#MAGFAB: Zoë Kravitz Covers ESQUIRE’s September Issue
Zoë Kravitz covers ESQUIRE’s September Issue photographed by Zoey Grossman.
On being guarded and identifying what others want from her: “I can smell it out pretty quickly. I had to when I was a kid, because he [father Lenny Kravitz] didn’t. He’s really trusting, and it’s sweet, but I can tell exactly what someone wants.”
On minimizing her own Blackness at the exclusive, largely white private schools she attended: “It’s a lot of like, ‘No, no, no, I’m also white! I’m cool like you guys!’…‘Your hair doesn’t look wet when you come out of the pool—that’s weird.’”
On moving away from mother, Lisa Bonet, to live with her father, Lenny Kravitz: “I think it was very hurtful that I moved away from her to be with my dad and my dad wasn’t even there… I just wish I had been able to appreciate what she was doing for me. She was so focused on preserving my innocence. My creativity. Because she knew what the world is—that you don’t get that back.”
On The Batman costar Robert Pattinson on Kravitz’s audition for the role of Catwoman: “[S]he was so at ease with the character. She came in improvising! It was crazy.”
On changing the name of her film from Pussy Island to Blink Twice: “Am I upset that there is a show called Dicks: The Musical? Kind of…What’s interesting is that they tested the title and the people who were most offended were women.”
Fiancé and Blink Twice star Channing Tatum on Kravitz’s hobbies: “She really doesn’t do anything but watch movies. She’s like, ‘I don’t do activities. I don’t go hiking. I just love movies.’”
On whether Kravitz wants to have children: “For a long time, I felt like there was something wrong with me. I was waiting for this light to go off in my head, and it never did. When you’re younger, you’re like, ‘Well, I can’t have kids. I’m too young! It’d be crazy.’…I had to actually look at What do I want?… There’s a lot of pressure on women to have children, and there’s a feeling that if you don’t, you don’t have purpose here. But this movie, it feels like I gave birth.”
On the viral meme of Kravitz riding on Tatum’s BMX bike: “I think it’s funny.”
On whether she and Tatum are getting married next year, as Lenny Kravitz mentioned: “It’s literally something we’ve said in passing. Like, maybe I said, ‘Next year would be cool.’”
On when Big Little Lies season 3 will start filming: “I’m waiting for someone to tell me where to show up.”
Robert Pattinson on Blink Twice: “It’s one thing getting a movie made. It has artistic integrity, all the performances are great, it’s crazy and accessible? Like, Jesus Christ, Zoë.”’
On whether she will ever release her debut solo album: “I’m too anxious now. Too neurotic. Do people really want that? Like, I don’t even know where to go dancing anymore. Who wants to hear an album from someone that doesn’t even know where the f*ck to go dancing?”
On being credited on Taylor Swift’s Midnights album for a song Kravitz wrote for herself and worked on with Jack Antonoff [and as Kravitz explains, “elements of that song got used.”]: “She’s very kind in that way.”
On newsstands now
On being guarded and identifying what others want from her: “I can smell it out pretty quickly. I had to when I was a kid, because he [father Lenny Kravitz] didn’t. He’s really trusting, and it’s sweet, but I can tell exactly what someone wants.”
On minimizing her own Blackness at the exclusive, largely white private schools she attended: “It’s a lot of like, ‘No, no, no, I’m also white! I’m cool like you guys!’…‘Your hair doesn’t look wet when you come out of the pool—that’s weird.’”
On moving away from mother, Lisa Bonet, to live with her father, Lenny Kravitz: “I think it was very hurtful that I moved away from her to be with my dad and my dad wasn’t even there… I just wish I had been able to appreciate what she was doing for me. She was so focused on preserving my innocence. My creativity. Because she knew what the world is—that you don’t get that back.”
On The Batman costar Robert Pattinson on Kravitz’s audition for the role of Catwoman: “[S]he was so at ease with the character. She came in improvising! It was crazy.”
On changing the name of her film from Pussy Island to Blink Twice: “Am I upset that there is a show called Dicks: The Musical? Kind of…What’s interesting is that they tested the title and the people who were most offended were women.”
Fiancé and Blink Twice star Channing Tatum on Kravitz’s hobbies: “She really doesn’t do anything but watch movies. She’s like, ‘I don’t do activities. I don’t go hiking. I just love movies.’”
On whether Kravitz wants to have children: “For a long time, I felt like there was something wrong with me. I was waiting for this light to go off in my head, and it never did. When you’re younger, you’re like, ‘Well, I can’t have kids. I’m too young! It’d be crazy.’…I had to actually look at What do I want?… There’s a lot of pressure on women to have children, and there’s a feeling that if you don’t, you don’t have purpose here. But this movie, it feels like I gave birth.”
On the viral meme of Kravitz riding on Tatum’s BMX bike: “I think it’s funny.”
On whether she and Tatum are getting married next year, as Lenny Kravitz mentioned: “It’s literally something we’ve said in passing. Like, maybe I said, ‘Next year would be cool.’”
On when Big Little Lies season 3 will start filming: “I’m waiting for someone to tell me where to show up.”
Robert Pattinson on Blink Twice: “It’s one thing getting a movie made. It has artistic integrity, all the performances are great, it’s crazy and accessible? Like, Jesus Christ, Zoë.”’
On whether she will ever release her debut solo album: “I’m too anxious now. Too neurotic. Do people really want that? Like, I don’t even know where to go dancing anymore. Who wants to hear an album from someone that doesn’t even know where the f*ck to go dancing?”
On being credited on Taylor Swift’s Midnights album for a song Kravitz wrote for herself and worked on with Jack Antonoff [and as Kravitz explains, “elements of that song got used.”]: “She’s very kind in that way.”
On newsstands now
RHONY: First Look: See the Explosive RHONY Season 15 Trailer
On August 13, Bravo dropped the trailer for the season 15 of RHONY. With the release of the season 15 trailer, Bravo fans are getting their first taste of all the drama Ubah Hassan, Jenna Lyons, Sai De Silva, Erin Lichy, Jessel Taank, Brynn Whitfield, and newbie Racquel Chevremont will bring to the table this season. The RHONY season 15 cast will be rounded out by Rebecca Minkoff, who will appear as an official “friend of” Housewives.
In the trailer, Erin Lichy and her husband, Abe Lichy, hit a huge bump in their 12-year marriage. In one scene, Erin confronts Abe during a dinner and accuses him of lying.
“You have been lying to me. That’s f–ked up!” Erin tells Abe.
During another night out, Abe leaves Erin after the RHONY star asks him: “What’s wrong with you? Are you, like, dumb?”
Erin then breaks down to co-star Brynn Whitfield about her marital woes.
“It’s rocking me, and I’m just not OK,” Erin says through tears.
WATCH
Fans and the cast also meet new RHONY star Racquel Chevremont, who co-star Jenna Lyons finds “hot.”
Racquel Chevremont season 15 cast photo.
The teaser also shows Brynn and Ubah Hassan getting into numerous disagreements. Other season 15 drama includes pregnancy rumors, marital strife, friendship breakdowns, “delusional” drama, and next-level shade.
Bravo’s official press release for season 15 reads: “Things can change in a New York minute when rumors start spreading among the ladies, and only time will tell if longstanding loyalties are strong enough to weather the storm as secrets shake things up.”
Season 15 of RHONY premieres Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo.
#MusicNews: Tamar Braxton Is Working on New Album With Producer Tricky Stewart
Tamar Braxton has a new album in the works and has enlisted her longtime collaborator, producer Tricky Stewart according to Rated R&B.
Braxton shared the news in a now-deleted Instagram story, along with her thoughts on those circulating negative headlines about her life.
There are no further details about the as-yet-untitled album; however, Stewart did post on his Instagram, acknowledging their collaboration.
In a 45-second video, Stewart is seen vibing out in a studio while Braxton sings an unreleased track. Stewart compliments her performance, and the two eventually embrace.
“What a blessing it is to still be making records with my Day 1s! @tamarbraxton 30 years in… can’t wait for y’all to hear what’s next,” Stewart wrote in his caption for the Instagram post.
Braxton and Tricky Stewart have a long history, working together as far back as 1996 when Tamar, Tawanda, and Trina released their Atlantic Records debut album, So Many Ways, as The Braxtons. Stewart worked on four tracks from the 12-track release, including “Slow Flow” and “Where’s the Good in Goodbye.”
