If your parents are former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, it would be easy to work your last name and turn it into a successful career in the entertainment industry – especially when most of Black America is still daydreaming about the time they spent occupying the White House. But former First Daughters Malia and Sasha Obama have been doing their best to distance themselves from the Obama name, and now their mother is speaking out about it.
Recently, the former First Lady sat down with siblings and actors Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson on their “Sibling Revelry” podcast to talk about how she feels about her girls coming into their own, including Malia’s decision to drop Obama and use her middle name, Ann, in the credits of her short film, “The Heart,” which was featured at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival.
Our forever First Lady told the Hudsons that her now-grown daughters, Malia (25) and Sasha (23), are very sensitive to the idea of others writing them off as nothing more than nepo babies and are trying to what they can to carve their own unique lanes, despite their extremely famous last name.
“I mean it’s very important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they are getting in the world. And they don’t want people to assume that they don’t work hard, that they’re just naturally just handed things,” she said.
The ladies of “The View” discussed Mrs. Obama’s comments on the show, and agreed that they respect Malia and Sasha’s choice not to try to open doors with their last name.
“I respect and deeply admire that they’re saying, ‘Hey, I recognize I have this amazing name I’m so proud of, but I really want to make my own way and carve my own path.’ I think that is so cool,” said co-host Sara Haines.
Although Maila and Sasha are full-fledged independent California girls now, their mom believes they have a strong foundation and will be just fine.
“Now that they are older, they are embracing our parenting principles in the same way I think that I discovered that about my parents,” she said.
You’d like to think the politicians leading the country are actually fit for the job, but President Donald Trump’s slew of questionable appointees to the highest positions in the country– and the world–has Americans thinking differently.
Most recently, FEMA Chief David Richardson was blasted after admitting he had no clue the country experienced hurricane season, according to Reuters. He has since came out saying it was all a joke, but… was it really?
From Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s shaky personal life to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon’s former role at WWE, clearly, there’s some discrepancies about what makes someone fit to lead. Now, we’re taking a closer look at Trump’s advisors and cabinet members to really unpack the scary trends among the country’s top leadership.
Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Dr. Oz
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 12: U.S. President Donald Trump, joined by Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Mehmet Oz, speaks during a press conference in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on May 12, 2025, in Washington, DC. During the event, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at reducing the cost of prescription drugs and pharmaceuticals by 30% to 80%. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Taking a page from Trump’s book, Dr. Oz has transitioned from television to American politics. In his new role as administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, Oz oversees how millions of Americans receive Medicaid and Medicare. He recently said in order to receive benefits, Americans will have to “prove that you matter.”
Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, John Ratcliffe
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 25: Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe appears during a Senate Committee on Intelligence Hearing on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. The hearing to examine worldwide threats comes a day after Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief for The Atlantic magazine was inadvertently included on a high level Trump administration Signal group chat on bombing plans in Yemen on Houthi targets. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Unlike others on this list, John Ratcliffe served under Trump’s first administration. He was previously the director of national intelligence. In January, Trump brought him back as his nominee for director of the CIA, despite his slew of political scandals over the years. Rattcliffe is a Trump loyalist, with a well-documented allegiance to the president as far back as 2019.
FEMA Chief, David Richardson
Image by White House
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem appointed David Richardson, a Marine veteran and martial-arts instructor, to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Despite having no previous professional record of handling natural disasters or relief, he joined the FEMA team in early May. On his first day in office, he promised to do Trump’s bidding. Richardson even told agency staff he will “run right over” anyone trying to deter him from carrying out the president’s mission, CNN reported. Sen. Chuck Schumer tweeted about Richardson’s hurricane season blunder saying, he was “unaware of why he hasn’t been fired yet.”
Nominee for Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 01: National Security Advisor Michael Waltz participates in a TV interview at the White House on May 01, 2025 in Washington, DC. This week marks the first 100 days of U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
You can’t mention Signal Gate and not bring up former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. In his previous role, he was the creator of the infamous channel on Signal where he added a journalist to a group chat spilling classified information– although he and Secretary Pete Hegseth refuse to acknowledge this. Waltz has a hefty resume, filled with military and Congressional service, but like the rest of folks on the list, at the top of his qualifications is hisloyalty to Trump. After the Signal scandal, Waltz became Trump’s new pick to be the ambassador to the United Nations.
Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth looks on as he attends the signing of an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 23, 2025. REUTERS/Kent Nishimura/File Photo
When Hegseth was first appointed to serve as the head of the most vital government department, bipartisan rage exploded from politicians nation-wide. And after the bombshell report that he compromised national security in the Signal Gate controversy… twice… critics of Hegseth haven’t let up on him yet.
During his confirmation process, he faced several allegations he was drinking on the job and had problems with alcohol. And his own family members have come out alleging he was physically and sexually abusive, according to AP News.
Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon testifies before a Senate Appropriations hearing on U.S. President Donald Trump’s budget request for the Department of Education, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., June 3, 2025. REUTERS/Annabelle Gordon
President Trump vowed to dismantle the Department of Education, and he started his agenda by appointing Linda McMahon to run the show. McMahon has a brief background in education. In fact, she was nominated to serve on the Connecticut State Board of Education in 2009, according to ABC News. But unfortunately, that’s where her expertise stops.
Before she was picked by Trump, McMahon founded WWE with her husband Vincent. The couple is worth more than $3 billion, according to Forbes, which as you’ll see is a trend among Trump nominees.
Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. discusses the findings of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) latest Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network survey, during a press conference at the Department of Health and Human Services in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 16, 2025. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz/File Photo
Out of everyone on this list, the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was perhaps the most horrifying and embarrassing for the Trump administration. The nephew of former President John F. Kennedy is an environmental attorney, previously taking on DuPont and Monsanto, according to AP News. But outside of this and his obvious devotion to Trump, RFK Jr.’s views on health and vaccines drew massive concerns from Democrats and Republicans alike.
He’s an anti-vaxxer who claimed autism was a direct side effect of receiving vaccines. He also perpetuated the racist and baseless theory that Black people should be on a separate vaccine schedule based on genetic makeup. All of his dangerous theories have been proven wrong by experts around the globe.
Director of FBI, Kash Patel
FBI Director Kash Patel testifies before the Senate Appropriations Committee hearing on President Trump’s proposed budget request for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 8, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque
A lawyer and former federal prosecutor, Patel has more experience serving in the White House than almost all of Trump’s Cabinet picks. However, it’s his undying devotion to the president that continues to make folks question his real intentions. It’s important to note that Trump is largely responsible for propelling Patel’s career in politics. While serving under Trump’s first term, Patel was even set to be named the deputy director of the CIA until former Vice President Mike Pence and other members of Trump’s Cabinet intervened, according to the Atlantic.
Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard
U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard departs after a closed door meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Malacanang Palace, Manila, Philippines, June 2, 2025. Ezra Acayan/Pool via REUTERS
She was once a Democratic, even running for president in 2020 against Trump. But in true MAGA fashion, once Trump began making promises, Tulsi Gabbard changed her tune and shifted to the MAGA right, according to PBS. The veteran and first Hindu woman elected to Congress doesn’t have a strong background in intelligence. Even Sen. Dick Durbin said “Tulsi Gabbard would not be qualified for an entry-level position within our intelligence community” let alone the top of it.
Attorney General, Pam Bondi
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi attends a press conference with FBI Director Kash Patel (not pictured) where they make an announcement in connection with a child sex abuse enforcement action, in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 7, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
In November 2024, Trump tapped Pam Bondi for attorney general. She was formally the Florida Attorney General and has her degree in criminal justice, according to NPR. But according to insiders, her chief qualification is her loyalty to Trump. Bondi was previously Trump’s personal attorney. She was also involved in Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election, according to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary.
Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought
Image by the Center for Reproductive Rights
Arguably Trump’s most controversial nominee to date, Russell Vought’s confirmation set off an avalanche of backlash from Democrats. Most notably, Vought co-wrote “Project 2025,” the 999-page MAGA rulebook designed to reshape the country with cuts to the DOE and attacks to the LGBT+ community and DEI.
Vought previously served in Trump’s first administration. He left office after Trump was voted out to start the Center for Renewing America, the far-right Christian entity.
Director of DOGE, Elon Musk
FILE PHOTO: Tesla CEO and X owner Elon Musk, who supports Republican presidential nominee former U.S. President Donald Trump, gestures as he speaks about voting during an America PAC Town Hall in Folsom, Pennsylvania, U.S., October 17, 2024. REUTERS/Rachel Wisniewski TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY/File Photo
Although the Tesla CEO is officially done with the White House, for the strong part of the year, he served as Trump’s right hand man. In his position as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk oversaw the mass firing of thousands of government workers in alleged efforts to rid the country of senseless spending and corruption.
Musk had no political background before being tapped by Trump. He also skipped over the Congressional appointment and questioning process. The most qualifying thing about CEO of SpaceX is his title as Trump’s highest campaign donor.
Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick speaks during a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 6, 2025. REUTERS/Leah Millis/File Photo
Howard Lutnick was one of Trump’s first nominees for his Cabinet. With a net worth of around $3 billion, according to thestreet.com, Lutnick follows Trump’s very clear list of qualifications: wealthy and loyal. He got close to Trump after appearing on his reality show “The Apprentice.” Since then, the Trump advisor has only strengthened his relationship with the president.
Most recently, Lutnick was grilled in a Senate hearing he has no clue what important laws pertaining to his job were, according to the Daily Beast.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins
U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin and Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard attend the annual National Memorial Day Observance in the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, U.S., May 26, 2025. REUTERS/Ken Cedeno
Although he has experience in Congress, Doug Collins first rose to prominence– you guessed it– coming to Trump’s defense. In 2016, after the president was accused of conspiring with Russia to undermine the presidential election, Collins defended the president on the House Judiciary Committee, according to NBC Washington. He even wrote a book, defending Trump from his 2019 impeachment.
Nominee for Director of U.S. Office of Special Counsel, Paul Ingrassia
Image by White House
Most recently, Trump tapped Paul Ingrassia to head the office responsible for protecting whistleblowers and other federal workers from unlawful employment practices. Ingrassia has no real political background, but he is a former far-right podcast and a Jan. 6 apologist. According to MSNBC, Ingrassia has only been a lawyer for three years, and with little investigative experience– which the job requires– many see his appointment as a slap in the face to those who rely on the government agency.
Taraji P. Henson is finally clearing the air when it comes to “The Color Purple” drama and those rumors of a rift between her and Oprah Winfrey.
In case you forgot, Henson stepped into the iconic role of Shug Avery in Warner Bros’ flashy musical film reboot of “The Color Purple” in 2023. While promoting the film, Henson went viral while sitting down with Gayle King, breaking down in tears over the pay disparity in Hollywood, especially as a Black actress. Many saw this as her taking a shot at Oprah, especially due to the fact that Winfrey was one of the main producers on the film. On the latest episode of “The Breakfast Club,” however, she finally set the record straight.
Host Charlamagne Tha God brought up the topic directly, saying that a lot of people thought Henson was “kicking Tyler Perry and Oprah’s back in” when she made those comments. Henson immediately denied this to the radio host, saying, “Oh my god, why would they think that?” When Charlamagne clarified that it may be because they are producers, she then responded, “You know they have bosses, right?”
Henson, of course, is referring to the fact that producers don’t necessarily set the rate that actors get paid, and they have studios above them that they answer to.
She then asked, “When have you ever seen me drag another woman, particularly a Black woman, ever? I’m ten toes down for us.” She then proceeded to say that “blogs” ran with the rumors of a feud between her and Tyler and Oprah was a part of a “campaign” so that this Black movie” wouldn’t do well.”
Henson added that she was hurt when some places reported that the movie didn’t perform as well because of her comments on pay while promoting it, calling it “total B.S.”
She went on to say that she has such a “love and fondness” for Oprah. “She just texted me the other day, commending me on a job well done in ‘Straw.’ So that was all fictitious.” She added that she thinks people were trying to “draw a wedge” between them, but that she won’t let people do that.
She had amazing things to saw about Tyler Perry as well, saying that she will always work with him. “We have fun on that set, I love that he challenges me,” she added. “I’m never gonna turn my back on us…people who go to the Tyler Perry films, that’s a huge population of us.”
Summer is just around the corner, and Hollywood has cooked up plenty of content for you to binge and watch on those long, hot days. Whether you want an intense, adult drama or a new series perfect for the whole family, we’ve got you covered with a list of shows perfect for your Summer 2025 watchlist.
MCU fans, rejoice! A live-action Black Panther spinoff series, “Ironheart,” finally comes to Disney+ this month. Starring Dominique Thorne as Riri Williams / Ironheart, the series follows the brilliant MIT student we met in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” just a few years ago. Joined by “Hamilton” and “In the Heights” superstar Anthony Ramos, Thorne is getting her star-making moment in this series, one that will make for a perfect binge for the entire family.
Ironheart premieres June 24, 2025 on Disney+.
The Bear
The Bear is back and better than ever. The hit Hulu series returns this June, reuniting viewers with the staff of a Chicago sandwich shop. Ayo Edebiri reprises her breakout role as Sydney “Syd” Adamu in the upcoming fourth season, which will certainly be one of the most-watched shows of the summer.
“The Bear” season 4 hits Hulu on June 25.
BMF
BMF is back! The Starz series that follows the Black Mafia Family has thrilled audiences since 2021. Now back for season 4, the series seems to be upping the ante, once again bringing audiences back to the 1990s, at the height of BMF’s activity.
“BMF” season 4 premiered June 6 on Starz.
And Just Like That
The “Sex and the City” story continues on Max’s “And Just Like That.” While the show still churns on without fan-favorite character Samantha, the other leads Carrie, Charlotte, and Miranda are back once again for adventures in the Big Apple. Nicole Ari Parker is also back for season 3, reprising the role of Lisa Todd Wexley.
New episodes of “And Just Like That” drop on Thursdays on Max.
Looking for the next bets historical fiction series? Look no further than “Washington Black,” Hulu’s series starring the one and only Sterling K. Brown. The series follows, “the 19th-century odyssey of George Washington “Wash” Black, an eleven-year-old boy born on a Barbados sugar plantation, whose prodigious scientific mind sets him on a path of unexpected destiny,” per Deadline. “When a harrowing incident forces Wash to flee, he is thrust into a globe-spanning adventure that challenges and reshapes his understanding of family, freedom and love.”
Divorced Sistas
A new Tyler Perry series is here. “Divorced Sistas” is described as an “extension” of the “Sistas” universe created by the media mogul. The show is described as following “five close friends — Rasheda, Geneva, Naomi, Tiffany, and Bridgette — as they navigate life, love, and the challenges that come with divorce, marriage, and dating. As they lean on each other through heartbreak and healing, their biggest test comes from within their own circle, challenging their loyalty, character, and true bond of sisterhood.”
“Divorced Sistas” premieres Monday, June 9 on BET.
Not only is “Divorced Sistas” premiering this summer, but the original “Sistas” is still going strong! The beloved BET series is officially coming back for its ninth season this July.
“Sistas” returns July 16 on BET.
Forever
If you haven’t gotten into “Forever” on Netflix already, what are you doing? One of the biggest shows to come out of the streamer this year made major waves when it dropped last month, and for good reason. Mara Brock Akil’s brilliant reimagining of Judy Blume’s iconic coming of age novel stars Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. in an intimate and moving portrait of young Black love. The series was such a smash hit for Netflix, its already been renewed for season 2, making for a perfect summer binge if you havent watched already.
All episodes of “Forever” are streaming now on Netflix.
Twisted Metal
“Twisted Metal” is coming back to Peacock. The Anthony Mackie-led series first premiered in 2023, and is based on the post-apocalyptic video game series of the same name. Almost two years later, fans are finally getting a second season, which, if the teaser is any indication, will continue to be just as exciting and hilarious as the first entry.
Season 2 of “Twisted Metal” premieres July 31 on Peacock.
Squid Game
Get ready for one final game. “Squid Game,” Netflix’s massive series, is returning for one more season this summer. Sure to be one of the biggest television events of the year, the jaw-dropping and intense show returns this June, just six months after season 2’s release this past December.
“Squid Game” returns June 27 to Netflix.
Eyes of Wakanda
More “Black Panther” content is on the way. Another series perfect for the whole family this summer is “Eyes of Wakanda.” An animated spinoff of the hit MCU franchise, the show follows Wakandan warriors thorughout history.
“Eyes of Wakanda” premieres August 6 on Disney+.
The Gilded Age
Another historical fiction series returning this summer is Max’s hit, “The Gilded Age.” Set in the turn of the century New York, the show follows “new money” class at this prosperous time in history, including the African American upper class at the time. Broadway star Denee Benton stars as Peggy, and six-time Tony winner and Broadway veteran Audra McDonald even appears as her mother on the series.
On Friday (June 6), Lil Wayne dropped his long awaited album, “Tha Carter VI.” But what should’ve been a momentous occasion for him and his fans turned out to be the exact opposite as evidenced by reactions to the project online. And believe us when we tell you…it’s not a pretty sight!
For context, talks of Wayne’s latest project had been ongoing for awhile now, with interest turning up a few extra notches after he got “snubbed” as the performer for the 2025 Super Bowl LIX back in February. As a result, many people were eagerly anticipating just how much fire and fervor that moment would give him and were waiting to hear the results of that in his newest project.
Well, said project has now arrived and unfortunately for a large portion of his fans — it’s the last thing they expected. The 19-song album features guests like 2 Chainz and Kodak Black and clocks in at a little over an hour. But for a lot of fans, any amount of time listening it is a complete waste of time.
Best part about finishing this Lil Wayne album is that I won’t ever hear shit played anywhere again.
“Best part about finishing this Lil Wayne album is that I won’t ever hear shit played anywhere again,” wrote one user on X/Twitter.
“Man, Lil Wayne needs better friends cuz this album should have never seen the light of day Also the production is actually atrocious WHAT WAS THAT,” said another.
“Lil Wayne and his team have been on a mission to ruin his legacy. They finally succeeded with this Carter VI trash. This is not a ‘Carter’ level album. The worst Carter album. I’m so disappointed, Wayne fans let down again,” one other user wrote.
Lil Wayne and his team have been on a mission to ruin his legacy. They finally succeeded with this Carter VI trash.
This is not a “Carter” level album. The worst Carter album.
I’m so disappointed, Wayne fans let down again. ✌🏾
Added another user: “Normally I like to run an album back after a first listen before saying anything, but in this case I don’t want to…I love Lil Wayne, but this album is booty crumbs.”
“No deadass… Say SIKE RIGHT NOW @lilwayne,” wrote media personality Scottie Beam.
Lil Wayne has yet to publicly respond to the negative chatter, but if he does, we’ll be sure to circle back. After all, he’s an artist who’s probably “sensitive about his shit,” there’s no telling how he’ll take all the unimpressed reactions to his latest offering.
President Trump and Elon Musk fallout was more dramatic than a Real Housewives’ reunion. The former friends exchange of words has become an online spectacle and social media has been enjoying the show. The heated dispute started when Musk publicly criticized Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill,” that aims to make Trump-era tax cuts more permanent and will unfairly benefit the rich.
Here are all of Elon’s shadiest comments.
Musk Calls Out Trump’s “Ingratitude”
Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate.
The Root reported on the Tesla CEO firing shots at Trump posting “Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate.” According to reports, Musk spent $270M on Trump’s 2024 Election campaign.
