8/20/24

The Daily Buzz For Aug 21☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: F1 Champion Lewis Hamilton Covers Elle Men Brasil.
Formula 1 platinum-level driver Lewis Hamilton shocked the motorsport world earlier this year, when he announced that his 12th 2024 season would be his last with the Mercedes F1 team.
His new home? Only one answer comes up on the scoreboard. Scuderia Ferrari, of course.
In this moment, Hamilton’s global parking space is the September 2024 pages of ELLE Brasil [IG], where he wears Dior Men and Issey Miyake in a fashion story styled by Juliana Gimenez for Rimowa luggage, executed with creative director Luciano Schmitz.
Rimowa [LVMH] fires on all cylinders in images that support its new seasonal Original Emerald color. The fashion shoot by Brazilian photographers MAR + Vin [IG] is both subtle and sophisticated in its layers


#NewCoupleAlert: Phaedra Parks Spotted With Entrepreneur Cheick Kone? 
Phaedra Parks may have a new romance blossoming with multi-business entrepreneur, Cheick Kone, but some social media users are skeptical about her alleged new boo.   

Over the weekend, Parks, 50, was spotted getting close to Kone while attending The Charles Oakley Foundation, a charity event held by the husband of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) newcomer Angeal Oakley, that works with communities to end hunger and poverty.

Photos and videos obtained by The RHOA Talk on Aug. 17 captured Phaedra snuggling up close to the auto salesman and medical supply company owner as they attended the lavish event.  

With her hand wrapped around Kone, Parks shined in a black sweeping v-neck gown that showed off her curves and assets. She completed the look with a shiny statement necklace and a unique updo. Kone kept his attire simple, sporting a classic black suit custom-tailored by Nyonisela Sioh, the ex-boyfriend of NeNe Leakes. According to a press release, RHOA cameras were on the scene filming the event for the upcoming season.


#NewMusic from Tyrese Releases “Wildflower”

R&B superstar Tyrese returns with a touching tribute to his late mother Priscilla Murray on the new single “Wildflower”.
The song was produced by Brandon “BAM” Hodge and David Foster, and is a reimagined version of the song originally made popular by New Birth in 1973. The song also features guitar riffs by Lenny Kravitz and vocals from Le’Andria Johnson.

LISTEN HERE Tyrese - Wildflower | Official Lyric VideoTyrese - Wildflower | Official Lyric Video
Also a music video for the song is also on the way.
Tyrese has long talked about an upcoming album, and “Wildflower” is expected to appear on it. The album is to be called “Beautiful Pain” and will be the seventh overall from Tyrese.
This will be the first new album from Tyrese since “Black Rose” in 2015, after which he famously stated that would be his final album.


#HipHopNews:  LL Cool J Reveals Surprising Actor He'd Like To Play Him In Biopic
LL Cool J may be an accomplished actor, but he has his sights set on someone else playing him in a potential biopic — and it just so happens to be a fellow rapper.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the NCIS star named Snoop Dogg as his ideal candidate to portray him in a movie about his life.
Asked about Snoop’s recent revelation that he’d like to produce a biopic on LL, the Radio rapper jokingly replied: “We’ve talked about it briefly but only under the condition that he actually plays me.

“I need Snoop Dogg to be LL Cool J in my biopic. I need that! Snoop, would you play me in the biopic? You can produce it if you do that.”
Turning serious, the Queens, New York native admitted that he has mixed feelings about following in the footsteps of the likes of 2Pac, Biggie and 50 Cent by turning his life story into a film.

“I’m open to it, but I’m not gonna lie to you, it bores me a little bit,” he said. “I don’t know. I have mixed emotions about it. I just have a lot to do creatively and I feel like I can do a lot.
“It’s not that I’m against it; I’m open to doing a documentary, I’m open to the idea of doing a biopic. But it just doesn’t excite me. It’s kinda like me turning around in the mirror with my jeans on and looking at myself… I don’t know what that means. I don’t do that a lot.”

While Snoop Dogg has yet to respond to LL’s playful request, Tha Doggfather is currently busy developing his own a biopic.
In late 2022, it was reported that an authorized movie on Snoop’s life is in the works at Universal Pictures, with Albert and Allen Hughes (Menace II Society, Dead Presidents) on board to direct and Black Panther‘s Joe Robert Cole writing the script.

