#MAGFAB: Gayle King on her first Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover at age 69
It's a brand-new day, and "CBS Mornings" co-anchor Gayle King is a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover star.
The broadcasting legend, who is set to turn 70 later this year, learned the news Tuesday in a surprise moment during the morning show.
As King interviewed this year's SI Swimsuit cover stars and models Hunter McGrady and Kate Upton, when the chat took a surprising turn when King's co-host Nate Burleson said, "Kate and Hunter aren't the only cover stars in the room right now," before pointing at Oprah's best friend and confidante.
"She is right here!" Upton said before showing King a copy of her cover. The revelation elicited cheers and clapping from King who said, "I'm on the cover? They told me I was just going to be on the inside!"
McGrady chimed in with a "Yes girl, you did that!" and added that "sexy isn't an age, sexy isn't a size," calling King's cover "so inspiring to women of all ages." King also praised her cover photographer Yu Tsai, who shot all of the SI Swimsuit covers. In addition to her own cover, King landed on the franchise's special legends cover.
King said she told the magazine that she did not want retouching done on her SI Swimsuit shoot, quipping that she had a cheeseburger the day before her cover shoot.
"They said, 'what about retouching?' I said, 'I don't really want retouching.' I don't mind if you take out a couple of dimples in the thighs however, but I really didn't want it," King told the group.
King, Upton and McGrady headline the 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover models along with model and Cravings mogul Chrissy Teigen and 23 other cover models celebrating the franchise's 60th anniversary on a special legends cover.
This year's SI Swimsuit lineup also features Chanel Iman, Christen Harper, host Kamie Crawford, Katie Austin and Louisiana State University gymnastics star Olivia "Livvy" Dunne. SI Swimsuit roster rookies include Brittany Mahomes, Jena Sims, Lori Harvey and Big 12 athletes Alexa Massari, Jasmine Williams and Jillian Hayes.
On the SI Swimsuit website, editor-in-chief MJ Day said King "not so gently reminds us that women are limitless and control their destinies."
"It wasn't something I dreamed about, but it was one of the highlights of all the things I've done because I never thought this would be possible," King told People magazine of the SI Swimsuit.
#RHOA: Confirms Season 16 Cast: 3 Returnees Joined By 4 New Peaches, Including Shamea Morton Mwangi; Cynthia Bailey Returning As Friend
After months of speculation as things continued to play out, Bravo has officially confirmed the Season 16 cast of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
Returning from Season 15 are Kenya Moore and Drew Sidora, and Porsha Williams is also making her return to the show after being absent for Seasons 14 and 15. Moore and Williams were already confirmed to return, and Tuesday’s news is the official confirmation of Sidora’s return.
New full-time peach holders are Shamea Morton Mwanji, who appeared as a Friend in Season 8 and has guest-starred numerous times over the years, as well as Brittany Eady, Kelli Ferrell and Angela Oakley.
Longtime cast member Cynthia Bailey, who hasn’t been a peach holder since Season 13, is back this year as a Friend as well.
Bravo notes in their official statement, “This season brings a new attitude and fresh perspective as the journey continues for these triumphant housewives as they cultivate new friendships and flourish in their careers and social circles.”
It's a brand-new day, and "CBS Mornings" co-anchor Gayle King is a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover star.
The broadcasting legend, who is set to turn 70 later this year, learned the news Tuesday in a surprise moment during the morning show.
"She is right here!" Upton said before showing King a copy of her cover. The revelation elicited cheers and clapping from King who said, "I'm on the cover? They told me I was just going to be on the inside!"
McGrady chimed in with a "Yes girl, you did that!" and added that "sexy isn't an age, sexy isn't a size," calling King's cover "so inspiring to women of all ages." King also praised her cover photographer Yu Tsai, who shot all of the SI Swimsuit covers. In addition to her own cover, King landed on the franchise's special legends cover.
King said she told the magazine that she did not want retouching done on her SI Swimsuit shoot, quipping that she had a cheeseburger the day before her cover shoot.
"They said, 'what about retouching?' I said, 'I don't really want retouching.' I don't mind if you take out a couple of dimples in the thighs however, but I really didn't want it," King told the group.
King, Upton and McGrady headline the 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover models along with model and Cravings mogul Chrissy Teigen and 23 other cover models celebrating the franchise's 60th anniversary on a special legends cover.
This year's SI Swimsuit lineup also features Chanel Iman, Christen Harper, host Kamie Crawford, Katie Austin and Louisiana State University gymnastics star Olivia "Livvy" Dunne. SI Swimsuit roster rookies include Brittany Mahomes, Jena Sims, Lori Harvey and Big 12 athletes Alexa Massari, Jasmine Williams and Jillian Hayes.
On the SI Swimsuit website, editor-in-chief MJ Day said King "not so gently reminds us that women are limitless and control their destinies."
"It wasn't something I dreamed about, but it was one of the highlights of all the things I've done because I never thought this would be possible," King told People magazine of the SI Swimsuit.
#RHOA: Confirms Season 16 Cast: 3 Returnees Joined By 4 New Peaches, Including Shamea Morton Mwangi; Cynthia Bailey Returning As Friend
Returning from Season 15 are Kenya Moore and Drew Sidora, and Porsha Williams is also making her return to the show after being absent for Seasons 14 and 15. Moore and Williams were already confirmed to return, and Tuesday’s news is the official confirmation of Sidora’s return.
New full-time peach holders are Shamea Morton Mwanji, who appeared as a Friend in Season 8 and has guest-starred numerous times over the years, as well as Brittany Eady, Kelli Ferrell and Angela Oakley.
Longtime cast member Cynthia Bailey, who hasn’t been a peach holder since Season 13, is back this year as a Friend as well.
Bravo notes in their official statement, “This season brings a new attitude and fresh perspective as the journey continues for these triumphant housewives as they cultivate new friendships and flourish in their careers and social circles.”
The show is produced by Truly Original. Steven Weinstock, Glenda Hersh, Lauren Eskelin, Lorraine Haughton-Lawson, Shanae Humphrey and Glenda Cox executive produce. Andy Cohen also executive produces. Kate Murphy and Saleda Bryant are co-executive producers.
#NewMusicVideo from Lalah Hathaway ‘So in Love’ Video
Love comes in many shapes and forms. Lalah Hathaway’s video for her new single, “So In Love,” beautifully captures this sentiment.
In the Sadé Clacken Joseph-directed video, Hathaway dons several stylish looks, and scenes of Black parents, children, and couples are interspersed.
“‘So In Love’ has such a vibe, and like a lot of the work I do, it explores some of the more non-traditional ideas about love and self-love. The video does this on a grand scale!” Hathaway explained.
Hathaway co-wrote “So In Love” with Philip Beaudreau. The heartwarming anthem is the first single from her upcoming album, VANTABLACK, out June 14 via Hathaway Entertainment/SRG-ILS Group.
WATCH HERE
“VANTABLACK was always the name of the project. The word itself has so much weight on it, I was really unsure of how to approach the idea of writing the song,” explained Hathaway.
