#FASHIONFAB: Jason Momoa at the AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM Beijing Fan Screening
And now, here’s Jason Momoa ripping his clothes off at the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom fan event in Beijing. Take another look.
A few tid-bits on the film. Director James Wan and Aquaman himself, Jason Momoa—along with Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Nicole Kidman—return in the sequel to the highest-grossing DC film of all time: “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.”
Having failed to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta, still driven by the need to avenge his father’s death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all. This time Black Manta is more formidable than ever before, wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident, which unleashes an ancient and malevolent force. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisoned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they must set aside their differences in order to protect their kingdom and save Aquaman’s family, and the world, from irreversible destruction.
So is he HOT or NOT?
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Commemorates Her Father’s Life Following His Death
Cynthia Bailey is reflecting on the life and legacy of her father, who recently died. He was 78-years-old.
On Sunday (Dec. 17), the "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star paid her respects to her father, Eligah Bailey Jr., in a series of heartwarming posts on Instagram, as reported by PEOPLE. Her posts include touching words about their relationship and memorable moments from her father's funeral.
In the first post, Cynthia included a throwback photograph of herself in a brown and gold frame that her father kept near to him before his death.
"Daddy i know that we were not in the best place when you passed but we always agreed to disagree & respected each other’s space," she began in the caption of the post. "all i wanted to ever do was be a good daughter & make you proud of me.”
“I was so touched with all that we have been through (the up’s & downs) together that the entire time you always kept this photo of me close to you. the whole time. i now have it & will keep it close to me as well."
She continued, "i promise as you look down on me from heaven that i will continue to try to make you proud. grateful for the beautiful memories. those are the only ones that really matter in the end. i love you. i am sorry. forgive me. rest in peace.”
Her last post featured a video montage from her dad's funeral, which she added Tramaine Hawkins's song "Goin' Up Yonder". Cynthia began the video with a photo of him with a bright smile and piercing eyes while wearing a black pin-striped suit, red tie, and matching handkerchief. That image was followed by his casket being placed into the back of a hearse. She also included a few snaps of herself with loved ones and the moment her father's casket was lowered into the ground.
"RIP DADDY.π️ Eligah Bailey Jr. June 24th 1945-Dec. 10th 2023," she added to the caption.
She wrapped up that post by thanking people who had reached out to her during this difficult time.
#MusicNews: Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ Returns To No. 1 On The Hot 100
The Christmas season has really begun, as Mariah Carey has the No. 1 song in America once again. The singer’s annual smash “All I Want for Christmas Is You” returns to the top spot on the Hot 100 this week, extending its reign as the most successful holiday hit of all time.
“All I Want for Christmas Is You” lifts from No. 2 to the highest rung on this week’s Hot 100–the ranking of the most-consumed songs in the U.S. This isn’t the first time that the tune has ruled over the tally–far from it, in fact. The cut has now ruled over the chart for 13 nonconsecutive frames.
Carey first pushed “All I Want for Christmas Is You” to the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100 back in 2019. Before then, the holiday staple had been slowly rising on the chart, landing higher and higher each year. Once it finally hit No. 1, the cut made history in several ways, and its ascent has become an annual affair.
2023 now marks the fifth year in a row that “All I Want for Christmas Is You” has reached the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100. Such a performance has never been recorded by any other hit single in U.S. history.
For a while, it seemed like Carey might not get a turn on the Hot 100’s summit this year. Before “All I Want for Christmas Is You” became the top tune in the country, it was beaten by another holiday smash. Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” finally hit No. 1 on the chart just a few weeks back, 65 years after it was first released. That cut was always previously stuck in the runner-up rung behind Carey for years, but now they’ve both spent some time in the front of the sleigh.
And now, here’s Jason Momoa ripping his clothes off at the Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom fan event in Beijing. Take another look.
A few tid-bits on the film. Director James Wan and Aquaman himself, Jason Momoa—along with Patrick Wilson, Amber Heard, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Nicole Kidman—return in the sequel to the highest-grossing DC film of all time: “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.”
Having failed to defeat Aquaman the first time, Black Manta, still driven by the need to avenge his father’s death, will stop at nothing to take Aquaman down once and for all. This time Black Manta is more formidable than ever before, wielding the power of the mythic Black Trident, which unleashes an ancient and malevolent force. To defeat him, Aquaman will turn to his imprisoned brother Orm, the former King of Atlantis, to forge an unlikely alliance. Together, they must set aside their differences in order to protect their kingdom and save Aquaman’s family, and the world, from irreversible destruction.
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Commemorates Her Father’s Life Following His Death
On Sunday (Dec. 17), the "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star paid her respects to her father, Eligah Bailey Jr., in a series of heartwarming posts on Instagram, as reported by PEOPLE. Her posts include touching words about their relationship and memorable moments from her father's funeral.
In the first post, Cynthia included a throwback photograph of herself in a brown and gold frame that her father kept near to him before his death.
"Daddy i know that we were not in the best place when you passed but we always agreed to disagree & respected each other’s space," she began in the caption of the post. "all i wanted to ever do was be a good daughter & make you proud of me.”
