#MAGFAB: Jelly Roll For GQ Hype
Jelly Roll was just featured in a very in-depth article from "GQ". And it was a great read. It chronicled his life from the early days all the way up to the massive success he is today.
Here are the most interesting facts:
1. He spent his 15th, 16th, and 17th birthdays in the same juvenile facility. And now he goes back to that same facility and teaches writing workshops.
2. He was in his twenties before he realized that having a drug addict in your family wasn't normal.
3. He's really good friends with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Apparently in 2017, The Rock found Jelly's music and posted a song to his Instagram and the two started up an unlikely friendship. Jelly even said, "there were so many times that [his] friendship alone was my anchor."
4. He still gets stage-fright, but he loves it. He said, "I'm still glad I get real palm-sweaty before interviews . . . [and] get real nervous before shows. I love that. I'm still here for the right reasons."
5. He said the barometer to how well-received he is at events like the Grammy's is more about "the people working there, the security . . . the bartenders. I know the cook was seeing it, because he shouts at me [when] I go to the steakhouse. I knew the valet parker was. But was the dude running ASCAP seeing it?"
This last fact wasn't from the "GQ" interview, but it's too crazy not to share. Did you know that Jelly Roll has been to jail 40 times? It was mostly for drug-related crimes and petty robbery. But at age 16, he was charged as an adult for strong-armed robbery.
And he actually CREDITS the judge for not showing him leniency. Because as he said, "every time I got incarcerated, I would do a year, year and a half . . . and I would just write."
Cool.
#RHOA: Phaedra Parks and Shamea Morton Are Brought in for Interrogation in “Will Trent”'s Housewife Whodunit
In PEOPLE's exclusive sneak peek of Tuesday's episode of 'Will Trent', Phaedra Parks and Shamea Morton parody their larger-than-life personalities on 'The Real Housewives of Atlanta' and find themselves in a police investigation
Phaedra Parks and Shamea Morton's larger-than-life Housewife personalities will make their debuts on ABC's Will Trent!
Real Housewives of Atlanta stars channel their Bravo personas as they take on the roles of Adela Blakely (Parks) and Aviva Westwood (Morton), who star in a parody version of the reality show Ex Wives of Atlanta.
Park's Blakely is described as "lively and icy" while Morton's Westwood is considered "warm but cruel." Both cast members are called in for questioning when one of their cast members on the fictional reality series is found dead.
"Alright so, Margarita Royale started a tequila company right?" Michael Ormewood (Jake McLaughlin) says to Angie Polaski (Erika Christensen) with Ex Wives of Atlanta open on his laptop. "In this episode, it's the bottling party where she kicks Adela out the second she walks in."
When Polaski tells him that the two were friends and "bought matching G Wagons in season 2," Ormewood walks over to a bulletin board with the cast's headshots and reveals that they "were friends."
"Until Adela showed up to Margarita's party in a green dress. It's the color of jealousy," he explains to Polaski who pumps the brakes and tells him their onscreen personas were "not real life" before asking him to bring them into custody.
In the interrogation room, Blakely claims that "green is the color of money, honey" while explaining her feud with Margarita.
"Clearly, I wasn't the jealous one," she says with a sly smile. When Ormewood calls back to a previous episode where she claimed the only party she would be attending was her "funeral," Blakely replies, "And guess which color I wore?"
The duo then moves on to Westwood, Polaski questions her about changing her dog's name from "Miss Thang" to "Gravity" a week after Margarita's death.
"Gravity's a bitch," she says while holding her pooch. "And I love her."
As she continues to give her dog kisses and words of affirmation, Westwood asks: "Y'all ain't got no dog treats or something?"
"Listen, Margarita hooked up with my ex," she adds when Polaski redirects her back to the interrogation. "I guess that other shoe dropped with her."
#MusicNews: Babyface, Lalah Hathaway, Anthony Hamilton & More Set To Bring Their Talents To The 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest
Black Music Month in the DMV area isn’t Black Music Month without the Capital Jazz Fest. The yearly music festival draws artists from all genres of Black Music and music lovers from all walks of life to Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland every June. They’re doing it again this year with the 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest set to go down the weekend of Friday, June 7th through Sunday, June 9th. In preparation for the big weekend, the lineup has been announced and it’s overflowing with talent.
Billed as “the jazz festival with soul,” this June’s Capital Jazz Fest lives up to that title and then some. The fest kicks off with a heavy dose of soul on Friday night courtesy of soul brotha Anthony Hamilton who will be headlining. Before AHam, his band and background singers The Ton3s shut it down, songbirds Teedra Moses and Chrisette Michele will warm things up as will host Laiya St. Clair of Questlove Supreme and Jill Scott Presents: J.ill The Podcast.
The full festival will commence on Saturday with two stages of entertainment running all day long. On the jazz-centric Pavilion Stage hosted by The Bassman, the headliner will be Gregory Porter. Leading up to his performance will be an array of artists including soul music royalty Lalah Hathaway, instrumental duo Black Violin, jazz fusion group Spyro Gyra, trumpet player Keyon Harrold with special guest Stout, jazz singer Lori Williams, house music great Louie Vega & The Elements Of Life and saxophonist/vocalist Braxton Cook.
Across the Merriweather Post Pavilion grounds on the Symphony Woods Stage hosted by Cayman Kelly, R&B and soul will be in the spotlight. After last performing at the Capital Jazz Fest in 2019, 13-time GRAMMY Award winner Babyface returns to headline this stage on Saturday night. Prior to the maestro putting on a show, attendees will enjoy music from British songstress Joss Stone, living legend El DeBarge, ’90s R&B dance diva CeCe Peniston, married duo Kindred The Family Soul and classic R&B group The Jones Girls featuring Shirley Jones.
Sunday will be the closing day of the 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest, and they’re ending strong. The Bassman will return to host the Pavilion Stage, which will be headlined by Kem. Soulbird India.Arie, multifaceted musician Meshell Ndegeocello, jazz keyboardist Alex Bugnon, soul sanger Leela James, saxophonist/vocalist Marqueal Jordan and trumpeter Theo Croker are all on tap to perform. There will also be an exclusive Marvin Gaye tribute with special surprise guests.
Over on the Symphony Woods Stage, meanwhile, Cayman Kelly will hold it down as host while the bad boys of R&B Jodeci hold it down as headliners. Scheduled performers on this stage include The Love King Raheem DeVaughn, R&B songstress Karyn White, contemporary R&B singer Jon B and legendary band Switch. As if all this isn’t enough, there’s still at least one more artist to be announced.
