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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

Kimora Lee is done letting everybody else hold the pen. The Baby Phat founder and former supermodel is stepping into a new chapter with her Lifetime documentary, Kimora Lee: On Her Own. Watch the trailer inside. 

Lee’s Lifetime documentary promises to unpack the glamour, family drama, business battles and personal heartbreak that have shaped her life. And yes, she is doing it without the Simmons attached to her name.

In an exclusive first look, People reveals an emotional trailer in which Kimora reflects on becoming a major fashion figure while still a teenager. She describes the glamorous side of her early career, including becoming one of Karl Lagerfeld’s youngest Chanel models, before acknowledging the darker experiences that came with growing up in an industry that could be anything but glamorous.

“I’ve seen the monsters,” Kimora says in the trailer.

And sis is apparently ready to tell us what she saw.

Kimora Is Reclaiming Her Name

Kimora famously became Kimora Lee Simmons after marrying Russell Simmons in 1998. The pair later separated and divorced in 2009 after building Baby Phat into a major fashion brand.

Now, she is simply Kimora Lee.

The decision feels intentional. Lifetime’s announcement describes the documentary as an intimate look at Kimora’s journey from teenage fashion model to entrepreneur, mother and cultural trailblazer. The film features interviews with her children, family, friends and collaborators while revisiting her marriages, divorces, motherhood and business career.

Kimora is also sharing that this is not another version of her story filtered through somebody else.

“Someone else always holding the pen. Not anymore,” she says in the Lifetime press announcement.

The Glamour Comes With Receipts

The trailer gets emotional as Kimora reflects on everything she has experienced publicly and privately. At one point, she breaks down and describes her journey as painful, asking to be left alone.

Her history with Russell Simmons has remained complicated in the years since their divorce, including public disputes and allegations against Simmons that he has denied. People also report that Kimora has faced a lawsuit from Simmons involving allegations concerning stocks.

But the documentary seems less interested in rehashing old headlines than in letting Kimora finally frame the story herself.

And after decades of being somebody’s model, somebody’s wife, somebody’s ex and everybody’s headline, she has apparently decided it is time to be Kimora.

As she puts it in the trailer, “When life gives you coal, press it into a diamond.”

Kimora Lee: On Her Own premieres September 20 at 8 p.m. ET on Lifetime.

Watch the trailer below:

RELATED: Kimora Lee Simmons Calls Funk Flex ‘Sassy AF’ After He Confusingly Claims ‘DaBaby Was Beating That’ Before Swapping His Story

The 24-year-old quarterback appeared to have the Patriots in position to steal the road victory before a disastrous fourth quarter changed everything. Maye threw three interceptions in the final quarter, including a costly pick with just 26 seconds remaining that ended New England’s final scoring opportunity.

The Patriots were trailing by three and sitting at Seattle’s 16-yard line when Maye launched a pass off his back foot. Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe came down with the interception, preserving the victory for the defending Super Bowl champions.

“I thought we had the game under control,” Maye told reporters following the game.

Maye finished 23 of 33 passing for 178 yards and a touchdown, but he took full responsibility for the late-game mistakes.

“Lost patience and it cost us — decisions that cost us the game on my part,” he said. “You can’t have those. It’s unacceptable.”

According to ESPN, Maye’s three fourth-quarter interceptions were the most by a Patriots quarterback in a single game since Tom Brady threw three in 2001.

NBC analyst Cris Collinsworth was also stunned by Maye’s final throw, questioning the decision with the Patriots within field-goal range.

“That wasn’t how I play football and how I want to represent my game,” Maye said afterward.

Despite the rough finish, Maye made it clear he intends to learn from the loss as New England looks ahead to the rest of the season.

The basketball stars, both 24, are joining forces for Team USA at the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, giving fans a chance to see a different side of their relationship after years of being compared to one another.

Following the United States’ dominant 108-56 victory over Hungary on Thursday, Sept. 10, Reese told TNT Sports that she and Clark are enjoying building chemistry on the court.

“We’ve played against each other so many times, so I’m sure we know each other’s game like the back of each other’s hand,” Reese said, noting that the pair have already been “dishing it off” to each other during games.

“She dishes it off to me, I got one to her today, so, it’s fun,” Reese added. “We just continue to build chemistry because we know we’re going to be USA teammates for a while.”

The Atlanta Dream star also said she and Clark can “rely on each other” and “lean on” one another as they navigate their first major national event together.

For Clark, the Indiana Fever star said she’s happy fans are getting to see their relationship firsthand rather than relying on narratives surrounding their rivalry.

“No matter what, there’s always going to be people that create those narratives and say whatever they want to say,” Clark said, according to ESPN. “For ourselves, it’s easy for us to just come in here and compete.”

