In House of the Dragon, Rhaena Targaryen’s infused storyline revolves around firebreathing dragons and a violent wreckage as she faced the dangerous fury in season 3 of House of the Dragon. HBO’s Game of Thrones prequel series introduced the Black noble family dynasty, House Velaryon, into the TV franchise two seasons ago, a creative choice to that visually separates them from House Targaryen and reflects a diverse audience. As a fantasy fan yearning for more Black representation onscreen, having more diverse characters weaved into the narrative through the way of House Velaryon and Rhaena Targaryen was a welcomed. But it hasn’t been a perfect integration. 

@freddiesroommate Let’s talk about Rhaena #houseofthedragon #hotd #gameofthrones #tvtok ♬ original sound – Justin

The Velaryons darker skins strikingly contrasts the revered Targaryens and emphasize the dramatic, political and emotional conflict arising between each other’s historic lineages. Fans were heavily enjoying the powerful Black sea families arc in the previous seasons. But as season three comes to a close, some are wondering why Rhaena Targaryen seemingly never reached her full potential as a dragonrider and force and is now teetering into damaging Black character tropes that characterize her as more of an antagonist and obstacle for every other character in the House of the Dragon series to resolve.

Actor Phoebe Campbell’s embodiment of Rhaena Targaryen anchors the misled Targaryen with emotional depth and precision in her performance. After all, she is a severely neglected voice in House of the Dragon. She wishes to be a respected dragonrider like her other family members, and Black viewers have gotten to explore her complex feelings. But across this season, the other Black Velaryons have fewer screentimes as we watched a tortured Rhaena Targaryen arrive at King’s Landing.

George R.R. Martin first penned the House Velaryon characters as being “pale-skinned” in his original fictional universe, so seeing Black family dynamics is a victory in its own right; despite Rhaena’s overarching efforts to achieve power. The House of the Dragon franchise sidelines Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint) of the Tides, who is also one of the most debated characters for book purists and Black audience members alike. Mostly, because he seems like a nondimensional character who is there to bolster up the Princess Targaryen.

I am aligned with the online discourse, mainly from Black women who are torn for Rhaena — her merged on-screen storyline with the text showcases a troubled character. Black audiences crave for a world where Rhaena is awarded with enough independence to find herself outside of the sociopolitical ties that define her as part Targaryen and Velaryon. The pain she endures as a Black female character is a byproduct of wanting to belong to a white-reigned society that demoralizes her. 

In Westeros, the Black family bloodlines are opulent yet estranged. Even in fantasy, Black families deserve togetherness. The finale will expand the plot on what truly is in store for Rhaena Targaryen’s future as someone who earlier experienced insurmountable suffrage and turmoil. This past penultimate episode of the season has placed Rhaena in the middle of the dragon and political warfare. 

As the main Black focal point of the series, Rhaena Targaryen deserves to evolve from her disenfranchised state (with Sheepstealer by her side). Will she ever reach her full potential and soar in the sky with her dragon or will she be another fail-safe Black character whose story is built to cause more conflict?

In House of the Dragon so far, there are many evident examples of creative liberties being taken and stretched thin for more entertaining lore but at what expense? If the masters of the sea, House Velaryon, were recrafted to be seen as a powerful Black family to circumvent superpowers already established in Game of Thrones’ and their lineage, Rhaena Targaryen is worthy of the highest honor.

House of the Dragon, the season’s final episode, airs August 9 on HBO.

For those who feel the Michael biopic shouldn’t stop til you get enough, a bit of good news is on the horizon. The highly anticipated sequel is set to begin production toward the end of this year, or early next, according to Deadline.

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chairman Adam Fogelson announced the update, adding that a premiere date for the film would most likely fall between the end of 2027 and the first half of 2028.

It was recently announced that Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his uncle in Michael, has joined the cast of Supermax, a new action thriller from Amazon MGM Studios and Miramax. The film, which also stars Will Smith, is set to shoot in Australia starting mid-month, giving Jaafar plenty of time to return to the Michael sequel set by year’s end.

@aktheref 🎤 Michael Part 2 just got a huge update! Production is expected to begin later this year or early 2027, and I couldn’t be more excited. There’s still so much of Michael Jackson’s story left to tell. What moment do you hope they include? #MichaelJackson #MichaelMovie #MJForever #MJ #AKTheRef ♬ original sound – AKTHEREF

Fan reaction is palpable — and comes with notes. There are wish lists of the songs they want to hear and the life moments that must be included. Across social conversations, viewers want to see the sequel dig into Michael’s Dangerous era, which included Jackson’s historic 1993 Super Bowl halftime performance and that unforgettable entrance atop the stadium’s massive video screens. Footage from this era was reportedly shot during Michael‘s original production and could make its way into the second film.

@director_ray_ray MICHEAL 2 NEEDS these songs… no debate! 👀🎤🔥 #michaeljackson #michaelmovie #filmtok #movietalk #movietok ♬ original sound – mjfangirl07

People want to learn more about his marriages to Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe and his life as a father. More reenactments with famous friends like Elizabeth Taylor and Chris Tucker are also in demand. One Reddit user wants the film to focus on his lifelong humanitarian work. And plenty of fans are already demanding one thing in particular: call the movie Jackson.

