#FASHIONFILES: Rihanna in Azzedine Alaïa at the 2024 Footwear News Achievement Awards
Rare is the occasion when we get to feature Rihanna on a red carpet twice in a week, but the mogul and one-time recording artist is on an upswing of late, having appeared at the Fashion Awards and now the Footwear News Achievement Awards.
#RHOA: Kim Zolciak’s Bank Account May Be Garnished Over $215,000 Credit Card Debt
According to court documents obtained by In Touch, American Express sued Kim, 46, over an alleged credit card debt in 2018. Kim was served with the legal paperwork but failed to respond to the lawsuit.
American Express requested a default judgment, which was granted by the court in 2019. The credit card company was awarded $215,822.
In the newly filed petition, American Express said Kim has failed to pay a dime on the judgment.
American Express instructed Truist Bank, where it believes Kim has a bank account, to “hold all money, including wages, and other property, except what is known to be exempt, including property in safe-deposit boxes or similar property that you hold, belonging to [Kim] on the day of service of this summons.”
The credit card company demanded Truist Bank provide information on Kim’s assets within the next 15 days.
As In Touch previously reported, Kim and her estranged husband, Kroy Biermann, have faced serious financial issues for the past couple of years.
The pair, who are in the middle of a nasty divorce, are struggling to sell off their seven-bedroom, 11-bathroom, 15,694 square-foot mansion.
The duo listed the home for $6 million but have slashed the price multiple times in an attempt to unload the property. The current listing price is $3.6 million.
An auction of the home has been scheduled for this month.
Kim submitted a declaration as part of her effort to save her home from foreclosure.
She told the judge, “We strongly believe that the proceeds from its sale can help alleviate our financial difficulties and secure a stable future for our children. However, the impending threat of foreclosure is looming over us, and time is of the essence.”
“Kroy and I will face insurmountable financial hardships, and the most devastating consequence will be the impact on our children, who would be left homeless,” she said.
Despite her pleas, the foreclosure auction will be moving ahead.
TMZ reported that the exes moved out of the home and are currently living in separate properties.
On top of the foreclosure drama, Kim and Kroy, 39, were hit with a $1 million tax lien in 2023. The exes have been hit with numerous lawsuits over alleged debts in the past two years.
As In Touch first reported, Kroy discussed potentially filing for bankruptcy with his lawyer. Kim and Kroy filed dueling divorce petitions in May 2023.
They reconciled months later and dismissed the cases. However, the reconciliation was short-lived and they filed again months later. The split turned ugly quick.
Police have been called out to the home several times in the past year to calm down tensions between the two.
Kim and Kroy wed in 2011 and share four children: Kroy, Kash and twins Kaia and Kane. Kroy adopted Kim’s daughters from a previous relationship, Brielle and Ariana, in 2013.
#MusicNews: Khalid Announces ‘Sincere (Deluxe)’ Album, Shares Tracklist
Alternative R&B star Khalid will release his Sincere (Deluxe) album on Friday, Dec. 6.
The singer-songwriter announced the news on Wednesday (Dec. 4) evening across his social media pages. “Sincere, The Deluxe. Tomorrow at 9pm PST/12 am EST,” he posted on Instagram, along with the project’s cover art and tracklist.
Sincere (Deluxe), a two-disc set, will include all 16 of the album’s original tracks plus six new tracks. The new songs include the previously announced collaborations with Normani (“Personal“), Chlöe (“MIA”), and Ayra Starr (“Make It Up To You”) and three solo tracks.
The standard version of Sincere was released Aug. 2 via Right Hand Music Group/RCA Records and debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart. It was preceded by the singles “Please Don’t Fall In Love With Me,” “Adore U,” and “Ground.”
Regarding the album, Khalid explained, “Sincere is a combination of my life experiences; it takes inspiration from conversations that I have had with my fans, supporters, and the people that love me.”
He added, “When I listen back to this project, I hear a sound that’s so unique and represents me at my best. This album is me at 26, continuing to evolve with the knowledge that I have garnered throughout the years.”
Sincere is the follow-up to Khalid’s sophomore album, Free Spirit, released in 2019. The No. 1 album included the Grammy-nominated hit “Talk” featuring Disclosure and the 7x platinum “Better.”
See Khalid’s Sincere (Deluxe) album tracklist below.
Khalid’s Sincere (Deluxe) Tracklist
Disc One:
Personal featuring Normani
Make It Up To You featuring Ayra Starr
Passionate
MIA featuring Chlöe
Skin
Faded
Disc Two:
Adore U
Everything We See
Altitude
It’s All Good
Broken
Dose
Please Don’t Fall In Love With Me
Breathe featuring Arlo Parks
Ground
Who’s There To Pick Me Up
Tainted
Long Way Home
Heatstroke
Sincere
Owe To You
Decline
#HipHopNews: New Jay-Z coffee-table book celebrates the hip-hop G.O.A.T.
Happy belated birthday, Jay-Z, who turned 55 on Wednesday.
