Quantcast
Channel: UPTOWN Magazine
Viewing all 6567 articles
Browse latest View live

Trayvon Martin Foundation To Host Summit For Mothers Who Have Lost Children to Gun Violence

$
0
0

Sybrina FultonCourtesy of Cocoa Fab

The Trayvon Martin Foundation will host a two-day healing retreat for mothers who have experienced gun violence.

The “Circle of Mothers Empowerment Retreat,” spearheaded Sybrina Fulton will be held in Weston, Florida from May 16-18 and will include workshops, empowerment seminars, and keynote speeches by influencers including rapper Tupac Shakur‘s mother Afeni Shakur.

Fulton is inviting all mothers, not just African-Americans, who have lost a child. “The loss of a child is unbearable,” she said in a statement. “The goal of this retreat is to gather together women, who like myself have experienced every mother’s nightmare.”

Both Shakur and Fulton have lost sons very publicly and have transformed their loss into social change. Both hope this weekend will help mothers by giving them the tools to “take the progressive steps forward towards healing,” said Fulton.

For more information on the “Circle of Mothers Empowerment Retreat, head over to Cocoa Fab.

Photo credit: Jason Kempin/Getty Images North America

Both Shakur and Fulton have lost sons very publicly and have transformed their loss into social change. Both hope this weekend will help mothers by giving them the tools to “take the progressive steps forward towards healing,” said Fulton. – See more at: http://cocoafab.com/trayvon-martin-foundation-weekend-summit-for-mothers-who-have-lost-children-to-gun-violence/#sthash.Q27quyke.dpuTo learn more about the “Circle of Mothers Empowerment Retreat,” head over to Cocoa Fab.

Eva Marcille Granted Temporary Full Custody Of Daughter

$
0
0

Eva Marcille, Kevin McCallJust last month, we asked if there was trouble in paradise for celebrity couple Eva Marcille and Kevin McCall. It seems as though our question was answered earlier this week with the “America’s Next Top Model” star being awarded temporary full custody of the couple’s two-month-old daughter.

TMZ reports Marcille was granted custody following an incident between the pair in April. McCall has been denied any visitation until a hearing later this month and must abide by the restraining order filed against him that orders he stay 100 yards from Marcille.

“It is unfortunate that life has thrown a curve into Eva’s life but as a responsible parent and adult she’s taking steps to ensure the safety and well-being of their child and herself,” said a rep Marcille. The model/actress has yet to personally speak out about the matter.

In March, Marcille claims McCall went on a rampage, kicking down several doors in their home and trying to snatch the baby from her arms. Marcille added that he threatened to punch her.

McCall has yet to comment.

Photo credit: Neilson Barnard/Getty Images North America

8-Year-Old Boy Killed After Defending Sister From Rapist

$
0
0

Martin CobbAn 8-year-old Virginia boy has been killed after being beaten to death while trying to defend his 12-year-old sister from a rape. The teenage assailant was detained and medically evaluated Friday.

Officials have identified the deceased boy as Martin Cobb while the family struggles to cope with the unthinkable tragedy. Police plan to charge the unnamed teen for both attacks that took place Thursday afternoon.

“He was a lovely little boy. He didn’t deserve this,” said Geraldine Pitchford, the children’s aunt. “I’m still trying to make sense of this senseless crime. I couldn’t fathom the thought of this ever happening.”

The incident reportedly occurred before 6:30 p.m. when the brother and sister were playing on train tracks behind the family’s home. The suspect approached the pair and attempted to sexually assault the girl, which prompted Cobb to fight off the attacker.

That’s when the suspect struck Cobb in the head with a brick. He died at the scene.

Cobb’s sister was recovering Friday at VCU Medical Center and was feeling “OK,” according to family members. A prayer vigil was held Friday night in honor of Cobb who is being remembered as a brave defender.

Photo credit: WWBT

Keyshawn Johnson Cleared Of Domestic Violence Charge

$
0
0

Keyshawn JohnsonKeyshawn Johnson has been cleared of a domestic violence charge stemming from an incident with his girlfriend last month.

According to TMZ, a Los Angeles County District Attorney has thrown out the case after determining that the incident was blown out of proportion by a third party. The couple reportedly never wanted authorities called to the scene.

“I am pleased that law enforcement acted quickly and that this matter has been fairly resolved,” Johnson said in an official statement. “The quick decision results from the fact that I should not have been arrested because no crime was committed. I did not and would not touch, grab or strike a woman — any woman.”

