#MAGFAB: Simone Biles for Vanity Fair Feb 2024!
In a new cover story for VANITY FAIR’s February issue, Simone Biles sits down with contributing editor, Leah Faye Cooper, to discuss the highs and lows of her gymnastics career, dealing with criticism and mental health, her marriage to Jonathan Owens, and whether she sees a return to the Olympics in her future.
…On her early career goals: “I just wanted to try college gymnastics”
…On her early career goals: “I just wanted to try college gymnastics”
“I just wanted to try to do college gymnastics,” Biles says, but everything changed after she watched Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney, Aly Raisman, Kyla Ross, and Jordyn Wieber dominate at the 2012 Olympics in London. “I saw those girls and I was like, I’m going to the same camps they’re going to; maybe I could do that.”
…On the pressures of fame: “I just get a little flustered. My anxiety kicks in”
Biles tells Vanity Fair, the rise to fame has been exciting, intense, and a bit disorienting. “I think everyone wants to be famous, and then when it happens, you almost hit a wall and you have an identity crisis. You’re like, Am I made out for this? Why did I wish for this?” She adds, “I’m not saying that [people] scream and line up like I’m Taylor Swift, [but] I still get a lot of attention. When five people come up to me and they’re rushing for a photo, I just get a little flustered. My anxiety kicks in.”
…On her foray back into gymnastics and speaking out about mental health
“I wish I could sit here and tell you it was glorious,” Biles says of her time off following the Tokyo Olympics. “When I took a break after 2016, I had the time of my life. I was doing anything and everything. But after 2020, it was kind of depressing until I started therapy and got help. I felt like a failure. Even though I was empowering so many people and speaking out about mental health, every time I talked about my experience in Tokyo—because it obviously didn’t go the way that I had planned—it stung a little bit. But all in all, it was the best decision.” Biles remains a vocal proponent of mental health care. “I’ve always been in therapy [and] I’ve always been an advocate for medicine,” she says. Years ago Biles was prescribed Lexapro for anxiety, and she continues to take the medication today.
…On the criticism she experienced and being put on a pedestal: “I was not okay with that”
On the scathing criticism she received, Biles says, “Of course you have all the assholes that are like, ‘You’re a quitter,’ and they just ran with that.” As pundits and trolls declared that the Olympian had selfishly let her country down, others “tried to put me on this pedestal as a mental health advocate,” she tells Vanity Fair. “I was not okay with that. If I can be a lending hand and help people, then I’ll be open, honest, and vulnerable,” she continues, “but you cannot stick me in front of a crowd and say, ‘Do everything she’s doing.’ ”
Biles met husband Jonathan Owens on Raya; He “had no clue” she was a world famous gymnast
“I had just broken up [with someone] and my friend was like, ‘Get on Raya, get on Raya,’ ” Biles tells Vanity Fair. “My guard went straight up when she said dating site.” But she matched with Jonathan Owens her first week on the app. “The second week I met him in person, and the rest is history. We were hooked,” Biles tells Vanity Fair.
Owens adds: “She doesn’t like to admit it, but she messaged me first.” On whether he knew he was falling for the greatest gymnast of all time? “A lot of people don’t believe me when I say I had no clue,” Owens tells Vanity Fair.
Biles wishes she could spend more time with husband, Jonathan Owens
“If I’m going to be honest, obviously he’s very fine,” Biles says of her initial attraction to Owens. “[But] besides his looks, he was so sweet and kind, and I think what I liked about him was his confidence. He truly believes he’s the best at everything,” she says, clearly amused. “I’ve never had so much fun in my life,” Biles says of their wedding. “I was 19 when I won my first Olympics, and I was like, How am I supposed to top this? My wedding topped it. It was the greatest feeling ever.” After the wedding, Owens flew to Green Bay to officially join the Packers. “I cried a lot,” Biles said, adding that while she knows they can handle the distance, she wishes she could spend more time with her husband. “We’re both so busy, so it’s not like I’m sitting [around] waiting for him to come home, but it’s just hard.”
…On planning a return for the Paris Olympics: “If I don’t […] it won’t absolutely crush me”
“If I don’t make it to Paris, it won’t absolutely crush me,” she tells Vanity Fair. So nothing definitive? “Correct,” says Biles.
#RHOA: Kandi Says Producers Haven’t ‘Asked Anyone Back Yet’ Amid Ongoing Reboot Rumors!
Amid ongoing rumors that #RHOA could be completely rebooted, Kandi Burruss is sharing some unfiltered thoughts.
According to the housewife/entrepreneur she and the rest of the season 15 cast are still unsure about their future on the Bravo show.
“They still haven’t told everybody who they’re bringing back,” said Kandi in a recent livestream clip captured by The Neighborhood Talk. “They’re being real…[they’re] trippin’! People got lives around here. We gotta make plans for other things,” she added.
In November, Kandi also told E! News that she thinks new faces are on the way, alongside old cast members though she declined to confirm who the seasoned housewives could be.
“They haven’t told me anything, but if you’re asking me to guess, I think there’s truth to both,” said Kandi at Variety’s Women of Reality TV Dinner presented by DIRECTV Nov. 29. “I do believe that some old—I don’t want to say old—but previous cast members will be back. I don’t know how many, but I do think at least one.”
“I do think that we will see someone new,” the 47-year-old added. “I definitely feel like they are switching it up. I cannot say who they are bringing back from the current cast.”
#MusicNews: Trailer For Amy Winehouse Biopic ‘Back To Black’ Revealed & Film Scheduled For Spring Release!
Any discussion of entertainers who departed the earthly realm before receiving the flowers they deserved includes the name Amy Winehouse. Following the release of her debut album Frank in 2003, largely produced by powerhouse Salaam Remi, the British GRAMMY Award-winning singer-songwriter took the world by storm. While some were critical of her public outbursts, mental illness and struggles with addiction, others chose instead to focus on her tremendous and unique talent. Nearly 13 years after her tragic death at the age of 27, her music remains in heavy rotation and her influence is seen throughout the myriad of young artists who follow in her footsteps.
Now, following 2015’s heartbreaking, Academy Award-winning documentary Amy and after a handful of attempts at capturing the many facets of such a complex being, StudioCanal and Focus Features are set to release a biopic about the life of Amy Winehouse entitled Back To Black. Named after her critically-acclaimed 2006 album Back To Black, the film is described as, “An unflinching look at the modern celebrity machine and a powerful tribute to a once-in-a-generation talent.”
