9/2/24

The Daily Buzz For Sept 3☕📰☕

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#MAGFAB: Model Maty Fall for Vogue Italia - September 2024
Maty Fall the unpublished interview for Vogue 60 and the cover shot by Steven Meisel together with 5 other exceptional "cover girls"
"Don't fall, don't fall, don't fall... I only think about this when I parade." Maty Fall's words, spoken with a light laugh, immediately reveal her humanity behind the glittering perfection of the catwalks. «Or I think I have to pee!», he jokes. I laugh too, and this will be the atmosphere throughout our phone call. He is in a hotel in Paris, last week he was in New York. «Jet lag!», she replies when I ask her how she manages to sustain this pace. «A friend pointed out to me that it has now become my routine, even though I realize that it is not the norm». 
We laugh again. Sunny and serene, that's how I would describe it. «I think I've changed a lot», she explains to me, «I'm much more open, relaxed. Before I was more closed off. I don't know if the Maty of 2019 would recognize the Maty of 2024, but I like them both."

Maty Fall loves her modeling profession. He has a ringing voice when he talks about it, only at times punctuated with melancholy for past fashion shows. «I loved Saint Laurent last season. Beautiful clothes. I felt... wonderful." Then Schiaparelli comments: «I find it wow. It's one of those shows that takes your breath away every time", and again Ralph Lauren - "A family now". Maty is grateful, she doesn't take anything for granted. I sense emotion in his voice and I realize that there is nothing more satisfying than seeing and feeling beautiful. Let us therefore begin a discussion on beauty, perhaps the most controversial and fascinating quality of this Earth.
In this regard, she recalls her first cover for Vogue Italia - title: Italian beauty - released in February 2020. «The fact that I was defined as "Italian beauty" aroused many negative comments, as well as the reaction of certain political exponents, but for me it was important to show that beauty in Italy today has different facets." After that cover, however, everything changed: "My career took off," explains the twenty-three-year-old Italian-Senegalese. «Shooting with Paolo Roversi changes your life in a second». I ask her what impact this success had on her parents. «They always knew I would be a model. The only condition at home was that I didn't start before I was eighteen. I started contacting agencies when I was about fifteen/sixteen, but my father was always adamant on this point." He doesn't feel resentment. The respect and affection for parents are palpable. “I consider them my number one fans,” he says. «After my first fashion show, my father had a giant poster printed with my photo. I'm really lucky, even the Senegalese community in the province of Vicenza, where I live, supports me a lot."

Given the enthusiasm, it comes naturally to me to ask her if there is something that isn't working in this sector. “It's not a stable job,” he explains to me. «Sometimes I doubt myself a little, other times I don't know what to expect, but I try to stay calm and live day by day: am I free today? I'm enjoying the day because I don't know if I'll have to leave tomorrow. You understand?". I nod. «Fashion weeks are total chaos», he explains to me. «“The show is starting in 5 minutes...”», he says jokingly, imitating those who organize the shows. I ask her if she perceives any difference between Italian and international photo sets, and she replies that she prefers the American ones. «They are more relaxing. People are calmer, freer. Then I don't think there are enough services in Italy. For now I do more in Paris and New York."

Get more HERE!


#RHOD: Lesa Milan Backs Caroline Brooks in Latest Beef With Caroline Stanbury
Lesa Milan and Caroline Brooks went head to head on the penultimate episode of the Real Housewives of Dubai Season 2. What should have been a relaxing day celebrating Lesa’s new skincare line instead turned into a spa and branding war. Brooks was mad Lesa didn’t host the event at her spa. And Taleen Marie thought the Mina Roe branding decals were excessive. However, Brooks now claims it was really Caroline Stanbury who had the biggest issue with Lesa’s event. And in a surprise twist, Lesa is backing Brooks assessment of the matter. 

Lesa Milan claims Caroline Stanbury “had the biggest issue behind the scenes” regarding her spa day event
Is Stanbury a sniper from the side? At the spa day event and dinner, Stanbury minded her Ps and Qs. She was quite happy to be out of the crossfire between Brooks, Lesa, and Taleen. Stanbury had already had her fill of drama from the voice note debacle with Chanel Ayan. But now Brooks and Lesa are claiming Stanbury was the one who had an issue with Lesa’s event first. 

Brooks dished Taleen spilled the tea on Stanbury’s true feelings. She posted on X, “Also we can address what happened when you and Taleen tried to change the narrative at confessionals in New York. After Taleen forgot she already told @LesaMilan that it was all you when we were in Lesa’s hotel room at JA Golf Resort.” Welp, Taleen must have forgotten she was Team Stanbury for a moment. 