“I was so touched with all that we have been through (the up’s & downs) together that the entire time you always kept this photo of me close to you. the whole time. i now have it & will keep it close to me as well."
She continued, "i promise as you look down on me from heaven that i will continue to try to make you proud. grateful for the beautiful memories. those are the only ones that really matter in the end. i love you. i am sorry. forgive me. rest in peace.”
Her last post featured a video montage from her dad's funeral, which she added Tramaine Hawkins's song "Goin' Up Yonder". Cynthia began the video with a photo of him with a bright smile and piercing eyes while wearing a black pin-striped suit, red tie, and matching handkerchief. That image was followed by his casket being placed into the back of a hearse. She also included a few snaps of herself with loved ones and the moment her father's casket was lowered into the ground.
"RIP DADDY.π️ Eligah Bailey Jr. June 24th 1945-Dec. 10th 2023," she added to the caption.
She wrapped up that post by thanking people who had reached out to her during this difficult time.
#MusicNews: Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ Returns To No. 1 On The Hot 100
The Christmas season has really begun, as Mariah Carey has the No. 1 song in America once again. The singer’s annual smash “All I Want for Christmas Is You” returns to the top spot on the Hot 100 this week, extending its reign as the most successful holiday hit of all time.
“All I Want for Christmas Is You” lifts from No. 2 to the highest rung on this week’s Hot 100–the ranking of the most-consumed songs in the U.S. This isn’t the first time that the tune has ruled over the tally–far from it, in fact. The cut has now ruled over the chart for 13 nonconsecutive frames.
Carey first pushed “All I Want for Christmas Is You” to the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100 back in 2019. Before then, the holiday staple had been slowly rising on the chart, landing higher and higher each year. Once it finally hit No. 1, the cut made history in several ways, and its ascent has become an annual affair.
2023 now marks the fifth year in a row that “All I Want for Christmas Is You” has reached the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100. Such a performance has never been recorded by any other hit single in U.S. history.
For a while, it seemed like Carey might not get a turn on the Hot 100’s summit this year. Before “All I Want for Christmas Is You” became the top tune in the country, it was beaten by another holiday smash. Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” finally hit No. 1 on the chart just a few weeks back, 65 years after it was first released. That cut was always previously stuck in the runner-up rung behind Carey for years, but now they’ve both spent some time in the front of the sleigh.
“All I Want for Christmas Is You” makes its way to No. 1 on the Hot 100 as consumption of the tune skyrockets—something that’s not to be unexpected as the holiday featured in the song’s name inches closer and closer. The seasonal favorite racked up 42.2 million streams in the past tracking frame. It also sold 8,000 copies and earned 26.1 million radio impressions across the U.S.
After two weeks in charge of the Hot 100, Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” dips to second place—back in the runner-up rung, where it has spent so much time prior to becoming a leader.
#HipHopNews: Offset Says Fans Using Takeoff’s Name ‘In The Middle Of All This Isn’t Cool,’ Quavo Seems To React
On Saturday (Dec. 16), Offset jumped on X, formerly known as Twitter, and addressed fans who were mentioning Takeoff's name amid news of his breakup with Cardi B. The Atlanta rapper said that he was still grieving the loss of the late Migos artist and felt it was in poor taste.
Correction: Fans using Takeoff's name in the middle of all this isn't cool. I'm still grieving my brother, and would like for his name to not be brought up," Offset wrote in his post, which can be viewed below.
Quavo appeared to have read Offset's message and seemingly concurred with his sentiments.
"Nephew ain’t wit the soap opera LONG LIVE Rocket [rocket ship emoji] [prayer hands emoji] pray for y’all tho [Eleven infinity emojis]," Quav wrote in his missive, which can be viewed below.
Huncho then posted another message with an image of Takeoff and the words, "Us vs Them [rocket ship emoji]."
lthough Offset didn't explain what he meant by saying "in the middle of all this isn't cool," many fans have speculated that he's referring to his breakup with Cardi B.
On Friday (Dec. 15), Cardi hopped on X and blasted her now ex-husband Offset and threatened to "take it there."
"@OffsetYRN you a b***h a*s n***a...and trust me imma f**kin take it there," Cardi wrote, adding, "Muf**as will try you when you at ya lowest and your most vulnerable time.. you out here feeling yourself but trust me the tables turn."
The Bronx rhymer also expressed her disdain for Offset on Instagram, tearfully calling 'Set out for being deceitful.
"You been f**king feeling yourself you b**ch a*s n***a because of your b**ch a*s album and s**t and you really been f**king been doing me dirty after so many f**king years that I motherf**king helped your a*s. Not even a f**king thank you that I got from you b**ch a*s. And it's so crazy that I gotta go to the f**king internet because whenever the f*ck I tell you something you don't take s**t seriously," she wrote in part.
Hopefully, Offset and Cardi B can mend their fractured relationship.
Lizzo Calls Designer's Harassment Lawsuit 'Meritless' And 'Salacious'
Lizzo has called for dismissal against a harassment and discrimination lawsuit made by Asha Daniels, a former clothing designer of her tour. The Grammy-winning artist's attorneys filed a motion to get the lawsuit tossed out, claiming it "meritless and salacious."
