MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE CHRONICLES
Colman Domingo and Kieran Culkin both are Interviewed for VARIETY Magazine
In a new conversation for VARIETY’s Actors on Actors issue, Colman Domingo and Kieran Culkin discuss why Sarah Snook is Culkin’s favorite “Succession” scene partner (and reveals that she’s the godmother to his son), Jeremy Strong’s position that actors are storytellers, fatherhood, “A Real Pain,” “Sing Sing,” and more.
Culkin on why Sarah Snook was his favorite “Succession” scene partner: “You’re not supposed to have favorites; I have a favorite. There would be times, just for fun, I would take her line, and then give her a little side-eye. And then the scene would go on, and when it was my line, she would take mine and go, ‘Got you, bitch.’ Right before we were about to finish shooting, she goes, ‘Are you ready to cry? No one’s ever going to cast the two of us in anything. We’re never going to work together again.’ I just bawled. When you’re on a show like that, and we play brother-sister, people will always make that comparison. So she’s probably right…She lives in Australia, so it’s hard to keep up. I’m not the best with the phone thing. I always relied on the fact that there was going to be another season. But she’s my son’s godmother and one of my favorite people in the world.”
Culkin on Jeremy Strong’s position that actors are storytellers: “I object to when actors call themselves ‘storytellers.’ I don’t really like that. Sorry, Jeremy [Strong]. I don’t think I’m telling the story. Jesse Eisenberg was really good at making sure everyone was involved, but he wrote it. He’s telling the story. We’re all helping him.”
Domingo and Culkin on fatherhood:
Domingo: “What do you like about being a father?”
Culkin: “Absolutely everything except dinner time. I love everything else. It feels like nothing else matters. I’m a dad now, and my only role in life is that. That’s real life. All this is lovely, but I’m just trying to get home. Do you ever want kids?”
Domingo: “I wanted kids in my 20s. Now, I have a lot of really good furniture.”
Culkin on how he got cast in “A Real Pain”:
“Whenever I haven’t auditioned, I’m like, ‘You might not like this at all. You just did this because some producer said, “You gotta give it to this guy.”’ But if I’ve auditioned, then at least you know what you’re expecting. On ‘A Real Pain,’ Jesse Eisenberg hadn’t seen ‘Succession.’ He cast me without auditioning me or seeing me in anything, ever. And he thinks this is totally normal. He’s like, ‘I met you before.’ We met twice in passing. That is not how you cast someone.”
Domingo on working with formerly incarcerated people in “Sing Sing”:
“Greg Kwedar, our director, invited everyone to bring what they had and didn’t judge whatever it was. I was shooting ‘The Color Purple’ right before and doing pickups for ‘Rustin’ right after, so I literally had 18 days. I had to go in there a bit more raw, in a way I was uncomfortable with. I like to prepare a lot. This was the first time I was like, ‘Oh no, I have to not know exactly what’s happening.’ But it made sense for this film, because here I am, working with guys who have lived experience. There can’t be any polish. I have to lean into them where they are.”
Domingo on costar Clarence Maclin:
“He’s beautiful, isn’t he? There’s one take, my favorite of the film, when he has me cornered in a tight space, and I offer him the word ‘beloved.’ Then he just walked away. I’m like, ‘No, no, he’s got to really let that word work on him.’ So I leaned into my director like, ‘Could he just hang in there with it?’ And he did. I have to give it to Greg Kwedar. He rarely wanted to call ‘cut.’ Everyone wants to cut so quickly. I’m like, ‘Yo, give me a little bit. There’s more. There’s always more.’”
Culkin on why Sarah Snook was his favorite “Succession” scene partner: “You’re not supposed to have favorites; I have a favorite. There would be times, just for fun, I would take her line, and then give her a little side-eye. And then the scene would go on, and when it was my line, she would take mine and go, ‘Got you, bitch.’ Right before we were about to finish shooting, she goes, ‘Are you ready to cry? No one’s ever going to cast the two of us in anything. We’re never going to work together again.’ I just bawled. When you’re on a show like that, and we play brother-sister, people will always make that comparison. So she’s probably right…She lives in Australia, so it’s hard to keep up. I’m not the best with the phone thing. I always relied on the fact that there was going to be another season. But she’s my son’s godmother and one of my favorite people in the world.”
Culkin on Jeremy Strong’s position that actors are storytellers: “I object to when actors call themselves ‘storytellers.’ I don’t really like that. Sorry, Jeremy [Strong]. I don’t think I’m telling the story. Jesse Eisenberg was really good at making sure everyone was involved, but he wrote it. He’s telling the story. We’re all helping him.”
Domingo and Culkin on fatherhood:
Domingo: “What do you like about being a father?”
Culkin: “Absolutely everything except dinner time. I love everything else. It feels like nothing else matters. I’m a dad now, and my only role in life is that. That’s real life. All this is lovely, but I’m just trying to get home. Do you ever want kids?”
Domingo: “I wanted kids in my 20s. Now, I have a lot of really good furniture.”
Culkin on how he got cast in “A Real Pain”:
“Whenever I haven’t auditioned, I’m like, ‘You might not like this at all. You just did this because some producer said, “You gotta give it to this guy.”’ But if I’ve auditioned, then at least you know what you’re expecting. On ‘A Real Pain,’ Jesse Eisenberg hadn’t seen ‘Succession.’ He cast me without auditioning me or seeing me in anything, ever. And he thinks this is totally normal. He’s like, ‘I met you before.’ We met twice in passing. That is not how you cast someone.”
Domingo on working with formerly incarcerated people in “Sing Sing”:
“Greg Kwedar, our director, invited everyone to bring what they had and didn’t judge whatever it was. I was shooting ‘The Color Purple’ right before and doing pickups for ‘Rustin’ right after, so I literally had 18 days. I had to go in there a bit more raw, in a way I was uncomfortable with. I like to prepare a lot. This was the first time I was like, ‘Oh no, I have to not know exactly what’s happening.’ But it made sense for this film, because here I am, working with guys who have lived experience. There can’t be any polish. I have to lean into them where they are.”
Domingo on costar Clarence Maclin:
“He’s beautiful, isn’t he? There’s one take, my favorite of the film, when he has me cornered in a tight space, and I offer him the word ‘beloved.’ Then he just walked away. I’m like, ‘No, no, he’s got to really let that word work on him.’ So I leaned into my director like, ‘Could he just hang in there with it?’ And he did. I have to give it to Greg Kwedar. He rarely wanted to call ‘cut.’ Everyone wants to cut so quickly. I’m like, ‘Yo, give me a little bit. There’s more. There’s always more.’”
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey and Crystal Kung Minkoff have united for a brand new podcast, "Humble Brag With Crystal and Cynthia,"
Cynthia Bailey and Crystal Kung Minkoff are a match made in heaven. The two Bravolebrities have united for a brand new podcast, "Humble Brag With Crystal and Cynthia," where they break down hot topics, their personal lives and yes, a little bit of tea from never dull word of The Real Housewives. Parade got to talk to the The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and The Real Housewives of Atlanta alums about the genesis of "Humble Brag," the special bond they've formed with each other in the land of Bravo, and how their podcast has offered them some fresh perspective on their reality TV experiences.
While Cynthia, who spent 11 years on RHOA, and Crystal, who appeared on RHOBH for three, had known each other for years, this podcast marked the beginning of an exciting new step in their friendship. "I had been developing this podcast for two years, and every time I was ready to go I just was like, 'I don't know.' I wasn't quite ready yet," Minkoff explained to us. "I just thought, I really want the right partner, and one day it hit me ... it's Cynthia."
As for Cynthia, she also felt an immediate connection, calling Crystal "super cool." She explained, "I'm an energy person. I just loved her energy. I just felt like she really was super authentic. People assume just because we all work on a show together that we all connect with each other, and that's just not true. I felt a connection with Crystal."