Reese and Clark first became major basketball storylines during the 2023 March Madness tournament, when Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes faced Reese’s LSU Tigers in a highly publicized matchup that included on-court trash talk.

Although their competitive history sparked plenty of speculation about tension between them, Clark has previously called herself “a big fan of” Reese, while Reese compared their relationship to NBA legends Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

The pair will return to being WNBA competitors when the league season resumes Sept. 17, but for now, they’re enjoying playing on the same side.

DaBaby opened his own chicken and waffles spot, No Knife, but some of the restaurant’s prices have people scratching their heads.

Baby getting into the food business feels like a natural transition, as he’s shown fans his passion for cooking over the years. He even started a social media segment where he called himself “Chef No Knife,” with the Charlotte rapper cooking some of his favorite dishes.

The series showed fans a different side of DaBaby that they may not have seen before. Now, he’s taking that passion to the next level by keeping thins in his hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, where the Suge rapper opened No Knife on September 6.

However, some customers questioned the price points on certain menu items. DaBaby responded to the criticism by telling those who weren’t feeling the prices, “They shoulda went to Waffle House. Waffle House has something for you.”

One of the biggest talking points has been the restaurant’s $45 waffles. DaBaby defended the price, explaining that the dish is more than just the basic ingredient.

“This isn’t just flour and water,” he said.

With No Knife officially open, DaBaby is betting that his fans will see the value behind the elevated experience he’s bringing to Charlotte.

Phaedra Parks and Chris “CT” Tamburello’s unexpected romance may not have been on anyone’s 2026 bingo card, but the reality TV pair appears to be going strong, and their relationship is “the real deal,” according to a source close to the couple who opened up to Us Magazine on Sept. 9 about the duo’s budding romance. Their buzzing relationship has also earned a major stamp of approval from Andy Cohen, who recently shared his thoughts on the unlikely pairing.

A source says CT and Phaedra are “the real deal.”

Phaedra and CT made their red carpet debut as a couple on Sept. 5 at the Creative Arts Emmys in Los Angeles, instantly turning heads as they posed together. While plenty of fans were thrilled to see the two reality stars officially step out as a pair, others questioned whether their relationship was actually the real thing. According to someone close to the couple, there’s no need to wonder.

“It’s definitely the real deal, and they’re really smitten with each other,” a source told the outlet on Wednesday. “They became really close on The Traitors, but CT never thought he actually had a chance with Phaedra.”

The pair first crossed paths while filming Season 2 of Peacock’s hit reality competition series The Traitors in 2023. Their undeniable chemistry quickly caught viewers’ attention, especially after Phaedra affectionately dubbed her costar “castle daddy.”

Still, despite the flirtatious moments, their friendship remained platonic at the time.

“He always had a bit of a crush on her and was interested, but he really valued their friendship and never wanted to cross that line,” the source shares. “After his marriage ended, he and Phaedra started talking a lot more, and their relationship naturally grew from there.”

While their romance continues to blossom, CT is also dealing with a complicated chapter in his personal life as he navigates his ongoing divorce.

As BOSSIP previously reported, in an exclusive interview with TMZ published Sept. 7, CT’s estranged wife, Catalina White, whom he married in 2024, alleged that Tamburello has yet to sign off on their divorce paperwork. She is calling on her estranged husband to move the process forward and officially close out their marriage before he moves on with his Bravo beauty.

Amid the situation, the source says Phaedra has been “such a positive influence on him.”

Phaedra, who shares Ayden, 16, and Dylan, 13, with ex-husband Apollo Nida, and CT are also taking things slowly when it comes to their families.

“They haven’t blended families yet and are keeping that private,” the source shares. “Most of their relationship has been long-distance so far, but they have made it work and travel to see each other. CT and his ex are trying to resolve their split, and he hopes to close that chapter soon.”

Now, check that! Hit the flip to find out what Andy Cohen thinks of Phaedra and CT’s budding romance.

The 2026 One Voyage Cruise is setting sail with a lineup of unforgettable theme nights that promise to bring fashion, music, and culture to the high seas! Hosted by the hilarious Rickey Smiley, this year’s cruise will feature performances by T.I., Rick Ross, Keith Sweat, Pastor Mike Jr. and many more. Here’s a sneak peek at the theme nights and outfit suggestions to help you pack your bags for this epic adventure:

RELATED STORIES:

Your Ultimate Guide to Packing for The Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage

Hit After Hit: Keith Sweat Talks Upcoming Performance on the One Voyage Cruise

Drake apparently decided three alums in one year weren’t enough to keep his fans busy. After dropping ICEMAN, HABIBTI and MAID OF HONOUR on May 15, the Toronto superstar has spent the last several weeks quietly rolling out another mysterious project called FOMO, short for Fear of Missing Out. The problem is…Drake still hasn’t told anybody exactly what FOMO actually is.