Lesa then chimed in. She responded, “Facts! Taleen came to our hotel room and told Ayan and I that it was Stanbury who had the biggest issue behind the scenes!” Ultimately, it’s not surprising to hear that Stanbury wasn’t fond of Lesa’s Mina Roe setup. It’s well known that Stanbury and Lesa aren’t each other’s biggest fans. 

What is surprising, however, is the new alliance between Lesa and Brooks. We know that Ayan and Lesa have a major falling out coming up in the next episode. And then Ayan switches loyalties from Lesa over to Stanbury. So do we have a new dynamic duo with Brooks and Lesa? Only time will tell. 

Real Housewives of Dubai airs Tuesdays at 9/8c on Bravo. 


#NewMusic from Stevie Wonder “Can We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart”!

The legendary Stevie Wonder has just shared a new song called “Can We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart” out now via Republic Records.
This is the first new music from Stevie Wonder since 2020.

On the new song, Wonder sings a call for unity embodied in heartfelt lyrics as he asks, “Can we fix our nation’s broken heart? Are we brave enough to try?”
Backed by acoustic guitar and a steady beat, this anthem provides the rhythm and refrain for a core reminder, “We are family.” Ultimately, “Can We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart” upholds his lifelong commitment to breaking down walls and bringing people together. 

LISTEN HERE
Stevie Wonder continues to be a pivotal influence in U.S. and world events, demonstrating the activism that has made him such a vital voice for social progress and world harmony.


#HipHopNews: NLE Choppa Defends LGBTQ Supporters After Getting Homophobic Responses To His Idea Of Performing At Atlanta Black Gay Pride Event
NLE Choppa is defending LGBTQ fans after he got homophobic responses to a tweet of his in which he stated that he wanted to perform at a Pride Month event to thank the queer community.
On June 13, he thanked his new supporters for their love for his recent single “Slut Me Out 2.”
“I want to perform ‘Slut Me Out 2’ at a pride event in return of the love yall showed me!!,” he tweeted. As a result, many of his fans were in disbelief at his tweet and responded with negative comments.

“This n***a zesty ass be tweakin,” a Twitter user wrote.
NLE responded to the tweet saying, “I’m secure, I know who I am. Show love it won’t hurt and also you do know women are a part of the LGBTQ community right[,] you gone hate them too? I mean at the least appreciate the women in that community if everything else make you uncomfortable king.”

“I’m noticing the LGBTQ community showing so much love to “Slut Me Out 2” And I Simply Want To Say Thank You,” he tweeted back in April. “IDC what’s normalized as a rapper, I was raised to F**k with who f**k with you! So thank y’all for appreciating my craft.. My music For ALL we do NO Discrimination.”

Furthermore, following speculation about NLE Choppa’s sexual orientation, the rapper addressed the issue on social media. As a result of the comments, he boasts about being confident in his skin.
“I understand me being in love with myself as a BLACK MAN is so RARE to the point some people try putting the homosexual jacket on my name, but with all due respect, I love ALL, but my intimacy lies with women only,” he tweeted.

As a result, he also had a few words for his male listeners calling them “lost” after reading their comments on Twitter.
“I’m gay for showing love?” Choppa replied. “Y’all men lost that’s why we killing each other every day cause yall can’t show love and whole time yall be the ones that get down like that but be hiding it! Me saying thank you got nun to do with my sexuality busta.”


#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ Hits $600 Million Domestically Still # 1 Over Sluggish Labor Day Weekend!

“Deadpool & Wolverine” notched a major box office milestone, surpassing $600 million in domestic ticket sales. It’s one of 16 films in history to reach that benchmark.
The Marvel superhero sequel hit this achievement during the otherwise desolate Labor Day weekend, in which “Deadpool & Wolverine” ruled over the box office in its sixth outing. The R-rated film, starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, collected $15.2 million over the weekend and an estimated $19.5 million from 3,630 theaters through Monday’s holiday. “Deadpool & Wolverine” has claimed the No. 1 spot for five out of the past six weekends and ranks as the second highest-grossing movie of the year with $603.8 million in North America and $1.25 billion globally.

Labor Day isn’t a holiday that’s known for bringing people to the movies, but this weekend was among the most sluggish of the year. Summer season ended with domestic revenues down 14.3% from 2023 and 26.6% from 2019, the last pre-COVID year, according to 
“A rather slow Labor Day weekend marks a quiet end to what turned out to be the comeback kid of summer seasons,” says senior Comscore analyst Paul Dergarabedian. “June and July delivered a monumental string of hits.”

Although several movies opened nationwide — the Dennis Quaid-led biopic “Reagan,” Sony and Blumhouse’s AI horror fable “Afraid,” Lionsgate’s R-rated crime thriller “1992″ and Roadside’s human trafficking drama “City of Dreams” among them — only one of those newcomers managed to crack the top five.