Four years later, Stewart served as the executive producer, as well as a co-writer and producer for Braxton’s debut album, Tamar, released in 2000 by DreamWorks.
#HipHopNews: Ghostface Killah Reveals His ‘fondest’ Memory From Illustrious Career
Ghostface Killah has had quite the career spanning multiple decades, and while he’s achieved so much, there’s one moment that stands out above the rest.
The Wu-Tang rapper spoke to XXL for a brief Q&A published on Tuesday (August 13). Amid the handful of questions, Ghost was asked what his fondest rap memory is, and his answer was simple.
“Going on stage with Beyoncé,” he said. The pair collaborated on a remix of Bey’s 2003 song “Summertime,” which they dueted on live several times, most famously at Madison Square Garden that November for a performance that showed up in the JAY-Z documentary Fade to Black the following year.
Back in June, Ghostface Killah stopped by Million Dollaz Worth of Game and at one point during the chat, recalled the time Hov came calling for money he was owed.
Reminiscing about the early days of Wu, Ghostface Killah began: “One time, RZA and [GZA] were telling me that Hov was on the list with us to do a show or whatever. We gave him some time … Long story short, n-ggas ain’t pay him the money.
“You know how Hov is. He wait. A few years down the line, and bring it up to one of the n-ggas. Like, ‘Yeah, remember that time you ain’t really pay me?’”
Pretty Toney and co-hosts Gillie Da Kid and Wallace Peeples then laughed about the now-billionaire never forgetting a debt.
The unpaid debt isn’t the only connection between JAY-Z and Wu-Tang Clan.
Last year, RZA sat down with Rolling Stone and shared a story about his influence on a young Hov.
“I think that what I did was necessary. I think that it was ordained,” he said. “One day, JAY-Z told me, ‘Yo, I got [the idea for] The Blueprint from you.’”
He continued: “At that time, I was headed to Hollywood already. Now, here’s a path, here’s a way it can work. And it continued to work in different regions of the country and with different crews.”
Gena Rowlands, Oscar-nominated 'A Woman Under the Influence' and 'The Notebook' actress, dies at 94
Gena Rowland dies after battle with Alzheimer’s The two-time Oscar nominee was known for her roles in “A Woman Under the Influence” and “The Notebook.”
Gena Rowlands, the award-winning actress known for her acclaimed roles in "A Woman Under the Influence," "Gloria," and "The Notebook," has died at 94.
Rowlands' son, film director Nick Cassavetes, revealed in June 2024 that his mother had been living with Alzheimer's disease for five years.
Her death was confirmed by The Associated Press. A four-time Emmy winner and two-time Golden Globe winner, as well as the recipient of an Honorary Academy Award, Rowlands' career in theater, film and television spanned nearly seven decades. She was perhaps best known for her film collaborations with her husband, the late actor and director John Cassavetes, and was twice nominated for an Academy Award for her starring roles in his films "A Woman Under the Influence" and "Gloria."
Born in Cambria, Wisconsin, on June 19, 1930, Virginia Cathryn Rowlands studied drama in New York City and began her career with repertory theater companies. She made her Broadway debut in "The Seven Year Itch" in 1953 and toured with the production. She also starred opposite Edward G. Robinson in Oscar-winning "Network" screenwriter Paddy Chayefsky's stage adaptation of his film "Middle of the Night."
Rowlands met John Cassavetes when they were both students at the American Academy for Dramatic Arts and they were married in 1954, only a few months after they met. She spent the next six years working steadily in television, including opposite Cassavetes in the detective series "Johnny Staccato," in which he starred, as well as appearing in hit series including "Bonanza," "The Virginian," "Alfred Hitchcock Presents," "77 Sunset Strip," and "Peyton Place."
Gena Rowlands made her film debut in 1958 in "The High Cost of Living." Five years and five films later, she starred in her first movie directed by John Cassavetes: 1963's "A Child Is Waiting," opposite Judy Garland and Burt Lancaster. The couple continued their collaboration with nine subsequent films over the next ten years, including the Oscar-nominated, influential 1968 drama "Faces."
One of Rowlands' most acclaimed roles was in the 1974 drama "A Woman Under the Influence," which Cassavetes both wrote and directed as a showcase for her, and mortgaged their home to finance it when no studio would touch it. The film, about the mental and emotional unraveling of a middle-aged, blue-collar housewife, earned Rowlands a best actress Golden Globe win and Academy Award nomination. She received a second best actress Oscar nod for her 1980 title role in the crime thriller "Gloria," also written and directed by Cassavetes, playing a woman who goes on the run with the young son of a mob bookkeeper to protect him, and an incriminating ledger of mob accounts.
The last film Rowlands and Cassavetes made together was the critically-acclaimed but little-seen 1984 drama "Love Streams," in which Cassavetes also co-starred. It was also his penultimate film before he died of alcoholism-related illness in 1989.
Outside of her work with Cassavetes, Rowlands won praise for her role in Woody Allen's 1988 drama "Another Woman," and for playing former first lady Betty Ford in the 1987 TV movie "The Betty Ford Story," the latter of which won Rowlands a Golden Globe and Emmy award.
Rowlands worked steadily in both film and television throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including roles in the Sandra Bullock romantic drama "Hope Floats," and the 1998 all-star comedy-drama "Playing by Heart," opposite Sean Connery. She also appeared on television in the groundbreaking 1985 TV movie drama "An Early Frost," one of the first films to confront the stigma attached to AIDS, and won an Emmy for her role in the 2002 TV movie drama "Hysterical Blindness," opposite Uma Thurman.
Arguably Rowland's best-known, and most beloved, later big-screen role was in the 2004 romantic drama "The Notebook," directed by her son, Nick Cassavetes. Rowlands portrayed the elderly version of the character played by Rachel McAdams, opposite James Garner's role as her husband, played as a younger man by Ryan Gosling. Through reviews were mixed, the film was a box office smash, earning over $118 million globally, more than four times its production budget, and introducing Rowlands to a new, far younger generation of fans.
Nick Cassavetes directed his mother in three other films – "Unhook the Stars," "She's So Lovely" and "Yellow" – while Rowlands' daughter, Zoe, directed her in 2007's "Broken English." Later in her career, Rowlands also made guest appearances in hit TV shows including "Numb3rs," "Monk" and "NCIS."
Rowlands' last credited acting role was in the 2014 comedy-drama "Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks," one year before she was presented with an Honorary Academy Award in recognition of her long career in film.
"You know what's wonderful about being an actress," Rowlands said in her Academy Award acceptance speech, "is that you don't just live one life – yours – you live many lives."
In addition to her Academy Award, Rowlands was nominated twice for an Oscar, for "A Woman Under the Influence" and "Gloria." She also was nominated for eight Golden Globe Awards, winning two, and won three Primetime Emmy Awards out of eight nominations, as well as a Daytime Emmy and many other critics' awards.
Rowlands was married once, to John Cassavetes. She is survived by their three children: director Nick Cassavetes, and daughters Alexandra and Zoe, both of whom are actor/directors.
Curriculum and focus
The curriculum emphasizes creative skill development and social impact, culminating in a senior-year capstone project where students will tackle real-world challenges. According to a statement from Inglewood Unified School District, “The center is designed to reshape the high school experience through an innovative education model that combines a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum with real-world, team-based learning opportunities.”
Building on previous success
The Iovine and Young Center Academy follows the successful launch of the Los Angeles Unified High School in the Leimert Park neighborhood, which also focuses on interdisciplinary learning and entrepreneurial talent. The strategic placement of these schools aims to address declining enrollment and provide quality education in underserved areas.
Community impact
Located on the campus of Crozier Middle School, which is set to close in June 2025, the new academy responds to the challenges faced by the Inglewood community amid forced school closures over the past decade. Iovine expressed their commitment to giving back to the inner city.
Dr. Dre’s dedication to education through the establishment of the Iovine and Young Center Academy reflects a broader commitment to empowering young people in Los Angeles. By fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration, this initiative aims to equip students with the skills necessary for success in the modern workforce.
