If you weren’t watching, you missed history.

Let’s get this out of the way now, yeah, the news is about the Knicks winning but the story is OG Anunoby. #8 will never pay for meal, drink, valet, hell, he might not even have to pay his rent anymore after making the shot that will be as immortal in NYC as Times Square itself. Someone somewhere in the Big Apple is probably making a statue right now. Just look at this.

With only 1.2 seconds on the clock, the shot that Karl-Anthony Towns has dubbed “The right hand of God” is the stuff of legend. Knicks head coach Mike Brown agrees.

“That has to be the most iconic shot in the history of New York basketball,” Knicks coach Mike Brown said.

In the post-game press conference, Anunoby spoke about what it took for him and his teammates to persevere in such a difficult situation.

“We’re a resilient group. We’ve been through a lot,” Anunoby said. “We’ve come back plenty of times when we’re behind. Just staying with it, weathering the storm, not being too down or angry or frustrated.”

Swift’s appearance also turned the heads of the media covering the game. According to TMZ, ESPN’s Monica McNutt was captured on a hot mic poo-pooing Taylor and her seemingly sudden Knicks fandom.

As you might imagine, this clip swiftly made its way to the Swifties, and they have been talking crazy to McNutt relentlessly in a way that only bots and unhinged thumb thugs can. At this time, McNutt has not responded to the “controversy,” and we honestly hope she doesn’t.

It is what it is.

This morning, the Knicks fan with the loudest microphone in America, Stephen A. Smith, was beside himself with jubilation on ESPN’s First Take.

Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals is on Saturday night in San Antonio. It is a must-win if the Spurs want an opportunity to right their Game 4 wrongs and bring the fight back to New York City.

The post Knicks Win! New York Erupts As Spurs Blow 29-Point Lead In NBA Finals Game 4 appeared first on Bossip.

Pride Month is still in full swing, with barriers being broken and expression of love and living in truth sitting bolder than ever before.

As the month ticks on, we’re celebrating bisexual queens like Porsha Williams leaning fully into her love for the ladies, and women like Choyce Brown being admired aloud by her lover, Janae Sims.

We’ll even take it a step further, with this year’s Tony Awards. Qween Jean made history as the first openly trans person to receive a Tony thanks to her win in the Costume Design category for her work on Cats: The Jellicle Ball.

We love to see our people take pride in advocating and holding dear space for the ones they love.

Check out 50 of the hottest queers queens this week below.

RELATED CONTENT: #WCW — 50 Queer Queens Who Are Making Pride Month Hotter Than Ever (Wait Until You See Tiara Kelly!), Vol. 25

The post Gorgeous Girls: Porsha Williams, Kehlani & 48 More Captivating Queer Queens So Fine They Deserve Their Own Pride Parade appeared first on Bossip.

While plenty of celebrities packed into MSG for Game 4, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky found their own way to join the celebration. The happy couple turned a New York City sidewalk into an impromptu basketball court to show their love for the NBA team.

A viral clip making the rounds on social media shows Rihanna taking shots at a Knicks-themed basketball hoop as a crowd of fans cheered her on with chants of “Let’s go RiRi!” Standing nearby was Rocky, grinning from ear to ear as he watched his longtime partner soak up the moment.

The street-side basketball session came at the perfect time for Knicks fans. Just hours earlier, New York pulled off a stunning 107-106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs after overcoming a 29-point deficit — the largest comeback in NBA Finals history.

For Rocky, this celebration was personal. The Harlem native has become one of the most visible celebrity supporters of the Knicks during their Finals run, and he recently made it clear that his connection to the team goes beyond ordinary fandom.

Speaking with GQ’s Sasha Mutchnik after the Knicks took a 2-0 series lead, Rocky explained exactly where his loyalties lie.

“I’m from New York, sweetheart,” said Rocky. “I ain’t no Knicks fan. I am a Knick.”

That New York pride has been on full display throughout the postseason. Last month, after the Knicks eliminated the Detroit Pistons in Game 5 at Madison Square Garden, Rocky took the celebration to the streets of Harlem.

Outside Melba’s restaurant, he grabbed a basketball and joined fans in a spontaneous pickup-style session when the “Crowntown Express” Knicks bus rolled through the neighborhood. At one point, Rocky even channeled Knicks star Jalen Brunson, tossing alley-oop passes to fans who joined the festivities.

As for Rihanna, fans of the singer already know she’s no stranger to basketball fandom.

The Grammy-winning superstar has spent years making headlines at NBA games, often from some of the best seats in the house. She has been a frequent courtside presence and has never been shy about showing support for her favorite players. One of her most memorable NBA moments came during the 2017 Finals, when cameras caught her animatedly reacting to the action while cheering for LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

This time, though, Rihanna didn’t need a courtside seat to become part of the story.

Ironically, the couple wasn’t among the star-studded crowd inside Madison Square Garden for Game 4. That celebrity row featured an impressive lineup that included Taylor Swift, Timothée Chalamet, Kylie Jenner, Adam Sandler, Larry David, Chris Rock, Jerry Seinfeld, Jimmy Fallon, Fat Joe, Mariska Hargitay, and Michael J. Fox.

As the Knicks continue their dream Finals run, the excitement has spread far beyond Madison Square Garden. In New York right now, basketball fever is everywhere, and thanks to Rihanna and Rocky’s latest outing, even a neighborhood sidewalk can feel like the hottest seat in town.

The post Rihanna & A$AP Rocky Turn NYC Sidewalk Into A Knicks Celebration After Historic Finals Comeback appeared first on Bossip.

Back at it again with this week’s hottest thirst traps that dropped during a buzzy week dominated by all Love Island everything, Dr. Cheyenne Bryant flaunting her new ‘Doc Squad’ merch, Cardi’s electrifying halftime performance during the NBA Finals, Rihanna giving fans a glimpse of baby Rocki during EE72 cover shoot, Ari Fletcher setting social media ablaze in Turks & Caicos, Brown Sugar Babe bringing the heat to Miami, and more.

As promised, we’ve compiled swoon-worthy stunners (and our thirst-trappin’ celebrity faves) with Love Island star Aniya making her debut on the series after sizzling screens on the smash hit reality show.

Following in the famed footsteps of Olandria, Chelley Bissainthe, Serena Page, and JaNa Craig, Aniya is primed to be the next obsessed over it-girl from the star-making show.

For those late to the party, the Peacock series centers around a group of single contestants (known as islanders) who live in an isolated villa on Fiji Island where they are under 24/7 video surveillance on a quest to find love.

To advance through the rounds on the show, contestants couple up based on love, friendship, or strategy.

This week’s thirst trap compilation also features Megan Thee Stallion slaying along with Angela Simmons and Ari Fletcher giving what needs to be gave.

There’s also big baddie energy from Tems, Daphne Joy, Jade Cargill, Ari Lennox, and more, so we invite you to enjoy our latest collection of top-tier thirst traps on the flip.

The post Whew Lawd! The Hottest Thirst Traps Of The Week, Vol. 148 appeared first on Bossip.

It is NOT over!

According to court records cited by FOX 4, Anthony’s legal team has now formally notified the court that it intends to appeal. Legal experts note that filing a notice of appeal is a routine procedure in serious felony cases and does not automatically result in a new trial or a reversal of the conviction. Instead, appellate courts will review whether any legal errors occurred during the proceedings that could have affected the outcome.

As BOSSIP previously reported, Anthony’s highly publicized trial centered on the April 2025 confrontation at Kuykendall Stadium that ended with Metcalf’s death. Prosecutors argued that Anthony committed an unjustified and deliberate attack after a dispute under a team tent during a rain delay. Defense attorneys maintained throughout the trial that Anthony acted in self-defense, claiming he feared for his safety during the confrontation. Jurors ultimately rejected that argument and found him guilty of murder.

Anthony has since been transferred to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice while the appeals process begins, a process that could take months or even years to resolve.

Outside the court, supporters of Anthony and supporters of Metcalf clashed in heated confrontations that lead to two arrests. One arrest was a Black man named Sholdon Daniels who is Dallas-area attorney and former Republican congressional candidate on the charge of public intoxication. The second arrest was of a man named Jerome Winston for unlawfully carrying a weapon.

BOSSIP will continue to monitor the appeals process and will publish new information as it becomes available.

The post Keep Fighting! Karmelo Anthony To Appeal Murder Conviction, Supporters And Detractors Clash At Court appeared first on Bossip.

As Bravo’s The Valley heads into an explosive second half of the season, Jasmine Goode is opening up about feeling unheard within her friend group, finding her voice as a Black queer woman on reality television, and building a future with fiancée Melissa Marie.

The reality star also spoke candidly with BOSSIP about navigating race, representation, and relationships both on and off camera, while teasing major friendship fallout, a dramatic Mexico trip, and what she promises are some of the season’s biggest moments still to come.

This season, Jasmine and Melissa have been seen settling into a new home in Sherman Oaks while diving headfirst into wedding planning. But as their relationship reaches new milestones, Jasmine has also found herself reevaluating some of the friendships around her.

A few episodes back, viewers watched Jasmine question why her concerns about “darkside” Danny Booko appeared to be dismissed while castmates were more willing to empathize with Lala Kent’s experiences. The moment sparked an emotional conversation with Kristen Doute in which Jasmine candidly expressed feeling unheard and questioned whether race played a role in how her feelings were received.

“For me, it’s always been a struggle sometimes with this group to express my feelings,” Jasmine told BOSSIP’s Managing Editor Dani Canada. “I just wanted my friends to understand this: you can ride for somebody all day if you want to, but remember your true friends who’ve been here for you from day one. They matter and deserve to have that space as well.”

According to Jasmine, much of the conversation never made it to air.

She told BOSSIP that Doute became emotional after hearing her perspective and admitted she hadn’t fully understood how isolated Jasmine felt in those moments.

“It was so hard to watch them be so open and caring and soft with Lala when literally that’s all I wanted,” Jasmine said. “I feel the same way. I’m having these triggers, I’m having these issues, but it was always, ‘Jasmine, be quiet. You’re too much. You’re being loud.'”

The discussion underscored the unique challenges she’s faced existing in a mostly-white friend group while trying to ensure her voice is heard.

Fortunately, she hasn’t had to navigate those challenges alone.

Throughout the season, Melissa has remained a steady presence by her side, helping Jasmine stay grounded amid the pressures of reality television and wedding planning.

“Thank God I have Melissa,” Jasmine told BOSSIP. “There are times where I’m like, ‘I’m going to tweet this’ or post something, and she’s like, ‘Do not do that.’ She keeps me grounded.”

That support has become increasingly important as the couple prepares for their next chapter together.

Although wedding planning currently occupies most of their attention, Jasmine revealed that she and Melissa are already taking steps toward growing their family.

“Melissa’s got the kit already,” Jasmine joked about their family planning. “We just gotta get the sperm. I’m trying to get pregnant right away. Once the wedding is done, I’m literally like, doctor’s appointment. I’m really trying to start the process.”

For Jasmine, sharing those milestones publicly is not only about documenting her own life, but also about representation.

As one of the few Black queer women featured prominently on Bravo, she understands the significance of showing an authentic, layered relationship on television, particularly for younger viewers who may be searching for examples they never had growing up.

When we asked what she hopes a younger version of herself would see while watching The Valley, Jasmine said authenticity above all else.

