If there’s one thing we love, it’s a movie that makes us yell, “Girl, LEAVE!” at the screen. But Peacock’s Strung isn’t your average psychological thriller.

Premiering June 26 on Peacock, the new psychological thriller marks a chilling genre pivot for director Malcolm D. Lee, who trades romantic comedies for razor-sharp suspense in a film that’s equal parts glamorous, unsettling and impossible to predict.

RELATED CONTENT: ‘Make Your Daddy Dead’ — Why ‘Is God Is’ Is The Black Woman Revenge Fantasy Hollywood Has Been Too Afraid To Make [Exclusive Video]

“Alan McElroy wrote an amazing script that I just could not put down,” he told MadameNoire. “It was such a page-turner. I was talking at the script… I said, ‘If they want to make this movie, I want to dip my toe in this water.'”

Produced by Tyler Perry and Jason Blum, Strung follows Layla (Chloe Bailey), a gifted violinist whose dream tutoring job for an affluent Los Angeles family quickly spirals into something far more sinister as dark secrets begin to unravel.

The post Chlöe Bailey, Coco Jones & The Cast Of ‘Strung’ Spill On Peacock’s Wildest Thriller Yet And The Ending You Won’t See Coming [Exclusive Video] appeared first on MadameNoire.

Putting trust in a person to keep a secret can form a bond that most people would hope extends even to the grave. Oprah Winfrey unfortunately isn’t one of those people, at least when it comes to her recent admission regarding late soul icon Whitney Houston.

While speaking on a panel for Day 1 of the 2026 Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, the media maven made a shocking revelation that Whitney once appeared so high on drugs during a performance on The Oprah Winfrey Show that it actually caused her to fall off the stage.

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In her own words (seen above), Oprah says that Whitney herself didn’t want the story out when it first allegedly happened back in 2009. However, now a decade-and-a-half removed from both the end of her talk show in 2011 and The Bodyguard singer’s untimely passing in 2012, it would appear Oprah believes the clause is up on whatever agreement they once had. Then again, things might not even be as she claims to be true.

Take a look below at what Whitney’s estate is saying in response to what they’re basically calling revisionist history, via TMZ:

“Whitney’s estate, run by Pat Houston, tells TMZ in a statement … Pat ’emphatically responds to a statement made by Oprah Winfrey at Cannes Lions.‘

Pat added … ‘Whitney absolutely fell off the stage, but it was during a sound check, and it was due to the darkness of the area and her unfamiliarity with the stage. She was absolutely not high.’

She acknowledges Whitney’s addiction struggles, saying … ‘Like many people, she faced personal battles, but it is inaccurate and unfair to attach that struggle to every performance or every chapter of her life. What the studio audience witnessed on stage was the result of discipline, talent, and commitment — not the assumptions others project.’

Pat ended, ‘Whitney’s humanity included triumphs and struggles, but on that day, she showed up as the professional and gifted artist she always worked to be. We owe her the dignity of telling the truth, not repeating myths.'”

It’s especially troubling when, looking back on the performance in question, Nippy appears to be fully cognitive and sounds as amazing as ever.

Whether or not the fall was due to drug use is one thing, but we’d argue that an even bigger offense was Oprah breaking her code of silence without any real reason. We doubt The Voice would appreciate hearing that about herself if she was still alive, so how would it not be an issue given the fact that she’s not here to defend herself?

Truth or tall tale? Take a look below at what some on social media are saying in response to Oprah’s story about the late Whitney Houston:

1. After the passing of MJ, Oprah Winfrey sat in Katherine Jackson’s face during an interview pretending to care about that woman’s grief only to turn around & do a documentary on MJ full of lies. I have ALWAYS side eyed Oprah so this nonsense about Whitney doesn’t surprise me.

via @FrankiePumps1

The post ‘Why Now?’ Oprah Sparks Outrage After Claiming Whitney Houston Fell Off Stage After Relapse appeared first on MadameNoire.

Coffee is much more than a beverage; it is a gateway to culture, connection, and even romance.

As with everything else, the price of a cup of Joe has increased significantly due to the current state of the economy. According to Daily Coffee News, coffee prices have far outpaced overall grocery inflation as of April 2026. The BLS coffee index has risen to 18.5% from April 2025 to April 2026, with roasted coffee up 17.3% and instant coffee up by 22.8%.

Under the Trump tariffs, paid by U.S. importers, the U.S. coffee industry has been significantly impacted with a near-total reliance on green coffee imports in order to meet domestic demand.

So, what does that mean for the average person looking to enjoy a cup of coffee from their favorite cafe?

It means the price of coffee isn’t what it used to be, so many Americans are opting for the beverage from the comfort of their own homes, and, to take it a step further, they’re even hosting their own coffee dates in-house to save some coins.

Whether you prefer it iced, hot, spiked, or anything in between, there’s a way to recreate that vibe at home, and in true American fashion, folks are making a way out of no way, curating those beans in all of their favorite variations within the walls of their home.