Elsewhere in the trailer, the cast meets newbie Rebecca Minkoff, and Brynn immediately shades the designer and her handbag brand. Rebecca Minkoff Real Housewives of New York cast photo
“Rebecca Minkoff? I don’t know if you ever heard of her. If you were just at Nordstrom Rack, you probably saw her stuff,” she tells one of her friends.Fans and the cast also meet new RHONY star Racquel Chevremont, who co-star Jenna Lyons finds “hot.”
Racquel Chevremont season 15 cast photo.
The teaser also shows Brynn and Ubah Hassan getting into numerous disagreements. Other season 15 drama includes pregnancy rumors, marital strife, friendship breakdowns, “delusional” drama, and next-level shade.
Bravo’s official press release for season 15 reads: “Things can change in a New York minute when rumors start spreading among the ladies, and only time will tell if longstanding loyalties are strong enough to weather the storm as secrets shake things up.”
Season 15 of RHONY premieres Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo.
#MusicNews: Tamar Braxton Is Working on New Album With Producer Tricky Stewart
Tamar Braxton has a new album in the works and has enlisted her longtime collaborator, producer Tricky Stewart according to Rated R&B.
Braxton shared the news in a now-deleted Instagram story, along with her thoughts on those circulating negative headlines about her life.
There are no further details about the as-yet-untitled album; however, Stewart did post on his Instagram, acknowledging their collaboration.
In a 45-second video, Stewart is seen vibing out in a studio while Braxton sings an unreleased track. Stewart compliments her performance, and the two eventually embrace.
“What a blessing it is to still be making records with my Day 1s! @tamarbraxton 30 years in… can’t wait for y’all to hear what’s next,” Stewart wrote in his caption for the Instagram post.
Braxton and Tricky Stewart have a long history, working together as far back as 1996 when Tamar, Tawanda, and Trina released their Atlantic Records debut album, So Many Ways, as The Braxtons. Stewart worked on four tracks from the 12-track release, including “Slow Flow” and “Where’s the Good in Goodbye.”
Four years later, Stewart served as the executive producer, as well as a co-writer and producer for Braxton’s debut album, Tamar, released in 2000 by DreamWorks.
#HipHopNews: Ghostface Killah Reveals His ‘fondest’ Memory From Illustrious Career
The Wu-Tang rapper spoke to XXL for a brief Q&A published on Tuesday (August 13). Amid the handful of questions, Ghost was asked what his fondest rap memory is, and his answer was simple.
“Going on stage with Beyoncé,” he said. The pair collaborated on a remix of Bey’s 2003 song “Summertime,” which they dueted on live several times, most famously at Madison Square Garden that November for a performance that showed up in the JAY-Z documentary Fade to Black the following year.
Back in June, Ghostface Killah stopped by Million Dollaz Worth of Game and at one point during the chat, recalled the time Hov came calling for money he was owed.
Reminiscing about the early days of Wu, Ghostface Killah began: “One time, RZA and [GZA] were telling me that Hov was on the list with us to do a show or whatever. We gave him some time … Long story short, n-ggas ain’t pay him the money.
“You know how Hov is. He wait. A few years down the line, and bring it up to one of the n-ggas. Like, ‘Yeah, remember that time you ain’t really pay me?’”
Pretty Toney and co-hosts Gillie Da Kid and Wallace Peeples then laughed about the now-billionaire never forgetting a debt.
The unpaid debt isn’t the only connection between JAY-Z and Wu-Tang Clan.
Last year, RZA sat down with Rolling Stone and shared a story about his influence on a young Hov.
“I think that what I did was necessary. I think that it was ordained,” he said. “One day, JAY-Z told me, ‘Yo, I got [the idea for] The Blueprint from you.’”
He continued: “At that time, I was headed to Hollywood already. Now, here’s a path, here’s a way it can work. And it continued to work in different regions of the country and with different crews.”
Gena Rowlands, Oscar-nominated 'A Woman Under the Influence' and 'The Notebook' actress, dies at 94
Gena Rowland dies after battle with Alzheimer’s The two-time Oscar nominee was known for her roles in “A Woman Under the Influence” and “The Notebook.”
Gena Rowlands, the award-winning actress known for her acclaimed roles in "A Woman Under the Influence," "Gloria," and "The Notebook," has died at 94.
Rowlands' son, film director Nick Cassavetes, revealed in June 2024 that his mother had been living with Alzheimer's disease for five years.
Her death was confirmed by The Associated Press. A four-time Emmy winner and two-time Golden Globe winner, as well as the recipient of an Honorary Academy Award, Rowlands' career in theater, film and television spanned nearly seven decades. She was perhaps best known for her film collaborations with her husband, the late actor and director John Cassavetes, and was twice nominated for an Academy Award for her starring roles in his films "A Woman Under the Influence" and "Gloria."
Born in Cambria, Wisconsin, on June 19, 1930, Virginia Cathryn Rowlands studied drama in New York City and began her career with repertory theater companies. She made her Broadway debut in "The Seven Year Itch" in 1953 and toured with the production. She also starred opposite Edward G. Robinson in Oscar-winning "Network" screenwriter Paddy Chayefsky's stage adaptation of his film "Middle of the Night."
Rowlands met John Cassavetes when they were both students at the American Academy for Dramatic Arts and they were married in 1954, only a few months after they met. She spent the next six years working steadily in television, including opposite Cassavetes in the detective series "Johnny Staccato," in which he starred, as well as appearing in hit series including "Bonanza," "The Virginian," "Alfred Hitchcock Presents," "77 Sunset Strip," and "Peyton Place."
Gena Rowlands made her film debut in 1958 in "The High Cost of Living." Five years and five films later, she starred in her first movie directed by John Cassavetes: 1963's "A Child Is Waiting," opposite Judy Garland and Burt Lancaster. The couple continued their collaboration with nine subsequent films over the next ten years, including the Oscar-nominated, influential 1968 drama "Faces."
One of Rowlands' most acclaimed roles was in the 1974 drama "A Woman Under the Influence," which Cassavetes both wrote and directed as a showcase for her, and mortgaged their home to finance it when no studio would touch it. The film, about the mental and emotional unraveling of a middle-aged, blue-collar housewife, earned Rowlands a best actress Golden Globe win and Academy Award nomination. She received a second best actress Oscar nod for her 1980 title role in the crime thriller "Gloria," also written and directed by Cassavetes, playing a woman who goes on the run with the young son of a mob bookkeeper to protect him, and an incriminating ledger of mob accounts.
The last film Rowlands and Cassavetes made together was the critically-acclaimed but little-seen 1984 drama "Love Streams," in which Cassavetes also co-starred. It was also his penultimate film before he died of alcoholism-related illness in 1989.
Outside of her work with Cassavetes, Rowlands won praise for her role in Woody Allen's 1988 drama "Another Woman," and for playing former first lady Betty Ford in the 1987 TV movie "The Betty Ford Story," the latter of which won Rowlands a Golden Globe and Emmy award.
Rowlands worked steadily in both film and television throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including roles in the Sandra Bullock romantic drama "Hope Floats," and the 1998 all-star comedy-drama "Playing by Heart," opposite Sean Connery. She also appeared on television in the groundbreaking 1985 TV movie drama "An Early Frost," one of the first films to confront the stigma attached to AIDS, and won an Emmy for her role in the 2002 TV movie drama "Hysterical Blindness," opposite Uma Thurman.
Arguably Rowland's best-known, and most beloved, later big-screen role was in the 2004 romantic drama "The Notebook," directed by her son, Nick Cassavetes. Rowlands portrayed the elderly version of the character played by Rachel McAdams, opposite James Garner's role as her husband, played as a younger man by Ryan Gosling. Through reviews were mixed, the film was a box office smash, earning over $118 million globally, more than four times its production budget, and introducing Rowlands to a new, far younger generation of fans.
Nick Cassavetes directed his mother in three other films – "Unhook the Stars," "She's So Lovely" and "Yellow" – while Rowlands' daughter, Zoe, directed her in 2007's "Broken English." Later in her career, Rowlands also made guest appearances in hit TV shows including "Numb3rs," "Monk" and "NCIS."
Rowlands' last credited acting role was in the 2014 comedy-drama "Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks," one year before she was presented with an Honorary Academy Award in recognition of her long career in film.
"You know what's wonderful about being an actress," Rowlands said in her Academy Award acceptance speech, "is that you don't just live one life – yours – you live many lives."
