25 years ago today, New York City and the U.S.A in general was forever changed by the horrific terrorist attacks that destroyed the world-famous Twin Towers and claimed thousands of lives in a single summer morning.

While September 11th brings back a handful of heart-wrenching memories with every passing anniversary, it’s also made way for a few bittersweet ones as well when considering the beautiful music that was created in tribute to that fateful day.

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In an effort to never forget those who lost their lives, many artists from across multiple genres found ways over the years to express how they felt about what happened on 9/11. Some have rapped about a hopeful future where terrorism doesn’t exist, while others got more personal by melodically mourning a lover lost in the attacks. It’s through the power of song that many musicians were able to make sense of a meaningless act of violence, and the message hit a little closer to home when the person singing the song just so happened to come from our culture.

As we collectively commemorate the two full decades since America became stronger and more united as a nation through tragedy, we wanted to reminisce on a few musical moments created in memory of 9/11 by some of our favorite Black artists. Whether it was from the perspective of a victim, a third-person critique of the government, a group effort to show the newfound unity or a simple ode to one of the greatest cities in the world, the lyrical message was not only delivered but also felt on a massive scale.

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Enjoy 10 of the most memorable 9/11 tribute songs by Black musicians below as we commemorate a day in American history that won’t soon be forgotten:

READ MORE STORIES ON BLACKAMERICAWEB.COM:

• This Black Woman Gave Back To NYC After Surviving 9/11 And In 1993
• What We Need to Know: 9/11 Remembrance, History-Making Firsts, and the Stories Shaping Our Community
• Never Forget: Remembering 3 Brilliant Black Kids Lost On 9/11

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September 11 will unfortunately always bring memories of sadness for the thousands of lives lost in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Centers in NYC 25 years ago today. However, many survivors used their harrowing experiences to help rebuild the city over the years and better the community as a whole.

One of those inspiring souls is Lolita Jackson, a Black woman who narrowly escaped the South Tower merely minutes before it collapsed. It would be her second near-fatal experience as an employee of the building after also surviving the previous WTC bombing in 1993 that claimed six lives and injured hundreds.

RELATED: Never Forget: Remembering 3 Brilliant Black Kids Lost On 9/11

In the attack that occurred shortly after noon on February 26, 1993, an explosion formed a crater that spanned nearly 100 feet deep and extended many stories high. An upward flow of smoke and fire caused inhabitants high and low to suffer intense black clouds that made it near-impossible to breathe. On top of a building-wide blackout and 50,000 people who needed to evacuate, the bombing itself was only the beginning of a living nightmare that for many lasted hours. Jackson, who at the time was only a year in as an employee in the South Tower for investment bank Morgan Stanley, would make her way down from the 72nd floor by way a pitch black and smoke-filled staircase.

“I’m a living testament that it can happen to you, and it can happen to you twice,” she told PBS back in 2023 in commemoration of its 30th anniversary, and her testimony rings true in the worst way. Just eight years later she would be faced to do it all over, only this time with much more fatal results and no building to return to.

She summarized her inspiring story in a video for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, seen below:

Her accomplishment after leaving Morgan Stanley in 2003 and working within the New York City Mayor’s Office for 15 years under Michael Bloomberg and Bill de Blasio, respectively, proved to be substantial. She became one of the primarily figures in helping to shape the still-ongoing OneNYC initiative for rebuilding after a crisis in the wake of natural destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. She relied heavily on her real-life upbringing of growing up on public assistance to empathize with those who lost everything and were struggling to rebound. The gift of passing on useful knowledge is based on lesson learned from 1993 that she credits with saving her life on 9/11.

“After we went through the bombing in 1993, Morgan Stanley was the largest tenant of the World Trade Center complex,” she explained during a 2016 TEDx Talk (seen above), going on to add, “We actually gave them a lot of feedback; they rerouted all of the evacuation routes and they also changed the way we got out of the buildings. The stairs then were lighted with emergency lighting, they also painted with reflective paint, we had much more frequent fire drills and the like.” She further described how these small-yet-effective changes saved lives on September 11, 2001, particularly given the lack of time they all had to escape this time around. In closing her conversation, Jackson states, “My building was hit at 9:03 and it fell at 9:59, so had I not been given that chance to have those changes made, I wouldn’t be standing here talking with you today.”

As we take the day to remember the ones we lost on 9/11, we also celebrate the strength and resilience of individuals like Lolita Jackson who didn’t let one of the worst days in American history define their life stories. In fact, Jackson herself has even embarked on a career as a jazz musician. She’s credited as a trustee of the Jazz Museum in Harlem and has performed on four continents, notably at the prestigious Carnegie Hall.

We all can learn from her determination to achieve greatness no matter how many times you face adversity.

Sybil Wilkes is back with What We Need To Know, honoring 270+ Black 9/11 victims and Vulcan Society heroes, plus Trump’s $5,000 pledge, Brooke Sumpter’s American Girl debut, and Sherri Shepherd’s Broadway history.

Honoring the Black Lives Lost on 9/11

As the nation marks 25 years since the September 11th attacks, our community is pausing to honor the hundreds of Black victims who lost their lives that day. Nearly 270 Black Americans perished across the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the fields of Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Their names, their families, and their stories remain woven into the fabric of that tragic morning. A quarter-century later, remembering them ensures their legacy is never lost to time.

Few artists have left a mark on hip-hop quite like 2Pac. From his powerful lyrics and unapologetic storytelling to his influence on the culture, 2Pac became more than a rapper he became a voice for a generation. Even 30 years after his death, his music, style and presence continue to influence hip-hop and pop culture.

TRENDING: B-Side Bangers: 2Pac

And while fans still celebrate the legend he was, there’s another conversation that comes up every time those classic photos resurface: 2Pac was 90s fine. With the bandanas, tattoos, signature smile, toned physique and effortlessly cool style, Pac had a look that remains unforgettable.

TRENDING: Underrated Tupac Movie Roles Fans Should Revisit

As we honor the 30th anniversary of his death, we’re taking a trip down memory lane and appreciating some of the looks that made 2Pac one of hip-hop’s most iconic heartthrobs.

Packing for the One Voyage Cruise can feel overwhelming. You need outfits for sunny days by the pool, adventurous shore excursions, and more. Add in creative theme nights, and your luggage can quickly become overwhelming. This guide offers practical cruise packing tips to help you pack smarter, not harder, ensuring you have everything you need for a fantastic voyage without the stress of an overstuffed suitcase.

We’ll cover everything from versatile clothing choices to efficient packing techniques. You will learn how to prepare for any occasion, from a casual breakfast buffet to a formal dinner, all while keeping your luggage light and organized.

RELATED STORY: Find Out The Theme Nights for the 2026 One Voyage Cruise 

Before You Pack: The Preparation Phase

A successful packing strategy begins long before you open your suitcase. Proper planning is the key to a stress-free experience.

Create a Master Packing Checklist

The single most effective packing tool is a detailed checklist. Start creating it a few weeks before your trip, adding items as you think of them. Organize your list into categories: theme nights, daytime wear, evening outfits, swimwear, toiletries, electronics, and documents. This simple step prevents you from forgetting essentials and helps you visualize your needs. The secret to efficient cruise packing is choosing items that can serve multiple purposes. Versatility is your best friend when dealing with limited cabin space.