“Reagan” opened in fourth place with $7.4 million over the weekend and an estimated $9.2 million from 2,754 theaters through Monday. Critics hated the film (18% on Rotten Tomatoes), but audiences were fonder (“A” on CinemaScore), so there’s a chance that “Reagan” could stick around at the box office.
Sean McNamara (“Soul Surfer”) directed the movie, adapted from Paul Kengor’s 2006 book “The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism.” Told through a conversation between former KGB agent Viktor Petrovich (Jon Voight) and upstart Russian politician Andrei Novikov (Alexey Sparrow), the film charts the life of Ronald Reagan, from his childhood to his years as President of the United States. ShowBiz Direct, an independent distributor, released the film.

“We are thrilled to be sitting in the the top 5 with our first movie in a competitive market over this holiday weekend,” said former exhibition veteran Kevin Mitchell, president of the newly launched Showbiz Direct. “We expect the film will continue to grow in the weeks ahead especially in the South and Midwest.”

“Afraid,” a sci-fi horror story about revolutionary smart home AI that becomes too self aware for comfort, crash-landed in ninth place with $3.7 million over the weekend and an estimated $4.4 million from 3,003 theaters through Monday. Neither critics nor audiences liked the film — 26% on Rotten Tomatoes and “C+” on CinemaScore — which doesn’t bode well for word of mouth. Luckily, “Afraid” carries a lean $12 million production budget. So, any losses during its theatrical run won’t be too painful. Chris Weitz directed “Afraid,” co-starring John Cho and Katherine Waterston.
“1992″ opened at No. 14 with $1.3 million over the weekend and an estimated $1.65 million from 875 theaters through Monday. Tyrese Gibson and Scott Eastwood star in the film, about a shopkeeper who must save his son from an angry mob during the Los Angeles uprising after the Rodney King verdict.

Meanwhile, “City of Dreams” debuted in 19th place with $1.2 million over the weekend and an estimated $1.44 million from 770 screens through Monday. The film, written and directed by Mohit Ramchandani, tells the story of a young Mexican farmer who travels to L.A. with the promise of training at a soccer camp, only to realize he’s been sold to a sweatshop.
It’s clear how many people actually saw “City of Dreams” because the majority of ticket sales weren’t revenue in the traditional sense. In an unusual move, the filmmakers and John Devaney, founder of United Capital and Manor House Films, gave away $1 million in free tickets. Their donations were given to “individuals and groups, including anti-trafficking organizations, survivors, schools, churches, municipalities, and people who may otherwise not be able to afford to watch the film,” according to a press release.

Elsewhere, Bleecker Street’s sci-fi thriller “Slingshot” grossed $485,282 in its opening weekend and an estimated $572,763 from 845 screens for the four days. Casey Affleck stars as an astronaut struggling to maintain his grip on reality aboard a possibly fatally compromised mission to Saturn’s moon, Titan. 
Sci-fi thriller “Alien: Romulus,” romantic drama “It Ends With Us” and disaster epic “Twisters” rounded out the top five.


Martin Lawrence shuts down health rumors with humor
Comedian and actor Martin Lawrence recently took the stage in Detroit, where he addressed rumors about his health in a hilariously candid manner. Performing at the Little Caesars Arena on August 30 as part of his “Y’all Know What It Is!” tour, Lawrence opened his set with a series of jokes aimed at the speculation surrounding his well-being.

Addressing the Stroke Allegations
During his performance, Lawrence confronted the rumors head-on. “Motherfuckers talking about me and shit,” he exclaimed, referencing claims that he had suffered a stroke. He confidently asked the audience, “Does this look like a motherfucker that had a stroke?” as he showcased his agility by hopping across the stage.
Lawrence’s playful rebuttal continued, “Then they talking about I’m talking slow and lethargic and all that… I’m probably high,” eliciting laughter from the crowd. His comedic approach not only entertained but also reassured fans of his health.

Setting the Record Straight
Speculation about Lawrence’s health began circulating during the promotional rollout of his latest film, Bad Boys: Ride or Die. Some viewers noted that he appeared disoriented in certain interviews, prompting concerns among fans. However, Lawrence took the opportunity to clarify his status during an appearance on Hot 97’s “Ebro in the Morning.”
“I’m fine. I’m in God’s hands,” he stated confidently. “I’m blessed. I’m glad to be waking up every day and everything. No need for people to be concerned.” He further emphasized, “I’m healthy as hell. Stop the rumors.” This statement reassured his fans and highlighted his positive outlook on life.