“Someone that’s strong and living their truth,” she told BOSSIP. “Growing up, I never really saw queer people on reality TV much or Black women on reality TV. I think my younger self would be proud to see that you’re living your truth and not letting people silence you.”

Of course, this is still The Valley, and personal growth doesn’t mean the drama is slowing down.

The season’s midseason trailer teased major fallout among the cast, particularly during a trip to Mexico, where Jasmine hinted that friendships will be pushed to their limits. That includes her relationship with longtime friend Zack Wickham, whose loyalty she begins to question as tensions within the group continue to escalate.

“You think right now these little conversations are something? No. It’s going to be explosive,” Jasmine teased. “A lot of friendships are going to be tested, and I think viewers are going to be surprised.”

Whether she’s challenging her friends to see her perspective, preparing to walk down the aisle, or taking the first steps toward motherhood, Jasmine’s journey this season has delivered a nuanced portrait of a Black queer woman embracing every part of who she is, and that’s what we really wanna see in The Valley.

A new episode of The Valley airs TONIGHT at 8/7c on Bravo and streams the next day on Peacock.

The post ‘The Valley’ Exclusive: Jasmine Goode Gets Real About Representation, Race & Raising A Future Family With Melissa appeared first on Bossip.

Professional baddie/entrepreneur Ari Fletcher is having a timeeee on her Turks & Caicos vacay where she blessed the gram with a series of tropical glazed thirst traps from her beach day in paradise.

In a copiously caked up carousel, Fletcher can be seen soaking up sun in an itty bitty yellow bikini that, understandably, sent her fans into a frenzy.

Coincidentally, Drake is also in Turks shooting a video (seemingly for ‘Outside Tweaking’) with emerging star Stunna Sandy but it doesn’t appear like their itinerary is related to Ari’s vacay.

Either way, it’s more great publicity for Turks & Caicos which continue to be a prime getaway for the stars (especially Queen of Vacays Ashanti) looking for gorgeous beaches and impeccable vibes.

According to the Caribbean Journal, the thriving destination experienced the highest first-quarter visitor arrivals ever recorded, welcoming 203,587 stayover visitors between January and March.

Home of some the world’s prettiest beaches with an ever-growing selection of luxurious villas, it’s no surprise that the islands attracted over 2 million visitors in 2025 alone.

“We are very pleased to start the year with record-breaking tourism, which is a testament to our continued position as a high-demand destination and the success of our efforts to deepen engagement with travel partners,” said Minister of Tourism Hon. Zhavargo Jolly.

Where does Turks & Caicos rank on your must-vacay list? Tell us down below and enjoy more of Ari’s hottest thirst traps, videos, and photos on the flip.

The post Turks & Cakes! Copiously Cheeked Up Ari Fletcher Bawwwdies The Beach In Itty Bitty Yellow Bikini, Sets Off Thirst Typhoon appeared first on Bossip.

Just a few weeks after appearing alongside her daughter Rocki on the cover of W magazine’s Pop Issue, the Grammy-winning singer gave fans another glimpse of her youngest child during her latest photoshoot. In a behind-the-scenes video shared by both Rihanna and EE72 creative director Edward Enninful, the 9 month old can be seen spending time on set with her mother, including one sweet moment where she reaches for and plays with Rih’s necklace.

This video is one of the rare public appearances of Rocki this summer as she approaches her first birthday in September. The little girl, whose full name is Rocki Irish Mayers, is Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s third child and first daughter. The couple also share sons RZA, 4, and Riot, 2. Rocki first captured public attention earlier this year when she made her magazine debut alongside her mother on the cover of W, all dressed up in a custom Dior Haute Couture look created especially for the shoot.

Since her arrival in September 2025, Rocki has quickly become a favorite among fans. Rihanna proudly introduced her daughter to the world through the W cover, joking on Instagram that baby Rocki “served sumn serious” and even “shut her mama dowwwnn” during her first professional photoshoot.

For EE72, however, the focus remained on Rihanna’s enduring influence in fashion, music, and culture as a whole. Enninful, who has alongside with the Fenty founder for years, reflected on their longstanding friendship and creative partnership in an essay accompanying the cover story.

“I’ve been lucky enough to witness so many chapters of Rihanna’s life and career,” he wrote. “From those early days to where she is now, what has always amazed me is her instinct. She sees things before everyone else does. She trusts herself. She takes risks. And no matter how much the world changes around her, she remains completely authentic to who she is.”

Enninful also spoke warmly about the personal bond they have developed over the years.

“Rihanna has occupied a very special place in my life for many years,” he wrote. “I’ve often described her as royalty, but she’s also my baby sister. I even named my Boston Terrier, Riri, after her. My Riri (my Boston) is also a bad gal. But what I value most about our relationship is that, after all this time, we’re still able to surprise each other creatively. We’re both endlessly curious. We’re both always looking forward. Neither of us is interested in repeating what we’ve done before. We’re always asking ourselves: what’s next? We’re both Pisces, after all.”

The latest appearance continues what has been a milestone year for Rocki. At less than a year old, she has already landed a major magazine cover and accompanied her mother on multiple high-profile fashion projects. While Rihanna has historically been protective of her children’s privacy, she has occasionally shared glimpses of family life, allowing fans to see special moments as her family grows.

The post Backstage Baby! Rihanna Gives Fans A Rare Glimpse At Beautiful Baby Rocki During Her EE72 Cover Shoot appeared first on Bossip.

One of the most interesting mysteries in early 2000s pop culture has officially been solved, and the answer is less scandalous than you may think.

Michelle Williams pulled up to Keke Palmer’s Baby, This Is Keke Palmer podcast this week and addressed the viral 2001 Destiny’s Child interview that has had fans convinced for a quarter of a century that Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle were faaaar from sober during it.

If you’ve never seen the clip in question, the X post from @Yubbie007 will catch you right up. The three women are giggly, a little loopy, and giving answers that feel just slightly disconnected from the questions being asked. In one of the most iconic moments in the entire clip, Beyoncé announces with complete sincerity that if she could be any animal, she would be a whale.

“I know what I’d be, I’d be a whale. Iove whales,” said Beyoncé while eating.

“I think I would be a bird because they can fly,” added Kelly.

“I would like to be a black panther,” said Michelle amid a round of ‘oohs and ‘aahs’ before imitating the movement of the felines.

Fans have been using this clip as evidence for two decades to surmise that the trio was high during the sitdown.

Check out the clip below: 

Unfortunately for fans stuck on the theory, Michelle said their actions were much more innocent than they looked.

“There is one interview we did where people think we’re high,” she told Keke. “I promise y’all Matthew and Tina Knowles was not playing that. We were not under the influence of any substance!” 

And just in case anyone thought she might be covering for a youthful indiscretion with a twenty-five-year cushion, she went further.

“We were really tired,” she continued. “There were no edibles. It was literally jet lag. We were delusional. Media training is great, but when you’re tired, you can’t hide it.” 

As PEOPLE reported, the explanation tracks entirely when you consider what Destiny’s Child’s schedule actually looked like in 2001. These were three young women running on a promotional treadmill that did not stop for weekends, time zones, or basic human rest. Michelle explained the group was running on fumes when they sat down for the interview, leaving them tired, loopy and a little delirious but definitely not under the influence of anything other than a brutal international schedule. 

Michelle also made the point that would resonate with anyone who has ever tried to perform at full capacity while running on empty.

“Media training is great,” she said. But it can only take you so far, especially when you are exhausted and sitting in a room answering questions that you may not particularly love.”

And let us be honest: if Mathew and Tina Knowles were managing and supporting this group at the height of their career, the very suggestion that they would have allowed three young women to show up to a press interview in any state other than professional is genuinely difficult to believe. 

The comments under every post covering this story have been split right down the middle between people who are fully accepting the jet lag explanation with love and grace and people who are watching the original clip on a loop and respectfully declining to be convinced.

We believe Michelle Williams. We also believe that jet lag is real, that Beyoncé would hypothetically be a whale, and that this clip will continue circulating for another twenty-five years regardless of any clarification offered.

Watch Michelle Williams on Baby, This Is Keke Palmer below:

RELATED: JAŸ-Z Pops Out With Roots Picnic Preview & Loc-Cutting Conjecture, Headbanging Beyoncé Spotted Showing Umlaut Love

The post ‘No, No, No, No, No’ Michelle Williams Clears Destiny’s Child’s Name Over THAT Infamous Interview In 2001–‘There Were No Edibles’ appeared first on Bossip.

This is the fight that one of these two men have been waiting on for a very long time…

Yahoo! Sports reports that the simmering feud between ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith and President Donald Trump erupted into a full-blown public spat this week after Trump blasted the sports commentator as “dumb as a rock” and an “arrogant fool” following Smith’s criticism of his appearance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals in New York.

The conflict began when Smith, a lifelong New York Knicks fan, strongly objected to Trump attending the Finals matchup between the Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. Ahead of the game, Smith argued that Trump’s visit would create unnecessary chaos in the city, calling the decision “selfish,” “narcissistic,” and “ridiculous.” He claimed the extensive security measures surrounding the president’s appearance disrupted traffic, inconvenienced local businesses, and altered the atmosphere around the arena.

After the Knicks suffered a 115-111 loss, Smith jokingly blamed Trump for ruining the team’s momentum. He also mocked videos circulating online that appeared to show Trump nodding off during the game, comparing the moment to Trump’s longtime attacks on former President Joe Biden as “Sleepy Joe.”

Trump quickly fired back on Truth Social, unleashing a scathing personal attack against the ESPN host. The president called Smith “an arrogant fool” and “a low IQ individual,” adding that he was “totally unqualified” to seek public office. Trump further mocked Smith’s past flirtation with a potential presidential run, arguing that he would be “laughed out of politics” and claiming even Biden’s much-criticized debate performances would compare favorably to anything Smith could offer.

The exchange is particularly notable because Trump had previously spoken favorably about Smith, praising his television skills and even entertaining the idea of a future political campaign by the commentator. But their once-cordial relationship appears to have deteriorated rapidly as both men traded insults over the the Knicks loss.

With Game 4 looming and neither man showing any interest in backing down, the war of words between Trump and Smith has become one of the most unexpected side stories of this year’s NBA Finals. For what it’s worth, Trump will not be attending the game tonight.

The post Bloviating Beef: Donald Trump Takes Direct Shots At ‘Dumb As A Rock’ Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Host Claps Back appeared first on Bossip.

Two Bravolebrities are causing a #RHOA ruckus with a beef that’s reached a new level. Drew Sidora and Kelli Potter traded shade Tuesday (June 10) amid Drew’s recent comments about the fellow mom’s body, likening it to a “stuffed cornish hen.”

“The AUDACITY!” responded the mom of four, who then shaded the singer’s recently revealed plastic surgery.

Kelli and Drew’s drama reached a fever pitch this week after Drew interviewed with Page Six’s Virtual Reali-Tea with Evan Real and Danny Murphy, and said she never fully understood why Potter took issue with her, suggesting that the conflict may stem from larger tension “wrapped up” among other members of the cast.

When asked whether she had ever visited one of Potter’s Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles restaurants, Drew delivered a notably shady response. She claimed she had only visited the location that was “closed” before referring to Potter as a “stuffed Cornish hen.” Drew also hinted that those allegations about Potter sleeping with a married pastor may also be revealed during the reunion later this season.

