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Pam Grier: Blaxploitation Icon to Join Cast of TV’s ‘Smallville’
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Movies, Television, News, Celeb Updates, Magazines and Newspapers
Pam Grier will return to television early next year…and will be playing a bad guy.
Well, a bad girl.
Again!
The CW announced that the 60 year-old 1970s Blaxploitation film icon is joining the cast of the hit drama series ‘Smallville,’ which is based on the DC Comics Superman series.
The savvy casting choice is the first for the ‘Jackie Brown’ actress since Showtime’s ‘The L Word’ ended last year.
Grier will play a villainess named Agent Amanda Waller, who brought on the destruction of Smallville in one of part of the Superman mythology.
In the storyline, the character escaped the infamous Chicago Cabrini-Green housing projects with her surviving family after her family was murdered. She became a congressional aid and then a member of the elite semi-secret government agency, the Suicide Squad, where she earned the nickname ‘The Wall.’ Later, Agent Waller served as Secretary of Meta-human Affairs under President Lex Luthor.
According to TV Guide, Grier will make her debut in January and she will appear in multiple episodes throughout the season.
2008 Deaths
Odetta Holmes
“The Voice of the Civil Rights Movement” was a singer, actress, guitarist, songwriter and activist.
December 31 1930 – December 2 2008.
Ray Tamarra , Getty
Bernie Mac
Comedian, Actor
Oct. 5, 1957 – Aug. 9, 2008.
AP
Isaac Hayes
Singer, songwriter, record producer, composer and actor.
August 20, 1942 – August 10, 2008
Reuters
Miriam Makeba, “Mama Africa”
South African folk singer and anti-apartheid activist.
March 4, 1932 – November 10, 2008.
Reuters
Jennifer Hudson’s 57-year-old mother, Darnell Donerson, brother, Jason, and 7-year-old nephew, Julian King, were killed in 2008.
AP
Shakir Stewart
The Island Def Jam executive who became head of the legendary rap label following Jay-Z’s departure, killed himself on Nov. 1. He was 34 years old.
Getty
George Carlin
Stand-up comedian, actor and author.
May 12, 1937 – June 22, 2008
Getty Images
Madelyn Dunham
Barack Obama’s grandmother
October 26, 1922 – Nov 3, 2008.
Getty Images
Levi Stubbs
Oct. 17: The iconic lead singer, second from left, who gave voice to Four Tops classics like “Reach Out I’ll Be There” and “Baby I Need Your Loving” died at 72 from complications of cancer and a stroke. Abdul Fakir, far left, is now the sole living member of the original quartet.
Corbis
Dee Dee Warwick
Oct. 18: The soul songstress died after months of declining health. Warwick, the sister of soul legend Dionne, also achieved a great deal of success, both as a solo artist as well as with her sister.
Corbis
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Queen Latifah: Returning as Host of ‘People’s Choice Awards’
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Queen Latifah will return as host of the ’2010 People’s Choice Awards’ ij January, and a few people of color and their respective projects will battle it out for the title of ‘People’s Choice.’
Emmy Award-winning supermodel-turned-talk show host Tyra Banks’ daily talk show is nominated for favorite TV talk show, but she will have to beat ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show,’ as well as ‘Chelsea Lately,’ ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ and ‘Live with Regis & Kelly.’
LL Cool J‘s show, ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ — the newest in the popular CBS franchise — is nominated in the new TV drama category, but would have to oust ‘The Good Wife,’ ‘The Forgotten,’ ‘Mercy,’ ‘Melrose Place,’ FlashForward,’ ‘Eastwick,’ ‘The Vampire Diaries,’ ‘V,’ and ‘Three Rivers,’ for the win.
Finally, competing for ‘New TV Comedy’ are two Fox shows the feature African-American ensembles;’The Cleveland Show,’ the animated series featuring the voices of Sanaa Lathan and Regan Preston-Gomez, and ‘Brothers’ starring former New York Giants star Michael Strahan and Darryl ‘Chill’ Mitchell. Also nominated in that category are ‘Accidentally on Purpose,’ ‘Community,’ ‘Cougar Town,’ ‘Glee,’ ‘Hank,’ ‘The Middle’ and ‘Modern Family.’
The People’s Choice Awards will air live on Jan.6 on CBS from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.
Below is a complete list of nominees and categories:
TV DRAMA:
‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’
‘Grey’s Anatomy’
‘House’
‘Lost’
‘NCIS’
TV COMEDY:
‘Desperate Housewives’
‘How I Met Your Mother’
‘The Big Bang Theory’
‘The Office’
‘Two and a Half Men’
TV DRAMA ACTOR:
Hugh Laurie
Kiefer Sutherland
Mark Harmon
Matthew Fox
Patrick Dempsey
TV DRAMA ACTRESS:
Anna Paquin
Blake Lively
Jennifer love Hewitt
Katherine Heigl
Mariska Hargitay
TV COMEDY ACTOR:
Alex Baldwin
Charlie Sheen
Jim Parsons
Neil Patrick Harris
Steve Carell
TV COMEDY ACTRESS:
Alyson Hannigan
America Ferrera
Amy Poehler
Eva Longoria Parker
Tina Fey
TV OBSESSION:
‘Dexter’
‘Gossip Girl’
‘The Hills’
‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager’
‘True Blood’
TV TALK SHOW:
‘Chelsea Lately’
‘Live with Regis & Kelly’
‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’
‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’
‘The Tyra Banks Show’
TV SCI-FI FANTASY:
‘Heroes’
‘Lost’
‘Supernatural’
‘The Vampire Diaries’
‘True Blood’
TV COMPETITION SHOW:
‘American Idol’
‘Dancing With the Stars’
‘Project Runway’
‘So You Think You Can Dance’
‘Survivor: Samoa’
ANIMAL SHOW:
‘Animal Cops’
‘DogTown’
‘Dog Whisperer’
‘It’s Me or the Dog’
‘Rescue Ink’
NEW TV DRAMA:
‘Eastwick’
‘FlashForward’
‘Melrose Place’
‘Mercy’
‘The Forgotten’
‘The Good Wife’
‘The Vampire Diaries’
‘Three Rivers’
‘NCIS: Los Angeles’
‘V’
NEW TV COMEDY:
‘Accidentally on Purpose’
‘Brothers’
‘Community’
‘Cougar Town’
‘Glee’
‘Hank’
‘The Cleveland Show’
‘The Middle’
‘Modern Family’
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Gucci Mane: Sentenced To A Year In Prison
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If life could intimate art, the cover to Gucci Mane‘s forthcoming Dec. 8 album ‘The State vs. Radrick Davis’ would prove to be an irony of sorts. According to ‘MTV News,’ the ‘So Icy’ rapper was arrested and sentenced to a year in prison today stemming from a probation violation.
The startling news comes as shock to many given Gucci’s unyielding presence in today’s hip hop scene. The Atlanta native, who was named one of MTV’s hottest MCs, has been featured on chart-topping singles from likes of Mario, Omarion, Mariah Carey, and is also expected to appear on Timbaland‘s forthcoming album ‘Shock Value 2′ — not to mention the rapper‘s most recent collaboration with R&B superstar, Usher for his lead single ‘Spotlight.’
Despite Gucci (legally known as Radrick Davis) serving six months in prison last year for failing to meet a previous court-ordered 600 hours of community service, he may also serve the same length of time for his current violation.
Upon his release last March, he spoke with ‘MTV News’ about his 2008 incarceration. “It was a challenge for me,” he said. “I’m just happy my team kept my music going strong for me. And I’m happy I recorded so many records so people could hear me.”
Janet Jackson: Open American Music Awards, Keeping Busy with New Projects
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, Movies, Television, News, Celeb Updates
janet jackson
On the heels of the announcement that Whitney Houston would take the stage at the 37th Annual American Music Awards – the ‘I Will Always love You’ singer’s first performance at the show in a decade – comes more big news.
Janet Jackson has just signed on to open the Nov. 22 live broadcast with a special opening medley.
This marks the second time the ‘Control’ singer has opened a major award show this year. A few months ago, she performed ‘Scream’ in tribute to her late brother Michael Jackson at the ‘MTV Video Music Awards.’
American Music Awards producer Larry Klein couldn’t be happier to have Jackson on the show’s roster. He said, “We’re thrilled about having Janet Jackson open this year’s show. She is an incredibly dynamic performer and I think the audience will be excited to see what she has in store.”
Jackson joins previously announced performers include Rihanna, Green Day, Shakira, Lil’ Wayne, Mary J. Blige, Keith Urban, Lady Gaga, Eminem, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, The Black Eyed Peas, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie UnderwoodbDaughtry and Adam Lambert. 