“I waited a long time to put this project together because I wanted to choose the right director, the perfect writer and the greatest movie company I could partner with that could understand the legacy that I’m trying to portray on screen, and the memory I’m trying to leave behind,” Snoop said in a statement.
“It was the perfect marriage. It was holy matrimony, not holy macaroni.”

Meanwhile, LL Cool J hasn’t finished writing his own life story yet. On September 6, the 56-year-old will open a new chapter in his illustrious career with the release of his 14th studio album The FORCE.


#DNC24: President Biden delivers rousing speech as Democrats look to future with Kamala Harris

A rousing, nearly hour-long speech from President Joe Biden capped off the first night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, which saw the party looking forward to its new nominee, Kamala Harris.

After 52 years rising to the pinnacle of influence within his party, Biden, 81, received a hero's welcome for the act of stepping aside for Harris, weeks after many in his party were pressuring him to drop his bid for reelection. One month after an unprecedented mid-campaign switch, the opening night of the convention in Chicago was designed to give a graceful exit to the incumbent president and slingshot Harris toward a faceoff with Republican Donald Trump, whose comeback bid for the White House is viewed by Democrats as an existential threat.

A visibly emotional Biden was greeted by a more than four-minute-long ovation and chants of "Thank you Joe."
"America, I love you," he replied.
Speaking clearly and energetically, Biden appeared to relish the chance to defend his record, advocate for his vice president and go on the attack against Trump. His delivery was more reminiscent of the Biden who won in 2020 than the mumbling and sometimes incoherent one-time candidate whose debate performance against Trump in June sparked the downfall of his reelection campaign.

Biden, in his remarks, repeated his 2020 theme that "we're in a battle for the very soul of America," and pressed the case for why Harris and her running mate Tim Walz were best prepared to wage it.

"Because of you, we've had the most extraordinary four years of progress ever, period," Biden declared. And then he interjected, "I say 'we,' I mean me and Kamala,'" sharing the credit for his most popular successes with the vice president to whom he handed over his political operation.

President Joe Biden will be the keynote spaeker Monday night, but excitement for Kamala Harris is palpable inside the United Center at the start of the first night of the DNC.
Other speakers during DNC primetime Monday include Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, Olympic men's basketball coach Steve Kerr, United Auto Workers Union President Shawn Fain, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.

Harris herself made a surprise appearance on stage. Welcome by massive applause, she thanked Biden and said she was feeling optimistic.
"This is going to be a great week. And I want to kick us off by celebrating our incredible president, Joe Biden who will be speaking later tonight. Joe, thank you for your historic leadership, for your lifetime of service to our nation and for all you will continue to do. We are forever grateful to you," she said.

"And looking out, looking out at everyone tonight, I see the beauty of our great nation. People from every corner of our country and every walk of life are here, united by our shared vision for the future of our country," she continued. "So guided by our love of country, knowing we all have so much more in common than what separates us, let us fight for the ideals we hold dear, and let us always remember when we fight, we win."

The night will be capped by a keynote address from President Joe Biden himself, who stepped aside from the 2024 race a month ago to make way for the Harris-Walz ticket.
Clinton saluted Harris for her chance to break the "highest, hardest glass ceiling." She walked out to an ovation lasting several minutes, and in her speech referenced Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first woman to ever run for president in 1972, and Geraldine Ferraro, the first woman nominated to be vice president in 1984. She also spoke of her own candidacy in 2016, even though she lost to Donald Trump.

"And afterwards, we refused to give up on America. Millions marched. Many ran for office. We kept our eyes on the future. Well, my friends, the future is here. I wish my mother and Kamala's mother could see us. They would say, 'keep going.' Shirley and Gerry would say, 'keep going,'" she said.

"Be proud champions for the truth and for the country that we all love. I want - I want my grandchildren and their grandchildren to know I was here at this moment, that we were here, and that we were with Kamala Harris every step of the way," she said in conclusion. "This is our time, America. This is when we stand up. This is when we break through. The future is here. It's in our grasp. Let's go win it."

Kerr called the audience to action, invoking his team's gold medal performance in Paris.
"Think about what our team achieved with 12 Americans in Paris, putting aside rivalries to represent our country," he said. "ow imagine what we could do with all 330 million of us playing on the same team. Not as - not as Democrats, not as Republicans, not as Libertarians, but as Americans. Who know the greatness of this nation doesn't come from any one of us, but from each of us doing our part to build a more perfect union. That vision is what this campaign is all about."

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr got a standing ovation when he walked on stage, just over a week after he coached the U.S. Olympic men's basketball team won gold.
Fain tailored his message to the working class and union members, highlighting Biden's historic choice to stand with the UAW on the picket line in 2023.

