#MAGFAB: Taye Diggs for Ebony Magagzine The Earth Warriors!
Taye Diggs has discovered a new way to protect the earth while he's cleaning up. The actor, singer and part-time Instagram comedian has partnered with Tru Earth, an eco-conscious company which produces fragrance-free laundry detergent eco-strips, eliminating the plastic jug that holds most laundry detergents. "I gotta make sure that the world I leave my kid is worth living," Diggs declares.
As one of EBONY's Earth Warriors this April, Diggs is spreading the word about environmental awareness and urging people to consider new, sustainable solutions to their everyday lives. "I wasn't one of these cats where the environment was at the top of my list of priorities," he admits. "But once I got together with Tru Earth and they convinced me how easy it is to make change, I couldn't ignore something as simple as washing clothes." Diggs has upped his eco-consciousness in other ways as well. The Los-Angeles based actor now composts and he's "embracing resusable containers."
During his EBONY conversation, Diggs shared more about environmental awareness and minimizing his collective carbon footprint. He also revealed how he's sustaining his life through fitness and mediation and why he's leaving the style game to his 14-year-old son, Walker Nathanial Diggs
Read more HERE
RHOA: Oh? Shereé Whitfield Poses Alongside Simon Guobadia & Sparks Martell Holt Reconciliation Rumors On IG
Shereé Whitfield’s most recent Instagram post is causing commotion amid Porsha Williams fans wondering why the housewife posed with Williams’ estranged husband. Not only that, but fans also noticed a flirtatious comment from Shereé’s ex Martell Holt on social media.
On April 23, the 54-year-old star sparked a firestorm of speculation across social media after she was photographed posing alongside Guobadia, entrepreneur Rozina Negusei, and V-103 personality Mix Master David on the Nigerian business guru’s Instagram page.
“Great breaking bread with good and loyal friends,” the 59-year-old captioned the photo.
A post shared by Dr. Simon Iyore Guobadia (@iamsimonguobadia)
Whitfield was additionally seen in a subsequent photo with Neguesei and Guobadia, accompanied by the caption;
“A good time was had. Good people.”
It’s unclear how long Whitfield and the SIMCOL petroleum CEO have been chilling, but their recent outing had RHOA fans talking up a storm in the comments section. A few users pondered whether the duo’s friendship would be uncovered in detail in the forthcoming season of the hit series.
“Oh, so that’s how we’re doing things, eh? Season 16 can’t come soon enough,” wrote one user.
A second netizen commented, “Shereé you ain’t slick boo!”
A third user chimed in, “Porsha vs Shereé……this season is going to be lit.”
Some users also pondered if she was dating Williams’ estranged husband.
“Shereé is desperate. She’ll take anything!” penned a user named @ketlydevilme.
As one of EBONY's Earth Warriors this April, Diggs is spreading the word about environmental awareness and urging people to consider new, sustainable solutions to their everyday lives. "I wasn't one of these cats where the environment was at the top of my list of priorities," he admits. "But once I got together with Tru Earth and they convinced me how easy it is to make change, I couldn't ignore something as simple as washing clothes." Diggs has upped his eco-consciousness in other ways as well. The Los-Angeles based actor now composts and he's "embracing resusable containers."
During his EBONY conversation, Diggs shared more about environmental awareness and minimizing his collective carbon footprint. He also revealed how he's sustaining his life through fitness and mediation and why he's leaving the style game to his 14-year-old son, Walker Nathanial Diggs
Read more HERE
RHOA: Oh? Shereé Whitfield Poses Alongside Simon Guobadia & Sparks Martell Holt Reconciliation Rumors On IG
On April 23, the 54-year-old star sparked a firestorm of speculation across social media after she was photographed posing alongside Guobadia, entrepreneur Rozina Negusei, and V-103 personality Mix Master David on the Nigerian business guru’s Instagram page.
“Great breaking bread with good and loyal friends,” the 59-year-old captioned the photo.
A post shared by Dr. Simon Iyore Guobadia (@iamsimonguobadia)
Whitfield was additionally seen in a subsequent photo with Neguesei and Guobadia, accompanied by the caption;
“A good time was had. Good people.”
It’s unclear how long Whitfield and the SIMCOL petroleum CEO have been chilling, but their recent outing had RHOA fans talking up a storm in the comments section. A few users pondered whether the duo’s friendship would be uncovered in detail in the forthcoming season of the hit series.