The biopic stars actress Marisa Abela and will feature many of Winehouse’s hits recorded and performed by Abela. Director Sam Taylor-Johnson claims Abela, “doesn’t impersonate Amy, she inhabits her.”
WATCH HERE
…On the pressures of fame: “I just get a little flustered. My anxiety kicks in”
Biles tells Vanity Fair, the rise to fame has been exciting, intense, and a bit disorienting. “I think everyone wants to be famous, and then when it happens, you almost hit a wall and you have an identity crisis. You’re like, Am I made out for this? Why did I wish for this?” She adds, “I’m not saying that [people] scream and line up like I’m Taylor Swift, [but] I still get a lot of attention. When five people come up to me and they’re rushing for a photo, I just get a little flustered. My anxiety kicks in.”
…On her foray back into gymnastics and speaking out about mental health
“I wish I could sit here and tell you it was glorious,” Biles says of her time off following the Tokyo Olympics. “When I took a break after 2016, I had the time of my life. I was doing anything and everything. But after 2020, it was kind of depressing until I started therapy and got help. I felt like a failure. Even though I was empowering so many people and speaking out about mental health, every time I talked about my experience in Tokyo—because it obviously didn’t go the way that I had planned—it stung a little bit. But all in all, it was the best decision.” Biles remains a vocal proponent of mental health care. “I’ve always been in therapy [and] I’ve always been an advocate for medicine,” she says. Years ago Biles was prescribed Lexapro for anxiety, and she continues to take the medication today.
…On the criticism she experienced and being put on a pedestal: “I was not okay with that”
On the scathing criticism she received, Biles says, “Of course you have all the assholes that are like, ‘You’re a quitter,’ and they just ran with that.” As pundits and trolls declared that the Olympian had selfishly let her country down, others “tried to put me on this pedestal as a mental health advocate,” she tells Vanity Fair. “I was not okay with that. If I can be a lending hand and help people, then I’ll be open, honest, and vulnerable,” she continues, “but you cannot stick me in front of a crowd and say, ‘Do everything she’s doing.’ ”
Biles met husband Jonathan Owens on Raya; He “had no clue” she was a world famous gymnast
“I had just broken up [with someone] and my friend was like, ‘Get on Raya, get on Raya,’ ” Biles tells Vanity Fair. “My guard went straight up when she said dating site.” But she matched with Jonathan Owens her first week on the app. “The second week I met him in person, and the rest is history. We were hooked,” Biles tells Vanity Fair.
Owens adds: “She doesn’t like to admit it, but she messaged me first.” On whether he knew he was falling for the greatest gymnast of all time? “A lot of people don’t believe me when I say I had no clue,” Owens tells Vanity Fair.
Biles wishes she could spend more time with husband, Jonathan Owens
“If I’m going to be honest, obviously he’s very fine,” Biles says of her initial attraction to Owens. “[But] besides his looks, he was so sweet and kind, and I think what I liked about him was his confidence. He truly believes he’s the best at everything,” she says, clearly amused. “I’ve never had so much fun in my life,” Biles says of their wedding. “I was 19 when I won my first Olympics, and I was like, How am I supposed to top this? My wedding topped it. It was the greatest feeling ever.” After the wedding, Owens flew to Green Bay to officially join the Packers. “I cried a lot,” Biles said, adding that while she knows they can handle the distance, she wishes she could spend more time with her husband. “We’re both so busy, so it’s not like I’m sitting [around] waiting for him to come home, but it’s just hard.”
…On planning a return for the Paris Olympics: “If I don’t […] it won’t absolutely crush me”
“If I don’t make it to Paris, it won’t absolutely crush me,” she tells Vanity Fair. So nothing definitive? “Correct,” says Biles.
#RHOA: Kandi Says Producers Haven’t ‘Asked Anyone Back Yet’ Amid Ongoing Reboot Rumors!
According to the housewife/entrepreneur she and the rest of the season 15 cast are still unsure about their future on the Bravo show.
“They still haven’t told everybody who they’re bringing back,” said Kandi in a recent livestream clip captured by The Neighborhood Talk. “They’re being real…[they’re] trippin’! People got lives around here. We gotta make plans for other things,” she added.
In November, Kandi also told E! News that she thinks new faces are on the way, alongside old cast members though she declined to confirm who the seasoned housewives could be.
“They haven’t told me anything, but if you’re asking me to guess, I think there’s truth to both,” said Kandi at Variety’s Women of Reality TV Dinner presented by DIRECTV Nov. 29. “I do believe that some old—I don’t want to say old—but previous cast members will be back. I don’t know how many, but I do think at least one.”
“I do think that we will see someone new,” the 47-year-old added. “I definitely feel like they are switching it up. I cannot say who they are bringing back from the current cast.”
#MusicNews: Trailer For Amy Winehouse Biopic ‘Back To Black’ Revealed & Film Scheduled For Spring Release!
Any discussion of entertainers who departed the earthly realm before receiving the flowers they deserved includes the name Amy Winehouse. Following the release of her debut album Frank in 2003, largely produced by powerhouse Salaam Remi, the British GRAMMY Award-winning singer-songwriter took the world by storm. While some were critical of her public outbursts, mental illness and struggles with addiction, others chose instead to focus on her tremendous and unique talent. Nearly 13 years after her tragic death at the age of 27, her music remains in heavy rotation and her influence is seen throughout the myriad of young artists who follow in her footsteps.
Now, following 2015’s heartbreaking, Academy Award-winning documentary Amy and after a handful of attempts at capturing the many facets of such a complex being, StudioCanal and Focus Features are set to release a biopic about the life of Amy Winehouse entitled Back To Black. Named after her critically-acclaimed 2006 album Back To Black, the film is described as, “An unflinching look at the modern celebrity machine and a powerful tribute to a once-in-a-generation talent.”
The biopic stars actress Marisa Abela and will feature many of Winehouse’s hits recorded and performed by Abela. Director Sam Taylor-Johnson claims Abela, “doesn’t impersonate Amy, she inhabits her.”
