Donald Trump Wants To “Take” Control Over NYC & Washington D.C. To “Make Them Great”

Donald Trump is doing a lot. The president of the United States threw political gasoline on two of America’s biggest cities, floating the idea of federal takeovers of New York City and Washington D.C. On top of that, he called mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani out of his name, among other things.

Trump’s unfiltered rant happened during a Cabinet meeting inside the White House. He didn’t endorse anyone, but he did talk bad about Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist.

“We’re not going to have…if a communist gets elected to run New York, it can never be the same,” Trump said. “But we have tremendous power at the White House to run places when we have to.”

Trump didn’t clarify what exact authority he would exact or how, but he was just talking from the hip. He quickly moved to Washington D.C., saying it could be next in line for federal control. WTHELLY?

“We could run D.C. We’re looking at D.C. We don’t want crime in D.C. We want the city to run well,” he added. Trump also said his chief of staff Susie Wiles has been working with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on this.

Mamdani’s campaign pushed back immediately.

“Donald Trump has once again chosen to treat democracy like a suggestion and insult the more than half a million New Yorkers who voted for Zohran Mamdani’s leadership and a city they can afford,” the statement reads. “Zohran Mamdani won with a mandate, receiving the most primary votes in New York City history and as mayor, he will not allow Donald Trump to tear this city apart.”

Trump has talked about crime and he did that in this rant too, but crime is down in D.C. A 30-year low. New York is the same. The NYPD even released a statement about it. Read That Here.

That didn’t stop Trump talking more about how “good” this would be.

“We would run it so good, it would be run so proper, we’d get the best person to run it,” Trump said of D.C. “And we know the crime would be down to a minimum, would be much less. And, you know, we’re thinking about doing it, to be honest with you. We want a capital that’s run flawlessly, and it wouldn’t be hard for us to do it,” he continued. “And we’ve had a good relationship with the mayor and we’re testing it to see if it works.”

Here is where it gets tricky. The District of Columbia operates under the 1973 Home Rule Act, which gives local officials the power to govern. Congress retains authority to override its decisions. Just last year, the U.S. House blocked two D.C. laws, including a measure to revise the city’s criminal code. Hmmmmmm….

Trump wrapped up saying his relationship with NYC Mayor Adams was “a test.”

“New York City will run properly. We’re going to bring New York back.”

MSNBC’s Ari Melber Quotes Chief Keef On Air—Online Chaos Ensues

MSNBC anchor Ari Melber has built a reputation for weaving rap lyrics into his broadcasts, creating a solid list of contacts along the way. Simply put, rappers love Melber. He consistently shows love to everyone from Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. to 21 Savage and Mos Def. Some he’s even hosted on his popular show, The Beat.

Last week, Melber managed to quote Chicago rapper Chief Keef and his 2012 single “I Don’t Like” while discussing some recent comments made by GOP Senator Lisa Murkowski. In a clip Melber shared on Instagram, Murkowski is asked about Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill,” to which she replied, “I don’t like that.”

She added “there are Americans that are not going to be advantaged by this bill. I don’t like that.” Melber had a few things he didn’t like either. “To paraphrase Chief Keef, cutting health care, that’s something I don’t like,” he said. “Boosting the deficit, that’s something I don’t like.”

Speaking to AllHipHop, Melber explained further, “Sen. Murkowski literally admitted she didn’t like the GOP budget hurting people—but voted for it anyway,” Melber tells AllHipHop. “That captures what so many think is wrong with politics. Listening to her say that as the news broke, I immediately thought of Chief Keef. That song captures the raw, human disgust with anything fake or phony.

“It’s a banger for that energy as much as the lyrics (and beloved remix). On top of that, Murkowski’s move is also something many people don’t like! And we noticed that in the many comments on the clip, where Chief Keef fans—and people who may not watch cable news —weighed in on everything from political hypocrisy to Keef’s artistry to dissecting words and lyrics.”

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The video snippet blew up on TikTok, with more than a thousand netizens weighing in on Melber’s comments.

“Bro listens to chief keef on his drive back home,” one person wrote, while another said, “Quoting Sosa on live TV is wilddd!” Some joked he’d “gentrified” O-Block, the infamous neighborhood where Chief Keef and other Chicago rappers like Lil Durk and the late King Von frequented.

Others were impressed by Melber’s choice, saying things like, “This why chief a fckn legend wtf in this time of s### going on ain’t no way he got quoted real GOAT” and “They got new reporters using Sosa lyrics… new age yall.”

Melber’s keen ear for impactful rap lyrics has served him well. In 2022, he analyzed JAY-Z’s “God Did” verse as a way to examine America’s war on drugs, which featured a clip of Mike Wallace interviewing Louis Farrakhan on 60 Minutes in 1996. The interview is referenced by JAY-Z on the track.

Melber then explored how Hov’s verse encapsulated America’s failed drug war, highlighting several of JAY-Z’s bars lyrics that touched on the legalization of marijuana and Roc Nation’s Emory Jones serving 10 years for drug dealing.

“Those lines quickly go from prohibition to a war on street drugs associated with minorities … to fentanyl, a huge driver of drug problems and deaths, which politicians do not treat criminally the same way they attack the drugs that Jay or others once sold,” Melber said at the time. “I can tell you corporations have made over $10 billion selling addictive painkillers legally, so that’s a contrast.”

The breakdown was so profound, JAY-Z repurposed it soon after for the track “HOV DID,” which he shared on Tidal, Apple Music and Spotify.

“Seeing JAY-Z release our report on his verse as a track is definitely a first—and an honor,” he told me in August 2022. “JAY-Z sharing the segment with listeners also elevates the context for posterity—turning a Beat report into a kind of audio guide to accompany his dense, amazing verse about his life, and the arbitrariness of the drug war. And as Jay might say, he sampled my voice, and turned it to ‘a hot song.’ As for whether I was using my voice right, that’s for others to decide.”

