#FASHIONFILES: Sabato De Sarno’s Gucci Ancora Campaign Lensed by David Sims
Gucci Ancora is creative director Sabato De Sarno’s ad campaign for his debut Gucci collection. The director’s choice of the word Ancora is an Italian terms that translates “again” in English.
"Ancora is a word that you use when your desire is not over yet, whether it's a kiss or an embrace, or making love; it's as if you own something and you want more of it," De Sarno told WWD at his debut runway show. Sabato De Sarno wants to "fall in love with fashion all over again."
Ana Rossolovich, who opened De Sarno's first show; Arthur Hargous; Fadia Ghaab; Jiahui Zhang; Nyajuok Gatdet, Prince Diamond and Violet Hume posed for photographer David Sims [IG], the first fashion photographer a younger Sabato De Sarno worked with in his fashion career. Alastair McKimm styled the campaign with artistic direction by Riccardo Zanola. /Hair by Duffy; makeup by Lucia Pieroni
The Gucci Ancora campaign spotlights the signature shade of burgandy red, embedded throughout the House’s history and reintroduced by the creative director.
"Sensuality conceived as an attitude of beauty, freedom and confidence becomes the overarching theme of a collection that extends a personal invitation to every woman -- a call to live exactly in their own unique way, to revel in the distinct emotion that only fashion can inspire: ancora," Gucci said in a statement.
To that end, the Gucci Signoria pumps envisioned by De Sarno for the Spring Summer 2024 collection are named after Florence’s central piazza.
Creative Director Sabato De Sarno introduces the Jackie Notte bag in the Spring Summer 2024 collection and ad campaign.
The Gucci Ancora campaign is the expression of Creative Director Sabato De Sarno’s invitation to feel that special emotion that fashion inspires when it is worn and interpreted according to one’s personal attitude.
#RHOA: HOT or NOT? Kandi Burruss Stuns in a Plunging, Cherry-Red Jumpsuit
Kandi Burruss is bringing the heat to Hotlanta, even in the midst of winter. For a recent night out, The Real Housewives of Atlanta cast member donned a plunging, cherry-red jumpsuit that must be seen to be believed.
In her Instagram Stories from January 23, Kandi shared snaps from the premiere of The Underdoggs. In the flick, which stars Snoop Dogg, Kandi plays a judge. While her onscreen character may don black robes, the RHOA mama went bright red for the premiere. The verdict is in, and Kandi looked incredible.
For the event, the multihyphenate talent had her hair styled by Alexander Armand, while her makeup was from Beauty by Beyina. The beauty pros gave her a low ponytail and smoky, long-lashed eyes. As for her fashion choice, Kandi settled on the aforementioned jumpsuit, which had glittering pinstripes and sparkling lapels.
One of Kandi's pals shared a photo of the evening on her Instagram Stories, noting that Kandi "freaking did her THANG" in the movie. And clearly, she did her thing with her premiere style, too.
While the jumpsuit above may be the first one she's worn to a party with Snoop Sogg, it's hardly the first jumpsuit Kandi has pulled off with aplomb.
In fact, as far back as 2019, the trendsetter was wearing one-piece looks that stunned. For a festive event, the Atlanta entrepreneur wore a waist-cinching one-piece jumpsuit with a plunging, criss-cross neckline and boot-cut flares by designer Sherri Hill.
“I walked in to see Kandi in her [WWHL] dressing room, and I was like, ‘Uh, I’ve seen this jumpsuit before,’” the titular host said about the sparkly gold jumpsuit Kandi wore for her Clubhouse appearance. “This was a reunion look.”
Also in 2022, Kandi took to Instagram to show off another remarkable jumpsuit. The mom of three dazzled in a curve-hugging look from Zhivago during a night out with her husband, Todd Tucker. As showcased in the snapshots, the jumpsuit featured a low-cut top with structured shoulders, stitched satin accents, and slightly flared pants with striped detailing down the side.
#MusicNews: Sy Smith to Release 6th Studio Album “Until We Meet Again” on January 26th, 2024
Coming to the airwaves in January 2024 comes the return of soul music siren Sy Smith and her well anticipated new feature “Until We Meet Again.” One of the singles from the new album, lead track “Slide” is already generating major traction as we head into the new year.
“Slide” doesn’t sound like anything she’s ever released. This steamy uptempo begins with flamenco-like handclaps, then proceeds to glide elegantly like a Rolls Royce, with Sy’s voice riding the chordal curves like Diana Ross meeting Marvin Gaye at some afterparty in heaven. Then the percussive pre-chorus instantly changes lanes as Sy sings “start the clock, I can’t wait anymore…it’s unlocked, I’m standing by the door. You can watch me work, head to the floor…”. This is not a “who all gon’ be there” affair. It’s just you and Sy. (Bandcamp)
“Until We Meet Again” is produced by Zo! & Tall Black Guy, & exec produced by Phonte Coleman on FE Music.
View Until We Meet Again’s complete tracklist below, and pre-save the album on your choice of digital music services.
Social Media:
http://www.sysmith.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sysmithmusic
https://twitter.com/Syberspace
https://www.instagram.com/syberspace/
https://www.youtube.com/user/sysmith69
#HipHopNews: Nicki Minaj Pushes Her Anticipated Track "Bigfoot" Back Six Hours
Nicki Minaj has announced that her new surprise track “Bigfoot” will drop six hours later than initially reported. While the song was first set to be released at 3 PM PST, the Pink Friday 2 rapper took to Twitter to provide an update on the status of the drop.
Early Sunday (Jan. 28) afternoon, Minaj tweeted, “Hey guys. The song will actually be out at 9 PM PST // MIDNIGHT EST. It COULD possibly come a TAD bit sooner, but there are no guarantees. Nothing can/will EVER stop [Gag City] — no matter how many phone calls people make. [Pink Friday 2] (the album) is out now. I LOVE you.”