The Capital Jazz Fest is always a good time filled with great music and artistry, and the 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest promises to deliver just that with this unbelievable lineup. We’re sure that you’re going to want to be in attendance, so make plans to be there. You can start by purchasing tickets, which go on sale on Saturday, March 23rd at 10 a.m. ET on Ticketmaster. For anyone who wants to avoid those dreaded Ticketmaster service charges, tickets will also be available to purchase in-person at the Merriweather Post Pavilion box office starting Monday, March 25th at 10 a.m. ET. For more information on ticketing, visit the Capital Jazz Fest website.
HipHopNews: Schoolboy Q Reveals Hilarious Reason Joint Album With A$Ap Rocky Never Happened
ScHoolboy Q and A$AP Rocky were once going to make an album together, but it never happened for one simple yet strange reason.
Fresh off the release of his latest album Blue Lips, Q appeared on N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN’s Drink Champs this past weekend and was asked about the collaborative project.
The TDE rapper confirmed that he and Rocky had discussions about it, but blamed their poor communication skills on it fizzling out.
“Yeah, we talked about it but I mean, me and him just ghost each other so much, bro,” he said. “Like, I’ll be looking for him, I can’t find him. He’ll be looking for me. I see it, I’ll be like, ‘Bruh, I’ll call you tomorrow.’
“He got Rihanna, bruh, so sometimes I gotta get him back. ‘Alright, you ghosted me for a week, I’ma have to ghost you for a week. You gotta wait a week now too.'”
On a more serious note, ScHoolboy Q also revealed he was recently hanging out with A$AP Rocky and was treated to an early preview of what he’s been cooking up.
“That’s my boy,” he said. “I was just at his house looking at the new art he was making and coming up with. He cold. You know, he’s always doing clothes, videos and music, so he was just letting me see all the art he was working on pretty much.”
ScHoolboy Q and A$AP Rocky have collaborated numerous times over the years on songs such as “Brand New Guy,” “Hands on the Wheel,” “PMW (All I Really Need)” and “Electric Body.”
During an interview with BlowHipHopTV in 2012, Rocky spoke about discovering Q’s work and meeting him for the first time.
“I was a fan of ScHoolboy Q. I wanted him to be on my album. I always wanted to work with the n-gga before shit blew up,” he said.
“I was working on LiveLoveA$AP. In the midst of it, I got my name up a little bit so I started to meet people who knew people who knew people some way, somehow.”
He added: “Fortunately, he was a cool guy and wanted to work with me, because this was before ‘Peso’ blew up and before ‘Purple Swag’ really blew up. That n-gga was trill, that’s why I fucked with that n-gga.
“And I fucked with Kendrick [Lamar], too. I like what them n-ggas is doing over there. There’s a lot of positive energy from the West Side over there. We fuck with them n-ggas.”
Usher Claps Back At Speculation He Thanks The Devil For His NAACP Award
Usher did not sell his soul for an award. The singer has faced allegation that he almost thanked the devil at the the 55th annual NAACP Image Awards which has now caught the attention of the superstar.
On Sunday, March 24, the R&B artist quickly shut down the rumor once and for all when he responded to a post about his speech at the award event. "Did #Usher almost just thank the #Devil for his #NAACP award?" read a caption accompanying the said Instagram post.
Not mincing his words, Usher wrote in the comments section, "Get the hell outta here!!! GOD is my lord and savior … the DEVIL is a lie!!" Fuming, he continued, "You got me f**ked up!! Not today sir...I never have time for this type s**t but today, you gon hear this."
The "OMG" star explained what happened during his speech, "So I was a bit nervous and jumbled my words when speaking from my heart...I hate teleprompters and they started to rush me because I was getting a bit long winded....
"everybody gets nervous, especially in this position," so he claimed. "I was thanking the N Double A C P and shift to the depths of my soul... when my words got mixed. The devil is always at work...don't let him use my boy." He went on calling out the person who tried to accuse him of being a devil worshipper, "You terrible for even tryna to share this."
In the said post, the content creator included a clip of Usher's speech when he accepted the President's Award at the NAACP Image Awards. "I'm very honored to be able to receive this amazing award, from the dev-," he said, briefly pausing, before he continued, "from the depths of my soul."
His flub aside, he also thanked his mother and wife Jennifer Goicoechea. "I'm thankful for the support that my mother gave me for my dreams," he said. "I'm so overwhelmed with appreciation for my entire family, without them I wouldn't be able to do this."
He added, "They say standing behind or beside or with every strong man is a stronger woman and for that I thank my mother and I thank my beautiful wife, Jennifer, for holding it down. My kids, I love you guys so so much. I hope that I'm an example. I'm a dad who's just trying to get it right every day."
#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire' Secures Top Spot At Box Office On Opening Weekend
The "Ghostbusters" franchise still conjures up some magic. The latest installment, "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire", is making its way to the top of the North American box office on its opening weekend with a solid $45.2 million.
The opening number of the fifth entry in the supernatural comedy film series is slightly above its predecessor, "Ghostbusters: Afterlife" (2021), which debuted to $44 million during the pandemic-challenged era.
Overseas, the Sony tentpole started with $16.4 million from 25 markets for a global start of $61.6 million. It will need to have decent legs to cover its $100 million budget, versus $75 million for "Afterlife". In like-for-like markets, however, Sony says it is pacing 15% ahead of the previous installment.
Unfortunately, "Afterlife" likely won't get a boost from word of mouth. Critics and audiences were mixed on the sequel, which landed a 43% on Rotten Tomatoes and a B+ CinemaScore, compared to an A for "Afterlife".
Another new release this week is horror film "Immaculate" starring Sydney Sweeney. The movie debuts at No. 4 with an estimated $5 million, in line with expectations for the indie pic. It earned a C CinemaScore, which isn't unusual for a horror film.
"The movie features the popular Sydney Sweeney, but horror movies are not cast-driven," says David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting firm Franchise Entertainment Research, which categorized the opening weekend result as "fair." He adds, "They're driven by the hook: the evil doll, the wicked smile, the invisible or silent presence, the found footage, the possessed child. That's what terrifies the horror crowd. The hook is not completely clear here."
"Dune: Part Two" stays steady at No. 2 with approximately $17.6 million on its fourth weekend, bringing its domestic gross to $233.4 million and pushing its global cume to pass $500 million mark.
"Kung Fu Panda 4" rolls down two places to No. 3 with an estimated $16.8 million for a total of $133.2 million domestically so far. "Arthur the King" places fifth with approximately $4.4 million.
Top 10 of North American Box Office (Mar. 22-24, 2024):
Kevin Hart Takes Home The Mark Twain Prize For American Humor
Comedians love to rib each other. It's almost a requirement for the job and there was plenty of it for Kevin Hart Sunday night as he received the 25th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Tiffany Haddish called him a "leprechaun." Jerry Seinfeld joked that, "If you look at Kevin Hart's career, it doesn't look like it was that hard to do." Chris Rock, Regina Hall, Keith Robinson, Chelsea Handler, Dave Chappelle and others kept the roast going.