“At the time, what I thought were conflicting perspectives, actually began to shape the concept of not only this album but also how I saw myself. I started reframing how I saw color, in terms of being the Blackest I’ve ever been, and even though I’m steeped in who I am, it doesn’t exclude the other things that make up the sum of me. Similar to how all the music around me informs the Black music that I create. So it’s all a melting pot, and this song truly exemplifies that.”
VANTABLACK will include features from WILLOW, MC Lyte, Common, Rapsody, Michael McDonald, Phonte, and Gerald Albright.
#HipHopNews: Childish Gambino Shares “Little Foot Big Foot” Video Feat. Quinta Brunson,
Four years ago, Donald Glover released the album 3.15.20 under his Childish Gambino persona. The record came out as quietly as possible, despite big-deal guest appearances from people like Ariana Grande and 21 Savage. Most of its song titles were timestamps, Glover gave the album no promotion, and it came out just as the pandemic was hitting.
Last month, shortly after a surprise guest appearance with Tyler, The Creator at Coachella, Glover previewed what he says will be his final Childish Gambino album. He also announced plans for an updated version of 3.15.20. Today, that album, retitled Atavista, has arrived. It’s got a couple of new songs and an eye-grabbing music video, and Glover has also announced a gigantic world tour.
Childish Gambino videos tend to get more attention than anything else that comes out of the project, so let’s start with that. The new clip is for “Little Foot Big Foot,” the song previously known as “35.31.” The video comes from longtime Glover collaborator Hiro Murai, who’s become one of the most in-demand prestige-TV directors out there. In the black-and-white clip, Glover plays a jazz-age entertainer who does an elaborate “Single Ladies”-esque dance routine in a hostile venue. Abbott Elementary star and creator Quinta Brunson plays the venue owner, and Murai builds tension the way that only he can do. The song also has an added-on guest verse from Atlanta rapper Young Nudy. Here’s the clip.
WATCH
The newly revamped Atavista mostly consists of songs that already appeared on 3.15.20, though there may be some alterations in there. But Glover has also released two brand-new songs, “Atavista” and “Human Sacrifice. And he’s announced a global arena tour that’ll take him across North America, Europe, and Australia. Willow and Amaarae will open different legs of the tour, which will keep going all the way into next year. It’s the first Childish Gambino tour since 2019.
In other Childish Gambino news, on Friday he won an appeal in a lawsuit that alleged he stole “This Is America” from the rapper Kidd Wes.
Lil Baby Safe After Shooting Erupts During His Music Video Filming In Atlanta
The production of a Lil Baby music video was marred by a shooting. On Tuesday, May 14, shooting erupted during the production of the rapper's upcoming new video in Atlanta, but thankfully he was unharmed in the incident.
A spokesperson for the "Drip Too Hard" hitmaker said he is safe following the incident. The spokersperson told The Shade Room that the hip-hop star, who was seen in the area before the shooting took place, and the production crew were not involved in the shooting.
Three people were injured in the incident, but none of them was part of the production team. "There may have been individuals involved in the totality of the production," noted Major Ralph Woolfolk.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the shooting rang out at 4:50 P.M. near a commercial strip on Verbena Street. A 24-year-old man was shot in the arm and a 27-year-old man was shot in the back. They were both rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Nicki Minaj Thanks Barbz As She Makes History With 'Pink Friday 2 World Tour'
Nicki Minaj has a good reason to celebrate. The "Barbie World" raptress voiced her appreciation to her fans, famously known as Barbz, as she made history with her ongoing "Pink Friday 2 World Tour".
On Tuesday, May 14, the 41-year-old hip-hop artist made use of Instagram to thank her devotees and crews for making the world tour happen. In the lengthy caption of her new post, she penned, "I still have to post the last 4 shows that I didn't get a chance to post yet, but I'd like to thank EVERYONE who's become a #GagCityResident."
Nicki went on to say, "I'd like to thank the incredible ppl who whether on stage or behind the stage, every single night, have been the most incredible, talented & reliable ppl on earth in order to make this show happen for the Barbz in the most over the top, stunning & unique way."
The Trinidadian rapper further teased, "We're just getting started tho. So many ppl have asked if I'd consider adding more U.S. DATES." Near the end of the caption, she reminded her fans that the European leg of the tour will kick off soon, writing, "Anyway, headed to Europe in a few days. Love you," adding a face blowing a kiss emoji.
In the same post, Nicki uploaded a video of radio personality Angela Yee discussing her recent achievement on syndicated radio show "Way Up". In the short clip, the host could be seen reading a message that read, "Nicki Minaj sold out the entire U.S. leg of her 'Pink Friday 2 Gag City World Tour'."
Angela additionally revealed, "36 shows consecutively sold out. She is the only female rapper in history to do it and it's the highest grossing tour by a female rapper in history. And she has more shows coming up overseas."
Nicki kicked off the world tour on March 1 in Oakland. During the U.S. leg of the tour, she brought along several surprise guests, including 50 Cent and Drake, onstage. She will stop by many cities in Europe before concluding the tour on July 14 in Belgium.
DJ Akademiks Responds To Rape Lawsuit, Calls It 'Shakedown' Attempt
DJ Akademiks has spoken up after he was hit with a lawsuit alleging him of rape and defamation. Going against his attorney's advice, the Internet personality has denied the allegations brought against him by a woman named Fauziya "Ziya" Abashe.
On Tuesday, May 14, the hip-hop pundit took to Rumble livestream to address the lawsuit. "I'm going to go against my very high-priced attorney's advice today, but I'm still not going to say much," he said.
Trying not to share too much, he said, "My only comment should really be: Whatever this is will be handled in court. Just know, according to the law and according to the police and according to all sanctioning governing authorities, Akademiks is an innocent man who has not ever been charged with anything of the sort that has to do with any deviancy or anything like that, has never been charged, will never be charged. That's a fact."
Akademiks claimed that the situation was caught on video footage and the police have cleared him of all wrongdoing. He insinuated that Roc Nation and Tyrone Blackburn, who represents the alleged victim, are going after him. He additionally called the lawsuit "a shakedown," adding, "This is a money tree situation."
In the lawsuit filed in New Jersey Superior Court on Monday, Ziya alleged Akademiks, whose real name is Livingston Allen, and two unnamed "accomplices" drugged and raped her in July 2022. Ziya, described as a writer who lives in Pennsylvania, sued Akademiks and two John Does for sexual assault, negligent infliction of emotional distress and defamation.
Ziya's lawyer Tyrone said in a statement on Tuesday, "Litigation is always the last resort. After several unsuccessful attempts to resolve this case privately, Ms Abashe was left with no choice but to file. Mr. Allen's hubris will be his downfall."
As to why Akademiks believes that Roc Nation is hunting him, this may stem from his critical take on the Megan Thee Stallion and Tory Lanez situation. The Texas femcee, who was shot in the feet by the Canadian rapper in July 2020, signed a management deal with Jay-Z's entertainment company in 2019.
Chrisean Rock Served Lawsuit At Football Practice For Assault Against Singer James Wright Chanel
The reality star allegedly attacked Tamar Braxton's backup singer last November backstage during a concert.