In addition to her Academy Award, Rowlands was nominated twice for an Oscar, for "A Woman Under the Influence" and "Gloria." She also was nominated for eight Golden Globe Awards, winning two, and won three Primetime Emmy Awards out of eight nominations, as well as a Daytime Emmy and many other critics' awards.
Rowlands was married once, to John Cassavetes. She is survived by their three children: director Nick Cassavetes, and daughters Alexandra and Zoe, both of whom are actor/directors.
2 doctors are charged in connection to 'Friends' actor Matthew Perry’s ketamine death
Two California doctors and an alleged drug dealer are among five people arrested and charged in connection with the ketamine-overdose death of Friends actor Matthew Perry last October, officials announced Thursday.
The defendants arrested Thursday, Jasveen Sangha, 41 (also known as “The Ketamine Queen”) and Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 42 (also known as “Dr. P.”) were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
"The superseding indictment alleges that Sangha’s distribution of ketamine on October 24, 2023, caused Perry’s death" four days later, the office said.
Sangha is also being charged with:
One count of maintaining a drug-involved premises
One count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
One count of possession with intent to distribute ketamine
Five counts of distribution of ketamine
Plasencia is charged with seven counts of distribution of ketamine along with two counts of altering and falsifying documents or records related to the federal investigation, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.
If convicted of all charges, Sangha could face 10 years to life in prison. Plasencia could face up to 10 years in federal prison for each ketamine-related count and up to 20 years for each count relating to records falsification.
Sangha and Plasencia are expected to be arraigned in court in Los Angeles later Thursday.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada told reporters during a news conference Thursday that the defendants "took advantage of Mr. Perry’s addiction issues."
“They knew what they were doing was wrong,” Estrada said. “These defendants cared more about profiting off of Mr. Perry than caring for his well-being."
According to unsealed court documents Thursday, Sangha’s distribution of ketamine caused Perry’s death on Oct. 24, 2023. The documents also revealed that in September 2023, Plasencia learned that Perry, who has had a history of drug addiction, was interested in obtaining ketamine.
Once he learned about Perry’s interest in the drug, Plasencia obtained ketamine to sell to Perry from Dr. Mark Chavez, 54, who pleaded guilty Thursday to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.
In text messages obtained by authorities, Plasencia and Chavez discussed how much to charge the actor for the drug, with Plasencia stating, “I wonder how much this moron will pay.”
Between September and October 2023, authorities say, Plasencia distributed ketamine to Perry and Kenneth Iwamasa, 59, who allegedly injected Perry with the drug on the day he died.
In December, an autopsy report released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner showed that Perry died from the “acute effects of ketamine.” The 54-year-old was found unresponsive after he drowned in his pool at his Los Angeles home.
Perry's drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine — a medication used to treat opioid use disorder — were noted as factors that contributed to his death but were not the primary cause, the autopsy results indicated.
At the time, Perry's death was ruled an accident.
Perry had a history of drug addiction, a struggle he was very open about in his memoir published in 2022. The autopsy noted his past drug use but added that he was "reportedly clean for 19 months."
The defendants arrested Thursday, Jasveen Sangha, 41 (also known as “The Ketamine Queen”) and Dr. Salvador Plasencia, 42 (also known as “Dr. P.”) were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.
"The superseding indictment alleges that Sangha’s distribution of ketamine on October 24, 2023, caused Perry’s death" four days later, the office said.
Sangha is also being charged with:
One count of maintaining a drug-involved premises
One count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
One count of possession with intent to distribute ketamine
Five counts of distribution of ketamine
Plasencia is charged with seven counts of distribution of ketamine along with two counts of altering and falsifying documents or records related to the federal investigation, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.
If convicted of all charges, Sangha could face 10 years to life in prison. Plasencia could face up to 10 years in federal prison for each ketamine-related count and up to 20 years for each count relating to records falsification.
Sangha and Plasencia are expected to be arraigned in court in Los Angeles later Thursday.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada told reporters during a news conference Thursday that the defendants "took advantage of Mr. Perry’s addiction issues."
“They knew what they were doing was wrong,” Estrada said. “These defendants cared more about profiting off of Mr. Perry than caring for his well-being."
According to unsealed court documents Thursday, Sangha’s distribution of ketamine caused Perry’s death on Oct. 24, 2023. The documents also revealed that in September 2023, Plasencia learned that Perry, who has had a history of drug addiction, was interested in obtaining ketamine.
Once he learned about Perry’s interest in the drug, Plasencia obtained ketamine to sell to Perry from Dr. Mark Chavez, 54, who pleaded guilty Thursday to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.
In text messages obtained by authorities, Plasencia and Chavez discussed how much to charge the actor for the drug, with Plasencia stating, “I wonder how much this moron will pay.”
Between September and October 2023, authorities say, Plasencia distributed ketamine to Perry and Kenneth Iwamasa, 59, who allegedly injected Perry with the drug on the day he died.
In December, an autopsy report released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner showed that Perry died from the “acute effects of ketamine.” The 54-year-old was found unresponsive after he drowned in his pool at his Los Angeles home.
Perry's drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine — a medication used to treat opioid use disorder — were noted as factors that contributed to his death but were not the primary cause, the autopsy results indicated.
At the time, Perry's death was ruled an accident.
Perry had a history of drug addiction, a struggle he was very open about in his memoir published in 2022. The autopsy noted his past drug use but added that he was "reportedly clean for 19 months."
Michael Rubin Apologizes For Comments On Hate Within Black Culture: “It’s Not My Place”
CEO of Fanatics Michael Rubin attends the Men's Gold Medal game between Team France and Team United States on day fifteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Michael Rubin got on the internet’s bad side when he made strong statements about hate within the Black community in defense of Meek Mill during an interview with The Breakfast Club. The 52-year-old mogul owned up to his mistake and apologized on X (formerly Twitter).
“I got a phone call from one of the people I have the most respect for in the world,” he wrote. “They told me while they appreciate my intention, it’s not my place to speak on Black culture. I get it and really appreciate the input!”
He continued, explaining his intent was to encourage people to uplift one another and reduce the amount of hate. “My bad , Much love and appreciate the feedback,” he wrote, tagging Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Envy, Loren Lorosa, and the official X account for The Breakfast Club.
This apology came one day after Michael Rubin passionately stood up for Meek Mill and called out “Black hate on hate” on The Breakfast Club. “When I see the narrative of, a really good friend of mine like Meek, and people are trying to… Again, if he was gay — which there’s not one gay bone in his body — who cares, number one,” he said. “If people wanna be gay, it is 2024. Who the f**k cares? Number two, there’s not a gay bone in his body, so why do people wanna lie about that? Why do people want to change the narrative of a bet he made with me to hurt him?”
He continued his rant, broadening his complaint to the larger Black community. “That is the one thing I’ve learned about, you know, look, I’m just being blunt because it’s me,” he began. “It’s the one thing I’ve learned about Black culture that I don’t like is that Black hate on hate.” He specifically called out the judge who presided over Meek Mill’s litigation a few years ago, saying that she was “hating” on him and even said that people outside of the culture have acknowledged the internal hate in the community.
While he took these strong stances, he also admitted that he probably wasn’t the best messenger. “I’m probably going to get killed for saying this because I’m a white rich guy,” he said. Elsewhere in the interview, Rubin admitted that he banned Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” at his annual July 4 All White party to be considerate of Drake, who was in attendance.
CEO of Fanatics Michael Rubin attends the Men's Gold Medal game between Team France and Team United States on day fifteen of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Bercy Arena on August 10, 2024 in Paris, France. Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Michael Rubin got on the internet’s bad side when he made strong statements about hate within the Black community in defense of Meek Mill during an interview with The Breakfast Club. The 52-year-old mogul owned up to his mistake and apologized on X (formerly Twitter).
“I got a phone call from one of the people I have the most respect for in the world,” he wrote. “They told me while they appreciate my intention, it’s not my place to speak on Black culture. I get it and really appreciate the input!”
He continued, explaining his intent was to encourage people to uplift one another and reduce the amount of hate. “My bad , Much love and appreciate the feedback,” he wrote, tagging Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Envy, Loren Lorosa, and the official X account for The Breakfast Club.
