#MAGFAB: Nelly Furtado for Noir Magazine 2023!
HOT!
#RHOA: Kenya Moore Attends Beyoncé Concert in an Incredible Disco-Cowgirl Look
Kenya Moore is a member of the Beyhive! The Real Housewives of Atlanta mom nabbed multiple headlines this year for a stunning and quite diverse series of outfit choices. We're talking everything from a green cutout maxi and a red ruffled mini to a white flowy summer dress and a bright orange bikini. Kenya continued her steady stream of head-turning looks last week, when she stepped out for one of the year's hottest and most-anticipated shows: Beyoncé’s Renaissance concert.
The mother of one who— says she’s often mistaken for Queen B — attended the September 21 event held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kenya posted a number of Instagram Stories that showed off her jaw-dropping, concert-ready look that was sexy, playful, and very much in line with the tour's aesthetic.
Kenya opted for a white satin mini-dress with delicate shoulder straps and a boned, corset-like bodice. The RHOA cast member elevated the minimal piece with a pair of silver knee-high boots, a white handbag, and silver chandelier earrings. At several points throughout the night, Kenya fully embraced the disco-Western style and donned a white cowboy hat with a sparkly band around the crown.
The former Miss USA attended the show alongside RHOA friend Monyetta Shaw-Carter and her husband, Heath Carter. Monyetta also made sure to bring her fashion-A to the event, as she stunned in a sultry black mini-dress with metallic heels, a studded choker, hoop earrings, and a clear Louis Vuitton Scott box.
“Hey, guys! Guess what? It’s another Renaissance night,” Monyetta said in an Instagram Story before the show. “I surprised my family and friends with Beyoncé in D-Town (Dallas)… Thanks to my hubby and one of his business partners.”
Monyetta also shared footage of their party bus ride, clips of her crew arriving at the stadium, and a handful of photos taken from their private venue suite.
“And that’s on Linda B!!!” Monyetta captioned a video of her, Kenya, and others living it up on the bus. “(If your family don’t hype you up like mine….. get a new one!!) It’s ALWAYS a vibe!!!”
Kenya and Monyetta joined the long list of Bravolebrities who attended Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour. Vanderpump Rules’ James Kennedy and his girlfriend, Ally Lewber; The Real Housewives of Potomac's Candiace Dillard Bassett; and The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Cynthia Bailey were among those who copped tickets to the high-grossing event. And, yes, they also granted Bey's request and showed up in silver-chrome looks.
#NewMusic from Leela James ‘Thought U Knew’
The new single from Leela James is "Thought U Knew" which follows "Right Back In It" from July. The music video for the song has already received almost 45k views in just over 24 hours.
LISTEN HERE
With two singles in quite quick succession after being relatively quiet for almost two years suggests to us that their may be a new album looming.
#HipHopNews: B.G. Graduates From Hope For Prisoners Program To Remain Productive Member Of Community
On Friday (Sept. 22), B.G. hopped on Instagram and uploaded a video that highlights his graduation ceremony at Hope for Prisoners in Las Vegas. In the visual, which can be seen below, B.G. is seen striking some poses with a bevy of loved ones and walking on stage to receive his commendation. According to the honorary document, B.G., whose real name is Christopher Dorsey, will remain a productive, law-abiding member of his community due to completing the program.
"Yesterday I crossed another hurdle on this field of life," B.G. captioned the post. "It feels good to grow, evolve and be a better n***a now then I was before. I went to jail."
He continued: "Since I came home I noticed a lot of people are the same people I left, but I’m not the same dude that left. For all my haters keep hating and for all my supporters, I'ma make y'all proud. thank you to my kids, my team, friends and fans for traveling this journey with me and pushing me to be GREAT."
On Sept. 17, B.G. hopped on Instagram and uploaded a video of himself creating music in the studio for the first time in a decade. Throughout the clip, the Cash Money Records rapper is seen rapping lyrics off a notepad into the microphone and listening back on his recordings. B.G. was released from federal prison on Sept. 5 after serving 11 years in prison for gun possession and witness tampering.
'SNL' Eyes October Return With Non-Acting Hosts
"Saturday Night Live" is expected to be back on the airwaves soon. After Writers Guild of America reached a tentative agreement with Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers on Sunday, September 24, the comedy show is reportedly preparing for an October premiere date for season 49.
Deadline reports that "Saturday Night Live" is eyeing either an October 7 or October 14 date. The final decision will be ultimately determined by how the WGA votes when the contract language is finalized.
The news outlet stated that the WGA negotiating committee is expected to recommend the agreement and send it to the WGA West Board and WGA East Council for a vote for Tuesday. That most likely would lift the restraining order, meaning that writers could return to work as the deal is waiting to be ratified.
However, "SNL" will have to face other bumps even after WGA's strike ends. Alongside "Dancing with the Stars", "SNL" is covered under SAG-AFTRA's Network Code, which means that theoretically everyone could come back to work. However, since the actors union is also on strike, certain cast members, like Chloe Fineman, Heidi Gardner, Colin Jost, Ego Nwodim, Kenan Thompson and Bowen Yang, might choose not to go back to work until an agreement is reached.
Other issues are related to the casting and hosting choices. According to the new report, creator and showrunner Lorne Michaels has been trying to get some new cast members, but hasn't made any final verdicts.
As for the hosting choices, the show would be forced to opt out actors for the hosts for the new season. This may give another headache for the production team since the majority of hosts for last season were actors, including Miles Teller, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Austin Butler, Aubrey Plaza, Michael B. Jordan, Pedro Pascal, Woody Harrelson and Jenna Ortega.
