#MAGFAB: Angela Bassett For People -Magazine March 11 2024
Bassett, who is PEOPLE's Women Changing the World cover star, says she hopes her children "see that hard work pays off. And they’ll be about that life for themselves”
Angela Bassett has long reigned over Hollywood, but off-screen her powerhouse career — which now includes a gleaming new Oscar — has hinged less on glamor and more on grit.
For the actress and mom of twins Bronwyn and Slater, 18, with the Emmy-winning actor Courtney B. Vance, it’s always been about “the work, not the fame,” she tells PEOPLE in this week’s cover story kicking off the 2024 Women Changing the World issue.
“I've always been a hard worker,” the 9-1-1 star says. “You have to know what to say no to as well as what to say yes to. And during this time, a lot of things have been worthy of me saying yes to.”
With more than 100 roles under her belt and two Oscar nominations, behind Bassett’s successes (she’s also an executive producer of 9-1-1 and 9-1-1 Lone Star and has a new fantasy film, Damsel, hitting Netflix March 8) are long days, tough choices and an unwillingness to accept reductive roles.
Often leaving her home before the sun rises and returning after dark to film 9-1-1 (which kicks off season 7 with a honeymoon cruise disaster on ABC March 14) some days, she feels guilt about the time away from her teenage children, who are heading to college in the fall.
“But also I hope that what will come out of that is that they see a mama, a woman, a Black woman achieving her dreams, having success,” she says. “They’ll see that hard work pays off. And they’ll be about that life for themselves.”
And when Bassett, 65, can make dinner, there’s new competition in town. “Now it's a switch. They're older. They like to DoorDash. I'm like, ‘I'm going to cook tonight.’ [They go], ‘Oh, mom, my meal's coming in five minutes,' " she laughs. “So much for me being spontaneous.”
Born in Harlem and raised largely in Florida by her mother Betty, Bassett says as a child she felt propelled by the challenges her family faced. “Growing up with a single parent and when she retired, only made $11,000 a year, it's something about growing up there and not having, where you got to fight to get it,” she says.
In January, Vance, 63, and their children were proudly by her side as Bassett took home an honorary Oscar celebrating a career that began with her breakout in 1991's Boyz n the Hood and saw Oscar nominations almost 30 years apart for playing Tina Turner in 1993’s What’s Love Got to Do With It and a grieving queen in 2022's Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Many viewed her Academy Award as long overdue, a reminder of sobering statistics around women of color at the Oscars (in 95 years Halle Berry remains the only Black woman to have won Best Actress). In her January acceptance speech, “I tried to make that clear in a gentle-to-receive way,” she says, while honoring trailblazers like Cicely Tyson and Ruby Dee.
Vance notes that in her private life, Bassett is “very shy” about her accomplishments. “She’ll never toot her own horn,” he says. “The honorary Oscar was a wonderful night, but I flashed back to 30 years ago when they didn’t call her name, and then when they didn’t call her name last March. This was an opportunity for her to stand up there. A lot of people saw it, but not the billion people that would see it at the Oscars. But it meant everything to her.”
“One of the things that always that I say to myself and to my kids is, ‘Find the good and praise it,' ” Bassett tells PEOPLE, noting a “confluence of wondrous events” lately: Her twins turned 18, her career is stronger than ever, and an Oscar sits in her living room.
“The fact that it’s happening all at the same time, it can be a little overwhelming unless you just breathe through it and remember to be grateful,” she says. “For all of it. For what you prayed for, what you worked for, for what you dreamed of.”
#RHOA: Kandi Burruss Reveals New Details About the Discussion She Had with Andy Cohen About Her Departure
When Kandi Burruss announced last month that she was leaving The Real Housewives of Atlanta after 14 seasons on the cast, Andy Cohen gushed on Instagram that Kandi is "one of the greats" and a "superstar." On his Sirius XM show, Radio Andy, he declared, "She impacted not only the show, but she impacted the way that we do business behind the scenes, and that is powerful."
More recently, Kandi shared new details about how Andy initially reacted to the news.
On the February 29 episode of The Viall Files podcast, Kandi clarified that she chose leave the show and went on to detail the conversation she had with the Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen host after he heard the news. "Andy was actually sad that I left," she said. "He and I had our good heart-to-heart before anybody else in the world knew. We had our own moment."
Once Andy confirmed he had been notified of Kandi's departure, "He was just like, 'I mean, I don't know how I feel about this,'" Kandi shared. "And I said, 'Well, I don't know how I feel about it either, but I just think it's time.'"
Kandi first announced she was leaving RHOA while walking the red carpet at the 2024 Grammy Awards in February. "I decided I’m not coming back this year," she told Variety. "I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year."