Jackson has a busy schedule lined up in the next few months. On Nov. 18, she will sit down with Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts for her first interview since the death of her brother. Her second compilation album, a two-disc set called ‘Number Ones’ will be released on Nov. 17. The album includes a new single ‘Make Me,’ produced by Rodney Jerkins and Jackson. She also is hitting the big scree, again. Jackson just wrapped shooting of ‘Why Did I Get married Too,’ the sequel to the successful 2007 Tyler Perry-helmed flick. A trailer for the film hit the Web last week.
Janet Jackson Photos
Singer Janet Jackson (R) and musician Will I. Am (L) attend the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011175), contact FilmMagic.com
WireImage.com
Singer Janet Jackson attends the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011173), contact FilmMagic.com
WireImage.com
Musician Will I. Am (L) and singer Janet Jackson (R) attend the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011174), contact FilmMagic.com
WireImage.com
Singer Janet Jackson (R) and Musician Will I. Am (R) attend the UFC 104: Machida vs. Shogun Celebrities In Attendance at Staples Center on October 24, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..UFC 104 Los Angeles – Celebrities In The Crowd.Staples Center.Los Angeles, CA United States.October 24, 2009.Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (17011172), contact FilmMagic.com
WireImage.com
Janet Jackson attends the ‘Mario de Janeiro Testino’ book launch at Cafe Carmen on October 5, 2009 in Paris, France..”Mario de Janeiro Testino” Book Launch – PFW Spring/Summer 2010.Cafe Carmen.Paris, France.October 5, 2009.Photo by Julien Hekimian/WireImage.com..To license this image (58567448), contact WireImage.com
WireImage.com
PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson and photographer Patrick Demarchelier attend the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
Getty Images
PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson attends the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
Getty Images
PARIS – OCTOBER 03: Janet Jackson attends the Jean-Paul Gaultier Pret a Porter show during Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 3, 2009 in Paris, France. (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
Getty Images
PARIS – OCTOBER 02: Janet Jackson arrives at the Lanvin Pret a Porter show as part of the Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 2, 2009 in Paris, France (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
Getty Images
PARIS – OCTOBER 02: Janet Jackson arrives at the Lanvin Pret a Porter show as part of the Paris Womenswear Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 on October 2, 2009 in Paris, France (Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)
Getty Images
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Whitney Houston: Returning to the American Music Awards in a Big Way
Posted by: | CommentsWhitney Houston I Look To You
Whitney Houston is ready to show just how strong she is on primetime television.
On Nov. 22, the 46 year-old entertainer will sing her Diane Warren-penned ballad ‘I Didn’t Know My Own Strength’ on the ’37th Annual American Music Awards’ telecast. The song is a featured single from her seventh studio album ‘I Look To You,’ which debuted atop the charts and remains marked the biggest first week sales of her career.
The ‘I Will Always love You’ singer’s AMA performance will be her first time on the show in a decade. She previously performed ‘Until You Come Back’ and ‘My love Is Your love‘ with Babyface and Wyclef Jean on the 1999 telecast. I
t will also mark her first primetime U.S. network performance in five years since appearing on the ‘World Music Awards’ in 2004.
According to a rep for Dick Clark Productions, Houston will also be presented with the American Music Awards International Artist Award, in recognition of “special artists who have gone beyond the borders of their own country to be acknowledged for their superstar status around the globe.” She becomes the eighth honoree to join a elite group of award-winning recipients, including Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart, Led Zeppelin, the Bee Gees, Aerosmith, Madonna and Beyoncé.
Previously announced American Music Award acts include Rihanna, Green Day, Shakira, Mary J. Blige, Keith Urban, Lady Gaga, Eminem, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez, The Black Eyed Peas, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Daughtry and Adam Lambert. The American Music Awards will broadcast live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles on Nov. 22 at 8 PM EST on ABC.
Since releasing her 1985 self-titled debut, Whitney Houston has become one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Though her signature voice and amazing vocal range made her a household name, this New Jersey native made headlines for her marriage to New Edition singer Bobby Brown, her alleged drug use and her recent relationship with Ray J. On the cusp of Houston’s latest comeback album, ‘I Look to You,’ Blackvoices.com takes a look at the singer throughout the years.
BHM MEDIA NEW
While on a family vacation with Tom and Suri, Katie Holmes hit the beach near Rio de Janeiro in this blue one piece.
bauergriffinonline.com
Rihanna hits the stage at the NFL Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert in a pair of knee-high black boots. What do you think about the pop singer’s look?
Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images for NFL
Mischa Barton wore this Elie Saab couture mint green gown to the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville. Is Mischa’s look a hit or miss?
Eric Ryan, Getty Images
Heroes star Hayden Panettiere arrives at the NBC Universal Pre-Super Bowl event at Portofino in a black tuxedo jacket and dress with a plunging neckline. Is the Hollywood starlet hot or not?
Gerardo Mora, Getty Images
Diane Kruger wore Nina Ricci for the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville. Is her dress a mess or amazing?
Eric Ryan, Getty Images
Kim Kardashian opted for this floral strapless Tracey Reese dress for the 2009 Moves Magazine Super Bowl Party at The Venue Club. Let us know what you think about Kim’s look.
Tim Boyles, Getty Images
Burlesque beauty Dita Von Teese wore an ice blue Elie Saab (left) satin dress at the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville.
Dominique Charriau, WireImage
spanish actress Penelope Cruz appeared at the the 2009 Goya Cinema Awards in Madrid in this black lace Chanel gown. Is it a win or a loss?
Carlos Alvarez, Getty Images
Amy Adams wore a Jasmine di Milo gold and silver sequin backless dress and Christian Louboutin heels to the 61st Annual Directors Guild of America Awards.
Frazer Harrison, Getty Images
Being thousands of miles away didn’t stop Meryl Streep from celebrating the inauguration. The actress wore this Catherine Malandrino flag dress to the Paris premiere of Doubt.
Julien Hekimian, WireImage
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Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth: Reuniting with Donald Trump For All-New Dating Show
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Television, News, Celeb Updates
With the winter season steadily approaching, many hopeless romantics are prepping their fire wood in anticipation of quality time with loved ones. All of which leads to one particular reality star who is currently on the hunt for new love.
Former ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ finalist Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth is set to reunite and partner with real estate/reality TV tycoon Donald J. Trump for an all-new TV One reality dating series aptly titled ‘Omarosa’s Ultimate Merger.’
The Youngstown, Ohio native will attempt to find a new flame by putting 12 successful eligible bachelors through an array of challenges to test each man’s business acumen, seductive strengths, and their true intentions to dating her.
“Omarosa was a great personality on the ‘Apprentice’ that was watched by over 40 million people as it became the #1 show on TV,” Trump said. “Omarosa is smart, witty, and difficult, but all of these qualities will make for some very interesting entertainment.”
“I am very excited to partner with the great Comcast Corporation and TV One,” he continued. “They really stepped up to the plate to do this deal. TV One is making a huge impression on the cable landscape with this tremendous new show.”
Not one to shy away from the cameras, viewers can expect the famous billionaire turned entertainment mogul to make special appearances on the show to offer advice on who should get the boot.
Show producers were very fixed on creating a distinctive dating show for prime time television, in addition to scaling to the network’s “cable budget.”
“The challenge was coming up with not just your typical dating show,” said Executive Producer Robert Horowitz. “This is the biggest show TV One has done in the relationship space. The challenge womarosaas creating a prime time-style relationship series on a cable budget.”
“Omarosa is known for her drive to succeed and her take-no-prisoners attitude, and watching her use these qualities in her love life will make for great TV,” he added.
‘Omarosa’s Ultimate Merger’ is currently being shot at Las Vegas’ Trump International Hotel and Tower. The show is tentatively scheduled to next spring.
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Toni Braxton: Separates From Husband, Keri Lewis
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, Gossip, News, Celeb Updates
Last week, multi-platinum singer Toni Braxton made it quite evident that she wanted to be back on the market.
The former ‘Dancing With The Stars’ contestant gave a rather enticing performance of her new single, ‘Yesterday,’ at a taping of the 2009 Soul Train Awards, which featured her sharing a kiss with singer Trey Songz.
As if that wasn’t convincing enough, Toni Braxton Essence.com has reported that Braxton and former Mint Condition member-husband, Keri Lewis, has finally called it quits after eight years of marriage.
Ironically enough, the two were seen together at last Tuesday’s Soul Train Awards taping. Head over to Essence for more details.
Black Music Notes Mar. 19
3/19/09: Rihanna / Chris Brown
Contrary to previous claims that Rihanna and Chris Brown reunited in the studio last month to record a new duet, record producer Polow Da Don recently confirmed that the couple recorded the newly surfaced track last year. “The reports are inaccurate,” Polow’s publicist, Laura Wright, told US magazine. “The duet was recorded long before the incident.” According to People, the track, reportedly titled ‘Bad Girl,’ was intended to be on the soundtrack for ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic,’ but the song was eventually recorded by the Pussycat Dolls.