From the beginning of their podcasting journey, one thing was very clear to both of them: "Humble Brag" would not be a Housewives recap podcast. While there certainly is an audience for those shows (see Tamra Judge and Teddi Mellencamp's "Two T's in a Pod"), Crystal and Cynthia were interested in a more grounded, relaxed approach, a space that feels like you're hanging out with them, rather than recapping other people's lives.
"We don't want to recap Housewives," Bailey explained, while still teasing that naturally, Housewives will come up. "We have our housewife history, so when it naturally comes up for us to talk about things, we talk about it. We're both still friends with a bunch of Housewives, but it's not like we're like breaking down the episodes."
While the podcast only has a few episodes out, it's already drumming up fans.
"Cynthia and I have done this in an organic, natural way," Crystal explained to us. "So we're not acting like we're hoping someone's a fly on the wall, we're just being ourselves. We couldn't be more thrilled that people are responding in the way they have. Every day we call each other, we're like, 'Wait, people really like it.'"
As Crystal steps away from Beverly Hills this season and Cynthia prepares to return to Atlanta as a "Friend", the process of letting the audience into their lives via podcast vs. the often truncated mode of reality TV has been a healing one.
"It's really so cathartic and I think for me, I struggled most with people seeing me a certain way that I had no control over," Crystal said when recalling her experience on RHOBH. "Because you're on the show, and you have to respect the network and the experience of it ... I'm a team player, but actually, it really like took a toll on me emotionally."
"If you don't like me because of me, cool," she continued, "And if you like me because you like me, awesome! The problem with the show is you don't like me because of what was shown in this edit and then I have to live with that? That was really hard."
Crystal also added that diving into the behind-the-scenes of reality TV on "Humble Brag" has also been an unexpected perk, especially for fans who may want to get a little peak behind the curtain.
"The audience is so smart," she added. "You can still enjoy the show while knowing how the sausage is made. We're not gonna expose everything because we respect the experience, but we're also like, here are the things we can share with you guys, and it's fun!"
Bailey got a taste of how much "Humble Brag" is resonating with Bravo fans when she attended Bravo Fan Fest in Miami last month. "When I tell you how many fans came up to me, like hundreds of them, saying how much they love 'Humble Brag!' I was like, 'Wait, what?' I was calling Crystal and I was like, 'Bitch people really like "Humble Brag"!'"
Bailey, gushing over the special connection she's found with Crystal, reffered to their bond as "the perfect accident." Crystal swiftly agreed with her new bestie, even suggesting that could have made for an even better title than "Humble Brag."
In the often-tense land of Real Housewives, rifts are unfortunately more common than bonds. How special it is then, to witness two reality stars from different backgrounds come together for some laughs, some healing, and a little bit of shade along the way.
"Humble Brag With Crystal and Cynthia" is available to watch on YouTube and listen to wherever you get your podcasts.
While Cynthia, who spent 11 years on RHOA, and Crystal, who appeared on RHOBH for three, had known each other for years, this podcast marked the beginning of an exciting new step in their friendship. "I had been developing this podcast for two years, and every time I was ready to go I just was like, 'I don't know.' I wasn't quite ready yet," Minkoff explained to us. "I just thought, I really want the right partner, and one day it hit me ... it's Cynthia."
As for Cynthia, she also felt an immediate connection, calling Crystal "super cool." She explained, "I'm an energy person. I just loved her energy. I just felt like she really was super authentic. People assume just because we all work on a show together that we all connect with each other, and that's just not true. I felt a connection with Crystal."
From the beginning of their podcasting journey, one thing was very clear to both of them: "Humble Brag" would not be a Housewives recap podcast. While there certainly is an audience for those shows (see Tamra Judge and Teddi Mellencamp's "Two T's in a Pod"), Crystal and Cynthia were interested in a more grounded, relaxed approach, a space that feels like you're hanging out with them, rather than recapping other people's lives.
"We don't want to recap Housewives," Bailey explained, while still teasing that naturally, Housewives will come up. "We have our housewife history, so when it naturally comes up for us to talk about things, we talk about it. We're both still friends with a bunch of Housewives, but it's not like we're like breaking down the episodes."
While the podcast only has a few episodes out, it's already drumming up fans.
"Cynthia and I have done this in an organic, natural way," Crystal explained to us. "So we're not acting like we're hoping someone's a fly on the wall, we're just being ourselves. We couldn't be more thrilled that people are responding in the way they have. Every day we call each other, we're like, 'Wait, people really like it.'"
As Crystal steps away from Beverly Hills this season and Cynthia prepares to return to Atlanta as a "Friend", the process of letting the audience into their lives via podcast vs. the often truncated mode of reality TV has been a healing one.
"It's really so cathartic and I think for me, I struggled most with people seeing me a certain way that I had no control over," Crystal said when recalling her experience on RHOBH. "Because you're on the show, and you have to respect the network and the experience of it ... I'm a team player, but actually, it really like took a toll on me emotionally."
"If you don't like me because of me, cool," she continued, "And if you like me because you like me, awesome! The problem with the show is you don't like me because of what was shown in this edit and then I have to live with that? That was really hard."
Crystal also added that diving into the behind-the-scenes of reality TV on "Humble Brag" has also been an unexpected perk, especially for fans who may want to get a little peak behind the curtain.
"The audience is so smart," she added. "You can still enjoy the show while knowing how the sausage is made. We're not gonna expose everything because we respect the experience, but we're also like, here are the things we can share with you guys, and it's fun!"
Bailey got a taste of how much "Humble Brag" is resonating with Bravo fans when she attended Bravo Fan Fest in Miami last month. "When I tell you how many fans came up to me, like hundreds of them, saying how much they love 'Humble Brag!' I was like, 'Wait, what?' I was calling Crystal and I was like, 'Bitch people really like "Humble Brag"!'"
Bailey, gushing over the special connection she's found with Crystal, reffered to their bond as "the perfect accident." Crystal swiftly agreed with her new bestie, even suggesting that could have made for an even better title than "Humble Brag."
In the often-tense land of Real Housewives, rifts are unfortunately more common than bonds. How special it is then, to witness two reality stars from different backgrounds come together for some laughs, some healing, and a little bit of shade along the way.
"Humble Brag With Crystal and Cynthia" is available to watch on YouTube and listen to wherever you get your podcasts.
#MusicNews: Ariana Grande shares new live performance of ‘Santa Tell Me’ to celebrate 10th anniversary
Ariana Grande has shared a new live performance of ‘Santa Tell Me’, right in time for Christmas.
Last night (December 23), Grande took to Instagram to post a snippet of a new live performance of the 2014 track to not only usher in the Christmas season but to celebrate the song’s 10th anniversary.
She wrote on social media: “celebrating ten years of ‘Santa Tell Me’! thank you so much for all of the love you have shown this record over the past decade. wishing you all a happy, happy holiday!”
She has also shared the full performance on YouTube, which can be seen below. Per the video, the performance was recorded during her ‘Eternal Sunshine’ sessions earlier this year, where she performed other tracks to promote her latest album.
Ariana Grande has shared a new live performance of ‘Santa Tell Me’, right in time for Christmas.
Last night (December 23), Grande took to Instagram to post a snippet of a new live performance of the 2014 track to not only usher in the Christmas season but to celebrate the song’s 10th anniversary.
She wrote on social media: “celebrating ten years of ‘Santa Tell Me’! thank you so much for all of the love you have shown this record over the past decade. wishing you all a happy, happy holiday!”
She has also shared the full performance on YouTube, which can be seen below. Per the video, the performance was recorded during her ‘Eternal Sunshine’ sessions earlier this year, where she performed other tracks to promote her latest album.
The release of the performance comes just days after Spotify declared Grande’s ‘Santa Tell Me’ as the most-streamed Christmas song from the 2010s, as well as the third most-streamed Christmas song of all time behind Wham!‘s ‘Last Christmas’ and Mariah Carey‘s ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’.