"SNL" cut short its season 48 when the WGA strike began at the start of May. The last episode aired on April 15, featuring Ana de Armas as host and Karol G as musical guest. The next episode, which was initially slated to air on May 6 and featured Pete Davidson and Lil Uzi Vert, was canceled. The NBC show has been airing repeats since May 6.
Usher Enjoys Visiting Strip Clubs To 'Express' Himself And Find 'Relief'
Usher likes going to strip clubs, gardening and puffing on cigars to blow off steam. The 44-year-old "Love in This Club" singer, who shares four children with two women including his current partner Jenn Goicoechea, 39, said he believes men need "relief" and a way to "express" themselves.
"Everybody knows Atlanta is famous for strip clubs - and don't get me wrong, I like to go to strip clubs here - but my experience is becoming a little bit different, older, more evolved and sophisticated," he told the Mail on Sunday in an interview in London during which he chain-smoked six cigars.
Texas-born Usher, who was raised in Atlanta by his mum, added about being green-fingered, "I love plants - period." And he said about his love of cigars, "In America, a lot of times, it's about everything having more flavour, being bigger, the most violent."
"But this is about nuanced tastes, subtleties and notes. Basically, the opposite of vape culture. I come from a time when things were more analogue… When you get older, man, you begin to take the time to slow down, to reap the benefit of what you sow."
He added about his collection of hobbies, "I feel like I'm at the age where I've just now begun to curate my experience… men need some relief, an ability to go somewhere to express themselves and emote, with as much honesty and transparency as possible."
Dad-of-four Usher has 15-year-old son Usher (AKA Cinco) V, and Naviyd Ely, 14, with his stylist ex-wife Tameka Foster, 52, as well as a daughter, Sovereign Bo, three, and a one-year-old son, Sire Castrello, with businesswoman Jenn.
It was announced on Sunday, September 24 Usher will headline the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. He said about his burning desire to perform, "I wasn't afraid of the light. I wanted it. I wanted to stand on a stage. I want you to see me."
"I want you to see what I have to offer. I want to dance for you. I want to perform for you. I want to make you smile. When I get in your face, I want you to know what I am saying."
Film legend Sophia Loren has successful surgery after fracturing a leg in a fall at home, agent says
Film legend Sophia Loren is recovering from successful surgery for a leg fracture after she fell in her Switzerland home, an agent for the 89-year-old Italian actor said Monday.
Agent Andrea Giusti said in an email that Loren fell in a bathroom on Sunday and the surgery was performed later that day. The operation “went very well and now we only need to wait,” Giusti said.
The actress broke both her hip and a thigh bone, the agent said.
It wasn't immediately clear when Loren would be discharged from the hospital.
Loren has lived in a Swiss villa near Lake Geneva for decades. Earlier this month, she appeared, looking radiant, with Italian designer Giorgio Armani in Venice at a fashion show held on the sidelines of the city’s annual film festival.
She celebrated her 89th birthday last week. She was scheduled to appear at a restaurant that bears her name in Bari, a city in southern Italy, this but her fall forced a cancellation of the event. According to her agent, Loren gave the restaurant the right to use her name and image.
Tory Lanez Shares New Message From Prison: “I’m In Good Spirits”
Tory Lanez has provided a new official message from prison to his followers. On Monday (Sept. 25), the Toronto artist posted a clip to his Instagram of a phone with a record player in the background. After the voicemail sound effect prompted him to say a few words, he delivered a direct update about his whereabouts, mental state, and even announced some new music is coming soon.
“Ayo Umbrellas, what’s good? I’m talking to you from prison,” the “Say It” singer began. “Man, I’m just happy to get out that bulls**t county jail. They was hating on a young fly n**ga, you heard? Had me in 24-hour lockdown, half-sized cell by myself, no windows, no mirrors. N**ga ain’t even seen himself in a whole year yo.”
He then assured his followers that he is still in good spirits despite the troubling circumstances. “But with all them disadvantages against me, my head has always been held high, man. I want y’all to know I’m in great spirits. My drive and my ambition is growing stronger and stronger every day. I’m so proud of how y’all been moving in my support, man. I know this feels like a scary time, but don’t be afraid, man. This s**t don’t spark no fear in my heart at all.”
Lanez, né Daystar Peterson, concluded by confirming he’ll be releasing a project soon and shared the LP’s name before the recording cut him off. “In fact, I’m more prepared than ever. The music, the videos, and all the projects you wanted, they all ready to drop. So let’s just start with the one that we wanted the most, the Alone At Prom Deluxe,” he stated.
The 31-year-old artist is currently serving his 10-year sentence after being convicted of shooting Megan Thee Stallion at a party in July 2020. Since the event occurred, the former maintained his innocence. After a two-week trial, he was ultimately found guilty on all counts in December 2022.
In additional news, Peterson was sent to North Kern State Prison, which has reportedly raised safety concerns due to the institution’s ongoing violent history.
The Wiz Sets Broadway Opening for April 2024
The Broadway revival of The Wiz will begin previews at the Marquis Theatre on March 29, 2024, ahead of an official opening night April 17.
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by Charlie Smalls, The Wiz retells the story of L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz for an all-Black cast. Schele Williams will helm this reimagined production, with choreography by Jaquel Knight, additional material by Amber Ruffin, and music supervision, orchestrations, and music arrangements by Joseph Joubert. The production will also feature vocal and music arrangements by Allen René Louis, and dance music arrangements by Adam Blackstone.