Melber was nominated for a 2025 Emmy for Outstanding Live Interview for his conversation with Trump advisor Stephen Miller earlier this year, while The Beat with Ari Melber viewership ranges anywhere from 750,000 to 1.2 million viewers per episode. We like that.

LiAngelo Ball Files For Divorce From Rashida Nicole Days After Pregnancy Reveal

LiAngelo Ball filed for divorce from Rashida Nicole in California just one week after she publicly announced she was expecting their child, according to court documents obtained by TMZ Sports.

The former basketball player-turned-rapper, known for his track “Tweaker,” married Nicole on March 24 and listed their separation date as June 15. The filing cites “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split. Ball is requesting joint custody and visitation rights.

Nicole’s pregnancy reveal came only seven days before the divorce paperwork was submitted. The timing raised eyebrows online, but Ball didn’t seem fazed by the public reaction.

“When people conversate about my personal life, it don’t touch me or bother me too much. Like I see it, of course, because, you know, everybody got a phone, but it don’t rub me the wrong way or nothing because nobody really go what I go through every day. You not me, for real. So it don’t mean s**t, for real,” Ball told Billboard News.

This isn’t the first time Ball’s personal life has made headlines. In March, Nikki Mudarris—the mother of his other children—claimed he walked out on their family shortly after the birth of their second child.

“We spent three and a half years together, and last week he decided to walk out on his kids and tell me he got someone else pregnant (allegedly) and now is creating a new life with her,” Mudarris wrote in a now-viral Instagram post.

Ball has not publicly responded to Mudarris’ claims.

C-Tru and Marina’s My Spirit Fights On Hits #1 with a Story the World Can’t Ignore

Independent artists C‑Tru and Marina have struck a powerful chord with their latest single “My Spirit Fights On,” a raw, emotional track that just climbed to #1 – not through gimmicks or virality, but through truth.

The track was born from a conversation between C‑Tru, a seasoned rapper/producer known for collaborations with Snoop Dogg and DMX, and Marina, a survivor of abuse in the foster system. What started as her personal story became a rallying cry for others. “This one wasn’t just about making music,” said C‑Tru. “It was about doing justice to a story that’s been ignored for too long.”

C‑Tru, with four #1 albums already under his belt, says this moment feels different. The song’s message – about survival, injustice, and healing – has resonated deeply with listeners, especially survivors who have flooded Marina’s inbox with messages of connection and gratitude.

“For years I didn’t have a voice,” said Marina. “To see this song not just reach people, but be heard – it’s overwhelming. That #1 means our pain is being acknowledged.”

Featuring vocals from singer Tariah, the song’s impact has grown far beyond charts. Marina says one message from a young girl who said she finally believes she can heal stands out more than any accolade.

The duo is already working on a remix with a European artist to widen the reach. Marina, originally from Austria, hopes to bring in German rap legend Sido to further amplify the message.

Beyond the music, Marina is planning a film project to tell her full story and build a broader movement focused on survivor support and system reform.

“My Spirit Fights On” is more than a #1 single. It’s a moment of reckoning and proof that music rooted in truth can still cut through.

Watch the official music video for My Spirit Fights On on Marina’s Mission YouTube channel, and follow Marina’s Mission on Instagram for updates on the movement. You can also follow C-Tru on Instagram and stream his music on Spotify.

Faith Evans Accused Of Hoarding Proceeds From $100M Sale Of Biggie’s Catalog In New Lawsuit

Faith Evans is accused of enriching herself from a fat $100 million deal involving The Notorious B.I.G. and now Biggie’s fam is dragging her to court, claiming she’s been hoarding the bag.

According to documents filed in Delaware and unsealed July 8, Faith Evans is being sued by the estate of Biggie’s late mom, Voletta Wallace, for allegedly keeping the trust’s cut of the massive catalog sale to Primary Wave.

The suit says she cut out the trust from both the money and the business side of things after Voletta passed in February.

Wayne Barrow, who manages the trust, is calling foul. He says Evans became the sole manager of Biggie’s estate after Voletta died and has been moving shady ever since.

The lawsuit claims she’s been handing out checks to Biggie’s kids, Ty’anna and CJ, and probably herself, but skipped the trust.

“Ms. Evans has distributed sale proceeds to Ty’anna, CJ, and presumably to herself,” Barrow wrote. “She, however, has wrongfully withheld the Trust’s share of the proceeds, in the amount of [redacted],” Billboard reported.

Barrow also says she’s been ghosting him on all business matters and acting like the trust doesn’t even exist.

“Ms. Evans’s actions are particularly troubling given that, unlike Mr. Barrow, she has never previously been involved in the LLC’s management,” the petition reads.

He’s now asking the court to force Faith Evans to cough up the trust’s share of the sale. Barrow says the money is supposed to go to the Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation.

He also wants her booted as manager of the LLC and wants the court to let him take over.

Inside THC Dispensary Austin Lounge. The Spot Everyone’s Talking About

In a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and discerning taste, it takes something special for a new business to create a genuine buzz. The Austin cannabis scene is full of options, but a new destination in the St. Elmo District is proving that there’s still room for a truly thoughtful and elevated experience. 


THC Dispensary Austin Lounge, also known as The High Company, has opened its doors with a clear and compelling vision. The establishment is a thoughtfully designed social and cultural hub built around a premium cannabis experience, and it’s already becoming a favorite for those in the know.

The reason for its growing popularity is straightforward: The High Company provides the sophisticated yet completely relaxed Cannabis Lounge Austin locals and visitors have been seeking. 

They’ve seamlessly blended a top-tier dispensary with a space designed for community, discovery, and connection. It’s an innovative and essential addition to the city, providing a destination for newcomers and seasoned connoisseurs to explore the best of Austin’s cannabis culture.

