#FASHIONFILES: Naomi Campbell for Marc Jacobs Pre-Fall 2022
Supermodel Naomi Campbell is styled by Danny Reed in Marc Jacobs Pre-Fall 2022 campaign, lensed by Larissa Hofmann [IG]
Naomi Campbell became Dr. Naomi Campbell in The Royal Festival Hall on July 7, 2022 in London, England. Naomi was formally awarded an honorary PhD from The University for the Creative Arts in recognition of her contribution to the global fashion industry.
#RHOA: Phaedra Parks Shuts Down 'RHOA' Return, But Is Down to Join 'RHODubai'
It's been five years since Phaedra Parks handed in her peach on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, and despite fan pleas to make a return, Phaedra says she has no interest in picking up that piece of fruit ever again.
"No, I don't want to pick up a peach," she declares to ET. "If I wanted a peach, I would have a peach pie, but that's not... no, as I've made it very clear, that's not what I want to do. No. I will be yachting. Let them continue to sail away on the Titanic, OK?"
Phaedra left RHOA under strange circumstances, after Porsha Williams claimed at the season 9 reunion that Phaedra informed her of their co-star, Kandi Burruss', desire to allegedly drug and seduce Porsha, allegations Kandi has vehemently denied. Phaedra has never really publicly addressed the ordeal in the years since she became "the daggone villain" (her words). Viewers expected Phaedra to finally share her side of the story on The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Ex-Wives Club, but when teed up by Vicki Gunvalson to reflect on her RHOA departure, Phaedra said she wasn't "doing that."
"Well, actually we had spoke about it earlier and so they chose not to air it," Phaedra reveals. "However, that was -- and just to be very honest -- that was, what now five and a half, six years ago? And there's two sides to that story. You only heard one and obviously they chose not to play the other side. And so it is what it is, but I'm living in the present. And I think people realize... the people that know, know, and most of the people knew and they still know."
Phaedra hints her side may never come out, citing possible legal issues that could pop up from her story. She does note, though, that if what she did was really so bad, why would Bravo give her a second chance on air?
"I'll say like this: it is what it is," she muses. "I mean, people are going to like you and they're going to believe whatever side they want to believe. And I think my record speaks for itself and not one day is going to obviously be my legacy. And that was some BS as I said then, and it's still some BS and obviously I'm back in the Bravo family, so that speaks volumes, shall we say."
"If obviously there was this whole issue with me and they didn't want to be bothered with me, you wouldn't see me popping up at every event," she adds. "Because I didn't invite myself, baby."
One event Phaedra may have been invited to and opted not to attend is Sherée Whitfield's She by Sherée fashion show, set to debut later in RHOA's currently airing season. When cameras filmed the event earlier this year, rumors swirled online that Phaedra popped up as a surprise guest.
"Honey, I was a ghost," she cracks. "It was me in the spiritual form, because I wouldn't dare."
While RHOA watchers might suspect Phaedra wants to stay out of the same spaces as Kandi given their dramatic history, she clarifies that they've been "in the same room several times" since her RHOA departure.
"This is Atlanta," Phaedra notes. "We've been in the room."
As for whether they've spoken in those rooms, Phaedra will only say she's made "eye contact" with her former friend. For now, the attorney/mortician/actress is focused on the friends she made while filming The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Ex-Wives Club: Vicki, Dorinda Medley, Eva Marcille, Jill Zarin, Taylor Armstrong, Brandi Glanville and Tamra Judge.
The cast of Peacock's 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Ex-Wives Club'
Peacock
"This was a very good group," she reflects. "I had such a good time. I mean, I totally enjoyed myself. I had a ball. It was the best time for me. And I'm so happy that I did it because I was sort of apprehensive about doing anything with Housewives. So this was such a great reintroduction to the franchise. So it was a very, very good experience. Thank God!"
Phaedra calls Dorinda, who hosted the trip, her "soul sister." The seven-episode season's proved a little rough for The Real Housewives of New York City alum, as she seemingly got into fights with nearly every woman on the cast... except for Phaedra!
"I really love her," Phaedra professes. "[The other women] don't have as good of taste as me. They don't know quality!"
One of Phaedra's most memorable RHUGT moments, though, came at Dorinda's expense, as she told Brandi that Dorinda was old enough to be the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum's mother, despite there only being an eight-year age difference between the two.
"I wasn't being shady!" Phaedra says in her own defense. "She knows that I just... Black don't crack, so Black folks, we just have a little edge in the beauty game especially the little chocolate girls, but I just... I had no idea. Brandi is fabulous, so youthful, you would never know that she's not a teenager. She gives you teenager, 21-year old vibes -- and she's obviously not 21 -- but she definitely is very youthful and very excitable, shall we say."
The viewers are loving the Ex-Wives Club, calling for this group of eight to reunite once a year to film a season of the franchise. While that's unlikely to happen, the ladies are expected at BravoCon 2022, where an onstage panel could turn into a reunion of sorts. Brandi recently called for one on Twitter, noting that "80 percent" of the women were feuding -- and mostly about stuff that's transpired since cameras went down last fall. The most recent incident involved Jill telling her Instagram followers that Tamra was confirmed to return to The Real Housewives of Orange County for season 17, despite no official announcement or confirmation from Bravo. Tamra clapped back with posts of her own, calling Jill "the thirstiest b***h I know" and telling her to "f**k off" on Twitter. Jill quickly walked back her claims in a follow-up post on Instagram, saying she doesn't know anything about Tamra's RHOC casting.