According to RadarOnline, Chrisean Rock has been served lawsuit documents regarding Tamar Braxton‘s backup singer, James Wright Chanel, whom she allegedly assaulted last November
Rock, who’s notably dated Blueface and appeared on the reality show Baddies, was reportedly handed Wright Chanel’s lawsuit in person while attending a high school football game on May 4.
Per the outlet, the server found the 24-year-old at Cathedral High School in Los Angeles after she posted online that she would be attending football practice there at 6:30 PM.
The lawsuit was initially filed by Wright Chanel back in February.
Rock, whose real name is Chrisean Malone, allegedly struck Wright after feuding with Tamar’s team over performing at Los Angeles’ Novo club last year during the “Love & War” singer’s concert. The “Vibe” crooner was reportedly invited to Braxton’s concert and became angry after not being allowed to perform her music for the crowd.
According to a member of Braxton’s team, Le Troy Davis, Rock came to the venue “drunk, with 1,000 people, smelling like weed.”
At the time, Davis explained that Rock got into some sort of argument with Wright Chanel backstage about not performing, struck the singer in his face, and left him bloody. He reportedly had to seek medical attention to stop the bleeding. Reportedly, Wright was left with two broken teeth and cuts on his face from her rings.
The backup singer seemingly confirmed that he was assaulted by the new mother in a video shortly after, where he did not show his face. “Everybody wanna tell stories and tell they versions… I was an innocent bystander,” he said in complete darkness. “You know, you still gotta keep joy and stuff… I don’t know what be wrong with people.”
He went on, “All I did was went to work, chile… y’all already know what type of person I am… but let me tell you what ain’t nobody gone do… ain’t nobody gone take my joy… my praise… my worship… y’all should see my f**ing face, and I still got joy.
Wright’s attorney, Kevin Anderson, stated to the Los Angeles Times at the time, “She hit him multiple times in the face for no reason at all. We were surprised that she was able to leave the facility that night. She had on rings that were pretty much equivalent to brass knuckles.”
Besides Davis — who deemed Rock “trash” and responsible for “why her life is the way that it is” — Braxton also spoke out about the incident. In a statement shared via Instagram, the singer said she initially did not address the heinous act “out of respect for James” and her team, but confirmed, “[Wright] got assaulted” at her show and “it was by Chrisean.”
Speaking on why Rock was invited to her show in the first place, Braxton said via IG, “Chrisean is someone I look at like, from afar, a younger sister. She was somebody I wanted to meet, to possibly take under my wing.” She also shared that she felt connected to Rock, as they’re both from Maryland.
Braxton also admitted that she did indeed invite the Baltimore native to come on stage for the show’s “twerk off” but not to perform. She added that there must have been a “misunderstanding” between both parties.
Following the incident, Rock spoke out via IG Live and claimed that “false narratives” were being made about her.
“I think it’s just a clout chasing thing… Honestly, I need to start protecting my name,” she in a since deleted X post.
‘Inside the NBA’ as NBC Reportedly Outbids TNT for NBA Rights signaling the end of the show.
Recent reports suggest that Turner Sports may be losing the bidding war with NBC for a major sports media rights deal. NBC is reportedly ready to offer a $2.5 billion package to become the third network, along with ESPN and Amazon.
Bill Simmons of The Ringer hinted on his latest podcast episode that the deal might have already been sealed. “One of the funniest things ever is that we’re all pretending that the TV deal wasn’t done like a week and a half ago,” Simmons said. “I think it’s done. I think Warner [Bros. Discovery] already lost it. And I don’t know why we’re waiting until after the playoffs, maybe that’s how they have to do it. But it’s a wrap. NBC’s getting it. I’m just telling you.”
If this is the case, the Western Conference Finals could potentially mark the final appearance of the beloved ‘Inside the NBA’ crew, and the sports community is rallying for a proper send-off. When asked about potentially joining another show, Charles Barkley expressed his loyalty to his long-time colleague Ernie Johnson, stating he wouldn’t consider a move if Johnson wasn’t involved.
After Simmons’s words went viral, fans on Twitter speculated and started to overreact to the idea of the group being broken up after this season.
Memorial plans announced for victims of Buffalo supermarket mass shooting
(May 14) marked the second anniversary of a Buffalo, NY supermarket mass shooting that took the lives of 10 innocent people. On Monday (May 13), government officials announced a permanent memorial to commemorate those victims as an acknowledgment of the tragic day.
Titled "Seeing Us," the memorial’s design was created by Jin Young Song and Douglass Alligood and features interconnected stone pillars and arches, along with a windowed building for exhibitions and events. Said design was chosen out of several other submissions by the 5/14 Memorial Commission, a board established after the racially motivated event.
“What happened... was an act of senseless violence and it was an act of hate,” said Rev. Mark Blue, the chairman of the 5/14 Memorial Commission, in a press conference. “It’s my intent to make sure we have a memorial that the families and the communities can be proud of.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State allocated $5 million towards the $15 million project, with Buffalo contributing $1 million. A yearlong fundraising campaign is expected to cover the remaining costs. “As we approach the solemn two-year anniversary of when our neighbors were senselessly slaughtered solely because of the color of their skin, we rededicate ourselves in supporting the East Buffalo community, remembering those we lost, and supporting those who were injured,” she added.
As previously reported, the shooting claimed the lives of nine shoppers, aged between 32 and 86, along with a retired Buffalo police officer working as a security guard. Three store employees were also wounded. All of the victims were Black.
The white gunman, 18-year-old Payton Gendron, is serving a life sentence without parole after pleading guilty to state charges of murder and hate-motivated domestic terrorism. He faces separate federal charges and a potential death penalty if convicted. Tops Friendly Markets, the supermarket chain where the mass shooting occurred, plans to dedicate another memorial near the store and observe a moment of silence at 2:28 p.m., the time of the attack, later today
Lori Beth Denberg Claims Dan Schneider 'Preyed' on Her While She Starred on 'All That'
Lori Beth Denberg is the latest Nickelodeon star to speak out against Dan Schneider.
Back in March, Investigation Discovery released the Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV docu-series, which detailed much of Dan‘s time at Nickelodeon and focused on the inappropriate conduct and toxic environment on the set of his shows, with former Nick actors sharing their experiences.
Following the docu-series release, Lori Beth – who appeared All That as a teenager from 1994 to 1998 – alleged that she had a “weird, abusive friendship” with Dan that she now views as an inappropriate power imbalance.
In an interview with Business Insider published on Tuesday (May 14), Lori Beth alleged that when she 19-years-old, Dan, who was a producer on All That, started discussing sexual topics with her over the phone and allegedly once initiated phone sex.
She also claims that they would give each other massages while she spent evenings at his house, and Lori Beth also claimed that one time when she was 20 or 21, Dan allegedly fondled and put his mouth on her breasts.
Lori Beth also claimed that Dan often lashed out at her on set and allegedly showed her pornography multiple times.
“I feel like that is the first time he preyed on me,” Lori Beth said.
Also in her interview, Lori Beth claimed that she voiced concerns around 2000 to the then-president of Nickelodeon Entertainment, Albie Hecht, and All That co-creator Brian Robbins over how Amanda Bynes was treated by Dan after noticing she looked “gaunt.”