Some fans — mainly critics — are also asking for a more mature, less sanitized second chapter that explores Michael’s loneliness, his battles with the press and the legal controversies that became part of his later life. One chapter, however, remains particularly complicated to depict: the 1993 allegations involving Jordan Chandler. A provision in Jackson’s 1994 settlement reportedly prevents Chandler from being depicted or mentioned in certain film projects connected to the Jackson estate, a restriction that forced filmmakers to scrap an entire storyline from the first movie.

Michael, Antoine Fuqua’s biopic of the King of Pop that opened this past April, has proven that biopics about famed Black artists are not only critical, but lucrative business. The film pulled in an estimated $217 million globally in its opening weekend, including $97 million domestically and $120.4 million internationally, marking the biggest global debut for a music biopic ever.

Viewers have reveled in Jaafar’s performance and the compassion he pours into his portrayal of his uncle. In a past interview with EBONY, he spoke about honoring Michael with care and intention. That commitment helped propel the film past the $1 billion mark in July 2026, which means fans clearly want more of the man in the mirror.

Michael is currently available to rent or buy digitally on platforms including Prime Video and Apple TV. Beginning August 10, the film will also be available to stream with a Starz subscription.

The Block Is Hot

Instagram’s best dressers aren’t chasing trends anymore. They’re setting the pace. This week’s standout looks from Black creatives felt less like a scroll through social media and more like a masterclass in personal style, where color theory, proportion and confidence collided in ways that reminded us why Black fashion continues to influence the broader cultural conversation. Quiet luxury may have softened the volume, but individuality has never been louder.

The strongest looks this week understood that silhouette is just as important as color. Oversized trousers remained the unofficial uniform, appearing in everything from fluid tailoring to exaggerated denim that pooled effortlessly over the shoe. Relaxed proportions gave each outfit room to breathe, proving that impeccable fit isn’t always about being tailored to the body. Sometimes it’s about allowing the garment to move with it.

Color also had a moment. Electric cobalt blue transformed distressed denim into something unexpectedly refined, while saturated marigold and sunflower yellow reminded us that dopamine dressing isn’t reserved for spring. Elsewhere, rich teal suiting, burnt orange knitwear and inky navy separates delivered a more understated confidence. The palette felt intentional, balancing vibrant statement pieces with grounded earth tones that kept every look wearable rather than theatrical.

Accessories continued to tell the real story. Sculptural handbags, layered silver jewelry, oversized sunglasses and leather portfolios elevated otherwise relaxed ensembles. Even baseball caps felt deliberate instead of casual, serving as a reminder that Black style has always excelled at collapsing the distance between luxury and everyday dressing. Nothing felt over-styled. Every detail appeared earned.

Texture was equally important. Crisp tailoring met washed denim. Technical nylon played against structured blazers. Draped jersey, lightweight linen and buttery leather created visual depth without relying on logos to make a statement. It’s a lesson many brands continue to overlook: the most memorable outfits aren’t always the loudest. They’re the ones that invite a second look.

What ultimately tied these creators together wasn’t a shared aesthetic but a shared point of view. Some leaned into modern minimalism while others embraced sensuality or relaxed resort dressing. Yet every look communicated the same message: style is an extension of identity, not performance.

As summer enters its final stretch, Black creatives continue to remind the timeline that the best wardrobes aren’t built around algorithms. They’re built around instinct. And if this week’s Instagram uploads are any indication, the block isn’t just hot. It’s defining where fashion goes next.

Maysa

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Hashim Moore

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Dominique

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Panama J. Smith

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Sasha Exeter

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Kev

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Fana Haile

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Travis

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Shalikah

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Brandan

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T-Kea Blackman and Jordan Scott want you to know that Black people die by suicide too. Through their Maryland-based nonprofit organization Black People Die By Suicide Too (BPDBST), they have not only clarified that sentiment, but they’ve also created space for the Black community to be equipped with resources and education.

The founders met in a psychiatric hospitalization program, and their friendship served as a launching pad for their mission to save Black lives. Since the inception of BPDBST, Blackman and Scott have implemented various supports within the community through the support group The Black Peer Healing Circle, suicide prevention and safety planning workshops, and their podcast. EBONY spoke with Blackman to learn more about the organization’s work, efforts, and how suicide is a reality we should be paying attention to.

EBONY: What was the personal motivation behind the inception of Black People Die By Suicide Too (BPDBST)? 

T-Kea Blackman: It’s many reasons. I think the first reason was because of my own lived experience. I am someone who started struggling with thoughts of suicide in middle school.
I didn’t really feel like I had anyone to go to, not because people in my community didn’t care, but as I’ve watched what happened in the community, and also what I’ve seen in the media, mental health was portrayed as white people experience. As I matriculated through high school, college, getting my masters, I was still struggling with these thoughts, but I really couldn’t tell anyone for fear of being judged. I was twenty four when I attempted suicide.

