capitol attack.
On Thursday, Biggs was handed down the lengthy sentence for leading the right-wing group during the January 6, 2021, riot. Five people died that day, including Capitol Police Brian D. Sicknick, who was struck in the head with a fire extinguisher and bear maced by Trump supporters. Biggs ran the Florida division of the association, and leading up to the massive invasion, he encouraged other Proud Boys members to “get radical.” While at the Capitol, he helped organize the security breach, breaking down a fence, which allowed him and other agitators to enter the Senate chamber. In the days that followed, he recorded an interview calling the riot a “warning shot to the government.”
Prosecutors initially asked for 33 years behind bars after Biggs was convicted in May, alongside Proud Boys national chairman Enrique Tarrio and members Ethan Nordean, Zachary Rehl, and Dominic Pezzola, who was the only one of the four acquitted of seditious conspiracy. However, he was found guilty of several other charges related to the January 6th events, including robbery involving government property, NPR reports.
She said, "It is indeed a Mad world that we live in. And where would we be without the innocence and imagination of our children to remind us that Magic is all around us and anything is possible! Happy birthday to Estere and Stella Mwale!! How could you be 11 years old already Because you are The Most magical Twins in The World!! When I look at older videos of you Speaking Chichewa And having tea parties or dancing with a trance-like joy, I want to cry!! Time is a cruel mistress who leaves us with our memories never again to re-live them Only to try desperately to remember."
Madonna also reflected in the post on the past decade with the twins, who graduated from elementary school in June, and spoke of the first time she had the chance to meet the little girls, who she adopted in Machinji, Malawi.
She added, "I will never forget The first time we met you in Machinji. Your eyes held the whole world in them. The same way we now hold you locked inside of our hearts. In a way… we are all displaced children, looking for connection. looking for love. Looking for a home which is ultimately ourselves!"
She signed off the post with "Zikomo," the Malawi word for "Thank you." Also earlier this month, Madonna announced her greatest hits tour's rescheduled dates after having to postpone it following her illness. The worldwide shows will launch on October 14 in London before the North American leg starts on December 13.
Lizzo Debuts Blonde And Pink Mullet Amid Sexual Harassment Lawsuit
In the Wednesday, August 30 post, Lizzo showcased her new blonde bob, which was dip-dyed pink on the ends. While the front of her bob was cut at chin length, she had the back of her hair long enough to graze past her collarbones.
The snap also saw The "Truth Hurts" singer rocking a colorful metallic set while posing in front of a big window. She completed her look with a silver purse with tentacles and a face. "Lizzo-San," so Lizzo wrote in the caption.
Lizzo also shared a video of her happily flaunting her new look. The Grammy-winning musician swished around her new hair before smiling at the end of the clip. "The bob is bobbing @theshelbyswain," she captioned it. In another post, the singer revealed that she'd named the new haircut "Robert."
The hair transformation arrived amid her legal battle against her former dancers, who filed a lawsuit against the singer earlier this month. In the suit, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez accused Lizzo of sexual harassment and toxic work environment among others.
Recently, Lizzo's lawyer Martin Singer threatened to take "malicious prosecution" action against the accusers. Singer noted that her clients' case is peppered with a "range of factual inaccuracies," adding that he has pictures of Lizzo and the dancers having a blast backstage at Paris' Crazy Horse cabaret. The plaintiffs claimed they were forced to attend and participate in sex shows there.
"These irrefutable photos and videos, along with additional substantial evidence, prove the glaring contradictions between what the plaintiffs claim in their bogus lawsuit and what is actually proven by the facts," Singer said.
"The lawsuit is a sham," the lawyer went on to say. "Lizzo intends to sue for malicious prosecution after she prevails and these specious claims are dismissed. Clearly, even at this early stage of the process, their case has been irreparably damaged."
Mississippi Democrat wins primary, set to become the state’s first openly gay lawmaker
Mississippi will have its first-ever openly gay state legislator after a House candidate won his Democratic primary election runoff Tuesday.