When Andy posted about the news on Instagram, several Bravolebs commented on his post with heartfelt reactions. Cynthia Bailey dubbed her former RHOA castmate "the people’s champ," while Guerdy Abraira and Lesa Milan both called Kandi a "queen." Gizelle Bryant also praised Kandi for being "a straight shooter."
Shortly after Kandi announced her departure, it was also confirmed that Marlo Hampton will also be stepping away from the cast ahead of the new season. Meanwhile, Porsha Williams confirmed her return for the upcoming Season 16 of RHOA.
#MusicNews: Stokley To Star In ‘Super Freak: The Rick James Story’ Stage Musical
Earlier this month, on what would have been Rick James’ 76th birthday, it was announced that his story would be coming to the stage. His daughter Ty James and playwright and producer Je’Caryous Johnson have joined creative forces for the musical production Super Freak: The Rick James Story, which will chronicle the King Of Punk-Funk’s wild life and times. The traveling musical premieres in mid-March, and it’s finally been revealed who will play the coveted lead role.
Former Mint Condition frontman Stokley has been cast to play Rick James with his larger-than-life persona. Casting Stokley in this role is quite an intriguing and inspired choice. He can sing, dance, perform and command any stage that he hits. Anyone who has seen him live in concert over the past few years can attest to the fact that he’s got the range. We cannot wait to see him play Rick and get into character in his braided wigs, leather outfits and thigh-high boots.
Ty James is also looking forward to seeing how he does. “I know playing my dad is stepping into some big shoes, but I am confident Stokley will kill it. My dad would be so proud,” she shared via press release.
“I am so delighted to have Stokley, the voice of Mint Condition, bring the character of Rick James to life,” Je’Caryous stated, equally as excited. “It takes a talent such as Stokley who is a master of many instruments to fill the shoes of a maestro like Rick James.”
With Stokley locked in as the star of the show, anticipation for Super Freak: The Rick James Story is officially high. The musical is set to debut in Houston on March 14th before traveling to numerous cities across the country through June. A few stops include Detroit, Atlanta, D.C., Boston, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago, Louisville, Memphis, Dallas, New Orleans and Los Angeles, where the final show will happen on June 8th.
View the complete 30-city itinerary for Super Freak: The Rick James Story starring Stokley below. Tickets for all shows may be accessed from the production’s website.
Angela Bassett has long reigned over Hollywood, but off-screen her powerhouse career — which now includes a gleaming new Oscar — has hinged less on glamor and more on grit.
For the actress and mom of twins Bronwyn and Slater, 18, with the Emmy-winning actor Courtney B. Vance, it’s always been about “the work, not the fame,” she tells PEOPLE in this week’s cover story kicking off the 2024 Women Changing the World issue.
“I've always been a hard worker,” the 9-1-1 star says. “You have to know what to say no to as well as what to say yes to. And during this time, a lot of things have been worthy of me saying yes to.”
With more than 100 roles under her belt and two Oscar nominations, behind Bassett’s successes (she’s also an executive producer of 9-1-1 and 9-1-1 Lone Star and has a new fantasy film, Damsel, hitting Netflix March 8) are long days, tough choices and an unwillingness to accept reductive roles.
Often leaving her home before the sun rises and returning after dark to film 9-1-1 (which kicks off season 7 with a honeymoon cruise disaster on ABC March 14) some days, she feels guilt about the time away from her teenage children, who are heading to college in the fall.
“But also I hope that what will come out of that is that they see a mama, a woman, a Black woman achieving her dreams, having success,” she says. “They’ll see that hard work pays off. And they’ll be about that life for themselves.”
And when Bassett, 65, can make dinner, there’s new competition in town. “Now it's a switch. They're older. They like to DoorDash. I'm like, ‘I'm going to cook tonight.’ [They go], ‘Oh, mom, my meal's coming in five minutes,' " she laughs. “So much for me being spontaneous.”
Born in Harlem and raised largely in Florida by her mother Betty, Bassett says as a child she felt propelled by the challenges her family faced. “Growing up with a single parent and when she retired, only made $11,000 a year, it's something about growing up there and not having, where you got to fight to get it,” she says.
In January, Vance, 63, and their children were proudly by her side as Bassett took home an honorary Oscar celebrating a career that began with her breakout in 1991's Boyz n the Hood and saw Oscar nominations almost 30 years apart for playing Tina Turner in 1993’s What’s Love Got to Do With It and a grieving queen in 2022's Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Many viewed her Academy Award as long overdue, a reminder of sobering statistics around women of color at the Oscars (in 95 years Halle Berry remains the only Black woman to have won Best Actress). In her January acceptance speech, “I tried to make that clear in a gentle-to-receive way,” she says, while honoring trailblazers like Cicely Tyson and Ruby Dee.