The rollout started in August when Drake began sprinkling “FOMO 2026” across his social media. Some of the earliest teasers included old family photos carrying the phrase, before he later shared artwork made to resemble an old-school CD jewel case with FEAR OR MISSING OUT written across it. The CD imagery naturally had fans thinking another musical project was coming, but Drake gave them just enough information to start guessing without actually providing an answer.

We do know when the mystery will finally be solved. Drake announced that FOMO will premiere on YouTube on September 15 at 9 p.m., pairing the announcement with island and Ferris wheel emojis. Multiple reports have listed the time as 9 p.m. Eastern, although Rolling Stone Canada noted that Drake’s original announcement itself did not specify a time zone. Either way, September 15 appears to be the date when fans will finally learn exactly what he has been building toward.

One of the strongest theories is that FOMO involves new music. Producers London Cyr and B4uuuuuuuuu, who have been heavily involved with Drake’s recent musical run, reposted material from the FOMO rollout. Cyr worked extensively on ICEMAN, including producing or contributing to multiple songs, so seeing people from Drake’s musical circle acknowledge the teaser has only made the album/EP theories louder. Drake has also previewed unreleased material during this rollout, another reason fans aren’t buying the idea that FOMO is simply a random announcement.

Rory and Mal have another theory: FOMO could be a smaller pack of unreleased songs, almost in the spirit of Drake’s Scary Hours release. During a recent episode of the New Rory & Mal podcast, Mal made it clear that he didn’t have inside information from Drake, but said he had a hard time believing Drake would spend roughly two weeks building anticipation simply to release music videos. The pair floated the idea that Drake could finally empty out some records that didn’t make his three 2026 albums.

However, there is plenty of evidence supporting the visual-project theory too. Drake was spotted filming at Toronto’s Canadian National Exhibition while dressed in an Iron Man suit near a Ferris wheel — making the Ferris wheel emoji in his September 15 announcement particularly interesting. Reports and speculation about footage Drake filmed in the Bahamas have also led some fans to believe FOMO could package several videos together, perhaps alongside new music rather than as a traditional album.

A tour announcement remains another possibility, especially considering how much music Drake has released this year, but there is currently less evidence pointing in that direction than there is toward music or visuals. Drake has also recently popped up alongside Don Toliver and performed ICEMAN material live, while continuing to tease other music, including his take on Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas.” That all adds to the feeling that Drake’s 2026 run may not be finished yet.

And maybe that uncertainty is the entire point. Drake has spent much of his career turning album rollouts into events, but FOMO has taken that idea literally: tease something without defining it, give everybody a date and let the internet spend weeks worrying that they might miss whatever happens next. Whether September 15 brings a new album, a handful of songs, several music videos or something nobody has guessed yet, Drake has already gotten fans to do exactly what the title suggests.

RELATED: Drake Speaks Out About “Bigger Dreams” After Selling Majority Stake In OVO Brand

See how fans are reacting to the mysterious drop below.

An American Airlines passenger was duct-taped to his seat after he apparently lost it and had to be restrained. And now that same passenger is claiming that he was reportedly triggered after a conversation with a Rabbi about religion. 

According to TMZ, Arthur Layne Lundeen was recorded in his most vulnerable state after he was haphazardly confined to a seat with duct tape after allegedly shouting anti-gay remarks and racial slurs, including the N-word, towards a flight attendant during a flight from Texas to New Jersey last Thursday. 

Fellow passenger Richard O’Lenick, who helped restrain Lundeen, told TMZ that right before his meltdown, Lundeen had been engaged in a 2-hour-long conversation with Rabbi Jonathan Cahn about religion and a comment set him off and he just flipped and started “ranting and raving like a maniac for a good 10 minutes,” TMZ reports. 

O’Lenick said Lundeen’s conversation with Rabbi Cahn started out “friendly,” and added that Lundeen was seen with only one alcoholic beverage. 

Rabbi Cahn spoke with the Daily Mail, who was the first outlet to report the story, and noted that the outburst wasn’t the only disturbing part of the story. Rabbi Cahn claims that Ludeen grabbed him by the throat, hit him, and even broke his laptop over their religious chat. 

The rabbi told The Mail that despite talking for hours about religion, Lundeen turned wild within a split second and even began cursing God. 

Lundeen told the Rabbi that he was a Christian but “he rejected Jesus after he got divorced and he felt judged by Christians over the divorce.”

Everything went south, Cahn said, after the rabbi explained his own experience with God. It is then that Cahn says the man’s face changed. 

According to Cahn, Lundeen then leaned in and whispered, “I have something to tell you … bulls–t!”

