11/25/24

The Daily Buzz For Nov 26☕📰☕

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!

#MAGFAB: Lashana Lynch for Defined Magazine - November 2024
Lashana Lynch has channeled Grace Jones for her latest edgy cover photoshoot with Defined Magazine as she sported a dark short square haircut. 
The Woman King actress, 36, revealed her surprising new career as she hopes to move away from serious roles in drama and action movies.  

Lashana, who has previously starred in James Bond, The Marvels and The Day of the Jackal, revealed she is 'proud' of her previous work but is hoping to do something more 'lighthearted'. 
Lashana told Defined that she hopes to be in a comedy next, she said: 'I would like to be funny. To be light on screen and giggle throughout the day. 

'I've done a lot of serious roles recently. Everything's got me on that deep drama journey, and I'm proud of it, but I'd be interested to see what lightness does to me.'
Lashana Lynch has channeled Grace Jones for her latest edgy cover photoshoot with Defined Magazine as she sported a dark short square haircut
Lashana cut an incredible cool figure as she posed in a strapless black dress with eye catching long gloves. 
The actress stunned as she slipped into a studded one sleeved studded dress as she posed for an eye catching black and white snap.  
It comes after Lashana revealed last month that she is pregnant with her first child with husband Zackary Momoh as she debuted her baby bump at The Day Of The Jackal premiere in New York City.
The actress — who took on a leading role in the upcoming British drama series — shared her big moment as she joined some of her costars on the red carpet, including Eddie Redmayne and Ursula Corbero.
Lynch is expecting baby number one with partner, Zackary Momoh, although an exact due date has yet to be revealed.
She turned heads wearing a sleeveless, Ottolinger dress that had a shirt and tie image depicted on the upper portion. 

The ensemble also contained cheetah-print details and clung to her frame as she stopped by the screening at the Walter Reade Theater. 


#RHOA: Andy Cohen reacts to Kenya Moore taking accountability for Her sex poster scandal against Brittany Eady
Andy Cohen praised Kenya Moore for taking accountability after she released an explicit photo of her former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” co-star Brittany Eady and got suspended from the series as a result.
“I thought it was great,” the “Watch What Happens Live” host, 56, exclusively told Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea” podcast at Bravo’s Fan Fest in Miami on Saturday.

“I’ve talked to her a lot over the last few months and I was happy to see that.”
In June, Page Six learned that Moore, 53, shocked partygoers when she featured a poster of Eady, 36, allegedly performing oral sex at her Kenya Moore Hair Spa grand opening with Bravo cameras rolling.

The network launched an investigation and despite Moore initially denying that she engaged in any “revenge porn” against her former co-star, Bravo did not permit her to return for the rest of Season 16.
Then, on Nov. 14, the former Miss USA winner finally admitted on “The Tamron Hall Show,” “I believe the photos were very distasteful, and I elevated the situation.
“I’ve elevated situations before, and I’ve taken full accountability for the things that I’ve done. I am sorry for what I’ve done. I didn’t have to take it that far.”

Although Eady has not yet directly responded to Moore’s mea culpa, the “RHOA” newcomer appeared to react to her former co-star’s interview with a cryptic post on social media.

“Best part of being authentic, there is no image to maintain,” she captioned photos of herself from a glamorous shoot on Nov. 15. “We are all the villain in someone’s story. ✨💫”
Despite Moore’s exit from “RHOA,” Cohen also teased that the upcoming season is “really good.”
He said production on the show “took so long” because they “wanted to get it exactly right.”
“We were really serious about casting,” Cohen added, “And this season is a very pivotal season for that show. It’s a major crossroads for the show.”

Season 16 of “RHOA” does not yet have an exact premiere date. However, it is set to air in early 2025.


#NewMusic from Miguel “Always Time”

R&B superstar Miguel returns with the brand new single “Always Time”. The song was written and produced by Miguel and co-produced by Jeff Bhasker and Dave Sitek. “Always Time” showcases the power and vulnerability of Miguel’s voice in an intimate portrait of heartbreak and introspection. He adds “This may be the most difficult song I’ve ever had to write – for all of the life lessons and experiences that live between each line. I’m grateful for the closure it has given me and know it’s the most honest way to begin this chapter of my artistry and relationship with my audience.”

LISTEN HERE 

The song is accompanied by a one-take music video which was self-directed by Miguel


#HipHopNews: Hip-hop legend TJ Swan of Juice Crew dies at 57
The hip-hop community is grieving the loss of T.J. Swan, a legendary singer and influential member of the Juice Crew, who passed away on November 22.
His family confirmed the news on his official Instagram account, while fellow Juice Crew member Roxanne Shante shared tributes to the late vocalist.
T.J. Swan was instrumental in shaping the sound of 1980s hip-hop, becoming one of the first vocalists to collaborate on iconic tracks. Introduced to the Juice Crew by Biz Markie, Swan’s distinct voice elevated hits like MC Shan’s ‘Left Me Lonely’ and Biz Markie’s ‘Make the Music with Your Mouth Biz’ and ‘Nobody Beats the Biz.’ His soulful contributions played a significant role in the success of these records.

