MAGFAB: ANIMALS Star Ben Affleck For VARIETY Magazine!
In a new cover story for VARIETY, Ben Affleck speaks with Executive Editor, Film Matt Donnelly for a discussion on his company, Artists Equity, producing films, stardom, dealing with media scrutiny from a young age, Jennifer Lopez getting snubbed during awards season, the “Smoking Ben” meme, whether he wore a prosthesis during “Gone Girl,” “Animals,” potentially running for mayor of L.A., and more.
On Newsstands now.
#RHOP: Former Star Mia Thornton Hit With Felony Theft Charge Over Allegedly Stealing Up To $25K In Furniture, Faces Possible Jail Time
The alleged incident reportedly occurred when the pair moved out of a furnished condominium in the middle of the night. Authorities claim several items belonging to the property were taken during the move.
As previously reported, Mia was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in November 2025 in connection with the allegations. Following her arrest, she addressed the situation on social media, sharing that she was attempting to remain “grounded” amid the “chaos.”
The latest felony charge means the former Bravo star could face jail or prison time if convicted. Mia, who appeared on RHOP from Seasons 6 through 9, has not been convicted in connection with the allegations.
#NewMusic from:Jamal Roberts Releases Debut Album ‘The Journey’
Jamal Roberts, winner of American Idol season 23, is ready to tell more of his story. The Mississippi native has released his debut album, The Journey, via 19 Recordings/BMG.
The nine-track project is filled with songs tethered to matters of the heart. He sings about attraction (“Somebody Else”), attachment (“Drunk Texting”) and contentment (“Perfect For Me”). The Tricky Stewart-produced “And This” gives it all a reason to keep going. “Even if I could, I wouldn’t leave you ‘lone,” he sings.
“‘And This’ is about recognizing a good thing when you have it,” Roberts exclusively tells Rated R&B. “It’s easy to get caught up chasing something you can’t have or romanticizing what’s not real. But this song is me sitting down and appreciating the woman who’s already beside me. It’s about making sure she knows she doesn’t have to question where she stands with me. That’s love done right.”
Roberts’ story isn’t just about romance. “Girl Dad” is an ode to his daughters. “I wanted this song to celebrate every little moment, from painting nails and picking out bows to one day walking them down the aisle,” Roberts said. “I hope every dad who hears this record feels seen, and every daughter feels just how deeply loved she is.”
Regarding The Journey, Roberts shared, “I’ve always believed that everybody’s got a story, and this album is mine. That’s why I called it The Journey. It isn’t just about where I’ve been. It’s about every lesson, every blessing, every heartbreak, every prayer, and every person who helped shape me along the way.”
Following his American Idol win in 2025, Roberts joined R&B icons Brandy and Monica on their co-headlining The Boy Is Mine Tour. “Winning American Idol opened a door, but it didn’t change who I am. I’m still a boy from Mississippi who believes music is supposed to tell the truth,” said Roberts. “I don’t ever want to make records just to be heard. I want to make music that makes people feel seen.”
Stream Jamal Roberts’ The Journey HERE:
The nine-track project is filled with songs tethered to matters of the heart. He sings about attraction (“Somebody Else”), attachment (“Drunk Texting”) and contentment (“Perfect For Me”). The Tricky Stewart-produced “And This” gives it all a reason to keep going. “Even if I could, I wouldn’t leave you ‘lone,” he sings.
“‘And This’ is about recognizing a good thing when you have it,” Roberts exclusively tells Rated R&B. “It’s easy to get caught up chasing something you can’t have or romanticizing what’s not real. But this song is me sitting down and appreciating the woman who’s already beside me. It’s about making sure she knows she doesn’t have to question where she stands with me. That’s love done right.”
Roberts’ story isn’t just about romance. “Girl Dad” is an ode to his daughters. “I wanted this song to celebrate every little moment, from painting nails and picking out bows to one day walking them down the aisle,” Roberts said. “I hope every dad who hears this record feels seen, and every daughter feels just how deeply loved she is.”
Regarding The Journey, Roberts shared, “I’ve always believed that everybody’s got a story, and this album is mine. That’s why I called it The Journey. It isn’t just about where I’ve been. It’s about every lesson, every blessing, every heartbreak, every prayer, and every person who helped shape me along the way.”
Following his American Idol win in 2025, Roberts joined R&B icons Brandy and Monica on their co-headlining The Boy Is Mine Tour. “Winning American Idol opened a door, but it didn’t change who I am. I’m still a boy from Mississippi who believes music is supposed to tell the truth,” said Roberts. “I don’t ever want to make records just to be heard. I want to make music that makes people feel seen.”
Stream Jamal Roberts’ The Journey HERE:
#HipHopNews: Lil Jon Teases Upcoming Memoir: I Only Shout So You Can Hear Me
Blending hip-hop history with candid self-reflection, I Only Shout So You Can Hear Me offers fans a complete look at the creator behind some of pop culture’s loudest anthems. Beyond the high-energy music, Lil Jon opens up about overcoming burnout, prioritizing personal wellness, and navigating the personal costs of fame.
Co-written with journalist Paul Cantor, the 304-page book charts Lil Jon’s (real name Jonathan Smith) evolution from a middle-class kid growing up in suburban Atlanta to a global hitmaker whose iconic ad-libs such as “WHAT?!”, “YEAH!”, and “OK!” defined 2000s club culture and the Super Bowl stage.