After Lundeen was successfully detained the flight was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Lundeen was arrested on charges of assault and disorderly conduct, TMZ reports. 

Lundeen, who worked for an Arizona real estate company, has been fired. 

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.

The biggest challenges behind large corporate events are managing attendance, venue logistics, catering, vendor timing, technology, staffing, and backup plans without letting one problem disrupt the rest of the event.

What makes a large corporate event start feeling complicated before the first guest even arrives?

The bigger the event, the less room there is for loose planning. Hundreds of people may arrive within the same hour, teams are working against fixed setup windows, and small mistakes become harder to absorb once the schedule starts moving.

A successful event depends on getting the details right before the doors open.

How Do You Choose the Right Venue for a Large Corporate Event?

Capacity is vital, but the venue also needs enough room for registration, catering, presentations, breakout areas, and the movement of large groups between activities. Check practical details such as:

• Parking and transportation access
• Loading areas for vendors
• Reliable internet and power
• AV capabilities
• Restroom capacity
• Space for food service

An event venue that looks impressive on a tour creates problems if guests, staff, and vendors struggle to move through it efficiently.

How Do Guest Numbers Affect Almost Every Planning Decision?

Attendance estimates influence much of the event before setup begins.

Seating, food quantities, staffing, transportation, printed materials, and room layouts depend on knowing roughly how many people are coming. A poor estimate creates problems in several places at once:

• Too little seating
• Long registration lines
• Food shortages
• Crowded breakout rooms
• Not enough staff
• Excess materials and wasted spending

Accurate RSVPs and regular attendance updates make seating, food, staffing, and transport easier to size.

Catering Gets More Complicated at Scale

Feeding several hundred means balancing timing, dietary needs, serving speed, kitchen capacity, and enough staff to keep lines moving.

Large-event catering also has to account for allergies, vegetarian or vegan meals, and guests arriving at different times. A provider such as Cotton Culinary may be part of that planning when food service needs to support a large crowd without slowing the rest of the schedule.

The menu, headcount, serving method, and meal timing need to be settled early.

Technology and Vendor Timing Need Tight Coordination

AV teams, decorators, caterers, rental companies, and other vendors often need access to the venue before guests arrive. Tight setup windows leave little room for late deliveries or unclear handoffs.

A shared timeline should take care of vendor arrival timelines, setup deadlines, sound and screen checks, and speaker rehearsal.

Every supplier should know who owns each task and when it needs to be completed.

Backup Plans Matter When Something Changes

Big events leave little room for surprises. Weather changes, speaker cancellations, delivery delays, power problems, or unexpected attendance swings can throw several parts of the schedule off at once.

Ensure your backup plans cover:

• Alternative indoor space
• Spare AV equipment
• Backup vendors
• Revised meal counts

A contingency plan gives you something concrete to fall back on when the original setup stops working.

Large Corporate Events Depend on Good Coordination

Once the doors open, there’s little room to fix a planning mistake without guests noticing. The strongest corporate events usually feel effortless because the difficult decisions were handled long before anyone arrived.

Keep browsing for more informative content.

The rapper is firing back at criticism over his new spot, No Knife Chicken & Waffles, which recently opened its doors in DaBaby’s native Charlotte. After customers made their way to the restaurant and posted pictures of the menu online, many social media users questioned the cost of several menu items–most notably, a $45 Soulfood Cornbread Waffle.

In response to this backlash, DaBaby did an interview with Positively Charlotte on Fox 46 Charlotte, where he explained the reasoning behind the high prices. He went into detail about what all goes into the menu items at his restaurant, citing things like homemade cornbread, collard greens with turkey, and fresh sweet potato folded into the batter of one waffle.

After explaining the $45 waffle in detail, he finished by saying, “this is really a $100 waffle!”

He also took the time to let more frugal customers know they can make their way to Waffle House, but he insists it’s not shade.

“Waffle House has something for you, you know what I mean? But if you want an elevated dining experience, if you want a waffle–Waffle House, I’m sorry, don’t let this come off as shade to you–this isn’t just flour and water,” he said.

No Knife Chicken & Waffles opened Sept. 6 on Atando Avenue and quickly drew attention online for its pricing. A plain waffle is listed at $15, flavored waffles cost $25, and the Soulfood Cornbread Waffle is priced at $45, with six wings available as a $10 add-on. The menu and restaurant logo also seem to be created with AI, but that’s a whole other conversation.

Coverage of the restaurant’s opening also revealed that the online backlash did not keep people away.

One Charlotte Observer reporter who attended the grand opening said he waited about three hours for his food, saying what he ordered was good, but still questioning whether the prices and wait were justified. While DaBaby was closely involved in developing the restaurant’s menu, he is not serving as its head chef.