Vance notes that in her private life, Bassett is “very shy” about her accomplishments. “She’ll never toot her own horn,” he says. “The honorary Oscar was a wonderful night, but I flashed back to 30 years ago when they didn’t call her name, and then when they didn’t call her name last March. This was an opportunity for her to stand up there. A lot of people saw it, but not the billion people that would see it at the Oscars. But it meant everything to her.”
“One of the things that always that I say to myself and to my kids is, ‘Find the good and praise it,' ” Bassett tells PEOPLE, noting a “confluence of wondrous events” lately: Her twins turned 18, her career is stronger than ever, and an Oscar sits in her living room.
“The fact that it’s happening all at the same time, it can be a little overwhelming unless you just breathe through it and remember to be grateful,” she says. “For all of it. For what you prayed for, what you worked for, for what you dreamed of.”
#RHOA: Kandi Burruss Reveals New Details About the Discussion She Had with Andy Cohen About Her Departure
More recently, Kandi shared new details about how Andy initially reacted to the news.
On the February 29 episode of The Viall Files podcast, Kandi clarified that she chose leave the show and went on to detail the conversation she had with the Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen host after he heard the news. "Andy was actually sad that I left," she said. "He and I had our good heart-to-heart before anybody else in the world knew. We had our own moment."
Once Andy confirmed he had been notified of Kandi's departure, "He was just like, 'I mean, I don't know how I feel about this,'" Kandi shared. "And I said, 'Well, I don't know how I feel about it either, but I just think it's time.'"
Kandi first announced she was leaving RHOA while walking the red carpet at the 2024 Grammy Awards in February. "I decided I’m not coming back this year," she told Variety. "I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year."
When Andy posted about the news on Instagram, several Bravolebs commented on his post with heartfelt reactions. Cynthia Bailey dubbed her former RHOA castmate "the people’s champ," while Guerdy Abraira and Lesa Milan both called Kandi a "queen." Gizelle Bryant also praised Kandi for being "a straight shooter."
Shortly after Kandi announced her departure, it was also confirmed that Marlo Hampton will also be stepping away from the cast ahead of the new season. Meanwhile, Porsha Williams confirmed her return for the upcoming Season 16 of RHOA.
#MusicNews: Stokley To Star In ‘Super Freak: The Rick James Story’ Stage Musical
Earlier this month, on what would have been Rick James’ 76th birthday, it was announced that his story would be coming to the stage. His daughter Ty James and playwright and producer Je’Caryous Johnson have joined creative forces for the musical production Super Freak: The Rick James Story, which will chronicle the King Of Punk-Funk’s wild life and times. The traveling musical premieres in mid-March, and it’s finally been revealed who will play the coveted lead role.
Former Mint Condition frontman Stokley has been cast to play Rick James with his larger-than-life persona. Casting Stokley in this role is quite an intriguing and inspired choice. He can sing, dance, perform and command any stage that he hits. Anyone who has seen him live in concert over the past few years can attest to the fact that he’s got the range. We cannot wait to see him play Rick and get into character in his braided wigs, leather outfits and thigh-high boots.
Ty James is also looking forward to seeing how he does. “I know playing my dad is stepping into some big shoes, but I am confident Stokley will kill it. My dad would be so proud,” she shared via press release.
“I am so delighted to have Stokley, the voice of Mint Condition, bring the character of Rick James to life,” Je’Caryous stated, equally as excited. “It takes a talent such as Stokley who is a master of many instruments to fill the shoes of a maestro like Rick James.”
With Stokley locked in as the star of the show, anticipation for Super Freak: The Rick James Story is officially high. The musical is set to debut in Houston on March 14th before traveling to numerous cities across the country through June. A few stops include Detroit, Atlanta, D.C., Boston, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago, Louisville, Memphis, Dallas, New Orleans and Los Angeles, where the final show will happen on June 8th.
View the complete 30-city itinerary for Super Freak: The Rick James Story starring Stokley below. Tickets for all shows may be accessed from the production’s website.