Mind you, this is the SECOND time Drew shaded Kelli and likened her to a piece of poultry. The Housewife also said something similar on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen when asked about her previously calling Kelli “Ms. Proportions.”

The Cornish hen remarks eventually made their way back to Kelli, who responded by taking aim at Drew’s appearance and plastic surgery journey, posting before-and-after photos on social media.

“Drew, you’ll always be a Spongebob box shaped Buick even after you got the P special,” Potter fired back. She also used the opportunity to promote her Cornish hen recipe from her cookbook, Kooking With Kelli.

Drew then entered the chat, sharing before-and-after photos of Kelli captioned, “we love a before and after…”

before flaunting her new figure while promoting her new music.

“Well @whoiskelli since I have your attention, Make sure you download and stream my new single “How Does It Feel?” available now on all platforms! ” she tweeted.

More on the flip, including Drew also addressing K. Michelle.

The post #RHOA Ruckus: Drew & Kelli Trade Body Shaming Shade After Actress’ ‘Stuffed Cornish Hen’ Dig—’The AUDACITY!’ appeared first on Bossip.

The appearance comes at a pivotal moment for soccer in North America, as excitement continues to build around the sport’s growing popularity in the United States.

Reflecting on the game’s evolution and his role as a broadcaster covering the tournament, Donovan admitted he’s feeling many of the same emotions as the athletes preparing to take the field.

“The players will be feeling nervous but also excited. And I’m the same way — nervous, excited and optimistic,” Donovan said. “Soccer is unlike any sport and is much more popular than it’s ever been. I’m also excited to just be a fan.”

For Donovan, who spent much of his legendary career helping elevate the sport’s profile in America, the tournament’s presence in Southern California carries special significance.

“It’s amazing to see everything in LA,” he said. “I’m a proud Angeleno — I love this city.”

The six-time MLS Cup champion and all-time U.S. Men’s National Team assists leader has witnessed firsthand how dramatically the sport has grown over the past several decades. His record-breaking performances on the international stage helped introduce soccer to new generations of American fans and cemented his status as one of the game’s most recognizable figures.

Donovan also highlighted the rapid development taking place around Inglewood’s sports district, where SoFi Stadium, Intuit Dome, Hollywood Park and the new Raising Cane’s flagship now stand side by side.

“Driving up here and seeing Raising Cane’s and Hollywood Park and SoFi was crazy. It’s all here,” Donovan said. “What Raising Cane’s has done here at SoFi is incredible. They could have picked anywhere in LA, but they picked here.”

The restaurant marks the latest addition to the area’s ongoing transformation into one of the nation’s premier destinations for sports and entertainment.

Donovan’s appearance also builds on his ongoing partnership with the restaurant chain. The soccer legend currently stars in Raising Cane’s national “Kick It With Cane’s” campaign, which includes advertising, digital content and in-restaurant promotions across the country.

Raising Cane’s founder and owner Todd Graves said the partnership was a natural fit given Donovan’s impact on the sport.

“Landon is one of the greatest and most influential American soccer players of all time, so to have the opportunity to partner with him for our soccer campaign and help celebrate the opening of our Inglewood Flagship is special,” Graves said. “The sport has grown so much since 1994 thanks to athletes like Landon who continue to champion the game.”

With international soccer set to take center stage this week and thousands of fans expected to flock to Southern California for matches, Donovan’s appearance served as both a celebration of the sport’s momentum and a preview of the excitement surrounding Raising Cane’s newest flagship location.

The Inglewood restaurant is expected to officially open soon, offering fans a new gathering spot in the heart of one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant sports destinations.

The post U.S. Soccer Legend Landon Donovan Speaks On The Exponential Growth Of Soccer In The States Ahead Of The World Cup appeared first on Bossip.

The men are showing up and showing out with breezy beach drip, sweaty selfies to flex those gym gains, and mouthwatering magazine covers. This has been a buzzy end to sprin with the return of fan favorites Love Island: USA and The Vampure Lestat (aka Interview with the Vampire Season 3), the premiere party for Raising Kanan‘s final season, and Scary Movie 6 dominating the box office.

Game 3 of the NBA finals have basketball fans in a chokehold as booing outweighed buckets in what Knicks fans are calling a streak-breaking visit from President Trump. Hometown hero Cardi B was in the building to wake it up with a halftime performance of “Bodega Baddie.”

The American Black Film Festival celebrated 30 years of Black excellence with celebs like Emily In Paris star Lucien Laviscount scorching the red carpet at the Strung premiere.

Is God Is eye candy Xavier Mills shared a viral behind-the-scenes moment with Sterling K. Brown popping up with a plot twist during a push-up session.

The fine-amic duo of Netflix’s Nemesis, Y’Lan Noel and Matthew Law, shared the cover of Level Magazine.

Newly knighted Sir Idris Elba was British GQ’s first Heroes cover star as he set the record straight about his long-rumored casting as a Black James Bond.

As NPR celebrates Black Music Month, R&B veteran Joe will make his Tiny Desk debut on Wednesday June 10 with a lineup of his classic hits and dirty macking music like “All the Things (Your Man Won’t Do).”

Vic Mensa also celebrated Black Music Month by dropping fresh-squeezed knowledge about all the Black American roots of popular American music.

A new Dip Hold Challenge has social media sizzling as it brings out the best and the flex in callisthenic cuties. How long can you hang in there with these hotties?

We’ve gathered a group of gorgeous gents, swoon-worthy swoleness, Love Island lookers, and forever fine faves like Lance Gross tapping in with a thirst trap and Robert Ri’chard’s steamy shirtless selfies leaving fans wishing they could get some One on One time with the actor.

Hit the flip to see more hunks, Hollywood heartthrobs, and very HIMportant thirst traps!

The post ZAAAAAMN, Zaddy! Hottest Hunks, Heartthrobs & Very HIMportant Thirst Traps Of The Week appeared first on Bossip.

The 21-year-old is making moves in court to officially drop Pitt from her name, amid her estrangement from the actor. According to reports from TMZ, Zahara filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court asking for her new legal name to be “Zahara Marley Jolie.”

The recent Spelman grad did not provide any reasoning in her paperwork, but it’s no secret that she hasn’t been close to her dad in years. She hasn’t used Brad’s last name in a while, but now she’s looking to make the change legally binding.

A source close to Brad tells TMZ that they think Angelina’s actions are the reason for the estrangement, adding that it’s sad when one parent prioritizes alienating the other parent over celebrating their children’s achievements. Three of Brad’s other kids, Shiloh, Maddox, and Vivenne, have stopped using their dad’s last name, as well.

As BOSSIP previously reported, Brad was not present at Zahara’s recent college graduation. Sources told TMZ Brad did not contact his daughter about attending the ceremony.

When the graduate was called to receive her diploma, Zahara was introduced as Zahara Marley Jolie. While joining the Mu Pi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., at Spelman a few years back, she introduced herself as Zahara Marley Jolie then, too.

She spoke about her mother just weeks before walking across the stage, per Newsweek. The outlet reports that at a sorority event, Zahara called Angelina her role model and talked about her adoption.

“Our love for each other is a found one. I was adopted at 6 months old and given some of the most special and loving people as my siblings, with a mom who raised us on the value of helping others, being kind, and always striving for growth as people,” she reportedly said at the time.

Zahara went on to describe Angelina as “the most selfless, loving, and understanding woman” and added, “I am grateful to have had a role model to show me what it looks like to be a decent human being.”

The post Just Jolie: Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt’s Daughter Zahara Files Legal Petition To Drop Her Father’s Last Name appeared first on Bossip.

While we prepare to collectively celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on the ongoing pursuit of economic freedom, The PEARL Foundation, Inc. is turning celebration into shoppable action.

The nonprofit organization, in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Rho Zeta Omega Chapter, will host its 3rd Annual Small Business Showcase on June 20 at Georgia’s Smyrna Community Center, bringing together more than 50 Black-owned and local small businesses from Cobb County and across Metro Atlanta.

Taking place during Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s annual Black Dollar Days observance and just one day after Juneteenth, the event is a celebration of Black entrepreneurship and a call to invest in Black-owned businesses year-round.

What began in 2024 as a grassroots effort to support women entrepreneurs has evolved into one of The PEARL Foundation’s signature community initiatives, creating opportunities for small business owners while strengthening local economic networks.

“What started with about 30 businesses has now grown to 50 businesses,” said Cassandra R. Williams, chair of the Supporting Women Entrepreneurs Subcommittee for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Rho Zeta Omega Chapter. “It’s a manageable number, but it also gives us an opportunity to showcase a variety of businesses in Cobb County and the Metro Atlanta area.”

The marketplace will feature entrepreneurs spanning fashion, beauty, wellness, food, real estate, photography, skincare, specialty goods, coffee experiences, and handcrafted products. Previous participating businesses have included Just Jai Wear, Sterling Sweets, Lenoir Jones Skincare, Candlelight Inspiration, Frothee Coffee Experience, and DRG Photo Service.

The showcase’s popularity has exceeded organizers’ expectations. This year, 76 businesses applied for vendor opportunities, forcing organizers to cap participation due to venue limitations. The demand has already sparked conversations about expanding the event in the future.

“Maybe it’s a bigger event, or maybe it’s multiple events,” Williams said. “We do know that it’s something that has become kind of a signature event for us that we’d like to continue to do.”

Beyond providing a platform for entrepreneurs, the showcase aligns with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s ongoing focus on economic empowerment and wealth building. The event also complements the sorority’s annual Black Dollar Days initiative, an international campaign that encourages communities to intentionally support Black-owned businesses and leverage their spending power to strengthen local economies.

Throughout the observance, the message “Wear Pink, Spend Green and Buy Black” is prevalent, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to entrepreneurship, economic advancement, and long-term wealth creation.

For Williams, the showcase represents a tangible way to put those principles into practice.

“We know economic empowerment is always going to be a pillar or a component of what we do,” she told BOSSIP. “Especially in the environment that we’re in right now, we have to do everything that we can to lift each other up—business owners, encouraging people to start businesses, finding resources so they can fund businesses, buying from each other and continuing to build wealth.”

In many ways, that mission mirrors the broader conversations often sparked during Juneteenth celebrations: how communities can transform freedom into opportunity and ensure wealth-building resources remain accessible for future generations.

That commitment extends far beyond a single event. Since receiving its 501(c)(3) designation in 2008, The PEARL Foundation, Inc. has focused on what its leadership describes as a simple but powerful mission: uplifting communities through education, service, and opportunity.

The organization’s name itself reflects that purpose. PEARL stands for “People Educating and Reshaping Lives,” a philosophy that guides initiatives ranging from scholarship programs and financial literacy efforts to healthcare advocacy, food insecurity relief, and entrepreneurship support.

“Our vision is uplifting community for all to live, learn and thrive,” Stacy L. Grooms, president and chairman of the board of The PEARL Foundation, Inc. told BOSSIP. “Ultimately, all of our programmatic initiatives are really focused on uplifting the community.”

Among the foundation’s proudest accomplishments is its longstanding investment in education. Earlier this year, The PEARL Foundation awarded $82,500 in college scholarships to 14 graduating seniors. Through its partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Rho Zeta Omega Chapter, more than $715,000 in scholarships have been distributed over time, helping students pursue higher education and expand their future opportunities.