[Then] I lost my 13-year-old cousin to suicide. I started looking at the public health data, and saw that black people had the fastest-growing rates of suicide. I remember talking to my co-founder (Jordan Scott, who has since moved on to focus on other endeavors), and both of us were struggling with our mental health. We wanted to make sure that black people had safe spaces to say, not just, ‘I’m not okay,’ but also ‘I don’t want to be here’ in a space without fear.

How is BPDBST working to dismantle the ideation of shame and denial around Black suicide? 

One of the ways we do that is through our Black Healing Circle, a peer support circle, where we offer Black people the opportunity to talk about their thoughts on suicide. Some people may not be ready for therapy, or are hesitant because of the stigma associated with it. But they’re more comfortable talking to somebody they feel has gone through it. For some people, it’s an entry point into therapy, because anytime I’m leading a support group, I’m talking about the benefits of therapy. A lot of times people will come to our support groups, and we refer them to a partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, or a therapist in the community. 

People have joined our groups from Canada, the United Kingdom, and Brazil, and that made me also realize that Black people are ready to talk about this right globally. This is not just a limited issue to being in the United States. Black people are struggling all over. 
We also offer support through our mental health literacy and suicide prevention workshops. There’s a workshop that we have called Not A White Thing: Black People Die By Suicide Too, and we talk about the specific systemic issues that impact Black people.

Does BPDBST work with all ages? How is the support tailored? 

Yes, we cater to all ages. We have partnered with community organizations in schools that work directly with children. For instance, we partnered with Prince George’s County Public Schools and the sheriff’s office, where we went and led a workshop on self-care with a pop culture twist for middle schoolers. Giving them the language to talk and understand what signs and symptoms of mental health challenges are to get them thinking early about what mental health means to them, how they need to take care of it, what resources are available and how they go to a trusted adult. While we don’t have specific programming for youth, we prioritize partnering with organizations that have youth programs.

What kind of hands-on initiatives does BPDBST offer communities?

Our Light After Loss retreat is an event that’s done in person. We’ve had some support groups in person, while most of them have been done virtually. One of the support groups is called Cozy Conversations. The reason why we started was that we realized that there are some people who actually want to be in person. Cozy Conversations is an opportunity for a support group, but we actually give people activities to do within a support group instead of sitting in a circle that can be anxiety-inducing. It’s been very successful, and we are in the process of partnering with the University of Maryland to host conversations and continue conducting research on the benefits.

How can people get involved with the organization? 

One way to support us is through our Black mental health awards or by volunteering at our events. We’re always open to volunteers. People can also join as board members. We also have to sustain ourselves as a nonprofit, but it takes money to do the work that we’re doing as well. So people can donate monthly, quarterly, or annually. Even just ten dollars a month can make a difference. Details on how people can get involved are on our website, blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org. We’re just three years old, so we’re in the process of looking for additional grants and funding to ensure that we can continue to provide the services and the support to the community. 

August may have everyone whispering about fall, but the forecast and our beauty routines have other plans. The heat is still clinging to the sidewalks, SPF is still non-negotiable and brands are continuing to drop complexion-perfecting formulas, skin-loving hybrids and fragrance launches that feel made for the final stretch of summer. Before pumpkin spice takes over your timeline, these are the beauty launches making the biggest impression this week and earning a spot on your vanity long after the temperatures finally cool.

MAC x Jean-Michel Basquiat

The MAC x Jean-Michel Basquiat collection blurs the line between beauty and fine art, transforming makeup into a medium for fearless self-expression. Created in partnership with the Basquiat Estate, the collection introduces never-before-seen MAC formulas including Oil Effect Eye Paint, Pastel Painting Eye + Face Chalk and artist-inspired brushes, all designed to be mixed, layered and customized so every face becomes a canvas.

MAC x Jean-Michel Basquiat

M·A·Cximal Silky Matte Basquiat Lipstick

Price: $35

Shop at MAC

MAC x Jean-Michel Basquiat

Oil Effect Eye Paint

Price: $30

Shop at MAC

MAC x Jean-Michel Basquiat

Pigment

Price: $29

Shop at MAC

MAC x Jean-Michel Basquiat

Basquiat Artist Brush Set

Price: $120

Shop at MAC

Dior

Dior is reintroducing its iconic Miss Dior Eau de Parfum with a modern chypre composition that layers velvety Grasse rose, creamy vanilla, almond and soft woods into a fragrance that feels both timeless and unmistakably contemporary. Inspired by Catherine Dior, Christian Dior’s beloved sister and a French Resistance heroine, the scent honors a legacy rooted in Provence’s legendary rose fields, where the House continues to cultivate the centifolia blooms that have defined Miss Dior for generations.