After sharing her concerns, Lori Beth alleged that she was barred from the set of The Amanda Show.
After Lori Beth‘s interview was published, Dan released a statement with USA Today saying that her allegations are “wildly exaggerated and, in most cases, false.”
“The fact that an Executive Producer of ‘Quiet on Set’ would pursue allegations regarding what may have happened between adults nearly thirty years ago — only a week after I filed a defamation lawsuit accusing ‘Quiet on Set’ of being intentionally false and misleading — seems more than coincidental,” Dan said.
“As I have previously stated, there were times, particularly in the early years of my career, that I made mistakes and exhibited poor judgment as a leader,” he added. “If I did that with respect to Lori Beth, I sincerely apologize to her. But I cannot apologize for things I did not do.”
Dan also recently filed a lawsuit against the Quiet on Set producers.
Jennifer Lopez Spotted House Hunting in L.A. Amid Tour Rehearsals
Jennifer Lopez has a lot on her plate these days, but she’s also on the hunt for a new house!
#NewMusicVideo from Lalah Hathaway ‘So in Love’ Video
Love comes in many shapes and forms. Lalah Hathaway’s video for her new single, “So In Love,” beautifully captures this sentiment.
In the Sadé Clacken Joseph-directed video, Hathaway dons several stylish looks, and scenes of Black parents, children, and couples are interspersed.
“‘So In Love’ has such a vibe, and like a lot of the work I do, it explores some of the more non-traditional ideas about love and self-love. The video does this on a grand scale!” Hathaway explained.
Hathaway co-wrote “So In Love” with Philip Beaudreau. The heartwarming anthem is the first single from her upcoming album, VANTABLACK, out June 14 via Hathaway Entertainment/SRG-ILS Group.
WATCH HERE
“VANTABLACK was always the name of the project. The word itself has so much weight on it, I was really unsure of how to approach the idea of writing the song,” explained Hathaway.
“At the time, what I thought were conflicting perspectives, actually began to shape the concept of not only this album but also how I saw myself. I started reframing how I saw color, in terms of being the Blackest I’ve ever been, and even though I’m steeped in who I am, it doesn’t exclude the other things that make up the sum of me. Similar to how all the music around me informs the Black music that I create. So it’s all a melting pot, and this song truly exemplifies that.”
VANTABLACK will include features from WILLOW, MC Lyte, Common, Rapsody, Michael McDonald, Phonte, and Gerald Albright.
#HipHopNews: Childish Gambino Shares “Little Foot Big Foot” Video Feat. Quinta Brunson,
Last month, shortly after a surprise guest appearance with Tyler, The Creator at Coachella, Glover previewed what he says will be his final Childish Gambino album. He also announced plans for an updated version of 3.15.20. Today, that album, retitled Atavista, has arrived. It’s got a couple of new songs and an eye-grabbing music video, and Glover has also announced a gigantic world tour.
Childish Gambino videos tend to get more attention than anything else that comes out of the project, so let’s start with that. The new clip is for “Little Foot Big Foot,” the song previously known as “35.31.” The video comes from longtime Glover collaborator Hiro Murai, who’s become one of the most in-demand prestige-TV directors out there. In the black-and-white clip, Glover plays a jazz-age entertainer who does an elaborate “Single Ladies”-esque dance routine in a hostile venue. Abbott Elementary star and creator Quinta Brunson plays the venue owner, and Murai builds tension the way that only he can do. The song also has an added-on guest verse from Atlanta rapper Young Nudy. Here’s the clip.
WATCH
The newly revamped Atavista mostly consists of songs that already appeared on 3.15.20, though there may be some alterations in there. But Glover has also released two brand-new songs, “Atavista” and “Human Sacrifice. And he’s announced a global arena tour that’ll take him across North America, Europe, and Australia. Willow and Amaarae will open different legs of the tour, which will keep going all the way into next year. It’s the first Childish Gambino tour since 2019.
In other Childish Gambino news, on Friday he won an appeal in a lawsuit that alleged he stole “This Is America” from the rapper Kidd Wes.
Lil Baby Safe After Shooting Erupts During His Music Video Filming In Atlanta
The production of a Lil Baby music video was marred by a shooting. On Tuesday, May 14, shooting erupted during the production of the rapper's upcoming new video in Atlanta, but thankfully he was unharmed in the incident.
A spokesperson for the "Drip Too Hard" hitmaker said he is safe following the incident. The spokersperson told The Shade Room that the hip-hop star, who was seen in the area before the shooting took place, and the production crew were not involved in the shooting.
Three people were injured in the incident, but none of them was part of the production team. "There may have been individuals involved in the totality of the production," noted Major Ralph Woolfolk.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the shooting rang out at 4:50 P.M. near a commercial strip on Verbena Street. A 24-year-old man was shot in the arm and a 27-year-old man was shot in the back. They were both rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Nicki Minaj Thanks Barbz As She Makes History With 'Pink Friday 2 World Tour'
On Tuesday, May 14, the 41-year-old hip-hop artist made use of Instagram to thank her devotees and crews for making the world tour happen. In the lengthy caption of her new post, she penned, "I still have to post the last 4 shows that I didn't get a chance to post yet, but I'd like to thank EVERYONE who's become a #GagCityResident."
Nicki went on to say, "I'd like to thank the incredible ppl who whether on stage or behind the stage, every single night, have been the most incredible, talented & reliable ppl on earth in order to make this show happen for the Barbz in the most over the top, stunning & unique way."
The Trinidadian rapper further teased, "We're just getting started tho. So many ppl have asked if I'd consider adding more U.S. DATES." Near the end of the caption, she reminded her fans that the European leg of the tour will kick off soon, writing, "Anyway, headed to Europe in a few days. Love you," adding a face blowing a kiss emoji.
In the same post, Nicki uploaded a video of radio personality Angela Yee discussing her recent achievement on syndicated radio show "Way Up". In the short clip, the host could be seen reading a message that read, "Nicki Minaj sold out the entire U.S. leg of her 'Pink Friday 2 Gag City World Tour'."
Angela additionally revealed, "36 shows consecutively sold out. She is the only female rapper in history to do it and it's the highest grossing tour by a female rapper in history. And she has more shows coming up overseas."
Nicki kicked off the world tour on March 1 in Oakland. During the U.S. leg of the tour, she brought along several surprise guests, including 50 Cent and Drake, onstage. She will stop by many cities in Europe before concluding the tour on July 14 in Belgium.
DJ Akademiks Responds To Rape Lawsuit, Calls It 'Shakedown' Attempt
DJ Akademiks has spoken up after he was hit with a lawsuit alleging him of rape and defamation. Going against his attorney's advice, the Internet personality has denied the allegations brought against him by a woman named Fauziya "Ziya" Abashe.
On Tuesday, May 14, the hip-hop pundit took to Rumble livestream to address the lawsuit. "I'm going to go against my very high-priced attorney's advice today, but I'm still not going to say much," he said.
Trying not to share too much, he said, "My only comment should really be: Whatever this is will be handled in court. Just know, according to the law and according to the police and according to all sanctioning governing authorities, Akademiks is an innocent man who has not ever been charged with anything of the sort that has to do with any deviancy or anything like that, has never been charged, will never be charged. That's a fact."
