Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts

8/23/26

The Daily Buzz For Aug 24☕📰☕

#MAGFAB: Tyriq Withers for V Man Magazine - Fall/Winter 2026

Fall In Line With Tyriq Withers. In roles both soulful and stirring, the rising actor is forging a name for himself on Hollywood’s playing field! Tyriq Withers is a rising actor featured in VMAN 57, where he discusses his artistic transition, personal losses, and career goals in an interview conducted by veteran actor Stephen Graham.
The Leap to Acting: Withers shifted away from elite Division I college football at Florida State University to pursue acting in Atlanta, a choice he defines as a pivotal risk over entering a stable corporate HR workforce.
Artistic Purpose Through Grief: Following the deeply impactful loss of his older brother, Withers found a spiritual anchor in his craft, transforming cinema and performance into channels for personal and collective healing.
Athlete Mindset Application: He credits his competitive sports background with instilling a robust discipline to continuously practice and study his craft, while actively overcoming a past tendency to over-analyze mistakes.
Creative Principles: Embracing theater early in his journey helped build the "confidence of failing". Withers views actors as conduits of genuine emotion and strives to bring radical empathy and truthfulness to his portrayals.
Future Ambitions: He avoids predictable roles, instead seeking out vulnerable and complex characters. While highly inspired by grounded indie pieces like Aftersun and Fruitvale StationLine, he aims to explore comedic timing in the near future and utilize his platform to amplify diverse, marginalized voices.
 
Nice!

#RHOA:alum Kim Zolciak's 15-year-old son arrested for sodomy, sexual battery
"Real Housewives of Atlanta" alum Kim Zolciak's son has been arrested for alleged sex crimes.
The 15-year-old, Kroy "KJ" Jagger Biermann Jr., is facing charges of aggravated sexual battery and aggravated sodomy, according to an Aug. 19 criminal complaint obtained by media sources

The incident allegedly occurred on the afternoon of April 23 in the family changing area of a Life Time gym in Fulton County, Georgia, where the alleged victim ran into Biermann, who was dating her best friend at the time. The next day, police were called to a local hospital after the girl told her grandmother she had been assaulted.

Biermann was arrested Aug. 17 and remains in custody without bond. Biermann's attorney Jason Sheffield denied the allegations in a statement to USA TODAY Friday, Aug. 21: "First and foremost, this is not the kind of information that should be for public dissemination. These are juveniles. Secondly, my client is 100% innocent and tried to present evidence to the arresting officer," which included a voluntary polygraph test and alleged evidence of "prior false allegations by the alleged victim."

Sheffield further noted the results of a sexual assault kit showed no evidence of male DNA on or inside the alleged victim, which the report confirmed. He also said he feels "certain" Biermann would not have been arrested if the officer sat down with Sheffield to talk.
"Sadly, these false allegations are a desperate cry for attention and are motivated by my client's past rejection of the alleged victim's unwanted advances," Sheffield continued.

Sheffield called the arrest without bond "a tragedy" and reiterated that Biermann "is not only presumed innocent, but is in fact, innocent."
Zolciak also broke her silence in a statement to Page Six, calling the allegations "nothing short of reckless and deeply troubling."
Zolciak also told the outlet that "false accusations" can have "devastating consequences" for the person being accused, and "for genuine survivors of sexual assault and abuse."

Marriage over: 'Real Housewives' star Kim Zolciak, Kroy Biermann file for divorce after 11 years of marriage
"Every legitimate allegation deserves to be taken seriously and investigated based on the facts and evidence. At the same time, no one should be publicly condemned based solely on an accusation," she concluded. "We remain confident that the facts and evidence will establish the truth, and we ask that people allow the proper process to take its course rather than spreading unproven allegations."

Biermann is the third child and eldest son of the reality star and her ex-husband Kroy Biermann, who share six kids in total – KJ, 15, Kash, 14, and twins Kaia and Kane, 12, along with Zolciak's daughters from a previous relationship Brielle, 29, and Ariana, 24, whom the former NFL player legally adopted in 2013.
The alleged victim told police she was eating at the gym café after a workout when she saw Biermann and called out to him. He asked if she wanted to go into the co-ed sauna together, which is accessible through the family locker room, per the report.

Once they got inside the locker room, the victim alleged Biermann "grabbed her by the waist and started kissing her neck and grabbing her butt." He then allegedly began touching her genitals from over her clothes "so hard that it hurt."
She said she told him no "multiple times" and he allegedly replied "something to the effect that she was lucky he wasn't making her do it" before pulling down his pants and orally sodomizing her, according to the report. The girl alleged Biermann also digitally penetrated her and "tried multiple times to have sexual intercourse."

She was finally able to get away, the report said, and confessed the alleged incident to her grandmother the next day after skipping school and having a panic attack.
At the hospital, she had a sexual assault examination done and told officers that she and Biermann had consensually kissed once before, but she did not consent to any of their sexual interactions the day prior and "did not want her first time having sex to be with her best friend's boyfriend." She added that Biermann previously dated other of her friends as well.

Police launched an investigation, during which they learned that Biermann had not scanned into the gym that day. However, surveillance footage later revealed he was in the gym and showed him entering the family locker room with the alleged victim.
They were inside for approximately 30 minutes before footage showed Biermann head toward the sauna alone and the girl exit to the lobby shortly after. The sexual assault kit returned no evidence of male DNA in the victim's mouth or genitals, the report said.

On May 18, the report stated an officer spoke with Kroy Biermann Sr., who said he and Zolciak would discuss letting their son talk to authorities. On June 24, Sheffield called the officer to inform that he would be representing Biermann in the case.
Sheffield said in his statement to USA TODAY that he "will work tirelessly" to prove "the mean spirited nature of these false allegations and to bring a close to this matter as quickly as possible." He also asked that the public not make assumptions about the truth and "give the families on both sides their space and privacy."

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline offers free, confidential, 24/7 support to survivors and their loved ones in English and Spanish at: 800-656-HOPE (4673) and Hotline.RAINN.org and en Español RAINN.org/es.


#MusicNews: Gospel Music Legend #RIPNikkiRossBellamy Dies at 54
Nikki L. Ross Bellamy, one of Houston gospel music’s most distinctive and celebrated voices, died Aug. 14. She was 54. 
Her passing was announced by New Jerusalem Churches of Sound Doctrine, where Ross Bellamy was a longtime member. The church described her as a beloved daughter of the ministry whose extraordinary voice carried her before audiences around the world while she remained deeply connected to her church family.

“The world heard her voice. We knew her heart,” the church said in announcing her death.
For decades, Ross Bellamy was a fixture of Houston’s gospel music community and became one of the city’s most recognizable vocalists. MyHoustonGOSPEL.com has chronicled her music and ministry for more than 15 years, documenting a career that placed her alongside some of gospel music’s biggest names.