The stars of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip season 2 gather at Dorinda Medley's estate
Peacock
"We definitely have a Girls Trip text thread that gets very interesting sometimes," Phaedra confesses. "And you have to put it on mute because everyone's chattering about crazy stuff. But yeah, it definitely gets extremely interesting."
"It was very active this weekend," she continues, referencing the Jill/Tamra saga. "I think everybody's phone was very active this weekend because it was Jill's [charity] party and Vicki attended, but we obviously had some craziness that resulted from that event. ... I was supposed to attend the party, but I had something that came up and so I couldn't attend and now I'm happy I didn't, because I don't like to be in the middle of the mess. It's a lot of B words that go around in this type of busybody business."
Now having dipped her toe back into the Bravo waters, Phaedra is open to a more regular return to the network. She recently made a guest appearance on The Real Housewives of Dubai and admits she'd be down to join that crew in a full-time capacity. She's in the process of buying a home in the United Arab Emirates as she develops a sea moss-based vitamin/treatment line overseas.
"Now that, is a possibility. That is a strong possibility," she says of becoming a RHODubai 'Wife. "You've got to run with people who are obviously running with the same purpose and destination."
"If you get out of the miry clay, honey, you got to stay out of the miry clay," she quips, referencing the Bible's term for a troublesome situation.
The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip streams on Peacock. The finale debuts this Thursday, July 21.
#New Video: Kenny Lattimore – Take a Dose
Legendary singer Kenny Lattimore has just unveiled the single for his latest single “Take a Dose”.
“The Modern Soul Man” included the song on his most recently released album “Here To Stay” which released late last year.
WATCH
This is the follow up to his previously released single “Lose You” which also had a video.:
#HipHopNews: Snoop Dogg Says Eminem 'Challenged' Him On New Collaboration
Eminem and Snoop Dogg continue to bring out the best in each other.
Last month after a brief fallout, the rap veterans reunited on their first collaboration in over 20 years, “From the D 2 the LBC.” During an interview to promote the track, Em gave props to Snoop, who in turn credited the Detroit rapper for challenging him as a lyricist.
“You killed it though, bro,” Em told Snoop.
“You challenged me, Marshall,” responded Snoop, who was reminded of his early days as an MC. “You put me back in my karate school days where I used to be a young MC and loved the challenge of having to try a new style, a new cadence. The rap game is supposed to be challenging. It’s supposed to make you dig in your bag.”
Snoop continued to bestow praise on the “Rap God.” “‘Cause I’ve heard you on other songs with other rappers, you tend to show out,” he said. “So I wanted to make sure that I was one of the records [where you showed out].”
“Yeah, you showed out. You definitely showed out,” said Em, while Snoop added, “Just wanted to represent with you one time.”
“From the D 2 the LBC” marks their first collaboration since 2001’s “Bitch Please II.” The “Forgot About Dre” collaborators had a brief fallout after Snoop said Eminem was not deserving of a spot in his top 10 MCs. The “disrespectful” comments angered Em, who clapped back on his song “Zeus.” After squashing their so-called beef, they performed with Dr. Dre at the Super Bowl Halftime Show in February.
“From the D 2 the LBC” is set to appear on Curtain Call 2, a sequel to Eminem’s 2005 greatest hits album, which is set for an Aug. 5 release.
Beyoncé Reveals 'Renaissance' Tracklist
Just over a week before she drops her 7th studio album Renaissance, Beyoncé has revealed the tracklist. In addition to the lead single “Break My Soul,” the 16-track set features songs like “Alien Superstar,” “Church Girl,” “Plastic Off the Sofa,” and “Virgo’s Groove,” named after Queen Bey’s astrological sign.
Other tracks, which she shared in an Instagram Story, include “Thique,” “All Up in Your Mind,” “America Has a Problem,” and the closer, “Summer Renaissance.”
Last month, Bey opened up about the inspiration behind the follow-up to 2016’s Lemonade.
“Creating this album allowed me a place to dream and to find escape during a scary time for the world,” she told fans. “It allowed me to feel free and adventurous in a time when little else was moving. My intention was to create a safe place, a place without judgment. A place to be free of perfectionism and overthinking. A place to scream, release, feel freedom. It was a beautiful journey of exploration.”
She added, “I hope you find joy in this music. I hope it inspires you to release the wiggle. Ha! And to feel as unique, strong, and sexy as you are.”
“Break My Soul,” which samples Robin S.’s “Show Me Love,” is already off to a strong start. The single currently sits at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Renaissance drops July 29. See the tracklist below.
