#BoxOfficeNews:‘Despicable Me 4’ debuts with $122.6M as boom times return to the box office
NEW YORK (AP) — After a historically bad first half of the year, the box office is suddenly booming.
“Despicable Me 4,” the Illumination Animation sequel, led the way over the holiday weekend with $75 million in ticket sales Friday through Sunday and $122.6 million since opening on Wednesday, according to studio estimates Sunday.
The Independence Day holiday weekend haul for the Universal Pictures release further extends the considerable box-office reign of the Minions, arguably the most bankable force in movies today. And it also kept a summer streak going for Hollywood.
Though overall ticket sales were down more than 40% from levels prior to the COVID 19 pandemic, heading into the summer moviegoing season, theaters have lately seen a succession of hits. After Sony’s “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” outperformed expectations, Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” rapidly cleared $1 billion in ticket sales worldwide, making it the first release since “Barbie” to reach that mark. Last weekend, the Paramount prequel “A Quiet Place: Day One” also came in above expectations.
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“If you look at the mood of the industry about eight weeks ago, very different than today,” says Paul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst for Comscore. “The song says what a difference a day makes. What a difference a month has made.”
It helps to have the Minions at your disposal. Since first debuting in the 2010 original “Despicable Me,” each entry of the franchise — including two sequels and two “Minions” spinoffs — has been seemingly guaranteed to gross around $1 billion. The four previous movies all made between $939 million (2022’s “Minions: Rise of Gru”) and $1.26 billion (2015’s “Minions”) globally.
That run has helped give Illumination founder and chief executive Chris Meledandri one of the most enviable track records in Hollywood. “Despicable Me 4,” directed by Chris Renaud and Patrick Delage, returns the voice cast led by Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig and doubles down on more Minion mayhem. Reviews (54% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) weren’t particularly good for the latest installment, which includes a witness protection plot and a group of Minions transformed into a superhero squadron. But in their 12-year run, little has slowed down the Minions.
“This is one of the most beloved franchises, quite frankly, in the history of film, and certainly animation,” said Jim Orr, distribution chief for Universal. “Chris Meledandri and Illumination have their finger on the pulse of what families and audiences around the world want to see.”
Family movies are powering the box office. “Despicable Me 4” performed strongly despite the still considerable drawing power of “Inside Out 2.” In its fourth weekend of release, the Pixar sequel added another $30 million domestically and $78.3 million overseas.
“Inside Out 2,” with $1.22 billion in ticket sales thus far, is easily the year’s biggest hit and fast climbing up the all-time ranks for animated releases. It currently ranks as the No. 5 animated release worldwide.
Instead of cannibalizing the opening weekend for “Despicable Me 4,” “Inside Out 2” may have helped get families back in the habit of heading to theaters.
“What happened, I think, is the release calendar finally settled into a nice rhythm,” said Dergarabedian, referencing the jumbled movie schedule from last year’s strikes. “It’s all about momentum.”
The continued strong sales for “Inside Out 2” were enough to put the film in second place for the domestic weekend. Last week’s top new film, “A Quiet Place: Day One,” slid to third with $21 million in its second weekend, with another $21.1 million from overseas theaters. That was a steep decrease of 60%, though the Paramount prequel has amassed $178.2 million worldwide in two weeks.
The run of hits has caused some studios to boost their forecasts for the summer movie season. Heading into the most lucrative season at theaters, analysts were predicting a $3 billion summer, down from the more typical $4 billion mark. Now, closer to $3.4 billion appears likely.
The weekend’s other top new release was Ti West’s “MaXXXine,” the third in a string of slasher films from A24 starring Mia Goth. In 2,450 locations, “MaXXXine” collected $6.7 million in ticket sales, a franchise best. The film, which follows “X” and “Pearl” (both released in 2022), stars Goth as a 1980s Hollywood starlet being hunted by a killer known as the Night Stalker.
Angel Studios, which last year released the unexpected summer hit “Sound of Freedom,” struggled to find the same success with its latest Christian film, “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot.” It debuted with $3.2 million.
Kevin Costner’s big-budget gamble, “Horizon: An American Saga,” didn’t do much to turn around its fortunes in its second weekend. The first chapter in what Costner hopes will be a four-part franchise – including a chapter two Warner Bros. will release in August – earned $5.5 million in its second weekend. The film, which cost more than $100 million to make, has grossed $22.2 million in two weeks.
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. “Despicable Me 4,” $75 million.
2. “Inside Out 2,” $30 million.
3. “A Quiet Place Day One,” $21 million.
4. “MaXXXine,” $6.7 million.
5. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” $6.5 million.
6. “Horizon: An American Saga, Chapter 1,” $5.5 million.
7. “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot,” $3.2 million.
8. “Kaiki 2898,” $1.8 million.
9. “The Bikeriders,” $1.3 million.
10. “Kinds of Kindness,” $860,000.
#RHOA: Claudia Jordan defends Kenya Moore over sex poster scandal: She’s ‘never been a liar’!
Claudia Jordan is defending her former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” co-star Kenya Moore after the latter was booted from the show following an oral sex poster scandal.
“I think it’s tragic … Is [‘RHOA’] worth watching if she’s not going to be on it? I think she’s a big part of that success and I hope it’s only a temporary thing,” the radio host told TMZ Saturday.
Jordan, 51, also claimed that Moore, 53, has “never been a liar.”
“Kenya will say something and people will accuse her of being messy, only to find out years later she was telling the truth,” she added.
Moore — who starred on “RHOA” between 2012 and 2023 — was indefinitely suspended from the hit Bravo series after she allegedly decorated her Kenya Moore Hair Spa grand opening on June 6 with posters of newcomer Brittany Eady performing oral sex on a mystery man.
The reality star, however, immediately denied she would do such a thing on both Instagram and X.
She claimed, “Kenya will say something and people will accuse her of being messy, only to find out years later she was telling the truth.”
“Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see,” she penned on her Instagram Story at the time. “The truth always comes to light.”
Moore further refuted the reports on X, writing, “I would never engage in revenge porn, I have never distributed private images or footage of anyone, nor solicited images owned by others to use to threaten or blackmail.
“I have always been vindicated. I can’t talk about STORY even with people planting fake news #sweet16🔥.”
Moore was indefinitely suspended from “RHOA” in June after she allegedly decorating her Kenya Moore Hair Spa grand opening with posters of Brittany Eady performing oral sex.
Moore has defended herself multiple times.
Eady — who was not present at the grand opening — also took to social media and appeared hurt by the reports.
“It’s never a good feeling being targeted or HAZED by someone I thought would embrace me into a new circle, that I never met,” she previously wrote on her Instagram Story.
She further clapped back at rumors she threatened Moore with violence before her hair spa event.
“For the record, I’ve never once had possession of any weapons or threatened anyone ever,” Eady, 36 wrote.
“I’ve never been to jail, in fight, or even had as much as a speeding ticket. That’s not my character.”
“I would never engage in revenge porn, I have never distributed private images or footage of anyone, nor solicited images owned by others to use to threaten or blackmail,” she wrote on X when the accusations first came to light.
“I have always been vindicated. I can’t talk about STORY even with people planting fake news,” she added.
She concluded, “I am hurt by the narrative that’s being displayed. Wrong is wrong.”
Following Moore’s suspension, the “Housewife” promised fans she wasn’t going anywhere.