Ross Bellamy recorded with Kirk Franklin, Ricky Dillard & New G, James Fortune & FIYA, The Walls Group, Rodnie Bryant & CCMC, Jonathan Nelson and others. Her memorable recordings included “He’s Been Just That Good,” “There Is No Way” and “I Surrender All” with Ricky Dillard & New G; “Make A Sound” with James Fortune & FIYA; and “Yes” with The Walls Group.
Her career also included work with Houston’s Gary Mayes & Nu Era and as part of the music staff for BET’s Sunday Best. In 2013, Ross appeared with fellow Houston-connected artists Israel Houghton, PJ Morton and Aaron Lindsay on “Sunday Kinda Love,” featured on the soundtrack to I’m in Love with a Church Girl. 

Although widely known for lending her powerhouse vocals to other artists’ projects, Ross Bellamy also pursued her own music. In 2011, MyHoustonGOSPEL.com described her as one of the nation’s most sought-after vocalists as she prepared for a Houston live recording. Ross said at the time that her sound would blend gospel with jazz, praise and worship and other influences.She later released solo music, including “God Is Able,” and continued recording even while facing health challenges. In recent years, she appeared on gospel artist Trent’s “Beautiful Day,” recorded during her health battle.

Ross Bellamy’s importance to Houston gospel extended beyond recordings. When she experienced a serious health scare years earlier, Houston gospel artists and supporters rallied around her during her recovery. 
New Jerusalem Churches of Sound Doctrine extended prayers and condolences to her husband, Ty Bellamy, their children, family, friends and the countless people touched by her life and ministry.

“Her voice was unmistakable, her presence unforgettable, and the impact of her music and ministry reached far beyond the walls of the church,” the fellowship said. 
She gave her final public performance at the Gospel Music Workshop of America Convention in July.

Listen to that Anoited voice!
Official arrangements are below.
Go celebrate the life of this precious vessel of the Kingdom.

#HipHopNews: Lil’ Kim To Celebrate Iconic ‘Hard Core’ Album With One-Night-Only Orchestral Concert In Brooklyn
Lil’ Kim is bringing Hard Core back home to Brooklyn — this time with a full orchestra.
The rap icon will headline Lil’ Kim’s Hard Core Symphony at Brooklyn’s Kings Theatre on November 19, 2026. The one-night-only concert will feature the Illharmonic Orchestra, blending live symphonic arrangements with Kim’s signature hip-hop sound.

The special performance will celebrate the legacy of Kim’s groundbreaking 1996 debut album, Hard Core, while also incorporating some of her biggest hits. According to promotional details, fans can expect orchestral versions of classics including “Crush on You,” “Big Momma Thang,” “No Time” and “Not Tonight (Ladies Night Remix).”

Released in 1996 and executive produced by The Notorious B.I.G., Hard Core became a defining project in Lil’ Kim’s career and helped establish her as one of hip-hop’s most influential female rappers.
The black-tie event begins at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. Formal attire is required.


#RIPMichaelWright, 'Five Heartbeats' and 'V' actor, dies at 70
Michael Wright, known for his onscreen roles in "The Five Heartbeats" and "V," has died, according to a family statement shared on social media. He was 70.
The New York-born actor's wife, Susan Wright, confirmed his death in an Instagram post Friday, Aug. 21, writing, "It is with profound sadness and an unimaginable heaviness in my heart that I share the passing of my beloved husband, Michael Wright."

The family told TMZ in a statement that "The Principal" star died on Aug. 19 after suffering from "heart failure" as well as "complications of a rare degenerative neurological disease called Marchiafava-Bignami."
Wright's "Five Heartbeats" costar Leon Robinson, who played J.T. Matthews in the film, took to Instagram to share a video tribute to the beloved star.
"We made History together, we were honored together, you made your mark and for that you will be remembered, my friend. Michael Wright RIP🙏🏾" Robinson captioned a clip of the two stars in and out of their musical characters.

Throughout his career, Wright appeared in more than 50 film and television projects, most notably his movie roles as Clinton in 1979's "The Wanderers," main villain Victor Duncan in the action-crime flick "The Principal" and Carlyle in 1983's "Streamers," alongside David Alan Grier.
Many TV fans will also recall his performance as Elias Taylor in the 1984 sci-fi miniseries "V" or as the poet-inmate Omar White in HBO's "Oz."

His most recognizable role is arguably in the 1991 musical film "The Five Heartbeats," where he plays the charismatic yet troubled vocalist Eddie King Jr., who grapples with alcohol and drug addiction that impact his career and place in the fictional Motown group.
'So much more than the roles the world knew him for'
In her statement, Susan said that her late husband's "talent, presence, and contributions to film and television will live on, but to those of us who loved him personally, he was so much more than the roles the world knew him for."

"Our family is grieving an enormous and deeply personal loss. We understand how much Michael meant to so many people, and we are grateful for the love, prayers, memories, and condolences already being shared," the statement reads. "In the coming days, when we are ready, we will share additional information regarding Michael's life, legacy, and how we intend to honor and celebrate him."
She concluded her statement by adding that her husband's work will live on forever, "but your love will live even longer in the hearts of those who knew you best. Rest peacefully, my love. You will be missed beyond words."

Michael Wright is survived by his five children – Manon Wright, Byron Barr, Brittney Briggs, Brianna Barr and Sir Barr – and his grandchild, Yoko.


Chris Tucker Confirms Talks for ‘Rush Hour 4’Fueling Hollywood Comeback Vibes
Chris Tucker may be getting ready to revisit two of the roles that helped define his career.
Speaking with Atlanta’s WSB-TV, Tucker confirmed that conversations are active around both Rush Hour 4 and another Friday movie, opening the door to seeing Detective James Carter and Smokey back on the big screen after decades away.

“We have ‘Rush Hour.’ We’re talking about that. We’re talking about another ‘Friday.’ So we’ll see if those happen,” Tucker said.
Getting either movie across the finish line still requires some work.
Rush Hour 4 has faced a sizable salary negotiation involving Tucker and Jackie Chan. The two stars were reportedly offered $8 million each to return and declined, with both seeking numbers closer to the roughly $20 million they earned for Rush Hour 3 in 2007. Negotiations remain ongoing, and people familiar with the situation have characterized the back-and-forth as a normal part of assembling a major studio franchise.


Jamie Foxx Returns To The Stage With New Hulu Comedy Special ‘Take Care Of Yourself’
Jamie Foxx is returning to the comedy stage.The legendary comedian and Academy Award-winning actor announced that his special, Jamie Foxx: Take Care of Yourself, is set to premiere Oct. 7 on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.
According to the logline, iFoxx is set to bring “a much-needed dose of self-care in his most honest, evolved, and unforgettable chapter.”
Arriving as part of Hulu’s “Hularious” lineup, the project serves as a forward-looking follow-up to his 2024 Netflix special, What Had Happened Was.. In the special, he candidly addressed his life-threatening 2023 medical emergency.