Even further, dating in this economy is not for the weak, which is why turning to an at-home coffee date is all the rave, and here at Madamenoire, we’re gonna help you bring that café joy straight to your home.

Who needs Starbucks or a fancy coffee shop when you can recreate the vibes in the crib?

Here are some of our top recipes to stir up romance at home with an intimate coffee date for two, create the ultimate bar setup to invite the girls over for a pajama party, or even recreate your own cafe vibes, especially if you’re a work from home hottie.

RELATED CONTENT: National Coffee Day: 4 Black Celebrities Brewing Up Success Beyond Hollywood

1. Autobarista Espresso Negroni

RECIPE LEVEL: Intermediate

FUNCTION: Cold-Pressed

MAKES: 1 serving  

INGREDIENTS 

Ice cubes, as needed

Single shot cold-pressed espresso

1 ounce red bitter liqueur 

1 ounce sweet vermouth

1 ounce gin

½ ounce simple syrup 

Orange twist, for garnish

DIRECTIONS 

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and place under the coffee spout. Select COLD-PRESSED and set quantity to single-shot. Press START to begin program.
2. Once program is complete, add red bitter liqueur, sweet vermouth, gin and simple syrup to the cocktail shaker. Place the lid onto the shaker and shake vigorously for 10 seconds, then strain into a martini glass. Garnish with the orange twist and serve immediately.

TIP: If a sweeter drink is preferred, increase simple syrup to 1 ounce.

The post Espresso Yourself — Turn Your Kitchen Into The Ultimate Date Night Café With These 9 Chic Coffee Recipes appeared first on MadameNoire.

We have all been eyeing Tia Mowry’s new man because he has her glowing like no other. 

Tia Mowry was the latest guest on SiriusXM’s “Today Show Radio” – where she spilled everything about her new boyfriend, who she says she “manifested last year.”

The Sister Sister alum named her new boo Javon’e, a teacher who has his master’s degree and has studied in France.

She gushed, “He’s an artist. He’s an avid reader.” They enjoy going to the Buddhist temple to meditate every Wednesday. “He will read to me, like, at night before we go to bed. And the books that we’re reading is about co-parenting.” They both have two kids who are around the same age, 15 and 8. Mowry couldn’t help but proclaim that he’s a wonderful human being. “Some of the things that he just says, like ‘How can I support you?’ His emotional intelligence is amazing,” the actress shared.

RELATED CONTENT: Damn! Damn! Damn! — 21 Black Hollywood Breakups That Left Us Heartbroken And Denouncing Relationship Goals

The post Tia Mowry Says She Manifested Her New Man — Now She’s Revealing Exactly Why Everyone’s Obsessed With Javon’e appeared first on MadameNoire.

Darrian Randle, a Maryland mother, has been convicted of murdering her 3-year-old daughter Nola Dinkins and concealing the child’s body inside a suitcase, according to reports from CBS News, Delaware Online and People.

On Monday, June 8, Darrian Randle was found guilty of first-degree murder and two counts of child abuse resulting in the 2025 death of her daughter, Nola.

The post Maryland Mother Claimed A Stranger Kidnapped Her 3-Year-Old — Prosecutors Say She Beat Her To Death And Hid Her Body In A Suitcase appeared first on MadameNoire.

Sherri Shepherd nearly had a full-on fashion crisis before taking the stage at the 2026 Every Child Thrives Festival at the newly opened Obama Presidential Center on June 25. The daytime talk show host revealed in a hilarious Instagram video shared the day before the event that she accidentally left two very important essentials at home: her wigs and her Spanx.

Determined to fix the problem, Shepherd said she ordered replacement items and had them shipped to her stepmother’s home in the Chicago suburbs, with plans to have an Uber courier deliver the package to her in the city.

Sherri Shepherd Spanx Story: The star said her Uber driver canceled the delivery with her Spanx and wigs.

Then things took an unexpected turn. According to Shepherd, the Uber driver canceled the delivery while still in possession of her package, leaving her wondering if she’d have to take the stage without her beloved “wig and girdles.”

“Now, I have to hold in my belly for the entire panel and hopefully find some hair. But you know what? I got a smile because I’m moderating a panel at the Obama [Presidential] Center. I’ll be bald-headed and I’ll be bloated, but I’ll be there,” she joked.

RELATED CONTENT: Sherri Shepherd Dresses Up As Beyoncé, Chats With Tina Knowles During Halloween Episode

The post ‘Lord & Jesus!’ Sherri Shepherd Suffers Full Blown Fashion Emergency After Uber Drove Off With Her Wig & Spanx appeared first on MadameNoire.

Every week, the stars are bringing the heat and making it hard for us to choose our list.