Younger comedians were more charitable. Kevin Hart is known for championing undiscovered talent, like Dave Burd, a rapper who goes by the name Lil Dicky. Hart has invested in his music and helped him create a new sitcom. Like Hart, Burd grew up in Philadelphia.
Tiffany Haddish was one of several comedians who thanked Kevin Hart for his help early in her career.
The Kennedy Center
"To like grow up looking at a screen seeing a guy that you think is the funniest guy in the world and then to have that guy pull you and be like 'Let me help and let me tell you everything I know about this industry.' It is the stuff of dreams if I'm being honest with you," Burd gushed before the show.
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor is considered the highest honor in comedy. Past winners include Richard Pryor, Bob Newhart, Whoopi Goldberg and Eddie Murphy.
Like any big honor, some comedy lovers believe there have been oversights. Neither Seinfeld nor Chris Rock has received the award. Mel Brooks turned it down. The Kennedy Center says he didn't say why.
Sean McCarthy, who writes about comedy for The Daily Beast and Decider, says it's striking that people such as Don Rickles, Phyllis Diller and Joan Rivers have not received the award. A number of recent winners, including Hart, have been in their 40s when they won the prize. McCarthy would like to see the Twain Prize honor older comedians who've inspired younger generations.
"I used to think that The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor was a lifetime achievement award, kind of like The Kennedy Center Honors," McCarthy says. "And it certainly felt that way until about 2010, when they began awarding the prize to people who were in their 40s, like Tina Fey and Will Ferrell. And now I don't really know what the prize means."
During the ceremony, comedian after comedian praised Kevin Hart for his talents as a performer and an entrepreneur. In addition to his standup and movies, he's involved in several businesses including his own production company, a tequila brand and restaurants.
Growing up, Hart's dad was in and out of jail. He says he got his work ethic from his mom. She died in 2007. Had she been here, Hart believes she'd be proud to see him receive comedy's most prestigious award.
"My mom is a firm believer that what you put into something you get out of it," Hart reflected, "So, because of my effort, knowing my effort, she'd go, 'It's supposed to happen.'"
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor premieres on Netflix on May 11.
Ruben Studdard and Wife Kristin Welcome Baby No. 2, Daughter Henri: 'We Are Thrilled'
Ruben Studdard and wife Kristin Moore-Studdard have expanded their family!
The American Idol alum, 45, and his wife welcomed their second baby together, daughter Henri, on Thursday, March 21, a rep for the couple exclusively confirms to PEOPLE.
Baby Henri, named in honor of Moore-Studdard's late father Henry, arrived weighing 6 lbs., 14 oz. at birth. Both Mom and baby are doing well, the rep adds.
The couple's new addition joins 3-year-old son Olivier.
"We are thrilled to welcome baby Henri into our lives. Big bro Olivier can’t contain his excitement,” the couple tells PEOPLE.
The couple first revealed their exciting baby news in November with a video of their son Olivier wearing a “BIG BRO” sweatshirt while waving excitedly to the camera.
“Soon to be a family of four 2024,” a wooden block read alongside a baby onesie that featured the words, “Baby Studdard.” A baby scan was also placed on display.
Last month, the singer shared a carousel of maternity photos on Instagram showing Studdard and his wife all dressed up as Moore-Studdard cradled her baby bump in a rust-colored gown.
“Celebration of Life, Love and New Beginnings,” Studdard wrote. “We can’t wait to welcome the newest addition to Team Studdard. @kristin_studdard I love you darling!!!”
In the first snap, Moore-Studdard wore a long gown while caressing her bump. She and Studdard also flashed beaming smiles as they held each other's hands.
Another sweet photo showed Studdard planting a kiss on his wife’s cheek as the pair closed their eyes.
“OUR LOVE 🤎✨#maternityphotography #maternity," Moore-Studdard shared as she reposted the photos on her Instagram.
Ray J apologizes to Monica for unsolicited comments about touring with Brandy
Ray J wants Monica to know he meant no harm by publicly speaking about the singer potentially touring with Brandy. In an effort to make amends, he issued a public apology to the "Why I Love You So Much” artist after unintentionally dividing the two artists’ respective fan bases on who would be an opening act if the show were to come to fruition.
“Monica, if I said anything wrong, I apologize. You are a great artist. You and Brandy have made history together. All I want to do is kind of like shake it up a little bit to get y’all to see that that should be like one of those like… one of those last wave tours. Like, ‘Let’s do this for the next three years,’” he said on “Way Up With Angela Yee.” “It was just all trying to get your attention,” added the “One Wish” crooner.
Ray J admitted that, like Monica, his sister was also in the dark about his grand marketing scheme to spark a tour. Though he referred to the ladies’ 2020 Verzuz as the catalyst for the idea, he claimed that the trio were supposed to meet up after the event to discuss the possible venture, but the meeting never took place. In the comments of an Instagram post re-sharing a snippet of his apology, he wrote, “I wanted to manifest the tour. I think it would be dope for the loyal fans to see. Sorry for that.”
Confusion over his public comments about the situation spun a bit out of control on March 21 when he appeared on “The Breakfast Club” and suggested that Monica would be the opener for the tour. "Somebody has to come out first. Brandy ain't having that, either,” he said. The Atlanta native caught wind of the remarks and, in her Instagram Story, asked him to refrain from speaking about her in public.
“A private conversation would be both necessary and respectful!" she wrote. “The conversation being had without she and I is beginning to muddy the waters severely! She and I are both consummate professionals [who] share a massive recording as well as an entire era! Please allow this to remain positive and beautiful! Neither should open. We should give someone else that opportunity and co-headline a massive, shared stage if this is ever to happen! Any further [conversation] should be private!"
Monica is currently on the road with Nicki Minaj for the “Pink Friday 2 World Tour.” Their next show is Sunday (March 24) at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Properties Raided by Homeland Security as Part of Sex Trafficking Investigation
Properties owned by Sean “Diddy” Combs located in Miami and Los Angeles were raided by Homeland Security on Monday afternoon.
NBC News cited an unnamed source as saying that three women and a man have been interviewed by federal officials in Manhattan and three other interviews are scheduled in relation to allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and the solicitation and distribution of illegal narcotics and firearms; however, it remains unconfirmed whether Combs himself is the focus of the investigation, although multiple sexual misconduct claims have been levied against him in recent months.The raids were first reported by Fox 11 News.
In a statement, Homeland Security Investigations confirmed, “Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners.” It was unclear at the time of this article’s publication whether Combs’ New York properties are a part of this raid.
FOX11 has also shared video footage of the raid taken from an overhead helicopter that shows several individuals in handcuffs outside the property, including two men who some outlets claimed were Combs’ sons, Justin and King Combs, although this information was not confirmed.