“Oh, so that’s how we’re doing things, eh? Season 16 can’t come soon enough,” wrote one user.
A second netizen commented, “Shereé you ain’t slick boo!”
A third user chimed in, “Porsha vs Shereé……this season is going to be lit.”
Some users also pondered if she was dating Williams’ estranged husband.
“Shereé is desperate. She’ll take anything!” penned a user named @ketlydevilme.
Who Is Confirmed To Return To Season 16?
Whitfield hasn’t confirmed whether she will be returning to Season 16 of RHOA, but during an interview with Zachary Reality in February, the housewife expressed that she would be “open to returning for another season.” She also said she would love to see a few “fresh faces” featured on Season 16 of the hit Bravo series.
#MusicNews: PJ Morton Announces New Album Out June 14
From “Cape Town to Cairo,” and now to fans, stages and screens around the world. PJ Morton officially announces the release of the new album he has been eagerly alluding to, fully made in the motherland. Out June 14 on his own Morton Records / EMPIRE, “Cape Town to Cairo” is a collection of songs that Morton created in 30 days throughout four countries in Africa — South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt. Described as the best trip of his life, this transformative journey began as just the seed of an idea last fall, but instantly grew into his most sonically-sprawling and immediately-inspired record to date. With no music, lyrics or preconceptions, he stepped foot onto the continent with two thoughts: a wild dream to write and record his next LP in less than a month, and a mission to immerse himself in as many different cultures, stories and communities as he could.
Surrounded by featured collaborators like Fireboy DML, Mádé Kuti, Asa, Ndabo Zulu, and Soweto Spiritual Singers, as well as additional producers including P.Priime and The Cavemen., his own live band and local musicians, PJ Morton used music as his common language. Always his greatest way of communicating, he expressed his feelings and experiences of Africa through songs he and others were forming together on the spot, side-by-side in different studios, cities and towns for the very first time. None of the tracks were written before he arrived or after he left, and the arrangements showcase both the countries’ native genres as well as the innate, stylistic instincts that have made Morton a 5x GRAMMY-winner and 20x GRAMMY-nominee, whether it be his soul, R&B and gospel roots, or the pop prowess he has further honed as a member of Maroon 5.
Cape Town to Cairo is available to pre-order Friday, April 26, alongside the release of “Simunye (We Are One)” feat. Soweto Spiritual Singers, in honor of South Africa’s 30th Year of Freedom Day. Pre-save it HERE, and watch the new music video for lead single “Please Be Good”.
“When you’ve been in music as long as I have, you’re constantly looking for inspiration,” says PJ Morton. “And you’re looking for the things that made you want to do it in the first place. I’ve made albums every type of way you can think, so I wanted to try something I hadn’t done before. As a Black American who had never been to South or West Africa, I knew there was something there waiting for me. So I put a little pressure on myself to make a full record in a month, but I also said, ‘If I’m gonna go to Africa, I want to see Africa.’ We made music, but we also formed connections. We made new friends, and this is just the start.”
ESSENCE adds, “This trip is not just a physical move, it’s a spiritual return…The soul of Africa pulses through every note he plays and every word he sings,” and VIBE adds that “the multi-faceted artist is fully embracing a new phase in his life.” Cape Town to Cairomarks PJ Morton’s first album since 2022’s Watch The Sun, which featured collaborations with Stevie Wonder, Nas, JoJo, Wale, Jill Scott, Alex Isley and more. Since then, Morton has become the first Black composer to write an original song for a Disney attraction, having just finished making the music for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, opening soon at Disneyland and Disney World. He also won his latest GRAMMY earlier this year, worked with Samara Joy on “Why I’m Here” for Regina King’s Netflix film Shirley, and landed a cover of his song “Don’t Let Go” as the soundtrack to Apple’s iPhone 15 commercial.
PJ Morton recently returned from headlining his debut shows in Asia, New Zealand and Australia, and today announces the extensive Cape Town to Cairo Tour for North America this summer and fall. Following upcoming performances at New Orleans Jazz Fest, The Kennedy Center, Roots Picnic and Newport Jazz Fest, Morton will embark on a run of more than 25 dates across the country, including New York City’s Beacon Theatre, Chicago’s Chicago Theatre, Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, Los Angeles’ The Wiltern, and dozens of others.
Tickets to the Cape Town to Cairo Tour are on sale at 10 a.m. local time Friday, April 26, with an Artist Presale beginning at 10 a.m. local time on Thursday, April 25. Find the list of tour dates below, and sign-up for early access at pjmortonmusic.com/#shows.