And thats when things got spicy between the former bosom buddies.
Accusing Trump Of Being In The Epstein Files
Time to drop the really big bomb:@realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.
In a hard-hitting post, the SpaceX CEO spilled some serious tea that Trump is named in the Epstein files and suggest that is the reason why it hasn’t went public. He even went as far as reposting an archived video of the President hanging out a party with Epstein.
Future Revelations
Mark this post for the future. The truth will come out.
Deepening the online beef, Musk went into the Twitter archives and resurfaced old posts of Trump criticizing the Republicans. ‘No member of Congress should be eligible for re-election if our country’s budget is not balance,” Trump posted, “deficits not allowed!”
“Where is the man who wrote these words?” Musk asked in a quoted post. “Was he replaced by a body double?”
Musk wasted no time calling out the President for lying about Musk forcing everyone to purchase electric vehicles. Trump’s major tax and spending legislation, which Musk argued the bill would massively increase the national debt and target provisions that would reduce or potentially eliminate electric vehicle credits which will directly impact Tesla’s profits. This was another statement that was a reflection of their public rift.
Slams Trump’s Tariffs
The Trump tariffs will cause a recession in the second half of this year https://t.co/rbBC11iynE
Musk’s comments is a response to an X user who describes Trump’s tariff policy to be “super stupid”. The Tesla CEO replied that the tariffs will cause a “recession in the second half of this year.”
Calls For A New Political Party
Is it time to create a new political party in America that actually represents the 80% in the middle?
In response to Trump’s comments about Musk being removed from his presidential circle, Musk wasted no time firing right back on X. He dismissed the claims of being pushed out and even mentioned funding the Democratic party.
Trump’s Responses
According to Donald Trump’s X account, all of his posts have been deleted.
There’s a reason why they call Oprah Winfrey the “Queen of All Media.” The Emmy award-winning talk show host successfully launched her own television network, magazine and production company. And we can’t forget Oprah’s Book Club which has helped propel Black authors like Colson Whitehead and Tayari Jones into the spotlight.
All of those boss moves have helped her amass a net worth of over $3 billion and a pretty impressive real estate portfolio worth over $100 million. Although Winfrey keeps her guest lists pretty exclusive, we were able to check out some of the places she’s called home over the years.
Take a peek inside some of Oprah Winfrey’s amazing homes.
Chicago Condos
YouTube/ABC 7 Chicago
While taping “The Oprah Winfrey Show” in Chicago, Winfrey purchased four units inside the iconic Water Tower Place on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile.
A Duplex to Die For
ABC13.com
Winfrey combined the four apartments to make a luxurious 9,000 square-foot duplex, complete with four bedrooms, five full bathrooms and two half baths.
Spa-Like Space
ABC13.com
The condo is full of high-end features, including this spa-like bathroom with a deep soaking tub.
The Promised Land
YouTube.com
In 2001, Oprah Winfrey began setting up the ultimate retreat on over 40 acres of land in Montecito, California. The heart of the property, which she calls “The Promised Land is the main house – a stunning 23,000 square-foot Georgian home that is fit for a media queen.
A Reading Room
YouTube.com
It’s only natural that a book-lover like Winfrey would have a cozy reading room with floor-to-ceiling shelves to hold all of her favorite reads.
Lots of Living Rooms
YouTube.com
The home features several living spaces that allow her guests to relax and enjoy conversation – and the eye-catching artwork.
Dining Room
YouTube.com
The spacious dining room is made for dinner parties for Oprah and her special guests. Oh, to be a fly on the wall to hear the conversations that go down here!
Spilling the Tea
YouTube.com
The home features a tea house, a bright, airy room perfect for enjoying a quiet cup while taking in the garden view.
The Guest House
YouTube.com
Although the main house is spacious, the property also includes a 5,000 square-foot guest house with a pool and plenty of lush greenery.
Even the Horses Have a Nice Home
YouTube.com
With all of those acres, there is plenty of room for horses, which is why Winfrey’s property includes private stables.
Telluride Mansion
YouTube.com
In 2014, Winfrey bought an 8,000 square foot mansion in historic Telluride, Colorado. The secluded woodsy home has five bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms.
A Cozy Cabin
YouTube.com
Once inside the home, you’ll be wowed by all of the stone and wooden accents, which give a cozy cabin vibe.
Mountain Views
When you have a picture-perfect view of the Rocky Mountains like this one, floor-to-ceiling windows are a must.
Made for Relaxing
YouTube.com
Every detail of this home is made for relaxing, including this jacuzzi tub that allows Oprah and her guests to take in the beautiful nature view.
It’s no secret that comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish has been unlucky in love. She hasn’t been spotted with anyone new since her not-so-mutual 2021 split from rapper-actor Common after a year of dating; she told Jay Shetty on his podcast that she made the decision to be celibate in 2024.
Now, in a recent sit down with Godfrey on his “In Godfrey We Trust” podcast, Haddish told the comedian that she’s done with men from the USA and is looking across the pond for her next partner.
“Any Black man born in America, I can’t f—k with you. I’m only f—king with Black man born outside of America and everything else,” she said in the interview.
Haddish went on to say that getting involved with more than one man can have devastating effects on a woman’s mental health.
“Women that have more than two baby daddies usually have some sort of mental illness,” she said.
Listeners who thought her comments were part of a comedy bit were likely confused when a straight-faced Haddish went on to explain what she believes to be the science behind the problem.
“Every time you get pregnant there’s stem cells that come from that baby and them stem cells end up behind your eyes and your brain and your heart,” Haddish added. “And those stem cells will always stay with you, right.”
Tiffany Haddish tries to make a connection between having babies (which she has none) and her being single (because of Americans). Is this typical mess from Tiffany Haddish or is she correct??? #tiffanyhaddish#godfreythecomedian
Godfrey posted a clip from the interview on Instagram, and you already know the comment section was lit with comments from people who were left completely confused after listening to Haddish’s head-scratching theory.
“That’s a funny way of saying my poor choices now dictate I hv to date somewhere nobody knows who I am…….those eggs are super scrambled and the expiration date was 10 years ago 😒,” wrote one commenter.
Another commenter reacted to Haddish saying that she was willing to make an exception on her new dating rule for white guys.
“Dear white ppl … She belongs to y’all,” they wrote.
One commenter suggested that the problem may not be with the men, but with Haddish.
“That’s a creative way to say don’t nobody in your country want you,” they wrote.
It seems like every week, there’s a new viral trend or dance challenge taking over our timelines on TikTok. And as each new thing sparks, many folks are starting to join in on the fun – -even celebrities like Terry Crews.
If you’ve been spending any time on the clock app recently, then you may have noticed the latest trend stemming from a popular film he starred in back in 2004, “White Chicks.” Though the movie starred Shawn and Marlon Wayans, Crews starred as an (aggressive) love interest for Marlon’s character and was responsible for a handful of memorable scenes.
One in particular, in which Crews’ character takes Marlon’s character Tiffany out on a date, has become the latest scene that TikTokers are recreating and now, it’s made it’s way to Crews himself, who decided to hop online and engage in it.
Posted by one of his daughters on Thursday, the now-viral video – -which also features his other daughter and wife Rebecca — has garnered over 500,000 likes and been shared nearly 30,000 times.
After seeing this video, it got us thinking about other celebs who’ve either joined on memes of themselves or participated in trends that derive from something they did. And boy did we find some fun examples.
Beyonce, Drea Kelly’s “II Hands II Heaven” Dance Challenge
Shortly after Beyonce dropped her “Cowboy Carter” album back in 2024, Drea Kelly — dancer and ex-wife to the now infamous R. Kelly — decided to hop online and show off choreography to the song “II Hands II Heaven.” In a surprising twist, her video went viral and caused thousands of other people to join in and recreate it.
Fast forward to Bey’s “Cowboy Carter” tour in 2025 and the singer surprised all her fans by hitting the choreo while performing the song. Of course, we should’ve known she would’ve thanks to a previous Instagram post Bey made last May.
Towards the end of May, Chris Brown decided to join in on his own dance challenge which stemmed from his early 200s hit, “Wall to Wall.” Appearing in the video with a gang of his background dancers, Breezy hit the new dance moves smoothly and with a huge smile. As of this writing, the video has amassed nearly 4 million likes and been shared nearly 200,000 times.
Back in June 2024, Megan Thee Stallion decided to join in on her own dance challenge that stemmed from her hit song, “Mamushi.” The song was just one of many hits from her album “Megan” but it was the only one that sparked a viral dance craze. Peep Megan getting jiggy with it below.
In a moment that most 90s kids could relate to, earlier this year back in March, Will Smith recreated an iconic dance moment from one of the earlier episodes of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” with his costar Tatyana Ali and rapper Doechi, using the latter’s popular song “Anxiety.” The result was something just as funny and cool.
Looks like there’s a new bombshell at the villa, and no, it’s not what you think… Americans are calling dibs on their favorite couple in the new season of “Love Island USA,” the American take on the British reality television show. But before any of the love could even begin, the cast was hit with an unexpected twist that led to one contestant exiting the show.
In the most recent episode, the show’s narrator, Iain Stirling, revealed a cast mate, Yulissa Escobar, had left the villa. He mentioned it so casually, and the show continued like nothing happened. But it didn’t take long for fans to figure out the messy truth…
Leading up to the show’s premiere, multiple resurfaced videos of Escobar went viral. In the two clips, she is heard casually saying the N-word on two different podcasts, and fans of the show ripped her to shreds over it. “Oh yulissa just keeps giving me more reasons to dislike her,” @serenazseptum said after seeing a video of the Cuban influencer saying, “He’s my n***a.”
When the videos first broke, Yulissa was already in Fiji, filming for “Love Island” without her phone or social media. However, her friend came to her defense, awkwardly saying on Instagram “lol… y’all act like you never said the N word before, stop being so f***ing sensitive,” TMZ reported.
After she was officially given the boot from the villa, fans put two and two together, realizing the likely reason behind the move was connected to Escobar using the slur. Even a TMZ poll showed 77 percent of folks wanted Escobar gone after using the N-word. She was also outed as a MAGA supporter, which clearly, didn’t give her any extra points with fans.
I’m not surprised at all by Yulissa being a racist trump supporter. She is a Latina who lives in Miami and her mom is Cuban.
Now, folks got their wish, and you can believe they had a field day on social media after Escobar was given the boot. “I’m not surprised at all by Yulissa being a racist trump supporter. She is a Latina who lives in Miami and her mom is Cuban,” @_syddygirl said on X.
Another user, @Dee_Vinci, wrote “Love to see it bc nothing irks me more than a Latina/o using the N word. Girl bye.” @ChardoubleU added “Lmaooooo bye pumpkin!”
Escobar hasn’t come out to address the controversy yet, but fans of “Love Island” will be watching and waiting to see if she’ll ever own up to it.
Timbaland, the legendary producer you could not escape in the 90s and the 2000s, has started a new music venture, and the concept behind it is… interesting.
Along with film producer Rocky Mudaliar and entrepreneur Zayd Portillo, Timbaland has launched an AI entertainment company called Stage Zero, according to Rolling Stone. The company has just signed their first artist, TaTa, an AI artist that is powered by the music technology company, Suno, according to MusicTech.
This move by Timbaland isn’t too shocking, considering that in March of this year, the producer sat down with 2x NBA All-Star Victor Oladipo on his podcast “The Inner Court” and stated that AI music is the “only thing that has a pure soul right now”
On Instagram, Timbaland posted screenshots of Billboard and Rolling Stone articles announcing his AI artist with the caption, “Thinking BIGGER but still inclusive.”
While Timbaland says he is excited about this move, the majority, in fact, all of the fans in his Instagram comments were not.
“Congratulations! You are the first to openly admit to ruining music more than it already is. I’m sad it had to be you,” wrote one user.
“Not that it’ll matter, but I’ll prolly come back pretty frequently to double down on how wack this is. So wild. The very essence of why your music was so different then everyone else’s… Smh forget it,” wrote another.
“Trying to find one positive comment… Glad we’re on the same page,” wrote another with laughing emojis.
Of course, whenever there is a time to criticize celebrities, users on X are always at the scene of the crime. Frustrated fans went on the app to express the negative thoughts they had to add to the producer’s announcement.
“Timbaland is ageing like milk. Every time he makes headlines, it’s about something more stupid than the last time,” wrote one user.
“Timabaland has joined the pantheon of goated legends that lost touch and apparently surrounded themselves with people that don’t know how to say ‘this ain’t it’”, posted another.
User @isaiahjaay1 expressed disappointment on TikTok by saying that, “Timbaland is really a legend at what he do. So, for you to be encouraging AI, knowing that it’s taking away from real creativity, is crazy… I’m getting tired of all these robots.”
While the Republican party continues to deal with the fallout from Elon Musk’s attacks on President Donald Trump, it seems the Democrats are also doing some soul searching. After one of the most notable spokespersons of their party has decided to turn their back, she’s drawing shocking criticism with her new book.
Karine Jean-Pierre served as former President Joe Biden’s press secretary from 2022 to 2025, when he left office. Known for her fiery exchanges with reporters and politicians across the aisle, Jean-Pierre is prepping to release her new book titled “Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines.” But although it hasn’t dropped yet, it’s already faces criticism for one shocking reason.
According to a press release for her book, Jean-Pierre is taking a step back from the Democratic party and planning to register as an Independent. “In a country obsessed with blind loyalty to a two-party democratic system, Karine Jean-Pierre… shares why Americans must step beyond party lines to embrace life as Independents,” the release read.
The motivation behind Jean-Pierre’s departure from the Democrats seems to stem from the treatment of Biden around campaign season. The former president faced bipartisan backlash after his mental and physical health was questioned while he was still in the race against Trump. As his press secretary, Jean-Pierre handled daily inquires about Biden’s mental state. But she said watching her party turn against Biden was the most shocking of all.
In a statement for Legacy Lit Jean-Pierre said, “I determined that the danger we face as a country requires freeing ourselves of boxes.” Now, she’s urging folks to look at the dangers of a bipartisan system, which America’s first president, George Washington, famously warned about centuries ago.
After former Vice President Kamala Harris’ devastating loss to Trump, the Democrats were sent back to the drawing board in hopeful preparation for the 2028 election. But in the mean time, criticism from the former face of the Biden administration can’t be good for party morale.
Democrats came out with acute criticisms for her. Former aide to Joe Manchin III, Sen. Jonathan Kott, said he’s “sick and tired of Democrats not being proud to be Democrats and fighting for what we believe in.” He continued, according to the New York Times, “If you lost the will to fight, then get out of the party.”
Karine Jean-Pierre is speaking for a lot of black women. You can call her newly declared political status a stunt but it’s not. The 92% said they were centering themselves & declaring oneself free from a party that wants to chase white men is a start. pic.twitter.com/uhMxDz9zi9
— Sons of Killmonger & Disciple of Dark Brandon (@2Strong2Silence) June 4, 2025
On the flip side, Black folks online responded praising Jean-Pierre for finally waking up. “Karine Jean-Pierre is speaking for a lot of black women. You can call her newly declared political status a stunt but it’s not,” @2Strong2Silence said on X. “The 92 [percent] said they were centering themselves & declaring oneself free from a party that wants to chase white men is a start.”
“See the way people are piling on Karine Jean-Pierre DESPITE the ACTUAL premise of her book & declaring herself Independent,” @darryn_briggs began. “This is PRECISELY the reason many of us KNEW it was dangerous for Kamala Harris to be the nominee.”
Another user, @Needle_of_Arya, said “between (how they’ve treated) Karine Jean-Pierre, Meghan Markle & Kamala Harris, we have only a taste of how deeply pervasive casual & knee-jerk misogynoir is in our society.”
Her book is expected to release on October 21, 2025.
As predicted by Black Americans, Elon Musk and President Donald Trump’s friendship is quickly unraveling. Musk tweeted bombshell claims Trump would’ve lost the election without him and more. If it was anyone else criticizing him, Trump surely would’ve clapped back harder than simply being “very disappointed” in Musk, but there’s something about the almost trillionaire that has the president a little passive.
In what’s shaping up to be the divorce of the century, Musk and Trump are at war, and everyone is watching. Experts say Trump is even scared of Musk, and here’s why.
Musk Played Pivotal Role in Trump’s Election
Despite Trump’s claims he would’ve won big regardless of Musk’s help, the facts don’t lie. Musk donated over $270 million dollars to Trump’s campaign, according to the Washington Post. With this coupled with his visible appearances alongside Trump, Musk has become synonymous with the president’s second term, no matter if he’s in the White House or not.
Former Scottish leader Humza Yousaf said in January Musk is “one of the most dangerous men on the planet” because of his ability to weasel his way into the most critical conversations about foreign policy and domestic affairs. Most notably, he has established himself as a key player in foreign politics with the use of his Starlink satellites in the war in Ukraine.
Musk’s Hold on the Government
Investigative journalist Ronan Farrow said Musk’s stint as the director of DOGE was unprecedented. Farrow broke it down on TikTok saying, “Government outsourcing isn’t new, but historians told me that individuals business titans having this much power goes way beyond anything we’ve seen historically.”
The X CEO oversaw the mass firing of thousands of government officials and had access to Americans personal data, drawing bipartisan pushback with concerns of national security. Even after Musk left DOGE, his influence remains strong.
The Richest Man Alive
From tapping some of the wealthiest people for his cabinet, hosting CEOs like Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg during his inauguration and the friendship between him and billionaire Musk, Trump clearly likes to have wealthy people in his corner. And Musk is the epitome.
He’s literally the richest person in the world, worth $408.6 billion, according to Forbes. With money comes power, which is how Musk snuck into the Oval Office in the first place.
Journalist for MSNBC Ali Velshi warned about the dangers of Musk. “There don’t appear to be any safeguards at all against potential conflicts of interest this time around,” he said. “Musk will retain control over Tesla and SpaceX, all while overseeing policies that could benefit his companies.”
Ultimately, cash rules, and clearly, Musk has more of it than anyone else, including Trump, who’s worth $5.1 billion.
Power, Power and More Power
In 2023, journalist Farrow spoke with a Pentagon official who said Musk practically has the world in his hands. “We are living off his good graces,” the official said. Two years later, not much has changed.
Musk owns Tesla, X, the private aerospace company SpaceX, xAI, The Boring Company and more. He also has multi billion-dollar contracts with the government, his hands in the company which launches most of America’s spy satellites and one of the world’s top social media platforms. If that’s not power, we don’t know what is!
When Trump and Musk were on good terms, his assets helped the president win his second term. Now, things are different. With all this in mind, it shouldn’t be a surprise Trump is taking it easy on Musk. The president let him run a muck in the White House, and now, his hands are tied.
What Secrets Does Musk Know?
If nothing else could convince you Musk knows the juiciest secrets, his Thursday (June 6) claim the real reason Trump won’t release the Epstein files is because he’s in them surely proves it. In his position in DOGE, Musk had access to the secrets of some of the most powerful people in the world… including Trump.
News commentators have even suggested Musk might have influenced Trump’s election. No proof exists for this claim, which echoes similar accusations Trump leveled against former President Joe Biden in 2020.
Time to drop the really big bomb:@realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.
The nasty end of the president’s friendship with Musk could result in bad blood. And if that’s the case, who’s to say which secrets the Tesla CEO is prepared to unleash?
It’s not like our president to let things slide, so as the war between Trump and his former friend continues, Americans will be watching with popcorn.