Frank Micelotta, Getty Images
3/19/09: Kanye West / The Dream
Seven years ago this month, music heavyweights R. Kelly and Jay-Z released their highly anticipated collaborative album ‘The Best of Both Worlds.’ Now it appears Kanye West and The Dream are vying to work on a similar project. “Everybody is trying to talk us into it,” Dream told ‘MTV News’ of his and West’s friends and business associates. “It was first thought of by me. I was in Miami at the time, and I gave Kanye a call and said, ‘The best thing would be for me and you to do an album.’… Let’s take the best of both worlds and put it on a CD and try to make something we can sell to the consumers. He says he’s with it. We’re gonna try to make it happen.” For now, you can catch Kanye on Dream’s potential third single ‘Walking on the Moon,’ which is featured on his newly released album ‘love vs. money.’
Getty Images
3/19/09: The Miracles
Legendary Motown group The Miracles is the latest musical act to receive a Hollywood star on the world-renowned Walk of Fame. The ‘Ooo Baby, Baby’ singers were presented with the 2,381st star on March 20 by Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO Leron Gubler. Motown founder Berry Gordy and Stevie Wonder were also on hand as guest speakers for the ceremony.
Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images
3/19/09: Chester Gregory
After several years of blowing audiences away on the ‘Great White Way,’ Broadway Star and R&B soul recording artist Chester Gregory is preparing the release of his debut album ‘In Search of High love.’ The March 31 release finds the multitalented singer introducing himself as a thoughtful and sensitive songwriter blessed with a voice that captivates and demands attention. “While I’ve thoroughly enjoyed performing on Broadway — eight shows a week and telling other people’s amazing stories — now it’s time for me to share my own,” explained Gregory. Highlights of ‘In Search of High love‘ include the poetic ‘Clouds to the Ground,’ the crossover-bound ‘Say it’s Over’ and Jackie Wilson’s soaring 1967 chart-topper ‘Higher and Higher.’
Jemal Countess, WireImage
3/19/09: Sammy Davis Jr.
Altovise Davis, the widow of Rat Pack member Sammy Davis Jr. , recently died at the age of 65. Two days prior to her death, she was admitted to Los Angeles’Cedars-Sinai Medical Center after suffering a stroke. The couple, who met in 1967 on the set of the musical ‘Golden Boy,’ married in 1970 and remained together until Davis’ untimely death of throat cancer in 1990.
Evening Standard / Getty Images
3/19/09: Earth, Wind & Fire
Iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Earth, Wind & Fire is set to hit the road this summer for a 30-city tour beginning June 5 in Orange Beach, AL. In addition to Maurice White and company gracing the stage will be pop-rock band Chicago, which will perform a full show before joining for a final set together, according to Billboard. The tour will conclude on Aug. 1 in Lake Tahoe, NV.
Santiago Llanquin / AP
3/19/09: Kim Burrell
Gospel vocalist Kim Burrell is on deck to release her first new album in nine years titled ‘No Ways Tired.’ The project’s title is inspired by gospel pioneer James Cleveland‘s classic of the same name. In addition to covering Cleveland’s hit, Burrell also tapped other timeless classics including ‘My Faith Looks Up to Thee,’ ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus,’ ‘O Lamb of God,’ and ‘I Surrender All.’ There are also a few originals. ‘No Ways Tired’ is set to hit stores April 7 via Shanachie records.
Zomba
3/19/09: Mike Jones
Despite being on hiatus since the release of his debut album ‘Who Is Mike Jones?’ Houston’s own Mike Jones is ready to make his mark on the charts once again with the release of ‘The Voice.’ Jones’ sophomore effort is packed with some of the industry’s most talented artist including, Lil’ Wayne, T-pain, Devin the Dude, Hurricane Chris and Twista. He’s had recent success with his latest single ‘Next To You,’ which is currently number 16 on Radio and records Rhythmic charts. “For the past four years, I have been doing a lot of restructuring, getting this record right, making sure my business is right and more,” Jones said of his hiatus. “Now, I am ready to finish what I started. I’m hoping my fans will feel ‘The Voice’ was worth the wait.” Mike Jones ‘The Voice’ is due in stores April 28.
Gilbert Carrasquillo, FilmMagic
3/19/09: Prince
With the recent announcement that Michael Jackson will return to the stage this summer, another influential artist is also planning to make his return. Beginning March 25, Prince will be performing on the ‘Tonight Show with Jay Leno’ for three consecutive nights. In addition, the ‘Little Red Corvette’ singer is also readying the Mar. 29 release of his two new albums ‘LOtUSFLOW3R’ and ‘MPLSoUND.’ Prince is the latest artist to promote a release through multiple late-night talk show performances. U2 also recently performed five nights in a row on the ‘Late Show with David Letterman’ in support of its new album ‘No Line on the Horizon.’
Kevin Winter, NCLR / Getty Images
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Steve Harvey: His New Wife is the Woman Who Changed His Life
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Movies, Television, Radio, Family Affairs, romance, Magazines and Newspapers
Steve Harvey is a changed man – and that’s largely due to the new lady in his life.
But when it comes to his third wife, Marjorie Bridges Harvey, whom he married in June 2007, she’s not new at all. The pair met 17 years ago and dated briefly. And although the popular comedian, top-rated radio personality and best-selling author first saw the hazel-eyed beauty during a comedy club appearance in Memphis, where he declared that she would be his wife, both parties went on to build separate families.
But they didn’t live happily ever after with their respective former spouses.
Steve and Marjorie open up to best-selling author Denene Milner about their rekindled love and newfound happiness in the December edition of Essence magazine, which officially arrives on newsstands Nov. 12.
Steve Harvey Act Like
“You’re looking at two people who were messing up for real and making bad decisions without conferring with God,” he shared. “But the fact that you can mess up that many times and still come out okay is a testament to just the grace and mercy of God, man. He took us all the way around the block, halfway around the world, and we got back to each other.”
The missus, who has three children from her previous marriage, told a candid story about how one of ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ almost let her slip through his fingers after reconnecting; one night, he accepted a phone call from another woman in front of her.
“I was just at a point where I was like, ‘If what you want is the same thing as what I want, then great. But if it’s not, it doesn’t make you wrong and me right or vice versa. It just means we’re not in the same place,’” she recalled. “What I’m not going to do is sit here and be in something where I’m not happy and not getting what I want. I wasn’t afraid to walk away.”
Harvey snapped into shape in short order. He made a commitment and rose to the occasion.
Two years later, the two are still going strong.
“I mean, there’s not two days that go by when one of us doesn’t look at the other and say, ‘Man, you’re the best thing that ever happened to me in my entire life,’” he said.
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Filed under: Television
Last year’s ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ reunion, which featured a previously soft-spoken Lisa Wu Hartwell threatening to flip Kim Zolciak over the couch garnered some of the network’s highest ratings.
Unfortunately, part two of the season two reunion show –which premiered Nov.5 — turned out to be even less lively than the first Bravo special.
Zolciak,, was the focus of the first reunion special — with host Andy Cohen‘s many questions about her rumored fiancé Big Poppa, who allegedly showed up to the taping (but wasn’t shown on camera).
There was a lot of back and forth about an alleged off-camera physical altercation between Zolciak and her on-again, off-again gal pal Nene Leakes too but a real turning point in the show involved a man and his endowment. And we’re not talking about money either.
The ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer disclosed that Dwight Eubanks, commonly referred to as “The Fifth Housewife” has a penile implant.
The Purple Door salon owner, who revealed to BV Newswire two weeks ago that he was bisexual, had no qualms with admitting his package enhancement. He even compared it to women having breast implants.
Hartwell also got testy with Eubanks over his critique of her “fashion show,” but he offered up no apologies.
Alas, Leakes and Hartwell didn’t hide their laughter when Zolciak took the stage singing her ‘Tardy for the Party’ dance hit.
Zolciak (to her credit) sang live and accompanied by background dancers, but looked out-of-place on the stage. The mother of two also admitted to being a waitress at Atlanta strip club, Cheetah – denying rumors she was ever a stripper.
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Jennifer Hudson: Ready For Baby Number Two
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, Television, News, Family Affairs
jennifer hudson
Jennifer Hudson wants a dreamgirl of her own.
The Academy Award-winning actress/singer just gave birth to her son David, but is already excited to have baby number two.
The former ‘American Idol’ finalist told Access Hollywood, “Maybe one more, I’d like to have at least one more, a little girl.”
“I want a girl and then maybe another one,” she continued. “You know, one baby at a time.”
