#MAGFAB: Andra Day for Ebony Magazine Sept 2024
Fashion Month is one of the most opulent times of the year, especially for admirers of this art form. In honor of this month, our September 2024 cover star is the breathtaking Andra Day, who graces our cover with such tasteful form.
For Day, fashion is more than the clothes she wears; it’s the manifestation and adornment of her most authentic self. A true multihyphenate, she moves seamlessly between acting and singing, winning awards along the way in both categories. She is currently receiving deserved praise for her powerful performance in Lee Daniels’ “The Deliverance,” which tapped into Day’s real spirituality to play a mom whose home and children are possessed by evil spirits. She is also returning to her singing passion with her new album, “CASSANDRA (cherith).” With EBONY, she discusses how her spirituality has guided her life and how her second album, nine years after her first, is a return to the water for a spiritual rebirth.
From trendsetting designs, beauteous models and captivating looks dominating runways across New York to Milan, we also dive into the joys and challenges facing Black notables in the fashion industry. We invite you to take a peak and align with Your Best Self this month—whether through mediums of fashion, health or self-love.
Andra Day moves as if she’s always belonged on set for her first EBONY cover, striking meaningful poses in stunning pieces from top Black fashion designers. But it’s more than just her talent and poise that has brought her to this moment. For Day, it’s all about divine timing.“I’ve always wanted to be on the cover of EBONY since I was a kid,” she shares in our sit-down interview. She recalls seeing vintage EBONY covers featuring Dorothy Dandridge and Billy Holiday when she was younger. “We saw them as beautiful, and I just wanted to see more of that, how we see each other, not how society sees and how we’ve been painted. It just felt like freedom.”
The Deliverance star spoke with EBONY about stepping into her best self by way of spirituality, music, fashion and more. Get more HERE! September 2024 Digital Cover Experience: The Fashion Issue with Andra Day - EBONY
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#RHOA: What Is Kandi Burruss Doing Now That She’s Left Real Housewives of Atlanta?
It was certainly the end of an era when Kandi Burruss left Real Housewives of Atlanta after 13 years. She was, after all, the show’s longest-serving cast member, appearing in all but one season. While she described her exit as a way of taking a break from the show, Kandi’s multifaceted career outside of RHOA hasn’t slowed down one bit.
While Kandi left RHOA, she still weighs in on the controversies around her old stomping grounds. Staying loyal to Team Twirl, she fiercely defended Kenya Moore. She was also one of many Housewives to take Andy Cohen’s side amidst the lawsuit drama with Leah McSweeney. Unlike some former Housewives, Kandi doesn’t have bad blood with Bravo. In fact, her daughter Riley Burruss is set to appear on the network’s new show Making It In Manhattan.
That being said, don’t expect Kandi to return to RHOA anytime soon. One, because she is clearly so busy, she might not have the time! And two, because she’s devoting that time to exploring some very exciting opportunities. Read on below to catch up with Kandi!
Before she joined RHOA Season 2, Kandi was already a huge force in the music industry, with a Grammy Award (for TLC’s classic “No Scrubs”) to boot. In her years on the show, she continued to rack up songwriting credits, including some major hits for Ariana Grande and Ed Sheeran. So, it was never really a question that she’d continue to thrive beyond Housewives.
Over the summer, Kandi embarked on the Queens of R&B tour with her Xscape bandmates. The tour covered 30 cities throughout the United States. It was during this tour that Kandi said she had no plans to return to Housewives. At least not in the immediate future.
She explained why in an interview with The Morning Hustle. Since RHOA Season 15 was filmed in the summer, she wouldn’t have been able to do the tour if she was still on the show. She added that, throughout Season 14, her cast mates complained because she was always off doing something else. By leaving the show, she was able to truly focus on her many career pursuits.
Kandi is still shooting for the T in that EGOT! Along with her husband Todd Tucker, Kandi continues to produce shows on Broadway. Like several other Housewives, Kandi made her Broadway debut in Chicago. Kandi played the role of Mama Morton on stage back in 2018.
The first show she worked on as a producer was 2021’s Thoughts of a Colored Man, written by Keenan Scott II. In 2023, Kandi was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, for producing August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson. That revival starred Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington. She and Todd also produced the revival of The Wiz, collaborating with Amber Ruffin. Up next, Kandi and Todd are producing a highly anticipated production of Othello, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. In only a few short years, Kandi and Todd have already racked up an incredibly impressive portfolio, with iconic Black stories, and collaborations with the most exciting and renowned Black artists.
While Kandi works on that Tony, she already won a Drama Desk Award. This year, Kandi received the Drama League’s Gratitude Award.
Kandi is the definition of multi-talented! In addition to conquering the world of music, theater, and reality TV, she’s also built a successful acting career in scripted television. In her latest role, Kandi stars alongside Morris Chestnut in Season 2 of the Hulu series Reasonable Doubt. The legal drama stars Emayatzy Corinealdi as Jax Stewart, a Los Angeles defense lawyer.
Back in June, Kandi announced her new role on Good Morning America. She plays Eboni Phillips, a character who she describes as “a recovering addict.” Teasing her recurring role, Kandi continued, “So you get to see a lot of emotions play out throughout the season.” Season 2 premiered on Hulu on August 22nd. New episodes come out every Thursday.
In addition to her new TV gig, Kandi is also a cast member on Showtime’s The Chi. She first joined that series in its third season. Her other recent acting credits include the BET+ original movie Whatever It Takes. This year, she also starred along with Snoop Dogg in the Amazon Prime Video original movie The Underdoggs.
Kandi’s always had several side hustles, and that hasn’t slowed down now that she’s off of RHOA. You’ll often see Kandi advising on success to other aspiring moguls. Her Instagram bio alone is full of just a few of her many endeavors! For instance, it highlights her two Atlanta restaurants, The Old Lady Gang, and Blaze Steak and Seafood. Old Lady Gang, which is Mama Joyce’s award-winning restaurant, recently went through quite a legal journey.
In addition to her restaurants, some of the businesses Kandi’s started include the Tag Boutique, and her makeup line, Kandi Koated Cosmetics. She also has a lifestyle brand, Bedroom Kandi. The award-winning brand is all about empowering couples to explore their sexual pleasure and wellness. In addition to the brand itself, the Bedroom Kandi founder recently announced a podcast, The Business of Pleasure. Kandi will co-host the podcast with Kasha Vanessa Johnson, aka yoursextologistbestie.
Kandi won’t be returning to RHOA, but she still chose to give fans some insights into her day-to-day life with Todd on social media. One of those avenues is a recent series on Kandi’s Facebook page, titled A Scheme That Todd Set Up. Kandi first announced the sketch series in late August, and new episodes are posted on her Facebook page daily.
Despite being off of Real Housewives, and a formative producing team, Kandi and Todd are still occasionally hit with divorce rumors. A few months back, Kandi mentioned that her daughter Riley brought the rumors to her attention. While shutting the speculation down, Todd pointed out how active they are on social media. “I was like, ‘We are with each other every day.’ It’s not like, ‘I haven’t seen him together. His ring isn’t on or something.’”In addition to the new Facebook sketch show, the couple also openly discuss their relationship on YouTube.
After so many years, both parties can tune out the rumors at this point, and instead focus on their many fruitful endeavors. So, in other words, fear not- Kandi and Todd are still one of the hottest Bravo couples.
#NewMusic from Olivia Longott Releases New Album “You Are”
#HipHopNews: Rich Homie Quan’s Estate Shares First Posthumous Single, “Song Cry”
Rich Homie Quan was reported dead on Sept. 5 after an alleged overdose. Fans and former collaborators quickly took to social media to honor the “Type of Way” hitmaker, who made a major mark on the music industry in the early 2010s.
On Tuesday (Sept. 17), Quan’s estate dropped his first posthumous single, “Song Cry.” It coincided with the late musician’s celebration of life ceremony, which was held in College Park, Georgia.
“In the shadow room reminiscing ‘bout Z Money, my ace / You ain't never seen your homie died and look him in the face / Probably be locked up somewhere if I never got away from snakes,” the Rich As In Spirit artist spat. “Cut the grass, keep the lawn mower, gotta watch out for hate / Been in sticky situations, I done saw Drake shoot that drac / I was in Canada soul crying, you know I called up Chase / Tear falling, $100 bill to wipe off my face.”
At the time of reporting, it’s unknown whether “Song Cry” will remain a loose single or appear on a forthcoming project. The rapper’s father, Corey Lamar, revealed to WSB-TV that he has “probably over 2,000 unreleased songs” that they don’t plan on keeping locked up.
“We had just completed a 20- or 25-song project, and we were in the process of scheduling two video shoots off our project,” Lamar said. “Once he gets in a mode to record, those songs become old to him, and when they become old, he wants to focus on the new stuff.”
Sean 'Diddy' Combs to be held without bail in sex trafficking case
A judge has ordered Sean "Diddy" Combs to be held without bail in jail after the music mogul was accused in a federal indictment of threatening and coercing women while engaging in sex trafficking.
Combs appeared in court earlier Tuesday to plead not guilty to the indictment's charges of transportation to engage in prostitution, sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.
His attorneys had submitted a motion to release him on a $50 million bond secured to his and his mother's Miami homes, arguing he wasn't a flight risk or a danger to those in his community.
Federal prosecutors had argued against Combs' release, saying he has a history of attempting to coerce victims into supporting him or not speaking out and has "seemingly limitless resources" to flee. They cited the alleged violence he committed against his victims in urging the court to deny his bail.