The memoir is expected to pull back the curtain on the unexpected moments behind his chart-topping hits like Usher’s “Yeah!” and his own anthem “Get Low,” while also discussing the dynamics of Lil Jon’s industry relationships. According to the preview, the book will reflect heavily on his early career moves, including how Too $hort helped launch him nationally and how regional collaborations helped bridge Southern crunk with Bay Area hyphy culture.
For information about purchasing the book or upcoming book signings and appearances, visit https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/I-Only-Shout-So-You-Can-Hear-Me/Lil-Jon/9781668061473.
Who is Susan Dell? Everything We Know About the Dell CEO’s Wife Following Viral Oval Office Appearance
Susan Dell is still making headlines.The 62-year-old philanthropist, who is the wife of Dell Technologies CEO Michael Dell, went viral earlier this week following her appearance during a press event at the White House.
Susan appeared in the Oval Office on Wednesday (October 7) to encourage families to sign up for the “Trump Accounts” program. She and Michael also pledged to give 25 million children $250 for their accounts.
Now that Susan is in the news, we pulled together everything we know about her, so you can find out more about her.
Susan has been married to Michael Dell since 1989
Susan first met Michael in 1988 shortly after she moved to Austin, Texas to work for real estate developer Trammell Crow. One of her clients insisted that she meet Michael and they set up a lunch date.
“He was the nicest guy I’d ever met,” Susan told Texas Monthly in 2000.
Michael proposed to Susan the following spring and they married on October 28, 1989.
They share four children Susan and Michael share four children: daughters Alexa, Kira, and Juliette, and son Zachary. The kids have kept a private life and aren’t in the public as much as their parents, so there isn’t much known about them.
Alexa has been married to Rain COO to Frédéric Choquette since March 2025 and they share a daughter born in February 2026. Alexa is also mom to son Lucien from a previous relationship.
Kira is the CEO of Austin-based company Adaptive Waters and Juliette has been married to Commonwealth Sports founder Chase Chamberlin since March 2024.
Zachary followed in his father’s footsteps and founded the Austin-based technology company Based Power.
Susan has founded three fashion labels over the years, including a namesake clothing line which was discontinued in 2003, according to WWD.
In 2001, she designed the gowns that twins Barbara Bush and Lauren Bush Hager wore to their father President George W. Bush‘s first inaugural gala.
In 2003, Susan founded the luxury label Phi, which shut down in 2009.
She’s a philanthropist. Susan is the co-founder and chair of the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, which was established in 1999 “to accelerate opportunities for families and build pathways to change lives globally.”
To date, Michael and Susan have committed $10 billion to nonprofits and social enterprises focused on creating positive change in the United States, India, Africa, and Israel.
Michael has a net worth of about $262 billion, according to Fortune.
Susan appeared in the Oval Office on Wednesday (October 7) to encourage families to sign up for the “Trump Accounts” program. She and Michael also pledged to give 25 million children $250 for their accounts.
Now that Susan is in the news, we pulled together everything we know about her, so you can find out more about her.
Susan has been married to Michael Dell since 1989
Susan first met Michael in 1988 shortly after she moved to Austin, Texas to work for real estate developer Trammell Crow. One of her clients insisted that she meet Michael and they set up a lunch date.
“He was the nicest guy I’d ever met,” Susan told Texas Monthly in 2000.
Michael proposed to Susan the following spring and they married on October 28, 1989.
They share four children Susan and Michael share four children: daughters Alexa, Kira, and Juliette, and son Zachary. The kids have kept a private life and aren’t in the public as much as their parents, so there isn’t much known about them.
Alexa has been married to Rain COO to Frédéric Choquette since March 2025 and they share a daughter born in February 2026. Alexa is also mom to son Lucien from a previous relationship.
Kira is the CEO of Austin-based company Adaptive Waters and Juliette has been married to Commonwealth Sports founder Chase Chamberlin since March 2024.
Zachary followed in his father’s footsteps and founded the Austin-based technology company Based Power.
Susan has founded three fashion labels over the years, including a namesake clothing line which was discontinued in 2003, according to WWD.
In 2001, she designed the gowns that twins Barbara Bush and Lauren Bush Hager wore to their father President George W. Bush‘s first inaugural gala.
In 2003, Susan founded the luxury label Phi, which shut down in 2009.
She’s a philanthropist. Susan is the co-founder and chair of the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, which was established in 1999 “to accelerate opportunities for families and build pathways to change lives globally.”
To date, Michael and Susan have committed $10 billion to nonprofits and social enterprises focused on creating positive change in the United States, India, Africa, and Israel.
Michael has a net worth of about $262 billion, according to Fortune.
Serena Williams Gets with a Barbie Doll That Pays Homage to Her 2005 Australian Open Victory
Mattel has unveiled a new Barbie Signature doll honoring the tennis icon and her historic 2005 Australian Open victory. The collectible recreates Williams’ memorable championship look while celebrating her influence beyond the tennis court.
Released Thursday, Oct. 8, the doll features a green and white cutout top with mesh detailing and a white skirt. It also includes matching tennis shoes, socks, a sweatband, a racket and a tennis ball.
The outfit pays tribute to Williams’ seventh Grand Slam singles title, which came after her return from knee surgery.
