The Former federal prosecutor who was instrumental in the R. Kelly prosecution recently shed light on the gravity of the situation facing Sean “Diddy” Combs.
According to lawyer Nadia Shihata, the unfolding investigation into the Hip-Hop mogul appear to be adopting a strategy reminiscent of the R. Kelly case she led.
The raids on Combs’ Los Angeles and Miami properties have signaled an escalation in the seriousness of the probe.
Ashley Banfield recently hosted a discussion on the matter with Shihata, whose insights revealed a carefully orchestrated investigation by federal authorities.
According to Shihata, the decision to conduct searches at two of Combs’ residences is a clear indicator of the investigation’s advanced stage.
“Taking an overt step in the investigation of searching two homes means the investigation is well underway here. They’ve clearly have probable cause to believe a federal crime has been committed and that evidence of that crime or multiple crimes would be found in the two locations that they searched,” she explained.
Shihata’s observation highlighted the meticulous approach being taken by investigators, mirroring the tactics that led to the conviction of R. Kelly.
One key aspect of the discussion between Banfield and Shihata was the role of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in such high-profile cases.
Shihata highlighted the potential for NDAs to impede the willingness of individuals to come forward with information.
“NDAs can make people very reluctant and hesitant to speak to law enforcement so if it’s someone that law enforcement is not already aware of, they may be wary to themselves contact law enforcement to provide information. And so they can still deter people in that sense,” Shihata explained.
However, she also pointed out that federal authorities are not deterred by these agreements, having the power to subpoena information and question witnesses.
This capability, according to Shihata, could eventually encourage more people to break their silence, intensifying the scrutiny on Combs.
“If I’m P. Diddy or his lawyers, I’d be very concerned at this point,” Shihata remarked, encapsulating the precarious position in which Combs now finds himself.
Bun B (real name Bernard Freeman) has evolved into a successful restauranteur following the 2021 launch of Trill Burgers. But now, he’s being accused of “stealing” the recipe for the OG Trill Burger by former managers/partners Benson and Patsy Vivares. The UGK legend originally filed a lawsuit against the brother-sister duo for misappropriating funds. According to Click2Houston, the Vivares were also working their food truck business, Sticky’s Chicken, at the time Trill Burgers was just getting off the ground. That’s when they claim they came up with the OG Trill Burger recipe.
After working with Bun B for less than a year, Patsy and Benson allegedly used money to pay off Sticky’s Chicken. Bun B and fellow managers Andy Nguyen and Nick Scurfield sued the siblings, accusing them of stealing $45,000. The company sent a separation agreement and as of January, the defendants neither returned the misappropriated funds nor signed the separation agreement. Bun B is asking for access to past account information to determine how funds the Vivares’ funds were spent.
Patsy and Benson were in control of finances and funneled business income through the now-defunct restaurant Sticky’s Chicken. The various pop-up restaurants were held in 2021 and early 2022—including one at a local rodeo—but the duo’s financial transparency soon decreased. The lawsuit reportedly includes a text message from Patsy saying she used $45,000 of the rodeo money to settle Sticky’s Chicken bills.
“I used $45,000 of the rodeo money to pay for stickys,” the text message reads. “These bills were pressing & were threatening to shut us down.”
In response to Bun B’s claims, Patsy and Benson Vivares filed a general denial, insisting their actions were justified under the business judgment rule and the funds they allegedly used were reimbursable expenses for the benefit of the company. Then in January, they filed counterclaims against Bun B, Scurfield and Nguyen. The lawsuit alleges Bun B is attempting to deceive his partners and take control of Trill Burgers LLC. They claim they only recruited Bun B to be the face of the concept, but now Patsy and Benson say he’s trying to push them out of the business.
“Let it be known: Trill Burgers was not Bun B’s idea; nor was it the result of his sweat, equity, or ingenuity,” the countersuit reads. “Patsy and BJ (Benson) are the true heroes. This brother and sister duo—recognized contributors to HTX’s dynamic food scene—made Trill Burgers possible. They, along with Andy, developed the idea. They, along with Andy, recruited Bun B to be its face.
“And they alone—without the financial or operational help of Bun B or his eventual cohorts Andy and Nick—put Trill Burgers on the map. As accurately reported by PaperCity Magazine, ‘Bun B fell in love with the smash burger concept and decided to come on board the Trill Burgers team.’ It was not the other way around. Bun B was invited to the party; he did not start it.”