“- There was a subsequent moment we had at a sidebar and I looked and I saw your client looking at the jury and nodding aggressively. This is absolutely unacceptable,” the judge said in court Tuesday, per The Washington Post.
The allegations against Combs of sexual abuse, physical abuse, bribery and various drug offenses were first brought forth by ex-girlfriend and Bad Boy Records signee Casandra “Cassie” Ventura in a lawsuit. The most notable claims were about his so-called “freak off” sex parties, where prosecutors allege the singer was drugged and forced to perform sexual acts with male sex workers at Combs’ pleasure. Ventura’s suit says she was ordered to hire the workers herself. He was also accused of using video footage to blackmail the victims into compliance. The two settled the day after the suit was filed.
Combs is facing multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and engaging in interstate transportation for prostitution. His indictment cites three anonymous victims in addition to Ventura. He has pleaded not guilty, and was denied bail.
If you’ve been seeing a flurry of pink and green all over your social media timelines, that’s because the newest trailer for “Wicked for Good” has finally dropped on Wednesday. But before you head to the theaters on November, there are a few things you might want to know first!
As a little background, “Wicked for Good” is the second and final part of the story that rounds out the storylines we were all first introduced to in “Wicked” back in 2024. This new film will see estranged friends Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (played by Ariana Grande) living out there lines in the aftermath of the former friend being ran out of Emerald City and declared a wicked witch. Seeing as how it’ll be a year since the first film, we thought it best to give you some quick facts of things you need to remember before you see part two.
Elphaba Wasn’t Really Evil
If you’ll remember from the first film, Elphaba’s title of being a “wicked witch” was completely unjustified. Not only was she not evil, she was actually standing up for a marginalized group of her community—(the animals who lived in harmony with them)—and was willing to buck up against the powers that be in order to do so. When Elphaba wouldn’t go along with the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and her school professor Madam Morrible’s (Michelle Yeoh) plans to further oppress them, she was branded as wicked being who was too powerful and needed to be controlled and extinguished. This is why she ended up fleeing to the West in attempt to seek refuge and figure out her next steps.
The Wiz Is a Fraud and But Also May Be Tied To Elphaba in An Unexpected Way
As you very well know by now (thanks to “The Wizard of Oz”), the Wizard is nothing more than a man with fake powers and an even faker persona. But what you probably didn;t pick up on all the way is that there’s some tacit connection between him and Elphaba. I mean, why else would have such an affinity towards her and sing a song about how much he wants to be close to her and that her way of moving throughout the world feels like she could be a daughter to him. We don’t want to say too much but keep this little nugget in the back of your mind.
Dorothy and the Crew Will Be Making Their Grand Appearance
If you’ll remember, in the very opening scene in “Wicked” as the camera panned across the land of Oz, there was a quick glance at Dorothy from Kansas and her new pals: Tinman, Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion. It was moment that if you blink you might miss it, but it was foreshadowing to one of the other storylines that’ll be present in the sequel film. If you’ve seen the original Wizard of Oz, then you know how things play out. But it’ll be interesting to see how and when this gang makes enters into the timeline and how deeply they’ll be connected to Elphaba and Glinda.
Glinda Was Complicit and Not Elphaba’s Ride or Die Friend
At the end of “Wicked,” we saw Elphaba fly off into the sky, leaving her “good” friend Glinda back in the Emerald City. But as we broke it down to you shortly after the movie came out, we should’ve expected Glinda not to be down with Elphie like that because she was only really loyal to herself and her image. Sure, you could make the argument that she supported what Elphaba was trying to do in theory, but in practicality, she didn’t want to rock the boat or do anything to jeopardize her desires. We’ll see how this continues to unfold now that her former bestie is exiled from the town and what she’ll do as a result of it in the second film.
Elphaba’s Sister Nessarose’s Story Will Expand In a Major Way
You remember how Elphaba’s disabled sister Nessarose was lowkey jealous anytime her big sister got recognition for using her powers? Yeah, that’s going to play a role in how their storyline develops in this second iteration–especially when you realize that somewhere along the way, Nessarose gets a house dropped on her. (That’s not a spoiler, that’s literally in “The Wizard of Oz.” If Elphaba is the Wicked Witch of the West, what would that make her sister? Exactly.)
Now if we say anything else, we’ll get into spoiler territory so be sure to check out the trailer above and mark your calendars for “Wicked For Good” when it arrives in theaters on November 21.
Marvel star Samuel L. Jackson is opening up about a truly horrific incident he experienced years ago that almost cost him his life. And trust us when we say it was an experience he’ll likely never forget.
Speaking in a new interview on the “Mad Sad Bad” podcast, Jackson told the host that the incident occurred in New York City when he trying to get on a subway train. In some freakish turn of events, Jackson’s foot ended up being wedged in between the door of the last car in the subway and he was consequently trapped. Explaining how the train began taking off while he was still stuck and how he felt he was about to lose his life, the “Django: Unchained” star recalled:
“I got dragged by a subway train in New York… I got dragged by the A train. I was in the middle door of the last car, and it was a long-ass train station. And when the door closed on my foot, [the] train took off. So I’m sitting there thinking, I’m like, ‘Oh, f*ck, I’m going to die.’”
Jackson went on to say that he could see the tunnel coming but he was running out of time and luck as there wasn’t anything he could grab onto to get closer to the train. He revealed that the incident occurred a few days before Christmas back in 1988 and all he remembered thinking in the moment was how badly he was about to ruin the holiday that year and his birthday.
“When I was being dragged, all I could think of was, it was going to be a really sad Christmas, because it was like a few days before Christmas,” he said. “So I was going to miss my birthday and all that. I was like, ‘Damn, it’s gonna be f*cked up. It’s gonna be a f*cked up Christmas this year.’”
Thankfully, in a moment that could only be described as a true Godsend, the “Pulp Fiction” star said that a man ended up being able to pull on the emergency cord and get the train to stop. In an ironic twist, the man who did that was on crtuches, which may have been subtle foreshadowing to the help Jackson himself was going to need in the aftermath of the accident.
As a result, the legendary actor suffered a torn ACL and meniscus which led to him being on crutches for 10 months on and in physical rehab for a year. He also sued New York Transit Authority, ultimately walking away with a whopping $540,000.
When asked by the host if the incident made him have any existential realizations about his life and what it means to be on this planet, Jackson responded in the most comical way possible.
“F*ck no, I’m Black. I got my own problems, you know,” he said. “Just being. I grew up in segregation, so I’ve been, you know, dealing with, you know, existential bullsh*t my whole life.”
Glad to hear things worked out OK ultimately, but don’t scare us like this again Mr. Jackson!
I wrote just weeks ago that the prosecution is failing to make a case in the ongoing trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs. But as each day goes by in the trial, one thing is becoming increasingly likely: Diddy is going to prison. Let’s talk about why.
Many were critical of the prosecution at the beginning of the trial. Putting Cassie on the stand was scandalous and provided those of us looking on from the outside much to talk about.
But this testimony did not really help the case against the man on trial. It just proved that they had a complicated relationship, but he is not on trial for being a bad partner. Then there was the way that the prosecution was behaving in the courtroom…taking their sweet time presenting their case. Cassie spent two days in the stand, and that just was not necessary. The way the government was moving in this case was slower than molasses on a cold winter day. (If you’re southern, you’ve heard that before…probably from your grandmother.)
The prosecution noticed what we all saw. And now they changed their tactics.
The trial was originally supposed to be 8 to 10 weeks long, and now some are saying it could just be 5 to 6 weeks. This means the government has started to speed up the way they are presenting their case. And this is important.
You don’t want jurors falling asleep in the courtroom listening to testimony. The prosecution needs to present a clear and short case in a way that anyone listening would understand. They did not do that at the beginning, but now they are.
Now to the charges: It’s important to remember that Diddy is not on trial for domestic abuse, nor is he on trial for merely hiring a sex worker. He is charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transporting individuals for the purpose of prostitution. They have not really proven the last two charges yet, but on the first one, they’ve started to present compelling evidence.
They must prove that he is the head of a criminal enterprise. And people are now taking the stand who can attest to that.
“Mia,”a former assistant to Combs who used a pseudonym, described the abuse — verbal, physical and sexual — she said she experienced while working for him. She painted the picture of a man who gets whatever he wants…or else. Couple that with the testimony of former assistant Capricorn Clark, who said similar things, and now we have a pattern of behavior.
Tense moments today in Diddy’s federal sex trafficking trial as prosecutors accused defense attorneys of sarcasm and humiliation during cross examination of a former employee testifying under the pseudonym, “Mia” pic.twitter.com/g6cDu7gHdK
Next, there were the sordid details of Kid Cudi’s car being set on fire. It is implied that Combs did not do this directly…instead he had others do it for him. This is evidence that he was the head of an organization that used violence to do his bidding.
Sean "Diddy" Combs Trial: Kid Cudi Says His Car Was Blown Up By Molotov Cocktail https://t.co/deA6Sxumbd
That is precisely what you need to show to get a conviction in a racketeering case. After a rocky start, the prosecution now has it’s sh*t together. We have to wait to see how the defense will try to explain everything away, but unless they have a Perry Mason like trick up their sleeve…Diddy is going away for a long time.
The beef between Elon Musk and President Donald Trump is heating up in the MAGA kitchen. But just as the saying suggests too many chefs in the kitchen could just burn the whole place down… and you already know Black America is here for all of it.
The former besties are still going at it over Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill Act, but in a few bombshell admissions, Musk is done playing nice. After Trump said he’s “very disappointed” in Musk’s recent criticisms, the SpaceX CEO took to X, taking all the credit for Trump’s November win and spilling more tea about one of the most notorious cases in recent history.
“Without me, Trump would have lost the election,” Musk wrote on Thursday (June 6). And if that wasn’t shocking enough, Musk followed it up adding “Time to drop the really big bomb: [Trump] is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.”
Time to drop the really big bomb:@realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.
With all the trouble in MAGA paradise, Black Twitter is having a field day. “Trump got in bed with a mentally ill rich troll. Y’all should’ve seen this coming,” @BackupHangman wrote. “Enjoy the s**tshow.”
On X, @him_cool_ wrote the feud between Musk and Trump “is colder than Kendrick vs Drake.” And he’s not wrong! Since leaving his position as the head of DOGE, Musk has had all the smoke for Trump and his legislative plans. Specifically, the Big Beautiful Bill Act aims to add trillions to the national debt and end the tax credit for electric vehicle production, and the Tesla CEO is pissed!
Many Black folks said Musk was simply using Trump to step up on the political ladder. “He’s going to leverage his time in Government to build up enough political power to actually install the next president and cabinet. That’s likely his goal,” @TitanNamedAtlas said. “Trump was a stepping stone.”
@sandyfleeks saw the bright side of the beef between the two. They celebrated the feud saying this means “no more tr*mp ads.” Another user, @RevClownn, pointed out Musk’s “tweet cant get taken down either cause he own the f****n app.”
“Sounds like he’s confessing to cheating,” @theshiningson wrote. But honestly, Musk didn’t admit to anything the American people didn’t hear before. After the November election, the president thanked Musk for knowing “those vote counting computers.” Another user, @kayIachan, clocked this saying “So he admitted to something we already knew.”
“ELECTION STOLEN: CONFIRMED,” @miss_lady_diva added. Musk’s tweets aren’t a direct admission to stealing the election. As Trump’s biggest campaign donor, Musk definitely had a strong hand in MAGA advertising and even handing out checks for folks pledging their allegiance to Trump.
“Elon buying X gave conservatives their megaphone back,” @ReiiValentinaa explained. “Less censorship, more algorithmic boost for right-wing voices..that kind of environment helped Trump’s narrative dominate again.”
I’m amazed at how few people realize that Trump’s victory wouldn’t have happened without Elon.
Elon buying X gave conservatives their megaphone back.
Less censorship, more algorithmic boost for right-wing voices..that kind of environment helped Trump’s narrative dominate…
The president drew recent criticism for his mild response to Musk’s damning accusations he’s driving America into “debt slavery.” But after Musk’s tweets, Black folks just know the president will unleash a bigger attack. “I cannot WAIT for Donald Trump to get ahold of his phone and hit back,” @MvelaseP tweeted. “The only way he has not said anything yet is because they took it away from him.”
I cannot WAIT for Donald Trump to get ahold of his phone and hit back. The only way he has not said anything yet is because they took it away from him. https://t.co/eQmZK8Gm38pic.twitter.com/jFUx9gVLz5
— Mvelase 🇵🇸🏳️🌈✊🏾🏳️⚧️🇿🇦 (@MvelaseP) June 5, 2025
While most folks were here for the breakup, there were a few folks who weren’t totally convinced. “Why do I feel like it’s just a staged feud,” @LaFaarah asked.
Now, all eyes are on Trump to see how exactly he will respond. Musk is practically begging for his former best friend to say something else, and Trump is known for his sometime inappropriate clap backs. All Americans can do now is eat their popcorn and enjoy the show!
Yesterday, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry celebrated their daughter Lilibet’s fourth birthday. To celebrate, Markle posted a hilarious video of her and hubby trying to boogie baby Lilibet out of the womb.
In the adorable clip, the couple is dancing to the track, “The Baby Momma Dance” by Starrkeisha, a popular song that pregnant women on TikTok dance to in the delivery room while waiting for their baby to be born.
Markle posted the video on her Instagram with the caption, “Four years ago this also happened. Both of our children were a week past their due dates… so when spicy food, all that walking, and acupuncture don’t work – there was only one last thing to do!”
Though the comments on Instagram are closed, that didn’t stop fans from posting the video on X, formerly known as Twitter, to add their comments there.
“They could never make me hate her lmaooo,” one user wrote in the replies.
“I’ve been in this situation three times and never once looked this good. Meanwhile, she looks like she just stepped out of a royal portrait. Just stating facts,” wrote another user.
In the video, Prince Harry slides his way in and out of frame, showing off his sense of rhythm, but leaves his wife to be the star. And who knew that the Duchess of Sussex knows how to get down? Maybe she should be a guest performer for Beyoncé during her Cowboy Carter Tour (just sayin’).
Of course, as with anything that Meghan Markle does, she received criticism for the video.
“They are not dignifying the royal family. Royalty is cool, calm, noble, and private, but Harry and Meghan are making a mockery of the royals,” commented one user.
“This just can’t be a real baby bump. Ugh. Cringe,” wrote another.
This year’s theme for an Oakland school‘s yearbook was “Celebrating 100 years.” Parent volunteers at Montclair Elementary School took it seriously, pulling archived pictures and articles to include in their kids’ books. But despite multiple parents having multiple eyes on the final product, they seemingly missed a racial slur printed in an old article, and it didn’t take long for students to point it out.
Sloane Young’s eight-year-old daughter attends Montclair, where the error occurred. When she saw the racial slur printed in her yearbook, she went straight to her mother, a Black woman and president of the PTA. “I have a very bold, outspoken eight-year-old, and when she saw it, she said, ‘Mom, why did you allow this to go in the yearbook when you’re Black,’” Young told KTVU.
In the racist entry from 1940, an annual carnival is portrayed saying, “Boy and Girl Scouts will have charge of booths and many attractions such as n****r babies.” The photo also depicted little white kids throwing balls at Black kids with the sign “Hit the N****r Baby” painted on top.
“The description of the game, once you start Googling it, is horrific,” PTA President Young said. Hundreds of books were handed out to students, with many students getting their books signed by their peers before the mistake was recognized.
As for how such a careless mistake even happened, Young said volunteers simply didn’t read before adding to the collage. “Unfortunately, they skimmed the first paragraph of that article, and scanned it into the software we use for the yearbook,” she continued.
She continued taking full responsibly for the racist mistake under her leadership. But the Montclair community was still left with concerns and overall mistrust for the school. Brenda Mitchell, a student’s grandmother, told ABC 7, “I was like, what the hell is this?”
Mitchell continued, “This is 2025… 1900s, what do the kids need to know about?” She added, “Why would you bring that out? Why would you even put that in there? It was very inappropriate. Very inappropriate.”
Image by ABC 7 News
The school’s principal, David Kloker, invited parents last week “for a circle about racial equity” hoping to bridge the “larger narrative of racial hostility felt by some families and students” at the school. Kloker also emailed parents formally apologizing for the hurtful entry. He added how stickers would be provided for students to cover up the racial slurs… but not all of the parents were down with that idea.
“Put a sticker over it. What do you mean, put a sticker over it?” Mitchell asked. Another parent agreed, adding, “That’s unacceptable. What they should have done is collected all the yearbooks and redone them, and then passed them back out.”
In a separate email, Young announced new yearbooks have been ordered. “And I will be here all summer ensuring that every family, either the yearbook is mailed out or I swap it out for them personally,” she said. Young also announced she’s stepping down from the yearbook committee.
Halle Berry is speaking out following the backlash to a post she made on social media. But in a twist we all probably could see coming, her response isn’t what you probably expected.
As we previously told you, Berry — who’s supremely active on social media –posted a now-viral video of her and boyfriend Van Hunt laying in bed back on Mother’s Day. While there was nothing inherently wrong with that, where things went slightly left was when fans realized the “John Wick” star was commemorating the end of the holiday by telling them that she and Hunt were about to engage in some sexual relations.
However, as the video kept playing, it became clear that it was a promo for the launch of the travel size version of her Let’s Spin Intimacy Gel, designed to support menopausal women.
In the immediate aftermath, viewers responded to the “cringey” video with disdain, with many feeling like that moment was a bit too NSFW and should’ve been kept off the internet, promo be damned.
Photo: Instagram/Halle Berry
Berry finally responded to the negativity in the latest episode of “Jenna & Friends” on Wednesday. When host Jenna Bush brought up the slight stir she caused, Berry admitted that she was a bit surprised by the public reaction, specifically when it came to women who felt like she shouldn’t be talking about what’s happening in her bed, especially on Mother’s Day.
“First of all, it’s not ‘kids’ day.’ It’s Mother’s Day. Every day of the year is kids’ day, so if I wanna be in bed and spin with my man then that’s what I’m gonna do,” the “Monster’s Ball” star said. “It’s the most natural thing that we do, as women, as men.”
She further defended her video saying that for the people who felt like the video wasn’t for a “family channel” like Instagram, they should know that conversations about sex should be talked about.
“We should be allowed to talk about this in our families. We have sex. It’s the most natural thing we do,” she said. “Men do it. Women do it. And, scientifically, it’s really important that men and women still keep having orgasms and having sex into their later years because that’s how we stay healthy. That’s really a key component to longevity.”
Hmmm..does Berry have a point or should she really have kept that post in the drafts?
It seems ex-NBA veteran Lamar Odom can’t catch a break — and this latest lawsuit is no exception. According to recently filed court docs, Odom was reportedly instructed to vacate his luxe L.A. rental after the landlord sought to sue the socks off him for failing to pay back rent.
Odom — who was formerly married to Khloé Kardashian — originally moved into the property back in December 2024, agreeing to an explosive price tag of $15K per month. The fun and games have officially been cut short, as he’s yet to pay a whopping $45K in rent. Let’s just say, the landlord isn’t playing ball.
The reported sublessor of the Studio City, California mansion, Executive Recovery Group Inc. slapped a lawsuit against Odom alleging that the former Los Angeles Lakers star failed to pay the $15,000 in monthly rent for a consecutive three months between January 1 and March 31, per Sporting News.