The gift, though, is all ours. Marking the big day of the big man they call, amongst other things, the greatest rapper of all time, music’s wealthiest star and, simply, Hova (a play on Jay-Hova, as in Jehovah) is the publication of The Book of HOV: A Tribute to Jay-Z.
The luscious, coffee table-crushing tome from Paris luxury house Assouline is a companion to Brooklyn Public Library's immersive exhibition of the same name. Running from July to December 2023, the 360° homage to a local hero saw over 600,000 people visiting the Library, a 74 per cent increase on the previous year.
They learnt about the young Shawn Carter’s childhood in the borough’s Marcy Houses public housing project; about the history of hip-hop; and about the lyricism, progressivism, activism and entrepreneurialism of Brooklyn’s finest.
The book – widely available in Ultimate ($120/€120£/100) and Classic Editions ($2,000/€2,000/£1,600) – goes similarly deep over its eight chapters (the titles taken from Jay’s lyrics), 432 pages and 675-plus images.
Drawing from the prodigious archive of a prodigious talent, there are interviews, essays and iconic images galore: the guitar he played during his Glastonbury 2008 headline show; the floppy disc containing the remixes of ‘Hard Knock Life’; Daniel Arsham’s sculpture HOV Hands, celebrating the musician’s iconic gesture; and countless ineffably cool photographs of the man himself.
Tear up your old Christmas gift list now: for hip-hop fans, for music fans, for culture fans, The Book of HOV: A Tribute to Jay-Z is a must-have.
'Strangers sang together, swapped concert stories and debated their favourite lyrics,' writes Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library, in her introduction, recalling the scenes last year.
'As they waited in line, visitors looked up to the Library’s façade and marvelled at the words of a local poet proudly displayed on a public space – words that represented the often overlooked stories of so many in the borough, words that challenged us all to write a better future.'
You know what would also make a better future? A new album. How about it, Hova?
La Toya Jackson Shares Footage From Family Gathering With Mom Katherine, Nephew Prince
The “Heart Don’t Lie” singer, 68, first went live on Instagram while hanging out with niece-in-law, Asa Soltan Rahmati, who is married to her brother Jermanie’s son, Jermaine Jackson Jr.
“Such a beautiful and fun time at family day! @AsaSoltan it’s always great seeing you! Love you dear!,” Jackson captioned the quick clip of the pair that she re-posted to her account. “Always wonderful to see you. Love you Auntie La Toya,” replied Rahmati.
This was followed by a clip of La Toya sitting down for dinner next to mother Katherine Jackson, 94, brother Jackie Jackson, 73, and nephew Prince Jackson, 27, who is the son of her late brother, King of Pop Michael Jackson. “A fun filled family day! Mother, Jackie, Prince and myself enjoying time together at Hayvenhurst! Family is everything!!!,” La Toya captioned the clip.
The “He’s A Pretender” artist shared more snaps of the family, including sister “Rebbie” Jackson, 74, and a host of other kin. Check out the clips and snaps below.
The family gathering comes just short of three months after the death of brother Tito Jackson, who passed away at the age of 70 in September.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us,” sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ wrote in a statement at the time. “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as ‘Coach Tito’ or some know him as ‘Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
Tito was preceded in death by brother Michael, who died in 2009 at the age of 50, and father Joseph, who passed away in 2018 at 89 years old.
Tank Calls Out Homophobia, Addresses The “Gay Agenda”
During his recent appearance on the Holdin Court podcast, the “Please Don’t Go” crooner spoke on the double standard Black men face in terms of same-sex experimentation. “It’s us,” Tank began. “There’s something about Black men and the homosexual conversation that is a mess. The phobia as it relates to Black men is the elephant in the room.”
He argued that the “worst thing” a Black man can be is gay.
Tank explained, “The first thing somebody’s going to allude to — whether you are gay or not— when they trying to assassinate your character or get off the highest joke imaginable, they’re going gay first.” The father of two continued, “It stems from something within our culture that has created this stigma that somehow there’s a program to make Black men gay. You see it everywhere; there’s an attack on strong Black men. But who’s the attack coming from?”
He pondered how the double standard could exist when the likes of Prince, Michael Jackson, Cameo, and Rick James were notorious for their “androgynous” looks, noting, “That meant you were in. It didn’t mean you were gay.”
Tank questioned, “Where does this agenda come from? I’ve never seen anything that made me say, Oh wow! I want to be gay. I’m inspired to be gay ‘cuz I saw that outfit or ‘cuz YSL made this shirt.”
This conversation stemmed from comments he’d made on Angela Ye’s Lip Service podcast in 2019 when asked if performing fellatio twice would make someone gay. Of that notion, Tank stated, “It doesn’t mean he’s gay. It means he sucked d**k twice. The art of being gay is being gay. It’s a continuous state of being.”
Comedian facing severe criticism for ridiculous Kendrick Lamar comments
Comedian Andrew Schulz sparked outrage following controversial remarks about Kendrick Lamar in response to the rapper’s critique of white comedians mocking Black women on his album “GNX.” During a podcast appearance, Schulz made offensive comments about Lamar’s appearance and suggested he could sexually assault the rapper. The remarks drew swift condemnation from industry figures.