"On one side, we have Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, who have stood shoulder to shoulder with the working class. On the other side, we have Trump and Vance. Two lap dogs for the billionaire class, who only serve themselves. So, for us in the labor movement, it's real simple. Kamala Harris is one of us," he said.

Ocasio-Cortez shored up Harris and Walz' progressive bona fides, and thanked Biden "for his leadership."
"I am here tonight because America has before us a rare and precious opportunity. In Kamala Harris, we have a chance to elect a president who is for the middle class because she is from the middle class," she said. "She understands the urgency of rent checks and groceries and prescriptions. She is as committed to our reproductive and civil rights as she is to taking on corporate greed."

New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez riled up the crowd when she went after Trump while urging voters to make history in electing Harris as president.
The other speakers paid tribute to President Biden, thanking him for his career in public service and his accomplishments as president even as they built excitement for this year's candidate.
"We're going to give him all the flowers. We're going to talk about the fact that he's probably the greatest labor president, the greatest renewal president, we've had, and we're going to continue to support him," said U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois)

Monday's theme is "For the People." Delegates are also set to vote on the 2024 Democratic party platform Monday evening.
"Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have fought tirelessly for the American middle class to reduce costs, and his trusted vice president, Kamala Harris, is the right person to carry forward that fight, and this week is about celebrating what it means to be 'for the people,'" said Sen. Chris Coons (D-Delaware).

"Joe Biden showed this country what real leadership looks like. It's about getting things done for the American people. Results, progress doing the right thing simply because it's the right thing. And now Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have united our party around their vision to lead us into the future," said Cedric Richmond, Harris-Walz campaign co-chair.

Enthusiasm high as Democratic Convention kicks off
Earlier in the day, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker took on the role of lead party cheerleader at the Illinois delegation breakfast Monday morning, but Democrats started their day with enthusiasm to spare.
"Are you ready to elect Kamala Harris, the first woman president of the United States? Barack gave us hope. Kamala is going to move us forward," said Illinois House Speaker Rep. Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-IL 7th District).

Party leaders reveled in the momentum they feel behind the vice president going into the convention and looking down the road to November.
"I think what's important to know is the vice president had three tasks: unite the party, fire up the base, reverse the polls. We sense that has all been checked off. Now we take that enthusiasm and try to expand on it," said U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Chicago).
Governor JB Pritzker and other special guests rallied the Illinois delegation at a breakfast meeting.

Vice Presidential nominee Gov. Tim Walz praised President Joe Biden at the Congressional Black Caucus meeting and expressed excitement about the party's future.
"But that's a man, who all the good decisions he made, one of the first ones he made was he put Kamala Harris at his side to make sure, and then he listened to her and then he passed the torch to her," Walz said.

The proceedings will be co-chaired by Peggy Flanagan, lieutenant governor of Minnesota. Later primetime programming will be hosted by Tony Goldwyn.


Tyler James Williams Wants Solange Knowles To Play His Cousin In ‘Abbott Elementary’
Tyler James Williams shares his choice for a familial casting in Abbott Elementary. Speaking with PEOPLE, the 31-year-old named Solange Knowles as his pick of his on-screen relative. In the series, the actor has earned three Emmy nominations for his portrayal of first-grade teacher Gregory Eddie. 

“I would love to see Solange [Knowles] as a cousin. I feel like we look alike,” Williams detailed to the outlet. “It’s like us and then my dad is Orlando [Jones]. Yeah, I think Solange would be great. Just add a family member.”
He continued to detail why his role is impactful beyond the comedy series.
“The overall goal for me here is to show not only Black male educators in a certain light, but then also Black men in a certain light that are allowed to be emotional and have full emotional spectrums and then also be in love,” detailed Williams.
“It’s one of the most important things I’ve ever done in my career is showing this, especially with the platform that we have.”

The critically acclaimed Abbott Elementary, created by Quinta Brunson, returns with new episodes in a fourth installment in October 2024 as the season three finale aired in May. The third season of the Emmy-winning series reached an average of 2.8 million viewers according to Nielsen.
“I think it’s just remarkable that so many people are so invested in these two dork teachers in Philadelphia,” shared Brunson as a guest of Variety‘s Awards Circuit Podcast. 

“I find it to be really, really endearing that even even peers of mine in the industry have asked me seriously, ‘So, what’s going on with Gregory and Janine next season?’ Just think it’s fantastic that they’re very invested. And that’s something that Randall was really instrumental in creating.”