“You will be seeing me,” she confidently stated during an Instagram Live on June 14. “I’m not going anywhere despite all the stuff surrounding whatever it is people decided they wanna write.”
However, on June 25, Page Six confirmed the former Miss USA winner would not be returning to “RHOA” for the remainder of Season 16.
Moore then threw shade at Bravo, the network that airs the series, following her exit.
“My life is blessed. Myself and my daughter will continue to thrive in a non toxic environment where we feel appreciated and most importantly, protected,” she wrote alongside a carousel of vacation pictures that featured her 5-year-old daughter, Brooklyn.
Aside from Jordan, several Bravolebrities have defended Moore since the scandal came to light.
Former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Brandi Glanville wrote via X, “Women are physically fighting on [‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’] & that seems to be ok with producers. Where is HR now?”
“Create the villain, enable the villain, praise the villain, then punish the villain, for being… a villain,” she added in a second message.
Kandi Burruss, who starred with Moore on “RHOA, recently said on the” Yung Joc & The Streetz Morning Takeover” show, “I know a lot of people are like, ‘She shouldn’t have shown that,’ but this is ‘Housewives.’
“How many times we done did something that you think somebody shouldn’t do? So, who made the rules? Why y’all all of a sudden have such an issue with somebody doing something crazy to somebody?”
“Myself and my daughter will continue to thrive in a non toxic environment where we feel appreciated and most importantly, protected,” Moore wrote via Instagram shortly after.
Burruss, 48, further defended Moore on Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea” podcast.
“A lot of people are like, ‘How can you support that?’ And I’m like, at the end of the day, she didn’t make up anything about somebody,” she told us.
Production on Season 16 began in May, per Bravo. It is set to premiere sometime in 2025.
#MusicNews: Essence Festival: It's Usher's year! ‘Confessions’ hitmaker celebrates 20 years of iconic album after BET achievement!
Undoubtedly closest to his heart, Usher’s 20-year-old momentous album release, consisting of accolades-worthy snazzy hits like “Yeah,” “Burn,” “Bad Girl” and “Caught Up,” also racked up the title as the best-selling R&B album of the 21st century. It has surpassed 10 million sales in the US.
“Despicable Me 4,” the Illumination Animation sequel, led the way over the holiday weekend with $75 million in ticket sales Friday through Sunday and $122.6 million since opening on Wednesday, according to studio estimates Sunday.
The Independence Day holiday weekend haul for the Universal Pictures release further extends the considerable box-office reign of the Minions, arguably the most bankable force in movies today. And it also kept a summer streak going for Hollywood.
Though overall ticket sales were down more than 40% from levels prior to the COVID 19 pandemic, heading into the summer moviegoing season, theaters have lately seen a succession of hits. After Sony’s “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” outperformed expectations, Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” rapidly cleared $1 billion in ticket sales worldwide, making it the first release since “Barbie” to reach that mark. Last weekend, the Paramount prequel “A Quiet Place: Day One” also came in above expectations.
What to stream this week: ‘Descendants,’ Megan Moroney, ‘Sunny’ and new HARDY album
Jon Landau, Oscar-winning ‘Titanic’ and ‘Avatar’ producer, dies at 63
How an Oscar-winning filmmaker helped a small-town art theater in Ohio land a big grant
“If you look at the mood of the industry about eight weeks ago, very different than today,” says Paul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst for Comscore. “The song says what a difference a day makes. What a difference a month has made.”
It helps to have the Minions at your disposal. Since first debuting in the 2010 original “Despicable Me,” each entry of the franchise — including two sequels and two “Minions” spinoffs — has been seemingly guaranteed to gross around $1 billion. The four previous movies all made between $939 million (2022’s “Minions: Rise of Gru”) and $1.26 billion (2015’s “Minions”) globally.
That run has helped give Illumination founder and chief executive Chris Meledandri one of the most enviable track records in Hollywood. “Despicable Me 4,” directed by Chris Renaud and Patrick Delage, returns the voice cast led by Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig and doubles down on more Minion mayhem. Reviews (54% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) weren’t particularly good for the latest installment, which includes a witness protection plot and a group of Minions transformed into a superhero squadron. But in their 12-year run, little has slowed down the Minions.
“This is one of the most beloved franchises, quite frankly, in the history of film, and certainly animation,” said Jim Orr, distribution chief for Universal. “Chris Meledandri and Illumination have their finger on the pulse of what families and audiences around the world want to see.”
Family movies are powering the box office. “Despicable Me 4” performed strongly despite the still considerable drawing power of “Inside Out 2.” In its fourth weekend of release, the Pixar sequel added another $30 million domestically and $78.3 million overseas.
“Inside Out 2,” with $1.22 billion in ticket sales thus far, is easily the year’s biggest hit and fast climbing up the all-time ranks for animated releases. It currently ranks as the No. 5 animated release worldwide.
Instead of cannibalizing the opening weekend for “Despicable Me 4,” “Inside Out 2” may have helped get families back in the habit of heading to theaters.
“What happened, I think, is the release calendar finally settled into a nice rhythm,” said Dergarabedian, referencing the jumbled movie schedule from last year’s strikes. “It’s all about momentum.”
The continued strong sales for “Inside Out 2” were enough to put the film in second place for the domestic weekend. Last week’s top new film, “A Quiet Place: Day One,” slid to third with $21 million in its second weekend, with another $21.1 million from overseas theaters. That was a steep decrease of 60%, though the Paramount prequel has amassed $178.2 million worldwide in two weeks.
The run of hits has caused some studios to boost their forecasts for the summer movie season. Heading into the most lucrative season at theaters, analysts were predicting a $3 billion summer, down from the more typical $4 billion mark. Now, closer to $3.4 billion appears likely.
The weekend’s other top new release was Ti West’s “MaXXXine,” the third in a string of slasher films from A24 starring Mia Goth. In 2,450 locations, “MaXXXine” collected $6.7 million in ticket sales, a franchise best. The film, which follows “X” and “Pearl” (both released in 2022), stars Goth as a 1980s Hollywood starlet being hunted by a killer known as the Night Stalker.
Angel Studios, which last year released the unexpected summer hit “Sound of Freedom,” struggled to find the same success with its latest Christian film, “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot.” It debuted with $3.2 million.
Kevin Costner’s big-budget gamble, “Horizon: An American Saga,” didn’t do much to turn around its fortunes in its second weekend. The first chapter in what Costner hopes will be a four-part franchise – including a chapter two Warner Bros. will release in August – earned $5.5 million in its second weekend. The film, which cost more than $100 million to make, has grossed $22.2 million in two weeks.
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. “Despicable Me 4,” $75 million.
2. “Inside Out 2,” $30 million.
3. “A Quiet Place Day One,” $21 million.
4. “MaXXXine,” $6.7 million.
5. “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” $6.5 million.
6. “Horizon: An American Saga, Chapter 1,” $5.5 million.
7. “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot,” $3.2 million.
8. “Kaiki 2898,” $1.8 million.
9. “The Bikeriders,” $1.3 million.
10. “Kinds of Kindness,” $860,000.
#RHOA: Claudia Jordan defends Kenya Moore over sex poster scandal: She’s ‘never been a liar’!
“I think it’s tragic … Is [‘RHOA’] worth watching if she’s not going to be on it? I think she’s a big part of that success and I hope it’s only a temporary thing,” the radio host told TMZ Saturday.
Jordan, 51, also claimed that Moore, 53, has “never been a liar.”