TDE President Punch challenged Schulz on Twitter: “I know as a Black man who’s involved in hip-hop music, that we are a bit slow and don’t really understand sarcasm and humor. But did my guy say he want to sleep with Dot??” The sarcastic response highlighted growing industry frustration with comedians who mock hip-hop culture without understanding its context.
Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg compared Schulz to Bill O’Reilly, stating “Schulz is no different than Bill O’Reilly. Acting like K Dot is 2 Live Crew shows Schulz doesn’t actually like or understand hip hop.” He emphasized that not all white people view Black culture merely as material for jokes. Actor O’Shea Jackson Jr. expressed disappointment in Schulz’s shift toward controversial humor, “Man how people change on some weird s—. I was a fan,” he tweeted.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions around cultural sensitivity in comedy. Critics note Schulz’s comments trivialize Lamar’s advocacy for Black women while demonstrating a disconnect from hip-hop culture. The controversy follows a pattern of backlash against comedians who make light of serious social issues affecting marginalized communities.
Entertainment analysts suggest the backlash reflects broader industry concerns about comedians exploiting Black culture without understanding or respect. Social media response shows strong support for Lamar among hip-hop fans and industry figures, with many calling for greater accountability in comedy.
Media coverage emphasizes how the controversy connects to larger discussions about race and representation in entertainment. Industry veterans note growing pushback against comedians who use racial and cultural differences as punchlines without considering the impact on affected communities.
Cultural critics point out that Schulz’s comments particularly stung given Lamar’s consistent advocacy for Black women’s rights and dignity in his music. The incident has sparked renewed debate about the responsibilities of comedians when addressing sensitive cultural topics.
The situation continues developing as more voices join the conversation about comedy’s role in addressing cultural topics. While neither Schulz nor Lamar have directly addressed the controversy, the broader dialogue about respect, representation and accountability in comedy shows no signs of slowing.
Flavor Flav’s ‘Spirit Is Broken’ After NBC Kicked Him Out Of Backstreet Boys’ Dressing Room
The 65-year-old Public Enemy legend took to Twitter to reveal he had been invited to the event.
However, when he was escorted backstage to see The Backstreet Boys, security informed him that NBC didn’t want him in that area, and he was asked to leave.
At the same time, NBC’s social media team was reportedly trying to get Flavor Flav to create content for their platforms.
The incident left Flav feeling “weird.”
He tweeted, “What did I ever do to NBC or anyone?? All I ever do is try to spread joy and love, and I think I did that for NBC at the Olympics.”
In a fllow-up tweet, he added, “I deleted the tweet, but my spirit is broken.”
After all of the drama, Flavor Flav shared a video of the tree lighting and he seemed to be in better spirits.
NBC has not commented on the situation. SMH
Federal Judge rules Byron Allen’s $10 billion lawsuit against McDonald’s for racial discrimination will go to trial
A judge has ruled in favor of media mogul and owner of theGrio, Byron Allen, allowing his $10 billion racial discrimination lawsuit against McDonald’s to proceed in California federal court, theGrio reports.
United States District Judge Fernando M. Olguin ruled that there was sufficient evidence for the suit filed against McDonald’s by Allen’s media companies under Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 to go to trial court. The lawsuit alleges that the fast food chain blocked Allen and his media properties, including his TV networks and streaming assets, from McDonald’s general market ad agency responsible for dispersing the vast majority of McDonald’s massive ad budget. According to court filings, McDonald’s spends hundreds of millions of dollars each year to advertise its products in national media.
Instead, the lawsuit claims Allen and his companies were relegated to McDonald’s Black-only ad agency, which has a significantly smaller budget. The racial discrimination suit argues that despite annual pleas for the Allen Media companies to be included in McDonald’s general ad market, they remained in its Black-only market because Allen is Black, which Allen’s parent company Entertainment Studios described as “blatant and pernicious discrimination.”
In his 25-page ruling, Judge Olguin denied McDonald’s motion for a summary judgment in its favor. Instead, the case will proceed in a court trial that could see Allen succeed in a groundbreaking racial discrimination suit.
“We have overwhelming evidence against McDonald’s — who has been sued by its Black executives, Black franchisees, and their global head of security — for racial discrimination,” Byron Allen, founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group, said in a statement to theGrio. “It is time for the McDonald’s Board of Directors, stockholders, and civil rights organizations nationwide to call for the resignation of CEO Chris Kempczinski, who was caught sending racist text messages about Black and Hispanic people.”
Allen’s attorney in the case, Louis R. “Skip” Miller of Miller Barondess, called Judge Olguin’s order a “historic ruling,” adding, “We look forward to presenting the evidence of racial discrimination by McDonald’s against our client to a Los Angeles jury in federal court.”
The law used in Allen’s suit against McDonald’s is a post a post-Civil War statute that allowed “all persons within the jurisdiction of the United States” to have the same right to uphold contracts “as is enjoyed by white citizens.” The law’s objective was to safeguard Black enterprises from racial discrimination during America’s Reconstruction era, just one year after the Civil War ended, freeing enslaved African Americans from centuries of bondage.