Representatives for Combs did not immediately return request for comment.
The artist and entrepreneur faced a number of lawsuits stemming from sexual assault charges that started last year with accusations from R&B singer Cassie, who dated Combs for years, in a suit filed on Nov. 16. The suit claimed Combs had been combative towards her throughout their relationship. She described him as a “serial domestic abuser, who would regularly beat and kick Ms. Ventura.” The following day, the two parties settled the lawsuits on what they described as amicable terms.
Following those allegations, Combs issued his resignation as chairman of Revolt and his Hulu reality show was subsequently cancelled.
Another lawsuit, filed in December, alleged that Combs had gang-raped a 17-year-old girl in 2003. The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, accused Combs of plying her with drugs and alcohol at his New York studio and then raping her along with two associates. The suit accused Combs of a “sex trafficking scheme,” in which Jane Doe was flown by private jet from her home in Michigan to New York.
Douglas Wigdor, a lawyer for Cassie and Jane Doe, responded to reports of a search warrant issued on Sean Combs, writing, “We will always support law enforcement when it seeks to prosecute those that have violated the law. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a process that will hold Mr. Combs responsible for his depraved conduct.”
Rebel Wilson Reveals Identity of 'Massive A-shole' She Will Talk About In Memoir 'Rebel Rising' it’s Sacha Baron Cohen
Rebel Wilson is now naming the “a-shole” she worked with. The 44-year-old actress is gearing up to release her new memoir “Rebel Rising,” and teased that a chapter will be dedicated to talking about a “massive a-shole.”
On Sunday (March 24), Rebel took to her Instagram story and shared the name of the celeb – Sacha Baron Cohen, who she worked with on the 2016 movie The Brothers Grimsby.
“I will not be bullied or silenced by high priced lawyers or PR crisis managers,” she wrote on her story. “The ‘a-shole’ that I am talking about in ONE CHAPTER of my book is: Sacha Baron Cohen.”
Here are the most interesting facts:
1. He spent his 15th, 16th, and 17th birthdays in the same juvenile facility. And now he goes back to that same facility and teaches writing workshops.
2. He was in his twenties before he realized that having a drug addict in your family wasn't normal.
3. He's really good friends with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Apparently in 2017, The Rock found Jelly's music and posted a song to his Instagram and the two started up an unlikely friendship. Jelly even said, "there were so many times that [his] friendship alone was my anchor."
4. He still gets stage-fright, but he loves it. He said, "I'm still glad I get real palm-sweaty before interviews . . . [and] get real nervous before shows. I love that. I'm still here for the right reasons."
5. He said the barometer to how well-received he is at events like the Grammy's is more about "the people working there, the security . . . the bartenders. I know the cook was seeing it, because he shouts at me [when] I go to the steakhouse. I knew the valet parker was. But was the dude running ASCAP seeing it?"
And he actually CREDITS the judge for not showing him leniency. Because as he said, "every time I got incarcerated, I would do a year, year and a half . . . and I would just write."
Cool.
#RHOA: Phaedra Parks and Shamea Morton Are Brought in for Interrogation in “Will Trent”'s Housewife Whodunit
Phaedra Parks and Shamea Morton's larger-than-life Housewife personalities will make their debuts on ABC's Will Trent!
Real Housewives of Atlanta stars channel their Bravo personas as they take on the roles of Adela Blakely (Parks) and Aviva Westwood (Morton), who star in a parody version of the reality show Ex Wives of Atlanta.
Park's Blakely is described as "lively and icy" while Morton's Westwood is considered "warm but cruel." Both cast members are called in for questioning when one of their cast members on the fictional reality series is found dead.
"Alright so, Margarita Royale started a tequila company right?" Michael Ormewood (Jake McLaughlin) says to Angie Polaski (Erika Christensen) with Ex Wives of Atlanta open on his laptop. "In this episode, it's the bottling party where she kicks Adela out the second she walks in."
When Polaski tells him that the two were friends and "bought matching G Wagons in season 2," Ormewood walks over to a bulletin board with the cast's headshots and reveals that they "were friends."
"Until Adela showed up to Margarita's party in a green dress. It's the color of jealousy," he explains to Polaski who pumps the brakes and tells him their onscreen personas were "not real life" before asking him to bring them into custody.
In the interrogation room, Blakely claims that "green is the color of money, honey" while explaining her feud with Margarita.
"Clearly, I wasn't the jealous one," she says with a sly smile. When Ormewood calls back to a previous episode where she claimed the only party she would be attending was her "funeral," Blakely replies, "And guess which color I wore?"
The duo then moves on to Westwood, Polaski questions her about changing her dog's name from "Miss Thang" to "Gravity" a week after Margarita's death.
"Gravity's a bitch," she says while holding her pooch. "And I love her."
As she continues to give her dog kisses and words of affirmation, Westwood asks: "Y'all ain't got no dog treats or something?"
"Listen, Margarita hooked up with my ex," she adds when Polaski redirects her back to the interrogation. "I guess that other shoe dropped with her."
#MusicNews: Babyface, Lalah Hathaway, Anthony Hamilton & More Set To Bring Their Talents To The 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest
Black Music Month in the DMV area isn’t Black Music Month without the Capital Jazz Fest. The yearly music festival draws artists from all genres of Black Music and music lovers from all walks of life to Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland every June. They’re doing it again this year with the 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest set to go down the weekend of Friday, June 7th through Sunday, June 9th. In preparation for the big weekend, the lineup has been announced and it’s overflowing with talent.
Billed as “the jazz festival with soul,” this June’s Capital Jazz Fest lives up to that title and then some. The fest kicks off with a heavy dose of soul on Friday night courtesy of soul brotha Anthony Hamilton who will be headlining. Before AHam, his band and background singers The Ton3s shut it down, songbirds Teedra Moses and Chrisette Michele will warm things up as will host Laiya St. Clair of Questlove Supreme and Jill Scott Presents: J.ill The Podcast.
The full festival will commence on Saturday with two stages of entertainment running all day long. On the jazz-centric Pavilion Stage hosted by The Bassman, the headliner will be Gregory Porter. Leading up to his performance will be an array of artists including soul music royalty Lalah Hathaway, instrumental duo Black Violin, jazz fusion group Spyro Gyra, trumpet player Keyon Harrold with special guest Stout, jazz singer Lori Williams, house music great Louie Vega & The Elements Of Life and saxophonist/vocalist Braxton Cook.
Across the Merriweather Post Pavilion grounds on the Symphony Woods Stage hosted by Cayman Kelly, R&B and soul will be in the spotlight. After last performing at the Capital Jazz Fest in 2019, 13-time GRAMMY Award winner Babyface returns to headline this stage on Saturday night. Prior to the maestro putting on a show, attendees will enjoy music from British songstress Joss Stone, living legend El DeBarge, ’90s R&B dance diva CeCe Peniston, married duo Kindred The Family Soul and classic R&B group The Jones Girls featuring Shirley Jones.