#HipHopNews: Tupac Shakur’s Estate Threatens to Sue Drake Over Diss Track Featuring AI-Generated Tupac Voice
Drake released the track, “Taylor Made Freestyle,” on his Instagram page Friday, using AI software to generate verses emulating both Shakur and Snoop Dogg.
In a cease-and-desist letter Wednesday, Howard King, an attorney who represents Shakur’s estate, requested that Drake remove the track from all platforms where it is publicly available.
Drake, whose legal name is Aubrey Drake Graham, has until noon Thursday to confirm his cooperation. Otherwise, the estate will “pursue all of its legal remedies” against him, according to the letter, a copy of which was obtained by NBC News.
“Taylor Made Freestyle,” which is not yet on streaming services, is Drake’s latest diss track against Lamar amid their feud.
“Not only is the record a flagrant violation of Tupac’s publicity and the estate’s legal rights, it is also a blatant abuse of the legacy of one of the greatest hip-hop artists of all time,” King wrote in the letter, which was first reported by Billboard. “The Estate would never have given its approval for this use.”
A representative for Shakur’s estate had no additional comment. A representative for Drake declined to comment.
The letter warned that Drake’s nonconsensual use of Shakur’s likeness violates Shakur’s right to publicity, an intellectual property right protecting against the misappropriation of somebody’s name or image.
The track and its popularity have created the “false impression that the Estate and Tupac promote or endorse the lyrics for the sound-alike,” the letter states.
Shakur’s estate seeks damages including all profits from the record, as well as additional damages for substantial economic and reputational harm caused.
“The unauthorized, equally dismaying use of Tupac’s voice against Kendrick Lamar, a good friend to the Estate who has given nothing but respect to Tupac and his legacy publicly and privately, compounds the insult,” King wrote in the letter.
The track was released about a month after Lamar took shots at Drake and fellow rapper J. Cole in a guest verse on the song “Like That” by rapper Future and producer Metro Boomin. His fiery verse stirred fan speculation about whether Drake would respond.
Drake fired back last week with his song “Push Ups” before he quickly followed up with “Taylor Made Freestyle” as a second diss track.
“Kendrick, we need ya, the West Coast savior / Engraving your name in some hip-hop history / If you deal with this viciously / You seem a little nervous about all the publicity,” the AI-generated voice of Shakur raps in the song.
Snoop Dogg’s AI-generated voice then joins in, taking over the second verse.
“’Cause right now it’s looking like you writin’ out the game plan on how to lose / How to bark up the wrong tree and then get your head popped in a crowded room,” the voice raps. “World is watching this chess game, but are you out of moves?”
A representative for Snoop Dogg did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The explosion of AI tools has brought up a slew of ethical questions for the music industry as it becomes easier than ever before to generate new music. Users can easily create their own renditions of songs using AI versions of real artists’ voices.
More than 200 artists signed an open letter this month calling on AI developers, tech companies and digital music services to pledge not to use AI in ways that “undermine or replace the human artistry of songwriters and artists.”
As part of the cease-and-desist letter, King referred to “Heart on My Sleeve,” a song that featured unauthorized AI emulations of Drake that was taken down from streaming services last year after it went viral.
“Even more recently, no doubt with your approval and possibly even at your request, your record label took down a well-publicized AI imitation of you and the Weeknd with a great deal of news coverage highlighting how damaging the fake was to you,” King wrote.
Harvey Weinstein's 2020 rape conviction overturned by New York appeals court
Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 rape conviction was overturned Thursday in New York, making way for a new trial.
The state Court of Appeals found that the judge in the landmark #MeToo trial prejudiced the former film mogul with improper rulings, including a decision to let women testify about allegations that weren’t part of the case.
“We conclude that the trial court erroneously admitted testimony of uncharged, alleged prior sexual acts against persons other than the complainants of the underlying crimes because that testimony served no material non-propensity purpose,” the court's 4-3 decision said.
“The court compounded that error when it ruled that defendant, who had no criminal history, could be cross examined about those allegations as well as numerous allegations of misconduct that portrayed defendant in a highly prejudicial light,” it said.
Judge Jenny Rivera called the errors “egregious” and said the remedy is a new trial. Weinstein's accusers could again be called to testify.
Judge Madeline Singas, in the dissenting opinion, accused the majority of "whitewashing the facts to conform to a he-said/she-said narrative" and failing to recognize that the jury was allowed to consider Weinstein's past assaults.