Super Freak: The Rick James Story Tour dates:
March 14-17 - Houston, TX - The Hobby Center For The Performing Arts
March 20 - Buffalo, NY - Shea’s Buffalo Theatre
March 21-24 - Detroit, MI - Music Hall Center For The Performing Arts
March 28 - Raleigh, NC - Memorial Auditorium
March 29-31 - Atlanta, GA - Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
April 2-7 - Washington, D.C. - The National Theatre
April 10 - Wallingford, CT - Toyota Oakdale Theatre
April 11 - Boston, MA - Emerson Colonial Theatre
April 12-14 - Brooklyn, NY - Kings Theatre
April 17 - Norfolk, VA - Chrysler Hall
April 18 - Richmond, VA - Altria Theater
April 20 - Philadelphia, PA - The Met Philadelphia
April 21 - Baltimore, MD - Lyric Theatre
April 24 - Akron, OH - Akron Civic Theatre
April 25 - Milwaukee, WI - Miller High Life Theatre
April 26-27 - Chicago, IL - Arie Crown Theater
April 28 - Columbus, OH - Palace Theatre
May 1 - Cincinnati, OH - Taft Theatre
May 2 - Louisville, KY - Palace Theatre
May 3-4 - Memphis, TN - Orpheum Theatre
May 5 - St. Louis, MO - Stifel Theatre
May 9-12 - Dallas, TX - The Black Academy Of Arts And Letters
May 16 - Jacksonville, FL - Moran Theater
May 17 - Columbia, SC - Township Auditorium
May 18 - Fayetteville, NC - Crown Theater
May 19 - North Charleston, SC - North Charleston PAC
May 28 - Little Rock, AR - Robinson Center
May 30 - Birmingham, AL - BJCC Concert Hall
June 2 - New Orleans, LA - Saenger Theater
June 6-8 - Los Angeles, CA - Hollywood Pantages Theatre
#HipHopNews: Joe Budden Says Cardi B Is "Scared" To Drop An Album
After playing a clip of the Missy Elliott-sampled bop, he said, “Y’all ain’t gonna want to hear it from me, but the girl rapper wave is over. Just telling you what it is.” Before going further in-depth, he mentioned that artists like Flo Milli, Latto and Rapsody are excluded from his statement.
Budden also made a bold claim, stating, “All of that ‘Go find a girl, send her to Columbia, get it done, put her in the studio with f**king [Mike WiLL Made-It] or any one of them n**gas.’ All that planting the girl in the scene, getting the record and taking off, that wave is over.”
Closing out his statement, Budden spoke explicitly about the Bronx-bred emcee, stating, “Now, let me get to Cardi B. Cardi B is afraid, and I’m tired of just nobody saying it. Cardi B is scared to come out, it don’t take this long to come out.”
The esteemed podcast host even insinuated that Nicki Minaj was attempting to release her project at the same time as her rap foe before Cardi B backed out of the moment. He claimed that was why Minaj changed the date for Pink Friday 2 so many times. He clarified that this was information he could not confirm as accurate but did hear from a trusted source.
Since her debut album, Invasion of Privacy, nearly six years ago, Cardi has maintained her chart-topping presence with hits like “Up” and the Megan Thee Stallion-assisted “WAP.” The pair’s reunion for “Bongos” and their performance at the 2023 MTV VMAs also kept fans eagerly awaiting more.
#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Dune: Part Two’ destroys the box office with $81.5 million debut
Movie theaters were looking for a savior and “ Dune: Part Two ” is delivering on the promise. Armed with sandworms, big screen spectacle and the star power of Timothée Chalamet, Denis Villeneuve ’s science fiction epic stormed the North American box office this weekend earning $81.5 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Internationally, it earned $97 million, bringing its global debut to $178.5 million.
“Denis made a really extraordinary and special film and its been really exciting to see people respond,” said Mary Parent, a producer on both “Dune” films and chairman of worldwide production at Legendary. “It was made for the big screen and it feels like it’s being received as a cinematic event.”
It’s the first major hit of 2024, and one that was sorely needed by exhibitors. Although there have been holdovers from December that have continued to earn, like Warner Bros.’ “ Wonka ” (also starring Chalamet) and Sony’s romantic comedy “Anyone But You,” the box office is in a bit of a drought. In the first two months of 2024, no films have crossed $100 million domestically. The highest earning movies have been “The Beekeeper,” “Bob Marley: One Love” and “Mean Girls.”
“Dune 2" rode a wave of great reviews (94% on Rotten Tomatoes) into a marketplace that was essentially free of competition. Warner Bros. released it in 4,071 locations in the U.S. and Canada, where audiences across the board gave it the highest PostTrak marks and an A CinemaScore. According to exit data, men accounted for 59% of opening weekend ticket buyers and 64% were over the age of 25. The sequel was primarily financed by Legendary and its production budget, previously reported to be in the $122 million range, is closer to $190 million.
“It really captured the marketplace,” said Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros. president of domestic distribution. “It’s a cultural moment globally.”
Premium large format screens like IMAX and 70mm accounted for 48% of the opening weekend business. It marked a March record for IMAX, which made up $18.5 million of the overall take. Villeneuve filmed the movie using IMAX cameras. Unlike “ Oppenheimer,” it was shot on digital, but with the extra time with the strike delay they were able to make film prints as well and the film format is proving a popular draw for audiences.