This apology came one day after Michael Rubin passionately stood up for Meek Mill and called out “Black hate on hate” on The Breakfast Club. “When I see the narrative of, a really good friend of mine like Meek, and people are trying to… Again, if he was gay — which there’s not one gay bone in his body — who cares, number one,” he said. “If people wanna be gay, it is 2024. Who the f**k cares? Number two, there’s not a gay bone in his body, so why do people wanna lie about that? Why do people want to change the narrative of a bet he made with me to hurt him?”
He continued his rant, broadening his complaint to the larger Black community. “That is the one thing I’ve learned about, you know, look, I’m just being blunt because it’s me,” he began. “It’s the one thing I’ve learned about Black culture that I don’t like is that Black hate on hate.” He specifically called out the judge who presided over Meek Mill’s litigation a few years ago, saying that she was “hating” on him and even said that people outside of the culture have acknowledged the internal hate in the community.
While he took these strong stances, he also admitted that he probably wasn’t the best messenger. “I’m probably going to get killed for saying this because I’m a white rich guy,” he said. Elsewhere in the interview, Rubin admitted that he banned Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” at his annual July 4 All White party to be considerate of Drake, who was in attendance.
Jordan Chiles Breaks Silence Amid Bronze Medal Scoring Controversy
Jordan Chiles has released a statement following the controversy surrounding her bronze medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“I am overwhelmed by the love I have received over the past few days. I am also incredibly grateful to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, USAG, and the USOPC for their unwavering support during this difficult time,” the 23-year-old began.
Chiles revealed that she found out her medal was being stripped from her “while celebrating [her] Olympic accomplishments.” She noted, “I had confidence in the appeal brought by the USAG, who gave conclusive evidence that my score followed all the rules. This appeal was unsuccessful.”
She went to detail how she’s been managing this shocking news emotionally.
“I have no words. This decision feels unjust and comes as a significant blow, not just to me, but to everyone who has championed my journey,” Chiles continued. “To add to the heartbreak, the unprompted racially driven attacks on social media are wrong and extremely hurtful. I’ve poured my heart and soul into this sport and I am so proud to represent my culture and my country.”
The gymnast admitted that “finding joy again has been a culture shift,” but she’s “now confronted with one of the most challenging moments” of her career. Chiles is currently still making efforts to “ensure justice is done” and trusts that “the people in control will do the right thing.”
After Chiles’ win, her medal was revoked due to an alleged scoring error. An inquiry was filed, but despite video evidence claiming that the inquiry was timely filed in a subsequent appeal, Chiles’ bronze medal is set to be given to Romanian gymanst, Ana Maria Barbosu.
“I am overwhelmed by the love I have received over the past few days. I am also incredibly grateful to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, USAG, and the USOPC for their unwavering support during this difficult time,” the 23-year-old began.
Chiles revealed that she found out her medal was being stripped from her “while celebrating [her] Olympic accomplishments.” She noted, “I had confidence in the appeal brought by the USAG, who gave conclusive evidence that my score followed all the rules. This appeal was unsuccessful.”
She went to detail how she’s been managing this shocking news emotionally.
“I have no words. This decision feels unjust and comes as a significant blow, not just to me, but to everyone who has championed my journey,” Chiles continued. “To add to the heartbreak, the unprompted racially driven attacks on social media are wrong and extremely hurtful. I’ve poured my heart and soul into this sport and I am so proud to represent my culture and my country.”
The gymnast admitted that “finding joy again has been a culture shift,” but she’s “now confronted with one of the most challenging moments” of her career. Chiles is currently still making efforts to “ensure justice is done” and trusts that “the people in control will do the right thing.”
After Chiles’ win, her medal was revoked due to an alleged scoring error. An inquiry was filed, but despite video evidence claiming that the inquiry was timely filed in a subsequent appeal, Chiles’ bronze medal is set to be given to Romanian gymanst, Ana Maria Barbosu.
50 Cent Claims Diddy Has Tapes That Keep Fellow Celebs 'Quiet' Amid Legal Woes
50 Cent believes that Sean "P. Diddy" Combs has a firm grip on fellow celebrities because of his alleged tapes. The rapper/actor suspects that the embattled hip-hop mogul those who are keeping "quiet" amid Diddy's legal woes are featured on those tapes.
Fiddy weighed in on Diddy's legal drama when speaking on his decision to produce a documentary about his longtime foe. "I'm the only person in hip-hop culture that has produced any hit television. Why wouldn't I be the person to produce it?" he said in an interview with Us Weekly. "And I'm not on the tapes."
"See, some of the people who have been around in the culture who are not saying anything-that's because they've been to the parties," the 49-year-old claimed, "[and] they don't know what part of their experiences are on tape. So it keeps them quiet and it looks like I'm the only guy, but I've been [saying] for years that something's not right."
There have been rumors that Diddy recorded tapes of his infamous parties, some of which have been referred to as "freak offs." While there's no evidence of their existence, those alleged tapes have been mentioned in various lawsuits filed against the 54-year-old rapper.
Meanwhile, 50 Cent, who has been mocking Diddy amid the latter's legal saga, is set to produce a docuseries about the the sexual assault allegations against the "I'll Be Missing You" hitmaker through his G-Unit Film and Television Studios. In May, it was reported that Netflix purchased the multi-part documentary.
The deal was made following a massive bidding war over the docuseries with multiple networks and all of the streaming platforms attempting to land the series. Confirming the news, the "In da Club" spitter wrote on Instagram at the time, "NETFLIX wins the bidding war but if more victims keep coming out I'm gonna need more episodes."
50 Cent believes that Sean "P. Diddy" Combs has a firm grip on fellow celebrities because of his alleged tapes. The rapper/actor suspects that the embattled hip-hop mogul those who are keeping "quiet" amid Diddy's legal woes are featured on those tapes.
Fiddy weighed in on Diddy's legal drama when speaking on his decision to produce a documentary about his longtime foe. "I'm the only person in hip-hop culture that has produced any hit television. Why wouldn't I be the person to produce it?" he said in an interview with Us Weekly. "And I'm not on the tapes."
"See, some of the people who have been around in the culture who are not saying anything-that's because they've been to the parties," the 49-year-old claimed, "[and] they don't know what part of their experiences are on tape. So it keeps them quiet and it looks like I'm the only guy, but I've been [saying] for years that something's not right."
There have been rumors that Diddy recorded tapes of his infamous parties, some of which have been referred to as "freak offs." While there's no evidence of their existence, those alleged tapes have been mentioned in various lawsuits filed against the 54-year-old rapper.
Meanwhile, 50 Cent, who has been mocking Diddy amid the latter's legal saga, is set to produce a docuseries about the the sexual assault allegations against the "I'll Be Missing You" hitmaker through his G-Unit Film and Television Studios. In May, it was reported that Netflix purchased the multi-part documentary.
The deal was made following a massive bidding war over the docuseries with multiple networks and all of the streaming platforms attempting to land the series. Confirming the news, the "In da Club" spitter wrote on Instagram at the time, "NETFLIX wins the bidding war but if more victims keep coming out I'm gonna need more episodes."
Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine open new high school in Inglewood, California
On Aug. 12, 2024, hip-hop mogul Dr. Dre, alongside music executive Jimmy Iovine, announced the launch of the Iovine and Young Center Academy at Morningside High School in Inglewood, California. This marks Dr. Dre’s second educational initiative in just two years, reinforcing his commitment to enhancing the Los Angeles school system.
Set to open in August 2025, the Iovine and Young Center Academy will initially cater to ninth-grade students, with plans to expand to all grades by the 2028-29 school year. The academy aims to provide an innovative, interdisciplinary program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.
Set to open in August 2025, the Iovine and Young Center Academy will initially cater to ninth-grade students, with plans to expand to all grades by the 2028-29 school year. The academy aims to provide an innovative, interdisciplinary program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs.
Curriculum and focus
The curriculum emphasizes creative skill development and social impact, culminating in a senior-year capstone project where students will tackle real-world challenges. According to a statement from Inglewood Unified School District, “The center is designed to reshape the high school experience through an innovative education model that combines a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum with real-world, team-based learning opportunities.”
Building on previous success
The Iovine and Young Center Academy follows the successful launch of the Los Angeles Unified High School in the Leimert Park neighborhood, which also focuses on interdisciplinary learning and entrepreneurial talent. The strategic placement of these schools aims to address declining enrollment and provide quality education in underserved areas.