The restaurant business is one of the most difficult to maintain, so the real question for No Knife Chicken & Waffles is whether it can maintain a customer base for years to come.

Apple has finally joined the foldable phone party after it unveiled its long-rumored folding smartphone, the iPhone Duo.

With the iPhone Duo’s official arrival on Wednesday, it marks the first major overhaul of Apple’s smartphone design in years, and Apple hopes it will reignite excitement around the iPhone brand, which has grown a bit stale.

As expected, the iPhone Duo isn’t cheap, starting at $1,999 for the 256 GB (base model), and features what many describe as a passport design that opens and closes like a book.

When the device is closed, it has a 5.4-inch display, but when it’s unfolded, it has a massive 7.6-inch display, making it the ultimate Apple device not called an iPad for gaming, watching movies, and, of course, heavy multitasking.

Apple also claims that when unfolded, the device is the company’s thinnest iPhone yet.

When you change the phone’s orientation, apps optimized for the iPhone Duo automatically adjust how they appear. Watching a video on Duo while it is folded in half puts the video player on top and the controls on the bottom.

Zoom is another app optimized for the device, showing a shared view of the call while placing meeting participants on the bottom screen.

As with all foldable devices, a visible crease appears where the device folds, and Apple made a valiant attempt to limit it with a custom nano-texture finish and multilayer lamination that increases the Duo’s durability as you constantly open and close it.

What’s Under the Hood Powering iPhone Duo

Under the hood is Apple’s new powerful A20 Pro chip paired with a new cooling system that boosts iPhone Duo’s sustained performance by 35%.

With foldables, battery life is a major issue. Samsung seems to have solved that issue with its latest offerings: the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. Apple also seems to have delivered similar results, promising 31 hours of playback on a charge and 44 hours when using only the front screen.

That number drops to 24 hours if you use both screens.

As for the most important part of the smartphone, the camera, the iPhone Duo uses two high-powered 48-megapixel cameras; one will tackle wide-angle shots while the other is for ultra-wide shots.

The front screen features a cutout for the Center Stage camera, plus a FaceTime camera on the main panel.

Apple also thought about the selfie queens and folks who moonlight as creative directors, carefully curating their social media timelines with flawless, well-posed photos using the new Duo Preview mode. It lets the subject see themselves on screen while the photo taker views them on another screen.

The iPhone Duo Has the Internet Talking

Oh, and by the way, Apple did announce the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max, Apple Watch Ultra 4, Apple Watch Series 12, and AirPods 5, but as expected, all the conversation centers on iPhone Duo.

So what is the internet saying?

Well, with anything Apple announces, those who faithfully throw on their black turtlenecks and blue denim jeans are excited that Apple is finally joining the foldable party and, as expected, treating the moment as if the company Steve Jobs built has somehow revolutionized the foldable smartphone.

Then there are those intrigued by the iPhone Duo, but who also recognize that companies like Samsung have years in the foldable space, and Apple still has to play catch-up.

But if you want an even better take, Marques Brownlee, aka MKBHD, summed up the iPhone Duo perfectly when he said in his preview video, “it’s not perfect, but it has a lot going for it.”

He also brilliantly broke down the pros and cons while comparing the Duo to its obvious rival, the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

The iPhone Duo is available for preorder on Oct. 16 and goes on sale Oct. 23; below are more reactions to Apple finally dropping a foldable iPhone.

President Donald Trump has pledged to send a $5,000 “Trump Dividend” to every adult U.S. citizen if Republicans retain control of both the House and Senate in the November midterm elections.

RELATED: Trump and MAGA Are Coming To Dallas

RELATED: Texas Voter Guide: What to Know for the 2026 Election

Trump announced the proposal Wednesday during the Republican midterm convention in Dallas, telling supporters that if Republicans win both chambers, eligible Americans would receive the payment.

Trump said the $5,000 payments would come with one condition: the money would have to be spent in the United States. However, the president did not provide specifics on when checks would be distributed, exactly who would qualify beyond adult citizens, or how the program would be funded. The White House also had not immediately released a detailed plan for implementing the proposal.

The proposal would carry a significant price tag, with estimates putting the total cost at more than $1 trillion if payments were issued broadly to adult U.S. citizens. Such a program would also likely require action from Congress before payments could be authorized. For now, the $5,000 Trump Dividend remains a campaign pledge tied to Republicans maintaining control of both chambers of Congress in November, not an approved federal payment program.

Megan Thee Stallion is keeping it real about her publicized relationship and breakup with NBA star Klay Thompson.

At one point, everything seemed to be going smooth between the two. From constantly being spotted on the gold course together to Megan cooking Klay spaghetti and catfish, the Hotties even got a song out of the relationship. Meg released “LOVER GIRL,” giving a glimpse into how deep she was in her feelings.