Following the release of Grande’s ‘Eternal Sunshine’, she has only made two live performances: one for Saturday Night Live, and one at the 2024 Met Gala. She recently revealed that she doesn’t foresee herself returning to music “anytime soon”, although she said that “music will always be a part of my life”. For now, she plans to focus on her acting career, and is gearing up for Wicked: For Good in 2025.
#HipHopNews: Kendrick Lamar Named No. 1 Pop Star Of The Year By Billboard
Kendrick Lamar has been crowned the No. 1 pop star of 2024 on Billboard‘s annual Greatest Pop Star by Year list.
The publication’s editorial staff selected their 10 Greatest Pop Stars of 2024, a list that includes Beyoncé at No. 8, Drake as an honorable mention and Shaboozey as Rookie of the Year.
But Dot took the top spot, behind Sabrina Carpenter at No. 2 and Taylor Swift at No. 3.
“What made Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 so remarkable was that he didn’t just remind us of all the reasons why he was so big at his commercial and cultural peak – he showed that he could do things we’d never even seen from him before,” Billboard‘s Andrew Unterbeger wrote. “He showed that he was capable of hitting heights no other rapper had reached this decade, a period that had otherwise marked something of a downturn for the once seemingly indomitable genre’s mainstream prospects.
“He showed that he was able to create cultural moments of both singular blunt-force impact and massive historical gravity – and then to do it again, and then again. And he showed that at his absolute best and biggest, he could dominate the streets, the charts and everywhere in between with equal sun-blocking vastness, and emerge as the winner not only when pitted against his most direct adversaries, but against any other potential peer in popular music.”
Meanwhile, Billboard had a different choice for their 2024 Billboard Music Awards earlier this month – awarding Drake with Top Rap Artist over his nemesis Kendrick Lamar.
However, honorees for those awards are selected by performance on the Billboard charts.
Drizzy won three awards, defeating Kendrick, Future, Metro Boomin and Travis Scott for Top Rap Artist (all but Scott had been involved in the series of back-and-forth records and other disses this past spring and summer); taking home the trophy for Top Rap Album, as For All the Dogs defeated projects from 21 Savage, Future and Metro, Nicki Minaj and Rod Wave; and also defeating Lamar and Scott for Top Rap Male Artist.
Kendrick did not go home empty handed, though. His Drake diss “Not Like Us” won Top Rap Song honors.
The publication’s editorial staff selected their 10 Greatest Pop Stars of 2024, a list that includes Beyoncé at No. 8, Drake as an honorable mention and Shaboozey as Rookie of the Year.
But Dot took the top spot, behind Sabrina Carpenter at No. 2 and Taylor Swift at No. 3.
“What made Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 so remarkable was that he didn’t just remind us of all the reasons why he was so big at his commercial and cultural peak – he showed that he could do things we’d never even seen from him before,” Billboard‘s Andrew Unterbeger wrote. “He showed that he was capable of hitting heights no other rapper had reached this decade, a period that had otherwise marked something of a downturn for the once seemingly indomitable genre’s mainstream prospects.
“He showed that he was able to create cultural moments of both singular blunt-force impact and massive historical gravity – and then to do it again, and then again. And he showed that at his absolute best and biggest, he could dominate the streets, the charts and everywhere in between with equal sun-blocking vastness, and emerge as the winner not only when pitted against his most direct adversaries, but against any other potential peer in popular music.”
Meanwhile, Billboard had a different choice for their 2024 Billboard Music Awards earlier this month – awarding Drake with Top Rap Artist over his nemesis Kendrick Lamar.
However, honorees for those awards are selected by performance on the Billboard charts.
Drizzy won three awards, defeating Kendrick, Future, Metro Boomin and Travis Scott for Top Rap Artist (all but Scott had been involved in the series of back-and-forth records and other disses this past spring and summer); taking home the trophy for Top Rap Album, as For All the Dogs defeated projects from 21 Savage, Future and Metro, Nicki Minaj and Rod Wave; and also defeating Lamar and Scott for Top Rap Male Artist.
Kendrick did not go home empty handed, though. His Drake diss “Not Like Us” won Top Rap Song honors.
#BoxOfficeNews: ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ Races to the Top and The Lion King
After opening with nearly $200 million at the box office en route to hauling in $1.6 billion globally, The Lion King (2019) established the franchise as a box office juggernaut, but the latest installment failed to reach the same heights. In a stunning display, the weekend of December 20 saw Sonic the Hedgehog 3 take the top spot at the box office after grossing $62 million domestically, slightly more than the original’s $58 million opinion but less than the sequel’s $72 million debut weekend. The third Sonic movie is already one of the top 16 highest-grossing video game movies ever and one of the top 31 highest-grossing movies of the year domestically. Keanu Reeves’ performance as Shadow the Hedgehog generated enough box office hype for Sonic 3 to earn nearly double it second-place competitor, the lion Mufasa (Aaron Pierre).
While many expected Mufasa: The Lion King to roar to the top spot, it opened with $35 million domestically, just more than half of Sonic the Hedgehog 3’s total. Mufasa also collected a hefty $87 million from international markets to bring its worldwide cumulative haul to $122 million after opening weekend, less than The Lion King’s (2019) total from domestic earnings alone. Finishing in the #3 spot this weekend was Wicked, which scored $13.5 million and finally beat Moana 2 for the first weekend since both movies have been in theaters. Wicked’s domestic total is now closing in on $400 million, currently at $383 million, with $187 million in foreign markets for a global total of $571 million. Wicked is poised to become one of the top 50 highest-grossing domestic movies ever this week, and is already on a slew of top five box office lists.
Falling from #1 to #4 is Dwayne Johnson’s animated sequel, Moana 2, which finished only a few hundred thousand behind Wicked at $13.1 million during its fourth full weekend in theaters. Moana 2 has now earned $359 million domestically and $431 million internationally for a whopping worldwide cumulative haul of $790 million, making it the fourth-highest-grossing movie of the year. Finishing the weekend at #5 is Homestead, the action thriller starring Neal McDonough and Dawn Olivieri that opened to $6 million in half the theaters as Sonic 3 and Mufasa. Gladiator 2 also fell to the #6 spot, still playing in 2,300 theaters but earning only $4.4 million. Ridley Scott’s legacy sequel has now earned $153 million domestically and $262 million internationally for a global haul of $416 million, still less than the original with a digital release date of December 24 (Christmas Eve).
After opening with nearly $200 million at the box office en route to hauling in $1.6 billion globally, The Lion King (2019) established the franchise as a box office juggernaut, but the latest installment failed to reach the same heights. In a stunning display, the weekend of December 20 saw Sonic the Hedgehog 3 take the top spot at the box office after grossing $62 million domestically, slightly more than the original’s $58 million opinion but less than the sequel’s $72 million debut weekend. The third Sonic movie is already one of the top 16 highest-grossing video game movies ever and one of the top 31 highest-grossing movies of the year domestically. Keanu Reeves’ performance as Shadow the Hedgehog generated enough box office hype for Sonic 3 to earn nearly double it second-place competitor, the lion Mufasa (Aaron Pierre).
While many expected Mufasa: The Lion King to roar to the top spot, it opened with $35 million domestically, just more than half of Sonic the Hedgehog 3’s total. Mufasa also collected a hefty $87 million from international markets to bring its worldwide cumulative haul to $122 million after opening weekend, less than The Lion King’s (2019) total from domestic earnings alone. Finishing in the #3 spot this weekend was Wicked, which scored $13.5 million and finally beat Moana 2 for the first weekend since both movies have been in theaters. Wicked’s domestic total is now closing in on $400 million, currently at $383 million, with $187 million in foreign markets for a global total of $571 million. Wicked is poised to become one of the top 50 highest-grossing domestic movies ever this week, and is already on a slew of top five box office lists.