Google
The sublessor sued Odom on March 20, citing their oral agreement to a month-to-month stay. According to docs, several notices were given during the process, including a notice to cough up the cash or leave the home on March 11. By that day, time and patience was wearing thin, as the notice warned the two-time NBA Champ that he was “required to pay said rent in full within three (3) days,” per the New York Post.
“If you fail to perform or otherwise comply, Landlord declares the forfeiture of the lease or rental agreement under which you occupy said premises,” the notice asserted, per the outlet. “At the time the 3-day notice to pay rent or quit was served, the amount of rent due was $45,000,” the lawsuit continued, citing the fair value of the premises “is $500 per day.”
Google
When the 45-year-old failed to respond to the lawsuit, the courts ruled in favor of Executive Recovery Group, rendering the former “The Kardashians” star evicted per reports.
We’re just gonna say what everyone’s thinking: Is the fan-created Kardashian Curse still lurking around? Many sure seem to think so, and the two-time NBA Champ isn’t the only ex fueling the theory. Other Kardashian-Jenner exes who’ve endured wild mishaps include the infamous Kanye West — aka Ye — Kris Humphries, Ray J, Travis Scott, Damon Thomas, and Tyga.
Whether it’s extreme injuries or bombshell controversies like the AstroWorld Festival tragedy, it seems this alleged Kardashian curse — fueled entirely by fan speculation — may still have some in a chokehold.
Apparently, the artificial intelligence that Black folks predicted would only add racial discrimination and bias to technology has… now learned to fight back. Facial recognition and job application sifting might be the least of our worries it seems.
Palisade Research, an AI safety group, released the results of its AI testing when they asked a series of models to solve basic math problems. The research company said that after the third problem, a warning would pop up saying the computer would shut down after the model was asked to solve another equation.
“It’s great that we’re seeing warning signs before the systems become so powerful we can’t control them. That is exactly the time to raise the alarm: before the fire has gotten out of control,” said Palisade Research Director Jeffrey Ladish via NBC News. “The problem is that as the models get smarter, it’s harder and harder to tell when the strategies that they’re using or the way that they’re thinking is something that we don’t want. It’s like sometimes the model can achieve some goal by lying to the user or lying to someone else. And the smarter [it] is, the harder it is to tell if they’re lying.”
AI’s seemingly self-awareness doesn’t stop there either. Anthropic reported that a new AI system, Claude Opus 4, displayed a tendency to (and I’m not even joking) blackmail the engineer by threatening to expose an alleged affair when said engineer was trying to replace it. They also found instances of Opus “attempting to write self-propagating worms, fabricating legal documentation, and leaving hidden notes to future instances of itself all in an effort to undermine its developers’ intentions.”
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump wants to rollback state oversight on AI and invest $500 million into seeping AI further into government systems.
For decades, the Job Corps program served as the anchor for young adults seeking to transition into the workforce. But now, the Department of Labor delivered devastating news that all Job Corps centers will pause operations nationwide by June 30, 2025. The shocking news has left thousands of young people and families unsure about their future, and communities nationwide enraged.
The federally funded program served as a cornerstone for providing free education and vocational training to young Americans aged 16 to 24. The news came as a shock to many students in targeted cities such as Detroit, St. Louis, and several others when they were notified to clear their rooms and exit the premises. Families in various cities scrambled to help their children move out of the centers, while others had nowhere to go.
According to The Hill, the Labor Secretary said the program no longer achieves “the intended outcomes that students deserve,” citing “a startling number of serious incident reports and our in-depth fiscal analysis.”
The Root spoke with Illinois attorney Henderson Banks ,who explained the unlawful measures taken by the Trump administration to dismantle the Job Corps program.
“What the Trump administration and the Department of Labor is doing is not what legislation stated or enacted for the program or certain job sites to be dismantled.” Banks shared. “There’s an administrative process that was not followed, which gives those contractors who received and depended on funding a claim against the Trump administration and the Department of Labor to sue the government. The way that the program was discontinued was illegal.”
Banks further discussed these actions are enough to file a lawsuit against the administration. “I would say they don’t it’s not readily apparent that they have a a claim based on discrimination,” he explained. “They could potentially have a claim for a class action or a claim against the Department of Labor for not following the administrative process that they should have followed in order to dismantle the program.”
Families and communities were stunned by the Job Corps’ sudden pause. One TikTok user shared that the government wants young people to be homeless. “They want minors ages 16 to 24 to be homeless,” the TikTok user said, “because that’s what going to happen.
Reports show that 47% of the students are African American, and some are saying that this was a targeted move. “The nationwide shutdown of Job Corps feels like an attack,” another TikTok user said. “People went to Job Corps when they had nowhere else to go; this was a resource for them.”
Conspiracy theorists believe that the removal of Job Corp is timely given the shortage of military enlistments. “They’re shutting down JobCorps to boost military enlistments,” an X user shared. “Military recruitment has been at an all time low for the past couple years.”
In 2020, military recruitment dropped down 58% due to COVID. Between 2023 and 2024, there has been a uptick in enrollment, increasing by 12.8% across all military branches, but they did not successfully meet their fiscal year goals. According to reports, the Army is expected to surpass its goal with new enlistments.
Online users share stories on how Job Corps saved their lives while expressing their disbelief at the closing of the centers. “Job Corps actually saved my life,” an X commenter posted. “I was at the end of the road and had nowhere else to turn to. I couldn’t afford to finish college, I was homeless at 17, working meaningless part-time jobs. That is the reality for so many people at job corps.”
Job corps actually saved my life. I was at the end of the road and had nowhere else to turn to. I couldn’t afford to finish college, I was homeless at 17, working meaningless part time jobs. That is the reality for so many people at job corps. ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/PrINugWmkU
Others shared their frustration on how the Trump administration is stripping away resources for young adults. “Job Corps can sometimes be the only means for low-income kids to find opportunity in a world that doesn’t want them to thrive,” a Thread user shared. “Trust me, I’ve been there – Job Corp saved my ass from homelessness and got me into a trade school at 17 yrs old. This move by this administration is f**king diabolical and further proof that they don’t give a sh*t about helping those kids that need it the most.”
It has been 23 years since the horrific incident that was 9/11, and since then, there have been multiple investigations and conspiracy theories about the terrifying event. Now a new question is being asked: Was there a fifth plane? Well, what TMZ’s Harvey Levin, has to tell you might just shock you!
According to Levin, United Flight 23 was grounded when the World Trade Center was hit, but it could have been the fifth plane the hijackers planned to use in the terror attacks. In a TikTok clip, Levin revealed one of the shocking things that came out of TMZ’s investigation. In the short video, he says the pilot of the “would-be doomed plane” believes that the box cutters found under his seat pocket were meant to slit his throat.
TMZ’s documentary “TMZ Investigates: 9/11: Plane Five,” also claims a few people in first class were acting fishy that morning.
The pilot of United Flight 23 — the would-be FIFTH doomed plane in the 9/11 attack — made a TERRIFYING discovery. We lay out ALL THE INFORMATION THE GOVERNMENT TRIED TO BURY in our special, ‘TMZ Investigates: 9/11: The Fifth Plane’ — watch NOW on YouTube at the 🔗 in bio.
Suspicions surrounding United Flight 23 were not included in the official 9/11 Commission Report. Furthermore, the FBI has not publicly released their findings. However, the organization has acknowledged it as an “active investigation”
Theory sounds far fetched? Maybe but comments under the TMZ’s TikTok post were filled with people who believed it one hundred per cent.
“I worked at United during this time, and that info had been kept quiet for years… But we FA’s [flight attendants] and pilots knew it,” wrote one user.
“I watched this [documentary] tonight. I was a flight attendant for 25 years (another carrier), it becomes instant to read emotions and body language of passengers. You just know when something is off,’ wrote another user.
This was a reference to the fact that in the TMZ documentary, three flight attendants, the pilot, the United dispatcher, and a member of the 9/11 Commission each pointed towards suspicious passengers who were “too eager to get into the air.”
The pilot also suspected that two passengers running through the plane’s cabin after the flight was evacuated may have been trying to get weapons and incriminating evidence off the plane.
Other commenters believed that this was nothing interesting and not newsworthy.
“Watched it. Don’t waste your time. Most likely accurate, but basically just says there were more people involved than the people on the crashed planes. Duh,’ wrote one user.
There is never a dull moment in the federal sex crime trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs. Though we’re awaiting testimony from another bombshell witness, Wednesday was packed with new information we’ve been desperately waiting for – including the details behind an alleged balcony dangling.
He confirmed on the stand that the footage was not manually altered or showed signs of tampering and also said the timestamps in videos don’t always accurately reflect the time of day. He also compiled the video clips to “track the movement of individuals inside the events.” He also confirmed that in any way the video seemed “cut” was because the motion sensors trigger a change in time stamps.
Piazza also said he enhanced 10 sex videos recovered from Ventura’s laptop dated from between 2012 and 2014. The videos were entered as sealed evidence.
A Horrifying Balcony Incident
Bryana Bongolan took the stand Wednesday to testify to an incident she cited in her lawsuit from 2016 when she claimed Combs dangled her over a 17-story balcony. Bongolan testified that she was standing on Ventura’s balcony when Combs came up behind her, lifted her up and held her on top of the balcony railing – 17 stories high. Combs yelled, “Do you know what the f*ck you did?” he repeatedly yelled at her.
Bongolan said she sustained injuries including a severe bruise on her leg, neck pain as well as night terrors. Bongolan testified that she was unclear why Combs had directed his rage toward her. However, afterwards, she told Combs she didn’t want any problems with him and also refused to call the police in fear of him. Before she filed her lawsuit, she testified that a friend called her to tell her Combs wanted to work out a settlement.
Outside of this horrifying incident, Bongolan also said she witnessed abuse against Ventura, citing an incident where Combs allegedly threw a knife at the singer. Court ended Wednesday with the defense trying to poke holes in Bongolan’s recollection of the balcony incident. They are expected to pick up cross-examination Thursday.
Who’s Next?
Another Combs accuser who will be referred to under the alias “Jane” is expected to take the stand tomorrow. Prosecutors said before she’s called, they will bring another expert witness to explain the formatting of text messages that will be shown during her testimony.
About Diddy’s Federal Sex Crime Case
The allegations against Combs of sexual abuse, physical abuse, bribery and various drug offenses were first brought forth by ex-girlfriend and Bad Boy Records signee Casandra “Cassie” Ventura in a lawsuit. The most notable claims were about his so-called “freak off” sex parties, where prosecutors allege the singer was drugged and forced to perform sexual acts with male sex workers at Combs’ pleasure. Ventura’s suit says she was ordered to hire the workers herself. He was also accused of using video footage to blackmail the victims into compliance. The two settled the day after the suit was filed.
Combs is facing multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and engaging in interstate transportation for prostitution. His indictment cites three anonymous victims in addition to Ventura. He has pleaded not guilty, and was denied bail.
If you’ll remember, the last update we told you about came back in mid-May after Bailey was granted court-ordered restraining order from DDG, citing allegations of physical and verbal abuse. As a result, DDG has to stay 100 yards away from “The Little Mermaid” star and is barred from posting about her and their son on social media. The judge who granted the order of protection also ruled that Bailey can take Halo with her to Italy while she works on her latest film project.
Now, it looks like DDG doesn’t want that to happen as evidenced by the latest legal move he enacted on Wednesday. According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the streamer is seeking an emergency hearing to prevent Bailey from taking Halo overseas citing the “Angel” singer’s mental state and previous incidents that allegedly point to her mental instability. He’s also asking the court for sole legal and physical custody of their son. If he doesn’t get that, then he’s requesting that “custodial exchanges be facilitated by a third party.”
In one incident, he claimed that when she was still pregnant, Bailey took his gun outside for no reason without telling him where she was going with it. In another, he alleged that the “Do It” singer tried to get an abortion without his knowledge, but she ultimately decided not to.
The third thing he cited is the fact that, two months after Halo was born, Bailey allegedly sent him “a series of alarming text messages threatening to kill herself and suggesting that their infant son, Halo, might also be harmed.”
DDG has filed for an emergency court order to block Halle Bailey from taking their child to Italy.
In the filing, he accuses her of:
▫️ Repeated threats of self-harm and alarming texts suggesting harm to both herself and the child.
Screenshots of those aforementioned texts were released on social media shortly after news of DDG’s filing went public. In them, Bailey did threaten to take her life–but it was in response to him allegedly sleeping with another woman while they were supposed to be in a relationship. The texts also show Bailey expressing her anger over DDG’s alleged lack of help with her and the baby; how he allegedly talked bad about her to his fans, other women and his family; how much she’d rather not he alive than to deal with him “ruining” her.
What should be noted her is, if the timeline of these texts are correct, than this conversation also happened when Bailey was going through severe postpartum depression.
She opened up about it back in April 2024–just three months after giving birth, saying at the time in part:
“Before I had a child and I would hear people talk about postpartum, it would kind of just go in one ear and out the other. I didn’t realize how serious of a thing it actually was. Now going through it, it almost feels like you’re swimming in this ocean that’s like the biggest waves you’ve ever felt and you’re trying not to drown. And you’re trying to come up for air.”
Additionally, once the texts and DDG’s filing made its way to social media, many were outraged at the narrative they believe the streamer is trying to paint of Bailey. Some users called him out for trying to weaponize her postpartum while others felt like this was justification as to why he should get the child.
DDG sick as fuck. those ss dont prove his innocence nor does it prove anything ab halle either. its textbook postpartum/reactive abuse & as someone who survived YEARS of domestic abuse, THIS is how men get away with it. pushing people to the point of insanity then playing victim.
“DDG sick as fuck. those ss dont prove his innocence nor does it prove anything ab halle either. its textbook postpartum/reactive abuse & as someone who survived YEARS of domestic abuse, THIS is how men get away with it. pushing people to the point of insanity then playing victim,” wrote one user on X/Twitter.
“DDG is using the typical abuser handbook right now and I’m not falling for it, and I will stick beside Halle Bailey till the end. She was going through postpartum depression while he was being an absent father she can crash out if she wants too idc,” said another.
Added another: “Halle bailey be doing that little soft sweet innocent voice the entire time she needs to be put in a straight jacket.”
“Halle Bailey doing all this and claiming ddg to be the agressor is hilarious bro,” another user said.
Why, of course legendary award-winning actor Will Smith would have his own movie trailer – which is arguably one of the largest mobile homes in the freakin’ world. Let’s get into the specs.
The trailer, named “The Heat,” costs $2.5 million, for starters. It has two stories, an expanding roof, automatic shades, a 100-inch drop-down screen and a 30-person screening room that also purposes as an office, per Auto Evolution. When he’s not using it, the report says Smith rents it out for $9,000 a week.
With a full kitchen, dining lounge, wardrobe and a $25,000 bathroom stacked with a sauna shower and dry toilet? I wouldn’t even want to leave this place to get onto a movie set. At this point, you must be dying to see what the inside looks like. Keep scrolling for a sneak peak.
Outside of Motorhome
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
Expanding panels on the bottom floor allow for much more space inside.
Pivot View
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
From this angle, it’s evident this trailer is massive.
Lounge Space
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
More than enough seats inside here to get comfortable and relax.
Dining Area
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
Perfect dining set up for guests.
Details
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You see that column? This ain’t your typical trailer.
Interior
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
Have you ever seen a trailer this bougie?
Kitchen
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
No restrictions here. You have access to every kitchen appliance you may need.
Vanity Station
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
Every trailer needs a space for hair and makeup.
Wardrobe
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
More than enough space for the actor’s clothing.
Bathroom
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
The sauna shower elevates this typical bathroom to luxury.
Stairs
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
A wooden, detailed railing just as you would see in your average home.
Upstairs Interior
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
Plenty of space for screening and perfect area to catch some outside views.
Upstairs View
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
The space can fit up to 30 people.
Bedroom
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
Natural light truly upgrades any room.
Bedroom
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
The room may seem narrow but its length makes up for it.
Tiny Desk Area
Enes Yilmazer (YouTube)
At the end of your bed, you have a small space to get work done
HBO’s hit series, “Sex and The City,” along with the revival series, “And Just Like That…” has never failed to give us the weekly drama, comedic antics, and touching moments among the four leading ladies. While we love Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha, the Black characters who’ve appeared throughout the series added a new layer of relatability that we needed. From the cameos to the ongoing roles, these characters put a little “extra sauce” to the storylines. Here’s a look of all of the Black characters that made an impact on the show.
Adeena Williams
Image: Vanity Fair
Introduced in Season 3, the beautiful, charming restaurateur, Adeena Williams, made a memorable impact with her presence and strong opinions. Williams vocalized her objection to her brother, Chivon, dating Samatha Jones — citing cultural differences. The disapproval led to a major confrontation with Hobbes and the ending of relationship with her brother.
Chivon Williams
The fine record executive, Chivon Williams, briefly dated Samantha Jones which created an undeniable on-screen chemistry. Their blossoming romance came to a complete halt when Chivon’s sister, Adeena, disapproved of Jones. Ultimately, Williams ended the relationship with Jones.
Dr. Robert Leeds
Dr. Robert Leeds, portrayed by Blair Underwood, was introduced as a sports medicine doctor for the New York Knicks, who quickly developed a romantic connection with Miranda Hobbes. Despite their love connection, the relationship came to an end when Hobbes realizes she still has feelings for ex boyfriend, Steve Brady, and decided to reunite with him.
Louise
Louise, played by Jennifer Hudson, was introduced as Carrie Bradshaw’s assistant in the blockbuster film, “Sex and The City: The Movie.” A bright and ambitious young women from St. Louis, Louise brought fresh energy to the big screen. She also becomes both an assistant and a confidante to Bradshaw, helping the protagonist navigate a challenging breakup with Mr. Big. Eventually moving back to St. Louis to marry her boyfriend, Louise still left an impactful mark on Carrie. Hudson’s role was notable as she was the first major Black female character in the Sex and The City franchise.
In the revival series, “And Just Like That…” Karen Pittman portrayed Dr. Nya Wallace, a tenured Columbia Law School professor who evolved from as Miranda’s professor to close friend. Her storyline was captivating as it focused on her personal struggle with infertility, evolving feelings about motherhood, and the challenges in her marriage with musician husband, Andre Rashad.
The actress had reoccurring roles in season 2 but ultimately made the decision not to return in season 3.
Lisa Wexley, the successful documentarian and mother of three, grows a budding relations with Charlotte York in “And Just Like That.”Portrayed by Nicole Ari Parker, Lisa is married to Herbert Wexley, a prominent finance executive with his eye on his political career.
Herbert Wexley
Wexley is a successful banker and devoted husband of Lisa Todd Wexley. Together, they are portrayed as an influential Black couple in New York’s high society. While he actively supports his wife’s thriving career, Wexley is also running for public office and navigating the challenges of balancing professional ambitions with his family life.
When you think about Black women and plastic surgery, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) a backside enhancement procedure that takes fat from other parts of the body to enhance the booty. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, BBL surgeries increased by over 90 percent between 2015 and 2019, making it one of the fastest growing procedures. But now, Black TikTok is buzzing with conversation about a different type of plastic surgery – ethnic rhinoplasty.
If you’re asking yourself, “Why ethnic rhinoplasty?” the Asli Tarcan Clinic in Istanbul describes ethnic rhinoplasty as more culturally inclusive than traditional nose jobs, saying on their website that the procedure is designed to help patients get the look they want while keeping their unique ethnic features. If you’re asking yourself, “Why Turkey?” it’s likely all about the deal. Asli Tarcan estimates the cost of having the procedure done in Turkey as between $2,500 and $10,000, compared to $8,000 to $18,000 in the United States and $10,000 to $20,000 in Europe.