According to TV Guide.com, Hudson is set to perform some of her favorite Christmas songs on an ABC special holiday special.” In it, she returns home to Chicago to visit with family members, friends and some of her childhood influences.
And, though she has bounced back from last year’s tragic loss of her mother, brothJennifer Hudsoner and nephew, the 27 year-old and her fiancé, ‘I love New York 2′ contestant, David Otunga have yet to decide what city to call home.
“That is where all the family is,” Hudson said of the Windy City. “I feel like he should be surrounded by family. That’s where the biggest support system is and if we live somewhere else, then we will have to bring the family wherever we are.”
‘Jennifer Hudson: I’ll Be Home for Christmas” is slated to air on ABC in Dec.
Head over to People.com for more details.
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Notable/Quotable: Gabrielle Union On Receiving Flowers From Men
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Movies, Star Quotes, Magazines and Newspapers
Gabrielle Union
“If it’s a choice between a man who gives flowers and a man who enjoys giving oral, most women would take the oral. And it’s free. Oral sex is recession-proof.”
– Actress Gabrielle Union on her preference in receiving fellatio over flowers from men. (Men’s Health)
Gabrielle Union Pictures
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – AUGUST 20: Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at InStyle Magazine’s 8th annual Summer Soiree held at the London Hotel on August 20, 2009 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
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WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – AUGUST 20: Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at InStyle Magazine’s 8th annual Summer Soiree held at the London Hotel on August 20, 2009 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
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Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at the InStyle Magazine’s Summer Soiree at The London Hotel on August 20, 2009 in West Hollywood, California..InStyle Magazine’s Summer Soiree – Arrivals.The London Hotel.West Hollywood, CA United States.August 20, 2009.Photo by Jordan Strauss/WireImage.com..To license this image (58144061), contact WireImage.com
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PASADENA, CA – AUGUST 08: Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at Disney-ABC Television Group Summer Press Tour Party at The Langham Hotel on August 8, 2009 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
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PASADENA, CA – AUGUST 08: Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at Disney-ABC Television Group Summer Press Tour Party at The Langham Hotel on August 8, 2009 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
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Gabrielle Union arrives at the 2009 Disney-ABC Televison Group Summer Press Tour at The Langham Resort on August 8, 2009 in Pasadena, California..2009 Disney-ABC Televison Group Summer Press Tour.The Langham Resort.Pasadena, CA United States.August 8, 2009.Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic.com..To license this image (16900647), contact FilmMagic.com
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WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – JULY 29: Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at the Express Celebrates TXT L8TR Campaign on July 29, 2009 at Nobu, in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
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WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – JULY 29: Actress Gabrielle Union arrives at the Express Celebrates TXT L8TR Campaign on July 29, 2009 at Nobu, in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
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Actress Gabrielle Union attends Express Celebrates TXT L8TR Denim Campaign Launch Party at Nobu on July 29, 2009 in West Hollywood, California..The Hit The Road TXT L8TR Campaign Hosted By Express And Elle Magazine – Arrivals.Nobu West Hollywood.West Hollywood, CA United States.July 29, 2009.Photo by Dr. Billy Ingram/WireImage.com..To license this image (58009480), contact WireImage.com
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Gabrielle Union attends The Hit the Road TXT L8TR Campaign Event at Nobu on July 29, 2009 in Los Angeles, California..Express TXT L8TR Campaign Launch.Nobu.Los Angeles, CA United States.July 29, 2009.Photo by Stefanie Keenan/WireImage.com..To license this image (58010239), contact WireImage.com
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Southland: NBC Cancels Series, TNT Picks It Up
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Television, News
They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
That adage may prove to be true when it comes to the drama behind the drama series ‘Southland.’
Starting Jan.12, TNT will begin airing episodes of the critically-acclaimed show from Emmy Award-winning producer John Wells.
The news comes following NBC’s abrupt cancellation on Oct. 8 of the drama, which starred actress Regina King as a detective with unresolved family issues.
TNT has obtained exclusive rights to air the six episodes from the second season of the show, which were never aired after several push-backs and time-slot changes. The network will also have the rights to show the seven episodes from Southland’s first season.
Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks, said, “This is a great win for fans of Southland and a perfect opportunity to introduce the series to new viewers.” “It is also another outstanding example of how TNT has established itself as the go-to place for the best dramas on television.”
‘Southland,’ which premiered in April 2009, follows a group of Los Angeles cops. King as Detective Lydia Adams, who balances her hectic job with serving as her mother’s primary caregiver. ‘Southland’ also stars Michael Cudlitz, Ben McKenzie, Michael McGrady, Tom Everett Scott, Kevin Alejandro, Arija Bareikis and Shawn Hatosy.
‘Southland’ will air Tuesdays at 10 PM EST.
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Morris Chestnut: Returning to Roots with New ‘V’ TV Series
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Television, Celeb Updates
Boyz n The Hood
Black Hollywood heart-throb Morris Chestnut is making a return to where he began; the ‘Boyz n the Hood’ actor stars in the new ABC series ‘V,’ which premieres Nov. 3 at 8 p.m. ET.
The thrilling new drama is a reimagining of the hit 1980s series about the world’s first alien encounter. With huge spaceships simultaneously appearing over 29 cities around the world, the Visitors (or V’s) seem to promote a message of peace. Through their generous offer to share advanced technology, the V’s quickly build a following that may be overlooking a more malevolent agenda.
Chestnut plays Ryan Nichols, a Wall Street whiz who is faced with a life-altering decision when the V’s show up. It’s a long way from his early days – where he cut his teeth starring in the Patti LaBelle-fronted sitcom in the early 1990s.
Since then, he’s become a urban movie box-office draw with movies such as ‘The Best Man,’ ‘Two Can Play That Game’ and ‘Not Easily Broken.’
Doing a show like nothing else currently on TV is what prompted the Cerritos, California native to get back into the small screen.
“This was not a science-fiction show that was going to be driven by special effects,” he told USA Today. “This was a science-fiction show that was going to be driven by the characters with special effects as a backdrop, and that was what appealed to me.”
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Real Houswives of Atlanta: Reunited, Drama-Free & Leaving More to be Desired
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Atlanta’s Opera nightclub served as the setting for the highly anticipated season two reunion of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta.’ But unlike last year’s drama-filled reunion, in which Lisa Wu Hartwell threatened to throw Kim Zolciak over the couch, the Oct. 29 special was relatively fireworks free.
Bravo’s Andy Cohen wasn’t able to muster a lot of details from the ladies, leaving fans disappointed by the most well-known and talked group in the ‘Housewives’ franchise.
Instead of rocking her own clothing line, She by Sheree, Sheree Whitfield wore a Dolce and Gabbana frock. One viewer asked Whitfield whether she was a lesbian, to which Whitfield replied, “Get a life. I am okay with who I am, and I like men. Sorry, Kate.” She denied the rumors that she had a boob job, adding, “No, good bra.”
Nene Leakes disclosed that she still has not found her biological father or taken a paternity test with the man she believes is her father because he is an alcoholic. The ‘Never Make the Same Mistake Twice’ author said she and Zolciak got into a fight because of rumors started by ‘Housewives’ stars from other counties.
Real Housewives
Cohen probed about the Leakes-Zolciak choking incident, but Zolciak refused to answer his question, adding, “And so what? We [need to] move on to something else. Like I said, I’m going to say it again, we’ve moved passed it. We’ve had a conversation. I know she wishes me to be successful, I wish her the same f***ing thing.”
Cohen joked, “Am I alone in not buying this?”
He refused to let the ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer keep him out of the loop about her relationship with a married man. Although Zolciak initially denied being with her mystery boyfriend, Big Poppa, who is reportedly Atlanta real estate mogul Lee Najjar, Cohen spilled the beans on that lie. Apparently, Big Poppa, who proposed to the mother of two during the taping of season two of ‘Housewives,’ turned up during a commercial break to give Zolciak a kiss.
“When I got the ring, I was led to believe that the divorce was over. I made a mistake,” she said.
Of his wife, who is also is named Kimberly, Zolciak said, “She’s fully aware. He is with me five or six days a week, [but] about six weeks ago, I was like ‘I’m not going to do this anymore and here I am.”
She charged, “I wish you would get the hell off of Big Poppa.”
“How do you support yourself?” Cohen inquired.
“My song. I worked as a nurse and waited table at Bahama Breeze. I saved my money and have been very smart,” she replied.
Lisa Wu Hartwell, who wore an outfit from her Closet Freak line, said she isn’t broke but that she and her husband, Ed Hartwell, downsized instead of living beyond their means. She is still working on having a baby.
Grammy-Award winning singer-songwriter Kandi Burruss, the newest member of the bunch, was very emotional as she discussed the death of her ex-fiance, Ashley “A.J.” Jewell. She said they called off their engagement in June, shortly after taping the series because her mother and A.J. had a blowout fight.