Dior

Miss Dior Eau de Parfum

Price: $154

Shop at Dior

r.e.m. beauty by Ariana Grande

r.e.m. beauty is turning up the volume with its new Treble Maker 3-in-1 Mascara, a featherlight formula that delivers the kind of lifted, lengthened and full-bodied lashes that usually require more than one tube. Powered by lash-loving ingredients like red clover extract, tetrapeptide and phytocollagen, the formula doesn’t just create dramatic definition from root to tip, it also works over time to support stronger, denser-looking lashes, while an olive oil-derived wax keeps everything flexible and flake-free from morning coffee to last call.

r.e.m. beauty by Ariana Grande

Treble Maker 3-in-1 Mascara

Price: $20

Shop at Ulta

Bubble x e.l.f.

e.l.f. Cosmetics and Bubble Skincare are proving that the beauty industry’s favorite layering hack has officially graduated from the vanity to the lab. Their limited-edition collaboration bottles the ritual of cocktailing skincare and makeup into three hybrid launches that blur the line between complexion care and color cosmetics, delivering hydration, glow and pigment in a single step.

The collection includes DROP N’ DUNK, a dual-chamber bronzing moisturizer that pairs Bubble’s cult-favorite Slam Dunk Hydrating Cream with e.l.f. SKIN Bronzing Drops for a customizable sun-kissed finish, Glow Talk, a glossy lip serum that fuses nourishing lip care with juicy color and Camo Slide, a serum-infused liquid blush that combines hyaluronic acid hydration with the brand’s signature buildable flush. Designed for beauty lovers who want skincare to work as hard as their makeup, the collection makes the skin-first approach feel effortless.

Bubble x e.l.f.

Drop N’ Dunk Hydrating Moisturizer + Bronzing Drop

Price: $18

Shop at Bubble Skin

Bubble x e.l.f.

Camo Slide Hydrating Blush Serum

Price: $10

Shop at Bubble Skin

Bubble x e.l.f.

Glow Talk Tinted Lip Serum

Price: $10

Shop at Bubble Skin

Benefit Cosmetics

Benefit Cosmetics is expanding its cult-favorite POREfessional franchise with a skincare-infused concealer that delivers full coverage without sacrificing a natural, skin-like finish. Powered by a 76% skincare-based formula with hyaluronic acid, texture-blurring microspheres and oil-balancing Enantia chlorantha bark extract, the lightweight formula smooths the look of pores while providing up to 24 hours of waterproof, crease-resistant wear. Available in 35 shades, it pairs with a patent-pending soft-cushion applicator that hugs the contours of the face for seamless, streak-free coverage.

Benefit Cosmetics

The POREfessional 24-Hour Blurring & Full-Coverage Natural Finish Concealer

Price: $32

Shop at Ulta

Fresh

Three years and more than 62 trials later, Fresh has perfected the art of the cleanse with a glassy green jelly that transforms from jelly to oil to milk, effortlessly melting away makeup, SPF and the day’s buildup. Powered by hydrating soy proteins, antioxidant-rich chlorella extract and an innovative oil-binding complex, the formula leaves skin feeling clean, soft and balanced without the greasy residue or tight, stripped finish.

Fresh

Soy Jelly Balm

Price: $42

Shop at Ulta

NARS

NARS is making the case for an all-in-one lash wardrobe with its new Notorious Mascara, a humidity-proof formula that lifts, lengthens, volumizes and defines without weighing lashes down. Powered by 3D Film-Flex Technology and conditioning argan oil, the lightweight mascara locks in up to 16 hours of smudge-, flake- and clump-resistant wear while keeping lashes soft, flexible and ready to weather even the hottest summer days.

NARS

Notorious Mascara

Price: $29

Shop at Ulta

Paul Mitchell

Paul Mitchell is raising the bar on sleek styling with a multi-tasking smoothing spray designed to deliver glass-like shine without the weight. Suitable for every hair type, the formula offers up to 72 hours of frizz control, humidity defense and heat protection up to 450°F, making it just as effective before a blowout as it is for taming flyaways and refreshing shine throughout the day.

Paul Mitchell

3-Day No Frizz Spray

Price: $14

Shop at Amazon

K18

K18 is bringing the longevity conversation to the scalp with its new FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum, a biology-first treatment designed to address hair aging before it becomes visible. Powered by the brand’s proprietary MultiVital technology, the nightly serum helps support natural pigment production, strengthen follicle anchoring to reduce shedding and defend the scalp against oxidative stress for healthier-looking hair over time.

K18

FutureIQ Hair Longevity Serum for Graying, Thinning, & Scalp Aging

Price: $120

Shop at Sephora

NYX Cosmetics

NYX Professional Makeup is giving dry lips the best of both worlds with Smushy SOS Hydrating Tinted Lip Treatment, a hybrid formula that pairs the deep nourishment of a lip mask with the glossy payoff of your favorite lip gloss. Infused with hyaluronic acid, sugar ceramides, jojoba oil and mango oil, the treatment glides on with a soft-tip applicator to deliver lasting hydration, high shine and a sheer wash of color across eight wearable shades.

NYX

Smushy SOS Hydrating Tinted Lip Treatment

Price: $13

L’Oréal

L’Oréal Paris is tapping into one of beauty’s biggest complexion trends with the new Infallible Fresh Wear Cushion Foundation, bringing its long-wear formula to the viral cushion compact format. Delivering full, weightless coverage with up to 24 hours of waterproof, sweat-resistant and transfer-resistant wear, the travel-friendly compact makes touch-ups effortless whether you’re commuting, traveling or heading out for the night.