“Kenya will say something and people will accuse her of being messy, only to find out years later she was telling the truth,” she added.
Moore — who starred on “RHOA” between 2012 and 2023 — was indefinitely suspended from the hit Bravo series after she allegedly decorated her Kenya Moore Hair Spa grand opening on June 6 with posters of newcomer Brittany Eady performing oral sex on a mystery man.
The reality star, however, immediately denied she would do such a thing on both Instagram and X.
She claimed, “Kenya will say something and people will accuse her of being messy, only to find out years later she was telling the truth.”
“Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see,” she penned on her Instagram Story at the time. “The truth always comes to light.”
Moore further refuted the reports on X, writing, “I would never engage in revenge porn, I have never distributed private images or footage of anyone, nor solicited images owned by others to use to threaten or blackmail.
“I have always been vindicated. I can’t talk about STORY even with people planting fake news #sweet16🔥.”
Moore was indefinitely suspended from “RHOA” in June after she allegedly decorating her Kenya Moore Hair Spa grand opening with posters of Brittany Eady performing oral sex.
Moore has defended herself multiple times.
Eady — who was not present at the grand opening — also took to social media and appeared hurt by the reports.
“It’s never a good feeling being targeted or HAZED by someone I thought would embrace me into a new circle, that I never met,” she previously wrote on her Instagram Story.
She further clapped back at rumors she threatened Moore with violence before her hair spa event.
“For the record, I’ve never once had possession of any weapons or threatened anyone ever,” Eady, 36 wrote.
“I’ve never been to jail, in fight, or even had as much as a speeding ticket. That’s not my character.”
“I would never engage in revenge porn, I have never distributed private images or footage of anyone, nor solicited images owned by others to use to threaten or blackmail,” she wrote on X when the accusations first came to light.
“I have always been vindicated. I can’t talk about STORY even with people planting fake news,” she added.
She concluded, “I am hurt by the narrative that’s being displayed. Wrong is wrong.”
Following Moore’s suspension, the “Housewife” promised fans she wasn’t going anywhere.
“You will be seeing me,” she confidently stated during an Instagram Live on June 14. “I’m not going anywhere despite all the stuff surrounding whatever it is people decided they wanna write.”
However, on June 25, Page Six confirmed the former Miss USA winner would not be returning to “RHOA” for the remainder of Season 16.
Moore then threw shade at Bravo, the network that airs the series, following her exit.
“My life is blessed. Myself and my daughter will continue to thrive in a non toxic environment where we feel appreciated and most importantly, protected,” she wrote alongside a carousel of vacation pictures that featured her 5-year-old daughter, Brooklyn.
Aside from Jordan, several Bravolebrities have defended Moore since the scandal came to light.
Former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Brandi Glanville wrote via X, “Women are physically fighting on [‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’] & that seems to be ok with producers. Where is HR now?”
“Create the villain, enable the villain, praise the villain, then punish the villain, for being… a villain,” she added in a second message.
Kandi Burruss, who starred with Moore on “RHOA, recently said on the” Yung Joc & The Streetz Morning Takeover” show, “I know a lot of people are like, ‘She shouldn’t have shown that,’ but this is ‘Housewives.’
“How many times we done did something that you think somebody shouldn’t do? So, who made the rules? Why y’all all of a sudden have such an issue with somebody doing something crazy to somebody?”
“Myself and my daughter will continue to thrive in a non toxic environment where we feel appreciated and most importantly, protected,” Moore wrote via Instagram shortly after.
Burruss, 48, further defended Moore on Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea” podcast.
“A lot of people are like, ‘How can you support that?’ And I’m like, at the end of the day, she didn’t make up anything about somebody,” she told us.
Production on Season 16 began in May, per Bravo. It is set to premiere sometime in 2025.
#MusicNews: Essence Festival: It's Usher's year! ‘Confessions’ hitmaker celebrates 20 years of iconic album after BET achievement!
The “Yeah” crooner brought out a genre-switching supporting choir act at the 2024 Essence Festival in New Orleans.
R&B and pop icon Usher Raymond brought the house down at the 2024 Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans on Saturday, July 6. Charming the audience at a packed Caesars Superdome, the “Yeah” headlined the glorious event by performing unforgettable hits from his legendary fourth studio album, “Confessions,” which established a defining moment for the influential music artist in 2004.
Undoubtedly closest to his heart, Usher’s 20-year-old momentous album release, consisting of accolades-worthy snazzy hits like “Yeah,” “Burn,” “Bad Girl” and “Caught Up,” also racked up the title as the best-selling R&B album of the 21st century. It has surpassed 10 million sales in the US.
And so, it was indisputably a cause for celebration to honour the smashing record that not only got the early Y2K era dancing on its feet, but also continues to make generations bust a move on the dancefloor.
#HipHopNews: Fans Slam Nicki Minaj's "Pink Friday 2 World Tour" Stop In Dublin!
Nicki Minaj is known for her raving fan base, The Barbs. While they have long been known for their emphatic behavior and excitement for their “Queen,” they are also known for being brutally honest.
Sunday morning (July 7), the “Superbass” emcee shared a video of her gracing the stage at the “Pink Friday 2 World Tour” stop in Dublin, Ireland. “This is NOT a festival. This was #GagCityDublin IRELAND a couple of hours ago. The crown is with them from this day forth. 🫡🇮🇪 I’ll post the rest tomorrow,” Minaj captioned.
But the response to the show was, at best, mixed. “Worst gig ever. Arrived on stage at 9.50, kept fans waiting in the lashings of rain, proceeded to have loads of length costume changes, lots of fans left disappointed,” one attendee claimed. “So many little kids went to this as their first concert and were so disappointed. Do better,” another crowd member said.
“As much as I love you, you know last night was an absolute disaster!! Left us waiting until 2200 then you finished at 2252!! You left the stage multiple times for costume change when you didn’t have time; curfew was 2230!! Do better next time; we were disappointed xx,” someone else commented.
“Nicki Minaj needs to step away from being obsessed with Megan Thee Stallion. Her concert in Dublin last night was a complete disaster; people call it the worst concert ever, 2 hours late, played for 40 minutes, and lip-synced most of the songs,” yet another fan noted of the performance.
Sunday morning (July 7), the “Superbass” emcee shared a video of her gracing the stage at the “Pink Friday 2 World Tour” stop in Dublin, Ireland. “This is NOT a festival. This was #GagCityDublin IRELAND a couple of hours ago. The crown is with them from this day forth. 🫡🇮🇪 I’ll post the rest tomorrow,” Minaj captioned.
But the response to the show was, at best, mixed. “Worst gig ever. Arrived on stage at 9.50, kept fans waiting in the lashings of rain, proceeded to have loads of length costume changes, lots of fans left disappointed,” one attendee claimed. “So many little kids went to this as their first concert and were so disappointed. Do better,” another crowd member said.
“As much as I love you, you know last night was an absolute disaster!! Left us waiting until 2200 then you finished at 2252!! You left the stage multiple times for costume change when you didn’t have time; curfew was 2230!! Do better next time; we were disappointed xx,” someone else commented.
“Nicki Minaj needs to step away from being obsessed with Megan Thee Stallion. Her concert in Dublin last night was a complete disaster; people call it the worst concert ever, 2 hours late, played for 40 minutes, and lip-synced most of the songs,” yet another fan noted of the performance.