Choose a Cohesive Color Palette

Select a base of neutral colors like navy, black, gray, or beige for your core pieces (pants, shorts, skirts). Then, add a few complementary accent colors (like coral, turquoise, or yellow) through tops, scarves, and accessories. This method allows you to mix and match pieces effortlessly, creating numerous outfits from a smaller selection of clothes.

What to Pack: A Breakdown by Occasion

Let’s break down the essentials for every part of your cruise experience.

Casual Daytime Activities

During the day, comfort is key. You’ll likely be exploring the ship, lounging by the pool, or participating in activities.

• Swimwear: Pack at least two swimsuits so one can dry while you wear the other.
• Cover-Ups: A stylish kaftan, sarong, or tunic is perfect for walking from your cabin to the pool or grabbing a casual lunch.
• Tops and Bottoms: Bring a mix of t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and casual skirts or sundresses.
• Footwear: Comfortable sandals, flip-flops, and a pair of sneakers for the gym or active excursions are essential.

Shore Excursions

Your excursion outfits will depend on the activity. For a beach day, your poolside attire will work perfectly. For city tours or more active adventures, consider moisture-wicking fabrics and comfortable walking shoes. A small, foldable backpack is great for carrying water, sunscreen, and other necessities ashore.

Theme Nights & Smart Casual Wear

The One Voyage Cruis is known for having theme nights, along with lively parties. They aren’t mandatory, but if you choose not to participate, you will definitely be the minority.

• Theme Night Attire: Don’t be shy! Participating in theme nights is a huge part of the fun. Whether it’s a White Party, or a Halloween Party, packing a specific outfit helps you get into the spirit. Check the itinerary in advance so you can plan these fun and creative looks.
• Smart Casual: For nights that aren’t strictly formal, a “smart casual” dress code usually applies in the main dining rooms. This can mean a nice sundress or pants and a stylish top for women, and khakis or slacks with a collared shirt for men.

Smart Packing Techniques to Maximize Space

How you pack is just as important as what you pack. These techniques will help you fit everything you need.

Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling your clothes tightly is a classic space-saving trick. It not only frees up room in your suitcase but also helps minimize wrinkles in many fabrics. For more structured items like blazers, careful folding is still best.

Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game-changer for organization. Use different cubes to separate your clothing by category—one for daytime wear, one for evening outfits, one for underwear, and so on. They keep your suitcase tidy and make it easy to find what you need without unpacking everything.

Don’t Forget the Non-Clothing Essentials

Beyond clothes, several items are crucial for a comfortable cruise.

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable. The sun reflecting off the water can be intense.
• Medications: Pack any prescription medications in your carry-on bag, along with a small first-aid kit containing basics like pain relievers, motion sickness medicine, and band-aids.
• Electronics: Remember your phone charger, a portable power bank, and any camera equipment. A small power strip can also be useful as cruise cabins often have limited outlets.
• Important Documents: Keep your passport, government-issued ID, cruise tickets, and any visa information in a safe, accessible place. Always carry these in your hand luggage, never in your checked bags.

Pack a Carry-On with First-Day Essentials

Your checked luggage might not arrive at your cabin until several hours after you board. Pack a carry-on bag with a swimsuit, a change of clothes, medications, and any immediate necessities. This way, you can start enjoying the pool or exploring the ship right away.

Leave Room for Souvenirs

It’s easy to fill your suitcase to the brim, but remember that you might want to bring back souvenirs from your ports of call. Leave a little extra space, or pack a foldable duffel bag that you can use for your return journey.

Always Check Cruise Line Guidelines

Before you zip up your bags for the final time, visit your cruise line’s website one last time. They provide specific information on baggage allowances and list any prohibited items, such as clothes irons or certain types of power strips. Following their rules ensures a smooth and hassle-free boarding process.

How to Book Your Cabin

Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience! Reserve your cabin today by visiting the One Voyage Cruise Website or call 214-495-1963 to secure your cabin for the ultimate party at sea.

Get ready to dance, laugh, and celebrate aboard the One Voyage Cruise 2026!

FOR MORE INFO AND TO RECEIVE A CALL BACK FROM ONE OF THE CRUISE TEAM MEMBERS, PLEASE LEAVE YOUR INFORMATION BELOW!

Every year on September 11 for the past two-and-a-half decades has been a somber day for millions across the world. The 2001 terrorist attack on New York City that collapsed the Twin Towers and caused thousands of deaths in the process will forever be a sore spot in American history, especially when considering so many of the bright futures wiped out in a single act of hatred.

What makes the tragedy even sadder is a specific detail that shook the core of everyone who knows, especially those in our community. A third plane used to orchestrate the attack on The Pentagon in Virginia was carrying three brilliant 11-year-old Black science scholars onboard: Bernard Brown II, Asia Cottom and Rodney Dickens.

RELATED: Music Never Dies – 10 Memorable 9/11 Tribute Songs By Black Musicians

Bernard, Asia and Rodney were three D.C.-based ecology enthusiasts who were on a path to getting an early start in the field. They were each specially selected to study the natural science in California alongside actual National Geographic Society researchers. Bernard represented for Leckie Elementary School, Rodney was an honor student at Ketcham Elementary School and Asia was getting it for both the girls and Backus Middle School. They were preteens with their own specific likes — basketball, wrestling and soccer, respectively — who were simply excited to visit a new state and learn something new about the world. Their shared age also brings to mind a then-preteen generation of Millennials who just two weeks prior were experiencing the shocking death of R&B icon Aaliyah. It’s heartbreaking to think with that on their minds, they too would fall victim to the “new fear unlocked” of an airplane crash by the time school started back up.

Take a look below at some heartfelt memories once shared about Rodney, Asia and Bernard below, via D.C. Public Schools:

“Asia was a new student at Backus Middle School. Her father worked at the school as a coach and a classroom aide. Teachers remembered Asia as kindhearted and eager to help her classmates.

Bernard was the type of student who kept teachers on their toes at Leckie Elementary School. Bernard’s teachers agreed that he was showing real progress, and that was one of the reasons why he was recommended to participate in the trip. He loved basketball and wanted to play professionally one day.

Rodney always made the honor roll at Ketcham Elementary School. His mother expected him to be a role model for his two younger brothers, as his two older sisters had been for him. His favorite activity was watching professional wrestling—no matter what he was doing, ‘…he made it home to see wrestling,’ his aunt remembered.”

Along with them, we also give our condolences to the adults in attendance who also lost their lives in the attack. Below you’ll find the chilling final photo of all three students, including chaperones Hilda Taylor from Leckie, James Debeuneure of Ketcham and Sarah Clark from Backus, just before their fateful flight:

On this day of remembrance, we give our heartfelt condolences to each and every family who was affected in any way by the tragedy of September 11, 2001. For Asia, Bernard and Rodney specifically, we hope your youthful spirits are somewhere soaring high, and may your individual stories inspire a generation to fearlessly go for their dreams at any age.

Although Troi Torain has long since been his own independent media entity for years, his early days as part of the Star & Buc Wild duo. By way of his current YouTube show, Troi Torain shared that Timothy “Buc Wild” Joseph has passed away at the age of 47.

By way of The Star Report, Torain titled his latest dispatch “Timothy ‘BUC WILD’ Joseph celebration of life 1/3/79 – 9/6/26.”