The production will include “Everybody Rejoice” (music and lyrics by Luther Vandross), as well as the “Emerald City Ballet,” with music by Timothy Graphenreed.
The Broadway cast will feature Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy, Deborah Cox as Glinda and Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow, and Wayne Brady as The Wiz. The Wiz ensemble includes Maya Bowles, Shayla Alayre Caldwell, Jay Copeland, Allyson Kaye Daniel, Judith Franklin, Michael Samarie George, Collin Heyward, Amber Jackson, Olivia Jackson, Christina Jones, Polanco Jones, Kolby Kindle, Mariah Lyttle, Kareem Marsh, Anthony Murphy, Cristina Rae, Matthew Sims Jr, Avilon Trust Tate, Keenan D. Washington, and Timothy Wilson.
The Wiz design team will include scenic design by Academy Award-winning Hannah Beachler (Black Panther, Beyoncé’s Black is King and Lemonade), costume design by Emmy Award-winning and two-time Academy Award-nominated Sharen Davis (Ray, Dreamgirls), lighting design by Barrymore Award-winning Ryan J. O’Gara (Thoughts of a Colored Man), sound design by Jon Weston (Parade), projection design by Daniel Brodie (Motown the Musical), wig design by Charles LaPointe (MJ the Musical), and make-up design by Kirk Cambridge-Del Pesche (The Piano Lesson).
The Wiz is currently on national tour, Click HERE for a full list of tour dates.
Krayzie Bone reportedly hospitalized after serious cardiovascular condition
Cleveland rap legend Krayzie Bone is reportedly fighting for his life after an unfortunate health emergency.
Admitted to a Los Angeles hospital on Friday (Sept. 22), TMZ revealed that the Bone Thugs-N-Harmony member experienced severe coughing episodes that produced large amounts of blood.
According to the outlet’s report, immediate medical scans showed a leaking artery in one of the rapper’s lungs. Doctors conducted emergency surgery, but the bleeding persisted. On Sunday (Sept. 24), the 50-year-old remained sedated and relied on a breathing machine for respiratory support.
Krayzie’s condition was reportedly complicated by his ongoing battle with sarcoidosis. The inflammatory ailment causes the immune system to overreact, forming clusters of inflamed tissue called granulomas in vital organs. Per the American Lung Society, sarcoidosis often targets the lungs and lymph nodes and can become life-threatening.
As news spread, prayers flooded social media. Fellow group member Bizzy Bone took to Instagram Stories. He urged, “Pray 4 Kray. Can’t sleep. Sometimes you just gotta pray.”
On Twitter, Kid Cudi wrote, “Prayin’ for you, Kray.” Three 6 Mafia‘s DJ Paul and Juicy J echoed the sentiments with the latter sharing, “Prayers up for Krayzie Bone.” Elsewhere, LeBron James also tweeted his support. “[Prayers] to Krayzie, man!!!!” he wrote.
The health crisis came on the heels of a triumphant moment for Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. In August, the group celebrated hip hop’s 50th anniversary and their own 30-year legacy by receiving a street name in their honor — Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Way — in Cleveland.
Krayzie commemorated the milestone on Instagram by expressing excitement for the future of the genre.
During a 2016 interview with VIBE, he spoke about the collective’s influence on hip hop. Krayzie shared, “Yeah, I think that’s important for music. I’ve always felt like the older generation and the newer generations should always bridge that gap in music. I like what A$AP Mob is doing. They even said that they based the whole way that they named themselves, and some of the music that they do was influenced by us.”
Britney Spears Concerns Fans By Dancing With Knives in New Instagram Video
Britney Spears is causing concern among fans after she posted a video of herself dancing dangerously with large knives.
The 41-year-old pop star is known for posting dancing videos on her Instagram account, but she added a whole new element of danger to the clips with her latest update.
“I started playing in the kitchen with knives today 🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️ !!!” Britney captioned the video.
In the video, she is seen waving around two large butcher knives in each hand while dancing around her living room. Three small dogs are standing right behind her as she dances around the room with the knives.
Back in May, TMZ reported that Britney has a “fascination with knives” and that they should be kept away from her. The outlet claimed that she had viewed knives as a form of protection during her conservatorship.
David McCallum, star of hit TV series ‘The Man From U.N.C.L.E.’ and ‘NCIS,’ dies at 90
Actor David McCallum, who became a teen heartthrob in the hit series “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” in the 1960s and was the eccentric medical examiner in the popular “NCIS” 40 years later, has died. He was 90.
McCallum died Monday of natural causes surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital, CBS said in a statement.
“David was a gifted actor and author, and beloved by many around the world. He led an incredible life, and his legacy will forever live on through his family and the countless hours on film and television that will never go away,” said a statement from CBS.
Scottish-born McCallum had been doing well appearing in such films “A Night to Remember” (about the Titanic), “The Great Escape” and “The Greatest Story Ever Told” (as Judas). But it was “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” that made the blond actor with the Beatlesque haircut a household name in the mid-‘60s.
The show, inspired by the popularity of the James Bond books and films, debuted in 1964. It starred Robert Vaughn as Napoleon Solo, an agent in a secretive, high-tech squad of crime fighters whose initials stood for United Network Command for Law and Enforcement. Despite the Cold War, the agency had an international staff, with McCallum as Illya Kuryakin, Solo’s Russian sidekick.
The role was relatively small at first, McCallum recalled, adding in a 1998 interview that “I’d never heard of the word ‘sidekick’ before.”