Falling from #1 to #4 is Dwayne Johnson’s animated sequel, Moana 2, which finished only a few hundred thousand behind Wicked at $13.1 million during its fourth full weekend in theaters. Moana 2 has now earned $359 million domestically and $431 million internationally for a whopping worldwide cumulative haul of $790 million, making it the fourth-highest-grossing movie of the year. Finishing the weekend at #5 is Homestead, the action thriller starring Neal McDonough and Dawn Olivieri that opened to $6 million in half the theaters as Sonic 3 and Mufasa. Gladiator 2 also fell to the #6 spot, still playing in 2,300 theaters but earning only $4.4 million. Ridley Scott’s legacy sequel has now earned $153 million domestically and $262 million internationally for a global haul of $416 million, still less than the original with a digital release date of December 24 (Christmas Eve).
‘Whitney and Me’: Kim Burrell Reveals Upcoming Memoir About Her Deep Connection with Whitney Houston
*Gospel singer and pastor Kim Burrell is set to share her personal journey with the world through a heartfelt memoir titled “Whitney and Me,” which delves into her profound sisterhood with the late music icon Whitney Houston.
In a recent interview with DC’s Fox 5, Burrell expressed her feelings of loss and nostalgia, particularly during the holiday season.
“I miss her so very much, especially during the holidays,” she said, reflecting on the deep bond shared with Houston over the years.
Burrell revealed that she and Houston had made a promise to each other before Whitney’s untimely passing: to refrain from disclosing certain intimate details of their friendship and experiences in published works until the time was right. Now, as Burrell embarks on this literary endeavor, she feels ready to honor that commitment and release the book that embodies their loyalty and friendship.
“I am finally getting that out! It is so hard to talk about, especially now that we just funeralized her mother,” she shared.
The relationship between Burrell and Houston extended far beyond mere acquaintanceship; it was a partnership rooted in music, faith, and mutual support. Their collaborations produced unforgettable performances, including their moving duet of “I Look to You” during BET’s “Celebration of Gospel” in 2010. This performance exemplified their emotional connection and vocal synergy, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Additionally, Burrell paid tribute to Houston’s legacy at the 2010 BET Honors by presenting a jazz-infused version of “I Believe in You and Me,” which received a standing ovation and showcased Burrell’s admiration for Houston’s artistry. Their shared faith played a significant role in their relationship, with Burrell often speaking about Houston’s spirituality. In interviews reflected after Houston’s passing, Burrell noted Whitney’s strong connection with God, stating, “Whitney knew how to pray… She’s with Him today.”
Following Houston’s death in 2012, Burrell reminisced about their friendship, describing her late friend as a “wonderful spirit.” Burrell fondly recalled their last communication, remarking that Houston was in “great spirits.”
With the upcoming release of “Whitney and Me,” Burrell aims to provide insight into the beautiful friendship and creative partnership that defined her and Houston’s lives. Their enduring bond was characterized by vibrant musical collaborations, spiritual connections, and deep mutual respect, leaving a powerful impact on audiences worldwide.
As Kim Burrell embarks on this emotional journey to narrate her experiences with Whitney Houston, fans and followers eagerly anticipate the stories and reflections that will bring their once-in-a-lifetime friendship to life.
In a recent interview with DC’s Fox 5, Burrell expressed her feelings of loss and nostalgia, particularly during the holiday season.
“I miss her so very much, especially during the holidays,” she said, reflecting on the deep bond shared with Houston over the years.
Burrell revealed that she and Houston had made a promise to each other before Whitney’s untimely passing: to refrain from disclosing certain intimate details of their friendship and experiences in published works until the time was right. Now, as Burrell embarks on this literary endeavor, she feels ready to honor that commitment and release the book that embodies their loyalty and friendship.
“I am finally getting that out! It is so hard to talk about, especially now that we just funeralized her mother,” she shared.
The relationship between Burrell and Houston extended far beyond mere acquaintanceship; it was a partnership rooted in music, faith, and mutual support. Their collaborations produced unforgettable performances, including their moving duet of “I Look to You” during BET’s “Celebration of Gospel” in 2010. This performance exemplified their emotional connection and vocal synergy, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Additionally, Burrell paid tribute to Houston’s legacy at the 2010 BET Honors by presenting a jazz-infused version of “I Believe in You and Me,” which received a standing ovation and showcased Burrell’s admiration for Houston’s artistry. Their shared faith played a significant role in their relationship, with Burrell often speaking about Houston’s spirituality. In interviews reflected after Houston’s passing, Burrell noted Whitney’s strong connection with God, stating, “Whitney knew how to pray… She’s with Him today.”
Following Houston’s death in 2012, Burrell reminisced about their friendship, describing her late friend as a “wonderful spirit.” Burrell fondly recalled their last communication, remarking that Houston was in “great spirits.”
With the upcoming release of “Whitney and Me,” Burrell aims to provide insight into the beautiful friendship and creative partnership that defined her and Houston’s lives. Their enduring bond was characterized by vibrant musical collaborations, spiritual connections, and deep mutual respect, leaving a powerful impact on audiences worldwide.
As Kim Burrell embarks on this emotional journey to narrate her experiences with Whitney Houston, fans and followers eagerly anticipate the stories and reflections that will bring their once-in-a-lifetime friendship to life.
Alicia Keys Celebrates Stepson KJ's 18th Birthday With Heartfelt Tribute
Alicia Keys shares a heartwarming birthday message for her 18-year-old stepson, Kassem Jr.. On December 22, the award-winning singer took to Instagram to post a carousel of photos chronicling her stepson's journey throughout the years.
The post included family moments, vacations, and special milestones, such as Kassem Jr.'s college acceptance and attending the Tonys. In her heartfelt caption, Keys wrote, "My amazing young king @yayachronicles!! You are totally unstoppable!! I'm so excited about every moment this year is going to bring!! This is just the beginning of things you can't even imagine!"
Keys praised Kassem Jr.'s hard work and encouraged him to continue spreading positivity and gratitude. She concluded her message with a loving declaration, saying, "I love you Kassy!! Always your Umi!!! Congratulations on NYU babyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!! letssss gooooo!!!!!!!!"
Kassem Jr. is the son of Alicia Keys' husband, Swizz Beatz, and his ex-wife, Mashonda Tifrere. Along with Kassem Jr., Swizz Beatz is also the father of Prince Nasir, 24, and Nicole Dean, 16, from previous relationships.
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz, meanwhile, share two children; Egypt Daoud, 14, and Genesis Ali, 9.
Keys has consistently expressed her love and appreciation for her blended family, recognizing that families come in all shapes and sizes. Fans and followers showered Keys with praise for her beautiful family and her unwavering support for Kassem Jr. They noted the evident love and connection between them, highlighting the positive impact of blended families when built on a foundation of love and respect.
The post included family moments, vacations, and special milestones, such as Kassem Jr.'s college acceptance and attending the Tonys. In her heartfelt caption, Keys wrote, "My amazing young king @yayachronicles!! You are totally unstoppable!! I'm so excited about every moment this year is going to bring!! This is just the beginning of things you can't even imagine!"
Keys praised Kassem Jr.'s hard work and encouraged him to continue spreading positivity and gratitude. She concluded her message with a loving declaration, saying, "I love you Kassy!! Always your Umi!!! Congratulations on NYU babyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!! letssss gooooo!!!!!!!!"
Kassem Jr. is the son of Alicia Keys' husband, Swizz Beatz, and his ex-wife, Mashonda Tifrere. Along with Kassem Jr., Swizz Beatz is also the father of Prince Nasir, 24, and Nicole Dean, 16, from previous relationships.
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz, meanwhile, share two children; Egypt Daoud, 14, and Genesis Ali, 9.
Keys has consistently expressed her love and appreciation for her blended family, recognizing that families come in all shapes and sizes. Fans and followers showered Keys with praise for her beautiful family and her unwavering support for Kassem Jr. They noted the evident love and connection between them, highlighting the positive impact of blended families when built on a foundation of love and respect.