WATCH HERE
Hardcore Amy Winehouse fans are a bit apprehensive about this film and question whether the same forces that exploited her and scrutinized everything from her wardrobe to her relationships are even capable of developing a biopic befitting such an icon and sadly a tortured soul. Though it remains to be seen, in the age of social media and passionate public discourse, her enduring fanbase and others protective of her legacy are sure to make their delight or disdain known.
View the movie poster and watch the first trailer for Back To Black below. Mark your calendars for Amy Winehouse’s story to hit theaters in the United Kingdom and Ireland on April 12th before the film makes its international debut.
#HipHopNews: Dame Dash Fires Back At Fat Joe For Saying Dame Should Make Another Jay-Z
Dame Dash posted a video from The CEO Show on his America Nu Network YouTube channel addressing comments Fat Joe made on his Instagram Live on Dec. 29, 2023. In the clip, which can be seen below, the Roc-A-Fella Records co-founder wanted to address the Terror Squad leader's remarks about people being delusional and his suggestion that Dame should make another Jay-Z.
"Why the f**k would I make another Hov?" Dame asked. "He was double dipping. We were paying him highly as an artist and then he was double dipping from the company and he didn't make me a lot of money."
"He [Jay-Z] did not generate $100 million a year for me that's why I had to do a lot of other s**t. I don't want to make another Hov," he continued.
"But I did make a [Kanye West], a Cam'ron—pause—or help and you know after you do that I don't have anything else to do."
Dame went on to claim that instead of creating another Jay-Z, he built a fashion brand called Rachel Roy that he estimated generated $100 million in revenue every year.
"I don't make an artist, I make a company," he affirmed.
Dame Dash also suggested that Fat Joe take a look at his new television network Amercian Nu, which he is slowly building on YouTube.
Dame Dash was responding to Fat Joe's Instagram Live video, which you can watch below.
On Dec. 29, 2023, the Bronx rhymer hopped on his IG Live to speak his truth about some of the things he witnessed in 2023. At one point, the rap veteran spoke about delusional people who "hype themselves to believe something they are not."
"If you're a hustler, if you're a money getter then where's your money? If you're a genius and you're smart then where's your s**t?" Fat Joe asked.
"So whoever you are you know Jay-Z said, you know, you made a Jay-Z go make another Jay-Z," he added.
Fat Joe clarified that he wasn't referring to Dame Dash, specifically, but he appeared to throw shade at the former rap mogul by adding that he has helped others in his career such as DJ Khaled and the late rapper Big Pun.
Lil Nas X Apologizes For Communion Video, But Says “J CHRIST” Isn’t Mocking Christianity!
This past Friday, Lil Nas X released his first new single in nearly two years, “J CHRIST.” Its accompanying music video and the rollout for the track has been heavy on the religious imagery — the cover art features Lil Nas X being pulled up on the cross, the video has him dressed up as the devil and Jesus and places him in a bunch of Biblical scenarios. On Monday, Lil Nas X posted a sincere-seeming video to his social media accounts in which he reflects on some of the backlash he’s predictably received from conservative and religious groups in response.
This past Friday, Lil Nas X released his first new single in nearly two years, “J CHRIST.” Its accompanying music video and the rollout for the track has been heavy on the religious imagery — the cover art features Lil Nas X being pulled up on the cross, the video has him dressed up as the devil and Jesus and places him in a bunch of Biblical scenarios. On Monday, Lil Nas X posted a sincere-seeming video to his social media accounts in which he reflects on some of the backlash he’s predictably received from conservative and religious groups in response.
WATCH HERE
“I wanted to not necessarily apologize but I wanted to explain where my head’s at and where it’s been for the past week,” he said. “First of all, when I did the artwork I knew there would be some upset people or whatnot, simply because religion is a very sensitive topic for a lot of people. But I also didn’t mean to mock. This wasn’t a ‘fuck you’ to you people, ‘fuck you to the Christians.’ It was not that. It was literally me saying, ‘Oh, I’m back like Jesus,’ that was the whole thing.”
“I’m not the first person to dress up as Jesus — I’m not the first rapper, I’m not the first artist, and I won’t be the last,” he continued. “And I know given my history, with the ‘Call Me By Your Name’ video, anything I do related to religion could be seen as mockery, and that was not the case with this.”
He went on to directly address (and apologize for) a promotional video released last week that features him downing communion wine and wafers. “I will say with the communion video, with me eating the crackers and juice, I thought that video was going to be the video to lighten the mood,” he said. “I thought that was something we all wanted to do as kids, but I didn’t understand the reality of what it is. It’s me eating the communion, which is the symbolism of Jesus’ blood and bones or something like that, I don’t remember completely. I didn’t mean it as a cannibalism thing or whatever the freak… I do apologize for that, I will say I am sorry for that.”
“Though I don’t agree with all of Christianity’s rules or whatnot, I know not everybody follows Christianity by the book 100% or the world would be a lot crazier,” he continued. “But I do apologize for that. This is not to try to get everyone on my good side or whatnot, this is more so to clear my own head about my own decisions. I know I messed up really bad this time, and I can act unbothered all I want but it’s definitely taken a mental toll on me.”
“I wanted to not necessarily apologize but I wanted to explain where my head’s at and where it’s been for the past week,” he said. “First of all, when I did the artwork I knew there would be some upset people or whatnot, simply because religion is a very sensitive topic for a lot of people. But I also didn’t mean to mock. This wasn’t a ‘fuck you’ to you people, ‘fuck you to the Christians.’ It was not that. It was literally me saying, ‘Oh, I’m back like Jesus,’ that was the whole thing.”
“I’m not the first person to dress up as Jesus — I’m not the first rapper, I’m not the first artist, and I won’t be the last,” he continued. “And I know given my history, with the ‘Call Me By Your Name’ video, anything I do related to religion could be seen as mockery, and that was not the case with this.”
He went on to directly address (and apologize for) a promotional video released last week that features him downing communion wine and wafers. “I will say with the communion video, with me eating the crackers and juice, I thought that video was going to be the video to lighten the mood,” he said. “I thought that was something we all wanted to do as kids, but I didn’t understand the reality of what it is. It’s me eating the communion, which is the symbolism of Jesus’ blood and bones or something like that, I don’t remember completely. I didn’t mean it as a cannibalism thing or whatever the freak… I do apologize for that, I will say I am sorry for that.”