Sunday will be the closing day of the 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest, and they’re ending strong. The Bassman will return to host the Pavilion Stage, which will be headlined by Kem. Soulbird India.Arie, multifaceted musician Meshell Ndegeocello, jazz keyboardist Alex Bugnon, soul sanger Leela James, saxophonist/vocalist Marqueal Jordan and trumpeter Theo Croker are all on tap to perform. There will also be an exclusive Marvin Gaye tribute with special surprise guests.
Over on the Symphony Woods Stage, meanwhile, Cayman Kelly will hold it down as host while the bad boys of R&B Jodeci hold it down as headliners. Scheduled performers on this stage include The Love King Raheem DeVaughn, R&B songstress Karyn White, contemporary R&B singer Jon B and legendary band Switch. As if all this isn’t enough, there’s still at least one more artist to be announced.
The Capital Jazz Fest is always a good time filled with great music and artistry, and the 31st Annual Capital Jazz Fest promises to deliver just that with this unbelievable lineup. We’re sure that you’re going to want to be in attendance, so make plans to be there. You can start by purchasing tickets, which go on sale on Saturday, March 23rd at 10 a.m. ET on Ticketmaster. For anyone who wants to avoid those dreaded Ticketmaster service charges, tickets will also be available to purchase in-person at the Merriweather Post Pavilion box office starting Monday, March 25th at 10 a.m. ET. For more information on ticketing, visit the Capital Jazz Fest website.
HipHopNews: Schoolboy Q Reveals Hilarious Reason Joint Album With A$Ap Rocky Never Happened
Fresh off the release of his latest album Blue Lips, Q appeared on N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN’s Drink Champs this past weekend and was asked about the collaborative project.
The TDE rapper confirmed that he and Rocky had discussions about it, but blamed their poor communication skills on it fizzling out.
“Yeah, we talked about it but I mean, me and him just ghost each other so much, bro,” he said. “Like, I’ll be looking for him, I can’t find him. He’ll be looking for me. I see it, I’ll be like, ‘Bruh, I’ll call you tomorrow.’
“He got Rihanna, bruh, so sometimes I gotta get him back. ‘Alright, you ghosted me for a week, I’ma have to ghost you for a week. You gotta wait a week now too.'”
On a more serious note, ScHoolboy Q also revealed he was recently hanging out with A$AP Rocky and was treated to an early preview of what he’s been cooking up.
“That’s my boy,” he said. “I was just at his house looking at the new art he was making and coming up with. He cold. You know, he’s always doing clothes, videos and music, so he was just letting me see all the art he was working on pretty much.”
ScHoolboy Q and A$AP Rocky have collaborated numerous times over the years on songs such as “Brand New Guy,” “Hands on the Wheel,” “PMW (All I Really Need)” and “Electric Body.”
During an interview with BlowHipHopTV in 2012, Rocky spoke about discovering Q’s work and meeting him for the first time.
“I was a fan of ScHoolboy Q. I wanted him to be on my album. I always wanted to work with the n-gga before shit blew up,” he said.
“I was working on LiveLoveA$AP. In the midst of it, I got my name up a little bit so I started to meet people who knew people who knew people some way, somehow.”
He added: “Fortunately, he was a cool guy and wanted to work with me, because this was before ‘Peso’ blew up and before ‘Purple Swag’ really blew up. That n-gga was trill, that’s why I fucked with that n-gga.
“And I fucked with Kendrick [Lamar], too. I like what them n-ggas is doing over there. There’s a lot of positive energy from the West Side over there. We fuck with them n-ggas.”
Usher Claps Back At Speculation He Thanks The Devil For His NAACP Award
Usher did not sell his soul for an award. The singer has faced allegation that he almost thanked the devil at the the 55th annual NAACP Image Awards which has now caught the attention of the superstar.
On Sunday, March 24, the R&B artist quickly shut down the rumor once and for all when he responded to a post about his speech at the award event. "Did #Usher almost just thank the #Devil for his #NAACP award?" read a caption accompanying the said Instagram post.
Not mincing his words, Usher wrote in the comments section, "Get the hell outta here!!! GOD is my lord and savior … the DEVIL is a lie!!" Fuming, he continued, "You got me f**ked up!! Not today sir...I never have time for this type s**t but today, you gon hear this."
The "OMG" star explained what happened during his speech, "So I was a bit nervous and jumbled my words when speaking from my heart...I hate teleprompters and they started to rush me because I was getting a bit long winded....
"everybody gets nervous, especially in this position," so he claimed. "I was thanking the N Double A C P and shift to the depths of my soul... when my words got mixed. The devil is always at work...don't let him use my boy." He went on calling out the person who tried to accuse him of being a devil worshipper, "You terrible for even tryna to share this."
In the said post, the content creator included a clip of Usher's speech when he accepted the President's Award at the NAACP Image Awards. "I'm very honored to be able to receive this amazing award, from the dev-," he said, briefly pausing, before he continued, "from the depths of my soul."
His flub aside, he also thanked his mother and wife Jennifer Goicoechea. "I'm thankful for the support that my mother gave me for my dreams," he said. "I'm so overwhelmed with appreciation for my entire family, without them I wouldn't be able to do this."
He added, "They say standing behind or beside or with every strong man is a stronger woman and for that I thank my mother and I thank my beautiful wife, Jennifer, for holding it down. My kids, I love you guys so so much. I hope that I'm an example. I'm a dad who's just trying to get it right every day."
#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire' Secures Top Spot At Box Office On Opening Weekend
The opening number of the fifth entry in the supernatural comedy film series is slightly above its predecessor, "Ghostbusters: Afterlife" (2021), which debuted to $44 million during the pandemic-challenged era.
Overseas, the Sony tentpole started with $16.4 million from 25 markets for a global start of $61.6 million. It will need to have decent legs to cover its $100 million budget, versus $75 million for "Afterlife". In like-for-like markets, however, Sony says it is pacing 15% ahead of the previous installment.
Unfortunately, "Afterlife" likely won't get a boost from word of mouth. Critics and audiences were mixed on the sequel, which landed a 43% on Rotten Tomatoes and a B+ CinemaScore, compared to an A for "Afterlife".
Another new release this week is horror film "Immaculate" starring Sydney Sweeney. The movie debuts at No. 4 with an estimated $5 million, in line with expectations for the indie pic. It earned a C CinemaScore, which isn't unusual for a horror film.
"The movie features the popular Sydney Sweeney, but horror movies are not cast-driven," says David A. Gross, who runs the movie consulting firm Franchise Entertainment Research, which categorized the opening weekend result as "fair." He adds, "They're driven by the hook: the evil doll, the wicked smile, the invisible or silent presence, the found footage, the possessed child. That's what terrifies the horror crowd. The hook is not completely clear here."