Attorney Charles Adams of Roebuck, Thomas & Adams PLLC, who’s representing Trill Burgers, sent the following to KPRC2:
“The claim that Mr. Freeman stole money was first made in the Vivares’ response to our lawsuit. It is analogous to an unfaithful partner who accuses their innocent spouse of cheating after being caught red handed. Bun B stole nothing. We do know that Patsy Vivares misappropriated Trill Burgers funds because she admitted in writing that she did it. We do not know how much more of Trill Burgers monies the Vivareses misappropriated because the Vivares never provided their former partners with requested documentation.
“While the Vivares’ conduct was reprehensible it pales in comparison to the conduct of her lawyers Mr. Aziz and Mr. Beard who employed a racist trope to paint an ugly false portrait of Houston icon Bun B. In their counter suit they alleged ‘Patsy and BJ were dumbfounded, hurt, angry, and scared given Bun B’s connections and the nature of the allegations.’ The attempt to portray Mr. Freeman as a gangster and a thug that the Vivares were afraid of is directly contradicted by Patsy Vivares’ own words in their text communications about the theft and dissolution of their partnership ‘I also want you to know that I knew and felt the respect you had for me and I was always proud of that, so I never wanted to ruin it bc I was humbled at the fact that of all the people in the world you could have worked on a food concept with, you chose us.”
Adams also obtained a message from Patsy to Nguyen in which she fully admitted to using the $45,000 in question. It reads in part: “Just want to be transparent with everything, but I used about 45k of the rodeo money to pay for Stickys. These are bills that were pressing & were threatening to shut us down…there is still about 140k left. I intend to pay back everyone’s that they put in ASAP.”
Adams provided another text exchange between Bun B and Patsy in which he explains how “disappointed” he is by the Vivares’ alleged actions. He said, “If you hadn’t stolen any money, none of this would have happened.”
Amber Rose, the 40-year-old model and activist, has opened up about the pressures she faced while dating Ye, particularly regarding her wardrobe choices.
During her relationship with West, which began in 2008, Rose disclosed on the “Just B with Bethenny Frankel” podcast that the rapper and fashion aficionado pushed her towards adopting a more “seductive” style, a move that significantly impacted her public persona and self-image.
“I am conservative actually,” Amber said on the Just B with Bethenny Frankel podcast. “I have always been conservative since I was young.”
Despite her natural inclination toward conservative dress, Rose shared that West’s influence during their time together led her to embody what she describes as a “sexpot type of girl.”
Reflecting on the relationship, Rose confessed to feeling “young” and naive at the time, acknowledging the dissonance between her true self and the image she was coerced into portraying.
“I cringe,” she admitted, revealing the discomfort she now feels looking back at how she was “pigeonholed” into a certain image by the rapper’s fashion demands.
The aftermath of her split from West in 2010 left Rose grappling with a “sexy image” that she found difficult to shed, impacting her career opportunities and personal brand.
“I would have producers saying, ‘We want to do this video for MTV and we want you at the pool, with a bikini on, martini in your hand.’ And I’m like, ‘Ugh, I’m so not her.’ Like I’m so not her and I get what I come off as but I am so not her,” Amber Rose said.
Despite efforts to distance herself from this image, Rose found herself continuously typecast in roles that emphasized her sexuality over her other attributes.
“I’m so not her,” she exclaimed, voicing her frustration with being misunderstood and misrepresented in the media and industry circles.
Ye, now 46, has had a history of influencing the fashion choices of the women he dates, as evidenced in his marriage to Kim Kardashian, where he famously overhauled her wardrobe in an episode of “Keeping Up With The Kardashians.”
Similar reports have surfaced regarding his influence over the wardrobe of his current wife, Bianca Censori, showcasing a pattern in his relationships that intersects with his passion for fashion.
Besides facing the challenge of redefining her image post-breakup, Rose’s relationship with West was fraught with controversy and public scrutiny.
Rose accused West of infidelity and publicly pointed to Kim Kardashian as the reason behind their split.
Despite the difficulties and the bullying she faced from West post-breakup, Rose has maintained a level of respect towards him, acknowledging his influence on her fame but criticizing the negative impacts of their relationship on her personal and professional life.
B.G. has landed in some legal hot water amid resuming his rap career. The veteran spitter was arrested for performing with Boosie Badazz and Gucci Mane in Las Vegas, which reportedly violated the terms of his probation.
As a result, a U.S. District Judge in Louisiana has approved charges against the New Orleans-reared rapper, who was released from federal custody in January.
On February 8, B.G. (short for Baby Gangsta) performed on stage in Sin City alongside the aforementioned rappers. During his time at a halfway house in Las Vegas, B.G. also collaborated with Gucci Mane on Choppers and Bricks, which was released last December.
According to the terms of his probation, B.G. must recieve court permission before engaging in self-employment. According to reports, B.G. was advised by federal probation officers and told him to get alternative employment. But he didn’t comply.