Drake Trolled By Houston Rockets After Toronto Raptors' Loss
On Sunday night, December 22, the Houston Rockets' broadcast team delivered a satisfying clap-back to Drake, the Toronto Raptors' loyal supporter. After the Rockets' hard-fought 114-110 victory, veteran broadcaster Craig Ackerman declared, "The Rockets are victorious tonight against the Guangdong Dragons."
This witty line originated from Drake's playful comment on point guard Fred VanVleet's departure from the Raptors to the Rockets in 2023. Drake jokingly referred to the Rockets as the "Guangdong Dragons," likening them to a Chinese Basketball Association team named Guangdong Southern Tigers.
Drake's jab stemmed from the Rockets' previous struggles, including a dismal 22-60 record in the 2022-23 season. However, since then, Houston has made remarkable strides with the additions of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, as well as the development of their young talent.
In contrast, the Raptors have faced a downturn this season, posting a disappointing 7-22 record. In VanVleet's return to Toronto as a visitor, Ackerman's clever remark served as a reminder of the Rockets' resurgence and the Raptors' current struggles.
VanVleet's performance on the night was relatively quiet, but the Houston broadcast team's playful trolling added a touch of sweetness to the Rockets' victory. Drake's beloved Raptors may still have some time to turn things around, but for the moment, the Houston Rockets are reveling in their revenge and the karma that comes with it.
This witty line originated from Drake's playful comment on point guard Fred VanVleet's departure from the Raptors to the Rockets in 2023. Drake jokingly referred to the Rockets as the "Guangdong Dragons," likening them to a Chinese Basketball Association team named Guangdong Southern Tigers.
Drake's jab stemmed from the Rockets' previous struggles, including a dismal 22-60 record in the 2022-23 season. However, since then, Houston has made remarkable strides with the additions of Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, as well as the development of their young talent.
In contrast, the Raptors have faced a downturn this season, posting a disappointing 7-22 record. In VanVleet's return to Toronto as a visitor, Ackerman's clever remark served as a reminder of the Rockets' resurgence and the Raptors' current struggles.
VanVleet's performance on the night was relatively quiet, but the Houston broadcast team's playful trolling added a touch of sweetness to the Rockets' victory. Drake's beloved Raptors may still have some time to turn things around, but for the moment, the Houston Rockets are reveling in their revenge and the karma that comes with it.
Adidas Set To Release Kobe Bryant’s Final Signature Shoe, The ‘All-Star’ Crazy 2, In February 2025
Fans of Kobe Bryant will have another chance to secure a pair of his signature Kobe 2 shoes.
Adidas is reportedly re-releasing Kobe’s final signature model with the brand, now renamed the Crazy 2, in February 2025.
Originally launched in 2001, the sneaker was inspired by the Audi TT Roadster. While it became infamously known as Bryant’s last shoe with Adidas—due to his reported dislike of the model—the Crazy 2 remains a memorable piece of sneaker history.
The “All-Star” version has surfaced in leaked images, showcasing the sneaker in a Los Angeles Lakers-themed colorway. However, official release details have yet to be announced.
Will you be picking up a pair?
Fans of Kobe Bryant will have another chance to secure a pair of his signature Kobe 2 shoes.
Adidas is reportedly re-releasing Kobe’s final signature model with the brand, now renamed the Crazy 2, in February 2025.
Originally launched in 2001, the sneaker was inspired by the Audi TT Roadster. While it became infamously known as Bryant’s last shoe with Adidas—due to his reported dislike of the model—the Crazy 2 remains a memorable piece of sneaker history.
The “All-Star” version has surfaced in leaked images, showcasing the sneaker in a Los Angeles Lakers-themed colorway. However, official release details have yet to be announced.
Will you be picking up a pair?
Jodie Turner-Smith Demands Over $30K In Child & Spousal Support From Joshua Jackson, Accuses Him Of Breaking Promise To Support Her If She Became A Single Black Mother
Jodie Turner-Smith is asking the court to order her estranged husband, Dawson’s Creek actor Joshua Jackson, to begin paying child and spousal support.
In court documents obtained by TMZ, the actress, who married Joshua in 2019, claims her estranged husband broke his promise to financially support her and their 4-year-old daughter, Juno, in the event of a separation. A recently filed motion claims:
“[Joshua] promised to always support me and ensured me that I would not have to worry about financial security for our daughter if we ever separated because he said he understood how difficult life can be as a Black woman and a single mother.”
Jodie is requesting $8,543 per month in child support and $28,641 per month in spousal support while their divorce case is ongoing.
Additionally, she’s seeking $250,000 to cover attorney and accounting fees.
As of now, it has not been reported whether a judge has ruled on the case as their divorce proceedings continue.
In court documents obtained by TMZ, the actress, who married Joshua in 2019, claims her estranged husband broke his promise to financially support her and their 4-year-old daughter, Juno, in the event of a separation. A recently filed motion claims:
“[Joshua] promised to always support me and ensured me that I would not have to worry about financial security for our daughter if we ever separated because he said he understood how difficult life can be as a Black woman and a single mother.”
Jodie is requesting $8,543 per month in child support and $28,641 per month in spousal support while their divorce case is ongoing.
Additionally, she’s seeking $250,000 to cover attorney and accounting fees.
As of now, it has not been reported whether a judge has ruled on the case as their divorce proceedings continue.
American Airlines Has an Update They have Resumes Flights After Nationwide ‘Technical Issue’
American Airlines is back in the sky after a “technical issue” briefly grounded flights nationwide on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24).
The airline confirmed the issue, which led to a ground stop, was resolved an hour later:
“A vendor technology issue briefly affected flights this morning. That issue has been resolved and flights have resumed.”
American Airlines also apologized for the inconvenience, stating,
“It’s all hands on deck as our team is working diligently to get customers where they need to go as quickly as possible.”
American Airlines is back in the sky after a “technical issue” briefly grounded flights nationwide on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24).
The airline confirmed the issue, which led to a ground stop, was resolved an hour later:
“A vendor technology issue briefly affected flights this morning. That issue has been resolved and flights have resumed.”
American Airlines also apologized for the inconvenience, stating,
“It’s all hands on deck as our team is working diligently to get customers where they need to go as quickly as possible.”
Diddy Sued By Ex Employee Who Claims Mogul Pressured Him Into Having S*x W/ A Woman & Forced Him To Set Up & Clean After Wild S*x Parties
Sean “Diddy” Combs faces a new lawsuit from former employee Phillip Pines, who alleges Combs pressured him into sexual acts, assigned him to clean up after drug-fueled “Wild King Nights,” and subjected him to exploitative working conditions.
The suit, filed in Los Angeles, claims Pines was forced to cater to Combs’ parties—stocking rooms with drugs, alcohol, sex devices, and cleaning up bodily fluids afterward. Pines also alleges he was ordered to delete incriminating videos and remain silent about misconduct, including Combs hosting a birthday party while knowingly Covid-positive. Pines further accuses Combs of testing his loyalty with demeaning tasks and describes an incident where Combs allegedly coerced him into a sexual encounter with a guest.
This lawsuit adds to Combs’ mounting legal troubles, including recent allegations of sexual misconduct and his September 2024 arrest on racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Representatives for Combs have not commented.
The suit, filed in Los Angeles, claims Pines was forced to cater to Combs’ parties—stocking rooms with drugs, alcohol, sex devices, and cleaning up bodily fluids afterward. Pines also alleges he was ordered to delete incriminating videos and remain silent about misconduct, including Combs hosting a birthday party while knowingly Covid-positive. Pines further accuses Combs of testing his loyalty with demeaning tasks and describes an incident where Combs allegedly coerced him into a sexual encounter with a guest.
This lawsuit adds to Combs’ mounting legal troubles, including recent allegations of sexual misconduct and his September 2024 arrest on racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Representatives for Combs have not commented.
OH SNAP! “Belle Collective” Stars Aikisha Holly Colon & Husband Willie Quit Show During Live Stream
“Belle Collective” stars Aikisha and Willie Colon quit the series in the middle of Carlos King’s livestream.