Marlon Wayans to Join Damon Wayans, Damon Wayans Jr. on CBS’ ‘Poppa’s House’
Marlon Wayans is set to guest star on “Poppa’s House,” joining his brother Damon Wayans and nephew Damon Wayans Jr. on the CBS sitcom.
Damon Wayans stars as legendary talk radio host and happily divorced “Poppa” who has his point of view challenged at work when a new female co-host Ivy (Essence Atkins) is hired, and at home where he finds himself still parenting his adult son Junior (Damon Wayans Jr.), a brilliant dreamer who is trying to pursue his passion while being a responsible father and husband. The main cast also includes Tetona Jackson as Poppa’s wife Nina.
Marlon Wayans is set to portray Poppa’s brother Melvin, who is described as a “bit of a ne’er do well who comes to visit the family with a new business idea.” Poppa is quick to warn everyone not to trust him, while Ivy and Junior want to believe he’s changed.
Poppa’s House airs Mondays on CBS from 8:30 to 9 p.m. ET/PT. The episode featuring Marlon is set to air on the network in February 2025. Dean Lorey, Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr. executive produce for CBS Studios.
Marlon Wayans will next be seen starring in Justin Tipping’s psychological sports thriller “HIM,” produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, releasing in September 2025.
He is also writing and producing Miramax and Paramount’s upcoming “Scary Movie” reboot along with his brothers Keenen Ivory Wayans and Shawn Wayans and Rick Alvarez.
Wayans is currently on his Wild Child Tour throughout the nation. Wayans is repped by 3 Arts Entertainment, UTA, and Yorn, Levine, Barnes.
Drake Deemed 'Weak' By Charleston White For Taking Kendrick Lamar Battle To Court
Recently, Charleston made an appearance on the "RealLyfe Street Starz" podcast and received a question about Drake, who is also famous as Drizzy, filing a lawsuit over his nemesis K.Dot's hit diss track. In a video from the interview that made its rounds on X, formerly known as Twitter, he told the Canadian hip-hop artist to "get over it."
Charleston said, "Weak a**, yellow n***a cryin', but he always had the Jews behind him; how is he claiming it's unfair?" He continued, "Just enjoy the money. Let the little, short Kendrick have his win. Come on, all that money you got."
Charleston went on to troll Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Graham, "That's 'yellow' kid with the white momma tryna come hang out in the Memphis projects with his black cousins and gotta stay on the porch. Cause they know you can't go out there and play with them kids."
"Yeah, Aubrey, whatever that man's name is," the comedian added. "That man's name says he is 'weak.' Aubrey can't play with no Kendrick. Kendrick Lamar been getting him up. You heard his story. That man grew up rough. Yeah, get yo a** back on that porch, Aubrey. F**k wrong with you. Them kids will eat you alive."
On November 25, Drake filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group and Spotify, accusing the two of wrongdoing during his feud against Kendrick. The "One Dance" hitmaker alleged that UMG engaged in a "scheme" to manipulate the success of "Not Like Us". In response, UMG issued a statement to Variety, calling the Canadian hip-hop artist's accusations "offensive."
Later on, it was said that Drizzy did so in order to stop K.Dot from performing the hit at his upcoming Super Bowl half-time show. "Drake is concerned Kendrick will perform 'Not Like Us' at the Super Bowl," an insider told Daily Mail. "Universal bosses are shocked that Drake is suing them, and some people suspect the lawsuit is an attempt to stop Kendrick from performing 'Not Like Us' at the event."
Tyler Perry Bares His Childhood Trauma And Healing Journey Through 'Extensive Therapy'
Standing at the podium during the Paley Honors Fall Gala at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, Tyler Perry opened up about the painful experiences that shaped his life. The renowned actor and filmmaker, known for his resilience and creativity, reflected on the deep-seated traumas he endured as a child and the intensive therapy that is helping him to heal.
Perry's speech touched on moments of profound hardship. He recalled an incident where a journalist's photo of Perry at age five brought back memories of his late mother, causing an emotional moment. "It's been 15 years, almost to the day, that she passed, so this time of year is really, really difficult for me," he said, apologizing for his overwhelming emotions.
In his candid narrative, Perry revealed he had entered intensive therapy at the age of 54 to confront the effects of his traumatic past. The session in Arizona unearthed suppressed memories, including witnessing domestic violence and experiencing sexual abuse.
One particularly disturbing recollection involved a middle school teacher who callously dissected his pet hamster in front of the class. "I saw myself walking home with this empty cage and realizing that no one asked me what happened or why the cage was empty. Not one person in my life," Perry recounted.
Despite these harrowing experiences, Perry emphasized that those who hurt him did not "steal my compassion" or "rob me of my heart and my care for others." Instead, he found strength in his ability to heal and encouraged others to do the same.
"Don't let anybody steal your ability to heal," he urged the audience, "And I can tell you, at 55 years old, I am the freest version of myself that I've ever been." He shared his intent to love and spread joy as much as he can, aspiring to make both his late mother and his son proud.