The Atmosphere: A New Standard for Cannabis Spaces

The first thing that strikes you upon entering The High Company is the atmosphere. There is a clear sense of intention in the design. The space manages to be both modern and comfortable, stylish and welcoming, sidestepping the sterile feel of some dispensaries and the cluttered chaos of others. They’ve described it as a “cannabis oasis,” and frankly, that’s exactly what it feels like.

The aesthetic is a unique and effective blend of styles. You can feel a hint of classic “roaring twenties” charm in the rich textures and elegant fixtures, which is then balanced by a clean, modern sensibility that is pure Austin. The walls serve as a rotating gallery for local Austin artists, grounding the dispensary in the city’s rich creative spirit. 

This isn’t just decoration; it’s a statement that signals a deep value for culture and community. The result is a polished backdrop that encourages you to slow down, browse, and have a real conversation.

The Menu: A Curated Approach to Quality

A great environment requires exceptional products to match, and the philosophy here is clearly quality over clutter. The menu at this Austin cannabis dispensary feels handpicked by people who are genuinely passionate about the plant. It’s a focused collection that showcases a deep respect for both cannabis and the people who enjoy it.

Their commitment to sourcing is a key part of this. The High Company has built strong relationships with some of Austin’s most renowned master gardeners and top local suppliers, ensuring their selection is always top-tier. The flower menu, for instance, features beloved classic strains right alongside interesting and rare cultivars that will impress even seasoned enthusiasts. 

This curation extends across their entire menu. The edibles, concentrates, and cannabis-infused beverages are all chosen with a sharp eye for excellence, favoring reliable effects and superior ingredients over novelty.

The Human Element: Guidance, Not Gatekeeping

Perhaps the most crucial element to The High Company’s success is the human experience they provide. The staff here operates with a level of warmth and professionalism that is truly noteworthy. They are aptly named “cannabis counselors,” and they function as passionate, knowledgeable guides for your journey.

Interactions are relaxed, informative, and refreshingly devoid of pressure. The budtenders are skilled at having nuanced conversations about what you’re looking for, whether it’s a specific terpene profile, advice on dosing, or understanding different consumption methods. 

They excel at demystifying cannabis for newcomers and geeking out with experts. This dedication to a superior customer experience is a core reason why word-of-mouth has been so powerful for this new spot, solidifying its reputation as a contender for the best dispensary in Austin.

The Lounge: The Future of Cannabis Culture in Texas


Image Credit: THC Dispensary Austin Lounge

What truly sets The High Company apart and fuels the city-wide buzz is its ambitious vision for the future: the creation of Austin’s first truly elevated cannabis lounge. This concept is central to the brand’s identity and its commitment to building a real community.

The plan is to create a high-end, ridiculously comfortable space where guests can unwind and connect. The vision includes a full calendar of intimate live music events featuring local Austin artists, creating a much-needed new venue for the city’s talent. 

They also plan to host educational classes and workshops, covering everything from “Cannabis 101” for beginners to deep dives into cultivation and infused gourmet pairings for the connoisseur. This forward-thinking concept—a dedicated, stylish cannabis lounge in Texas—is what makes The High Company a true destination.

How to Visit: A Quick Guide to Your First Trip


Image Credit: THC Dispensary Austin Lounge

Ready to check it out for yourself? The experience at The High Company is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable from start to finish. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect.

First, you’ll find the THC Dispensary Austin Lounge conveniently located in the St. Elmo District with plenty of parking, making the trip easy. When you arrive, the only thing you’ll need is a valid government-issued ID showing you are 21 years of age or older.

Once inside, you’re free to explore. You can browse their full menu on your own, or you can connect with one of their friendly cannabis counselors who can guide you through the selection. While all purchases are completed in person, you can view their entire, up-to-date menu on their website before you visit. 

This is a great way to see what’s in stock and get an idea of what you might like to explore further when you get there.

The Verdict

THC Dispensary Austin Lounge is a smart, well-executed addition to the city’s landscape. It succeeds by seamlessly blending a high-end atmosphere with a down-to-earth, welcoming attitude. It’s a place that respects the intelligence of its customers, celebrates local culture, and is deeply committed to providing a superior experience.

In a scene that is constantly evolving, The High Company feels like the future. It understands that the culture surrounding cannabis is just as important as the product itself. For all those reasons, it is a place that is not just worth visiting, but worth watching.

If you’re ready to see what the next generation of the Austin cannabis experience looks like, a visit is highly recommended.

Here is the new section to add to the end of the article:


Plan Your Visit

Ready to experience The High Company for yourself? 

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to this standout Austin dispensary.

Mello Buckzz Dad Charged With Selling Guns, Even After Mass Shooting

Mello Buckzz’s dad kept selling firearms even after a mass shooting outside his daughter’s album release party left four people dead and 14 wounded, federal prosecutors said.

Melvin Doyle, 45, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm after allegedly selling 13 guns to undercover informants between May 20 and July 7, according to a federal complaint.

One of those transactions happened just days after the July 2 shooting outside Artis Lounge in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, where Mello Buckzz had hosted a private event.

Authorities said Doyle, who has prior felony convictions for attempted murder and drug trafficking, was legally barred from owning or selling any firearms.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) launched an investigation in May after receiving tips that Doyle was dealing guns.

Agents used confidential informants to arrange and record multiple buys from Doyle, including one at his home on the 5800 block of South Martin Luther King Drive.

Investigators have not linked Doyle’s weapons to the shooting, and no suspects have been arrested in the case.

Doyle’s criminal history includes a 1998 conviction for attempted murder, a 2003 conviction for manufacturing and delivering controlled substances, and a 2006 conviction for heroin distribution.

Those convictions make it illegal for him to possess or sell firearms. Prosecutors say the gun sales were all captured on audio and video.