Martin Lawrence’s ability to tackle serious issues with humor is a testament to his enduring talent and charisma. As he continues his tour, fans can rest assured that the beloved comedian is in good health and ready to entertain. His lighthearted approach to addressing health rumors serves as a reminder to embrace life with laughter.


Oprah Winfrey & Gayle King Spotted Vacationing with Broadway Actor Isaac Powell & His Boyfriend Tate Justus

Bet you didn’t expect to see these stars on vacation together! Oprah Winfrey is currently traveling around Italy with Broadway star Isaac Powell.
The legendary TV host and her BFF Gayle King were spotted boarding a yacht with Isaac and his boyfriend Tate Justus on Thursday (August 29) in Venice, Italy.
Also in the group were Chelsea Clinton and her husband Marc Mezvinsky. They all were spotted shopping around Venice and doing some sightseeing before getting back on the boat.
Isaac currently has some time off after wrapping his run in the new musical Gatsby: An American Myth at A.R.T. in Massachusetts. He’s starring as Jay Gatsby in the new musical adaptation of The Great Gatsby from songwriter Florence Welch. The musical is expected to move to Broadway one day, but for now, a different Great Gatsby musical is actually playing!


Rihanna Makes Her Dream Real In New Dior Perfume Ad
In a dazzling collaboration, Rihanna has joined forces with Dior as the newest ambassador for their J'Adore perfume. The partnership was unveiled with an enchanting advertisement shot by renowned photographer Steven Klein at the iconic Mirror of Halls in Versailles.
"Your dreams... make them real," Rihanna proclaims in the commercial, echoing her passion for the fragrance. In an interview with ELLE U.K., she expressed her admiration for Steven Klein and the dream-like experience of shooting at Versailles.
Rihanna's connection to J'Adore runs deep. "My mother worked in a perfume shop and she used to bring home the testers," she revealed. "There was always a bottle of J'Adore in the house."

The J'Adore perfume by Dior has a rich legacy, having been represented by renowned faces such as Carmen Kass and Charlize Theron. Rihanna's arrival marks a new era for the fragrance, with perfume creation director Francis Kurkdjian crafting the latest iteration known as J'adore L'Or Essence de Parfum.

Kurkdjian's creation maintains the floral essence of the original while amplifying its concentration, resulting in a luminous golden scent.
In the campaign, Rihanna's presence exudes both classicism and modernity. "We had already enjoyed a foretaste of the experience with the 'Secret Garden' film shot in 2015, but the ambience was completely different, and more nocturnal," photographer Steven Klein notes. "With J'adore, everything was focused on gold and light."

Rihanna's captivating spirit shines through in the campaign. "Rihanna has something remarkable that exceeds beauty and talent in truly extravagant fashion," Klein says. "With J'adore, she transforms into a living goddess, a queen in her kingdom who fully embodies the noble character of a perfume that speaks to women all over the world."


T-Boz Blasts Ruth's Chris Restaurant For Alleged Racial Profiling
T-Boz just had a bad day, no thanks to Ruth's Chris. The singer, whose real name is Tionne Watkins, has blasted the restaurant chain following her experience when visiting one of the restaurants located in Illinois.
In a series of videos posted on her Instagram page, the TLC member said she and her crew went to Ruth's Chris in North Brook Township, North Carolina on Saturday, August 31 following a flight. After traveling all day, she opted for a comfortable attire, which included a T-shirt and black hat.

The 54-year-old said she and her party were not greeted upon entry. Twenty minutes after they were seated and placing orders, a manager approached them and she was told to remove her hat, which she refused to do because she didn't have time to style her hair that day.
She was then told that she and her group would have to move the bar area, something she was ultimately willing to do. But before leaving their table, the four-time Grammy Award-winner noticed two black men, also in casual wear and hats, were seated behind her and allowed to finish their meals. When the singer asked why the other guests were allowed to remain seated, she was informed that the men had also been told to move according to house rules.

"My thing is, I don't have a problem with rules, following it, whatever, but it's how you do things, too," T-Boz added. She said multiple staff members saw her hat but did not request she remove it before entering the dining area. "If somebody would have said that, we would have went and did it in the first place," she said.

But that wasn't all. When they were guided to the bar, it was full with no seating available. "Everybody's crew looks like [they're] seated in massa's section," she added in a third video, where she rhetorically asked, "Why [are] all the black people sitting in this section?"
Summing up her experience, she said, "My whole thing is everybody said they felt some weird vibes at this Ruth's Chris, so it seems like all the employees need a little taking to even the ones running it 'cause they ain't running it right, honey." The singer said she and her crew left without eating and that many of the individuals felt "racially profiled."