“Though I don’t agree with all of Christianity’s rules or whatnot, I know not everybody follows Christianity by the book 100% or the world would be a lot crazier,” he continued. “But I do apologize for that. This is not to try to get everyone on my good side or whatnot, this is more so to clear my own head about my own decisions. I know I messed up really bad this time, and I can act unbothered all I want but it’s definitely taken a mental toll on me.”
Joyce Randolph, The Honeymooners’ last surviving member who played 'Trixie' dies at 99!
Beloved actress Joyce Randolph, best known for her role as Trixie Norton in The Honeymooners, passes away at age 99
Beloved actress Joyce Randolph, best known for her role as the sassy and spirited Trixie Norton in the classic sitcom The Honeymooners, passed away peacefully in Manhattan at the age of 99. The actor who was the last surviving main character of the all-time famous Golden Age TV sitcom, left a void not just in the world of entertainment, but in the hearts of generations who found joy in her wit and warmth. Joyce Randolph’s son on January 14 confirmed the news to CBS.
Randolph's career spanned decades, but it was her chemistry with Jackie Gleason and Art Carney in The Honeymooners that secured her place in comedy history. The actress is reported to have passed away on Saturday evening from natural causes at her home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. After spending five years as a member of Gleason’s on-the-air repertory company, Randolph essentially retired, deciding to fully focus on marriage and motherhood.
In 1955 Randolph married businessman Richard Lincoln Charles who later died at the age of 74 in 1997. The actress has since living with her only child.
Fans pay tribute to Joyce Randolph
Fans of the show and the actress shared heartfelt comments and condolences after she passed away at the age of 99. “A very sad farewell Joyce Randolph was the last living member of the Classic 39 episodes of The Honeymooners, not just of the main cast, but every supporting player, even those who were kids at the time. She was 99 years old! RIP”, “The Last of The Honeymooners is now gone.” “My prayers and condolences to the family of the legendary Joyce Randolph. I really enjoyed her in the Honeymooners.”
All about The Honeymooners
The television show from the 1950s chronicled the comic escapades of Jackie Gleason's character, Ralph Kramden the bus driver with big dreams and an even bigger temper from New York, and his sharp-tongued wife Alice portrayed by Audrey Meadows.Their best friend, the sewer worker Ed Norton (Art Carney), and his ever-optimistic wife Trixie (Joyce Randolph), embark on a riotous ride through everyday struggles, wacky schemes, and moments of heartwarming tenderness
#BoxOfficeNews: 'Mean Girls' IS #1 At The Box Office!
Not accounting for inflation, that's more than the $24.4 million the original movie made in its opening weekend. The new musical take on Tina Fey's 2004 comedy film is expected to make $32 million when the results of the four-day weekend are revealed on Monday.
Overseas, the movie, which was directed by Mark Waters from Fey's script, launched in only a few major markets, but got off to a strong start in Australia and Mexico, where it came in No. 1. Its foreign tally is $6.5 million for a global start of $37.5 million against a production budget of $36 million before marketing.
"The property is iconic," says Chris Aronson, Paramount's president of domestic distribution. "Tina Fey is legendary and her contemporary twist has resonated with audiences, particularly the female audience."
"It's no secret that the release calendar is a little light for the first couple months of the year and because of the reception to this film we stand a chance of broadening this audience," he goes on gushing. "It really is a crowd-pleaser."
Starring Angourie Rice, Renee Rapp and Auli'i Cravalho with Fey and Tim Meadows reprising their roles from the 2004 movie, the new iteration received majorly positive reviews from critics (71%) on Rotten Tomatoes. Audiences, made up of 76% female, gave the film an average grade of "B" on an A+ to F scale.
The popularity of "Mean Girls" was apparently enough to drown the buzz of "The Beekeeper", an action thriller starring Jason Statham. It opens at No. 2 with an estimated $16.8 million in North America, with additional $20.4 million from the international markets for a global start of $37.2 million.
Contrary to "Mean Girls", the David Ayer-directed pic apparently targeted male audiences, with men making up approximately 62% of ticket buyers. By the end of the four-day weekend, the movie is expected to have made $19.1 million.
Last week's victor "Wonka" slides down to the third place, adding an estimated $8.4 million. It has now made over $178 million domestically and $500 million globally.
"Musicals are on a roll," says Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for Comscore. "It seems like a lot of studios run away from putting musical on their films for fear of limiting their audience pool, but I think this is a genre Hollywood should embrace and highlight."
At No. 4 is "Anyone But You", which took in an estimated $6.9 million in its fourth weekend. "Migration" rounds out the top five with approximately $6.2 million in its fourth weekend.
Top 10 of North American Box Office (Jan. 12-14, 2024):
"Mean Girls (2024)" - $28 million
"The Beekeeper" - $16.8 million
"Wonka" - $8.4 million
"Anyone But You" - $6.9 million
"Migration" - $6.2 million
"Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" - $5.3 million
"Night Swim" - $4.7 million
"The Boys in the Boat" - $3.5 million
"The Book of Clarence" - $2.6 million
"The Iron Claw" - $2.4 million
The 29th Annual Critics' Choice Awards 2024: The Winners List
"Oppenheimer" has come out as the biggest winner at the 29th annual Critics' Choice Awards. The epic biographical thriller nabbed a total of eight awards at the Sunday, January 14 ceremony, including the coveted Best Picture.
The second to last award which was announced that night, Best Director, went to Christopher Nolan who helmed the movie. The film earlier won Best Supporting Actor for Robert Downey Jr., Best Acting Ensemble, Best Cinematography for Hoyte van Hoytema, Best Editing for Jennifer Lame, Best Visual Effects and Best Score for Ludwig Goransson.
Trailing behind "Oppenheimer" was "Barbie", which led the race with the most nominations. It won six out of its 18 nominations, including Best Comedy. It won five other awards in Best Original Screenplay for Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, Best Costume Design for Jacqueline Durran, Best Production Design for Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer, Best Song for "I'm Just Ken", which was sung by Ryan Gosling, and Best Hair and Makeup.