The show drew mixed reviews but eventually caught on, particularly with teenage girls attracted by McCallum’s good looks and enigmatic, intellectual character. By 1965, Illya was a full partner to Vaughn’s character and both stars were mobbed during personal appearances.
The series lasted until 1968. Vaughn and McCallum reunited in 1983 for a nostalgic TV movie, “The Return of the Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” in which the agents were lured out of retirement to save the world once more.
McCallum returned to television in 2003 in another series with an agency known by its initials — CBS’ “NCIS.” He played Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, a bookish pathologist for the Naval Criminal Investigation Service, an agency handling crimes involving the Navy or the Marines. Mark Harmon played the NCIS boss.
McCallum said he thought Ducky, who sported glasses and a bow tie and had an eye for pretty women, “looked a little silly, but it was great fun to do.” He took the role seriously, too, spending time in the Los Angeles coroner’s office to gain insight into how autopsies are conducted.
Co-star Lauren Holly took to X, formerly Twitter, to mourn: “You were the kindest man. Thank you for being you.” The previously announced 20th anniversary “NCIS” marathon on Monday night will now include an “in memoriam” card in remembrance of McCallum.
Largely based in the U.S. from the 1960s onward, McCallum was a longtime American citizen, telling The Associated Press in 2003 that “I have always loved the freedom of this country and everything it stands for. And I live here, and I like to vote here.”
In 1963, McCallum was part of the large cast of “The Great Escape” and he and his wife, actor Jill Ireland, became friendly with Charles Bronson, also in the film. Ireland eventually fell in love with Bronson and she and McCallum divorced in 1967. She married Bronson in 1968.
“It all worked out fine,” McCallum said in 2009, “because soon after that I got together with Katherine (Carpenter, a former model) and we’ve been very happily married for 42 years.”
McCallum had three sons from his first marriage, Paul, Jason and Valentine, and a son and daughter from his second, Peter and Sophie. Jason died of an overdose.
“He was a true Renaissance man — he was fascinated by science and culture and would turn those passions into knowledge. For example, he was capable of conducting a symphony orchestra and (if needed) could actually perform an autopsy, based on his decades-long studies for his role on NCIS,” Peter McCallum said in a statement.
In 2007, when he was working on “NCIS,” McCallum told a reporter: “I’ve always felt the harder I work, the luckier I get. I believe in serendipitous things happening, but at the same time, dedicating yourself to what you do is the best way to get along in this life.”
Jada Pinkett Smith Shares Loving Post On Will Smith’s Birthday
Will Smith is celebrating his 55th birthday today (September 25) and his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, took to social media with a loving message for her boo thang’s bornday.
Jada took to her Instagram page and shared a beautiful black and white photo of herself, Will, and their children Trey Smith, Jaden Smith, and Willow Smith.
“I’m so glad you were born on this day,” she wrote. Jada Pinkett Smith, who tied the knot with Will Smith in 1997, went on to write, “Without you I would not have experienced the greatest joy of my life… the love of our family.”
The “Worthy” author spoke on the “divine assignment” that they have chosen to walk together adding that she is “grateful for the wells of laughter along the trails of tears we’ve shared. Thank you for helping me learn to embrace it all … with a smile.”
In closing, Jada wished Will Smith “100+ more birthdays full of growth, acceptance, and joy♥️🪽”
Happiest Birthday, Will!
Alicia Keys Files A Trademark For Her Upcoming Tea Line Called “Alicia Teas”
Alicia Keys is taking a step back from music and putting her focus on new business ventures!
Based on the reports revealed by TMZ, Alicia’s enterprise, AK Worldwide, has submitted an application to secure the naming rights for “Alicia Teas,” intended for a range of tea products.
While details regarding the line remain unknown at this time, it seems as though the idea stemmed from her husband, Swizz Beats, who went all out for the singer’s birthday in 2020, surprising his wife with her very own line of teas.
Additionally, Swizz even playfully suggested that the line might one day grace the shelves of Starbucks outlets around the globe. This hints at the exciting possibility that fans of the coffee chain might soon start their mornings with a cup of “Alicia Teas!”
“Everybody in Starbucks all around the world will see Alicia Teas. Happy birthday, baby. Love you,” Swizz wrote in a past Instagram caption.
This marks the second occasion that the 42-year-old “If I Ain’t Got You” singer has sought to trademark “Alicia Teas.” An initial application was submitted in October 2019, and as of March this year, it had been assigned to an examiner. However, Keys has already established herself as an entrepreneur by introducing her makeup line, Keys Soulcare, in 2021.
Furthermore, she is currently gearing up for the debut of her Off-Broadway production, “Hell’s Kitchen,” for which she has composed both the music and lyrics. The musical is scheduled to make its premiere on November 19th at the Public Theater in New York.
Keke Palmer on Whether She and Darius Jackson are Still Together: “Mind Y’alls Business”
Keke Palmer skillfully avoided inquiries regarding the current state of her fluctuating romance with Darius Jackson following their joint attendance at a Beyonce concert earlier this month.
The actress made an appearance on Monday’s episode of “Today with Hoda & Jenna,” during which co-hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager inquired about her ongoing romantic connection with Jackson around the 3:07 min mark.
“I’m going to take a page out of Beyoncé’s book: Mind y’all’s business,” Palmer said.
Hager then proceeded to ask Palmer if she was content, to which she responded, “Yes, life is good. I have nothing but gratitude, honestly. Seriously.”