Williams defeated Lindsay Davenport in the 2005 Australian Open final, securing another major victory in her already impressive career.
The doll, which retails for $45, is available through Target, Mattel Creations and other major retailers.
For Williams, the collaboration represents more than another accomplishment. It is an opportunity to encourage young girls, particularly Black girls, to recognize their potential.
“Growing up, I didn’t see many girls who looked like me being told there was no limit to who they could become,” Williams said in a statement. “I want every girl who plays with this doll to see possibility—not just in me, but in herself. She can dream big, work hard, change direction, break barriers, and become anything she chooses. That’s what makes having my own Barbie so meaningful to me.”
Williams also shared her excitement about the doll’s attention to detail.
During an interview with Bustle, she praised Mattel for accurately recreating her championship outfit.
“The outfit was very complicated. It had a lot of pieces to it, and [Mattel] nailed it all, the shoes and everything,” Williams said.
The tennis champion also emphasized the importance of accurately representing her signature hairstyle
“I was really adamant about having big curly hair and having a little color in the hair as well,” she added.
The release coincides with celebrations surrounding International Day of the Girl on Oct. 11.
It also officially welcomes Williams to Team Barbie, an initiative celebrating influential women who inspire younger generations.
Williams’ latest honor recognizes a career that has extended well beyond professional sports.
Throughout her career, the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion has challenged expectations surrounding women in athletics, particularly Black women.
Her influence has also reached fashion, entrepreneurship and advocacy, making her one of the most recognizable athletes worldwide. Nathan Baynard, Mattel’s vice president and head of Barbie, praised Williams for embodying the company’s message of empowerment.
“Barbie has always inspired girls to believe they can be anything, from the sports stadium to the fashion runway to the boardroom,” Baynard said. “Serena Williams embodies that message through her extraordinary achievements as an athlete, entrepreneur, and advocate for equality.”
The new collectible follows a one-of-a-kind Serena Williams Role Model doll unveiled in March 2026.
Her sister, Venus Williams, has also received a Barbie tribute. Mattel previously released a doll inspired by Venus’ 2007 Wimbledon championship appearance.
Alongside the latest release, Barbie’s Dream Gap Project is donating to Mrs. Rina’s House of Blessings in Florida.
The organization supports children and families through educational programming, leadership development and other resources. The donation reflects Williams’ commitment to creating opportunities for future generations
More than two decades after her Australian Open victory, Williams continues to make an impact beyond her athletic achievements.
Now, one of her most memorable moments will live on in a collectible designed to remind young girls that their ambitions deserve to be represented.
Debbie Allen says “colorism foolishness” fueled childhood insecurities between her and Phylicia Rashad
Phylicia Rashad said she grew up believing her sister, Debbie Allen, was beautiful while not viewing herself the same way.
As adults, the sisters learned that each had admired the other’s appearance while struggling with their own self-image.
Allen connected their childhood perceptions to colorism and recalled an uncle making a hurtful remark.
Debbie Allen and Phylicia Rashad are two of the most iconic figures in entertainment, and while they’ve both had their fair share of men who admire them and women who idolize them, even they weren’t immune to insecurities growing up. While they’ve always been supportive of one another, there was one thing they didn’t necessarily see the same way when they were younger: their beauty.
On Wednesday (Oct. 7), during an episode of Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson’s “IMO,” the former first lady brought up Allen receiving an honorary Oscar last year. She went on to mention that the camera briefly panned to Rashad, who “might as well have been right up there” with the Fame star, judging by her expression.
Michelle then asked whether the sisters ever felt competitive with one another, explaining that she didn’t really experience that with Craig because “he was a boy,” while her daughters, Malia and Sasha Obama, never seemed to compete much either. Rashad admitted, “I always felt that Debbie was beautiful and I was not,” followed by Michelle joking that “the whole room” basically went, “What?”
Phylicia Rashad says colorism influenced how she and Debbie Allen viewed themselves
“It wasn’t until we were college graduates, right? We were living together in an apartment on 84th Street, and it’s Christmas,” Rashad explained, adding that it was the first time they’d spent the holiday away from family. “Neither one of us had steady employment, but there was a little jewelry store around the corner, and we had secretly gone in to buy gifts for each other.”
On Christmas Eve, the sisters exchanged gifts before one thing led to another. “I said to Deborah that I had always wanted to be beautiful like her, and she looks at me. She said, 'But you’re the beautiful one,’” Rashad recalled. “Then we broke down and started crying.”
Allen later chimed in with her perspective, explaining that they grew up around “that colorism foolishness.” She told Michelle and Robinson, “I remember one time Phylicia loved chocolate milk, and we were drinking chocolate milk, and my uncle said to her, ‘Girl, you better drink all the white milk you can.’ And wow, that was so ugly.” The “A Different World” actress continued, “Phylicia looked more like mama than me, and I wished I was always pretty like her.”
Michelle eventually shared how she and Barack Obama are “really careful” about what the men in their family say about their daughters. “Don’t let it come from your lips, you know,” she explained. “Barack is like, ‘If you got something to say about something they got on, tell me.’” The trio then spoke about how, with the introduction of social media, many young people — and women in particular — can be made to feel lesser.
Fortunately, we’ve moved past a lot of the beauty standards and colorism Allen and Rashad grew up with, though there’s still plenty of work left to do today.