Renaissance Tracklist
1. “I’m That Girl”
2. “Cozy”
3. “Alien Superstar”
4. “Cuff It”
5. “Energy”
6. “Break My Soul”
7. “Church Girl”
8. “Plastic Off the Sofa”
9. “Virgo’s Groove”
10. “Move”
11. “Heated”
12. “Thique”
13. “All Up in Your Mind”
14. “America Has a Problem”
15. “Pure/Honey”
16. “Summer Renaissance”
Cardi B Set To Testify In Person In $5 Million Cover Art Lawsuit
Cardi B is set to testify in person in a $ 5 million lawsuit over the artwork on her 2016 mixtape, ‘Gangsta B*tch Music Vol. 1’.
As previously reported, a man named Kevin Brophy Jr. filed a lawsuit against Cardi B in 2020 for allegedly having his large distinctive back tattoo photoshopped onto a model’s back that is featured on the ‘Gangsta B*tch’ mixtape cover art. The artwork for the mixtape shows Cardi B sitting in what appears to be the backseat of a vehicle while drinking a beer and rubbing the head of a man who has his face in between her legs. The tattoo in question is clearly visible within the image.
Kevin Brophy Jr. says the picture appropriated his likeness in,
“a misleading, offensive, humiliating and provocatively sexual way,”
and is reportedly seeking at least $5 million in damages.
At Tuesday’s (July 18) hearing, a federal judge in Santa Ana, California, confirmed that Cardi B would be expected to testify in person in the case. According to reports, U.S. District Judge Cormac J. Carney said,
“it’s showtime. I don’t think this case is a complex case, but I think it’s a very interesting case, and it’s one I think the jurors would enjoy…I’d like them [the jurors] to know this is the case before they think about whether they want to get off the case or not.”
According to reports, Cardi B previously has claimed that Brophy’s tattoo art was superimposed without her knowledge on the back of a male model who posed with her for the photo. Cardi B went on to argue that the image is not of the same person.
Court documents state:
“The neck tattoo is removed; the arm is repositioned; the lighting and shadowing is manipulated to fit the interior of the limousine; the image is tilted to match the forward-leaning posture of the model’s body; the image is tinted, shaded, and re-coloured to fit the overall scheme of the underlying photo used in the (cover image); and the periphery fades to black.”
On Monday (July 18), lawyers for Kevin Brophy reportedly asked Judge Carney to amend his statement of the case. The edited statement now reads:
“Plaintiff alleges that he did not and would not consent to defendants’ use of his likeness, and that he is being portrayed in an offensive manner depicting sexual activity with Cardi B.”
Cardi B’s lawyer Alan Dowling also asked the judge for an edit to her statement. Now, according to Cardi, Brophy
“is not the man depicted in the image, that the image does not portray actual sexual activity (and) that defendants’ use of his tattoo design did not show plaintiff in a false light or would be highly offensive to a reasonable person in plaintiff’s position.”
Kevin Brophy claims that he has been faced with “uncomfortable comments, questions, and ridicule from community members and family,” regarding the image.His family dynamic has been adversely affected, and his work and professional life have been unalterably damaged by his having to explain this unconsented-to, offensive, and malicious use of his image.”
The trial is set to begin on August 3.
Kim Burrell Issues ANOTHER Apology After Receiving Backlash for Church Service Comments
Kim Burrell wants you to know she’s really, REALLY, sorry for being so hateful making such hateful comments during a recent church service.
This time, Kim sat down for an apology production and shared the video via her social media accounts.
“Please hear my heart…I’m sorry,” she captioned the video.
In case you missed it, Kim’s been on the receiving end of much-deserved backlash for her hateful comments.
“You gotta choose up …. Sometimes before we get friends we have to do an interview: How long you been broke? How many times have you changed your name on your light bill? How many of your bills are in your little cousin’s name? Do you live in a trailer home or a house?” she said at one point.
She later added:
“God is good, I respect all of the men of God here … Hopefully we’ll get a chance to meet each other when y’all invite me to come to your church. I’m not as expensive as I seem. I don’t know, maybe you got a little left over form your PPP loan — prayer, praise, and power, you understand. Amen. Isn’t the lord great? Amen No one likes to be told [they’re ugly] … I haven’t chosen anyone to be ugly yet. God is good. God is great. You all look great. Most of you have on hats covering most of that anyway. Here’s to you.”
Was it church or a stand-up comedy performance? Either way — she wasn’t funny.
In her previous apology — if you can even call it that — Kim said she was joking and not-so-subtly threatened people talking about her online by throwing around words like ‘slander’ and ‘defamation.’
You can see her new apology HERE.
H.E.R. Cast as "Belle" for ABC's 'Beauty and the Beast' Live-Action
Grammy-winning singer H.E.R. ought to start practicing her dreamy, far-off look: She’s been tapped to play Belle in ABC’s upcoming live-action take on Beauty and the Beast.
(July 20), the network revealed the Grammy-winning artist would star in the live-action remake. The special will celebrate the 1991 Disney animated film’s 30th anniversary. The original movie took home two Academy Awards for title song and original score. Jon M. Chu (In the Heights) will executive produce the show.