Palmer, who has a baby boy named Leodis with Jackson, made her appearance on the morning show a few weeks after their outing to Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” tour in Los Angeles. This apparent date night initially left some fans puzzled, as reports had emerged in August suggesting that they had split following his public criticism of her attire at a Usher concert in July.
“It’s the outfit tho.. you a mom,” he tweeted under a clip of Palmer being serenaded by Usher.
The former Nickelodeon star later indirectly commented on his remarks, expressing her regret that she hadn’t taken more photographs in that particular outfit.
Following this incident, People magazine reported that their social media disagreement had led to their separation. Nevertheless, a little over a month later, Jackson joined Palmer in celebrating her 30th birthday last month.
#RHOA: Kenya Moore Attends Beyoncé Concert in an Incredible Disco-Cowgirl Look
The mother of one who— says she’s often mistaken for Queen B — attended the September 21 event held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kenya posted a number of Instagram Stories that showed off her jaw-dropping, concert-ready look that was sexy, playful, and very much in line with the tour's aesthetic.
Kenya opted for a white satin mini-dress with delicate shoulder straps and a boned, corset-like bodice. The RHOA cast member elevated the minimal piece with a pair of silver knee-high boots, a white handbag, and silver chandelier earrings. At several points throughout the night, Kenya fully embraced the disco-Western style and donned a white cowboy hat with a sparkly band around the crown.
The former Miss USA attended the show alongside RHOA friend Monyetta Shaw-Carter and her husband, Heath Carter. Monyetta also made sure to bring her fashion-A to the event, as she stunned in a sultry black mini-dress with metallic heels, a studded choker, hoop earrings, and a clear Louis Vuitton Scott box.
“Hey, guys! Guess what? It’s another Renaissance night,” Monyetta said in an Instagram Story before the show. “I surprised my family and friends with Beyoncé in D-Town (Dallas)… Thanks to my hubby and one of his business partners.”
Monyetta also shared footage of their party bus ride, clips of her crew arriving at the stadium, and a handful of photos taken from their private venue suite.
“And that’s on Linda B!!!” Monyetta captioned a video of her, Kenya, and others living it up on the bus. “(If your family don’t hype you up like mine….. get a new one!!) It’s ALWAYS a vibe!!!”
Kenya and Monyetta joined the long list of Bravolebrities who attended Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour. Vanderpump Rules’ James Kennedy and his girlfriend, Ally Lewber; The Real Housewives of Potomac's Candiace Dillard Bassett; and The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Cynthia Bailey were among those who copped tickets to the high-grossing event. And, yes, they also granted Bey's request and showed up in silver-chrome looks.
#NewMusic from Leela James ‘Thought U Knew’
LISTEN HERE
With two singles in quite quick succession after being relatively quiet for almost two years suggests to us that their may be a new album looming.
#HipHopNews: B.G. Graduates From Hope For Prisoners Program To Remain Productive Member Of Community
On Friday (Sept. 22), B.G. hopped on Instagram and uploaded a video that highlights his graduation ceremony at Hope for Prisoners in Las Vegas. In the visual, which can be seen below, B.G. is seen striking some poses with a bevy of loved ones and walking on stage to receive his commendation. According to the honorary document, B.G., whose real name is Christopher Dorsey, will remain a productive, law-abiding member of his community due to completing the program.
"Yesterday I crossed another hurdle on this field of life," B.G. captioned the post. "It feels good to grow, evolve and be a better n***a now then I was before. I went to jail."
He continued: "Since I came home I noticed a lot of people are the same people I left, but I’m not the same dude that left. For all my haters keep hating and for all my supporters, I'ma make y'all proud. thank you to my kids, my team, friends and fans for traveling this journey with me and pushing me to be GREAT."
On Sept. 17, B.G. hopped on Instagram and uploaded a video of himself creating music in the studio for the first time in a decade. Throughout the clip, the Cash Money Records rapper is seen rapping lyrics off a notepad into the microphone and listening back on his recordings. B.G. was released from federal prison on Sept. 5 after serving 11 years in prison for gun possession and witness tampering.
'SNL' Eyes October Return With Non-Acting Hosts
Deadline reports that "Saturday Night Live" is eyeing either an October 7 or October 14 date. The final decision will be ultimately determined by how the WGA votes when the contract language is finalized.
The news outlet stated that the WGA negotiating committee is expected to recommend the agreement and send it to the WGA West Board and WGA East Council for a vote for Tuesday. That most likely would lift the restraining order, meaning that writers could return to work as the deal is waiting to be ratified.
However, "SNL" will have to face other bumps even after WGA's strike ends. Alongside "Dancing with the Stars", "SNL" is covered under SAG-AFTRA's Network Code, which means that theoretically everyone could come back to work. However, since the actors union is also on strike, certain cast members, like Chloe Fineman, Heidi Gardner, Colin Jost, Ego Nwodim, Kenan Thompson and Bowen Yang, might choose not to go back to work until an agreement is reached.
Other issues are related to the casting and hosting choices. According to the new report, creator and showrunner Lorne Michaels has been trying to get some new cast members, but hasn't made any final verdicts.
As for the hosting choices, the show would be forced to opt out actors for the hosts for the new season. This may give another headache for the production team since the majority of hosts for last season were actors, including Miles Teller, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Austin Butler, Aubrey Plaza, Michael B. Jordan, Pedro Pascal, Woody Harrelson and Jenna Ortega.