Positioned as his most personal and evolved hour yet, Take Care of Yourself blends Foxx’s signature showmanship and sharp comedic timing with a reflective focus on recovery, wellness, and self-care after braving a public health crisis.
One of Hollywood’s rare triple-threat legends, Foxx built an incredible career that spans stand-up comedy, award-winning acting, and chart-topping music. After making his breakthrough as a standout cast member on In Living Color, he co-creating The Jamie Foxx Show. He then transitioned into dramatic film roles. He made history in 2005 by earning two Academy Award nominations in the same year. He won the Best Actor award for his captivating portrayal of Ray Charles in Ray. Foxx was also nominated for Best Supporting Actor for Collateral. Since then, he’s gone on to lead critically acclaimed blockbusters like Django Unchained, Dreamgirls, and Pixar’s Soul.

Beyond Hollywood, Foxx is a formidable force in the music industry. He earned a Billboard 200 No. 1 album with Unpredictable. Eventually, Foxx earned a Grammy Award for his hit single “Blame It.” He also lent his iconic vocals to massive chart-toppers like Kanye West’s “Gold Digger”.
One of only a handful of stars to win both an Oscar and top the Billboard music charts, Foxx remains a defining, generational talent across American pop culture.


Timbaland Sued By DJ Claiming Termination For Producer’s Son
Legendary producer Timbaland is facing a lawsuit from DJ E Feezy over an alleged $120,000 loss tied to Missy Elliott’s 2024 “Out of This World” tour.
E Feezy claims Timbaland removed him from the arena tour less than a month before its launch. He alleges Timbaland’s son then took his position, calling the decision an act of nepotism.

The lawsuit centers on whether the parties reached an enforceable agreement. E Feezy claims he had secured the booking and prepared for the international tour before losing the opportunity.
He says the engagement would have generated about $120,000. The DJ also claims he incurred expenses while obtaining Canadian work authorization for the tour.

E Feezy alleges the parties later reached a settlement to resolve the dispute. He now claims Timbaland failed to comply with its terms.
The DJ is seeking roughly $130,000 in damages, according to TMZ. His claims include the lost tour income and expenses associated with preparing for the engagement.
Timbaland disputes the allegations and has asked the court to dismiss the case. He contends that no enforceable agreement existed under the terms E Feezy describes.

The producer also has turned to the courts against his former manager. Timbaland alleges the manager handled negotiations surrounding the DJ’s proposed tour role.
Timbaland argues that any financial liability should rest with the former manager if E Feezy ultimately establishes a valid claim.
The competing filings place the alleged agreement at the heart of the litigation. E Feezy maintains that Timbaland and Mosley Touring were obligated to compensate him.

Timbaland maintains that no binding contract required payment. His defense also challenges E Feezy’s account of the settlement.
The nepotism allegation adds another layer to the dispute. E Feezy contends Timbaland’s son replaced him after the producer removed him from the tour.
The lawsuit itself does not establish wrongdoing by Timbaland. The allegations remain contested, and the court has not resolved the claims.
The case will turn on the alleged touring agreement and subsequent settlement. It also could determine who bears responsibility for E Feezy’s claimed losses.


#RIP: Buffalo Bills Star Ed Oliver’s 2-Year-Old Son Dies Due to Drowning Accident

Ed Oliver is mourning a tragic loss. The 28-year-old Buffalo Bills defensive tackle’s son, also named Ed, passed away at the age of 2 due to an accidental drowning at their home.

“On behalf of the entire Buffalo Bills organization, we want to publicly express our condolences to Ed Oliver and his family on the devastating loss of his son. It’s an unthinkable tragedy for any parent. We will continue to support Ed and his family as we all grieve this loss,” the team’s general manager Brandon Beane said in a statement.

The young boy was “found unresponsive in a swimming pool by family members at a residence outside Houston,” ESPN reports.
A source close to the family asks for “privacy and prayers at this very difficult time.”
The incident reportedly occurred on June 28, when Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded “to an in-progress life-in-danger call,” per ESPN. He was reportedly discovered unresponsive by his parents in the swimming pool at their home, and taken by ambulance to a Houston hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Ed also has a daughter, Ava, with his longtime partner Dymond Gladney.
He has played with the Bills since 2019. According to ESPN, the Bills organization has been “aware of the incident since it occurred.”
Our thoughts are with Ed‘s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. RIP.


Jaafar Jackson Says 'Michael' Sequel Will Address King of Pop's Abuse Allegations
Jaafar Jackson says the Michael sequel will address the sexual abuse allegations against Michael Jackson from his late uncle’s perspective.
Jaafar called previous accounts "someone else’s story" and said they were "mainly driven by an agenda," arguing that his family wants Michael’s voice heard.
The sequel remains in development for a late 2027 or early 2028 release after the first film crossed $1 billion worldwide and became the highest-grossing biopic ever.

Jaafar Jackson has shared that the sequel to the record-breaking Michael will touch upon his late uncle's infamous sexual abuse allegations.
In an interview with GQ Middle East, the actor said the second installment will put Michael Jackson's own view of the allegations front and center.

"I think the second film will give even more insight from his point of view, because at the end of the day, [the allegations] are always from someone else's," Jaafar said. The screenplay for the Antoine Fuqua-directed movie is currently in development.
Jaafar also pushed back firmly on previous accounts of the allegations, calling them "someone else's story."
"It's someone else's idea of what it is, and it's mainly driven by an agenda. And that's really the issue we've been having as a family — not having Michael's voice being heard. I think that's very, very important, especially in the late years," the actor explained.

Elsewhere in the interview, Jaafar emphasized that the late King of Pop would have a chance for his point of view to be revealed. "There’s been so many stories told about Michael from so many different people," Jafaar said. "This is to tell Michael's story finally from the point of view of himself."
The first film ends in 1988 with Jackson performing at London's Wembley Stadium during the Bad World Tour. The child abuse allegations, which began in the early 1990s, were not addressed in it.

Director Antoine Fuqua and screenwriter John Logan originally drafted scenes depicting Jackson's settlement with the family of Jordan Chandler, the 13-year-old who first sued Jackson for sexual abuse in 1993, but those scenes were ultimately scrapped, initially causing a delay in the project. Lawyers found the $20 million settlement legally barred Jackson's estate from portraying the Chandler family in a film.
Michael was released in April and quickly became the the highest-grossing biopic of all time, crossing $1 billion globally. The sequel is expected to be released in late 2027 or early 2028.

Jaafar, also detailed the emotional territory he hopes the sequel explores. "He never changed that purity, that sense of always wanting to find the good in other people," he said.
"And no matter all the stuff he went through, how he was treated, what things were said about him, he never stopped treating people with kindness… even though he was broken, his heart still stayed the same… I hope that this is felt in the second movie."