Will Smith And Jamie Foxx Shower Kevin Hart With Birthday Love
Kevin Hart, known for his comedic genius and as a Hollywood A-lister, continues to celebrate meaningful relationships with his celebrity pals. Recently, Hart received heartfelt birthday wishes from fellow megastars Will Smith and Jamie Foxx, which turned into an entertaining social media moment.
Smith celebrated Hart's 45th birthday by sharing a humorous video that captured a playful debate between the two about sweaters. Smith, bringing his signature charm, added a funny caption, "I guess you can't underestimate the power of a good sweater."
This shout-out isn't surprising from Smith, an Oscar winner notorious for celebrating his friends' milestones. An interesting tidbit that adds depth to their bond is their shared Philadelphia roots, a point that resonated in Hart's comment, "Love u man ... Stand up Philly."
The camaraderie didn't stop there. Foxx, who has been recovering and returning to work following a medical emergency last year, jumped into the conversation, further spicing things up with a delightful proposal. Tagging both Smith and Hart, he wrote, "Happy Birthday [Kevin Hart] yo [Will Smith] why don't we take this to Paris?" The idea of a guys' trip to France where these three icons would enjoy the City of Lights while sporting fancy sweaters is both funny and intriguing.
This potential trip, however, might face logistical challenges due to their demanding schedules. Will Smith has two high-profile movies in the pipeline. He stars in the thriller "Sugar Bandits" and the upcoming science fiction flick "Resistor", following the success of "Bad Boys: Ride or Die". Meanwhile, Kevin Hart is set for the release of the highly-anticipated video game film "Borderlands", expected to dominate the 2024 movie schedule, keeping him busy with promotions. Jamie Foxx isn't far behind with his stint on Netflix's "Back in Action" and his hosting duties on the game show "Beat Shazam".
The idea of these three superstars taking time off for a trip is surely exciting. Fans would undoubtedly be thrilled to see photos and hear the stories that would emerge from such an excursion. Their bond and ability to make time for friendship amidst their busy lives are commendable.
In the meantime, fans will keep their fingers crossed, hoping that the trio manages to pull off this epic guy's trip to Paris or somewhere equally exciting. Let's stay tuned for more such heartwarming moments from Hollywood's best.
Kevin Hart, known for his comedic genius and as a Hollywood A-lister, continues to celebrate meaningful relationships with his celebrity pals. Recently, Hart received heartfelt birthday wishes from fellow megastars Will Smith and Jamie Foxx, which turned into an entertaining social media moment.
Smith celebrated Hart's 45th birthday by sharing a humorous video that captured a playful debate between the two about sweaters. Smith, bringing his signature charm, added a funny caption, "I guess you can't underestimate the power of a good sweater."
This shout-out isn't surprising from Smith, an Oscar winner notorious for celebrating his friends' milestones. An interesting tidbit that adds depth to their bond is their shared Philadelphia roots, a point that resonated in Hart's comment, "Love u man ... Stand up Philly."
The camaraderie didn't stop there. Foxx, who has been recovering and returning to work following a medical emergency last year, jumped into the conversation, further spicing things up with a delightful proposal. Tagging both Smith and Hart, he wrote, "Happy Birthday [Kevin Hart] yo [Will Smith] why don't we take this to Paris?" The idea of a guys' trip to France where these three icons would enjoy the City of Lights while sporting fancy sweaters is both funny and intriguing.
This potential trip, however, might face logistical challenges due to their demanding schedules. Will Smith has two high-profile movies in the pipeline. He stars in the thriller "Sugar Bandits" and the upcoming science fiction flick "Resistor", following the success of "Bad Boys: Ride or Die". Meanwhile, Kevin Hart is set for the release of the highly-anticipated video game film "Borderlands", expected to dominate the 2024 movie schedule, keeping him busy with promotions. Jamie Foxx isn't far behind with his stint on Netflix's "Back in Action" and his hosting duties on the game show "Beat Shazam".
The idea of these three superstars taking time off for a trip is surely exciting. Fans would undoubtedly be thrilled to see photos and hear the stories that would emerge from such an excursion. Their bond and ability to make time for friendship amidst their busy lives are commendable.
In the meantime, fans will keep their fingers crossed, hoping that the trio manages to pull off this epic guy's trip to Paris or somewhere equally exciting. Let's stay tuned for more such heartwarming moments from Hollywood's best.
Wildfires Put Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch Under Threat
Wildfires burning in the hills and mountains of Santa Barbara County, California, have forced evacuations, including the area where Michael Jackson's former Neverland Ranch is located.
The Lake Fire, which began on July 5, has burned over 18,000 acres and is less than ten percent contained. The blaze is primarily burning in rural areas but poses a significant threat to populated communities if it spreads south or west.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office has issued an evacuation order for an area near the Los Padres National Forest that includes Neverland Ranch. Approximately 100 residents have been affected by the order.
Firefighters are battling the blaze on multiple fronts, using both direct and indirect firefighting techniques. However, challenging terrain and extreme heat conditions are making the operation difficult.
Jackson purchased the 2,600-acre property in 1987 and transformed it into an amusement park-like estate complete with rides, a zoo and a movie theater. The property, now known as Sycamore Valley Ranch, was listed for sale in 2015 for $100 million but was eventually sold in 2020 to businessman Ron Burkle for $22 million.
In the wake of the Leaving Neverland documentary, the estate underwent a cosmetic refurbishment to restore it to its Jackson-era grandeur for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, "Michael".
The cause of the Lake Fire remains under investigation, with arson a potential factor. Several other wildfires are also burning in the Golden State, including the Basin Fire in the Sierra National Forest, which has consumed over 14,000 acres.
Extreme heat and dry vegetation are fueling the growth of the fires, making firefighting conditions hazardous. Numerous firefighters have suffered heat-related illnesses due to the extreme conditions.
Wildfires burning in the hills and mountains of Santa Barbara County, California, have forced evacuations, including the area where Michael Jackson's former Neverland Ranch is located.
The Lake Fire, which began on July 5, has burned over 18,000 acres and is less than ten percent contained. The blaze is primarily burning in rural areas but poses a significant threat to populated communities if it spreads south or west.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office has issued an evacuation order for an area near the Los Padres National Forest that includes Neverland Ranch. Approximately 100 residents have been affected by the order.
Firefighters are battling the blaze on multiple fronts, using both direct and indirect firefighting techniques. However, challenging terrain and extreme heat conditions are making the operation difficult.
Jackson purchased the 2,600-acre property in 1987 and transformed it into an amusement park-like estate complete with rides, a zoo and a movie theater. The property, now known as Sycamore Valley Ranch, was listed for sale in 2015 for $100 million but was eventually sold in 2020 to businessman Ron Burkle for $22 million.
In the wake of the Leaving Neverland documentary, the estate underwent a cosmetic refurbishment to restore it to its Jackson-era grandeur for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, "Michael".
The cause of the Lake Fire remains under investigation, with arson a potential factor. Several other wildfires are also burning in the Golden State, including the Basin Fire in the Sierra National Forest, which has consumed over 14,000 acres.
Extreme heat and dry vegetation are fueling the growth of the fires, making firefighting conditions hazardous. Numerous firefighters have suffered heat-related illnesses due to the extreme conditions.
Ryan Garcia expelled by World Boxing Council following racist remarks
Ryan Garcia has been expelled by the World Boxing Council (WBC) following a social media livestream where he repeatedly used racist and discriminatory language against Black people and Muslims, per the Associated Press.