"Dune: Part Two" stays steady at No. 2 with approximately $17.6 million on its fourth weekend, bringing its domestic gross to $233.4 million and pushing its global cume to pass $500 million mark.
"Kung Fu Panda 4" rolls down two places to No. 3 with an estimated $16.8 million for a total of $133.2 million domestically so far. "Arthur the King" places fifth with approximately $4.4 million.
Top 10 of North American Box Office (Mar. 22-24, 2024):
- "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" - $45.2 million
- "Dune: Part Two" - $17.6 million
- "Kung Fu Panda 4" - $16.8 million
- "Immaculate" - $5.4 million
- "Arthur the King" - $4.4 million
- "Late Night with the Devil" - $2.83 million
- "Imaginary" - $2.8 million
- "Love Lies Bleeding" - $1.6 million
- "Cabrini" - $1.4 million
- "Bob Marley: One Love" - $1.1 million
Kevin Hart Takes Home The Mark Twain Prize For American Humor
Comedians love to rib each other. It's almost a requirement for the job and there was plenty of it for Kevin Hart Sunday night as he received the 25th Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
Tiffany Haddish called him a "leprechaun." Jerry Seinfeld joked that, "If you look at Kevin Hart's career, it doesn't look like it was that hard to do." Chris Rock, Regina Hall, Keith Robinson, Chelsea Handler, Dave Chappelle and others kept the roast going.
Younger comedians were more charitable. Kevin Hart is known for championing undiscovered talent, like Dave Burd, a rapper who goes by the name Lil Dicky. Hart has invested in his music and helped him create a new sitcom. Like Hart, Burd grew up in Philadelphia.
Tiffany Haddish was one of several comedians who thanked Kevin Hart for his help early in her career.
The Kennedy Center
"To like grow up looking at a screen seeing a guy that you think is the funniest guy in the world and then to have that guy pull you and be like 'Let me help and let me tell you everything I know about this industry.' It is the stuff of dreams if I'm being honest with you," Burd gushed before the show.
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor is considered the highest honor in comedy. Past winners include Richard Pryor, Bob Newhart, Whoopi Goldberg and Eddie Murphy.
Like any big honor, some comedy lovers believe there have been oversights. Neither Seinfeld nor Chris Rock has received the award. Mel Brooks turned it down. The Kennedy Center says he didn't say why.
Sean McCarthy, who writes about comedy for The Daily Beast and Decider, says it's striking that people such as Don Rickles, Phyllis Diller and Joan Rivers have not received the award. A number of recent winners, including Hart, have been in their 40s when they won the prize. McCarthy would like to see the Twain Prize honor older comedians who've inspired younger generations.
"I used to think that The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor was a lifetime achievement award, kind of like The Kennedy Center Honors," McCarthy says. "And it certainly felt that way until about 2010, when they began awarding the prize to people who were in their 40s, like Tina Fey and Will Ferrell. And now I don't really know what the prize means."
During the ceremony, comedian after comedian praised Kevin Hart for his talents as a performer and an entrepreneur. In addition to his standup and movies, he's involved in several businesses including his own production company, a tequila brand and restaurants.
Growing up, Hart's dad was in and out of jail. He says he got his work ethic from his mom. She died in 2007. Had she been here, Hart believes she'd be proud to see him receive comedy's most prestigious award.
"My mom is a firm believer that what you put into something you get out of it," Hart reflected, "So, because of my effort, knowing my effort, she'd go, 'It's supposed to happen.'"
The Mark Twain Prize for American Humor premieres on Netflix on May 11.
Ruben Studdard and Wife Kristin Welcome Baby No. 2, Daughter Henri: 'We Are Thrilled'
The American Idol alum, 45, and his wife welcomed their second baby together, daughter Henri, on Thursday, March 21, a rep for the couple exclusively confirms to PEOPLE.
Baby Henri, named in honor of Moore-Studdard's late father Henry, arrived weighing 6 lbs., 14 oz. at birth. Both Mom and baby are doing well, the rep adds.
The couple's new addition joins 3-year-old son Olivier.
"We are thrilled to welcome baby Henri into our lives. Big bro Olivier can’t contain his excitement,” the couple tells PEOPLE.
The couple first revealed their exciting baby news in November with a video of their son Olivier wearing a “BIG BRO” sweatshirt while waving excitedly to the camera.
“Soon to be a family of four 2024,” a wooden block read alongside a baby onesie that featured the words, “Baby Studdard.” A baby scan was also placed on display.
Last month, the singer shared a carousel of maternity photos on Instagram showing Studdard and his wife all dressed up as Moore-Studdard cradled her baby bump in a rust-colored gown.
“Celebration of Life, Love and New Beginnings,” Studdard wrote. “We can’t wait to welcome the newest addition to Team Studdard. @kristin_studdard I love you darling!!!”
In the first snap, Moore-Studdard wore a long gown while caressing her bump. She and Studdard also flashed beaming smiles as they held each other's hands.
Another sweet photo showed Studdard planting a kiss on his wife’s cheek as the pair closed their eyes.
“OUR LOVE 🤎✨#maternityphotography #maternity," Moore-Studdard shared as she reposted the photos on her Instagram.
Ray J apologizes to Monica for unsolicited comments about touring with Brandy
Ray J wants Monica to know he meant no harm by publicly speaking about the singer potentially touring with Brandy. In an effort to make amends, he issued a public apology to the "Why I Love You So Much” artist after unintentionally dividing the two artists’ respective fan bases on who would be an opening act if the show were to come to fruition.
“Monica, if I said anything wrong, I apologize. You are a great artist. You and Brandy have made history together. All I want to do is kind of like shake it up a little bit to get y’all to see that that should be like one of those like… one of those last wave tours. Like, ‘Let’s do this for the next three years,’” he said on “Way Up With Angela Yee.” “It was just all trying to get your attention,” added the “One Wish” crooner.
Ray J admitted that, like Monica, his sister was also in the dark about his grand marketing scheme to spark a tour. Though he referred to the ladies’ 2020 Verzuz as the catalyst for the idea, he claimed that the trio were supposed to meet up after the event to discuss the possible venture, but the meeting never took place. In the comments of an Instagram post re-sharing a snippet of his apology, he wrote, “I wanted to manifest the tour. I think it would be dope for the loyal fans to see. Sorry for that.”
Confusion over his public comments about the situation spun a bit out of control on March 21 when he appeared on “The Breakfast Club” and suggested that Monica would be the opener for the tour. "Somebody has to come out first. Brandy ain't having that, either,” he said. The Atlanta native caught wind of the remarks and, in her Instagram Story, asked him to refrain from speaking about her in public.