Wendy Williams Says ‘I Want Out’ of Guardianship During Rare Public Sighting
Wendy Williams is making her wishes clear as her court-ordered guardianship continues.
The 62-year-old former talk show host was recently photographed out in New York City, marking one of her only public appearances this year, and the first in at least six months.
During the outing, Wendy was asked what she wanted fans to know about her ongoing situation. Her answer was brief and direct: “I want out!”

Wendy was reportedly carrying shopping bags and entering a building when a photographer asked about what she has been going through, per Page Six. She was also accompanied by a male companion during the outing.
Wendy has repeatedly opposed the guardianship
Wendy was placed under the court-ordered arrangement in May 2022 after Wells Fargo raised concerns about whether her affairs were being properly handled. Attorney Sabrina E. Morrissey was appointed as her guardian.

This is not the first time Wendy has publicly called for the arrangement to end. During a March 2025 call-in interview on The View, she denied being incapacitated and said that she wanted control of her life back.
“It was my choice to get an independent evaluation on my incapacitation, which I don’t have it,” Wendy shared at the time. “How dare they say I have incapacitation. I do not.”
The medical history surrounding the case has also been disputed. Wendy‘s care team previously announced that she had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and primary progressive aphasia.
However, in November 2025, a neurologist concluded Wendy did not have frontotemporal dementia following additional testing. Her team said they would “file legal docs” at the time. No end to the guardianship has been announced at this time.


‘RHOBH’ Star Bozoma Saint John Marries Keely Watson in Traditional Ghana Wedding!
Bozoma Saint John is a married woman! The 49-year-old Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star and businesswoman married Keely Watson on Friday (August 21) in a traditional Ghanaian marriage ceremony in front of hundreds of guests at the home of former President Nana Akufo-Addo in Accra, Ghana.

“I am so in awe of the opportunity to love someone as deeply as this again,” Boz shared with Us Weekly. “It’s all butterflies.”
Boz and Keely met before she joined RHOBH for season 14 in 2024. They announced their engagement in September 2025.
“We were on a date once, and I asked him, like, what he sees for himself in the future, you know, from a personal standpoint,” Boz recalled. “And he was like, ‘I hope one day, I’m able to just sit on a beach with my wife, and just look out of the ocean and enjoy the day.’”

She admitted that Keely‘s answer took her by surprise, adding, “I was like, ‘God, what a wonderful goal.’ You expect people to be like, ‘I want to earn $17 million’ … and he was like, ‘I just want to be with my wife.’ And I was like, ‘Oh, yeah. Yeah, same. I want to be your wife.’”
Boz became an official citizen of Ghana in 2022, followed by Keely in 2024.
If you didn’t know, Boz was previously married to late husband Peter Saint John, with whom she welcomed daughter Lael in 2008. They later called quit its and Peter was diagnosed with cancer soon after. He passed in December 2013.

Congrats to the newlyweds!


Quality Control co-founder P Thomas in the ICU
Pierre “P” Thomas, the co-founder of Quality Control Music, is hospitalized after suffering a heart attack, and his label says he is alive and receiving care. Thomas is being treated in the intensive care unit at a Las Vegas hospital, with family by his side as doctors weigh next steps, according to TMZ, which first reported the news Friday. Facebook

As word spread, so did false rumors that Thomas had died, prompting his camp to set the record straight. Quality Control confirmed he is alive and asked for privacy. Here’s what is known, and why the news hit the industry so hard.
In a statement, Quality Control said Thomas is alive and currently hospitalized receiving medical care and asked that people keep him and his family in their thoughts and give them privacy and space. The label added that it deeply appreciates the concern, support and prayers. No further details about his condition have been released.

Here’s the part worth flagging. Almost as soon as the heart attack was reported, posts began circulating on social media falsely claiming Thomas had died. That is what makes the label’s wording notable. Rather than a routine health note, Quality Control specifically stressed that he is alive. If you have seen a post saying otherwise, it does not match the label’s own statement
Thomas is a foundational figure in modern hip-hop. He co-founded Quality Control in 2013 with Kevin “Coach K” Lee, and within a month the pair had signed Migos, one of the biggest acts to come out of Atlanta this century. The roster grew to include Lil Baby, Lil Yachty, City Girls, Rich the Kid and more, helping cement Atlanta as a capital of the genre.

Here’s the scope that gets lost in a quick headline. Quality Control became far more than a record label. It grew into a management and sports operation, with a sports agency representing athletes across baseball, football and basketball, including Alvin Kamara, Jarrett Allen and Jorge Mateo, and it expanded into film through QC Films. In 2023, Hybe America, then led by Scooter Braun, acquired Quality Control in a deal reported at roughly $300 million in cash and stock.
For now, the family has asked for privacy while Thomas recovers, and the label has not promised specifics beyond that. Fans, artists and industry peers are awaiting word on his condition as concern grows. The story is developing, and updates are expected as his team shares more.


Patti LaBelle’s “nephew-son” says she evicted him for being a Trump Supporter
Patti LaBelle’s “nephew-son” is upset for kicking him out of her home because he is a Trump supporter.
William “Byl” Holte was temporarily homeless after his famous auntie evicted him from her house in 2019 for supporting President Donald Trump.

In a lengthy post on X.com on Thursday, Holte wrote: “Christmas 2019, she had just informed me that I had to move out of the home I had happily shared with her for 12 years.
“So when I heard her and my family talking about what a threat Trump was, I asked her ‘why should I be afraid of trump when you’re the one who just made me homeless?’ Her family instantly attacked me and threw me out of her house.

“And just last year, she had a problem with me talking about my life with her on this platform. My punishment for using my 1st Amendment right this way was LIFETIME BANISHMENT.”
When asked about Holte during a recent interview with O Magazine, LaBelle said, “Guess what? I didn’t choose my family. I choose my friends. I love Billy. He has a Republican mind. And, guess what? I don’t. But do I hate him for having the mind that he has? No, I can’t.”

She continued:
“He was saying, ‘I love you and I’m so sorry.’ You give people chances, when sometimes, they don’t even know what they’re doing or why. So I can’t beat him up for the rest of his life. I decided to take the high road with him by letting him know that you make mistakes — but when my name comes in that mistake, that’s a no-no. Certain things happen in life, and I just keep going on, because I love him.”

Holte said LaBelle still refuses to speak to him even after he denounced politics last year.
He added: “But all that tells me is that I’m doing something RIGHT. Because I’d rather vote Republican because I WANT to, than Democrat because I HAVE to.”


AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Congrats, you just ruined an entire box of food because you were lazy
Don’t try this at target, they throw it away.

AND NOW Meet:  Mr. B
It's Mr. B! You can see more HERE
DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.
Enjoy!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD ALL!!!
EFREM

8/16/26

The Daily Buzz For Aug 17☕📰☕

#MAGFAB: Ravyn Lenae for Nylon Magazine - August 2026
Nice!