Lee Daniels Says His Relationship With Jussie Smollett Is ‘Complicated’: ‘I Still Don’t Know What To Believe’

Lee Daniels is opening up about his complicated relationship with Jussie Smollett.
The director and Andra Day stopped by “The Breakfast Club” to promote his new Netflix film, The Deliverance, which premieres on August 30.

Lee Daniels cast Jussie Smollett as “Jamal Lyon” in his hit Fox series, “Empire,” but now says their relationship is “complicated.”
“It’s so complicated, guys. It’s so complicated. Life is so complicated. Life itself is complicated,” Daniels shared.

When asked about Jussie’s alleged hoax, Lee added, “That whole situation was complicated. And I still don’t know what to believe. Honestly. I don’t know what to believe. People say he didn’t do it…he did do it. God bless him on his journey.”
Lee Daniels did say he loves Jussie and would work with him again because he “was a son to me” and “also represented me.”

As previously reported, Jussie Smollett has a new film, The Lost Holliday, which premiered at the American Black Film Festival.


Statue Of Late Civil Rights Icon John Lewis Replaces Confederate Monument In Georgia
A statue of the late Congressman John Lewis, known for stirring up “good trouble” in his quest for racial justice, was installed in his honor on Friday. The statue replaced a contentious confederate monument that stood in front of a Georgia County Courthouse since 1908 before its removal in 2020, reports CBS News.

The stately 12-foot-tall statue of Rep. Lewis was commissioned by internationally acclaimed sculptor Basil Barrington Watson, who was born in Kingston, Jamaica and has lived in Georgia since 2002, according to the NY Times.
As the statue was placed in front of the Dekalb County Courthouse in Decatur, Georgia Watson looked on, sharing with CBS News that it was “exciting to see it going up and exciting for the city because of what he represents and what it’s replacing.”

Rep. Lewis was deeply committed to civil rights long before he became the congressman who served his Georgia district for 17 terms. He was co-founder of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), which grew out of student-led sit-ins that challenged Jim Crow segregation. 

Lewis was also one of the 13 original Freedom Riders, who rode across the South to protest segregation in public transportation—and was met with unbridled violence by angry mobs. At a Greyhound bus station in Montgomery, Lewis was hit in the head with a wooden crate. Recalling the incident in a CNN interview, Lewis said, “It was very violent. I thought I was going to die. I was left lying at the Greyhound bus station in Montgomery unconscious.”
Lewis was also the youngest person to help organize the 1963 March on Washington, and he led marches during the 1965 Selma voting rights campaign. During one march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, Lewis was attacked so viciously by Alabama State Troopers that his skull was fractured—he carried the scars from that incident for the rest of his life. Hundreds of other nonviolent demonstrators were also attacked and the day became known as Bloody Sunday.

Segregation was a time when many states erected Confederate statues as a means of enforcing the idea of white supremacy. The 30-foot stone obelisk, which Rep. Lewis statue replaces, had been installed in 1908 by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, an organization that was responsible for the creation of many Confederate monuments and memorials, reports the NY Times.

Local activists had been calling for the removal of the obelisk for years, including in 2017 after the Charlottesville “Unite the Right” white nationalist rally in which one protester was killed. Back then, officials said they were blocked from removing it by state law.

In 2019, the Dekalb County Board of Commissioners placed a plaque in front of the obelisk to contextualize its racist origins, saying in part that it “bolstered white supremacy and faulty history, suggesting that the cause for the Civil War rested on southern honor and states’ rights rhetoric – instead of its real catalyst – African-American slavery.” The statue was finally removed in 2020. As it was lifted from its base, onlookers chanted, “Just drop it!” CBS News reports.

Now that it’s been installed, the statue of Lewis will be officially unveiled on Saturday, August 24th.


TikToker Jools Lebron's 'Demure' Trend Takes Off On 'Jimmy Kimmel Life'

Transgender TikTok star Jools Lebron's use of the term "demure" has become a viral sensation. Lebron, who coined the term in an August 2 video, made an appearance on Monday night's August 19 episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!".
In the episode, guest host RuPaul asked Lebron what inspired her to upload the clip. To the question, the content creator explained, "Apparently, the trauma that comes from working a retail job gets to you enough that you start saying 'demure' on the internet."