In the legal documents, which was filed on Friday, December 15 in a Los Angeles court, the "About Damn Time" hitmaker's legal team claimed that Daniels "failed to perform the work that she was assigned and, eventually, just played hooky and refused to show up for work." It was also said that the designer was fired after "abandoning her post" on the day of Lizzo's concert in Paris, France.
As for the reason why they wanted the lawsuit to be dismissed, the attorneys cited two reasons, one of which was that it was filed in the wrong location." The legal team additionally pointed out that Daniels "is a New York resident who worked for a Delaware corporation in Europe," meaning that she "has alleged no nexus to California.”
Meanwhile, Los Angeles attorney Ron Zambrano, who is representing Daniels, called the motion "another Hail Mary by Lizzo’s team to try to shift blame to the victims, as she has done to the three other plaintiffs who have sued her for similar allegations of harassment, disability discrimination and retaliatory termination."
Of the "Juice" singer, he continued in a statement, "Lizzo and her lawyers can continue trying to rationalize her illegal and wretched conduct but we remain committed to seeking justice for our clients, and look forward to our day in court where Lizzo can explain her behavior in a public forum."
In her lawsuit against Lizzo and her team, Daniels alleged that Lizzo's employees were forced to work in a “racist and sexualized” environment despite the singer's online preach about body positivity and inclusion. She accused the star alongside her wardrobe manager Amanda Nomura and her tour manager Carlina Gugliotta of making racist and fat-phobic remarks. She also claimed that they denied her medical care, leading to anxiety and PTSD.
"I felt like I was living in a madhouse. It was totally shocking. I was listening to this Black woman on this huge stage have this message of self-love and caring for others and being empathetic and being strong and standing up for others. And I was witnessing myself, the dancers and the background vocalists and my local team in every city be harassed and bullied regularly," Daniels shared with NBC News at the time.
Marvel Cuts Ties With Jonathan Majors Following Guilty Verdict
Deadline first reported the news on Monday, which IGN has confirmed with a source with knowledge of the information. Majors faces up to a year in prison after a jury on Monday found him guilty on one count of assault and one count of harassment, both misdemeanors.
It's currently unclear if Marvel will recast Kang, or scrap the character altogether. Variety previously reported that the studio was considering a pivot to Doctor Doom instead. In the meantime, the approach to the upcoming Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, in which Majors would've obviously played a crucial role, remains in flux. Loki creator Michael Waldron was recently tapped to take over writing duties from Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania scribe Jeff Loveness.
Majors, who also appeared in Creed III earlier this year, made his debut in the MCU in the Season 1 finale of Loki. He'd go on to play a large role in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and Loki Season 2, with the stage clearly set for him to be a central villain of the MCU's Phase 5.
Things changed, however, after Majors was arrested on March 25 on charges of strangulation, assault, and harassment. After several delays, a trial began on December 4, during which his ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari testified that he was abusive throughout their relationship, but focused on that March 25 incident. Jabbari said she took his phone after seeing a text from another woman, and Majors twisted her hands and arm in trying to pry it from her in the backseat of an SUV, and struck a blow to her head.
Video evidence revealed to the six-person jury also showed Majors and Jabbari leaving the vehicle, with Majors shoving her back into it.
While the jury found Majors guilty of the two counts of assault and harassment, they also acquitted him on two other counts: intentional assault in the third degree and aggravated assault in the second degree. Majors pleaded not guilty to all counts, and his legal team has long argued that Jabbari was the aggressor. In a statement obtained by IGN on Monday, his defense attorney Priya Chaudhry said that he "still has faith in the process and looks forward to fully clearing his name."
While Marvel cutting ties with Majors following the verdict isn't a huge shock (Disney had already removed the Majors-starring Magazine Dreams from its release schedule), it is confirmation of what will inevitably be a big shift for the studio's future plans. Marvel does, however, does have some time to figure things out; the only MCU film set to release next year is Deadpool 3, followed by Captain America: Brave New World on February 14, 2025.
Pope Francis approves allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples
Pope Francis has formally signed off on allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples -- a radical change in Vatican policy.
A declaration from the Vatican's doctrine office released Monday provides guidance and details the declaration, which states, in part, "When people ask for a blessing, an exhaustive moral analysis should not be placed as a precondition for conferring it. For those seeking a blessing should not be required to have prior moral perfection."
"Ultimately, a blessing offers people a means to increase their trust in God," the declaration states. "The request for a blessing, thus, expresses and nurtures openness to the transcendence, mercy and closeness to God in a thousand concrete circumstances of life, which is no small thing in the world in which we live."
Pope Francis waves to the crowd as he appears at the balcony to deliver his Christmas Urbi et Orbi blessing in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican on December 25, 2022.
"By removing barriers to priests blessing LGBTQ couples, the Pope accurately recognizes that LGBTQ people and our relationships are worthy of the same affirmation and support in the Church, and this strengthens couples in their faith and to the community," GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said in a statement Monday. "This is the latest in a historic pattern of actions and announcements from Pope Francis which show that LGBTQ people should not be used as a dividing issue, and we are worthy of love, respect and compassion."