“When I look back at it, I see a lot of the things that she had seen, but I wish that she went about it a different way,” Burruss said, adding that she was the first person to arrive at the hospital when she got the news that he died.
Part two of the reunion special of ‘Housewives’ will feature an appearance from Dwight Eubanks, whom many call the sixth housewife. Zolciak will also perform her single ‘Tardy for the Party.’
Part Two of the Reunion airs Nov. 5 at 10 p.m. EST on Bravo.
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Roxanne Shante: Coming Clean, Saying Sorry, Being Thankful and Fighting Cancer
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, Health, Magazines and Newspapers
In April, a New York Daily News article about how ’80s rap music pioneer Roxanne Shante forced her record company to finance her college education (resulting in a degree from Marymount Manhattan College and a Ph.D. in psychology from Cornell University) tugged at the heart-strings of Hip Hop America. Soon after, a firestorm of controversy ensued when an article on Slate.com debunked the inspiring story.
Roxanne Shante (nee Lolita Shante Gooden) is widely recognized as the first female hip hop artist to break through the male dominated industry. At the age of 16, she became a household name with songs including ‘Roxanne’s Revenge’ – an “answer” record responding to U.T.F.O.’s popular ‘Roxanne, Roxanne.’
She offers Blackvoices.com some insight on the controversy and her very real life battle with breast cancer … in her own words.
In March, I noticed a lump in my left breast, rather small at the time and didn’t really know what I was feeling. So instead of going straight to the doctor‘s office, I started asking friends their opinion and trying to go by their experiences. It was such a stupid move. Well, I figured I was just getting older. A hysterectomy in my early thirties led me to believe that I would be fine. Another stupid move.
I let months go by – five months to be exact. The weight loss of over 40 pounds made me feel like, “Damn, this diet is finally working.” But then I remembered I wasn’t on a diet. So on a bright, sunny day in August 2009, I walked into Doshi center for a mammogram. I put on the gown and stepped up to the machine. As soon as the technician took my breast in her hand, she asked me how long had I had the lump. It’s huge, she said. I made a joke, she giggled, but I was scared and angry that I had waited so long.
I was in denial. I event went so far as to ignore the letters sent by the lab that read: “Urgent!!! Please contact us.”
I had gotten a call from the doctor, “I just received your images at my office and they have been trying to reach you for weeks. As soon as you get back to New York, you come to my office. This is your life.”
I hung up, turned the phone off, walked out on the set and tried to pretend that the call never happen. But they did. And it showed on my face.
The doctors was a different story, however.
This is how the week went. Headlines: ‘No Ph.D. Roxanne’s Revenge,’ ‘Where are you Roxanne?’
It was the ’80s all over again, but this time not to spark a career but to end over 10 years of charities, pushing education and giving and helping people and not too mention 25 years of hip-hop. But that’s nothing new. What about my children ? My 13-yea-old ? What if I die? So Tuesday another mamo, Wednesday ultrasound Thursday the bad news and then the surgery.
So I felt all eyes were on me to tell women how important it is for them to get checked. It is only by the grace of God that I have been able to survive. I have been blessed to not only have survived the pitfalls of an industry that has destroyed so many, but to also survive just the everyday struggles of surviving all the negative that has come my way .
Do I apologize? Yes, I do. But I am not asking for your forgiveness. I am sorry about a lot of things that I should’ve done differently. There were quite a few things that have been exposed with that article; the fact that I never received any royalties, the fact that I did go on to attend college (even if no Ph.D. was acquired), and the fact that at 14 years old and coming straight from the group home, I wRoxanne Shanteent on to create a career that even after 20 years of not making a hit record, was still pulling headlines.
My platform was only telling our young people to educate themselves before getting in this industry, and that your lawyer, accountant, manager and record company shouldn’t all be under one roof or work together. No one ever told me that, so I felt the need to pass that along to our young people.
And now I have another testimony.
To be called Dr. Roxanne Shante was and is a privilege. But with that privilege comes pressure. I also had to live and talk like someone with a doctorate–not an easy task at all. I had to make sure that people felt healed and inspired after speaking with me.
And you know what? I accomplished that every time. But only with God’s help.
So, yes, I apologize to all those who applied themselves and put in all the hard work that is required to acquire a Ph.D. I admire you all. But don’t discredit all the hard work and sacrifices so many others have also done to also reach their goals.
I apologize again but I don’t request your forgiveness, because I have already been forgiven by who matters: God. Sorry I can’t hold my head down because my crown may fall off.
Life begins at 40.
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Wendy Williams: Ready for November Sweeps with Major Celebrity Bookings
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Don’t believe the (mainstream) hype of Wendy Williams having a hard time getting talent bookings for the first season of her talk show. It doesn’t appear to be true.
Although the New York Daily News reported that a slew of A-list African-Americans … have all refused to visit the former radio shock jock and New York Times’ best-selling author’s couch, what the show’s producers have in store for November sweeps contWendy Williams Ritz harperradict that.
According to a rep, a battery of celebrity notables have been confirmed to appear including: television personality Mario Lopez (10/29), tabloid mainstay Paris Hilton (11/4), comedienne Wanda Sykes (11/6), comedienne Fran Drescher, Food Network stars Gina & Patrick Neely (11/18), fashion icon Iman (11/12), R & B sensation Ray J (11/12), Hollywood legend Diahann Carroll (11/13), former ‘Charlie’s Angel’ Jaclyn Smith (11/19), and teen singing sensation Justin Beiber (11/27), to name a few.
Also throughout the month, Williams will host vibrant theme shows including: the “Leopard Show” (11/3), which will have her studio coming to the show decked out in leopard garb; the “Cocktail Party Day” (11/5), featuring an audience gussied up in their best cocktail attire; and “Fabulous Shoe Day” (11/12) on which she asks her audience to strut their stuff in their favorite footwear and asks supermodel Iman to weigh in on her favorite heels.
Mel B Pictures
In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**
AP
In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl “Mel B” poses for a photo wearing a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness, after a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**
AP
In this undated image released by Oxfam Tuesday Sept. 23, 2008, British singer Mel B participates in the ‘In My Name’ global campaign calling for action against poverty and demanding world leaders keep their promises on millennium development goals. (AP Photo/Oxfam, HO) ** NO SALES **
AP
In this photo provided by Kraft Foods, Spice Girl Mel B, left, serves as the emcee at a fashion show and launch of “Pose for the Cure” web site to help Kraft Foods raise money for the ‘Susan G. Komen for the Cure’ fight against breast cancer in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. Mel B wears a T-shirt she designed based on the classic pink ribbon used for breast cancer awareness. The shirt is for sale on the web site and the net proceeds will benefit the foundation. The woman at right is unidentified. (AP Photo/Kraft Foods, Ray Stubblebine) **NO SALES**
AP
NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )
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NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Ultimo Scottish designer lingerie brand founder Michelle Mone (L) and pop singer Melanie Brown pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )
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NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )
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NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard (R) pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )
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NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown and singer Aubrey O’Day (R) poses backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )
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NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 09: Pop singer Melanie Brown, Olympic-level swimmer and model Amanda Beard, singer Aubrey O’Day and TV personality and designer Khloe Kardashian pose backstage at the Mel B With Ultimo Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at the Metropolitan Pavilion on September 9, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images )
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Chris Brown: Makes Comeback At Powerhouse Concert
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This week has been quite busy for Chris Brown — to say least. On Monday, the ‘Gimme That’ singer officially announced the Dec. 15 release date for his forthcoming album ‘Graffiti.’ On Tuesday, Brown premiered his new video ‘I Can Transform Ya,’ in addition to taking the stage for a headlining performance at Power 105.1′s Powerhouse ’09 concert. The concert marked Brown’s first stage performance since his Feb. assault of then-girlfriend Rihanna. Head over to ‘MTV News’ for a complete recap of the show.
Meanwhile check out what Omarion and Polow Da Don had to say about Chris’ comeback below.
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Tasha Smith: On A Roll, Coaching Actors & Readying Tyler Perry’s ‘Married’ Sequel
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Movies, News, Celeb Updates
Tasha Smith – the scene-stealing diva from Tyler Perry‘s 2007 romantic drama ‘Why Did I Get married?’ — is enjoying the success of another box-office success story this year; she has a cameo in Vince Vaughan‘s latest comedy, ‘Couples Retreat.’
Many don’t know that Smith is a pro at acting roles due to the fact that she’s a sought after acting coach who has worked with some of the more popular black television and film actors on the scene. 
The Camden, New Jersey native is bringing her acting workshop to New York City this weekend, and is confirmed for a jaunt in Atlanta at the top of the year. (Official details here.)
Smith just wrapped the sequel to ‘Why Did I Get Married,’ which is expected to arrive in theaters on April 2, 2010.