#RHOA: Peter Thomas Says Cynthia Bailey Cost Him His House, Shows Off Younger Girlfriend
On Carlos King’s Reality with the King, former RHOA star Peter Thomas reintroduced himself post-prison and went public with his much younger girlfriend Alex, acknowledging their 32-year age gap while stressing that she supported him throughout his sentence and that his daughters approve.
Thomas and Alex pushed back on criticism that she’s clout-chasing, with him insisting “she is a woman” who kept him sane in prison and her saying she’s drawn to his character, not his name or public profile.
He also revisited his fallout with ex-wife Cynthia Bailey, accusing her of failing to stand up for him in a property dispute tied to their divorce, saying it cost him his house and fueled a false RHOA narrative that he was broke and living off her, all as he works to rebuild his image after pleading guilty in a multimillion-dollar federal tax case.

Peter Thomas is putting his personal life back in front of the cameras. In a new appearance on Carlos King’s Reality with the King, the former RHOA personality introduced his new girlfriend, Alex, while also revisiting unresolved tension with his ex-wife, Cynthia Bailey.

The interview marked Thomas’ first in-person sit-down since his prison stint, and the conversation moved quickly from his legal troubles to his relationships. Thomas said he and Alex began dating before he reported to prison, and he acknowledged the 32-year age gap between them. “She’s much younger,” he said, adding, “I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

When King asked directly about the difference in age, Thomas answered, “Thirty-two years.”
Later in the episode, King formally brought Alex into the conversation. Before she appeared, Thomas addressed anyone criticizing the relationship.
“When nobody was there for me, the only person that drove four hours to come and visit me, four hours to go back and help me keep my sanity in that prison… there was this woman,” Thomas said. “She might be younger than me, but she is a woman.”

He added, “If my daughters are okay with it, then I couldn’t give a two what the rest of the world think about it. She’s over 30, so it’s all good.”
Alex also defended the relationship on the podcast, saying her interest in Thomas was not about his public profile. “It’s not even about who he is, honestly,” she said. “For me, it’s more so the character opposed to his name.”

The girlfriend reveal came after a lengthy discussion about Bailey, Thomas’ former wife and longtime RHOA co-star. King noted that some viewers felt Bailey had not publicly spoken negatively about Thomas and did not deserve past criticism from him.
Thomas pushed back on that, saying, “Those must be Cynthia fans because Cynthia did do something that hurt me.”
Thomas claimed the issue centered on a property matter tied to their divorce and said he felt abandoned after previously choosing not to pursue money from Bailey. “I thought we were good. I thought I didn’t take nothing from the divorce. I thought we were friends,” he said. “Now I lost my house because she didn’t stand up for me like I stood up for her.”

He also said the RHOA narrative around their marriage affected how the public viewed him. “I took for years… people were saying I’m broke, she support me, I am living off of her and all of that and none of that was true,” Thomas told King.
The interview arrives as Thomas continues reshaping his public image after his federal tax case. 

#MusicNews: Erykah Badu & The Alchemist Unveil Release Date For Upcoming Album + Share New Single “Witch Doctor”

Two of  music’s most revered iconoclasts are officially joining forces. Legendary  soul visionary Erykah Badu and prolific hip-hop producer The Alchemist have announced their highly anticipated joint album, set for a digital release on Friday, August 28, 2026, via Control FREAQ Records and Young Recordings.

Listen to Witch Doctor here: 

Coinciding with the album’s release date announcement, the duo has unveiled their latest single, “Witch Doctor.” The new track follows the previously released collaborative single “Next To You” and the Amazon  Music exclusive “Echos 19 (mix 122),” which notably debuted during Badu’s Echos 19 Juneteenth concert celebration in Dallas.

The collaborative project, born out of what the artists call “The Abi and Alan Experiment,” was recorded over an 18-month period split between Dallas and Los Angeles. The musical partnership began taking shape more than three years ago when Badu mentioned to her longtime creative partner, Cold Cris, that she had always wanted to rap over Mobb Deep’s “The Realest”—a gritty, pounding instrumental produced by The Alchemist.

Introductions were soon made, fulfilling The Alchemist’s long-held ambition to work with the neo-soul pioneer. Their initial Los Angeles studio session yielded the foundation for “Next to You” and established an entirely new sonic language for the duo.

Throughout the recording process, The Alchemist provided a collection of his signature warm, punchy instrumental beats. Badu then deconstructed and sculpted the samples, embellishing them with her own instrumentation—ranging from soft kalimba notes to immersive drums and chords. The resulting sound refuses neat categorization, moving fluidly between soul, blues, funk, rock, jazz, and underground hip-hop.

For R&B and soul purists, the upcoming album marks a monumental return. It arrives eleven years since Badu’s last full-length project and sixteen years since her last official studio album. During her musical hiatus, Badu remained active through a whirlwind of global touring, teaching, doula work, and motherhood, gathering existential insights that heavily inform this new deeply personal and blunt body of work.

Meanwhile, The Alchemist continues his run as one of hip-hop’s most in-demand and prolific producers. He has consistently released multiple highly acclaimed projects annually, most recently dropping Alfredo 2 with Freddie Gibbs, the sequel to their Grammy-nominated 2020 collaborative album.

Rather than keeping the music entirely behind closed doors, Badu and The Alchemist spent 2024 to 2025 road-testing the entire album live. Performing in intimate, phone-free settings alongside Badu’s digital collective, The Cannabinoids, and with The Alchemist on the MPC, the duo fine-tuned the tracks in real-time based on live energy.

The two artists are currently taking this forward-thinking catalog on the road, with an ongoing tour across North America, the UK, and Europe. A new string of US dates was also recently announced to coincide with the album’s late-August rollout.
“Witch Doctor” is available to stream now across all major digital platforms. Ticket information for the upcoming tour dates can be found on Erykah Badu’s official website.

#HipHopNews: Megan Thee Stallion promises collaborations that will “shock the people” on ‘ACT III
Megan Thee Stallion appeared with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson on the "IMO" podcast, addressing her next album and creative approach.
She discussed the evolution of her Tina Snow persona and hinted at previously anticipated collaborations on her ACT III project.
Megan described taking a more patient, deliberate approach for this album, marking a new direction in her creative work.

The Hotties have a lot — and we really mean a lot — to look forward to when it comes to Megan Thee Stallion’s ACT III. On Wednesday (Aug. 12), the Houston rapper joined Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson on “IMO,” where she gave an exciting update on the third installment of her self-titled album series.

About an hour into their sit-down, during which Megan also discussed trademarking Hot Girl Summer, owning her music, and making her Broadway debut, Robinson asked about ACT III. The “HISS” artist said the title is still a work in progress but, above all else, she’s intent on giving Tina Snow the spotlight all to herself.