Fabian Nelson, a 38-year-old realtor from Byram, prevailed over Roshunda Harris-Allen, an education professor at Tougaloo College and alderwoman in Byram. The race to represent the House district in the south Jackson metro area was decided in a runoff after neither Nelson nor Allen received a majority vote in the Aug. 8 primary. A local pastor finished a distant third and did not advance to the runoff.
Nelson’s victory comes on the heels of a historic wave of restrictions passed by Republican-controlled legislatures targeting the rights of transgender people. LGBTQ+ advocates say they’ve seen a record number of measures aimed at their community in 2023. In February, Mississippi enacted a ban on gender-affirming hormones or surgery for anyone in the state younger than 18.
Republicans did not field a candidate for the general election, so Nelson will go on to represent the district. He will be sworn in before the next legislative session in January. His win marks the fulfillment of a goal he’s had since visiting the Capitol on an elementary school field trip and telling his teacher he’d sit on the House floor one day.
Former death row inmate in Mississippi to be resentenced to life with possibility of parole
“I still think I’m in a dream. I’m still trying to process it and take it in,” Nelson said in an interview Wednesday. “It’s still shocking to me, I have to be honest.”
Nelson was endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest organization devoted to LGBTQ+ rights. In June, the organization declared a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ people in the U.S., pointing to the passage of bills it deems discriminatory.
“It sends a real message in a time when we are seeing attacks legislatively and through violence against the LGBTQ+ community that the majority of people reject that kind of animus,” Rob Hill, state director of the Human Rights Campaign’s Mississippi chapter, said in an interview after Nelson’s victory. “I think a lot of youth around the state who have felt like their leaders are rejecting them or targeting them won’t feel as lonely today.”
The Hinds County district includes Southwest Jackson and part of Byram, Salem and Terry. Nelson said he connected with voters by relying on his deep local ties. In office, he wants to increase health care access for low-income people by pushing for Medicaid expansion.
“Don’t get me wrong, it’s great being first, but ultimately what won this campaign is the fact that I’m in touch with my community and the issues my community is facing,” Nelson said.
He also wants to be a voice against policies that harm marginalized communities, he said.
“At the end of the day, I put my suit on the same way every other person who walks in that statehouse does,” Nelson said. “I’m going to walk in there, and I’m going to be a sound voice as to why things like this can’t continue to go on in the state of Mississippi.”
In a statement, Annise Parker, president of the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, said Mississippi is “one of the last two states to achieve the milestone of electing an out LGBTQ+ lawmaker. ”
“Voters in Mississippi should be proud of the history they’ve made but also proud to know they’ll be well-represented by Fabian,” Parker said.
One of the authors of Mississippi’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors, Republican Rep. Nick Bain from Corinth, was trailing Wednesday in a nail-biting primary runoff in north Mississippi. The race still had not been called Wednesday, but Bain trailed fellow Republican Brad Mattox, who owns a gun shop called Big Bang Trading Company.
In south Mississippi, Felix Gines, a Biloxi City Council member first elected as a Democrat, lost a Republican runoff to Zachary Grady, a former police officer.
Rodney Hall, a recent aide to GOP Congressman Trent Kelly and former Army veteran, won the Republican primary in a northeast Mississippi district and faces no opponent in November. He is set to become the first Black Republican elected to the state Legislature since the 1890s.
Khloé Kardashian Officially Changes Son Tatum's Name Over a Year After His Birth
After learning that the Good American co-founder, 39, initially listed her son Tatum's name as Baby Kardashian on his birth certificate — as she had yet to decide on a moniker at the time — documents obtained by PEOPLE confirm that the two have legally changed his name.
On Thursday, a Los Angeles county judge granted the name change for the now 13-month-old, officially decreeing him Tatum Thompson.
Per California law, new parents can pick whether they'd like their child to have the father's last name, the mother's last name or a combination of both, with whatever the parent chooses being permanent unless a court order dictates otherwise.
Kardashian and Thompson, 32, welcomed their son in July 2022. The pair also share daughter True, 5.
Kardashian announced last year that she had welcomed her son via surrogate. The reality star revealed Tatum’s name in the season three 3 of The Kardashians in May and opened up later on in the series about her struggles with bonding with her son after the surrogacy.