The evening was a testament to Perry's resilience and his unwavering commitment to turning his pain into a force for good. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the Paley Center and those who supported him, stating, "This moment represents people asking me, 'Why is your cage empty?' So I thank you, and I bless you and I appreciate it. God bless you."
If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child. For victims of sexual abuse, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741. For suicide prevention resources, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.
Jamie Foxx promises to explain his health scare in Netflix special ‘What Had Happened Was
Now, he’s finally setting the record straight in a comedy special called “What Had Happened Was…,” which is coming to Netflix next week. “If I can stay funny, I can stay alive,” he says. The special is described as a celebration of resilience, humor, and community, as Foxx expresses gratitude for the people who helped him survive and recover. The trailer doesn’t reveal what happened, but he will presumably be addressing the clone allegations.
In the trailer, he can be seen sitting at a piano and there’s a live band behind him, so presumably he’ll be serenading the audience as well. (Foxx is also a Grammy winner.)
“What Had Happened Was…” is Foxx’s first stand-up special since 2003. It’s directed by Hamish Hamilton.
Fox will next be seen in the Netflix action comedy “Back in Action,” starring alongside Cameron Diaz in her first movie since 2014.
“What Had Happened Was…” premieres Tuesday, Dec. 10 on Netflix.
Will Smith Admits He “Horribly Underestimated” Janet Hubert’s Value On ‘The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air’
Will Smith is reflecting on his time spent filming The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air and his complicated relationship with a former castmate.
Speaking on Vice’s Black Comedy in America series with host Chris Spencer, the 56-year-old explained the mistake he made with actress Janet Hubert.
Hubert starred on the series for the first three seasons as Smith’s Aunt Viv before being replaced with Daphne Maxwell Reid.
“I made a horrible error and misjudgment of her value and power and beauty to the show,” Smith admits via PEOPLE Magazine. “I horribly underestimated what she was for me at that point in my life.”
In 2020, the cast of the hit series reunited for a special on Max in honor of the 30th anniversary of the hit sitcom’s premiere, and the two put aside their differences to resolve their beef. According to USA Today, in their intimate conversation, Smith admitted he “made the set very difficult” for Hubert, who left the series due to rejecting an unfair contract offer.
“During that time of her pregnancy, I wasn’t sensitive,” The Bad Boys franchise star shares. “I wasn’t perceptive, and now that I’ve had three kids, I’ve learned some things that I did not know at the time, and I would do things very differently. But I can see where I made the set very difficult for Janet.”
Hubert responded, “But you took all that away from me … with your words,” detailing how the entire ordeal hindered her career.
“Words can kill. I lost everything – reputation, everything. Everything. And I understand you were able to move forward, but those words, calling a Black woman difficult in Hollywood is the kiss of death. It’s the kiss of death, and it’s hard enough being a dark-skinned Black woman in this business. But I have felt it was necessary for us to finally move forward. And I’m sorry that I have blasted you to pieces.”
Why Justice Jackson Invoked Interracial Marriage in Supreme Court’s Historic Transgender Care Arguments
The Supreme Court was more than an hour into its feisty debate over gender-affirming care when Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson invoked one of the most significant civil rights precedents in the nation’s history.
A liberal named to the court by President Joe Biden two years ago, Jackson said she was “suddenly quite worried” about how the arguments over Tennessee’s ban on transgender care were unfolding and she pointed to the court’s seminal 1967 decision in Loving v. Virginia that struck down a state ban on interracial marriage.
“I’m getting kind of nervous,” Jackson said at one point. “I’m worried that we’re undermining the foundations of some of our bedrock equal protection cases.”
A unanimous Supreme Court was able to wade into a messy equal protection fight back then and arrive at one of the court’s most important decisions, Jackson seemed to be saying. Why, then, couldn’t it do so now when confronted with one of today’s most pressing civil rights issues?
“I wonder whether Virginia could have gotten away with what they did” if state officials then had made an argument similar to the one Tennessee put to the court Wednesday in defending its ban on gender-affirming care for minors, Jackson said.
It was a particularly poignant moment in the argument over Tennessee’s law, in part because the question came from the Supreme Court’s first Black female justice – who is in an interracial marriage – but also because it subtly tied the transgender appeal to the court’s blockbuster decision two years ago to overturn Roe v. Wade.
The court’s ruling in Loving rejected the state’s arguments for why its ban on interracial marriage passed constitutional muster. The state had said that since the ban applied to both White and Black people, it didn’t treat either group differently based on race. It also said the court should defer to the state on the issue given countervailing scientific views.
Tennessee’s argument for defending its ban on gender-affirming care is similar, Jackson pointed out. The state says its law does not discriminate based on sex because it applies equally to both boys and girls who are seeking to transition. And worrying to Jackson is that several of her conservative colleagues signaled that perhaps courts shouldn’t be involved in deciding those complicated issues.
“It prohibits all boys and girls from transitioning using certain medical treatments, and it doesn’t say only boys can do so or only girls could do so,” Justice Brett Kavanaugh said.