Authorities also maintain B.G. released music videos on YouTube and Apple Music without obtaining court approval beforehand. To make matters worse, Boosie and Gucci Mane have prior felony convictions. Boosie was arrested by federal agents in San Diego last June for alleged illegal possession of a firearm, while Gucci pleaded guilty in 2014 to possession of a firearm as a convicted felon in Georgia.
Authorities state B.G. must seek court permission before even associating with people convicted of felony charges. The association alone is a purported failure to adhere to the conditions of his probation.
B.G. was previously convicted in 2012 of federal charges related to firearm possession and obstruction of justice. He served more than 12 years in prison before his release in September 2023. He was later put in a Las Vegas halfway house in January after receiving credit for time served.
B.G. expressed his frustration in an Instagram post, writing, “It’s crazy how after paying my debt to society with 12 and a half years of my life, I come home and still ain’t free. I been doing everything the right way, and it seems like that ain’t enough. I been going through it behind the scenes and got a muzzle on for the time being, but I’m confident I’ll come out on TOP. I always do.”
B.G. thanked his supporters for their encouragement, symbolized by a photo of him wearing a New Orleans Saints sweatshirt. If his probation is revoked, B.G. may have to serve the remainder of his sentence in federal prison.
The legal battle between self-described former drug kingpin Cory “Ghost” Holland and the team behind the “Power” series has intensified over 50 Cent’s plan to tell the origin story of the iconic character “Ghost.”
He claims that the “Power” series unlawfully mirrors his life story, mainly focusing on the lead character “Ghost,” who he alleges is a direct depiction of his experiences.
The controversy stems from a “cautionary tale” CD titled “Blasphemy” about Holland’s life that he claims to have sent to Kemp’s father to find a way out of the drug trade, which he believes was used to develop the series without his consent.
Holland, representing himself in this high-stakes lawsuit, recently filed a motion seeking a preliminary injunction against rapper 50 Cent and the television network Starz.
Fans eagerly anticipate this new narrative arc and the creative insights of original creator Courtney A. Kemp and 50 Cent.
Holland’s motion for a preliminary injunction argues that the continued promotion of “Power: Origins” and developing a new backstory for “Ghost” will significantly harm his right to a fair trial by potentially influencing jurors.
Holland emphasized the need to maintain the evidence’s “status quo” to ensure an impartial verdict, highlighting the potential for the 50 Cent’s actions to defy his constitutional rights to a fair and unbiased trial.
In response, 50 Cent’s lawyers vehemently opposed the motion, stating that Holland’s attempts to restrict the promotion of “Power: Origins” were unconstitutional and baseless.
They argue that Holland has not demonstrated any probable success in his defamation claim and that the series’ development poses no direct relevance to the inquiry of whether the original series defamed him.
Furthermore, they assert that halting the spinoff’s development would unjustly impact Starz and the broader “Power” universe by freezing potential revenues and developments of its intellectual property.
A former educator at Taylor Preparatory High School in metro Detroit, known in the Hip-Hop world as Drippin’ Honey, claims she was fired from her teaching position due to her music career and social media presence.
Drippin’ Honey, born Domonique Brown, who had been dedicated to the profession for seven years, faced backlash from a parent complaint, which ultimately led to the school’s decision to terminate her employment.
“Nobody even knew I was a rapper until the parent kept continuously complaining,” Drippin’ Honey told WXYZ during an interview.
Drippin’ Honey’s dual passion for teaching and music collided when she declined the school administration’s ultimatum to delete her profanity-laced online music content.
“They say erase all your content. That was the ultimatum. Respectfully, I can’t do that,” Drippin’ Honey recounted, highlighting the predicament she faced in choosing between her burgeoning rap career and her commitment to education.
Despite the setback, she remained confident in her role as a positive influence on her students, further evidenced by the music video for her latest single, “Drippin 101,” filmed with students on her final day.
“My mind and my heart was telling me two things… I couldn’t see myself like giving up my other passion just because somebody didn’t like it,” Drippin’ Honey said of her decision.
The incident sparked a wave of community support, with over 200 parents and students rallying behind Brown.
“Bruh if this was my teacher I would’ve stayed in highschool,” one supporter said, while another added: “She got all the dads going to parent teacher conferences for the first time ever!”
Christina Lynn, a parent, expressed her disappointment, stating, “As a parent, we long for teachers who support our children and who inspire them, and she was one of those teachers. So, I’m really truly disappointed.”
This sentiment echoed the frustration and sense of loss felt by many who saw the rapping teacher as more than just an educator but as a mentor and inspiration.
Drippin’ Honey is considering legal action, believing her firing constitutes discrimination.