One fan commented under the post, saying, “You worried about the wrong foot, sis, because doesn’t your man wear an ankle monitor?” While another social media user exclaimed, “Psychology says: When you are ignored by a person whose attention means the most to you, the reaction in your brain will be similar to physical pain. Blessed Night.”
Many social media users have mixed feelings about Minaj’s actions following the release of Megan Thee Stallion’s new track, “HISS.” While the stance of many Barbz is to ride no matter what, some everyday fans believe that the “FTCU” rapper is going too far.
Earlier Sunday (Jan. 28) afternoon, Minaj seemingly co-signed a tweet alluding to her views on the situation. Someone shared, “Nicki Minaj is too petty. She’s never letting any disrespect slide,” before being quote-retweeted by a user stating, “And that on Jesus, don’t come for my family and expect me to be quiet.”
This highly anticipated track will also be released in acapella so that producers worldwide can make their versions of the new song. The Queens bar spitter first teased the track on her Instagram Live just hours after the release of “HISS.”
Fans can join in on a premiere party for the forthcoming single on Station Head.
#SUPERBOWLLVIII: The Super Bowl Is Set! Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers Will Play in 2024 Game
The Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers are going to Super Bowl LVIII! After Sunday's highly-anticipated matchups in Baltimore and San Francisco, the Chiefs beat the Ravens in Baltimore before the 49ers defeated the Detroit Lions in San Francisco.
The Chiefs never lost their lead the entire game against the Ravens, but the score stayed tight with nearly all of the offense coming in the first half. A huge turnover by the Ravens late in the fourth quarter virtually sealed the win for the Chiefs and they held the score to 17-10 to clinch their spot in the Super Bowl.
The Lions and 49ers game was a much closer affair. Initially, it looked as though the Lions had the win, but the 49ers came roaring back in the second half with 27 unanswered points, bringing the score to 34-24 with just over 2 minutes remaining. The Lions got in another touchdown, but it wasn't enough, and the 49ers pulled off the comeback win 34-31.
The 2024 Super Bowl takes place on Feb. 11 in Las Vegas. This year, Usher will take the stage to headline the halftime show at Allegiant Stadium.
Last year, the Kansas City Chiefs won their second Super Bowl in the Patrick Mahomes era. Still, the story of the 2023 NFL Championship quickly became about Jason and Travis Kelce, who became the first brothers in NFL history to meet in the Super Bowl.
Earlier this week, social media was set ablaze by a conspiracy theory around the NFL's promotional ads as they waited for the results of Sunday's determining games.
For the past few NFL seasons, football fanatics have dialed in on a theory that says the logo for the Super Bowl predicts which teams will go head-to-head in the Big Game, based on what colors make up the image.
The Super Bowl color scheme theory picked up steam in November 2023, when the Super Bowl 2024 logo was revealed. Eagle-eyed football fans noticed that the previous two logos had colors that were representative of the eventual main matchup, and thought this one might hold predictive powers as well. (The color scheme phenomena doesn't go further back, however, because logos in the immediately preceding years had been identical, with just the numbers changed.)
This year, the 2024 Super Bowl logo mixes purple and red — and both of those colors correspond with the teams still vying for a spot in the NFL Championship game.
Now that the teams have been determined, the theory has soundly been debunked, as two red teams head to Vegas.
Known as the "Entertainment Capital of the World," Las Vegas will surely live up to its nickname when Super Bowl Week kicks off in February. The hottest celebrity parties and events will take place, bringing even more heat to the desert in the days leading up to the NFL championship game.
Many of the events are hosted by the biggest names in sports and entertainment, who will return to the party scene to throw the ultimate experiences.
Among those who are back for another round of football fun include all-star hosts Shaquille O'Neal and Rob Gronkowski.
David Guetta and Future are slated to takeover the famed Las Vegas Strip for a transformative, immersive experience at the annual 2024 h.wood Homecoming party — which featured memorable performances by Justin Bieber and Drake in previous years.
Colman Domingo to direct, star in movie musical about Nat King Cole
Colman Domingo will make his feature directorial debut in a biopic about singer Nat King Cole. Domingo also co-wrote the script for the movie musical and will star as Cole.
Colman Domingo is set to make his feature directorial debut in a movie musical about legendary singer Nat King Cole.
The West Philly-native actor and Temple University alum, who co-wrote the script for the biopic, will also star as Cole, Variety reported.
Cole, who began his career in the late '30s, is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, selling over 50 million records. He's known for chart-topping hits like "Unforgettable, "Smile," "Let There Be Love" and "The Christmas Song." Cole earned a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys in 1990, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.
One of the most notable moments of Cole's life occurred on April 10, 1956. As Cole was performing before an all-white audience in Birmingham, Alabama, a group of white men attacked him. Authorities apprehended the men, and the singer returned to the stage. The remaining audience members gave him a 10-minute standing ovation, according to Variety.
Domingo previously co-wrote the play "Lights Out: Nat 'King' Cole," which imagines what may have been going through Cole's mind during his "The Nat King Cole Show" Christmas special in 1957. It has not yet been revealed when the upcoming film will premiere or which period of Cole's life that Domingo's movie will focus on.
“I’ve been working on it quietly for a few years,” Domingo told Variety, of the movie musical. “It’s something I’m looking forward to putting together with some great partners.”
The news of Domingo's latest project comes during his successful awards season. Last week, he received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Bayard Rustin — a civil rights leader born in West Chester — in the Netflix film "Rustin." This is the first Oscar nomination for Domingo, who previously won an Emmy for his role in "Euphoria." Domingo also has been nominated for Golden Globe, BAFTA, Critics Choice and SAG awards for his work on "Rustin."