Showing her support for her daughter, mom Kris Jenner told Kardashian that she needed to go easier on herself because she is a doting mom.
"I wish I wasn't so critical of myself," Kardashian said during a confessional, "because I'm very kind to everyone else, I'm just not very kind to myself. But being a mom is truly one of, just the most magical experiences ever."
Beyoncé Shopping New Renaissance Visual Album That Was Shot in Secret By Nadia Lee Cohen
Beyoncé is coming to Los Angeles this weekend to play three sold-out shows at SoFi Stadium as part of her Renaissance World Tour, and there will surely be plenty of Hollywood executives in the crowd — including some lucky executives who have already seen a piece of Beyoncé-produced media that the general public does not yet know exists.
To that end, Above the Line has exclusively learned that Queen Bey and her Parkwood Entertainment banner are shopping a new Renaissance visual album to studios and streamers, though there haven’t been any takers just yet.
The film was directed by Nadia Lee Cohen, a British artist, photographer, and rising filmmaker who has shot numerous magazine covers and music videos, having worked with artists such as Tyler the Creator, A$AP Rocky, Katy Perry, and Kali Uchis, and brands including Adidas, Balenciaga, Gucci, and Valentino.
Sources say that Renaissance is “artsy” and in line with Beyoncé’s other visual albums Lemonade and Black Is King, but also “weirder,” saying it hasn’t been Disney-fied like the latter film, which won an Emmy for its striking costumes.
“It’s a visual album movie, but it’s like an art film, and I’ve also heard it’s better than Black Is King,” added the source.
The individual said that Renaissance has been completed, but that it remains in limbo, explaining that select studios and streamers actually got a look at the project between four and six months ago, but they passed at the time. Asked why, the source could only speculate, saying, “I’m guessing the price and lack of replay value for the casual viewer” is why it hasn’t sold yet, though they also suggested the possibility that “maybe Beyoncé didn’t like how it turned out? I don’t know…”
Beyoncé helped direct her first visual album Lemonade, which began streaming on her husband Jay-Z‘s Tidal platform in April 2016 before being released on HBO and earning four Emmy nominations. She then wrote, directed, and executive produced her next visual album, Black Is King, which debuted on Disney+ on July 31, 2020.
With studios and streamers growing increasingly hungry for content in lieu of Hollywood’s ongoing double strike, it’s possible that one could reconsider its earlier pass on Renaissance — that is if, in fact, the film is still on the market. According to our source, it is, though it’s always possible that a stealth deal has been made.
Cohen did not respond to multiple requests for comment, and the director’s manager at Anonymous Content had no comment, referring ATL‘s inquiry to Parkwood, which also did not respond, nor did Beyoncé’s personal publicist. Stay tuned for more details, as I have a feeling we’ll be hearing more about this project once legacy media outlets start asking Team Beyoncé for comment…
Chloe Bailey Teases When We Can Expect New Chloe x Halle Music
Chloe of course released her solo album earlier this year, and had a movie and a TV series release, while Halle dropped a solo single, had one movie out and has another on the way.
However, during a recent interview, Chloe dished that they will be coming back as a duo soon!
“I am so excited for the top of next year when we start honing in again on our third album. I know we’re really excited. It’s going to be so special,” Chloe told Popsugar. “We’ve both lived a lot and we’ve grown a lot. And then we’ll be able to put our minds together again for an even more special project. I think that, in this time, sis and I have grown great individual fan bases and it’ll even help when it comes back to our duo project for people to really pay attention and have more eyes and ears on it than Ungodly Hour did.”
Taylor Swift's 'The Eras Tour' Is Hitting the Big Screen!
It’s official and finally happening – The Eras Tour concert movie!!! Taylor Swift shared the exciting news that her massively successful tour is going to the big screen this fall.
Fans noticed cameras at her SoFi Stadium shows in Los Angeles and speculated that a concert movie was in the works, and that’s exactly what was happening!