In October, the pope publicly responded to cardinals who questioned his affirmation of the LGBTQ community in the Catholic Church, suggesting it may be possible to bless same-sex unions -- a move applauded at the time by LGBTQ advocates.
"Pope Francis' response is both unprecedented and compassionate and continues to urge every Catholic and leader toward acceptance and recognition of LGBTQ people," Ellis said in October.
New Ways Ministry, an LGBTQ Catholic outreach group, said at the time that the pope's statement was a significant advancement in the inclusion of LGBTQ Catholics in the church.
In August, Pope Francis told the hundreds of thousands gathered before him for World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, that the Catholic Church is for "todos, todos, todos" -- everyone, everyone, everyone.
Pope Francis has also criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality.
Throughout his papacy, Francis has withheld the church's position on doctrinal matters but introduced a softer approach to those who didn't follow the church's teaching, especially regarding LGBTQ people. When a journalist asked Francis a question about gay priests while returning from the first foreign trip of his papacy in 2013, the pope stunned people with his response: "If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?"
Pope Francis approves allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples
A declaration from the Vatican's doctrine office released Monday provides guidance and details the declaration, which states, in part, "When people ask for a blessing, an exhaustive moral analysis should not be placed as a precondition for conferring it. For those seeking a blessing should not be required to have prior moral perfection."
"Ultimately, a blessing offers people a means to increase their trust in God," the declaration states. "The request for a blessing, thus, expresses and nurtures openness to the transcendence, mercy and closeness to God in a thousand concrete circumstances of life, which is no small thing in the world in which we live."
In October, the pope publicly responded to cardinals who questioned his affirmation of the LGBTQ community in the Catholic Church, suggesting it may be possible to bless same-sex unions -- a move applauded at the time by LGBTQ advocates.
"Pope Francis' response is both unprecedented and compassionate and continues to urge every Catholic and leader toward acceptance and recognition of LGBTQ people," Ellis said in October.
New Ways Ministry, an LGBTQ Catholic outreach group, said at the time that the pope's statement was a significant advancement in the inclusion of LGBTQ Catholics in the church.
In August, Pope Francis told the hundreds of thousands gathered before him for World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, that the Catholic Church is for "todos, todos, todos" -- everyone, everyone, everyone.
Pope Francis has also criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality.
Throughout his papacy, Francis has withheld the church's position on doctrinal matters but introduced a softer approach to those who didn't follow the church's teaching, especially regarding LGBTQ people. When a journalist asked Francis a question about gay priests while returning from the first foreign trip of his papacy in 2013, the pope stunned people with his response: "If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?"
Shannen Doherty Fired From 'Charmed' After Alyssa Milano Threatened To Sue The Series
Shannen Doherty was allegedly forced out of "Charmed" behind the scenes by her co-star Alyssa Milano. The "Beverly Hills, 90210" star, 52, who is battling stage 4 cancer, was said by fellow actress Holly Marie Combs to have been let go from The WB witchcraft series as show bosses feared Alyssa would sue for a "hostile workplace environment" if Shannen was not kicked out of her role.
Holly, 50, who starred alongside Shannen and Alyssa, also 50, on the series, told in the Monday, December 18 episode of Shannen's "Let's Be Clear" podcast how she called a meeting with show producer Jonathan Levin, 51, in the early 2000s to get to the bottom of why Shannen was fired.
She said, "(Jonathan) said, 'We didn't mean to, but we've been backed into this corner, we're basically in this position where it's one or the other,'" Combs recalled. "'We were told (by Alyssa) it's her or (Shannen) and Alyssa has threatened to sue us for a hostile workplace environment.' "
Holly appeared to hint Alyssa had built a case against her and Shannen to help her argument and allegedly "documented every time she felt uncomfortable on set." The actress, who starred on the show throughout all of its eight seasons from 1998 to 2006, also admitted she was caught off guard over the move as she couldn't remember any "harsh words" being exchanged or "brawls" happening in public.
She added tensions between the three stars occurred behind the scenes and was never anything noticed by the crew or special guest stars. Holly shared, "There are actually people who behave badly and get away with it. I don't think people understand that never happened here."
She added she was ready to walk away from the show at the time of the row and told Jonathan she wouldn't be moving forward without Shannen. Shannen's character Prue Halliwell was killed off in the series three finale of "Charmed" in 2001, and the actress said about the pain of being fired, "I lived a year after that sort of replaying everything in my brain and really trying to find those moments (of alleged bad behaviour on set) - and I couldn't find them."
"I don't ever remember being mean to (Alyssa) on set. I remember an episode I directed where she did something on the Christmas break and they asked me to work around some things with her and I had no problem with it. I couldn't have been more kind and understanding," she added.
She also reflected about how she had handled the situation differently at the time, "I definitely would've sued and I would've been honest about the situation because the rumours followed me regardless. As you get older, you accept that a situation happened. Acceptance and moving on with your life does not equate to forgiveness. You just learn a lesson and look at somebody differently and move on."