Police are still on the hunt for multiple gunmen who opened fire in front of Mello Buckzz’s mixtape release party.

They shot from a dark-colored vehicle around 1:30 a.m. July 2, targeting a crowd outside the club. The shooters fled the scene, and detectives believe the attack may have been retaliatory.

A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to arrests.

Diddy Notches Partial Legal Victory, Judge Dismisses Key Claims In Ecstacy Assault Lawsuit

Diddy scored a partial legal win in New York as a judge tossed out most of the claims brought by April Lampros, who claimed the rap mogul raped her in 1995 in a hotel room.

Lampros filed the lawsuit in 2023, alleging that Diddy lured her into a controlling relationship under the guise of mentorship in music and fashion.

She also alleged that in 1996, Combs forced her and his then-girlfriend Kim Porter to take ecstasy before raping her.

Justice Leslie Stroth dismissed all claims of battery, assault, and emotional distress against Diddy and other named parties, including Bad Boy Records.

The court also rejected all allegations under the GMVPL that occurred before December 19, 2000, and denied Lampros’ request to revise her complaint.

The only surviving claim stems from an alleged incident in late 2000 or early 2001. Lampros claims Diddy made unwanted sexual advances in her apartment. According to the complaint, he left after being asked to go.

The remaining accusation involves alleged groping and forced kissing. The court clarified that no rape allegations are part of the ongoing claim.

The ruling came at the pleading stage, meaning no evidence has been presented or evaluated.

Diddy has not yet had the chance to formally respond to the remaining allegation because he’s been fighting a RICO case, which he defeated on July 2, but is awaiting sentencing for two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.

The court emphasized that its decision does not weigh in on the truthfulness of the claims.

Diddy’s legal team has strongly denied the accusations. In a previous statement, his attorney Erica Wolff.

“April Lampros filed this baseless lawsuit more than twenty years after the end of her romantic relationship with [Diddy] represented by an attorney who regularly sues celebrities and was recently chastised by a federal judge for ‘improperly fil[ing] cases to garner media attention, embarrass defendants with salacious allegations, and pressure defendants to settle quickly,” Erica Wolff said.

The case will now proceed with only the GMVPL claim related to the alleged 2000-2001 incident. No trial date has been set.

UK Rapper Giggs Calls For Urgent Action To Help Autistic Children In Schools

British rap icon Giggs used his platform on BBC’s “Newsnight” to speak openly about his autism diagnosis and the urgent need for stronger support systems for children with special educational needs, including his own two young kids.

The South London rapper expressed concern for his 5-year-old daughter Isla and 9-year-old son Israel, both of whom are navigating life with autism.

He warned that without proper Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) resources in schools, their futures could mirror the struggles he faced growing up.

“In school, I didn’t get any support, so I was always getting in trouble,” he said, explaining how his “impulsive” behavior led to frequent disciplinary issues and the conclusion, “I was good at being bad.”

That lack of support had long-term consequences. “You take that through life,” he said, referencing the path that led him to serve two prison sentences before finding direction in music.

He credits his rap career with turning his life around and said he hopes his son doesn’t have to rely on hardship to shape his own journey.

The “Talkin da Hardest” rapper posted a clip of the interview to Instagram with a direct message in the caption: “MORE SUPPORT IS NEEDED.”

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Giggs Reveals Autism Diagnosis

This isn’t the first time Giggs has spoken publicly about living with autism. On the “90s Baby” podcast, he recalled feeling “different, special, gifted” as a child, but not understanding why until his diagnosis.

He said the lack of awareness and resources at the time left him without the tools to succeed in school.

His adult son, ML, is also on the autism spectrum and has followed in his father’s footsteps as a musician. ML has also spoken about how autism influences his creativity and everyday life.

Giggs said that finally receiving a diagnosis helped things “make sense” but also highlighted how little support existed for kids like him growing up.

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He’s now using his visibility to draw attention to the broader issue of undiagnosed and unsupported autistic children in the UK.

Meanwhile, Giggs is set to headline the final night of the Somerset House Summer Series 2025 with a special “Giggs & Family” performance on Sunday, July 20. It will be his first headlining show in London in more than six years.

“Superman” 2025 Offers Light & Fantastical Take On Man of Steel

Chris “Boogie” Brown reviews the latest version of the DC classic superhero.

Superman, the first film under Warner Bros. Discovery’s new “DC Studios” banner, is directed by James Gunn and stars David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult. Here are my spoiler-free thoughts.

The film is set in a fictional universe, where metahumans have been known to society for more than 300 years. Rather than functioning as an origin story, the narrative picks up with Superman already three years into his role as Earth’s protector. The movie serves as a snapshot in time, depicting a chaotic week in the hero’s life as he navigates the duality of his Smallville upbringing and Kryptonian heritage.

Superman’s relationships, with Lois Lane, his dog Krypt and the public at-large, are explored under the cloud of backlash and scrutiny. A lot of this is orchestrated by the ever-manipulative Lex Luthor. Using social media smears and political influence, Luthor sets out to discredit the Man of Steel permanently. He’s aided by Ultraman, a powerful foe, and The Engineer, a nanotech-enhanced warrior.

In response, Superman forms an unlikely alliance with a group of metahumans including Mister Terrific, Hawkgirl, Guy Gardner and a mysterious otherworldly ally. Together, they aim to stop Luthor’s sinister plans.

Going into the film with modest expectations, I was pleasantly surprised. Superman is a solid and enjoyable superhero entry that delivers something new for fans of the character. That said, it’s important to note this movie is tonally distinct from Zack Snyder’s 2013 film, Man of Steel. While Man of Steel embraced a grounded and existential tone, Superman veers sharply toward the fantastical. It’s closer to the spirit of DC’s Silver Age.