The news of his passing prompted heartfelt tributes from prominent hip-hop figures, including Jazzy Jeff, Killer Mike, Posdnuos of De La Soul, and Big Gipp. Swan’s influence extended beyond his era, with his hook from ‘Left Me Lonely’ being sampled in Big Gipp and Nelly’s chart-topping track ‘Grillz.’

The Juice Crew, founded by DJ Mr. Magic and supported by Cold Chillin’ Records, was a groundbreaking collective from Queensbridge, New York. Members like Big Daddy Kane, Roxanne Shante, and Kool G Rap helped define the New School era, leaving an enduring legacy in hip-hop.


#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Wicked’ and ‘Gladiator’ Are the Defying Gravity intro the Arena!
With a combined $270 million in worldwide ticket sales, “Wicked” and “Gladiator II” breathed fresh life into a box office that has struggled lately, leading to one of the busiest moviegoing weekends of the year.
Jon M. Chu’s lavish big-budget musical “Wicked,” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, debuted with $114 million domestically and $164.2 million globally for Universal Pictures, according to studio estimates Sunday. That made it the third-biggest opening weekend of the year, behind only “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Inside Out 2.” It’s also a record for a Broadway musical adaptation.

Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator II,” a sequel to his 2000 best picture-winning original, launched with $55.5 million in ticket sales. With a price tag of around $250 million to produce it, “Gladiator II” was a big bet by Paramount Pictures to return to the Colosseum with a largely new cast, led by Denzel Washington and Paul Mescal. While it opened with a touch less than the $60 million predicted in domestic ticket sales, “Gladiator II” has performed well overseas. It added $50.5 million internationally.

The collision of the two movies led to some echoes of the “Barbenheimer” effect of last year, when “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” launched simultaneously. The nickname this time, “Glicked,” wasn’t quite as catchy and the cultural imprint also was notably less. Few people sought out a double feature this time. The domestic grosses in 2023 — $162 million for “Barbie” and $82 million for “Oppenheimer” — also were higher.

For Universal, which distributed “Oppenheimer” last year, the weekend was more a triumph of “Wicked” than it was of “Glicked.”
“We saw an opportunity to dominate a weekend and get a very large running start into the Thanksgiving holiday,” said Jim Orr, distribution chief for Universal. “We’re very confident that it will play ridiculously well through the Christmas corridor and into the new year.”

But the counter-programming effect was still potent for “Wicked” and “Gladiator II,” which likewise split broadly along gender lines. And it was again the female-leaning release — “Wicked,” like “Barbie” before it — that easily won the weekend. About 72% of ticket buyers for “Wicked” were female, while 61% of those seeing “Gladiator II” were male.

“Standing on their own, each of these movies may have done pretty much what they did, but it’s hard to know,” said Paul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst for Comscore. “Raising awareness can indeed lead to an increase in box office. Let’s put it this way: They didn’t hurt each other at all.”

Massive marketing campaigns paved the way for opening weekend
The “Gladiator II” campaign featured everything from a much-debated Airbnb cross-promotion with the actual Colosseum in Rome to simultaneously running a one-minute trailer on more than 4,000 TV networks, radio station and digital platforms.

The “Wicked” onslaught went even further, with pink and green themed “Wickedly Delicious” Starbucks drinks, Stanley mugs and Mattel dolls (some of which led to an awkward recall ). Its stars made appearances at the Met Gala and the Olympics.
“We had roughly 400 global brand partners on ‘Wicked,’ so the campaign was inescapable, said Orr. “And our cast, led by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, worked so hard on this. They were everywhere. They did everything we asked them to do.”

Going into the weekend, box office was down about 11% from last year and some 25% from pre-pandemic times. That meant this week’s two headline films led a much-needed resurgence for theaters. With “Moana 2” releasing Wednesday, Hollywood might be looking at historic sales over the Thanksgiving holiday.
“This weekend’s two strong openers are invigorating a box office that fell apart after a good summer,” said David A. Gross, a film consultant who publishes a newsletter for Franchise Entertainment.

Though “Wicked” will face some direct competition from “Moana 2,” it would seem better set up for a long and lucrative run in theaters than “Gladiator II.” Though some have dinged “Wicked” for running long, at 2 hours and 40 minutes, the film has had mostly stellar reviews. Audiences gave it an “A” on CinemaScore. The reception for “Wicked” has been strong enough that Oscar prognosticators expect it to be a contender for best picture at the Academy Awards, among other categories.
Producers, perhaps sensing a hit, also took the step of splitting “Wicked” in two. Part two, already filmed, is due out next November. Each “Wicked” installation cost around $150 million to make.

“Gladiator II” has also enjoyed good reviews, particularly for Washington’s charismatic performance. Audience scores, though, were weaker, with ticket buyers giving it a “B” on CinemaScore. The film will make up for some of that, however, with robust international sales. It launched in many overseas markets a week ago, and has already accrued $165.5 million internationally.
Coming in a distant third place for the weekend was “Red One,” the Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans holiday movie turned action film. In its second week of release, the Amazon MGM Studios release grossed $13.3 million to bring its two-week global haul to $117 million. At a cost of $250 million to make, “Red One” is the season’s biggest flop, though it could recoup some value for Amazon if it’s more popular once it begins streaming.