After the judge sided with the prosecution, Combs' lawyer Marc Agnifilo said his team would appeal the bail decision in court on Wednesday.
The alleged violent events described in the indictment that accuses Combs of abusing women for years and presiding over an empire of sexual crimes come almost six months after federal agents raided his home as part of the investigation
"For decades, [Combs] abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct," the indictment says.
"To do so, Combs relied on the employees, resources, and influence of the multi-faceted business empire that he led and controlled creating a criminal enterprise whose members and associates engaged in, and attempted to engage in, among other crimes, sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice," the indictment goes on to state.
The charges accuse the rapper of using his Combs Enterprise, including certain employees to "facilitate, and cover up his abuse and commercial sex."
The indictment also says physical abuse by Combs was "recurrent and widely known." There were numerous occasions since at least 2009, and continuing for years, in which Combs attacked women by "striking, punching, dragging, throwing objects at, and kicking them," among other things, the indictment detailed. In some cases, the alleged assaults were witnessed by others.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams held a press conference Tuesday detailing Combs' indictment.
"I want to be clear about two things: First, this office is determined to investigate and prosecute anyone who engages in sex trafficking, no matter how powerful or wealthy or famous you may be. No one should doubt our commitment on that," Williams said. "A year ago, Sean Combs stood in Times Square and was handed a key to New York City. Today, he's been indicted and will face justice in the Southern District of New York. "
"Second, we are not done. This investigation is ongoing and I encourage anyone with information about this case to come forward and to do it quickly," Williams continued. He implored anyone with information to call 1 (877) 4-HSI-TIP.
As the investigation continues, Williams said he is "not taking anything off the table” in terms of additional future charges.
"We are committed to bringing justice to everyone who's been victimized by the defendant," he said.
He did not name the potential number of victims when asked but said the use of the term "multiple" was intentional.
Upon Combs' arrest Monday night, the musician's attorney spoke out, calling him an “innocent man.”
"We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Sean 'Diddy' Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man, and proven philanthropist who has spent the last 30 years building an empire, adoring his children, and working to uplift the Black community. He is an imperfect person, but he is not a criminal," Combs' attorney Marc Agnifilo said in a statement to Scripps News.
"To his credit, Mr. Combs has been nothing but cooperative with this investigation and he voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges. Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts. These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court," his attorney said.
Hospital Requested Detectives And Medical Investigator After Tito Jackson’s Death
New details have surfaced after the death of Tito Jackson.The police department in Gallup, NM has released a statement on the events that occurred hours before his passing. According to investigators, Jackson experienced a medical emergency near the American Heritage Plaza Mall before being transported by ambulance to a medical facility.
“The individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital in Gallup, NM, where he was pronounced dead,” the statement from law enforcement explains. “Following this, the hospital requested the presence of detectives and the Office of the Medical Investigator.
“Investigators are actively interviewing witnesses and examining both physical and electronic records,” the memo added. “The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may evolve as additional evidence is gathered and analyzed.”
Tito, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, died on Sunday (Sept. 15) at the age of 70. His sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ announced his passing in an Instagram post writing “It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
His death was also confirmed by longtime Jackson family friend and former family manager Steve Manning. Although his cause of death is unknown, they believe he suffered a heart attack while traveling from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
Along with his children, Tito Jackson is survived by brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie; sisters Janet, Rebbie, and La Toya; and mother, Katherine.
Colman Domingo joins forces with Steven Spielberg for upcoming film
Exciting news is brewing in Hollywood as acclaimed actor Colman Domingo is reportedly in early discussions to collaborate with legendary director Steven Spielberg on his next project. This untitled film is already generating buzz, boasting a star-studded cast that includes Colin Firth, Emily Blunt and Eve Hewson.
What we know so far
While specific details about the film remain under wraps, it is confirmed that the story is an original creation by Spielberg himself. The screenplay will be penned by David Koepp, a frequent collaborator of Spielberg known for his work on blockbuster hits. The film will be produced by Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment in partnership with Universal Pictures and producer Kristie Macosko Krieger.
Anticipated release date
Fans can mark their calendars for a potential summer blockbuster, as the film is slated for release on May 15, 2026. This timing aligns with the tradition of summer tentpole films, a concept that Spielberg helped pioneer with classics like Jaws and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
David Koepp’s involvement adds to the excitement surrounding the project. He has a rich history of writing for summer blockbusters, including Spider-Man, War of the Worlds and Jurassic Park. His knack for crafting engaging narratives suggests that audiences can expect a thrilling cinematic experience. Additionally, Koepp is known for his work on the cult classic Death Becomes Her, hinting that there may be elements of humor woven into the film.
Colman Domingo’s connection to Spielberg
Although Domingo has not yet worked directly with Spielberg, he starred in the film musical adaptation of The Color Purple, which was produced by Spielberg. This previous collaboration may have influenced Spielberg’s decision to bring Domingo on board for this new project. Domingo’s impressive range as an actor and his ability to convey deep emotion make him a valuable addition to the cast.
Why this collaboration matters
The partnership between Domingo and Spielberg is significant not only for the film industry but also for representation in Hollywood. Domingo, a talented Black actor, continues to break barriers and pave the way for more diverse storytelling in mainstream cinema. His involvement in a Spielberg project highlights the importance of inclusivity in film and the growing recognition of Black talent in leading roles.
Looking ahead
As we await further details about this exciting collaboration, fans of both Domingo and Spielberg have much to look forward to. The combination of Domingo’s dynamic acting skills and Spielberg’s visionary direction promises to deliver a film that captivates audiences and potentially becomes a cultural touchstone.
Domingo joining Spielberg’s upcoming film is a thrilling development that underscores the evolving landscape of Hollywood. With a release date set for May 2026, this project is poised to be one of the summer’s biggest hits, and we can’t wait to see what unfolds.
Kevin Hart’s controversial comments about Delaware State University spark outrage
Kevin Hart, a prominent figure in Hollywood’s comedy scene, recently found himself at the center of controversy following remarks he made about Delaware State University during an appearance on “The Breakfast Club.” While Hart is known for his humor, his comments about college students and HBCUs have drawn significant backlash from students and alumni alike.
The context of the controversy
During a promotional segment for his new limited series, “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” Hart joined hosts Charlamagne tha God, DJ Envy and Loren Lorosa. The conversation veered into a discussion about the pride associated with attending HBCUs, a sentiment shared by his co-hosts, all of whom are proud graduates of such institutions. In contrast, Hart, who did not complete college, made a sweeping statement that many found offensive.
What did Hart say?
Hart’s comments began with a critique of older individuals who he believes are overly attached to their college experiences. He stated, “You know what’s crazy? A lot of old n—-s can’t let college go. A lot of old n—-s that refuse to just accept it’s over.” This remark was met with immediate pushback from his co-host Will Packer, a graduate of Florida A&M University, who pointed out Hart’s lack of connection to the HBCU experience.
Things escalated when Loren Lorosa mentioned her own HBCU background, having attended Delaware State University. Hart’s response was dismissive, stating, “That is not an HBCU. I know where Delaware State is. That’s just a bunch of n—-s on campus.” This comment, in particular, ignited a firestorm of criticism from students and alumni of DSU.
Reactions from the DSU community
As news of Hart’s comments spread, many students and alumni took to social media to express their outrage. Some defended Hart’s right to joke but criticized the insensitivity of his remarks. One user on X noted, “I didn’t find Kevin Hart’s joke on the Breakfast Club inappropriate at all. He got on DSU because of their location. Now with the repping from our standpoint because an HBCU changed us we will always rep it but the outside world can also see it as odd or overboard.”
Others were less forgiving, with comments like, “Kevin Hart calling out Delaware State,” and another user pointing out the irony of Hart’s comments in light of recent violence on campus, stating, “Ya’ll was mad at Kevin Hart calling DSU ‘n—-s on campus’ and y’all over there shooting up dorms … and the staff not caring.” This tweet referenced a recent shooting incident at off-campus apartments, highlighting the serious issues facing the university community.
Delaware State University’s standing
Despite the controversy, it’s important to recognize that Delaware State University is a respected institution, currently ranked 10th on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Top 10 HBCUs. This ranking reflects the university’s commitment to education, community and the empowerment of its students.
Hart’s comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the perceptions of HBCUs and the experiences of their students. While humor is often subjective, it is crucial for public figures to be mindful of the impact their words can have, especially when discussing sensitive topics related to race and education. As the dialogue continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting the cultural significance of HBCUs in the Black community.
Dolly Parton defends Beyoncé in wake of CMA snub
Country music legend Dolly Parton has recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding Beyoncé and her lack of nominations at the Country Music Awards for her album Cowboy Carter. Despite the disappointment expressed by many fans, Parton believes that the decision was not a deliberate snub but rather a reflection of the competitive nature of the country music genre.
The CMA snub explained
During a recent interview with Variety, Parton addressed the issue of Beyoncé being shut out of the CMAs, stating that she does not think the organization failed to recognize Beyoncé’s work out of spite. Instead, she suggested that the CMAs likely aimed to honor artists who have dedicated their lives to the genre. Parton remarked, “There’s so many wonderful country artists that, I guess probably the country music field, they probably thought, well, we can’t really leave out some of the ones that spend their whole life doing that.”
Beyoncé’s acclaimed album
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, released earlier this year, has been a significant success, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album features the hit single “Texas Hold’ Em,” which made history as Beyoncé became the first Black woman to top the country music charts. Despite its commercial success and critical acclaim, the album’s genre-blending nature has sparked discussions about its authenticity within the country music community.
