Showing posts with label Mahershala Ali. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mahershala Ali. Show all posts

7/22/19

The Daily Buzz For July 23 ☕📰☕


Ariana Grande Has a Fabulous Campaign for Givenchy!
Ariana Grande looks great for Givenchy’s Fall-Winter 2019 ad campaign.

She’s a modern muse and the voice of a generation, Ariana has emerged as one of the most influential forces in pop culture today. A Grammy award-winning performer, songwriter and singer, she naturally embodies the spirit of the Givenchy woman with impertinence, generosity and a lightning wit — all cloaked in a touch of mystery.”

Check out the Looks!
“I am so proud to be the new face of Givenchy. It is a House I have forever admired and to now be part of that family is such an honor. I love this clothing and the confidence and joy it brings to the people wearing it. Not only is the clothing timeless and beautiful but I’m proud to work with a brand that makes people feel celebrated for who they are, and unapologetic about whatever they want to be.” – Ariana Grande


#RHOA: Porsha Williams & Cynthia Bailey Are rocking their Blonde Ambition!
Porsha Williams and Cynthia Bailey are both trying out new looks for the summer.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta cast members posed for a snapshot on Saturday, July 20, that Williams posted on her Instagram page. In the photo, the two women are both rocking blond hairstyles. Williams’ opted to style her honey blond tendrils in long, beach waves. Bailey decided to rock a blond, curly afro as the two gazed into the camera in the photo slideshow. The two women are both rocking full-on, glamorous makeup looks as they stand together for the photo op. The two are also showing major cleavage in the photo.
Bailey and Williams have become closer with each other through the years of filming RHOA together. While they both have had their share of drama on the show, the two have seemingly come together and have supported each other on and off camera. Bailey was one of the first housewives to publicly lend support to Williams after it was announced in June that she and ex-fiance Dennis McKinley broke up after being engaged for eight months.

The post also comes while the ladies are taping Season 12 of RHOA. Earlier this month, Williams posted another photo on Instagram of her and former “frenemy” Kenya Moore. The two were beaming as they had their baby girls, Pilar Jhena McKinley and Brooklyn Daly, on their laps. The mothers are reportedly “inseparable” and are joining forces to take down the show’s OG cast member NeNe Leakes, Hollywood Life reports.


#Empire: Jussie Smollett’s Lawyers DO NOT WANT a special prosecutor to re-investigate his case
Jussie Smollett’s lawyers slammed a judge’s decision to appoint a special prosecutor to re-investigate the dropped, high-profile criminal case against the actor, new court filings released Friday reveal.
Late last month, Cook County Judge Michael Toomin appointed a special prosecutor who could bring new criminal charges against the “Empire” star — after a series of questionable moves from Chicago State’s attorney Kim Foxx.

Smollett attorneys Tina Glandian and Mark J. Geragos on Friday blasted the judge’s actions.
“This case has been a travesty of justice and an unprecedented deprivation of Mr. Smollett’s constitutional rights, including the presumption of innocence and right to a fair trial,” the motion states. “Not only have the media and the public failed to critically look at the evidence (and lack thereof) against Mr. Smollett, but now, the court has accepted false media reports to presume Mr. Smollett guilty of charges which he pled not guilty to and which were dismissed against him.”

Toomin had scolded Foxx’s decision to “colloquially recuse” herself from Smollett’s case and appoint her top deputy, Joseph Magats, in her stead after it was revealed she’d texted with members of Smollett’s family about the investigation and promised to help them.
But in an “instanter” document attached to Friday’s motion, the lawyers argued that the court “misapprehended the law when it ruled that Ms. Foxx’s informal ‘recusal’ rendered the entirety of the proceedings — from Mr. Smollett’s arrest to the dismissal of the charges against him — null and void.”

“If the court’s conclusions were to be accepted, the City of Chicago has committed an egregious violation of Mr. Smollett’s civil rights by depriving him of his liberty and property without due process of law in violation of the Fourth Amendment and the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution,” the document said.

The motion also includes evidence backing Smollett’s account that he was attacked by two masked men, brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who called him racist and homophobic slurs and lopped a noose around his neck back in January. The Osundairos had claimed that Smollett recruited and paid them off to carry out the attack.
The brothers’ attorney, Gloria Schmidt, told the Chicago Tribune Friday she hadn’t yet read the new filings but expressed confidence that “the evidence will come out.”
“My clients have fully cooperated, and will continue to fully cooperate with [prosecutors] and the police,” she told the paper.

Smollett, 37, has repeatedly insisted that he’s innocent. He was arrested and charged with filing a false police report “to advance his career.” However, his case was later dropped.


#NewGospelMusic from JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise – ‘Miracle Worker’
Seven-time Stellar Award-winner, Grammy-nominated, and Billboard Award winner JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise are set to release their 10th album, “Miracle Worker,” accompanied with the release of relationship book with wife Trina Hairston titled, “A Miracle Marriage.”
Songwriter JJ Hairston has been making headlines with the 2017 hit “You Deserve It,” sang throughout churches everywhere. Now, single “Miracle Worker” has already reached the top 15 on the Billboard Gospel Charts.