She revealed that she works at a Mariano's grocery store in Illinois, describing it as "very cutesy," and of course, "very demure." She additionally defined "demure" as "a mindset" that involves being "mindful and considerate of the people around you, but also of yourself and how you present to the world." The video, in which she offers tips on how to be "demure" at work, has garnered over 7 million views.

Following her online success, Lebron has been invited to host events and has even landed a speaking engagement at the Democratic National Convention. She announced in a TikTok video that her newfound fame has enabled her to afford the rest of her gender transition.

Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Lindsay Lohan have embraced the "demure" lifestyle, and Netflix actor Penn Badgley showcased his "very demure, very mindful" workout gear. Even the White House has gotten in on the trend, tweeting a photo of President Joe Biden with the caption "Very mindful. Very demure."

Lebron credits social media for helping her find a community where she belongs and is grateful for the opportunity to unite people from different backgrounds. She believes that being "demure" is not about being shy or reserved, but rather about being mindful and respectful towards others.


Mariah Carey Takes Pleasure In Jennifer Lopez's Recent Woes Amid Decades-Old Feud
Mariah Carey, who has a long-standing rivalry with Jennifer Lopez dating back to the 1990s, has reportedly found joy in her rival's recent challenges, including her canceled tour and marital issues. Carey is allegedly taking pleasure in Lopez's current struggles, according to a source for In Touch.
Carey's recent announcement of a concert comeback at Dolby Live in Las Vegas has fueled her excitement, particularly since it coincides with Lopez's tour cancellation.

The source claimed that Carey believes Lopez's setbacks are "karma biting her in the butt." She allegedly views Lopez as arrogant and overrated, stating, "She's not as talented as she thinks."
Carey's glee has reportedly extended to Lopez's marital woes with Ben Affleck. The insider noted that Lopez has heard about Carey's comments secondhand.

This rivalry between Carey and Lopez has simmered for years, dating back to the 1990s when Lopez signed with Carey's ex-husband, Tommy Mottola. Carey's supposed comments about Lopez's vocals and dance skills have fueled the animosity.

In May 1999, Carey responded to questions about their rivalry in Mirabella magazine, stating that she did not consider Lopez to be on the same level as a singer. A source close to Carey recently claimed that she has been "trash talking" Lopez for years.


Four Suspects In Johnny Wactor's Death Formally Charged

Four men have been formally charged in connection with the fatal shooting of "General Hospital" actor Johnny Wactor. The suspects are identified as Robert Barceleau, 18; Leonel Gutierrez, 18; Sergio Estrada, 18; and Frank Olano, 22.
On May 25, Wactor was shot and killed after confronting suspects allegedly attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his vehicle. According to prosecutors, two of the suspects, Barceleau and Estrada, who were associated with the Florencia 13 gang, shot Wactor during the confrontation.

On Monday, August 19, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon announced the charges. Barceleau has been charged with murder with special circumstances during an attempted robbery, as well as additional charges including attempted robbery and grand theft. If convicted, he faces life in prison without parole. Estrada has been charged with murder with the use of a firearm, attempted robbery and grand theft with a firearm.

Gutierrez has been charged with attempted robbery and grand theft with allegations as a principal armed with a firearm. Olano has been charged as an accessory after the fact to murder, receiving stolen property, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

The arrests came after months of investigation, including the execution of over 50 search warrants. Law enforcement officials cited jailhouse conversations in which the suspects implicated themselves in the crime.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon expressed his commitment to justice for Wactor's family and friends. He emphasized that those responsible for violent crimes will be held fully accountable for their actions.

Wactor's family and friends have been vocal in their demands for justice and have called for increased support for law enforcement in Los Angeles. The actor's mother, Scarlett Wactor, urged the city to take action to address violent crime and support victims.
The suspects are scheduled to be arraigned on August 29.


Diddy’s white party accuser files police report in Miami
The DOJ’s case may get strengthened as one of the music impresario’s notorious white party participants filed a police report in Miami Beach, Florida, accusing Sean “Diddy” Combs of sex trafficking her to his high-roller industry buddies.
Detectives in South Beach confirmed to TMZ that they took a report from Adria English, the former porn star who was hired to be a go-go dancer at his parties. However, English claims that her drinks were spiked with ecstasy, and then she was forced to have sexual relations with a multiplicity of attendees.

English, who used to perform for porn movies under the name “Omunique,” told officers that she only took the dancing gig to get her boyfriend a modeling gig. That never materialized because her man allegedly refused Diddy’s supposed requirement that he perform oral sex on him.
This won’t be the last report filed. English’s attorney, Ariel Mitchell, told the entertainment publication that English plans to file a similar police report in New York.