"SNL" cut short its season 48 when the WGA strike began at the start of May. The last episode aired on April 15, featuring Ana de Armas as host and Karol G as musical guest. The next episode, which was initially slated to air on May 6 and featured Pete Davidson and Lil Uzi Vert, was canceled. The NBC show has been airing repeats since May 6.
Usher Enjoys Visiting Strip Clubs To 'Express' Himself And Find 'Relief'
Usher likes going to strip clubs, gardening and puffing on cigars to blow off steam. The 44-year-old "Love in This Club" singer, who shares four children with two women including his current partner Jenn Goicoechea, 39, said he believes men need "relief" and a way to "express" themselves.
"Everybody knows Atlanta is famous for strip clubs - and don't get me wrong, I like to go to strip clubs here - but my experience is becoming a little bit different, older, more evolved and sophisticated," he told the Mail on Sunday in an interview in London during which he chain-smoked six cigars.
Texas-born Usher, who was raised in Atlanta by his mum, added about being green-fingered, "I love plants - period." And he said about his love of cigars, "In America, a lot of times, it's about everything having more flavour, being bigger, the most violent."
"But this is about nuanced tastes, subtleties and notes. Basically, the opposite of vape culture. I come from a time when things were more analogue… When you get older, man, you begin to take the time to slow down, to reap the benefit of what you sow."
He added about his collection of hobbies, "I feel like I'm at the age where I've just now begun to curate my experience… men need some relief, an ability to go somewhere to express themselves and emote, with as much honesty and transparency as possible."
Dad-of-four Usher has 15-year-old son Usher (AKA Cinco) V, and Naviyd Ely, 14, with his stylist ex-wife Tameka Foster, 52, as well as a daughter, Sovereign Bo, three, and a one-year-old son, Sire Castrello, with businesswoman Jenn.
It was announced on Sunday, September 24 Usher will headline the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. He said about his burning desire to perform, "I wasn't afraid of the light. I wanted it. I wanted to stand on a stage. I want you to see me."
"I want you to see what I have to offer. I want to dance for you. I want to perform for you. I want to make you smile. When I get in your face, I want you to know what I am saying."
Film legend Sophia Loren has successful surgery after fracturing a leg in a fall at home, agent says
Agent Andrea Giusti said in an email that Loren fell in a bathroom on Sunday and the surgery was performed later that day. The operation “went very well and now we only need to wait,” Giusti said.
The actress broke both her hip and a thigh bone, the agent said.
It wasn't immediately clear when Loren would be discharged from the hospital.
Loren has lived in a Swiss villa near Lake Geneva for decades. Earlier this month, she appeared, looking radiant, with Italian designer Giorgio Armani in Venice at a fashion show held on the sidelines of the city’s annual film festival.
She celebrated her 89th birthday last week. She was scheduled to appear at a restaurant that bears her name in Bari, a city in southern Italy, this but her fall forced a cancellation of the event. According to her agent, Loren gave the restaurant the right to use her name and image.
Tory Lanez Shares New Message From Prison: “I’m In Good Spirits”
Tory Lanez has provided a new official message from prison to his followers. On Monday (Sept. 25), the Toronto artist posted a clip to his Instagram of a phone with a record player in the background. After the voicemail sound effect prompted him to say a few words, he delivered a direct update about his whereabouts, mental state, and even announced some new music is coming soon.
“Ayo Umbrellas, what’s good? I’m talking to you from prison,” the “Say It” singer began. “Man, I’m just happy to get out that bulls**t county jail. They was hating on a young fly n**ga, you heard? Had me in 24-hour lockdown, half-sized cell by myself, no windows, no mirrors. N**ga ain’t even seen himself in a whole year yo.”
He then assured his followers that he is still in good spirits despite the troubling circumstances. “But with all them disadvantages against me, my head has always been held high, man. I want y’all to know I’m in great spirits. My drive and my ambition is growing stronger and stronger every day. I’m so proud of how y’all been moving in my support, man. I know this feels like a scary time, but don’t be afraid, man. This s**t don’t spark no fear in my heart at all.”
Lanez, né Daystar Peterson, concluded by confirming he’ll be releasing a project soon and shared the LP’s name before the recording cut him off. “In fact, I’m more prepared than ever. The music, the videos, and all the projects you wanted, they all ready to drop. So let’s just start with the one that we wanted the most, the Alone At Prom Deluxe,” he stated.
The 31-year-old artist is currently serving his 10-year sentence after being convicted of shooting Megan Thee Stallion at a party in July 2020. Since the event occurred, the former maintained his innocence. After a two-week trial, he was ultimately found guilty on all counts in December 2022.
In additional news, Peterson was sent to North Kern State Prison, which has reportedly raised safety concerns due to the institution’s ongoing violent history.
The Wiz Sets Broadway Opening for April 2024
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by Charlie Smalls, The Wiz retells the story of L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz for an all-Black cast. Schele Williams will helm this reimagined production, with choreography by Jaquel Knight, additional material by Amber Ruffin, and music supervision, orchestrations, and music arrangements by Joseph Joubert. The production will also feature vocal and music arrangements by Allen René Louis, and dance music arrangements by Adam Blackstone.
The production will include “Everybody Rejoice” (music and lyrics by Luther Vandross), as well as the “Emerald City Ballet,” with music by Timothy Graphenreed.