H.E.R. (whose real name is Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson) released a statement following the announcement. “I can’t believe I get to be a part of the Beauty and the Beast legacy. The world will see a Black and Filipino Belle!” she said. The “Best Part” artist continued, “I have always wanted to be a Disney princess, and I get to work with two wonderful directors Hamish Hamilton and my favorite, Jon M. Chu. It is very surreal, and I couldn’t be more grateful.” According to The Hollywood Reporter, the live-action special will follow the original script, but viewers can expect a few surprises. A live audience will experience the magic during a Dec. 15 taping of the production.
Chu was happy to discuss his excitement about working with the California native. “With her obvious extraordinary talent and stage presence, H.E.R. is the perfect embodiment of our Belle, and we are thrilled for audiences to see her in this celebration of creativity,” the executive producer said. “We were both influenced as storytellers by the original animated movie, so it’s very exciting to collaborate together to honor the artistry of that timeless classic while also inspiring a whole new generation of creators,” he added. H.E.R. will reportedly receive a producer credit for the special.
As she takes on the role of a character who is white in the original film, the “Slide” artist isn’t the only Black woman to break barriers in the world of Disney princesses. Halle Bailey will play Ariel in Disney’s live-action remake of the 1989 hit movie, The Little Mermaid. The singer wrapped filming last year. As previously reported by REVOLT, Bailey faced criticism for playing Ariel, who was portrayed as white in the original film. “I feel like I’m dreaming, and I’m just grateful, and I don’t pay attention to the negativity,” she shared. “I just feel like this role was something bigger than me and greater, and it’s going to be beautiful. I’m just so excited to be a part of it,” Bailey added.
House Protects Same-Sex Marriage in Wake of Supreme Court Rulings
The Democrat-led House of Representatives on Tuesday voted to pass a bill that would enshrine protections for same-sex marriage into federal law.
Yesterday (July 19), the House of Representatives voted to federally protect same-sex marriages, according to CNN. The bill will still need to be passed by the Senate before it can become a law. This vote comes less than a month after major changes from the Supreme Court. On June 24, the court voted in favor of overturning Roe v. Wade. That same day, Planned Parenthood clinics nationwide began canceling scheduled abortion procedures without notice.
Many feared that with the court’s abrupt decisions regarding abortion and women’s reproductive health, other rights would soon be in jeopardy as well. New York Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler introduced the Respect for Marriage Act to protect same-sex unions. He is also chair of the House Judiciary Committee. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer backed the decision. “It is critical to ensure that federal law protects those whose constitutional rights might be threatened by Republican-controlled state legislatures. LGBTQ Americans and those in interracial marriages deserve to have certainty that they will continue to have their right to equal marriage recognized, no matter where they live,” he said.
Not only will this measure protect same-sex marriages across the United States, but it will also ensure that interracial unions are safeguarded. In a July 16 episode of Texas Sen. Ted Cruz’s podcast, “Verdict With Ted Cruz,” the lawmaker spoke against same-sex unions. “I think that decision was clearly wrong when it was decided,” the politician said. He also argued that it went against our country’s values and “ignored two centuries of our nation’s history.” Justice Clarence Thomas seems to agree. He recently said the court’s decision to protect such unions should be reconsidered.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued a statement after the House voted in favor of the Respect for Marriage Act bill. “This week, the House will pass two more bills to protect freedom in our nation, as extremist Justices and lawmakers take aim at more of our basic rights,” it read. She continued, “Our Right to Contraception Act will preserve the essential protections found in Griswold v. Connecticut. Our Respect for Marriage Act — which, proudly, is bipartisan and bicameral — will defend the right to marry whomever you love, as found in Obergefell v. Hodges and Loving v. Virginia.”
Byron Allen Buys Black News Channel for $11M
Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group is set to acquire Black News Channel out of bankruptcy for $11 million from billionaire Shahid Khan, owner of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars franchise.
Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group is buying the Black News Channel, with plans to revive the bankrupt cable news outlet and significantly grow its distribution footprint.
Allen’s company is acquiring “substantially all” of BNC’s assets for $11 million, with a bankruptcy court in Tallahassee, Florida formally signing off on the sale.
BNC is available in about 45 million homes through companies like Comcast, Charter and DirecTV, and Allen says his company can grow that distribution to about 80 million homes in the next 6 months. It’s not immediately clear, however, what Allen has in store for BNC’s lineup or programming. BNC had just rebooted its primetime lineup last year with hopes of turning things around.
BNC’s previous owner, Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan, had invested over $100 million into BNC since its 2020 launch, before shutting it down in March.
Allen says that his company “will deliver a best-in-class network to serve the underserved African-American community and the advertisers who want to reach this extremely valuable audience.”
“Also, we appreciate the opportunity to provide cable operators, satellite companies, telcos, and digital platforms diversity of ownership, voices, and viewpoints on their programming line-ups by having a 100 percent African-American owned network,” he added.
Allen, a comedian turned media mogul, has become one of Hollywood’s most aggressive players, opportunistically acquiring digital media brands, cable networks and local TV stations to grow his company. AMG owns The Weather Channel, 27 local TV stations in 21 markets, and digital brands like The Grio and Comedy.TV.
And Allen has long expressed interest in the TV news space.