In his usual fashion, Torain spoke to the passing of his former Hot 97 co-host and, as he said, his “alleged half brother.” While Torain was the front-facing voice and lead scribe on the pair’s writings, he made it a point to frequently point to Joseph’s connection to his continued success.

If anyone was expecting Torain to be somber, there was an element of that but there was also the biting humor that Star has become universally known for. Torain shared that Joseph passed away on Sunday (September 6) in the Pink Houses Projects in Brooklyn, New York.

Torain added that it appears that Joseph died after being exposed to fentanyl, but he was clear to state that he cannot confirm those details as they are still developing.

There were times where Star, lovingly referring to his former co-host as Tim, would repeat the refrain of how much he was there for him and that the love he had for him was evident, even as he still poked fun at him during the episode. Star also shared the history of the pair’s ascension from public access television to MTV, onto Hot 97 and all the controversies that ensued.

Below, we’ll share the video description from YouTube.

From the YouTube video description:

Remembering Timothy “BUC WILD” Joseph, one-half of the legendary Star & Buc Wild Show, whose voice, humor, and larger-than-life personality left a lasting impact on radio, hip-hop culture, and entertainment.

Timothy Joseph has passed away in Brooklyn, NY at the age of 47. This video honors the life, career, and cultural influence of BUC WILD — a personality known for his unforgettable energy, unique perspective, and contributions to the world of urban media.

From the streets of New York to listeners around the world, the Star & Buc Wild Show became a landmark in radio history, creating memorable moments and connecting with generations of fans. BUC WILD’s legacy continues through the people he inspired and the audience that appreciated his work.

In this tribute, we reflect on:

• Timothy “BUC WILD” Joseph’s career and impact
• The history of the Star & Buc Wild Show
• His influence on hip-hop culture and entertainment
• Memories shared by fans and supporters

Please share your favorite memories of BUC WILD in the comments and help celebrate the life of a true original.

Rest in peace, Timothy “BUC WILD” Joseph. Your voice and legacy will not be forgotten.

Check out the full episode of The Star Report below.

—

Photo:

Being biracial doesn’t mean choosing one side and pretending the other doesn’t exist. For many celebrities with Black and non-Black heritage, identity has been a lifelong conversation about family, culture, appearance, and the way the world sees them. Check out these biracial celebrities who proudly identify as Black.

From Hollywood heavyweights to Grammy-winning artists, athletes, and cultural icons, these stars have embraced their Blackness while also honoring the other parts of their heritage. As Buzzfeed’s roundup of mixed-race celebrities shows, stars including Yara Shahidi, J. Cole, Mariah Carey, Tracee Ellis Ross, H.E.R., Maya Rudolph, and Zendaya have spoken publicly about navigating their identities. Ranker’s list of famous people who are half Black also highlights other celebrities like Halle Berry, Rashida Jones, Dwayne Johnson, Kimora Lee Simmons, and others.

Scroll below for the list of biracial celebrities who identify as Black.

Back at it again with this week’s hottest thirst traps dropping during a buzzy week dominated by scheme King Todd Tucker documenting his divorce to Kandi Burruss, Megan Thee Stallion speaking on the Klay Thompson breakup, Taraji shutting down Nobu Los Cabos with baddie birthday behavior, the star-studded Why Did I Get Married Again? cast taking over LA, sporty stunners slaying at the US Open, and more.

As promised, we’ve compiled swoon-worthy stunners (and our thirst-trappin’ celebrity faves) with K. Michelle making her return to the series while promoting her highly anticipated Country debut, Jesus & Whiskey.

Produced by Kristian Bush, Jesus & Whiskey marks the first full-length exploration of K. Michelle’s authentic Country roots over the 9-track album that the press release describes as a “hypnotic fusion of timeless storytelling and Southern soul.”

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, K opened up about the buzzy project slated for a Oct. 16 release.

“Being a Tennessee girl, [Country] is my first genre of choice, and I was always told because of other reasons, I couldn’t sing that,” said Michelle, who previously released 6 R&B albums. “When it came down to it, I am a country singer. It’s new to the world, but to everyone around me, they know it’s my whole life, so it’s time to do what it is I do, and I’m really excited about it.”

This week’s thirst trap compilation also features Rihanna slaying, along with Chlöe Bailey and Olandria giving what needs to be gave.

There’s also big baddie energy from Love Island USA star Aniya Harvey, Megan Thee Stallion, Porsha Williams, Ice Spice, Coi Leray, and more, so we invite you to enjoy our latest collection of top-tier thirst traps on the flip.

Bishop S.Y. Younger joined Darlene McCoy on The Nightly Spirit to discuss his August 28th revival in Times Square, the financial miracles that made it possible, and his belief that God’s next move won’t rest on one person—but on a unified people.

Some conversations catch fire because the guest brings more than talking points—they bring testimony. That was the case when Darlene McCoy sat down with Bishop S.Y. Younger on The Nightly Spirit to unpack his recent revival in the heart of Times Square.

The Cost of Public Ministry

Bishop Younger didn’t open with celebration. He opened with cost. “The more public you are, the easier target you become,” he told McCoy, urging listeners to pray for anointed leaders rather than simply admire them from a distance. That theme of sacrifice carried through the entire conversation, crystallized in one line: “You’re not called by God until you’re inconvenienced by God.” For Bishop Younger, the Times Square revival was proof of that principle in action.

The Times Square Revival

The logistics alone were daunting. Permits from the mayor’s office, Parks and Recreation, and the NYPD had to be secured in less than two months, with the final approval coming only a day before the event. Financially, the numbers didn’t add up either, until they suddenly did. The night before he left for New York, fellow ministers, including Travis Green and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, stepped in with donations that covered the entire budget. “What’s the value of one soul?” Bishop Younger asked, explaining why the risk was worth it regardless of cost.

Winning Souls Over Debates

Rather than book a theater, Bishop Younger chose the open square, saying he didn’t want to end up “just having church with church people.” His guiding conviction: “I’m not here to win debates. I’m here to win souls.” That night, altar calls went out in Spanish, Telugu, and Portuguese, and someone responded in each language.

Unity and the Next Move of God

Reflecting on what the moment signaled, Bishop Younger offered a vision bigger than one ministry: “This next move of God is not a person. It’s a people.” He compared it to anointing oil made from multiple ingredients, arguing that unity across denominations, not competition between them, is what the moment requires.

What stood out most in this conversation wasn’t the permits or the price tag. It was the persistence. Bishop Younger’s Times Square revival became a testimony of unlikely provision, and a reminder that shared purpose can outweigh a single voice. For pastors and believers watching this moment unfold, the takeaway is clear: the harvest isn’t waiting on one man’s answer to the calling. It’s waiting on the whole body to move together.

TRENDING STORY: Bishop Hezekiah Walker: 2 Years Cancer-Free & the Favor That Carried Him

READ MORE STORIES

• You’re Not Called Until You’re Inconvenienced”: Inside Bishop S.Y. Younger’s Times Square Revival
• Bishop Hezekiah Walker: 2 Years Cancer-Free & the Favor That Carried Him
• Kirk Franklin on Grace, Gratitude, and Giving God the Glory

BOSSIP’s Liz Smith caught up with Bean ahead of the premiere and started with the significance of this moment. After years of bringing Wanda’s complicated journey to life on Snowfall, has it finally set in that she, a successful Black woman, is now leading the next chapter of the saga?