“I loved working on the sequel,” Smith told BV Newswire today. “What was on the page in the script does not compare to what we ended up doing once we started filming on the set. Tyler took it to a whole new level. If you thought [my character] Angela was wild and crazy in the first one, you will not believe what my character is doing in the sequel. I can’t wait for everyone to see it!”Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married
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Rihanna: Heading to the HIgh Seas with Royal Caribbean
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, Celeb Updates
Rihanna has gone into overdrive with promoting her fourth album, ‘Rated R.’ The Barbados native just released her new single ‘Russian Roulette’ and is planning a major performance a few days before her Def Jam release drops.
On Nov. 19, the Covergirl Cosmetics spokeswoman will surprise a few lucky fans when she performs aboard a private three-night sailing on Royal Caribbean’s new Oasis of the Seas cruise ship.
According to a spokesperson, the vessel is the world’s largest and will sail from its home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Rihanna fans can win a chance to see the Grammy Award-winner by texting keywords announced on Clear Channel radio stations from Oct. 26 through Nov. 6.
The ‘Umbrella’ singer will become the first performer to take the stage of the Oasis’ revolutionary amphitheater-style space, the AquaTheatre, which transforms from pool by day to theater by night.
Rihanna’s ‘Rated R’ will hit stores on Nov. 23.
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Spotted: Boyz II Men & Disney’s First Black Princess
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The Princess and the Frog
Grammy Award winning R&B supergroup Boyz II Men (l-r Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman and Nathan Morris) were on hand for the big official debut of Princess Tiana (of the forthcoming animated movie ‘The Princess and the Frog’) at the Magic Kingdom in Lake Buena Vista, Florida on Oct. 26, 2009. The former Motown records hit-makers visited the world’s most famous amusement destination as part of Disneyworld’s annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, where they performed a string of hits during the “Eat to the Beat” event. Earlier in the day, the ‘End of the Road’ singers helped welcome Princess Tiana during her theme park debut, which included an official procession, a New Orleans-inspired second line parade, and a 15 minute musical presentation.
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Ledisi: Going ‘BLACKSTAGE’
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Following the debut of her #1 album ‘Turn Me Loose’ topping the charts in August, two-time Grammy Award nominee Ledisi steadily remains one of the most proactive artist within today’s music scene. In addition to her being nominated for Best Female R&B/Soul Artist and performing at this year’s Soul Train Music Awards, Ledisi is also slated to hit the road beginning Oct. 29 in Houston alongside Mint Condition and Eric Benet for the ‘Sexy Soul Tour.’ In midst of her diligent schedule, the New Orleans native found the time to give Blackvoices.com an exclusive look at her behind the scene. ledisi
Check Out Ledisi’s ‘BLACKSTAGE’ below.
BHM MEDIA NEW
While on a family vacation with Tom and Suri, Katie Holmes hit the beach near Rio de Janeiro in this blue one piece.
bauergriffinonline.com
Rihanna hits the stage at the NFL Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert in a pair of knee-high black boots. What do you think about the pop singer’s look?
Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images for NFL
Mischa Barton wore this Elie Saab couture mint green gown to the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville. Is Mischa’s look a hit or miss?
Eric Ryan, Getty Images
Heroes star Hayden Panettiere arrives at the NBC Universal Pre-Super Bowl event at Portofino in a black tuxedo jacket and dress with a plunging neckline. Is the Hollywood starlet hot or not?
Gerardo Mora, Getty Images
Diane Kruger wore Nina Ricci for the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville. Is her dress a mess or amazing?
Eric Ryan, Getty Images
Kim Kardashian opted for this floral strapless Tracey Reese dress for the 2009 Moves Magazine Super Bowl Party at The Venue Club. Let us know what you think about Kim’s look.
Tim Boyles, Getty Images
Burlesque beauty Dita Von Teese wore an ice blue Elie Saab (left) satin dress at the Fashion Dinner for Aids at the Pavillon d’Armenonville.
Dominique Charriau, WireImage
spanish actress Penelope Cruz appeared at the the 2009 Goya Cinema Awards in Madrid in this black lace Chanel gown. Is it a win or a loss?
Carlos Alvarez, Getty Images
Amy Adams wore a Jasmine di Milo gold and silver sequin backless dress and Christian Louboutin heels to the 61st Annual Directors Guild of America Awards.
Frazer Harrison, Getty Images
Being thousands of miles away didn’t stop Meryl Streep from celebrating the inauguration. The actress wore this Catherine Malandrino flag dress to the Paris premiere of Doubt.
Julien Hekimian, WireImage
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2009 Soul Train Awards: Nominees and Performers Announced
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As previously reported by BV Newswire, the 2009 Soul Train Awards is scheduled to tape at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center on Nov. 3. In addition to Academy Award nominated actors Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard hosting this year’s annual event, some of today’s most prominent music stars are scheduled to perform.
Network producers decided to assemble an all-star lineup including Toni Braxton, Trey Songz, Erykah Badu, Robin Thicke, Fantasia, Ryan Leslie, Chrisette Michelle, Raheem DeVaughn, Karyn White, Boyz II Men, Ledisi, Chico Debarge, Angie Stone, Brian McKnight, Ginuwine, Melanie Fiona, and Johnny Gill among others.
The two-hour ceremony will also honor the late, great Michael Jackson, who holds the record for most Soul Train awards won, with the special Entertainer of the Year Award.
As for this year’s nominations, pop superstar Beyonce alongside Keri Hilson, and Maxwell lead the pack with four nominations each.
In addition, this year’s show will honor the illustrious careers and musical influences of Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, L.A. Reid and Kenny “Baby Face” Edmonds.
Officially titled, ‘Centric Presents: 2009 Soul Train Awards Show,’ the event will premiere simultaneously on the new BET spin-off channel Centric and BET on Nov. 29 at 9 pm ET. Centric went live on air Sept. 28 via digital cable and satellite cable carriers.
Below is a complete list of nominees and categories.
BEST NEW ARTIST
o. Drake
o. Jazmine Sullivan
o. Keri Hilson
o. Ryan Leslie
o. Solange
BEST R&B/SOUL ARTIST FEMALE
o. Beyonce
o. Chrisette Michele
o. Jennifer Hudson
o. Ledisi
o. Whitney Houston
BEST MALE R&B/SOUL MALE
o. Charlie Wilson
o. Maxwell
o. Musiq Soulchild
o. Raphael Saadiq
o. Robin Thicke
SONG OF THE YEAR
o. “God in Me” – Mary Mary
o. “Pretty Wings” – Maxwell
o. “Single Ladies (Put a ring on it)” – Beyonce
o. “Spotlight” – Jennifer Hudson
o. “Turnin Me On” – Keri Hilson/ ft Lil Wayne
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
o. Beyonce – I am… Sasha Fierce (Platinum) Sony Music
o. Jamie Foxx – Intuition (Platinum) J records
o. Kanye West – 808s & Heartbreak (Platinum) Roc-A-Fella/Def Jam
o. Maxwell – Blacksummer’s Night (Gold) Sony Music
o. Ne-Yo – Year of the Gentleman
RECORD OF THE YEAR (SONGWRITER AWARD)
o. Beyonce – “Single Ladies (Put a ring on it)”
o. Drake – “Best I ever had”
o. Jamie Foxx Ft/T-pain – “Blame it”
o. Keri Hilson – “Knock You Down”
o. Maxwell – “Pretty Wings”
BEST REGGAE ARTIST AWARD
o. Movado
o. Sean Paul
o. Serani
o. Taurus Riley
o. Ziggy Marley
CENTRIC AWARD – SOUL APPROVED/UNDERGROUND
o. Corneille
o. Eric Roberson
o. Laura Izibor
o. Maysa
o. The Knux
BEST GOSPEL PERFORMANCE MALE, FEMALE OR GROUP
o. BeBe and CeCe Winans – “Close To You”
o. Fred Hammond f/John P Kee – “They That Wait”
o. Marvin Sapp – “Praise Him in Advance”
o. Mary Mary – “God In Me”
o. Smokie Norful – “Justified”
BEST COLLABORATION
o. Keri Hilson featuring Kanye West & Ne-Yo – “Knock you Down”
o. Keyshia Cole featuring Monica – “Trust”
o. Mario featuring Gucci Mane and Sean Garrett – “Break up”
o. Mary Mary featuring Kierra (KiKi) Sheard – “God In Me”
o. Trey Songz featuring Drake – “Successful”
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
o. Michael Jackson
Black Music Notes Oct. 7
10/7/09: Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey‘s new album ‘Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel’ debuted in #3 position on the Billboard Top 200 Album chart, selling only 167, 912 copies in its first week of release. Surprisingly, 67-year-old Barbra Streisand bagged the top spot — selling 180,415 copies of her latest covers collection, ‘love is the Answer.’ Also keeping Carey away from being numero uno; rock band Paramore, which opened at #2 with their new album ‘Brand New Eyes,’ with sales of 175,112.