Final domestic figures will be released Monday. Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore:

1. “Wicked,” $114 million.

2. “Gladiator II,” $55.5 million.

3. “Red One,” $13.3 million.

4. “Bonhoeffer: Pastor Spy Assassin,” $5.1 million.

5. “Venom: The Last Dance,” $4 million.

6. “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” $3.5 million.

7. “Heretic,” $2.2 million.

8. “The Wild Robot,” $2 million.

9. “Smile 2,” $1.1 million.

10. “A Real Pain,” $1.1 million.



Potter’s House Releases Statement After Bishop T.D. Jakes Suffers Medical Emergency During Service
Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a medical emergency during the live stream of his Sunday service on November 24, leaving his congregation and viewers deeply concerned.
The incident unfolded as Jakes was delivering the benediction after his sermon.

His clergymen and staff rushed to his side while the congregation interceded in prayer for his recovery.
The Potter’s House of Dallas released a statement addressing the situation:
During today’s service, Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a slight health incident and received immediate medical attention following his powerful hour-long message.

Bishop Jakes is stable and under the care of medical professionals.
The entire Potter’s House family is grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from the community.
Thank you for your understanding and continued prayers.

As news of the medical emergency spread, social media erupted with reactions.
Supporters from around the world expressed their prayers and well-wishes for Bishop Jakes’ health and recovery.
Stay tuned for updates on Bishop T.D. Jakes’ condition.

In the meantime, please keep him uplifted in prayer.


Netflix debuts ‘The Piano Lesson’ with star-studded family cast and legacy
The latest adaptation of August Wilson’s acclaimed play, The Piano Lesson, premiered on Netflix, bringing the powerful narrative to a new audience. Set in 1939, the film follows Boy Willie, portrayed by John David Washington, as he travels from Mississippi to Pittsburgh with his friend Lymon, played by Ray Fisher. Their mission is to sell watermelons and persuade Willie’s sister, Berniece (Danielle Deadwyler), to part with their family heirloom — a storied piano.

At the heart of The Piano Lesson is the complex history of the Charles family, who were enslaved and traded for the piano by their enslaver, Sutter. The film delves into the legacy of trauma and memory, as flashbacks reveal the family’s past, including the tragic fate of Boy Charles, who carved his family’s history into the instrument before being murdered by Sutter’s family. Berniece believes the piano is haunted by Sutter’s ghost, while Boy Willie sees it as a barrier to their future, wanting to sell it to build a more stable life.

This adaptation boasts a remarkable cast, many of whom have deep ties to Wilson’s work. Washington and Samuel L. Jackson, who plays their uncle Doaker, both starred in the Broadway revival of The Piano Lesson in 2022. The film also features Michael Potts, Corey Hawkins and Skylar Aleece Smith, creating a lineup that showcases Black star power.

Critics have praised the performances, particularly those of Washington and Deadwyler. Their portrayals bring depth and passion to their characters, although some reviews suggest that the film’s execution does not fully honor their talents. The chemistry among the cast is palpable, yet the adaptation has faced scrutiny for its narrative choices and pacing.
One of the most discussed aspects of this adaptation is how it translates Wilson’s stage play to the screen. While the film follows the plot closely, some critics argue that it leans too heavily on horror elements, particularly the ghost allegory, which they have said feels out of place. The film’s reliance on special effects and horror tropes detracts from the rich themes and character development that Wilson is known for.

HuffPost’s senior culture reporters Candice Frederick and Erin E. Evans highlight that the film’s flashbacks lack depth, failing to provide the necessary context for the characters’ motivations and histories. They express disappointment that the adaptation does not fully capture the essence of Wilson’s work, which is often rooted in dialogue and character interactions rather than visual spectacle.

Interestingly, the adaptation incorporates horror elements that some viewers found jarring. The ghost of Sutter is portrayed in a way that feels heavy-handed, leading to moments that resemble a horror film rather than a poignant family drama. Critics argue that this approach undermines the subtleties of Wilson’s narrative, which is more about the emotional and historical weight of the characters’ experiences.
Frederick and Evans suggest that the film could have benefited from a more nuanced exploration of the characters’ pasts, allowing the horror to emerge organically rather than being forced through visual gimmicks. They emphasize the importance of showing rather than telling, advocating for a deeper engagement with the characters’ histories.

“The Piano Lesson” ending: Closure or confusion?
As the film reaches its conclusion, both critics express mixed feelings. While the ending attempts to provide closure for the characters, it leaves viewers with lingering questions about the narrative’s coherence. The adaptation’s choices lead to a sense of confusion rather than resolution, prompting discussions about the effectiveness of the storytelling.
Ultimately, the Netflix adaptation of The Piano Lesson is a testament to the talent of its cast and the enduring power of Wilson’s original work. However, the film’s interpretation has sparked debate about its fidelity to the source material and the effectiveness of its horror elements. For those seeking a more traditional adaptation, the 1995 film version remains a compelling alternative.

As audiences engage with this new adaptation, it serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in translating stage plays to the screen. The conversations surrounding The Piano Lesson highlight the importance of honoring the original narrative while exploring new creative avenues.