“Though Jennifer and I are both pleased that this matter is over, we very much resent the fact that I was ever arrested in the first place. I apologize to my friends, family, fans and colleagues for this matter.”

As the story goes, the argument began when Johnson saw Jennifer reading texts from someone as they were speaking. That’s when the former NFL star threw the phone to the ground breaking it. Jennifer sustained a small scratch on her finger.
The person who was on the phone with Jennifer heard the altercation and called authorities. When cops arrived, both Johnson and Jennifer were surprised and neither wanted to press charges. Despite their wishes, Johnson was arrested and booked for misdemeanor domestic battery and later released on $20,000 bail.

Photo credit: Michael Buckner/Getty Images North America

Sheree Whitfield returning to ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’?

$
0
0

Sheree WhitfieldCourtesy of Sister 2 Sister

With the messiness at an all-time high on “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” rumors are swirling that producers are looking to bring back at least one old favorite as current cast members wait to find out if they’ll be asked back.

According to Atlanta blogger Funky Dineva, original cast member Sheree Whitfield might be returning for season 7 of the hit Bravo reality show. Sheree held a peach and coined reality TV catchphrases (“Who gon’ check me, Boo?”) for four seasons before her exit.

Fans haven’t seen much of her on TV lately; however, she did appear on “Watch What Happens Live” with Kim Zolciak recently.

She’ll be back on Bravo when Kandi Burruss’ wedding special airs in June. Reportedly, she received quite a bit of camera time on Kandi’s special day.

“By the end of Kandi’s wedding night, Sheree was filming full on scenes with Derek J and Lawrence,” Funky D reported.

So, has Sheree confirmed or denied the rumors? Find out at Sister 2 Sister!

Photo credit: Bauer Griffin

Film Reportedly In The Works Based On LeBron James’ High School Years

$
0
0

LeBron JamesWhispers around the film world suggest Universal Pictures is nearing a deal to produce a LeBron James flick based on the NBA superstar’s high school years at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, Ohio. The untitled feature reportedly has set off a bidding war between several studios to lock down the rights.

The project hails from Frank E. Flowers (Haven) with producers Terence Winter (The Wolf of Wall Street) and wife Rachel (Dallas Buyers Club) attached. James is slated to co-produce the film with manager Maverick Carter.

James’ years as a Fighting Irish boasted several highlights which included three state championships, the Naismith Prep Player of the Year Award and the MVP Award at the 2003 McDonald’s All-American Game, among others. His story was chronicled in the 2008 documentary More Than a Game which centered on James and his four teammates through their high school career.

In addition to Universal’s upcoming film, James will make his big screen debut alongside Kevin Hart in the studio’s forthcoming comedy Ballers. The Miami Heat star’s Starz sitcom “Survivor’s Remorse” will also premiere in the fall.

Photo credit: John W. McDonough/SI

Dear Nice Guys Everywhere, I Apologize…

$
0
0

UPTOWN_nice_guy

I dated a nice guy once. He was the sweetest guy ever, and I dumped him. Let me set the scene … it was fourth grade, the year was 1990, and Billy, my boyfriend at school was not really the guy I liked the best, but he liked me the most. For Halloween he had a trick-or-treat party and his parents said they liked me. I was one of two Black girls in the school and there son was white and we were 10 … they were pretty cool about it! Billy was very attentive and would always hang out with me during recess, sit next to me in class, or stare at me all googly-eyed throughout the day. Then … it ended. He went on a family vacation to Hawaii and brought me back a few gifts, a necklace and a box of chocolate covered macadamia nuts. That was it. The last straw. I decided Billy was smothering me and dumped him. I remember sitting in class and he did not sit next to me. He stared at me with a broken heart and puppy dog eyes, and after the resident “bad boy” of our grade named Ryan, that I liked rejected me yet again, I instantly regretted breaking up with Billy.

Here’s the thing about “nice guys,” they get a bad rap. They are usually the dorky sidekick in a film or the band geek hiring someone to be their girlfriend in a movie. They almost always are portrayed as bad dressers, glasses wearers, and nasally voice having guys with no chest hair. They are always way into a girl that’s “too pretty” or “too cool” to go out with them, so they pine after her as they watch her make-out with the “bad boy” in town.