The foundation has also expanded its efforts to address food insecurity through its Childhood Hunger Initiative Power Pack (CHIPP) program. Working alongside education partners in Cobb County, the organization provides backpacks filled with food for students to take home on weekends, helping ensure children and their families have access to meals when school cafeterias are closed.

“We’re very proud of the work we’ve done,” Grooms said, noting that many students rely on school breakfast and lunch programs during the week. “These backpacks help bridge that gap and provide support for families until children return to school on Monday.”

Taken together, those initiatives reflect the same philosophy behind the Small Business Showcase: creating tangible pathways for individuals and families to thrive, whether through education, entrepreneurship, or access to basic necessities.

While the Small Business Showcase has become one of the foundation’s signature community initiatives, it is just one part of a broader effort to fund programs and services throughout the year.

To support its scholarship, food insecurity, and community outreach programs, The PEARL Foundation hosts several annual fundraisers, including its signature 5K event, Dashing Through The Square. Scheduled for Dec. 19, the family-friendly walk and run welcomes participants of all ages, including children and pets, and serves as a Peachtree Road Race qualifier.

The foundation has also expanded its fundraising efforts with Pearls in the Park, a social event held at The Battery Atlanta that combines entertainment, vendors, and community engagement with charitable giving.

“In order to do the programs that we just talked about, we have to raise funds,” Grooms said. “These events give the community an opportunity to support the foundation while also enjoying time together for a purpose.”

Those fundraising efforts help make initiatives like the Small Business Showcase possible, allowing The PEARL Foundation, Inc. to expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs while strengthening connections across the small business community.

Unlike many vendor markets, organizers have also worked to reduce financial barriers for participation. Through grants and fundraising efforts, The PEARL Foundation has been able to subsidize vendor costs, helping entrepreneurs gain visibility and access to new customers without absorbing high upfront costs.

“This wasn’t an event about us making money,” Williams told BOSSIP. “This was an event about us supporting the community.”

The impact of that approach is already visible.

Williams recalled one entrepreneur who entered the showcase with modest expectations and left having sold every product she brought.

“She said, ‘Oh my gosh, I sold out. I sold out of everything.'” “She didn’t have any high expectations, and she sold out and was so excited. She was just happy to be around people that looked like us and actually sell all of her products.”

Organizers hope attendees and vendors have similar experiences this year and leave with more than shopping bags. Beyond the marketplace, the showcase is designed to foster relationships among entrepreneurs, connect business owners with resources, and create opportunities for long-term collaboration.

“It’s really building a network of business owners and partners that you can continue to grow with,” Williams said. “The businesses partnering with each other is just as important as people coming to shop.”

As Juneteenth celebrations continue and Black Dollar Days encourages communities to put their spending power behind Black-owned businesses, organizers hope the showcase serves as both a marketplace and a reminder that economic empowerment remains one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting community impact.

And that’s certainly something to celebrate.

For more information on The Pearl Foundation, Inc., visit https://thepearlfoundationga.org/

The post Wear Pink, Spend Green, Buy Black: The PEARL Foundation, Inc.’s Small Business Showcase Celebrates Black Entrepreneurship [Exclusive] appeared first on Bossip.

Karmleo Anthony has been sentenced to 35 years for the murder of Austin Metcalf. CBS News reports that under the direction of Judge John Roach, the court formally sentenced Karmelo to 35 years behind bars, with the possibility of parole after serving half of his sentence.

He faced a potential sentence ranging from five to 99 years in prison, and jurors also had the option of determining that he acted under sudden passion, which would have reduced the maximum sentence to 20 years.

Below this line, the original story begins.

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June 9, 2026: Karmelo Anthony Found Guilty of Murder: 

A verdict has been reached in the trial of Karmelo Anthony.

After nearly three hours of deliberation, a jury on Tuesday found 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony guilty of fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf in 2025, according to NBC DFW.

Anthony showed little visible emotion as the verdict was announced and was escorted from the courtroom shortly afterward. The same jury will now determine his sentence. Under Texas law, a murder conviction carries a prison term ranging from five to 99 years.

As the case entered into the sentencing phase, Anthony’s mother, Kala Hayes, took the witness stand. Defense attorney Mike Howard offered her water and tissues before questioning her.

“He’s my oldest,” Hayes said. “He’ll always be my baby. I love him very much.”

Hayes became emotional and began crying while testifying. Observers in the courtroom noted that Anthony also appeared to be in tears.

As sentencing proceedings continue, the defense is expected to argue that the killing occurred under the immediate influence of “sudden passion.” Prosecutor Dewey Mitchell referenced the legal concept during jury selection, describing it as “a situation when someone is in such a state of emotion, based on something that just happened, that they don’t have time to cool off.”

If jurors determine that Anthony acted under sudden passion, the offense remains murder but the punishment range is reduced from that of a first-degree felony to that of a second-degree felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 2 to 20 years.

June 9, 2026: Jury Instructions Take Shape & Closing Arguments Begin.

During closing arguments on Tuesday, defense attorney Mike Howard argued that Austin Metcalf had no legal right to use force to remove Karmelo Anthony from the Memorial High School tent. While Howard acknowledged that Metcalf was within his rights to ask Anthony to leave, he contended that Metcalf had no legal authority to physically touch or eject him, noting that the incident occurred in a public setting. Anthony has pleaded not guilty to the incident.

Collin County First Assistant District Attorney Bill Wirskye challenged Howard’s argument, telling the jury:

“Do not let them turn a threat into a warning,” according to NBC DFW. “Do not let them turn a taunting, provoking threat into some kind of benign warning.”

He added:

“He took a knife to a track meet,” Wirskye said. ‘He had a secret, he kept it hidden… He was the only one with a knife that day. He was always going to come out on top that day.”

Earlier in the morning, Judge John Roach informed the court that he had been working with attorneys on the final jury instructions that will guide deliberations. Howard objected to the inclusion of a “provoking the difficulty” instruction, a legal doctrine that can limit or eliminate a defendant’s right to claim self-defense, according to NBC DFW. Under the rule, a defendant may lose the ability to assert self-defense if jurors determine that the individual intentionally provoked a confrontation as a pretext to use force.

Judge Roach denied the defense’s objection and allowed the instruction to remain.

The court also rejected the defense’s request to include criminally negligent homicide as a possible verdict. However, Roach approved the inclusion of manslaughter as a lesser-included offense.

Under the jury charge, a murder conviction would require jurors to find that Anthony intentionally or knowingly caused death or serious bodily injury through his actions. To convict Anthony of manslaughter, jurors would need to determine that he acted recklessly or consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that resulted in death or serious bodily injury.

Jurors may also conclude that Anthony is not guilty.

June 8, 2026: Defense Rests Its Case.

The jury has a lot to consider ahead of deliberations. The defense concluded its case Monday after prosecutors challenged the credibility of a key witness regarding whether Anthony was surrounded by students before the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf.

A Centennial High School student and teammate of Anthony testified that the defendant appeared visibly emotional in the aftermath of the incident.

“He was crying and there was a coach comforting him,” the witness said. “I would say distraught is the best way to describe it.”

The student testified that members of Frisco Centennial’s track team (Anthony’s team) had gathered inside a nearby baseball dugout to avoid the rain. According to his testimony, Anthony later walked toward the Memorial High School tent, where Metcalf was stationed. Defense attorneys have maintained that Anthony entered the tent to speak with a friend and acted in self-defense when confronted by Austin Metcalf and his twin brother, Hunter, to leave the area.

“I heard loud voices over there and when I looked, people were not facing the field anymore,” he said. “They were looking back.”

The witness said he moved toward the Memorial tent after noticing the commotion.

“What I saw was Austin pull up his shirt and say he got stabbed,” he testified, adding that he did not witness the actual stabbing.

During cross-examination, Wirskye challenged the witness’s earlier claims that Anthony had been surrounded before the stabbing occurred. Prosecutors presented surveillance footage that appeared to show the witness was not looking toward the tent during the critical moments.

“My impression when we first met you was that you thought when you saw Karmelo surrounded it was before the stabbing?” Wirskye asked.

“Yes, sir,” the witness said.

“That was actually after the stabbing?” Wirskye asked. “When you and I met you told me you thought it was before the stabbing?”

“I could not really tell,” the witness responded. “I thought it was as the stabbing was happening.”

“You know you’re wrong?” Wirskye asked.

“Yes, sir,” the witness said.

The defense also called Frisco Police Detective Beau Riley, who responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses. Riley testified that the knife Anthony carried was legal to possess in Texas, including at athletic venues.

June 6, 2026: Prosecutors Focus on Alleged Provocation before resting.

Earlier in the trial, prosecutors presented testimony suggesting Anthony provoked students after being asked to leave the Memorial High School tent during the weather delay.

During Saturday’s trial, a 16-year-old Memorial High School student testified that Anthony became confrontational when asked to leave. According to the witness, Anthony referred to students as “a bunch of pussies” and claimed they were “not going to do nothing about it.”

When questioned by prosecutors about who initiated the confrontation, the witness testified:

“Yes, Karmelo put his hand in the bag and said five times, ’touch me and see what happens,” the witness testified. “Austin said he was not going to touch the guy; he was calm.”

The same witness later testified that Metcalf “did not deserve” to be killed and characterized Anthony’s actions as murder.

Another 17-year-old Memorial High School student testified that Anthony was unknown to those gathered inside the tent.

“If you are a guest, you are supposed to be on the other side of the stadium,” the witness said.

Wirskye then asked whether it appeared Anthony was intentionally provoking Metcalf.

“Yes,” the witness testified. “He put his hand on his shoulder … you do not expect to see someone get stabbed at a track meet.”

“Was there any reason you saw for Karmelo Anthony to stab Austin Metcalf?” Wirskye asked. “Was Karmelo Anthony acting in self-defense?”

“No,” the witness said. “That’s lethal force against non-lethal force.”

With testimony now complete, jurors will soon begin deliberating over a case that has attracted national attention and sparked intense public debate. Neither prosecutors nor defense attorneys have publicly commented on the proceedings due to a gag order that remains in effect.

If convicted of murder, Anthony faces a sentence ranging from five years to life in prison.

June 4, 2026: Trial Kicks Off.

According to CBS, the first day of testimony featured coaches, an athletic trainer, and other individuals who rushed to help Metcalf in the moments after the stabbing. Jurors were also shown video footage from the track meet, shedding new light on the events leading up to the deadly encounter while raising additional questions about what transpired before the incident.

Before testimony began, Anthony, now 19, entered a not guilty plea. The defense maintains that Anthony acted in self-defense, while prosecutors argue the stabbing was an excessive and unjustified response to a physical altercation.

Inside the packed courtroom, members of both the Anthony and Metcalf families sat on opposite sides of the gallery, underscoring the emotional weight of the proceedings. The tension only intensified as prosecutors and defense attorneys delivered sharply contrasting opening statements.

Addressing the jury, prosecutor Bill Wirskye rejected the notion that race or self-defense were central issues in the case. He claimed Anthony “provoked” Metcalf’s death. 

“This case has nothing to do with race, this case has nothing to do with self-defense … This was an unprovoked, unjustified murder, it is senseless,” Wirskye said, according to CBS.