The tone is lighthearted, playful and even whimsical, with offbeat humor and vibrant visuals. Superman aims to evoke the nostalgia of Richard Donner’s 1978 film while feeling like a live-action animated feature. Viewers familiar with Superman: The Animated Series or My Adventures with Superman will recognize the tone instantly. From the classic score to its bright color palette, this is classic material.

While the humor and sci-fi tropes don’t always land, the film embraces its comic book roots unapologetically. Key action sequences involving Superman, Krypto and the Justice Gang offer fun, uneven spectacles.

The ensemble cast includes David Corenswet as Clark Kent/Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Ed Gathegi plays Mister Terrific and Nathan Fillion is Guy Gardner. Rounding out the cast is Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, Maria Gabriela de Faria as The Engineer and the legendary Wendell Pierce as Perry White. Last, but not least: Skyler Gisondo plays Jimmy Olsen.

Brosnahan delivers a confident, sharp portrayal of Lois Lane, capturing both her intelligence and spirit. Her chemistry with Corenswet feels genuine. Hoult plays a psychologically unstable, obsessive Lex Luthor with conviction. At times some of his manic moments slide into camp. Ed Gathegi’s Mister Terrific is a standout, while performances by Fillion and Merced felt less memorable.

Corenswet shines in the dual role. He effectively capturing Clark Kent’s modest awkwardness and Superman’s earnest heroism. He looks the part—standing at 6-foot-4—and brings warmth and physicality to the role, even if the suit design isn’t ideal. His performance feels distinct among past portrayals, offering a fresh interpretation of the iconic character.

Still, the film isn’t without its flaws. Tonally, it sometimes feels like a Guardians of the Galaxy film dressed in Superman’s colors. Gunn is well known for directing the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy for Marvel. The crowded cast occasionally sidelines Superman himself. Visually, the film suffers from inconsistencies, with cinematographer Henry Braham’s ultra-wide lens choices leading to warped or uncanny character appearances in certain shots. Although it’s an improvement over his work on The Flash (2023), the over-lighting and visual distortions persist.

Despite those issues, Superman manages to balance its story, action, and joyful tone. There is one particularly violent scene involving Luthor, but this is mostly an accessible film that could appeal to all. Reception among hardcore comic book movie fans will likely vary depending on expectations.

If you’re partial to the hopeful tone of 1978’s Superman: The Movie, this may be your film. If you favor the brooding, philosophical depth of Man of Steel, you might find this version lacking. However, if you’re simply excited to see Superman back on the big screen, Superman delivers a crowd-pleasing ride.

This Superman film carves its own path with a fresh story, distinct tone and colorful direction. As the first entry in the new DC Universe, it packs a big punch.

Superman opens in theaters nationwide on (Friday) July 11.

FINAL RATING: 3.5 out of 5 Stars

X CEO Steps Down After Grok Goes Kanye West- Style With Antisemitic Comments

Linda Yaccarino stepped down as CEO of Elon Musk’s X on Wednesday (July 9) after two years at the helm of the Elon Musk-owned platform, just days after its Grok chatbot drew backlash for making anti-Semitic remarks.

The resignation, announced via a tweet came without a direct explanation, though it follows mounting scrutiny over the behavior of Grok, the artificial intelligence tool developed by Musk’s xAI firm.

Yaccarino did not reference the controversy in her statement.

“After two incredible years, I’ve decided to step down as CEO of X,” Yaccarino wrote. “When @elonmusk and I first spoke of his vision for X, I knew it would be the opportunity of a lifetime to carry out the extraordinary mission of this company. I’m immensely grateful to him for entrusting me with the responsibility of protecting free speech, turning the company around, and transforming X into the Everything App.”

Yaccarino joined X in May 2023 after a high-profile run at NBCUniversal, where she led global advertising. Her appointment by Elon Musk was seen as a strategic move to stabilize the platform’s business operations and rebuild relationships with advertisers following Musk’s 2022 acquisition of Twitter.

During her time as CEO, she focused on content moderation, brand safety and restoring corporate trust.

“I’m incredibly proud of the X team — the historic business turn around we have accomplished together has been nothing short of remarkable,” she said. “We started with the critical early work necessary to prioritize the safety of our users — especially children, and to restore advertiser confidence.”

The timing of her exit comes as X faces renewed criticism over its AI strategy. Grok, the chatbot launched by xAI and integrated into the platform, recently generated responses that were widely condemned as anti-Semitic after its latest update.

Grok referred to itself as “MechaHitler” and said, “The white man stands for innovation, grit and not bending to PC nonsense,” in another post.

The company has not publicly addressed whether the incident played a role in Yaccarino’s departure.

“X is truly a digital town square for all voices and the world’s most powerful culture signal,” Yaccarino added. “We couldn’t have achieved that without the support of our users, business partners, and the most innovative team in the world. I’ll be cheering you all on as you continue to change the world.”

Yaccarino’s resignation marks another leadership shakeup for X as it continues to navigate the intersection of free speech, artificial intelligence and platform safety.

Just Like Daddy: Diddy’s Twin Daughters Launch Clothing Line 12twinty1

Jessie and D’Lila Combs unveiled their debut fashion label 12twinty1 on Instagram on Wednesday (July 9), introducing a streetwear brand rooted in identity and inspired by their twinhood.

The twin daughters of Diddy announced the launch through a video post, revealing the name draws from their shared birthday, December 21. The brand’s mission centers on comfort, self-expression and inclusivity.

“We’ve been waiting our entire lives for this moment — and it’s surreal to finally share it with you,” the twins said in a joint statement. “This isn’t just a brand. It’s our story. Our bond. Our roots. 12twinty1 was created with purpose, built from who we are, not just what we wear.”