Philadelphia Eagles Saquon Barkley erupts with 255 rushing yards as Philly beats L.A. 37-20 for its 7th straight victory

The last time a running back won NFL MVP was 12 seasons ago. Adrian Peterson got it after rushing for more than 2,000 yards.
The last time a running back was MVP without 2,000 rushing yards in a season or breaking an NFL single-season touchdown record was Emmitt Smith in 1993.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is going to make it hard on voters to pick just the best quarterback available for MVP this season.
Barkley added to his remarkable season with another huge game, and this one was in prime time. Barkley was unstoppable as he ran over, around and past the Los Angeles Rams. Barkley rushed for 255 yards, passed 1,500 yards from scrimmage on the season, and the Eagles cruised to a 37-20 win. Barkley's rushing total was the ninth highest in a game in NFL history and the most in Eagles history.

The victory puts Philadelphia's record at 9-2 for the season. With the Washington Commanders’ loss on Sunday, the Eagles lead the division by three games with six to play.
Barkley could end up with 2,000 rushing yards this season. He’s on pace for it, with 1,392 yards through 11 games. That's a career high for Barkley with six games to go. That might get him enough MVP votes to win the award. But as the Eagles surge toward an NFC East championship, Barkley’s case keeps getting stronger, regardless of if he hits the magic 2,000 number.

The New York Giants blew it this offseason. Saquon Barkley is clearly a first-team All-Pro this season and so is Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney, who is tied for the NFL lead in interceptions. The Giants let both leave in free agency this offseason.

Even worse, the Giants made Barkley look like a mostly average running back for many seasons. The same Barkley who is electrifying the NFL and revitalizing Philadelphia’s offense didn’t even break 1,000 yards rushing on the Giants last season. Barkley must be thrilled to be with a legitimate NFL operation this season.
The Eagles don’t usually spend much on running backs, but made Barkley an exception. They must have seen how the Giants were wasting his talent and how their stellar offensive line could turn him back into a star.

Barkley has been dominant since the Eagles’ Week 1 win over the Packers. The Eagles got another brilliant performance on Sunday night.
The game was mostly in hand with less than three minutes left, but Barkley broke a 72-yard touchdown run to punctuate his massive night. It’s not easy to break long touchdowns like that in the NFL, but Barkley has made it look routine this season.
Since its bye week, Philadelphia is 7-0. If there’s an NFC team that could go to Detroit and knock off the Lions in the playoffs, the Eagles are the most obvious answer.

Barkley carried the day on Sunday, but the defense has quickly become one of the NFL’s best. The Rams have a potent offense when they’re healthy, and in a pivotal second quarter they had -6 yards on four possessions. As Philadelphia picks up new coordinator Vic Fangio’s scheme, there has been steady improvement on that side of the ball.
And the offense has plenty of options. Barkley just transformed the Eagles’ run game. Now they have a superstar who is capable of big plays and massive games, a player who can turn what should be a failed play into something positive more often than not.

If that sounds like a good MVP candidate, it’s because he is. Defenses can’t stop Barkley this season. The only thing that might stop him might be recent MVP voting history


Lyle Menendez's Attorney Wife Announces Split, Denies 'Cheating Scandal'
Lyle Menendez, who, alongside his brother Erik, has been serving a life sentence for the 1989 murders of their parents and whose life story was turned into a controversial TV series by Ryan Murphy, is no longer in an active marital relationship.

The news came from Lyle's wife, Rebecca Sneed, herself, who recently clarified their relationship status on Facebook. They have been "separated for a while now," according to a Facebook post, but she claims they remain "best friends and family."
Sneed, who's an attorney, emphasized her commitment to continuing Lyle's Facebook pages and supporting to help the brothers fight for their freedom. She asserted that she will continue to provide updates on the case and will never cease fighting for their release.

Sneed additionally denied that their separation was the result of a cheating scandal.
Lyle Menendez himself has not yet addressed their separation, but he gushed over his estranged wife on their 20th wedding anniversary just weeks before she announced their split. "Her unwavering support and belief in me is something I am most grateful for and has played no small part in my journey to be a better person," he said in a previous statement.


Third Man Sentenced In Young Dolph Murder
More than three years have passed since the tragic and untimely death of Tennessee rapper Young Dolph. In that time, multiple individuals have been implicated, including two men charged with his alleged murder and a third, Jermarcus Johnson, who played a supporting role in the unfolding drama.
Jermarcus Johnson, the half-brother of convicted murderer Justin Johnson, was recently spared jail time and sentenced to six years of diversion. According to Shelby County Judge Jennifer Mitchell, his sentence includes job training, drug testing, community service and refraining from owning a firearm. If he completes the program successfully, his record could be cleared.

Jermarcus had pleaded guilty to three counts of serving as an accessory following the fatal attack on Young Dolph. His limited involvement, lack of a prior criminal record and cooperation with authorities worked in his favor. Shelby County Deputy District Attorney Paul Hagerman emphasized Johnson's "very, very limited role" in the case, noting that Jermarcus had no prior criminal record.