As adults, the sisters learned that each had admired the other’s appearance while struggling with their own self-image.
Allen connected their childhood perceptions to colorism and recalled an uncle making a hurtful remark.
Debbie Allen and Phylicia Rashad are two of the most iconic figures in entertainment, and while they’ve both had their fair share of men who admire them and women who idolize them, even they weren’t immune to insecurities growing up. While they’ve always been supportive of one another, there was one thing they didn’t necessarily see the same way when they were younger: their beauty.
On Wednesday (Oct. 7), during an episode of Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson’s “IMO,” the former first lady brought up Allen receiving an honorary Oscar last year. She went on to mention that the camera briefly panned to Rashad, who “might as well have been right up there” with the Fame star, judging by her expression.
Michelle then asked whether the sisters ever felt competitive with one another, explaining that she didn’t really experience that with Craig because “he was a boy,” while her daughters, Malia and Sasha Obama, never seemed to compete much either. Rashad admitted, “I always felt that Debbie was beautiful and I was not,” followed by Michelle joking that “the whole room” basically went, “What?”
Phylicia Rashad says colorism influenced how she and Debbie Allen viewed themselves
“It wasn’t until we were college graduates, right? We were living together in an apartment on 84th Street, and it’s Christmas,” Rashad explained, adding that it was the first time they’d spent the holiday away from family. “Neither one of us had steady employment, but there was a little jewelry store around the corner, and we had secretly gone in to buy gifts for each other.”
On Christmas Eve, the sisters exchanged gifts before one thing led to another. “I said to Deborah that I had always wanted to be beautiful like her, and she looks at me. She said, 'But you’re the beautiful one,’” Rashad recalled. “Then we broke down and started crying.”
Allen later chimed in with her perspective, explaining that they grew up around “that colorism foolishness.” She told Michelle and Robinson, “I remember one time Phylicia loved chocolate milk, and we were drinking chocolate milk, and my uncle said to her, ‘Girl, you better drink all the white milk you can.’ And wow, that was so ugly.” The “A Different World” actress continued, “Phylicia looked more like mama than me, and I wished I was always pretty like her.”
Michelle eventually shared how she and Barack Obama are “really careful” about what the men in their family say about their daughters. “Don’t let it come from your lips, you know,” she explained. “Barack is like, ‘If you got something to say about something they got on, tell me.’” The trio then spoke about how, with the introduction of social media, many young people — and women in particular — can be made to feel lesser.
Fortunately, we’ve moved past a lot of the beauty standards and colorism Allen and Rashad grew up with, though there’s still plenty of work left to do today.
Mike Tyson hand-delivered President Trump a letter from Diddy: ‘I did what he told me to do’
Mike Tyson says he hand-delivered a letter to President Trump on behalf of Sean "Diddy" Combs.
The former boxing pro said the request came during a phone call that he had with Combs, who is serving prison time for prostitution-related charges.
Tyson's comments follow reports that he was the one who helped Combs ask Trump for a presidential pardon.
Mike Tyson has indicated that he was the messenger who helped Sean "Diddy" Combs request a presidential pardon.
The retired boxer briefly discussed his friendship with Combs during a recent visit to SiriusXM's Andy Cohen Live after the titular host asked, "Were you buddies with P. Diddy?"
Tyson replied, "Yeah, I'm friendly with Puff."
Asked if the duo remain in touch now that Combs is serving prison time for prostitution-related charges, Tyson shared that he "spoke with him once on the phone." He then revealed that during that call, the disgraced music mogul asked him for a favor.
"He wanted me to give a letter to the president," Tyson said.
When Cohen asked if Tyson made the delivery, the boxer replied, "I did what he told me to do, yeah."
Mike Tyson and Sean Combs at 'Belvedere's Jagger Dagger Party' held at the Palm Beach during the 61st Cannes Film Festival
Tyson's comments come several months after an unidentified source told The Sun that the former boxing champion was the one who hand-delivered a letter from Combs to President Trump, containing a personal appeal requesting a presidential pardon. The source claimed that Tyson agreed to make the delivery despite "feeling uneasy" about the situation.
"Mike admitted he was feeling nervous about it, but agreed to take it to the White House when he visited," the source told the outlet. "It wasn't something he was expecting when he met with them, but Mike did what he was asked."
A representative for Tyson did not immediately respond to Entertainment Weekly's request for comment.
At the start of this year, Trump confirmed to the New York Times that Combs has asked him for a pardon, with the request coming "through a letter." Despite previously stating that he would be willing to "look at the facts" of Combs' case and consider pardoning the rapper, Trump has since indicated that he is not planning to grant clemency to Combs.
Trump has pardoned a number of celebrities since taking office, including rappers Kodak Black and Lil Wayne, both of whom were convicted on federal weapon charges. In October 2025, the White House denied that Trump was mulling over whether to commute Combs' sentence. Months prior, in August 2025, Trump expressed a similar disinterest when asked about potentially pardoning Combs during an interview with Newsmax.
"You know, I was very friendly with him. I got along with him great and seemed like a nice guy. I didn't know him well," the president responded. "But when I ran for office, he was very hostile."
When asked if he was suggesting that he would not pardon Combs, Trump said, "I would say so."