Parton praises Beyoncé’s work
Parton expressed her admiration for Beyoncé’s album, emphasizing that it is a project she can be proud of
Parton further clarified that the lack of nominations should not be interpreted as a personal attack against Beyoncé, but rather as a reflection of the traditional dynamics within the country music industry.
Support from fellow artists
While some fans were disappointed with the CMAs’ decision, Beyoncé’s collaborations with established country artists, including Parton herself, have lent credibility to her claim as a country artist. Parton noted, “I thought that was a great album. She’s a country girl in Texas and Louisiana, so she grew up with that base. It wasn’t like she just appeared out of nowhere.”
This sentiment is echoed by many in the industry who recognize the blending of genres as a natural evolution of music.
A call for inclusivity
The conversation surrounding Beyoncé’s CMA snub highlights the ongoing challenges faced by artists who cross genre boundaries. As music continues to evolve, it is essential for award shows and industry leaders to embrace diversity and inclusivity. Parton’s defense of Beyoncé serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing talent, regardless of genre.
Kevin Liles To Step Down As Chairman & CEO Of 300 Entertainment After A Decade Of Leadership
After a successful decade at the helm, Kevin Liles announced on Tuesday (Sept. 17) that he will be stepping down as chairman and CEO of 300 Entertainment at the end of September.
The news came in an internal memo shared with staff and a post on social media.
Though Liles will depart from his CEO role, he will remain a consultant for the Warner Music Group (WMG)-owned label through the end of the year.
Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl praised Kevin Liles, calling him an “extraordinary brand-builder, artist advocate, and champion of creative expression.”
He also confirmed that the position would not be replaced, and instead, 300’s leadership would be entrusted to co-presidents Rayna Bass and Selim Bouab, alongside Elektra president Gregg Nadel.
Liles, along with Lyor Cohen, Todd Moscowitz, and Roger Gold, launched 300 Entertainment in 2014 as an independent label that quickly gained influence, signing and developing major hip-hop talents like Megan Thee Stallion, Gunna, Migos, Fetty Wap, and Young Thug.
Warner Music Group acquired the label in 2021, later merging it into the 300 Elektra Entertainment Group (3EE) in 2022.
Kevin Liles’ departure follows a wave of leadership changes at WMG, including the exit of Max Lousada, CEO of recorded music, and longtime Atlantic leader Julie Greenwald.
The label also announced that 10K Projects founder Elliot Grainge will take over as CEO of the newly revamped Atlantic Music Group at the end of the month.
In his heartfelt memo to staff, Liles reflected on the cultural impact 300 Entertainment had over the past 10 years, stating, “The cultural impact we created in 10 years when starting from scratch is simply unmatched in the modern era.”
He emphasized the company’s ethos: “mindset of independent, muscle of a major,” which he believes has become a model for the industry.
He went on to express gratitude to the team, acknowledging that the time has come for the next generation of leadership.
“As committed servants of the culture, we know growing and empowering the next generation of leaders is a responsibility, and when the time is right, we pass the torch,” Liles wrote.
He proudly highlighted Rayna Bass and Selim Bouab as two of the most talented young leaders in the music industry, who will now lead 300 into its next chapter of excellence.
Liles also hinted at what’s next for him, revealing that his focus will include continuing his fight to end the criminalization of hip-hop lyrics, specifically the prosecution of Jeffery Williams (Young Thug).
Additionally, he’s dedicating time to supporting Kamala Harris’ potential run for the presidency and working toward Democratic victories in Congress.
With a legacy cemented in music history and a promising future ahead, Liles’ departure marks the end of an era at 300 Entertainment, but he leaves knowing that the label is in capable hands. “This chapter may be closing, but always remember: #jobnotdone.”
Cardi B Responds to Non-Payment Lawsuit: ‘I’ll See You In Court’
Cardi B won’t be backing down in a lawsuit in which the rap star and her estranged husband Offset are accused of using a mansion for the purposes of shooting content, and underpaying for the privilege.
The “Bodak Yellow” rapper turned to her social accounts, where she responded to allegations that the pair had broken an agreement over money, blamed the property’s “greedy owners,” and claimed to have receipts.
“We paid those people $10,000 IN CASH to rent the property for a whole 24 hours that same day 6am to 6am the next morning and we went over by ONE hour which we paid overage fees to the realtor for in March,” she writes on X. “Now they wanna finesse us trying to say we told them it was a TikTok video when that was nowhere in the contract and like they didn’t hear the whole song playing and see how long we was shooting….Why would it take us 24 hours to shoot a TikTok.”
According to an 11-page complaint, the hip-hop heavyweights targeted a distinctive property and “devised a plan” to use it “without paying full market value,” according to Rolling Stone.
The document alleges that reps for Cardi and Offset had booked the property anonymously “under the false pretense” it would be used for a TikTok video.
Now, notes Cardi, the gloves are off. “The problem is people wanna find loopholes and get over but IRON YOUR BEST SUIT BITCH I’ll see you in court!!!!,” she writes.
In a separate tweet, she adds, “And this is not the realtors fault…they been trying for months to settle this. Its them greedy owners wit their ugly ass house.”
The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, and noted that the music video produced during the shoot, “Like What,” had garnered more than 26 million views on YouTube since its release six months ago.
It’s been an eventful time for Cardi and Offset; the artists welcomed their third baby together on Sept. 7. Cardi announced she was pregnant with baby No. 3 in August on the same day Billboard confirmed she’d filed for divorce from the rapper for a second time.
Halle Berry Joins Young Co-Stars Percy Daggs IV & Anthony B. Jenkins at 'Never Let Go' World Premiere
Halle Berry is stepping out for the premiere of her new horror movie!
The 58-year-old Oscar-winning actress posed for photos with her young co-stars Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins at the Never Let Go world premiere on Monday (Sept. 16) held at the Regal Times Square in New York City.
Fellow cast member William Catlett was also in attendance along with director Alexandre Aja.
While Kandi left RHOA, she still weighs in on the controversies around her old stomping grounds. Staying loyal to Team Twirl, she fiercely defended Kenya Moore. She was also one of many Housewives to take Andy Cohen’s side amidst the lawsuit drama with Leah McSweeney. Unlike some former Housewives, Kandi doesn’t have bad blood with Bravo. In fact, her daughter Riley Burruss is set to appear on the network’s new show Making It In Manhattan.
That being said, don’t expect Kandi to return to RHOA anytime soon. One, because she is clearly so busy, she might not have the time! And two, because she’s devoting that time to exploring some very exciting opportunities. Read on below to catch up with Kandi!
Before she joined RHOA Season 2, Kandi was already a huge force in the music industry, with a Grammy Award (for TLC’s classic “No Scrubs”) to boot. In her years on the show, she continued to rack up songwriting credits, including some major hits for Ariana Grande and Ed Sheeran. So, it was never really a question that she’d continue to thrive beyond Housewives.
Over the summer, Kandi embarked on the Queens of R&B tour with her Xscape bandmates. The tour covered 30 cities throughout the United States. It was during this tour that Kandi said she had no plans to return to Housewives. At least not in the immediate future.
She explained why in an interview with The Morning Hustle. Since RHOA Season 15 was filmed in the summer, she wouldn’t have been able to do the tour if she was still on the show. She added that, throughout Season 14, her cast mates complained because she was always off doing something else. By leaving the show, she was able to truly focus on her many career pursuits.
Kandi is still shooting for the T in that EGOT! Along with her husband Todd Tucker, Kandi continues to produce shows on Broadway. Like several other Housewives, Kandi made her Broadway debut in Chicago. Kandi played the role of Mama Morton on stage back in 2018.
The first show she worked on as a producer was 2021’s Thoughts of a Colored Man, written by Keenan Scott II. In 2023, Kandi was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, for producing August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson. That revival starred Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington. She and Todd also produced the revival of The Wiz, collaborating with Amber Ruffin. Up next, Kandi and Todd are producing a highly anticipated production of Othello, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. In only a few short years, Kandi and Todd have already racked up an incredibly impressive portfolio, with iconic Black stories, and collaborations with the most exciting and renowned Black artists.
While Kandi works on that Tony, she already won a Drama Desk Award. This year, Kandi received the Drama League’s Gratitude Award.
Kandi is the definition of multi-talented! In addition to conquering the world of music, theater, and reality TV, she’s also built a successful acting career in scripted television. In her latest role, Kandi stars alongside Morris Chestnut in Season 2 of the Hulu series Reasonable Doubt. The legal drama stars Emayatzy Corinealdi as Jax Stewart, a Los Angeles defense lawyer.
Back in June, Kandi announced her new role on Good Morning America. She plays Eboni Phillips, a character who she describes as “a recovering addict.” Teasing her recurring role, Kandi continued, “So you get to see a lot of emotions play out throughout the season.” Season 2 premiered on Hulu on August 22nd. New episodes come out every Thursday.
In addition to her new TV gig, Kandi is also a cast member on Showtime’s The Chi. She first joined that series in its third season. Her other recent acting credits include the BET+ original movie Whatever It Takes. This year, she also starred along with Snoop Dogg in the Amazon Prime Video original movie The Underdoggs.
Kandi’s always had several side hustles, and that hasn’t slowed down now that she’s off of RHOA. You’ll often see Kandi advising on success to other aspiring moguls. Her Instagram bio alone is full of just a few of her many endeavors! For instance, it highlights her two Atlanta restaurants, The Old Lady Gang, and Blaze Steak and Seafood. Old Lady Gang, which is Mama Joyce’s award-winning restaurant, recently went through quite a legal journey.