Spyglass Tried to Have a Meeting With Melissa Barrera After Huge Fan Backlash Over Her Firing From Scream 7
Spyglass Media Group reportedly fired Melissa Barrera from Scream 7 after the actress bravely stood up to support the notion for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel.
However, this move earned them massive backlash following which Spyglass was reported to have gotten into a meeting with Barrera to get her to take the fall, but only in vain.
Melissa Barrera standing her ground and becoming the voice for innocent people has further increased her fan following, support, and respect in fans' eyes.
Melissa Barrera is one of the most tremendous personalities in all of Hollywood, and her big screen works as well as her personality off-screen and on social media clearly stand as proof of that. Yet, despite being one of the biggest (if not the biggest) fan-favorite characters from the Scream franchise, she was fired from the franchise by Spyglass for allegedly posting ‘antisemitic posts’.
However, this move on the production studios’ side earned them massive backlash from fans, even more so because of the reason behind her getting fired. Thus, thanks to fans, as per reports, Spyglass allegedly tried to have a meeting with Barrera following the same. But it seems things aren’t exactly going their way, considering how Melissa Barrera quite clearly stood her ground!
Cam'ron breaks down meetup with longtime crush Nia Long: "She was very, very cool"
The latest episode of “It Is What It Is” kicked off with Ma$e asking Cam’ron about his recent run-in with Nia Long. As we previously reported, he finally met his longtime crush while attending Rich Paul’s 42nd birthday party.
“I’m not with Nia, people are doing exactly what you’re saying. ‘Yo Cam, don’t fumble this.’ Look, I met my Ni-Amore. She was very, very cool,” Cam’ron stated in between bouts of laughter while also referencing his personal nickname for the veteran actress. “I seen her — actually, [Suga Dugga] brought her to me. He said, ‘My brother loves you.’ I was like, ‘Oh, Ni-Amore! What’s happening?’ So she says, ‘You’re funny. You’re hilarious.'”
Cam’ron continued his recap by addressing an Instagram DM that he sent to Long earlier this month. The Love Jones talent responded by calling the gesture “fly.” For those who missed it, the Harlem emcee took to social media to share his lengthy message, one that saw him consoling Long following her highly publicized split from NBA coach Ime Udoka.
“Hey, stink. I was giving you some time to yourself till I reached out,” Cam’ron wrote. “Your perseverance as a strong Black woman through this turbulent time has been something to behold. You shouldn’t be taken advantage of and exploited as you did nothing to deserve this. Especially all over these sports networks. You’re bigger and better than that. You’re a queen, and by the way I’m a king. Together, we can achieve the greatness we were both destined for as a couple… As I sit here sipping gazpacho and watching The Best Man, I was inspired to reach out because that’s what I am — the best man for you!”
A declaration from the Vatican's doctrine office released Monday provides guidance and details the declaration, which states, in part, "When people ask for a blessing, an exhaustive moral analysis should not be placed as a precondition for conferring it. For those seeking a blessing should not be required to have prior moral perfection."
"Ultimately, a blessing offers people a means to increase their trust in God," the declaration states. "The request for a blessing, thus, expresses and nurtures openness to the transcendence, mercy and closeness to God in a thousand concrete circumstances of life, which is no small thing in the world in which we live."
Pope Francis waves to the crowd as he appears at the balcony to deliver his Christmas Urbi et Orbi blessing in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican on December 25, 2022.
"By removing barriers to priests blessing LGBTQ couples, the Pope accurately recognizes that LGBTQ people and our relationships are worthy of the same affirmation and support in the Church, and this strengthens couples in their faith and to the community," GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said in a statement Monday. "This is the latest in a historic pattern of actions and announcements from Pope Francis which show that LGBTQ people should not be used as a dividing issue, and we are worthy of love, respect and compassion."
In October, the pope publicly responded to cardinals who questioned his affirmation of the LGBTQ community in the Catholic Church, suggesting it may be possible to bless same-sex unions -- a move applauded at the time by LGBTQ advocates.
"Pope Francis' response is both unprecedented and compassionate and continues to urge every Catholic and leader toward acceptance and recognition of LGBTQ people," Ellis said in October.
New Ways Ministry, an LGBTQ Catholic outreach group, said at the time that the pope's statement was a significant advancement in the inclusion of LGBTQ Catholics in the church.
In August, Pope Francis told the hundreds of thousands gathered before him for World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, that the Catholic Church is for "todos, todos, todos" -- everyone, everyone, everyone.
Pope Francis has also criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality.
Throughout his papacy, Francis has withheld the church's position on doctrinal matters but introduced a softer approach to those who didn't follow the church's teaching, especially regarding LGBTQ people. When a journalist asked Francis a question about gay priests while returning from the first foreign trip of his papacy in 2013, the pope stunned people with his response: "If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?"
Pope Francis approves allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples
A declaration from the Vatican's doctrine office released Monday provides guidance and details the declaration, which states, in part, "When people ask for a blessing, an exhaustive moral analysis should not be placed as a precondition for conferring it. For those seeking a blessing should not be required to have prior moral perfection."