Domingo also made headlines last week for his being cast as another famous pop culture figure. The actor will play the role of Michael Jackson's father, Joe Jackson, in an upcoming biopic about the King of Pop.
First 'Despicable Me 4' Trailer Introduces New Characters Voiced By Will Ferrell And Sofia Vergara
Gru and the Minions are back in the first trailer for "Despicable Me 4". Featuring the fan-favorite villain and his mischievous yellow henchmen, the trailer also introduces new characters, including the ones voiced by Will Ferrell and Sofia Vergara.
The trailer opens with a look at Gru's seemingly idyllic domesticated life. It reveals that Gru and Lucy have welcomed a new addition to their family, a son named Gru Jr., who is clearly not a fan of his father.
But Gru's family is about to be put in danger with the arrival of a new supervillain, Maxime Le Mal (Ferrell), who seeks revenge on Gru and his family, and his girlfriend Valentina (Vergara). Breaking the bad news to Gru and his family is Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan), the former director of the Anti-Villain League.
"Your family's lives are at stake," Silas informs Gru. "Maxime Le Mal has escaped from prison." The scene then cuts to show Maxime and Valentina operating a destructive robot. "I'm coming for my revenge, Gru!" he shouts.
"We have to get to the safe house," Silas tells Gru, before taking Gru and his family to another place, which looks like a playground, at least to Gru's youngest daughter Agnes and the Minions. The trailer also sees Gru on a heist, which takes an unexpected turn with Gru Jr. taming a scary dog.
According to Illumination, "in the first 'Despicable Me' movie in seven years, Gru, the world's favorite supervillain-turned-Anti-Villain League-agent, returns for an exciting, bold new era of Minions mayhem in Illumination's 'Despicable Me 4'."
The franchise begins a new chapter as Gru (Steve Carell) and Lucy (Kristen Wiig) and their girls, Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Madison Polan), welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad.
Gru faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, and the family is forced to go on the run. The studio promises that the film is "packed with non-stop action and filled with Illumination's signature subversive humor."
To be distributed by Universal Pictures, "Despicable Me 4" is directed by Chris Renaud, who directed the first film and created the Minions. It also features new characters voiced by Joey King, Stephen Colbert and Chloe Fineman, with Pierre Coffin returning as the voice of the Minions. The movie is set to open in U.S. theaters on July 3.
#BoxOfficeNews: 'The Beekeeper' And 'Mean Girls' Butt Switch For No. 1 At The Box Office
It was another quiet weekend at box office. The two movies butt heads for No. 1 on the North American chart as the industry has not regained its momentum in early 2024.
The Jason Statham-led action thriller leads the race slightly ahead with an estimated $7.4 million on its third weekend. It was down only 14% from the previous weekend and brings its domestic total to $42.3 million so far. Globally, it has crossed $100 million.
"The Beekeeper" switches places with the new "Mean Girls" movie, which is down to No. 2 after topping the domestic chart for two weeks straight. It added an estimated $7.3 million on its third weekend, bringing its domestic total to $60.8 million.
With less than $200k apart, it's a tight race between those two movies for the top spot. As of Sunday morning, the musical teen comedy film was pacing 11% better than "The Beekeeper", so the former could have then upper hand in the end, according to Deadline.
At No. 3, "Wonka" stays steady with approximately $5.9 million, dropping just 12% from the last weekend. It has so far earned $195 million domestically and $356.9 million overseas for a worldwide total of $552.1 million.
The Top Ten movies are
1 The Beekeeper $2,210,137
2 Mean Girls $2,145,000
3 Wonka $1,710,000
4 Migration $1,570,000
5 Anyone But You $1,130,000
6 Poor Things $899,000
7 American Fiction $829,447
8 Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
9 Godzilla Minus One $616,000
10 The Boys in the Boat $603,086
Is John David Washington Eyed for MCU's Kang After Jonathan Majors Firing
Tenet star John David Washington is rumored to be up for the role of Kang in the MCU after Jonathan Majors' exit.
Golden Globe nominee John David Washington could end up becoming the next Kang the Conqueror, according to new rumors.
Movie scooper Daniel Richtman has shared the latest update on Marvel Studios' plans for Kang in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. After Jonathan Majors was fired from the role, rumors emerged that Fear the Walking Dead star Colman Domingo had become a frontrunner for the part. While it's unclear if Domingo was ever formally given an offer, Richtman has now reported that John David Washington is also in consideration to potentially play the new Kang.
Christopher Nolan announces that he is re-teaming with Warner Bros. to re-release Tenet in theaters, accompanied by exclusive Dune: Part Two footage.
David was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role in Spike Lee's 2018 film BlacKkKlansman. He'd later lead the cast of Christopher Nolan's Tenet, released in 2020, which earned him a Saturn Award for Best Actor. Washington also starred in the HBO series Ballers and had roles in other films like Monsters and Men, Malcolm & Marie, and Amsterdam. More recently, he starred in 2023's The Creator from director Gareth Edwards.
John David Washington also happens to be the son of acclaimed Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington. While some fans have already been advocating for the younger Washington to get the part, others have called for his father to get the role. At one point, fan artwork depicting Denzel Washington as Kang had gone viral on social media. There has also been fan art made of Star Wars star John Boyega as Kang, but that actor seems to have already cast doubt on his interest in taking on that role.
Would John David Washington Be Interested in Kang? As for whether John David Washington would be interested in the role, he hasn't commented on playing Kang in particular, but the acclaimed actor previously teased that he'd be open to joining a superhero tentpole. In 2020, he said in an interview with Nerd Reactor that it depended upon "who's asking," and it would seem like there's a good chance starring in a big-budget MCU film would be enticing enough for Washington to consider.
"I think it depends on who's asking, what director wants to do it with me," as Washington said. "We'll see, I want to stay open. I don't want to box myself in. Maybe there's characters that haven't been mentioned yet, or maybe even developed, that haven't been introduced in any of the films yet. I'd like to see what they come up with, if I ever get asked."