In the caption, the "No Scrubs" singer wrote, "I Don't Expect Special Treatment But I Expect The RULES To Make Sense... So Make It Make Sense... She Was Contradicting Hersekf And NO ONE DID YHEIR JOB SO WE LEFT AND DIDNT EAT THERE...And A lot Of People In Our Crews Felt Racially Profiled Just Saying ...."

Ruth's Chris has not publicly addressed T-Boz's complaint.


Lizzo Declares She Loves Her Curves in Revealing Tiny Red Bikini As She Shares Dramatic Weight Loss
The Grammy winner flaunted her slimmer body in a teeny red bikini, posting a carousel of images to Instagram.
Shooting the camera a sultry glance, Lizzo, 36, wrote: “All my swimsuits are red?.”
The hitmaker also gave her fans a peak at her backside, flashing her bum in the drawstring bikini in a separate photo.
Lizzo — surrounded by tropical foliage on a luxe wooden balcony — included a from-above as she showed off her cleavage.

She tied together the sultry vacation look with stacked necklaces featuring a dainty hamsa handpiece.
Because the photos weren’t enough for the singer, Lizzo also posted a video of herself on Instagram, posing in the bikini.
The Truth Hurts artist — vacationing in Bali, Indonesia — captioned the video: “Itsy bitsy teeny weeny red designer string bikini.”

Fans rushed to the comment section to applaud the singer, with users applauding her “hard work” and telling Lizzo to “keep it up”.
Others were quick to defend Lizzo against claims she is using the popular diabetes-turned-weight loss drug, Ozempic.
One fan wrote: “Also, she is not on ozempic. She is dropping weight at a slow pace. And if she was, so what?! Y’all spent years talking about her weight. She damn if she do. She damn if she don’t.”

Another added the singer is “clearly” working out and “not on any weightless medications”.
They continued: “She features herself working out all the time. Just go back and watch the videos. She’s inspiring me to even be more healthy and working out as well as I see the difference in her. ??”

Addressing the secret to her weight loss earlier this year, Lizzo said: “I’ve been methodical, losing weight very slowly.”
“I don’t really see it because if anyone who’s on a natural weight-loss journey knows, losing weight is actually the slowest thing in the world and you don’t really notice it until you notice it.”
Continuing, she said: “Also, the scale’s not really moving. But anyway, that doesn’t matter. I’m super proud of my current lifestyle.”


Boyz II Men Reunites With Michael McCrary, Shawn Stockman 

My “Cooleyhighharmony” heart was beaming when a photo of Boyz II Men—including Michael McCrary—popped up on my Instagram timeline.
You may recall that Mike, who sang bass, exited the group in 2003 due to chronic back pain resulting from multiple sclerosis (MS) and other personal issues.
Over the years, there have been numerous rumors and conflicting stories about why Michael McCrary left one of the greatest R&B groups of all time.

Shawn Stockman, who shared the photo of all four original members, took the opportunity to get a few things off his chest and implored all the “cornballs” who like to “spread untruths” to STFU!

Read his full post below:
Occasionally I see commentary on my group, people and their spurious opinions on what they THINK they know about us, some I’ll admit can be infuriating. But most of them are just plain funny.
Folks creating whole clips on what they “claim to know about why the guy with the low voice left”. Let this photo set the record straight that none of you don’t know S**T!

More than half of what people waste their time on is all rooted in gossip and vitriol for likes and views. And it’s sad to see so many people fall for it. This is a brotherhood, something that many of you will never understand, we fight we disagree we go our own separate ways in the process sometimes, but it will never erase the love and respect we have for each other.
So all you cornballs out here who like to spread untruths because you’re own lives are miserable, just sit back, drink your favorite drink, mind your business, and in the words of @andrea_tamasi “shut the f**k up!” Now post that. #boyziimen #forlife

But let the record show (in my best Claire Huxtable voice) that Shawn also contributed to the multiple narratives surrounding Michael McCrary’s exit.
During a 2021 interview with the FAQ Podcast, Shawn recalled how a big blowout and fistfight led to Mike being kicked out of Boyz II Men.


T.I. Reveals King Harris Is Expecting His First Child
During a recent interview, T.I. revealed that his son, King Harris, is expecting his first child.
The rapper, whose real name is Clifford Harris, sat down with Young Dro at Hot 107.9 in Atlanta to discuss their new collaboration with Kirk Franklin, “Thank God.”

During the conversation, T.I. reflected on watching his children grow up and come into their own.
He shared that his son, Domani Harris, recently bought his first home and welcomed his first child, a baby girl.
In a surprising update, T.I. also revealed that his son, King Harris, is expecting his first child.
“I got two grandchildren. I got two granddaughters. I got a grandson on the way. King is about to have a son,” T.I. shared.
T.I. also jokingly revealed his plan for King’s son.