L’Oréal

Infallible Cushion Foundation

Price: $20

Shop at Ulta

Victoria Beckham

Victoria Beckham Beauty is expanding its cult-favorite Satin Kajal Liner collection with Navy Noir Pavé, a rich navy pencil illuminated with silver and sapphire shimmer that captures the elegance of evening denim. Joining the fan-favorite Jeans and Navy Noir shades, the new launch completes a trio of endlessly layerable blues, accompanied by a limited-edition denim pencil case that brings the brand’s signature fashion-meets-beauty sensibility full circle.

Victoria Beckham

Satin Kajal Liner Longwear Waterproof Eyeliner

Price: $35

Shop at Victoria Beckham

Dr. Jart+

Dr.Jart+ is giving its cult-favorite Cicapair™ Soothing Camo Drops a skincare-first upgrade with a new formula made with 69% skin-caring ingredients that color-corrects while treating redness at the source. Powered by an advanced Cica Complex, R-Protector and allantoin, the lightweight green-to-beige serum instantly neutralizes visible redness, strengthens the skin barrier and delivers lasting hydration, making it an ideal complexion ally for sensitive, rosacea-prone and acne-prone skin.

Dr. Jart+

Cicapair™ Camo Drops Korean Green Tinted Serum for Redness

Price: $49

Shop at Dr. Jart+

The hardest, most annoying part about going on vacation? Undeniably, the packing. Speaking for myself, at least. It’s not the logistics, or booking the lodging, or hell, even coughing up the coins for it all. It’s the strategy needed to assemble my freshest ‘fits, accessories, shoes, beauty products and more into a suitcase and personal item. So, I definitely need a little dopamine boost in the midst of the process (and no, the trip itself is not it!).

The fix? Fly-as-hell, wildly functional Black-owned brands and products.

Throughout the years, I’ve curated my packing list down to a science to alleviate some of the suffering (dramatic, yes, but nevertheless). Every item has a purpose and also has to look the part—again, we need that dopamine hit. Thankfully, the Black-owned travel brands below understand that and have earned a permanent place in my getaways, all while making travel a tiny bit easier.

From calf skin weekender bags to innovative travel containers, these nine Black-owned travel products and brands are worthy of being added to your luggage for your next jaunt.

Black Girl Sunscreen

Forget what the myths have said—Black folks do indeed need to wear sunscreen! And this one by Black Girl Sunscreen is a cult favorite. It blends in seamlessly, and I love the natural shine it leaves without looking too oily. But if you don’t, they also have a matte version that’s just as effective.

SPF 30 Sun Lotion

Price: $10

Shop at Amazon

Ries

Those flimsy plastic or silicone bottles you snag the night before your trip to hold everything from your body wash to curl cream literally don’t make it to the next vacay. It’s time to upgrade with this Ries set that’ll actually last and that will give you a boost every time you go to pack. I highly suggest also snagging the stylish Essential Travel Vanity Bag, which comes with built-in elastic bands to securely hold each travel-size bottle. 

Travel Bottles for Toiletries

Price: $70

Shop at Amazon

Silver & Riley

If you’re looking to splurge on a one-of-a-kind addition to your travel essentials, this calf skin duffle would like your attention. The sultry burgundy color makes it a fabulous unisex option, and it will undeniably elevate your airport outfit.

Beverly Hills Carryall Duffle Leather Bag in Oxblood Burgundy

Price: $1,295

Shop at Silver & Riley

Take Off Luggage

When you’re really trying to maximize your packing while keeping your budget at the minimum, this personal size suitcase will fit the bill. This compact suitcase packs a big punch and since it holds up to three days worth of clothes and has a compression interior. It’s the perfect option for when you need to finesse your packing situation.

Personal Item Suitcase MINI

Price: $109

Shop at Take Off Luggage

Black Travel Box

Sometimes taking the time to decant your lotions and body butters just isn’t on the agenda. This lotion bar is perfect to throw in your toiletry bag when you need to skip that step. And the best part? You don’t have to worry about it exploding and making a mess in your bag.

Lotion Bar

Price: $32

Shop at Black Travel Box

BÉIS

You can obviously use this for its intended purpose, but I really love these cosmetic cases and their internal pockets and sections for packing bangles, big earrings, statement necklaces, perfume oils, and even sunglasses. The bag comes in three colors and multiple sizes, too, so feel free to mix and match!

Large Cosmetic Pouch in Espresso

Price: $68

Shop at BÉIS

E. Marie

This travel blanket and eye mask set comes in a slew of lovely colors. The blanket is lightweight and versatile too. You can wear it as a scarf, a shawl, and more. You’ll be the chicest and warmest one during your flight.

Ribbed Travel Blanket and Eyemask

Price: $98

Shop at E. Marie

EADEM

Nothing tears your skin up like a long flight. This set of holy grail products from Eadem is everything you need to look refreshed after being at 30,000 feet for six-plus hours.

The New Classics Mini Everyday Skin + Lip Icons

Price: $58

Shop at Sephora

Bolden

Speaking of skin care, eye patches are essential on those long-haul flights, too. I love these from Bolden. They hydrate my undereyes and have me looking refreshed and chipper after hours with only cabin air. 