Once the relationship ended, Meg revealed a side of things that fans may have not expected. The Houston MC previously accused her former boyfriend of cheating, and now she’s sharing more about what the relationship was like.

During an appearance on Michelle Obama’s podcast, Meg reflected on her time with Thompson, revealing that the relationship often left her feeling “on edge all the time.”

“I feel like I’ve been put through the washing machine and the dryer with tins, shovels, and a cactus.”

Meg also explained that feeling uncomfortable became a sign that it was time to dip out from the relationship.

“How do I want to say this gently? What’s meant for you is always going to work out. And if something is constantly making you feel uncomfortable, just on edge all the time, you probably are not supposed to be there.” 

The Stallion continued, explaining that she felt like she was losing herself while trying to make the relationship work.

“God will always make you uncomfortable when something is not meant for you. I think I just kept trying to make pieces fit that didn’t belong, trying to fit myself into someone else’s life. I was losing myself a little bit. I am now in the space of finding me again… You will not disrespect me. And you will be thankful. Period.”

Original features like crown moldings, solid wood floors, and attractive rooflines typically bring charm to older homes that newer builds can’t match. But this character was created years before today’s building codes, materials, and weatherproofing standards. Beneath the appeal, you may have a property that needs re-roofing because it no longer provides shelter.

According to U.S News, you can expect a roof to last between 20 and 50 years. If you have an older property, chances are your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, and you may require a framing inspection and roof restoration or replacement.  

Why Is the Roof Usually Your First Warning Sign?

Your roof takes a hit from every type of weather. The wind and rain will batter it, and even the sunshine can degrade it. As your roof is exposed to the elements, it’s often the first sign that your historic property needs attention. 

Some signs that you should consider re-roofing include: 

• Cracked, curling, or missing shingles
• Granules collecting in gutters, indicating the roofing material is breaking down
• Areas of visible sagging, either from ground level or inside your attic
• Visible daylight when viewed through the roof boards in the attic

Roof Restoration or Full Replacement?

The good news is that not every roof will need complete removal. A roof restoration will extend the lifespan of an older roof if the underlying structure is sound. Restoration techniques include sealing, recoating, and making targeted repairs. 

A roof inspection will determine which route to take: 

• Restoring surface layer damage
• Full replacement where framing is compromised
• A hybrid approach to tackle the worst sections

What Are the Additional Rules Surrounding Historical Home Repair?

Restoring an older property isn’t as simple as swapping in modern materials. Many older properties have specific preservation guidelines attached that dictate rules around any possible change. These could include: 

• Matching the original roofline, colors, and materials
• Working only with contractors who are experienced in period techniques
• Balancing modern energy-efficient upgrades against preservation guidelines
• Securing permits before undertaking exterior work

Decks and Framing: What to Consider

Your roof is not the only structural element that will quietly age. You may also need a deck replacement. In older properties, original decking may no longer meet current load and safety standards, and exposed wood may also have weakened over time, even if it still looks safe.  

Below the surface, a framing inspection may reveal the true story. Rot, insect damage, or shifting could compromise the structural integrity. 

What Should You Do When Emergency Roof Leaks Happen?

There’s no good time for emergency roof leaks to occur, and they often happen during storms. If you get a leak: 

• Use buckets and tarps to contain the water and limit interior damage
• Take photos of the damage for insurance purposes before any cleanup
• Avoid walking on potentially unstable areas of your roof
• Call a residential re-roofing specialist as soon as possible

Does My Period Home Need Re-roofing?

Your home may have character, but it may also need re-roofing. Older roofs can mask hidden problems, and it’s worth getting an assessment from a contractor who understands period techniques before they impact your home. 

Check out the rest of the site for more helpful articles. 

For many moviegoers, Avengers: Doomsday is the most anticipated film left on the calendar year for 2026, but for sci-fi lovers and fans of creature-features, the excitement for Godzilla: Minus Zero is right up there with the cinematic debut of Dr. Doom.

On Tuesday (Aug. 8), TOHO films released the latest trailer for the upcoming Godzilla: Minus Zero, and if you were a fan of its 2023 predecessor, you’re going to be in for a treat. Picking up two years after the events of Godzilla: Minus One, the sequel reintroduces the iconic kaiju from Japan who seems hell-bent on revenge and is once again taking aim at Japan and its inhabitants. While the heroes of Minus One barely escaped alive as they used military strategy and science to defeat Godzilla by the end of the 2023 Oscar-winning film, this time around they may get some monstrous help. An ominous roar can be heard in the trailer, and it certainly doesn’t sound like it came from Godzilla himself.

Could it be the mighty three-headed Ghidora? The robotic MechaGodzilla? Maybe Rodan? We have no idea, but someone or something put the gigantic reptile on its back, and it sure as hell wasn’t a human being.