The move arrived shortly after they celebrated being asked to return to the show and congratulating Carlos on another season. See the clip
“Belle Collective” stars Aikisha and Willie Colon quit the series in the middle of Carlos King’s livestream.
The move arrived shortly after they celebrated being asked to return to the show and congratulating Carlos on another season. See the clip
So what do y’all think led to this decision?
Tiger Woods Celebrates Son Charlie Woods Making First Hole-in-One at PNC Championship 2024 - Watch Now!
Tiger Woods‘ son landed his first-ever hole-in-one! Over the weekend, the 48-year-old golf great and his 15-year-old son Charlie Woods competed together in the 2024 PNC Championship with Tiger‘s 17-year-old daughter serving as their caddie held at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida.
During the final round on Sunday (December 22), Charlie landed his first hole-in-one!
The feat came in the fourth hole and after making the shot, Charlie looked absolutely shocked as Tiger rushed over with a big smile on his face and hugged his son.
Despite the major accomplishment, Team Woods ended up losing the tournament, however, Tiger was still filled with pride for both of his kids.
“That was the thrill of a lifetime to be able to have that moment with Charlie, make his first hole-in-one, Sam on the bag, just our family and friends,” Tiger shared after the tournament, via Hypebeast. “That’s what this event is about. It’s about bonding and family.”
Charlie also celebrated his hole-in-one, telling reporters, “It was awesome. No one made a mistake today, so that was some of the most fun I’ve ever had. On top of that, I made an ace. I don’t think I can top that. It was awesome.”
During the final round on Sunday (December 22), Charlie landed his first hole-in-one!
The feat came in the fourth hole and after making the shot, Charlie looked absolutely shocked as Tiger rushed over with a big smile on his face and hugged his son.
Despite the major accomplishment, Team Woods ended up losing the tournament, however, Tiger was still filled with pride for both of his kids.
“That was the thrill of a lifetime to be able to have that moment with Charlie, make his first hole-in-one, Sam on the bag, just our family and friends,” Tiger shared after the tournament, via Hypebeast. “That’s what this event is about. It’s about bonding and family.”
Charlie also celebrated his hole-in-one, telling reporters, “It was awesome. No one made a mistake today, so that was some of the most fun I’ve ever had. On top of that, I made an ace. I don’t think I can top that. It was awesome.”
Justin Baldoni Sued By Former Publicist After Blake Lively Complaint
Following Blake Lively's allegations against Justin Baldoni, his former publicist is also taking legal action.
The It Ends With Us actor and director, his company Wayfarer Studios, as well as publicists Jennifer Abel and Melissa Nathan, are named in a lawsuit filed by Stephanie Jones in New York's Supreme Court Dec. 24.
According to the documents viewed by E! News, Jones is accusing Abel—an employee at her firm Jonesworks until this past summer, per LinkedIn—and Nathan of "secretly conspired for months to publicly and privately attack Jones and Jonesworks, to breach multiple contracts and induce contractual breaches, and to steal clients and business prospects."
"Behind Jones’ back, they secretly coordinated with Baldoni and Wayfarer to implement an aggressive media smear campaign against Baldoni’s film co-star," Jones, seemingly referencing the alleged campaign against Lively that the actress mentioned in her recent legal complaint, claims, "and then used the crisis as an opportunity to drive a wedge between Jones and Baldoni, and to publicly pin blame for this smear campaign on Jones—when Jones had no knowledge or involvement in it."
Jones also alleges that Abel and Nathan continue to point the finger at her to this day.
Jones alleges that Abel and Nathan continue to point the finger at her to this day.
Meanwhile, "Baldoni and Wayfarer, who have since parted ways with Jonesworks, have repudiated their contractual obligations with Jonesworks and rebuffed Jones’s efforts to settle this dispute privately in arbitration," the lawsuit says. "Defendants will not stop attacking Jones, and have refused any efforts to resolve these issues out of court."
"This lawsuit seeks to finally put a stop to their continued misconduct," the filing explains, "and to compensate Jones and Jonesworks for the damage Defendants’ conduct and scheme has inflicted."
In a Dec. 24 statement to media outlets, Jones' lawyer Kristin Tahler echoed the lawsuit sentiments.
“For months, this group has gaslit and disparaged Stephanie Jones and her company for financial gain, to settle personal scores and most recently to distract from their disgraceful smearing of Blake Lively," Tahler said. "This lawsuit is a necessary step to stop defendants’ continuing misconduct and for Steph to recover the reputation she has worked decades to establish and which the defendants disparaged for their own nefarious purposes.”
Following Blake Lively's allegations against Justin Baldoni, his former publicist is also taking legal action.
The It Ends With Us actor and director, his company Wayfarer Studios, as well as publicists Jennifer Abel and Melissa Nathan, are named in a lawsuit filed by Stephanie Jones in New York's Supreme Court Dec. 24.
According to the documents viewed by E! News, Jones is accusing Abel—an employee at her firm Jonesworks until this past summer, per LinkedIn—and Nathan of "secretly conspired for months to publicly and privately attack Jones and Jonesworks, to breach multiple contracts and induce contractual breaches, and to steal clients and business prospects."
"Behind Jones’ back, they secretly coordinated with Baldoni and Wayfarer to implement an aggressive media smear campaign against Baldoni’s film co-star," Jones, seemingly referencing the alleged campaign against Lively that the actress mentioned in her recent legal complaint, claims, "and then used the crisis as an opportunity to drive a wedge between Jones and Baldoni, and to publicly pin blame for this smear campaign on Jones—when Jones had no knowledge or involvement in it."
Jones also alleges that Abel and Nathan continue to point the finger at her to this day.
Jones alleges that Abel and Nathan continue to point the finger at her to this day.
Meanwhile, "Baldoni and Wayfarer, who have since parted ways with Jonesworks, have repudiated their contractual obligations with Jonesworks and rebuffed Jones’s efforts to settle this dispute privately in arbitration," the lawsuit says. "Defendants will not stop attacking Jones, and have refused any efforts to resolve these issues out of court."
"This lawsuit seeks to finally put a stop to their continued misconduct," the filing explains, "and to compensate Jones and Jonesworks for the damage Defendants’ conduct and scheme has inflicted."
In a Dec. 24 statement to media outlets, Jones' lawyer Kristin Tahler echoed the lawsuit sentiments.
“For months, this group has gaslit and disparaged Stephanie Jones and her company for financial gain, to settle personal scores and most recently to distract from their disgraceful smearing of Blake Lively," Tahler said. "This lawsuit is a necessary step to stop defendants’ continuing misconduct and for Steph to recover the reputation she has worked decades to establish and which the defendants disparaged for their own nefarious purposes.”
Heisman Winner Travis Hunter and Fiancee Leanna Both Deactivate Social Media in the Wake of Criticism
With controversy surrounding their relationship continuing to build, Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and his fiancée, Leanna Lenee, have both excused themselves from the narrative.
Hunter, 21, a two-way star for the University of Colorado, and Lenee, 23, both deactivated their Instagram and TikTok accounts over the weekend. The Twitch channel belonging to Hunter, where he routinely live streams, is still active.
The pair made the decision to cut the cord on social media in the face of growing debate about their pending marriage.
Conversation shifted into overdrive at the Heisman Trophy ceremony on December 14 — where Hunter was recognized as the best player in college football — when viewers at home criticized Lenee for not standing up when Hunter’s name was called.
Heisman Trophy Winner Travis Hunter and Fiancee Leanna Lenee’s Complete Relationship Timeline
Videos from Heisman weekend also circulated showing Lenee allegedly getting upset at Hunter, with fans believing it was over him not paying enough attention to her at an Adidas pop-up shop.
On Monday, December 16, Lenee took to her now-deactivated TikTok account to address the multiple controversies.
“The things that I see people make up is truly crazy, because it’s not what happened,” Lenee said in the video. “I just think people are finding every single little thing and trying to make it something it’s not. Bird brain individuals are just accepting what they see online.”