[Image: Shutterstock]

UPTOWN_bad_boy

The “bad boy” on the other hand is dope! He has an insane amount of swagger, is typically the best-dressed, the most liked, and has mad bass in his voice. The “bad boy” is always spurning the advances of girls and women who literally swoon and catch the vapors, as he walks by finger-pointing and winking his eye at the same time (all “bad boys” must know how to perform this simultaneous action). The “bad boy” always smells good, has like 10 girlfriends at once, who all fight over him, and he never gets pimples. He is desirable because he seems so unattainable. He is raw, sexual, and mesmerizing. The “bad boy” has that … that … sexy something that makes you want to throw your panties at him every-damn-time-you-see-him. Even when he does the finger point/wink combo!

When I was younger, dumber, more immature, and reckless, every single thing about the “bad boy” appealed to me. I loved the cockiness he had, and I equated it with confidence. I loved that he made sure he looked perfect at all times and had on the flyest clothes by the best designers. Oh, and when he wouldn’t call me or would take forever to make actual plans with me, it made me want him even more. Whenever the Bad Boy would keep me guessing, I became more intrigued, albeit frustrated, but yet still wanting to try harder to get and keep his attention. I was an idiot. Why I felt it was okay to let a man keep me wondering how he felt, not call me, and basically just keep every aspect of or so-called relationship a big guessing game, says a lot about my lack of maturity and dare I even say confidence at the time. A man (or woman) should never keep you waiting or guessing! You should know you are wanted, cared for, and loved.

[Image: Shutterstock]

UPTOWN_hawaiian_shirt_guy

Nice guys are amazing. They are like that unicorn I have always wanted, but did not know how to attain. My co-worker has just begun dating someone and told me how he brought her orchids on their first date, made her breakfast on their fourth date, and actually … wait for it … pulled out his guitar the other night and sang a friggin’ song for her! Yes, an actual guitar and he sang, and she loved it. He is everything she has never had. She has always dated the bad boys, the Mr. Unattainables, and had even talked herself out of giving Mr. Nice Guy a chance. She said he was corny. Oh wait, I said he was corny, and she agreed, but then one week later she said, “I like his corniness … ” Nice guy calls her — he actually picks up the phone and calls her. He texts her to see how she is doing and they plan their dates or evenings together. He told her exactly how he feels about her without her even asking him. He has introduced her to his friends and co-workers, and he is genuinely a good guy. A good guy she almost passed up because he was “too nice.”

This essay is dedicated to the nice guys. You are not corny and who cares if you don’t have chest hair? You buy us chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, which in my case, completely makes you a winner in my book. So, here’s to the nice guys — Jonesie loves you and apologizes for ever thinking the bad boys were more interesting and fun. Nice guys, you are sexy, amazing, unique, and exactly who I want … Get at me bro!

[Image: Shutterstock]

Men Love Freaky Women & 2 Other Lessons Learned By A Stripper

$
0
0

UPTOWN_strip_teaseCourtesy of YourTango

Being an exotic dancer has allowed me to gain massive insight into men, especially when I spend so much time around them. One of the benefits of being an exotic dancer is that I have the pleasure of speaking with various men about sex. I get so many different views and perspectives about sexuality. What better way to understand the thoughts and needs of a man than talking to them personally? I really enjoy the juicy and stimulating perspective of a man. As woman, we want to understand the thought processes of a man. We want to know what they really want and desire. It has been my joy to research top questions that women want to know but are afraid to ask. I take these questions to the work place so that I can bring you the most authentic, uncensored, and raw truth from men. I want to reveal 3 key things that I learned from men by being an exotic dancer.

1. They seek to be their authentic self.

One of the top reasons men come to gentlemen’s club is because they can be their authentic self. What do I mean by that? Many men have many hidden desires and fantasies such as threesomes, experiences with another woman, and fetishes of all sorts. Deep down inside, they want to reveal these things to their companion, but they are afraid of their response. A man’s number one fear is rejection. I have learned from talking to several men in many private sessions that they are afraid to express their true desires because they feel they will be judged. In return they would rather come to the gentleman clubs and pay for services because they feel more comfortable. Why do they feel more comfortable? Men feel more comfortable because they feel like they can let their guard down. Because we are already in a sexual atmosphere, they feel that they can express their innate needs without them feeling guilty and ashamed.