The album was recorded in two live sessions, the first half in Abuja, Nigeria at the COZA Church and the second half at Hairston’s home church City of Praise in Landover, Maryland. Recording the album in Abuja was a life-changing experience that inspired the song and album title “Miracle Worker.”
He says: “Their faith is what is making all of these miracles happen…what we are trying to do is build our faith here in U.S., which is why we recorded a song called “Miracle Worker.” It really simply states that he is the God of miracle, signs and wonders and we are hoping that this project will help people increase their faith in God and his miracle working power.”

LISTEN HERE

Following the release of the album, Hairston plans on doing a “Love & Miracles” headlining tour. At every stop the couple will share passages from their books and give advice about love and marriage, to open for the concert. The tour will kick off at Radio One D.C.’s “Praise In The Park” at the Gateway Pavilion. Both the album “Miracle Worker,” and book “Miracle Marriage” will be out July 26th and are available for pre-order June 22nd at JJHairston.com.


#NewHipHop from Lil Durk Feat. Meek Mill – ‘Bougie’
As he gears up for Love Songs 4 the Streets II, Lil Durk teams up with Meek Mill on his new single “Bougie.”

The Dreamchasers MC kicks off the Beat Bully and Jahlil Beats-produced track with a heavy-hitting verse. Durk follows with his own braggadocious rhymes about his lifestyle, designer clothes, and DM’ing J.Lo. “I think I’m bougie / Mike Amiri jeans cost me 2 Gs / I can’t take her to the crib, go get some room keys,” he boasts.

LISTEN HERE

“Bougie” arrives ahead of Durk’s upcoming album Love Songs 4 The Streets II, the sequel to his 2017 album, which drops July 26. “I made LS4TS2 for women, my Day 1’s, the trenches, and all those that doubted me,” said Durk.


Taylor Swift fans are upset with Taylor Swift fans are upset with presidential candidate Kamala Harris for attending a fundraising event at Scooter Braun's mansion
Music manager Scooter Braun hosted a fundraising event at his Los Angeles home for presidential candidate Kamala Harris on Saturday, and some big stars were in attendance, including Katy Perry, Demi Lovato, and Ariana Grande.

Notably, Taylor Swift was not at the event after she publically called Scooter "incessant, manipulative" and a "bully" in June. Now, Swift's fans are speaking out against Harris for collaborating with Swift's nemesis, despite the fact that the singer has voiced her support for the candidate in the past.
Fans are coming to Swift's defense after Braun bought Big Machine Records, which included all of the singer's catalog.
"I learned about Scooter Braun's purchase of my masters as it was announced to the world," Swift wrote in a Tumblr post at the time. "All I could think about was the incessant, manipulative bullying I've received at his hands for years."

But that didn't stop her fellow artists from attending the event at Braun's mansion, which was billed as a "Fireside Chat with Kamala." In fact, 100 people showed up to the event, according to the Daily Mail, which included Eva Longoria and DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg.


#BOOM! Mahershala Ali to star in Blade
There will be a new version of Blade, starring Mahershala Ali on the way. At this point we have little info other than Ali's casting. Most likely Blade will be a cinematic release but it could appear on Disney Plus.
It's been awhile since Blade has had any screen time. The last time we saw him he was being played by Wesley Snipes. Blade's return is a timely one.
No release date was announced. But others like Black Widow (May 1, 2020), the Eternals (Nov. 6 2020), Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings  (Feb. 12, 2021), Doctor Strange: In The Multiverse of Madness (May 7, 2021) and Thor: Love and Thunder (Nov. 5, 2021) all now have concrete dates.
It's going to be a big couple of years for Marvel and Disney.


The Chi’ Actress Sonja Sohn Arrested For Cocaine Possession
“The Wire” and “The Chi’ actress Sonja Sohn was reportedly arrested for cocaine possession, early Sunday. The 55-year-old actress was arrested in North Caroline at 2 a.m. for marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia.

The paraphernalia charges are misdemeanor charges. The cocaine charge is a felony. Sohn reportedly bailed out of jail after she was arrested. She will be arraigned Tuesday.
Sohn played Detective Shakima Greggs on all five seasons of “The Wire.”

She plays the character Laverne, Brandon’s (who is played by Jason Mitchell) mother on ‘The Chi.”


Tessa Thompson Will be Marvel’s First LGBTQ Superhero as Valkyrie in Thor: Love And Thunder’
It looks like Tessa Thompson might be making history as the first LGBTQ superhero of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Tessa is reprising her role as Valkyrie the new ruler of the New Asgard in Thor: Love and Thunder.

During a panel at Comic-Con in San Diego on Saturday, she told fans Valkyrie’s first order of business as King will be finding her Queen.