“It has not set in. Every day I’m like, wait, what?” Bean told BOSSIP. “When they first broke the news that I would be the number one, I said, I’m sorry, excuse me? Because even— it’s so crazy, even in 2026, when they told us back when we were shooting season six of Snowfall, in my mind I just thought, Oh okay, Leon and Wanda getting a spinoff. He gonna be number one, I’m gonna be number two. Which is crazy that even in the world today, that’s not the first thought of, like, that I could ever be the lead. That they would put a Black female as the lead.”

That responsibility extends beyond simply being No. 1 on the call sheet. BOSSIP told Bean that her performance seemingly raises the bar for everyone sharing a scene with her and asked whether she feels a responsibility to set that tone on set.

“100 percent. 100 percent. I feel I have to lead by example,” Bean said. “I’m always making sure that I come prepared, know my lines, I’m on time. I don’t want to be the leader that says, but the leader that does.”

For Bean, that also means doing the work beyond what’s written in the script.

“They know I have a good time, but [I’m] taking it serious as far as doing my own personal research outside of just what’s on the page or in the room, and truly bringing this character to life and showing that we have a responsibility to do these characters justice, tell real stories.”

That leadership is also met with plenty of support from her castmates, something Bean said reminds her of growing up with five older brothers.

“What I do love with all the guys, they’re so overprotective of me, ’cause I’ve had that forever because I have five older brothers,” she told BOSSIP. “But seeing how serious they take it and how supportive they are of me, and they tell me, they’re like, ‘No, you did a good job.’ So, yeah.”

From there, BOSSIP dug deeper into the woman at the center of The Drop. After watching Wanda spend much of Snowfall trying to find herself again, we asked Bean what it felt like to finally play a version of Wanda who knows exactly what she wants and believes she’s found her purpose.

“To have a Wanda who is now more sure of herself now more than ever, very confident, it just feels like she’s becoming a woman. Like she’s evolving,” Bean told Liz. “You know, us as Black women, we’re constantly trying to find our purpose, and then when we find it, you know. You know when you hit that moment of, ‘Oh, this is what I’m supposed to be doing. This is who I am. This is my purpose.’”

Bean compared Wanda’s evolution to the feeling of finally recognizing something, or someone, that’s meant for you.

“It’s like when you searching for your mate, right? And you don’t know you found your husband until you’re like, ‘Oh, this is what it feels like.’ So I felt like in Snowfall, she was just enjoying life, you know, not really knowing, not seeing a means to an end, but just, ‘Oh, life is fun. It’s cute. I’m having a good time.’ And now she’s like, ‘Oh, this is my purpose.’”

Now, we couldn’t just let that “husband” example slide by without asking a little follow-up! The Atlanta native sounded mighty confident about knowing what finding your husband feels like, so we playfully questioned whether she might be speaking from a little real-life experience.

With a smile, Bean simply responded, “Yes ma’am!”

Speaking of love, we couldn’t talk about Wanda’s next chapter without getting into the love story Snowfall fans have been invested in for years. Wanda and Leon fought hard to find their way back to each other, but without giving too much away, The Drop finds the two navigating a very different space. We asked Bean what she thought when she first learned where the writers were taking their relationship.

“Without spoiling it, you know what? ’90s love is a lot different than how we see love displayed today,” Bean explained. “Also at the time where a lot of times people didn’t talk about stuff in relationships. Certain conversations were taboo. It was just, it was complicated.”

And while Bean isn’t giving away whether Wanda and Leon will ultimately find their way back to each other, she admitted she’s enjoying the push and pull between the two.

“We don’t know where they’re gonna end up at, but I do like watching Wanda and Leon be in this place of tug of war with one another.”

Wanda’s newfound purpose doesn’t stop with her own dreams. The Drop introduces her younger cousin Lamar, played by Asante Blackk, and Wanda quickly recognizes talent and potential in him that others aren’t quite ready to see. According to Bean, that’s partly because Wanda isn’t just ambitious; she’s a visionary.

“Wanda is a visionary. So she sees something so clear in Lamar without a shadow of doubt,” Bean told BOSSIP.

But Wanda’s determination to believe in Lamar also comes from a much deeper place. Bean explained that the cousins share a bond rooted in childhood and similar feelings of abandonment, even if viewers don’t get their entire backstory this season.

“You know, you have your favorite cousin that’s kind of like your cousin-sibling? So that’s what they are,” she explained. “She’s known him for so long. Obviously she was there when he was born, you know? And it’s like you kind of take that cousin under your wing and you feel like they your sibling. “I think she just knows what it’s like to have a dream and nobody support you.”

Before wrapping up the conversation, Bean had one more message for viewers: tune in and show up. She encouraged fans to turn on those TVs, stream the series, and help push the viewership numbers because supporting The Drop means helping create more opportunities for Black stories to be told from Black perspectives.

It also means showing up for a Black woman leading a major television series, an opportunity Bean acknowledged earlier in our conversation is still far too rare.

The Drop: A Snowfall Saga airs on FX and streams on Hulu.

It’s a shame whenever two artists go from making great music together to being at the top of each other’s proverbial hit lists. While it can make for quite the entertaining back-and-forth in the booth, ultimately it just kills the potential of great collaborations that simply will never be.

Sadly that applies to the ongoing feud between T-Pain and Akon, two megastars of the 2000s hip-hop era that for 12 years worked together under the latter’s Konvict Muzik record label. Now, T-Pain says Konvict owes him roughly half a million dollars for unpaid royalties from a recent million-dollar payout.

RELATED: T-Pain Says Kanye West Told Him A Line Was Corny Then Stole It For “Dark Fantasy”

Akon’s Futuristic City In Senegal Blasted As A “Ponzi Scheme” By Ex-Business Partner

T-Pain claimed in a lawsuit filed in Fulton County Superior Court last week (Sept. 4) that Konvict Entertainment owes him approximately $489,047 based on a $1.3 million royalty payment issued by Zomba Recordings on March 30, 2026. According to XXL, the 80-page filing details his multiple attempts to settle the matter out of court, primarily in contacting BuVision, the indie label ran by music exec and Akon’s younger brother Abou “Bu” Thiam. After unsuccessful attempts to reach Bu in June 2026, T-Pain put the lawsuit in motion.

This comes nearly a decade after the initial 2018 lawsuit T-Pain filed against Konvict Entertainment just a year after officially leaving the label. In that filing, he claimed royalties were due for his first four albums in addition to an advance of at least $200,000 for completing the fifth one before his exit. In it he also includes their original contractual agreement to back up what he feels is due, as well as adding in the many email attempts to contact Konvict. A settlement was eventually reached in 2025 for $114,000, and the current suit is essentially picking up where Konvict allegedly breached in that agreement.

It was all good just 20 years ago.

What happens when you put immature people with automatic weapons and too much time on their hands on the streets of the nation’s capital? 

Well, you might get the case of the 21-year-old National Guardsman who is sitting in the D.C. jail for drawing a gun on a fellow guardsman over … hairstyles. 

But you know it’s not quite that. 

According to court documents, on Aug. 25, Zion Mitchell and six other guardsmen were taking a break from patrol in a van parked outside of a Popeyes Louisiana Fried Chicken on H Street, in Northeast D.C. 