Keep reading at YourTango

Read more from our partner YourTango:

Celebrity Sex: 15 Stars Who’ve Played Porn Stars

Heat It Up: This Is The Best Porn For Women

How To Be Good In Bed: 4 Things You Must Do!

[Image: Shutterstock]


Heard On The Street: V. Stiviano Flip-Flops On Donald Sterling’s Racism

$
0
0

UPTOWN_vstiviano_barbara_walters_interview

“I think Mr. Sterling is from a different generation than I am. I think he was brought up to believe these things and segregation, whites and blacks. But through his actions he’s shown that he’s not a racist. He’s shown to be a very generous and kind man.”

– V. Stiviano, L.A. Clippers owner Donald Sterling’s maybe girlfriend/maybe personal assistant, sat down with Barbara Walters May 2 to discuss her recording Sterling’s now-infamous racist rant. Though her motives in recording him aren’t known, this apologetic flip-flop assertion that Sterling is from another generation and isn’t truly racist and he deserves our understanding is absolutely ridiculous. Sterling’s housing discrimination lawsuit is proof enough that this man has very racist opinions of Black people. And Stiviano’s interview with Walters was a transparent attempt to get back on Sterling’s gravy train.

Source

[Image: ABCNews Photo/Matt Petit]

Hair-Hanging Circus Stunt Goes Wrong [VIDEO]

$
0
0

uptown-circus-accident

 

Eight acrobats crashed to the ground before an audience of witnesses, mainly children, when a hair-hanging chandelier stunt went wrong during a Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus performance in Providence, R.I.

The accident occurred about 45 minutes into the performance as eight female performers hang like a human chandelier using their hair. The metal-frame apparatus from which the performers were hanging came free from the metal truss according to Stephen Payne, a spokesman for Feld Entertainment, the parent company of Ringling Bros. The apparatus crashed down onto a dancer below, bringing the total to nine circus performers who face serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The women are all conscious and their injuries being tended to at Rhode Island Hospital.

Video of the accident taken by an audience member in the stands shows the curtain coming up as the dancers begin their act under the spotlight. The women are seen falling as the audience gasps not believing what is happening.

Audience members who witnessed the accident at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence quickly realized the accident was not a part of the show. Circus officials turned the lights off so that audience members could not see the medical professionals carrying the performers away on stretchers. “One of the performers was crying,” Othello Smith, an audience member, said. “It looked pretty bad.” 

Future performances of the show on Sunday and Monday were suspended so that public safety officials could look into what went wrong according to Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare. On Monday they Pare said they have identified a clamp that snapped that held them to the rafters dropping them 40 feet to the ground below.

Photo Credit: Bob Breidenbach/The Providence Journal

SNL’s Leslie Jones Angered By Slavery Skit Too

$
0
0

uptown leslie jones snl weekend update may 3

SNL comedian and writer Leslie Jones has responded to critics outraged about a skit where she called herself “the number one slave draft pick.” On Saturday night’s skit while discussing Lupita Nyong’o’s People Magazine cover, Jones said the way the world views black beauty has changed.

As part of her Weekend Update appearance, Jones commented that if she was a dark skinned strong black female slave she would be a prized possession on the plantation, popping out babies every nine months for the plantation’s master. In 2014, she shares, she can’t even get a man to take her out on a cheap date for a beef bowl.

The skit can be seen below:

In a flurry of tweets, Jones unapologetically defended her decision to write the skit as a comic whose job is to take painful moments and make them funny.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The skit obviously references Nyong’o's star-making role in 12 Years A Slave, and dissects the realities of slave breeding during the slave trade. Black women were often raped by their slave masters to build a larger slave force. The female slaves were forced to continue working throughout pregnancy, sometimes until childbirth. Afterward, they reared their children in the fields producing that plantation’s cotton, sugar cane, and tobacco cash crops.

There was no guarantee that children would not be sold to another plantation. Often slave masters never acknowledged that they had fathered a child with their slave.

Yes, some slaves learned that pregnancy could earn them a “favorable” position or even days off from hard labor. Slavery is a painful reminder for many in the Black community who still experience the after effects of one of America’s worst historical moments.  While comedy has helped people heal through laughter, slavery remains an open wound for some that humor will seemingly never heal.