Lenee attempted to explain her behavior at the Heisman ceremony, simply stating that she wasn’t quite sure how to act appropriately.
“This is making me so mad because anyone who knows me knows I support Travis in every win, everything he does,” Lenee said. “Because I truly, truly love that man. He is perfect in my eyes.”
She continued, “When his name was called, if you watch the video, you can see me [start to stand], but his mom didn’t get up. So I was like, ‘Oh, maybe I don’t get up. Maybe I just sit here with her.’ So I sat there.”
Lenee also denied that she and Hunter had any sort of heated discussion at the pop-up shop.
Elsewhere in the video, Lenee pushed back against the claim that Hunter was in a relationship when the two started dating.
“I don’t do home-wrecking,” she said. “I’m not a side piece. I don’t stand for any of those things. I support women. I would never do that to another woman because I would never want it done to me.”
In fact, Lenee revealed she actually let Hunter’s initial correspondence with her sit unanswered for months because of his relationship status at the time.
“Travis, when he first ever DM’d me — when we first met, I said I left him in my DMs for two months and people said, ‘Oh, she left him in DMs until she figured out who he was.’ That is not true at all,” Lenee said. “The real reason Travis sat in my DMs for two months is because he DM’d me when he had a girlfriend.”
Lenee continued, “I instantly knew he had a partner. So, I exited the message and he sat there until he was single.”
In the seven-minute TikTok video, Lenee also turned her attention to a previous comment she made about Hunter not being her “type.”
“I did not mean attractiveness,” Lenee said in the TikTok video. “I don’t have a physical type, period. No two men that I’ve previously dated look the same. My first one was a white cowboy. Second one was a Mexican soccer player. And then I dated a Black man who’s a SoundCloud rapper.”
Lenee continued, “I have never dated the same type physically. I don’t care about what people look like or what they can give me. I date people for who they are as a person, how they honor God and how they treat the people around them.”
Hunter, who is widely expected to be one of the top 5 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, and Lenee made their relationship Instagram official in February 2022 and got engaged two years later.
After Heisman weekend, Hunter took to Twitch and revealed that Lenee had cried herself to sleep following the backlash.
“Y’all hate on me and then y’all go and hate on my girl,” Hunter said on December 15. “Bro, I feel the same thing that she feels. We’re inseparable, bro. We’re with each other. If she’s hurting, of course I’m going to be hurting. If I’m hurting, of course she’s going to be hurting.”
The couple received the support of Colorado quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, who criticized other athletes and celebrities for taking about Hunter in public.
“All y’all athletes, entertainers, artist etc if y’all genuine trying to holla at trav y’all know how to get in touch with him or someone around,” Sanders, 22, wrote via X on Sunday, December 22. “At this point y’all just posting for the algorithm trying to look cool.”
Hunter, 21, a two-way star for the University of Colorado, and Lenee, 23, both deactivated their Instagram and TikTok accounts over the weekend. The Twitch channel belonging to Hunter, where he routinely live streams, is still active.
The pair made the decision to cut the cord on social media in the face of growing debate about their pending marriage.
Conversation shifted into overdrive at the Heisman Trophy ceremony on December 14 — where Hunter was recognized as the best player in college football — when viewers at home criticized Lenee for not standing up when Hunter’s name was called.
Heisman Trophy Winner Travis Hunter and Fiancee Leanna Lenee’s Complete Relationship Timeline
Videos from Heisman weekend also circulated showing Lenee allegedly getting upset at Hunter, with fans believing it was over him not paying enough attention to her at an Adidas pop-up shop.
On Monday, December 16, Lenee took to her now-deactivated TikTok account to address the multiple controversies.
“The things that I see people make up is truly crazy, because it’s not what happened,” Lenee said in the video. “I just think people are finding every single little thing and trying to make it something it’s not. Bird brain individuals are just accepting what they see online.”
Lenee attempted to explain her behavior at the Heisman ceremony, simply stating that she wasn’t quite sure how to act appropriately.
“This is making me so mad because anyone who knows me knows I support Travis in every win, everything he does,” Lenee said. “Because I truly, truly love that man. He is perfect in my eyes.”
She continued, “When his name was called, if you watch the video, you can see me [start to stand], but his mom didn’t get up. So I was like, ‘Oh, maybe I don’t get up. Maybe I just sit here with her.’ So I sat there.”
Lenee also denied that she and Hunter had any sort of heated discussion at the pop-up shop.
Elsewhere in the video, Lenee pushed back against the claim that Hunter was in a relationship when the two started dating.
“I don’t do home-wrecking,” she said. “I’m not a side piece. I don’t stand for any of those things. I support women. I would never do that to another woman because I would never want it done to me.”
In fact, Lenee revealed she actually let Hunter’s initial correspondence with her sit unanswered for months because of his relationship status at the time.
“Travis, when he first ever DM’d me — when we first met, I said I left him in my DMs for two months and people said, ‘Oh, she left him in DMs until she figured out who he was.’ That is not true at all,” Lenee said. “The real reason Travis sat in my DMs for two months is because he DM’d me when he had a girlfriend.”
Lenee continued, “I instantly knew he had a partner. So, I exited the message and he sat there until he was single.”
In the seven-minute TikTok video, Lenee also turned her attention to a previous comment she made about Hunter not being her “type.”
“I did not mean attractiveness,” Lenee said in the TikTok video. “I don’t have a physical type, period. No two men that I’ve previously dated look the same. My first one was a white cowboy. Second one was a Mexican soccer player. And then I dated a Black man who’s a SoundCloud rapper.”
Lenee continued, “I have never dated the same type physically. I don’t care about what people look like or what they can give me. I date people for who they are as a person, how they honor God and how they treat the people around them.”
Hunter, who is widely expected to be one of the top 5 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft, and Lenee made their relationship Instagram official in February 2022 and got engaged two years later.
After Heisman weekend, Hunter took to Twitch and revealed that Lenee had cried herself to sleep following the backlash.
“Y’all hate on me and then y’all go and hate on my girl,” Hunter said on December 15. “Bro, I feel the same thing that she feels. We’re inseparable, bro. We’re with each other. If she’s hurting, of course I’m going to be hurting. If I’m hurting, of course she’s going to be hurting.”
The couple received the support of Colorado quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, who criticized other athletes and celebrities for taking about Hunter in public.
“All y’all athletes, entertainers, artist etc if y’all genuine trying to holla at trav y’all know how to get in touch with him or someone around,” Sanders, 22, wrote via X on Sunday, December 22. “At this point y’all just posting for the algorithm trying to look cool.”
DDG Slammed After Purchasing A Ferrari For Son Halo's First Birthday
DDG showered his child with a lavish gift, but it only landed him in hot water. The rapper has been criticized online after showing off a brand new red Ferrari that he purchased for his son Halo's first birthday.
On Sunday, December 22, the YouTuber reunited with his ex Halle Bailey to celebrate their son's birthday. Taking to social media, he revealed that he just bought the lavish car for his son to mark the milestone.
DDG, whose real name is Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., captioned a video that showed him holding his child while the red Ferrari was rolled out, "Look what I bought Halo for his 1st birthday!!!!!" The father looked more excited than his son as the crowd cheered at the sight of the fancy ride.
"Halo went rari on his 1 st gday," DDG wrote over another clip that showed him making his son stand on the hood of the car. In another video, the 27-year-old sat behind the wheel as his son sat on his lap. "Halo let me sit in the front seat," he captioned the footage.
DDG also let Halo get the feel of the Ferrari by touching the steering wheel. "The youngest on the road!!!" he bragged about his son.
While DDG looked proud to present the lavish gift to his son, not everyone can fathom his intention with the car. "so you basically bought yourself a new car on the baby bday," someone mocked him. Another similarly accused him, "He makes everything about him... and I don't like the way he yanked Halo back when he clearly wanted to go to his mom."
"LMFAO I was truly expecting a toy Ferrari to come around the corner," a baffled user commented. A fourth person weighed in, "I can understand a toy Ferrari or something he can actually ride in but come on man."