Avengers 5 is currently scheduled to be released in movie theaters on May 1, 2026.
Activists splatter 'Mona Lisa' with soup in Louvre Museum in Paris
Ana Rossolovich, who opened De Sarno's first show; Arthur Hargous; Fadia Ghaab; Jiahui Zhang; Nyajuok Gatdet, Prince Diamond and Violet Hume posed for photographer David Sims [IG], the first fashion photographer a younger Sabato De Sarno worked with in his fashion career. Alastair McKimm styled the campaign with artistic direction by Riccardo Zanola. /Hair by Duffy; makeup by Lucia Pieroni
"Sensuality conceived as an attitude of beauty, freedom and confidence becomes the overarching theme of a collection that extends a personal invitation to every woman -- a call to live exactly in their own unique way, to revel in the distinct emotion that only fashion can inspire: ancora," Gucci said in a statement.
Creative Director Sabato De Sarno introduces the Jackie Notte bag in the Spring Summer 2024 collection and ad campaign.
The Gucci Ancora campaign is the expression of Creative Director Sabato De Sarno’s invitation to feel that special emotion that fashion inspires when it is worn and interpreted according to one’s personal attitude.
#RHOA: HOT or NOT? Kandi Burruss Stuns in a Plunging, Cherry-Red Jumpsuit
In her Instagram Stories from January 23, Kandi shared snaps from the premiere of The Underdoggs. In the flick, which stars Snoop Dogg, Kandi plays a judge. While her onscreen character may don black robes, the RHOA mama went bright red for the premiere. The verdict is in, and Kandi looked incredible.
For the event, the multihyphenate talent had her hair styled by Alexander Armand, while her makeup was from Beauty by Beyina. The beauty pros gave her a low ponytail and smoky, long-lashed eyes. As for her fashion choice, Kandi settled on the aforementioned jumpsuit, which had glittering pinstripes and sparkling lapels.
One of Kandi's pals shared a photo of the evening on her Instagram Stories, noting that Kandi "freaking did her THANG" in the movie. And clearly, she did her thing with her premiere style, too.
While the jumpsuit above may be the first one she's worn to a party with Snoop Sogg, it's hardly the first jumpsuit Kandi has pulled off with aplomb.
In fact, as far back as 2019, the trendsetter was wearing one-piece looks that stunned. For a festive event, the Atlanta entrepreneur wore a waist-cinching one-piece jumpsuit with a plunging, criss-cross neckline and boot-cut flares by designer Sherri Hill.
“I walked in to see Kandi in her [WWHL] dressing room, and I was like, ‘Uh, I’ve seen this jumpsuit before,’” the titular host said about the sparkly gold jumpsuit Kandi wore for her Clubhouse appearance. “This was a reunion look.”
Also in 2022, Kandi took to Instagram to show off another remarkable jumpsuit. The mom of three dazzled in a curve-hugging look from Zhivago during a night out with her husband, Todd Tucker. As showcased in the snapshots, the jumpsuit featured a low-cut top with structured shoulders, stitched satin accents, and slightly flared pants with striped detailing down the side.
#MusicNews: Sy Smith to Release 6th Studio Album “Until We Meet Again” on January 26th, 2024
“Slide” doesn’t sound like anything she’s ever released. This steamy uptempo begins with flamenco-like handclaps, then proceeds to glide elegantly like a Rolls Royce, with Sy’s voice riding the chordal curves like Diana Ross meeting Marvin Gaye at some afterparty in heaven. Then the percussive pre-chorus instantly changes lanes as Sy sings “start the clock, I can’t wait anymore…it’s unlocked, I’m standing by the door. You can watch me work, head to the floor…”. This is not a “who all gon’ be there” affair. It’s just you and Sy. (Bandcamp)
“Until We Meet Again” is produced by Zo! & Tall Black Guy, & exec produced by Phonte Coleman on FE Music.
View Until We Meet Again’s complete tracklist below, and pre-save the album on your choice of digital music services.
Social Media:
http://www.sysmith.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sysmithmusic
https://twitter.com/Syberspace
https://www.instagram.com/syberspace/
https://www.youtube.com/user/sysmith69
#HipHopNews: Nicki Minaj Pushes Her Anticipated Track "Bigfoot" Back Six Hours
Early Sunday (Jan. 28) afternoon, Minaj tweeted, “Hey guys. The song will actually be out at 9 PM PST // MIDNIGHT EST. It COULD possibly come a TAD bit sooner, but there are no guarantees. Nothing can/will EVER stop [Gag City] — no matter how many phone calls people make. [Pink Friday 2] (the album) is out now. I LOVE you.”
One fan commented under the post, saying, “You worried about the wrong foot, sis, because doesn’t your man wear an ankle monitor?” While another social media user exclaimed, “Psychology says: When you are ignored by a person whose attention means the most to you, the reaction in your brain will be similar to physical pain. Blessed Night.”
Many social media users have mixed feelings about Minaj’s actions following the release of Megan Thee Stallion’s new track, “HISS.” While the stance of many Barbz is to ride no matter what, some everyday fans believe that the “FTCU” rapper is going too far.
Earlier Sunday (Jan. 28) afternoon, Minaj seemingly co-signed a tweet alluding to her views on the situation. Someone shared, “Nicki Minaj is too petty. She’s never letting any disrespect slide,” before being quote-retweeted by a user stating, “And that on Jesus, don’t come for my family and expect me to be quiet.”
This highly anticipated track will also be released in acapella so that producers worldwide can make their versions of the new song. The Queens bar spitter first teased the track on her Instagram Live just hours after the release of “HISS.”
Fans can join in on a premiere party for the forthcoming single on Station Head.