An argument in the van reportedly erupted over “regulation hairstyles,” wherein Mitchell reportedly told a woman soldier, “I will slap the Jackson 5 out of you!” The unidentified woman allegedly replied, “Shut the f*ck up!”, after which Mitchell unholstered his gun and pointed it at her.

All of the guardsmen present were interviewed.

CNN reports: 

Though the woman in the front seat did not see Mitchell pull his gun out, she said she heard a “holster click” and witnesses inside the van stated they saw it raised. The female guard member then left the van and went inside Popeyes.

Mitchell initially said that the argument was “playful” and that he did not aim the gun at the woman’s head. 

According to CNN, Mitchell later “recanted his statement and said he pulled out his pistol and pointed it toward the soldier, but said the gun was aiming downward and not at the soldier’s head.”

Military Times reports that a witness said he saw Mitchell aim his weapon at the victim over another witness’s shoulder, and the weapon was loaded, with a round in the chamber.

Military Times also reports that one of the witnesses said that the victim had rejected Mitchell’s advances and the two had ongoing friction; others said that “he picks on people,” and “threatens women,” as first reported by WUSA9. 

The National Guard has been deployed in Washington, D.C., since last year, as part of Trump’s “Make DC Safe and Beautiful” campaign of August 2025. ABC reports that after a summer surge for America’s 250th anniversary, 3,100 guardsmen are currently deployed to D.C., although violent crime is down in the city.

Court records indicate Mitchell did not enter a plea at his preliminary hearing, and his next hearing is scheduled for Sept. 15.

SEE ALSO:

ICE Agent Christian Castro Finally Turns Himself In To Authorities

Illinois Man Indicted For Allegedly Threatening Friend Of Nolan Wells

Aaron Pierre has been having a serious moment, and honestly, it feels overdue. The British actor has been steadily building an impressive resume, from Rebel Ridge, Mufasa: The Lion King, and now HBO’s Lanterns. Check out 10 of Pierre’s hottest moments inside. 

From Krypton, The Underground Railroad, Brother, Rebel Ridge, Mufasa: The Lion King, and now HBO’s Lanterns — which has him back in the headlines — Pierre’s acting credits have range. His appeal goes beyond his credits. Whether he is dressed to perfection, showing off his dance moves, or simply looking into the camera, he has a way of making people stop scrolling.

As Yahoo Entertainment reported, Pierre has become just as memorable for his offscreen moments as his performances. Here are 10 times he reminded us exactly why the internet stays tuned in.

RELATED CONTENT: The Real MVP Of Gabrielle Union & Aaron Pierre’s ‘GOAT’? Costume Designer Dominique Dawson

Many may know Denée Benton as the indomitable Peggy Scott on HBO’s The Gilded Age. But did you also know that she’s a Tony-nominated actor who has played a Russian countess in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton on Broadway? Oh yes, she’s got those kind of chops. And now she’s coming to the Great White Way as the reigning mean girl.

School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play, Jocelyn Bioh’s comedy opens at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre this month, nearly a decade after it first drew crowds off-Broadway. According to Broadway.com, Benton plays Paulina Sarpong, the self-appointed queen of a 1986 Ghanaian boarding school who rules on her very own iron throne — think Regina George with a pageant crown instead of a Burn Book.

“I’m just grateful to be able to have a play as specific as this,” says Bioh. “It has nothing to do with American culture or anything. This is a group of young girls in a Ghanaian boarding school in the 1980s. We are very far away from any version of America now, so I’m grateful that we’ll be able to transport audiences all the way back there and maybe even see how far we’ve come or haven’t come.”

Broadway.com reports that School Girls was the first off-Broadway play Benton saw after moving back to New York nine years ago, and she recalls laughing so hard she found herself weeping before she’d noticed the shift — a whiplash she credits to Bioh’s gift for lulling an audience into comfort before landing an emotional gut-punch.

Benton is joined onstage by Tony winner Patina Miller, who plays Eloise, the pageant recruiter stirring up the school, while BOOP! breakout Jasmine Amy Rogers makes her play debut as the American transfer student threatening to upend the pecking order — a plot Rogers says will surprise audiences with how much of themselves they recognize in it, despite their social, ethnic or gender background.

The production is directed by Whitney White, reuniting with Bioh after their Tony-nominated Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, with a cast that also includes Erin Morton and Heather Alicia Simms, produced in association with Chase This Productions and Susan Kelechi Watson, reports The Hollywood Reporter.

Offstage, Benton is candid about the character’s appeal. According to New York Theatre Guide, when asked what Paulina’s pageant talent might be, Benton said singing felt boring and that, in another life, she’d have gone for interpretive dance. She says her real-life high-school self was less mean girl than earnest overachiever, the kind of kid who marched into the principal’s office with notes on how the place could run better.

Performances for School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play, began Tuesday, Sept. 8, with an official opening set for later in the month — and will run through Nov. 1.

SEE ALSO:

Harlem Renaissance Dinner Party Comes To Life 54 Years Later

‘Lanterns’ Episode 4 Recap: The Manhunter Is Revealed

Long before social media became part of everyday life, television was one of the biggest windows children had into the world. The cartoons we rushed home to watch, woke up early on Saturday mornings for or caught before school weren’t just entertainment. Whether we realized it at the time or not, they introduced us to different people, places, problems and possibilities.

That representation could carry even more weight for Black children. There was something different about turning on the television and seeing a kid with brown skin, braids, a high-top fade or a family that reminded you of your own. Those characters didn’t have to announce that they were Black every episode. Sometimes simply getting to be the smart kid, the cool kid, the superhero or the voice of reason was powerful enough.

And the best characters went even further. They taught us to protect the environment, believe in ourselves, ask questions, navigate predominantly white spaces, stand up to bullies, and be comfortable with what made us different. Decades later, many of the lessons have stuck with the same generation that first learned them sitting in front of the TV. Here are some of the Black cartoon characters from the 1990s who helped shape the way we see ourselves — and the world around us.

Kwame — Captain Planet and the Planeteers

Kwame wasn’t simply another member of the Planeteers; he was frequently the group’s calm, grounded voice and unofficial leader. Hailing from Africa and wielding the power of Earth, he was introduced as someone deeply connected to conservation and protecting living things, while LeVar Burton’s unmistakable voice gave him even more presence. The series itself was built around teaching kids about pollution, deforestation and other environmental issues, meaning a Black character was helping lead a generation through some of its earliest lessons about taking care of the planet.

Donald Trump and the rest of the MAGA Republicans know they are in trouble in the upcoming midterm elections, so desperate times call for desperate measures.

During his almost 2-hour meandering speech at Trumpalooza, aka the GOP midterm convention in Texas, the orange menace promised that his administration would pay a $5,000 “Trump Dividend” to every American adult if voters stupidly deliver a Republican victory in the midterm elections.

“If the Republicans win, you win with us, and you get $5,000,” Trump told his gullible supporters at the convention, which many political experts are calling a clear sign Republicans are in trouble. “We’ll call it the Trump Dividend. Congratulations.”

If that sounds like a bribe, well, that’s because it is, and many people are describing it as such.

Sam Stein, managing editor at The Bulwark, also called Trump’s latest promise a flat-out “bribe.”

“Trump openly bribing people to vote for Republicans. $5k per person if republicans hold the House and the Senate?” Stein said in his post on X (formerly Twitter).

They are using the moment to remind us of his other financial promise that never came to fruition: the $2,000 tariff dividend check we are still waiting for.