It’s Hard Out Here: Portrait of a Pimp

$
0
0

uptown iceberg slim portrait of a pimp

A gruesome look into the life of sexually abused child-turned-pimp, convict-turned-husband-and-father-turned-bestselling author, Robert Beck, Iceberg Slim: Portrait of a Pimp, premiering on Showtime in April, is not for those expecting a wholesale glamorization of pimp culture. There are no MTV Cribs-esque scenes of flashy clothes and fast cars. Iceberg isn’t sweet-talking his women, á la The Mack, into believing in him and his pimping powers either.

Unlike similar documentaries, namely 1999’s American Pimp from the Hughes Brothers and HBO’s popular Pimps Up, Ho’s Down, Portrait digs deep into Beck’s psyche, zoning in on sexual molestation, abandonment issues and substance abuse as the key motivating factors that led to him becoming a pimp. Being a pimp never benefited Beck, but writing about it, as Iceberg Slim, made him a legend. Since Pimp: The Story of My Life debuted in 1967, it has sold millions of copies with reprints in several languages.


Executive producers Ice-T and Jorge Hinojosa offer plenty of visuals in the form of animation and rare interview footage with Beck himself. But substance matters most. Commentary from celebrity fans, ranging from Snoop Dogg to Chris Rock, is juxtaposed with that of Beck’s family, including his first wife and three daughters. Also showing up is Holloway House publisher Bentley Morris, who is grilled about exploiting Beck.

While his enduring fame has left its mark on black popular culture, Beck, who died in 1992 at age 73, paid a huge personal price. As he states in the film, “nothing good came out of pimping.”

Watch it anytime on Showtime on Demand or catch the next Showtime airing Thu, May 08, 12AM ET/PT on SHOWTIME or click here for the complete viewing schedule.

By Maurice Garland

Lenny Kravitz & 11 More Celebs Turning 50 In 2014

$
0
0

UPTOWN_celebs_turning_50_in_2014

Although turning 50 might be the birthday in which the reality of old age begins to creep in, it’s definitely a milestone age that should be celebrated. Why not, it’s a fabulous age! And when you’re sexy and successful like Lenny Kravitz and some of these other celebrities, hitting the halfway century mark isn’t so bad after all. In fact, some celebs turning 50 in 2014 look damn good — putting some of these younger celebs to shame. Take a look at a few celebrities that will be turning the big 5-0 this year.

blair-underwoodBlair Underwood – Born August 25, 1964

Then:  Making his film debut in the 1985 Hip Hop movie, Krush Groove this swoon-worthy actor has since been featured in over 20 films, like AsunderSet It Off, and Something New, as well as even more television series like “L.A. Law,” “A Different World,” and “Sex and the City.” Remember when he played Denise Huxtable’s cute boyfriend on “The Cosby Show”?

blaire-underwood-nowNow:  Still handsome as ever, in 2012 the award-winning Blair Underwood made his Broadway debut as Stanley in A Streetcar Named Desire.  He will continue his acting journey this summer at The Old Globe Theatre in the role of Shakespeare’s Othello.

Holly_Robinson-chicki-hot_thumb_585x795Holly Robinson Peete – Born September 18, 1964

Then: This actress and singer began her career on “Sesame Street,” long before one of her most notable roles as Sergeant Judy on the ’80s drama series, ”21 Jump Street.” Finding success in acting, her singing career never quite catapulted past singing the theme songs for a couple of TV shows she appeared in, ”21 Jump Street” and ”Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper.”

HollyRobinson-PeeteNow: This mother of four now spends her time spreading the word for her HollyRod Foundation, autism, and being the spokesperson for Nestlé’s Carnation Breakfast Essentials, of which she can be seen in commercials for daily.

Robin_Givens-youngRobin Givens – Born November 27, 1964

Then: Beginning her acting career with a small appearance on ”The Cosby Show,” Robin found her way in many other roles both on the big and small screens, like ”Head of the Class.” But her most infamous and noted role (although short-lived) has probably been as the ex-wife of legendary boxer Mike Tyson.

robin-givens-nowNow:  Still looking just as great as she did over 20 years ago, the sultry actress and now mother of two continues acting in small roles and stage plays.  She’s has recurring roles on the popular BET sitcom ”The Game” and Tyler Perry’s ”House of Payne.”