#SUPERBOWLLVIII: The Super Bowl Is Set! Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers Will Play in 2024 Game
The Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers are going to Super Bowl LVIII! After Sunday's highly-anticipated matchups in Baltimore and San Francisco, the Chiefs beat the Ravens in Baltimore before the 49ers defeated the Detroit Lions in San Francisco.
The Chiefs never lost their lead the entire game against the Ravens, but the score stayed tight with nearly all of the offense coming in the first half. A huge turnover by the Ravens late in the fourth quarter virtually sealed the win for the Chiefs and they held the score to 17-10 to clinch their spot in the Super Bowl.
The Lions and 49ers game was a much closer affair. Initially, it looked as though the Lions had the win, but the 49ers came roaring back in the second half with 27 unanswered points, bringing the score to 34-24 with just over 2 minutes remaining. The Lions got in another touchdown, but it wasn't enough, and the 49ers pulled off the comeback win 34-31.
The 2024 Super Bowl takes place on Feb. 11 in Las Vegas. This year, Usher will take the stage to headline the halftime show at Allegiant Stadium.
Last year, the Kansas City Chiefs won their second Super Bowl in the Patrick Mahomes era. Still, the story of the 2023 NFL Championship quickly became about Jason and Travis Kelce, who became the first brothers in NFL history to meet in the Super Bowl.
Earlier this week, social media was set ablaze by a conspiracy theory around the NFL's promotional ads as they waited for the results of Sunday's determining games.
For the past few NFL seasons, football fanatics have dialed in on a theory that says the logo for the Super Bowl predicts which teams will go head-to-head in the Big Game, based on what colors make up the image.
The Super Bowl color scheme theory picked up steam in November 2023, when the Super Bowl 2024 logo was revealed. Eagle-eyed football fans noticed that the previous two logos had colors that were representative of the eventual main matchup, and thought this one might hold predictive powers as well. (The color scheme phenomena doesn't go further back, however, because logos in the immediately preceding years had been identical, with just the numbers changed.)
This year, the 2024 Super Bowl logo mixes purple and red — and both of those colors correspond with the teams still vying for a spot in the NFL Championship game.
Now that the teams have been determined, the theory has soundly been debunked, as two red teams head to Vegas.
Known as the "Entertainment Capital of the World," Las Vegas will surely live up to its nickname when Super Bowl Week kicks off in February. The hottest celebrity parties and events will take place, bringing even more heat to the desert in the days leading up to the NFL championship game.
Many of the events are hosted by the biggest names in sports and entertainment, who will return to the party scene to throw the ultimate experiences.
Among those who are back for another round of football fun include all-star hosts Shaquille O'Neal and Rob Gronkowski.
David Guetta and Future are slated to takeover the famed Las Vegas Strip for a transformative, immersive experience at the annual 2024 h.wood Homecoming party — which featured memorable performances by Justin Bieber and Drake in previous years.
Colman Domingo to direct, star in movie musical about Nat King Cole
Colman Domingo is set to make his feature directorial debut in a movie musical about legendary singer Nat King Cole.
The West Philly-native actor and Temple University alum, who co-wrote the script for the biopic, will also star as Cole, Variety reported.
Cole, who began his career in the late '30s, is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, selling over 50 million records. He's known for chart-topping hits like "Unforgettable, "Smile," "Let There Be Love" and "The Christmas Song." Cole earned a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys in 1990, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.
One of the most notable moments of Cole's life occurred on April 10, 1956. As Cole was performing before an all-white audience in Birmingham, Alabama, a group of white men attacked him. Authorities apprehended the men, and the singer returned to the stage. The remaining audience members gave him a 10-minute standing ovation, according to Variety.
Domingo previously co-wrote the play "Lights Out: Nat 'King' Cole," which imagines what may have been going through Cole's mind during his "The Nat King Cole Show" Christmas special in 1957. It has not yet been revealed when the upcoming film will premiere or which period of Cole's life that Domingo's movie will focus on.
“I’ve been working on it quietly for a few years,” Domingo told Variety, of the movie musical. “It’s something I’m looking forward to putting together with some great partners.”
The news of Domingo's latest project comes during his successful awards season. Last week, he received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Bayard Rustin — a civil rights leader born in West Chester — in the Netflix film "Rustin." This is the first Oscar nomination for Domingo, who previously won an Emmy for his role in "Euphoria." Domingo also has been nominated for Golden Globe, BAFTA, Critics Choice and SAG awards for his work on "Rustin."
Domingo also made headlines last week for his being cast as another famous pop culture figure. The actor will play the role of Michael Jackson's father, Joe Jackson, in an upcoming biopic about the King of Pop.
First 'Despicable Me 4' Trailer Introduces New Characters Voiced By Will Ferrell And Sofia Vergara
The trailer opens with a look at Gru's seemingly idyllic domesticated life. It reveals that Gru and Lucy have welcomed a new addition to their family, a son named Gru Jr., who is clearly not a fan of his father.
But Gru's family is about to be put in danger with the arrival of a new supervillain, Maxime Le Mal (Ferrell), who seeks revenge on Gru and his family, and his girlfriend Valentina (Vergara). Breaking the bad news to Gru and his family is Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan), the former director of the Anti-Villain League.
"Your family's lives are at stake," Silas informs Gru. "Maxime Le Mal has escaped from prison." The scene then cuts to show Maxime and Valentina operating a destructive robot. "I'm coming for my revenge, Gru!" he shouts.
"We have to get to the safe house," Silas tells Gru, before taking Gru and his family to another place, which looks like a playground, at least to Gru's youngest daughter Agnes and the Minions. The trailer also sees Gru on a heist, which takes an unexpected turn with Gru Jr. taming a scary dog.