"This Court has continued a disturbing trend of overturning juries’ guilty verdicts in cases involving sexual violence," Singas wrote.
Juda Engelmayer, a spokesperson for Weinstein, said they are "thrilled with the court’s decision."
Weinstein, 72, has been serving a 23-year sentence in a New York prison following his conviction on charges of criminal sex act for forcibly performing oral sex on a TV and film production assistant in 2006 and rape in the third degree for an attack on an aspiring actor in 2013.
The charges came to light in 2017 following investigative reports published by The New York Times and The New Yorker. His pattern of sexual abuse and lack of accountability helped fuel the #MeToo Movement.
Weinstein also faced charges in Los Angeles and was convicted in 2022 of rape and sentenced to 16 years in prison. He was acquitted of a count of sexual battery in that case.
This is a developing story.
Joe Biden Signs Bill Requiring TikTok To Be Sold Or Banned In The US
The bill was fast-tracked through Congress, receiving House approval on Saturday (April 20) and Senate approval on Tuesday (April 23) before being signed into law by Biden this morning. It stipulated that ByteDance has 270 days to part ways with TikTok or face severe restrictions, including removal from U.S. app stores and prohibition from using American internet hosting services. Failure to sell would effectively cripple the platform’s operations in the States.
According to CNN, the legislation marked the most stringent action yet against TikTok. The U.S. government has been scrutinizing the company since 2020 over national security concerns related to its ownership. The social media network previously faced accusations of potential data privacy issues and undue influence from the Chinese government.
In response, TikTok CEO Shou Chew reassured users that “we aren’t going anywhere.” During a video posted on the app, he explained, “It’s actually ironic because the freedom of expression on TikTok reflects the same American values that make the United States a beacon of freedom. TikTok gives everyday Americans a powerful way to be seen and heard.”
“You still be able to enjoy TikTok like you always have. In fact, if you have a story about how TikTok impacts your life, we would love for you to share it to showcase exactly what we’re fighting for,” he added. “We are confident, and we will keep fighting for your rights in the courts.”
If necessary, President Biden could extend the deadline for TikTok’s sale by an additional 90 days, potentially giving ByteDance up to a year to comply with the divestiture order.
Vivica A. Fox Predicts Tyler Perry’s Reaction To Parody Film, ‘Not Another Church Movie’
Vivica A. Fox and Kevin Daniels are opening up about their new, highly-anticipated film, Not Another Church Movie. The movie centers around Taylor Pherry (Daniels)—a spoof of Tyler Perry—who believes his mission from God (Jamie Foxx) is to tell his family’s stories and inspire his community, but the Devil (Mickey Rourke) has plans of his own.
For Fox, she considered the film to be a “welcomed” change from her recent, more dramatic roles. “For me to play Judge L’Oréal, which was a spoof of Judge Mablean, I welcomed it,” the 59-year-old veteran actress explained to Fox 5 Atlanta.
Daniels praised the writer-director Johnny Mack for allowing the ensemble cast to “just play” and figure out what would be funny. “You love a director that has an open mind that’ll let you ad-lib organically,” Fox quipped.
In regards to it not being a Tyler Perry movie while also being loosely based on the entertainment mogul, Daniels noted, “I think the fact that he’s built such an incredible empire of all these incredible films people have watched and loved. People want to see him take a joke. This is about celebrating him, his films, through laughter.”
Fox chimed in, adding, “It’s such an honor when someone does a spoof of your film.”
Daniels reflected on growing up on spoof films like Not Another Teen Movie and Don’t Be A Menace To South Central While Drinking Your Juice In The Hood—which coincidentally stars Fox.
After having played the parody versions of Madea and Perry himself, Daniels shared that he’s gained a greater respect for the Mea Culpa filmmaker.
Both Fox and Daniels feel that Perry will “love” the film and don’t anticipate any backlash. Not Another Church Movie—which is “Mack’s interpretation of outlandish comedies [that] pays homage to the works of Keenan Ivory Wayans, Robert Townsend, and Tyler Perry”—also stars Kyla Pratt, Jasmine Guy, Lamorne Morris, and Tisha Campbell.
It will be released in theaters on May 10.
Keke Palmer Announces New Book, Says Now “Seemed Like The Right Time”
In true Virgo fashion, the 30-year-old made the surprise announcement on Wednesday (April 24).