“The Eras Tour has been the most meaningful, electric experience of my life so far and I’m overjoyed to tell you that it’ll be coming to the big screen soon 😆 Starting Oct 13th you’ll be able to experience the concert film in theaters in North America! Tickets are on sale now. Eras attire, friendship bracelets, singing and dancing encouraged 🫶 1, 2, 3 LGB!!!! (iykyk)” Taylor shared on Instagram.
WATCH HERE
Taylor Swift The Eras Tour Concert Film will be available exclusively at AMC Theatres starting October 13th. Tickets are going for $19.89 for adults and for $13.13 for children. Purchase your tickets HERE!
AMC will also be giving out mini posters, while supplies last. For concessions, fans will also be available to purchase an Eras Tour popcorn bucket ($14.99) and collectible cup ($11.99), both also while supplies last.
'Breaking Bad' actors Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul join forces on picket line
The cast of “Breaking Bad” has reunited to call upon Hollywood studios to resume negotiations with striking screen actors.
“We want you to come back to the table with us,” Bryan Cranston said in a plea to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers outside Sony Pictures Studios on Tuesday.
Cranston was joined by Aaron Paul, Jesse Plemons and other members of the “Breaking Bad” universe in an effort to energize picket lines more than a month after SAG-AFTRA joined striking Hollywood writers.
Both guilds are seeking to address issues brought about by the dominance of streaming services, which have changed all aspects of production and pay in the industry.
“The way things were structured 10 years ago made a lot of sense and it made it more possible for journeymen-type actors, actors in the middle that are working just as a hard or harder,” Plemons said.
By its final season, which aired more than a decade ago, “Breaking Bad” was one of the most watched and highest rated cable TV shows ever.
The AMC hit series has achieved enduring popularity on Netflix, but its stars say that has not been reflected in their pay.
“I don’t get a piece from Netflix on ‘Breaking Bad’ to be totally honest and that’s insane to me,” Paul said. “I think a lot of these streamers know that they have been getting away with not paying people a fair wage and now it’s time to pony up.”
Cranston said they chose Sony for their reunion as the studio behind the Emmy-winning hit, along with its spinoff projects, the AMC prequel series “Better Call Saul” and the Netflix film, “El Camino.”
“We’re not making them the enemy. They are not villains. These are people that we all will be working with once again at some point,” Cranston said. “We just want them to see reality.”
Several other casts have joined picket lines during the strike, including actors from “Parks and Recreation” and the cult hit “Jury Duty,” drawing a link between popular shows and the actors’ strike goals.
Cranston also affirmed SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher’s recent comments to The Associated Press that these dual Hollywood strikes are galvanizing a broader movement throughout the country.
“Without organized labor, management will just keep stuffing their pockets. They don’t and will not ever just go, ‘You know what? I don’t think this is being fair to those people. I’m going to pay them more.’ It’s just not what they do,” he said.
Cast members of “Better Call Saul” were also on the picket lines, including Rhea Seehorn and Patrick Fabian, along with the series co-creator, Peter Gould, who has been on strike with the Writers Guild of America since May.
Jamie Foxx to Play God in Comedy Film ‘Not Another Church Movie’
*Jamie Foxx and Hollywood veteran actor Mickey Rourke have teamed to star in the upcoming film “Not Another Church Movie.”
Deadline reports that the comedy was shot prior to the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes and is set to open theatrically early next year. The cast also includes Kevin Daniels, Vivica A. Fox, Tisha Campbell, Jasmine Guy, Kyla Pratt, and Lamorne Morris.
Foxx is playing the role of God in the movie, while Rourke portrays the devil.
Directed by Johnny Mack, the comedy centers on Taylor Pharry (Daniels), an ambitious young man given a holy mission from God himself: to tell his family’s stories and inspire his community. His only concern? His family and community. What he doesn’t know is that the Devil has plans of his own, per Deadline.
“We are thrilled to have Mr. Foxx be a part of this hilarious comedy and bring his incredible talent to the role of God, working with Foxx and Johnny Mack was a true blessing,” the film’s producer, James Michael Cummings, told Deadline. “This film is a unique blend of new and established talent, and we can’t wait to hear the laughs and for audiences to see the magic that happens on the big screen. This movie will not disappoint.”