But here’s a peek at who made it this week: Jaidyn Alexis flaunted her curvey figure in a see through outfit while on the set of her new music video. Keith Powers is back for Paris Fashion Week and well – let’s just say you might want to brace yourself for the fineness he’s bringing. And several other stars are bringing their sexiest vacation pics from JaNa Craig, to Xavier Mills and Indiyah Pollack.

Here’s Vol 32.

RELATED CONTENT: Fine AF Fridays Vol 31! Nique Ignites The ‘Gram With Sun-Soaked Seduction In New Poolside Pics

1. Lauren Browning, 37

Lauren Browning popped out at the premiere of I Will Find You and her sculpted waist was the star and on display!

The post Fine AF Fridays, Vol. 32: Warning! The Girls Came To Slay, But Keith Powers Came To Ruin Our Peace appeared first on MadameNoire.

Some of your most successful Black celebrities, from Oprah to Daymond Dash, have built thriving empires as much from innovative marketing as from their talent and drive. Boldly displaying inclusivity helped Rihanna become a billionaire make-up queen, while Tyler Perry’s early days of success started with word-of-mouth praise on the “chitling circuit” in churches, which kept him directly connected to the consumer. One common theme with most of them is maintaining ownership and authenticity.

According to Adobe, AI-driven marketing should reach $107 billion by 2028. While AI can make marketing more streamlined and easier to scale, without solid content, it can lack an emotional connection with audiences. Ironically, your most influential Black celebrities were able to connect with fans by having access to the simplest technology, such as email.

RELATED CONTENT: Economic Warfare? Black Women Entrepreneurs Navigate Trump-Era Economic Turbulence With High-Stakes Setbacks

The post From Rihanna To Tyler Perry: Black Celebrity Entrepreneurs You Should Learn Innovative Marketing From appeared first on MadameNoire.

Some health challenges that follow jaw trauma are changes in bite alignment, difficulty eating, headaches, facial tension, and poor sleep quality, all of which can appear right away after the injury or gradually over time. 

Jaw injuries are usually associated with symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty chewing. Whatever the reason for your jaw injury, be it a car accident, a sports injury, a workplace accident, or a fall, trauma to the jaw can be painful and disruptive, and needs to be dealt with the right way the first time around.

Even if your initial injury feels healed, it might not be, and you might have lasting repercussions. In some cases, individuals develop ongoing health challenges that emerge gradually over time. These oral trauma complications may affect daily activities such as eating, speaking, sleeping, and even overall well-being. 

RELATED CONTENT: Their Greatest Performance — 8 Black Celebrities Who Battled Serious Illness In Silence

Persistent Jaw Pain Can Occur Over Time

One of the most common lingering effects of facial trauma is chronic pain.

While some discomfort is expected during the recovery process, pain that continues for weeks, months, or even years may indicate underlying issues. Damage to various body parts can sometimes create ongoing discomfort long after visible injuries have resolved, such as:

• Muscles
• Ligaments
• Joints
• Surrounding tissues

Chronic jaw pain may worsen during activities such as:

• Chewing
• Talking
• Yawning
• Clenching the teeth

In some cases, pain may radiate to the:

• Face
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Ears

Because symptoms can develop gradually, some individuals may not immediately connect them to a previous injury.

The post The Health Challenges That Can Quietly Follow Jaw Trauma appeared first on MadameNoire.

Tracee Ellis Ross is not pregnant, but she’s not totally against the idea.

Fans of the Black-ish alum have always been interested in her love life, which she’s done her best to keep private over the years. However, she’s been open about not waiting for a man to live life to the fullest, documenting her solo vacations and other adventures on social media and her Roku Original series, Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross.

The star, 53, sat down with Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon this week to talk about her personal and professional life, including her upcoming Broadway debut in Every Brilliant Thing. During their conversation, Ross addressed the recent rumors going around that she’s pregnant, which she called “hilarious.”

RELATED CONTENT: 12 Powerful Women Over 40, Child-Free by Choice And Living Their Best Lives

“I don’t have social media on my phone right now, and I kept getting texts, and people were like, ‘Congratulations.’ I’m like, ‘On the play? Thank you!’ Well, apparently, it’s swirling around, and it seems that people think I’m pregnant,” she explained. “Which is hilarious. I am not pregnant.”

“No, and I don’t know how you get the preggers,” Ross continued with her signature chuckle. “Now, ‘the pregnant’ I think is different from just pregnant. I know how you get pregnant. But ‘the pregnant’ is a thing they make up online when it’s obviously a slow news day.”

The post Is Tracee Ellis Ross Pregnant? The Actress Addresses Viral Rumors With A Classic One-Liner appeared first on MadameNoire.

For far too long, Black women athletes have been expected to excel under impossible circumstances. They are often asked to carry the weight of representation, perform at elite levels, and remain silent about the pressures that come with competing on the world’s biggest stages. But a growing number of athletes are rewriting that narrative. Instead of simply surviving systems not built with them in mind, they are creating new paths forward and reclaiming control over their careers, wellness, and futures. Check out the Black women athletes reclaiming their power inside.