Community impact
Located on the campus of Crozier Middle School, which is set to close in June 2025, the new academy responds to the challenges faced by the Inglewood community amid forced school closures over the past decade. Iovine expressed their commitment to giving back to the inner city.
Dr. Dre’s dedication to education through the establishment of the Iovine and Young Center Academy reflects a broader commitment to empowering young people in Los Angeles. By fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration, this initiative aims to equip students with the skills necessary for success in the modern workforce.
Robert Griffin III shockingly fired by ESPN
ESPN shocked the sports world when it fired former NFL star Robert Griffin III, who had been working as an analyst on multiple shows.
Griffin, who mostly goes by RGIII, was jettisoned despite being very popular and considered a rising star at the worldwide sports leader. The former Washington Redskins, now called the Commanders, and Baltimore Ravens quarterback still had two years left on his contract, reports The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand.
The reason for Griffin’s firing has not been divulged.
“SportsCenter” host Sam Ponder has also been terminated, the publication states.
Neither RGIII nor ESPN has responded to multiple media inquiries.
The New York Times reports that ESPN is further tightening its belt as part of the network’s continuing cost-cutting measures employed over the last several years.
A few years ago, RGIII was courted by ESPN’s rival, Fox Sports, to replace former NFL running back Reggie Bush for their college football coverage. However, after careful consideration, the network employed Mark Ingram, a former running back, Marchand reported.
ESPN shocked the sports world when it fired former NFL star Robert Griffin III, who had been working as an analyst on multiple shows.
Griffin, who mostly goes by RGIII, was jettisoned despite being very popular and considered a rising star at the worldwide sports leader. The former Washington Redskins, now called the Commanders, and Baltimore Ravens quarterback still had two years left on his contract, reports The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand.
The reason for Griffin’s firing has not been divulged.
“SportsCenter” host Sam Ponder has also been terminated, the publication states.
Neither RGIII nor ESPN has responded to multiple media inquiries.
The New York Times reports that ESPN is further tightening its belt as part of the network’s continuing cost-cutting measures employed over the last several years.
A few years ago, RGIII was courted by ESPN’s rival, Fox Sports, to replace former NFL running back Reggie Bush for their college football coverage. However, after careful consideration, the network employed Mark Ingram, a former running back, Marchand reported.
Wally Amos, founder of "Famous Amos" cookies, dies at 88: "A true original Black American hero"
Wallace "Wally" Amos, Jr., founder of the "Famous Amos" cookies known and beloved nationwide, died at 88 on Wednesday, his family said.
The American entrepreneur died peacefully at his home with his wife Carol by his side after a battle with dementia, Amos' children, Sarah, Michael, Gregory and Shawn, said in a statement.
Born in Tallahassee, Florida, Amos built his brand from one bakery in 1975 in Hollywood, California, and a family recipe.
"Our dad inspired a generation of entrepreneurs," his children said, adding, "With his Panama hat, kazoo, and boundless optimism, Famous Amos was a great American success story, and a source of Black pride. It's also part of our family story for which we will forever be grateful and proud."
"Big was in, but Wally Amos dared to go small and perfected the ultimate bite-size chocolate chip cookie," the brand's website says. After that, Amos and his cookies became a Hollywood success story. "Iconic musicians and other Hollywood celebrities began singing the praises of the delicious cookies from a small bakery on Sunset," the website says.
In his later years, Amos became a proprietor of a cookie shop called Chip & Cookie in Hawaii, where he moved in 1977, the Associated Press reported. He was also a co-founder of Uncle Wally's Muffin Co., whose products are also found in stores nationwide.
But Amos said the fame never really mattered much to him. "Being famous is highly overrated anyway," Amos told The Associated Press in 2007.
Wally's son Shawn, a blues musician and author, helped create the first shop in Hollywood with his father. Shawn Amos' book, "Cookies and Milk," published in 2022, is based in part on his experiences growing up as the son of the Famous Amos founder.
"It's a book about joy, it's a book about fathers and sons who want to be seen by each other," he said on "CBS Mornings."
Shawn said he worked the front of the store while his father baked cookies in the back.
Amos' children praised their father for teaching them the value of hard work, believing in themselves, and chasing their dreams. "He was a true original Black American hero," they said in their statement.
Amos was also an active promoter of reading. He wrote eight books, served as spokesperson for Literacy Volunteers of America for 24 years and delivered motivational talks to corporations, universities and other groups, AP reported. His volunteerism earned him the National Literacy Award, which was presented to him by President George H.W. Bush in 1991, according to AP.
"Your greatest contribution to your country is not your signature straw hat in the Smithsonian, but the people you have inspired to learn to read," Bush said.
The American entrepreneur died peacefully at his home with his wife Carol by his side after a battle with dementia, Amos' children, Sarah, Michael, Gregory and Shawn, said in a statement.
Born in Tallahassee, Florida, Amos built his brand from one bakery in 1975 in Hollywood, California, and a family recipe.
"Our dad inspired a generation of entrepreneurs," his children said, adding, "With his Panama hat, kazoo, and boundless optimism, Famous Amos was a great American success story, and a source of Black pride. It's also part of our family story for which we will forever be grateful and proud."
"Big was in, but Wally Amos dared to go small and perfected the ultimate bite-size chocolate chip cookie," the brand's website says. After that, Amos and his cookies became a Hollywood success story. "Iconic musicians and other Hollywood celebrities began singing the praises of the delicious cookies from a small bakery on Sunset," the website says.
In his later years, Amos became a proprietor of a cookie shop called Chip & Cookie in Hawaii, where he moved in 1977, the Associated Press reported. He was also a co-founder of Uncle Wally's Muffin Co., whose products are also found in stores nationwide.
But Amos said the fame never really mattered much to him. "Being famous is highly overrated anyway," Amos told The Associated Press in 2007.
Wally's son Shawn, a blues musician and author, helped create the first shop in Hollywood with his father. Shawn Amos' book, "Cookies and Milk," published in 2022, is based in part on his experiences growing up as the son of the Famous Amos founder.
"It's a book about joy, it's a book about fathers and sons who want to be seen by each other," he said on "CBS Mornings."
Shawn said he worked the front of the store while his father baked cookies in the back.
Amos' children praised their father for teaching them the value of hard work, believing in themselves, and chasing their dreams. "He was a true original Black American hero," they said in their statement.
Amos was also an active promoter of reading. He wrote eight books, served as spokesperson for Literacy Volunteers of America for 24 years and delivered motivational talks to corporations, universities and other groups, AP reported. His volunteerism earned him the National Literacy Award, which was presented to him by President George H.W. Bush in 1991, according to AP.
"Your greatest contribution to your country is not your signature straw hat in the Smithsonian, but the people you have inspired to learn to read," Bush said.
MTV VMAs 2024: Katy Perry to Receive Video Vanguard Award
Katy Perry will be the recipient of the Video Vanguard Award at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards next month. The pop star will also perform a career-spanning medley of her biggest hits during the September 11 ceremony, which will be broadcast live from UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Last year, Shakira accepted the accolade, joining a pantheon of honorees including Niki Minaj, Beyoncé, Madonna, Rihanna, Missy Elliott, Britney Spears, and more.
Perry dropped her comeback track “Woman’s World” last month, simultaneously announcing her next studio album 143. The subsequent song “Lifetimes” arrived last week. 143 is out September 20, and will mark Perry’s first studio LP since she released Smile in 2020.
Katy Perry made her MTV VMAs debut in 2009, when she joined Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry on stage for a live version of “We Will Rock You.” She secured her first three Moon Person trophies in 2011—for her Kanye West collaboration “E.T.” and her mega hit “Firework.” Perry’s last appearance at the VMAs occurred in 2017, when she hosted the ceremony and performed “Swish Swish” with Nicki Minaj.
Earlier this month, the 2024 VMAs revealed its full list of nominees; Taylor Swift leads the pack with a total of 10 nods, while Post Malone follows closely with nine. Ariana Grande, Eminem, Megan Thee Stallion, SZA, Olvia Rodrigo, have all been nominated in multiple categories. Sabrina Carpenter—a first-time VMAs nominee—is up for six awards.