“Exercising my authority as president of the WBC, I am hereby expelling Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization,” WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“We reject any form of discrimination.
Garcia posted a form of apology to X but has since deleted the post.
“I was trolling I want all the killing to stop,” Garcia posted, per the Associated Press. “I love everyone sorry if I offended you.”
CNN has reached out to Garcia’s representatives for comment and is yet to hear back.
Garcia’s family released a statement following his expulsion from the WBC citing the boxer’s mental health issues, per ESPN.
“Our family unequivocally does not support any statements [Garcia] has made regarding race or religion – these do not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised,” the Garcia family statement said.
“Those who know Ryan can attest to this fact. Ryan has been open about his ongoing struggle with mental health over the years and as a family we are committed to ensuring and encouraging that he receives the necessary help to navigate this very challenging time and address both his immediate and long-term well-being.”
Sulaiman added in his post that the WBC has offered Garcia “multiple attempts” to help with mental health and substance abuse.
“Exercising my authority as president of the WBC, I am hereby expelling Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization,” WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“We reject any form of discrimination.
Garcia posted a form of apology to X but has since deleted the post.
“I was trolling I want all the killing to stop,” Garcia posted, per the Associated Press. “I love everyone sorry if I offended you.”
CNN has reached out to Garcia’s representatives for comment and is yet to hear back.
Garcia’s family released a statement following his expulsion from the WBC citing the boxer’s mental health issues, per ESPN.
“Our family unequivocally does not support any statements [Garcia] has made regarding race or religion – these do not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised,” the Garcia family statement said.
“Those who know Ryan can attest to this fact. Ryan has been open about his ongoing struggle with mental health over the years and as a family we are committed to ensuring and encouraging that he receives the necessary help to navigate this very challenging time and address both his immediate and long-term well-being.”
Sulaiman added in his post that the WBC has offered Garcia “multiple attempts” to help with mental health and substance abuse.
John Cena Announces Retirement from WWE with Emotional Speech
John Cena offered a heartfelt speech of gratitude to his wrestling fans on Saturday night as he announced his retirement from the ring, declaring next year’s WWE WrestleMania his final one.
Speaking in Toronto to a crowd that clearly did not want him to go, Cena was met with boos as he shared the news of his “official retirement,” which will include a farewell tour next year.
“The 2025 Royal Rumble will be my last,” Cena said. “The 2025 Elimination Chamber will be my last. And I’m here tonight to announce that in Las Vegas, WrestleMania 2025 will be the last I compete in.”
Toward the end of his more than six-minute speech, the audience began chanting “Thank you, Cena.” He called it an “incredible gesture of kindness.”
“Thank you so much for letting me play in the house that you built for so many years,” Cena said. “Thank you so much always for your voice because it’s really loud, and your honesty because it’s beautifully brutal.”
Cena is a 16-time WWE champion, having spent nearly 20 years with the wrestling franchise. During that time, he has also transitioned into Hollywood, starring in films such as “Barbie” and “Argylle” and making multiple appearances in the “Fast & Furious” franchise.
John Cena offered a heartfelt speech of gratitude to his wrestling fans on Saturday night as he announced his retirement from the ring, declaring next year’s WWE WrestleMania his final one.
Speaking in Toronto to a crowd that clearly did not want him to go, Cena was met with boos as he shared the news of his “official retirement,” which will include a farewell tour next year.
“The 2025 Royal Rumble will be my last,” Cena said. “The 2025 Elimination Chamber will be my last. And I’m here tonight to announce that in Las Vegas, WrestleMania 2025 will be the last I compete in.”
Toward the end of his more than six-minute speech, the audience began chanting “Thank you, Cena.” He called it an “incredible gesture of kindness.”
“Thank you so much for letting me play in the house that you built for so many years,” Cena said. “Thank you so much always for your voice because it’s really loud, and your honesty because it’s beautifully brutal.”
Cena is a 16-time WWE champion, having spent nearly 20 years with the wrestling franchise. During that time, he has also transitioned into Hollywood, starring in films such as “Barbie” and “Argylle” and making multiple appearances in the “Fast & Furious” franchise.
Teacher Who Had Students Take Out His Braids Is Cleared To Return To The Classroom
The Maryland middle school science teacher who had his students take out his braids and posted it on social media has been cleared to return to the classroom this fall.
Mr. White, who creates content online under the handle “Thilluminator,” sparked multiple online debates and found himself submerged in controversy.
After the video of the students unbraiding his hair went viral, the Science teacher was removed from the classroom while an investigation was conducted.
Mr. White later admitted in another social media post that his actions were “highly unprofessional.”
This video, I agree, was unprofessional. I am not negating that.
Me getting my hair unbraided at the school, at my place of employment…yes, that was highly unprofessional.
I get that. I’m not arguing with that.
But, I am what you call an unprofessional – in some ways – unprofessional, eclectic, unconventional teacher.
In a recent social media post, the teacher shared an update informing those who have been following his story that the investigation has been completed and he was cleared of any wrongdoing.
He will be returning to the classroom to resume teaching this fall.
The Maryland middle school science teacher who had his students take out his braids and posted it on social media has been cleared to return to the classroom this fall.
Mr. White, who creates content online under the handle “Thilluminator,” sparked multiple online debates and found himself submerged in controversy.
After the video of the students unbraiding his hair went viral, the Science teacher was removed from the classroom while an investigation was conducted.
Mr. White later admitted in another social media post that his actions were “highly unprofessional.”
This video, I agree, was unprofessional. I am not negating that.
Me getting my hair unbraided at the school, at my place of employment…yes, that was highly unprofessional.
I get that. I’m not arguing with that.
But, I am what you call an unprofessional – in some ways – unprofessional, eclectic, unconventional teacher.
In a recent social media post, the teacher shared an update informing those who have been following his story that the investigation has been completed and he was cleared of any wrongdoing.
He will be returning to the classroom to resume teaching this fall.
Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods Granted Permission To Convert Scotland Theater Into Bar
Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods will be bringing their new sports bar, T-Squared Social, to Scotland.
According to a BBC News report, Timberlake and Woods were granted permission to turn the New Picture House Cinema into a luxury bar in St. Andrews, Scotland. The new location will have sports simulators, duckpin bowling, darts, and two cinema screens.
Woods and Timberlake are shareholders in the real estate company Nexus Luxury Collection. The company stated it would "protect and enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area" in its application.
There will be 40 to 45 jobs opening up for the redevelopment and the plan for the new bar states the folks in St Andrews will get to "experience a broader range of cinema, dining and entertainment." Woods and Timberlake have already opened their first bar in Manhattan.
The news of his bar expanding to Scotland is much-needed for Timberlake, who's been dealing with the aftermath of his DWI arrest last month. He recently made a joke out of his situation during the Boston stop on his Forget Tomorrow World Tour.
"So uh, is there anyone here tonight that is driving and … no, I'm just kidding," he joked. "Is there anyone here tonight, that it's your first time here to the show? Is there anybody here that you've been to 1, 2, 3, maybe 4 of our shows?"
He continued, "For all of you that it's your first time tonight—on a serious note—I hope that you feel the fellowship and the love."
Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods will be bringing their new sports bar, T-Squared Social, to Scotland.
According to a BBC News report, Timberlake and Woods were granted permission to turn the New Picture House Cinema into a luxury bar in St. Andrews, Scotland. The new location will have sports simulators, duckpin bowling, darts, and two cinema screens.