Returning for Godzilla: Minus Zero is Minus One’s hero, kamikaze pilot Kōichi Shikishima (Ryunosuke Kamiki), who is all too familiar with the power and destructive force that Godzilla is capable of. Also returning for more monster action in Minus Zero are Minami Hamabe (Noriko), Hidetaka Yoshioka (Kenji Noda) and Yuki Yamada (Shiro Mizushima).

While many had hoped this would turn out to be a trilogy or even a “rebooted” version of the franchise, the trailer promises that this will be the final installment to the Takashi Yamazaki-directed films, so it’s obvious that they’re putting it all on the line and giving viewers something to indulge in and talk about for ages to come.

We. Can’t. Wait.

Check out the latest trailer to Godzilla: Minus Zero below, and let us know if you’ll be checking it out when it hits theaters on Nov. 6 in the comments section.

The actress and singer recently announced the end of her engagement to Joey Bada$$ after welcoming their son in 2025 and building a life together. In a statement shared on Instagram, Serayah said she made the difficult decision to end their relationship after facing what she described as “repeated infidelity.”

Since then, Serayah has made it clear that she’s choosing herself and focusing on peacefully co-parenting their son.

And we fully support a season of healing, happiness, and minding her business.

BUT… whenever she’s ready to get back outside, we have a few suggestions.

From Hollywood heartthrobs to R&B baes, and a baller, here are 12 fellas we wouldn’t mind seeing shoot their shot with 31-year-old Serayah.

1. Jacob Latimore, 30

Now, if there’s anyone we’d like to see spin the block, it’s Jacob Latimore! The former couple dated for several years before calling it quits, and their longtime relationship clearly had fans invested. They’ve both grown since their split, and with Jacob sharing Serayah’s love for acting and music, we wouldn’t be mad at a second-chance romance. Sometimes an old flame deserves a new spark!

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:

Tyler, The Creator rose as a founding member of the Odd Future collective, who largely leaned into extreme depictions of violent acts in some of their early works. This week, Tyler, The Creator has deactivated his X account and fans seem to believe it’s connected to some of his old tweets.

Tyler, The Creator, now 35, found fame with Odd Future at 18 and unleashed a barrage of acclaimed, if often alarming releases that fit his former collective’s motif of edgy content for the sake of shock and awe. That same approach carried over to Tyler’s social media presence, in particular X, formerly Twitter, where he amassed a large following.

In times past, Tyler has landed in hot water due to his past tweets that have made offensive remarks against celebrities, casual use of the n-word, dropping the f-bomb, and all manner of insults for reasons that may only be attributed to the wildness of youth. He has long since relaxed the edgier persona but as always, the Internet is forever.

While Tyler has indeed matured, his zany, outsized personality remained as much as his talent and artistry grew. These days, Tyler hobnobs with many of his personal heroes, including Pharrell Williams and has gone on to create well-rounded music far removed from his teen rapper past.

There was also another brewing controversy regarding another popular X user, FlyOutChase, who was outed for making offensive tweets about underaged girls with sexually suggestive and offensive overtones. Some believe that FlyOutChase getting exposed inspired Tyler to end his time on X.

On X, fans are remarking about Tyler, The Creator deactivating his X account and sharing some of those aforementioned inflammatory tweets. We’ve got reactions from all sides below.

—

Photo: Getty

Isaiah John returns to the beloved role with a quiet confidence and maturity that mirrors his own growth after nearly a decade of bringing Leon to life. With The Drop officially making its FX and Hulu debut, BOSSIP’s Liz Smith caught up with John about growing alongside his character, the trauma Leon is still carrying, his complicated connection to Wanda, and what it means to choose peace when you know firsthand what the streets can take from you.

We started by asking John whether he had to change anything internally to portray this older, calmer version of Leon. For the actor, the evolution came naturally because in many ways, he and Leon grew up together.

“You know, what I like to say is I booked the show when I was 20 years old, and the plus in that was I was able to grow and mature with this character, because Leon was, you know, a young man turning into a man as well,” John told Liz. “So I would say that, you know, life is imitating art, and art imitating life kind of thing.”

But maturity doesn’t mean Leon has left everything from Snowfall behind. John said he approached The Drop by thinking about just how much his character would still be processing when viewers reconnect with him in 1991.

“I try to just honor where Leon could be mentally with everything that he processed and everything that he experienced,” he said. “I mean, we’re starting the spinoff in ’91, and just prior, storyline-wise, Leon had just saw Franklin not even a year prior. And so I’m like, okay, this is a lot of trauma to unpack.”

Rather than having Leon explain all of that pain, John wanted viewers to be able to see its weight.