Meanwhile, the Best Actor and Best Actress awards went to Paul Giamatti ("The Holdovers") and Emma Stone ("Poor Things") respectively. Giamatti beat out the likes of Bradley Cooper ("Maestro"), Leonardo DiCaprio ("Killers of the Flower Moon") and Cillian Murphy ("Oppenheimer") in the category. As for Stone, her strong competitors included such names as Lily Gladstone ("Killers of the Flower Moon"), Carey Mulligan ("Maestro") and Margot Robbie ("Barbie").
"The Holdovers" also bagged multiple awards that night, winning Best Supporting Actress for Da'Vine Joy Randolph and Best Young Actor/Actress for Dominic Sessa in addition to Giamatti's Best Actor win.
"Anatomy of a Fall" was named Best Foreign Language Film, while Best Animated Feature went to "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse". The show additionally saw America Ferrera being honored with SeeHer Award, and Harrison Ford being presented with Career Achievement Award.
The 2024 Critics' Choice Awards, presented by The Critics Choice Association (CCA), was held at the Barker Hangar at the Santa Monica Airport in Santa Monica, California, and hosted by Chelsea Handler. It's honoring the finest achievements of filmmaking and television programming in 2023, with "The Bear" and "Beef" dominating the full TV winner list with four awards apiece.
Complete Movie Winner List of the 29th Critics' Choice Awards:
Best Picture: "Oppenheimer"
Best Director: Christopher Nolan - "Oppenheimer"
Best Actor: Paul Giamatti - "The Holdovers"
Best Actress: Emma Stone - "Poor Things"
Best Supporting Actor: Robert Downey Jr. - "Oppenheimer"
Best Supporting Actress: Da'Vine Joy Randolph - "The Holdovers"
Best Young Actor/Actress: Dominic Sessa - "The Holdovers"
Best Acting Ensemble: "Oppenheimer"
Best Original Screenplay: Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach - "Barbie"
Best Adapted Screenplay: Cord Jefferson - "American Fiction"
Best Cinematography: Hoyte van Hoytema - "Oppenheimer"
Best Editing: Jennifer Lame - "Oppenheimer"
Best Costume Design: Jacqueline Durran - "Barbie"
Best Production Design: Sarah Greenwood and Katie Spencer - "Barbie"
Best Score: Ludwig Goransson - "Oppenheimer"
Best Song: "I'm Just Ken" - "Barbie"
Best Hair and Makeup: "Barbie"
Best Visual Effects: "Oppenheimer"
Best Comedy: "Barbie"
Best Animated Feature: "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse"
Best Foreign Language Film: "Anatomy of a Fall" - France
SeeHer Award: America Ferrera
Career Achievement Award: Harrison Ford
Congrats to all!
Jay-Z Says the Term ‘Cowboy’ Was Used as a ‘Slur’ Until Black People Reclaimed the Narrative and Made It ‘Look So Good’
The “Song Cry” rapper co-produced the film and during the discussion, he noted the origins of the term “cowboy,’ stating that it was previously used as a slur against Black men.
“I believe the term ‘cowboy’ was created as a slur for Black people,” he said. “I think that’s where the term comes from. In my research of history, the term comes from, it was a slur, and obviously, like most things, you know, we made it look so good they was like, ‘give that back.'” He continued, “It’s just representation.”
But Jay-Z isn’t wrong. The word “cowboy” in Spanish means vaquero, which is derived from the Spanish word for cow, vaca. A vaquero is an expert horseman who herds cattle on horseback. The Spanish introduced cattle to the New World centuries before Americans began raising them.
According to the book “The Negro Cowboys” by Philip Durham & Everett L. Jones, during the 1800s after the Civil War, white cowboys were called “cowhands” while Black cowhands were called “cowboys.” 20 to 25 percent of cowboys were Black after slavery ended as freed Americans traveled West and found work in the cattle industry.
The “cowboy” clip of the interview was shared by the Hip Hop Wolf on Instagram, where fans also mentioned the historical context of the word. One fan replied, “Black cowboys were the original cowboys.” Another added, “You learn something new every day.”
In response to many who cast doubt on Jay-Z’s definition, one person said, “I salute Jay. It saddens me that soo many of OUR people didnt / dont know this.”
While promoting his first western, “The Harder They Fall” starring Idris Elba, Regina King, RJ Cyler, and LaKeith Stanfield back in 2021, Jay-Z told “Entertainment Tonight” that it was important to educate people and “widen the lens” about history.
“I just love to be a part of projects that widen the lens you know because once it’s widened for us then it’s widened for you know Asians, for, you know, Mexicans, for everyone,” he said.
The film producer added that Westerns used to dominate television screens, and Black people weren’t represented. “One of the only things on, you know, public television was Westerns every week,” he continued. “We weren’t represented in those in those at all.”
Cyler and Stanfield also star in “The Book of Clarence” in Theaters now.
Ariana DeBose Reacts After Being Dissed at Critics Choice Awards 2024: 'No I Didn't Find It Funny'
Ariana DeBose is speaking out in response to the tasteless joke made about her at the 2024 Critics Choice Awards.
The Oscar-winning actress and Tony-nominated Broadway star was in attendance to support her movie Wish on Sunday (January 14) at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, Calif
Ariana‘s song “This Wish” from the Disney movie was nominated for Best Song.
The presenters of the category noted that three of the nominated songs were performed by “some of the most famous voices in the music industry,” referring to Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Lenny Kravitz.
But then…They decided to say that the remaining songs were performed by “actors who think they’re singers: Jack Black, Ariana DeBose, and Ken himself, Ryan Gosling.”
Well, Ariana quite literally IS a singer and she won an Oscar for performing in a musical movie and has an extensive list of Broadway credits.
Ariana responded to the diss on Instagram Stories, saying, “No I didn’t find it funny. LOL.”
Kai Cenat Calls Out Lil Nas X For “Disrespecting God”
Kai Cenat is not a fan of Lil Nas X‘s promotional methods. The popular streamer called out the two-time Grammy winner for “disrespecting God” this week.
The Montero artist promoted his new single “J Christ” by posting a photo of himself hanging on a cross while men and women tugged on ropes to make it stand up. The photo, which was the single’s cover art, caused a lot of controversy on social media and Cenat chose to address X in one of his recent streams.