In addition to her restaurants, some of the businesses Kandi’s started include the Tag Boutique, and her makeup line, Kandi Koated Cosmetics. She also has a lifestyle brand, Bedroom Kandi. The award-winning brand is all about empowering couples to explore their sexual pleasure and wellness. In addition to the brand itself, the Bedroom Kandi founder recently announced a podcast, The Business of Pleasure. Kandi will co-host the podcast with Kasha Vanessa Johnson, aka yoursextologistbestie.
Kandi won’t be returning to RHOA, but she still chose to give fans some insights into her day-to-day life with Todd on social media. One of those avenues is a recent series on Kandi’s Facebook page, titled A Scheme That Todd Set Up. Kandi first announced the sketch series in late August, and new episodes are posted on her Facebook page daily.
Despite being off of Real Housewives, and a formative producing team, Kandi and Todd are still occasionally hit with divorce rumors. A few months back, Kandi mentioned that her daughter Riley brought the rumors to her attention. While shutting the speculation down, Todd pointed out how active they are on social media. “I was like, ‘We are with each other every day.’ It’s not like, ‘I haven’t seen him together. His ring isn’t on or something.’”In addition to the new Facebook sketch show, the couple also openly discuss their relationship on YouTube.
After so many years, both parties can tune out the rumors at this point, and instead focus on their many fruitful endeavors. So, in other words, fear not- Kandi and Todd are still one of the hottest Bravo couples.
#NewMusic from Olivia Longott Releases New Album “You Are”
Olivia Longott has just released her anticipated new project “You Are”. The album officially released on August 30th, which coincided with the date of her late mother’s birthday.
The album is a heartfelt tribute intertwined with vibrant musical energies. She shares about the album:
“This album is a breath of fresh air. It encapsulates my best work yet; a fusion of elements from my roots in reggae to the infectious rhythms of Afrobeat. I want humans of all ages – may they be children, teens, adults, or seniors – to be able to enjoy my music. Just want them to get up and dance, or, feel like wanting to hug each other and get emotional.”
Olivia credits her collaboration with producers like Tony Kelly, a luminary in the reggae world, for enriching the album with diverse musical textures and emotional depth.
The album’s title track, “You Are”, is a moving homage to her mother. Olivia confides:
“This song is perhaps the most emotional piece I’ve ever recorded. It vividly paints the love and memories I hold dear, making it both cathartic and challenging to perform.”
She hopes that sharing this deeply personal tribute will resonate with listeners who have also experienced loss, offering solace and connection through her music.
The album is a heartfelt tribute intertwined with vibrant musical energies. She shares about the album:
“This album is a breath of fresh air. It encapsulates my best work yet; a fusion of elements from my roots in reggae to the infectious rhythms of Afrobeat. I want humans of all ages – may they be children, teens, adults, or seniors – to be able to enjoy my music. Just want them to get up and dance, or, feel like wanting to hug each other and get emotional.”
Olivia credits her collaboration with producers like Tony Kelly, a luminary in the reggae world, for enriching the album with diverse musical textures and emotional depth.
The album’s title track, “You Are”, is a moving homage to her mother. Olivia confides:
“This song is perhaps the most emotional piece I’ve ever recorded. It vividly paints the love and memories I hold dear, making it both cathartic and challenging to perform.”
She hopes that sharing this deeply personal tribute will resonate with listeners who have also experienced loss, offering solace and connection through her music.
LISTEN HERE:
With the follow up single, “Follow You,” set to debut soon with more to follow, Olivia’s journey in music promises to be both poignant and exhilarating, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
#HipHopNews: Rich Homie Quan’s Estate Shares First Posthumous Single, “Song Cry”
Rich Homie Quan was reported dead on Sept. 5 after an alleged overdose. Fans and former collaborators quickly took to social media to honor the “Type of Way” hitmaker, who made a major mark on the music industry in the early 2010s.
On Tuesday (Sept. 17), Quan’s estate dropped his first posthumous single, “Song Cry.” It coincided with the late musician’s celebration of life ceremony, which was held in College Park, Georgia.
“In the shadow room reminiscing ‘bout Z Money, my ace / You ain't never seen your homie died and look him in the face / Probably be locked up somewhere if I never got away from snakes,” the Rich As In Spirit artist spat. “Cut the grass, keep the lawn mower, gotta watch out for hate / Been in sticky situations, I done saw Drake shoot that drac / I was in Canada soul crying, you know I called up Chase / Tear falling, $100 bill to wipe off my face.”
At the time of reporting, it’s unknown whether “Song Cry” will remain a loose single or appear on a forthcoming project. The rapper’s father, Corey Lamar, revealed to WSB-TV that he has “probably over 2,000 unreleased songs” that they don’t plan on keeping locked up.
“We had just completed a 20- or 25-song project, and we were in the process of scheduling two video shoots off our project,” Lamar said. “Once he gets in a mode to record, those songs become old to him, and when they become old, he wants to focus on the new stuff.”
LISTEN HERE Song CrySong Cry
He added, “He has a catalog in the vault. He has a ton of music that the fans need to hear.”
Sean 'Diddy' Combs to be held without bail in sex trafficking case
Combs appeared in court earlier Tuesday to plead not guilty to the indictment's charges of transportation to engage in prostitution, sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.
His attorneys had submitted a motion to release him on a $50 million bond secured to his and his mother's Miami homes, arguing he wasn't a flight risk or a danger to those in his community.
Federal prosecutors had argued against Combs' release, saying he has a history of attempting to coerce victims into supporting him or not speaking out and has "seemingly limitless resources" to flee. They cited the alleged violence he committed against his victims in urging the court to deny his bail.
After the judge sided with the prosecution, Combs' lawyer Marc Agnifilo said his team would appeal the bail decision in court on Wednesday.
The alleged violent events described in the indictment that accuses Combs of abusing women for years and presiding over an empire of sexual crimes come almost six months after federal agents raided his home as part of the investigation
"For decades, [Combs] abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct," the indictment says.
"To do so, Combs relied on the employees, resources, and influence of the multi-faceted business empire that he led and controlled creating a criminal enterprise whose members and associates engaged in, and attempted to engage in, among other crimes, sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice," the indictment goes on to state.
The charges accuse the rapper of using his Combs Enterprise, including certain employees to "facilitate, and cover up his abuse and commercial sex."
The indictment also says physical abuse by Combs was "recurrent and widely known." There were numerous occasions since at least 2009, and continuing for years, in which Combs attacked women by "striking, punching, dragging, throwing objects at, and kicking them," among other things, the indictment detailed. In some cases, the alleged assaults were witnessed by others.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams held a press conference Tuesday detailing Combs' indictment.
"I want to be clear about two things: First, this office is determined to investigate and prosecute anyone who engages in sex trafficking, no matter how powerful or wealthy or famous you may be. No one should doubt our commitment on that," Williams said. "A year ago, Sean Combs stood in Times Square and was handed a key to New York City. Today, he's been indicted and will face justice in the Southern District of New York. "
"Second, we are not done. This investigation is ongoing and I encourage anyone with information about this case to come forward and to do it quickly," Williams continued. He implored anyone with information to call 1 (877) 4-HSI-TIP.
As the investigation continues, Williams said he is "not taking anything off the table” in terms of additional future charges.
"We are committed to bringing justice to everyone who's been victimized by the defendant," he said.
He did not name the potential number of victims when asked but said the use of the term "multiple" was intentional.
Upon Combs' arrest Monday night, the musician's attorney spoke out, calling him an “innocent man.”
"We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Sean 'Diddy' Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man, and proven philanthropist who has spent the last 30 years building an empire, adoring his children, and working to uplift the Black community. He is an imperfect person, but he is not a criminal," Combs' attorney Marc Agnifilo said in a statement to Scripps News.
"To his credit, Mr. Combs has been nothing but cooperative with this investigation and he voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges. Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts. These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court," his attorney said.
Hospital Requested Detectives And Medical Investigator After Tito Jackson’s Death
“The individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital in Gallup, NM, where he was pronounced dead,” the statement from law enforcement explains. “Following this, the hospital requested the presence of detectives and the Office of the Medical Investigator.
“Investigators are actively interviewing witnesses and examining both physical and electronic records,” the memo added. “The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may evolve as additional evidence is gathered and analyzed.”
Tito, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, died on Sunday (Sept. 15) at the age of 70. His sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ announced his passing in an Instagram post writing “It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
His death was also confirmed by longtime Jackson family friend and former family manager Steve Manning. Although his cause of death is unknown, they believe he suffered a heart attack while traveling from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
Along with his children, Tito Jackson is survived by brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie; sisters Janet, Rebbie, and La Toya; and mother, Katherine.
Colman Domingo joins forces with Steven Spielberg for upcoming film
Exciting news is brewing in Hollywood as acclaimed actor Colman Domingo is reportedly in early discussions to collaborate with legendary director Steven Spielberg on his next project. This untitled film is already generating buzz, boasting a star-studded cast that includes Colin Firth, Emily Blunt and Eve Hewson.
What we know so far
While specific details about the film remain under wraps, it is confirmed that the story is an original creation by Spielberg himself. The screenplay will be penned by David Koepp, a frequent collaborator of Spielberg known for his work on blockbuster hits. The film will be produced by Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment in partnership with Universal Pictures and producer Kristie Macosko Krieger.