2003-lenny-kravitz-400Lenny Kravitz – Born May 26, 1964

Then: Multifaceted musician Lenny Kravitz hasn’t missed a beat since landing on the scene with music hit after hit. The sexy rocker went on to marry actress Lisa Bonet and father daughter Zoe Kravitz.  The two separated, but are still great friends.

lenny-kravitzNow: The award winner not only continues to rock stages in a major way, but can often be seen making appearances in supporting roles on the big screen, like in PreciousThe Hunger Games, and The Butler. And he’s still hot—wouldn’t you want to be his American woman?

rosie-perez-oldRosie Perez – Born Sep 06, 1964

Then: She made her film debut playing Mookie’s girlfriend in Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing, danced her way into our hearts on “Soul Train,” and choreographed routines for the Fly Girls on “In Living Color.” And with plenty of roles in between, we simply can’t forget Rosie’s most memorable role in film, White Men Can’t Jump.

rosie-perez-nowNow: This Brooklyn born three-time Emmy-nominated choreographer is still making her acting rounds and has recently penned a memoir Handbook for an Unpredictable Life, which details traumatic experiences of her childhood and sheds light on her beef with Jennifer Lopez.

Wendy-Williams-thenWendy Williams – Born Jul 18, 1964

Then: This bold media personality made her mark on radio, starting from humble beginnings in the Virgin Islands to landing on some of New York’s top radio stations, like Hot 97 and WBLS. And since then she hasn’t stopped climbing to the top.

wendy-williams-2011-275x379Now: Although she’s no longer dishing and serving up drama on the radio, Wendy continues to keep her millions of fans in the loop on her highly-rated syndicated talk show, “The Wendy Williams Show.” Between being a mom, writing novels, acting, hosting, and more, she has definitely garnered the title, Queen of all Media.  How you doing?

RELATED: The Side of Wendy Williams You’ve Never Seen Before

194_1barry_bonds_1987Barry Bonds – Born Jul 24, 1964

Then: One of baseball’s most notable players with a career spanning 20-plus years, Barry Bonds is considered one of the best all-time players in sports. And after a long career tainted by steroid use and legal issues, Bond’s jersey number has not been retired and remains in circulation.

Barry-Bonds-271x400Now: Recently Bonds became a roving spring training instructor for the San Francisco Giants.

vivica-fox-thenVivica Fox – Born June 30, 1964

Then: Getting her acting start on soap operas and playing the legendary Patti Labelle’s daughter on the ’90s sitcom “Out All Night,” this on-screen diva catapulted to fame with two of her biggest movie roles in Set It Off and Independence Day, alongside Will Smith.

Vivica Fox Babel LA Premiere Los Angeles, CA 11/05/2006Now: After much success with her roles in the Kill Bill saga and other movie and television roles, Vivica has expanded her resume with producing many television shows. She’s even gone on to create a hair extension line. And she can now be seen on the latest season of “Celebrity Apprentice.”

biz-markieBiz Markie – Born April 8, 1964

Then: The “Just a Friend” rapper’s claim to fame came about in the early ’80s, as a superb beat-boxer for many of rap’s pioneers. But he also became a hip hop legend himself.

BIZ-MARKIE-WENNNow: With a few studio albums and hits under his belt, Biz continues his music career as a well sought after celebrity DJ. With such an expansive record collection—well over 50,000 records—he has spun at parties for the likes of Will Smith, Diana Ross, Kobe Bryant, and many more.

Djimon-Hounsou-thenDjimon Hounsou – Born Apr 24, 1964

Then: This Beninese American model and actor began his modeling career in Paris and then appearing in music videos with Paula Abdul and Janet Jackson. He later went on to acting in many shows, even picking up a Golden Globe nomination for his work in the Steven Spielberg movie, Amistad.

Djimon-Hounsou-nowNow: While stepping into the role of fatherhood, Djimon continues to capture the hearts of women on-screen.  He was most recently in the 2013 comedy, Baggage Claim with Paul Patton, and will be in the seventh installment ofFast & Furious with the late Paul Walker.

172127__cedric_lCedric the Entertainer – Born April 24, 1964

Then: This King of Comedy got his start on talent shows like “It’s Showtime at the Apollo” and later on BET’s “Comic View,” making the audience laugh.

cedric-2011-a-Now: After a successful run on the hit sitcom “The Steve Harvey Show,” his acting career took off and landed him many movie roles like Barbershop, Barbershop 2Johnson Family Vacation, and Street Kings. He is currently the latest to host the syndicated game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.”

cheadle-then3Don Cheadle – Born November 29, 1964

Then: This seasoned actor began his career with supporting roles on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and “The Golden Palace,” a “Golden Girls” spin-off show. He later grabbed major attention in films like Devil in a Blue Dress, Hotel Rwanda, and Iron Man 2 and 3.