According to Illumination, "in the first 'Despicable Me' movie in seven years, Gru, the world's favorite supervillain-turned-Anti-Villain League-agent, returns for an exciting, bold new era of Minions mayhem in Illumination's 'Despicable Me 4'."
The franchise begins a new chapter as Gru (Steve Carell) and Lucy (Kristen Wiig) and their girls, Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Madison Polan), welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad.
Gru faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, and the family is forced to go on the run. The studio promises that the film is "packed with non-stop action and filled with Illumination's signature subversive humor."
To be distributed by Universal Pictures, "Despicable Me 4" is directed by Chris Renaud, who directed the first film and created the Minions. It also features new characters voiced by Joey King, Stephen Colbert and Chloe Fineman, with Pierre Coffin returning as the voice of the Minions. The movie is set to open in U.S. theaters on July 3.
#BoxOfficeNews: 'The Beekeeper' And 'Mean Girls' Butt Switch For No. 1 At The Box Office
It was another quiet weekend at box office. The two movies butt heads for No. 1 on the North American chart as the industry has not regained its momentum in early 2024.
The Jason Statham-led action thriller leads the race slightly ahead with an estimated $7.4 million on its third weekend. It was down only 14% from the previous weekend and brings its domestic total to $42.3 million so far. Globally, it has crossed $100 million.
"The Beekeeper" switches places with the new "Mean Girls" movie, which is down to No. 2 after topping the domestic chart for two weeks straight. It added an estimated $7.3 million on its third weekend, bringing its domestic total to $60.8 million.
With less than $200k apart, it's a tight race between those two movies for the top spot. As of Sunday morning, the musical teen comedy film was pacing 11% better than "The Beekeeper", so the former could have then upper hand in the end, according to Deadline.
At No. 3, "Wonka" stays steady with approximately $5.9 million, dropping just 12% from the last weekend. It has so far earned $195 million domestically and $356.9 million overseas for a worldwide total of $552.1 million.
The Top Ten movies are
1 The Beekeeper $2,210,137
2 Mean Girls $2,145,000
3 Wonka $1,710,000
4 Migration $1,570,000
5 Anyone But You $1,130,000
6 Poor Things $899,000
7 American Fiction $829,447
8 Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
9 Godzilla Minus One $616,000
10 The Boys in the Boat $603,086
Is John David Washington Eyed for MCU's Kang After Jonathan Majors Firing
Tenet star John David Washington is rumored to be up for the role of Kang in the MCU after Jonathan Majors' exit.
Golden Globe nominee John David Washington could end up becoming the next Kang the Conqueror, according to new rumors.
Movie scooper Daniel Richtman has shared the latest update on Marvel Studios' plans for Kang in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. After Jonathan Majors was fired from the role, rumors emerged that Fear the Walking Dead star Colman Domingo had become a frontrunner for the part. While it's unclear if Domingo was ever formally given an offer, Richtman has now reported that John David Washington is also in consideration to potentially play the new Kang.
Christopher Nolan announces that he is re-teaming with Warner Bros. to re-release Tenet in theaters, accompanied by exclusive Dune: Part Two footage.
David was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role in Spike Lee's 2018 film BlacKkKlansman. He'd later lead the cast of Christopher Nolan's Tenet, released in 2020, which earned him a Saturn Award for Best Actor. Washington also starred in the HBO series Ballers and had roles in other films like Monsters and Men, Malcolm & Marie, and Amsterdam. More recently, he starred in 2023's The Creator from director Gareth Edwards.
John David Washington also happens to be the son of acclaimed Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington. While some fans have already been advocating for the younger Washington to get the part, others have called for his father to get the role. At one point, fan artwork depicting Denzel Washington as Kang had gone viral on social media. There has also been fan art made of Star Wars star John Boyega as Kang, but that actor seems to have already cast doubt on his interest in taking on that role.
Would John David Washington Be Interested in Kang? As for whether John David Washington would be interested in the role, he hasn't commented on playing Kang in particular, but the acclaimed actor previously teased that he'd be open to joining a superhero tentpole. In 2020, he said in an interview with Nerd Reactor that it depended upon "who's asking," and it would seem like there's a good chance starring in a big-budget MCU film would be enticing enough for Washington to consider.
"I think it depends on who's asking, what director wants to do it with me," as Washington said. "We'll see, I want to stay open. I don't want to box myself in. Maybe there's characters that haven't been mentioned yet, or maybe even developed, that haven't been introduced in any of the films yet. I'd like to see what they come up with, if I ever get asked."
Avengers 5 is currently scheduled to be released in movie theaters on May 1, 2026.
Activists splatter 'Mona Lisa' with soup in Louvre Museum in Paris
Activists splattered the glass-covered "Mona Lisa" painting with soup at the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, according to the food-security group behind the protest.
Two women opened thermoses and splashed the famous Leonardo da Vinci painting at about 10 a.m., said the group, Riposte Alimentaire, or "Food Response." A video posted online by the group showed streaks and splashes of orange on the bullet-proof glass and the blue wall behind the painting.
The women -- who the group identified as Sasha, 24, and Marie-Juliette, 63 -- then crossed behind the protective wooden railing, stood on either side of the painting and called for "the integration of food into the general social security system."
"In France, one in three people skip meals due to lack of means," Riposte Alimentaire said in a statement posted in French. "At the same time, 20% of the food produced is thrown away. Our model stigmatizes the most precarious and does not respect our fundamental right to food."
Members of the museum's staff could be seen in the video rushing to hide the painting behind protective panels.
The French agriculture and food industry has become more profitable and those "excessive profits are estimated to be responsible for two thirds of inflation," Riposte Alimentaire said in a statement to ABC News. The statement also said European free-trade treaties created unfair conditions for French growers versus "foreign products that do not meet minimum ecological and social standards."