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10/5/09: Meshell Ndegeocello
This week, Meshell Ndegeocelloreleases her latest album, ‘Devil’s Halo,’ and officially kicks off a promotional tour at New York City hot-spot, Highline Balroom. The three week club tour will have the rock & soul wunderkind performing in major cities across the country — including Chicago, Los Angeles and Minneapolis — before her final show Oct. 28 in Bellingham, Washington. All tour dates will include Meshell’s full band, featuring guitarist Chris Bruce, bassist Mark Kelley, keyboardist Keefus Ciancia and drummer Deantoni Parks.
Mark Seliger for Downtown Music
10/2/09: Mary J, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson:
Mary J. Blige, Stevie Wonder, and Jennifer Hudson are among the artists featured on Rod Stewart‘s forthcoming project titled ‘Soulbook.’ The J records release captures the Grammy Award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Famer covering a collection of classic soul favorites, including the Stylistics timeless classic ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New.’ “This is the album I’ve waited my whole lifetime to record,” Stewart stated. ‘Soulbook’ hits stores and digital retailers Oct. 27.
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10/2/09: 50 Cent/T.I.:
To capitalize off of its recent batch of ‘Behind the Music’ segments, VH1 has finally decided to take an introspective look at the careers of 50 Cent and T.I. The two multi-platinum rappers will be showcased in the network’s long running series in the coming weeks, which will cover their rise to fame. From T.I. describing the pros and cons of being a hip-hop superstar to Fifty detailing his success as an international mogul. ‘Behind the Music: T.I.’ premieres Oct. 8 at 10 pm/et, while ‘Behind the Music: 50 Cent’ airs Oct. 13 at 8 pm/et.
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10/2/09: Bootsy Collins, Teena Marie:
Beginning Nov. 1, TV One returns with all new episodes of their critically-acclaimed original biography series, ‘Unsung.’ The Gary Anthony Williams-narrated show, which examines and celebrates talented artists who are under-appreciated, will showcase Teena Marie, Bootsy Collins, Roger Troutman & Zapp, and Klymaxx in its third installment. ‘Unsung: Teena Marie’ premieres Nov. 1 at 8 pm/et followed by an encore at 11 pm/et.
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10/2/09: Akon:
International superstar Akon is showing support for breast cancer awareness month this weekend with his headlining performance at the Think Pink Rocks concert on Oct. 3. Hosted by BET’s Terrence and Rocsi, the star-studded charity benefit will also include performances by Canadian R&B songstress Melanie Fiona, Shontelle, and pop reggae trio American Yard. According to an event spokesperson, all proceeds will go to breast cancer charities and research.
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10/2/09: Pretty Ricky:
Following a controversial viral video clip from one of its most known members earlier this year, R&B group Pretty Ricky will finally release their third album, aptly titled ‘Pretty Ricky.’ The chart-topping group, which features Spectacular, Diamond Blue, Slick’Em, and their newest buddy/addition Lingerie, feels their Nov. 17 release is too good to explain. “The songs are too sensual to describe in words,” says Diamond. “You have to hear it to fully grasp the erotic experience of the records.” The group’s new lead single, ‘Tipsy In This Club,’ received a mixed response over the summer when Spectacular debuted the track via his eye-brow raising YouTube clip.
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9/28/09: Tupac Shakur/Martin Luther King Jr.
Late rap legend Tupac Shakur may be deceased, but he’s still in great company. His mother Afeni Shakur has donated a collection of his writing to the Robert W. Woodruff Library at Atlanta University Center. The library also houses The Martin Luther King Jr. Collection. More than 150 of his personal items, ranging from rough drafts of lyrics and poems to a photocopy of his contract with Suge Knight and Death Row records were given. The records are expected to be available for research in the fall of 2010.
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9/28/09: Ruben Studdard
Former ‘American Idol’ winner Ruben Studdard is heating up the airwaves with his latest single, ‘Don’t Make ‘Em Like U No More.’ The single, which is described as a “sleek and soulful R&B ode to everyone’s special someone,” is featured on the Grammy Award-nominated crooner’s current album, ‘love Is.’ In addition, Studdard will join Philip Bailey (of Earth, Wind & Fire) and Deborah Cox, among others, on Oct. 21 for the “David Foster and Friends Tour.” The trek kicks off in Chicago and concludes on Nov. 8 in Vancouver.
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9/28/09: Angie Stone
R&B diva Angie Stone is ready to hit fans with some surprising stuff! On Nov. 24, the brown-skin soul sister will release her second project, titled ‘Unexpected,’ on legendary label Stax records. According to Stone, the album’s title is a reflection of the direction that she took in recording the opus. “This album is something that no one would have anticipated coming from me,” she said. “My father always encouraged me and everyone else he knew to reach out and make a leap of faith, and that’s exactly what I’ve done.” ‘Unexpected’ features the lead single ‘I Ain’t Hearin’ U’ and the poignant ballad ‘Think Sometimes.’
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Chris Brown: Still Talking … About Being Mad at Oprah Winfrey
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, News, Celeb Updates, Radio, Legal
R&B crooner Chris Brown is talking to the media again. He’s promoting an upcoming album and last night (Oct. 21), the Virginia native paid a visit to hip hop radio personality Angie Martinez‘s popular New York City radio show. The 20-year-old singer – who was sentenced to180 days community service sentence after assaulting his girlfriend Rihanna – revealed that he is “tight” with media mogul Oprah Winfrey for not supporting him. He also vowed he will never hit another woman.
“I don’t diss Oprah because I respect her as a woman [and] what she does for women all over the world, but I just feel me and her did so many things together,” Brown stated. “I just felt that at the time where would’ve I need a helping hand — not to boost my career just me as a person — for her to reach out and talk to me and Rihanna or something and make it like, ‘look this is what it is, this is wrong, this is right, this is not what it’s supposed to be….’ I’m not saying having me on the show … just help. That’s all I was asking for. Because at the end of the day I thought [Oprah and I] had that relationship to where it could be like that.”
Shortly following the headline-grabbing altercation last February, Winfrey – who suffered domestic abuse, herself — told her international television audience: “If a man hits you once, he will hit you again.”
Brown doesn’t believe that comment applies to him.
“Statistically that goes into that, but me, I’m a guy who learns from his mistakes fast. I’m a guy who’s real like afraid of that, so I learn from my mistakes. I can be certain as Christopher Maurice Brown that it won’t happen (again),” he pledged. “At the end of the day, I’m doing my domestic violence counseling classes … and I see the hurt that it’s put a lot of people through. I’ve seen the hurt that it’s put my family through. Whether it’s been my family, Rihanna, [or] anybody and I don’t want to inflict that on anymore.”
Listen to more of the interview on Angie Martinez’s official website.Chris Brown
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Content On Demand: Clarence Clemons Telling ‘Tall Tales’ With New Memoir
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Music, News, Celeb Updates, Magazines and Newspapers
E Street Band
Legendary saxophonist Clarence Clemons‘ first memoir, ‘Big Man: Real Life & Tall Tales,’ is in stores this week. Published by Grand Central Publishing, the hardcover tome (written with best friend and television producer Don Reo) is the very first book penned by a member of Bruce Springsteen‘s iconic E Street Band. “The Boss,” himself, even wrote the foreword for the book, which “isn’t the same old story” and “one that tells true, unknown stories … in a series of hybrid fact-and-fiction stories called “legends.” Clemons, 67, is a Norfolk, Virginia native who’s been a prominent member of the hit-making outfit since 1972. “The book was being written all my life,” he told Metro newspaper. “We just decided to put it down on paper. … It’s pretty great because it’s something I’ve never done before.’
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Dwight Eubanks: Keeping Things Real Regarding ‘Housewives of Atlanta’
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Make no mistake about it, no one behind the scenes is telling ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Dwight Eubanks what to do. The Atlanta native went from having a simple cameo as Nene Leakes’ scene-stealing “gay boyfriend” to becoming a main cast member on the second season of the hit Bravo reality television series.
“I am not an actor. I was asked to come on and be a part of the show and to be real…I am not the sixth housewife,” Eubanks told the BV Newswire yesterday.
“If I wanted to be with a woman, I will be with a woman and if I want to be with a guy, then I will be with a guy,” he declared. “I like all fruits, but I do have a problem with [people] dwelling on ‘Dwight the gay housewife.’ Let’s get to know Dwight.”.
As of late, his no-holds-bar attitude has made his relationships with some of the ‘Housewives’ stars a bit tense.