Before WarnerMedia’s merger with Discovery, when CNN was seen as a potential sale or spinoff target, Allen told THR that his company “will make a bid if CNN becomes available.”
His acquisition of BNC out of bankruptcy suggests that Allen has no intention of slowing down now.
Sesame Place family calls for Rosita employee to be fired
The family of the little Black girls who were waved off by a Sesame Place worker is calling for the company to take action against their employee, ABC News reports.
After sharing a video to Twitter where the costumed Rosita character from the Sesame Street franchise is seen completely ignoring two little Black girls, the family wants an “authentic apology.” They also ask that the work be terminated.
“We want a genuine and authentic apology,” said the family’s attorney, B’Ivory LaMarr, in a press conference Wednesday (July 20). “The second thing that we’re requesting is for the immediate termination of that performer. The third thing that we’re going to request is — we’re going to demand that they take care of any type of health care or mental care expenses that these children have realized.”
In the video, the little girls are seen waving excitedly while awaiting a greeting from the costumed character. Instead, Rosita can be seen handing out high-fives to several other attendees before seemingly shaking her head and waving off the children.
Ultimately, she completely walks away from them without the same treatment as the others seen in the clip.
As previously reported, a woman who is said to be the aunt of one of the little girls, who just so happened to be celebrating a birthday, called out the organization for the character’s actions.
#BabyPaige & her cute lil friends went to @SesamePlace this weekend to celebrate Paige’s 4th birthday & this is how #SesamePlace treated these beautiful Black children,” said Leslie Mac in a tweet.
The company has since issued an apology and detailed plans for a company-wide training on bias following the incident, but the girls’ mother says the apology is full of lies.
Quinta Brunson cast as Oprah Winfrey in 'Weird: The Al Yankovic Story'
Quinta Brunson continues to be booked and busy this season as she adds another role to her résumé. This week, Brunson is the latest cast member announced for Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, a forthcoming movie that follows Weird Al’s rise to fame.
The film stars Daniel Radcliffe as the man of the hour, in addition to Rachel Wood as Madonna, Rainn Wilson as radio broadcaster Dr. Demento, and Julianne Nicholson and Toby Huss as Yankovic’s parents, Mary and Nick. Weird: The Al Yankovic Story slated to premiere on the free, ad-supported Roku Channel this fall.
“From a conventional upbringing where playing the accordion was a sin, Al rebelled and made his dream of changing the words to world-renowned songs come true,” reads the biographical comedy film’s logline. “An instant success and sex symbol, Al lives an excessive lifestyle and pursues an infamous romance that nearly destroys him.”
Weird: The Al Yankovic Story is directed by Eric Appel, co-written by Yankovic himself, and produced by Funny Or Die and Tango. When the project was first announced back in January, Yankovic revealed in a statement that he made a very specific promise to his fans that he plans to keep for decades to come. “When my last movie, UHF, came out in 1989, I made a solemn vow to my fans that I would release a major motion picture every 33 years, like clockwork,” he said.
In additional exciting Brunson-related news, “Abbott Elementary” has received a slew of well-deserved Emmy nominations this year. Sheryl Lee Ralph and Janelle James are both up for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series and Tyler James Williams is nominated in the coinciding actor’s side of the category. Brunson is up for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and the show itself is nominated for Outstanding Comedy Series.
Abbi Jacobson & Chante Adams Bring 'A League of Their Own' Screening To Outfest 2022
The stars of A League of Their Own gather up on the red carpet for a special screening event during the 2022 Outfest at DGA Theater Complex on Tuesday (July 19) in Los Angeles.
Abbi Jacobson and Chante Adams were joined by co-stars Kelly McCormack, Melanie Field, and Molly Ephraim at the event, alongside co-creator Will Graham, EP Desta Tedros Reff, and series consultant Maybelle Blair.
Rosie O’Donnell also participated in the event as moderator for the Q&A panel.
The new Prime Video series is a reimagining of the iconic 1992 film. The show follows Carson (Jacobson) and Max (Adams) and a new ensemble of sharp and hilarious characters as they carve their paths toward the field, along the way finding their teams and themselves.
A League of Their Own will premiere August 12 on Prime Video.
Ricky Martin to Appear in Court to Deny Nephew's Sexual Relationship Allegations
Ricky Martin is preparing to defend himself in court.The 50-year-old “Livin’ La Vida Loca” music superstar is set to appear before a judge in Puerto Rico regarding allegations made by his 21-year-old nephew.
The singer is set to appear via Zoom before a judge on Thursday (July 21) to deny the claims that he and his nephew had a sexual relationship, via TMZ.
His nephew claims their relationship lasted seven months, and that Ricky allegedly stalked and harassed him, which the singer will reportedly also deny in court.
Ricky‘s nephew also got a temporary restraining order that prohibits Ricky from contacting him. The judge will decide whether to extend the restraining order during the hearing.
According to the outlet, despite reports of Ricky being sentenced to up to 50 years in prison if charged, there is no current criminal investigation happening.
Ricky‘s lawyer has denied the claims, and said that his nephew has mental health issues.
Ricky Martin‘s brother Eric Martin has spoken out to deny the allegations made by their nephew.