One of the most visible examples is Naomi Osaka. The four-time Grand Slam champion made headlines when she stepped away from tennis to prioritize her mental health, sparking conversations that extended far beyond sports. Today, Osaka is back competing and turning heads ahead of Wimbledon. According to AP News, her highly anticipated Nike Wimbledon dress generated so much excitement that it sold out before she even had the chance to wear it on court. Her return serves as a reminder that athletes can prioritize their well-being without sacrificing their greatness.

Osaka’s story is part of a larger movement among Black women athletes who have chosen themselves, even when the decision was unpopular. These women have shown that power is not just about winning championships. It is about setting boundaries, creating opportunities, and refusing to let others define your worth.

Below are several Black women athletes who took their power back and changed the game in the process.

The post Comeback Queens — 6 Black Women Athletes Who Refused To Be Broken By The Pressure appeared first on MadameNoire.

In honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month, I found myself reflecting on one of the most transformative travel experiences I’ve ever had.

During my first visit to Barbados in 2023, I didn’t think anything could top the experience; luckily, I was wrong.

There is a freedom associated with being on the island that is home to the culture’s favorite bad gal, none other than Rihanna herself. As a child of the water, I have an affinity for any destination surrounded by water, but this time that feeling came from immersing myself in the history of Crop Over through the lens of FENTY Beauty and the locals who take pride in calling Barbados home.

RELATED CONTENT: Joy Looks Good On Us—The Top 10 2026 Global Vacation Destinations For Black Families

The post Barbados Crop Over Changed Me — How A Carnival Costume Helped Me Embrace My Body, My Freedom, And My Roots [Op-Ed] appeared first on MadameNoire.

A new weight loss medication called retatrutide is drawing attention, though it hasn’t yet been approved by the FDA. Early studies show promising results, with the potential to help people lose a significant amount of weight. Developed by Eli Lilly, retatrutide is a triple-hormone receptor agonist, meaning it targets three key hormones involved in regulating hunger and metabolism: GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide), GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), and GCG (glucagon). These hormones help control appetite, regulate insulin production, and manage blood sugar, all of which can aid in weight loss.

The post Move Over Ozempic — People Are Calling Retatrutide The Next Big Weight-Loss Breakthrough After Stunning Trial Results appeared first on MadameNoire.

Some of the most recognizable names in entertainment have been fighting some of their toughest battles far away from red carpets, award shows, and camera flashes. In many cases, fans didn’t even know what they were going through until long after the fact, or until the stars chose to speak out on their own terms. From Muni Long’s double lung transplant to Chadwick Boseman’s heartbreaking colon cancer fight, here are several Black celebrities who have faced serious, sometimes life-threatening health struggles in silence, resilience, and strength.

1. Muni Long

Two-time Grammy-winner Muni Long faced a scary health battle last year that many were unaware of: a double lung transplant. During an interview on Good Morning America June 23, the “Timber” songstress revealed she had to bow out early from Brandy and Monica’s The Boy Is Mine Tour last year after falling ill during the tour and catching pneumonia, which led to the procedure.

Doctors gave Long the tough news after she went home for Thanksgiving and suddenly “woke up in the hospital,” last year. The news startled her, but deep down, she knew she had to focus on her health.

“I knew for a really long time that something was wrong,” the singer explained. “Every day I’m, like, spitting in cups and coughing all the time. Trying to take all these medicines to get through the day. With this industry, you’re always in people’s faces. So, I’m taking pictures, and I’m just huffing and puffing like I just ran a marathon.”

While Long was hesitant to undergo the surgery, she says her son inspired her decision.

“The ego and the vanity was just like, ‘But what about my voice? What’s going to happen?’ But then I look at my son, and I think about how much more life that I have to live. Quality of life was first. I can’t sing if I’m not here,” she said.

She underwent the operation about six months ago and is now doing “fabulous.”

Muni Long has been open in recent years about living with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that can attack the body’s organs and tissues. She’s been living with the condition since 2014. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the condition can occur when the immune system, which typically protects the body from infection and disease, attacks its own tissues. 

Before becoming a Grammy-winning artist under her stage name, Muni Long, formerly known as Priscilla Renea, was navigating intense fatigue, pain, and unpredictable flare-ups behind the scenes.

“[People with lupus] have little signs, right? Like my fingertips will start turning blue. My skin will get really pale,” Long told People in 2025. “I’ll start looking super white. Which is hard to imagine because I’m brown-skinned. But literally my skin will turn like a light, ashy color.”

The singer revealed that at times her lupus flare-ups can impact her performances onstage. 

“I recently had to cancel my college football playoff performance on Jan.18th because I had a flare-up due to some personal things,” she revealed at the time. 

Despite those challenges, she continued writing hits for major artists and building her own catalog, often without the public understanding the physical toll behind her work. Today, she uses her platform not just for music but to bring awareness to lupus and chronic illness.