“Our most iconic film locations are virtually sold out for weeks,” said IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond.
The $81.5 million debut is also a record for its director Villeneuve, and stars Chalamet, Austin Butler and Rebecca Ferguson.
Originally planned for an October 2023 release, Warner Bros. bumped the movie to March amid the Hollywood strikes that would have prevented its starry cast from doing the promotional circuit. The global promo tour has been on hyperdrive for about a month, driving conversations with buzzy interviews, the viral sandworm-inspired popcorn bucket and eye-popping fashion moments from the stylish young cast – peaking with Zendaya’s silver cyborg showstopper (vintage Mugler) in London. They’ve made stops in Mexico City, South Korea, Abu Dhabi and New York City.
“We worked very hard to be ready for that (original) date but we very much felt that, especially with this incredible cast, that it was worth waiting for,” Parent said.
Goldstein added that there was “a lot of debate” over whether or not to release it during the strikes but they knew that they needed the cast to “fully realize the movie.”
“You don’t make movie stars any place other than theaters,” Goldstein said. “Cinemas, on the big screen with the big sound and that shared experience makes a big star, or show the talent of a big star anyway.”
The first “ Dune ” opened under complicated conditions in October 2021. It was one of the last films of Warner Bros.’ divisive plan to simultaneously debut its major movies in theaters and on its streaming platform. And yet it still earned over $40 million in its first weekend and went on to gross over $400 million worldwide.
“Denis Villeneuve is up there with Christopher Nolan as a filmmaker whose name alone inspires people to go to the movie theater,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for Comscore.
This weekend, he added, “moves the needle in a big way.”
Going into the weekend the box office was down about 20% from the same point last year (when “Avatar: The Way of Water,” a 2022 release, was lifting everything). The closest equivalent this year is “Wonka,” still a hit, but not as big as “Avatar 2.” After the “Dune” weekend, the deficit will be closer to 13%.
“It shows how important one movie can be to the overall health of the industry,” Dergarabedian said. “But this is not a one-hit wonder for March. It’s a momentum business. Now we’re going to get the wind back in the sails as we head further into March, April and the summer movie season.”
Warner Bros. is one of those studios that will be back in short order with another big film, in “Godzilla x Kong” at the end of March, followed by “Furiosa” in May, the “Beetlejuice” sequel in September and the “Joker” sequel in October.
“This is our year,” Goldstein said. “Exhibitors are fighting for their lives but we can be clever and collaborative with them to keep our business relevant to audiences.”
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore.
1. “Dune: Part Two,” $81.5 million.
2. “Bob Marley: One Love,” $7.4 million.
3. “Ordinary Angels,” $3.9 million.
4. “Madame Web,” $3.2 million.
5. “The Chosen: Season 4, Episodes 7-8,” $3.2 million.
6. “Migration, $2.5 million.
7. “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba – To the Hashi,” $2.1 million.
8. “Wonka,” $1.7 million.
9. “Argylle,” $1.4 million.
10. “The Beekeeper,” $1.1 million.
Adult Film Star Knockout Claims Explicit Photos Used In Diddy Lawsuit Are Of Him, Not Stevie J
NBC News reported that Rodney “Lil’ Rod” Jones, a producer and videographer, filed a lawsuit against Diddy in federal court on Monday (Feb. 26). Rodney Jones listed Diddy, his son Justin Combs, Universal Music Group CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, Comb’s chief of staff, Kristina Khorram, and ex-Motown Records CEO Ethiopia Habtemariam as defendants in the suit.
After the document made its rounds on the internet, Knockout, a male pornstar, went on Twitter to claim the images in the lawsuit were screenshots of him and not Stevie J. “This is not him it’s me yall really be trying it,” he responded.
The adult film star posted several more tweets doubling down on his claim. After another user wrote, “The photo does look like you,” and Knockout replied, “I know and they will not bring him down off my name try again.”
Lil’ Rod’s lawsuit states that he lived and traveled with Combs for work from September 2022 to November 2023 and alleges he was repeatedly sexually assaulted and subjected to nonconsensual advances by Diddy’s associates. The suit also claims there are recorded hours of video and audio detailing Combs and his team “engaging in serious illegal activity.”
Jones then explained that Combs forced him to watch a video of two men having intercourse. The legal document lists one of the men in the video as Stevie J, which is the screenshot referenced above.
Combs’ attorney, Shawn Holley, has since denied that the allegations made by Jones, and his legal team asserted that the claims were lies and another attempt to grab headlines.