"Ultimately, a blessing offers people a means to increase their trust in God," the declaration states. "The request for a blessing, thus, expresses and nurtures openness to the transcendence, mercy and closeness to God in a thousand concrete circumstances of life, which is no small thing in the world in which we live."
In October, the pope publicly responded to cardinals who questioned his affirmation of the LGBTQ community in the Catholic Church, suggesting it may be possible to bless same-sex unions -- a move applauded at the time by LGBTQ advocates.
"Pope Francis' response is both unprecedented and compassionate and continues to urge every Catholic and leader toward acceptance and recognition of LGBTQ people," Ellis said in October.
New Ways Ministry, an LGBTQ Catholic outreach group, said at the time that the pope's statement was a significant advancement in the inclusion of LGBTQ Catholics in the church.
In August, Pope Francis told the hundreds of thousands gathered before him for World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, that the Catholic Church is for "todos, todos, todos" -- everyone, everyone, everyone.
Pope Francis has also criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality.
Throughout his papacy, Francis has withheld the church's position on doctrinal matters but introduced a softer approach to those who didn't follow the church's teaching, especially regarding LGBTQ people. When a journalist asked Francis a question about gay priests while returning from the first foreign trip of his papacy in 2013, the pope stunned people with his response: "If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?"
Shannen Doherty Fired From 'Charmed' After Alyssa Milano Threatened To Sue The Series
Holly, 50, who starred alongside Shannen and Alyssa, also 50, on the series, told in the Monday, December 18 episode of Shannen's "Let's Be Clear" podcast how she called a meeting with show producer Jonathan Levin, 51, in the early 2000s to get to the bottom of why Shannen was fired.
She said, "(Jonathan) said, 'We didn't mean to, but we've been backed into this corner, we're basically in this position where it's one or the other,'" Combs recalled. "'We were told (by Alyssa) it's her or (Shannen) and Alyssa has threatened to sue us for a hostile workplace environment.' "
Holly appeared to hint Alyssa had built a case against her and Shannen to help her argument and allegedly "documented every time she felt uncomfortable on set." The actress, who starred on the show throughout all of its eight seasons from 1998 to 2006, also admitted she was caught off guard over the move as she couldn't remember any "harsh words" being exchanged or "brawls" happening in public.
She added tensions between the three stars occurred behind the scenes and was never anything noticed by the crew or special guest stars. Holly shared, "There are actually people who behave badly and get away with it. I don't think people understand that never happened here."
She added she was ready to walk away from the show at the time of the row and told Jonathan she wouldn't be moving forward without Shannen. Shannen's character Prue Halliwell was killed off in the series three finale of "Charmed" in 2001, and the actress said about the pain of being fired, "I lived a year after that sort of replaying everything in my brain and really trying to find those moments (of alleged bad behaviour on set) - and I couldn't find them."
"I don't ever remember being mean to (Alyssa) on set. I remember an episode I directed where she did something on the Christmas break and they asked me to work around some things with her and I had no problem with it. I couldn't have been more kind and understanding," she added.
She also reflected about how she had handled the situation differently at the time, "I definitely would've sued and I would've been honest about the situation because the rumours followed me regardless. As you get older, you accept that a situation happened. Acceptance and moving on with your life does not equate to forgiveness. You just learn a lesson and look at somebody differently and move on."
Spyglass Tried to Have a Meeting With Melissa Barrera After Huge Fan Backlash Over Her Firing From Scream 7
Spyglass Media Group reportedly fired Melissa Barrera from Scream 7 after the actress bravely stood up to support the notion for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel.
However, this move earned them massive backlash following which Spyglass was reported to have gotten into a meeting with Barrera to get her to take the fall, but only in vain.
Melissa Barrera standing her ground and becoming the voice for innocent people has further increased her fan following, support, and respect in fans' eyes.
Melissa Barrera is one of the most tremendous personalities in all of Hollywood, and her big screen works as well as her personality off-screen and on social media clearly stand as proof of that. Yet, despite being one of the biggest (if not the biggest) fan-favorite characters from the Scream franchise, she was fired from the franchise by Spyglass for allegedly posting ‘antisemitic posts’.
However, this move on the production studios’ side earned them massive backlash from fans, even more so because of the reason behind her getting fired. Thus, thanks to fans, as per reports, Spyglass allegedly tried to have a meeting with Barrera following the same. But it seems things aren’t exactly going their way, considering how Melissa Barrera quite clearly stood her ground!
Cam'ron breaks down meetup with longtime crush Nia Long: "She was very, very cool"
“I’m not with Nia, people are doing exactly what you’re saying. ‘Yo Cam, don’t fumble this.’ Look, I met my Ni-Amore. She was very, very cool,” Cam’ron stated in between bouts of laughter while also referencing his personal nickname for the veteran actress. “I seen her — actually, [Suga Dugga] brought her to me. He said, ‘My brother loves you.’ I was like, ‘Oh, Ni-Amore! What’s happening?’ So she says, ‘You’re funny. You’re hilarious.'”
Cam’ron continued his recap by addressing an Instagram DM that he sent to Long earlier this month. The Love Jones talent responded by calling the gesture “fly.” For those who missed it, the Harlem emcee took to social media to share his lengthy message, one that saw him consoling Long following her highly publicized split from NBA coach Ime Udoka.