“It’s a lot of things that internally he’s processing. So how can I really focus on conveying that on screen without words? Because it’s really heavy, you know?”

That growth is also evident in the way Leon moves through his old neighborhood. He’s an OG now, and while the hood still respects him, he’s using that influence differently by pouring back into the community. We asked John what leadership means to Leon at this stage in his life.

“I mean, it’s everything,” John said. “You know, to a degree, for a while he was up under Franklin leadership. And so now that, you know, he decided to get married and take on this new, like, way of life, it’s everything.”

After spending years following Franklin’s lead, Leon now recognizes that a younger generation needs guidance of its own, something John said viewers will see explored in the new series.

“He sees that leadership is needed because, like, there’s a lot of, especially the youth that we’re gonna tap into a little bit in the spinoff, it’s, like, it’s a lot of misguidance,” John explained. “And so I think he’s really trying to find a way to, in a sense, lead, you know, and set an example and just do right in some kind of way.”

Now, don’t get it twisted. Mature Leon might be moving these days differently, but there were definitely a few moments in the screeners that reminded us the old Leon hasn’t gone anywhere. We asked John just how much of that version of his character is still lurking underneath all that newfound peace.

“I think it’s all there,” John said. “You know, he just manages it differently because the life experience is still there. Like, you know, under the right circumstances, you know.”

Basically, growth is growth, but don’t tempt Leon Simmons because he’ll still throw hands.

Of course, Leon’s growth isn’t the only thing that’s changed. His relationship with Wanda looks very different in The Drop, but one thing certainly hasn’t changed: when Wanda needs him, Leon shows up.

After watching him repeatedly come to her rescue, we had to ask the obvious question: Why doesn’t Leon ever let Wanda fall and figure things out on her own?

“Well, you know, we actually tapping into it as we watch the spinoff. So that’s the question, yeah,” John said before quickly catching himself to avoid giving too much away.

“I don’t want to say— like, there’s literally, like, I don’t want to say too much,” he continued. “There is something in this season that the fans will understand this dynamic and why it is the way it is. Like, we really, really tie it all together.”

We don’t want to give out any spoilers, but whatever continues to pull Leon back to Wanda, there’s clearly more to the story.

While Leon is building a new life, The Drop makes it clear that his past is never too far away. In one particularly quiet moment, Leon looks through old photographs, including one of his childhood best friend, Franklin Saint.

After everything that happened between the two men and where viewers ultimately saw Franklin’s story end in Snowfall, we asked John whether Leon has truly made peace with it all.

“No. I don’t think that he’s made peace with it, because I think he’s still confused by it all,” John said, before clarifying. “I mean, not confused, like he understands. Like he understands the process, but it’s just like that was, that was his brother, you know what I mean?”

For Leon, understanding how things fell apart doesn’t necessarily make accepting the loss of that relationship any easier.

“I don’t think that he’s, like, yeah, I don’t think he’s come to terms with that fully.”

And considering everything Franklin and Leon survived together, perhaps that’s one piece of his past that even a more mature and evolved Leon isn’t quite ready to put down.

Before wrapping up, John made sure to show love to the fans who have supported him, Leon and the Snowfall universe throughout the years. He encouraged longtime viewers and newcomers alike to tap into this next chapter and expressed his gratitude for everyone who has continued to ride with these characters long after Snowfall came to an end.

And judging by everything Leon is still unpacking, there is plenty more story left to tell.

The Drop: A Snowfall Saga airs weekly on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on FX and streams on Hulu.

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.

Hillman College is calling, and class is officially back in session. The release of the sequel series of A Different World debuts this month, and it inspired our list of the best HBCU movies and TV shows to watch. Check it out inside. 

Just in time for homecoming season, A Different World is getting a whole new generation of students. The highly anticipated sequel series premieres on Netflix Sep. 24. The series brings viewers back to the fictional HBCU Hillman College through the eyes of Deborah Wayne — the daughter of beloved alumni Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert. Several original cast members are returning, with Debbie Allen back behind the scenes as executive producer and director.

Before you head back to the yard, it is time to brush up on your HBCU screen education.

Essence shared a roundup of HBCU movie and TV show favorites ahead of Beyoncé’s iconic Homecoming drop on Netflix. From legendary marching bands and Greek life to Black love, campus politics, friendship, activism and finding yourself, these movies and television shows capture different pieces of the HBCU experience. As Essence points out in its homecoming watch list, titles like Drumline, Stomp the Yard, School Daze and A Different World have helped bring the energy of Black college culture to audiences everywhere.

And as Bustle previously highlighted, the HBCU stories on screen offer more than entertainment. They give viewers a window into traditions like stepping, marching band culture, Greek life and the everyday experiences of Black college students.

So grab your snacks, call your homecoming crew and press play.