“I told him I’m going to make this the greatest gangsta of all time. I will raise this child to torture you the way that you tortured me. I promise you that there will be an indictment in this young one.”


DMX’s ex-wife is not partnering with Irv Gotti on rapper’s biopic

The family of DMX has yet to put their stamp of approval on any projects hoping to encapsulate the life and greatness of the late rapper DMX, real name Earl Simmons.
The Hip Hop titan was revealed to be the subject of a forthcoming biopic produced by Irv Gotti. The Ruff Ryder frontman passed away on April 9, 2021, a week after suffering a heart attack. He was 50.

A rep for the Murder Inc. Records impresario revealed the developing effort amid news that Gotti was recovering from a stroke on Aug. 29. The music executive was influential in the “Get At Me Dog” artist’s career, having played a role in bringing DMX and the Ruff Ryders to Def Jam Records, where his debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot was released in 1998.

But as excitement over the developing film arose, so did confusion about who all would be involved in the storytelling. The rapper’s ex-wife, Tashera Simmons, addressed speculation that she and her family would be contributing to the project. Tashera and DMX were married for 15 years when they divorced in 2014. They are parents to four children, sons Xavier, Tacoma, Sean, and daughter Praise.

In a statement shared on Instagram on Saturday (Aug. 31), she paid tribute to DMX, remembering him as “an iconic figure in the music industry whose life and story hold significant importance.” On behalf of his loved ones, she continued, “As we move forward with any potential projects related to his legacy, we are committed to ensuring that they are handled with the utmost respect and integrity.”

The message concluded with, “We appreciate the support and interest from fans and the public regarding Earl Simmons’ story. Any official announcements regarding future projects will be communicated through our official channels.” Last year, some of DMX’s life was explored in the TMZ NO BS: DMX documentary. The 51-minute production was streamed on Tubi.
HBO gave fans an even more intimate look at the long-respected Yonker’s emcee and his loved ones in the 2021 documentary DMX: Don’t Try to Understand.


Kanye West Sells Malibu Beach House at Massive Loss, Takes $36 Million Hit
Kanye West, known for his bold artistic vision and extravagant lifestyle, has made headlines once again—this time for a significant financial setback in the world of real estate. The rapper and entrepreneur, who purchased a luxurious Malibu beach house for a whopping $57.3 million in 2021, has sold the property for just $21 million, resulting in a staggering $36 million loss.
The oceanfront property, which West had gutted with the intention of completely overhauling, was snapped up by California-based real estate crowdfunding firm Belwood Investments. Public records show that the sale took place last month, marking a dramatic decrease in value for the once high-profile purchase.

West’s decision to buy the Malibu home was part of his broader portfolio of real estate investments, reflecting his penchant for acquiring unique and high-end properties. However, his plans to remodel the house were never fully realized, leaving the property in a gutted state at the time of sale

The loss is a rare and substantial one, even for someone with West’s financial clout. It underscores the risks involved in high-stakes real estate ventures, particularly in the luxury market where properties can fluctuate drastically in value based on factors like location, condition, and market trends.

Despite the significant financial hit, West remains one of the most influential figures in entertainment and business, with a net worth that still stands strong. Whether this loss will impact his future real estate ventures remains to be seen, but it serves as a reminder that even the most successful entrepreneurs are not immune to the risks of the market.
As for the Malibu beach house, its new owners at Belwood Investments have yet to announce their plans for the property. Whether they will carry out West’s original vision or take it in a new direction, the future of this oceanfront estate will be one to watch.


Israel’s Military Says Six Hostages ‘Brutally Murdered’ in Gaza, Including Israeli-Americans
Israel’s military said it has recovered the bodies of six hostages killed by Hamas militants in Gaza – including an Israeli-American captive – dealing fresh heartbreak to relatives who fear time is running out for loved ones seized by the militants more than 10 months ago.
Israeli soldiers found the six bodies in tunnels under the enclave, according to the military. The hostages were “brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists, a short while before we reached them,” Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a briefing Sunday.

The development has sparked protests across Israel, with fresh public anger directed at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet for failing to secure a hostage deal. Israel’s largest trade union has also called for a nationwide strike starting Monday.

Three of the six whose bodies were recovered had been expected to be released during the first phase of an eventual ceasefire agreement, two Israeli officials have told CNN.
Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Eden Yerushalmi and Carmel Gat were slated to be released as part of a “humanitarian category,” based on a framework agreed by Israel and Hamas in early July, the officials said.

“Our prime minister delayed it,” one of the Israeli officials said. “It’s way too late for the six who have been killed, but it’s time to reach an agreement.”
The ordeal of California native Goldberg-Polin, who was taken at gunpoint at the Nova music festival on October 7, led to him becoming one of the faces of the devastating international hostage crisis that has challenged Netanyahu’s leadership and triggered widespread destruction in Gaza.