“Hey, stink. I was giving you some time to yourself till I reached out,” Cam’ron wrote. “Your perseverance as a strong Black woman through this turbulent time has been something to behold. You shouldn’t be taken advantage of and exploited as you did nothing to deserve this. Especially all over these sports networks. You’re bigger and better than that. You’re a queen, and by the way I’m a king. Together, we can achieve the greatness we were both destined for as a couple… As I sit here sipping gazpacho and watching The Best Man, I was inspired to reach out because that’s what I am — the best man for you!”
‘SNL’ Comic Michael Che Slammed for ‘Belittling Black Women’ Following ‘Racist’ Skit and Jokes About BeyoncΓ© and Coretta Scott King
“Saturday Night Live” fueled outrage and roaring laughter during its Dec. 16 Christmas episode, which saw comics Michael Che and Colin Jost trip each other up with controversial jokes.
The latest “SNL” Weekend Update segment pulled off its annual joke swap bit, but this year it seemed to take things a step too far for some viewers. As a result, critics have blasted Che for laughing his way through the wisecracks that Jost wrote for him. More than a few social media users have declared the banter as “racist.”
The first offense ensued as Che addressed the recent backlash BeyoncΓ© received after fans disputed her lighter complexion and platinum blond hair. “In fact, BeyoncΓ© looked so white, that I was finally attracted to her,” Che said as laughter began to bubble up.
The singer’s mother, Tina Knowles, and her fans came to her defense, hitting back at the comments claiming that BeyoncΓ© made a conscious effort to appear more white or to resemble the Kardashian family at the premiere of the “Renaissance” film in Los Angeles earlier this month.
The “Black is King” vocalist even seemed to issue a subtle response to the chatter with a photo of herself dressed in all white, making it evident that her skin is obviously melanated.
Other jokes between the men included likening former President Barack Obama to an African “dodo” bird, stating that Muslim and Jewish people “need Jesus” amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, and laughing off a punning punchline declaring Scarlett Johansson a better black widow than Coretta Scott King.
A naysayer of the skit wrote, “Michael Che is the same person who got called out for making r*pe jokes about Simone Biles on Instagram. When he got called out for doing so, he lied and said he was hacked and deleted his Instagram. This ‘joke’ about BeyoncΓ© isn’t surprising. He’s a nasty person who loves belittling Black women.”
Another said, “The fact that a black man said the joke makes it worse, so lame.”
In 2021, the “Top Five” actor sarcastically quipped that his Instagram was hacked after posts rating jokes about Simone Biles sexual assault were shared on his account.
Another critic of the “SNL” season 49 year-end episode wrote, “That was simply racist. Like what, “She finally looked so white that I was finally attracted to her!” How was that even allowed? @nbcsnl is simply disgusting!”
While Che has not directly addressed the response to the joke swap, he did post a screenshot of Jost attempting to dab “activist” Hattie Daniels during the segment. Screen Rant confirmed that Daniels, played by an elderly actress, was a way of Che to troll his co-star as he delivered controversial takes about Obama and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s wife.
Kanye West & Will Smith Pictured Together in First Class on Flight From Dubai to Los Angeles
Kanye West and Will Smith posed for a selfie with a fan while hanging out by the first class bar on an Emirates Airlines flight on Sunday (December 18).
TMZ reports that both of the stars were on a flight home to L.A. after work trips in the United Arab Emirates.
Will was in town to perform at a music festival in Saudi Arabia alongside DJ Jazzy Jeff and he also brought his son Jaden Smith on the trip.
Kanye was in Dubai for just a quick weekend trip as he was previously spotted at Disneyland on Thursday and in Las Vegas on Friday. It’s believed that he traveled to Dubai to work on his new album and just stayed for a little over a day.
Keke Palmer's Ex Darius Jackson Files Countersuit, Accuses Her of 'Abusive Conduct'
Darius Jackson is responding to Keke Palmer‘s accusations of abuse against him.
In early November, Keke filed for a restraining order against Darius, alleging physical and emotional abuse against her ex-boyfriend and additionally asking the court for sole custody of their son Leodis.
Keke provided photographic evidence and detailed multiple incidents of alleged abuse she faced while with Darius.
In response to Keke‘s lawsuit, Darius filed a counterclaim on Friday (December 15), the Los Angeles Times reports.
Darius argued that Keke “repeatedly engaged in abusive conduct” and “acted as the primary aggressor” in their relationship, which lasted two years.
Per the outlet, Darius‘ filing cites several incidents during which he claims his former partner “was verbally and physically abusive” and “frequently became agitated and aggressive after consuming alcohol.”
He alleges that Keke “punched me in the face” in August 2021, “punched the windshield of my car while I was driving” in January 2022 and “physically attacked me by choking and hitting me” in February 2022.
Darius has asked the court to deny Keke‘s request for a restraining order, as he’s also seeking joint legal and physical custody of their son.