Defense attorney Mike Howard offered a sharply different perspective, acknowledging that there had been a great deal of “noise” surrounding the case before shifting the focus to Anthony’s character. Referring to his client by the nickname “Melo,” Howard tried to paint a picture of the teenager beyond the headlines and public controversy.

“Melo is a son, he’s a brother, the oldest of four,” Howard said, according to NBC DFW. “He’s a friend, boyfriend, he’s an A student with a 3.7 GPA. He’s holding down two jobs while being an athlete and student… baseball, football, track.”

Later in the day, the prosecution called expert witness Mark Porter to analyze surveillance footage from the track meet. Porter walked jurors through a timeline of the events captured on video, noting that Anthony first appeared on camera at approximately 9:52 a.m. and was later seen approaching the entrance of Kuykendall Stadium.

Additional footage showed Metcalf arriving at his school’s tent around 9:54 a.m. Porter testified that at approximately 10 a.m., movement could be seen beneath the tent where the confrontation occurred. According to Porter, the video appeared to show one person pushing another under the tent. However, he acknowledged that viewers could not determine from the footage whether a verbal argument had begun prior to the physical interaction.

The state’s next witness, Robert Starr, head track coach at Memorial High School and an assistant football coach, provided context about the district track meet. Starr explained that the event featured seven competing schools and served as a qualifying meet for future competitions.

Starr told jurors that Austin and his twin brother, Hunter Metcalf, competed in shot put and discus events. As the host school, Memorial High School relied on several student-athletes to assist with setup and logistics throughout the day. Starr testified that he specifically asked Austin and other athletes to step into leadership roles that morning by helping transport equipment and set up tents.

He later recalled noticing a “commotion” near one of the tents and attempted to make his way toward the area.

One of the day’s most emotional testimonies came from athletic trainer Tiffany Whiteaker, who described the moments immediately following the stabbing. Whiteaker testified that she initially heard screaming and commotion from the stands before rushing toward a crowd gathered on the field.

She said a student, Hudson Dean, informed her that Anthony had stabbed Metcalf and “threw the knife into the stands.”

Whiteaker testified that she immediately recognized Metcalf and began lifesaving efforts. While her partner performed chest compressions, Whiteaker administered rescue breaths and continued CPR until paramedics arrived.

Although she observed Metcalf regain some color, Whiteaker said she quickly realized the severity of his injury.

The prosecution also called Joshua Rebmann, an Army veteran and Liberty High School defensive coordinator, who was working as a throwing coach at the meet. Rebmann testified that he rushed to assist after hearing the commotion and used his military medical training to apply pressure to what he described as a “good-sized wound” in Metcalf’s abdomen.

He recalled having to move Hunter Metcalf away from his brother in order to provide treatment, describing Hunter as “freaking out.”

Rebmann further testified that Austin’s gasping breaths indicated his brain was being deprived of oxygen. Though he recognized the signs, he chose not to voice his concerns aloud because he did not want to extinguish the hope others still held for Metcalf’s survival.

According to Rebmann, he already knew Austin was gone.

During cross-examination, defense attorney Toby Shook highlighted Anthony’s behavior immediately following the incident. Whiteaker agreed that Anthony did not attempt to flee the scene, remained near the track, and appeared visibly upset and emotional.

The final witness of the day was Heritage High School head football coach Vincent Hooper, who testified that students alerted him that someone had been stabbed. Hooper said Whiteaker brought Anthony to him and instructed him not to allow the teenager to leave.

According to Hooper, Anthony immediately admitted what had happened.

“He put his hands on me. I stabbed him,” Anthony allegedly told the coach.

Hooper testified that he tried to explain the gravity of the situation, warning Anthony that if Metcalf died, he “had changed the rest of his life.”

Anthony responded, “He’s not going to die,” but Hooper said the teen became emotional and started crying when he replied, “But if he does…”

Hooper told jurors it appeared the reality of the situation was “not registering in his mind” at first. He said the two embraced as they stood together near the track. However, after seeing Metcalf lying in a pool of blood, Hooper said the seriousness of the situation finally appeared to sink in.

The trial is expected to continue with additional witness testimony and evidence in the coming days as jurors work to determine whether Anthony acted in self-defense or committed murder.

Karmelo Anthony Trial: June 1, 2026: Jury selection began.

The trial officially kicked off on June 1 at the Collin County Courthouse in McKinney, where attorneys began the difficult task of selecting 12 jurors from a pool of roughly 250 candidates, according to reports from ABC News and WFAA. Anticipating heavy public interest, Judge John Roach Jr. has taken extraordinary measures to control the proceedings. Cameras, livestreams, and audio recordings have been banned from the courtroom, a security perimeter has been established around parts of the courthouse to prevent protests from erupting. Notably, video and photos obtained by the Dallas Morning News on June 1 captured protesters chanting in favor of Anthony outside the courtroom.

Additionally, a gag order remains in place, preventing attorneys, investigators, witnesses, and others involved in the case from publicly discussing it. Only a team of reporters from WFAA will be allowed to cover the case from inside the courtroom, the outlet noted.

“Due to the significant public and media interest in this case, the Court finds that specific procedures are necessary to ensure the Defendant’s right to a fair and impartial trial, the orderly administration of justice, the safety and security of all participants, and reasonable public access consistent with constitutional requirements,” Roach wrote in an order governing the proceedings, according to ABC News.

Karmelo Anthony’s age has already become a big challenge among potential jurors.

Almost immediately, jury selection revealed one of the biggest challenges facing both sides: Anthony’s age. Although he is now 18, he was only 17 when the stabbing occurred. Under Texas law, however, 17-year-olds are prosecuted as adults. Per WFAA, on day two of jury selection, which took place Wednesday, prosecutors reminded potential jurors that Anthony faces a first-degree murder charge carrying a punishment range of “five to 99 years to life” if convicted.

“Is there anybody who cannot consider life for a punishment?” chief felony prosecutor Dewey Mitchell asked prospective jurors.

The question exposed a clear divide among the panel. Several jurors struggled with the idea of imposing such a severe sentence on someone they viewed as a teenager. Some remarked that “he looks like a child,” while others admitted they would have difficulty considering a life sentence regardless of the evidence.

One prospective juror acknowledged the internal conflict many seemed to share, saying: “People are going to think I’m a monster but…I have a hard time just considering five [years].”

As questioning continued, concerns about Anthony’s youth surfaced repeatedly. Mitchell asked potential jurors whether the defendant’s age would affect their ability to fairly judge the case.

One panelist responded: “I don’t think I can make a decision about somebody so young. One mistake, one argument, one conflict, you can’t say he’s a bad person.”

Another prospective juror drew a visible reaction from observers when he stated: “I don’t know if I feel right putting a brother in jail.”

Mitchell also appeared to hint at a central prosecution argument by challenging the boundaries of self-defense. “You don’t get to provoke someone and then use force,” he told the jury panel.

What happened between Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf?

At the center of the case is what happened on April 2, 2025, at David Kuykendall Stadium. According to investigators, Anthony, then a student-athlete at Frisco Centennial High School, was sitting beneath a Memorial High School team tent when Metcalf approached him and told him to leave. Police say the encounter quickly escalated. Anthony allegedly reached into his backpack, produced a pocketknife, and warned Metcalf, “Touch me and see what happens.”

Authorities allege that Metcalf then pushed or grabbed Anthony while attempting to remove him from the tent. Seconds later, prosecutors say, Anthony stabbed Metcalf once in the chest. The wound pierced Metcalf’s heart. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but died shortly afterward. Anthony has consistently maintained that he acted in self-defense and feared for his life, while prosecutors argue the stabbing was an excessive and unjustified response to a physical confrontation.

One lawyer claimed there was video evidence of the incident, which could be a game-changer.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the trial is the possibility that video evidence exists. During an interview with Fox Live Now on Monday, Defense attorney Jaqueline Goodman suggested that footage of the altercation may have been reviewed by the court but remains unseen by the public.

Goodman also stressed the importance of finding jurors capable of setting aside preconceived opinions in a case that has become a lightning rod for public debate. She noted that jurors must be able to “set aside their own biases” in order to reach a fair verdict.

Other concerns.

Outside the courtroom, the case has become a flashpoint in broader discussions about race, self-defense, and the criminal justice system. Anthony’s family reportedly moved from their home after facing harassment tied to the case. His supporters have frequently compared his situation to that of Kyle Rittenhouse, arguing that Anthony deserves the same presumption of innocence and opportunity to argue self-defense before a jury. Rittenhouse was acquitted in 2021 after jurors found he acted in self-defense during the fatal shootings that occurred amid unrest in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

While the legal battle plays out, Anthony remains free on bond. His original $1 million bond was later reduced to $250,000 by a Collin County judge. Court records show he remains under strict conditions, including house arrest, constant supervision by a parent or designated adult, and a prohibition on contacting Metcalf’s family. He must also obtain court approval before leaving his home. 

Now, after months of legal filings, public debate, and national attention, the case is finally moving toward the moment that matters most: 12 jurors weighing whether Anthony’s actions amounted to murder or self-defense.

The post Karmelo Anthony Trial: Teen Sentenced To 35 Years For The Murder Of Austin Metcalf appeared first on Bossip.

According to the New York Police Department, most fans celebrated or commiserated peacefully following the game. However, authorities said a group of fans leaving a large watch party in Bryant Park became unruly as crowds spilled onto 42nd Street and surrounding streets. Police alleged that some individuals threw beer bottles and other objects at officers, climbed light poles and scaffolding, jumped on cars and taxis, and engaged in fistfights.

The NYPD reported that eight people were arrested on charges that included assaulting police officers, criminal possession of a weapon, menacing, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration. Another 13 people received criminal court summonses for disorderly conduct. Authorities also said five officers suffered injuries during the disturbances.

The post Savages & Sore Losers: 21 Knicks Fans Arrested Following Game 3 Loss, Cops And Spurs Fans Attacked appeared first on Bossip.

You can Stop! That! Train!, but you can’t stop Symone!

After becoming one of the most beloved winners in RuPaul’s Drag Race HERstory and earning the rare distinction of being considered one of RuPaul’s protégés, Symone has spent the years since her victory transforming from reality competition standout into a bona fide multi-hyphenate. Now, the drag superstar is boarding Stop! That! Train!, a copiously campy, delightful disaster comedy that finds her trading the runway for railways and embracing a scene-stealing villain role alongside a cast of fellow Drag Race royalty.

Directed by Adam Shankman (Hairspray, Rock of Ages), the film brings together an all-star lineup of drag performers for one of the first wide-release feature films fronted entirely by drag queens.

Part disaster spoof, part buddy comedy, and part love letter to queer culture, Stop! That! Train! follows train stewardesses Tess (Ginger Minj) and DeeDee (Jujubee) as they team up with a trio of glamorous first-class attendants and President Judy Gagwell (RuPaul) to stop a catastrophic “Stormaganza” from sending a high-speed train toward Florida. It also features cameos from the likes of Sarah Michelle Gellar, Raven-Symoné, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Chris Parnell, Joel McHale, Rachel Bloom, Michelle Visage, and Charo.

For Symone, joining the first movie out of the RuPaul’s Drag Race universe represented not only a personal career milestone but also an opportunity to help showcase drag performers as leading players in a major comedic feature.