Trump defended his bribery plan in an interview with Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, claiming the payments would be possible because of his stupid tariffs.

“We’re taking in 21 trillion dollars. No country has ever taken in anywhere near that,” Trump told Ingraham. “That’s four-five times more than the next. That’s all because of that beautiful word you and I love more tha most others- tariffs.”

We are truly living in some stupid times.

You can see more reactions to Trump bribing Americans in hopes of staying in power below.

The deaths of several Black people found hanging in different parts of the country in 2026 have drawn public attention and raised questions from grieving families and community members. While the circumstances surrounding each case are different, some families have challenged authorities’ initial conclusions and called for greater transparency into how their loved ones died.

Here is what we know about the mysterious cases of all of the Black People found hanging throughout 2026 thus far. 

Tasia Fortune

Tasia Fortune, a 29-year-old mother of four, was found hanging from a tree behind an abandoned house in Jackson, Mississippi, on Aug. 3. Her death remains under investigation, and her family has continued to demand answers and transparency surrounding the circumstances.

The investigation took a significant turn when Jackson Police Chief RaShall Brackney said authorities were investigating Fortune’s death as a potential homicide. According to WLBT, a man named Terence Anderson was named as a person of interest in connection with Fortune’s death. He appeared in Jackson Municipal Court on Aug. 4 and was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Judge Jeffrey Reynolds set his bond at $250,000, and Anderson is being held at the Hinds County Detention Center in Raymond, Miss.

Detectives told the court that Anderson had been questioned in connection with Fortune’s death. He denied any involvement in her death but acknowledged that he had been involved in an argument with her prior to her passing. Police also told the court that the two had been in a relationship, a claim Anderson denied when questioned by officers.

At this time, Anderson has not been publicly charged in connection with Fortune’s death. The case remains active, and the final medical examiner’s report could provide additional information about what happened to Fortune and how she died.

DJ Akademiks is speaking out after his name was mentioned during Lil Durk’s murder-for-hire trial.

The Chicago rapper is now in his third week of the trial, stemming from prosecutors’ allegations that he organized a hit on Quando Rondo. The alleged order ultimately resulted in the death of Rondo’s cousin, Lul Pab.

At one point during the trial, Akademiks’ name was brought up in connection to an alleged murder confession Durk supposedly made during his 2020 appearance on Ak’s Off The Record podcast.

During the interview, Ak asked Smurk if the “Slide for Von” comments bothered him. Durk responded that he wasn’t sure why they would bother him because he hadn’t been seeing those comments lately. He then added that there must be “something in the water.”

Online detectives have since connected Durk’s comment about “something in the water” to an earlier interview with Quando Rondo, where the rapper declined a water bottle from an interviewer because it was already open, saying he was concerned there could be “something in the water.”

However, the connection between the two moments remains speculation. Durk never directly stated that his “something in the water” comment was about Rondo or the Los Angeles incident that left Lul Pab dead.

Now, Akademiks is sounding off on his name being mentioned in the trial, arguing that the allegations could put his safety at rick.

“Throwing my name in here, saying I received confession only puts my life in danger.”

On Wednesday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit heard oral arguments in Louisiana v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a lawsuit that seeks to ban using telehealth for abortions —both in states where abortion is presently illegal AND where it’s legal. 

And it’s state versus state again, harkening back to a big bad time for our nation.

And though I am not saying abortion access is like enslavement (though there is the thread of bodily autonomy running through both), this reminds me of the Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) decision, which laid bare the tension between states where Black people were free and the states where we were not. Eerily, these same eventual Confederate states are the very same ones where abortion is totally illegal, or limited to six weeks, save Virginia. 

As it now stands, medication abortion is approved by the FDA for use before 11 weeks of pregnancy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the FDA began allowing the “abortion pill” mifepristone to be prescribed through telehealth and sent to patients in the mail. That became official policy in 2023, reports NPR. 

A patient can have an ultrasound and then consult with a doctor by telehealth, who will then prescribe mifepristone to be sent to their home, or they can pick it up from a clinic or pharmacy. 

In short, Louisiana is arguing that telemedicine for abortion circumvents state bans on abortion. 

NPR reports: 

A patient in Louisiana, which has a strict abortion ban, can consult over telehealth with a doctor in a state with a shield law, like Colorado, and have abortion medications shipped in the mail right to their door.

That’s why anti-abortion rights groups have filed several lawsuits to stop telehealth abortion access nationally; the states of Florida, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, and Texas also filed similar suits, reports Politico.

Conversely, if Louisiana, which bans abortions, wins this appeal, Colorado will not be able to use telehealth for medical abortions, seriously curbing access to the procedure nationwide. 

Abortion foes — who were crowing when Roe v. Wade fell as the federal law of the land — said they wanted “states to decide” how to deal with abortion. Many of them (those ole Confederate states again) did, and decided on total abortion bans, but now, as Politico reports, “many of the same conservatives who called for returning the issue to the states are now furious that the total number of abortions has increased, largely due to telehealth…”

Pro-Abortion Group, Reproductive Freedom for All released a statement on Sept. 9:

“[I]f Louisiana succeeds, patients could be forced to travel—sometimes hundreds of miles—to pick up their medication in person, with especially harmful consequences for people in rural communities, low income people, and anyone who already faces barriers to care.”

The organization reports that medication abortion accounts for two-thirds of abortions in the United States, and nearly one-third of abortion patients receive care through telehealth. CNN notes that medication abortion has increased since the 2022’s Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Democratic attorneys general of 21 other states and the District of Columbia submitted a friend-of-the-court brief arguing that Louisiana’s lawsuit “improperly elevates the policy preferences of states that have banned or restricted abortion over the preferences of other States that have made the different but equally sovereign determinations to promote access to abortion care.”

AG Bonta said plainly:  “I think Roe v. Wade should be the rule, but it’s not, and we accept that. But don’t reach into our state and try to impose restrictions.”

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill told a Senate committee in January why she wants the law to change. “Until then, Louisiana’s efforts to protect mothers and their unborn children and to hold out-of-state abortion pill traffickers accountable for the harm they inflict will be all but futile,” she said, per CNN.

Where shall we land? 

SEE ALSO:

US Supreme Court Pauses Lower Court Ruling On Abortion Pill Mail Ban

From Exam Room To Crime Scene: When The State Forces Birth But Abandons Life

Sybil Wilkes is back with What We Need To Know, delivering the headlines that shape our community and beyond. This edition covers a heartbreaking search for justice, a fight over education, global unrest, a history-making moment on the tennis court, and a name from our past worth remembering.

A Mother Demands Answers in Jackson

In Jackson, Mississippi, Christie Spivey is grieving and searching for truth after her daughter, Tasia Fortune, an African American woman, was found dead by hanging. The family has voiced deep frustration over delayed autopsy results and what they describe as slow progress from police. City leaders addressed the ongoing investigation during a recent City Council meeting, but for Spivey and her loved ones, answers cannot come soon enough. Their call for transparency echoes a familiar demand across our communities: justice that is thorough, honest, and swift.

The family of 22-year-old Asia Bennett is demanding answers after a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officer shot and killed her during a domestic violence call, and ubiquitous civil rights attorney Ben Crump is now helping them push for transparency.