Executive producer Valerie McCaffrey said, “The name talent that has come together for this fun comedy is unprecedented. You see all the actors having fun, especially Foxx playing God.”
Foxx was hospitalized in April for an “medical complication,” his daughter Corrine disclosed at the time. He took to Instagram recently to share an update on his health.
“You’re lookin’ at a man who is thankful… finally startin’ to feel like myself…” Foxx wrote. “It’s been an unexpected dark journey… but I can see the light… I’m thankful to everyone that reached out and sent well wishes and prayers… I have a lot of people to thank… u just don’t know how much it meant…
He added: “I will be thanking all of you personally… and if you didn’t know… GOD IS GOOD… all day every day… #swipeleft #imbackandimbetter #nobaddays”
Capitol physician medically clears McConnell after health scares prompt new questions over his leadership position
The statement comes as McConnell moved behind the scenes to reassure his allies and donors he can do his job – even as questions persist over how long the 81-year-old Kentuckian will stay as Republican leader.
“I have consulted with Leader McConnell and conferred with his neurology team. After evaluating yesterday’s incident, I have informed Leader McConnell that he is medically clear to continue with his schedule as planned,” Dr. Brian Monahan, the attending doctor for the Capitol, said in a statement released through McConnell’s office.
“Occasional lightheadedness is not uncommon in concussion recovery and can also be expected as a result of dehydration,” added Monahan. McConnell’s office has previously said that his freezes were due to lightheadedness and dehydration.
McConnell, who has served for 16 years as the GOP leader, the longest of any Senate leader in history, has repeatedly made clear he’s staying in his job until the end of next year when the 118th Congress ends – something his confidantes say hasn’t changed even after his recent health scares.
But McConnell has consistently sidestepped questions about whether he would run for leader in the next Congress, which begins in 2025. And there’s some initial chatter among a handful of rank-and-file Republicans to try to force a special conference meeting to talk about their party’s leadership after McConnell’s latest incident, according to a person familiar with the matter.
No meeting has been called and it’s unclear if one will be. It takes just five GOP senators to call for a meeting, and then at that point it would be scheduled by Sen. John Barrasso, the GOP conference chairman. Even if they have a meeting, there’s no mechanism to force a vote on the party’s leadership. That wouldn’t happen until after the 2024 elections. But such a meeting would draw more focus on McConnell’s health.
While it’s uncertain if Republicans will force such a meeting, the Senate GOP conference is set to meet for its usual weekly meeting next Wednesday, giving the GOP leader the opportunity to address his conference for the first time on the matter.
Following a recent concussion after falling and hitting his head in March, coupled with his two public frozen moments, Republican senators and aides told CNN they are doubtful he will try to run for the job again – potentially opening up the GOP leadership role for the first time since McConnell took the reins in 2007.
McConnell's frozen moment renews questions about America's aged leaders
McConnell, who disdains the focus on his health, has so far refused to publicly disclose the reason why he froze up for roughly 30 seconds two separate times this summer – the latest on Wednesday in Covington, Kentucky – other than his aides saying he felt “lightheaded” and that he would consult a physician.
The topic did not come up when the GOP leader later attended a Wednesday fundraiser for Rep. Jim Banks, who is running for a Senate seat in Indiana. Several sources said that McConnell didn’t discuss his viral moment from earlier in the day.
But two attendees told CNN that he engaged with the crowd and acted normally, reassuring his donors and allies that he can do the job. Asked about McConnell, Banks said that the Republican leader was “sharp” and “engaging” and “very dialed in on my race and following closely.”
“Tough as nails,” another attendee said when describing McConnell’s demeanor.
President Joe Biden told reporters Thursday that he spoke earlier in the day with McConnell.
“You know, he was his old self on the telephone, and having a little understanding of dealing with neurosurgeons and people,” Biden said. “One of the leading women on my staff’s husband is a neurosurgeon as well. It’s not at all unusual to have a response … when you got a severe concussion, it’s part of recovery. And so I’m confident he’s going to be back to his old self.”