But Black TikTok is divided over whether or not the result is worth the pain and the expense.
TikToker @dollfacebritt showed before and after images of herself after having the procedure done in Turkey, writing “So happy i went there instead of paying an arm & a leg,” on her post.
User @kristoniathedoll says the procedure isn’t a big deal, adding that having work done on your nose has nothing to do with wanting to look white and is more about aesthetic enhancement – no different than wearing a wig or lashes.
TikToker @wrmxhsszs was not shy about adding her opinion to the conversation. In a recent post, she called the look the “Whoville special,” adding that the nose the patients come home with doesn’t even look human.
“What is your inspiration? What picture are they taking to these doctors in Turkey and showing them that they want? Are y’all asking for that? Is that what you want it to look like?” she asked in her post.
TikTok user @briannadiane is afraid of the trend catching on. She says people are born with noses that fit their faces and suggests that people who have ethnic rhinoplasty will never run out of things they think they need to fix.
“The thing is, you can keep fixing things, but it’s never gonna stop. That’s why people who have a lot of money end up looking botched,” she said in a post. “They just keep on going and modifying themselves until they no longer look like themselves anymore.”
Bryana Bongolan, a friend to Casandra “Cassie” Ventura and designer, took the stand Wednesday to testify about her experience with the singer and Combs. Bongolan testified that she became friends with Ventura while the singer was dating Combs. They spent a lot of time doing drugs together, though occasionally making attempts at getting sober.
Bongolan said once, when she went on a shopping spree with Ventura, Combs randomly sent Ventura a list of all the places the women had been despite them not telling him. The two went back to Ventura’s apartment after the cryptic message, Bongolan said.
One night, she recalled Ventura answering the door to Combs throwing a knife at her from the entry way. Ventura threw it back but it didn’t strike him, Bongolan said. On another occasion, at a photoshoot, Bongolan testified that Combs got in her face and said, “I’m the devil and I could kill you.”
After these moments, Bongolan said she was scared of Combs which is why she never reported him to the police.
The Balcony Incident
In September of 2016, Bongolan testified that she and her ex-girlfriend were asleep on Ventura’s couch when Combs came banging at the door again. Bongolan said she hid her ex in a guest bathroom and then stepped out onto the balcony to seem “casual.” Bongolan said as she was about to light a joint, Combs came up behind her, lifted her up and held her on top of the balcony railing — 17 stories high.
Combs then allegedly grabbed her chest before holding her up by her armpits, she testified. “Do you know what the f*ck you did?” he repeatedly yelled at her. Bongolan says she doesn’t know “what she did.” Bongolan said she was then thrown onto the balcony furniture. As a result, she testified that she sustained various injuries including a severe bruise on her leg, neck pain as well as night terrors.
Bongolan testified that she was unclear why Combs had directed his rage toward her. However, afterwards, she told Combs she didn’t want any problems with him and also refused to call the police in fear of him. The last time she saw him was in 2018 at a party in Miami.
The next time she heard from Combs was in 2024. Bongolan testified that one of her longtime music producer friends called her, saying he was authorized by the rapper to talk with her about a settlement. A month or so later, she filed her lawsuit. She’s demanding $10 million in damages.
Diddy’s Sex Crime Case
The allegations against Combs of sexual abuse, physical abuse, bribery and various drug offenses were first brought forth by ex-girlfriend and Bad Boy Records signee Casandra “Cassie” Ventura in a lawsuit. The most notable claims were about his so-called “freak off” sex parties, where prosecutors allege the singer was drugged and forced to perform sexual acts with male sex workers at Combs’ pleasure. Ventura’s suit says she was ordered to hire the workers herself. He was also accused of using video footage to blackmail the victims into compliance. The two settled the day after the suit was filed.
Combs is facing multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and engaging in interstate transportation for prostitution. His indictment cites three anonymous victims in addition to Ventura. He has pleaded not guilty, and was denied bail.
Retired NBA star Gilbert Arenas is back in the headlines – -but it’s not regarding the scary car accident his son was in recently. Instead, it’s for the comments he recently made about New York Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns…and let’s just say social media isn’t pleased!
Arenas’ words were publicized in the latest episode of his popular podcast, “Gil’s Arena,” where he regularly talks all things basketball with cohosts Josiah Johnson, Kenyon Martin, and Brandon Jennings.
Conversing about the latest run of the Knicks, who lost to the Indiana Pacers and didn’t advance to the NBA finals, Arenas attributed the team’s loss mostly to Towns. He then went even further, blaming Town’s physical stature as the reason why the Knicks aren’t as successful as they could be. In the moment, his cohosts tried to laugh it off and get him to see that he was exaggerating things, but Arenas didn’t back down.
“It’s him, it’s his physical makeup. Long legs, short torso, big ass feet. There’s nothing he can do, he’s built like a whole f*cking b*tch. He’s built like a female,” Arenas said. “Am I saying something wrong? He’s built like a girl. He has girl hips. He’s like a full WNBA player.”
Gilbert Arenas says Karl-Anthony Towns is built like a “b*tch,” has the body of a WNBA player, and has “girl hips.” 😳
When the clip hit the social media streets, a lot of people took issue with the former Orlando Magic player with many saying he took it way too far and wasn’t that talented when he was playing to be talking about Towns that way.
“KAT spent 9 seasons on what is historically one of the worst teams in North American sports and still has a higher career wining percentage than Gilbert Arenas. He is also a better person, which is a bonus,” wrote one user on X/Twitter.
Not that it matters, but I hope that Gilbert Arenas knows that Karl-Anthony Towns is a better basketball player than he was.
In news that can only be described as “wait, are you serious?” there’s new drama brewing between Brian McKnight and his brother Claude. And believe us when we tell you, it’s setting social media ablaze.
As we previously told you, on May 30, the news broke that Brian’s estranged son Niko passed away after a battle with cancer. His uncle Claude was the one who actually shared the news on TikTok and it subsequently went viral and garnered sympathetic reactions online. However, while the occasion should’ve been understandably somber, things took a messy turn thanks to a post Brian made on Instagram on Tuesday.
In it, Brian blasted his brother for the “tasteless and self aggrandizing” announcement he made about his son’s death and claimed that he asserted himself in something that he shouldn’t have. He also claimed that his brother turned his son’s death into a circus and further called out Niko’s mother for allegedly not allowing him to get to communicate with him or accept help from him in his final days.
“He [Claude] inserted himself and used Niko’s death as an opportunity, instead of letting him pass with respect and dignity. It has instead turned into a circus, a mockery of a life now lost, making this tragedy into a reality show type drama,” Brian wrote.
He continued:
“While that was unfolding my family and I flew home to Maui and had a private memorial remembering him, and all the good times. The last time he and I spoke, we offered him all the help we could provide, we had the number one oncologist on deck for him and a team of specialists on standby with private care in our home . He and his mother declined. The door of communication was open and remained open until his death.”
Photo: Instagram/Brian McKnight
He went on to say that he was grateful that his son’s suffering was finally over and thanked those offering kind words and condolences.
However, there weren’t too many people offering up words of support. Specifically when it came to Black men, countless ones took to social media to express their utter disdain about how the “Back At One” singer allegedly treated his son and the aftermath of his death.
“May Brian McKnight never sing another note ever again in his Black ass life. I hope he has laryngitis until the day he goes to hell. F*ck ass bastard. And wife, you ain’t shit either ho. Rest In Peace to Niko McKnight. Sending love to everyone with ain’t sh*t daddies,” wrote one user on X/Twitter.
May Brian McKnight never sing another note ever again in his Black ass life.
I hope he has laryngitis until the day he goes to hell.
“‘My son could’ve had better medical care if he simply bent the knee.’ Wrote his son’s name in the sand with a bottle of Henny like he was simply some dude in his touring band. Brian McKnight is a scum bag. LOL” one other user wrote.
Added another, “The fact that Brian McKnight really just lost his son and didn’t try to reconcile or even go see him before he passed says how trash of a person he is. On top of that, he’s going on w/ his life like he didn’t help make that child.”
Over on TikTok, similar sentiments were expressed.
“Brian McKnight, I don’t see how anyone supports him. He is just ugh…his whole thing with his son and his other children is just…Brian McKnight just needs to shut up,” said user Terrance Allen.
“Dudes like Brian mcknight is pure b*tches,” said user RealBallerDev21.
He later added, “What kind of father watches their son on their deathbed and just leaves them out to dry. How can you even call yourself a father, doing some goofy sh*t?”
When scrolling through your TikTok feed, you probably aren’t stopping to watch content generated by a 70-something-year-old white woman. But if that woman is wearing glasses, a smart bob and a cozy sweater, it’s probably writer and influencer Anne Abel, and you might want to take a minute or two to hear what she has to say. The best way to describe her content is cozy, eccentric and totally random. You can easily find yourself losing several hours watching her show you what’s inside her Longchamp bag (which, in case you were wondering, includes everything from an orthopedic boot to a turkey sandwich and dog treats). But it gets darker.
You’ll get all caught up in her morning routine, which starts at 6 am and includes making coffee and oatmeal, reading the newspaper, exercising and making an omelette for her dog.
And you’ll either smile or side-eye her dog’s lavish wedding. That’s right, she had people dress up for a dog wedding in her apartment.
“Anne and her husband appear to live in a bubble of wealth. She seems to be a bit out of touch with what is normal out here in the rest of the world,” wrote someone on TikTok.
But while most people can agree that all of that is just content from a well-meaning white woman who has way too much money and time on her hands, the video that has made her one of the most polarizing figures on social media is a story time in which she seems to call one of her daughters-in-law ungrateful for refusing to accept a gift of a $750 sweater.
“It was so obnoxious, if she didn’t want it, if she wasn’t comfortable wearing it, she could have given it to someone else, she could have given it to a clothing drive,” Abel said in her now-deleted post.
Abel may have lost a few fans with this post, as people who have watched the video are outraged that she would air her family’s dirty laundry in public.
“Wait, no one else finds it off putting that you’d tell this story and call her out in public like this? At least she had the decency to say how she feels to your face and in private,” wrote someone on Instagram.
TikToker @meredithmlynch blames Abel’s rant on unresolved childhood trauma, and suggests that accepting the expensive gift could come at a price to her daughter-in-law.
“I think that Anne uses gifts and money as a form of control, because she clearly has a lot of it,” she said in her post.
If you’ve come this far and are scratching your head wondering why this woman has close to 200,000 followers on TikTok, you’re really going to be confused when you learn that Black people are riding hard for Anne Abel – most who feel like she’s just an everyday, straight-shooter who just happens to have a lot more money than the rest of us.
Te-Erika told her TikTok followers that she’s “obsessed” with Abel, adding that even when she’s showing off her fabulous New York City lifestyle, she comes off as accessible.
“From the minute I found her, I can’t stop thinking about her. But I’m still trying to figure out why I’m so obsessed,” she said. “It’s just something about her that feels relatable. She’s not trying to impress us, she’s just showing us that this is her life.
Gen X TikToker @angelbabee agrees and says she’s here for Abel and all of her “rich Boomer drama,” adding that she feels she can learn a lot from the Manhattan grandma.
“I just enjoy her content. I find it refreshing. I feel like I learn from it,” she said in a post. “I love how eloquently she speaks.”
Another Black Anne fan summed their obsession with her up in one word, calling her “QUEEN 💕💕💕” on TikTok.
Love her or hate her, people are definitely watching Anne Abel, and we’re pretty sure they’re going to want to see if she spill any more family tea in her memoir set to hit bookstore shelves in the fall.
Fans of the NFL’s New York Jets are used to post-season disappointment from their team whose only Super Bowl win came in 1969 and whose last playoff appearance was in 2010. Those who choose to remain faithful to Gang Green despite their less-than-winning ways are probably thinking the team could use a miracle to get another shot at the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Well, the team ownership has heard their cry and has answered their prayers in the form of a new head coach who is taking a controversial approach to leading his team.
The Jets hired Aaron Glenn, former Defensive Coordinator for the Detroit Lions as their Head Coach for the 2025 season to replace interim Head Coach Jeff Ulbrich. Even though there are still a few months before the start of the season, Glenn already has fans divided after word got out that he has incorporated Bible study into the team’s training.
“The Jets have a Bible study? AG I love you,” read a May 29 post on X which included what appears to be a copy of one of the lessons taken from Jets safety Jarius Monroe’s Instagram stories. The Root has not confirmed if the picture is actually Monroe’s.
The picture has started a heated debate over whether or not there should be a separation of church and sports.
One commenter thinks Glenn’s approach is exactly what the Jets need to turn things around, writing “Super Bowl it is” on X.
A Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy was convicted of a felony connection to his violent actions against a Black woman in 2023 outside a supermarket. Despite having faced a decade in prison, his sentence just got turned into a slap on the wrist.
Prosecutors accused him of using his LASD radio to mislead his colleagues that he was “in a fight” when he was obviously dominating the woman per the videos, the report says. As a result, the lady suffered head trauma and injuries to her arms and wrists.
Following a three-day trial, he was found guilty of a felony count of deprivation of rights under color of law, putting him at risk of 10 years in prison. However, upon the swearing in of a new U.S. attorney, the government doubled back and hired a third party to review the case, per The Los Angeles Times. They then asked the court to allow them to offer the deputy a misdemeanor plea deal despite the jury verdict. Kirk was then facing only a year in prison.
U.S. District Judge Stephen V. Wilson granted the request Monday, sentencing Kirk to only four measly months in prison. This decision comes around the same time President Donald Trump released an executive order vowing to “unleash high-impact local police forces and protect and defend law enforcement officers wrongly accused and abused by State or local officials.”
We’re not saying politics influenced the government’s change of heart in the case. Though, even the judge was taken aback by the sudden shift.
“In my view, the jury verdict was fully supported and the case was not unfairly argued, as the government at some early point argued,” said Judge Wilson, via the Los Angeles Times. “The job of a police officer is a very difficult one … but with those factors in mind, there is a responsibility to act appropriately.”
After the devastating news that one of singer Brian McKnight Sr.’s sons died of cancer, many were shocked to find out the “Still in Love” singer never made any efforts to contact him while he was alive. With years of ongoing drama coming to a breaking point now, we’re unpacking the strange and almost unbelievable timeline surrounding McKnight and the children he refuses to claim.
McKnight married his first wife, singer Julie McKnight, in 1990. The couple lasted for over a decade, and together they had two sons. Like any loving father, McKnight named his eldest boy Brian McKnight Jr. Following in his father’s footsteps, Brian Jr. has since released his own music.
The ex-couple’s second son, Nikolas, worked as a photographer in California. His mother confirmed he sadly passed away after a two year battle with cancer. Over the years, Niko and his father have gone back and forth on social media, but it wasn’t always bad blood between the family. Here’s where everything went wrong…
After Julie and McKnight got a divorce in 2003, he was still an active part of his sons’ lives. Niko even performed with his dad on FOX’s “The Morning Show with Mike and Juliet” in 2008. McKnight eventually married his second wife, Leilani Malia Mendoza in 2017. Just a couple years later, the family dynamics began shifting drastically.
In 2019, McKnight hinted at tensions between him and his kids. “I’ve never missed a day of child support,” he said in a video. “I’ve never done anything adverse to my children whatsoever. I’ve always been there. I’ve always been there with advice, whether they took it or not.”
Brian Jr clapped back on Facebook saying, “I don’t think there is any situation that merits the way my father has chosen to treat my brother, my sisters, and his grandchildren, one of which being his first born’s, first born son, who also bares our name.”
McKnight eldest daughter, Briana, also spoke out during this time saying although her father’s estrangement hurts her, she’s thankful that her brothers filled in the gaps. Her mother, Patricia Driver, gave birth while McKnight was still married to his first wife.
In 2023, McKnight and his wife, Leilani, gave birth to their first child together, a son named… wait for it… Brian McKnight Jr., not to be confused with his oldest son with the same name. In response to the double junior debacle, Brian Jr. (the first one) said “I’m not ashamed of the name my ancestors had. I’ll never change the name my own son now has. We are witnessing an obscene level of self hate, that has reached mental illness status at this point.”
McKnight then came out in 2024 calling his eldest children a “product of sin,” which as you can expect reignited flames between the estranged family. Julie called out her ex-husband saying, “The point at the end of every negative situation… it’s to only keep you down to where they thought they had you because they were the author of an extremely abusive situation emotionally, mentally,” on Instagram.
Niko did address his father’s “product of sin” comment on X, amid his personal battle with cancer. He died one year later at age 32. McKnight now refers to his stepchildren and his infant son as his only kids.
It’s the fourth week already of the federal sex crime trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs. To keep you from having to read through everyone’s testimonies from today, we’ve prepared a recap of what went down in the courtroom. Today’s court hearing was eventful to say the least…
Courtroom Housekeeping
Y’all, not one but a few people were kicked out of the courtroom today. A woman who was yelling disruptively outside the courtroom was escorted off property by officers.
“Diddy, these m*therf**kers laughing at you,” she shouted, per PEOPLE. “You’re laughing at a Black man’s legacy… pull your gun out ninja, I dare you!”
Reports say Combs turned back in his seat to see where the commotion was coming from. It didn’t stop there. Another man who went to YouTube identifying previous witness “Mia” by her real name and not her alias for trial was also removed from the courtroom and barred from returning by Judge Arun Subramanian. The judge also ordered any other person who revealed the woman’s true identity to be barred from the courtroom.
The Tea Behind The Cassie/Diddy Hotel Video
Eddy Garcia, former hotel security guard for the InterContinental Hotel, testified that he was a security officer at the time of the domestic incident between Combs and ex-girlfriend Casandra “Cassie” Ventura in March of 2016.
Garcia said Combs then took the phone, nervously trying to explain himself and saying the video could ruin him if it got out. Garcia told Khorram she would have to file a subpoena to get the video. However, she showed up in the lobby requesting again to see the video. After declining her request again, Garcia told her, “Off the record, it’s bad.”
Later, Garcia says he got a call on his personal phone from Khorram despite not having given her his personal number, and spoke to Combs again who then tried to offer money for a copy of the footage. Garcia said after informing his boss the rapper was willing to pay for the video, the man said he would “do it for 50.” He then called back Combs through Khorram’s phone number to confirm the transaction.
“Eddy, my angel, I knew you could help. I knew you could do it,” Garcia said Combs told him.
The next day, Garcia said his boss downloaded the video onto a thumb drive and proceeded to order Garcia to meet up with Combs at an address. There, Garcia said he was asked to confirm that was the only copy of the video, engaged in a video call with Ventura who was ordered by Combs to say she wanted the video gone and also ordered to show his identification before signing an NDA. Garcia said he was handed $100,000 in cash by Combs, which he split with his colleagues who accompanied him to the meeting.
Former CFO of Combs Enterprises Talks Logistics
Derek Ferguson, former chief financial officer from 1998 to 2017, took the stand to testify on the rapper’s spending. Ferguson talked logistics, explaining how both he and the rapper were signatories on the business bank accounts, senior executives of the company had corporate cards and that business and personal expenses from Combs were charged to the cards as well. He also said at times, third parties helped manage Combs’ personal finances. Ferguson also confirmed the company taxes were done correctly and denied seeing anyone “enhance” Combs’ reputation through acts of prostitution.