R. Kelly Shuts Down Allegations Of Being Gay After Sexual Assault Claims By Male Victim
News outlet @radaronline recently obtained the psychiatric evaluation submitted by R. Kelly’s lawyer ahead of his sentencing last month where he shut down even more heavy allegations. It laid out his childhood abuse and detailed his background. The report was his attempt to convince the judge he wasn’t a monster who deserved decades behind bars. However, the judge clearly wasn’t swayed and ordered Kelly to serve 30 years in prison.
In the report, Kelly claimed that he was the victim of sexual abuse as a child and struggled to fit in as a kid. The doctor also questioned Kelly about his sexuality. Kelly was previously accused of sexual assault by a young man named Louis. During his testimony in court for the 2021 trial, the male accuser alleged that the singer approached him when he was still 17 years old and working in a local McDonald’s drive-thru. Louis said after Kelly slipped him his phone number, he invited him back to the recording studio. The accuser said Kelly asked him what he was willing to do to make it in the music industry.
Despite those claims, the report said, “Mr. Kelly identified his adult sexual interest as heterosexual. Kelly rated himself a one on the Kinsey Scale. A score of one is defined, by Kinsey, as the overwhelming majority of sexual attraction, desire, fantasy or activity is with members of the opposite sex (heterosexual); homosexual experiences are infrequent and largely experimental,” Per Radar Online.
As previously reported, the singer has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for using his R&B superstar status to manipulate young fans into systematic sexual abuse. He was convicted of racketeering and sex trafficking last year at a trial that gave notice to accusers who had once wondered if their shocking stories weren’t taken seriously because they were Black women.
R.Kelly’s victims told the court that he had preyed on them at a young age and mislead his fans. “You made me do things that broke my spirit. I literally wished I would die because of how low you made me feel,” one woman told the Grammy-winning, multiplatinum-selling singer. She said she was forever traumatized by her teenage experience with him.
According to the federal prosecutors “He lured young girls and boys into his orbit, often through empty or conditioned promises of assistance in developing a career in the entertainment industry or simply by playing into the minors’ understandable desire to meet and spend time with a popular celebrity.”
“Through his actions, [Kelly] exhibited a callous disregard for the very real effects that his crimes had on his victims and has shown no remorse for any of his conduct. Indeed, the defendant’s decades of crime appear to have been fueled by narcissism and a belief that his musical talent absolved him of any need to conform his conduct.”
Kelly is set to file an appeal.
Four Men Arrested In Connection To 15 Celebrity Home Invasions In Atlanta, Including House Of ‘RHOA’ Star Marlo Hampton
Four people have reportedly been arrested in connection to at least 15 celebrity home invasions in Atlanta, including the house of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Marlo Hampton. Earlier this month, the TV personality was left shaking when she and her two nephews were confronted by a group of armed masked men, who kicked down the door to her home and broke in with the intent to steal her personal belongings.
According to WSBTV, the Sandy Springs Police Department has arrested four men who are all suspected to be gang members. Following the incident at Marlo’s property on July 1, police investigated the matter and confirmed that the incident was related to a heap of other home invasions that have occurred in the city.
Fortunately, one of Marlo’s nephews was able to scare off the criminals while screaming in fear upon hearing a loud boom at her door. “When I heard the boom, when I heard my nephew scream — and I knew that scream was a scream of fear — my heart dropped,” she told the news outlet. “I just thank God and we’re covered in the blood of Jesus and I’m here to share this story with you. But my main concern is, I want all the ladies … I want everyone to be aware if you are posting, if you do have luxury items, be careful.”
It was just in June when former NBA star Vince Carter’s Atlanta home had also been burglarized, with nearly $100k stolen while his wife, Sondi Carter, and their two sons were hiding in the closet. The official incident report by the Atlanta Police Department said that several men approached the Buckhead property and smashed in a first-floor window before ransacking the place with as many valuable items as possible.
When Sondi, who was in bed with her sons at the time, had loud noises coming from the front of the house, she instantly suspected that something was wrong. She grabbed her children and hid them in their bedroom closet as she listened to the loudness of the footsteps as the burglars ran upstairs and entered various rooms.
Outside of the gated home, the masked individuals left behind an estimated $16,000 in $100 bills scattered across the concrete floor in front of the gated mansion.
It’s unclear whether this case is linked to the one that recently occurred at Marlo’s home, but it wouldn’t be surprising if the incidents are related.
Dave Chappelle Show Canceled by Minneapolis Venue After Social Media Backlash. Has been moved to another Theater!
A Dave Chappelle stand-up show in Minneapolis, Minn. was canceled on Wednesday, just hours before the comedian was set to perform.
First Avenue, the iconic venue that provided the setting for Prince’s “Purple Rain,” announced that the show would not be taking place at their theater and was instead moving to Varsity Theater. In an Instagram post, the venue addressed the social media backlash they had received after booking Chappelle, who has had his share of controversy this year after his Netflix special “The Closer” was criticized for transphobic jokes.