As new king, she needs to find her queen. That will be the first order of business
Natalie Portman will also lend some girl power to Thor 4 by reprising her role as Jane Foster, who will take on the role of the female Thor.

Thor: Love and Thunder is slated to hit theaters on November 5, 2021.


#RIP Legendary Former Manhattan DA Robert M. Morgenthau dies at 99
Robert Morgenthau, a World War II Navy hero best known as Manhattan’s legendary district attorney, and who worked as a practicing lawyer and philanthropist through his final days, died Sunday.
He was 99.Morgenthau died at Lenox Hill Hospital after a short illness, sources told The Post.
For four decades, Morgenthau’s patrician baritone — honed in his youth among his family friends, the Roosevelts and the Kennedys — rumbled through the halls of lower Manhattan courthouses.
In the 1960s as Manhattan US attorney, and then for 34 years until his retirement as DA at age 90, he was “The Boss” to loyal underlings and “Morgy” to tabloid headline writers.

And there were many headlines for the man who became the model for “Law and Order’s” original stern prosecutor, Adam Schiff.
By his own count, Morgenthau oversaw some 3.5 million cases as DA, guided by his often-repeated motto that justice be pursued “without fear or favor.”

His more kleig-lit prosecutions included those of mobster John Gotti (assault and conspiracy), rapper Tupac Shakur (sex assault), hip hop mogul Puffy Combs (gun possession), and actor Russell Crowe and supermodel Naomi Campbell, both of whom took no-jail deals in separate phone-flinging incidents.
His prosecution of Mark David Chapman, who pleaded guilty to killing John Lennon, was international news; that of subway vigilante Bernard Goetz sparked a national conversation on gun rights and self-defense.

Often his reach extended well beyond Manhattan.Morgenthau’s sprawling investigation into the corrupt Bank of Credit and Commerce International, or BCCI, in 1991 exposed a criminal enterprise spanning 76 countries that laundered loot for Saddam Hussein, the Medellin drug cartel, and a global roster of terrorists and warlords.

Robert Morgenthau was born in New York City in 1919.
His grandfather, Henry Morgenthau Sr., rose from poverty to become US Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire during World War I.
His father, Henry Morgenthau, Jr., became Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Treasury secretary and a major architect of the New Deal.

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the late John F. Kennedy, Jr., and governors Andrew Cuomo and Eliot Spitzer are among the more notable of the thousands of prosecutors he personally interviewed and hired.
He is survived by his wife, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Lucinda Franks and his five children, along with his grand- and great-grandchildren.


Uh Oh so is it Homage or Copying? Beyonce accused of stealing ideas for Spirit video
Beyonce has been accused of stealing the visuals from her Spirit and Bigger video from a film created by an African musician and his wife.
A post on the Diet Prada Instagram account compares screenshots from an extended cut of the double track video, directed by Jake Nava, to La Maison Noir: The Gift and the Curse, to a 17 minute film the artist Rharha Nembhard directed for her husband, South African musician Petite Noir.
“Here’s a side by side comparison of @Beyonce ‘s “Spirit” + “Bigger” extended cut directed by Jake Nava vs. South African musician @petitenoirkvlt ‘s “La Maison Noir: The Gift and The Curse”, directed by artist @rharha_nembhard and released in May 2018,” the caption reads.

The Diet Prada clip comparing the two works shows that both feature dancers in similar, bright blue or orange clothing striking similar poses, Beyonce in a cowrie beaded face veil that resembles an outfit used in La Maison Noir: The Gift and the Curse, as well as scenes featuring her daughter Blue Ivy, seven, which resemble those featuring a child in the African visual artwork.
Beyonce’s new album accompanying her role as Nala in The Lion King also has a similar name, as it is called The Lion King: The Gift.

Petite Noir’s video, which has almost two million views on YouTube, revolves around a cosmogram of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the singer’s father was a politician before being forced into exile. It also references the four elements of fire, earth, water, and air and symbolises rebirth, while depicting the formative stages of the musician’s life, which were spent moving around before settling in South Africa.
In a rare interview, Beyonce spoke about the inspirations for the songs.

“It was important that we weren’t just inspired by Africa but that we actually included and learned from the Mother Land. The concept of the video is to show how God is the painter and natural beauty and nature needs no art direction. It’s the beauty of color, the beauty of melanin, the beauty of tradition. “

So do you think it’s copying or paying homage?


FIRST LOOK! : Tom Hanks in ‘A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood’ Trailer!
Tom Hanks is moving in as your favorite cardigan-clad neighbor in the first trailer for “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.”
The actor has some big loafers to fill starring as beloved children’s television icon Fred Rogers in the upcoming film, but from this first look it’s clear that Hanks has done his homework.
Directed by Marielle Heller (“Can You Ever Forgive Me?”), the film chronicles a critical chapter in Rogers’ story, instead of giving him the biopic treatment, as jaded journalist Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys) profiles the entertainer in the later years of his life.