Diddy was named as a defendant in English’s civil lawsuit filed in July 2024, as well as his assistant, Tamiko Thomas, and several others.  She claims in the legal documents that Diddy’s actions resulted in her prolonged emotional distress.


Hip-hop panel featuring only non-Black media canceled after public pressure

The hip-hop panel in New York City featuring no Black media members has been canceled after mass public criticism.
The panel, hosted by Kids Take Over, originally featured Arshan, a Canadian man and the founder of KTO; Gabe P, the founder of “On The Radar”; Annabelle Kline, founder of That Good S—; and Jack and Trent, the co-founders of “Sidetalk.” The panel was scheduled to have a discussion with New York rapper and actor Joey Bada$$.

A post on X from user @LovedByBraylon took a screenshot of the panel’s flyer with the caption, “Hip-Hop media panel with no Black people. Make it make sense.” The post garnered nearly 900,000 views on the platform.
“The word[s] ‘hip-hop media’ hold a lot of weight,” Arshan posted in a social media statement. “It wasn’t something I (a South Asian/non-Black person) should’ve thrown around lightly. If someone Black sees that flyer and doesn’t see a Black person on the bill, aside from Joey Bada$$, I fully see why they’d be offended off the bat. So, I understand everyone and their frustration. No excuses. I should have just dug even deeper and maybe found a smaller Black media company founder.”

Arshan said the panel focused on media founders and entrepreneurs, so that excluded high-profile young Black hip-hop journalists like Speedy Morman and Nadeska Alexis. Morman has his own social media presence outside of his work, with over 400,000 followers on TikTok and over 200,000 followers on Instagram. Nyla Symone looked like another obvious option, not only as a prominent Black journalist and DJ based in New York, but as someone who has a platform with “We Need To Talk.”

Also in his statement, Arshan said he reached out to Plaqueboymax and Kerwin Frost but was unable to get a “yes” from either of them.
Plaqueboymax is a Twitch streamer who is now part of the FaZe Clan. Max is known for hosting song wars, where a group of artists create songs live on stream and present them to a panel of judges. His most recent song wars was his biggest yet, featuring Trippie Redd, DC The Don, LAZER DIM 700, Jace and Summrs. Max is from New Jersey and is currently bi-coastal in the FaZe houses in Miami and Los Angeles.

Frost is a fashion designer based in New York who has done high-profiled sitdown interviews with John Mayer, Mac Demarco, Jerry Lorenzo, Luka Sabbat, Lil Yachty, Jeremy Scott, Hood By Air, A$AP Rocky, SZA, Lil Nas X, Diplo, Post Malone, Chief Keef and Tyler, The Creator.

Arshan said that large New York-based media entrepreneurs like Joe Budden and Akademiks were too inaccessible for him.
“My initial response [to the criticism] was confusion because my intention was never to be malicious,” Arshan’s statement read. “But after speaking to some Black industry friends about it, I got more clarity on people’s frustration.”
Arshan said with the cancellation of the event, he’s going back to the drawing board to return with a more diverse panel.

Kline also provided a public statement.
“We absolutely should be centering Black voices in discussions on hip-hop and I should’ve taken this into consideration when accepting my invitation to be on this panel,” Kline posted on X. “[I’m] currently putting lots of thought into what the best move is from here. I hope y’all know how much I love music, how deeply I respect all of my peers in the hip-hop and music media space, and how important it is to me that I navigate the hip-hop space as mindfully and respectfully as I can.”


‘The Acolyte’ Is Dead: ‘Star Wars’ Series Won’t Return for Season 2
“The Acolyte” will not return for Season 2. Lucasfilm has elected not to continue with the “Star Wars” Disney+ series following its first season, which depicted the rise of the Sith roughly 100 years before the events of “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.”
'The Acolyte' Shot an Ending Where Osha and the Stranger Kiss, but a 'Sensual Moment' Didn't Feel Appropriate and Got Cut: 'It May Have Not Been Too Earned'

The news comes at once as a shock, given how much of the Season 1 finale ended on a cliffhanger and teased several plotlines for a Season 2, and not much of a surprise, given the wildly opposing reception from fans and the less-than-robust viewership that appeared to drop off after the series premiere in June.