Mozzy has been quickly getting back to work since being released from jail on gun charges in May of 2023.
The Sacramento rapper plans to give fans a peep into what life was like in the Oak Park neighborhood with the new album Children Of The Slums as a tribute to the untold stories of struggle of growing up in his neighborhood.
Growing up in one of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods, Mozzy was exposed to the life of gang violence and drugs at an early age.
After his father’s incarceration and his mother’s battle with drug addiction, Mozzy found himself under the care of his grandmother.
During these formative years, he joined the Oak Park Bloods, a decision that deeply influenced his life and music.
Despite the odds, Mozzy channeled his experiences into his music, crafting narratives that spoke to the struggles and realities of street life.
In discussing the inspiration behind the title Children Of The Slums, Mozzy expressed a profound connection to the plight of individuals raised in environments like his, marked by poverty, violence, and a lack of opportunities.
“Nobody born in the slums has a choice,” Mozzy explained, highlighting the involuntary nature of their circumstances.
“Born into those kinds of circumstances, it’s hard to imagine a way to get out. They don’t have anyone to look out for them or to show them a better way. I’m still looking out for all the children of the slums. I am there for them because I know if the situation was flipped, they would do the same for me,” Mozzy said.
Through his music, Mozzy hopes to offer a voice to those silenced by systemic barriers, sharing their stories of pain, perseverance, and unwavering hope for a better future.
Children Of The Slums promises to be a deeply personal project for Mozzy, narrating the experiences of his community’s most vulnerable members.
The release of “Jaded,” the first single from the album featuring Eric Bellinger, further encapsulates the emotional weight of Mozzy’s message.
Bronx-born rapper Fat Joe recently sat down with FOX 5 News to discuss his close friend Diddy amidst the swirling sexual abuse claims against him.
The rapper has shared a bond with Diddy for more than 30 years, a friendship that has evolved amidst the highs and lows of music fame and personal challenges. During the interview, Fat Joe conveyed a sense of profound concern for Diddy and his family.
“I stood up last night maybe 4 hours praying for him and his kids. His kids I’ve known all their life. So, you know, I’m just praying for everybody,” he said.
The moment of vulnerability showcased a different side of Fat Joe, one that’s compassionate to the personal and legal struggles the billionaire Bad Boy founder is facing. Fat Joe said he has yet to recently communicate with Diddy about the controversy.
He and Diddy’s partnership in the music industry dates back to the late 1990s, and they have collaborated multiple times. Their work includes tracks such as “Don Cartagena” and “Haha (Slow Down)” featuring Jeezy.
The much-awaited third season of HBO’s critically acclaimed series, “Euphoria” has seen its production timetable pushed back, much to the disappointment of fans eagerly awaiting its return.
The series has garnered a substantial following for its raw and riveting portrayal of teenage life, substance abuse, and mental health,
In a recent statement published by Deadline, HBO articulated its ongoing commitment to the “Euphoria” project, led by creator Sam Levinson.
“HBO and Sam Levinson remain committed to making an exceptional third season,” the statement read, highlighting the mutual interest of both the network and Levinson in maintaining the quality and integrity of the series.
Further addressing the delay, the statement offered an explanation centered on the cast, “In the interim, we are allowing our in-demand cast to pursue other opportunities.”
The series, known for its compelling visuals and complex characters, boasts a talented ensemble cast, including the likes of Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Sydney Sweeney, Maude Apatow, Alexa Demie, and Jacob Elordi, all of whom are expected to reprise their roles in the forthcoming season.
However, a specific timetable for when production will commence remains unavailable, with Deadline sources suggesting that filming could begin in the upcoming months.
This delay comes as the latest update in the “Euphoria” saga, following the release of its second season in January 2022, over two years after its premiere season captivated audiences in June 2019.
The show’s production schedule, much like many others in the industry, faces challenges amid the evolving landscape of content creation, distribution, and the scheduling complexities of a sought-after cast.
Interestingly, the series also benefits from the involvement of prominent figures outside the traditional film and television space, including Hip-Hop megastar Drake, who serves as an executive producer.
Drake’s contributions, rooted in his own experience with teenage drama from his days on “Degrassi: The Next Generation,” extend to the development, funding, and marketing phases of “Euphoria.”
While Drake’s specific role behind the scenes is somewhat shrouded in mystery, his status and involvement have undeniably added a layer of intrigue and visibility to the project.
As fans await further updates on the third season of “Euphoria,” the industry remains abuzz with speculation and anticipation for what is next for this groundbreaking series.
For the record, I understand that the news section covered this already, but I have a different perspective. My perspective is from the streets’ point of view. Al B. Sure is telling. I am not mad at him, but he’s telling.