“I think giving her a proper rollout, a proper title, [and] a reintroduction to Hotties that may not have been with me since 2017, 2018. I think that this is gonna be a new experience for them,” Megan explained. “Tina is grown now, babe. She has been through lots of life since y’all heard from her last.”

What Megan Thee Stallion revealed about the collaborations and recording process behind ‘ACT III’
“I have so many collaborations that I feel like the Hotties have been asking me for, from niche collaborations to just personal interest amongst me and the Hotties,” she continued, adding that fans can expect “collaborations that’s overdue, collaborations that [will] shock the people, like really gag [them].” So, yes, we’re crossing our fingers for that long-rumored Doja Cat reunion and, with any luck, tracks with Doechii and Monaleo.

Regardless of who ultimately makes the cut, the upcoming LP sounds like it will benefit from a level of patience she hasn’t afforded herself in years. “ACT III is going to be one of my favorite projects I ever put out because I definitely took my time with this one,” she shared. “I feel like there was a portion of life where I was so super busy… I was in a rush to everything. I was like, ‘Dang, I gotta hurry up and record these songs.’”

“For ACT III, I went home, and I was like, ‘Nobody bother me. I gotta finish my album,’” she added. “So, this has been the most organized and the most calm I’ve been making music in a while.” Obama jokingly pointed out that Megan hasn’t exactly been taking it easy either, considering she wrapped up “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” in April.

MEGAN: ACT III has actually been in the works for quite some time, with the Grammy-winning musician first teasing the project toward the tail end of 2024. Then, on Monday (Aug. 10), she shared a series of photos, one of which featured “I’M BACK” emblazoned across her back in all caps.

While it’s definitely too soon to say what we can expect from the project, there’s a strong chance that 2025’s “Whenever” and the Total-sampling “LOVER GIRL” could end up on the full-length release. Either way, we couldn’t be more excited to hear what she has in the vault, especially after hearing her jump on remixes for Juvenile’s “B.B.B.” and BossMan Dlow’s “Motion Party.”

Luigi Mangione pleads guilty to stalking charges in federal UnitedHealthcare case: “I knew what I was doing was illegal”

Mangione entered a guilty plea to two federal stalking charges tied to the 2024 death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
Prosecutors are recommending a sentence of 24 to 30 years, but the final decision will be made by the judge.
A separate state murder trial is scheduled for September, following the partial dismissal of earlier charges.

Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty Friday (Aug. 14) to two federal stalking charges stemming from the 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
The 28-year-old changed his previous not-guilty plea during an appearance before U.S. District Judge Margaret Garnett in Manhattan federal court, with members of Thompson’s family present in the courtroom. Mangione pleaded guilty to interstate stalking resulting in death and stalking through the use of interstate facilities resulting in death, the two charges that remained in his federal case. Explaining his actions to the judge, Mangione reportedly stated, “I shot Mr. Thompson in Manhattan. I understood that my actions would place him in fear of death or bodily injury. I knew what I was doing was illegal.”

There is no plea agreement between Mangione and federal prosecutors, his attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo told the court. Per the Guardian, prosecutors submitted a letter stating that they believe a prison sentence of 292 to 365 months, or roughly 24 to 30 years, would be appropriate. The charges allow for a maximum sentence of life in prison, with Garnett setting Mangione’s sentencing for Dec. 18.

Mangione originally faced federal murder, stalking and firearms charges. In January, Garnett dismissed a murder-through-use-of-a-firearm charge and a related firearms count, ruling that the remaining stalking offenses did not qualify as crimes of violence under the federal statute necessary to sustain those charges. The decision also eliminated the possibility of the death penalty in the federal case.

Authorities accused Mangione of traveling to New York and stalking Thompson before the executive was fatally shot outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel on Dec. 4, 2024. Mangione was arrested five days later in Altoona, Pennsylvania, following a nationwide manhunt.

What happens to Luigi Mangione’s state murder case?
Mangione remains scheduled to go on trial Sept. 8 on charges that include second-degree murder, criminal possession of a forged instrument and multiple weapons offenses. Mangione pleaded not guilty in that case. The state’s earlier first-degree murder and terrorism-related charges were dismissed in September 2025.

His attorneys are expected to seek dismissal of the murder charge under New York’s double-jeopardy protections, while Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office is expected to argue that the state murder charge is legally distinct from the federal stalking offenses. An unfavorable ruling for either side could prompt an emergency appeal, potentially complicating the Sept. 8 trial date.

#RIPChristyKnowings, Former ‘All That’ Star, Passes Away At 46
Christy Knowings who stared in Nickelodeon’s All That, has passed away. She was 46. 
Accordin to TMZ, Knowings’ family shared that she suffered a severe asthma attack last week. As a result she suffered brain damage and hospitalization in the Los Angeles area. Her loved ones reportedly decided to remove her from life support on Tuesday, Aug. 11. 

Knowing manager Al Hill confirmed his client’s passing in a statement to Variety. 
“Christy was a multi-talented lady. Whether it was singing, acting, dancing, she was always creating. Always professional and dedicated to her work,” Hill’s statement read.

On her Instagram accont, Kenan Thompson, her All That co-star wrote that “this one hit hard.” 
“Never could have imagined this day!!” Thompson wrote. “Sending so much love to her family!! She was a real one and one of the funniest people out here!!! Gonna miss you buddy!!!” 
Knowings established a notable presence in television and entertainment, particularly through her achievements in sketch comedy and youth programming. After early television appearances on shows like New York Undercover and the Rosie O’Donnell-produced special And Now This. 

Knowings gained widespread national recognition in 1997 when she joined the main cast of Nickelodeon’s iconic sketch-comedy series All That. Over three seasons on the show (1997–2000), Knowings became a central fixture of late-90s adolescent television. She created memorable recurring characters such as Lieutenant Fondue, Brenda Stone, and Jessica from Whateverrr!!!  During their run, the show later added Nick Cannon and Gabriel Iglesias.

Also, she appeared as a panelist on Nickelodeon’s game show Figure It Out. Beyond her defining run on All That, her accomplishments extended to guest appearances on Sesame Street alongside her twin brother Chris Knowings, returning for All That‘s 10th anniversary special, and expanding her creative footprint into music with the release of her 2020 folk single, “To the World.” 

Teen Linked To Pop Smoke Killing Gets Four-Year Sentence For Fentanyl Smuggling

Deijae Jester, one of the individuals convicted in the murder of rapper Pop Smoke, has been sentenced to four years in prison for smuggling fentanyl into a juvenile detention center in Los Angeles County.
The sentencing took place on Thursday, August 13, 2026, when 21-year-old Jester pleaded no contest to possessing 25 fentanyl-laced pills. These pills were reportedly smuggled into Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall during a visit by his mother in December 2025, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Jester was 15 years old at the time he and three others broke into the Hollywood Hills residence that Pop Smoke was renting in February 2020. Authorities confirmed through a recorded phone call that Jester was the one who fatally shot the Brooklyn rapper three times in the back. He was convicted of murder in 2023 and was held at a juvenile detention facility in Sylmar when the fentanyl smuggling incident occurred.