According to News4JAX, JSO officers responding to a reported dispute on Aug. 11 were told Bennett had a knife. Police say she refused commands to drop it and advanced toward an officer, who shot her. Authorities claim Bennett later tried to get up while still holding the knife, prompting a second shot. She ultimately died after being taken to a hospital.

But Bennett’s family and Crump are calling that account into serious question. Witnesses reportedly dispute the timeline, saying the second shot happened so quickly that Bennett could not have gotten back up and advanced toward officers as police claim. The family also says Bennett was a victim of domestic violence, not the threat JSO portrayed her as.

“We believe it was criminal how she killed Asia Bennett,” Crump said, referring to the officer. “But the breaking news is that she was shot in the back while she was on her hands and knees.”

According to JAX Today, Crump continued his comments:

“She was on the ground, not posing any threat,” Crump said. “The law is clear: Law enforcement cannot use deadly force unless the person poses an imminent threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer.

“How was Asia a threat while she’s on the ground on her hands and knees? How was Asia a threat if she was shot from her side in her back? … Courts have determined that force must stop the moment the threat is neutralized.”

Crump is demanding the release of body camera footage and questioning how a call involving an alleged domestic violence victim ended with her being shot twice. Now, the family wants the public to see exactly what happened. Because when police say one thing and witnesses say another, transparency should not be treated like a favor.

Denim Tears is reportedly bringing its distinct approach to storytelling to the Three Stripes for the first time.

According to Sneaker Bar Detroit, Tremaine Emory’s influential label is partnering with adidas Originals for its first-ever collaboration with the sportswear giant. At least two sneakers are currently expected to arrive in November 2026, with Denim Tears putting its spin on the adidas Superstar and Stan Smith.

Details are still scarce, as neither brand has officially revealed the sneakers or announced pricing. That means we’ll have to wait to see exactly how Emory translates the Denim Tears aesthetic onto two of adidas’ most recognizable silhouettes. Given the brand’s history, though, don’t expect this to be just another logo swap.

Emory founded Denim Tears in 2019 with a focus on exploring Black American history and the African Diaspora through clothing. Its signature Cotton Wreath motif has since become one of contemporary streetwear’s most recognizable graphics, while collaborations with Levi’s, Stüssy, Dior and others have helped Denim Tears move comfortably between streetwear, luxury fashion and cultural commentary.

The adidas partnership also isn’t Denim Tears’ first time using sneakers as a canvas. The brand previously collaborated with Converse on Chuck 70s inspired by Marcus Garvey and Pan-Africanism, while Emory worked with ASICS on the GEL-MC Plus through the ASICS Collective in 2021.

The news comes during an especially busy season for Denim Tears. As CASSIUS previously reported, the brand recently partnered with the André Leon Talley Estate on its sprawling Fall/Winter 2026 collection. The 153-piece project—the estate’s first fashion-brand collaboration—draws inspiration from Talley’s unmistakable wardrobe and legacy while mixing luxury, sportswear and Black cultural references with Denim Tears signatures like the Cotton Wreath.

That collection is being released across five drops throughout the season, giving Denim Tears plenty of momentum heading into another major partnership. For now, the Denim Tears x adidas Superstar and Stan Smith are reportedly slated to arrive sometime in November. Exact release dates, pricing and official images have yet to surface, but if Emory’s previous collaborations are any indication, there will probably be much more behind these pairs than three stripes and a familiar wreath.

The search for answers in the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells is getting even more serious, as his mother, Christine Wonsley, is going straight to court to demand the digital receipts surrounding her son’s final days.

According to ABC News, Wonsley’s legal team has issued subpoenas to several major social media and technology companies as the family continues investigating what happened to Nolan, whose body was found on July 6 after he disappeared during a Fourth of July celebration on Horn Island, Mississippi. BOSSIP previously reported on the potential for these subpoenas as Nolan’s family continued questioning what happened to his phone and what information might have been deleted from it.

The subpoenas seek records from Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat, TikTok and Life360. The family is seeking messages, photos, videos, GPS location data and timestamps that could potentially help reconstruct Nolan’s movements and interactions before his death.

Each company has 21 days from the receipt from the subpoena “to produce and permit inspection and copying of all documents, electronically stored information, records, and tangible things designated below, and to deliver, mail, transmit, or make available for inspection said materials to counsel for Petitioner Christine Wonsley,” the court documents state.

This move could prove significant because Wonsley previously told ABC News’ Good Morning America that when she and her sister finally obtained Nolan’s phone, they noticed that some messages and Snapchat content appeared to be missing.

Wonsley said Nolan had two Snapchat accounts, but there was essentially nothing on them. Considering Snapchat content can disappear after a limited period, the absence of videos and pictures raised an obvious question for the grieving mother. Meanwhile, authorities have maintained that there was initially no indication of a crime and suspect Nolan drowned, though the investigation remains ongoing. The official autopsy and toxicology results are still pending.

The family’s independent autopsy determined Nolan’s cause and manner of death as “undetermined pending investigation,” adding another layer of uncertainty to a case already filled with unanswered questions.

For Wonsley and her family, this legal fight is not about internet speculation, social-media sleuthing, or playing armchair detective. It is about finding out exactly what happened to her son. And after weeks of questions, inconsistencies and missing information, she clearly isn’t waiting around for somebody else to connect the dots.

There are plenty of ways to criticize Hakeem Jeffries. You can go after his politics, his positions on Israel, his relationship with AIPAC or pretty much anything else about the House Democratic leader’s record. But calling a Black man an “AIPAC monkey” and an “errand boy” just set off every alarm bell in the building—and that is exactly what happened.

Afro-Palestinian journalist Rula Jebreal made the comments while appearing on progressive commentator Wajahat Ali’s podcast The Left Hook, where she was ripping into Jeffries over his support for Israel and his ties to AIPAC, the pro-Israel lobbying organization. Jebreal said Jeffries was “bought and paid by AIPAC” before dropping the “monkey” reference and then insisting she did not mean it in a racist way.

She followed that up by calling Jeffries an “errand boy.” When Ali pointed out the obvious racial connotations of calling a Black person a monkey, Jebreal attempted to explain that she was referring to the familiar image of the three monkeys who cannot see, hear or speak.

That explanation did not exactly calm the waters.

The Congressional Black Caucus condemned the remarks, saying there is no non-racist way to call a Black man a “monkey” or “errand boy.” Jebreal later apologized “unconditionally” for the language while maintaining her criticism of Jeffries and AIPAC.

And social media was not kind.

While it hasn’t been confirmed, it looks like the Tetris Company speaking out spooked the White House into removing its racist Tetris clone.

Just days after launching Trump Arcade, the White House removed its racist game “Build the Wall,” which had players building a border wall on the southern border to prevent a “zombie border siege” using pieces synonymous with the popular video game Tetris.

The Verge reports the White House didn’t give any reason for the game’s removal, but some believe it had to do with the Tetris Company quickly denouncing the game’s release.

“For more than 40 years, Tetris has brought people together across generations and cultures through play and joy,” Tetris spokesperson Kerri Brusca told the website last week. “The objective of the game has always been to stack with purpose to clear as many lines as possible. We are currently reviewing the matter.”

There Are Other Racist Games Still Available

While one racist game is gone, there are still others up on the site that push Trump’s agenda and are very problematic, like the Flappy Bird knockoff “Flappy Bill,” a Tapper-like game called “Supply Line,” “Trump Savings Tycoon,” and “Rio Run,” which is a ripoff of the classic game Snake and has a mini version of Tom Homan, the White House Border Czar, rounding up migrants for deportation.