Al is dropping some heavy hints that his scary coma a few years ago might have some links to Diddy. So, Al B. Sure popped up at the Equal Justice Now Awards in L.A. on Friday (March 29), pushing for equal healthcare with attorney Ben Crump. But when he grabbed the mic, he threw a slick, mysterious shout-out to Diddy on the subliminal tip. But he knew what he was doing.
He said we are going to get the full 411 on how he ended up in a coma in 2022. The rumors and conspiracies have long suggested Diddy had something to do with it. Al B. Sure also suggested there was foul play in the death of Kim Porter, who shares children with both men. In my opinion, there’s no shortage of bad blood between them.
Now, Al’s hinting there’s a Diddy connection to his health nightmare, but he’s keeping the cards close to his chest. He’s not spilling the beans even when pressed by TMZ.
I wonder what his real relationship is like with Quincy Brown, who’s been deep in the Combs Family for a minute now. They’ve had a bit of a rocky path, tracing back to the ’90s. Al’s recent “come home” shout to Quincy, especially with Diddy’s drama bubbling, was him just saying love never fades for his kid.
Anyway, I am going to sleep. Hopefully, I don’t dream of any of this.
50 Cent has been one of the rap community’s most outspoken critics of Diddy and his crumbling empire. Although the Get Rich or Die Tryin’ rapper has beef with Diddy stretching back years, it ramped up in November 2023, when the Bad Boy mogul’s ex Cassie Ventura dropped her bombshell lawsuit on him.
Now, in the wake of the Homeland Security recent raids on Diddy’s L.A. and Miami homes, 50 Cent has been relentlessly trolling his longtime adversary. Saturday (March 30) was no different. As 50 Cent prepares to celebrate Easter Sunday, the television exec decided to share a photo of Diddy made to look like convicted sex offender Jeffery Epstein.
Epstein, who killed himself in prison nearly four years ago, was arrested in July 6 on federal charges for the sex trafficking of minors in Florida and New York. Obviously, the comparison isn’t a flattering one. 50 Cent also brought Boosie Badazz into the mix after he questioned where Diddy’s friends were amid all the legal drama.
“Boosie said where the f### is his friends,” he wrote in the caption. “They not saying nothing because they didn’t know he was recording everything. LOL Wait till I get the tapes.”
50 Cent, on the other hand, is caught up in his own mess. Earlier this week, his ex-partner Daphne Joy accused him of raping and physically assaulting her in retaliation to his bid for sole custody of their son, Sire. On Thursday (March 28) 50 Cent trolled his ex before revealing he’s seeking full custody of his son after Joy was accused of being one of Diddy’s paid sex workers.
“The disturbing allegations in the sworn pleadings recently filed in a court case related to Daphne Joy the mother of my 12-year-old child, has required me to take all necessary legal actions to protect my son Sire,” 50 Cent told TMZ. The most recent false and baseless accusations by Daphne Joy are clearly in response to my decision to seek sole custody of my son. My son Sire is my main priority and keeping him in a safe environment is my only focus at this time.”
Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones, who claimed Joy was among the women “paid a monthly fee to work as Mr. Combs’ sex workers” as part of his amended lawsuit, has been accused of character assassination. Joy denied the allegations, writing on Instagram, “I am retaining an attorney to explore all legal remedies against both Rodney and his attorney.”
50 Cent, however, doesn’t seem convinced she’s innocent. As he wrote on Instagram, “You moved a mile away in hopes of having another baby with me but I was busy. So you moved back and then you started receiving money from Brother Love. Now here we are, little sex worker.”
Meanwhile, 50 Cent has been teasing a documentary about Diddy’s legal woes titled Diddy He Do It for months now. One can assume he’d want the alleged tapes for the film.
R. Kelly recently waded into the discussion regarding the complex legal troubles surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs.
Speaking to Wack 100 on Clubhouse, R. Kelly, who is currently serving a prison sentence for a series of child sex crimes and other offenses, delved into various topics, including his opinions on Diddy’s situation.
This decision stems from Kelly’s longstanding patterns of sexual abuse and misconduct with underage girls, highlighted by his unlawful marriage to the minor singer Aaliyah in 1994.
During the conversation, Kelly discussed the intricacies of hosting celebrations and cautioned celebrities about the potential legal hazards that can emerge from misunderstandings or false misconduct allegations.
“The s### is crazy. M############ out there laughing and making comedian jokes and doing all the other s### on the radio and everything else, but they ass could be next,” R. Kelly warned. “That’s what’s so f##### up about. They so stupid they don’t even realize the moves that’s going on. I don’t believe none of this s###. You could tell me about Puffy, you could about anybody. You could tell me on the news, the weather, the sky is blue, I’m not gonna believe the s###. Cause I’m in it now, and I know what they did.”