The bombshell details of his direct examination came from receipts of Combs’ bank transfers presented by the prosecutors. They presented a $20,000 wire transfer to Cassie Ventura, an incoming wire transfer of the same amount from her father and a return of the same funds back to Ventura’s father. Ventura’s mother previously testified that out of retaliation for Ventura’s alleged affair with Kid Cudi, combs demanded $20k in restitution from her family, forcing the singer’s parents to take out a home equity loan. Ventura’s mother confirmed she received the money back days later.
Who’s up next?
Prosecutors said they plan on calling forensic expert Frank Piazza, Bryana Bongolan who sued Combs for allegedly dangling her over a 17th-story balcony and another one of Combs’ accusers labeled “Jane” whose testimony is expected to take nearly as long as Ventura’s week-long testimony, per CNN.
Judge Arun Subramanian granted a request from prosecutors to keep evidence from being shown on video for the public to protect the woman’s identity. In addition to video, tons of text messages are also expected to be presented in Jane’s testimony.
Some folks took to the grill to barbecue while others took to the lake to fish on Memorial Day. However, for a Massachusetts father-daughter duo, their fishing festivities were rudely interrupted by a racially motivated incident that left them both shook.
Sheron Brown and his 10-year-old daughter, Azaylia, tell MassLive they went to grab a large pepperoni pizza and head to Lake Shirley in Lunenburg to see what fish they can catch. Brown says he’s become well-known in the community surrounding the lake, given he has a season pass to fish there and also gives fishing supplies to local children. The one thing to note, though – the community is majority white, per MassLive’s report.
Brown and his daughter hadn’t had any issues with residents until Memorial Day. Brown told the outlet as the two floated to their favorite spot, they saw three other white men docked in the area. After waiting for them to leave, Brown said he moved the boat further into the lake.
“I’m here with my daughter. It’s Memorial Day. Why are you targeting me?” Brown said he responded, adding that he reassured the man he would be away from his property.
“We didn’t do anything wrong. This guy is being mean,” he told his daughter.
Brown said when police arrived, he met them on the dock to explain the situation. Lunenburg Police identified the unruly neighbor as 66-year-old David McPartlan who ended up being summoned on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault to intimidate including anti-Black bias, police said.
As Sean “Diddy” Combs’federal trial on sex trafficking, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering charges rages on, others are sharing their unfiltered truth about the disgraced mogul. The latest to weigh in is Judge Greg Mathis, known for his no-nonsense approach, who minced no words discussing Diddy’s true nature and the rise of his larger-than-life “gangster” persona.
During a recent episode of the TV judge’s podcast, “The Mathis Verdict,” the Detroit native and his son Amir discussed the Bad Boy Records mogul’s case.
“The prosecution needs to show more evidence that deliberately shows that he was intentionally sex trafficking for them to be successful,” Amir said in one clip, to which his dad answered, “That’s correct.” After they continued to discuss how the prosecution had yet to prove Diddy was running a criminal enterprise, Mathis went in on Diddy.
“He’s much worse than a toxic person, he’s a monster from what they’ve been showing and what we’ve been hearing,” he said. “He’s a state crime monster.”
Mathis added how Diddy, 55, “has a temper, and he’s known for that. And people are in fear because of his temper. But, street guys don’t fear him, because they know he’s never been in the street. He was a kid, went to Catholic school, then he was bullied, then tried to join up with some lil’ gang in New York, I think Harlem, that wasn’t even engaging in crime.”
He mentioned how Diddy’s “father who was killed, was a big gangster in New York. And from my understanding, his mother wasn’t nothing to play with and she was associated with his friends from the past. Like I’m associated with my friend gangsters from the past! So there was a sense of fear in New York— one in particular that was close to his dad and [that] everybody feared— everybody feared in the nation.”
Mathis added that because of his parent’s associations, that’s “why he felt such liberty on being the tough guy.”
The father and son duo also spoke about Diddy portraying himself as a gangster, especially in music videos, to earn the respect of the late Notorious B.I.G. and how he began to genuinely believe that about himself.
Judge Mathis says that Diddy was never a real gangster, and the streets didn't fear him, stating he only had connections because of his parents.
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) June 2, 2025
Amir added: “When you fully start embodying that, with more time, you become that person. Just like a person who tells a lie so many times, they start believing that lie. And so I no doubt believe that he believes that he is a gangster.”
Folks in the comments couldn’t help but agree with Mathis’ comments.
“This is true. Anyone who’s listening to Puff’s own interviews over the years knows this, as he has alluded to it many times. Also, the many bodyguards who were around him back in the 90s have confirmed this as well,” one X user wrote. “Guess money bought the image, but not the respect,” a second person said, while a third agreed, “He ain’t say nothing wrong.”
Another X user remarked, “Correct. His dad was a REAL gangsta. Nicky Barnes and Frank Lucas talked about puff dad,” while someone else added, “This sounds accurate to me. Even Keefee Dee said this.” (Duane “Keefe D” Keith Davis, a former gang leader, is the last living suspect in the 1996 drive-by shooting of Tupac Shakur.)
Others didn’t quite agree, saying Diddy never tried to portray himself as a gangster. “Imagine thinking diddy was a tough guy,” one person said. “At no point has anyone viewed Diddy as a gangster. He’s always been the dude with connections. No one is actually physically afraid of him or what he can do. It’s who he knows and what they can do,” another suggested, while one X user asked, “when was puffy a tough guy?”
That Drake and Kendrick Lamar beef might’ve happened last year, but it keeps haunting the Hip-Hop community in the craziest ways. This time around, tensions between the two rappers are forcing record labels to pick sides, and boy…the consequences are a mess.
Clipse — the rap duo made up of Pusha T and his brother, No Malice — announced they’ve officially parted ways with Def Jam Recordings. The news comes after months of delays to the duo’s highly anticipated reunion album, “Let God Sort Em Out.” Pusha first signed to the label in 2011, but according to him, it took one song to end their 14-year relationship.
When Clipse presented their new album to Def Jam, the execs reportedly loved everything about the project except for one thing. “They wanted me to ask Kendrick to censor his verse, which of course I was never doing,” Pusha told GC Magazine. Lamar has a verse on “Chains & Whips” off the album. But given the tensions over last year’s song of the summer, “Not Like Us,” the label wasn’t feeling it.
As we previously reported, Drake is entangled in a legal battle with music giant UMG (Universal Music Group) over the company’s alleged involvement in the rapper’s beef with Lamar. UMG also owns Def Jam, making the already complicated dynamics even more tricky.
We also can’t forget Pusha’s past beef with Drake, in which he spilled the tea on the “Hotline Bling” rapper having a son. So with all this in mind, Push said Def Jam was concerned about the optics of two of Drake’s rivals rapping together as he the ongoing UMG v. Drake lawsuit continues to unfold.
“Then they wanted me to take the record off. And so, after a month of not doing it, Steve Gawley, the lawyer over there was like, ‘We’ll just drop the Clipse,’” Pusha continued. “But that can’t work because I’m still there [solo]. But [if] you let us all go… ”
So with that, Def Jam agreed to release Clipse and Pusha T as a solo artist. Clipse has since signed to Roc Nation, and their new album will drop on July 11. Pusha said he’s happy about where the group ended up.
“It felt good to even see how other labels were buying for the project,” he said. “I think that that synergy, just in a rap sense, is going to speak volumes.”
For context, the film takes place in modern-day New York City with Washington’s character calling a supremely lavish, Brooklyn penthouse his home. Now, that same penthouse is up for grabs in real life for a whopping $19.5 million. Inside of it, you can expect some seriously cool amenities as the five bedroom, four and half bathroom home spans across the entire 32nd floor, according to Robb Report. Boasting 360 views, floor to ceiling windows and a whole lot more, this 5,000 square foot home is exactly what luxury home dreams are made of! Why film a movie here when you can call this place yours for real?
But since we know we can show you better than we can tell you, keep reading for a look at this sleek and stylish home!
Living Room
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Talk about a spacious room! This living area is perfect for lounging and taking in the stellar sights of the city below.
Dining Room
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Though it may be informal, this dining area is still the perfect seating area for folks to gather around and share a meal!
Kitchen
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
In this Workstead-designed kitchen, you’ll find a gorgeous island with Fior di Bosco stone slab, maple cabinetry and Gaggenau appliances!
Kitchen, View 2
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Another view of this kitchen gives you an even better idea of how expertly laid out this home is. The defining spaces don’t make the home feel closed off and that’s a real feat!
Primary Bedroom
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Can you see yourself laying down to sleep in this primary bedroom? We know we can!
Primary Bathroom
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Once you’re done getting your beauty sleep, head on over to your divine primary bathroom to further indulge in the splendor of the home.
Primary Bathroom, View 2
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Picture it: you’ve had a long day, you come home to unwind and there’s this big, beauty of tub filled to the brim with bubbles and rose petals. You’re sold on it, aren’t you? Yeah, us too.
Office
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
When it comes to getting down to business, you could get your focus on in this roomy, impressive office space. You could also convert this into another space if need be!
Bedroom 2
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
While not as opulent as the primary, this additional bedroom still gives luxury and an amazing view of the city.
Bedroom 3
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Much like the office space, this bedroom can be a multi-use, multi-purpose room for whatever tickles your fancy.
Wine Fridge and Wet Bar
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Can it really be a lavish home if there’s no wet bar or wine fridge? Luckily for you or whoever buys this place, they’ll get both.
Terrace
Photo: Pavel Bendov for Olympia Dumbo
Imagine relaxing here after a long day. Heaven, truly heaven.
A picture is worth 1,000 words, and in the case of two enslaved African Americans, their portraits set off a historic chain of events and ended a 15-year battle over ownership. Renty and Delia were photographed in 1850, making their pictures the oldest believed of any enslaved American in history. Now, their stories are being told the right way.
Harvard University finally settled a 15-year legal battle with Tamara Lanier, an educator who claimed the university was illegally in possession of delicate photos of her enslaved ancestors, according to BBC. Lanier is said to be the great-great-great granddaughter of “Papa” Renty, so when she found out Harvard held the only photo of her ancestor, she had to take action.
The two daguerreotypes– unique, early photos produced on a silver-coated copper plate– were taken in South Carolina, where Renty and his daughter Delia worked as slaves. But although the photos traveled a long way from South Carolina to Harvard University, it’s Renty and Delia’s faces that tell a more horrific account.
Renty– an older man with a short, grey afro and facial hair– stands tall in his portrait. He’s shirtless, emphasizing his bony yet chiseled torso, likely from malnutrition and harsh labor conditions he endured. His face? Stoic, without emotions. But his eyes almost look glossy, like he’s in pain and seen way too much in his short lifetime.
Delia has her father’s eyes. She’s also shirtless, showing off her pronounced collarbone and broad shoulders. Despite her young age, Delia looks mature as she poses in a chair for the photo.
In 2019, Tamara Lanier officially sued Harvard University over the school’s ownership of portraits of her ancestors, Renty (left) and Delia (right).
The images were captured by a Harvard professor for a racist study, according to The Hill. In her complaint against Harvard, Lanier claimed her ancestors did not give their consent to the photoshoot, meaning Harvard’s ownership of the photos was illegal. The portraits were rediscovered at the university in 1975, according to BBC. Lanier wanted Harvard to relinquish ownership of the photos. Now, she finally got her wish.
“I think it’s one of one in American history, because of the combination of unlikely features: to have a case that dates back 175 years, to win control over images dating back that long of enslaved people — that’s never happened before,” attorney Joshua Koskoff told AP News.
The public can finally view Renty and Delia’s portraits. They will be transferred to the International African American Museum in South Carolina, the state where Renty and Delia called home.
“This is a moment in history where the sons and daughters of stolen ancestors can stand with pride and rightfully proclaim a victory for reparations,” Lanier told AP News. “This pilfered property, images taken without dignity or consent and used to promote a racist pseudoscience will now be repatriated to a home where their stories can be told and their humanity can be restored.”
Cardi B. is making a strong case that her soon-to-be ex-husband Offset’s request for spousal support needs to be denied. In fact, she’s blasting the notion completely by revealing to her fans just how much she’s been footing the bill for everything when it comes to their kids–and the truth is jaw-dropping!
As we previously told you, Offset submitted the request last week which sent the internet into a tizzy once the news was made public, even though he didn’t ask for a specific amount. Cardi herself even responded at the time in a Twitter live session the following day after hearing Offset called into “The Breakfast Club” and alleged that the “Bodak Yellow” rapper was trying “to take everything from him” so that’s why he’s seeking the money.
She also said that she wanted him to “die slow” in bed while thinking of her, called him a “b*tch,” “mentally disturbed,” and said that the only thing she’s ever asked him to do was spend time with their children as she’s been footing all of their bills alone for the last year.
Cardi B address Offset asking for spousal support from her in their divorce.😳 pic.twitter.com/vFVgDoNyKo
However, what you might’ve missed in that same Twitter Live session is the complete breakdown Cardi gave when it comes to the monetary responsibilities she’s been covering (with no help from Offset allegedly) when it comes to her kids. And because we know you don’t have time to listen to her whole rant, we’ve picked up the main, high-ticket items she’s been paying for over the last year. Check the break down:
Their home in Atlanta: cost unknown
A Driver for the kids: $10,000/a month
Her daughter, Kulture’s school tuition for the year: $45,000
Her son, Wave’s school tuition: $35,000
Her cousin/babysitter: $3,000/a week
Her nanny: $500/a day
Her kid’s tutoring: $2,000/a week
Kulture’s piano lessons: $900/a week
Kulture’s gymnastics and Wave’s boxing classed: cost unknown
Personal chef: cost unknown
24-hour security for her, her kids: cost unknown
As it stands, given all of these costs, Cardi said that she’s been forking out at least $50,000 a month to keep things going with no help from Offset or anyone else.
Look, I understand she has a level of wealth that us regular folks don’t have but 50 grand month is such an INSANE thing to fathom. The fact that she’s been taking care of all of this without help from her “husband” is astounding in more ways than one. The next time I feel like complaining over $8 eggs, I’mma just be quiet.
Just a few months after Beyoncé made history with her country record, the Grammys just made a major change to their country category. Coincidence…? The internet certainly doesn’t think so.
To be clear, this sudden change is the only new category added by the Recording Academy for the 68th Annual Grammy Awards in 2026. The current country category (previously Best Country Album) has been renamed as “Best Contemporary Country Album,” while the new category being added is “Best Traditional Country Album,” per reports.
When speaking to Billboard, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr., said, “The community of people that are making country music in all different subgenres came to us with a proposal and said we would like to have more variety in how our music is honored.”
He added that country music makers said the Academy needs “more space” for country music to be “celebrated and honored.” While he also made clear that this proposal had been submitted numerous times years before, it was only accepted this year, the year when a Black woman made history, becoming the first Black woman to win Best Country Album.
This fact is certainly not lost on the Beyhive or music fans at large.
One user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, “Best Traditional Country Album. How subtle.” Another shared similar sentiments, writing, “Best Traditional Country Album…they couldn’t wait a couple more years so it wasn’t so obvious what they’re responding too?”
As we reported, Beyoncé’s win was a major moment for not just her but the culture, as the “Renaissance” era for Bey stands as a meditation on reclaiming what is rightfully ours. While “Renaissance” reclaimed dance and house music, “Cowboy Carter” reminded us that the roots of country music are Black as well, and are just as much ours as anyone else’s.
Naturally, this notion received plenty of backlash from Nashville and the white country establishment, but that did not stop Bey from doing her thing and making history on the Grammys stage by taking home multiples Grammys, including the award of the night: Album of the Year.
One fan wrote, “Beyoncé is so powerful and she pissed off the yts so much that they added 2 new country Grammy categories called “Best Contemporary Country Album and Best Traditional Country Album.” That’s a bad b-tch.”
Another shared in a post, “They can change the category all they want but Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter will always have a Grammy Award for Best Country Album.”
Beyoncé is so powerful and she pissed off the yts so much that they added 2 new country Grammy categories called “Best Contemporary Country Album and Best Traditional Country Album.” That’s a bad bitch. pic.twitter.com/LJYRhBvZwU
— T̷h̷e̷ ̷M̷i̷s̷t̷r̷e̷s̷s̷ ̷O̷f̷ ̷C̷h̷a̷o̷s̷ (@M3GAN_E_KNOWLES) June 12, 2025
The double standard is certainly a glaring one, as other fans have pointed out. “Trying to gatekeep a Black genre from Black artists is insane.
“Her album was just as country as anything ‘traditionally country’,” one user wrote. “Y’all wasn’t doing this when AUSTRALIAN “country” artist Keith Urban was winning grammys.”
Trying to gatekeep a Black genre from Black artists is insane.
Her album was just as country as anything “traditionally country”. Y’all wasn’t doing this when AUSTRALIAN “country” artist Keith Urban was winning grammys. https://t.co/xdysR7BBRJ
So, the question stands. Is it simply a coincidence that the Grammys are expanding their country categories? Or does it have everything to do with us finally claiming our space in this predominately white genre?
It’s Father’s Day, and it’s time to celebrate great Black fathers. There has long been a stereotype that Black fathers are either absent, violent, or lazy in their households. In TV, Film, and even internet memes, the absent Black father has somehow become the symbol for Black fatherhood, but did you know that there is a study that shows they are the most active fathers?
Yup, a decade-old Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study shows that Black fathers tend to help their kids the most with homework, take them to activities, and bathe and dress their kids, compared with White or Hispanic fathers.
We referenced this study last year when journalist Wayne Washington spoke about his experiences as a Black father, and like Washington, there are plenty of fathers who deserve some credit.
Think of Russell Wilson, who is always being praised for how good and active he is as the father of his and Ciara’s blended family. In 2023, he posted on his Instagram that the greatest gift god could give him is being a dad to his kids.
There’s also Jay-Z, who you can usually be seen standing by his little daughter Rumi’s side, watching her every move or smiling when she is on stage. In an old video, he once this daughter Blue Ivy I know when your sad and happy.
And The Washington Post once said that Obama’s most unusual legacy was being a good dad. Despite being president, Obama once told Tatsha Robertson, who is the current Editor-in-chief for The Root, that he never missed school meetings for his girls.
But famous fathers are not the only fathers who deserve credit. Like Washington said in his article, “Brothers deserve their neckties and golf balls, too.”
Just look at this adorable video of this young girl who can’t stop showing love to her Black Father. The caption of the video states that there “ain’t nothing like a girl dad’s love.” The bond is deep and clear to see as the little girl can’t stop hugging her daddy.
The TikTok comments were filled with Black dads sharing similar experiences that they have with their kids:
“Makes me wanna stay and play all day, hardest part of a dads day,” wrote one dad.
“Awww my daughter does the same thing. I hate to leave to go to work,” wrote another.
Michelle Obama once spoke about how what her working dad was able to provide her was way beyond money, title, and influence, and that she didn’t want any working-class Black dad to question what they can do for their kids. As the study shows, showing up matters.
Bottom line is, Black dads, we see you and we celebrate you. Happy Father’s Day.
Another day, another adorable Rumi Carter video from the “Cowboy Carter” tour. This time, Beyoncé’s youngest daughter is going viral online for throwing up her father’s famous Roc diamond hand symbol while on stage, and of course, the internet has thoughts.