RELATED CONTENT: ‘I’m In Excruciating Pain’—Muni Long Shares Struggles With Lupus & 5 More Celebs With The Autoimmune Disease

The post Their Greatest Performance — 8 Black Celebrities Who Battled Serious Illness In Silence appeared first on MadameNoire.

Have you ever had a nipple orgasm or a nipplegasm? Well, it’s possible and it can happen through a variety of steamy techniques. According to Healthline, nipple orgasms can occur because this sensitive area contains hundreds of nerve endings, that when stimulated, send pleasure signals to “the same part of the brain activated by vaginal or clitoral stimulation.” This area is called the genital sensory cortex.  

What does a nipple orgasm feel like?

When those pleasure signals hit, it could trigger an incredible orgasm, which many people describe as a slow building sensation that eventually explodes as stimulation ramps up. It can creep up slowly, spreading throughout the body in waves or resulting in a sudden explosion. For example, during an 2024 interview with the Guardian, one person described the sensation of a nipple orgasm as something close to “a lightning flash,” but with a “very warm and sustained” finish.  Adding to the excitement, hormonal changes can also increase the sensitivity around the nipples, which can lead to a heightened sense of arousal when stimulated.

RELATED CONTENT: Introducing Temperature Play —The Fun And Exciting Way To Heat Up The Bedroom

The post Wait, You Can Orgasm From That? The ‘Nipplegasm’ Is Real—And Experts Say It Can Feel Like A Full-Body Explosion appeared first on MadameNoire.

Researchers at Arizona State University and Harvard Medical School have developed a promising new urine test that could help identify children at risk for autism earlier, potentially leading to faster diagnosis and earlier intervention. According to a press release published on May 26, researchers announced successful trial results for the Microbially-Derived Metabolite (MDM) System, a screening tool that analyzes urine samples for 17 microbial metabolites, small molecules produced by microorganisms in the gut, in children between the ages of 2 and 11. Researchers believe there is a strong connection to these molecules and autism in children. The system generates a score based on how many of these metabolites exceed the normal reference range.

What did the MDM System urine test find about autism?

To evaluate the test, researchers measured concentrations of microbially-derived metabolites in 52 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and 47 typically developing children. Participants were recruited from four states: Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, and Texas. The results revealed a significant difference between the two groups. Nearly every child with autism had at least one metabolite level that exceeded the highest level observed among typically developing children. In some cases, metabolite concentrations were found to be 100 to 1,000 times higher. On average, children with autism had approximately three elevated metabolites, while the control group showed none.

The urine test also demonstrated encouraging accuracy during trials, achieving 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity. In other words, it correctly identified 90% of children with autism and did not incorrectly classify any children without autism in the study.

RELATED CONTENT: SPECTRUM — The ‘Aha’ Moment: Black Mothers Of Neurodivergent Children Are Discovering More About Their Own Mental Health

The post Scientists Say A Simple Urine Test Could Help Detect Autism In Children — And The Results Are Turning Heads appeared first on MadameNoire.

The family of 23-year-old Shakiya Pridgen is grieving after she was fatally shot while sleeping in her home in Decatur, Georgia. Pridgen, who was nine months pregnant with a baby boy, died as a result of the shooting. Her unborn child also succumbed following the incident, according to People, 11Alive, and WSB-TV. Decatur police have arrested and charged Devin Anthony with murder in connection with the case.

Shakiya Pridgen shooting: What happened?

The tragic incident occurred on June 16. According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to a report of a shooting at a Decatur residence in the early morning hours of Tuesday and found Pridgen suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. She was transported to the hospital, where she and her unborn child were pronounced dead. Investigators believe approximately 11 shots were fired into the home from outside, 11Alive reported. Miraculously, two of her other children, who were sleeping nearby, were not injured, according to WSB-TV.

Pridgen’s mother, Verdina Scott, told WSB-TV on June 17 that Anthony, 26, was her daughter’s ex-boyfriend and the father of her unborn child. She is now calling for justice to be served.

RELATED CONTENT: ‘Literally A Monster’ — Pregnant Teen Shot Dead After Ex-Boyfriend Allegedly Lured Her Outside With Flowers

The post A Pregnant Mother Was Gunned Down In Her Sleep — Now The Family Of Shakiya Pridgen Wants To Know Why Her Alleged Killer Was Free appeared first on MadameNoire.

2026 is the year you promised yourself the body would be tea. 

Now summer is here and so are the results. Arms are toned. Waist is whittled. Booty is sitting. 

We see you. You did that. *Virtual finger taps*

RELATED CONTENT: How To Build Abs Like Megan Thee Stallion: 3 Tips From A Personal Trainer

What we’re not going to do is let that progress disappear behind all the summer functions that await. More specifically, behind the drinks at those functions. 

Alcoholic drinks can cause weight gain in four ways: it stops your body from burning fat, it’s high in calories, it can make you feel hungry, and it can lead to cravings for salty and greasy foods.