Anticipated release date
Fans can mark their calendars for a potential summer blockbuster, as the film is slated for release on May 15, 2026. This timing aligns with the tradition of summer tentpole films, a concept that Spielberg helped pioneer with classics like Jaws and Raiders of the Lost Ark.
David Koepp’s involvement adds to the excitement surrounding the project. He has a rich history of writing for summer blockbusters, including Spider-Man, War of the Worlds and Jurassic Park. His knack for crafting engaging narratives suggests that audiences can expect a thrilling cinematic experience. Additionally, Koepp is known for his work on the cult classic Death Becomes Her, hinting that there may be elements of humor woven into the film.
Colman Domingo’s connection to Spielberg
Although Domingo has not yet worked directly with Spielberg, he starred in the film musical adaptation of The Color Purple, which was produced by Spielberg. This previous collaboration may have influenced Spielberg’s decision to bring Domingo on board for this new project. Domingo’s impressive range as an actor and his ability to convey deep emotion make him a valuable addition to the cast.
Why this collaboration matters
The partnership between Domingo and Spielberg is significant not only for the film industry but also for representation in Hollywood. Domingo, a talented Black actor, continues to break barriers and pave the way for more diverse storytelling in mainstream cinema. His involvement in a Spielberg project highlights the importance of inclusivity in film and the growing recognition of Black talent in leading roles.
Looking ahead
As we await further details about this exciting collaboration, fans of both Domingo and Spielberg have much to look forward to. The combination of Domingo’s dynamic acting skills and Spielberg’s visionary direction promises to deliver a film that captivates audiences and potentially becomes a cultural touchstone.
Domingo joining Spielberg’s upcoming film is a thrilling development that underscores the evolving landscape of Hollywood. With a release date set for May 2026, this project is poised to be one of the summer’s biggest hits, and we can’t wait to see what unfolds.
Kevin Hart’s controversial comments about Delaware State University spark outrage
Kevin Hart, a prominent figure in Hollywood’s comedy scene, recently found himself at the center of controversy following remarks he made about Delaware State University during an appearance on “The Breakfast Club.” While Hart is known for his humor, his comments about college students and HBCUs have drawn significant backlash from students and alumni alike.
The context of the controversy
During a promotional segment for his new limited series, “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” Hart joined hosts Charlamagne tha God, DJ Envy and Loren Lorosa. The conversation veered into a discussion about the pride associated with attending HBCUs, a sentiment shared by his co-hosts, all of whom are proud graduates of such institutions. In contrast, Hart, who did not complete college, made a sweeping statement that many found offensive.
What did Hart say?
Hart’s comments began with a critique of older individuals who he believes are overly attached to their college experiences. He stated, “You know what’s crazy? A lot of old n—-s can’t let college go. A lot of old n—-s that refuse to just accept it’s over.” This remark was met with immediate pushback from his co-host Will Packer, a graduate of Florida A&M University, who pointed out Hart’s lack of connection to the HBCU experience.
Things escalated when Loren Lorosa mentioned her own HBCU background, having attended Delaware State University. Hart’s response was dismissive, stating, “That is not an HBCU. I know where Delaware State is. That’s just a bunch of n—-s on campus.” This comment, in particular, ignited a firestorm of criticism from students and alumni of DSU.
Reactions from the DSU community
As news of Hart’s comments spread, many students and alumni took to social media to express their outrage. Some defended Hart’s right to joke but criticized the insensitivity of his remarks. One user on X noted, “I didn’t find Kevin Hart’s joke on the Breakfast Club inappropriate at all. He got on DSU because of their location. Now with the repping from our standpoint because an HBCU changed us we will always rep it but the outside world can also see it as odd or overboard.”
Others were less forgiving, with comments like, “Kevin Hart calling out Delaware State,” and another user pointing out the irony of Hart’s comments in light of recent violence on campus, stating, “Ya’ll was mad at Kevin Hart calling DSU ‘n—-s on campus’ and y’all over there shooting up dorms … and the staff not caring.” This tweet referenced a recent shooting incident at off-campus apartments, highlighting the serious issues facing the university community.
Delaware State University’s standing
Despite the controversy, it’s important to recognize that Delaware State University is a respected institution, currently ranked 10th on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Top 10 HBCUs. This ranking reflects the university’s commitment to education, community and the empowerment of its students.
Hart’s comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the perceptions of HBCUs and the experiences of their students. While humor is often subjective, it is crucial for public figures to be mindful of the impact their words can have, especially when discussing sensitive topics related to race and education. As the dialogue continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting the cultural significance of HBCUs in the Black community.
Dolly Parton defends Beyoncé in wake of CMA snub
The CMA snub explained
During a recent interview with Variety, Parton addressed the issue of Beyoncé being shut out of the CMAs, stating that she does not think the organization failed to recognize Beyoncé’s work out of spite. Instead, she suggested that the CMAs likely aimed to honor artists who have dedicated their lives to the genre. Parton remarked, “There’s so many wonderful country artists that, I guess probably the country music field, they probably thought, well, we can’t really leave out some of the ones that spend their whole life doing that.”
Beyoncé’s acclaimed album
Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, released earlier this year, has been a significant success, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album features the hit single “Texas Hold’ Em,” which made history as Beyoncé became the first Black woman to top the country music charts. Despite its commercial success and critical acclaim, the album’s genre-blending nature has sparked discussions about its authenticity within the country music community.
Parton praises Beyoncé’s work
Parton expressed her admiration for Beyoncé’s album, emphasizing that it is a project she can be proud of
Parton further clarified that the lack of nominations should not be interpreted as a personal attack against Beyoncé, but rather as a reflection of the traditional dynamics within the country music industry.
Support from fellow artists
While some fans were disappointed with the CMAs’ decision, Beyoncé’s collaborations with established country artists, including Parton herself, have lent credibility to her claim as a country artist. Parton noted, “I thought that was a great album. She’s a country girl in Texas and Louisiana, so she grew up with that base. It wasn’t like she just appeared out of nowhere.”
This sentiment is echoed by many in the industry who recognize the blending of genres as a natural evolution of music.
A call for inclusivity
The conversation surrounding Beyoncé’s CMA snub highlights the ongoing challenges faced by artists who cross genre boundaries. As music continues to evolve, it is essential for award shows and industry leaders to embrace diversity and inclusivity. Parton’s defense of Beyoncé serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing talent, regardless of genre.
Kevin Liles To Step Down As Chairman & CEO Of 300 Entertainment After A Decade Of Leadership
After a successful decade at the helm, Kevin Liles announced on Tuesday (Sept. 17) that he will be stepping down as chairman and CEO of 300 Entertainment at the end of September.
The news came in an internal memo shared with staff and a post on social media.
Though Liles will depart from his CEO role, he will remain a consultant for the Warner Music Group (WMG)-owned label through the end of the year.
Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl praised Kevin Liles, calling him an “extraordinary brand-builder, artist advocate, and champion of creative expression.”
He also confirmed that the position would not be replaced, and instead, 300’s leadership would be entrusted to co-presidents Rayna Bass and Selim Bouab, alongside Elektra president Gregg Nadel.
Liles, along with Lyor Cohen, Todd Moscowitz, and Roger Gold, launched 300 Entertainment in 2014 as an independent label that quickly gained influence, signing and developing major hip-hop talents like Megan Thee Stallion, Gunna, Migos, Fetty Wap, and Young Thug.
Warner Music Group acquired the label in 2021, later merging it into the 300 Elektra Entertainment Group (3EE) in 2022.
Kevin Liles’ departure follows a wave of leadership changes at WMG, including the exit of Max Lousada, CEO of recorded music, and longtime Atlantic leader Julie Greenwald.
The label also announced that 10K Projects founder Elliot Grainge will take over as CEO of the newly revamped Atlantic Music Group at the end of the month.
In his heartfelt memo to staff, Liles reflected on the cultural impact 300 Entertainment had over the past 10 years, stating, “The cultural impact we created in 10 years when starting from scratch is simply unmatched in the modern era.”
He emphasized the company’s ethos: “mindset of independent, muscle of a major,” which he believes has become a model for the industry.
He went on to express gratitude to the team, acknowledging that the time has come for the next generation of leadership.
“As committed servants of the culture, we know growing and empowering the next generation of leaders is a responsibility, and when the time is right, we pass the torch,” Liles wrote.
He proudly highlighted Rayna Bass and Selim Bouab as two of the most talented young leaders in the music industry, who will now lead 300 into its next chapter of excellence.
Liles also hinted at what’s next for him, revealing that his focus will include continuing his fight to end the criminalization of hip-hop lyrics, specifically the prosecution of Jeffery Williams (Young Thug).
Additionally, he’s dedicating time to supporting Kamala Harris’ potential run for the presidency and working toward Democratic victories in Congress.
With a legacy cemented in music history and a promising future ahead, Liles’ departure marks the end of an era at 300 Entertainment, but he leaves knowing that the label is in capable hands. “This chapter may be closing, but always remember: #jobnotdone.”
Cardi B Responds to Non-Payment Lawsuit: ‘I’ll See You In Court’
Cardi B won’t be backing down in a lawsuit in which the rap star and her estranged husband Offset are accused of using a mansion for the purposes of shooting content, and underpaying for the privilege.
The “Bodak Yellow” rapper turned to her social accounts, where she responded to allegations that the pair had broken an agreement over money, blamed the property’s “greedy owners,” and claimed to have receipts.