“[Jones’] reckless name-dropping about events that are pure fiction and simply did not happen is nothing more than a transparent attempt to garner headlines,” Holley said. “We have overwhelming, indisputable proof that his claims are complete lies. Our attempts to share this proof with Mr. Jones’ attorney, Tyrone Blackburn, have been ignored, as Mr. Blackburn refuses to return our calls… We will address these outlandish allegations in court and take all appropriate action against those who make them.”
'90 Day Fiance' Tell-All: Jasmine Storms Off The Set After Gino's Bachelor Party Video Is Shown
Jasmine got emotional in a "90 Day Fiance" tell-all special on Sunday, March 3. The episode saw her after never-before-seen footage of her husband Gino at the strip club for his bachelor party was shown.
In the episode, Jasmine was confronted by other cast members about her behavior with her ex Dane. Rob noted that whenever Jasmine was upset at Gino, she would make comments about Dane to rile him up.
Jasmine admitted that she was "a b***h," acknowledging that she had anger management problems. She also claimed that Gino triggered her by saying that he had no issue having sex with his exes, but he couldn't have sex with her. Host Shaun Robinson then asked Gino if that was true. He didn't immediately reply before he denied it.
Later in the episode, Gino's bachelor party at the strip club was brought up. During the tell-all, Gino revealed that the reason why he didn't tell Jasmine was because she was in the process of coming to America and saying goodbye to her family and he didn't want to stress her out.
He added that Jasmine had a divorce party, but Jasmine yelled at him that she never went to a strip club. Cast member Clayton then commented, "She should have used that $2,000 on anger management classes." That prompted Jasmine to tell him to "shut the f**k up."
The episode then showed a video featuring Gino at his bachelor party. He could be seen happily interacting with strippers and tipping them and at one point, he went onstage while strippers danced on him.
Upon watching the clip, Jasmine cried while Gino awkwardly smiled. "It's a bachelor party, it's like a once-in-a-lifetime experience," he noted. "Bachelor parties are a normal thing, OK?"
Not stopping there, one of the dancers from the club made a remote appearance on the tell-all special. Calling Gino awkward, the dancer added that he didn't seem interested in being there and that it seemed like he just wanted to hang out with his family and have a good time. That, however, didn't make Jasmine less upset as she continued crying hysterically.
"I would have never gotten married to you had I seen this before the wedding," she told him. "You were hugging them, Gino. You never look at me that way. You never make me feel desired! You never compliment me this way."
In response, Gino blamed everything on all the hurtful things that she's said to him. Not having it, Jasmine decided to storm off the set and told him, "You play, Gino. You wanted this. You got it."
Tributes Poured In After Legendary ESPN Reporter Chris Mortensen Died At 72
Mortensen’s impact on the industry was immediately apparent by the tributes that began pouring in once the news was made public from all over the NFL and sports reporting world. Mortensen’s long-time colleague, Adam Schefter, offered some heartfelt thoughts on a man he worked alongside breaking news for ESPN, calling him “one of the greatest reporters in sports history, and an even better man.”
Those thoughts were echoed by many others around the NFL and sports media space, as his colleagues at ESPN and beyond offered their remembrances of Mortensen. The work he did breaking stories and providing information was highlighted by many, but each also pointed to his impact and kindness beyond the newsroom.
Jeezy Pleads With Court to Seal Information About Little Daughter Amid Jeannie Mai Divorce
In September 2023, Jeezy filed for divorce from his wife of two years, Jeannie Mai. The sudden split shocked fans as the couple had previously expressed love for each other on social media. While official documents cite an "irretrievably broken" relationship, rumors of infidelity and family value differences have swirled.
Recent legal filings by Mai in December have cast doubt on Jeezy's innocence, prompting him to deny wrongdoing. Amid the drama, both parties have prioritized their two-year-old daughter, Monaco.
To protect Monaco's privacy, Jeezy has requested a judge to seal sensitive personal and financial information, particularly details about her. According to Jeezy, the divorce has become increasingly contentious, subjecting both parties and their child to intense media scrutiny.
In his motion, Jeezy argues that the public nature of their divorce risks exposing sensitive information that could harm Monaco. He believes that keeping such details confidential is in their child's best interest.
The request for privacy comes as both Jeezy and Mai have been facing public criticism amid their split. The rapper's move to protect his daughter's privacy has received mixed reactions, with some supporting his efforts and others questioning his motives.
As the divorce proceedings continue, it remains to be seen whether the court will grant Jeezy's request. However, the former couple's priority for their daughter's well-being is evident.
A Fight Breaks out at Nicki Minaj’s Tour Stop in Oakland
The Barbz brawl went down Friday night in Oakland ... the first night of her much-anticipated "Pink Friday 2 World Tour" -- and it definitely started the whole concert run off with a bang.
In the clip ... a couple fans dressed in black are exchanging punches in one section -- with someone in an all-pink ensemble and dyed pink hair hopping into the scuffle.