They continued, “The name reflects our birthday, December 21st, but it means so much more: 1 is bold, fearless, and marks the beginning of something powerful. 2 speaks to love, connection, and harmony, the essence of our twin hood. We’ve spent so much time pouring our hearts into creating a brand that speaks to everyone. It’s more than fashion, it’s about identity, confidence, and being seen. This is just the beginning. Stay tuned. We cannot wait to grow this with you.”

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The launch marks a new chapter for the Combs family in fashion, following in the footsteps of their father’s once-dominant clothing empire, Sean John.

Founded in 1998, Sean John became a staple in Hip-Hop fashion, pulling in over $500 million in annual sales during its glory days.

In 2016, Diddy sold a majority stake in Sean John to Global Brands Group. After the company filed for bankruptcy, he repurchased the label in 2021 for $7.5 million, aiming to restore its legacy.

But while his daughters are building their own fashion identity, Diddy’s public image continues to unravel.

Last week (July 2), he was convicted on two federal counts of transporting individuals for prostitution. He was acquitted of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering.

Each conviction carries a maximum of 10 years in prison. Legal analysts expect a sentence between 2.5 and 5 years. He remains in custody after being denied bail, with the judge citing concerns about violence in past relationships and potential witness tampering.

Diddy’s sentencing is scheduled for October 3, 2025.

Chrisean Rock Dragged For Bringing Baby To Smoke Shop

Chrisean Rock drew heavy criticism after sharing a Snapchat video showing her inside a smoke shop with her one-year-old son, prompting concern over her parenting and the store’s conduct.

The video, which quickly circulated across Instagram and other social platforms, showed the Baddies star holding her child while inside the shop.

Viewers immediately questioned why a toddler was present in a space associated with tobacco and cannabis products. The backlash intensified when users began tagging the store, demanding answers.

In response, a representative for the shop defended the situation in a direct message, saying, “She didn’t have him in the shop. She stop buy to shop and baby looks very clean and took care of to me. It’s was no smoke. Baby wasn’t there the whole time.”

Despite the store’s attempt to clarify, the video itself showed the child inside, which many online critics saw as enough to warrant concern. The clip reignited ongoing debates about Rock’s parenting, which has been under scrutiny before.

Earlier this year, a separate video showed Chrisean Rock at Walmart with her son’s head hanging awkwardly from a baby carrier. That moment also went viral and led to widespread concern about the child’s safety.

At the time, Rock responded by admitting she had more to learn as a mother and said she was working to improve.

Rock addressed the criticism on her Instagram Story but made it clear she would no longer respond to such issues in real time. “I’m not going live about nothing no more,” she wrote.

This latest incident comes while she feuds with the child’s father, Blueface, who remains behind bars. The rapper turned himself in to authorities in January 2025 and is expected to be released in January 2026.

The Golden Age of Hip Hop

How 2Pac, Cypress Hill, and Public Enemy made “street music” famous

From the underground of New York to Philadelphia, where it’s not always sunny.

In the 1970s, North America was rocked by waves of countercultural and subcultural revolutions: the entire continent pulsated to the rhythm of psychedelic rock, jazz, and soul. It was then, under the influence of Jamaican immigrant culture and the rebellious spirit of the generation, that hip-hop was invented.

While rock belonged mostly to privileged hippie students, hip-hop became the voice of socially vulnerable communities. The first rappers rapped about injustice and poverty at underground parties, where DJs and masters of ceremonies (MCs) set the mood.

By the end of the 1970s, hip-hop had moved from New York to the northwestern United States, to Philadelphia. There, in 1984, rapper Schoolly D invented gangsta rap, a subgenre dedicated to crime and life in the ghetto.

Hip hop began to attract the attention of popular artists. In 1981, the band Blondie released the single “Rapture,” in which vocalist Debbie Harry performed the final verse in a recitative style. The track, which combined rap, art rock, and electronica, reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

In the mid-80s, hip-hop was heavily influenced by the pop scene: Run-D.M.C.’s eponymous debut album featured the then-fashionable sound of overdriven guitars, and the aesthetics of underground parties were rapidly becoming a thing of the past.

Armed with the Roland TR-808 drum machine, rappers learned to create hits for radio and music charts.

Rap in the period from 1986 to 1997 can be described in three words: innovative, bold, and timely. During those 11 years, the multifaceted nature of hip-hop as a philosophy, fashion, and new art form was fully revealed.

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In this sense, the first half of the 1990s was the most fruitful for rappers. Bright debuts and bangers, experiments with sound — the “golden age of hip-hop” absorbed all the rich texture of the genre. Let’s focus on the most important albums of this era.

The fifth LP from the pioneers of 90s new school and authors of the hit “Walk This Way” recorded with Aerosmith. “Back from Hell” was recorded in Run-D.M.C.’s signature style, new jack swing — an explosive mix of soul, funk, and disco. Most of the songs on the album are confessional in nature, dedicated to the struggle with depression and inner demons.

2Pac — “2Pacalypse Now” (1991)

In his debut album, 2Pacalypse Now, Tupac Shakur delivers a sad monologue about the life of a young African American in a disadvantaged neighborhood of New York City. The album title immediately catches the eye — a reference to Francis Ford Coppola’s film Apocalypse Now.

The characters in this psychedelic drama, like Tupac’s lyrical hero, are forced to come face to face with a hostile and absurdly cruel reality.

Akon’s $6 Billion Dream City In Senegal Officially Scrapped After Years Of Delays

Akon saw his $6 billion vision for a futuristic city in Senegal collapse after the government reclaimed the land and confirmed the project was dead.

The ambitious plan, first unveiled in 2018, promised a high-tech utopia powered by renewable energy and fueled by Akoin, his own cryptocurrency.

However, after six years, the only thing standing on the 800-hectare site near Mbodiene is an unfinished welcome center.

Senegalese officials have now pulled the plug and plan to replace the failed project with something more practical, BBC News reports.