Creator Leslye Headland (“Russian Doll”), an avowed “Star Wars” super fan, set out to create the first “Star Wars” story set outside of the core timeline in the franchise that stretches from “The Phantom Menace” to “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” The show followed twins Osha and Mae, both played by Amandla Stenberg, who were separated as children and led to believe the other had been killed. Some critics and fans loved how the show challenged the traditional perception of the Jedi as infallible and wholly virtuous, as embodied by the emotionally self-serving choices made by Jedi Master Sol (Lee Jung-jae), who is responsible for removing Osha from her family and causing her separation from her sister.


Taylor Swift invites families affected by U.K. stabbing to meet her and her mom backstage at Eras Tour

One mother thanked Swift on social media for "making the most magical night possible for us all."
For families affected by the deadly stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance and yoga class in the United Kingdom in July, the singer herself is drawing stars around their scars.

During a recent Eras Tour stop at Wembley Stadium in London, the 14-time Grammy winner invited the families to meet with her and her mother, Andrea, backstage.
One of the moms, Sami Foster, posted a now-viral TikTok video set to a piano rendition of Swift's "Enchanted" featuring photos of Foster and her family posing with the singer and Andrea. "You drew stars around my scars," she wrote, referencing the lyrics to Swift's Folklore track "Cardigan." She added, "The biggest thankyou to @Taylor Swift and her mum for making the most magical night possible for us all."

On July 29, police responded to reports of a stabbing at the Hart Space property in Southport, England, authorities said in a statement at the time. Three girls — ages 6, 7, and 9 — died as a result of the attack, and eight other children and two adults were injured. A 17-year-old male was detained at the scene, and eventually charged with three counts of murder, as well as 10 counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article, according to a news release. Merseyside Police confirmed in a statement shared Aug. 8 that all injured children had been discharged from the hospital.

Swift addressed the tragedy on July 30, sharing a solemn statement to social media.
"The horror of yesterday's attack in Southport is washing over me continuously and I'm just completely in shock," the pop superstar wrote in her Instagram stories. "The loss of life and innocence and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone who was there, the families, and first responders."
She continued, "These were just little kids at a dance class. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families."

Swift herself has not acknowledged the meetings with the families affected by the tragedy, and it is unclear how many have received the backstage treatment so far during her five-night stint at Wembley Stadium. However, it is known that Foster's family is not the only one to have been granted access so far.
Swift is set to wrap up the European leg of the worldwide Eras Tour on Tuesday with her final London show. The singer-songwriter will then take a two-month break before resuming the tour's last leg in North America in October.


50 Cent Fires Back at Hurricane Chris After Louisiana Rapper Calls Him Out on Socials: “Ya Sh*t Is Wack”
Hurricane Chris expressed frustration on social media, claiming the festival lacked Louisiana artists. See, social media again. It’s not always worth it. But yeah, Chris accused 50 Cent of neglecting local talent while spending $500,000 on security. 
Chris said, “You threw a motherf**king concert in Louisiana and didn’t book no Louisiana legends… but you paid the police half a million dollars.”

In response, 50 Cent ate that up and took to the gram to mock Chris using movie clips. In one post, he shared a scene from *Juice* where a character is rejected for a DJ gig, writing, “Hurricane Flex, boy ya sh*t is wack, the fvck you think you @fredobang. Ya sh*t gets no play in my ride. LOL.” He followed with a clip from *Menace II Society*, again referencing Chris’s music: “You know that sh*t gets no play in this ride.” 50 also took a jab at Chris’s career, saying, “oh no you not gonna play that 1 song you got, Bay Bay just went on stage wit Master P. LOL.”

Chris continued his complaints on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing 50 Cent for prioritizing profit over the local community and accusing the city of Shreveport of exploiting 50’s fame for financial gain without benefiting the people.

50 is injecting a lot of money into the local economy. He has a film studio that assuredly employs locals, and his recent comedy show caused ripple effects with local businesses, not to mention shining a positive light on Shreveport. 


Thrilling New Trailer For ‘American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez’ Coming to FX

“American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez” is Ryan Murphy’s new series coming to FX. 
This show is set to be the first season of an anthology series, similar to Murphy’s “American Horror Story” or the one about the OJ Simpson trial starring Cuba Gooding Jr. Ya’ll remember that?

The series just dropped the first trailer. Written by Stu Zicherman and executive produced by Murphy, it promises to delve into the dramatic and tragic life of former NFL star Aaron Hernandez. 
According to the official description, “The first installment of “American Sports Story” is based on the podcast “Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc.” from “The Boston Globe” and Wondery. The limited series charts the rise and fall of NFL superstar Aaron Hernandez and explores the disparate strands of his identity, his family, his career, his suicide, and their legacy in sports and American culture.”