"Agriculture is responsible for 21% of national greenhouse gas emissions and contributes greatly to the deterioration of our biodiversity and the impoverishment of soils, due to the massive use of inputs," the group said.
Halle Bailey defends protecting her peace throughout months of pregnancy rumors
After months of dodging pregnancy speculation, Halle Bailey and boyfriend DDG confirmed the birth of their first child, a son named Halo, at the top of the year. The shock of a photo showing the new parents’ hands embracing that of their newborn came with a tongue-and-cheek remark from the singer, who acknowledged that hawk-eyed people were relentless with their pursuit of definitive proof she had become a mother.
“Even though we’re a few days into the new year, the greatest thing that 2023 could have done for me was bring me my son… Welcome to the world, my Halo. The world is desperate to know you,” she captioned the Jan. 6 post.
Since then, she has shared snippets from her underwater Mermaid-themed maternity shoot, footage of her dancing with her sister Chloe and a behind-the-scenes look at how an image was photoshopped to remove her pregnant belly. Halle has been the subject of critical comments from people claiming she lied about her pregnancy and gaslit fans for months, only to now welcome them into her motherhood experience.
The songstress clapped back at one of the remarks on Sunday (Jan. 28). Halle tweeted, “I never lied or even said anything about it, honey; making a joke about my nose was the farthest I went. I’ll never understand why you are mad [that] I protected my own peace. Wouldn’t you do the same? And I’m gonna share my pics now if I want to because my son is here safely. If you don’t wanna see it, just keep scrolling, baby. [Laugh out loud], God bless you!”
Soon after, she wrote, “[Laugh out loud], my hormones have been on 10 recently, so I’m gonna go back to staying off Twitter. Love you all.” But before leaving, she confirmed plans to release new music following the Grammys. Her first single as a solo act, “Angel,” came out in August 2023. The record scored a nomination in the tight race for Best R&B Song alongside Coco Jones’ “ICU,” Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama,” SZA’s “Snooze” and Robert Glasper’s “Back To Love” featuring Sir.
The awards ceremony, whose list of nominees is dominated by female artists this year, airs on Feb. 4 from Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena.
JoJo Siwa Returns to Judge 'So You Think You Can Dance' for Another Season
JoJo Siwa is headed back to So You Think You Can Dance! The 20-year-old professional dancer served as a judge on the show for its 17th season in 2022. On Friday (January 26), it was announced that she was set to return for its 18th season in a last-minute casting switch-up.
JoJo will replace Nigel Lythgoe on the panel of judges. Nigel, a longtime judge and producer on the show, stepped down earlier this month after he was accused of sexual assault in two lawsuits, including one filed by Paula Abdul. He has denied all charges.
So You Think You Can Dance shared the news about JoJo‘s return on Instagram. We’ll get to see her in action as of March 4, and she joins Allison Holker and Maksim Chmerkovskiy on the judging panel.
We’re excited to see JoJo on the show again.
Cardi B’s Whipshots Announces Limited-Edition Strawberry Flavored Whipped Cream To Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Cardi B is offering a sweet treat for lovers who are celebrating this Valentine’s Day. On Saturday, Cardi’s Whipshots vodka-infused whipped cream brand unveiled its intentions to introduce a new flavor, strategically timed for Valentine’s Day, in partnership with the Museum of Ice Cream. Sharing the news on Instagram, Whipshots announced that the collaboration will showcase a unique dessert cocktail, accompanied by a promotional image featuring Cardi’s wearing a satin pink mini dress.
“STRAWBERRY WHIPSHOTS + ICE CREAM? Talk about a match made in bougie heaven! [ice cream, strawberry, sparkle emoji],” the caption reads. “Our newest flavor is finally here to bring some sexy to your sip (or bite!), and we’ve partnered with Museum of Ice Cream to celebrate!”
According to a press release, Dave Dreye, Chief Marketing Officer of Starco Brands, the parent company of Whipshot’s, revealed that the newest flavor is one that fans have been eagerly requesting since the product initially became available on shelves in 2021. Comprising two delectable desserts, namely the “Whipshake Milkshake” and “The Diamond,” this limited-time promotion is currently available at the three Museum of Ice Cream locations in Austin, Chicago, and New York City.
This collaboration further contributes to Cardi’s expanding portfolio of partnerships. In November, the rapper announced a joint venture with Patti LaBelle, merging their respective brands—Whip Shots vodka whipped cream and Patti’s Good Life pies.
Disturbing! Chrisean Rock Tattoos Blueface’s Face On Her Face
Over the past few years, it is almost impossible to keep up with the relationship status of Blueface and his baby mama Chrisean Rock. While it had appeared that the two were finally over for good, Rock surprised her social media followers as she shared what appears to be a very permanent tribute to her love in the form of a face tattoo of the currently incarcerated rapper.
In a post shared on early Sunday morning, Rock (whose profile picture is currently a photo of Blueface) shared a video montage on her Instagram of the tattoo process from the initial stencil to the finished product with the caption “#freeblueface free my Daddy I love you papa @bluefasebabyy” all while playing Blueface’s hit song “Pop It.”
The on-again, off-again couple had appeared to finally be over back in December when Rock claimed that Blue had punched her in his driveway. However, just last week, she posted that she had moved back into the “Thotiana” artist’s home.
As for Blueface, while it seemed unlikely that he would have a public comment any time soon as he is currently incarcerated until July for a probation violation, a post from his account also shared Rock’s tattoo process video.
His current relationship with his other baby mama, Jaidyn Alexis, remains unclear.
Two women opened thermoses and splashed the famous Leonardo da Vinci painting at about 10 a.m., said the group, Riposte Alimentaire, or "Food Response." A video posted online by the group showed streaks and splashes of orange on the bullet-proof glass and the blue wall behind the painting.
The women -- who the group identified as Sasha, 24, and Marie-Juliette, 63 -- then crossed behind the protective wooden railing, stood on either side of the painting and called for "the integration of food into the general social security system."