According to various reports, Jermarcus assisted his half-brother and another suspect, Cornelius Smith Jr., by facilitating phone communications and aiding in their attempts to evade law enforcement. He testified that Justin Johnson came to him post-murder and handed him a phone, requesting his help in managing social media accounts and spoofing parole calls. Prosecutors pointed out that while Jermarcus' involvement was much lesser than the primary accused, his actions still contributed to the post-crime activities.

Justin Johnson was convicted of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was handed a life sentence, which was recently extended by an additional 35 years. Justin's defense team is currently seeking a retrial, arguing that the verdict was contrary to the evidence presented.

Meanwhile, Cornelius Smith, another key figure in the case, testified during Justin Johnson's trial. He admitted to shooting and killing Young Dolph and identified himself and Justin in surveillance footage from the crime scene. Smith's testimony also implicated other individuals, including Hernandez Govan and Anthony Mims, who allegedly orchestrated the hit on Young Dolph.
The legal proceedings continue to develop, with a trial date for Hernandez Govan set for March 10, 2025. As the story unfolds, it remains a grim reminder of the complexities of crime, loyalty and consequence within urban communities.


Elton John Shares He's Lost Vision in His Right Eye After Infection
Elton John's still standing despite some recent health struggles. After admitting that "it's been a while since I've done anything," the "Tiny Dancer" singer revealed that he’s been facing a battle with his vision. 
"I've unfortunately lost my eyesight in my right eye in July," Elton told Robin Roberts on Good Morning America Nov. 25, "because I had an infection in [the] South of France, and it's been four months now that I haven't been able to see."

The 77-year-old—who shares sons Zachary, 13, and Elijah, 11, with husband David Furnish—added that his "left eye's not the greatest" and, while he's hopeful for a remedy, his ailment has made it difficult to record music.
"There's hope and encouragement that it will be OK, but I'm kind of stuck at the moment," he shared, "because I can do something like this [interview], but going into the studio and recording...I don't know, because I can't see a lyric for start."

"We're taking initiative to try and get it better," Elton continued. "But at the moment, that's really what I'm concentrating on. It's never fortunate for anything like this to happen."
He added, "It kinda floored me, and I can't see anything. I can't read anything, I can't watch anything."
The "Cold Heart" hitmaker—who is the subject of an upcoming Disney+ documentary Elton John: Never Too Late directed by his husband and R.J. Cutler—expressed gratitude for the ways in which his health struggles have been things into perspective.

"I'm so lucky. I'm the luckiest man in the world," he gushed. "I'm so proud of the documentary, I'm proud of my sons, I'm proud of my attitude toward myself and what's going on. I'm just very lucky and very grateful." 

"I am an iron man," Elton said, "because I've been through so much and come out the other side."
The "Rocket Man" singer initially shared that he was dealing with a "severe eye infection" back in September.
"I am healing," he shared on Instagram Sep. 3, "but it's an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye."

"I have been quietly spending the summer recuperating at home," Elton added, "and am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far."


Osundairo Brothers Who Helped Actor Stage Alleged Hate Crime with Jussie Smollett Slam Court’s Decision To Reverse Actor’s Conviction

Ola and Bola Osundairo, the brothers hired by Jussie Smollett in 2019 for his alleged scheme, say the disgraced actor is refusing to admit guilt.
Smollett, who is Black and gay, accused his “attackers” of shouting racist and homophobic slurs at him before putting a noose around his neck in Chicago six years ago.

In 2021, the actor was found guilty of five counts of disorderly conduct after it turned out he set up the attack. Testimony at his trial indicated he paid the brothers, whom he knew from the set of the TV show “Empire,” $3,500 to carry out the “attack.”

That pair joined NewsNation’s “Dan Abrams Live” — with Ola Osundairo wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat — to dissect the incident and recent court decision in the case.
“Jussie is a great actor. He is good at what he does, and … people really believe him,” Bola said. “But every time I listen to him, and I hear him, I’m disappointed because he does not — and cannot — say the truth.”

Their remarks came just days after the Illinois Supreme Court reversed the actor’s conviction in the planned attack, ruling that he shouldn’t have been prosecuted a second time since the charges were initially dropped and Smollett had already entered into a deal with the Cook County state’s attorney’s office.

“My reaction to the court’s ruling was that it made sense,” Ola Osundairo said. “The real injustice here was the sweetheart deal that [Cook County State’s Attorney] Kim Foxx gave him in the first place, which allowed him to go on and profess his innocence.”
Foxx, who recused herself after she communicated with a Smollett relative during the probe, reiterated that she welcomed an independent investigation into the way she and her office handled the case.

The brothers penned a book, “Bigger Than Jussie: The Disturbing Need for a Modern-Day Lynching,” and tell NewsNation they are “very looking forward to putting all of this behind.”
“We think and believe that the truth should be out to help people that have been in positions that we’ve been in, such as making a mistake,” Bola Osundairo said. “The mistake that does not have to define you, you can move forward from making a mistake, and that’s what the book helps us tell.”Nigerian brothers, Abimbola ‘Bola’ and Olabinjo ‘Ola’ Osundairo, who helped Jussie Smollett allegedly stage a hate crime hoax, are not too pleased with the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the actor’s conviction.
The siblings recently appeared on Fox News where they blasted the ruling, calling it “injustice” and blaming the celebs

“influence and power.”
As we covered earlier this week, the Illinois Supreme Court concluded that Smollett could not be tried a second time in his hate 2019 hate crime hoax, after a second trial resulted in a 150-day prison sentence.
As Smollett was successful in his appeal however, he will not face any further consequences as he already complete the terms of his plea deal from the 1st trial.