Awake Under Eye Patches

Price: $25

Shop at Amazon

It’s a big weekend for Real Housewives fans as Bravo gears up to celebrate two decades of the beloved franchise with the premiere of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th this Sunday, August 9.

The nine-episode special will bring together The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City’s Lisa Barlow, The Real Housewives of Potomac’s Gizelle Bryant, The Real Housewives of New Jersey’s Teresa Giudice, The Real Housewives of Orange County’s Vicki Gunvalson, The Real Housewives of New York City’s Luann de Lesseps, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ Kyle Richards, and The Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Porsha Williams for a girls trip throughout their respective cities. 

In addition to the cast, Nene Leakes is also expected to make a surprise cameo, marking her official return to Bravo since exiting The Real Housewives of Atlanta after Season 12 wrapped in 2020.

To commemorate the momentous occasion, we’ve curated a list of our Top 20 most iconic Housewives moments from the franchise’s two-decade run that have become a permanent part of reality TV history.

1. Nene Leakes Visiting Kenya Moore Temporary Rental Home

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 5

Nearly everything Nene Leakes has said or her facial expressions on The Real Housewives of Atlanta have become a meme at some point. One of her most iconic lines comes from Season 5 when she visited Kenya Moore’s temporary rental home before later purchasing her permanent fixer-upper home, Moore Manor. 

While exiting her car to enter the home, Leakes famously said, “Whew chile, the ghetto.” After entering the home and doing a quick inspection, she revealed in her confessionals how she wasn’t impressed, saying, “I was shocked, honey. I was in tears almost. And it had a white refrigerator. I was like, ‘ugh not a white refrigerator.”

White refrigerators haven’t recovered since that unforgettable moment. 

2. Shereé Whitfield’s Spat With Her Party Planner

The Real Housewives of Atlanta  Season 2

It was in the second season when Shereé Whitfield muttered one of her most iconic quotes, “Who gon’ check me boo?” following an argument with her party planner Anthony Shorter. After he told Whitfield to “watch yourself before you get checked,” that’s when she delivered her now viral comeback.

3. Porsha Williams Thinking The Underground Railroad Was A Real Train

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 6

During a cast trip to a historic church on the Freedom Trail in Savannah, Georgia, Porsha Williams expressed her confusion about believing a physical train and driver were involved with helping enslaved individuals escape after learning about the hidden crawl spaces in the church. It didn’t help that Williams’ grandfather was Hosea Williams, a civil rights leader and activist who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

4. Kenya Moore and Her “Gone With The Wind Fabulous Twirl”

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 5

As the ladies questioned Kenya Moore’s relationship with her then-boyfriend Walter Jackson on the cast trip to Anguilla, Moore was compelled to remind the women who they were in the presence of. Thus, Moore’s famous, “I’m still fabulous. Gone with the wind fabulous, okay?!” followed by her twirl, was born.

5. Shereé Whitfield’s  “September, Spring/Summer Response

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 10

When Andy Cohen and her cast members questioned Whitfield about the ongoing delays and timeline for her clothing line “She by Shereé,” Whitfield famously defended the release with the hilarious response, “September. That is, spring/summer.”

6. Aunt Bertha’s “A Scheme That Todd Set Up” Catchphrase

The Real Housewives of Atlanta: Kandi’s Wedding

“A scheme that Todd set up” has made its rounds across the Internet, cementing itself as a viral pop culture meme. From the RHOA spinoff for Kandi Burruss’ wedding in 2014, Aunt Bertha delivered the memorable quote after suggesting that Burruss’ then-husband Todd Tucker manipulated a situation by having her receive false information.

7. Phaedra Parks Not Knowing Her Due Date

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 3

During a Mother’s Day meal with Leakes, Whitfield, Cynthia Bailey, and Burruss, Parks expressed her confusion over her pregnancy due date with her son Ayden, answering, “I don’t even know what I am,” to their line of questioning.

8. Kandi Burruss Throwing Shade Toward Nene Leakes

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 2

After a dramatic argument with Leakes after Whitefield’s fashion show event, Burruss claimed that Leakes thought she owed her an apology. In her confessional about the situation, Burruss shared how she felt about that, in which she said, “It’s a good thing she don’t get paid for thinking.”

@mereyspice Good thing she don't get paid for thinking #rhoa #kandiburruss #kimzolciak #realhousewives #bravo ♬ original sound – RealSprousewives

9. Cynthia Bailey and Nene Leakes’ Friendship Contract

The Real Housewives of Atlanta  – Season 3

After getting into a rift with Leakes, Bailey handed the OG housewife a candle and a lengthy friend contract with bullet points for how to move forward in their friendship. By Season 7, their friendship had dissolved, prompting Bailey to burn the contract. 

10. Porsha Williams’ “Who Said That” Moment

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Season 9

After Marlo Hampton brought up a rumor that she heard from Whitfield about Burruss being a “lesbian in the closet” during a group dinner, Burruss demanded to know who was spreading the gossip, causing Williams to express her confusion and repeatedly say, “Who said that?”