“I just don’t understand it,” he noted. “Some of the other people have problems with me being friends with the other women….girls harp on situations [like] ‘You said this,’ or ‘You did that’ versus saying ‘B****h, did you say this?’ and going directly to the source of the problem.”
But, Eubanks isn’t holding it against them.
“They perceive me as a b***h. I have nothing but love for all of them.”
What many viewers of the successful Bravo television network franchise do not know is that the self-proclaimed style purveyor actually knew Sheree Whitfield and Lisa Wu Hartwell well before becoming fast friends with his close gal pal Leakes.
“I knew Sheree and her husband Bob,” he revealed. “She had a store called Bella Azul [and] my partner at the time was doing Lisa’s hair and I knew of Lisa when she was going through her divorce situation [with Keith Sweat] but I didn’t really meet her until the show.”
As for the show’s resident vixen, he adds, “I was really more friendly with Greg than Nene and we grew to be a part of each other’s lives and it grew to being what it was.”
These days, the fashionable entrepreneur has grown incredibly fond of the newest ‘Housewives’ star, Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Kandi Burruss.
“I met Kandi this year and never knew about Xscape,” Eubanks explained. “I like her as a person and her mother and I clicked and before I knew it I had dinner at their house.”
Now, the unlikely pair do dinner together, often, and according to the former Saks Fifth Avenue style director, they have become a sort of adopted family.
Until now, little has been known about the man that is Dwight Eubanks. Recently he’s been a little more open about his past – telling Essence.com that his minister parents beat him for playing with his sister’s dolls, until his grandmother helped them accept him for who he is. Born at Grady Hospital and raised on Atlanta’s Southside area, Eubanks credits his godfather with nurturing his love for hair by allowing a young Dwight to apprentice in his salon.
As for his feelings on the show as a whole? “The reality show is what it is. We don’t have to agree. They have gone through a whole season disagreeing. And agreeing is not reality. I like to move on.” There are talks that Eubanks may soon have his very own television show, but until then he’s happy doing what he’s been doing for the past 21 years.
“Reality television don’t pay no money. I had this life before ['Housewives'] came on and I have four [mortgage] notes to pay – that’s a lot and I haven’t ventured off to doing any new ventures lately,” he declared.
He doesn’t know how they will figure out what to do for a show of his own, adding, “most days I don’t know what to do with myself. I know I am a lot.”
Off-camera, you can catch him at one of his two successful Purple Door Atlanta salons. “I still do hair every day and I enjoy being at the shampoo bowls. I like doing everything that I do. This is why I choose this profession.”
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Content on Demand: Steve Harvey Teams Up With State Farm for Comedy Shorts
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To further expand the advancement of his media empire, Steve Harvey is teaming up with insurance giant State Farm for a series of 48 digital comedy shorts. Each short will cover various topics appealing strictly to the interest of car and home insurance consumers. And what better time to embark on his new campaign than during this week’s National Teen Driver Safety Week. Harvey takes a humorous approach at his teen’s desire for purchasing a new Cadillac Escalade.
steve harvey“The campaign’s basic idea was to extend the Steve Harvey and State Farm brands in an unexpected yet wanted manner,” said Bob Wingo, CEO of Sanders/Wingo, the African-American advertising agency of record, which created and produced the campaign. “Everyone wants to be in social media and utilizing digital content, but to be successful as we believe this will be, it needs to be relevant.”
“These bits are strictly entertaining,” said State Farm marketing chief Pam El. “Though they address insurance and financial services related topics, to broaden Stat Farm’s brand voice in an unexpected way, they are delivered with Steve’s unique perspective and humor.”
You can check out Steve Harvey’s first digital comedy short here.
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Lee Naijar: ‘Real Housewives’ Mysterious "Big Poppa" Reportedly Selling Atlanta Mansion
Posted by: | CommentsFiled under: Television, Celeb Updates, Family Affairs
Real Housewives
The palatial Atlanta mansion of Lee Najjar, the alleged boyfriend of ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star Kim Zolciak, is on the market for $25 million.
BV Newswire previously reported that Zolciak and her on-again-off-again wealthy boyfriend (pictured left with music/film producer Dallas Austin) had split. The hit Bravo reality series has recently centered on the couple’s relationship despite Najjar being legally married.
His children, Katelin and Jamen, were featured on the MTV series ‘Teen Cribs’ earlier this year, where they let MTV cameras in on their luxurious digs. Earlier this year, portions of the film ‘Zombieland‘ were reportedly shot on-location at Najjar’s home.
According to Buckhead.net, the home, which was built as a summer cottage in 1914, sold in 2004 for $2.74 million.
Rodney Ho, of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution newspaper’s Radio and TV Talk blog, reports that the home is being marketed through Christie’s and other high-end magazines to attract a foreign buyer. The nine-bedroom estate, which boasts a movie theater, music studio, beauty salon, game room, basketball court and countless other amenities, would be the first home to sell in the Atlanta secondary market for more than $10 million.
As for his relationship with Zolciak, although the mother of two told Usmagazine.com that they had split on Oct. 14. She went on to tell other media: “We are on and off…very tricky right now.”
The ‘Tardy for the Party’ singer has also been recently spotted wearing the engagement ring that the real estate mogul gave her — on her right hand.
There is no word on whether Najjar and his wife – whose name is coincidentally Kimberly – are still married.
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Tyler Perry: Responding to Spike Lee’s ‘Coonery’ Criticism
Posted by: admin | Comments (0)Filed under: Movies, Television, Theater, Celeb Updates
With eight consistent films under his belt, Tyler Perry has overcome the odds of not only his upbringing but also setting the bar as one of Hollywood’s most relentless and profitable directors. As his dear friend and mentor, Oprah Winfrey recently stated, “Do not play him small, because he is not some lucky rich negro!” This and much more was all discussed on tonight’s episode of the long-running newsmagazine show ’60 Minutes,’ where the critically acclaimed director-actor discussed an array of topics including being abused by his father, Emmitt, as a child to firing back at Spike Lee‘s controversial comments comparing Perry’s body of work to “coonery and buffoonery.”
Check out a video clip of Tyler Perry’s reaction to Spike Lee below.
In just four years, Tyler Perry has become the toast of Hollywood. Could you name another director black or white who can boast of having released six feature movie projects within a three year period? Nope. Check out Six Degrees of Tyler Perry.
Six Degrees of Tyler Perry
Six Degrees of Tyler Perry
In just three years, Tyler Perry has become the toast of Hollywood. Could you name another director black or white who can boast of having released six feature movie projects within a three year period? Nope. Not only did the New Orleans native write all of the storylines for the films, he starred in four. Combined, five of the films have grossed upwards of $250 million worldwide, some within budgets below $6 million. And with the major money train also comes associating with some of the biggest names in and out of the entertainment business. BlackVoices.com takes an introspective look at how a former homeless man turned chit’lin circuit theater czar has connections to the likes of Michael Jackson, Denzel Washington, Whitney Houston and Will Smith, to name a few. Check out Six Degrees of Tyler Perry.
Tyler Perry
The best-selling playwright turned Hollywood hot-shot (real name: Emmitt R. Perry, Jr.) was born Sept. 14, 1969 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Ray Nagin
Another New Orleans native, Ray Nagin, Jr. was elected into the office of Mayor of the Crescent City on March 6, 2002.
Labelle
Known as the music capitol of the Gulf Coast, New Orleans was also the setting for ‘Lady Marmalade,’ a hit song from 1970s glam-soul trio Labelle, comprised of Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sara Dash.
Lenny Kravitz
Modern day rock & roll demigod Lenny Kravitz is one of the top-notch talents chosen to produce Labelle’s long-awaited reunion album, ‘Back to Now,’ due out later this year via Verve records.
Lisa Bonet
‘The Cosby Show’ and ‘A Different World’ star Lisa Bonet eloped with Lenny Kravitz in November 1987. Their daughter Zoe Isaballe Kravitz was born the next year. The couple separated in 1991.
Gary Dourdan
‘C.S.I.’ actor Gary Dourdan played Cree Summer‘s character’s love interest Shazza Zulu on the NBC sitcom ‘A Different World,’ which was originally developed as a spin-off vehicle for Lisa Bonet. The Philadelphia native appeared on 13 episodes from 1991 to 1992.
Janet Jackson
Gary Dourdan also played the love interest of Janet Jackson in the music video for her chart-topping ballad, ‘Again,’ in 1993.
Tyler Perry
Janet Jackson starred in the lead role of Tyler Perry‘s box office smash, ‘Why Did I Get married?’ The twice divorced pop star won an NAACP Image Award for her performance.
Ruben Cannon
One of the most respected executives in Hollywood, Ruben Cannon has served as a casting director of film and TV projects dating all the way back to 1977. He co-executive produced Tyler Perry‘s ‘Why Did I Get married?’
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