“Oh yes, the Virgo speaks. I’m not sure the next time I’ll write a book but this seemed like the right time to put my thoughts to paper,” Palmer wrote on Instagram when unveiling the book cover.
Despite being admittedly afraid of penning a book as vulnerable and honest as this, Palmer expressed, “I’ve learned so much about myself this past year and though we don’t know each other and live unique lives, I feel we experience more of the same themes than we know.”
With Master Of Me, the mother of one confessed, “I get real; the pain, the joy, the triumph, I’m not the same person anymore. I look at everything differently and that’s okay, we are the first generation with documented evidence of us growing in real time. The fear and awareness of that can be quite crippling, but I’m not afraid to check the temperature in every era. Last year I was a Big Boss, this year… I’m the Master, of me and you’ve gotta be the master of you.”
Master Of Me follows Palmer’s 2017 debut memoir, I Don’t Belong To You.
As she reflects on her motherhood, past relationships, her career, and her own internal battles with boundaries, forgiveness, worthiness, and spirituality, the Emmy winner explained to PEOPLE, “This book is my honest revelations of how I’m staying afloat and my hope and desire is to not even necessarily ‘help’ readers but to share with them. Sometimes we all feel alone but we aren’t. And even those of us who seem to be doing well still struggle.”
Readers can expect “laughter” and a “full-on exploration of my intrusive thoughts and self-examination. In true Virgo fashion!”
Master of Me will be available on Nov. 19 and if you pre-order on Palmer’s official website, you can win a chance to have a one-on-one chat with her. You can also find the book on Amazon.
Amanda Seales Denies Rumored Tense Relationship With Issa Rae
Actress Amanda Seales has shed light on her rumored feud with Issa Rae, her former co-star on the HBO dramedy "Insecure".
In an appearance on Shannon Sharpe's podcast "Club Shay Shay," Seales addressed the longstanding allegations. She explained that friction between them began in 2018 when Rae's publicist, Vanessa Anderson, allegedly showed hostility toward Seales at an industry event. Despite informing Rae about Anderson's behavior, Seales claims Rae declined to address the issue.
The situation escalated in 2019 when Seales was denied entry to an "Insecure" event and escorted out by security guards at Anderson's request. Seales alleged that she was assaulted during the escorting and that Anderson had initiated a "smear campaign" against her in the media.
Seales said Rae contacted her after the incident, claiming ignorance and asking Seales to speak with Anderson. However, a phone conversation with Anderson revealed that she had disliked Seales and had Seales removed from the event. Rae allegedly refused to intervene, despite Seales' concerns.
Seales expressed disappointment that Rae did not empower her or promote her own show, "Get Your Life", which was produced under Rae's media company. Despite her grievances, Seales initially remained protective of Rae, believing it was her responsibility.
"I've never talked about this publicly because it has always been incredibly important to me to protect Issa," Seales said. "Because I know that Issa is doing something within this business that so few people get to do."
However, Seales' relationship with Rae has since deteriorated. She now believes that Rae never felt she deserved protection or support.
"She wasn't empowering to me," Seales stated. "She didn't feel like I deserved to be protected. And nonetheless, I have still always protected her because I felt like it was my responsibility to do so. But it is not."
Kim Petras 'Devastated' To Cancel Summer Festival Performances Due To Health Issues
On Wednesday, April 24, the 31-year-old German singer/songwriter took to Instagram Stories to make the announcement regarding the cancellation. Over a black screen, she penned, "My buns, I'm devastated to be writing this but I'm going through some health issues and under medical advice I have had to make the hard decision to not perform at festivals this summer."
Sam Smith's collaborator for "Unholy" went on to assure her devotees, "I love u so much and I'll make it up to you and be back better than ever very soon." Near the end of the statement, she let out a slew of pink heart emojis. However, she did not offer details about her health issues.
Kim Petras announced the cancellation of her performances at festivals this summer.
In the wake of the revelation, Kim received many supportive messages from social media users. Making use of X, formerly known as Twitter, one in particular wrote, "Wishing you a speedy recovery and a much-deserved break. you will be very missed at LadyLand," adding a red and pink hearts emoji.
Similarly, another suggested, "Take all the time you need Kim. Your health is the #1 priority and we will be here when you're ready [a diamond and blue heart emojis]." A third penned, "We understand babe. Health always comes first. Sending you all the energy And hoping for you to be back and better than ever once you are in good health again! We love you!"