Performers at the 2024 show include Camila Cabello, Chappell Roan, Glorilla, Rauw Alejandro, and Sabrina Carpenter. More acts will be announced in the coming weeks.
Katy Perry will be the recipient of the Video Vanguard Award at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards next month. The pop star will also perform a career-spanning medley of her biggest hits during the September 11 ceremony, which will be broadcast live from UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Last year, Shakira accepted the accolade, joining a pantheon of honorees including Niki Minaj, Beyoncé, Madonna, Rihanna, Missy Elliott, Britney Spears, and more.
Perry dropped her comeback track “Woman’s World” last month, simultaneously announcing her next studio album 143. The subsequent song “Lifetimes” arrived last week. 143 is out September 20, and will mark Perry’s first studio LP since she released Smile in 2020.
Katy Perry made her MTV VMAs debut in 2009, when she joined Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry on stage for a live version of “We Will Rock You.” She secured her first three Moon Person trophies in 2011—for her Kanye West collaboration “E.T.” and her mega hit “Firework.” Perry’s last appearance at the VMAs occurred in 2017, when she hosted the ceremony and performed “Swish Swish” with Nicki Minaj.
Earlier this month, the 2024 VMAs revealed its full list of nominees; Taylor Swift leads the pack with a total of 10 nods, while Post Malone follows closely with nine. Ariana Grande, Eminem, Megan Thee Stallion, SZA, Olvia Rodrigo, have all been nominated in multiple categories. Sabrina Carpenter—a first-time VMAs nominee—is up for six awards.
Performers at the 2024 show include Camila Cabello, Chappell Roan, Glorilla, Rauw Alejandro, and Sabrina Carpenter. More acts will be announced in the coming weeks.
Usher to reschedule first stop of his “Past Present Future Tour” in Atlanta
The first stop of Usher's "Past Present Future Tour" was set for Wednesday (Aug. 14) at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, GA. Unfortunately, the hometown hero decided to postpone the inaugural date in order to ensure that his health is fully in order.
"For my 30-plus-year career, 100 percent of my blood, sweat, and tears has gone into putting on the best performance and creating a memorable experience for my fans," he explained in a social media post. "I have every intention of doing that for this tour as well, which is why I have to postpone tonight's show and reschedule it for a later date to give my body a second to rest and heal. You're still going to get a bit of the past, some of the present, and a unique look into the future on the rescheduled date, but you'll also be getting 100 percent of me."
Usher continued, "The last thing I ever want to do is disappoint you, the fans, who have been eagerly waiting for this tour to start. However, I wouldn't be the entertainer that I am if I can't physically give you my best. My team will be sharing news of the rescheduled date soon. I can't wait to celebrate this legacy with you."
The Coming Home singer is scheduled to continue said tour throughout North America until its closing date in Houston at the end of November. Come 2025, he'll head overseas for a second leg that will touch down in London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin.
For those unable to attend the "Past Present Future Tour," this September will bring forth the premiere of RENDEZVOUS IN PARIS. The concert documentary will give viewers an in-depth look into Usher's French residency in 2023.
Usher continued, "The last thing I ever want to do is disappoint you, the fans, who have been eagerly waiting for this tour to start. However, I wouldn't be the entertainer that I am if I can't physically give you my best. My team will be sharing news of the rescheduled date soon. I can't wait to celebrate this legacy with you."
The Coming Home singer is scheduled to continue said tour throughout North America until its closing date in Houston at the end of November. Come 2025, he'll head overseas for a second leg that will touch down in London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin.
For those unable to attend the "Past Present Future Tour," this September will bring forth the premiere of RENDEZVOUS IN PARIS. The concert documentary will give viewers an in-depth look into Usher's French residency in 2023.
Nicci Gilbert Ordered To Pay $600K In Legal Fees After Losing ‘P-Valley’ Copyright Lawsuit Against Lionsgate & Starz
Nicci Gilbert, the talented singer, songwriter, and actress known for her work with the R&B group Brownstone, has faced a significant legal setback in her ongoing battle against Lionsgate, Starz, and the hit series “P-Valley.”
The former “R&B Divas” star has been ordered to pay a hefty sum of $600,000 in legal fees after her copyright infringement lawsuit against the entertainment giants was dismissed.
Nicci initially filed the lawsuit in 2022, claiming that “P-Valley,” a popular drama series that delves into the lives of strippers in the Mississippi Delta, had stolen elements from her 2011 musical stage play, “Soul Kittens Cabaret.”
She alleged that the show’s creators copied key aspects of her work, including the storyline, characters, and themes, without her permission or proper credit.
In her lawsuit, Nicci Gilbert sought compensation and an injunction to halt further distribution of the show.
However, after a thorough review of the case, the court sided with Lionsgate and Starz, finding that the similarities between the two works were not substantial enough to constitute copyright infringement.
The dismissal of the case was a significant blow to Nicci, who had been vocal about her belief that her intellectual property had been unfairly used.
As a result of the dismissal, Nicci Gilbert has now been ordered to cover the legal fees incurred by Lionsgate, Starz, and the creators of “P-Valley.”
The $600,000 judgment adds insult to injury, marking a difficult chapter in Nicci’s fight to protect her creative work.
In a video posted on her YouTube channel, Nicci said that the court determined her case was frivolous.
She also shared that she owes her attorney a million in legal fees and $50,000 for the export report that she says a judge simply “threw out.”
“These people are trying to destroy us financially. It ain’t gone happen,” Nicci said.
Despite the outcome, Nicci Gilbert remains a fierce advocate for artists’ rights and continues to inspire through her music and creative projects.
For more information on the background of Nicci Gilbert’s lawsuit and the similarities she claimed between her play and “P-Valley,” you can read the full details in this blog post here.
Nicci Gilbert is planning to appeal.
Nicci Gilbert, the talented singer, songwriter, and actress known for her work with the R&B group Brownstone, has faced a significant legal setback in her ongoing battle against Lionsgate, Starz, and the hit series “P-Valley.”
The former “R&B Divas” star has been ordered to pay a hefty sum of $600,000 in legal fees after her copyright infringement lawsuit against the entertainment giants was dismissed.
Nicci initially filed the lawsuit in 2022, claiming that “P-Valley,” a popular drama series that delves into the lives of strippers in the Mississippi Delta, had stolen elements from her 2011 musical stage play, “Soul Kittens Cabaret.”
She alleged that the show’s creators copied key aspects of her work, including the storyline, characters, and themes, without her permission or proper credit.
In her lawsuit, Nicci Gilbert sought compensation and an injunction to halt further distribution of the show.
However, after a thorough review of the case, the court sided with Lionsgate and Starz, finding that the similarities between the two works were not substantial enough to constitute copyright infringement.
The dismissal of the case was a significant blow to Nicci, who had been vocal about her belief that her intellectual property had been unfairly used.
As a result of the dismissal, Nicci Gilbert has now been ordered to cover the legal fees incurred by Lionsgate, Starz, and the creators of “P-Valley.”
The $600,000 judgment adds insult to injury, marking a difficult chapter in Nicci’s fight to protect her creative work.
In a video posted on her YouTube channel, Nicci said that the court determined her case was frivolous.
She also shared that she owes her attorney a million in legal fees and $50,000 for the export report that she says a judge simply “threw out.”
“These people are trying to destroy us financially. It ain’t gone happen,” Nicci said.
Despite the outcome, Nicci Gilbert remains a fierce advocate for artists’ rights and continues to inspire through her music and creative projects.
For more information on the background of Nicci Gilbert’s lawsuit and the similarities she claimed between her play and “P-Valley,” you can read the full details in this blog post here.
Nicci Gilbert is planning to appeal.
Travis Kelce Make His Acting Debut in Ryan Murphy's Terrifying New Series 'Grotesquerie'
There's no doubt fear crept into Travis Kelce's mind with this one. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end is giving fans a peek at his abilities off the football field in the first teaser trailer for Ryan Murphy's new horror series Grotesquerie.
In the trailer released Aug. 15, Travis' costar Niecy Nash-Betts can be seen walking through a creepy looking small town that appears to be filled with a slew of activities including a nun riding a bike, a revival meeting, crows flying around, dead bodies and so much more.
The show—which also stars Courtney B. Vance and Lesley Manville—sees Niecy's character Detective Lois Tyron investigates a series of heinous crimes that have unsettled a small community, according to Deadline.