The Broadway cast will feature Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy, Deborah Cox as Glinda and Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow, and Wayne Brady as The Wiz. The Wiz ensemble includes Maya Bowles, Shayla Alayre Caldwell, Jay Copeland, Allyson Kaye Daniel, Judith Franklin, Michael Samarie George, Collin Heyward, Amber Jackson, Olivia Jackson, Christina Jones, Polanco Jones, Kolby Kindle, Mariah Lyttle, Kareem Marsh, Anthony Murphy, Cristina Rae, Matthew Sims Jr, Avilon Trust Tate, Keenan D. Washington, and Timothy Wilson.
The Wiz design team will include scenic design by Academy Award-winning Hannah Beachler (Black Panther, Beyoncé’s Black is King and Lemonade), costume design by Emmy Award-winning and two-time Academy Award-nominated Sharen Davis (Ray, Dreamgirls), lighting design by Barrymore Award-winning Ryan J. O’Gara (Thoughts of a Colored Man), sound design by Jon Weston (Parade), projection design by Daniel Brodie (Motown the Musical), wig design by Charles LaPointe (MJ the Musical), and make-up design by Kirk Cambridge-Del Pesche (The Piano Lesson).
The Wiz is currently on national tour, Click HERE for a full list of tour dates.
Krayzie Bone reportedly hospitalized after serious cardiovascular condition
Cleveland rap legend Krayzie Bone is reportedly fighting for his life after an unfortunate health emergency.
Admitted to a Los Angeles hospital on Friday (Sept. 22), TMZ revealed that the Bone Thugs-N-Harmony member experienced severe coughing episodes that produced large amounts of blood.
According to the outlet’s report, immediate medical scans showed a leaking artery in one of the rapper’s lungs. Doctors conducted emergency surgery, but the bleeding persisted. On Sunday (Sept. 24), the 50-year-old remained sedated and relied on a breathing machine for respiratory support.
Krayzie’s condition was reportedly complicated by his ongoing battle with sarcoidosis. The inflammatory ailment causes the immune system to overreact, forming clusters of inflamed tissue called granulomas in vital organs. Per the American Lung Society, sarcoidosis often targets the lungs and lymph nodes and can become life-threatening.
As news spread, prayers flooded social media. Fellow group member Bizzy Bone took to Instagram Stories. He urged, “Pray 4 Kray. Can’t sleep. Sometimes you just gotta pray.”
On Twitter, Kid Cudi wrote, “Prayin’ for you, Kray.” Three 6 Mafia‘s DJ Paul and Juicy J echoed the sentiments with the latter sharing, “Prayers up for Krayzie Bone.” Elsewhere, LeBron James also tweeted his support. “[Prayers] to Krayzie, man!!!!” he wrote.
The health crisis came on the heels of a triumphant moment for Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. In August, the group celebrated hip hop’s 50th anniversary and their own 30-year legacy by receiving a street name in their honor — Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Way — in Cleveland.
Krayzie commemorated the milestone on Instagram by expressing excitement for the future of the genre.
During a 2016 interview with VIBE, he spoke about the collective’s influence on hip hop. Krayzie shared, “Yeah, I think that’s important for music. I’ve always felt like the older generation and the newer generations should always bridge that gap in music. I like what A$AP Mob is doing. They even said that they based the whole way that they named themselves, and some of the music that they do was influenced by us.”
Britney Spears Concerns Fans By Dancing With Knives in New Instagram Video
The 41-year-old pop star is known for posting dancing videos on her Instagram account, but she added a whole new element of danger to the clips with her latest update.
“I started playing in the kitchen with knives today 🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️ !!!” Britney captioned the video.
In the video, she is seen waving around two large butcher knives in each hand while dancing around her living room. Three small dogs are standing right behind her as she dances around the room with the knives.
Back in May, TMZ reported that Britney has a “fascination with knives” and that they should be kept away from her. The outlet claimed that she had viewed knives as a form of protection during her conservatorship.
David McCallum, star of hit TV series ‘The Man From U.N.C.L.E.’ and ‘NCIS,’ dies at 90
Actor David McCallum, who became a teen heartthrob in the hit series “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” in the 1960s and was the eccentric medical examiner in the popular “NCIS” 40 years later, has died. He was 90.
McCallum died Monday of natural causes surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital, CBS said in a statement.
“David was a gifted actor and author, and beloved by many around the world. He led an incredible life, and his legacy will forever live on through his family and the countless hours on film and television that will never go away,” said a statement from CBS.
Scottish-born McCallum had been doing well appearing in such films “A Night to Remember” (about the Titanic), “The Great Escape” and “The Greatest Story Ever Told” (as Judas). But it was “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” that made the blond actor with the Beatlesque haircut a household name in the mid-‘60s.
The show, inspired by the popularity of the James Bond books and films, debuted in 1964. It starred Robert Vaughn as Napoleon Solo, an agent in a secretive, high-tech squad of crime fighters whose initials stood for United Network Command for Law and Enforcement. Despite the Cold War, the agency had an international staff, with McCallum as Illya Kuryakin, Solo’s Russian sidekick.
The role was relatively small at first, McCallum recalled, adding in a 1998 interview that “I’d never heard of the word ‘sidekick’ before.”
The show drew mixed reviews but eventually caught on, particularly with teenage girls attracted by McCallum’s good looks and enigmatic, intellectual character. By 1965, Illya was a full partner to Vaughn’s character and both stars were mobbed during personal appearances.
The series lasted until 1968. Vaughn and McCallum reunited in 1983 for a nostalgic TV movie, “The Return of the Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” in which the agents were lured out of retirement to save the world once more.
McCallum returned to television in 2003 in another series with an agency known by its initials — CBS’ “NCIS.” He played Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, a bookish pathologist for the Naval Criminal Investigation Service, an agency handling crimes involving the Navy or the Marines. Mark Harmon played the NCIS boss.