Woods and Timberlake are shareholders in the real estate company Nexus Luxury Collection. The company stated it would "protect and enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area" in its application.
There will be 40 to 45 jobs opening up for the redevelopment and the plan for the new bar states the folks in St Andrews will get to "experience a broader range of cinema, dining and entertainment." Woods and Timberlake have already opened their first bar in Manhattan.
The news of his bar expanding to Scotland is much-needed for Timberlake, who's been dealing with the aftermath of his DWI arrest last month. He recently made a joke out of his situation during the Boston stop on his Forget Tomorrow World Tour.
"So uh, is there anyone here tonight that is driving and … no, I'm just kidding," he joked. "Is there anyone here tonight, that it's your first time here to the show? Is there anybody here that you've been to 1, 2, 3, maybe 4 of our shows?"
He continued, "For all of you that it's your first time tonight—on a serious note—I hope that you feel the fellowship and the love."
Margot Robbie Is Pregnant, Expecting First Child With Husband Tom Ackerley!
Margot Robbie is pregnant! The 34-year-old Barbie actress and producer is expecting her first child with husband and production partner Tom Ackerley, multiple sources confirmed to People over the weekend.
Speculation on social media arose on Sunday (July 7) when Margot was pictured on vacation with Tom, 34, in a crop top showcasing her belly.
The couple first met in 2013 on the set of the World War II drama Suite Française, in which she starred and he was an assistant director. They got together a year later, and married in December 2016 during a private ceremony in Australia’s Byron Bay.
They also work on the production company LuckyChap together, producing TV and film projects like I, Tonya, Birds of Prey and Barbie.
Congratulations to the happy couple!
Margot Robbie is pregnant! The 34-year-old Barbie actress and producer is expecting her first child with husband and production partner Tom Ackerley, multiple sources confirmed to People over the weekend.
Speculation on social media arose on Sunday (July 7) when Margot was pictured on vacation with Tom, 34, in a crop top showcasing her belly.
The couple first met in 2013 on the set of the World War II drama Suite Française, in which she starred and he was an assistant director. They got together a year later, and married in December 2016 during a private ceremony in Australia’s Byron Bay.
They also work on the production company LuckyChap together, producing TV and film projects like I, Tonya, Birds of Prey and Barbie.
Congratulations to the happy couple!
Philadelphia Radio Host Resigns After Revealing Biden Team Gave Her Questions To Ask
Philadelphia radio station WURD has cut ties with a host who revealed President Joe Biden‘s team provided her pre-approved questions before a recent interview.
WURD president and CEO Sara M. Lomax announced that the station “mutually agreed to part ways” with Andrea Lawful-Sanders in a statement on Sunday after Lomax admitted that the “questions were sent to me for approval.”
Lomax noted that the interview “was arranged and negotiated independently” by Lawful-Sanders “without knowledge, consultation or collaboration with WURD management.” Using the campaign’s pre-approved questions “violates our practice of remaining an independent media outlet accountable to our listeners,” said Lomax.
“WURD Radio remains an independent voice that our audience can trust will hold elected officials accountable,” she said. “As Pennsylvania’s only independent Black-owned talk radio station, WURD Radio has cultivated that trust with our audience over our 20-year history. This is something we take very seriously. Agreeing to a pre-determined set of questions jeopardizes that trust and is not a practice that WURD Radio engages in or endorses as a matter of practice or official policy.”
Lomax added, “WURD Radio is not a mouthpiece for the Biden or any other Administration.”
Lawful-Sanders previously asked Biden four questions on WURD’s The Source after his debate with former President Donald Trump last month. “The questions were sent to me for approval. I approved of them,” she told CNN.
“I got several questions. Eight of them,” added Lawful-Sanders. “And the four that were chosen were the ones that I approved.”
Biden campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt told The New York Times in a statement that providing preferred topics is “not uncommon,” but noted they “do not condition interviews on acceptance of these questions.”
“Hosts are always free to ask the questions they think will best inform their listeners,” added Hitt.
Meanwhile, Wisconsin radio host Earl Ingram also admitted to ABC News that he “was given some questions for Biden” in their interview, noting he was given five questions but was only able to ask four.
“To think that I was gonna get an opportunity to ask any question to the President of the United States, I think, is a bit more than anybody should expect,” said Ingram, adding: “Certainly the fact that they gave me this opportunity … meant a lot to me.”
WURD president and CEO Sara M. Lomax announced that the station “mutually agreed to part ways” with Andrea Lawful-Sanders in a statement on Sunday after Lomax admitted that the “questions were sent to me for approval.”
Lomax noted that the interview “was arranged and negotiated independently” by Lawful-Sanders “without knowledge, consultation or collaboration with WURD management.” Using the campaign’s pre-approved questions “violates our practice of remaining an independent media outlet accountable to our listeners,” said Lomax.
“WURD Radio remains an independent voice that our audience can trust will hold elected officials accountable,” she said. “As Pennsylvania’s only independent Black-owned talk radio station, WURD Radio has cultivated that trust with our audience over our 20-year history. This is something we take very seriously. Agreeing to a pre-determined set of questions jeopardizes that trust and is not a practice that WURD Radio engages in or endorses as a matter of practice or official policy.”
Lomax added, “WURD Radio is not a mouthpiece for the Biden or any other Administration.”
Lawful-Sanders previously asked Biden four questions on WURD’s The Source after his debate with former President Donald Trump last month. “The questions were sent to me for approval. I approved of them,” she told CNN.
“I got several questions. Eight of them,” added Lawful-Sanders. “And the four that were chosen were the ones that I approved.”
Biden campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt told The New York Times in a statement that providing preferred topics is “not uncommon,” but noted they “do not condition interviews on acceptance of these questions.”
“Hosts are always free to ask the questions they think will best inform their listeners,” added Hitt.
Meanwhile, Wisconsin radio host Earl Ingram also admitted to ABC News that he “was given some questions for Biden” in their interview, noting he was given five questions but was only able to ask four.
“To think that I was gonna get an opportunity to ask any question to the President of the United States, I think, is a bit more than anybody should expect,” said Ingram, adding: “Certainly the fact that they gave me this opportunity … meant a lot to me.”
Family of Keke Jabbar Blames TV Cast-Mates for Her Deteriorating Mental Health and Requests Their Absence from Funeral Services
*Relatives of the late Keke Jabbar, known for her role in the “Love & Marriage: Huntsville” series on the OWN network, are publicly calling out some of her cast-mates for allegedly contributing to her mental health struggles. The family has also requested that these individuals refrain from attending her funeral service, set for Monday, July 8.
In a recently surfaced video, a man who identifies himself as Keke Jabbar’s uncle has directly addressed her fellow stars on the OWN network, accusing them of alienating Keke and negatively impacting her mental stability. The uncle did not mince words, stating:
“[I’m] saying it publicly so it can get to Wanda, it can get to her daughter, it can get to her sorry a** son-in-law. It can get to all those people on that show. The way that y’all treated her in life…y’all got her down there to Texas, and you alienated her. And my folks had to spend hours and hours and hours on the phone, trying to reassure her…to help build her confidence,” he said.
He continued to highlight the ongoing struggle: “Our entire life for months has been circled around her mental stability. And you guys did everything possible to push her over the edge.”