Though Trump and Combs used to travel in the same social circles as New York City elites in the 1990s, their mutual appreciation soured after Trump got into politics and Combs voiced criticism of him.
On the subject of pardoning Combs, Trump added, "We don't like to have things cloud our judgment, right? But when you knew someone, and you were fine, and then you run for office, and he made some terrible statements... So I don't know, it's more difficult. It makes it more — I'm being honest, it makes it more difficult to do."
More than 70 lawsuits have been filed against Combs since November 2023, alleging sexual assault and sex trafficking. Two years later, the music mogul was at the center of a highly publicized federal trial, based on charges that also include racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York accused Combs of leading a criminal enterprise that "abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct," according to the indictment. Combs pleaded not guilty and has denied all of the allegations against him.
Combs was ultimately found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, a verdict that was widely seen as a legal victory for the rapper, as he was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that could have seen him sentenced to life in prison. He was sentenced to 50 months (just over four years) in prison, fined $500,000, and ordered five years of supervised release once he leaves prison. He has since been serving time at Fort Dix Federal Correctional Institution in New Jersey.
The former boxing pro said the request came during a phone call that he had with Combs, who is serving prison time for prostitution-related charges.
Tyson's comments follow reports that he was the one who helped Combs ask Trump for a presidential pardon.
Mike Tyson has indicated that he was the messenger who helped Sean "Diddy" Combs request a presidential pardon.
The retired boxer briefly discussed his friendship with Combs during a recent visit to SiriusXM's Andy Cohen Live after the titular host asked, "Were you buddies with P. Diddy?"
Tyson replied, "Yeah, I'm friendly with Puff."
Asked if the duo remain in touch now that Combs is serving prison time for prostitution-related charges, Tyson shared that he "spoke with him once on the phone." He then revealed that during that call, the disgraced music mogul asked him for a favor.
"He wanted me to give a letter to the president," Tyson said.
When Cohen asked if Tyson made the delivery, the boxer replied, "I did what he told me to do, yeah."
Mike Tyson and Sean Combs at 'Belvedere's Jagger Dagger Party' held at the Palm Beach during the 61st Cannes Film Festival
Tyson's comments come several months after an unidentified source told The Sun that the former boxing champion was the one who hand-delivered a letter from Combs to President Trump, containing a personal appeal requesting a presidential pardon. The source claimed that Tyson agreed to make the delivery despite "feeling uneasy" about the situation.
"Mike admitted he was feeling nervous about it, but agreed to take it to the White House when he visited," the source told the outlet. "It wasn't something he was expecting when he met with them, but Mike did what he was asked."
A representative for Tyson did not immediately respond to Entertainment Weekly's request for comment.
At the start of this year, Trump confirmed to the New York Times that Combs has asked him for a pardon, with the request coming "through a letter." Despite previously stating that he would be willing to "look at the facts" of Combs' case and consider pardoning the rapper, Trump has since indicated that he is not planning to grant clemency to Combs.
Trump has pardoned a number of celebrities since taking office, including rappers Kodak Black and Lil Wayne, both of whom were convicted on federal weapon charges. In October 2025, the White House denied that Trump was mulling over whether to commute Combs' sentence. Months prior, in August 2025, Trump expressed a similar disinterest when asked about potentially pardoning Combs during an interview with Newsmax.
"You know, I was very friendly with him. I got along with him great and seemed like a nice guy. I didn't know him well," the president responded. "But when I ran for office, he was very hostile."
When asked if he was suggesting that he would not pardon Combs, Trump said, "I would say so."
Though Trump and Combs used to travel in the same social circles as New York City elites in the 1990s, their mutual appreciation soured after Trump got into politics and Combs voiced criticism of him.
On the subject of pardoning Combs, Trump added, "We don't like to have things cloud our judgment, right? But when you knew someone, and you were fine, and then you run for office, and he made some terrible statements... So I don't know, it's more difficult. It makes it more — I'm being honest, it makes it more difficult to do."
More than 70 lawsuits have been filed against Combs since November 2023, alleging sexual assault and sex trafficking. Two years later, the music mogul was at the center of a highly publicized federal trial, based on charges that also include racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York accused Combs of leading a criminal enterprise that "abused, threatened, and coerced women and others around him to fulfill his sexual desires, protect his reputation, and conceal his conduct," according to the indictment. Combs pleaded not guilty and has denied all of the allegations against him.
Combs was ultimately found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, a verdict that was widely seen as a legal victory for the rapper, as he was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges that could have seen him sentenced to life in prison. He was sentenced to 50 months (just over four years) in prison, fined $500,000, and ordered five years of supervised release once he leaves prison. He has since been serving time at Fort Dix Federal Correctional Institution in New Jersey.
Halle Berry Completes Parenting Program Amid Custody Battle With Olivier Martinez
Halle Berry has completed a mandatory parenting program as she battles ex-husband Olivier Martinezover custody of their son ... TMZ has learned.
According to court docs obtained by TMZ, Berry signed a certificate Tuesday verifying she completed the Los Angeles Superior Court's "Our Children First" online mediation orientation and parent education program.
Per the court's website, parents are required to complete the court's online child custody mediation orientation and parent education program, officially known as "Our Children First," before moving forward with custody or visitation disputes.
The filing comes amid the former couple's explosive legal battle over their 13-year-old son, Maceo.