And following the episode on Wednesday, McConnell was on the phone with several GOP senators – including his potential successors – to tell them he was fine.
“The leader sounded like his usual self and was in good spirits,” said Ryan Wrasse, a spokesman for Senate GOP Whip John Thune, who spoke to the GOP leader.
Kelley Moore, a spokeswoman for Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, confirmed McConnell spoke with the West Virginia Republican, a member of his leadership team.
“Sen. Capito said the leader sounded fine and she looks forward to seeing him on Tuesday when the Senate returns,” Capito’s spokeswoman said.
McConnell’s last freeze-up occurred right before senators left for a five-week August recess. Some at the time wanted more information about McConnell’s health – questions that are bound to intensify next week when they return to session.
“Obviously his first responsibility is to the voters of Kentucky,” GOP Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota told CNN in July. “But once you become the leader, your responsibilities obviously are with other constituents, mainly, at least in his case, 48 of his closest friends.”
Cramer said at the time that McConnell “should tell us if something bigger is going on,” adding: “Clearly there’s a greater responsibility for transparency.
Thune and Barrasso and Sen. John Cornyn are seen as likely successors to McConnell, but they have continued to support him even during his health scares.
Asked before the recess if he was preparing to run for leader, Cornyn said: “Those elections won’t be until November 2024. So just the short answer is, there’s nothing to prepare for.”
50 Cent Under Criminal Investigation For Hitting Power 106 Radio Host With Microphone
50 Cent could face criminal charges after throwing a microphone that struck Power 106 radio host Bryhana Monegain in the face. The incident took place during the G-Unit founder’s Wednesday show in Los Angeles. The concert was part of his Final Lap tour, which he has suggested may be his final city-to-city run. As fans gathered to celebrate his many classics from his iconic debut album, “Get Rich Or Die Trying,” things seemingly took a turn for the worst in L.A. when 50 tossed his mic from the stage. According to TMZ, 50 was likely trying to throw the microphone to the production area near the crowd. However, Monegain filed a police report stating that the rapper was aware that she was at the show and stared directly at her before lunging the device, implying that the hit was intentional.
Images surfaced on Instagram showing the media personality’s bloody face with a gash on her forehead as she lay in a hospital bed. The popular host has since gone silent. Authorities have now launched a criminal felony battery investigation into 50 and what prompted him to throw the mic. Video footage of the rapper on stage shows him seemingly agitated for throwing one mic down before pitching another one with much more force.
Even if the assault doesn’t land 50 in jail, matters such as these often lead to lawsuits, as many fans have pointed out online. Last month, Cardi B also struck a concertgoer with a mic after they threw a drink on. While criminal charges were dropped, civil action could be taken.
50 Cent has not yet commented on the matter.
Proud Boys Leader Joseph Biggs Hit With 17-Year Sentence For Organizing Capitol Attack
On Thursday, Biggs was handed down the lengthy sentence for leading the right-wing group during the January 6, 2021, riot. Five people died that day, including Capitol Police Brian D. Sicknick, who was struck in the head with a fire extinguisher and bear maced by Trump supporters. Biggs ran the Florida division of the association, and leading up to the massive invasion, he encouraged other Proud Boys members to “get radical.” While at the Capitol, he helped organize the security breach, breaking down a fence, which allowed him and other agitators to enter the Senate chamber. In the days that followed, he recorded an interview calling the riot a “warning shot to the government.”
Prosecutors initially asked for 33 years behind bars after Biggs was convicted in May, alongside Proud Boys national chairman Enrique Tarrio and members Ethan Nordean, Zachary Rehl, and Dominic Pezzola, who was the only one of the four acquitted of seditious conspiracy. However, he was found guilty of several other charges related to the January 6th events, including robbery involving government property, NPR reports.
Biggs pleaded with Judge Timothy J. Kelly to grant him a light sentence. However, Kelly’s actions warranted such punishment. In addition to his years behind bars, Biggs must complete three years of probation and is prohibited from having any contact with the Proud Boys or other right-wingers.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Birthing Bald Eagles
This guys looks he’s birthing bald eagles every morning
This guys looks he’s birthing bald eagles every morning
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
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