The parents of 23-year-old Goldberg-Polin have been among the most vocal of the hostage families pushing Netanyahu to seek a deal securing their relatives’ return. Their tireless and high-profile campaigning saw them meet with world leaders, and earlier this month, give an emotional address at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
“With broken hearts, the Goldberg-Polin family is devastated to announce the death of their beloved son and brother, Hersh. The family thanks you all for your love and support and asks for privacy at this time,” the family said in a statement Sunday.

The Israeli military named the other three victims as Almog Sarusi, Alex Lobanov, and Ori Danino. CNN is reaching out to their families.
In a taped message Sunday, Netanyahu said he had been shocked to the core by what he said was “the terrible cold-blooded murder of six of our hostages.” He also stressed that “those who murder hostages do not want a deal.”

He said Israel would continue to pursue Hamas, and accused it of not wanting to conduct genuine negotiations since December.
“Three months ago, on May 27, Israel agreed to a hostage release deal with the full backing of the United States. Hamas refused. Even after the United States updated the outline of the deal on August 16 – we agreed, and Hamas again refused.”
He added that the Israeli government and he, personally, are “committed to continue working towards a deal that will bring back all our hostages and guarantee our security and existence.”
In response, the Hostages Families Forum, a volunteer-based organization that represents relatives of those held captive, criticized the Prime Minister, calling on him to “stop blaming everyone” and to “take responsibility” for his alleged failures.

“Take responsibility for the thwarting (of a deal). Take responsibility for the neglect. Take responsibility for the hostages who were murdered in captivity,” the Forum demanded in a statement.

The Forum also said Netanyahu had ignored the views of the security establishment in insisting on conditions in the negotiations.
“Hamas is not the only one responsible for the thwarting of the deal. We do not expect the terrorist (Hamas leader Yahya) Sinwar to want to return the hostages, we expect the Prime Minister of Israel to do everything, everything, everything in order to return the hostages home.”

The Forum has called for demonstrations across Israel, while also announcing a vigil honoring the “hostages murdered in Gaza by Hamas” in Tel Aviv at 6 p.m. local time (11 a.m. ET).
US President Joe Biden said the bodies of the hostages were recovered under the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.
“I am devastated and outraged,” Biden said in a statement released by the White House that also paid tribute to Goldberg-Polin’s parents.
“They have been courageous, wise, and steadfast, even as they have endured the unimaginable,” Biden said. “They have been relentless and irrepressible champions of their son and of all the hostages held in unconscionable conditions.”

‘Anguish and misery’
Goldberg-Polin’s death in particular will reverberate not just in Israel but in US political circles.
His parents Rachel and Jonathan have regularly met top US officials in Washington to press the case of the hostages, and their emotional address to top Democrats at the convention earlier this month inextricably tied the hostages’ fate to US policy over the war in Gaza.

Rachel Goldberg-Polin told CNN in January that she wears a piece of tape marking each day that has passed since her son was kidnapped.
At her convention speech, she described life since October 7 as like living on “another planet.”
“Anyone who is a parent or has had a parent can try to imagine the anguish and misery that Jon and I and all the hostage families are enduring,” she told delegates.
Some of those discovered dead in the tunnels under Gaza this weekend were, like Goldberg-Polin, captured at the Nova music festival. Lobanov, a 32-year-old father of two, and Yerushalmi, 24, were both tending bar at the gathering, according to the Hostages Families Forum. Danino, 25, and Sarusi, 27, were also at the festival.

Gat, 40, was taken from Kibbutz Be’eri. She had been visiting her parents when Hamas militants stormed the community close to Gaza’s border, killing and taking hostages as they went.


Georgia Election Workers Clap Back At Rudy Giuliani, Demand His Properties, Watches & Benz After $140M Defamation Win
Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, the Georgia election workers who had to deal with all kinds of mess after Rudy Giuliani spread lies about them, are coming for what’s theirs. After winning a $140 million defamation lawsuit against Giuliani, they’re done waiting. The disrespected duo filed a court order to snatch up his assets, including his luxury condos, fancy watches, and even his Mercedes-Benz. 

They’re Taking Everything — Even the Yankees Rings
Freeman and Moss demand that Giuliani hand over his New York condo, worth around $6 million, and his Palm Beach spot, valued at $3.5 million.
But that’s not all — they’re also coming for his collection of luxury watches, his Mercedes, and even his New York Yankees World Series rings. One of those rings alone potentially has a value of $30,000. According to Politico, these are two separately filed cases! Whew!