Loosely based on the real 1998 Esquire profile of Rogers, the film follows the duo’s unexpected friendship as Rogers’ perspective on empathy and kindness changes Vogel, who’s starting a family of his own with “This Is Us” actress Susan Kelechi Watson.
The trailer begins with Hanks singing the opening theme song to the long-running “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” perfectly capturing the host’s gentle nature, while nailing his inflections and demeanor.

Filming for the project kicked off in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in mid-September 2018, but was briefly halted when a sound technician working on the film died from a fall on set.
The film also stars Chris Cooper, Enrico Colantoni, Maryann Plunkett and Tammy Blanchard.

WATCH

“A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” hits theaters on Nov. 22.


Taron Egerton Will NOT Be The Next Wolverine!
A big rumor going into 2019 Comic-Con was that Taron Egerton was going to be announced as the next Wolverine.
Speaking with MTV, the 29-year-old Rocketman actor shut down the rumor that we would take over the role from Hugh Jackman.

“I think you need better beard game for Wolverine than I have,” he said. “Look, there’s no grounding for the rumor. I know that that’s probably in the pipeline at some point for Marvel but I would imagine it’s a little way off.”
“If I was asked it would be incredible. I have to confess, I think sometimes there are better candidates,” Taron added. “Or actually, you know, who knows, because in five years maybe I’d be grizzly enough.”

Hugh has played the role in the X-Men universe in many films over the last 19 years. Hugh and Taron have worked together previously on the film Eddie the Eagle.


An Arrest Has been Made In The Shooting Death Of 11-Year-Old Karon Brown
Washington D.C. police announced on Saturday (July 20) they have arrested the 29-year-old man they believe is responsible for the shooting death of an 11-year-old boy.
DC Police Chief Peter Newsham says 29-year-old Tony Antoine McClam has been taken into custody for the death of the Karon Brown. McClam was charged with second degree murder while armed after a dispute between adults and children erupted in violance at around 7 p.m.

It isn’t completely clear what exactly happened. WUSA 9 reports that Karon and his brother Quentin, 12, had walked to a McDonald’s on Thursday evening to get food for their older sister. Quentin subsequently became impatient and reportedly returned to his home. Karon stayed at the restaurant.
When he was sent back at around 7 p.m. to retrieve his brother, a fight broke out inside the McDonalds, which then spilled into the street. Quentin then allegedly heard gunfire and darted home.

Authorities believe a passerby saw Karon being assaulted and tried to help him by taking him to his car, however, when Brown ran for safety, someone in the crowd fired a shot that entered the vehicle and struck the boy.
Karon later died at a nearby hospital from the gunshot wound. It isn’t clear whether his murder was targeted or a random act of violence.

“I just lost it. I couldn’t believe it,” Kathren Brown, the boy’s mother, said Friday. “I still can’t believe it. I am waiting for someone to say all this did not just happen. This is not how we planned our summer. Now I have to sit here and plan a funeral for my baby.”
After the shooting took place, police published images of the suspected shooter, which showed him running shirtless and clutching a handgun.

Sadly, this isn’t the first DC area child who has been killed recently. Last year, Makiyah Wilson, 10, was an unintended victim who was shot and killed during a feud between neighborhood gangs. Makiyah, Karon and Quentin were all reportedly friends and attended school together, according to Karon’s mother.


Mary J. Blige SNAPS at an Aggressive Fan During Her Concert!
Mary J. Blige does NOT play when it comes to disrespecting her during a performance.
The Queen of hip-hop and soul, along with Nas, continued their "Royalty Tour" in Nashville on Thursday when all hell broke loose.

48-year-old Blige was in the middle of speaking to the crowd about haters and negativity when someone allegedly yelled out to her to "shut the f---k up."
Blige fired right back at the concert goers, saying in a very strong voice, "and for the person thats been in here all night saying Mary shut the f--k up, YOU shut the f--k up."

WATCH
The crowd erupted and showed their support letting Mary know that they had her back.


Toni Braxton and Sons Promote Uncle Bud’s Natural Hemp Product Line
Toni Braxton and her sons, Diezel and Denim, have teamed up with Uncle Bud’s Natural Hemp products to promote the brand that aims to bring relief to those who live in constant physical pain. The celebrity mom, who lives with Lupus, shared pictures and footage from the campaign’s shoot.
“Fun with my boys at our @unclebuds_hemp campaign photoshoot,” Toni shared with her Instagram fans. “Check out the entire HEMP skincare collection @unclebuds_hemp,” the celebrity mom advised.

Nice!


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘SATISFIED?’
Snickers, feel free to use this on your next advertising campaign. Magazines, billboards, whatever. Nails it for you free of charge.


#EGGPLANT NATION Meet Bobby Bones!!
Meet Bobby Bones! Well to see more you can GO HERE TO SEE THE PICS!  And remember they’re NSWF!

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

ENJOY!


HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!
EFREM

2/11/19

The Daily Buzz For Feb 12 ☕📰☕


Mahershala Ali for Esquire UK - March/April 2019
Mahershala Ali Discusses 'True Detective 3', 'Green Book' And That Standout 'Moonlight' Scene
The Oscar-winning actor was a guest at Esquire Townhouse with Breitling
"When I read that script the character scared me a bit," Mahershala Ali says of his forthcoming role as world-renowned pianist Dr. Don Shirley.
The actor, who picked up a best supporting actor Oscar for his role in Moonlight in 2016, was at Esquire Townhouse on Saturday to speak about his career thus far and upcoming performances in Green Book and the third season of True Detective.
"The spirit of it is very small and intimate," Ali said of Green Book which recalls the true story of the unlikely bond Shirley formed with his driver, Tony Lip, played by Viggo Mortensen.
Ali also discussed other career highlights including the significance of the emotional scene in Moonlight where a young Chrion asks Juan if he is gay. "That's the scene that terrifies you," Ali said, adding that it was the "scene we collectively had to get right."
In January next year he will release True Detective 3, a project he admits he has only seen a few finished episodes of so far, but does divulge that the "finale episode if the best piece of television I've read in my life."
Mahershala Ali was in conversation at Esquire Townhouse with Breitling. Check out the full event here.


#RHOA: NeNe Breaks Down Over Strained Relationship with Gregg is she talking Divorce?
NeNe Leakes has had a difficult time dealing with husband Gregg Leakes' cancer battle, and much of it has been documented on this season of "The Real Housewives of Atlanta."
Sunday's episode had NeNe in tears on multiple occasions, and we couldn't help but feel for her. Being a caretaker is sometimes a thankless job. Plus, we're not used to seeing her so vulnerable.
The ladies were wrapping up their Tokyo trip when Cynthia Bailey dropped by NeNe's room to chat. NeNe had just gotten off the phone with Gregg and told Cynthia she hadn't really spoken to him a whole lot since being away.

"I get that he's overwhelmed and he's scared, but I am overwhelmed, too," NeNe said with tears in her eyes. "It's a lot for me. I don't ever get this emotional about things, but this is making me emotional. It really is because Gregg and me -- we been tight for a long time. It just sucks. I'm so serious, I never get this upset about stuff."
"The fact that him and me barely talk -- I feel like we're going back the same way we came," she blubbered. "We gonna be breaking up. It's really hard. I have to be way out here by myself, and I can't talk to him."

Cynthia tried her best to comfort her friend.
"I hate when people say stuff like that, Cynthia," NeNe interrupted. "Like, 'You're so strong. You got this.' I still have feelings! I hate that word. I have feelings."
Cynthia agreed NeNe was only "human" but said she just had to "keep going."
"Yeah, but I'm tired," NeNe replied. "I'm tired. I'm tired of trying to put on a face for everybody, and nobody is trying to take care of me."
The moment was heartbreaking, but the tears didn't end there. The next day, Eva Marcille was hanging out in NeNe's room when the ladies heard a knock on the door. It was the concierge with a massive bouquet of flowers.
Upon opening the note, NeNe dropped her head and started sobbing. She literally couldn't speak. Eva asked NeNe's permission to read the note aloud.

Mrs. NeNe Leakes,
You are for me. When you are in pain, I hurt, too. Forgive me, my errors, and let me drown you in my love.
Hurt no more, for I feel the pain I inflicted on you.
Let me back in your heart so that I can touch it and mend our love as we continue to grow with each other.
I love you so much,

Your husband, friend and biggest supporter.

By this point, Eva was in tears, too. NeNe asked if she could be left alone, so Eva gave her her space.
Also important to note: Kandi Burruss ended up giving Porsha Williams the apology she had been looking for -- but not necessarily expecting. During the ladies' last dinner in Tokyo, Kandi teared up as she asked Porsha for forgiveness for having judged Dennis and her relationship with him. Kandi said she remembered how people spoke poorly about Todd in the beginning and felt bad for doing that to Porsha. The two ended up hugging it out and agreed to move forward with a friendship.

"The Real Housewives of Atlanta" airs Sundays at 8 p.m. on Bravo.


#Empire: Boss Reveals 'Strong' Star Jussie Smollett Is 'Happy to Be Back' Working on Set
Jussie Smollett is “happy” to be back at work on the Empire set following the attack on him last week.

Speaking to Deadline ahead of Fox’s Television Critics Association winter press tour, where they appeared on the “Voices of Drama” panel on Wednesday, Empire executive producers Brett Mahoney and Danny Strong confirmed news that the actor had returned to work.
Smollett made his return to the FOX Studios set on Monday to film the final scenes of the season and to complete a cast table read on Tuesday. His return to work came less than a week following his attack.

“He’s been back at work since Monday — he wanted to get back to work and he just wanted to get things back to normal,” Mahoney told the outlet. “He’s the heart of the show in many ways and everyone welcomed him back. We let him know we’re all family, we’re all supporting him and we all have his back. I think that helped him ease back to getting back to work.”