“Yo, Lil Nas X, you could eat my whole d**k!” he exclaimed. “I hate that ni**a, bro. God gonna handle you in the right way. God gonna handle you, bro.” Someone off camera questioned why Cenat was so frustrated, to which he responded, “He’s extremely disrespectful. Go on his page, bro. He’s disrespecting God himself. He’s disrespecting the whole culture.” Check out the rant below.
Lil Nas X described “J Christ” as “dedicated to the man who had the greatest comeback of all time” when he shared the cover art on Monday (Jan. 8). He countered the backlash he received on social media by posting an acceptance letter to the Biblical Studies Program at Liberty University, which was later proven to be fake by the university.
“J Christ” is a comeback of sorts for the pop star, whose last release “Star Walkin'” came in September 2022. Months before, he teamed up with NBA YoungBoy on “Late To Da Party (F*ck BET)” which came out two days before the 2022 BET Awards.
X hasn’t released a full-length project since 2021’s Montero, which boasted the hit single “Industry Baby” featuring Jack Harlow.
Bernice King implores politicians to back up MLK Day quotes with real work
Hashtags, quotes and archival photos and footage honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is expected to flood social media on Monday (Jan. 15), the day of the late civil rights icon’s posthumous 95th birthday.
The federally recognized holiday has been a day of reflection, community gathering and more since 1986. But this year, Bernice King, the youngest of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King’s children, hopes will be the end of her father’s words being used as lofty remnants of a fight for justice.
On January 13, ahead of the commemorative day, she tweeted, “Dear politicians/political influencers: When you evoke my father this [MLK Day], remember that he was resolute about eradicating racism, poverty and militarism. And about corrective justice work. Don’t just quote him. Encourage and enact policies that reflect his teachings.”
In his Jan. 12 proclamation acknowledging the day, President Joe Biden said, “The battle for the soul of our Nation is perennial — a constant struggle between hope and fear, kindness and cruelty, and justice and injustice. There are still those who seek to thwart progress and roll back our rights as Americans. But Dr. King and countless crusaders across the span of American history teach us that each generation must answer the call to perfect our Union.”
Bernice has long been a champion of both her father’s and mother’s legacies, as a couple and as respective individuals. She recently made headlines when she addressed the fanfare surrounding actor Jonathan Majors’ measure of a woman being that of her mother. The Creed III actor caught flak from the Black community when he suggested to his white ex-girlfriend that she conduct herself like Coretta or Michelle Obama.
In his first interview since being convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment of the woman, he explained that his words were intended to encourage her to understand the type of support he expected as a “great man” doing significant work for his culture.
Majors explained that he was “trying to give an analogy of what it is I’m aspiring to be. You know, these great men, Martin and President Obama, in trying to give a reference point.” He then went on to liken his current girlfriend, actress Meagan Good, to Coretta.
Bernice seemed to respond to the attention his remarks garnered by reminding people that her mother was not a “prop” and that she dutifully worked as an advocate before marrying Dr. King.
AAFCA Special Achievement Awards Luncheon to Honor Jamie Foxx, Fatima Robinson, Datari Turner & More
The African American Film Critics Association (AFCAA) is proud to reveal its esteemed list of 2024 Special Achievement Honorees chosen for their prolific contributions to the entertainment industry. These outstanding honorees will be celebrated at the organization’s 7th Annual AAFCA Special Achievement Awards luncheon, taking place on Sunday, March 3rd in the Centennial Room at the Los Angeles Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles.
The intimate, invitation-only luncheon will bestow honors upon the feature film KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON, which will receive the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice Award which shines a light on the true story of the infamous Osage Nation murders.
Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, the producing duo behind Foxxhill Productions, will be honored with AAFCA’s Producers Award for their exceptional work on three high-profile films released in 2023: “They Cloned Tyrone,” “Story Ave,” and “The Burial,” along with Foxxhill’s commitment to telling inclusive stories.
Renowned choreographer Fatima Robinson will be presented with AAFCA’s Salute to Excellence Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the art of choreography, including her work on “The Color Purple.”
The late Michael Latt will receive the inaugural Freedom Award, established in his honor, recognizing his legacy as an exceptional marketing strategist, thought leader, and founder of Lead With Love. His passionate advocacy for amplifying underrepresented stories and using art to foster hope, understanding and healing among communities through the cinematic arts will be celebrated at the event with his family accepting the honor on his behalf.
Filmmaker Deon Taylor will be honored with the Horizon Award which spotlights and celebrates a talent on the rise. Already an established filmmaker, known for founding Hidden Empire Film Group and directing genre-bending thrillers like “Chain Letter” and “Traffik,” Taylor’s upcoming projects include “Free Agents” for Tristar and biopics on civil rights activist and congressman John Lewis and boxer Floyd Mayweather.
Finally, Delta Airlines will be honored with AAFCA’s Film Advocate Award in recognition of their commitment to diversity in entertainment offered aboard Delta flights and embracing emerging filmmakers with their programming.
“Our list this year includes titans and trailblazers whose work has transformed the cinematic arts,” states AAFCA President and Co-Founder Gil Robertson. “Their work leaves us in awe of their incredible achievements and inspires us to move forward in all our endeavors with passion, creativity and determination. AAFCA looks forward to celebrating them.”
Recipients of the AAFCA Special Achievement Awards are carefully selected by a committee and chosen based on their contributions throughout their careers. These honorees represent excellence both behind and in front of the camera, including executives, journalists, actors, crafts artists, and filmmakers.
Previous AAFCA Special Achievement Awards honorees include Ruth Carter, Jason Blum, Edward James Olmos, Pearlena Igbokwe, Channing Dungey, Sherry Lansing, John M. Chu, and Wesley Morris, among others.
Anderson.Paak Files For Divorce From Wife Jae Lin After 13-Year Marriage
Renowned singer Anderson .Paak has filed for divorce from his wife, Jae Lin, marking the end of a 13-year-long marriage that has been largely kept out of the public eye. The couple, who have two minor children together, seemed to have a strong union, but recent developments suggest otherwise.
Contrary to public belief, Anderson .Paak, also known as AP, revealed that their marriage took place in 2010, not in 2011 as widely assumed. The sudden move towards divorce, rather than a legal separation, indicates a decisive end to their long-standing relationship.
In documents obtained by TMZ, in his legal filing, .Paak expressed a desire for joint legal and physical custody of their children, proposing a balanced visitation schedule for both parents. This approach shows his commitment to maintaining a strong co-parenting relationship with Jae Lin post-divorce.