Investigators used surveillance footage and recorded conversations to establish that Jester and his mother, Nickia Randall, coordinated the plan to bring drugs into the facility. During the visit, guards observed Randall attempting to pass a blue balloon containing 25 pills and a small amount of blue powder to her son. The pills were later identified as fentanyl-laced.
Prosecutors pushed for the maximum sentence of five years, while Jester's attorney highlighted his challenging upbringing and his efforts to earn a high school diploma while incarcerated. Ultimately, Judge P. Tamu Usher sentenced Jester to four years.

Of the four people involved in Pop Smoke's murder, only two were legally adults at the time. Corey Walker, who was 19, was sentenced to 29 years in prison in 2025 for his role. Keandre Rodgers, then 18, was initially charged with murder, but his case is currently under review according to NME.
California law prohibits juveniles from being held past age 25, so Jester's sentence aligns with this rule. The new charge will result in his transfer to a state prison once he reaches the maximum juvenile detention age.

The fourth individual, who was 17 at the time of the shooting, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and home invasion burglary in 2023 and received a juvenile detention sentence of four years and two months.
This sentencing marks another legal development in the aftermath of the high-profile murder case that shocked the hip-hop community and fans worldwide.

Marvel Unveils The New “X-Men” Cast
After so much speculation, Marvel Studios and Disney have officially unveiled the first core members of the “X-Men” cast for the upcoming solo film.
The roster includes: Christopher Abbott as Professor X, Kit Connor as Cyclops, Sadie Sink as Jean Grey, Maya Boyd as Storm, Indie Navarette as Rogue, Samara Weaving as Emma Frost and Adam Driver as the film’s villain Nathaniel Milbury/Mr. Sinister.

While many of these names already leaked, these are now official and should get the fanbase excited. More in question is some of the obvious missing characters from the list including Wolverine, Magneto, Mystique, Beast, Iceman, Gambit and more.

Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige has previously expressed how the series is essentially going younger for the MCU faces of these characters, and these castings would fit those plans. Aboott & Driver are the oldest at 40 and 42 respectively.
Sonny Lee Sung Jin (“Beef”) and Joanna Calo (“The Bear”) recently came aboard to write a new draft of Michael Lesslie’s script. Jake Schreier directs the film which is slated to begin filming early next year.

The new “X-Men” will release in cinemas on May 5th 2028.

Deceased Cambridge academic Jason Arday's family decries 'campaign of harassment' against him

The academic was found dead a week after he quit his role as Cambridge University professor and Jesus College fellow after allegations he had plagiarised parts of his PhD thesis and embellished his life achievements.

The family of British academic Jason Arday, who was found dead at a South London address on Friday night amid a high-profile plagiarism storm, have denounced what they called years of "sustained abuse"
In an overnight statement following Arday's death, his family said he had been "subjected to a campaign of sustained abuse for more than three years since he accepted the role of professor at Cambridge University".

Arday had himself alleged a "racially motivated" campaign against him.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said "it's a tragedy on so many levels, but particularly just for everybody who knew Jason, his family obviously, his friends."

Burnham also said it was not the time for "any rushing to judgement", and that now is "a moment for reflection... reflecting on how things came to this."
Arday resigned from his post at the University of Cambridge last week shortly after it announced a probe into the various accusations against him.

He made headlines when the university appointed him as its youngest black professor in 2023, but subsequently faced growing claims he plagiarised parts of his PhD thesis.
Questions also emerged about some of his stated life achievements, including that he once ran 30 marathons in 35 days and raised millions for charities.

The allegations were seized on by British right-wing newspapers and commentators, who claimed he unfairly benefited from diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) policies.
Media outlets including The Times, Guardian and the Telegraph have published several investigative articles into Arday's academic work and personal life.

In their statement following his death, Arday's family alleged "the campaign of misinformation was too much for Jason, who was a gentle man and who always wanted to see the best in everyone."

Diagnosed with autism, Arday said he was non-verbal until age 11 and only learnt to read and write at 18, before becoming Cambridge's youngest black professor at age 37, teaching sociology.
In an interview with The Times earlier this month, Arday admitted making academic "mistakes" but said he was being wrongly "portrayed to be a liar and a fantasist and an academic fraud".

He said that some errors in his early academic work were because of his autism, as he relied on using mimicry to understand information.
Simon Baron-Cohen, a Cambridge professor and director of the Autism Research Centre, told BBC radio that he spoke to Arday on Friday morning.

"He was being subjected to relentless scrutiny, including ridicule, discrediting absolutely every detail of his life," he said.
"He wasn't coping with the loss of his career, the loss of his reputation, and he felt he could not go on. He used those words in voice notes."

Tracee Ellis Ross Says She Was 'Moved to Tears' Revisiting Boarding School
Tracee Ellis Ross opened up about an emotional return to her old boarding school in Switzerland during a preview clip for SUNDAY SITDOWN, TODAY's interview series hosted by Willie Geist. The Emmy-nominated actor described the visit as unexpectedly powerful, telling Geist, "I was moved to tears numerous times."

The clip does not go into detail about what prompted the trip back to the school, but Ross's reaction suggests the visit carried significant weight for her personally. Her comments come as part of a broader conversation with Geist for the SUNDAY SITDOWN series, which features TODAY sitting down with notable figures for extended interviews.

The preview offers only a glimpse of the full conversation, with Ross's emotional recollection serving as the centerpiece of the clip shared by TODAY. The remarks hint at a more personal and reflective side of the discussion beyond typical career-focused interview segments.
Further details from the sitdown, including additional context on her time at the school and what else she and Geist discussed, are expected to unfold as more of the interview is shared through TODAY's platforms.

Dethroned Beauty Queen Offers No Apology for N-Word Posts

Former Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse is not apologizing for old social media posts containing the N-word, claiming they were not the true reason she lost her crown.
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Former Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse is speaking out after old social media posts resurfaced and her pageant reign came to an abrupt end. The former titleholder is not distancing herself from the controversy. She is also challenging the pageant's explanation for why she lost the crown.

Brittany Boltinhouse says she will not run from the controversial posts
Boltinhouse addressed the backlash in a new interview. When asked if she should apologize for using the N-word in old posts, she replied, "No. Not at all." Her remarks were independently reported after the interview was published.

She also said she would address the posts in a planned lawsuit. "I'm not going to deny them or run from them," Boltinhouse said. However, she claims the posts were not the true reason she lost her title.
The controversy began after The North Carolina Beat published screenshots of old social media posts linked to an account associated with Boltinhouse. The posts dated from 2017 to 2019 and included repeated use of the racial slur.

Her political views are a separate part of the story. The resurfaced material also showed support for Donald Trump and included MAGA messaging. Boltinhouse now argues that her conservative views and Christian faith played a role in her removal. Pageant officials dispute that claim.