As TMZ previously reported ... Olivier accused Halle of putting Maceo in a headlock and choking him while he was playing a virtual reality game. Halle denied the allegation, saying they were playfully roughhousing and insisting she never put her hands around his neck.
Halle has called herself a domestic violence victim and advocate not a perpetrator and said she would never hurt their child. She also accused Olivier of failing to provide Maceo with appropriate boundaries and resisting professional help for the boy's behavioral and neurodivergent issues.
A judge previously granted Olivier's request for a temporary restraining order, while allowing Halle to maintain final decision making authority over Maceo's mental health and education.
The former couple is scheduled to return to court October 16.
Halle Berry has completed a mandatory parenting program as she battles ex-husband Olivier Martinezover custody of their son ... TMZ has learned.
According to court docs obtained by TMZ, Berry signed a certificate Tuesday verifying she completed the Los Angeles Superior Court's "Our Children First" online mediation orientation and parent education program.
Per the court's website, parents are required to complete the court's online child custody mediation orientation and parent education program, officially known as "Our Children First," before moving forward with custody or visitation disputes.
The filing comes amid the former couple's explosive legal battle over their 13-year-old son, Maceo.
As TMZ previously reported ... Olivier accused Halle of putting Maceo in a headlock and choking him while he was playing a virtual reality game. Halle denied the allegation, saying they were playfully roughhousing and insisting she never put her hands around his neck.
Halle has called herself a domestic violence victim and advocate not a perpetrator and said she would never hurt their child. She also accused Olivier of failing to provide Maceo with appropriate boundaries and resisting professional help for the boy's behavioral and neurodivergent issues.
A judge previously granted Olivier's request for a temporary restraining order, while allowing Halle to maintain final decision making authority over Maceo's mental health and education.
The former couple is scheduled to return to court October 16.
‘Pretty Little Liars’ star Keegan Allen beaten, robbed of watch in West Hollywood
Pretty Little Liars star Keegan Allen told followers on social media Thursday night that he had just been robbed at gunpoint outside a high-end grocery store in West Hollywood.
“I was just a, I was just robbed of my watch outside of Laurel Supply. Can you call the police?” the bloodied and dazed actor is heard saying in the Instagram post.
The post also included surveillance video showing Allen being confronted by two suspects wearing black hoodies while standing outside a pickup truck in the parking lot of the store in the 8400 block of Santa Monica Boulevard.
“These two dudes hit me in the head and pointed a gun at me, with a knife, and then took off,” Allen said.
The video shows one of the robbers striking Allen in the head three times with a handgun as the Walker actor appeared to be trying to remove something from his wrist.
“Had masks on. Took my watch though. Took my watch,” he said.
TMZ reported that paramedics treated Allen at the scene for lacerations and that he was not transported to a hospital.
In the post, Allen wrote, “West Hollywood is not safe anymore,” and said the robbers threatened to kill him over the watch.
KTLA has reached out to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for information on the case and is awaiting a response.
A news release with additional details was expected later Friday morning.
“I was just a, I was just robbed of my watch outside of Laurel Supply. Can you call the police?” the bloodied and dazed actor is heard saying in the Instagram post.
The post also included surveillance video showing Allen being confronted by two suspects wearing black hoodies while standing outside a pickup truck in the parking lot of the store in the 8400 block of Santa Monica Boulevard.
“These two dudes hit me in the head and pointed a gun at me, with a knife, and then took off,” Allen said.
The video shows one of the robbers striking Allen in the head three times with a handgun as the Walker actor appeared to be trying to remove something from his wrist.
“Had masks on. Took my watch though. Took my watch,” he said.
TMZ reported that paramedics treated Allen at the scene for lacerations and that he was not transported to a hospital.
In the post, Allen wrote, “West Hollywood is not safe anymore,” and said the robbers threatened to kill him over the watch.
KTLA has reached out to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for information on the case and is awaiting a response.
A news release with additional details was expected later Friday morning.
Darryl M. Bell and Kadeem Hardison Reunite for New Black Effect Podcast, “A Different World View”
A new podcast is coming to explore the history of ‘A Different World’. The ‘A Different World View’ rewatch podcast, hosted by Kadeem Hardison and Darryl M. Bell, will premiere on Oct. 15. New episodes will be released each Thursday wherever podcasts are streamed.
Building on their nearly 40-year friendship, the stars behind Dwayne Wayne and Ron Johnson are launching a weekly podcast. Following the successful launch and Season 2 renewal of the 2026 A Different World reboot, the duo will tackle pop culture, sports, and current events with their trademark banter.
In addition to broad culture talks, the podcast will unpack the Netflix sequel series. Hosting stars from both the original and new casts—starting with first guest Debbie Allen.
“I am beyond excited to finally launch the ‘A Different World View with Darryl and Kadeem’ podcast,” shared Bell. “Kadeem and I have only wanted to do this for over 25 years, and the time is now! I also could not be happier or think of better partners than Charlamagne Tha God, his team at The Black Effect and iHeartMedia.”
“I’ve been talking to this guy for 40 years,” added Hardison. “I’m so glad you all get to see what I’ve been dealing with. ‘A Different World View’ coming shortly!”
Premiering in 1987, A Different World redefined prime-time television by bringing the HBCU experience, Black youth culture, and pressing social issues to center stage. Beyond ranking as one of the era’s highest-rated sitcoms, the Hillman College-set series drove a nationwide surge in HBCU enrollment and cemented its place as a groundbreaking cultural touchstone.