11. Karen Huger’s Wig Shift

The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 5

In mid-conversation with her castmates, the “Grande Dame” casually adjusted her wig in the most chaotic way possible.

12. Monique Samuels’ Reunion Binder of Receipts

The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 5

In her last season with the franchise for a few years, Monique Samuels exited The Real Housewives of Potomac with a bang. During the Season 5 reunion, she came prepared with a binder full of receipts and famously read her co-stars, particularly Gizelle Bryant, to filth.

13. Karen Huger’s Pizza Delivery

The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 3

Bryant, Ashley Darby, and Robyn Dixon dressed as pizza delivery men, driving to Huger’s home to see if she and her husband, Ray, actually lived there, will remain one of the top funny moments in Housewives history.

14. Karen Huger’s Press Conference

The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 3

When Huger attempted to address rumors regarding her and Ray’s tax debt, Gizelle Bryant famously trolled the event by showing up in a custom T-shirt with hashtags stating #FreeKaren, #FreeUncleBen and #TaxReform.

15. Candiace Dillard Bassett vs. The Butter Knife

The Real Housewives of Potomac Season 4

One of the most dramatic moments in Housewives of Potomac history happened at Candiace Dillard Bassett’s family home. After inviting the women over for dinner, a heated exchange broke out between Darby and Bassett when the topic of conversation fell on Michael Darby and questionable comments he made at a previous event. The end result? Bassett ominously waving a butter knife. 

16. Ashley Darby and Katie Rost “Apology”

The Real Housewives of Potomac – Season 4 

During a cast trip, a heated back-and-forth took place between Darby and returning cast member Katie Rost. Afterward, the two women exchanged barbs, with Rost quipping to Darby, “I’m sorry if I said that you’re dumb. Maybe I meant you’re stupid.” Darby quickly clapped back with a remark about Rost’s hair resembling a toupee. 

@hayusocial I’m sorry if I said you were dumb, maybe I meant you were stupid. #RHOP #RealityTV #Hayu ♬ original sound – Hayu

17. T’Challa Attacking Wendy

The Real Housewives of Potomac – Season 5

T’Challa, Monique Samuels’ pet African Grey Parrot, was an unofficial member of the cast. One of his funniest moments is when he caused a little bit of chaos by attacking Wendy Osefo. Her reaction as the bird fluttered around her was worth the instant replays.

18. Mary Cosby’s Famous Hospital Line

The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City – Season 1

In the season premiere of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, Mary Cosby delivered one of her most bizarre yet hilarious lines of the season, telling her castmate Jen Shah, “You smell like hospital.”

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19. Mary Dismissing Whitney Rose

The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City – Season 2

As an argument between Mary Cosby and Whitney Rose escalated, Cosby was clearly done with the conversation, which prompted her to tell Whitney, “You can go, little girl.”

20. Garcelle Beauvais Calling Dorit a “Karen”

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills – Season 13

After Dorit Kemsley accused Beauvais of “attacking” her, Beauvais sat down with Kemsley a few days later to check her behavior, telling her she was coming off as an “unconscious Karen.”

Before the internet had the full story, it already had an opinion. Millions watched the moment Jade Cargill’s wig came off mid-match during a WWE broadcast, turning what could have been a fleeting wardrobe malfunction into the latest social media spectacle. But for Cargill, the viral clip wasn’t simply about wrestling. It exposed a much larger conversation about Black women’s hair, protective styles and the exhausting expectation that our beauty choices must always come with an explanation.

For Jade Cargill, the moment her wig came off in the middle of a WWE match wasn’t the end of the story. It was the beginning of a conversation Black women have been having for centuries.

Black hair has always carried more than style. It has signified lineage, community, spirituality and survival. Long before European beauty standards attempted to flatten its meaning, intricate braids mapped villages across West Africa, cornrows carried stories, and sculptural styles became living archives of identity. Today, whether it’s a silk press, knotless braids, a sew-in, locs or a lace-front installed to perfection, Black women continue to innovate one of the world’s most influential beauty languages. Yet somehow, we’re still asked to defend it.

Long before timelines dissected every frame of the viral clip, Cargill was focused on something much simpler: finishing the match. Looking back now, she says she surprised even herself. What she once believed would be her worst nightmare became one of her proudest moments, not because the mishap happened, but because she refused to let it stop her.

“I was very proud of myself for persevering through the storm and keeping it going,” Cargill tells EBONY.

As the clips spread across social media, she realized the conversation had very little to do with wrestling. Instead, it became another referendum on Black women’s beauty, exposing how little many people understand about the realities of protective styling.

“I would love to wear my real hair,” she says. “I wore my real hair during my wrestling tryout and when I was initially training. But with the amount of sweat, makeup, heat and traveling we do, it just isn’t possible.”

For Cargill, protective styling isn’t rooted in insecurity. It’s athletic performance. WWE superstars spend nearly the entire year on the road, moving between arenas, television tapings and international tours with virtually no offseason. Hair is subjected to relentless heat, sweat, styling and impact. In that environment, wigs become less about transformation than preservation.