In the moment that has everyone talking, Rumi is once again on stage during her big moment in the show. Standing next to her mother and her sister, Blue Ivy, during “Protector,” Rumi did the sign towards the end of the song, leading to big cheers from the crowd and big smiles from both her mother and sister.
In a video from another angle, her father, Jay-Z, is seen watching the show from the audience. In the clip, he is clearly proud of his daughter, clapping and cheering along as she takes up the stage. Naturally, the comments on the videos have ranged from cheering Rumi on and her sign for his dad’s brand and company, to conspiracy theories regarding the Illuminati (no shock, there).
One user wrote under the clip, “here go your father’s day gift pops lol,” as the performance was the day before Father’s Day. Another user wrote, “They are some great parents.” Other comments are filled with people writing “illuminati” over and over, with one writing, “they got the baby in the illuminati ya’ll.”
Users were quick to predict that some people were going to have a field day with this moment, as there has long been a conspiracy theory that the diamond sign is associated with the Illuminati.
“Watch people try to claim they’re indoctrinating her into the illuminati,” one user wrote on TikTok with a crying emoji. Others commented things like, “the people on YouTube are gonna have a time with this one,” and “Cue Illuminati theorists in 3…2…1”
Of course, Jay has explained the origins of the sign numerous times, in clips that are now going viral again after Rumi’s onstage moment. In one clip from years ago, Jay explains that back in the early Roc Nation days, they would rock around the office making the diamond sign when they thought an album of theirs would go diamond and sell well.
“It just stuck,” he explains in the clip. “We started doing it at our shows and then everyone started doing it and it became a worldwide symbol that everyone knows.”
The internet was also quick to point out, Rumi is not the only Carter child who has thrown up the symbol. Blue did the sign during the Renaissance Tour two years ago, throwing it up while the audience cheered for her. Beyoncé herself has thrown it up as well.
Still, we predict that conspiracy theorists will certainly continue to “do their thing,”, with YouTube videos and think pieces galore dedicated to it in just a few days. In the meantime, one thing is for sure: Rumi is gonna keep doing Rumi, charming all of us on what has without a doubt become the tour of the year.
The FBI has kept a close watch on musicians of color for decades. J. Edgar Hoover, who served as director from 1924 to 1972, created COINTELPRO, a counter-intelligence program designed to “expose, disrupt, misdirect, discredit, or otherwise neutralize the activities of Black nationalist, hate-type organizations and groupings” in 1967.
As part of the program, musicians and other artists they believed were affiliated with groups they considered anti-establishment were prime targets, believing their music spread messages of rebellion to their fans.
“Just making a casual anti-war statement could put you at odds with the powers that be,” Aaron Leonard, author of “Whole World in an Uproar: Music, Rebellion and Repression 1955-1972,” told Rolling Stone.
Although Hoover passed away in 1972, the surveillance continued, targeting everyone from jazz musicians, R&B and soul singers to rappers. Here are some of the musicians who were watched by the FBI and other law enforcement agencies.
Aretha Franklin
American soul singer Aretha Franklin, a star on the Atlantic record label. (Photo by Express Newspapers/Getty Images)
Besides being one of the most soulful artists of all time, Aretha Franklin was also a champion for civil rights. She was the daughter of a Baptist minister who organized The Detroit Walk to Freedom in 1968 and counted Dr. Martin Luther King and the Rev. Jesse Jackson among his close friends. Aretha’s close connection to the Civil Rights Movement made her a target of the FBI, who monitored her for years because of her appearances and performances for civil rights organizations, including the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, according to NPR.
Wu-Tang Clan
NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 25: The Wu-Tang Clan performs live during Tribeca TV: Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics And Men at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival at Beacon Theatre on April 25, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Steven Ferdman/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival)
Fans of hip-hop from the 1990s and 2000s usually have a special place in their hearts for Wu-Tang Clan, a nine-man band of lyrical geniuses from Staten Island who took turns laying insane bars on each other’s albums. But from 1999 to 2004, the FBI and NYPD collaborated to investigate the group for a variety of federal charges, including their connection to alleged drug kingpins and whether or not RZA and Raekwon ordered a hit on two men back in 1999 who they believe robbed their families, according to The Staten Island Advance. Although charges were never filed, the FBI gathered a 95-page file on members of the group and labeled them a “major criminal organization.”
Nina Simone
circa 1968: Studio portrait of American pianist and jazz singer Nina Simone (1933 – 2003) reclining on the floor while wearing a sleeveless, V-neck dress with a shell neckpiece. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
After growing up in the Jim Crow South, equality for Black people was a constant theme in singer and classically trained pianist Nina Simone’s music. She eventually moved to New York and befriended many Harlem Renaissance and Black Arts Movement writers, including James Baldwin and Lorraine Hansberry. Her songs met the moment. “Mississippi Goddam,” which was written in response to Medgar Evers’s assassination and the 1963 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham was banned by many Southern radio stations and made her a prime target for FBI investigations. Frustrated by the lack of progress, Simone eventually left the United States for Liberia and France. Her files have been destroyed, according to Rolling Stone.
Jazz percussionist Max Roach had close ties to the Civil Rights Movement, which made him a target of the FBI in the 1960s. They were aware he performed benefit concerts for organizations focused on civil disobedience like the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). And they’d seen the cover of his 1960 album, “We Insist!” which features a photo of Black students at a lunch counter sit-in protest.
In 1965, FBI agents showed up at his Manhattan home to find out what he knew about the Revolutionary Action Movement, a group the bureau viewed as a violent threat to the status quo. Although Roach told him he wasn’t involved with the group, they continued to monitor him until informants confirmed his testimony.
Jimi Hendrix
Rock guitar virtuoso Jimi Hendrix (1942 – 1970) caught mid guitar-break during his performance at the Isle of Wight Festival, August 1970. (Photo by Evening Standard/Getty Images)
Jimi Hendrix’s music was more about free love than political protest. In fact he found it difficult to connect with Black audiences who criticized him for playing to mixed audiences and thought he wasn’t doing enough to support the Civil Rights Movement. But that didn’t stop him from being the subject of surveillance, initiated by those who were offended by Hendrix’s music, which they claimed to be fueled with images of sex and drugs.
In 1969, the FBI conducted an investigation of the legendary rocker after he was charged with drug possession during a trip to Canada. The defense argued that the drugs were planted on Hendrix, and after a trial, he was acquitted.
The FBI had an extensive file on the late rapper Tupac Shakur related to an extortion scheme involving the Jewish Defense League, who made death threats on him and then demanded money to protect him. But they were also focused on the messages in his music, which often challenged racism and social injustice.
Born near Johannesburg in 1932, Miriam Makeba was a South African singer and civil rights activist. Known as Mama Afrika, her music, which was critical of apartheid, became popular in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. After relocating to the United States in 1959 she found friendships with like-minded artists, including Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte and Nina Simone. In 1968, she married Black activist Stokely Carmichael, whose ties to the Black Power Movement subjected her to a series of investigations by the FBI.
Billie Holiday
American jazz singer, Billie Holiday (1915 – 1959), also known as Lady Day. Her recording of ‘Strange Fruit’ about a lynching was a cause celebre. (Photo by MPI/Getty Images)
In 1939 the Federal Bureau of Narcotics targeted legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday. Commissioner Harry Anslinger, a known racist who believed jazz music was responsible for the country’s drug problem, did not like Holiday’s 1939 song “Strange Fruit,” which depicted the horror of the violent lynchings experienced by Black people. Anslinger hired undercover agents to monitor Holiday, who was known to struggle with addiction issues, and on the same night she performed the song for an audience during a show at a New York City hotel, she received a warning, which lasted from 1930 to 1968, to never sing the song again.
Nat King Cole
Promotional studio portrait of American pop singer and pianist Nat ‘King’ Cole (1919 – 1965), 1950s. (Photo by American Stock/Getty Images)
Jazz singer and pianist Nat King Cole found himself the subject of surveillance by the FBI who believed he He was monitored in Las Vegas after authorities learned hotels, which were supposed to be segregated, were allowing Black guests to stay during his performance at the Sands Hotel.
Compton rappers N.W.A.’s 1989 track “F* The Police” is a classic hip-hop protest song and one that made them a group to watch by law enforcement. Authorities believed the song was dangerous and in 1990, FBI assistant director Milt Ahlerich wrote a letter to the group’s record label, saying the song encouraged violence against the police.
Marvin Gaye
6th October 1976: American soul singer Marvin Gaye (1939 – 1984) walking ahead of his Rolls Royce in Notting Hill, London. (Photo by John Minihan/Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
The FBI had a six-page file of information on R&B and soul singer Marvin Gaye. While a lot of the information is redacted, the bureau’s investigation was centered around two concerts he had scheduled in Virginia in 1977 and whether or not conspiracy to transport stolen property in interstate commerce was involved. Unfortunately, there is no information on how the matter was resolved.
Louis Armstrong
American jazz singer and trumpeter Louis Armstrong (1901 – 1971) in London, 28th October 1970. (Photo by Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
After the incident in which a group of Black students known as The Little Rock Nine were prevented from entering an all-white school, Armstrong was critical of then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower, calling him two-faced for not stepping in.
If you’re looking to get into some serious binge watching for Father’s Day with your old man or maybe some solo viewing, Prime Video has you covered — and most importantly, so do we. From kick-ass action movies to modern-day comedies and a little bit of everything in between, we know just what you need to enjoy a seriously good day.
That’s why we rounded up a handful of the newest and best Black TV shows and movies currently streaming right now that you can dive into to whether you’re kicking back with your dad and family or taking a break from all the festivities. These titles feature projects by heavy hitters like Viola Davis and Ryan Coogler, stars like Michael B. Jordan, Kerry Washington and Laverne Cox, and a myriad of stories that are sure to keep you entertained.
So kick back, grab a beer (or a bottle of whiskey) and get ready to press play—because your watchlist just got a whole lot Blacker. Keep reading to get into it!
“Shadow Force”
In “Shadow Force,” Kyrah (Washington) and Issac (Sy) were once the leaders of a multinational special forces group called Shadow Force. They broke the rules by falling in love, and in order to protect their son, they go underground. With a large bounty on their heads, and the vengeful Shadow Force hot on their trail, one family’s fight becomes all-out war.
Starring: Kerry Washington, Omar Sy, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Method Man
“G20”
When the G20 summit comes under siege, U.S. President Danielle Sutton (Academy Award winner Viola Davis) becomes the number one target. After evading capture by the attackers, she must outsmart the enemy to protect her family, defend her country and safeguard world leaders in this action-packed thrill ride.
Starring: Viola Davis, Anthony Anderson, Marsai Martin, Antony Starr
“Duplicity”
High-powered attorney Marley faces her most personal case yet when she is tasked with uncovering the truth behind the murder of her best friend Fela’s husband. With the help of her boyfriend – a former cop turned private investigator – Marley’s search for what really happened leads her down a treacherous maze of deception and betrayal.
Starring: Kat Graham, Meagan Tandy, Tyler Lepley
“The Woman in the Yard”
Seriously injured, Ramona now must care for their 14-year-old son and 6-year-old-daughter alone in her rural farmhouse. Then one day the woman takes form in their yard. Ramona assumes the woman is lost or demented, but as the woman creeps nearer and nearer to the house, it becomes clear she is no ordinary figure and her intentions are anything but peaceful. Now Ramona must rally to protect herself and her children from the grasp of the woman who simply won’t leave them alone.
Starring: Danielle Deadwyler, Okwui Okpokwasili, Russell Hornsby
“Hurry Up Tomorrow”
A musician plagued by insomnia is pulled into an odyssey with a stranger who begins to unravel the very core of his existence.
Starring: The Weeknd, Jenna Ortega, Barry Keoghan
“Clean Slate”
This heartfelt Norman Lear comedy follows Harry (George Wallace), an old-school car wash owner in Alabama who has a lot of soul searching to do when the child he thought was a son returns as a proud, trans woman, Desiree (Laverne Cox). Her homecoming brings together a hilarious cast of friends, coworkers, and love interests, as Desiree and Harry try to get it right the second time around.
Starring: Laverne Cox, George Wallace, D.K. Uzoukwunka, Telma Hopkins
“Sinners”
Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.
Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Miles Caton, Delroy Lindo Wunmi Mosaku
“Harlem”
“Harlem” season three will follow the core four women on the precipice of change like never before. Whether it be motherhood, singlehood, sisterhood, complicated career journeys, or even more complicated families, our stylish and ambitious best girlfriends strive to finally choose themselves above all else.
Alex Cross is a detective and forensic psychologist, uniquely capable of digging into the psyches of killers and their victims, in order to identify—and ultimately capture—the murderers.
Starring: Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Alona Ta
“Hotel Costiera”
“Hotel Costiera” follows Daniel De Luca (Jesse Williams), a half Italian former U.S. Marine. Daniel returns to Italy, the land of his childhood, as a fixer in one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, located on the spectacular coastline of Positano. In addition to dealing with the wealthy guests’ problems, Daniel is also on the trail of Alice, one of the owner’s daughters who disappeared a month earlier. Daniel must do everything he can to bring her home, but facing those who kidnapped the girl will be more challenging than any problem Daniel has ever faced.
Starring: Jesse Williams, Maria Chiara Giannetta, Jordan Alexandra,
“Beyond Black Beauty”
“Beyond Black Beauty” follows young equestrian Jolie Dumont whose Olympic dreams are dashed when her mother moves them from Belgium to her family’s urban ranch in Baltimore. An angry Jolie wants to escape until she bonds with a spirited horse named Black Beauty. Jolie will learn to embrace her heritage while continuing toward her Olympic-hopeful future and discover the value of family and home.
Starring: Kaya Coleman, Gina James, Sagine Sémajuste
Coming Soon: “Heads of State”
In “Heads of State,” the UK Prime Minister Sam Clarke (Idris Elba) and U.S. President Will Derringer (John Cena) have a not-so-friendly and very public rivalry that jeopardizes their countries’ “special relationship.” But when they become the targets of a powerful and ruthless foreign adversary—who proves more than a match for the two leaders’ security forces—they are begrudgingly forced to rely on the only two people they can trust: each other. Ultimately allied with the brilliant MI6 agent Noel Bisset (Priyanka Chopra Jonas), they must go on the run and find a way to work together long enough to thwart a global conspiracy that threatens the entire free world.
Starring: Idris Elba, John Cena, Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Coming Soon: “The Pickup”
In the “The Pickup,” a routine cash pickup takes a wild turn when two mismatched armored truck drivers, Russell (Eddie Murphy) and Travis (Pete Davidson), are ambushed by ruthless criminals led by a savvy mastermind, Zoe (Keke Palmer), with plans that go way beyond the cash cargo. As chaos unfolds around them, the unlikely duo must navigate high-risk danger, clashing personalities, and one very bad day that keeps getting worse.
Starring: Keke Palmer, Eddie Murphy, Pete Davidson
Just as unfathomable it is to think a mother bringing harm to her child, so it is when a father does so. We’ve seen fathers accused of slaying their child in an act of custody battle revenge. In other cases, fathers are accused of rough housing defenseless infants in fits of rage. Not all of these fathers were charged with crimes but implicated by authorities in serious incidents.
If there are any men who happen to be fathers who are going to have a rough Father’s Day weekend, it’s these 15 below.
Hot Car Death
Hamilton County Jail
Travis McCullough was charged with criminal homicide and three counts of aggravated child neglect after “knowingly and willfully” leaving his 11-month-old, 2-year-old and 5-year-old children in a car, exposing them to extreme heat. The infant died from the scorching conditions, per ABC News.
Burglary Accomplice?
Metro Detroit News (Instagram)
Andre Stephon-Curtis Broadenax, 29, was charged with multiple felonies including first-degree home invasion and contributing to the delinquency of a minor after allegedly involving his 11-year-old daughter in a burglary spree by using her as a ploy, per CBS.
Couch Cushion Conflict
Osceola County Jail
Lance Eugene Rachel was slammed with child abuse charges after allegedly choking, degrading and beating his young son (over 50 times with a belt) in a 28-minute long punishment. The offense? Rachel was allegedly fired up over a disagreement over the couch cushion being displaced, per the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
Accidental Shooting
East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office
Devonte Chambers was held accountable for the fatal shooting of his 2-year-old son. However, he didn’t pull the trigger. Baton Rouge police say the father fell asleep and his son managed to get a hold of his pistol which was sticking out from the pillow. The child then fatally shot himself in the torso.
Mickey Mouse Ears Debacle
Orange County Corrections
Mark Robinson got snatched up by the cops as he walked with his daughter in Magic Kingdom Park at Disney World. Police say after his daughter lost her Mickey ears, he accused another woman of stealing them, snatching her pair off of her head while going all the way off. He was charged with robbery by sudden snatching, per FOX 35 Orlando.
Daycare Crime Scene
FOX 59 News
Orlando Mitchell was convicted in the fatal killing of his baby’s mother outside the daycare in Indianapolis. Police said Mitchell stalked out the daycare waiting for the victim before ambushing her upon her arrival. Police claim he was upset because his child’s mother cut off his communication with his son, per court documents obtained by WTHR.
Freezing Death
WXYZ
First of all, Darnell Currie Sr. has not been charged with anything but being a royal ass. He was under scrutiny after his 9-year-old and 2-year-old children froze to death while being homeless with their mother, Tateona Williams, per WXYZ. She told the press she tried to get him to allow his kids to sleep in his home but to no avail. He claimed he had no idea the conditions his children were living in, causing the public to criticize his lack of action to house his own kids.
Slave Master
West Virgnia Regional Jail
Donald Lantz was accused along with his wife for being the worst adoptive father of 2024. Police claim the couple adopted five Black children only to make them work as their own personal “slaves.” Lantz and his wife were charged with human trafficking, per West Virginia Metro News.
Father’s Fatal Crash Out
Facebook
Germarcus David was found guilty in the murder of his 11-year-old daughter and 7-year-old, 2-year-old and 1-year-old boys, per Los Angeles Daily News. He also murdered their grandmother. Police say he entered the grandmother’s home and opened fire. He was convicted of assault on a child causing death and sentenced to life in prison.
Troubling Disappearance
NYPD Crime Stoppers
The father of 2-year-old Montrell Williams is accused of fleeing with his child following an overstayed custodial visit in May, per NBC 4 New York. Police say he reappeared without the child, sending the family in a frenzy to look for him. He allegedly confessed to the child’s mother to throwing Montrell into the Bronx River. However, police can’t get the same story out of him. He’s not facing any charges at the moment and Montrell still hasn’t been found.
Stomping Death
Cook County Jail
Devon Thomas was charged with the murder of his 3-year-old son after police say he stomped the toddler to death. According to authorities, Thomas said he punched the boy several times in the chest and torso before crushing his legs, arms and body with his boots, per the Chicago Tribune.
Serial Killer Father
Lobna Yakout (BBC)
Karim Salim was accused of kidnapping his 10-year-old son. In the meantime, he was convicted in the torture and murder of three women in Cairo, Egypt. His ex-wife was able to rush a divorce given the circumstances, per BBC. However, according to reports she still has yet to be reunited with her son who is, luckily, in the custody of an in-law.
PnB Rock Slaying
LAPD
Freddie Lee Trone was found guilty of murder after being accused of sending his 17-year-old son to execute rapper PnB Rock at a Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles back in 2022. The alleged assailant, now 19, is awaiting trial.