Akademiks claimed that the situation was caught on video footage and the police have cleared him of all wrongdoing. He insinuated that Roc Nation and Tyrone Blackburn, who represents the alleged victim, are going after him. He additionally called the lawsuit "a shakedown," adding, "This is a money tree situation."
In the lawsuit filed in New Jersey Superior Court on Monday, Ziya alleged Akademiks, whose real name is Livingston Allen, and two unnamed "accomplices" drugged and raped her in July 2022. Ziya, described as a writer who lives in Pennsylvania, sued Akademiks and two John Does for sexual assault, negligent infliction of emotional distress and defamation.
Ziya's lawyer Tyrone said in a statement on Tuesday, "Litigation is always the last resort. After several unsuccessful attempts to resolve this case privately, Ms Abashe was left with no choice but to file. Mr. Allen's hubris will be his downfall."
As to why Akademiks believes that Roc Nation is hunting him, this may stem from his critical take on the Megan Thee Stallion and Tory Lanez situation. The Texas femcee, who was shot in the feet by the Canadian rapper in July 2020, signed a management deal with Jay-Z's entertainment company in 2019.
Chrisean Rock Served Lawsuit At Football Practice For Assault Against Singer James Wright Chanel
According to RadarOnline, Chrisean Rock has been served lawsuit documents regarding Tamar Braxton‘s backup singer, James Wright Chanel, whom she allegedly assaulted last November
Rock, who’s notably dated Blueface and appeared on the reality show Baddies, was reportedly handed Wright Chanel’s lawsuit in person while attending a high school football game on May 4.
Per the outlet, the server found the 24-year-old at Cathedral High School in Los Angeles after she posted online that she would be attending football practice there at 6:30 PM.
The lawsuit was initially filed by Wright Chanel back in February.
Rock, whose real name is Chrisean Malone, allegedly struck Wright after feuding with Tamar’s team over performing at Los Angeles’ Novo club last year during the “Love & War” singer’s concert. The “Vibe” crooner was reportedly invited to Braxton’s concert and became angry after not being allowed to perform her music for the crowd.
According to a member of Braxton’s team, Le Troy Davis, Rock came to the venue “drunk, with 1,000 people, smelling like weed.”
At the time, Davis explained that Rock got into some sort of argument with Wright Chanel backstage about not performing, struck the singer in his face, and left him bloody. He reportedly had to seek medical attention to stop the bleeding. Reportedly, Wright was left with two broken teeth and cuts on his face from her rings.
The backup singer seemingly confirmed that he was assaulted by the new mother in a video shortly after, where he did not show his face. “Everybody wanna tell stories and tell they versions… I was an innocent bystander,” he said in complete darkness. “You know, you still gotta keep joy and stuff… I don’t know what be wrong with people.”
He went on, “All I did was went to work, chile… y’all already know what type of person I am… but let me tell you what ain’t nobody gone do… ain’t nobody gone take my joy… my praise… my worship… y’all should see my f**ing face, and I still got joy.
Wright’s attorney, Kevin Anderson, stated to the Los Angeles Times at the time, “She hit him multiple times in the face for no reason at all. We were surprised that she was able to leave the facility that night. She had on rings that were pretty much equivalent to brass knuckles.”
Besides Davis — who deemed Rock “trash” and responsible for “why her life is the way that it is” — Braxton also spoke out about the incident. In a statement shared via Instagram, the singer said she initially did not address the heinous act “out of respect for James” and her team, but confirmed, “[Wright] got assaulted” at her show and “it was by Chrisean.”
Speaking on why Rock was invited to her show in the first place, Braxton said via IG, “Chrisean is someone I look at like, from afar, a younger sister. She was somebody I wanted to meet, to possibly take under my wing.” She also shared that she felt connected to Rock, as they’re both from Maryland.
Braxton also admitted that she did indeed invite the Baltimore native to come on stage for the show’s “twerk off” but not to perform. She added that there must have been a “misunderstanding” between both parties.
Following the incident, Rock spoke out via IG Live and claimed that “false narratives” were being made about her.
“I think it’s just a clout chasing thing… Honestly, I need to start protecting my name,” she in a since deleted X post.
‘Inside the NBA’ as NBC Reportedly Outbids TNT for NBA Rights signaling the end of the show.
Recent reports suggest that Turner Sports may be losing the bidding war with NBC for a major sports media rights deal. NBC is reportedly ready to offer a $2.5 billion package to become the third network, along with ESPN and Amazon.
Bill Simmons of The Ringer hinted on his latest podcast episode that the deal might have already been sealed. “One of the funniest things ever is that we’re all pretending that the TV deal wasn’t done like a week and a half ago,” Simmons said. “I think it’s done. I think Warner [Bros. Discovery] already lost it. And I don’t know why we’re waiting until after the playoffs, maybe that’s how they have to do it. But it’s a wrap. NBC’s getting it. I’m just telling you.”
If this is the case, the Western Conference Finals could potentially mark the final appearance of the beloved ‘Inside the NBA’ crew, and the sports community is rallying for a proper send-off. When asked about potentially joining another show, Charles Barkley expressed his loyalty to his long-time colleague Ernie Johnson, stating he wouldn’t consider a move if Johnson wasn’t involved.
After Simmons’s words went viral, fans on Twitter speculated and started to overreact to the idea of the group being broken up after this season.
Memorial plans announced for victims of Buffalo supermarket mass shooting
Titled "Seeing Us," the memorial’s design was created by Jin Young Song and Douglass Alligood and features interconnected stone pillars and arches, along with a windowed building for exhibitions and events. Said design was chosen out of several other submissions by the 5/14 Memorial Commission, a board established after the racially motivated event.
“What happened... was an act of senseless violence and it was an act of hate,” said Rev. Mark Blue, the chairman of the 5/14 Memorial Commission, in a press conference. “It’s my intent to make sure we have a memorial that the families and the communities can be proud of.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York State allocated $5 million towards the $15 million project, with Buffalo contributing $1 million. A yearlong fundraising campaign is expected to cover the remaining costs. “As we approach the solemn two-year anniversary of when our neighbors were senselessly slaughtered solely because of the color of their skin, we rededicate ourselves in supporting the East Buffalo community, remembering those we lost, and supporting those who were injured,” she added.
As previously reported, the shooting claimed the lives of nine shoppers, aged between 32 and 86, along with a retired Buffalo police officer working as a security guard. Three store employees were also wounded. All of the victims were Black.
The white gunman, 18-year-old Payton Gendron, is serving a life sentence without parole after pleading guilty to state charges of murder and hate-motivated domestic terrorism. He faces separate federal charges and a potential death penalty if convicted. Tops Friendly Markets, the supermarket chain where the mass shooting occurred, plans to dedicate another memorial near the store and observe a moment of silence at 2:28 p.m., the time of the attack, later today
Lori Beth Denberg Claims Dan Schneider 'Preyed' on Her While She Starred on 'All That'
Lori Beth Denberg is the latest Nickelodeon star to speak out against Dan Schneider.