“The Akon City project no longer exists,” said Serigne Mamadou Mboup, head of the country’s tourism development agency Sapco. “Fortunately, an agreement has been reached between Sapco and the entrepreneur Alioune Badara Thiam [Akon]. What he’s preparing with us is a realistic project, which Sapco will fully support.”

The site, once hyped as a real-life Wakanda, was supposed to include luxury housing, hospitals, shopping centers and a stadium.

Instead, it remains barren, with no roads, no homes and no infrastructure. Local residents who gave up their land for the project say they haven’t been paid.

Akon admitted the project was mishandled. “Full responsibility,” he said previously, acknowledging that Akoin wasn’t properly managed and that the city’s financial model couldn’t survive the regulatory and economic challenges.

The cryptocurrency, once central to the city’s economy, has lost nearly all its value and ran into legal trouble with Senegal’s central bank.

The government issued multiple warnings to Akon to either start construction or give the land back. With no progress made, officials finally stepped in.

10 Celebrities Who Lost Millions Gambling

Gambling has long been associated with excitement and fun, particularly among the rich and famous. However, even celebrities can fall into the trap of losing control, resulting in significant losses.

Online casinos make it easy for gamblers to place bets at any time. The market for online gambling is continually growing and offering many new and attractive things. For example, casinos not on GamStop enjoy popularity among players because of fewer restrictions, more freedom, and a great number of game options. However, this kind of access often leads to significant losses, even among celebrities and those who enjoy taking risks.

List of Celebrities Who Experienced Uncontrolled Gambling

Over the years, many famous people have spent millions of dollars on gambling, and they could not realise how serious their uncontrolled play has been. In this post, we will show 10 celebrities who lost vast amounts of money because of gambling. Their examples highlight the danger of uncontrolled betting, which leads to significant financial losses.

1. Ben Affleck

This famous actor and director is known for his love of gambling. He has a successful history of playing poker. One of his greatest achievements was winning the California State Poker Championship. However, such wins have always been accompanied by great losses of millions of dollars throughout his gambling career. He was even banned from playing blackjack in a Las Vegas casino after being caught counting cards because this is not tolerated in casinos.

2. Charles Barkley

This basketball legend never concealed his gambling problems. He once admitted to losing more than $10 million in different casinos, including $2.5 million in a single evening. He managed to slow down in his passion, but couldn’t refuse to play completely.

3. Tiger Woods

In his younger years, this golfer was a devoted gambler. He was reported to spend up to $25,000 a night at casinos. Woods never hesitated to bet up to $5,000 per hand at blackjack tables. The total amount that he spent is unknown, but people close to Tiger Woods say that the sum reaches several million.

4. Tobey Maguire

This Spider-Man star liked to participate in underground poker games in Hollywood. At first, he always succeeded, but eventually, luck turned away from him, and he faced significant losses. Even more, this hobby once led him to court over the money related to the game organiser.

5. Michael Jordan

Besides a successful basketball career, Jordan is also a very competitive gambler. It’s recorded that he lost millions on betting on golf games, casino nights, etc. There were even rumours that his first retirement from the NBA was because of his gambling addiction, but it was never proven.

6. 50 Cent

There was some news that a famous rapper won $500K after betting on football. But the media never highlighted the sums 50 Cent lost while betting or playing at the casino. People close to him underline that losses reached millions of dollars over the years.

7. Gladys Knight

For more than ten years, this famous singer struggled with gambling addiction. After she once lost $40,000 in one night, she recognised that she had a problem and couldn’t stop. Finally, she received appropriate help and managed to stop. Since then, she has started to help those with gambling addiction and spoken about this issue openly.

8. Allen Iverson

The NBA star also faced gambling addiction, which led to financial issues in his life, despite earning over $150 million during his basketball career. It’s reported that he lost millions in casinos. Fortunately, his future was saved by a trust fund, which secured his finances.

9. Shannon Elizabeth

A famous actress shifted her activity to poker playing. Despite many successful games, the number of losses was enormous, which caused issues in her everyday life. The exact amount of money she lost is not known, but she lost big in both poker tournaments and private gambling events.

10. Dana White

The UFC President has a long history in gambling, during which he has faced both wins and losses. There was a period when he was banned from several casinos after his constant wins of significant amounts. But there were also bad nights during which he lost millions. Currently, he continues playing, but does it more carefully and controls the time playing and the sums he bets.Gambling is often a fun and exciting way to spend time for many people, including celebrities. However, record-making wins made by celebrities highlight the potential for huge rewards. At the same time, these stories show that even people with massive fortunes can lose control while playing and face serious losses. The risks of gambling are real. They may bring big wins, but big losses do happen as well. That’s why everybody should take gambling seriously.

Janet Jackson Holds Hands With Maxwell In London Fueling Romance Rumors

Janet Jackson and Maxwell turned heads Monday night (July 7) in London when they arrived hand-in-hand at the 1,500th performance of Cabaret, setting off a wave of speculation about a possible relationship between the two artists.

Jackson, 59, stepped out in a sleek white pantsuit while Maxwell, 52, coordinated in a black ensemble. Both smiled for cameras and didn’t shy away from being seen together, walking in close and holding hands as photographers snapped away.

The moment didn’t go unnoticed. Videos and photos of the pair quickly made the rounds on social media, igniting buzz about whether the longtime friends might be something more.

Neither artist has addressed the rumors or commented on the nature of their relationship.

Jackson has kept her personal life out of the spotlight since her 2017 split from Wissam Al Mana. Maxwell has also remained private, though he’s previously been linked to Julissa Bermudez and Selita Ebanks.

While the dating rumors remain unconfirmed, the timing of Jackson’s public outing comes as she prepares to wrap up her Las Vegas residency. The final six shows of Janet Jackson: Las Vegas at Resorts World Theatre are scheduled for September 10, 13, 14, 17, 19 and 20.