Netflix’s A Different World sequel made an immediate splash, surging into the platform’s Global Top 10 during its debut week. By seamlessly blending legacy characters with a new Gen-Z cast, the critical and ratings hit earned a swift Season 2 renewal just days after premiere.
Nicki Minaj Jokingly Says Fans Should Expect ‘Nothing’ From Her Next Album
At X Takeover, Nicki Minaj shut down a fan's question about her next album with a three-word answer, "Nothing...next question.”
The brush-off follows a year of mixed signals, including a September 2025 post reading "3.27.26" that fans took as a release date, then an October 15 message saying she would no longer put out the album.
Minaj's last album, Pink Friday 2, released December 8, 2023, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 228,000 album-equivalent units, making her the first female rapper with three chart-topping albums.
The standoff has unfolded alongside Minaj's public friction with Jay-Z and Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, even though she records for Republic Records, leaving fans without a clear signal on the album's fate.
Nicki Minaj is not entertaining album questions for the time being. The rapper appeared onstage at the X Takeover event in Austin, TX, and was asked what fans could expect on a new album from her.
Though the crowd got excited that they were getting ready to hear an exclusive, Minaj let them down quickly.
"Nothing…next question," she said, with a laugh.
The brush-off caps a year of whiplash. In September 2025, Minaj broke a month-long social media break with a post reading "3.27.26" and a CD emoji, which fans read as a release date for her sixth studio album.
Weeks later, on Oct. 15, 2025, she reversed course in a post aimed at Jay-Z. "Ok I'm not going to put out the album anymore... No more music. Hope you're happy now @sc Bye, Barbz. Love you for life," she wrote.
But the wait is real, with fans not receiving any new music for three years. Pink Friday 2 arrived Dec. 8, 2023, and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 228,000 album-equivalent units, making Minaj the first female rapper with three chart-topping albums
The album standoff has played out alongside her public friction with Jay-Z and Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, even though Minaj records for Republic Records. She claimed Roc Nation came to her asking for a tour and an album, and that she turned them down.
The brush-off follows a year of mixed signals, including a September 2025 post reading "3.27.26" that fans took as a release date, then an October 15 message saying she would no longer put out the album.
Minaj's last album, Pink Friday 2, released December 8, 2023, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 228,000 album-equivalent units, making her the first female rapper with three chart-topping albums.
The standoff has unfolded alongside Minaj's public friction with Jay-Z and Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, even though she records for Republic Records, leaving fans without a clear signal on the album's fate.
Nicki Minaj is not entertaining album questions for the time being. The rapper appeared onstage at the X Takeover event in Austin, TX, and was asked what fans could expect on a new album from her.
Though the crowd got excited that they were getting ready to hear an exclusive, Minaj let them down quickly.
"Nothing…next question," she said, with a laugh.
The brush-off caps a year of whiplash. In September 2025, Minaj broke a month-long social media break with a post reading "3.27.26" and a CD emoji, which fans read as a release date for her sixth studio album.
Weeks later, on Oct. 15, 2025, she reversed course in a post aimed at Jay-Z. "Ok I'm not going to put out the album anymore... No more music. Hope you're happy now @sc Bye, Barbz. Love you for life," she wrote.
But the wait is real, with fans not receiving any new music for three years. Pink Friday 2 arrived Dec. 8, 2023, and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 228,000 album-equivalent units, making Minaj the first female rapper with three chart-topping albums
The album standoff has played out alongside her public friction with Jay-Z and Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, even though Minaj records for Republic Records. She claimed Roc Nation came to her asking for a tour and an album, and that she turned them down.
Bob Mackie’s Death Certificate Reveals Details About How He Died
Bob Mackie passed away last month and his cause of death at the time was listed as pneumonia.
Now, shocking new details about how the legendary fashion designer died have been revealed.
Us Weekly has obtained Mackie‘s death certificate, which noted that he suffered an injury after falling at the home of his longtime design director Joseph McFate‘s home on September 11. He died three days later at a medical center in Palm Springs, Calif.
The death certificate reveals that Mackie‘s “immediate cause of death is listed as a subarachnoid hemorrhage and blunt head trauma.”
Mackie‘s rep confirmed the injury and said that the designer was also suffering from pneumonia at the time.
“For clarification, Mr. Mackie was staying in the guest house at the home of his longtime Design Director, Joe McFate,” the rep told Us Weekly. “A healthcare professional was with him when he fell. He was also suffering from pneumonia both before and after his hospitalization.”
The death certificate reveals that Mackie‘s body was cremated on September 17.
The remains were “scattered at sea off the coast of San Diego County in California,” according to Us Weekly.
Now, shocking new details about how the legendary fashion designer died have been revealed.
Us Weekly has obtained Mackie‘s death certificate, which noted that he suffered an injury after falling at the home of his longtime design director Joseph McFate‘s home on September 11. He died three days later at a medical center in Palm Springs, Calif.
The death certificate reveals that Mackie‘s “immediate cause of death is listed as a subarachnoid hemorrhage and blunt head trauma.”
Mackie‘s rep confirmed the injury and said that the designer was also suffering from pneumonia at the time.