“A private conversation would be both necessary and respectful!" she wrote. “The conversation being had without she and I is beginning to muddy the waters severely! She and I are both consummate professionals [who] share a massive recording as well as an entire era! Please allow this to remain positive and beautiful! Neither should open. We should give someone else that opportunity and co-headline a massive, shared stage if this is ever to happen! Any further [conversation] should be private!"
Monica is currently on the road with Nicki Minaj for the “Pink Friday 2 World Tour.” Their next show is Sunday (March 24) at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Properties Raided by Homeland Security as Part of Sex Trafficking Investigation
Properties owned by Sean “Diddy” Combs located in Miami and Los Angeles were raided by Homeland Security on Monday afternoon.
NBC News cited an unnamed source as saying that three women and a man have been interviewed by federal officials in Manhattan and three other interviews are scheduled in relation to allegations of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and the solicitation and distribution of illegal narcotics and firearms; however, it remains unconfirmed whether Combs himself is the focus of the investigation, although multiple sexual misconduct claims have been levied against him in recent months.The raids were first reported by Fox 11 News.
In a statement, Homeland Security Investigations confirmed, “Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners.” It was unclear at the time of this article’s publication whether Combs’ New York properties are a part of this raid.
FOX11 has also shared video footage of the raid taken from an overhead helicopter that shows several individuals in handcuffs outside the property, including two men who some outlets claimed were Combs’ sons, Justin and King Combs, although this information was not confirmed.
Representatives for Combs did not immediately return request for comment.
The artist and entrepreneur faced a number of lawsuits stemming from sexual assault charges that started last year with accusations from R&B singer Cassie, who dated Combs for years, in a suit filed on Nov. 16. The suit claimed Combs had been combative towards her throughout their relationship. She described him as a “serial domestic abuser, who would regularly beat and kick Ms. Ventura.” The following day, the two parties settled the lawsuits on what they described as amicable terms.
Following those allegations, Combs issued his resignation as chairman of Revolt and his Hulu reality show was subsequently cancelled.
Another lawsuit, filed in December, alleged that Combs had gang-raped a 17-year-old girl in 2003. The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, accused Combs of plying her with drugs and alcohol at his New York studio and then raping her along with two associates. The suit accused Combs of a “sex trafficking scheme,” in which Jane Doe was flown by private jet from her home in Michigan to New York.
Douglas Wigdor, a lawyer for Cassie and Jane Doe, responded to reports of a search warrant issued on Sean Combs, writing, “We will always support law enforcement when it seeks to prosecute those that have violated the law. Hopefully, this is the beginning of a process that will hold Mr. Combs responsible for his depraved conduct.”
Rebel Wilson Reveals Identity of 'Massive A-shole' She Will Talk About In Memoir 'Rebel Rising' it’s Sacha Baron Cohen
On Sunday (March 24), Rebel took to her Instagram story and shared the name of the celeb – Sacha Baron Cohen, who she worked with on the 2016 movie The Brothers Grimsby.
“I will not be bullied or silenced by high priced lawyers or PR crisis managers,” she wrote on her story. “The ‘a-shole’ that I am talking about in ONE CHAPTER of my book is: Sacha Baron Cohen.”
Just a couple of days prior, Rebel shared that he was trying to threaten her and stop press about the book.
“I wrote about an a-shole in my book. Now, said a-shole is trying to threaten me. He’s hired a crisis PR manager and lawyers,” she said. “He is trying to stop press coming out about my book. But the book WILL come out and you will all know the truth.”
A couple years ago, Rebel recalled her own #MeToo story and a co-star who tried to “destroy” her career.
She also opened up about a “male star” who asked her to perform a sexual act on him while friends filmed, and fans have speculated that it was Sacha.
Rebel‘s memoir “Rebel Rising” is set to be released on Tuesday, April 2nd.
Michael Jackson Biopic Adds Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy
As the film chronicles Jackson’s rise to prominence — first as a member of the Jackson 5, then as a solo artist — the record label will factor in significantly. “Power” franchise star Tate (who coincidentally played “Thriller” producer Quincy Jones in 2004’s “Ray”) takes on the Motown impresario Gordy, who redefined American music by platforming such acts as the Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, the Four Tops, Gladys Knight and the Pips and Diana Ross & the Supremes.
Graham (“Love in the Villa,” Tyler Perry’s upcoming “Black, White & Blue”) portrays Ross, who, as lead singer of the chart-topping group, was asked to officially introduce the Jackson 5 to the world and remained a lifelong influence on Michael Jackson.
Other new cast members of the Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International project include Jessica Sula (“Split”) as La Toya Jackson, Michael’s older sister; Liv Symone (“Power Book III: Raising Kanan”) as Gladys Knight; Kevin Shinick (“Robot Chicken”) as Dick Clark; KeiLyn Durrel Jones (“The Other Two,” “How to Die Alone”) as Jackson’s former security-turned-trusted friend and confidante Bill Bray; and Kendrick Sampson (“Insecure”) as industry icon Quincy Jones, who first met Michael Jackson when he was just 12 years old. The pair would go on to collaborate on three of Michael’s most successful albums: 1979’s “Off the Wall,” 1982’s “Thriller” and 1987’s “Bad.”
“Michael,” from director Antoine Fuqua, is currently in production and has added a slew of stars in recent weeks. Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson will make his screen debut playing his uncle in the film, while 9-year-old Juliano Krue Valdi will portray the King of Pop from his early days in the Jackson 5.
Colman Domingo and Nia Long will play family heads Joe and Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller will play Jackson’s attorney and advisor John Branca. Eight actors will portray Jackson’s siblings over two time periods, while Variety exclusively reported that Laura Harrier will play portray pioneering female music executive Suzanne de Passe.
Graham King of GK Films (“Bohemian Rhapsody”) is producing the film, which is set to hit theaters on April 18 2025. Three-time Oscar nominee John Logan wrote the script. Prince Jackson, Jackson’s eldest son, is working with the production on set, side-by-side with the filmmakers, on behalf of his siblings.
“I’m thrilled that we were able to bring together such a gifted group of actors for this film,” stated King in a press release. “What they bring to these key roles provides a rich backdrop for the movie, adding to the extraordinary ensemble.”
The release also included an updated synopsis, which mentions the “accusations” against Jackson for the first time:
“Michael” will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. This epic, cinematic film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. The all-star filmmaking team will also capture Michael’s undeniable creative genius, recreating his most memorable, iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look at one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.
The update comes following multiple reports, including one by Variety, which detailed how the filmmakers plan to contend with accusations of child sexual abuse against the pop star. Jackson denied those claims, including during a criminal trial in 2005, which resulted in an acquittal. His family and estate have maintained that position since Jackson’s death in 2009.