R. Kelly also expressed distress over what he sees as a shift in societal norms, which now places public figures at an increased risk of extortion and fraudulent accusations.
On Diddy’s current legal issues, where the music mogul faces a federal investigation into sex trafficking allegations — including accusations of rape, sexual assault, and coercing women and a minor into sex acts — Kelly underscored the broader challenges and possible injustices within the justice system.
R. Kelly also questioned the validity of the evidence and testimonies in his trials, maintaining his innocence.
Diddy, meanwhile, is fighting against allegations and a growing number of civil lawsuits accusing him of serious misconduct.
With his homes raided and the probe ongoing, Combs has vehemently denied the accusations.
In a recent conversation with E! News, Tracy Morgan set the record straight regarding his previous statement about gaining weight while on Ozempic.
The renowned comedian found himself in a wave of confusion and speculation after an appearance on “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon,” where Tracy Morgan humorously claimed he had managed to gain 40 pounds despite using the weight management drug.
Morgan emphasized that his comment was made in jest.
“Ozempic did great by me and I was glad to use it,” Morgan, aged 55, remarked, dispelling doubts about his initial comment and expressing satisfaction with the outcomes he achieved with the medication.
This comes after he light-heartedly told Fallon, “I out-ate Ozempic. I’ve gained 40 pounds. I’m like Magic Johnson.”
Ozempic, a medication primarily approved to aid in glycemic control for adults with type 2 diabetes, has seen off-label use for weight loss due to its ability to increase insulin production and reduce appetite.
While not initially intended for diet or weight management, the drug’s effects have garnered attention for these additional benefits, making Morgan’s initial claim all the more surprising.
The actor, best known for his roles on “Saturday Night Live” and “30 Rock,” joked about Ozempic’s effect on his eating habits.
He lightened the mood by stating it had halved his appetite, quipping, “Now I only eat half a bag of Doritos.”
Lizzo has received a major vote of confidence from rapper Latto after the “Truth Hurts” vocalist threatened to quit making music.
On Friday (March 29), Lizzo shared a lengthy message outlining her rationale in an emotional Instagram post. In part, Lizzo appeared to pinpoint the constant harassment she receives online as one of the main factors motivating her to walk away from life as a mainstream recording artist.
The comment section of the post blew up with shows of support issued by artists such as Latto, who reminded Lizzo how important her presence is while reminding her she was once an advocate for her during a period of career turmoil.
“The ppl need you Lizzo,” Latto started off before adding, “I remember U made me keep going when I wanted to quit before. UR soul is SO pure f.ck these people that don’t know you! Team Lizzo 4L.”
Lizzo’s post arrived amid her ongoing legal troubles. Several of her dancers are suing her for alleged mistreatment.
“I’m getting tired of putting up with being dragged by everyone in my life and on the Internet,” Lizzo said. “All I want is to make music and make people happy and help the world be a little better than how I found it. But I’m starting to feel like the world doesn’t want me in it.”
She continued, “I’m constantly up against lies being told about me for clout & views… being the butt of the joke every single time because of how I look… my character being picked apart by people who don’t know me and disrespecting my name. I didn’t sign up for this s— — I QUIT [peace out emoji].”
Al B. Sure made an appearance at the Equal Justice Now Awards on Friday (March 29) in L.A., where the veteran R&B singer was promoting his equal access to healthcare initiative alongside Ben Crump. During the event, Al B. Sure, who fathered a child with Diddy’s ex Kim Porter, seemed to take a jab at the Bad Boy Records mogul’s recent legal woes and suggest his 2022 coma was somehow connected to Diddy.
Al says he has a biopic on the way and promised people would finally learn how he ended up in that condition.
“We’re going to produced the Al. B Sure story,” he says in a clip floating around online. “So hold on to your britches ’cause you’ll really understand how I ended up in a coma. You’re really going to need to call Homeland Security.” Of course, Diddy’s Los Angeles and Miami homes were just raided by Homeland Security in connection to a sex trafficking investigation.
As he wrote in a since-deleted Instagram post, “I just found this footage from the morning I learned of @LadyKP’s aka #KimPorters murder and how it ripped the soul from my physical body. I was on my way to film the pre show packages for the #BETAwards with @tishacampbellmartin & @tichinaarnold when I receive a call from PR icon #QueenieDonaldson asking me if I was ok and did I hear the news.