Not to mention alcohol is a common culprit behind bloating and breakouts.

If that’s not enough motivation to find an alternative, I don’t know what is. 

Enter mocktails. Your secret to remaining both snatched and mixy this summer.

Besides the aformentioned, three reasons you should try mocktails are as follows.

First, improved hydration. Mocktails with bases of mineral water, coconut water, or herbal teas keep you hydrated. Being properly hydrated means peak physical performance, glowing skin, and easier weight management.

Second, nutrient boosts. When made with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, mocktails offer rich antioxidants and micronutrients without the toxic burden of alcohol. Nutrients provide energy, build and repair tissues, and regulate vital bodily processes. 

Third, deeper sleep. Alcohol is a sedative that fragments your sleep cycles; mocktails allow your body to achieve deeper sleep. Rest is critical for physical and mental restoration as it repairing tissues and strengthens the immune system.

In case you’re not already convinced, these guilt-free drinks are also a breeze to make. 

Here are three low-calorie mocktail recipes that are perfect for the function and your physique.

RELATED CONTENT: What Happens To Your Body When You Stop Drinking Alcohol For 1 Month

The post Booty Up, Belly Flat — 3 Low-Calorie Mocktails That Won’t Sabotage Your Summer Body appeared first on MadameNoire.

June is quickly coming to an end, but our pride in the queer queens dominating both the industry and the timeline is forever, thanks to Women Crush Wednesday.

As we venture into the last two weeks of Pride Month, Madamenoire is doubling down on our commitment to celebrating our LGBTQIA+ baddies year-round. The world does not move unless they do.

Whether it’s Choyce Brown serving up sensual seduction with a wine glass in tow, Victoria Monet showing us how manifestation works in real-time as the opener for the European leg of Bruno Mars’ The Romantic Tour, and more of our lesbian, bisexual, and trans beauties, there are so many faces worth highlighting and celebrating for the latest rendition of Women Crush Wednesday.

Check out 50 of the hottest queer queens we’re shining a spotlight on this week.

RELATED CONTENT: Women Crush Wednesday — 50 Queer Queens, Bi Beauties & WLW Baddies We Can’t Stop Crushing On, Vol. 27

The post Porsha, Kehlani & A Revenge-Body Megan Thee Stallion: WCW, Vol. 28 Is Bursting With 50 Sexy Queer Queens appeared first on MadameNoire.

Muni Long is opening up about a terrifying time in her life, which led to her undergoing a double lung transplant.

The singer revealed the details of her health journey this week on Good Morning America, which is when she revealed that she underwent a double lung transplant after bowing out early from Brandy and Monica’s The Boy Is Mine Tour.

Long, 37, opened up to co-anchor Robin Roberts about her health struggles during the 2025 tour, admitting that she wasn’t in a spot to embark on the journey in the first place.

RELATED CONTENT: ‘I’m In Excruciating Pain’—Muni Long Shares Struggles With Lupus & 5 More Celebs With The Autoimmune Disease

“I should have never taken that tour. But there was so much going on in my life where I had to do it,” said the singer, who was diagnosed with lupus in 2014.

The Grammy winner went on to recall falling ill during the tour and catching pneumonia, admitting that she barely made it through her final show.

“I was only able to do two songs,” she recalled of her final night on tour.

The post Muni Long Thought She Had Pneumonia — Then Doctors Gave Her Just One Week To Live appeared first on MadameNoire.

The Strawberry Moon is about to rise and light up the summer sky, but no, it won’t actually look like a giant glowing berry. As charming as the name sounds, this celestial moment is more poetic than literal. It’s going to cause a huge emotional and personal shift for some people. 

When will the Strawberry Moon arrive? 

This year’s Strawberry Moon arrives as the very first full moon of summer, since it follows the summer solstice, which occurred on June 21. It also carries the distinction of being a seasonal milestone, marking the transition into the long, warm stretch of summer nights, according to USA TODAY.

Despite its sweet nickname, June’s full moon won’t turn red or pink like its namesake fruit. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the name comes from tradition rather than appearance; the strawberry harvest typically peaks around this time of year. 

According to the outlet, the lunar phenomenon has been “used by Native American Algonquian tribes that live in the northeastern United States as well as the Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota peoples to mark the ripening of ‘June-bearing’ strawberries that are ready to be gathered.” It carries great symbolism because “as flowers bloom and early fruit ripens, June is a time of great abundance for many.”

This year, the Strawberry Moon arrives on June 29 at 7:56 p.m. E.T. And if you miss the exact moment, don’t worry: the moon will appear full for several days before and after.

A Capricorn Moon with a serious edge.

This particular full moon lands in the astrological sign of Capricorn, adding a grounded, no-nonsense tone to the lunar energy. According to Astroseek, during this phase, “You might have a strong need for being useful to society” and may attempt to search for “justification in the outside world. You may underestimate what you want from yourself and for yourself.”