“We paid those people $10,000 IN CASH to rent the property for a whole 24 hours that same day 6am to 6am the next morning and we went over by ONE hour which we paid overage fees to the realtor for in March,” she writes on X. “Now they wanna finesse us trying to say we told them it was a TikTok video when that was nowhere in the contract and like they didn’t hear the whole song playing and see how long we was shooting….Why would it take us 24 hours to shoot a TikTok.”
According to an 11-page complaint, the hip-hop heavyweights targeted a distinctive property and “devised a plan” to use it “without paying full market value,” according to Rolling Stone.
The document alleges that reps for Cardi and Offset had booked the property anonymously “under the false pretense” it would be used for a TikTok video.
Now, notes Cardi, the gloves are off. “The problem is people wanna find loopholes and get over but IRON YOUR BEST SUIT BITCH I’ll see you in court!!!!,” she writes.
In a separate tweet, she adds, “And this is not the realtors fault…they been trying for months to settle this. Its them greedy owners wit their ugly ass house.”
The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, and noted that the music video produced during the shoot, “Like What,” had garnered more than 26 million views on YouTube since its release six months ago.
It’s been an eventful time for Cardi and Offset; the artists welcomed their third baby together on Sept. 7. Cardi announced she was pregnant with baby No. 3 in August on the same day Billboard confirmed she’d filed for divorce from the rapper for a second time.
Halle Berry Joins Young Co-Stars Percy Daggs IV & Anthony B. Jenkins at 'Never Let Go' World Premiere
The 58-year-old Oscar-winning actress posed for photos with her young co-stars Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins at the Never Let Go world premiere on Monday (Sept. 16) held at the Regal Times Square in New York City.
Fellow cast member William Catlett was also in attendance along with director Alexandre Aja.
Here’s the movie’s synopsis: “In this new psychological thriller/horror, as an Evil takes over the world beyond their front doorstep, the only protection for a mother, played by Academy Award winner Halle Berry, and her twin sons is their house and their family’s protective bond. Needing to stay connected at all times – even tethering themselves with ropes – they cling to one another, urging each other to never let go. But when one of the boys questions if the evil is real, the ties that bind them together are severed, triggering a terrifying fight for survival.”
Pharrell Williams Says He 'Gets Annoyed' by Politics: 'I Like People Trying to Help People'
Pharrell Williams is making it known that he doesn't want his name associated with any political party.
During a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the artist and Men's Creative Director at Louis Vuitton revealed that he "gets annoyed" by the political playing field today.
Williams, 51, touted himself to the publication as “much more of a federal employee. I believe in merited civil service.“
"I’m more of a humanitarian," he added. "I like people trying to help people. Not sure I’ll ever vote far right. I won’t do that.
Though Williams made it clear in that chat: "I don’t do politics," he further doubled down on his disdain of celebrity involvement in politics by stating: "In fact, I get annoyed sometimes when I see celebrities trying to tell you [who to vote for]. There are celebrities that I respect that have an opinion, but not all of them.”
The artist did not elaborate on whose opinions he felt as though are valid.
“I’m one of them people [who says], ‘What the heck? Shut up. Nobody asked you,' " he said of his stance towards political leanings being shared publicly by celebrities. "When people get out there and get self-righteous and they roll up their sleeves and s---, and they are out there walking around with a placard: ‘Shut up!’ So, no, I would rather stay out of the way, and obviously, I’m going to vote how I’m going to vote. I care about my people and I care about the country, but I feel there’s a lot of work that needs to be done, and I’m really about the action.”
Williams' comments about celebrities making political stances comes on the heels of Taylor Swiftpublicly endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2025 presidential election.
Swift, 34, wrote alongside an Instagram post directly after Harris' debate with Former President Donald Trump on Sept. 10, "If you haven’t already, now is a great time to do your research on the issues at hand and the stances these candidates take on the topics that matter to you the most. As a voter, I make sure to watch and read everything I can about their proposed policies and plans for this country."
"I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election," she continued at the time. "I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos. I was so heartened and impressed by her selection of running mate @timwalz, who has been standing up for LGBTQ+ rights, IVF, and a woman’s right to her own body for decades."
Pharrell Williams Says He 'Gets Annoyed' by Politics: 'I Like People Trying to Help People'
During a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the artist and Men's Creative Director at Louis Vuitton revealed that he "gets annoyed" by the political playing field today.
Williams, 51, touted himself to the publication as “much more of a federal employee. I believe in merited civil service.“
"I’m more of a humanitarian," he added. "I like people trying to help people. Not sure I’ll ever vote far right. I won’t do that.
Though Williams made it clear in that chat: "I don’t do politics," he further doubled down on his disdain of celebrity involvement in politics by stating: "In fact, I get annoyed sometimes when I see celebrities trying to tell you [who to vote for]. There are celebrities that I respect that have an opinion, but not all of them.”
The artist did not elaborate on whose opinions he felt as though are valid.
“I’m one of them people [who says], ‘What the heck? Shut up. Nobody asked you,' " he said of his stance towards political leanings being shared publicly by celebrities. "When people get out there and get self-righteous and they roll up their sleeves and s---, and they are out there walking around with a placard: ‘Shut up!’ So, no, I would rather stay out of the way, and obviously, I’m going to vote how I’m going to vote. I care about my people and I care about the country, but I feel there’s a lot of work that needs to be done, and I’m really about the action.”
Williams' comments about celebrities making political stances comes on the heels of Taylor Swiftpublicly endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2025 presidential election.
Swift, 34, wrote alongside an Instagram post directly after Harris' debate with Former President Donald Trump on Sept. 10, "If you haven’t already, now is a great time to do your research on the issues at hand and the stances these candidates take on the topics that matter to you the most. As a voter, I make sure to watch and read everything I can about their proposed policies and plans for this country."
"I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election," she continued at the time. "I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos. I was so heartened and impressed by her selection of running mate @timwalz, who has been standing up for LGBTQ+ rights, IVF, and a woman’s right to her own body for decades."
Wendy Williams’ Conservator: She Only Earned $82K from Docuseries While Producers Reap MILLIONS – Lawsuit Filed
*Wendy Williams’ conservator, Sabrina E. Morrissey, has filed a lawsuit against A&E Networks, Lifetime, and the creators of the controversial docuseries “Where Is Wendy Williams?”
The complaint arises from allegations that the beloved host, who has faced serious health challenges, was grossly under-compensated for her story while the involved parties purportedly profited immensely.
According to court documents obtained by Page Six, the financial disparities are striking: Williams, now 60, has received only $82,000 for her participation in the docuseries, while the production entities are believed to have earned millions from its release. The docuseries, which aired in February, maps out Williams’ struggles with declining health, including her well-documented battles with alcohol, leading to her recent court-ordered guardianship.
Morrissey’s complaint asserts that Williams was subjected to “highly invasive, humiliating footage” portraying her during an emotionally distressing period of her life. It highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the exploitation of her vulnerability, especially given the serious health issues she faced, including a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia.
The complaint further states that, during filming, Williams expressed her financial fears, breaking down on camera while claiming, “I have no money.”
Her guardians contend that her precarious mental state at the time prevented her from giving informed consent to be filmed or from safeguarding her image.
“Defendants not only deliberately destroyed her credibility and image, but they did so when she was incapacitated and unable to consent or avoid being filmed,” the lawsuit alleges. The document asserts that the defendants have been “unjustly enriched” at the expense of Williams’ dignity and well-being.
Morrissey’s legal team emphasizes that the financial gain accrued from the docuseries should be reallocated to Williams, who will require substantial funds for ongoing medical care and supervision throughout her life. To bolster their case, Williams has enlisted high-profile civil rights attorney Roberta Kaplan and her partner Tim Martin, known for their work representing E. Jean Carroll in her case against former President Donald Trump.
As this legal battle unfolds, Williams’ team is calling attention to the ethical implications of profiting from a public figure’s personal struggles, particularly when that individual is in a fragile state of health. By highlighting the harsh realities of Williams’ situation and the immense profits made off the narrative of her challenges, the conservator hopes to secure justice not only for Williams but also to send a broader message about the treatment of vulnerable individuals in the public eye.
As of now, representatives for A&E Networks, Lifetime, and the production team have not publicly responded to the allegations. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the future of docuseries that delve into the personal lives of celebrities, particularly when it involves their health and well-being. The question remains whether those who utilize such narratives for profit will be held accountable for the potential exploitation of individuals like Williams.
*Wendy Williams’ conservator, Sabrina E. Morrissey, has filed a lawsuit against A&E Networks, Lifetime, and the creators of the controversial docuseries “Where Is Wendy Williams?”
The complaint arises from allegations that the beloved host, who has faced serious health challenges, was grossly under-compensated for her story while the involved parties purportedly profited immensely.
According to court documents obtained by Page Six, the financial disparities are striking: Williams, now 60, has received only $82,000 for her participation in the docuseries, while the production entities are believed to have earned millions from its release. The docuseries, which aired in February, maps out Williams’ struggles with declining health, including her well-documented battles with alcohol, leading to her recent court-ordered guardianship.
Morrissey’s complaint asserts that Williams was subjected to “highly invasive, humiliating footage” portraying her during an emotionally distressing period of her life. It highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the exploitation of her vulnerability, especially given the serious health issues she faced, including a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia.
The complaint further states that, during filming, Williams expressed her financial fears, breaking down on camera while claiming, “I have no money.”