Celine Dion no longer has ‘control over her muscles’, says sisterπ₯²
“She’s working hard, but she doesn’t have control over her muscles,” Claudette Dion told Canada’s 7 Jours, per the Daily Mail. “What breaks my heart is that she’s always been disciplined. She’s always worked hard. Our mother always told her, ‘You’re going to do it well, you’re going to do it properly.’”
Last December, the 55-year-old “My Heart Will Go On” singer shared that she had been diagnosed with the incurable neurological condition, and was cancelling her forthcoming tour dates.
Then in May, Dion was forced to pull the remaining dates of her world tour. The Canadian musician said that she was “working really hard to build back my strength”.
She added: “I’m so sorry to disappoint all of you once again. It’s not fair to you to keep postponing the shows, and even though it breaks my heart, it’s best that we cancel everything now until I’m really ready to be back on stage again.”
However, in the new interview, Dion’s sister played down the possibility of her returning to full-scale touring. “It’s true that in both our dreams and hers, the goal is to return to the stage,” she said. “In what capacity? I don’t know.”
Claudette Dion added that the rarity of the condition means there has been scant research into a cure: “The vocal cords are muscles, and the heart is also a muscle. This is what comes to get me. Because it’s one out of a million case, the scientists haven’t done that much research because it didn’t affect that many people.”
She added that, nevertheless, Celine and her family remain hopeful: “Some people have lost hope because it’s an illness that isn’t well known. If only you knew the number of phone calls the Foundation gets about Celine! People tell us they love her and they’re praying for her. She gets so many messages, presents and blessed crucifixes.”
SPS is an autoimmune and neurological disorder that causes rigidity in the torso and limbs. Symptoms also include muscle spasms, which have affected Dion’s ability to sing and perform, and can be triggered by environmental stimuli (like loud noises) or emotional stress.
The Four-Time Tony Award®-Winning Hit ‘MJ The Musical’ is Startin’ Somethin’ in Los Angeles!
*Producers Lia Vollack, John Branca, John McClain, and Broadway in Hollywood are thrilled to announce that the smash-hit play, MJ The Musical will play at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre for a limited six-week engagement this holiday season from December 20, 2023 – January 28, 2024. Ticket prices start at $39. Additional ticket information at www.BroadwayInHollywood.com.
He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Los Angeles as MJ, the multi–Tony Award®-winning new musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. Created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status.
The MJ creative team features Scenic Design by two-time Tony and Emmy Award winner Derek McLane, Lighting Design by seven-time Tony Award winner Natasha Katz, Costume Design by Tony and Emmy Award winner Paul Tazewell, Sound Design by Tony Award winner Gareth Owen, Projection Design by two-time Tony Award nominee Peter Nigrini, Hair & Wig Design by two-time Emmy Award nominee Charles G. LaPointe and Makeup Design by Emmy nominee Joe Dulude II. The creative team also features Musical Supervision by Tony Award nominee David Holcenberg, Orchestrations and Arrangements by David Holcenberg and Tony Award winner Jason Michael Webb, and Music Direction by Victor Simonson. Casting by The Telsey Office / Rachel Hoffman, CSA, Lindsay Levine, CSA.
The MJ First National Tour is general managed by Bespoke Theatricals. The stage management team is led by Production Stage Manager Shawn Pennington, Stage Manager Geoff Maus and Assistant Stage Managers Maya Bhatnagar and Xavier Khan. The company management team is led by Company Manager Justin T. Scholl and Associate Company Manager Tameka Sadler. For tickets to the Los Angeles run: MJ | Broadway in Hollywood
For more information worldwide, visit: http://www.mjthemusical.com
‘All In The Family’ Creator Norman Lear’s Cause Of Death Revealed As Heart-Related Complications
Norman Lear, the renowned television figure celebrated for his creation of “All In The Family,” passed away due to heart-related complications.
Lear’s death certificate cites cardiac arrest as the official cause of his demise. According to the document obtained by TMZ, congestive heart failure is listed as an underlying cause of death as well.
On December 6, at his Beverly Hills residence, Lear passed away at the age of 101. A groundbreaking television sitcom creator and movie producer, Lear captivated audiences with iconic shows such as “All in the Family,” “Maude,” “The Jeffersons,” “Good Times,” “Sanford and Son,” “One Day at a Time,” and “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.” His contributions were notable not only for their humor but also for addressing weightier themes uncommon in network television comedy at the time. Lear’s work courageously delved into topics such as abortion, race relations, mental health, and alcoholism.
Shortly after his passing, Jimmy Kimmel, who collaborated with Lear on various projects, joined a slew of celebrities in paying tribute to the TV icon.
“He taught us so much about so many serious things, always making us laugh while he did it, and everyone who works in or even watches television owes him a great debt. Especially me,” Kimmel said. “He created families that mirrored ours, showing us a world in which Archie Bunker and Michael Stivic could learn to not only co-exist, but to love one another. Even at 101, Norman cared as much about the future, our children and planet as anyone I have ever known.”
Lear is survived by his third wife, Lyn Davis Lear, as well as his six children: Ellen, Kate, Maggie, Benjamin, and the twins Madelaine Rose and Brianna Elizabeth.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Can’t Touch This!
Just can’t
Just can’t
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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