RELATED CONTENT: The Full Flower Moon in Scorpio Is Here—And It’s Dragging Your Secrets Into The Light

The emotional climate can feel extra weighty, especially in relationships and self-worth.

“Shyness may be accompanied by resentment of the fact that others ignore you,” the website adds, but during this time it’s important not to “seek approval from the outside, it will not help you get rid of your doubt and it is harmful to you.” Instead, “You have to trust your inner values.”

Words of wisdom indeed. 

So, this is not the time for impulsive texts or outsourcing your confidence, trust your gut and yourself. 

This full moon will serve as a cosmic plot twist for these 4 zodiac signs.

Astrologers at Grazia Magazine describe this full moon as a moment of deep perspective shifts, one that can shake loose outdated stories and push people toward overdue changes. For Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces, the Strawberry Moon will hit the hardest. Here’s why. 

The post The Strawberry Moon Is Bringing Breakups, Breakthroughs & Brutal Truths For 4 Zodiac Signs appeared first on MadameNoire.

For many fans, Coco Gauff is known as the tennis phenom who continues to make history on some of the sport’s biggest stages. But beyond the trophies, endorsements, and headline-making wins, the 22-year-old athlete recently opened up about something far more personal: what it means to navigate life as a Black woman in spaces where few people look like you. 

In a recent conversation with Ebony, Gauff reflected on the sacrifices her family made to help her pursue her dreams and the lessons that continue to guide her today. The tennis star shared that her parents — former athletes Corey and Candi Gauff — put their own ambitions on hold so she could focus on developing her game. Their support helped shape one of the most successful young careers in sports.

RELATED CONTENT: Tennis Phenom CoCo Gauff’s 10 Most Outstanding Moments On The Court

The post ‘There’s No Right Or Wrong Way To Be A Black Woman In This Sport’ – Coco Gauff Talks Representation In Tennis appeared first on MadameNoire.

LL COOL J brought music, faith, and civic engagement together for a major Juneteenth celebration in New York City on June 19. The hip-hop icon joined forces with Greater Allen AME Cathedral and his cultural platform Rock The Bells to host Rock The Blessings: Juneteenth for the People, creating what organizers described as one of the largest Juneteenth gatherings the city had seen in recent years.

Held at Greater Allen AME Cathedral in Jamaica, Queens, the event blended powerful gospel performances, community reflection, and appearances from some of the nation’s most influential political and civil rights leaders. The celebration arrived at a pivotal moment for New Yorkers, taking place just days before the city’s primary election and bringing together voices from across faith, government, and activism.

RELATED CONTENT: Softness Is Power: Juneteenth Reminds Black Women That Rest Is Revolutionary

The post LL COOL J, Zohran Mamdani, Ben Crump & More Came Together For A Powerful ‘Rock The Blessings’ Juneteenth Celebration In NYC appeared first on MadameNoire.

Love Island USA season 8 is filled with beautiful people!

Since MadameNoire highlighted the Black queens from this season, it was only right that we circled back to spotlight the daddies who have been occupying our screens since the show’s premiere on June 2nd.

We’ve got cuties from all over, with many different backgrounds, but over here, we like ’em Black (sorry, not sorry)! And while we may be rooting for some more than others, we need to give these handsome faces adequate love as they navigate the search for “the one” in front of millions of viewers on one of the hottest reality television series to hit streaming platforms!

Check out the four men who have graced us with their Love Island USA season 8 presence thus far!

RELATED CONTENT: Looking For The Next Serena, JaNa Or Olandria? Meet The Black Women Of ‘Love Island USA’ Season 8

The post Fiji’s Finest: Meet The Hot Hunks And Sexy Chocolate Daddies Of ‘Love Island USA’ Season 8 appeared first on MadameNoire.

A St. Louis mom has been charged with two counts of abuse or neglect of a child after her 20-month-old daughter died of what appeared to be extreme malnutrition.

Court documents obtained by KMOV, Fox 2 Now, and KSDK revealed that Sausha Myers, 29, was charged on June 13 after her two children were allegedly found emaciated in their family home in the 4300 block of St. Ferdinand. 

RELATED CONTENT: ‘Terrorized Into Silence’ — Former Corrections Officer Gets 150 Years For Killing Wife & Daughter, 14, Who Reported Sexual Abuse To Police

The post ‘Less Than 250 Calories A Day’ — St. Louis Mother Of Two Accused Of Starving 20-Month-Old Daughter To Death appeared first on MadameNoire.

Aesthetic treatments aren’t just for Black women in major cities anymore because they’re becoming more accessible in smaller communities, social media has increased awareness of cosmetic procedures, and advances in technology have made treatments safer and more widely available. Local med spas and cosmetic clinics are also expanding their services, and more Black women are prioritizing preventive skincare and aesthetic wellness.