Smollett, who portrays the openly gay character Jamal Lyon on the FOX series and came out as gay himself in 2015, was the victim of a possible hate crime on Jan. 29 in Chicago, leaving him bruised.

“Jussie is a proud, gay black man, and I’m not sure if the cowards were trying to beat the pride, gay or black out of him but he’s strong and we’re happy he’s back at work,” Mahoney said onstage during FOX’s presentation.
“He’s truly a very special person, which is how he got cast as Jamal, because we needed someone truly special to play that part, and it was him,” Strong added. “So I’m not surprised at all by the class and the poise of his response to what has happened.”

Smollett’s return to set was aided by a number of measures to protect him, as well as the other members of the cast and crew, from any further attacks. After news of the attack broke, FOX reportedly ordered heightened security around production locations, including the presence of armed guards and occasional sweeps of the area.

FOX also hired a private security company to screen mail sent to the cast and crew of Empire in an attempt to identify any potentially dangerous mail and prevent it from reaching those working on the series. The team is reportedly working in a joint effort with the FBI, who helped them set up a protocol for screening the mail, after a threatening letter was sent to FOX Studios for Smollett in the days prior to the Jan. 29 attack.
 “We’re really concerned about security for the cast and the crew. That’s the priority,” Strong said. “We’re just worried about him right now.”

Assisted by the FBI and others, the Chicago Police Department is still investigating the crime.


#NewMusic from Alicia Keys – ‘Raise a Man’
Shortly after hosting the 61st Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, R&B star Alicia Keys shares the new song “Raise a Man”. During the six minute long ballad, the singer allows her vocals to shine backed by stripped down production and her signature piano.

She shared the following message on her social media with the release of the song: “Tonight was such a musical night I decided to drop a new vibe & have some fun with y’all!!”

LISTEN HERE
Most recently, Keys released her sixth album “Here” back in 2016. She had recently teased on social media that new music would be coming, but no word on if “Raise a Man” will lead to a new project.


#HipHopNews: Cardi B Dedicates History-Making Grammy To The Late Mac Miller
LOS ANGELES, CA – Cardi B walked away from the 61st Annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night (February 10) with a trophy in the Best Rap Album category for Invasion Of Privacy. It marked the first time in Grammy history a solo female artist has won in that particular category.

Following her win, the always colorful Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar shared an Instagram video of herself celebrating the momentous occasion. But she didn’t forget the late Mac Miller, whose Swimming album was also nominated for Best Rap Album.
“Thank you so much!” she begins. “Thank you Bardi gang for always supporting me … I read an article that Mac Miller’s family said that if he don’t win, they want me to win, so I’m sharing this Grammy with you muthafucka. Rest in peace. Thank you everybody. Bronx up!”

Miller passed away last September following a drug overdose. In the wake of his untimely death, his parents Karen Meyer and Mark McCormick were invited to the ceremony to accept any posthumous awards on his behalf. Although their son didn’t win, the Pittsburgh-bred musician was included in the tribute reel of those we lost in 2018.


Disney Offers First Look At Will Smith As Genie In ‘Aladdin’ & Folks Are Not Happy!
Disney offered a first look at Will Smith as “Genie” in their live-action adaptation of their animated classic, Aladdin, during the 61st Annual Grammy Awards and whew chile…folks are not happy about it!
Will proudly shared the clip as well as a still from the film via social media with the caption:

I told y’all I was gon’ be Blue!! 🧞‍♂️ Y’all need to trust me more often! 😆 #aladdin
Watch the trailer HERE.
People took to the streets of social media with their disdain for Will’s version of the iconic blue genie.

Peep the salty tweets below. 
What are your thoughts?


Ariana Grande’s New Album Had Largest Global Debut Within First 24hrs, According to Apple Music
Ariana Grande‘s new album “thank u, next” appeared to be a hit with fans, and also Apple Music. Reports claim, the streaming service said the 12-track album had the largest global debut of any female artist in every genre within the first 24 hours of the album’s release.
Two leading singles from the album have appeared on the Billboard Hot 100 charts; the title track “thank u, next” debuted No. 1 in November and held the spot for seven weeks while her single “7 Rings” has taken the #1 spot for two weeks in a row.

“thank u, next” was made available on streaming platforms Friday (Feb. 8), coming six months shy of her Grammy award winning and third No. 1 album “sweetener.”

What’s your favorite track from the album “thank u, next”?


Chris Pratt is coming to his Church’s defense After Anti-#LGBTQ Claims from Ellen Page!
Chris Pratt is speaking out to defend his church after Ellen Page claimed that the church holds anti-LGBTQ beliefs.
The Oscar-nominated actress criticized Stephen Colbert for letting Chris talk about his religious beliefs on The Late Show, but for not questioning him about the church’s alleged views on LGBTQ people.