Jackson, however, was forceful in her view that there are “parallels” between the Tennessee law at issue in the transgender health care case and the Virginia ban struck down nearly than 60 years ago, including in the states’ arguments for why it should be given legal deference.
“Some of these questions about sort of who decides and the concerns and legislative prerogatives, et cetera, sound very familiar to me,” Jackson told US Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, representing the Biden administration before the high court. “They sound in the same kinds of arguments that were made back in the day, ’50s, ‘60s, with respect to racial classifications and inconsistencies.”
Heading into the arguments, progressives sounded the alarm about how far the high court might go in reversing major civil rights jurisprudence that have been part of the American legal landscape for decades.
Those fears were inflamed two years ago when conservative Justice Clarence Thomas, the court’s second Black justice who is also in an interracial marriage, suggested that his colleagues should “reconsider” major decisions dealing with gay marriage, contraception and intimate relations between same-sex couples.
Thomas’ concurrence came attached to the court’s controversial decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization that overturned the constitutional right to abortion the court had established in Roe nearly five decades earlier. Thomas did not mention Loving in his concurrence – an omission that drew notice from many of his critics.
Protestors speak out as Supreme Court hears gender-affirming care case
The Dobbs decision did not rest on the Constitution’s equal protection clause, and its author – conservative Justice Samuel Alito – tried to make clear that it would not impact those earlier cases guaranteeing a federal right to an interracial or same-sex marriage.
But the court’s three liberal justices wrote in dissent that the majority’s opinion does make those rights vulnerable to attack – a warning that Jackson amplified on Wednesday.
As the arguments turned toward their conclusion Wednesday, Jackson appeared to recognize that a majority of the court seemed prepared to support the Tennessee law – and, in her view, withdraw from history.
“I share your concerns, Justice Jackson,” Chase Strangio, the lawyer representing the transgender youth, said in response. “That would undermine decades of this court’s precedent.”
Kanye West Faces Backlash Over Unpaid Producers On ‘Vultures’ Albums
Kanye West is under fire after more than ten producers from his albums Vultures 1 and Vultures 2 claim they have not been paid. According to a report from Billboard, several music attorneys are collaborating to seek compensation for their clients, who contributed to these projects but have yet to receive their agreed fees or royalties.
Released in February, Vultures, a collaborative effort with Ty Dolla $ign, has achieved significant commercial success, moving 817,000 album-equivalent units. However, nearly a dozen producers have reported that they are still waiting on signed agreements to secure their payments, leaving them unable to collect producer royalties or publishing income. Producers from Vultures 2 reportedly face the same issues.
“We represent clients who contributed to the Vultures albums but have yet to be compensated for their services, despite both albums being publicly released,” music attorney Bob Celestin told Billboard. “It’s unfortunate and unfair. You’d expect West, a producer himself, to be more empathetic to this kind of situation.”
This case underscores a broader industry issue, as producers often face delayed payments. “In nine out of ten cases, producers haven’t been paid by the time the music is released,” attorney Jason Berger explained.
The delay in payments is exacerbated by the complexities of large-scale music projects. “With so many collaborators and high-profile artists needing to approve agreements, payments can take over a year to process,” Celestin added.
West’s erratic business dealings appear to contribute to the delays. He has reportedly cycled through at least two legal teams to handle clearances and is now working with a third. Additionally, he recently switched music distributors from Create Music Group’s Label Engine to Too Lost, further complicating the administrative process.
Despite these challenges, West has continued to push forward with new music. The Vultures albums, credited to ¥$, his project with Ty Dolla $ign, feature contributions from an array of high-profile producers, including Timbaland, Swizz Beatz, KAYTRANADA, James Blake, DJ Mustard, and London on da Track. Some tracks on Vultures 1 list upwards of ten producers.
For producers still awaiting payment, West’s history of abandoning ventures offers little reassurance. Earlier this year, he sold a stripped-down Malibu mansion at a loss of $36 million and briefly flirted with launching a porn industry venture, only to scrap it weeks later.
Amid the controversy, West is reportedly preparing to release Vultures 3, potentially compounding the issues of unpaid agreements across three albums.
Amazon Accused of Quietly Cutting Fast Deliveries in Two Predominantly Black DC Zip Codes
Amazon is under fire after the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit accusing the company of withholding its fastest delivery services from two predominantly Black neighborhoods while continuing to charge residents full price for Prime memberships. The lawsuit alleges that the Seattle-based retailer secretly imposed a delivery “exclusion” in zip codes 20019 and 20020 in mid-2022, relying solely on third-party carriers like UPS and USPS instead of its in-house delivery network.
District Attorney General Brian Schwalb said the company never disclosed the slower delivery speeds to affected customers, who pay $139 annually or $14.99 monthly for Prime benefits, including expedited shipping. Schwalb stated that Amazon’s practices unfairly impacted tens of thousands of residents in Wards 7 and 8, who have ordered over 4.5 million packages in the last four years. Many residents in these areas rely heavily on online services due to limited retail and grocery options, making the slower service particularly damaging.