“I was absolutely honored,” Symone told BOSSIP. “I knew there were multiple girls that auditioned for it. I knew a wide net had been cast. So to be asked, and then to be asked again to reshoot it, I was like, ‘Oh, they’re considering me.’ Then Adam personally called me and said, ‘We would love for you to play Ayshleiygh in this movie.’ I was like, ‘Oh my God.'”

She continued,

“It came at such a great time for me personally and my career,” she said. “I was just so happy.”

While audiences often gravitate toward heroes, Symone had a blast stepping into villain territory as Ayshleiygh, one-third of a gloriously catty clique that terrorizes the film’s unsuspecting train attendants, portrayed by Ginger Minj and Jujubee.

Ayshleiygh, yes, the spelling is intentionally absurd, essentially functions as the Gretchen Wieners to Brooke Lynn Hytes’ Regina George, delivering plenty of mean-girl energy with a drag queen twist.

“I had a blast being a villain,” Symone told BOSSIP. “I want to do more villainy on screen.”

The role allowed her to lean into the film’s larger-than-life tone while still grounding the character in recognizable archetypes.

“We obviously knew the archetype of what we were doing. We knew who we were referencing,” she explained. “As much as what was on the paper, he [Shankman] wanted us to do the acting and say the words, but we got to play a lot as well.”

That creative freedom proved especially valuable given the film’s whirlwind production schedule. Shankman shot the feature in just 19 days, a compressed timeline that required the cast to balance comedy, choreography, and elaborate drag transformations at breakneck speed.

One of the production’s biggest rewards, according to Symone, was the chance to spend extended time alongside fellow Drag Race alumni, including Brooke Lynn and Marcia Marcia Marcia.

“We don’t really get to work together a lot, as much as people like to think we do,” Symone told BOSSIP. “All of us are doing our own separate thing. We’re traveling, different gigs. So to really be hunkered down for a month and really bond with specifically Marcia Marcia Marcia and Brooke Lynn, because most of our scenes were together, it was really cool.”

The camaraderie reflects one of the film’s larger ambitions. While Stop! That! Train! is packed with drag talent, Shankman has emphasized that “the joke is not that they’re drag queens,” instead positioning the project as a broad comedy that happens to feature drag performers at its center.

Producers similarly describe the film as a celebration of artists whose creativity, humor, and talent have entertained audiences for generations.

For Symone, the film’s existence is inseparable from the cultural groundwork laid by RuPaul, who stars as President Judy Gagwell, whose ridiculous campaign slogan is “She fun!” and serves as one of the project’s driving creative forces.

When asked about the impact the entertainment icon has had on both her career and the broader LGBTQ+ community, Symone couldn’t help but gush.

“I love RuPaul Charles. I love what he’s done through his career,” Symone told BOSSIP. “Making our art form so public and being able to even make this film—we wouldn’t have it without the work that he’s done.”

She added that RuPaul’s influence extends well beyond drag culture itself.

“What he specifically has done for not just drag queens, but for Black queer men and people is really important,” she said. “When I saw him, I was like, ‘Oh my God, that’s it!'”

Ultimately, when the film arrives in theaters on June 12, Symone hopes audiences embrace its central message of joy, community, and escapism.

“We need to laugh,” she told BOSSIP. “People are getting so bogged down by what’s happening around them. Rightfully so. It is crazy in these streets.”

The Arkansas-born entertainer also stressed that the film serves as a reminder that joy itself can be an act of resilience.

“What we need to remember is that the joy is within us individually and us together,” Symone said. “Go see the film, have a laugh with your friends, your family, your loved ones.”

Just between us squirrel friends, this film arrives at a moment when both drag culture and LGBTQ+ visibility remain flashpoints in the national conversation. Stop! That! Train! offers something refreshingly simple: a celebration of community, camp, and the enduring power of joy.

Stop! That! Train! is in theaters nationwide on June 12!

The post ‘Stop! That! Train!’ Exclusive: ‘Drag Race’s Royalty Symone Talks Her Villain Era, Comedy Chops & RuPaul Protégé Praise—’It’s A Dream Come True’ appeared first on Bossip.

Wait a minute now, bruv…

The idea of a Black James Bond is still high on people’s minds, and one actor, Idris Elba, whose name is always seemingly attached to the fictional spy, got very candid about the prospect of that happening.

In an interview with British GQ, the actor shot down the idea of seeing him take over the 007 mantle and becoming the Black version of the iconic character created by Ian Fleming.

Elba, 53, said the rumors about him being James Bond, which began about 15 years ago, were “never legit,” adding, “I’ve always felt that it’s not a realistic thing.”

During the interview, he said the quiet part out loud, noting that there is a particular audience that just doesn’t want to see a Black James Bond.

“Also, I think, in realistic terms, some markets just don’t go for that. Bond is big all over the world,” Elba said. “And [audiences] won’t [all] go for a Black male, an African male, playing Bond. That’s not what they like in their culture. Period.”

When Did The Idea Of A Black James Bond Begin Floating Around?

Ironically, the idea of seeing a Black man take on the role of James Bond was first introduced by Daniel Craig, the last actor to play Bond. Craig mentioned while speaking at the 2008 Italian premiere of Quantum of Solace, a day after Barack Obama defeated John McCain in the 2008 presidential election to become the first Black President of the United States.

Craig’s last time in the role came in 2021’s No Time To Die, ending his run and putting him in the pantheon of other white men to play the role, including Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, and Pierce Brosnan.

Elba did acknowledge he was complimented by the rumors of him playing James Bond, but thinks “James Bond was written how he was written for a reason.”

Idris Elba Explains Why James Bond Should Be “Woke”

The Masters of the Universe star didn’t stop there, also explaining why he thinks a character like James Bond shouldn’t go “woke.”

“Bond is so unrealistic, so a hint of reality is good, but let’s not try and make it woke,” Elba said. “I think you’ve got to be pure to what it is: escapism. Don’t try and answer the world’s taste. Just be Bond.”

Welp.

Elba keeping it real regarding becoming James Bond was a letdown, but social media was extremely disappointed in his use of the term “woke.”

“By his own logic, Idris Elba should just stop acting entirely. Because being black in movies is woke now,” one post on X (formerly Twitter) read.

Another post read, “bro got knighted and it immediately took over his brain like a symbiote.”

“People don’t realize how much we are devolving as a society if a talented black actor genuinely believes him having a lead role in a fictional IP is “too woke,” said another social media user.

We are sure he didn’t mean to cause a commotion with his statements, but he definitely got people rolling their eyes in disappointment.

You can see more reactions below.

The post It’s A No, Bruv: Idris Elba Lays The Black James Bond Talk To Rest With THIS ‘Woke’ Quote appeared first on Bossip.

Love Island USA Season 8 kicked off on Tuesday, June 2, and the new cast is already the talk of the town for OG fans of the show and newcomers alike who are pining to pull these sultry stunners for a chat.

The Peacock reality television series centered around a group of single contestants, known as islanders, who live in an isolated villa on Fiji Island, where they are under 24/7 video surveillance on a quest to find love. To advance through the rounds on the show, contestants are expected to couple up based on love, friendship, or strategy.

Anyone who remains single after a recoupling is eliminated and dumped from the island, but the overall goal is to win the public’s vote to be crowned the most compatible couple to take the grand cash prize home, which is typically $100,000.

Ever since contestants like Serena Page and JaNa Craig took the show by storm in its sixth season and diversified it, many newcomers have begun to tune in, quickly attaching themselves to Islanders, falling in love with them, questioning their decision-making, and everything in between. 

Despite not being the final winner in Love Island USA Season 7, Olandria Carthen still managed to captivate the hearts of many, continuing to lean into her natural star power and landing brand deals with everyone from Poppi to Amazon, Yves Saint Laurent, Sephora, and more, putting the I into IT girl.

Like many spaces, reality television doesn’t always hold proper room for Black women, and Love Island has had its fair share of controversies in its handling of Black women on-screen.

With week one of Love Island USA Season 8 coming to a close, here’s everything you need to know about the Black women islanders gracing our screens 

RELATED CONTENT: Beyond The Villa: How ‘Love Island’ Exposes The Beauty Standards And Dating Odds Stacked Against Black Women [Op-Ed]

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On Monday, June 8, STARZ hosted a red carpet premiere event in New York City to celebrate the fifth and final season of Power Book III: Raising Kanan. The event brought together cast members, creators, executives and fans for an emotional farewell to the acclaimed crime drama.

Held at The Times Center, the event welcomed a host of stars from the series, including Patina Miller, MeKai Curtis, London Brown, Malcolm Mays, Joey Bada$$, Hailey Kilgore, Shameik Moore, Tony Danza, Wendell Pierce, Erika Woods, Leslie Grossman and Joe Pantoliano. Creator, executive producer and showrunner Sascha Penn was also in attendance alongside executive producer Mark Canton.

Joining the cast were STARZ executives Jeffrey Hirsch, President and CEO of STARZ; Alison Hoffman, President of STARZ Networks; and Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming at STARZ.

The premiere also served as a gathering place for members of the wider Power universe. Cast members from the upcoming spinoff Power: Origins, Spence Moore and Charlie Mann, attended the festivities, offering a glimpse at the franchise’s future even as Raising Kanan prepares to conclude.

Additional guests included Raising Kanan actor and Tony Award-nominee Christiani Pitts, P-Valley star Gail Bean, Love Island season 7 standout Chelley Bissainthe, actor Da’Vinchi, and influencers Lou Young, Brittany Lynn and Candis Grace.

The evening celebrated not only the upcoming season but also the show’s lasting impact since premiering in 2021 as a prequel to the original Power series. Over four seasons, the drama has chronicled the rise of Kanan Stark and the complicated relationship between the young future kingpin and his mother, Raquel “Raq” Thomas.

Before attendees screened the season premiere, Busby took the stage to preview what fans can expect from the final chapter.

“‘Raising Kanan’s final season is a reckoning—for every character, every choice, and every consequence. The storytelling is a suspenseful whirlwind of emotion—from the first frame until the final scene—and it’s packed with the kind of twists that remind you exactly why audiences keep showing up,” she said.

Penn followed with remarks reflecting on the show’s five-season run and expressing gratitude to STARZ for allowing the creative team to bring the story to its intended conclusion.

“I also want to thank my friends at STARZ…five years of scripted drama doesn’t happen very often in our business anymore, and you guys let me tell and end this story in the way I wanted and I always envisioned, and that’s a big deal,” Penn said.

Penn also took a moment to recognize series lead MeKai Curtis, who has portrayed the younger version of fan-favorite character Kanan Stark throughout the show’s run.

“I just want to take a second here to acknowledge someone who, in many ways, had the toughest job of any of us, someone who had the biggest shoes to fill. His name is MeKai Curtis, and he didn’t just fill his shoes, he made them his own,” Penn said.

The showrunner concluded his speech with a heartfelt reflection on the people and experiences that helped shape the series.

“We honor the people we love and lost with the passion and dedication and creativity and hard work that we put into this.”

According to attendees, the premiere episode delivered no shortage of surprises.

The screening reportedly left the audience gasping throughout, as major twists unfolded on screen. By the episode’s conclusion, the room erupted into applause, signaling excitement for the season ahead.

Afterward, the celebration continued at BOOM at The Standard, where guests enjoyed themed cocktails, reflected on the show’s legacy and danced to a lively DJ set from Errol Chatham. Attendees also gathered to cheer on the New York Knicks during Game 3 of the NBA Finals, adding a distinctly New York touch to the night’s festivities.