“Everybody wears wigs, extensions or clip-ins,” she explains. “But when it comes to Black women, it becomes a deeper issue.”

That distinction matters because Black beauty has always been judged differently. From the boardroom to the classroom, from Olympic podiums to red carpets, Black women continue to navigate conversations about whether their hair is “professional,” “appropriate” or “real.” The irony, of course, is that the very trends dominating global beauty—from baby hairs meticulously laid across foreheads to frontal installs, braided artistry and edge control routines—were perfected inside Black salons long before they appeared on luxury runways or TikTok mood boards.

Cargill has never hidden behind her wigs, nor has she pretended they were anything other than protective styles. Instead, she sees them as another extension of performance, no different than ring gear, entrance music or championship attire.

Beauty, after all, is part of the character.

Every hairstyle is intentional. Every manicure, every beat face and every piece of custom gear contributes to the woman audiences see beneath the arena lights. Together with her hairstylist, each installation begins with a conversation rooted in storytelling rather than aesthetics alone.

“We go through a whole narrative rooted in high fashion and storytelling,” she says. “Expressing myself through my gear, through my nails, through my hair, through my makeup, through the themes of outfits, it means a lot to me.”

That philosophy feels unmistakably Black. Beauty has never existed separately from fashion in our culture. It’s why the sculptural glamour of the late André Leon Talley could command a room as effortlessly as a couture gown. It’s why the editorial imagination of icons like Pat McGrath and the legacy of trailblazers such as Madam C.J. Walker continue to shape the global beauty industry. Hair, makeup and fashion have always moved together, each one completing the story of the other.

Behind the scenes, however, the routine is rooted in maintenance rather than glamour. Monthly deep-conditioning treatments, restorative masks and protective braids prepare her hair before every installation. Once she’s home, the wig comes off almost immediately and recovery begins. Cécred’s Sacred Drops have become part of that ritual, nourishing her edges after weeks beneath a unit. It’s a regimen she now shares with her daughter, reinforcing that healthy hair and protective styling are not opposing ideas but complementary ones.

Equally intentional is the way Cargill protects her peace.

She limits social media, leans on family and friends outside wrestling and reminds herself that her identity extends far beyond the squared circle. Before becoming one of WWE’s biggest stars, she studied psychology, played collegiate basketball and built a life grounded in purpose. Today she’s also a mother and business owner, roles that remain untouched by viral discourse.

“I have to protect my peace not only for myself but for my family and my child,” she says.

That confidence is exactly what she hopes young Black girls take from this moment.

“I want her to know that her hair is special. As Black women, we are creative. We can do whatever we want with our hair.”

Ultimately, Cargill refuses to let a viral clip become the defining image of her career. Instead, she has reclaimed it as an act of authorship.

“People think they know me and make assumptions about my wig,” she says. “I’m going to tell you what this wig means to me. I’m going to let you know what my hair means to me. I’m going to let you know what my culture means to me.”

Perhaps that’s the real story. The internet saw a wig come off. Jade Cargill saw centuries of Black beauty resilience reflected back at her. In a culture that continues to interrogate Black women before celebrating them, she transformed a fleeting mishap into something far more enduring: a reminder that our beauty rituals have always been equal parts protection, performance, artistry and inheritance.

Nearly three decades after his unforgettable appearance on Martin, Tommy Davidson’s flashy talk-show host Varnell Hill is finally getting a show of his own. The character only appeared briefly on the classic sitcom, but his over-the-top confidence, slick style and instant rivalry with Martin Payne made him one of the show’s most memorable guest characters.

Now, Paramount+ is giving Varnell the spotlight he’s always rightfully deserved (in his own mind) with the spin-off comedy, The Varnell Hill Show, picking up decades later. Here are five things to know before he steps back into the spotlight.

Varnell began as a two-episode character—but we never forgot him

Davidson first played the flamboyant Los Angeles talk-show host during a two-episode Season 2 storyline of Martin in 1993. He was Martin Payne’s more successful rival, and did him dirty by persuading Martin to quit his job before revealing there was no position for him in Los Angeles. Davidson has said the spinoff took more than five years to develop. 

This is a workplace comedy, not a full Martin reboot

We finally get an inside look at how Varnell’s long-running late-night talk show works, behind the scenes. Varnell’s biggest obstacle is trying to remain relevant while he’s juggling executives who want to put a modern spin on the program. There’s also a chaotic writers’ room, celebrity guests with attitude, family issues and Varnell’s own oversized ego.

Paramount+

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Yes, Martin Lawrence is officially returning as Martin Payne

The rivalry continues! Martin Lawrence will make special appearances as his signature Martin character, creating a direct connection to the original sitcom. He also serves as an executive producer on the series. 

Black comedy icons dominate the cast

Kym Whitley, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Emmanuel Hudson, Chris Williams and Nick Cafero are joining Davidson for this comedic reboot. And the series’ upcoming guest stars, which include Ms. Pat, Deon Cole, Damon Wayans, Mike Epps and Omarion, will actually be guests on a real late-night show.

The Varnell Hill Show premieres September 1

The eight-episode first season premieres globally on Paramount+ on September 1 with its first two episodes.