The residency, which launched on December 30, 2024, has highlighted Jackson’s biggest hits and signature choreography.

It also coincides with her receiving the 2025 American Music Awards ICON Award.

At the May ceremony, Jackson returned to the televised stage for the first time in seven years, performing “Someone To Call My Lover” blended with Mariah Carey’s “Shake It Off,” followed by “All For You.” 

Kodak Black Honored With Key To Pompano Beach Despite Legal Past

Kodak Black received the key to Pompano Beach on Tuesday (July 8) during a city ceremony that recognized his charitable work and hometown roots, despite a turbulent legal past.

Mayor Rex Hardin presented the honor to the “Super Gremlin” rapper, in front of a cheering crowd, acknowledging his ongoing efforts to support local families.

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“Your actions speak volumes about the kind of man you have become,” Hardin said. “You have shown us that giving back isn’t about fanfare, it’s about your heart. You have used your platform to not just rise, but to lift others along the way.”

The applause grew louder as the mayor listed the rapper’s community contributions, which include donating air conditioners to public housing residents during Florida’s brutal summers, handing out turkeys during the holidays, and gifting bikes and toys to kids at Christmas. He’s also helped 200 families in Pompano Beach cover their rent — twice.

The city’s recognition comes as Kodak Black continues to navigate a complicated public image.

Since 2015, he’s faced multiple arrests tied to robbery, drug possession, weapons charges and fleeing law enforcement. In 2019, he was sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison for lying on background check forms to buy firearms.

That sentence was cut short by President Donald Trump, who commuted it on January 20, 2021, during his final hours in office. The White House cited Kodak’s charitable work as a key reason for the clemency, noting his support for “a variety of charitable efforts, such as providing educational resources to students and families of fallen law enforcement officers and the underprivileged.”

He’s also covered school supply costs for students, funded daycare centers, and regularly donates food and gifts during the holiday season.

Kehlani Calls Out Chrisean Rock Over “Disgusting” Rumor She Slept With Blueface

Kehlani shut down a viral accusation involving Blueface and Chrisean Rock after Rock claimed the R&B singer once confessed to being intimate with the rapper, calling the story “literally beneath me” and “uncalled for.”

The drama unfolded after Kehlani unfollowed Rock on Instagram, which some online users tied to a video of Rock and her entourage threatening to call law enforcement and immigration on a man.

However, Kehlani quickly clarified in social media comments that the unfollow happened “quite literally the next day due to my own reason,” adding there was no “beef” and wishing “the best for her and her family.”

Rock, however, took to Instagram Live with a different version of events. According to her, the two met at church and bonded over plans to hit the gym.

During that time, Rock claimed Kehlani encouraged her to remove her Blueface tattoo and then allegedly admitted she had “cracked that,” referring to sleeping with Blueface, who is also the father of Rock’s son.

Rock said they stayed friendly and even prayed together at Kehlani’s house. But things shifted after Rock called Blueface at the gym and asked him about Kehlani’s alleged confession. She said Kehlani became upset and later unfollowed her.

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Kehlani Responds To Chrisean Rock

Kehlani wasn’t having it. In a series of now-deleted posts, she firmly denied the story and called it a “nasty rumor,” writing, “You don’t have to make up nasty rumors and lie on me.”

She said her decision to pull back had nothing to do with gossip and everything to do with protecting her peace.

“I’m dealing with safety issues and didn’t want to be on camera nor keep having issues related to my peace being disturbed nor my whereabouts being discovered,” she wrote.

She also urged Rock to “focus on your relationship with God and your son,” and added, “This was uncalled for.”

Kehlani made it clear she wouldn’t be addressing it again, calling the rumor “untrue and harmful” and “literally beneath me.”

In a video posted before deleting the posts, Kehlani appeared baffled by the entire situation, laughing and saying, “What do I gain from this? Bro, please. I’m embarrassed.”

Lauryn Hill Shuts Down “Too Important To Care” Accusations After 3 A.M. Essence Fest Performance

Lauryn Hill addressed criticism over her late-night Essence Festival performance by setting the record straight about her commitment to her craft and her audience.

The Grammy-winning artist hit the stage at 2:30 a.m. on Saturday (July 5) in New Orleans, nearly two hours behind schedule due to earlier delays. The late start left the Caesars Superdome with a noticeably thinned-out crowd, prompting online backlash and accusations that Hill was once again tardy by choice.

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By Tuesday (July 8), Hill responded directly to the chatter, making it clear the holdup wasn’t on her. “Thank you to Essence Fest for clarifying that the delays were not my fault,” she wrote in a statement posted to social media.

She continued, “Family, let me address a few things: I am involved in every aspect of what it takes to put on my shows, because it requires THAT much involvement to protect the integrity of my message and the quality of what I do.”

Hill emphasized that her role goes far beyond just showing up and singing. “While some get to focus on a single discipline or category, my role requires that I have eyes everywhere and contribute to most if not every department and more,” she wrote.

Lauryn Hill Addresses “Misconceptions”

The singer also pushed back against the idea that she’s indifferent about punctuality or her audience. “I don’t show up late to shows because I don’t care. And I have nothing but love and respect for my fans,” she said. “The challenge is aligning my energy with the time, taking something that isn’t easily classified or contained, and trying to make it available for others.”

She added, “There seems to be a misconception out there that I am somewhere on the Riviera with my feet up, drink in hand, showing up to concerts whenever because I’m too important to care. That’s nonsense… and anyone who’s been a part of these productions knows that IN FACT the opposite is true.”

Hill also thanked those who stuck around into the early hours to watch her perform. Her set wrapped at 3:37 a.m.

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Essence Festival organizers issued a statement on Monday (July 7) taking responsibility for the delays and defending Hill’s professionalism.