The person in pink getting shoved back seems to set one of the angry fans off even more ... and they jump forward to start raining blows down on the other combatants.
Unfortunately for them, their opponents quickly put 'em in a headlock and start hitting them over and over while being held back against the seats.
Eventually, some security guards come over and break up the fight, but members of the crowd can be heard seemingly questioning the person in pink's gender -- overall, a pretty ugly scene.
The whole thing marred what was otherwise a very impressive show ... with Nicki breaking out all her classic hits including "Starships" which she said a few months ago she was done performing.
The tour rolls on
Authorities Open Investigation Surrounding Neglect Of Care Of John Amos
Police have launched an investigation over allegations of neglect regarding the care of “Good Times” star John Amos. Law enforcement sources told TMZ that a case was opened in Los Angeles to investigate the claims hurled by Amos’ daughter, Shannon. Reportedly, Adult Protective Services have also been notified with Shannon saying her brother, K.C., isn’t getting her father proper care.
Sources told the outlet that APS took a report based on what Amos’ daughter stated and then sent the report over to the LAPD, which prompted the investigation.
There’s been conflict between the siblings for some time now. TMZ recently learned the beloved actor went to the hospital but was told it was for a routine checkup and that nothing serious was wrong with him.
The outlet also spoke with the actor, who reassured them everything was fine.
The 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday commemorates the fight for voting rights
On (March 3) commemorates the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, the day civil rights demonstrators risked life and limb while state troopers battered them amid their fight for equal voting rights during a march across Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, on March 7, 1965.
Among the historical figures whose blood was shed that day were the late Congressman John Lewis, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rev. Hosea Williams, to name a few. It is believed that as many as 600 people endured the brutal attacks that served as a turning point in this country, ultimately leading to the passage of the Voting Rights Act. The landmark legislation prohibits racial discrimination as well as federal, state and local governments from impeding a person’s right to vote.
The acts of selflessness and bravery of those men and women are honored every year on the first Sunday of March with a unified walk across that very bridge. This year, at the commemorative trek, Vice President Kamala Harris will be in attendance, and she will also deliver remarks about the moment in history.
“During her speech, the Vice President will honor the legacy of the civil rights movement, address the ongoing work to achieve justice for all, and encourage Americans to continue the fight for fundamental freedoms that are under attack throughout the country,” according to the White House, per NBC News.
President Joe Biden will be absent from the service, but he issued words regarding the occasion in a statement shared on Twitter. “Fifty-nine years ago, brave Americans sought to cross a bridge named after a Klansman in Selma, Alabama, to reach the other side of justice. Today and every day, we honor that legacy by fighting to protect the right to vote and uphold the integrity of our elections,” said Biden. “We know where we’ve been and we know, more importantly, where we have to go: forward together. So, let’s pray, but let’s not rest. Let’s keep marching.”
Bernice King wrote, in part, “We remember the heroic nonviolent foot soldiers who risked their lives fighting for voting rights on Bloody Sunday… The work isn’t done — let’s constitutionalize voting rights.” The Martin Luther King Center in Atlanta also honored the day with a message stating that “what we must fight for now [is]: protection of voting rights, a strengthened democracy, and a just, humane society.”
Jess Hilarious regrets riffing on Chadwick Boseman’s appearance
Unbeknownst to the public, at the time, the Black Panther actor was at the tail end of a private four-year battle with colon cancer that caused him to appear gaunt and vastly different from the superhero and real-life trailblazers he portrayed on the big screen.
Four years ago, on Jackie Robinson Day (April 15), Boseman paid homage to the Major League Baseball great while spreading awareness about a partnership providing medical gear to underserved hospitals in Black and Latino communities during the pandemic. In the new episode of “The Pivot Podcast,” Jess discussed how cracking a joke at the actor’s expense led her to reevaluate her approach to her viral comedy bits.
She began by explaining, “I was gon’ stop doing ‘Jess with the Mess’ ‘cause all I do is riff on people... That’s my thing. And I remember Chadwick Boseman had dropped a video shortly before he passed, and I thought he was training for a movie. I thought he was, you know, some people really get into the roles that they, you know, lose weight for a role or something like that.”
“He was telling people to stay inside… I said you need to stay inside or something like that… Of course, I didn’t know anything about his cancer or anything like that… I riffed on him, and everybody thought it was funny and cool, even myself until he passed,” added the newest co-host of “The Breakfast Club.”
“I [didn’t even] care how people looked at me. How I looked at myself was crazy… I was like, alright, I gotta change the way I move. For a minute, I didn’t want to do ‘Jess with the Mess’ no more because you don’t know what the hell people [are] going through, you don’t know when you come at somebody’s appearance… I just looked at him as a great actor,” said Jess.