Amazon defended the changes, citing concerns for driver safety. A spokesperson for the company, Kelly Nantel, explained that drivers had been subject to targeted threats and attacks in the two zip codes, prompting operational adjustments to prioritize safety. Nantel also stated that Amazon is transparent about delivery timelines during the checkout process and highlighted that nearly 1.5 million Prime-eligible products were delivered within two days to customers in the affected areas since 2022.
The lawsuit outlines a significant disparity in delivery performance. Before the changes, over 72% of Prime packages in the two neighborhoods arrived within two days, compared to just 24% last year. Meanwhile, residents in other parts of DC saw on-time deliveries 75% of the time as Amazon’s nationwide delivery speeds improved. When customers complained, Amazon allegedly blamed delays on natural shipping fluctuations rather than its policy change.
This isn’t the first time Amazon has faced accusations of delivery inequities. A 2016 Bloomberg investigation revealed Black residents in cities like Atlanta and Chicago were less likely to access same-day delivery services. A year later, a local DC outlet reported Amazon’s restaurant delivery service excluded certain neighborhoods in the city, including one mentioned in this lawsuit.
The District’s lawsuit seeks restitution for affected Prime members, civil penalties, and an injunction to prevent Amazon from engaging in deceptive practices. Amazon has expressed willingness to work with DC officials to address crime and safety concerns in the impacted areas while defending its business practices in court.
Cardi B Reveals She Has $65-70 Million Touring Offer on the Table
Cardi B wants the world to know she is far from hard up for money. With rumors flying that the rapper must rely on brand deals, Cardi hit Spaces to reveal she could make $65 million in a day.
“I want to let y’all know that I could wake up tomorrow and sign a contract, and I would have half of $65 million, or half of $70 million, in my bank,” Cardi said.
She would reveal that she has not accepted a touring deal because her second album isn’t out. That’s currently scheduled for 2025. You can see the reveal below.
Cardi B is gearing up for a major comeback in 2025. The Bronx-bred diva is sending a clear message to anyone who’s crossed her in 2024. On Sunday, November 24, Cardi took to IG Live, delivering a message to her followers and detractors alike.
With her trademark confidence, Cardi warned those who had wronged her this year, demanding they make amends before the new year begins. “I’m telling you right now,” she said, her tone firm. “Every person who played with me in 2024—y’all better apologize today. I mean it. Apologize today.”
Now, Cardi has made it clear she plans to enter 2025 with a clean slate, having no tolerance for any lingering disrespect. Her declaration became even more intense as she continued, saying, “As soon as 12:00 A.M. hits, I’m hitting the reset button. And I’m whipping everybody’s ass with a wet belt.”
Though she didn’t name specific individuals, Cardi’s frustration was palpable. “I’m sick of everybody,” she confessed, revealing her weariness with the drama she’s faced over the past year.
Sometimes the apps don’t need to be called out. They know who they are.
Looking back on 2024, Cardi called it “the weirdest year I’ve ever experienced.” She had previously shared that her highly anticipated sophomore album, initially expected to drop in 2024, would be delayed. Despite the setback, she remains optimistic about the future. “Next year is going to be my year,” she confidently declared. “My album will drop, and my secret businesses will finally come to light.”
Interestingly, she wrapped up her Live on a lighter note; Cardi showed her usual humor, joking, “Hopefully, I get myself a little boyfriend next year. I’m hoe-less right now,” before adding, “I gotta get my s### together.”
District Attorney General Brian Schwalb said the company never disclosed the slower delivery speeds to affected customers, who pay $139 annually or $14.99 monthly for Prime benefits, including expedited shipping. Schwalb stated that Amazon’s practices unfairly impacted tens of thousands of residents in Wards 7 and 8, who have ordered over 4.5 million packages in the last four years. Many residents in these areas rely heavily on online services due to limited retail and grocery options, making the slower service particularly damaging.
Amazon defended the changes, citing concerns for driver safety. A spokesperson for the company, Kelly Nantel, explained that drivers had been subject to targeted threats and attacks in the two zip codes, prompting operational adjustments to prioritize safety. Nantel also stated that Amazon is transparent about delivery timelines during the checkout process and highlighted that nearly 1.5 million Prime-eligible products were delivered within two days to customers in the affected areas since 2022.
The lawsuit outlines a significant disparity in delivery performance. Before the changes, over 72% of Prime packages in the two neighborhoods arrived within two days, compared to just 24% last year. Meanwhile, residents in other parts of DC saw on-time deliveries 75% of the time as Amazon’s nationwide delivery speeds improved. When customers complained, Amazon allegedly blamed delays on natural shipping fluctuations rather than its policy change.
This isn’t the first time Amazon has faced accusations of delivery inequities. A 2016 Bloomberg investigation revealed Black residents in cities like Atlanta and Chicago were less likely to access same-day delivery services. A year later, a local DC outlet reported Amazon’s restaurant delivery service excluded certain neighborhoods in the city, including one mentioned in this lawsuit.
The District’s lawsuit seeks restitution for affected Prime members, civil penalties, and an injunction to prevent Amazon from engaging in deceptive practices. Amazon has expressed willingness to work with DC officials to address crime and safety concerns in the impacted areas while defending its business practices in court.