In the meantime, a fourth noted, "Never heard of Kim Petras. Still I think it's bitter: you build a career as an artist...get booked for a festival...yay. Then you have to cancel it yourself, due to health issues. If only there was a way to protect yourself from infections. #wiedieFliegen #CovidIsNotOver."
The first transgender woman to win Best Pop Duo Grammy was slated to take the stage at several festivals, including LadyLand Festival in Brooklyn in June. She was also set to perform at Primavera Sound in Barcelona, Mighty Hoopla in London and Capitol Hill Block Party in Seattle.
Anne Heche Estate Can’t Cover $6 Million in Claims From Deadly Accident, Son Says
Son and estate administrator Homer Laffoon said in a Friday estate report, obtained by TheWrap, that he has been meeting with creditors to avoid more “expensive litigation” as he seeks to settle three $2 million claims filed by the tenant and owners of the home damaged in the crash.
The claims include one from the couple that owns the home that was severely damaged and another from the tenant whose belongings were destroyed in the crash caused by Heche.
Laffoon, 22, said in the estate report that he is “actively engaged in attempts to negotiate appropriate settlements of the claims” and “has engaged in substantial meet and confer efforts with the creditors” in order to “avoid protracted and expensive litigation against the Estate.”
“Based on the anticipated value of the combined Inventories and Appraisals and the filed creditor claims, the Estate is insolvent,” the report states.
According to the report, “Administrator is cautiously optimistic that the creditor claims can all be resolved fairly and without litigation.”
Heche’s assets are valued at approximately $110,000, which includes a “modest bank account,” “royalty payments and other residual income from pre-death projects” and “tangible personal property items.”
Laffoon, whose father is actor and real estate broker Coley Laffoon, also noted that sales are “not strong” for his mother’s memoir, “Call Me Anne,” which was released in January 2023. Less than $25,000 total income is expected from the book, which was published by Viva Editions.
An estate sale is being planned for Heche’s personal property. Additionally, Laffoon laid out a timeline for remaining tasks needed to close the estate and ultimately anticipated a July 2025 close after filing the inventory and appraisal documentation, collecting outstanding royalties and filing appropriate tax returns on behalf of the estate. He anticipated that creditor claims against the estate would be resolved by August 2024.
Heche’s many films include “Six Days, Seven Nights,” “Donnie Brasco,” “Wag the Dog” and “Walking and Talking.” She also headlined the ABC series “Men in Trees.”
Rapper Chris King gunned down in Nashville; police search for 19-year-old suspect
Nashville police are searching for a teen suspect after California rapper Chris King was gunned down in what police are calling a robbery that turned deadly.
Police asked the public to be on the look out for 19-year-old Adrian Cameron, Jr. who is free on bond after 50-year-old Josh Evans was killed in September 2021 during what police called an attempted drug transaction.
Cameron was 17 at the time of the 2021 shooting and was charged with criminal homicide as a juvenile. A grand jury later indicted him as an adult on charges of voluntary manslaughter and possession of a weapon with intent to use it during a crime.
As a condition of his bond, Cameron was required to wear an ankle monitor. Data from the monitor shows it was cut off shortly after the shooting Saturday, police said.
Christopher Cheeks, 32, known as Chris King, was shot Saturday morning around 2:30 a.m. in an alleyway between Hayes and Church Streets in the Midtown area of Nashville. A 29-year-old friend of Cheeks was also injured in the shooting.
Police said Cheeks was with friends when three men walked up and began chatting with them.
"The 29-year-old victim reported the group was hanging out cordially for some time before the three suspects attempted to rob his group of friends," police said in a statement. "It was then that he heard gunfire and realized he was struck."
Cheeks and his friends scattered, fleeing in separate directions. Cheeks was found in the parking garage of the Hayes Street Hotel, while his friend was found on Church Street. Both were taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where Cheeks ultimately died.
Justin Bieber, Keke Palmer share posts remembering slain California rapper
Celebrities including Justin Bieber, Keke Palmer and rapper Trippie Red posted on social media to mourn their friend.
Cheeks lived with Bieber for a short time. The singer reposted Cheeks' photo of the two of them on Instagram after the news broke Saturday.
"Love you bro. This one hurts. Please keep his family in your prayers. See you in paradise brother," Bieber wrote.
Palmer also took to Instagram to remember her friend.
"I can’t believe I’m saying rest in peace," she wrote. "When we were babies, before everyone knew you was a real rockstar. We were kids! And you always knew how to make everyone laugh. Your kindness was present no matter what room you were in, everybody was and wanted to be your friend."