Don-Cheadle_House_Of_LiesNow:  With numerous award nominations and wins as both an actor and a producer under his belt, it’s safe to say this guy is a true movie star.  He’s currently starring in the Showtime comedy-drama series “House of Lies,” which has been renewed for a fourth season. And we’ll be seeing him back on the big screen in the action film Avengers: Age of Ultron next year.

Missing Nigerian Girls May Be Sold Into Slavery

$
0
0

Bring Back Our Girls

The #BringBackOurGirls movement was hit with a massive blow today when a video released by the Islamic extremist kidnappers announced they would sell the girls on the human trafficking market. A man claiming to be Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau admits that he is responsible for kidnapping the young girls.

Shekau rants that he will sell the kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls, in the video obtained and translated by CNN from the local Hausa language. He continued in the nearly hour-long video that Allah has commanded him to sell the girls and that Western education should end. Members of Boko Haram are shown shooting automatic rifles in the air while chanting, “God is great,” prior to his speech.

Reports released last week have estimated that more than 300 girls were abducted when members of the extremist group overpowered school security officials and forced them into truck. Of those known, 276 remain in captivity and 53 escaped. Those who remain in captivity may have been forced to marry their kidnappers, who paid $12 as a bride price. Others are thought to have been carried into neighboring Cameroon and Chad. Some of the escapees said that their captors said they were members of Boko Haram.

Since the girls’ April 15 kidnapping, outrage has grown that officials are not taking the proper strides to bring the young girls back home. Social media campaigns sprung up to bring the issue to the forefront of the media’s conscious. Piers Morgan asked:

 

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan vowed Sunday wherever these girls are, they’ll get them out. He also made it public that many of the girls’ family have been uncooperative with working with police out of fear for their safety. A newly formed presidential committee is working on a strategy for the release of the girls.

RELATED: What You Can Do To Help The Kidnapped Nigerian School Girls

Source

Why I Can No Longer Respect Rihanna

$
0
0

UPTOWN_rihanna_lui_magazineCourtesy of Hype Hair

Rihanna has managed to make everything she does a trademark. Her image, style, hair, fashion, and tattoos are always a topic of major discussion and trendsetting. The young star’s bad girl image satisfies our own inner rebel, but it’s time for that to come to an end.

Her most recent spread on LUI magazine aired a topless Bajan queen sunbathing in all her glory. Covering her birthday suit with only tattoos, jewelry, and little else, she looked stunning (again) but this time I was extremely unimpressed. Even as a fan of the Navy queen, I realized there’s only so much of her nudity, professional and selfie-style, that I can take.

Dear Rihanna, when her body changes and beauty fades, what else will you have to offer us? And even worse, she personally seems to have no limit for this kind of exposure.

Keep reading


Derrick Gordon And Gerald McCullouch Dating?

$
0
0

After coming out of the closet publicly in early April, with the support of many of his basketball teammates, University of Massachusetts sophomore starter Derrick Gordon has now made another very public statement — he’s in a relationship! Or at least appears to be.

Gordon appeared on the red carpet of the 25th Annual GLAAD Media Awards on the arm of 47-year-old “CSI” actor Gerald McCullouch. The athlete posted two photos of the pair on Instagram:

“Unforgettable event…Always Cherish every moment!!! @geraldmccullouch #glaadawards #BETRUE,” Gordon wrote.

On another photo, Gordon’s caption read: “A night that I will never forget and a night that I didnt want to end…It was an awesome night.THANK YOU GLAAD…@geraldmccullouch …@glaad
#Epicnight #betrue #loveislove.”

The GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) Media Awards featured a noteworthy performance by Kylie Minogue and honored Star Wars legend George Takei, but it was the appearance of Gordon and McCullouch as a couple, with a nearly 25-year age difference, that is making headlines around the globe.

So far, there has been no formal statement addressing their relationship.

 

Donald Sterling Seeks Revenge From NBA

$
0
0

uptown-donaldsterling

Donald Sterling, who came under fire two weeks ago for his shocking and racist statements recorded by his girlfriend Vanessa Stiviano, is now seeking legal action against the NBA for suspending him and attempting to strip his ownership of the Los Angeles Clippers. Sources say that Sterling’s team has contacted a few law firms, including that of Patty Glaser, who has represented Conan O’Brien and Keith Olbermann, as well as Paula Deen. Deen hired Glaser to defend her in the case of Uncle Bubba’s Seafood and Oyster House, after Deen’s notorious comments towards blacks were brought to the attention of the public.