Back in March, Investigation Discovery released the Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV docu-series, which detailed much of Dan‘s time at Nickelodeon and focused on the inappropriate conduct and toxic environment on the set of his shows, with former Nick actors sharing their experiences.
Following the docu-series release, Lori Beth – who appeared All That as a teenager from 1994 to 1998 – alleged that she had a “weird, abusive friendship” with Dan that she now views as an inappropriate power imbalance.
In an interview with Business Insider published on Tuesday (May 14), Lori Beth alleged that when she 19-years-old, Dan, who was a producer on All That, started discussing sexual topics with her over the phone and allegedly once initiated phone sex.
She also claims that they would give each other massages while she spent evenings at his house, and Lori Beth also claimed that one time when she was 20 or 21, Dan allegedly fondled and put his mouth on her breasts.
Lori Beth also claimed that Dan often lashed out at her on set and allegedly showed her pornography multiple times.
“I feel like that is the first time he preyed on me,” Lori Beth said.
Also in her interview, Lori Beth claimed that she voiced concerns around 2000 to the then-president of Nickelodeon Entertainment, Albie Hecht, and All That co-creator Brian Robbins over how Amanda Bynes was treated by Dan after noticing she looked “gaunt.”
After sharing her concerns, Lori Beth alleged that she was barred from the set of The Amanda Show.
After Lori Beth‘s interview was published, Dan released a statement with USA Today saying that her allegations are “wildly exaggerated and, in most cases, false.”
“The fact that an Executive Producer of ‘Quiet on Set’ would pursue allegations regarding what may have happened between adults nearly thirty years ago — only a week after I filed a defamation lawsuit accusing ‘Quiet on Set’ of being intentionally false and misleading — seems more than coincidental,” Dan said.
“As I have previously stated, there were times, particularly in the early years of my career, that I made mistakes and exhibited poor judgment as a leader,” he added. “If I did that with respect to Lori Beth, I sincerely apologize to her. But I cannot apologize for things I did not do.”
Dan also recently filed a lawsuit against the Quiet on Set producers.
Jennifer Lopez Spotted House Hunting in L.A. Amid Tour Rehearsals
The 54-year-old entertainer was spotted looking at a property with her longtime producing partner Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas on Tuesday afternoon (May 14) in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Jennifer and her husband Ben Affleck purchased a $60 million estate together last year, so it’s unclear if the house is for herself, for someone else, or just a possible investment opportunity.
There’s a lot going on in JLo‘s career right now with the upcoming release of her movie Atlas on May 24 and the launch of her summer concert tour on June 26. She also just wrapped production on the movie musical Kiss of the Spider Woman, for which she’s attributing her recent weight loss.
MC Lyte to Release First Album in Nearly a Decade This Summer
*MC Lyte revealed that she will release her first album in nearly a decade this summer.
“I got a new record,” the hip-hop icon told MC Sha-Rock and Grandmaster Caz during her May 10 appearance on their Rock The Bells show That’s The Joint, Vibe reports.
“I’m working on it right now. The new single is out. It’s ‘Woman.’ The new record is coming,” MC Lyte added. “We’ll have another single coming in June for Black Music Month, which is going to be spectacular. Of course, I’ve got some winning folks on this album, now I gotta talk to Major.”
“The album comes out August 9, and the next single comes out June 9,” she said.
This project will be Lyte’s first album since her 2015 LP Legend.
Last month, Lyte released the single “Woman” featuring Big Daddy Kane, Raheem DeVaughn, and Cheryl “Salt” James. Have a listen to it via the YouTube clip above.
Last year, the rapper celebrated hip-hop’s 50th anniversary by telling CNN that she was “elated” by how far the genre has come since its inception in 1973.
“Look where we are. I am just so elated, and excited, it’s almost as though hip-hop, of all generations, have gotten like a dose of rejuvenation. We have been so busy this year,” the raptress said in an interview on CNN Tonight with Sara Sidner.
As Vibe reports, Lyte received accolades for her impactful storytelling during the SEED Summit+ Awards in March, and she expressed her gratitude in a message on social media, writing, “Thank you, @valeisha, and the Hello Seed Awards for the wonderful honor,” she wrote. “My sister @lynnrichardson and I are forever grateful for your love and acknowledgment. Thank you @devonfranklin for being a part of a memorable evening for Lynn and I. God bless your journey. And a big congratulations to all the honorees! A beautiful night indeed!!
Red Lobster Abruptly Shuts Down Dozens of Restaurants Nationwide
Struggling Red Lobster is abruptly closing at least 48 of its restaurants around the country, according to a leading restaurant liquidator.
TAGeX Brands is conducting an online auction of Red Lobster restaurant inventory, including kitchen equipment, furniture, tables and chairs. The auction begins Monday and continues through Thursday, according to company founder Neal Sherman.
Red Lobster locations in Buffalo, Orlando, Jacksonville and other cities were listed as “temporarily closed” on Red Lobster’s website, according to local news reports.
Red Lobster did not respond to CNN’s requests for comment. The company has around 650 locations.
Red Lobster is reportedly considering filing for bankruptcy protection. The chain has tapped a restructuring expert as its chief executive, a possible indicator of an impending bankruptcy.
The mass closures are another sign of problems at Red Lobster and one of the only times in its more than 50-year history the chain has closed dozens of stores at once.
Red Lobster was a casual dining pioneer, bringing affordable seafood to middle-class consumers for the first time.
But the chain has declined in recent years due to a range of factors, including corporate mismanagement, say former leaders and restaurant analysts.
In 2020, Thai Union, a longtime supplier to Red Lobster, took an undisclosed financial stake in the chain, becoming a key shareholder. Under Thai Union’s direction, Red Lobster has cycled through four CEOs and an all-you-can-eat shrimp deal last year that slowed down table service and cut into Thai Union’s profitability.
The promotion has been a tradition at the chain for more than 18 years, but Red Lobster made endless shrimp a permanent fixture on the menu.
“We need to be much more careful,” Thai Union CEO Thiraphong Chansiri said in November of the shrimp deal.
Thai Union said earlier this year it would divest from Red Lobster and take a $530 million loss on its investment.
“I’m going to stop eating lobster,” Chansiri said.
The explosive growth and popularity of fast-casual chains like Chipotle and quick-service chains like Chick-fil-A over the past two decades also squeezed Red Lobster and the casual dining sector.
Casual dining has slipped from 36% of total restaurant industry sales in 2013 to 31% in 2023, according to Technomic, a restaurant research firm.
Tyrese Ends Concert Mid-Performance to Avoid Being Served Lawsuit
Tyrese is the talk of social media after a video surfaced showing him abruptly ending a Georgia concert.
The singer did not fall ill, nor did he have an emergency. Instead, sources claim Tyrese was informed by a member of the security that a process server was in the building to serve him with lawsuit documents. They were reportedly by a man named Bryan Barber, who is suing Tyrese for defamation and libel over comments allegedly made about him.
The show at the Stockbridge Amphitheater appeared to be packed with fans who were likely disappointed over the surprise ending. However, an insider tells TMZ that the performer only had about three more songs left before his set was over. The timing was still slightly humorous, as Tyrese was in the middle of his hit, “How You Gonna Act Like That,” when he received the news. As he ran off stage, he continued singing while out of frame.