Tate is represented by Fatmata Kamara at Indepedent Artist Group and John Meigs at Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush, Kaller, Gellman, Meigs & Fox. Graham is represented by UTA and Untitled Entertainment.
Sula is represented by 3 Arts Entertainment and Gersh Agency. Symone is represented by Brave Artists Management and Stewart Talent. Sampson is represented by CAA and John Meigs at Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush, Kaller, Gellman, Meigs & Fox.
Jones is represented by Talentworks and Jennifer Wiley-Stockton of JWS Entertainment. Shinick is represented by Rob D’Avola & Associates and The Gotham Group.
Netflix’s ‘Good Times’ Animated Revival Arrives in April
*Years after news broke about Netflix’s animated revival of the classic sitcom “Good Times,” the streamer is ready to bring its latest series to the masses. What’s On Netflix reports “Good Times” is set to arrive on Netflix with an April 12, 2024 debut.
On board for the show will be the voices of Jay Pharoah as Junior, Marsai Martin as Grey, Yvette Nicole Brown as Beverly, Gerald Anthony ‘Slink’ Johnson as Dalvin and JB Smoove as Reggie. Jessica Mikayla, Venus DeMilo Thomas, and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola round out the cast.
Created by Eric Monte and Mike Evans, “Good Times” premiered in 1974 and ran for six seasons before ending its run on the small screen in 1979.
The series, which the late Norman Lear developed, centered around a struggling family living in a poor black inner-city Chicago neighborhood and the real-life issues they faced.
Stars of the long-running sitcom included John Amos, who played James Evans, Esther Rolle as his wife Florida Evans, Bern Nadette Stanis as James and Florida’s daughter Thelma, Ralph Carter as the couple’s youngest son Michael, Ja’Net DuBois, who played Florida’s best friend Willona Woods, Johnny Brown, who played Nathan Bookman and Jimmie Walker as James and Florida’s oldest son J.J.
The latest news surrounding the “Good Times” revival comes more than two years after the project was announced in September 2020. The executive producers on the new show are Seth MacFarlane, Erica Huggins, Brent Millar, Erick Peyton, Brent Miller, and Stephen Curry.
Carl Jones and Ranada Shepard are credited as the creators of the “Good Times” revival, which, according to its official synopsis, will focus on “a new generation of the Evans family keeps their head above water in a Chicago housing project.” Acclaimed North Carolina producer 9th Wonder will serve as the show’s executive music producer and supervisor, Vibe reports.
For McFarlane, the animated format is ” the ideal medium” to present “Good Times” to a new audience ready to embrace the Evans family as well as veteran viewers who still remember the impact of the original 1970s series.
“Animation is the ideal medium with which to reimagine the original show, and through the lens of Carl’s sharp, biting humor, audiences will grow to love these classic characters all over again,” MacFarlane and Huggins stated when the reimagining was first announced.
The new “Good Times” couldn’t come at a better time. According to What’s On Netflix, the streamer is finding itself in troubled waters with shows on its adult animation roster being canceled over the last few years, while others aren’t making much of a dent in Netflix’s top 10s.
Actress Lashana Lynch Reveals That She’s Interested In Recreating The 2011 “Bridesmaids” Film With Issa Rae, Keke Palmer, And More
In an interview with PEOPLE, the 36-year-old actress discussed her fondness for the 2011 film and revealed her ideal cast for a potential remake.
“I better really think quick because I see interviews like this all the time, and then five years later they’re like, ‘It actually happened’ — but no pressure,” Lynch said. “Okay, why did Goldie Hawn just come into my mind?”
Additionally, Lynch selected Issa Rae, Meryl Streep, and the “hilarious” Keke Palmer, expressing her desire to reunite with original Bridesmaids cast members such as Rebel Wilson and Maya Rudolph.
While speaking to the outlet, Lynch revealed that when she’s not immersed in acting, she prefers to maintain a “very quiet” lifestyle.
“I surround myself with quiet, whether it be in my garden. I have a million plants. Too many plants still growing. I tend to them a lot,” Lynch added. “I have a dog. We play a lot and just chill. And I try and hang with my friends as much as possible.”
Lynch also mentioned that enjoys relaxing with TV shows or movies after dedicating months to her work.
“A lot of my post-process is quieting my mind to actually think about what I think about something, because you’ve been thinking for someone else for so long that everything just becomes very laser focused and zoned in on something,” she continued. “I just want nothing. I want just complete chill, a cup of tea, a good show, and really diving into: am I watching this show, or is a show watching me?”
Bobby Brown Shares That He Gets Visits In His Dreams From His Deceased Children, Bobbi Kristina And Bobby Jr.: “It Helps Me Out In A Big Way”
Bobby Brown reveals that even years after their passing, Bobbi Kristina and Bobby Jr. continue to appear in his dreams.
The Grammy-winning singer, along with his wife Alicia Etheredge-Brown, recently commemorated the life of his late daughter Bobbi Kristina by hosting the fourth annual Bobbi Kristina Serenity House Gala: A Night of Inspiration, Empowerment, and Hope in Los Angeles. At the event, Brown spoke with PEOPLE, expressing his thoughts on Bobbi Kristina’s relationship with Nick Gordon, who passed away from a heroin overdose in 2020 at the age of 30.
“My daughter was a part of a domestic violence situation, and it cost her her life, so that’s mainly why we did this,” Brown said. “She’s always on my heart. She’s always on my mind, and just to help others in her honor really helps me, it’s therapeutic somewhat to me.”
Additionally, Brown, who tragically lost his son Bobby Brown, Jr. to an accidental drug overdose at the age of 28 in 2020, shared that even now, both of his deceased children continue to visit him in his dreams.
“That’s a reoccurring thing that goes on when I’m asleep,” Brown added. “I tend to dream about both of ’em, my son and my daughter, which is helpful for me. Just being able to see their faces and I see ’em smiling, it helps me out in a big way.”
Brown also revealed that he is in therapy and has been working through his grief.
“I still see a therapist,” he continued. “Just being able to talk about it definitely helps out. Also prayer always works. And staying busy. I try to keep myself as busy as possible, doing different things.”
Veo Kelly, Suspect In Stabbing Death Of Samyia Spain, Surrenders To Police
Last Sunday, Samyia Spain and Sanyia Spain, 19, and two others took a break from a family game night and walked to a local deli.
Kelly, who had just left a party nearby, expressed an interest in Samyia and asked for her phone number.
She declined and offered her Instagram handle to him to get rid of him.
But, when Veo asked Samyia to follow him back and she said, “No,” he flew into a violent and deadly rage
Veo Kelly stabbed Sanyia Spain in the arm and he fatally stabbed Samyia Spain in the neck and chest.
Police charged Kelly with murder, assault, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
I like their fashion
The passion to wear that kind of fashion is unnerving.
The passion to wear that kind of fashion is unnerving.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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