When she saw the backlash online, Jess accepted it, saying, “I deserve all of that… He was so unproblematic… That’s the only thing I regret.” Boseman passed away at the age of 43 in August 2020, three months after the joke controversy.
Caitlin Clark Becomes NCAA Basketball's All-Time Leading Scorer
Caitlin Clark has made history!,The 22-year-old senior Iowa Hawkeyes player has made her mark as one of NCAA basketball’s best athletes.
Caitlin had one major milestone to reach before she heads to the WNBA.
During Sunday’s (March 3) game against the Ohio State Buckeyes, Caitlin became college basketball’s all-time leading scorer, passing Pete Maravich, who held the record for 53 years.
Before Sunday’s game, Caitlin was 18 points shy of the achievement. She ended the contest with a total of 35 points.
The star broke the record with a free throw just before the end of the second quarter. The Hawkeyes went on to win the game by a score of 93-83.
Caitlin‘s career total of 3,650 points sets a new standard in the sport!
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to congratulate Caitlin.
“CONGRATS @CaitlinClark22 on becoming the All-Time leading scorer!! 🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣🪣. 🙏🏾🫡👑,” he wrote.
‘Embarrassed’ Jeffrey Osborne Concertgoers Seek $2M In Emotional Distress Lawsuit
Actually, many R&B fans consider his staple to be the 1986 hit “You Should Be Mine (The Woo Woo Song),” specifically due to its extremely catchy chorus that goes, “and you woo-woo-woo!”
Now at 75 years old, Osborne relies heavily on the fan-favorite ballad to help bring his shows full circle while currently on his successful 2024 tour. However, a recent performance of “The Woo Woo Song” left two fans feeling, in their own words, so “embarrassed” that it led to an emotional distress lawsuit for one of the most WTF reasons we’ve probably heard in a minute.
“Danielle Buchanan and Maneva Currie filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California on Tuesday against the ‘On the Wings of Love’ singer, 75, and the Greek Theater, the venue where he performed.
They claimed Osborne intentionally inflicted emotional distress on them, and that the Greek Theater displayed negligence and violated the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which provides protection from discrimination by all business establishments in California.
The two women claim that they attended one of Osborne’s concerts on May 6, 2023 at the Greek Theater when the singer requested that his team find someone in the audience to help him sing his 1986 hit ‘You Should Be Mine (The Woo Woo Song).’
The team ultimately selected Buchanan to sing ‘Can you woo woo woo?’ on the microphone with the ‘camera directed’ at her, which broadcast her face to the two large screens on either side of the stage, according to the complaint obtained by PEOPLE.
Buchanan was ‘smiling and ready’ to sing on camera, and her friend Currie had been recording the moment on her phone when they allege Osborne told the audience and his team, ‘I want a White person.’
Buchanan claimed she had been “shocked, embarrassed and humiliated” by Osborne’s words and tried to make light of the situation by announcing on the mic, “I’m White.” However, his team took the mic away and searched for someone else to give it to. Currie claimed that she had also been “embarrassed and humiliated” by the situation.”
The situation became so “emotionally disturbed” for the pair that the suit alleges they both suffered to “engage socially in their lives for months” and even led to psycho-therapy. Of course, the ladies believe all of this should be compensated with a cool $2 million in punitive damages.
….can you woo woo WHAT?!
Sinbad’s Triumphant Return: ‘A Different World’ Cast Inspires On HBCU Tour
Last month, fans of the beloved Cosby Show spin-off “A Different World” received exciting news as cast members announced plans to embark on a tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States. The tour aims to celebrate the show’s legacy while engaging with students and fostering conversations about education, empowerment, and representation.
One of the highlights of the tour’s premier stop in Atlanta was the virtual appearance of comedian Sinbad, who portrayed Coach Walter Oakes on “A Different World” for two seasons. Despite suffering a stroke four years ago, Sinbad’s spirit and humor shone through as he connected with fans and shared heartfelt messages of encouragement and inspiration.
Through video stream, Sinbad addressed the audience at the Atlanta event, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of such a meaningful initiative. His presence, albeit virtual, added a touch of nostalgia for fans who fondly remembered his portrayal of the beloved Coach Walter Oakes.
Joining Sinbad in spreading joy and nostalgia were other cast members from “A Different World,” including Cree Summer, who played the role of Freddie Brooks. Summer, known for her vibrant personality and distinctive voice, shared her excitement about connecting with HBCU students and engaging in meaningful conversations about the impact of the show on their lives.
The tour’s kickoff in Atlanta set the stage for what promises to be a memorable and impactful journey across HBCU campuses nationwide.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Too Tired
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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