Cher Reveals She Was Shocked to Learn What Her Real Name Was

Cher is revealing what her real birth name was. The 78-year-old entertainer has been very open in her new memoir, “Cher: The Memoir, Part One,” and that includes a story about her name.
For many years, Cher was under the impression her name was Cherilyn, but when she went to legally change it to just Cher, she learned that her legal name was a little bit different.

“I believed Cherilyn was my name until the day years later when I decided to legally change my name to simply Cher,” she wrote in her book, recalling she felt “shocked” at her discovery that it was Cheryl.
She went on to explain that her 19-year-old mother went into labor with her a month early and had a long, unmedicated labor.
“She was exhausted by the time I arrived at around 7:30 a.m. on Monday, May 20,” Cher said in her book.

The actress and singer added that while her mother was recovering from the birth, a nurse visited, asking for a name.
“My mother had no idea, but the woman insisted so she replied, ‘Well, Lana Turner‘s my favorite actress and her little girl’s called Cheryl. My mother’s name is Lynda, so how about Cherilyn?’” Cher recalled.

However, when she learned that legally her name was wrong on her birth certificate, she asked her mom about it, to which she replied, “I was only a teenager, and I was in a lot of pain. Give me a break.”
Other tidbits Cher has revealed in her book include the one celebrity who broke up with her, and why she divorced her ex Gregg Allman after just nine days.


Mark Consuelos Goes Shirtless For New Fashion Campaign, Becomes First Ever Stuart Weitzman Men's Global Ambassador
Mark Consuelos is showing off his ripped, muscular body!
The 53-year-old actor and talk show host stars in Stuart Weitzman‘s first celebrity-fronted Men’s campaign after becoming the brand’s first ever Men’s global ambassador, photographed by Ned Rogers.

In the campaign images, Mark can be seen modeling the Stuart Weitzman Aiden Boot, a “Chelsea boot-inspired design with a stretch-infused shaft and a lightweight lug sole.”
He also displays the Adam Boot, which is a “lace-up boot featuring a stretch-infused shaft and a lightweight lug sole.”

“I am thrilled to be named Stuart Weitzman’s first-ever Men’s global ambassador. I know the brand because of my wife, who has many blue shoeboxes in her closet,” Mark shared in a statement. “I’m honored to be thought of as the definition of the Stuart Weitzman man. When I told her about the campaign concept of strong, sophisticated and sexy, she encouraged me to go for it — and put all my hours in the gym to good use!”

Mark‘s campaign was also a topic of discussion on Live With Kelly and Mark, of course.
His wife and co-host Kelly Ripa joked, “Believe it or not, this man is selling shoes. That’s right, shoes. I was like, ‘What? Are there shoes involved in this?”
She also showed off an unreleased photo from the campaign that is now the image on her phone lock screen


Tyla Teams With Stanley for Limited-Edition Tumbler Cup: Here’s When & Where to Buy the Tyger Quencher
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
The cat’s out of the bag: Tyla is releasing a Stanley cup. The “Water” singer teamed with Stanley 1913 on a limited-edition tumbler, announced on Sunday (Nov. 24).

Stanley teased the collaboration on Sunday with an Instagram post captioned, “A Quencher fit for a queen.”
Offered in a deep brown shade, the Tyla Tyger Quencher features bronze shimmer accents with a glossy finish and Tyla’s signature tiger scratch beneath the Stanley 1913 logo. The 40 oz. Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler “shifts from cool tones to warm,” according to the company’s website.
“Our brand is widely known for our innovation, originality and ability to move at the speed of culture; collaborating with Tyla is an authentic extension for Stanley 1913,” Graham Nearn, Stanley 1913’s chief brand officer, said in a statement to Billboard.

Stanley has collaborated with several recording artists, athletes and other brands including Olivia Rodrigo, Lainey Wilson, Lionel Messi, LoveShack Fancy, Wicked, Barbie and e.l.f. cosmetics.
The Tyla Tyger Quencher retails for $82 and will be available for purchase exclusively on Stanley1913.com starting on Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 9 a.m. PT. If you’re looking to snag the Tyla x Stanley collab for the holidays, click here to sign up to receive notification as soon as it drops.

In other Tyla news, the South African singer will perform at Coachella next year joining a star-studded lineup which includes Missy Elliott, LISA, JENNIE, FKA Twigs, GloRilla, Charli XCX, Anitta, ENHYPEN, T-Pain Megan Thee Stallion, Rema, Shaboozey and Benson Boone.


Inside Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good's Road to Engagement

Meagan Good is pretty, uh, good at keeping details of Jonathan Majors’ proposal close to the heart.
Or should we say proposals? "Truthfully, we did two proposals," the Harlem actress told E! News’ Francesca Amiker at the EBONY Power 100 gala in Los Angeles on Nov. 17. “I was just thinking about the second one. Yeah, we’re gonna keep it to ourselves. I was very shocked, and it was wonderful. I was like, 'Wait, are you serious babe?' And then later on, some months later, was another, and I was like, 'Baby!'"