Her guardians contend that her precarious mental state at the time prevented her from giving informed consent to be filmed or from safeguarding her image.
“Defendants not only deliberately destroyed her credibility and image, but they did so when she was incapacitated and unable to consent or avoid being filmed,” the lawsuit alleges. The document asserts that the defendants have been “unjustly enriched” at the expense of Williams’ dignity and well-being.
Morrissey’s legal team emphasizes that the financial gain accrued from the docuseries should be reallocated to Williams, who will require substantial funds for ongoing medical care and supervision throughout her life. To bolster their case, Williams has enlisted high-profile civil rights attorney Roberta Kaplan and her partner Tim Martin, known for their work representing E. Jean Carroll in her case against former President Donald Trump.
As this legal battle unfolds, Williams’ team is calling attention to the ethical implications of profiting from a public figure’s personal struggles, particularly when that individual is in a fragile state of health. By highlighting the harsh realities of Williams’ situation and the immense profits made off the narrative of her challenges, the conservator hopes to secure justice not only for Williams but also to send a broader message about the treatment of vulnerable individuals in the public eye.
As of now, representatives for A&E Networks, Lifetime, and the production team have not publicly responded to the allegations. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the future of docuseries that delve into the personal lives of celebrities, particularly when it involves their health and well-being. The question remains whether those who utilize such narratives for profit will be held accountable for the potential exploitation of individuals like Williams.
Billie Eilish and FINNEAS Endorse Kamala Harris: “We Can’t Let Extremists Control Our Lives”
The post Billie Eilish and FINNEAS Endorse Kamala Harris: “We Can’t Let Extremists Control Our Lives” appeared first on Consequence.
Billie Eilish and her brother/frequent collaborator FINNEAS have officially endorsed Kamala Harris for president over Donald Trump. In a joint video posted on Instagram for National Voter Registration Day, they encouraged fans to get out the vote early while making a case for the Harris-Walz ticket.
“We are voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz because they are fighting to protect our reproductive freedom, our planet, and our democracy,” Eilish said. FINNEAS continued, “We can’t let extremists control our lives, our freedoms, and our future. The only way to stop them and the dangerous Project 2025 agenda is to vote and elect Kamala Harris.”
Eilish concluded, “Vote like your life depends on it, because it does,” Check if you’re registered to vote and request to vote by mail here.
This is the latest celebrity endorsement of Harris in the music world after Taylor Swift’s debate night announcement caused a 400% to 500% increase in voter registration. Linda Ronstadt also expressed her support last week.
Eilish is currently on her “Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour” (get tickets here). Meanwhile, FINNEAS is gearing up to release his sophomore album, For Cryin’ Out Loud!, and will be supporting it with record release shows in Los Angeles, London, and New York next month
Billie Eilish and her brother/frequent collaborator FINNEAS have officially endorsed Kamala Harris for president over Donald Trump. In a joint video posted on Instagram for National Voter Registration Day, they encouraged fans to get out the vote early while making a case for the Harris-Walz ticket.
“We are voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz because they are fighting to protect our reproductive freedom, our planet, and our democracy,” Eilish said. FINNEAS continued, “We can’t let extremists control our lives, our freedoms, and our future. The only way to stop them and the dangerous Project 2025 agenda is to vote and elect Kamala Harris.”
Eilish concluded, “Vote like your life depends on it, because it does,” Check if you’re registered to vote and request to vote by mail here.
This is the latest celebrity endorsement of Harris in the music world after Taylor Swift’s debate night announcement caused a 400% to 500% increase in voter registration. Linda Ronstadt also expressed her support last week.
Eilish is currently on her “Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour” (get tickets here). Meanwhile, FINNEAS is gearing up to release his sophomore album, For Cryin’ Out Loud!, and will be supporting it with record release shows in Los Angeles, London, and New York next month
Mariah Carey’s Lifestyle Leads to Financial Strain and $18 Million Mortgage Debt!
*Mariah Carey’s luxurious lifestyle is allegedly straining her finances, despite her reported $350 million net worth.
According to the New York Post, the singer has accumulated $18.6 million in mortgages on her Tribeca penthouse, most of which came from loans. Carey reportedly spends $1 million a month on designer clothes, lavish gifts, and costly services like $45,000 spa treatments for her dogs and $10,000 hair and makeup sessions.
In 2016, she refinanced her mortgage to pocket $9.6 million, and her spending habits have reportedly been a factor in her split from billionaire James Packer, Daily Mail reports. Recently, Carey sold her Atlanta mansion at a significant loss.
The New York Post writes, “In 2009, she borrowed $8 million from JPMorgan Chase Bank, followed by a $2.6 million loan from City National Bank — known as the “Bank to the Stars” — in 2015.”
“She generates more of her music royalties, endorsements and appearance fees during the holidays,” Doug Perry, a financing advisor, told the Daily Mail. “If I was underwriting her as a borrower, I would average her income over a multi-year period.”
Carey is currently preparing for her upcoming Christmas tour, which begins on November 6 in California. She will launch her Las Vegas residency in January, with ticket prices reaching up to $2,700.
The superstar, who hasn’t released a new album since 2018, recently lost her mother and estranged sister on the same day last month.
“My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother,” Carey shared in a post on social media on August 27. “Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day.”
Carey later shared an update about the “challenging weeks” she’s faced following the sudden passing of her mother, Patricia Carey, and her sister, Alison Carey, in August. In an Instagram post, the superstar wrote, “Back at work,” she captioned a video of herself rehearsing her 2005 hit “It’s Like That.”
“It’s been a couple of rough weeks, but I appreciate everyone’s love and support so much and I can’t wait to see my fans in China & Brazil. Love you!” Carey added.
*Mariah Carey’s luxurious lifestyle is allegedly straining her finances, despite her reported $350 million net worth.
According to the New York Post, the singer has accumulated $18.6 million in mortgages on her Tribeca penthouse, most of which came from loans. Carey reportedly spends $1 million a month on designer clothes, lavish gifts, and costly services like $45,000 spa treatments for her dogs and $10,000 hair and makeup sessions.
In 2016, she refinanced her mortgage to pocket $9.6 million, and her spending habits have reportedly been a factor in her split from billionaire James Packer, Daily Mail reports. Recently, Carey sold her Atlanta mansion at a significant loss.
The New York Post writes, “In 2009, she borrowed $8 million from JPMorgan Chase Bank, followed by a $2.6 million loan from City National Bank — known as the “Bank to the Stars” — in 2015.”
“She generates more of her music royalties, endorsements and appearance fees during the holidays,” Doug Perry, a financing advisor, told the Daily Mail. “If I was underwriting her as a borrower, I would average her income over a multi-year period.”
Carey is currently preparing for her upcoming Christmas tour, which begins on November 6 in California. She will launch her Las Vegas residency in January, with ticket prices reaching up to $2,700.
The superstar, who hasn’t released a new album since 2018, recently lost her mother and estranged sister on the same day last month.
“My heart is broken that I’ve lost my mother,” Carey shared in a post on social media on August 27. “Sadly, in a tragic turn of events, my sister lost her life on the same day.”
Carey later shared an update about the “challenging weeks” she’s faced following the sudden passing of her mother, Patricia Carey, and her sister, Alison Carey, in August. In an Instagram post, the superstar wrote, “Back at work,” she captioned a video of herself rehearsing her 2005 hit “It’s Like That.”
“It’s been a couple of rough weeks, but I appreciate everyone’s love and support so much and I can’t wait to see my fans in China & Brazil. Love you!” Carey added.
Instagram Set to Roll Out Teen Accounts To Protect Kids On Its Platform
Finally some guard rails with Instagram to protect kids. The massive social media platform is rolling out new separate accounts specifically for users under 18, aiming to make the platform safer for young people amid increasing concerns over social media’s impact on mental health.
Get this, starting Tuesday in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, new users under 18 will be automatically placed into these more restrictive accounts, and existing teen accounts will be transitioned over the next 60 days. Similar changes will be implemented for teens in the European Union later this year.
Meta is trying to get ahead of kids circumventing the soon to come protections. The company acknowledges the possibility of teenagers lying about their age and has stated it will require more frequent age verification. The company is also developing technology to identify accounts where teens might be pretending to be adults, automatically placing them into restricted teen accounts. These accounts will be private by default, and direct messages will be limited to people teens already follow. Additionally, “sensitive content” will be restricted, and teens will receive notifications if they spend more than 60 minutes on the platform. A “sleep mode” feature will disable notifications and send auto-replies between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
What’s more, teens aged 16 and 17 can opt out of some of these restrictions, while users under 16 will need parental permission to do so. Naomi Gleit, Meta’s head of product, stated, “The three concerns we’re hearing from parents are that their teens are seeing content that they don’t want to see or that they’re getting contacted by people they don’t want to be contacted by or that they’re spending too much on the app. So teen accounts are really focused on addressing those three concerns.”
Timing wise, this move comes as Meta faces lawsuits from multiple U.S. states, alleging that the company has contributed to the youth mental health crisis by creating features that are addictive to children. New York Attorney General Letitia James called Meta’s actions “an important first step,” but emphasized that more needs to be done to protect children from social media harm. While Meta has introduced features like time-limit notifications in the past, these have been criticized for not being strict enough, as teens can easily bypass them without parental supervision.
Basically, with the new teen accounts, Meta provides parents more tools to oversee their children’s activity on Instagram. If parental supervision is enabled, parents can limit their teens’ screen time and see who is messaging their child, offering them a chance to engage in conversations about online safety. Gleit added, “Parents will be able to see, via the family center, who is messaging their teen and hopefully have a conversation with their teen.”