The distribution of assets and property remains uncertain, with AP and his legal team still in the process of determining the division of their shared holdings. This process is often a complex aspect of any divorce, particularly in cases involving public figures.
Despite his rising fame in recent years, Anderson .Paak has maintained a low profile regarding his private life. His marriage with Jae Lin has been a significant part of his life away from the spotlight. The news of their divorce comes as a surprise to many, as there were no public indications of issues in their marriage.
The divorce announcement has left fans and followers speculating about the reasons behind the split. However, it is clear that despite the separation, both Anderson .Paak and Jae Lin are prioritizing the well-being of their children as they navigate this new chapter in their lives.
The divorce marks the end of a significant chapter in the singer’s personal life. As the legal proceedings progress, further details may emerge, providing insight into the dynamics of their relationship and the reasons behind their separation.
Jessie Woo Claims Tamar Braxton Threatened To “Kill” Her Friend After She Interacted With JR Robinson At An Event
Jessie Woo details Tamar Braxton’s decision to unfollow her on Instagram, following an incident where Tamar allegedly threatened to harm her friend over JR Robinson.
According to Jessie, Tamar angrily contacted her in November as JR informed her that Jessie’s friend had approached him at an event. Jessie revealed in her YouTube video a screenshot of the text messages from Tamar, where she allegedly threatened harm to the girl in question.
Jessie clarified that the incident occurred at a Black women’s event and questioned JR’s presence.
“And then he leaves a space that was dedicated to honoring Black women…then he goes to you and he starts some sh*t between you and I…and my friend,” she said.
Jessie mentioned that after Tamar insisted on obtaining the girl’s information, she provided Tamar with the girl’s direct messages. Surprisingly, despite all the intense conversation, Tamar never communicated with Jessie afterwards.
“You never checked her the way that you said you were going to check her. You not that, you not that,” Jessie added.
Regarding JR, Jessie expressed her disapproval, describing it as “despicable” that he would attempt to create division and drama between her and Tamar, especially considering that they both work together at Dish Nation.
“It’s giving this White guy is thirsty and the only time he gets any promotion and any leverage in the public eye is when he frolics Black women,” she continued. “You’re looking for two Black girls…potentially three Black girls to fight and you be at the root – it’s giving racism to me. Point. Blank. Period.”
In the end, Tamar chose to unfollow Jessie on social media, and there has been no communication between them at Dish Nation. Jessie additionally pointed out her belief that Tamar has an “embarrassment kink” and is seemingly “obsessed with mess.”
The Oscar-winning actress and Tony-nominated Broadway star was in attendance to support her movie Wish on Sunday (January 14) at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, Calif
The presenters of the category noted that three of the nominated songs were performed by “some of the most famous voices in the music industry,” referring to Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Lenny Kravitz.
But then…They decided to say that the remaining songs were performed by “actors who think they’re singers: Jack Black, Ariana DeBose, and Ken himself, Ryan Gosling.”
Well, Ariana quite literally IS a singer and she won an Oscar for performing in a musical movie and has an extensive list of Broadway credits.
Ariana responded to the diss on Instagram Stories, saying, “No I didn’t find it funny. LOL.”
Kai Cenat Calls Out Lil Nas X For “Disrespecting God”
Kai Cenat is not a fan of Lil Nas X‘s promotional methods. The popular streamer called out the two-time Grammy winner for “disrespecting God” this week.
The Montero artist promoted his new single “J Christ” by posting a photo of himself hanging on a cross while men and women tugged on ropes to make it stand up. The photo, which was the single’s cover art, caused a lot of controversy on social media and Cenat chose to address X in one of his recent streams.
“Yo, Lil Nas X, you could eat my whole d**k!” he exclaimed. “I hate that ni**a, bro. God gonna handle you in the right way. God gonna handle you, bro.” Someone off camera questioned why Cenat was so frustrated, to which he responded, “He’s extremely disrespectful. Go on his page, bro. He’s disrespecting God himself. He’s disrespecting the whole culture.” Check out the rant below.
Lil Nas X described “J Christ” as “dedicated to the man who had the greatest comeback of all time” when he shared the cover art on Monday (Jan. 8). He countered the backlash he received on social media by posting an acceptance letter to the Biblical Studies Program at Liberty University, which was later proven to be fake by the university.
“J Christ” is a comeback of sorts for the pop star, whose last release “Star Walkin'” came in September 2022. Months before, he teamed up with NBA YoungBoy on “Late To Da Party (F*ck BET)” which came out two days before the 2022 BET Awards.
X hasn’t released a full-length project since 2021’s Montero, which boasted the hit single “Industry Baby” featuring Jack Harlow.
Bernice King implores politicians to back up MLK Day quotes with real work
The federally recognized holiday has been a day of reflection, community gathering and more since 1986. But this year, Bernice King, the youngest of Dr. King and Coretta Scott King’s children, hopes will be the end of her father’s words being used as lofty remnants of a fight for justice.
On January 13, ahead of the commemorative day, she tweeted, “Dear politicians/political influencers: When you evoke my father this [MLK Day], remember that he was resolute about eradicating racism, poverty and militarism. And about corrective justice work. Don’t just quote him. Encourage and enact policies that reflect his teachings.”
In his Jan. 12 proclamation acknowledging the day, President Joe Biden said, “The battle for the soul of our Nation is perennial — a constant struggle between hope and fear, kindness and cruelty, and justice and injustice. There are still those who seek to thwart progress and roll back our rights as Americans. But Dr. King and countless crusaders across the span of American history teach us that each generation must answer the call to perfect our Union.”
Bernice has long been a champion of both her father’s and mother’s legacies, as a couple and as respective individuals. She recently made headlines when she addressed the fanfare surrounding actor Jonathan Majors’ measure of a woman being that of her mother. The Creed III actor caught flak from the Black community when he suggested to his white ex-girlfriend that she conduct herself like Coretta or Michelle Obama.
In his first interview since being convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment of the woman, he explained that his words were intended to encourage her to understand the type of support he expected as a “great man” doing significant work for his culture.
Majors explained that he was “trying to give an analogy of what it is I’m aspiring to be. You know, these great men, Martin and President Obama, in trying to give a reference point.” He then went on to liken his current girlfriend, actress Meagan Good, to Coretta.