“To staff, artists and our community, we hear you and we are sorry. We know we must hold ourselves to the highest standards, and we know we let you down. We are not just a black box with people in it, and we understand that First Ave is not just a room, but meaningful beyond our walls,” the statement reads. “The First Avenue team and you have worked hard to make our venues the safest spaces in the country, and we will continue with that mission. We believe in diverse voices and the freedom of artistic expression, but in honoring that, we lost sight of the impact this would have.”
After announcing Chappelle’s show earlier this week, First Avenue’s social media was filled with comments in protest of the comedian, though TMZ reported that tickets quickly sold out. “Disgusting that you are allowing Dave [Chappelle] to perform at your venue when your guild lines [sic] specifically state not homophobic or transphobic language will be tolerated,” one comment reads.
Varsity Theater in Dinkytown is now hosting Wednesday’s show, in addition to two more shows on July 21 and 22.
Chappelle has defended his jokes by touting artistic expression, doubling down in a recent speech given at his alma mater released by Netflix. During the speech, titled “What’s in a Name?,” Chappelle announced that he decided against having a theater named after him at the school, instead opting to call it the Theater for Artistic Freedom and Expression. Chappelle explained that he came to the decision following a conversation with the school’s students, in which they criticized his remarks in “The Closer.”
“When I heard those talking points coming out of these children’s faces, that really, sincerely, hurt me. Because I know those kids didn’t come up with those words. I’ve heard those words before. The more you say I can’t say something, the more urgent it is for me to say it,” Chappelle said. “And it has nothing to do with what you’re saying I can’t say. It has everything to do with my right, my freedom, of artistic expression. That is valuable to me. That is not severed from me. It’s worth protecting for me, and it’s worth protecting for everyone else who endeavors in our noble, noble professions.”
Representatives for Chappelle did not immediately respond to Variety‘s request for comment.
James Webb Space Telescope Program director credits segregated schools for his success:
Fresh off last week’s release of awe-inspiring photos from the James Webb Space Telescope, Program Director Gregory Robinson visited The Daily Show With Trevor Noah on Tuesday. Robinson took over the $10 billion project in 2018 and “got it across the goal line,” as he put it. While the feat would be impressive for anyone, it was especially so for Robinson.
His parents were tobacco sharecroppers in rural Virginia, where he attended a segregated school. While that may seem like a disadvantage, Robinson actually credits that education for his later success.
Noah asked, “Where does that light come from and how did you get into this role?”
“That education in the segregated school was excellent,” Robinson explained. “We had some of the best teachers in the world. Many of them were far more educated than the teachers in other schools because they couldn't get jobs in the industry like they can today.”
While Robinson modestly gave his colleagues at NASA credit for the program’s success, he gave his teachers credit for nurturing his young intellect.
“We had great teachers who really nurtured us and cared about us,” he said. “So my beginnings were very strong.”
The Daily Show With Trevor Noah airs weeknights at 11 p.m. on Comedy Central.
Keke Palmer Nailed the Low-Rise-Skirt Trend at the "Nope" Premiere
Keke Palmer brought her sartorial A game to the world premiere of "Nope." The actress posed in a bold yet decidedly alluring ensemble from the Marc Jacobs fall 2022 collection. Putting her midsection on full display, she rocked a structured white corset top with a curved hem that reached just below her chest. A low-rise black maxi skirt made out of suiting material added a sharp edge to her look, as did the pair of opera gloves Palmer accessorized with. The garment features a thigh-high slit and a belt hanging on the left side for a cool effect. The movie star's long box braids and silver hoops, necklace, and bracelets completely met the moment.
Palmer joined other celebrities at TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles for a screening of the highly anticipated thriller directed by Jordan Peele. Among them, Kelly Rowland also made a head-turning entrance in a sultry dress. The Mugler design featured a plunging neckline, hip cutouts, and sheer panels. The bustier-style top was attached to a draped skirt that flowed elegantly at her feet. To finish, a pair of black heeled sandals, a bedazzled clutch, and a sparkly selection of jewels amped up the sophistication.
Meanwhile, Lupita Nyong'o also went the chic route, opting for a black mini bubble dress with a plunging neckline from the Brandon Maxwell resort 2023 collection. Her black platform sandals, diamond studs, and rings felt right on theme.
Ahead, view the stylish stars on the red carpet as well as other celebrities in attendance.
Joey Badass Accuses Delta Air Lines of Damaging $12,000 Worth of Studio Equipment
Joey Badass wants Delta Air Lines to pay up. The East Coast rapper has accused the company of damaging $12,000 worth of studio equipment during a recent flight to Portland. Joey made the claim in a couple of Instagram stories in which he showed off a mobile studio rig with broken and missing parts.
“Yo Delta, what the fuck is going on, b? Y’all just messed up my fucking studio rig, bro,” he says in the video. “First of all, this whole shit had a case on it. Now it don’t got the fucking case on it. Y’all broke my fucking knobs. Like, y’all know how much this cost? Y’all going to have to reimburse all that.”
Joey says this was the second time in the past month that Delta has ruined his belongings.
“Y’all broke my fucking Rimowa bag, still ain’t pay up on that,” he added. “I’m a fucking diamond medallion member, like, what is good with y’all? I need fucking answers, Delta.”