“I had no clue. I do know very clearly that #Kimberly didn’t just check out all of a sudden over neumonía. That’s some b########. Really? This is where I get in trouble. We just celebrated our son @Quincy’s new deal and Christmas special with @Netflix, and she was in fantastic health as well laughing seeing me and @Diddy’s mutual exchange at the theater. I’m going to leave it here.”
Al B. Sure never explained what led him to that conclusion, but the court of public opinion had its own theories. As someone tweeted, “But when Al B sure was saying something happened to Kim porter nobody wanted to listen then he got sick suddenly… y’all should’ve listened…. They rekindled before she passed.”
Shortly after the federal raids on Diddy’s home, Al B. Sure issued an Instagram invitation to the son he shares with Porter, Quincy Brown. He wrote: “LettertoMySon. Come Home. The [door] is wide open. You’re safe here son! Love you. Popz, Your Biological.”
Kim Kardashian has found herself in a legal tug-of-war over a lawsuit filed by the Donald Judd Foundation.
The foundation, dedicated to the legacy of influential artist Donald Judd, has taken legal action against Kardashian and Clements Design for what it claims is misrepresenting and promoting counterfeits of Judd’s furniture pieces.
The lawsuit emerged after Kardashian showcased her SKKN office in a YouTube video in 2022.
In the clip, she highlighted minimalist tables she attributed to Donald Judd, lauding them for their seamless integration with the office’s aesthetic.
“These Donald Judd tables are really amazing,” Kardashian remarked in the now-deleted video, “and totally blend in with the seats.”
However, the Judd Foundation asserts that the tables Kardashian referred to are not authentic pieces by Donald Judd but imitations created by Clements Design.
The legal complaint targets Kim Kardashian for allegedly false endorsement and Clements Design for trademark and copyright infringement.
The lawsuit, filed on March 27, accuses Kim Kardashian of “trademark infringement, copyright infringement, unfair competition, false advertising, and false endorsement” predicated on the promotion and sale of these ‘knockoff’ versions as genuine Judd creations.
Clements Design, caught at the center of this controversy, has defended itself against the foundation’s claims.
In an official statement, the company clarified, “It is simply not true that Clements Design commissioned imitation Donald Judd tables. They are different tables with different designs.”
Kenan Thompson has taken a stand by urging Nickolodeon to delve deeper into the allegations brought up by the ‘Quiet on Set” docuseries, emphasizing the essential need for a safe workspace for children in the entertainment industry.
During a discussion on “The Tamron Hall Show,” Thompson, a veteran of beloved Nickelodeon series such as “All That” and “Kenan & Kel,” expressed both his shock and concern over the claims outlined in the documentary, which highlights a darker undercurrent within children’s television programming.
“Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV” has brought to light accusations against former Nickelodeon producer Dan Schneider, suggesting inappropriate behavior and a harmful work environment.
Moreover, it also sheds light on actor Drake Bell’s experience as a victim of Brian Peck, a former dialogue coach and convicted sex offender.
The series has sparked extensive conversation around the practices within child-centered productions and the accountability of those in charge.
Thompson, who has since carved out a successful career with “Saturday Night Live,” finds the revelations particularly disheartening, considering his positive memories associated with his time at Nickelodeon.
“Well, investigate more! I mean because it’s like, it’s supposed to be a safe place you know? It’s supposed to be a safe place for kids and to hear all about that it’s just like, ‘How dare you?'” Kenan Thompson said.
Reflecting on his reaction to the documentary, Thompson acknowledged the importance of such exposés for ensuring accountability, albeit struggling with the personal toll it takes on him and others with fond recollections of their experiences at Nickelodeon.
“I think it’s a good thing that the doc is out and is putting things on display that need to be – stories that need to be told for accountability’s sake but it’s definitely tough to watch because I have fond memories of that place,” Kenan Thompason confessed. “And I have fond memories of my co-stars and stuff like that, so, to hear that they’ve gone through terrible things like that, it’s just, it’s really tough.”
He added, “my heart goes out to anybody that’s been victimized or their families,” showing a deep empathy for those affected.
Nickelodeon, in response to the uproar, has reiterated its commitment to investigating all allegations thoroughly, yet the calls from Thompson and the public demand a more robust and transparent investigation process.
A former prosecutor with the U.S. Attorney’s Office who works specifically on human trafficking offered up a grim prediction about Diddy’s possible future.
During an insightful yet alarming discussion, Neama Rahmani, now president and co-founder of West Coast Trial Lawyers, shed light on the precarious legal situation currently entangling music mogul Diddy.
The conversation, centered around the recent lawsuit by Cassie against Diddy, has opened up a Pandora’s Box of legal woes for the Bad Boy founder, including alarming allegations of sex trafficking.
These accusations have kicked off an investigation led by prosecutors from the formidable Southern District of New York.