“It has recently been suggested that i belong to a church which ‘hates people’ and is ‘infamously anti-LGBTQ.’ Nothing could be further from the truth. I go to a church that opens their doors to absolutely everyone,” Chris wrote in a lengthy message on his Instagram Stories.

“Despite what the Bible says about divorce my church community was there for me every step of the way, never judging, just gracefully accompanying me on my walk,” Chris continued. “They helped me tremendously offering love and support. It is what I have seen them do for others on countless occasions regardless of sexual orientation, race or gender.”
Chris added, “My faith is important to me but no church defines me or my life, and I am not a spokesman for any church or group of people. My values define who I am. We need less hate in this world, not more. I am a man who believes that everyone is entitled to love who they want free from the judgement of their fellow man.”

“Jesus said ‘I give you a new command, love one another.’ This is what guides me in my life. He is a God of Love, Acceptance, and Forgiveness. Hate has no place in my or this world,” he concluded.


Nicki Minaj Cancels BET Performance After Network Makes Cardi B Grammy Joke
Someone over at BET had to learn the hard way — you do not come for Nicki Minaj unless she sends for you.
After the network tweeted a shady comment about the "Chun-Li" rapper, Nicki announced that she, nor her Young Money team, will be a part of their upcoming BET Experience or BET Award show, despite being the headliners for both events.
Here's how it all went down:

After the 2019 Grammy Awards on Sunday (February 10), the BET Twitter account celebrated Cardi B 's big Grammy win by sharing an article with the headline: "Cardi B Is The First Solo Female Rapper To Win Best Rap Album, And Fans Are Weeping." However, instead of keeping the caption about Cardi the network decided to take the moment to shade Nicki, whose previously had beef with the "Money" rapper. "Meanwhile, Nicki Minaj is being dragged by her lacefront," read BET's tweet.

After fans slammed the account for tweeting such a thing, it was deleted shortly after, but not without getting Nicki's attention first. Less than 24 hours after the initial tweet was sent, the "Barbie Dreams" rapper replied with a tweet of her own. "Young Money will no longer be apart of the BET Experience or award show. ♥️🙏🏽♥️ Summer Tour dates dropping soon 🦄," she wrote. Nicki didn't stop there, she later captioned a screenshot of her fans slamming BET with caption: "Meanwhile, BET is being dragged by their lace front. 🤣." She also instructed her fans who bought tickets to the BET Experience to get a refund.

In another post, Nicki thanked her fans for their support, writing. "I can’t thank you guys enough for all the love & support you continue to show me. To everyone who said something sweet, thank you. Whether I read it or not, I felt it. From the bottom of my heart. I love you so much. So so so soooo much. Stay tuned. ♥️🦄🦄🦄🦄🦄♥️."

Nicki's tea-spillage continued in a separate post. After a fan tweeted, "Nicki Minaj has been at the top of her game for way too long to not have had a Grammy. I don’t know what white man from the boards she pissed off," the "Good Form" rapper promised to reveal the truth about her history with the Grammys. "I pissed off the same man Ariana just called out for lying. Grammy producer KEN," she wrote referencing Ken Ehrlich, the producer Ariana Grande accused of lying last week . "I was bullied into staying quiet for 7 years out of fear. But I’ll tell my fans the REAL," she admitted before saying she'd disclose "the truth" very soon. Adding: "CONGRATS to everyone who won last night. 🙏🏽"


Quincy Jones To Celebrate Michael Jackson’s Classic Hits With London Show Ahead of 10th Anniversary of Jackson’s Death
Amid the increased controversy surrounding the forthcoming HBO release of Dan Reed’s “Leaving Neverland” documentary – which explores dated sexual abuse claims against Michael Jackson -Quincy Jones, longtime collaborator with the King of Pop, is set to honor the singer and some of his greatest hits at a summer concert in London. 
According to Billboard, Jones will celebrate his historical contribution to Jackson’ classic hits with a once-in-a-lifetime performance at the O2 Arena on June 23. Not only will the show feature Jones as the host of the event, but he will also conduct the orchestra in performances of 1979’s “Off The Wall,” 1982’s “Thriller,” and 1987’s “Bad.” 

In addition, Jones will also share a slew of never-before-seen videos of the making of each timeless hit, with a host of special guests. 

According to reports, the concert is set to kick off two days before the 10th anniversary of Jackson’s 2009 death, where Jackson was scheduled to perform his comeback residency.


Smokey Robinson calls Jennifer Lopez Motown tribute complainers 'stupid'
Before they even hit the stage Sunday night at the Grammys for a tribute to Motown, Smokey Robinson was defending the selection of Jennifer Lopez.
"I don't think anyone who is intelligent is upset," Robinson told Variety. "I think anyone who is upset is stupid."
Lopez joined the Motown legend and singer Ne-Yo for an energetic tribute to the label founded by Berry Gordy in Detroit in 1959.