“For clarification, Mr. Mackie was staying in the guest house at the home of his longtime Design Director, Joe McFate,” the rep told Us Weekly. “A healthcare professional was with him when he fell. He was also suffering from pneumonia both before and after his hospitalization.”
The death certificate reveals that Mackie‘s body was cremated on September 17.
The remains were “scattered at sea off the coast of San Diego County in California,” according to Us Weekly.
Summer Walker Wants Out of Her 2017 Interscope Contract and the Label Just Sued Her for $50 Million
Summer Walker is being sued by Interscope Records for more than $50 million after the R&B star moved to walk away from the record deal she signed in 2017. The label filed the lawsuit Friday, October 9, in Los Angeles County Superior Court, according to Rolling Stone, which obtained the complaint.
Interscope, which is owned by Universal Music Group, claims Walker still owes two studio albums and an EP under her contract. The label says those undelivered recordings represent more than $50 million in lost profits, and it is asking for damages, interest and legal costs, with the final amount to be decided at trial.
The fight started in August, when Walker told Interscope she would stop working under the agreement as of August 27. To get out, she invoked a California law most people in the music business simply call the seven year rule.
The rule dates back to 1944 and is part of California’s labor code. It says no one can be held to a personal services contract, meaning a deal where you are paid for your own work or talent, for longer than seven years. Actress Olivia de Havilland famously used it to break free from Warner Bros. in the 1940s, and entertainers have leaned on it ever since.
Record labels, however, got a carve out. In 1987, California amended the law so recording artists can still leave after seven years, but labels can sue for damages over albums the artist agreed to make and never delivered. Labels only get 45 days after receiving a termination notice to file that kind of lawsuit, which is why Interscope’s complaint landed when it did.
Summer Walker signed in 2017 through a joint deal with Interscope and Love Renaissance, the Atlanta label and management company known as LVRN. According to reports on the complaint, the label counts three of her projects toward the deal: Over It in 2019, Still Over It in 2021 and Finally Over It in 2025. Interscope’s position is that her EPs do not satisfy the album commitment.
Those albums took Summer Walker from an Atlanta singer posting videos online to one of the biggest names in R&B. Over It landed the largest streaming debut ever for a female R&B artist at the time of its release, and Still Over It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Interscope says it did not want to end up in court. A label spokesperson said the company is still hopeful that ongoing talks lead to an amicable resolution, but that the statutory deadline forced it to file in order to protect the terms of the contract. The spokesperson added that the label has great respect for Summer and would welcome the chance to continue the partnership.
Summer Walker’s camp is not backing down. In a statement, her side said it was disappointed that Interscope chose to pursue litigation but remains confident in “Summer’s legal position and her right to challenge the continued enforceability of her recording contract.”
Walker was a newcomer when she signed in 2017. Nearly nine years later, she says the deal has run its course. Interscope says it has not, and a Los Angeles court will now decide what, if anything, she owes.
Interscope, which is owned by Universal Music Group, claims Walker still owes two studio albums and an EP under her contract. The label says those undelivered recordings represent more than $50 million in lost profits, and it is asking for damages, interest and legal costs, with the final amount to be decided at trial.
The fight started in August, when Walker told Interscope she would stop working under the agreement as of August 27. To get out, she invoked a California law most people in the music business simply call the seven year rule.
The rule dates back to 1944 and is part of California’s labor code. It says no one can be held to a personal services contract, meaning a deal where you are paid for your own work or talent, for longer than seven years. Actress Olivia de Havilland famously used it to break free from Warner Bros. in the 1940s, and entertainers have leaned on it ever since.
Record labels, however, got a carve out. In 1987, California amended the law so recording artists can still leave after seven years, but labels can sue for damages over albums the artist agreed to make and never delivered. Labels only get 45 days after receiving a termination notice to file that kind of lawsuit, which is why Interscope’s complaint landed when it did.
Summer Walker signed in 2017 through a joint deal with Interscope and Love Renaissance, the Atlanta label and management company known as LVRN. According to reports on the complaint, the label counts three of her projects toward the deal: Over It in 2019, Still Over It in 2021 and Finally Over It in 2025. Interscope’s position is that her EPs do not satisfy the album commitment.
Those albums took Summer Walker from an Atlanta singer posting videos online to one of the biggest names in R&B. Over It landed the largest streaming debut ever for a female R&B artist at the time of its release, and Still Over It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Interscope says it did not want to end up in court. A label spokesperson said the company is still hopeful that ongoing talks lead to an amicable resolution, but that the statutory deadline forced it to file in order to protect the terms of the contract. The spokesperson added that the label has great respect for Summer and would welcome the chance to continue the partnership.
Summer Walker’s camp is not backing down. In a statement, her side said it was disappointed that Interscope chose to pursue litigation but remains confident in “Summer’s legal position and her right to challenge the continued enforceability of her recording contract.”
Walker was a newcomer when she signed in 2017. Nearly nine years later, she says the deal has run its course. Interscope says it has not, and a Los Angeles court will now decide what, if anything, she owes.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Walmart! No!!
I think OP meant the "children up for auction" board
I think OP meant the "children up for auction" board
AND NOW Meet: Josh
It's Josh! You can see more HERE
DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT OWN any images posted on this blog. All images are found online or submitted.
Enjoy!
HAVE A GREAT WEEK AHEAD ALL!!!
EFREM