Cheeks released his debut mixtape "Welcome to Fontana" in 2016. What followed were frequent collaborations with with his best friend, rapper Trippie Red. Red attributed his success in part to Cheeks.
"I would not be where I am today without [Chris King]," he wrote on Instagram. "He had the best energy always. He had so many friends and it shows. I love you guys for supporting one of my be friends ever."
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton speaks out after fan allegedly hurled a racial slur at his brother
“My little brother in the stands the other day was called an N-word,” Haliburton stated during the post-game interview. “It was important for us as a family to just address that. That was important for us to talk about because that didn’t sit right with anybody in our family. It’s just been important to have my family here right now, and my little brother is handled that the right way.”
A spokesman for the Bucks responded to Haliburton about the incident. According to the organization, the situation came to light after staff noticed a few attendees who were sitting where they weren’t supposed to.
"The guest services representative asked the group to move one section over to their correct seats. Then, one of the individuals in the group claimed to the representative that a person sitting in front of him had used a derogatory term toward him," the statement read. "The accused person denied the accusation. The group moved to their correct seats and no further incident was reported. We take our fan environment extremely seriously and are committed to providing a safe and secure experience.”
Haliburton's revelation carries special weight as he made his playoff debut in his home state, having grown up and attended high school in nearby Oshkosh, WI. The third game of the tied series moves to Indianapolis, IN this Friday (April 26).
Bette Midler Shoots Her Shot To Guest Star On ‘Abbott Elementary’ As Schemmenti’s Mom
Bette Midler took to the streets of Twitter to shoot her shot for a guest starring role on “Abbott Elementary.”
The 78-year-old award-winning singer and actress tweeted:
Since I’m now using this website to pitch myself on TV shows, I would also like to play Melissa Schemmenti’s mother on “Abbott Elementary.”
If you see Quinta Brunson, please tell her.
“Abbott Elementary” has welcomed some top-tier guest stars on the Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning series including Bradley Cooper, Tatyana Ali, Taraji P. Henson, Cree Summer, Jalen Hurts, and others.
Lil Nas X Seemingly Alludes to Size of His Manhood, Raps About Intimacy on New Song 'Trust Me'
The 25-year-old rapper dropped the track on Wednesday (April 24). It’s a reflective anthem that addresses everything from his earliest experiences with other men to more recent ones.
While reflecting on the presents, he appeared to hint at his size in a clever way.
Lil Nas X opens “Trust Me” with recollections about using Grindr, an LGBTQ+ app often used for hooking up, while in college.
“Grindr sessions sextin’ with faceless accounts / Bringing’ bodies in me, then sneaking them out,” he raps on the first verse.
As he continues, he looks even further back in time: “Back in middle school, I was fiending for d-ck / 7th grade, sending my homies some pics / Daddy never knew what I did as a kid / He would’ve crucified me.”
On the second verse, he moves to the present, saying that he’s “F-cking way more than I deserve” and hasn’t been to a doctor in a while.
“Yeah, I wrap it up for the most / Magnum wrappers on the kitchen floors,” he continues, alluding to wearing condoms for his encounters. Magnums are a type of Trojan condoms that are for men with larger members. LISTEN BELOW
Lil Nas X has previously referred to himself as a “power bottom,” so it is unclear if he is referencing his own penis or his partners’.
Either way, the song continues with a reference to “platinum rappers,” or rap stars who have achieved platinum sales status. It’s a clever turn of phrase that shifts the focus from his sex life to his musical achievements.
If he’s talking about himself, Lil Nas X is hardly the first celebrity to open up about how big they are. One star has even said that he has the smallest penis in the world
Usher's Son Stole His Phone to Message Another Celebrity - Find Out Who & How It Went!
Usher shared a funny story about his 15-year-old son Naviyd and a stunt that he pulled to get in touch with his favorite musician.
The 45-year-old hitmaker took to his Instagram story on Wednesday (April 24) to reveal that Naviyd had stolen his phone to DM another celebrity.
His story had a happy ending, though there were some surprising twists to it.
On his story, Usher explained that his son is a huge fan of PinkPantheress. So big that he sneakily messaged the singer via his dad’s Instagram.
“So…a week or so ago my son, Naviyd, stole my phone so he could dm his favorite artist [PinkPantheress],” he wrote.