"In France, one in three people skip meals due to lack of means," Riposte Alimentaire said in a statement posted in French. "At the same time, 20% of the food produced is thrown away. Our model stigmatizes the most precarious and does not respect our fundamental right to food."
Members of the museum's staff could be seen in the video rushing to hide the painting behind protective panels.
The French agriculture and food industry has become more profitable and those "excessive profits are estimated to be responsible for two thirds of inflation," Riposte Alimentaire said in a statement to ABC News. The statement also said European free-trade treaties created unfair conditions for French growers versus "foreign products that do not meet minimum ecological and social standards."
"Agriculture is responsible for 21% of national greenhouse gas emissions and contributes greatly to the deterioration of our biodiversity and the impoverishment of soils, due to the massive use of inputs," the group said.
Halle Bailey defends protecting her peace throughout months of pregnancy rumors
After months of dodging pregnancy speculation, Halle Bailey and boyfriend DDG confirmed the birth of their first child, a son named Halo, at the top of the year. The shock of a photo showing the new parents’ hands embracing that of their newborn came with a tongue-and-cheek remark from the singer, who acknowledged that hawk-eyed people were relentless with their pursuit of definitive proof she had become a mother.
“Even though we’re a few days into the new year, the greatest thing that 2023 could have done for me was bring me my son… Welcome to the world, my Halo. The world is desperate to know you,” she captioned the Jan. 6 post.
Since then, she has shared snippets from her underwater Mermaid-themed maternity shoot, footage of her dancing with her sister Chloe and a behind-the-scenes look at how an image was photoshopped to remove her pregnant belly. Halle has been the subject of critical comments from people claiming she lied about her pregnancy and gaslit fans for months, only to now welcome them into her motherhood experience.
The songstress clapped back at one of the remarks on Sunday (Jan. 28). Halle tweeted, “I never lied or even said anything about it, honey; making a joke about my nose was the farthest I went. I’ll never understand why you are mad [that] I protected my own peace. Wouldn’t you do the same? And I’m gonna share my pics now if I want to because my son is here safely. If you don’t wanna see it, just keep scrolling, baby. [Laugh out loud], God bless you!”
Soon after, she wrote, “[Laugh out loud], my hormones have been on 10 recently, so I’m gonna go back to staying off Twitter. Love you all.” But before leaving, she confirmed plans to release new music following the Grammys. Her first single as a solo act, “Angel,” came out in August 2023. The record scored a nomination in the tight race for Best R&B Song alongside Coco Jones’ “ICU,” Victoria Monét’s “On My Mama,” SZA’s “Snooze” and Robert Glasper’s “Back To Love” featuring Sir.
The awards ceremony, whose list of nominees is dominated by female artists this year, airs on Feb. 4 from Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena.
JoJo Siwa Returns to Judge 'So You Think You Can Dance' for Another Season
JoJo will replace Nigel Lythgoe on the panel of judges. Nigel, a longtime judge and producer on the show, stepped down earlier this month after he was accused of sexual assault in two lawsuits, including one filed by Paula Abdul. He has denied all charges.
So You Think You Can Dance shared the news about JoJo‘s return on Instagram. We’ll get to see her in action as of March 4, and she joins Allison Holker and Maksim Chmerkovskiy on the judging panel.
We’re excited to see JoJo on the show again.
Cardi B’s Whipshots Announces Limited-Edition Strawberry Flavored Whipped Cream To Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Cardi B is offering a sweet treat for lovers who are celebrating this Valentine’s Day. On Saturday, Cardi’s Whipshots vodka-infused whipped cream brand unveiled its intentions to introduce a new flavor, strategically timed for Valentine’s Day, in partnership with the Museum of Ice Cream. Sharing the news on Instagram, Whipshots announced that the collaboration will showcase a unique dessert cocktail, accompanied by a promotional image featuring Cardi’s wearing a satin pink mini dress.
“STRAWBERRY WHIPSHOTS + ICE CREAM? Talk about a match made in bougie heaven! [ice cream, strawberry, sparkle emoji],” the caption reads. “Our newest flavor is finally here to bring some sexy to your sip (or bite!), and we’ve partnered with Museum of Ice Cream to celebrate!”
According to a press release, Dave Dreye, Chief Marketing Officer of Starco Brands, the parent company of Whipshot’s, revealed that the newest flavor is one that fans have been eagerly requesting since the product initially became available on shelves in 2021. Comprising two delectable desserts, namely the “Whipshake Milkshake” and “The Diamond,” this limited-time promotion is currently available at the three Museum of Ice Cream locations in Austin, Chicago, and New York City.
This collaboration further contributes to Cardi’s expanding portfolio of partnerships. In November, the rapper announced a joint venture with Patti LaBelle, merging their respective brands—Whip Shots vodka whipped cream and Patti’s Good Life pies.
Disturbing! Chrisean Rock Tattoos Blueface’s Face On Her Face
In a post shared on early Sunday morning, Rock (whose profile picture is currently a photo of Blueface) shared a video montage on her Instagram of the tattoo process from the initial stencil to the finished product with the caption “#freeblueface free my Daddy I love you papa @bluefasebabyy” all while playing Blueface’s hit song “Pop It.”
The on-again, off-again couple had appeared to finally be over back in December when Rock claimed that Blue had punched her in his driveway. However, just last week, she posted that she had moved back into the “Thotiana” artist’s home.
As for Blueface, while it seemed unlikely that he would have a public comment any time soon as he is currently incarcerated until July for a probation violation, a post from his account also shared Rock’s tattoo process video.
His current relationship with his other baby mama, Jaidyn Alexis, remains unclear.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Hello there Kitty!
Hello Kitty: “Help”
Hello Kitty: “Help”
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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