Bernice seemed to respond to the attention his remarks garnered by reminding people that her mother was not a “prop” and that she dutifully worked as an advocate before marrying Dr. King.
AAFCA Special Achievement Awards Luncheon to Honor Jamie Foxx, Fatima Robinson, Datari Turner & More
The African American Film Critics Association (AFCAA) is proud to reveal its esteemed list of 2024 Special Achievement Honorees chosen for their prolific contributions to the entertainment industry. These outstanding honorees will be celebrated at the organization’s 7th Annual AAFCA Special Achievement Awards luncheon, taking place on Sunday, March 3rd in the Centennial Room at the Los Angeles Athletic Club in downtown Los Angeles.
The intimate, invitation-only luncheon will bestow honors upon the feature film KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON, which will receive the Stanley & Karen Kramer Social Justice Award which shines a light on the true story of the infamous Osage Nation murders.
Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner, the producing duo behind Foxxhill Productions, will be honored with AAFCA’s Producers Award for their exceptional work on three high-profile films released in 2023: “They Cloned Tyrone,” “Story Ave,” and “The Burial,” along with Foxxhill’s commitment to telling inclusive stories.
Renowned choreographer Fatima Robinson will be presented with AAFCA’s Salute to Excellence Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the art of choreography, including her work on “The Color Purple.”
The late Michael Latt will receive the inaugural Freedom Award, established in his honor, recognizing his legacy as an exceptional marketing strategist, thought leader, and founder of Lead With Love. His passionate advocacy for amplifying underrepresented stories and using art to foster hope, understanding and healing among communities through the cinematic arts will be celebrated at the event with his family accepting the honor on his behalf.
Filmmaker Deon Taylor will be honored with the Horizon Award which spotlights and celebrates a talent on the rise. Already an established filmmaker, known for founding Hidden Empire Film Group and directing genre-bending thrillers like “Chain Letter” and “Traffik,” Taylor’s upcoming projects include “Free Agents” for Tristar and biopics on civil rights activist and congressman John Lewis and boxer Floyd Mayweather.
Finally, Delta Airlines will be honored with AAFCA’s Film Advocate Award in recognition of their commitment to diversity in entertainment offered aboard Delta flights and embracing emerging filmmakers with their programming.
“Our list this year includes titans and trailblazers whose work has transformed the cinematic arts,” states AAFCA President and Co-Founder Gil Robertson. “Their work leaves us in awe of their incredible achievements and inspires us to move forward in all our endeavors with passion, creativity and determination. AAFCA looks forward to celebrating them.”
Recipients of the AAFCA Special Achievement Awards are carefully selected by a committee and chosen based on their contributions throughout their careers. These honorees represent excellence both behind and in front of the camera, including executives, journalists, actors, crafts artists, and filmmakers.
Previous AAFCA Special Achievement Awards honorees include Ruth Carter, Jason Blum, Edward James Olmos, Pearlena Igbokwe, Channing Dungey, Sherry Lansing, John M. Chu, and Wesley Morris, among others.
Anderson.Paak Files For Divorce From Wife Jae Lin After 13-Year Marriage
Contrary to public belief, Anderson .Paak, also known as AP, revealed that their marriage took place in 2010, not in 2011 as widely assumed. The sudden move towards divorce, rather than a legal separation, indicates a decisive end to their long-standing relationship.
In documents obtained by TMZ, in his legal filing, .Paak expressed a desire for joint legal and physical custody of their children, proposing a balanced visitation schedule for both parents. This approach shows his commitment to maintaining a strong co-parenting relationship with Jae Lin post-divorce.
The distribution of assets and property remains uncertain, with AP and his legal team still in the process of determining the division of their shared holdings. This process is often a complex aspect of any divorce, particularly in cases involving public figures.
Despite his rising fame in recent years, Anderson .Paak has maintained a low profile regarding his private life. His marriage with Jae Lin has been a significant part of his life away from the spotlight. The news of their divorce comes as a surprise to many, as there were no public indications of issues in their marriage.
The divorce announcement has left fans and followers speculating about the reasons behind the split. However, it is clear that despite the separation, both Anderson .Paak and Jae Lin are prioritizing the well-being of their children as they navigate this new chapter in their lives.
The divorce marks the end of a significant chapter in the singer’s personal life. As the legal proceedings progress, further details may emerge, providing insight into the dynamics of their relationship and the reasons behind their separation.
Jessie Woo Claims Tamar Braxton Threatened To “Kill” Her Friend After She Interacted With JR Robinson At An Event
Jessie Woo details Tamar Braxton’s decision to unfollow her on Instagram, following an incident where Tamar allegedly threatened to harm her friend over JR Robinson.
According to Jessie, Tamar angrily contacted her in November as JR informed her that Jessie’s friend had approached him at an event. Jessie revealed in her YouTube video a screenshot of the text messages from Tamar, where she allegedly threatened harm to the girl in question.
Jessie clarified that the incident occurred at a Black women’s event and questioned JR’s presence.
“And then he leaves a space that was dedicated to honoring Black women…then he goes to you and he starts some sh*t between you and I…and my friend,” she said.
Jessie mentioned that after Tamar insisted on obtaining the girl’s information, she provided Tamar with the girl’s direct messages. Surprisingly, despite all the intense conversation, Tamar never communicated with Jessie afterwards.
“You never checked her the way that you said you were going to check her. You not that, you not that,” Jessie added.
Regarding JR, Jessie expressed her disapproval, describing it as “despicable” that he would attempt to create division and drama between her and Tamar, especially considering that they both work together at Dish Nation.
“It’s giving this White guy is thirsty and the only time he gets any promotion and any leverage in the public eye is when he frolics Black women,” she continued. “You’re looking for two Black girls…potentially three Black girls to fight and you be at the root – it’s giving racism to me. Point. Blank. Period.”
In the end, Tamar chose to unfollow Jessie on social media, and there has been no communication between them at Dish Nation. Jessie additionally pointed out her belief that Tamar has an “embarrassment kink” and is seemingly “obsessed with mess.”
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Cute Dress
This man is ready for an after party of ballerinas.
This man is ready for an after party of ballerinas.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
No comments:
Post a Comment