Miss USA officials removed Boltinhouse from the title on August 5. CEO Thom Brodeur said the organization does not tolerate racism, homophobia, transphobia or language that strips people of their dignity. He said the decision involved conduct over an extended period.
Brodeur also said he had reviewed a statement from Boltinhouse that included "ownership, accountability and apology." Her latest remarks now create a clear contrast. She says she does not believe she owes an apology for using the N-word.

Boltinhouse also rejects claims that she is racist. Her attorney, Patrick Mincey, has announced plans to challenge her removal. He argues that she was unfairly targeted because of her beliefs and political views.
Her family had already spoken out after she lost the crown, saying they wanted the public to hear her side. First runner-up Myla Hadley has since taken over as Miss North Carolina USA 2026.

Selena Gomez Responds to Fraud Lawsuit, Seeks to Dismiss 'Baseless Claims'
Selena Gomez plans to dispute the lawsuit alleging fraud against her mental health startup, Wondermind.
In a suit filed on Thursday (August 13) against Wondermind SRS 44 LLC and Bespoke Wondermind LLC, investors claimed that the actress-singer, her mother, Mandy Teefey and their former business partner, Daniella Pierson, did not fulfill their obligations on investments of $1 million. The suit also alleges the women falsely represented the infrastructure, leadership and assets of Wondermind and seek unspecified damages, along with a return of their investments. In one shocking claim, the group alleges that Teefey missed meetings, brushed off a missed payroll and was dependent on Ritalin.

On Saturday, Gomez’s lawyer, Mathew S. Rosengart, responded to the lawsuit in a statement to People. “The allegations that Selena Gomez engaged in any way whatsoever in any purported ‘fraud’ or other wrongdoing are completely meritless, both factually and legally,” he stated. ““We will vigorously defend these false allegations and indeed are filing a motion to dismiss the baseless claims against her.”

Launched as the “first mental fitness ecosystem” in 2022, Wondermind was intended to build community for users through digital content, podcasts, articles and more that were resources on mental health. Gomez, who also owns cosmetics brand Rare Beauty, landed billionaire status in late 2024 with a $1.3 billion net worth.
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight at the time, although she called it “distasteful” to talk about her net worth, Gomez said she was “grateful” for her supporters
.
Ray J Takes The WIN In Orlando Brown Boxing Battle!!!
Ray J got the last laugh Saturday night, defeating Orlando Brown by unanimous decision in a three-round celebrity boxing matchup at Atlanta's State Farm Arena.
The fight, which aired on the Zeus Network, was part of the undercard for the Claressa Shields-Kaye Scott showdown ... and while the matchup had been heavily hyped, the action inside the ring was considerably more entertaining than it was competitive.

The victory gave Ray J a little redemption after his previous bout ended with him being knocked out by Supa Hot Fire at Brand Risk 14 in May. Ray was also hospitalized following that loss.
As we previously reported ... Ray and Brown were preparing to make their celebrity boxing debuts on Zeus, with plenty of bad blood already simmering between the two.

Brown had repeatedly taken shots at Ray, often referring to him as "Brandy's brother." The tension escalated at a press conference in early July, when Brown smacked Ray with a stack of cash. Ray appeared to take the bizarre move in stride, laughing it off rather than turning the moment into a confrontation.

The two finally got their chance to settle things in the ring Saturday ... although neither man appeared particularly interested in turning the bout into a brutal slugfest.
The fight quickly became a source of amusement online, with fans posting clips and reactions as the three rounds unfolded. In the end, Ray J's name was read as the winner on all three judges' scorecards.
Ray had previously made it clear he wasn't intimidated by the idea of getting back in the ring following his knockout loss. When asked about fighting again, he showed little hesitation about stepping back between the ropes.

The Zeus portion of the card also featured a matchup between Baddies stars Tehneski and Big Lex, with Big Lex taking a unanimous-decision victory. Based on the night's action, the women arguably delivered the more competitive fight.
As for Ray J and Orlando Brown ... they both presumably leave Atlanta with a payday, while Ray walks away with ultimate bragging rights.

Earth, Wind & Fire Drummer John Paris In Induced Coma Following Medical Emergency
Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris has been placed in a medically induced coma following what his family has described as a critical medical emergency earlier this month.
Paris, 58, was hospitalized on Aug. 6, shortly before the group was due to perform with Lionel Richie at the Chase Center in San Francisco. The show was postponed minutes before it was scheduled to begin, with the band citing “a medical emergency involving a member of our band.”

The San Francisco Fire Department confirmed that crews responded to a report of a cardiac incident at the venue and transported one person to a hospital in critical condition, though the family has not publicly confirmed the nature of Paris’ condition.
In an update shared to Facebook on Thursday (Aug. 13) by Shelly Clark White, the wife of Earth, Wind & Fire bassist Verdine White, the family said doctors placed Paris in an induced coma on arrival at the hospital so they could provide critical care. “From the very beginning, Kathy and daughter Kyla remained by his side,” the statement read, referring to Paris’ wife, musician Kathy Merrick, and their daughter.

The update said Paris briefly regained consciousness at one point, opening his eyes and asking for his wife. After seeing her, he turned to a close friend and joked, “Get me outta here.” The family described the moment as bringing “tears, laughter, hugs and renewed hope,” but said it was short-lived, as Paris soon experienced rising blood pressure and difficulty breathing, prompting doctors to sedate him again so his body could stabilize.

“John’s journey is far from over,” the statement concluded. “There is so much hope that surrounds him.” A GoFundMe campaign established to support Paris and his family has raised nearly $70,000 toward a $75,000 goal, with several of his bandmates among the donors.

Earth, Wind & Fire resumed their tour two days after the postponed show, with former member Sonny Emory filling in on drums. The San Francisco concert has been rescheduled for Sept. 26. Paris joined the band in 2001, playing on studio albums including 2003’s The Promise and 2005’s Illumination, and has also worked with artists including Patti LaBelle and Sheila E.

Formed in Chicago in 1969 by the late Maurice White, Earth, Wind & Fire became one of the most successful and influential groups in American music, selling more than 90 million records worldwide with a blend of R&B, funk, soul, jazz and pop. The band scored their sole Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 with 1975’s “Shining Star,” which also topped the Hot Soul Songs chart and won a Grammy, while enduring hits including “September,” “Boogie Wonderland” and “Let’s Groove” — their biggest Hot 100 hit, at No. 3 — became staples of the era. The group topped the Billboard 200 with 1975’s That’s the Way of the World and Gratitude, won six Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

The band is currently the subject of a Questlove-directed documentary that premiered in June.

AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Walmart bathroom Battle

I think someones been smoking special things in the Walmart bathroom again

AND NOW Meet: BIG TROY
 It's Troy! You can see more HERE

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

Enjoy!

HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD ALL!!!
EFREM

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