The fifth and final season of Power Book III: Raising Kanan premieres Friday, June 12. New episodes will stream weekly on Fridays through the STARZ app and all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms.

The season will also air on STARZ at 8 p.m. ET/PT in the United States, marking the beginning of the final chapter in Kanan Stark’s journey.

The post ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’ Cast Celebrates Final Season At Starz-Studded New York Premiere appeared first on Bossip.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — From Regina King to T.I., the stars came out for the American Black Film Festival’s (ABFF) 30th anniversary. But the real story was the enduring mission that transformed a small gathering for Black filmmakers into one of the entertainment industry’s most influential cultural events.

For three decades, the ABFF festival has served as more than a gathering place for filmmakers, a launchpad for careers, a celebration of Black creativity, and perhaps most importantly, a place where Black stories are not treated as niche, but as essential.

This year, as the festival celebrated under the theme “The Homecoming,” ABFF transformed Miami Beach into the epicenter of Black film, television, sports, comedy, music, and culture. From star-studded red carpets and world premieres to intimate conversations with industry icons, the festival delivered a powerful reminder of why representation matters and why community  remains at the heart of storytelling. Radio/TV personality Jazmyn Summers was there for Radio One to bring you the tea.

“We talk about safe spaces a lot now,” ABFF co-founder and CEO Jeff Friday reflected. “There was really no safe space for Black artists to go to build their first audiences, to get encouragement from their community, from studios, from fellow artists.”

What started as a solution to that problem has become something much larger.

“This is really less about film and TV and more about just Black joy and Black empowerment and Black success and Black legacy,” Friday said. “And this is more about the emerging creators than it is. We have a long legacy of helping people get their start in this business and that’s really the most rewarding part of the 30th anniversary.”

A Thrilling Start With Strung

The celebration began with the opening-night premiere of Peacock and Blumhouse’s psychological thriller “Strung,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Malcolm D. Lee.

The film follows a gifted violinist at the center of a suspense-filled narrative that blends music, mystery, and psychological tension. Directed by Lee, whose filmography includes beloved classics such as The Best Man franchise and Girls Trip, the project marks a notable creative shift.

“It’s a departure,” Lee admitted to Summers. “But it’s all in the wheelhouse of being a storyteller. I really enjoy storytelling and I wanted to try my hand at different genres all the time.”

What attracted him to the project was simple.

“When the script came across my desk, I loved what I read and I kept turning the pages and just couldn’t put it down.”

For audiences wondering whether “Strung” is worth adding to their watchlists, Lee’s answer was immediate.

“You’d be totally engaged,” he said. “It’s something that you want to do in a dark room, have some popcorn and have your friends around because you will need support while watching this movie.”

Music plays a central role in the film’s storytelling.

“Music is a very big part of this whole narrative,” Lee explained. “We go anywhere everywhere from classical music to hip hop.”

The cast brought equal excitement to the project.

Veteran actress Lynn Whitfield teased her character Audra with just enough mystery to leave audiences intrigued.

“Audra is the matriarch, the major puppeteer. She thinks she knows it all and she runs the household and the rest is a secret.”

Coco Jones, meanwhile, described her character Jasmine as the emotional relief amid the tension.

“I played Jasmine in ‘Strung.’ She’s Layla’s best friend who’s played by Chloe Bailey and really I’m the lightheartedness in this thriller.”

Yet even her character isn’t spared from the chaos.

“Next thing you know, we’re in this crazy scenario where we got to ride or die and Jasmine’s going to be a ride or die.”

The opening-night red carpet featured a who’s who of talent including Chloe Bailey, Coco Jones, Lucien Laviscount, Lynn Whitfield, Romy Woods, Donna Biscoe, Malcolm D. Lee, producer Dominique Telson and executive producers Giselle Johnson-Morris and Shaun Sutton.

Festival ambassador Regina King was also on hand, helping to usher in a weekend filled with some of the biggest names in entertainment.

RELATED STORY: Tribeca Festival 2026 Opening Night Review: Earth, Wind & A Fire Doc

RELATED STORY: Films We Loved At The 2026 New York African Film Festival [RECAP]

Beyond the Red Carpet

What continues to separate ABFF from many entertainment events is its unique ability to pair celebrity with substance.

The first full day featured an intimate Legacy Talk with Regina King that explored her journey from child actress to Academy Award-winning performer and director. The conversation felt particularly meaningful given her longstanding relationship with the festival.

Another highlight came from legendary basketball coach Dawn Staley, who discussed leadership, legacy, and the courage required to create lasting impact.

The evening concluded with the prestigious HBO Short Film Award Showcase, which has become one of the industry’s most respected launching pads for emerging filmmakers.

Netflix, Anime, Sports and Cultural Conversations

As the festival progressed, ABFF demonstrated the remarkable breadth of Black storytelling.

Crunchyroll’s Black Fandom of Anime panel explored the growing influence of Black anime fans and creators,  while playwright Aleshea Harris (Is God Is)offered insight into her transition from stage to screen.

One of the most emotional moments came during a screening of ESPN’s The Brittney Griner Story. The conversation that followed, featuring Cherelle Griner, Dawn Staley and director Alexandria Stapleton, reflected on resilience, advocacy and perseverance.

Netflix brought together a powerhouse roster for its Celebration of Black Television panel, including Debbie Allen, Courtney Kemp, Michelle Buteau, Mario Van Peebles, Crystal Stewart and Felicia Pride.

Meanwhile, actor Taye Diggs sat down for a candid conversation about career longevity, wellness and financial literacy, offering practical insights drawn from decades in Hollywood.

“Legacy to me is people being able to recall the work that we’ve done and be affected by it,” Diggs shared. “There’s nothing more gratifying than having someone say, ‘I saw this movie, this TV show, this musical, this play, and it really inspired me to do something.’ Even just being inspirational, that to me is a legacy—inspiration.”

And in a rare treat, legendary Tisha Cambell had the crowd laughing with a hilarious stand up routine. 

The Personal Side of Stardom

One of the joys of ABFF is that audiences get to see stars beyond their public personas.

Coco Jones, the Grammy-winning singer and actress opened up to Radio One not only about “Strung,” but also about life, love and what’s next musically.

Jones revealed she is currently working on her second album and embracing a more romantic and self-assured artistic direction.

“It’s going to be very, I love me and it overflows into my life.”

When asked about the secret to a healthy relationship, Jones, who has publicly celebrated her relationship with NBA star Donovan Mitchell, offered a refreshingly grounded answer.

“I think a secret to a good relationship in general is to be humble. I feel like pride comes before the fall and if you can’t grow, if you can’t correct and apologize and forgive, y’all not going nowhere.”

And in one of the lighter moments of the festival, Jones shared her biggest pet peeve:

“Big egos.”

Her “Strung” co-star Chloe Bailey had her own memorable list of pet peeves, revealing that she dislikes mean people and men with long fingernails with dirt underneath them, a response that quickly became one of the more talked-about off-camera moments among festival attendees.

These candid glimpses are part of what makes ABFF special. The stars arrive as celebrities but often leave feeling accessible, relatable and human.

Looking Toward the Future

The festival’s final days continued to deliver headline-making moments.

The cast of “All American” reunited to discuss the show’s final season. Director Tyree Dillihay shared insights into the years-long journey behind the animated feature GOAT, produced by NBA superstar Stephen Curry.

 One of the most anticipated premieres of the weekend was Girl Dad, which brought Michael Rainey Jr. and Marsai Martin to the festival stage following the film’s world premiere. The emotionally layered drama explores family, reconciliation, and the complicated bonds between parents and children, themes that resonated strongly with festival audiences. 

“Thank you to all the beautiful Black girls out there who inspire me every day,” gushed Martin.

T.I. and Terrence J drew crowds for a screening of Thought She Was the One, and the festival closed in signature fashion with the Legendary White Party, where T.I. surprised attendees with a live performance.

Thirty Years Later

What ABFF accomplished in Miami Beach this year extended far beyond premieres, panels and parties.

At a time when conversations around representation continue to evolve, the festival remains proof of what happens when Black creators are given space, visibility and support.

Over the past three decades, ABFF has helped launch careers, elevate new voices and create opportunities for filmmakers who may otherwise have struggled to find an audience.

As Jeff Friday reflected on the festival’s legacy, his words served as a reminder of why ABFF matters.

It was never simply about movies.

It was always about building a community where Black creativity could thrive.

King perhaps summarized the spirit of the weekend best when she described her return to ABFF as “a homecoming – a celebration of our creativity, resilience, and excellence.” Thirty years after its founding, the festival continues to embody all three

Thirty years later, that mission feels as relevant and powerful as ever.

Article by Jazmyn Summers.  You can hear Jazmyn every morning on “Jazmyn in the Morning “on Sirius XM Channel 362 Grown Folk Jamz.  Subscribe to Jazmyn Summers’ YouTube. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

The post 30 Year Of Black Excellence & Bold Storytelling: Inside The 2026 American Black Film Festival appeared first on Bossip.

The Culture Creators Leaders and Innovators Awards Brunch celebrates its 10th anniversary with Druski, Janelle James, Jermaine Dupri, and more. Read on to learn about what you can expect from the biggest brunch in culture.

If you have ever attended a Culture Creators Brunch, you know this is the room where the people actually moving culture come to see each other, celebrate each other, and get reminded that everything they have been building matters. On June 26, at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, founder and CEO Joi Brown is celebrating 10 years of doing exactly that, with an honoree list that is going to have the culture fully invested from the moment the doors open.

According to the official press release, the 10th Annual Leaders and Innovators Awards Brunch is themed “The Future of Culture” and will bring together 400 of the most influential voices across entertainment, media, sports, fashion, business, and technology for what Brown has been calling “Culture’s Biggest Brunch” for a decade. That tagline is earned. Every year, this event puts names on stages before the mainstream has fully caught up, and this year is no different.

The honoree slate is everything. Druski took home Innovator of the Year, which is well deserved considering he has built a full entertainment empire in the span of a few years from a few online sketches. The man has redefined what it means to be a digital-era comedian, and he has done it on his own terms from the very beginning.

Janelle James—the Critic’s Choice Award-winning and Emmy-nominated star of Abbott Elementary—will receive the Film/TV Award. Jermaine Dupri will pick up the Icon Award for Music, which is a conversation that probably should have happened years ago, given the catalog he has built, and the careers he has launched. Bethann Hardison will take home the Fashion Icon Award as the industry trailblazer she has always been. Former NFL player and entrepreneur Andrew Hawkins will receive the Sports Award. Jason Lee—whose footprint across media, philanthropy and civic engagement is genuinely impossible to summarize briefly—will receive the Trailblazer Award. And the legendary Suzanne de Passe, whose career spans decades of groundbreaking entertainment production, including her work as executive producer on the forthcoming Michael biopic—will take home the Icon Award for Film, TV, and Music.

The brunch will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT on June 26 at The Beverly Hilton, hosted by Xmayo and featuring a special performance by JayDon. But the most significant announcement tied to this year’s milestone is not just the honorees. As the press release confirms, Culture Creators is launching the Creator Fund—a new Foundation initiative designed to support emerging creators and future-facing storytellers with access, training and capital. Proceeds from the anniversary brunch will directly seed the fund.