Speaking to Variety outside Clive Davis' pre-Grammy gala on Saturday, Robinson didn't take too kindly to social media complaints that Lopez was not a good choice for the performance.
"Motown was music for everybody. Everybody," Robinson said. "Who's stupid enough to protest Jennifer Lopez doing anything for Motown?"
Turns out that Lopez had both critics and supporters afterward and Robinson tweeted her a thanks.
"Any type of music can inspire any type of artist ...You can't tell people what to love," Lopez said. "You can't tell people what they can and can't do -- what they should sing or not sing."

What do you think?


The Cleveland Browns sign RB Kareem Hunt
The Cleveland Browns have signed RB Kareem Hunt. The club announced the following in a press release:
Hunt is 5-11, 216 pounds and entering his third NFL season out of Toledo. Originally drafted by Kansas City in the third round of the 2017 NFL draft, Hunt has appeared in 27 career games. He has rushed for 2,151 yards on 453 attempts (4.7 average) with 15 touchdowns, while adding 79 receptions for 833 yards with 10 touchdowns.

As a rookie in 2017, Hunt led the NFL with 1,327 rushing yards en route to a Pro Bowl selection. He became just the sixth rookie since 1966 (Super Bowl era) to lead the league in rushing yards. Hunt also became the first player in NFL history to record six consecutive games with 100-plus scrimmage yards to start their rookie campaign. He appeared in 11 games in 2018 and registered 824 rushing yards, 378 receiving yards and 14 total touchdowns. He was released by the Chiefs on Nov. 30. Hunt finished his collegiate career as Toledo’s all-time leading rusher with 4,945 yards, while scoring 44 rushing touchdowns. He attended Willoughby South High School in Willoughby, Ohio

Hunt released a statement through the Browns Monday.
 “First off, I would like to once again apologize for my actions last year. What I did was wrong and inexcusable. That is not the man I was raised to be, and I’ve learned a great deal from that experience and certainly should have been more truthful about it after the fact. I’m extremely grateful that John Dorsey, Dee and Jimmy Haslam and the Cleveland Browns organization are granting me the opportunity to earn their trust and represent their organization in the best way possible on and off the field. I am committed to following the necessary steps to learn and to be a better and healthier person from this situation. I also understand the expectations that the Browns have clearly laid out and that I have to earn my way back to the NFL. I’m a work in progress as a person, but I’m committed to taking advantage of the support systems that I have in place to become the best and healthier version of myself," Hunt said in a statement.


Justin Fairfax’s Law Firm Places Him On Leave Pending Investigation
The law firm that employs Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax (D) has placed him on leave pending an external investigation into sexual assault allegations leveled against him.
The firm, Morrison & Foerster, announced the decision Friday in a statement first published by the National Law Journal.

“The firm has retained outside counsel to conduct an investigation. During the investigation, Justin Fairfax has taken a leave of absence from Morrison & Foerster,” Larren Nashelsky, the firm’s chair, said in the statement. “Justin has agreed to cooperate with the firm’s investigation.”
“We take the allegations against Justin very seriously,” Nashelsky continued. “As a firm, we believe that it is important to seriously listen to any allegation of sexual assault or harassment, and to treat all persons making such allegations with respect and sensitivity.”
Virginia’s part-time legislature convenes from January through March. As a result, state lawmakers have full-time jobs outside the Capitol that provide the majority of their income. The same is true of the lieutenant governor, who presides over and breaks ties in the state Senate.

Fairfax, a 39-year-old former federal prosecutor, left his job as a white-collar defense attorney at Venable in northern Virginia in January, and joined Morrison & Foerster in September.
Two women have accused Fairfax of sexual assault. The more recent allegation emerged on Friday, when Meredith Watson accused Fairfax of raping her when the two were classmates at Duke University in 2000.
Days earlier, Vanessa Tyson, who met Fairfax at the Democratic National Convention in 2004, publicly accused Fairfax of physically coercing her into performing oral sex during an encounter that began as consensual. Tyson said she was moved to come forward when it appeared that Fairfax might replace embattled Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D).

Northam is under pressure to resign after a racist photo from his medical school yearbook page surfaced on Feb. 1. Northam initially indicated that he was in the photo, which shows a person wearing blackface next to someone wearing a Ku Klux Klan uniform. But the following day, he denied that either person in the photo was him. He has since refused to resign.
Fairfax has vehemently denied the sexual assault allegations against him. But after Watson made her allegation on Friday, state-level and national Democrats, many of whom had been taking a wait-and-see approach, demanded Fairfax’s resignation en masse.

An attorney for Tyson has said she is prepared to testify at any impeachment proceedings against Fairfax. Virginia Del. Patrick Hope (D) raised the prospect of initiating an impeachment process against Fairfax on Sunday, but has since said that “additional conversations need to take place” first.


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘WHAT GOES UP’
There is where iPhone live photos come in handy. I need the whole slideshow of what happens here! Don’t hold out on us.


EGGPLANT NATION: Meet Horacio The Cuban Cub
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