Tyrese hasn’t spoken out about the incident, aside from sharing a message on Instagram that thanked concert attendees. Still, the internet got quite the laugh out of the matter. It remains to be seen if the lawsuit papers were served.
Ice Spice Gets Her Own MTA MetroCard
At the center of New York City‘s transit system is the MTA MetroCard which serves as a symbol of convenience that helps you navigate the city. Throughout the years, this card has become a canvas for honoring individuals important to the culture. From local legends to global celebrities, the MetroCard has displayed a wide range of people from different walks of life. Now, the latest addition to the lineup is none other than Ice Spice!
These limited-edition cards feature the New York native wearing a Versace baby t-shirt and leather shorts. According to reports, only 50,000 cards will be available for purchase and will be offered at three select stops: Fordham Rd for the 4 and B/D trains, 34th-Penn Station for the A/C/E lines, and the Times Square station.
However, Ice Spice is not the only celebrity to be featured on the MetroCard. Last year, to celebrate hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the MTA launched a special series of MetroCards paying tribute to iconic New York native rappers. LL Cool J, Rakim, Cameron, and the late Pop Smoke were on the list. Additionally, last year, to highlight the 25th season of “Law & Order: SVU,” the MTA released a limited-edition MetroCard featuring Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role as Olivia Benson. In a separate tribute, the MTA also issued a MetroCard to celebrate the 50th birthday of the legendary Notorious B.I.G.
Nevertheless, as commuters travel throughout the city, they’ll be reminded of the rich history of hip-hop culture that’s injected into the streets of New York.
Brad Pitt Hit With Countersuit in Winery Battle for Allegedly Misappropriating Funds
The latest chapter in Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's ongoing legal battle over their $500 million French winery, Château Miraval, is unfolding
TMZ reports Pitt has been countersued for misappropriating funds from Chateau Miraval by the company that his ex-wife is trying to sell her shares to.
Pitt previously sued the Tenute del Mondo wine group to block them from purchasing Jolie's shares in Chateau Miraval. Tenute del Mondo is now suing the actor, claiming he used the winery as his "personal piggy bank," as he spent over $1 million to renovate a pool only used by him, plus a recording studio, gin brand, and cosmetics company.
Pitt's team is shutting down Tenute del Mondo's suit, telling TMZ that the actor isn't impressed with Tenute's legal action.
"We're told Chateau Miraval is only as successful as it is because of how Brad has run it," the outlet reports, "and the notion he plundered it for his own personal gain is absurd and nonsensical...as it would only hurt him if he did the things they're claiming he did."
Prior to getting married in 2014, Pitt and Jolie purchased Château Miraval, with Brad owning 60 percent to Angelina's 40 percent. The same year the former spouses got hitched, Pitt endowed Jolie with an additional 10 percent stake in the property to split ownership evenly.
Back in February, a Luxembourg court ruled that Jolie's additional 10 percent ownership must be given back to Pitt after the actress sold her shares to Yuri Shefler, an investor and owner of the Stolichnaya vodka brand.
Lupe Fiasco Seemingly Addresses GOP Candidate Using His Song for Homophobic Campaign Video
Lupe Fiasco doesn’t seem to be a fan of how one of his hits is being used in a political campaign.
Missouri GOP Secretary of State candidate Valentina Gomez, 24, shared a bizarre campaign video on Sunday featuring Fiasco’s 2010 hit “The Show Goes On.”
In the clip, Gomez jogs in the middle of an empty street and wears a weighted vest as she declares, “In America, you can be anything you want. So don’t be weak and gay. Stay fucking hard.”
Missouri, a predominantly and historically LGBTQ+ neighborhood.
Gomez also tagged known misogynist Andrew Tate, 37, the controversial influencer and media personality, and his brother Tristan, 35, in the tweet. It’s worth mentioning that the Tate brothers, along with two other individuals, were charged with rape and human trafficking in Romania last June.
The campaign clip seemingly got 42-year-old Fiasco’s attention, though he didn't point directly to the self-proclaimed MAGA/America First devotee’s homophobic campaign slogan.
“We are aware and currently taking action. Thank you. #TeamLupe,” Fiasco tweeted on Tuesday afternoon, hours after Gomez's post.
About 20 minutes after Lupe posted, Gomez replied to her own tweet, adding, "Music by the great Lupe Fiasco. The Show Goes On.
Tweet by Valentina Gomez mentioning music by Lupe Fiasco with a song title: The Show Goes On
The candidate made headlines in February for an unhinged video of herself using a flamethrower to burn two LGBTQ books, according to NBC News.
“This is what I will do to the grooming books when I become Secretary of State,” said Gomez in the video shared to her social media. “These books come from a Missouri public library. When I’m in office, they will burn.”
Per NBC News, X restricted the flamethrower video’s visibility on the grounds that it might violate the platform’s rules against hateful conduct.
Jennifer and her husband Ben Affleck purchased a $60 million estate together last year, so it’s unclear if the house is for herself, for someone else, or just a possible investment opportunity.
There’s a lot going on in JLo‘s career right now with the upcoming release of her movie Atlas on May 24 and the launch of her summer concert tour on June 26. She also just wrapped production on the movie musical Kiss of the Spider Woman, for which she’s attributing her recent weight loss.
MC Lyte to Release First Album in Nearly a Decade This Summer
*MC Lyte revealed that she will release her first album in nearly a decade this summer.
“I got a new record,” the hip-hop icon told MC Sha-Rock and Grandmaster Caz during her May 10 appearance on their Rock The Bells show That’s The Joint, Vibe reports.
“I’m working on it right now. The new single is out. It’s ‘Woman.’ The new record is coming,” MC Lyte added. “We’ll have another single coming in June for Black Music Month, which is going to be spectacular. Of course, I’ve got some winning folks on this album, now I gotta talk to Major.”
“The album comes out August 9, and the next single comes out June 9,” she said.
This project will be Lyte’s first album since her 2015 LP Legend.
Last month, Lyte released the single “Woman” featuring Big Daddy Kane, Raheem DeVaughn, and Cheryl “Salt” James. Have a listen to it via the YouTube clip above.
Last year, the rapper celebrated hip-hop’s 50th anniversary by telling CNN that she was “elated” by how far the genre has come since its inception in 1973.
“Look where we are. I am just so elated, and excited, it’s almost as though hip-hop, of all generations, have gotten like a dose of rejuvenation. We have been so busy this year,” the raptress said in an interview on CNN Tonight with Sara Sidner.
As Vibe reports, Lyte received accolades for her impactful storytelling during the SEED Summit+ Awards in March, and she expressed her gratitude in a message on social media, writing, “Thank you, @valeisha, and the Hello Seed Awards for the wonderful honor,” she wrote. “My sister @lynnrichardson and I are forever grateful for your love and acknowledgment. Thank you @devonfranklin for being a part of a memorable evening for Lynn and I. God bless your journey. And a big congratulations to all the honorees! A beautiful night indeed!!