The news of Keke Jabbar’s passing was confirmed this past Tuesday, July 2nd, by her cousin and TV cast-mate, LaTisha Scott. While the full details surrounding her death are still unfolding, a close friend of the late reality star (JoAnn Jenkins) has indicated that Jabbar passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning after accidentally falling asleep in her car. Despite Keke Jabbar’s past struggles with drug addiction being a recurrent topic on the show, theJasmineBrand is reporting that her friend (LaTisha Scott) emphasized that substances played no role in her passing.
“My sister didn’t want to leave this Earth, she didn’t want to leave her kids. She didn’t want to leave her husband. There was no turmoil going on in her life. She had a lot of great things to look forward to,” Scott stated.
Jabbar’s uncle further solidified the family’s stance in the video by directly addressing the individuals he holds responsible:
“We don’t want any problems, we peaceful people and we don’t want no problems, we don’t want no issues. We ask you, do not attend no service for my niece…keep her name out of your mouth. Stop going to these bloggers, feeding them information about what’s going on, because you don’t know what’s going on…you have no right…she would be here if it wasn’t for that stupid a** show.”
The funeral service for Keke Jabbar is scheduled for Monday, July 8 at 11am in Huntsville, Alabama at the Fellowship of Faith Church on North Memorial Parkway.
The family hopes the service will honor the bright spirit and the joy Keke brought to those who knew or watched her. They are seeking a peaceful and respectful environment to commemorate her life and legacy.
As the details continue to emerge, this situation serves as a somber reminder of the significant impact that public and professional interactions can have on an individual’s mental health. It underscores the importance of creating supportive and compassionate environments, both within and outside the entertainment industry.
*Relatives of the late Keke Jabbar, known for her role in the “Love & Marriage: Huntsville” series on the OWN network, are publicly calling out some of her cast-mates for allegedly contributing to her mental health struggles. The family has also requested that these individuals refrain from attending her funeral service, set for Monday, July 8.
In a recently surfaced video, a man who identifies himself as Keke Jabbar’s uncle has directly addressed her fellow stars on the OWN network, accusing them of alienating Keke and negatively impacting her mental stability. The uncle did not mince words, stating:
“[I’m] saying it publicly so it can get to Wanda, it can get to her daughter, it can get to her sorry a** son-in-law. It can get to all those people on that show. The way that y’all treated her in life…y’all got her down there to Texas, and you alienated her. And my folks had to spend hours and hours and hours on the phone, trying to reassure her…to help build her confidence,” he said.
He continued to highlight the ongoing struggle: “Our entire life for months has been circled around her mental stability. And you guys did everything possible to push her over the edge.”
The news of Keke Jabbar’s passing was confirmed this past Tuesday, July 2nd, by her cousin and TV cast-mate, LaTisha Scott. While the full details surrounding her death are still unfolding, a close friend of the late reality star (JoAnn Jenkins) has indicated that Jabbar passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning after accidentally falling asleep in her car. Despite Keke Jabbar’s past struggles with drug addiction being a recurrent topic on the show, theJasmineBrand is reporting that her friend (LaTisha Scott) emphasized that substances played no role in her passing.
“My sister didn’t want to leave this Earth, she didn’t want to leave her kids. She didn’t want to leave her husband. There was no turmoil going on in her life. She had a lot of great things to look forward to,” Scott stated.
Jabbar’s uncle further solidified the family’s stance in the video by directly addressing the individuals he holds responsible:
“We don’t want any problems, we peaceful people and we don’t want no problems, we don’t want no issues. We ask you, do not attend no service for my niece…keep her name out of your mouth. Stop going to these bloggers, feeding them information about what’s going on, because you don’t know what’s going on…you have no right…she would be here if it wasn’t for that stupid a** show.”
The funeral service for Keke Jabbar is scheduled for Monday, July 8 at 11am in Huntsville, Alabama at the Fellowship of Faith Church on North Memorial Parkway.
The family hopes the service will honor the bright spirit and the joy Keke brought to those who knew or watched her. They are seeking a peaceful and respectful environment to commemorate her life and legacy.
As the details continue to emerge, this situation serves as a somber reminder of the significant impact that public and professional interactions can have on an individual’s mental health. It underscores the importance of creating supportive and compassionate environments, both within and outside the entertainment industry.
Kanye West’s Lawyer Says Ye Won’t Pay or Speak to Him in Assault Civil Suit
An attorney representing Ye is looking to be relieved from the case in a lawsuit brought by an autograph dealer, who claims the rapper assaulted him after requesting an autograph. C’mon Ye.
Get this: the lawyer, Brian Brumfield, states that Ye, formerly Kanye West, has ceased communication and refuses to pay for his legal services. Granted, this is only one side of the story, but if Ye is not communicating, then the assertion, quite frankly, is what it is.
Diving into the case itself, the Los Angeles Superior Court case plaintiffs are Justin Poplawski and his wife, Tiffany Marshall.
ICYMI, the lawsuit alleges that Ye blamed his foul mood on his divorce from Kim Kardashian. Poplawski’s claims include assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligence, while Marshall alleges a loss of consortium. However civil, these are no minor claims.
Regarding the attorney looking to walk away, court papers filed Monday with Judge Theresa Traber, Brumfield asserts that Ye terminated their working relationship on June 21. “Defendant also will not speak to counsel and defendant refuses to pay counsel as well,” Brumfield states in the documents.
Back to the suit, Poplawski had previously obtained Ye’s autograph without any issues. On January 13, 2022, while standing on a sidewalk near the exclusive Soho Warehouse social club on South Santa Fe Avenue in downtown Los Angeles, Ye allegedly saw Poplawski, declared he would make an example of him, and referenced his divorce from Kardashian. If you’re not familiar, Soho Warehouse is part of Soho House chain of social clubs around the world. That particular club is located in the Art’s District of Los Angeles and also is a hotel. Ye was staying there at the time from reports. It’s fair to assume he hasn’t been there since the incident.
The suit claims that Ye then struck Poplawski, who asked for an apology. Ye allegedly responded, “Apology for what?” and struck the plaintiff additional times, causing severe injuries. This is wild.
The suit, filed on January 10, also mentions that Ye, now 46, began shouting at his own companions, one of whom urged him to stop hitting Poplawski. Unreal. The patience of his team.
A hearing on Brumfield’s withdrawal motion is scheduled for July 29. Maybe Kanye will find a new lawyer to handle this case or maybe he won’t. Doubt Ye, give a damn.
Get this: the lawyer, Brian Brumfield, states that Ye, formerly Kanye West, has ceased communication and refuses to pay for his legal services. Granted, this is only one side of the story, but if Ye is not communicating, then the assertion, quite frankly, is what it is.
Diving into the case itself, the Los Angeles Superior Court case plaintiffs are Justin Poplawski and his wife, Tiffany Marshall.
ICYMI, the lawsuit alleges that Ye blamed his foul mood on his divorce from Kim Kardashian. Poplawski’s claims include assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligence, while Marshall alleges a loss of consortium. However civil, these are no minor claims.
Regarding the attorney looking to walk away, court papers filed Monday with Judge Theresa Traber, Brumfield asserts that Ye terminated their working relationship on June 21. “Defendant also will not speak to counsel and defendant refuses to pay counsel as well,” Brumfield states in the documents.