As for the reason the Lovecraft Country alum decided to pop the question twice, he simply said, “Don’t do anything by halves.”
Their engagement announcement—which was made when Good flashed her yellow diamond stunner while walking the red carpet with Majors—represented a full circle moment for the couple as they met at the event two years prior.

"EBONY Power 100 is the event that we met at in the bathroom," the bride-to-be added, "in the unisex bathroom."
“It just was instant chemistry, but I wasn’t really in that mind frame,” the 43-year-old, whose divorce from film producer DeVon Franklin was finalized three months before she met her future fiancé at the October 2022 event, told People in July. “Then we re-met again about four months later, and I was like, 'This is gonna happen. This is gonna happen.' And it did."
Reports spread that Good and Majors were dating in May 2023.

"As everything was unfolding, it wasn’t that there was a moment that I decided I’m going to let the world in on this," she continued. "It was the moment that I decided, 'I see you.' And for us to walk through together, that’s just what’s gonna happen, and I have to be OK with that or not."

The news of their relationship came about two months after Majors was arrested in New York on charges of harassment and assault for his alleged involvement in a domestic dispute with ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari. The former Marvel actor denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty.
In December 2023—after a trial in which Good showed her support by joining him in court—Majors was found guilty of one count of assault in the third-degree as well as one count of harassment in the second degree. He was also found not guilty of another count of assault in the third degree and of a count of aggravated harassment. Four months later, Majors was sentenced to a 52-week counseling program and a $250 charge.

So, as Good moved forward in their relationship, she was prepared for people to have their opinions.
“He actually tried to encourage me to not be with him, and I was like, 'Yeah, that’s not going to happen,'" she recalled to People, later adding, "Honestly, the only thing which I’ve been a little bit more sensitive about now is there will be critiques—like when Jonathan and I are on the carpet. I think I’m not bothered by it, but a part of me wants to protect him because I know how we are when we are us."


Lizzo’s Stunning Transformation: Singer Reveals Dramatic Weight Loss in New Selfies 
Lizzo has taken social media by storm with her latest Instagram post, showcasing a dramatic transformation that has left her fans buzzing with excitement.
On November 22, the “Truth Hurts” singer shared a series of selfies that highlight her impressive weight loss journey, captivating followers with her stunning new look.

In the post, Lizzo poses effortlessly in a car, wearing a striking sheer white crop top paired with an embroidered jean skirt that features a sheer white underlay. Her long braids added an elegant touch to the ensemble, complementing her confident vibe.
The caption read, “Last night I wore milkmaid braids,” accompanied by a playful tongue-out emoji, suggesting she was in high spirits during her outing, likely with her mother, as indicated by a follow-up Instagram reel.

Fans quickly flooded the comment section, expressing their admiration for Lizzo’s radiant appearance. One user exclaimed, “Baby that face card ain’t ever declining. EVER!!!!” while another highlighted her chiseled features, commenting, “The cheekbones are cheekboning.” Many noted the visible change in her physique, with one follower remarking, “whew girl !! you looking skinny!! still beautiful both ways. love it.”

Lizzo’s weight loss journey has been documented openly on her social media platforms, where she has shared recipes, workout regimens, and insights into her overall healthy habits. In a conversation with The New York Times earlier this year, she described her approach as a “natural weight-loss journey,” emphasizing her methodical and gradual progress.
“I’m losing weight very slowly,” she shared, showcasing her commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle without resorting to drastic measures.
In response to rampant speculation about her weight loss methods, including rumors of using weight-loss medications, Lizzo took to social media in September to address the allegations. She humorously stated:

“When you finally get Ozempic allegations after 5 months of weight training and calorie deficit,” alongside a lighthearted selfie video. Her candid nature highlights her dedication to transparency with her followers.
Further embracing her confident image, Lizzo playfully parodied these Ozempic allegations during Halloween, dressing up as “LizzOzempic,” a costume inspired by a parody from a recent episode of South Park. The outfit playfully featured a measuring tape around her waist, and she promoted her fictional product on Instagram, cheerily declaring, “Need self-love? Try Lizzo! Lose guilt. Gain confidence.”

Despite her role as a prominent figure in the body positivity movement, Lizzo has also shared her nuanced perspective on the topic. During her interview with The New York Times, she stated that the narrative surrounding body positivity has evolved into “body neutrality.”

Acknowledging the reality of fluctuating self-image, she remarked, “I’m not going to lie and say I love my body every day. The bottom line is, the way you feel about your body changes every single day. There are some days I adore my body, and others when I don’t feel completely positive.”
Lizzo’s openness not only inspires her fans to embrace their bodies but also encourages a more authentic discussion about the pressures surrounding body image and self-acceptance. As her journey continues to unfold in the public eye, the support from her fan base proves that authenticity and self-love are powerful elements of her narrative.