Usher shared screenshots of some of the messages that his son sent the musician. “I’m your true biggest fan,” he wrote before asking for a follow back.
The story continued: “Now I just so happened to check my DMs earlier this past week and saw a message exchange from someone with a Powerpuff girl as their profile pic…so I’m like the hell is this. I opened it and I’m like oh this boy done DMd this girl from my d-mn phone…”
He rushed to apologize to PinkPantheress, who very graciously offered to have them attend one of her concerts.
“But because he did the MOST just to connect with her on my account… I had to act like he wasn’t allowed to go… BUT…because my son is such a fan of her artistry…I decided to let him go,” Usher wrote.
Naviyd and PinkPantheress did link up at the show, and Usher shared a photo of them together and a screenshot of him calling in to chat with the singer.
What did he take from the situation? “This was a great moment for Naviyd … this was him moving on something he was passionate about,” Usher wrote. “Yes… he violated my trust in the process and for that I will never trust him around my phone, but I should have known better. Nonetheless, I appreciate the hustle and him makin it happen. From a text, to a concert, to the artist. He masterminded this whole thing and made it happen.”
Naviyd shared the pics and some videos from the concert on his Instagram.
Reggie Bush Getting Heisman Trophy BACK 14 Years After Forfeiting it
The former USC running back, who clinched college football’s most prestigious accolade in 2005, surrendered the honor in 2010 amidst university sanctions, stemming from an extensive investigation that concluded he had received impermissible benefits as a student-athlete.
“Personally, I’m thrilled to reunite with my fellow Heisman winners and be a part of the storied legacy of the Heisman Trophy, and I’m honored to return to the Heisman family,” Bush remarked in a statement to ESPN. “I also look forward to working together with the Heisman Trust to advance the values and mission of the organization.”
The dynamic shifts within college athletics played a pivotal role in the deliberations of the Heisman Trust.
“We are thrilled to welcome Reggie Bush back to the Heisman family in recognition of his collegiate accomplishments,” expressed Michael Comerford, president of The Heisman Trophy Trust, in a statement. “We considered the enormous changes in college athletics over the last several years in deciding that now is the right time to reinstate the trophy for Reggie. We are so happy to welcome him back.”
The decision comes approximately three years after the NCAA granted student-athletes the ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL).
Bush showcased his talents at USC from 2003-05 before being drafted as the No. 2 overall pick by the Saints in the 2006 NFL Draft.
Now 39, Bush expressed his gratitude on Wednesday for being “honored to return to the Heisman family.”
With this reinstatement, USC now boasts eight Heisman Trophies, the most of any school in the country, surpassing Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Notre Dame, each with seven.
“I am so happy for Reggie and the entire Trojan Family,” remarked USC president Carol Folt in a statement. “He won our hearts during his illustrious career and deserved to have his well-earned honor restored. We are looking forward to celebrating with him and his family and are proud we were able to stand with him as an advocate.”
In addition to Bush reclaiming his Heisman Trophy, USC will also receive a replica.
Tesla to Lay Off Over 5,900 Workers Across Austin and California Amid Global Workforce Reductions
Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, has announced significant layoffs affecting its workforce in both Texas and California. According to notices filed with the Texas Workforce Commission and California Employment Development Department, obtained by Forbes, more than 2,600 workers in Austin and 3,300 across various cities in California will be impacted by the cuts, constituting approximately 10% of Tesla’s global workforce.
Specifically, Tesla will lay off 2,688 employees at its Tesla Headquarters Gigafactory in Austin over a two-week period starting June 14, as outlined in the April 22 Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act notice. Concurrently, 3,332 employees across Burbank, Fremont, Lathrop, and Palo Alto in California will face layoffs during the same timeframe, according to California WARN notices. It’s noteworthy that none of the affected employees are represented by a union, as indicated in the WARN notices from both states.
The WARN Act mandates companies to provide advance notice of mass layoffs or plant closures under certain circumstances, typically 60 days in advance, as per the Texas Workforce Commission. This announcement follows closely on the heels of Tesla’s declaration last week that it would be reducing its workforce by 10%, impacting over 10,000 employees globally.
The layoffs come amid a backdrop of challenges for Tesla, including declining stock performance and delivery shortcomings.
Meanwhile, Tesla issued a recall for nearly 3,900 Cybertrucks due to defective accelerator pedals that could lead to unintentional acceleration. This development adds to the array of challenges facing the company.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Fresh Produce Pickup
Quick Lane!VC
Quick Lane!VC
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
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