Back to the suit, Poplawski had previously obtained Ye’s autograph without any issues. On January 13, 2022, while standing on a sidewalk near the exclusive Soho Warehouse social club on South Santa Fe Avenue in downtown Los Angeles, Ye allegedly saw Poplawski, declared he would make an example of him, and referenced his divorce from Kardashian. If you’re not familiar, Soho Warehouse is part of Soho House chain of social clubs around the world. That particular club is located in the Art’s District of Los Angeles and also is a hotel. Ye was staying there at the time from reports. It’s fair to assume he hasn’t been there since the incident.
The suit claims that Ye then struck Poplawski, who asked for an apology. Ye allegedly responded, “Apology for what?” and struck the plaintiff additional times, causing severe injuries. This is wild.
The suit, filed on January 10, also mentions that Ye, now 46, began shouting at his own companions, one of whom urged him to stop hitting Poplawski. Unreal. The patience of his team.
A hearing on Brumfield’s withdrawal motion is scheduled for July 29. Maybe Kanye will find a new lawyer to handle this case or maybe he won’t. Doubt Ye, give a damn.
Azealia Banks Encouraged ‘Legal Literacy’ As She Shut Down A Report That She Was Evicted From Her Florida Residence
Azealia Banks‘ online commentary has become more popular than her past musical releases. The “Ice Princess” rapper provided her unwarranted thoughts on everyone from Beyoncé and Kanye West (Ye) to Tyler The Creator and Doechii. Detractors were hoping that after reports that Banks was evicted from her Florida home circulated online that she would take a brief hiatus from social media. But, that surely didn’t happen.
Instead, today (July 6), Banks took to Instagram to refute the paperwork floating around while encouraging others to folks to become legally literate before attempting to shame her. In a series of uploaded to her Instagram Stories, Banks detailed the legal matter with her landlord while posting documents of her own.
“It’s a lie,” she said. “I’ve always paid my rent. I’m not a gazillionaire, but surely Azealia Banks has $8,000.”
In a separate clip, Banks claimed that her landlord’s actions were seemingly an extortion attempt after they filed to manage the payments they received properly. Then Banks turned her attention to The Pop Tingz’s report. Banks rapper proceeded to post a snippet of the platform’s original upload on X (formerly Twitter), with the caption: “You girls really have to understand how to at least read a legal document.”
As of today (July 8), the case is reportedly still being reviewed by the Miami-Dade County clerk’s office.
Azealia Banks‘ online commentary has become more popular than her past musical releases. The “Ice Princess” rapper provided her unwarranted thoughts on everyone from Beyoncé and Kanye West (Ye) to Tyler The Creator and Doechii. Detractors were hoping that after reports that Banks was evicted from her Florida home circulated online that she would take a brief hiatus from social media. But, that surely didn’t happen.
Instead, today (July 6), Banks took to Instagram to refute the paperwork floating around while encouraging others to folks to become legally literate before attempting to shame her. In a series of uploaded to her Instagram Stories, Banks detailed the legal matter with her landlord while posting documents of her own.
“It’s a lie,” she said. “I’ve always paid my rent. I’m not a gazillionaire, but surely Azealia Banks has $8,000.”
In a separate clip, Banks claimed that her landlord’s actions were seemingly an extortion attempt after they filed to manage the payments they received properly. Then Banks turned her attention to The Pop Tingz’s report. Banks rapper proceeded to post a snippet of the platform’s original upload on X (formerly Twitter), with the caption: “You girls really have to understand how to at least read a legal document.”
As of today (July 8), the case is reportedly still being reviewed by the Miami-Dade County clerk’s office.
T.I. and Tiny Request Dismissal of Sexual Assault and Battery Lawsuit
T.I. and his wife Tiny are seeking to have a sexual assault and battery lawsuit against them dismissed. Earlier this year, the couple was sued for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a woman in 2005.
In January, a woman identified as Jane Doe filed a lawsuit accusing T.I. and Tiny of sexual battery, assault, negligence, and false imprisonment, among other charges. According to legal documents obtained by AllHipHop on Friday (July 5), the defendants are now challenging the validity of the civil complaint in a California court.
“The claims asserted in the Complaint are time-barred because the statute of limitations expired over sixteen years ago,” their attorneys argued. “Further, notwithstanding the fact that Defendants Clifford Harris (‘Mr. Harris’) and Tameka Harris (‘Mrs. Harris’) (collectively ‘Defendants’ or ‘Harrises’) deny that any of the alleged conduct even occurred, the Complaint fails to allege facts to sufficiently establish any of the claims alleged in the Complaint.”
“Accordingly, Defendants seek to dismiss all the claims in the Complaint for failure to state a claim upon which any relief can be granted. Because there is no possible remedy for these deficiencies, Defendants seek dismissal of this entire action.”
The couple is hoping to have the case dismissed with prejudice, meaning Jane Doe would be unable to refile the complaint if the motion is successful.
The lawsuit alleges that T.I. and Tiny met the plaintiff at a nightclub in Los Angeles while she was enlisted in the Air Force. The woman claims Tiny tampered with one of her drinks, leading her and two other girls to end up in a hotel room with the couple. She alleges that after showering and massaging T.I. while he watched porn, he penetrated her vagina with his toe despite her repeated objections.
“Are you alright? Looks like you’re in last place,” she claims he said to her after she went to the bathroom to vomit. The woman says she then passed out and was escorted out of the hotel room the following morning while still in “serious pain.”
Although the incident allegedly occurred almost two decades ago, the window to refile the lawsuit has been reopened under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act. T.I. and Tiny have vehemently denied all accusations, dismissing them as an extortion attempt.
In January, a woman identified as Jane Doe filed a lawsuit accusing T.I. and Tiny of sexual battery, assault, negligence, and false imprisonment, among other charges. According to legal documents obtained by AllHipHop on Friday (July 5), the defendants are now challenging the validity of the civil complaint in a California court.
“The claims asserted in the Complaint are time-barred because the statute of limitations expired over sixteen years ago,” their attorneys argued. “Further, notwithstanding the fact that Defendants Clifford Harris (‘Mr. Harris’) and Tameka Harris (‘Mrs. Harris’) (collectively ‘Defendants’ or ‘Harrises’) deny that any of the alleged conduct even occurred, the Complaint fails to allege facts to sufficiently establish any of the claims alleged in the Complaint.”
“Accordingly, Defendants seek to dismiss all the claims in the Complaint for failure to state a claim upon which any relief can be granted. Because there is no possible remedy for these deficiencies, Defendants seek dismissal of this entire action.”
The couple is hoping to have the case dismissed with prejudice, meaning Jane Doe would be unable to refile the complaint if the motion is successful.
The lawsuit alleges that T.I. and Tiny met the plaintiff at a nightclub in Los Angeles while she was enlisted in the Air Force. The woman claims Tiny tampered with one of her drinks, leading her and two other girls to end up in a hotel room with the couple. She alleges that after showering and massaging T.I. while he watched porn, he penetrated her vagina with his toe despite her repeated objections.
“Are you alright? Looks like you’re in last place,” she claims he said to her after she went to the bathroom to vomit. The woman says she then passed out and was escorted out of the hotel room the following morning while still in “serious pain.”
Although the incident allegedly occurred almost two decades ago, the window to refile the lawsuit has been reopened under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act. T.I. and Tiny have vehemently denied all accusations, dismissing them as an extortion attempt.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
A Wizard Is Always On Time With His Shopping
Yet another wonderful wizard decided to show up for his monthly shopping trip at Walmart, and obviously, everyone around him was completely dumbfounded (with the exception of that large group of kids in the background).
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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