McCallum said he thought Ducky, who sported glasses and a bow tie and had an eye for pretty women, “looked a little silly, but it was great fun to do.” He took the role seriously, too, spending time in the Los Angeles coroner’s office to gain insight into how autopsies are conducted.
Co-star Lauren Holly took to X, formerly Twitter, to mourn: “You were the kindest man. Thank you for being you.” The previously announced 20th anniversary “NCIS” marathon on Monday night will now include an “in memoriam” card in remembrance of McCallum.
Largely based in the U.S. from the 1960s onward, McCallum was a longtime American citizen, telling The Associated Press in 2003 that “I have always loved the freedom of this country and everything it stands for. And I live here, and I like to vote here.”
In 1963, McCallum was part of the large cast of “The Great Escape” and he and his wife, actor Jill Ireland, became friendly with Charles Bronson, also in the film. Ireland eventually fell in love with Bronson and she and McCallum divorced in 1967. She married Bronson in 1968.
“It all worked out fine,” McCallum said in 2009, “because soon after that I got together with Katherine (Carpenter, a former model) and we’ve been very happily married for 42 years.”
McCallum had three sons from his first marriage, Paul, Jason and Valentine, and a son and daughter from his second, Peter and Sophie. Jason died of an overdose.
“He was a true Renaissance man — he was fascinated by science and culture and would turn those passions into knowledge. For example, he was capable of conducting a symphony orchestra and (if needed) could actually perform an autopsy, based on his decades-long studies for his role on NCIS,” Peter McCallum said in a statement.
In 2007, when he was working on “NCIS,” McCallum told a reporter: “I’ve always felt the harder I work, the luckier I get. I believe in serendipitous things happening, but at the same time, dedicating yourself to what you do is the best way to get along in this life.”
Jada Pinkett Smith Shares Loving Post On Will Smith’s Birthday
Jada took to her Instagram page and shared a beautiful black and white photo of herself, Will, and their children Trey Smith, Jaden Smith, and Willow Smith.
“I’m so glad you were born on this day,” she wrote. Jada Pinkett Smith, who tied the knot with Will Smith in 1997, went on to write, “Without you I would not have experienced the greatest joy of my life… the love of our family.”
The “Worthy” author spoke on the “divine assignment” that they have chosen to walk together adding that she is “grateful for the wells of laughter along the trails of tears we’ve shared. Thank you for helping me learn to embrace it all … with a smile.”
In closing, Jada wished Will Smith “100+ more birthdays full of growth, acceptance, and joy♥️🪽”
Happiest Birthday, Will!
Alicia Keys Files A Trademark For Her Upcoming Tea Line Called “Alicia Teas”
Based on the reports revealed by TMZ, Alicia’s enterprise, AK Worldwide, has submitted an application to secure the naming rights for “Alicia Teas,” intended for a range of tea products.
While details regarding the line remain unknown at this time, it seems as though the idea stemmed from her husband, Swizz Beats, who went all out for the singer’s birthday in 2020, surprising his wife with her very own line of teas.
Additionally, Swizz even playfully suggested that the line might one day grace the shelves of Starbucks outlets around the globe. This hints at the exciting possibility that fans of the coffee chain might soon start their mornings with a cup of “Alicia Teas!”
“Everybody in Starbucks all around the world will see Alicia Teas. Happy birthday, baby. Love you,” Swizz wrote in a past Instagram caption.
This marks the second occasion that the 42-year-old “If I Ain’t Got You” singer has sought to trademark “Alicia Teas.” An initial application was submitted in October 2019, and as of March this year, it had been assigned to an examiner. However, Keys has already established herself as an entrepreneur by introducing her makeup line, Keys Soulcare, in 2021.
Furthermore, she is currently gearing up for the debut of her Off-Broadway production, “Hell’s Kitchen,” for which she has composed both the music and lyrics. The musical is scheduled to make its premiere on November 19th at the Public Theater in New York.
Keke Palmer on Whether She and Darius Jackson are Still Together: “Mind Y’alls Business”
Keke Palmer skillfully avoided inquiries regarding the current state of her fluctuating romance with Darius Jackson following their joint attendance at a Beyonce concert earlier this month.
The actress made an appearance on Monday’s episode of “Today with Hoda & Jenna,” during which co-hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager inquired about her ongoing romantic connection with Jackson around the 3:07 min mark.
“I’m going to take a page out of Beyoncé’s book: Mind y’all’s business,” Palmer said.
Hager then proceeded to ask Palmer if she was content, to which she responded, “Yes, life is good. I have nothing but gratitude, honestly. Seriously.”
Palmer, who has a baby boy named Leodis with Jackson, made her appearance on the morning show a few weeks after their outing to Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” tour in Los Angeles. This apparent date night initially left some fans puzzled, as reports had emerged in August suggesting that they had split following his public criticism of her attire at a Usher concert in July.
“It’s the outfit tho.. you a mom,” he tweeted under a clip of Palmer being serenaded by Usher.
The former Nickelodeon star later indirectly commented on his remarks, expressing her regret that she hadn’t taken more photographs in that particular outfit.
Following this incident, People magazine reported that their social media disagreement had led to their separation. Nevertheless, a little over a month later, Jackson joined Palmer in celebrating her 30th birthday last month.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Wolf Sisters
Howl?
Howl?
EVENING GOODIES: Meet Tex Mex
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HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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