“Cassie was with Diddy for a decade and she knew where the bodies were buried and she spilled it all out, and that encouraged other victims to come forward,” Rahmani said of the initial lawsuit that kicked off a flurry of civil suits against the mogul.
With his years of legal expertise and experience prosecuting similar cases on the U.S.-Mexico border, Rahmani is uniquely qualified to weigh in on Diddy’s situation.
His background as a Persian-American attorney who graduated from Harvard Law School at 22 before taking on human trafficking cases at the U.S. Attorney’s Office grants him a nuanced understanding of the intricacies of such high-profile cases.
Rahmani hinted at a possible grim future for Diddy akin to that of R. Kelly.
“Under federal law, if someone is convicted of even one count of sex trafficking, it carries a 10 or 15-year prison sentence minimum; the judge can’t go any lower for each count depending on the age of the victim..I wouldn’t be surprised if this is another Jeffery Epstein, R. Kelly type of case.”
Rahmani’s statement stresses the rigorous nature of the justice system in handling sex trafficking offenses.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if Diddy is arrested in the coming days or weeks. He’s going to have to face these charges. There’s no possible plea that is going to get him off with a slap on the wrist or probation. If prosecutors are successful, and they want to prove it, he may end up dying in prison,” Rahmani said.
Will Smith’s career may have been able to withstand the fallout of the infamous slap around the world, but the same cannot be said for his charitable organization with Jada Pinkett Smith.
The Will and Jada Smith Family Foundation, established by the powerhouse couple in 1996, is ceasing operations in the wake of the controversial moment at the 2022 Oscars that saw Smith slap comedian Chris Rock on stage.
This incident sparked widespread discussion about the actor’s conduct and, as a result, has had a profound impact on the foundation’s ability to operate.
According to tax records reviewed by Variety, the charity experienced a dramatic decline in contributions following the Oscars incident.
From an impressive revenue of $1,760,000 in 2020, the foundation saw donations plummet by 83% in 2022.
Notably, several high-profile donors such as American Airlines and CAA, which previously provided significant financial support, withdrew their donations after the Oscars slap.
This withdrawal by major contributors led to a decrease in the foundation’s capacity to support its various charitable endeavors.
Among the initiatives impacted are contributions to esteemed organizations such as the American Film Institute and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Despite these challenges, the foundation has also supported smaller entities like Rebecoming and World Rebirth Foundation, organizations focused on healing, community empowerment, and life skill development.
These contributions highlight the diverse range of interests and causes that the foundation aimed to support.
In light of the financial difficulties and decreased contributions, the Smith Family Foundation incurred operational challenges, including accumulating bank overdrawn fees.
Moreover, its online presence has remained static since 2020, signaling a reduced engagement in public philanthropic activity.
A source familiar with the foundation’s operations stated that the decision to conclude the foundation’s work predates the Oscars incident, indicating a shift in the couple’s philanthropic strategy towards more private avenues of contribution.
Azealia Banks was predictably unimpressed with Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album. Banks said the country album made her fall asleep in a review posted on Instagram Stories.
“Themes r redundant,” Banks wrote. “The lyrics are really forced. Album is too long… Plus who is this imaginary adversary sis think still wants to hump on [Jay-Z] in 2024? She’s gotta find new content. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY think he’s even remotely attractive.”
She added, “Def should have had Taylor Swift & Kacey Musgraves on there … It’s what the ppl wanted…. I personally would have jumped out of my seat for a KT Tunstall appearance… a strong dr. Luke power ballad was missing … like ‘Low’ …. Skip skip … I really don’t like rapyonce…. Dozed off again and now I’m going to sleep.”
Bank didn’t stop with the write-up as she continued to discuss Beyoncé’s latest album in audio clips. Banks criticized Post Malone’s appearance on Cowboy Carter, saying it should’ve been a John Mayer collaboration.
“And sidebar Bianca, why the f### would you put Post Malone on the g###### record?” Banks asked. “Girl, that was supposed to be a John Mayer moment! Ugh. Beyoncé and John Mayer! Girl, I’ve been waiting for that since my f###### Starbucks days!”
Banks thought Beyoncé was simply going through the motions on Cowboy Carter. The polarizing rapper suggested retirement for the music superstar.
“Beyoncé, if you want to retire, just retire,” Banks said. “Just f###### retire ‘cause you supposed to be getting better and you’re just like—I don’t know. You submitting to some other s###. I fell asleep on the s### last night.”
Banks previously criticized Beyoncé’s pivot to country music in a lengthy rant on social media. Banks also accused Beyoncé and Roc Nation of participating in payola for radio play on country music stations.