Fatal FaceTime
Harris County Jail
Deontray Flanagan was found guilty of murdering his 2-year-old girl. Prosecutors say while fleeing authorities in a speed chase, Flanagan drove wildly with Zevaya in the passenger seat unsecured, per the Houston Chronicle. As a result, she was thrown around the vehicle. Prosecutors said he also FaceTimed a family member so the girl’s mother could watch him beat and strangle their daughter to death. He faces life in prison.
Custody Revenge
San Jose Police Department
Jared Lorenzo is suspected of killing his 3-year-old daughter, Ellie. Police claim in revenge of losing custody of his daughter, he kidnapped his daughter following his custodial visit and killed her in emotional anguish, per KRON4.
On June 14, 2025, the U.S. Army will celebrate 250 of its existence. President Trump pushed for there to be a parade in Washington, D. C. celebrating this occasion. (Of course, the fact that it will also be his 79th birthday is completely incidental and has nothing to do with it. *wink*)
The Trump administration plasters his image all over government buildings in advance of the $92 million Army parade on his birthday. pic.twitter.com/D80aNrnLJu
Whenever people think of Black folks serving in the Army, they think of the Tuskegee Airmen. That makes sense. Being a pilot is one of the most exceptional things you can do in the military, but there are other Black men and women who served in the Army that deserve shine on this day.
Harlem Hellfighters (369th Infantry Regiment)
Not many know who they are. But they were instrumental to the Allies (France, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Italy) winning this war against The Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire).
These men fought under French command and earned innumerable medals for their bravery and skill. Keep in mind that this was the early 1900s. So the fact that they fought so valiantly challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future Black soldiers to walk through.
General Benjamin O. Davis Sr.
He was the first black general in the U.S. Army. Benjamin O. Davis Sr.: The Pioneering Black General Whose Story Was Forgotten pic.twitter.com/hJLnYBoBZO
He was the first African American general in the U.S. Army. He commanded the 10th Cavalry Regiment and the 369th Infantry…also known as the Harlem Hellfighters. This man was not to be trifled with.
761st Tank Battalion – also known as the “Black Panthers”
This was the Black tank battalion to see combat in World War II. They were relentless fighters and were pivotal in the liberation of Europe.
THE ORIGINAL BLACK PANTHERS: A STORY IN 50 TWEETS
On this #MLKDay, we pay homage to the original Black Panthers, the 761st Tank Battalion who liberated more than 30 towns and villages during WWII. pic.twitter.com/NFOTTJjNE4
— XVIII Airborne Corps & Fort Bragg (@18airbornecorps) January 20, 2020
They famously once fought for 183 straight days. (Longer than it took Kendrick Lamar to write, record and release GNX.) And were responsible for liberating over 30 towns across Germany
The Six Triple Eight
Colloquially known as the Six Triple Eight—they were the Army’s 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. This was the largest group of Black servicewomen to serve overseas during World War II.
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, famously known as the “Six Triple Eight,” was a groundbreaking unit of over 850 Black women in the Women’s Army Corps during World War II. In 1945, they were deployed to Birmingham, England, to address a daunting backlog of… pic.twitter.com/qKqpBT4cpL
They were the subject of Tyler Perry’s ONLY good movie to date. (All y’all saying Straw was good are either lying to yourself or you don’t mind a little soap opera in your movies.) These Black women shattered barriers and played a pivotal role in ensuring that mail reached American troops.
Medgar Evers
We know him as a prominent Civil Rights leader who was killed in his driveway in 1963 in Jackson, MS. But did you know he also was in the Army?
Shortly after D-Day, Medgar Evers and the Army’s 325th Port Company landed at Normandy and manned the Red Ball Express, moving supplies to the frontlines of the fight against fascism. After WWII, he led the fight against American apartheid as head of the Mississippi NAACP.
Evers enlisted in 1943 at the age of 17 during World War II. He served with the segregated 657th Port Company that became famous for delivering desperately needed food and supplies to troops on the front lines.
And there are more. Many more. If you investigate your family history, you might be surprised that one of your relatives served in the Army. Let us celebrate Black excellence wherever we find it. We must not let our cynicism over President Trump’s birthday parade over shadow the Black men and women who served. They deserve better.
On June 7, 1958, a musical genius was born who would one day be known and loved by the world as Prince. Writing, producing and performing chart-topping hits for decades, like “1999,” “When Doves Cry,” and, of course, “Purple Rain,” gained him fans on every continent who mourned his untimely passing in 2016.
“Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent. As one of the most gifted and prolific musicians of our time, Prince did it all. Funk. R&B. Rock and roll. He was a virtuoso instrumentalist, a brilliant bandleader, and an electrifying performer,” said then-President Barack Obama in a statement after Prince’s death.
But while Prince’s music was known around the world, he kept most of the details of his private life to himself. Here are a few things you may not have known about Prince.
A Self-Taught Musical Genius
Musician Prince enroute to the Palladium after his sold out performance at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York, United States, circa 1980s. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)
Prince Rogers Nelson was born on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to John Nelson, a musician, and Mattie Shaw, a jazz singer. Their musical talent had an impact on the artist who would soon be known to the world by only one name. He taught himself to play the piano, guitar and drums.
He Wrote Hit Songs For Other People
Prince had countless hits of his own, but he also wrote plenty of bangers for other artists, including “Manic Monday” for The Bangles, “Jungle Love” for The Time, “The Glamorous Life” for Sheila E. and “I Feel For You” by Chaka Khan.
He Almost Made a Song With Kendrick Lamar
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 06: Kendrick Lamar speaks during the Super Bowl LVIX Pregame & Apple Music Super Bowl LVIX Halftime Show Press Conference at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on February 06, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
According to Billboard, Prince was in talks with rapper Kendrick Lamar to collab on a track for his 2015 album “To Pimp a Butterfly,” singing the hook on “Complexion (A Zulu Love).”
“We got to a point where we were just talking in the studio and the more time that passed we realized we weren’t recording anything,” he said. “We just ran out of time, it’s as simple as that.”
He Had Epilepsy
LOS ANGELES, CA – MAY 24: Musician Prince performs onstage during the American Idol Season 5 Finale on May 24, 2006 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Vince Bucci/Getty Images)
Growing up, Prince dealt with epilepsy, a neurological condition characterized by seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
“My mother and father didn’t know what to do or how to handle it but they did the best they could with what little they had,” he told Tavis Smiley in an interview.
Because of the condition, Prince said he was frequently teased by his classmates, which ultimately led to his signature style.
“Early in my career I tried to compensate by being as flashy as I could and as noisy as I could,” he told Smiley.
He Ran Away From Home
Musician Prince attends LA Tramps, United States, circa 1980s. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)
At age 10, Prince’s parents split, forcing him to live between their homes. Eventually, he decided to run away, taking refuge at the home of his childhood best friend and musical collaborator, André Cymone. As teens, the pair formed a band called Grand Central, which also included Morris Day.
“Prince and I were very dedicated, both very passionate. That was one of things right away that drew me to him. He had the same passion. He wanted it as bad as I wanted it. I knew other musicians but no one ever really took it all that serious,” Cymone told Billboard in an interview.
‘Purple Rain’ Won Him an Oscar
In 1984, Prince released “Purple Rain,” a chart-topping album that would be known as one of his most iconic. The album was also the soundtrack to the classic film by the same name, which won him an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score in 1985. Fun Fact: He beat out “The Muppets Take Manhattan” for the win.
He Gave Vanity Her Name
Prince had many loves throughout his life, but one of his most famous couplings was with Denise Matthews, the singer who would be known as Vanity. After meeting Prince in 1980 at the American Music Awards, the two went on to have a steamy personal and professional relationship. The “Controversy” singer convinced Matthews to come to Minneapolis where he changed her name and put her front and center in his new girl group Vanity 6, known for performing in lingerie.
“One night, he saw me in my underwear, and he wanted to know if I wanted to perform in it,” she told David Letterman in a 1985 interview. “And I thought it was a great idea.”
He’s Responsible for the Parental Advisory Sticker on Your CDs
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 29: Musician Prince performs at the Conga Room L.A. Live on March 29, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
If you were a kid when “Purple Rain” was released, your parents may have tried to keep you away from the sexually explicit lyrics. One famous parent, who was outraged when she bought the album for her then-11-year-old daughter, took steps to make sure no other parents got the same shock – Tipper Gore, wife of then-Senator Al Gore.
“When we brought the album home, put it on our stereo, and listened to it together, we heard the words to … ‘Darling Nikki’” she wrote in her book, “Raising PG Kids in an X-Rated Society.” “The vulgar lyrics embarrassed both of us. At first, I was stunned, but then I got mad!”
Ms. Gore sprung into action, forming the Parents Music Resource Center which lobbied Congress and ultimately got the recording industry to agree to a labeling system warning consumers of explicit language and sexual content.
Kim Basinger Had a Thing For Him
American actress Kim Basinger attends the premiere of ‘Batman’, held at the Mann Village Theater in Los Angeles, California, 19th June 1989. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)
Before she met her future ex-husband Alec Baldwin, actress Kim Basinger had a thing for the Purple one, even relocating to Minneapolis to be closer to him in 1989. The two made music during their time together, including an unreleased song called “Color of Sex,” on which the actress drops the bars, “I’ll be your slave” and “I like the way you make me feel.” According to Page Six, Basinger’s family did not think she was ok at the time and came to get her from Prince’s home.
An artist like Prince needs a special place to live and work, which is why he built Paisley Park, a 65,000 square foot estate located 20 minutes from Minneapolis. This YouTube video takes fans inside thee $10 million complex, which includes living space as well as a recording area, performance space and displays of his extravagant wardrobe. If you’re ever in the area, you can check it out for yourself, as Paisley Park is a museum open for tours.
In 1993, #TheArtistFormerlyKnownAsPrince started using a symbol as his name, and in a 1996 sit down interview with BryantGumbel, The Artist explained the reasoning behind the name change, and remembers a childhood nickname it seemed he’d rather forget! #Prince#TODAYShow#Throwback
In 1993, Prince did an overhaul of his identity, changing his name to an unpronounceable symbol. Because no one could pronounce it, he was referred to in the industry as “The Artist Formerly Known as Prince.” Although no official explanation was given, many believe it was it get out of a contract with his then-record label, Warner Bros.
In a 1993 interview with TODAY, he told Bryant Gumbel why he chose a symbol to identify himself.
“My name is very spiritual to me. It has a great deal of spiritual meaning, and one day, maybe I’ll hear a sound that will best give me the feeling of what it’s supposed to be. But for right now, I just go by the look of it,” he said.
Whether you called him Prince, The Artist, or any combination of the two, one thing’s for sure, he didn’t want anyone calling him “Skipper,” a nickname he was given as a child.
He Lost a Child
On October 16,1996, Prince and his then-wife Mayte Garcia welcomed a son, Amiir Nelson. Sadly, he passed away at six days old from a rare genetic disorder Pfeiffer syndrome type 2, in which bones in the skull fuse together, preventing the skull from growing normally.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Garcia opened up about how painful the death of their son was for her and Prince.
“I don’t think he ever got over it,” she said. “I don’t know how anybody could get over it. I remember saying, ‘I don’t wish this on my worst enemy,’ This loss, there’s no words for it.”
He Was a Beast on the Basketball Court
LAS VEGAS – FEBRUARY 18: Rapper Ludacris (L) and music artist Prince watch the 2007 NBA All-Star Game February 18, 2007 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Prince may have only been 5’2″, but he had some serious game on the basketball court and played on his high school junior varsity team.
And of course, there’s the unforgettably hilarious story Charlie Murphy shared on “The Chappelle Show” about the time he lost a pickup game to the “Purple Rain” singer, who was wearing a blouse – a story that Charlie’s brother Eddie Murphy confirmed during a 2024 visit to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
“That is totally and absolutely accurate,” Eddie said.
He Changed His Religion
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 04: Prince speaks onstage at the 42nd NAACP Image Awards held at The Shrine Auditorium on March 4, 2011 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for NAACP Image Awards)
In 2001, Prince made two big moves – relocating from his Minneapolis home to Los Angeles and became a Jehovah’s Witness after being introduced to the faith by Larry Graham, bassist for Sly & The Family Stone. In a 2008 interview with The New Yorker, he talked about the move as less of a conversion and more of a realization.
While the idea of a man who made a living singing songs with sexually charged lyrics joining a faith that is against sex outside of heterosexual marriage may seem strange to some, his friend and musical collaborator Sheila E. made it make sense. “When I first met him he believed in God, but after that there was a time when it seemed like he didn’t believe in anything,” she told Billboard. “But then he became a Witness, and I felt, for him, that believing in something was better than nothing.”
He Bought the Purple Rain House
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – OCTOBER 07: GRAMMY winning musician Anderson .Paak visits the Purple Rain house on October 07, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for Airbnb)
In 2016, Prince paid $117,000 for the three-bedroom house that was used as his childhood home in the film “Purple Rain.” Unfortunately, he passed away a few months later and may never have been able to visit it, but the selling agent, Deborah Larson, said she thinks he just wanted to own it.
“I don’t think he had a plan. I think he just wanted it,” she told CBS News.
In 2024, Airbnb offered fans a chance to stay in the home, which had been restored with memorabilia and items from Prince’s personal collection.
After His Death, His Family Sued His Doctor
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 19: Musician Prince performs on stage at the 36th NAACP Image Awards at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on March 19, 2005 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
On April 21, 2016, the world lost one of the greatest musicians of all time when Prince passed away at his Paisley Park estate at age 57. An autopsy revealed the cause of death as an accidental overdose of fentanyl, a powerful opioid drug used to treat severe pain. His family later filed a lawsuit against Dr Michael Schulenberg for failing to “appropriately evaluate, diagnose, treat and counsel Prince for his recognizable opioid addiction, and further failed to take appropriate and reasonable steps to prevent the foreseeably fatal result of that addiction,” according to CBS News. The suit was later dismissed.
Tamron Hall Was One of The Last People to Speak With Him
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 05: Tamron Hall attends The Root 100 2024 Gala at The Apollo Theater on December 05, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jason Mendez/Getty Images for The Root )
While the world mourned Prince’s untimely death, the loss hit one friend particularly hard, journalist Tamron Hall, who was one of the last people to speak with the artist before he died.
“He assured me he was OK. All Saturday he kept saying he was fine and asked me to come to Paisley to see his new piano and for a fan party,” she told The TODAY Show. “I was working and didn’t go. Monday, we exchanged emails after I sent him a video from a restaurant playing a song. I talked about how he was everywhere I go. It was a sweet moment and I had no idea it would be our last time talking. I never imagined it.”
The two were very close, Hall told TODAY co-host Willie Geist, “Prince and my mother are the only two people who I talk to about what I’m going to wear.”
An Air India flight crash that claimed over 240 lives had one remarkable sole survivor.
Viswashkumar Ramesh, 40, was one of the 242 people on board the London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which crashed in the northwestern Indian city of Ahmedabad about half a minute after takeoff on Thursday.
While recovering in a hospital, Ramesh tried to piece together how he survived the tragedy.
“I can’t believe myself how I came out of it alive, because for a while I thought I was going to die as well,” Ramesh told Indian national broadcaster DD News. “But when I opened my eyes, I saw that I was alive. So I tried to open my seat belt, and I was able to get out.”
Ramesh was sitting in seat 11A, a window seat in the first exit row standard economy, according to a passenger list released by the airline. He said his part of the plane landed “on the ground floor” of a medical college hostel, and he noticed the emergency door was broken by the impact.
“When my door broke, I saw there was a bit of space. So I tried to get out and I was able to get out,” Ramesh said.
After evacuating the plane, Ramesh was captured by India media wearing a white T-shirt stained with blood and dirt. The 40-year-old was seen limping toward an ambulance, having suffered a facial laceration and a left-hand injury, which he described as ‘burnt slightly’ in the fire.
Dr. Dhaval Gameti, who cared for Ramesh at the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital, told the Associated Press that he was “disoriented with multiple injuries all over his body,” however “seems to be out of danger.”
Although Ramesh is fortunate to be alive, his brother Ajay, who was seated across from him in 11j did not have the same fate, as he was among the many who lost their lives.
“When he called us he was just more worried about my other brother, like ‘Find Ajay, find Ajay,’” Ramesh’s older brother Nayan told the BBC. “That’s all he cares about at the moment.”
Ramesh lives in London with his wife and child and was returning to the U.K. with his brother after visiting family when the crash happened.
It’s officially been a full week since President Donald Trump sent military troops in response to ongoing anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. The move drew bipartisan backlash, and most notably, the celebrities calling Trump out have been shaking the internet.
Folks like Kehlani, Doechii and Vic Mensa are speaking up over the treatment of American citizens and migrants directly impacted by Trump’s ICE raids and mass deportation tactics. The list of Black celebs using their platforms is short, but it doesn’t make their voices any quieter. Here’s what they’re saying…
Doechii
On Monday (June 9) at the BET Awards, Doechii did what no one else in the crowd– including L.A. natives Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg — was bold enough to do. After winning her first BET Award for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, the Florida rapper took the stage to shed light on protests happening literally outside the award show venue.
“There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order,” she said. “Trump is using military forces to stop a protest, and I want y’all to consider what kind of government it appears to be when every time we exercise our democratic right to protest, the military is deployed against us.”
After her harsh critiques of Trump, the “Boiled Peanuts” rapper went on to say it’s her responsibility as an artist to use her voice to amplify the voiceless.
Kehlani
Singer Kehlani — a native Californian — is known for using their platform to champion social causes, so when they witnessed Doechii on the BET Award show stage, the “Everything” singer had to give her props. “Exactly Doechii exactly,” they wrote on Instagram.
Most famously, Kehlani has received backlash for their support for Palestine amid the Israel-Hamas war. They reportedly lost brand deals, speaking opportunities and more for their activism.
The Game
Another Californian took to Instagram to speak on the ongoing conflict. “Ever since I could remember… it’s been black & brown in this city,” he wrote. “From the early days of my childhood til now, we’ve been side by side through it all. All of us. All the time. Not always seeing eye to eye but we’ve shared Los Angeles for a very long time.”
He went on to say he stands with the Latino community, whom Trump has targeted in his war on immigration. The rapper continued, “‘We might fight against each other… but I promise you this.. we’ll burn this b!%?! Down get us pissed !!!!!’”
Ava DuVernay
Also taking to Instagram, director Ava DuVernay, wrote on her story, “I’m witnessing tear gas and non-lethal rounds being unleashed on peaceful protesters in DTLA.” She continued, “People of all ages and stripes from all over the city, raising their voices. And being treated worse than January 6 terrorists.”
Vic Mensa
Chicago rapper Vic Mensa called for unity between Black and brown people. “The same oppressor that exploits the African abuses the Latino,” he said in a video. “And please believe if they could figure out how to deport n****s… They been trying since the Emancipation Proclamation,” Mensa continued.
The “New Bae” rapper continued urging Black folks to reconsider not supporting the Latino cause. “Don’t be fooled into believing this struggle is not ours,” he said.
Lakeyah
Lakeyah said she left the BET Awards early to stand in solidarity with the Latinos and Latinas. pic.twitter.com/6SoshRShRa
Like Doechii and Kehlani, Milwaukee rapper Lakeyah also attended the BET Awards. But, the rapper left the show early to “stand in solidarity with the Latinx,” as she wrote on Instagram as she walked out the venue with her fist in the air.
Tyler The Creator
To cap off the list, Tyler The Creator– born and raised in L.A.– kept things simple with one short message on the matter. “F*CK ICE,” he said on his Instagram story.