Cardi B Reveals She Has $65-70 Million Touring Offer on the Table
“I want to let y’all know that I could wake up tomorrow and sign a contract, and I would have half of $65 million, or half of $70 million, in my bank,” Cardi said.
She would reveal that she has not accepted a touring deal because her second album isn’t out. That’s currently scheduled for 2025. You can see the reveal below.
Cardi B is gearing up for a major comeback in 2025. The Bronx-bred diva is sending a clear message to anyone who’s crossed her in 2024. On Sunday, November 24, Cardi took to IG Live, delivering a message to her followers and detractors alike.
With her trademark confidence, Cardi warned those who had wronged her this year, demanding they make amends before the new year begins. “I’m telling you right now,” she said, her tone firm. “Every person who played with me in 2024—y’all better apologize today. I mean it. Apologize today.”
Now, Cardi has made it clear she plans to enter 2025 with a clean slate, having no tolerance for any lingering disrespect. Her declaration became even more intense as she continued, saying, “As soon as 12:00 A.M. hits, I’m hitting the reset button. And I’m whipping everybody’s ass with a wet belt.”
Though she didn’t name specific individuals, Cardi’s frustration was palpable. “I’m sick of everybody,” she confessed, revealing her weariness with the drama she’s faced over the past year.
Sometimes the apps don’t need to be called out. They know who they are.
Looking back on 2024, Cardi called it “the weirdest year I’ve ever experienced.” She had previously shared that her highly anticipated sophomore album, initially expected to drop in 2024, would be delayed. Despite the setback, she remains optimistic about the future. “Next year is going to be my year,” she confidently declared. “My album will drop, and my secret businesses will finally come to light.”
Interestingly, she wrapped up her Live on a lighter note; Cardi showed her usual humor, joking, “Hopefully, I get myself a little boyfriend next year. I’m hoe-less right now,” before adding, “I gotta get my s### together.”
Several Claims In Harassment Case Against Lizzo Has Been Dismissed
Several claims from the September 2023 harassment case filed against Lizzo‘s tour company by her former stylist have been dismissed.
Asha Daniels, an ex-employee of Lizzo’s Big Grrrl Big Tour company, filed a lawsuit alleging racial and sexual harassment by members of Lizzo’s management team. The claims included the “Truth Hurts” singer’s team members making “fatphobic” remarks, creating a hostile work environment, and calling Black women on the tour as “dumb,” “useless,” and “fat,” the lawsuit claims.
However, the tour company won a case in California court on Monday (Dec. 2) when Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha granted a partial motion to dismiss several claims in the suit. Per Page Six, the judge reasoned that US labor laws do not apply because Daniels worked for Lizzo while on tour in Europe.
“These allegations do not establish plausibly that any portion of plaintiff’s claim arose from work performed in the United States or qualifying territories,” Aenlle-Rocha said. The judge also said the plaintiff did not show any evidence that she accrued overtime in regards to her work she did for the tour company.
This isn’t the first time Lizzo’s team attempted to fight Daniels’ claims, as the singer’s lawyer filed an objection to the suit in Los Angeles Superior Court back last December. The objection called the claims a “meritless and salacious action after less than three weeks of employment,” alleging she “refused to comply with instructions from her supervisors and tour management.”
Daniels’ case is one of several that generated negative publicity for the 36-year-old artist. The mounting backlash led Lizzo to make a statement on Instagram at the time about her wanting to quit the industry for good because she “didn’t sign up for this sh*t.”
“Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed,” she responded in another post. “These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.”
Several claims from the September 2023 harassment case filed against Lizzo‘s tour company by her former stylist have been dismissed.
Asha Daniels, an ex-employee of Lizzo’s Big Grrrl Big Tour company, filed a lawsuit alleging racial and sexual harassment by members of Lizzo’s management team. The claims included the “Truth Hurts” singer’s team members making “fatphobic” remarks, creating a hostile work environment, and calling Black women on the tour as “dumb,” “useless,” and “fat,” the lawsuit claims.
However, the tour company won a case in California court on Monday (Dec. 2) when Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha granted a partial motion to dismiss several claims in the suit. Per Page Six, the judge reasoned that US labor laws do not apply because Daniels worked for Lizzo while on tour in Europe.
“These allegations do not establish plausibly that any portion of plaintiff’s claim arose from work performed in the United States or qualifying territories,” Aenlle-Rocha said. The judge also said the plaintiff did not show any evidence that she accrued overtime in regards to her work she did for the tour company.
This isn’t the first time Lizzo’s team attempted to fight Daniels’ claims, as the singer’s lawyer filed an objection to the suit in Los Angeles Superior Court back last December. The objection called the claims a “meritless and salacious action after less than three weeks of employment,” alleging she “refused to comply with instructions from her supervisors and tour management.”
Daniels’ case is one of several that generated negative publicity for the 36-year-old artist. The mounting backlash led Lizzo to make a statement on Instagram at the time about her wanting to quit the industry for good because she “didn’t sign up for this sh*t.”
“Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed,” she responded in another post. “These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.”
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