Guess how foul this sore loser is trying to play? Giuliani tried to play the bankruptcy card, but the judge wasn’t having it, and tossed his case out in July.
With that protection gone, Freeman and Moss are ready to collect. They refused to play Giuliani’s games and accused him of ducking and dodging throughout this ordeal.
BBC states that their lawyers made it clear in this court order: if Giuliani doesn’t cough up the goods in seven days, they’ll take more drastic measures. 

Of course, Giuliani’s not happy. He’s appealing the defamation verdict and is now whining that Freeman and Moss are just trying to “harass and intimidate” him. According to BBC News, his spokesperson, Ted Goodman, fired off an email to Reuters.
It states, “The appeal of the $148 million verdict hasn’t even been heard yet, and they’re already coming for him.”
Coming for who? Let’s not forget that Giuliani’s lies put Freeman and Moss through hell.

Some background info: this all started because Giuliani falsely accused Freeman and Moss of messing with the 2020 election results.
His lies led to THEM being harassed AND threatened by people who bought into the nonsense.
BBC News states in December, a jury saw through his BS and hit him with the massive defamation judgment — $140 million, including over $16 million each for the emotional damage they suffered.
And don’t think this is the end for Giuliani. He’s still facing heavy legal drama, including nine felony charges related to a “fake elector” scheme in Arizona. Politico states that Giuliani and 17 others tried to declare Trump the winner of the 2020 election there, and now he’s paying the price. Cheaters never win!

Freeman and Moss aren’t backing down. This latest move shows they’re determined to get what’s owed to them — no more delays, no more excuses. Black women deserve justice, especially while they’re alive.


Adele Shocks Fans With Hiatus Announcement: “You Won’t See Me for a Long Time” After Vegas Residency Ends”

Adele has unexpectedly announced that she’ll be taking an extended break from music after wrapping up her Las Vegas residency this November.
During her final show in Munich on August 31st, the “Easy On Me” star told the crowd that she had just ten shows left in Vegas.  Once those are done, she won’t be back on stage for a long time.  The 36-year-old singer explained that she’s been on a relentless schedule of touring and performing for almost three years, and now she’s ready to focus on living her life outside of the spotlight.

“But after that, I won’t see you for an incredibly long time,” Adele said in a fan-captured video shared on Twitter (X).  “And I’ll hold you dear in my heart for the entire duration of my break.”
Adele emphasized that this has been the longest stretch she’s ever performed without a significant break, and she likely won’t commit to such an intense agenda again.  The Grammy-winning artist added that she will cherish these performances “for eternity.” She then led the crowd in an emotional sing-along of her 2011 hit, “Someone Like You.”

Adele’s residency at Caesars Colosseum in Las Vegas will continue until November 23rd, 2024.  As of now, there is no word on when she plans to return to music or the stage.  She is currently engaged to sports agent Rich Paul, whom she began dating in 2021.  Rumors have been swirling about the couple possibly wanting to have children together and planning their wedding.  Adele shared in July that she wished to take time from music to focus on other endeavors, though she hadn’t revealed how lengthy that would be until now.


Horrific Mississippi Bus Crash Claims The Lives Of Seven Individuals, Including Two Children
Tragic Mississippi Bus Crash Claims The Lives Of Seven Individuals, Including Two Children
Early Saturday morning, a devastating Mississippi bus crash claimed the lives of seven individuals and left dozens injured.
The bus traveling from Atlanta to Dallas veered off the road and overturned on Interstate 20 in Warren County.  The Mississippi Highway Patrol reported that the tragic incident occurred around 12:40 a.m.  Authorities are still investigating the matter.  However, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicated that the crash could’ve been sparked by a tire failure while the bus was driving on the interstate.

According to reports, the 2018 Volvo commercial bus carried 41 passengers, including two drivers.  Unfortunately, following the accident, six individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, including two siblings — a 6-year-old boy and his 16-year-old sister.  At the same time, one other person passed away from injuries at a nearby hospital.  The Mississippi Highway Patrol also shared that all 36 of the remaining passengers were immediately transported to local hospitals with a wide range of injuries.

The U.S. Department of Transportation revealed that Regiomontanos Autobuses, the company that owns the bus, has been involved in several incidents within the past two years, including one fatal crash, two injury collisions, and one crash requiring a tow truck.  Despite these isolated accidents, the company has “conditional” safety ratings, which means they are under review for compliance with the federal safety regulations.

“A compliance review may be conducted to investigate potential violations of safety regulations or complaints about motor carriers, among other reasons,” the department’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration said.
As investigators are working to piece together the details that led to the crash, families of the victims are left processing their losses.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Big Face Mask
This takes soakin' in the summer to a whole different level. Looks like that thing is gonna absorb…


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM

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