Brown put it plainly in her statement: 

“Ten years ago, I wanted to build a room where the people moving culture could finally see each other. A decade later, that room is an ecosystem.” 

As Yahoo Entertainment noted, this brunch has spent a decade doing something the industry rarely does consistently—which is recognize cultural architects before the rest of the world catches up to what they have already built.

Ten years in, and Culture Creators is not slowing down. June 26 is going to be one of those rooms worth talking about long after everyone goes home.

RELATED: Best Dressed Men At The American Music Awards 2026

The post Culture Creators Turns 10: Druski, Janelle James, Jermaine Dupri & More To Be Honored At Anniversary Awards Brunch appeared first on Bossip.

No beauty brand is curating elevated experiences like Brown Sugar Babe which brought together a glamorous array of tastemakers, content creators, and movemakers for a lavish Golden Hour Yacht soirée celebrating beauty, sisterhood, and the indelible impact of Black women founders in the industry.

Basking in impeccable vibes, Brown Sugar Babe Founder Maekaeda Gibbons celebrated connection, inspiration, and community alongside fellow beauty mavens Shontay Lundy of Black Girl Sunscreen and Danessa Myricks of Danessa Myricks Beauty, who served looks in rich hues of red and yellow at the center of the exquisite event.

Speaking to Byrdie, the tremendous trio opened up about collaborating on their Golden Hour Bundle which features all three of their burgeoning brands in a sure-to-be-sold out summer set.

“You run into each other at events, at activations, at industry dinners, and over time you start looking for ways to actually do something together instead of just waving across the room,” said Gibbons. “This collaboration came out of that, especially as we all know the state of the industry.”  

The buzzy bundle boasts four new body oils from Brown Sugar Babe, along with Danessa Myricks Beauty’s Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed and Yummy Skin Glow Serum, and Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion.

“Golden hour is that moment in the day where everything just looks better, your skin glows, the light hits differently, and everything feels lighter,” said Gibbons. “So, we built a bundle with that in mind.”

Immersed in a celebration of the brands’ new launch and current success, attendees enjoyed immersive fragrance and beauty activations, signature themed Jim Beam cocktails named after BSB’s new scents, Playful, Sunlit, Love Island, and Mango Spice, and hip-moving grooves from DJ Nugget who kept the dance floor packed from sunset into the night.

In one of the night’s buzziest moments, Miami’s baddest babe, Trina, took the vibes to another level with a surprise performance that had the entire yacht rapping along to her classic empowerment anthems.

From stunning golden hour views on the water to meaningful conversations and unforgettable connection, the exclusive evening embodied everything Brown Sugar Babe stands for: joy, luxury, community, and the celebration of Black women building extraordinary brands.

Will you be copping the new Golden Hour Bundle for your summer shenanigans?

Tell us down below and enjoy our gallery of Brown Sugar babes, baddies, and bombshells who stunned at BSB’s Golden Hour yacht soirée on the flip.

The post Bad & Buoyant! A Gallery Of Brown Sugar Babes, Baddies & Bombshells Who Brought The Heat To Miami At BSB’s Golden Hour Yacht Soirée appeared first on Bossip.

Mimi Faust is making it clear that she still isn’t a fan of her “victim-playing” former Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta cast mate turned Housewife, K. Michelle.

During a June 4 appearance on The Morning Hustle with Lore’l, the reality star was asked about recent comments K. Michelle made while discussing her time on Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta. According to Lore’l, K. Michelle said she was open to making peace with most people from her past on the show, except Faust and former co-star Rasheeda Frost.

The comment didn’t appear to sit well with Faust.

At the 17:56 mark of the interview, Mimi responded, “What have I ever done to K. Michelle?” When Loriel asked whether the remark bothered her, Faust didn’t hold back.

“One, I never heard her say that, and two, I don’t give a f—k.”

The tension between the two reality stars is nothing new. K. Michelle and Mimi Faust famously clashed on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, where they appeared together as main cast members in the show’s first two seasons.

When asked whether she believes K. Michelle has matured since their reality television days, Faust immediately shut down the idea.

“Absolutely not. Not an ounce. She is the same person, different face. You know, I think it’s cute that she keeps talking about me; it’s really cute. She tries it. She’s a bully, and then she plays the victim, that’s K.”

Faust continued by doubling down on her assessment of the singer.

“She bully, bully, bullies people and then she’ll turn around and cry, cry, cry, and play the victim that’s always been K from way back then. When I figured out who she was, I was like I want no parts of this person.”

K.Michelle and Mimi Faust got into a backstage argument in 2013.

Their rocky history dates back more than a decade. As previously reported, the pair were involved in a backstage altercation at one of K. Michelle’s concerts in 2013. The confrontation began after Mimi approached the singer about comments she had made regarding the sexuality of her then-boyfriend, Nikko London, during season 2 of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta. K took zero responsibility for her actions and doubled down, calling Nikko “gay.”

The dispute escalated when the hitmaker struck Mimi with a bouquet of flowers. At the time, Mimi and her publicist released a statement claiming the incident never went beyond the flower slap.

“In actuality, Ms. Faust left the venue and continued her night by visiting and enjoying herself in other New York City prestigious venues,” the statement, obtained by Urban Belle Mag read.

The statement continued:

“Recalling all of the past incidents with K. Michelle and other cast members, she never seems to wants to talk things out; the end results are always violent. That’s not the type of person I am and to continue to fight with K. Michelle would have been pointless.”

K. Michelle later addressed the incident on social media, writing in a since-deleted post:

“You should not have brought your skinny a– 2my show talking crazy 2me. U got popped. You can’t get mad cuz I think your boyfriend is down low.”

A wedge was forged even further between the two after K. Michelle’s infamous candle fight with Rasheeda on Season 2 of #LHHATL.

As for K. Michelle and Rasheeda, their feud produced several memorable moments on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta. One of the most talked-about incidents occurred during Mimi’s housewarming party following her split from Stevie J. What was supposed to be a celebration quickly turned chaotic when K. Michelle and Rasheeda Frost nearly came to blows.

The confrontation began after K. Michelle told Rasheeda, “Tell Kirk and his three earrings I said hello,” taking a jab at Kirk Frost’s style. The argument escalated when the singer threw a candle at Rasheeda. Years later, while revisiting the infamous scene during a 2020 interview with VH1, Mimi called out K. Michelle and explained that the aftermath was just as frustrating.

“Do you guys know that I had wax in my sofa? On my walls, over my whole house for—I was finding wax for like months after this situation happened,” she said. “And that’s why she got her whole a– taken out now,” the VH1 alum shadily added. “Rasheeda you was right the entire time!”

Interestingly, despite their long-running issues, there was a brief period when it appeared the two had moved past their differences. During a 2013 interview with VLADTV, Mimi revealed that she and K. Michelle had reconciled. However, judging by her latest comments on The Morning Hustle, that truce clearly didn’t stand the test of time.

What do you think about Mimi Faust’s latest comments regarding K. Michelle? Sound off below!

RELATED CONTENT: ‘Munch’ Madness: Mimi Faust Fuels Rumors Of Drew Sidora Cheating On Ralph Pittman With Her Ex Ty Young

The post Mimi Faust Weighs In On K. Michelle’s Housewife Hijinks, Says She Hasn’t Changed Since Her #LHHATL Days: ‘Same Person, Different Face’ appeared first on Bossip.

The exclusive invite-only event brought together a powerful mix of celebrities, athletes, business leaders, and community advocates from across the country, “fore” a charitable cause: investing in the next generation.

Among the familiar faces spotted on the green were Chris Tucker, Josh Powell, Penny Hardaway, Keion Henderson, Ronnie DeVoe, Isaac Carree, Julius Erving, and many other notable figures who came out to support the foundation’s ongoing work in mentorship, education, and youth empowerment.

Also making an impression on the green was Ariel Collins, a gifted 16-year-old junior golfer from Locust Grove, Georgia, who has been turning heads in the sport since 2016. While the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation focuses on inspiring and uplifting the next generation, Ariel served as a reminder that today’s youth are already making an impact of their own. Throughout the tournament, the young golf standout was spotted sharing tips and techniques with several participants, including Steve Harvey himself, proving that age is no barrier when it comes to leadership, talent, and inspiring others.

Now celebrating 18 years of impact, the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation continues to create opportunities for young people through programs designed to cultivate leadership, confidence, and purpose. Thanks to the support of several sponsors and dedicated partners, proceeds from this year’s tournament will go toward fostering the next generation of women and men leaders.

The foundation recently wrapped its annual girls camp and is preparing for the highly anticipated Steve Harvey Mentoring Program for Young Men later this month. For Steve Harvey, seeing the long-term impact of the program remains one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

“We produce some fine young men,” he told BOSSIP. “A lot of those young men that were in the camp are now part of running the camp. We have some great young men, engineers, doctors, military personnel, management company leaders and pilots. We produce a lot of great people from the programs.”

One celebrity who continues to show up year after year is comedian and actor Chris Tucker. The longtime friend of Steve Harvey shared why supporting the event remains a priority.

“I like what Steve and Marjorie Harvey are doing with the kids, you know, in the camp and with the youth, and Steve’s a good friend of mine, so, you know, I had to come out and support,” he told BOSSIP. “Steve is cool, down-to-earth and he’s my homeboy.”

Gospel recording artist Isaac Carree also took time to reflect on the importance of service and legacy while supporting the foundation’s mission.

“I hope I leave behind an impact where people can say that my words, my music, and anything that I do can change somebody’s life. It’s all about leaving something for the younger generation and leaving a legacy. You know, I have children, so you want to just make sure that you’re a model citizen and you’re giving back to the community. And that’s why I’m a part of this amazing foundation that Steve and Marjorie Harvey are doing.”

NBA legend Julius Erving, better known as Dr. J, echoed similar sentiments while offering advice for young people navigating their futures.

“I would say to the next generation, be generous with your time, be a good listener, you know, and you can’t learn things about people unless you listen to what they have to say, so you can’t be talking all the time. And, you know, just have an open heart and be able to work hard and just try to better yourself every day.”

As for the man of the hour, Steve Harvey left young people with a message centered on faith, purpose, and ambition.

“Chase your dreams, man. You know, I mean, education is important, but I’ll tell you this. The Bible says a man without a dream or vision shall perish. You gotta chase that dream, man. You can get education, but if your dream is tied to the education, it’s become very important. But nothing supersedes the power of dreaming. Dreaming takes you places you never thought you’d go. Dreaming makes you see things in your sleep. It keeps you up at night. That’s what you wanna do. I encourage young people to chase their dreams. You wanna change the world, you need a dream.”

While the event was marked by celebration and philanthropy, one key figure was notably absent. Marjorie Harvey was unable to attend this year’s tournament as she mourns the recent loss of both her father and a beloved cousin. Though she was not present on the course, her influence and commitment to the foundation’s mission remained evident throughout the day. Our thoughts are with Marjorie, Steve Harvey, and their loved ones during this difficult time.

With every drive, putt, and partnership formed throughout the day, the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation once again proved that its greatest investment is not in the game of golf, but in the future of the young people it continues to inspire and empower.

The post Chris Tucker, Dr. J & More Hit The Green ‘Fore’ The Future At The Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation Charity Classic [Exclusive] appeared first on Bossip.