Premium Beauty News says that the global Black beauty market has risen by 14.2% per year since 2024, and it’s expected to continue to at least 2033. Black women use seven times more beauty products for their bodies and hair routines, too, so it’s important that the money spent is well worth it.

While aesthetic treatments were once only for those in big cities, things are changing. This is why Black women all across the nation are getting the beauty treatments they want and deserve.

RELATED CONTENT: Don’t Believe The Hype! Yes, Black Skin Needs Sunscreen — Dermatologists’ Tips On How To Protect Your Melanin

The post Aesthetic Treatments Are No Longer Just A Big-City Beauty Move appeared first on MadameNoire.

Mara Brock Akil, the visionary creator behind beloved Black television classics Girlfriends and The Game, is embarking on a new creative journey with the release of her debut novel, The Revelation of Dionne Daphne. The highly anticipated book is set to arrive on June 30.

What is The Revelation of Dionne Daphne about?

Set in 1990s New York City, the novel follows Dionne Daphne, a successful beauty editor who appears to have everything she’s ever wanted: a thriving career, an exciting social life, and a handsome boyfriend. But when life-altering news arrives at her Brooklyn doorstep, the carefully curated world she has built begins to unravel.

RELATED CONTENT: “The Game” Is Coming Back To TV

The post ‘Girlfriends’ & ‘The Game’ Creator Mara Brock Akil Turns The Page With Powerful Debut Novel ‘The Revelation Of Dionne Daphne’ appeared first on MadameNoire.

Engaged Black couples can exchange vows in style with luxury wedding catering and nature’s unbeatable decor out in Utah and the Rocky Mountain area. Sweeping landscapes from canyons to rivers provide naturally beautiful backdrops, multi-day immersive experiences can feature skiing or partying in the city, and decadent farm-to-table wedding catering will keep everyone well fed.

Additionally, guests get in touch with Black culture and history by learning about Western pioneers like Clara Brown and James Beckwourth, visiting Lincoln Hills, and featuring local Black-owned vendors from Curly Mel to Karicka Soul in your wedding and reception roster.

MMCG Invest reports that the American wedding services market reached $65 to $100 billion in 2025, which shows normalization after the disruption during the Pandemic years. If you’re a Black couple who wants their wedding day to stand out, having a destination wedding near canyons and National Parks lets everyone enjoy nature, and may be a good way to spend that wedding budget. Guests can also learn more about the often-buried Black historical presence in these areas. 

RELATED CONTENT: Not A ‘You Look Beautiful’ In Sight — Junelle Lyles Explains Noah Lyles’ Dry First Wedding Look Reaction And Baby, The Internet Isn’t Buying It

The post Luxury Wedding Catering Trends Are Pulling Black Couples Out West appeared first on MadameNoire.

Some athletes transcend their sport and Serena Williams is one of them. The tennis champion returns to Wimbledon and Centre Court is about to feel completely different. Here’s what you should watch out for. 

Williams’ return to Wimbledon feels less like a comeback and more like another cultural moment featuring the all-star athlete. Nearly four years after stepping away from professional tennis and almost four years removed from her last Wimbledon appearance, the 44-year-old icon is officially back on the grass courts of the All England Club. 

According to Yahoo Sports, Williams will compete in both singles and doubles at Wimbledon 2026. This will set the stage for one of the tournament’s biggest storylines before a single ball has even been served.

RELATED CONTENT: Look Back At It — A Retrospect Of 30 Photos That Prove Serena Williams Was Always That Girl And Still Is!

For longtime fans, the excitement is obvious. Serena remains one of the greatest athletes in sports history, with 23 Grand Slam singles titles and a legacy that forever changed women’s tennis. But this return also comes with plenty of questions.

Unlike many players making a comeback, Serena has not played competitive singles tennis since 2022. She is also not entering Wimbledon with any tune-up tournaments under her belt. That means she is essentially walking into one of the sport’s most demanding events with no warm-up.

And still, if there is one athlete who has built a career on defying expectations, it is indeed Serena Williams. Read on for what to expect with Serena’s return.

The post Can Serena Williams Still Shake Up The Tennis World? 4 Things To Watch As The Icon Returns To Wimbledon appeared first on MadameNoire.

Pull up, Beloved. 

If the collective side-eye of die-hard WNBA fans could be distilled into one message for the Tempo’s Isabelle “Izzy” Harrison, that was it. 

During a play in the Toronto Tempo’s matchup with the Atlanta Dream on Sunday, the veteran forward wrapped Dream star Angel Reese up from behind, dragged her to the floor, got ejected for doing so, and left the court laughing while Reese fought back tears as she made her way to the free-throw line to attempt two shots. 

RELATED CONTENT: Caitlin Clark’s Cult Is Unraveling & Now The World Sees What Black Women Peeped From Jump: White Mediocrity [Op-Ed]

The post Izzy Harrison’s Foul On Angel Reese Felt Familiar To Black Women Who’s Been ‘The Only’ [Op-Ed] appeared first on MadameNoire.