Hilariously, Homan seemed visibly disturbed when it was revealed that he was in the game and that it was live on White House’s arcade website.

We are still patiently waiting to hear from the likes of SEGA and Nintendo, who just recently blatantly MAGA-copied The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time with The Legend of Trump: Make America Great Again, looking to capitalize on the excitement for the game’s remake after it was shown during a recent Nintendo Direct.

Until that day comes, you can see more reactions below.

As New York City prepares for the 25th anniversary of the horrific terror attacks on 9/11 that destroyed the original World Trade Center, former Mayor Rudy Giuliani called for Mayor Zohran Mamdani to not attend the memorial service. He would be excoriated heavily online for that, and for the city’s disclosure of files that showed he was untruthful about the air quality after the attacks.

Giuliani was interviewed by the right-wing television network Newsmax on Sunday (Sept. 6) about 9/11, and took the opportunity to attack Mamdani with lies about his beliefs in an Islamophobic-laced commentary. “Having lost friends there, and being very close to many of the families, it offends me that he’s coming,” he said.

Mamdani declined to respond to Giuliani’s attacks, but did confirm that he will be at the ceremony. It is the latest
attack on him after a controversy involving a petition with dubious origins, representing some 9/11 family members, calling for him not to attend the service was created earlier in the summer.

Palestinian journalist Rula Jebreal is under fire over racist remarks aimed at Rep. Hakeem Jeffries over pro-Israel ties. In a recent interview, Rula Jebreal referred to the New York congressman as an “AIPAC Monkey” and other quips some viewed as racially insensitive.

During a recent appearance on Wajahat Ali’s The Left Hook podcast, Rula Jebreal voiced strong critiques against Jeffries regarding his connection with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and their support of elected officials.

While talking with Ali, Jebreal used the moment to jab at Jeffries, referencing that his first name, Hakeem, translates into “healer” and following by saying, “he is no healer” and that he is a “bought and paid by AIPAC monkey, with all due respect,” while adding, “and I don’t mean it in a racist way.”

Jebreal’s quip and immediate cleanup job would suggest that she recognized her words could be taken in the context some assumed she meant it. However, Jebreal did her best to apologize but still managed to throw a shot at Jeffries via X.

“I am disgusted and horrified that Hakeem Jeffries is taking money from AIPAC amidst Israel;s genocide in Palestine,”Jebreal wrote on September 4. “That said, a term that I used to describe him was inappropriate and offensive and should neverave been used. I apologize unconditionally.”

Reactions to Rula Jebreal’s initial comments against Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and her apology have been, in a word, pointed. The critical lens in which she addressed the congressman is seemingly contradicted not only by her choice in how she referred to him, but also her own apology according to some observers online.

Check out those reactions below.

—

Photo: Getty

STARZ has confirmed that P-Valley will return for its third and final season on Friday, Dec. 4, bringing Uncle Clifford and the crew back to Chucalissa for one last round of drama, dancing, and plenty of messy situations.

The nine-episode final season will kick off with two new episodes, both directed by series creator, showrunner, executive producer, and Pulitzer Prize-winner Katori Hall. New episodes will then drop weekly on Fridays exclusively on the STARZ app and STARZ’s streaming and on-demand platforms.

One Last Trip To The Pynk

Along with the premiere announcement, STARZ released the first teaser for Season 3, giving fans a glimpse at what’s waiting for them when the lights come back on at The Pynk.

And, as expected, things are about to get complicated.

The newly opened Promised Land Casino is bringing plenty of money into Chucalissa, but the town’s newfound wealth comes with a whole lot of chaos. The official description teases that “mo’ money” will bring “mo’ mayhem” as dreamers, schemers, ballers, and shot-callers descend on the Mississippi Delta looking for their piece of the legendary bag.

Meanwhile, Uncle Clifford, played by Nicco Annan, has her eyes on expanding The Pynk empire. Roulette, played by Gail Bean, is also ready to build her own empire, even if that means breaking one of the club’s cardinal rules.

Lil’ Murda (J. Alphonse Nicholson) is dealing with gang ties that could threaten his future, while Keyshawn (Shannon Thornton) is still fighting to escape her circumstances and finally take control of her own life.

The teaser also features a brand-new track from Lil’ Murda, “Homegrown,” featuring FendiDaRappa. The song will be available to stream on all platforms soon.

Katori Hall Says Goodbye

Hall is also getting ready to close the curtain on the series she first began developing back in 2009.

In a heartfelt letter to fans, the creator reflected on the journey from her original play, “Pussy Valley,” to the television series that premiered in 2020.

“There comes a moment when every stripper must hang up her heels,” Hall wrote. “Seventeen years into this dance, that time has come.”

Hall said the decision to end P-Valley with Season 3 was intentional, giving her the opportunity to close out the story on her own terms.

“The rarest honor a showrunner can have in today’s industry is to end a series on her own terms,” she wrote. “This is why I chose to say goodbye with grace, grit and glitter, lowering the curtain on P-VALLEY at Season 3 with a farewell y’all truly deserve.”

She also thanked STARZ for giving the series a home and providing a platform for Black, queer, and femme talent.

“STARZ was the one network who said yes to this story—but sometimes one yes is all you need,” Hall wrote. “Endings often come with tears, but we all know Uncle Clifford Rule 24.5: ‘No cryin’ at the Pynk.'”

The Pynk Posse Is Coming Back

The final season will bring back many of the familiar faces fans have grown attached to, including Brandee Evans as Mercedes, Harriett D. Foy as Mayor Woodbine, Dan J. Johnson as Corbin, Psalms Salazar as Whisper, Morocco Omari as Big L, Dominic DeVore as Duffy, Jordan M. Cox as Derrick, Thomas Q. Jones as Mane, Bertram Williams Jr. as Woddy, Mea Wilkerson as Haiku, and Loretta Devine as Ernestine.

P-Valley has become one of STARZ’s biggest original hits since its 2020 debut. According to the network, Season 2 averaged 11.6 million multiplatform viewers, while the series has racked up more than 236 million hours watched since its launch.

Now, after three seasons of secrets, romances, rivalries, hustles, heartbreak, and unforgettable performances, The Pynk is preparing for its final last call.

And if Hall is right, the Pynk Posse might want to prepare for what could be the wildest season yet.

“May this last dance go down in history as our greatest season ever,” Hall wrote.

Hip-hop has given the world legendary artists, groundbreaking groups and unforgettable stories. Over the years, filmmakers and television producers have brought some of those stories to the screen, giving fans a closer look at the people behind the music.

As rap has grown from a regional movement into a global phenomenon, the lives of its most influential artists and groups have become compelling stories for the big and small screens.Over the years, Hollywood and streaming platforms have explored the journeys of rap legends through biopics, scripted series and fictionalized stories inspired by real-life experiences.

With the news of Snoop Dogg’s life story heading to the big screen, titled “Snoop” many hip-hop fans may be looking for other shows, tv shows or documentaries to get a deeper insight on some of their favorite icons.

Related | Snoop Dogg Biopic Cast Revealed: See Who’s Playing Hip-Hop Legends

Keep scrolling for a list of hip-hop movies or shows that highlight the legacy of iconic rappers that defined the genre.