She feels the crimes feel personal, almost as if someone or something is trying to taunt her. She soon teams up with a nun, played by Micaela Diamond, and the two begin to string together clues but are faced with more questions than answers.
While Travis' role is being kept under wraps, the 34-year-old—who can briefly be seen in the new teaser—definitely had his fair share of fun on set, despite the terrifying premise.
"This is what happens when WINNERS link up" Niecy's shared on Instagram in May alongside of a video of her and Travis on set, confirming his involvement. "@killatrav Welcome to Grostequerie!"
And as Travis said in the video, he was excited about "jumping into new territory."
The Super Bowl champ even got a special dance lesson from the Emmy winner, joking on Instagram in May, "Don't be fooled by the video…. We are working hard for @ryanmurphyproductions In between shots is another story."
And Niecy clearly loved her time on set with Travis as he showed off his dance moves, adding, "@killatrav our crew has got your back!"
Travis responded in the comments, "Im goin to be showing out this year!!"
But before he can have more fun with this new show, Travis is busy prepping for the upcoming NFL season, while girlfriend Taylor Swift wraps the European leg of her Eras Tour.
Grotesquerie is set to premiere on FX Sep. 25
In the trailer released Aug. 15, Travis' costar Niecy Nash-Betts can be seen walking through a creepy looking small town that appears to be filled with a slew of activities including a nun riding a bike, a revival meeting, crows flying around, dead bodies and so much more.
The show—which also stars Courtney B. Vance and Lesley Manville—sees Niecy's character Detective Lois Tyron investigates a series of heinous crimes that have unsettled a small community, according to Deadline.
She feels the crimes feel personal, almost as if someone or something is trying to taunt her. She soon teams up with a nun, played by Micaela Diamond, and the two begin to string together clues but are faced with more questions than answers.
While Travis' role is being kept under wraps, the 34-year-old—who can briefly be seen in the new teaser—definitely had his fair share of fun on set, despite the terrifying premise.
"This is what happens when WINNERS link up" Niecy's shared on Instagram in May alongside of a video of her and Travis on set, confirming his involvement. "@killatrav Welcome to Grostequerie!"
And as Travis said in the video, he was excited about "jumping into new territory."
The Super Bowl champ even got a special dance lesson from the Emmy winner, joking on Instagram in May, "Don't be fooled by the video…. We are working hard for @ryanmurphyproductions In between shots is another story."
And Niecy clearly loved her time on set with Travis as he showed off his dance moves, adding, "@killatrav our crew has got your back!"
Travis responded in the comments, "Im goin to be showing out this year!!"
But before he can have more fun with this new show, Travis is busy prepping for the upcoming NFL season, while girlfriend Taylor Swift wraps the European leg of her Eras Tour.
Grotesquerie is set to premiere on FX Sep. 25
Noah Lyles Claims His World Champion Comments Were Taken Out of Context
U.S. sprinter Noah Lyles won a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics but also stirred controversy with the U.S. men’s basketball team.
Lyles previously made headlines by criticizing NBA players for labeling themselves world champions and more recently went viral for his remarks about declining an invitation to Anthony Edwards’ Adidas shoe release, Athlon Sports reports.
In a new interview with BuzzFeed, the athlete seemingly takes satisfaction in the fact that some U.S. basketball players had to watch him win gold in the 100 meters.
“They talk about me more than I talk about them,” Lyles said.
“I’m very happy that they came to watch [my race] because I made a tweet or a post a while ago, and I was addressing people who love me and hate me, and I said, ‘No matter what, you still watched, didn’t you?’ That’s the funny part, because you know, no matter how people see you, they’re still going to watch whether they’re there to watch you fail or watch you succeed.”
Lyles insists that his original comments about world champions were taken out of context.
“The point was supposed to be that the U.S. has so many people with the title of world champion or Olympic champion, and we seem to give it to others who don’t actually have the title,” Lyles told BuzzFeed.
“Why do that? They’re already great. They are already dignified in that, let’s celebrate the other sports out there who have taken on the world and are coming back and saying, ‘Hey, we did this for you.’ We want to be celebrated just as much,” he said.
U.S. sprinter Noah Lyles won a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics but also stirred controversy with the U.S. men’s basketball team.
Lyles previously made headlines by criticizing NBA players for labeling themselves world champions and more recently went viral for his remarks about declining an invitation to Anthony Edwards’ Adidas shoe release, Athlon Sports reports.
In a new interview with BuzzFeed, the athlete seemingly takes satisfaction in the fact that some U.S. basketball players had to watch him win gold in the 100 meters.
“They talk about me more than I talk about them,” Lyles said.
“I’m very happy that they came to watch [my race] because I made a tweet or a post a while ago, and I was addressing people who love me and hate me, and I said, ‘No matter what, you still watched, didn’t you?’ That’s the funny part, because you know, no matter how people see you, they’re still going to watch whether they’re there to watch you fail or watch you succeed.”
Lyles insists that his original comments about world champions were taken out of context.
“The point was supposed to be that the U.S. has so many people with the title of world champion or Olympic champion, and we seem to give it to others who don’t actually have the title,” Lyles told BuzzFeed.
“Why do that? They’re already great. They are already dignified in that, let’s celebrate the other sports out there who have taken on the world and are coming back and saying, ‘Hey, we did this for you.’ We want to be celebrated just as much,” he said.
Jim Harbaugh Offers Colin Kaepernick Coaching Role with LA Chargers
*Former NFLer-turned-activist Colin Kaepernick was offered a coaching position with the Los Angeles Chargers by his former mentor, Jim Harbaugh.
This could be a potential path for Kaepernick to return to football, as he remains focused on his desire to play the game, Vibe reports. Harbaugh said Kaepernick responded to the offer with, “I’ll get back to you.”
He added, “He’s considering it. He was out of the country. He said he was going to get back to me. We haven’t reconnected since then. That was early, early in the year.”
Meanwhile, Kaepernick hasn’t played in the NFL since 2016 when he was blacklisted after he refused to stand for the national anthem ahead of games to protest police brutality and racial injustice while he was with the San Francisco 49ers.
Since then, the free agent has been striving to return to the field as a player.
Kaepernick is still preparing for a potential return to the NFL, despite not having played in seven years. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, he shared that he remains ready should the opportunity arise.
“We’re still training, still pushing,” said Kaepernick. “So hopefully, we’ve just got to get one of these team owners to open up.”
When asked what returning to the league would mean to him, he said, “… it’s something I’ve trained my whole life for.”
Kaepernick added, “So, to be able to step back on the field would be a major moment, a major accomplishment for me. I think it’s something that I could bring a lot to a team and help them win a championship.”
Kaepernick’s most recent formal workout with an NFL team was with the Raiders in 2022, but he was not signed afterward.
In 2017, Kaepernick filed a collusion grievance against NFL owners under the collective bargaining agreement, which was later settled for an undisclosed amount.
This could be a potential path for Kaepernick to return to football, as he remains focused on his desire to play the game, Vibe reports. Harbaugh said Kaepernick responded to the offer with, “I’ll get back to you.”
He added, “He’s considering it. He was out of the country. He said he was going to get back to me. We haven’t reconnected since then. That was early, early in the year.”
Meanwhile, Kaepernick hasn’t played in the NFL since 2016 when he was blacklisted after he refused to stand for the national anthem ahead of games to protest police brutality and racial injustice while he was with the San Francisco 49ers.
Since then, the free agent has been striving to return to the field as a player.
Kaepernick is still preparing for a potential return to the NFL, despite not having played in seven years. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, he shared that he remains ready should the opportunity arise.
“We’re still training, still pushing,” said Kaepernick. “So hopefully, we’ve just got to get one of these team owners to open up.”
When asked what returning to the league would mean to him, he said, “… it’s something I’ve trained my whole life for.”
Kaepernick added, “So, to be able to step back on the field would be a major moment, a major accomplishment for me. I think it’s something that I could bring a lot to a team and help them win a championship.”
Kaepernick’s most recent formal workout with an NFL team was with the Raiders in 2022, but he was not signed afterward.
In 2017, Kaepernick filed a collusion grievance against NFL owners under the collective bargaining agreement, which was later settled for an undisclosed amount.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Wait, The Cat is Out!
Meow
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
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