This is a good thing no matter how you slice it.
Get this, starting Tuesday in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, new users under 18 will be automatically placed into these more restrictive accounts, and existing teen accounts will be transitioned over the next 60 days. Similar changes will be implemented for teens in the European Union later this year.
Meta is trying to get ahead of kids circumventing the soon to come protections. The company acknowledges the possibility of teenagers lying about their age and has stated it will require more frequent age verification. The company is also developing technology to identify accounts where teens might be pretending to be adults, automatically placing them into restricted teen accounts. These accounts will be private by default, and direct messages will be limited to people teens already follow. Additionally, “sensitive content” will be restricted, and teens will receive notifications if they spend more than 60 minutes on the platform. A “sleep mode” feature will disable notifications and send auto-replies between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
What’s more, teens aged 16 and 17 can opt out of some of these restrictions, while users under 16 will need parental permission to do so. Naomi Gleit, Meta’s head of product, stated, “The three concerns we’re hearing from parents are that their teens are seeing content that they don’t want to see or that they’re getting contacted by people they don’t want to be contacted by or that they’re spending too much on the app. So teen accounts are really focused on addressing those three concerns.”
Timing wise, this move comes as Meta faces lawsuits from multiple U.S. states, alleging that the company has contributed to the youth mental health crisis by creating features that are addictive to children. New York Attorney General Letitia James called Meta’s actions “an important first step,” but emphasized that more needs to be done to protect children from social media harm. While Meta has introduced features like time-limit notifications in the past, these have been criticized for not being strict enough, as teens can easily bypass them without parental supervision.
Basically, with the new teen accounts, Meta provides parents more tools to oversee their children’s activity on Instagram. If parental supervision is enabled, parents can limit their teens’ screen time and see who is messaging their child, offering them a chance to engage in conversations about online safety. Gleit added, “Parents will be able to see, via the family center, who is messaging their teen and hopefully have a conversation with their teen.”
This is a good thing no matter how you slice it.
NERDS Candy Launches New Gummy Clusters Flavors for Football Season
With football season in full swing, NERDS® candy is bringing more fun to fans with the release of two limited-time Gummy Clusters flavors: Grape Strawberry Blitz and Berry Punch Rush. These new flavors aim to “unleash the senses” with a unique combination of crunchy and gummy textures that are perfect for game day, tailgating, or any fall gathering.
Available now at retailers across the country, NERDS Gummy Clusters™ come in fun new packaging featuring the classic NERDS characters sporting football helmets. Grape Strawberry Blitz brings back a beloved flavor pairing from the original NERDS candy, now in a chewy, crunchy Gummy Cluster form. Meanwhile, the new Berry Punch Rush flavor introduces a fresh blend of raspberry, cherry, and punch.
Joey Rath, NERDS Brand Director at Ferrara, shared his excitement about the new launch: “What a year it has been for the NERDS Gummy Clusters brand. We’ve seen a lot of buzz from fans asking for new flavors, and we’re thrilled to bring these limited-time options to life. You can be the ultimate champion of the season if you bring NERDS Gummy Clusters to your next game day watch party.”
NERDS is also adding to the football fun with a “Make the Rivalry Sweeter” sweepstakes, giving fans a chance to win an epic tailgate party package, complete with cash, tailgating essentials, and up to a one-year supply of NERDS Gummy Clusters candy. The sweepstakes runs from now through March 1, 2025. Fans can enter by visiting nerdsgameday.com for a chance to win.
Grape Strawberry Blitz and Berry Punch Rush are available in 8 oz., 5 oz., and 3 oz. packs, with prices starting at $2.49. To find a retailer near you and learn more about NERDS products, visit www.nerdscandy.com and follow @NerdsCandy on TikTok and Instagram.
Harris-Walz campaign slams Trump, Vance, and Republicans for not supporting IVF protection bill
Campaign manager Julie Chávez Rodríguez, U.S. Sens. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, and Wisconsin IVF parent Steven Miller highlighted the pressing need to defend reproductive health services. They also launched direct attacks on former President Donald Trump and his running mate, Ohio U.S. Sen. JD Vance, for their anti-IVF stances.
Chávez Rodríguez set the stage by criticizing Republicans for their continued opposition to reproductive freedoms, accusing Trump and Vance of running on a platform that would ban IVF and abortion nationwide.
“Their official platform would ban IVF and abortion nationwide, and their record tells the same story,” Chávez Rodríguez said. “JD Vance insults women struggling with fertility, voted against IVF access the last time it came to the floor, and Donald Trump appointed an anti-IVF extremist to the federal bench. If they win this November, they’ll go even further to rip away Americans’ choices and freedoms.
The attacks on Vance were pointed and personal. “Donald Trump’s running mate couldn’t even bother to show up for today’s Senate vote,” Chávez Rodríguez said. “While Donald Trump and JD Vance are off spreading conspiracy theories or taking another opportunity to insult childless women and couples struggling with fertility, Kamala Harris is fighting for all of our freedoms, all of our families, and our access to healthcare. Our campaign is making it clear that Vice President Harris and Governor Walz are fighting for your right to make decisions about your own body, your own family, and your own future.”
Duckworth shared her personal story of becoming a mother through IVF after a 10-year struggle with infertility. “My two girls are everything to me, but they would never have been born without access to reproductive healthcare,” Duckworth said. She noted that Vance had consistently voted against reproductive rights. “Donald Trump and JD Vance have spent weeks lying about their records on IVF and pretending to champion this cause. But we know time and again when given the chance, they’ll never actually do anything to support IVF.” Duckworth said.
The senator also warned about the broader implications of Project 2025, a 900-page plan to reshape American society spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation that Trump and Vance support, though Trump has been attempting to distance himself from the unpopular vision. According to Reproductive Freedom for All, the plan outlines a dangerous blueprint to gut reproductive freedoms, including banning medication abortion, blocking emergency abortion care, and deploying “personhood” language to classify embryos as legal persons. This could not only end abortion nationwide but also undermine IVF access by treating embryos as children, complicating how unused or non-viable embryos are handled during the IVF process. “The only reason IVF is even at risk right now is because Donald Trump appointed the Supreme Court justices who overturned Roe v. Wade,” Duckworth said, adding that the reproductive rights of millions are now at stake.
Stabenow echoed these concerns and took the opportunity to share how this issue has personally impacted her staff. “Donald Trump’s going to be in Flint, Mich. this evening, and he’s going to be not very far away from where my deputy state director lives,” Stabenow said. “My dear friend who a little over a year ago had a beautiful little boy Carter by using IVF—our whole team went through with her what that meant to do that: the cost, the time, and all of it because she wanted Carter so much and now she has this beautiful little boy.” She added, “The same thing happened with my legislative director in D.C. She and her wife just had a little boy a couple of weeks ago, Raffi, because of the blessing of IVF. This is about joy and happiness and supporting couples that want to have a baby. Donald Trump and JD Vance want to take away this joy from women and families all across Michigan and all across our country.”
Miller, an IVF parent and Christian from Wisconsin, also criticized Vance and Trump for their opposition to reproductive technologies. Miller and his partner are parents to twin boys born through IVF after years of struggling with infertility. “I just think about IVF and what they gave us the dream of our family,” he said. “IVF is a pro-family, scientific way to achieve that dream.”
Miller emphasized that Vance is not just failing to support families in need of IVF but is actively working with his Project 2025 allies to undermine their rights to make healthcare decisions. He said that for families like his, IVF wasn’t optional—it was their only chance to start a family. Many families, including those who have suffered multiple miscarriages and spent years seeking medical help, rely on IVF for hope, he explained. This isn’t just about heterosexual couples, Miller pointed out, but also same-sex couples and cancer survivors who may never have the opportunity to have children without IVF.
He noted that many LGBTQ+ families rely on IVF to build their families and warned that a Trump-Vance administration would strip away that opportunity.
The stakes for LGBTQ+ families, who often rely on IVF to build their families, were front and center during the press call. For same-sex couples and other LGBTQ+ people, IVF and other reproductive technologies provide a critical pathway to parenthood. The Advocate reported in June that access to reproductive technologies like IVF has become increasingly crucial for LGBTQ+ families. A 2024 Family Equality Council survey found that 77 percent of LGBTQ+ millennials are either already parents or considering becoming parents, and a significant number rely on assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
For many, like Siegmund Fuchs, a gay attorney and single father, IVF and surrogacy were essential to building a family.
Fuchs told The Advocate that following the Dobbs decision, he moved forward with his remaining embryo to have another child. His son joined Fuchs and his twin daughters when he was born in July to round out their family. Tamisha Williams and Marthia Fuller, a lesbian couple with a baby born in January who also shared their story with The Advocate, expressed similar sentiments about the importance of reproductive technologies in their journey to parenthood.
While Trump recently claimed he would support free IVF, his actions and alliances tell a different story. Stabenow challenged Trump’s sincerity, asking, “Was he on the phone last night calling our colleagues to vote yes? If he wasn’t on the phone last night urging people to vote yes, then I’ll take him seriously.”
On Tuesday afternoon, Republicans defeated the bill, when GOP senators voted down moving forward with it.
“Despite Donald Trump’s claims that he wants IVF to be covered, Senate Republicans just blocked my Right to IVF Act for the second time—legislation that would have done exactly that,” Duckworth wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Just Woke Up
I normally have my pj's on but couldn't be bothered to wash them
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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