A confused person wrote, "Was expecting the lil baby one but ok," while another harshly reacted, "This bout the goofiest s**t I've seen all year." Someone else echoed the sentiment as saying, "This is dumbest s**t I ever seen."
On Sunday, December 22, the YouTuber reunited with his ex Halle Bailey to celebrate their son's birthday. Taking to social media, he revealed that he just bought the lavish car for his son to mark the milestone.
DDG, whose real name is Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., captioned a video that showed him holding his child while the red Ferrari was rolled out, "Look what I bought Halo for his 1st birthday!!!!!" The father looked more excited than his son as the crowd cheered at the sight of the fancy ride.
"Halo went rari on his 1 st gday," DDG wrote over another clip that showed him making his son stand on the hood of the car. In another video, the 27-year-old sat behind the wheel as his son sat on his lap. "Halo let me sit in the front seat," he captioned the footage.
DDG also let Halo get the feel of the Ferrari by touching the steering wheel. "The youngest on the road!!!" he bragged about his son.
While DDG looked proud to present the lavish gift to his son, not everyone can fathom his intention with the car. "so you basically bought yourself a new car on the baby bday," someone mocked him. Another similarly accused him, "He makes everything about him... and I don't like the way he yanked Halo back when he clearly wanted to go to his mom."
"LMFAO I was truly expecting a toy Ferrari to come around the corner," a baffled user commented. A fourth person weighed in, "I can understand a toy Ferrari or something he can actually ride in but come on man."
A confused person wrote, "Was expecting the lil baby one but ok," while another harshly reacted, "This bout the goofiest s**t I've seen all year." Someone else echoed the sentiment as saying, "This is dumbest s**t I ever seen."
John Amos’ Daughter Demands Answers About His Death, Launches Investigation
John Amos‘ daughter is still searching for clarity months after his passing in October.
TMZ reports that Shannon Amos, John’s daughter and co-trustee of his estate, has hired attorney James H. Davis III to investigate unanswered questions about her father’s final days, including his medical care and the circumstances surrounding his death.
Shannon wants to know when her father was admitted to Centinela Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles and why someone other than her brother, Kelly Christopher Amos (KC)—who was acting as John’s caretaker—brought him to the facility. She alleges that this individual falsely claimed to be John’s daughter when dropping him off.
Shannon has also expressed frustration with what she perceives as a lack of cooperation from the hospital. Despite submitting three formal requests for her father’s medical records, she has yet to receive any documentation. Her lawyer believes this delay raises further questions about the quality of care John received and whether his medical condition was properly managed during his stay.
The situation grows more complicated as Shannon also questions whether Adult Protective Services adequately investigated allegations of elder abuse she filed in early 2024. Additionally, she is concerned about whether the Los Angeles Police Department has fully examined the circumstances surrounding her father’s passing.
The Amos family has faced significant turmoil in recent years, with allegations of elder abuse and family conflict creating a tense dynamic. Shannon previously accused KC of abusing their father, restricting relatives from visiting John in his final days, and having him cremated quickly to allegedly prevent law enforcement from conducting an autopsy.
In a statement, Shannon’s lawyer emphasized the importance of transparency, saying, “The family deserves to know the full circumstances surrounding Mr. Amos’ care and the events that led to his passing. We are committed to pursuing all available avenues to ensure that these questions are answered.”
TMZ reports that Shannon Amos, John’s daughter and co-trustee of his estate, has hired attorney James H. Davis III to investigate unanswered questions about her father’s final days, including his medical care and the circumstances surrounding his death.
Shannon wants to know when her father was admitted to Centinela Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles and why someone other than her brother, Kelly Christopher Amos (KC)—who was acting as John’s caretaker—brought him to the facility. She alleges that this individual falsely claimed to be John’s daughter when dropping him off.
Shannon has also expressed frustration with what she perceives as a lack of cooperation from the hospital. Despite submitting three formal requests for her father’s medical records, she has yet to receive any documentation. Her lawyer believes this delay raises further questions about the quality of care John received and whether his medical condition was properly managed during his stay.
The situation grows more complicated as Shannon also questions whether Adult Protective Services adequately investigated allegations of elder abuse she filed in early 2024. Additionally, she is concerned about whether the Los Angeles Police Department has fully examined the circumstances surrounding her father’s passing.
The Amos family has faced significant turmoil in recent years, with allegations of elder abuse and family conflict creating a tense dynamic. Shannon previously accused KC of abusing their father, restricting relatives from visiting John in his final days, and having him cremated quickly to allegedly prevent law enforcement from conducting an autopsy.
In a statement, Shannon’s lawyer emphasized the importance of transparency, saying, “The family deserves to know the full circumstances surrounding Mr. Amos’ care and the events that led to his passing. We are committed to pursuing all available avenues to ensure that these questions are answered.”
Bill Clinton Admitted to Hospital for Testing After Developing Fever
*Former President Bill Clinton was admitted to MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC, on Monday afternoon for testing and observation following the onset of a fever.
His spokesman, Angel Urena, deputy chief of staff to Clinton, reassured the public in an interview with CNN that “the president is fine” and remains in good spirits as he receives care.
Urena further indicated that Clinton is hopeful to be home by Christmas, demonstrating an optimistic outlook during this medical evaluation.
At 78 years old, Clinton was in his Washington home when he was taken to the hospital. His health history includes a quadruple bypass heart surgery in 2004 and the insertion of two stents in 2010 to open a blocked artery. Notably, he was hospitalized in 2021 for an infection that had spread to his bloodstream, showcasing the need for close monitoring of his health.
Despite his hospitalization, Clinton has remained active publicly, participating in various events, including those associated with his recent book release, “Citizen: My Life After the White House.” He also plans to co-write a thriller novel, “The First Gentleman,” with celebrated author James Patterson, slated for release next year.
Clinton, who is married to Hillary Clinton, a former Secretary of State and presidential candidate, also made appearances this fall to support Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the presidency, which ultimately did not succeed.
His wide-ranging travel schedule underscores his commitment to engaging with the public and sharing his post-presidential experiences.
Both supporters and former colleagues have expressed their best wishes for Clinton’s swift recovery, emphasizing the impact he has continued to have on political discourse and public life since leaving office. As updates emerge regarding his health, the former president’s resilience and positive attitude shine through during this challenging time.
*Former President Bill Clinton was admitted to MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC, on Monday afternoon for testing and observation following the onset of a fever.
His spokesman, Angel Urena, deputy chief of staff to Clinton, reassured the public in an interview with CNN that “the president is fine” and remains in good spirits as he receives care.
Urena further indicated that Clinton is hopeful to be home by Christmas, demonstrating an optimistic outlook during this medical evaluation.
At 78 years old, Clinton was in his Washington home when he was taken to the hospital. His health history includes a quadruple bypass heart surgery in 2004 and the insertion of two stents in 2010 to open a blocked artery. Notably, he was hospitalized in 2021 for an infection that had spread to his bloodstream, showcasing the need for close monitoring of his health.
Despite his hospitalization, Clinton has remained active publicly, participating in various events, including those associated with his recent book release, “Citizen: My Life After the White House.” He also plans to co-write a thriller novel, “The First Gentleman,” with celebrated author James Patterson, slated for release next year.
Clinton, who is married to Hillary Clinton, a former Secretary of State and presidential candidate, also made appearances this fall to support Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the presidency, which ultimately did not succeed.
His wide-ranging travel schedule underscores his commitment to engaging with the public and sharing his post-presidential experiences.
Both supporters and former colleagues have expressed their best wishes for Clinton’s swift recovery, emphasizing the impact he has continued to have on political discourse and public life since leaving office. As updates emerge regarding his health, the former president’s resilience and positive attitude shine through during this challenging time.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
My Homie Looking for Diapers
Depends, maybe?
EVENING GOODIES: Meet Leo Bear
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Enjoy!
HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL!!!
EFREM