Her recent snapshots showcase not just her physical changes, but a blossoming sense of confidence that resonates with many individuals navigating their journeys in a society often fixated on appearance. Lizzo remains a remarkable example of self-acceptance and empowerment, and as she continues to shine, her fans eagerly anticipate more updates along her transformative path.


Former Chef for Diddy Alleges Long-Standing Abuse Against Cassie Ventura Amid New Claims
The scrutiny surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs has intensified, as a former personal chef has come forward with explosive claims about abuse during his high-profile relationships with Kim Porter and Cassie Ventura. On Friday (November 22), Jourdan Cha’Taun, who worked for Combs during those periods, posted a powerful condemnation on Instagram, addressing recent legal maneuvers by Combs’ team and supporting Ventura, his ex-girlfriend.

Cha’Taun’s post, featuring an image of Ventura, criticized Combs’ legal claims that the infamous 2016 hotel assault video had been edited. Combs’ attorneys alleged the government provided the court with a manipulated version of the footage during his ongoing criminal case. Cha’Taun dismissed these assertions as “sick,” alleging they deflect from a history of abuse that spanned much of Ventura and Combs’ decade-long relationship.

“Seeing @cassie be re-victimized in the press, on the blogs & through that disingenuous ‘apology’ throughout the past year has been truly disgusting to see,” Cha’Taun wrote. “He was physically abusing her. For a LONG TIME! These are FACTS!!!!!!!!!!! To say that the video was edited, knowing there were WORSE BEATINGS, is truly SICK!”
The chef’s post doubled as a public declaration of support for Ventura and all survivors of domestic violence. “It’s unconscionable,” she continued. “I stand with Cassie, and all domestic violence victims, survivors, and those no longer with us.” Concluding her statement, she declared, “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.”

Cha’Taun’s remarks come amid mounting evidence of Combs’ abusive behavior. Recently released text messages between Cassie and Combs reveal the aftermath of a 2016 altercation at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles. In one exchange, Cassie detailed the severity of the assault:

“I have a black eye and fat lip. You are sick for thinking it’s OK to do what you’ve done…I still have crazy bruising,” she wrote.
Other messages provided chilling insight into the violence she endured: “You drag me down the hall by my hair…I have bleeding cuts…You hit me in the head two good times.”
The harrowing texts, coupled with surveillance footage showing Combs chasing and assaulting Ventura in a hotel hallway, contradict the claims of video tampering alleged by Combs’ legal team.

Cha’Taun’s decision to speak out publicly underscores the severity of the allegations. This isn’t her first time discussing her experiences working for Combs. In 2019, following the death of Kim Porter, Cha’Taun shared a heartfelt tribute to Porter, recalling how she admired her strength and ability to “love and check Puff.” Cha’Taun described the pair as “the black version of Bonnie & Clyde,” highlighting Porter’s unique dynamic with Combs.

Her recent comments cast a shadow over the legacy of Combs, who is now under increased scrutiny for alleged patterns of abuse. Ventura, who has largely stayed out of the public eye since their breakup, has become a rallying point for advocates against domestic violence.
Jourdan Cha’Taun’s bold statement adds weight to the growing chorus demanding accountability. By leveraging her platform to shed light on Ventura’s struggles, she has reignited critical conversations about abuse, power, and the responsibility to stand with survivors.

With these allegations taking center stage, the music mogul faces a reckoning that goes beyond legal filings and courtrooms—a public demand for truth and justice.


Bernice King Says Trump’s Inauguration on MLK Day Shows That “Dr. King Is Still Speaking to Us”

Bernice King, the youngest daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., recently shared her opinions on Donald Trump’s inauguration on MLK Day.
During an interview with The Independent, Bernice had a surprising response to the upcoming event, but had interesting logic to explain.

“I’m glad that if it was going to happen, it happened on the King holiday because Dr. King is still speaking to us,” she explained.
Additionally, Bernice used the moment to speak to Americans, urging them not to lose heart following Trump’s win over Vice President Kamala Harris, who would’ve made history if elected.  She also encouraged citizens to continue to fight for justice in the spirit of her father’s mission.

“We cannot retreat or recoil,” Bernice urged. “We have to commit ourselves to continuing the mission of protecting freedom, justice, and democracy in the spirit of my father.”
In recent months, Bernice has been vocal about her dislike for the misusage of her father’s legacy for political gain. Back in August, Bernice called out Trump for making a false statement, claiming his rally on January 6th, 2021, brought in more attendees than MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial 1963.

“I really wish that people would stop using my father to support fallacy,” she wrote on Twitter.
Bernice also criticized a pro-MAGA account on the platform for sharing a “vile, fake, irresponsible” deepfake video of the historic figure seemingly supporting Trump. Nonetheless, in her Independent interview, Bernice referenced her father’s iconic speech while extending advice for Americans.

“Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred,” Bernice stated, adding, “I know a lot of people are angry right now. But we can’t let that rot in us.”


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Yes I Do

This couple decided to take the less expensive route and get their wedding photos done at the photobooth for $4.


EVENING GOODIES: Meet Che Chocolate
Meet Che! You can see more when GO HERE TO SEE THE PICS! And remember to exercise CAUTION AT WORK!

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.

Enjoy!


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM

No comments:

Post a Comment