A Delta spokesperson told TMZ their team is aware of the problem and intends to contact Joey.
“Delta teams will look into this described situation and reach out to the customer to address,” they said.
Jeon Somi Talks GOAT K-Pop Artist, Sneaker, Rihanna Music & More | GOAT Talk With Complex
Joey is currently on the road for his 1999-2000 North American Tour, which will conclude in Los Angeles later this month. He is also preparing to unleash his 2000 project, which serves as a sequel to his 1999 debut mixtape. The effort will have 14 tracks with contributions from Westside Gunn, Diddy, JID, Larry June, and more.
2000 is scheduled to arrive this Friday.
Lil Baby Partners With Restaurateur Lemont Bradley to Provide 100 Jobs in Atlanta
Lil Baby has launched an initiative that will offer jobs throughout the city of Atlanta to many young people.
The “Bigger Picture” rapper joined forces with friend and restaurateur Lemont Bradley to provide 100 jobs to people, specifically those under the age of 21. “We are looking to give out 100 jobs to teenagers and young adults in the metro-Atlanta,” the two said in a joint statement. “With the crime rate surrounding scams, robbery, and even murder being so high, we are looking to provide a positive outlet and revenue stream to those who are looking for an income.”
Lil Baby and Bradley, who have been friends for several years, were waiting for the right moment to collaborate on something significant, and they found their answer. After opening Clutch Restaurant last week, Bradley is looking to fill a number of positions, including bartenders, waiters, line cooks, dishwashers, and more, for his latest establishment, as well as a few other spots in his previous two restaurants, Auto Spa Bistro and Eco Car Spa.
“We are so excited about this initiative,” their statement reads. “Of course, we are looking forward to helping boost the city’s economy but we are really focused on lowering the city’s crime rate.”
If you are interested in applying, you can either send a DM to the restaurant via Instagram (The Clutch, Auto Spa Bistro, Eco Car Spa) or call the establishment directly.
Lil Baby and Bradley are also planning to open a lawn care business in the fall.
Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby, a Karam Gill-directed documentary detailing the rapper’s rise from the streets of Atlanta to a global superstar, will premiere on Prime Video on Aug. 26. He’s also slated to perform later this month at Drake’s three-day October World Weekend event.
Miles Bridges: Felony Charges Filed Against NBAer ‘for Domestic Violence and Child Abuse
*NBA player Miles Bridges has been hit with felony domestic violence and child abuse charges after allegedly putting his hands on his baby momma in front of their kids!
The incident went down last month and he turned himself in the day after the alleged attack. He was released after posting bond.
According to TMZ, he is charged with “one felony count of injuring a child’s parent and two felony counts of child abuse under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily injury or death.”
The details surrounding the alleged incident were never quite revealed, but sources told the site Miles and his baby momma were involved in an argument that sadly turned physical.
Rapper Trina’s 17-Year-Old Niece Killed in Miami Shooting
Miami’s native rapper Trina and her family are reeling from a tragic incident involving her 17-year-old niece. The teenager was shot and killed in Miami while reportedly visiting friends in the Liberty City area.
The 17-year-old went by “Suga,” and police are looking for suspects that left her dead and two other women wounded by gunshots.
A Miami Police officer said, “The woman who was pronounced deceased on the scene was there visiting, she didn’t live in that precise area. We don’t know who was the intended target, but definitely, it was a very big scene and we still are trying to work to getting more answers.”
Police were seen investigating a black Mercedes SUV that had several gunshots through the windshield and window.
As for the other victims that were wounded by the gunshots, they were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital.
“They’re stable at this point,” an officer said. “They are being attended to. Our last update was that they’re stable and they’re in their mid-20’s.”
Doctor Who Gave 10-Year-Old Rape Victim An Abortion Seemingly Moves Toward Suing Indiana AG For Defamation
The doctor who gave documents showing she let the state of Indiana know about an abortion procedure that was provided to a 10-year-old rape victim is now moving to sue the state’s attorney general for defamation.
Last Friday, Dr. Caitlin Bernard sent Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita a cease-and-desist letter demanding that he stop making “false or misleading statements” about her. That cease-and-desist has now been escalated to a formal defamation lawsuit.
On Tuesday, Dr. Bernard filed a tort claim, which is the precursor to a lawsuit.
This all comes after Rokita moved forward with an investigation into Dr. Bernard over her performing an abortion on a 10-year-old rape victim from Ohio who traveled to Indiana for the procedure. Prior to her filing, Dr. Bernard provided documents showing that she reported the abortion procedure to the state of Indiana.
This case sparked another level of the conversation around Roe v. Wade following its overturning by the U.S. Supreme Court last month. The 10-year-old girl was raped by a 27-year-old Ohio man named Gershon Fuentes, who confessed to raping the child.
He’s currently being held on a $2 million bond.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
‘NICE MEAT’
I’ll drop everything, everytime!
EGGPLANT NATION: Meet Richard
Meet Richard! You can see more when GO HERE TO SEE THE PICS! And remember they’re NSFW!
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HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND ALL!!!
EFREM
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