Red Lobster Abruptly Shuts Down Dozens of Restaurants Nationwide
TAGeX Brands is conducting an online auction of Red Lobster restaurant inventory, including kitchen equipment, furniture, tables and chairs. The auction begins Monday and continues through Thursday, according to company founder Neal Sherman.
Red Lobster locations in Buffalo, Orlando, Jacksonville and other cities were listed as “temporarily closed” on Red Lobster’s website, according to local news reports.
Red Lobster did not respond to CNN’s requests for comment. The company has around 650 locations.
Red Lobster is reportedly considering filing for bankruptcy protection. The chain has tapped a restructuring expert as its chief executive, a possible indicator of an impending bankruptcy.
The mass closures are another sign of problems at Red Lobster and one of the only times in its more than 50-year history the chain has closed dozens of stores at once.
Red Lobster was a casual dining pioneer, bringing affordable seafood to middle-class consumers for the first time.
But the chain has declined in recent years due to a range of factors, including corporate mismanagement, say former leaders and restaurant analysts.
In 2020, Thai Union, a longtime supplier to Red Lobster, took an undisclosed financial stake in the chain, becoming a key shareholder. Under Thai Union’s direction, Red Lobster has cycled through four CEOs and an all-you-can-eat shrimp deal last year that slowed down table service and cut into Thai Union’s profitability.
The promotion has been a tradition at the chain for more than 18 years, but Red Lobster made endless shrimp a permanent fixture on the menu.
“We need to be much more careful,” Thai Union CEO Thiraphong Chansiri said in November of the shrimp deal.
Thai Union said earlier this year it would divest from Red Lobster and take a $530 million loss on its investment.
“I’m going to stop eating lobster,” Chansiri said.
The explosive growth and popularity of fast-casual chains like Chipotle and quick-service chains like Chick-fil-A over the past two decades also squeezed Red Lobster and the casual dining sector.
Casual dining has slipped from 36% of total restaurant industry sales in 2013 to 31% in 2023, according to Technomic, a restaurant research firm.
Tyrese Ends Concert Mid-Performance to Avoid Being Served Lawsuit
Tyrese is the talk of social media after a video surfaced showing him abruptly ending a Georgia concert.
The singer did not fall ill, nor did he have an emergency. Instead, sources claim Tyrese was informed by a member of the security that a process server was in the building to serve him with lawsuit documents. They were reportedly by a man named Bryan Barber, who is suing Tyrese for defamation and libel over comments allegedly made about him.
The show at the Stockbridge Amphitheater appeared to be packed with fans who were likely disappointed over the surprise ending. However, an insider tells TMZ that the performer only had about three more songs left before his set was over. The timing was still slightly humorous, as Tyrese was in the middle of his hit, “How You Gonna Act Like That,” when he received the news. As he ran off stage, he continued singing while out of frame.
Tyrese hasn’t spoken out about the incident, aside from sharing a message on Instagram that thanked concert attendees. Still, the internet got quite the laugh out of the matter. It remains to be seen if the lawsuit papers were served.
Ice Spice Gets Her Own MTA MetroCard
These limited-edition cards feature the New York native wearing a Versace baby t-shirt and leather shorts. According to reports, only 50,000 cards will be available for purchase and will be offered at three select stops: Fordham Rd for the 4 and B/D trains, 34th-Penn Station for the A/C/E lines, and the Times Square station.
However, Ice Spice is not the only celebrity to be featured on the MetroCard. Last year, to celebrate hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the MTA launched a special series of MetroCards paying tribute to iconic New York native rappers. LL Cool J, Rakim, Cameron, and the late Pop Smoke were on the list. Additionally, last year, to highlight the 25th season of “Law & Order: SVU,” the MTA released a limited-edition MetroCard featuring Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role as Olivia Benson. In a separate tribute, the MTA also issued a MetroCard to celebrate the 50th birthday of the legendary Notorious B.I.G.
Nevertheless, as commuters travel throughout the city, they’ll be reminded of the rich history of hip-hop culture that’s injected into the streets of New York.
Brad Pitt Hit With Countersuit in Winery Battle for Allegedly Misappropriating Funds
The latest chapter in Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's ongoing legal battle over their $500 million French winery, Château Miraval, is unfolding
TMZ reports Pitt has been countersued for misappropriating funds from Chateau Miraval by the company that his ex-wife is trying to sell her shares to.
Pitt previously sued the Tenute del Mondo wine group to block them from purchasing Jolie's shares in Chateau Miraval. Tenute del Mondo is now suing the actor, claiming he used the winery as his "personal piggy bank," as he spent over $1 million to renovate a pool only used by him, plus a recording studio, gin brand, and cosmetics company.
Pitt's team is shutting down Tenute del Mondo's suit, telling TMZ that the actor isn't impressed with Tenute's legal action.
"We're told Chateau Miraval is only as successful as it is because of how Brad has run it," the outlet reports, "and the notion he plundered it for his own personal gain is absurd and nonsensical...as it would only hurt him if he did the things they're claiming he did."
Prior to getting married in 2014, Pitt and Jolie purchased Château Miraval, with Brad owning 60 percent to Angelina's 40 percent. The same year the former spouses got hitched, Pitt endowed Jolie with an additional 10 percent stake in the property to split ownership evenly.
Back in February, a Luxembourg court ruled that Jolie's additional 10 percent ownership must be given back to Pitt after the actress sold her shares to Yuri Shefler, an investor and owner of the Stolichnaya vodka brand.
Lupe Fiasco Seemingly Addresses GOP Candidate Using His Song for Homophobic Campaign Video
Missouri GOP Secretary of State candidate Valentina Gomez, 24, shared a bizarre campaign video on Sunday featuring Fiasco’s 2010 hit “The Show Goes On.”
In the clip, Gomez jogs in the middle of an empty street and wears a weighted vest as she declares, “In America, you can be anything you want. So don’t be weak and gay. Stay fucking hard.”
Missouri, a predominantly and historically LGBTQ+ neighborhood.
Gomez also tagged known misogynist Andrew Tate, 37, the controversial influencer and media personality, and his brother Tristan, 35, in the tweet. It’s worth mentioning that the Tate brothers, along with two other individuals, were charged with rape and human trafficking in Romania last June.
The campaign clip seemingly got 42-year-old Fiasco’s attention, though he didn't point directly to the self-proclaimed MAGA/America First devotee’s homophobic campaign slogan.
“We are aware and currently taking action. Thank you. #TeamLupe,” Fiasco tweeted on Tuesday afternoon, hours after Gomez's post.
About 20 minutes after Lupe posted, Gomez replied to her own tweet, adding, "Music by the great Lupe Fiasco. The Show Goes On.
Tweet by Valentina Gomez mentioning music by Lupe Fiasco with a song title: The Show Goes On
The candidate made headlines in February for an unhinged video of herself using a flamethrower to burn two LGBTQ books, according to NBC News.
“This is what I will do to the grooming books when I become Secretary of State,” said Gomez in the video shared to her social media. “These books come from a Missouri public library. When I’m in office, they will burn.”
Per NBC News, X restricted the flamethrower video’s visibility on the grounds that it might violate the platform’s rules against hateful conduct.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Sexy Daddy at Walmart
Yep, he's picking another set for his outfit.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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