The story will explore much of Hernandez’s complexities, including allegations of affairs with men while engaged to Shayanna Jenkins-Hernandez, who supported him through his conviction for the murder of Odin Lloyd. 

During the trial, Hernandez was also indicted for the 2012 double homicide of Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado, though he was acquitted in 2017. 

Tragically, just days after his acquittal, Hernandez was found dead in his jail cell, an apparent suicide. 
That was just crazy. Get this: the series stars Josh Andres Rivera as Aaron Hernandez, alongside Jaylen Barron, Catfish Jean, Tony Yazbeck, Lindsay Mendez, and Patrick Schwarzenegger. 

Behind the camera, “American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez” is executive produced by Ryan Murphy, Stuart Zicherman, Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, Alexis Martin Woodall, Eric Kovtun, Scott Robertson, and Carl Franklin. 

Check out the trailer HERE American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez | Official Trailer | Josh Rivera, Ryan Murphy | FX


Milwaukee Woman Sentenced to 11 Years After Killing Man Who Sex Trafficked Her as a Teen
Chrystul Kizer, a Milwaukee woman, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for the killing of Randall Volar, a man she claims sex trafficked her as a teenager. The sentencing was handed down on Monday.
Kizer, now 24, was just 17 years old when she shot Volar, 34, in 2018. The case has been widely followed, with Kizer arguing that she should be immune from prosecution under the “affirmative defense” provisions meant to protect sex trafficking victims. Despite this, Kizer accepted a plea deal earlier this year to avoid the possibility of a life sentence.

The deadly incident unfolded in June 2018 when Kizer traveled from Milwaukee to Volar’s home in Kenosha armed with a gun. She shot him twice in the head, set his house on fire, and fled the scene in his car. Prosecutors argued that the killing was premeditated, alleging it was part of a plan to steal Volar’s vehicle. Kizer’s defense team countered that she acted in self-defense.

Volar had a disturbing history of sexual abuse, having filmed his assaults on Kizer for over a year before his death. Kizer recounted meeting Volar when she was 16, at which point he began sexually assaulting her, offering cash and gifts in return. According to Kizer, Volar also made money by trafficking her to other men.

A 2018 investigation by the Washington Post revealed that authorities had gathered significant evidence, including video footage, showing Volar abusing about a dozen underage Black girls, including Kizer. Despite being arrested on sexual assault charges four months before his death, Volar was released the same day.

Kizer’s case became a focal point for discussions around the legal protections for victims of sex trafficking. While some states have implemented laws to shield victims from certain charges like prostitution or theft if those actions were the result of being trafficked, Kizer’s case was groundbreaking in testing whether these protections could extend to homicide.

In 2022, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled in Kizer’s favor, allowing her to present evidence of her abuse at trial. The ruling marked a significant moment in the legal treatment of sex trafficking survivors and garnered widespread support from activists in the #MeToo movement.
Despite the landmark ruling, Kizer chose to accept a plea deal rather than risk a life sentence at trial. In an interview from jail earlier this year, she expressed her desire to move forward, saying, “I get to try to move on.”
Kizer has already served over a year and a half of her sentence and will face five years of extended supervision following her release.


Eggo Waffle-Flavored Coffee Unveiled

Leggo my coffee? Eggo is taking breakfast to the next level with the launch of Eggo Coffee, just in time for National Waffle Day and the back-to-school rush. Teaming up with Two Rivers Coffee Company, Eggo has introduced its first-ever coffee line, inspired by its classic waffle flavors.

The new Eggo Coffee comes in five flavors designed to pair perfectly with Eggo waffles. These include Blueberry, Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Toast, Maple Syrup, and Vanilla. Each flavor is made with 100% Arabica coffee and natural ingredients, making for a delicious start to your morning.

Eggo Coffee is available in coffee pods compatible with Keurig brewers and can be found online at Amazon, Walmart.com, Target.com, and TwoRiversDirect.com. The 12-count packs are priced at $7.99, while 40-count packs are available for $24.99.

To celebrate the launch, Eggo and Two Rivers Coffee are hosting the Eggo Coffee Café in New York City from August 21 to August 25, where fans can try the new coffee and enjoy some Eggo-themed treats. For those not in NYC, there’s also a nationwide giveaway of 20,000 cups of Eggo Coffee and free waffles.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Sadness In Real Life
WHOA is she really sad?


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM 

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