[Image: USA Today]

UPTOWN_vstiviano_barbara_walters_interview

Sources say that Sterling absolutely plans to fight as hard as possible against the NBA. Ironically, in a possible ploy to rebuild his image, Stiviano sat down for an interview with Barbara Walters last week. She told Walters that she felt Sterling was from a “different generation,” but he is “not a racist.”

[Image: ABCNews Photo/Matt Petit]

Oregon State University Fires Michelle Obama’s Brother

$
0
0

uptown-craigrobinson

Oregon State University has fired Craig Robinson, Michelle Obama‘s older brother, as head coach of the men’s basketball team. But all is not lost for Robinson’s bank account.

The news of the termination was delivered on Monday, after Robinson headed the team for six years with a losing record of 93-104 and no NCAA tournament appearances. According to reports, the school will pay Robinson a whopping $4.2 million necessary to sever ties and buy out his contract.

This season the Beavers finished with a record of 16-16 and have begun to lose all of their starting players. It appears getting the team on the right track is a major feat since the last time the boys have seen an NCAA tournament was in 1990.

But Robinson’s tenure was not all bad, as he helped secure his sister as the commencement speaker for the 2012 graduation ceremony.

It remains to be seen where Robinson’s journey will take him next, but he definitely has an endorsement from brother-in-law President Barack Obama, who back in 2009 said, “Craig Robinson is an outstanding coach … Anybody in Oregon and anybody who knows sports knows he turned it around. He loves Corvallis and I’m sure that as a young, successful coach he’s going to start getting offers.”

Robinson is just two years Mrs. Obama’s senior.

Source

UPTOWN ProFile: Alvin Bowles

$
0
0



Alvin Bowles, CEO of Grab Media and SVP at Blinkx discusses the business of content distribution, its challenges and opportunity for monetization. Bowles also talks about his career trajectory and shares how his past experience as an intrapreneur influenced his role as CEO at Grab Media.

What You Missed at the 2014 Met Gala

$
0
0

Dah-ling. We know you just couldn’t be bothered to trek out to the Met Gala last night so we’re bringing the soiree to you. Oh it was quite the party. There was so very much to see, all in celebration of Charles James, the “Great American Couturier.” Truth be told, everyone didn’t exactly stick to the theme. and while there were plenty of breathtaking ensembles, there were a few misses too. Here are the highlights.

metgala2014 jay z, beyonce

Jay Z in Givenchy & Beyonce in Givenchy Haute Couture by Riccardo Tisci

metgala2014 rihanna

Rihanna in Stella McCartney

metgala2014 rihanna beyonce

Rihanna & Beyonce


metgala2014 sarah jessica parker

Sarah Jessica Parker in Oscar de la Renta

metgala2014 janelle monae

Janelle Monae in Tadasha Shoji metgala2014 matt bomer

Matt Bomer

metgala2014 michael kors zoe saldana

Michael Kors & Zoe Saldana in Michael Kors metgala2014 karolina kurkova 2

Karolina Kurkova in Marchesa metgala2014 gabrielle union janelle monae dianna agron

Gabrielle Union in Prada, Janelle Monae, Dianna Agron in Miu Miu
metgala2014 blake lively

Blake Lively in Gucci Premiere
metgala2014 miguel

Miguel metgala2014 andy cohen sarah jessica parker

Andy Cohen & Sarah Jessica Parker

metgala2014 naomi campbell

Naomi Campbell in Riccardo Tisci

metgala2014 emma stone

Emma Stone in Thakoon
metgala2014 asap rocky, chanel iman

A$AP Rocky, Chanel Iman in TopShop

metgala2014 lupita nyongo

Lupita Nyong’o in Prada

metgala2014 alexis amare stoudemire

Alexis & Amare Stoudemire

metgala2014 charlize theron sean penn

Charlize Theron & Sean Penn

metgala2014 solange knowles

Solange Knowles in Philiip Lim

metgala 2014 chrissy teigen john legend
Chrissy Teigen in Ralph Lauren & John Legend

Viewing all 6567 articles
Browse latest View live


Latest Images