Scenes featuring Diana Ross in the highly anticipated Michael biopic did not make the final cut. Played by Kat Graham, she confirmed that her scenes were no longer in the film. Taking to social media, Graham shared why her scenes were left out of the biopic. “Ahead of the April 24 release of the Michael Jackson film, I want to share that certain legal considerations affected a few scenes, including the ones I filmed with an incredible cast,” she wrote Thursday on X. “Unfortunately, those moments are no longer part of the final cut, though the team worked hard to preserve as much of the story as possible.” pic.twitter.com/r8L9SROzB1 — Kat Graham (@KatGraham) April 23, 2026 MICHAEL AND DIANA’S RELATIONSHIP The relationship between Diana Ross and Michael Jackson evolved from a professional mentorship into a deep, lifelong kinship. After Ross was credited with “discovering” the Jackson 5 in the late 1960s, she became a blueprint for Michael’s own solo superstardom. They both would appear in The Wiz in 1978. The film has hit several bumps on the way to its release. Colman Domingo, who plays Joseph Jackson in the film, defended the film against charges of “whitewashing” Michael’s legacy. “The film takes place from the ’60s to 1988, so it does not go into the first allegations in, what, 2005? Basically, we center it on the makings of Michael,” Domingo said on the TODAY show. “It’s an intimate portrait of who Michael is.” “Through his eyes, truly. That’s what it is,” Domingo said. “That’s what this film is, and there’s the possibility of there being a part two that may deal with other things that may happen afterwards. This is about the making of Michael. How he was raised, and how he was trying to find his voice as an artist.” Michael is being released in theaters today, April 24, 2026.
Smokey Robinson’s Defamation Claims Dismissed In Ongoing Sexual Assault Case
Smokey Robinson and his wife Frances’ defamation claims against his former employees have been dismissed. The legendary singer is being sued for sexual assault. PEOPLE reports Judge Kevin C. Brazile ruled “there isn’t sufficient evidence to hold the plaintiffs and their lawyer liable for calling Robinson a “serial and sick rapist” at a press conference last year.” “There is evidence supporting the Robinsons, including inconsistencies and unusual circumstances, like encouraging a sister to work after the assaults. However, the evidence of actual malice does not approach the clear and convincing standard,” the judge ruled. Additionally, Brazile said that “the Robinsons were unable to prove that the plaintiffs acted with ‘actual malice” during the press conference, which is required by California’s Anti-SLAPP law. John W. Harris, the plaintiff’s attorney, said the dismissal “stands as a powerful and unequivocal victory for our clients and for survivors everywhere who refuse to be silenced.” “The Court saw this $500 million countersuit for what it is — a blatant, retaliatory attempt to intimidate, discredit, and punish women for speaking out about sexual assault,” he claimed. “California’s anti-SLAPP law exists to stop exactly this kind of abuse of the legal system, where wealth and power are used as weapons against those seeking accountability.” “Our clients have done everything asked of them and more — sitting for depositions, in some cases multiple times, and fully participating in this process — all while enduring an ongoing campaign of harassment and public attacks designed to break their resolve. That ends here,” Harris said. THE LAWSUIT WAS FILED IN MAY 2025 In May 2025, Robinson was named in a major civil lawsuit filed by four former housekeepers. They alleged a pattern of sexual assault and rape spanning from 2007 to 2024. The Jane Does are seeking at least $50 million in damages, also citing labor violations and a hostile work environment involving Robinson’s wife, Frances. Robinson. The Robinsons have vehemently denied allegations.
Mike Tomlin Joins NBC’s NFL Coverage
After leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers following 19 seasons as head coach, Mike Tomlin has found a new team. The Athletic reports that the legendary coach will join NBC as an NFL analyst. He will join NBC’s Sunday night pregame show, “Football Night in America.” “Mike Tomlin, one of the most intriguing NFL TV prospects in years, is headed to NBC to be a top studio analyst on its Sunday night pregame show, “Football Night in America.” Tomlin, 53, is the second former Steelers head coach to become a broadcaster after leaving coaching. Bill Cowher, his predecessor, who joined CBS as a studio analyst in 2007 after resigning from the Steelers. Cowher has never returned to the sidelines. Former Steelers HC Mike Tomlin is headed to NBC to be a top studio analyst on “Football Night in America,” per @AndrewMarchand Tomlin will join host Maria Taylor, ex-Cowboys coach Jason Garrett and Devin McCourty on set. pic.twitter.com/LZTQuwNHXv — Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 21, 2026 MOVES ARE BEING MADE AT NBC To make room for Tomlin’s arrival, veteran analyst Matthew Berry is reportedly leaving NBC’s Football Night in America. This popular show is hosted by Maria Taylor, former Cowboys coach Jason Garrett, and New England Patriots star Devin McCourty. Also, Super Bowl-winning NFL coach Tony Dungy, who hired Tomlin as an assistant when he coached the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is leaving the network. Since stepping down from the Steelers, Tomlin was hotly pursued by NBC. Originally, Fox was thought of as the favorite for Tomlin’s services because of “his close relationship with the network’s NFL insider, Jay Glazer.” Also, because the network has not replaced Hall of Fame coach Jimmy Johnson. TOMLIN IS ONE OF THE GREATEST NFL COACHES EVER Tomlin is one of the most successful and consistent coaches in NFL history. He holds the record for the most consecutive non-losing seasons to begin a career with 19. In his remarkable career, Tomlin amassed a regular-season record of 193–114–2, tying Hall of Famer Chuck Noll for the most wins in franchise history. He became the youngest head coach at the time to win a Super Bowl when he led the Steelers to victory in Super Bowl XLIII at age 36. With two Super Bowl appearances and seven AFC North titles, he is widely respected for his leadership. Also, his ability to maintain a competitive culture. He finished his coaching career as the 10th-winningest coach in NFL history.
Prime Video Unveils Star-Studded ‘Hall of Fame’ Lineup For 2026 WNBA Season
Ahead of the WNBA’s landmark 30th season, Prime Video has announced a formidable “Hall of Fame” broadcast lineup that signals a major investment in women’s basketball media. The roster is anchored by legendary figures Cynthia Cooper and Teresa Weatherspoon, two Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famers who bring unparalleled championship pedigree to the screen. They join previously announced icons Candace Parker and Swin Cash, creating a commentary booth that boasts a combined double-digit count of WNBA titles and MVP awards. The expanded team also features a diverse blend of coaching and playing experience. Kara Lawson (Duke Women’s Basketball head coach and Olympic gold medalist), Lindsey Harding (Lakers assistant coach and former No. 1 overall pick), and veteran analyst LaChina Robinson. Rounding out the coverage, Allie Clifton will serve as the studio host for the new pregame and postgame shows, while Michael Grady, Lisa Byington, and Mike Watts lead the play-by-play duties. This strategic “talent pivot” positions Prime Video to offer some of the most comprehensive and expert-led storytelling in the league’s history as they prepare to stream 30 exclusive regular-season games and the Commissioner’s Cup. Amina Hussein, Prime Sports Head of On-Air Talent and Development,m shared her excitement about the brand’s upcoming coverage “We’ve built a team that brings together championship experience, broadcasting excellence, and fresh perspectives,” said Hussein in a statement. “From pioneers who helped launch the league to rising voices in sports media, we are uniquely positioned to deliver coverage that celebrates the game, educates fans, and centers the stories of the incredible athletes that make the WNBA what it is today.” THE WNBA IS ENTERING ITS 30TH SEASON The WNBA is set to tip off its landmark 30th season on Friday, May 8, 2026, marking a historic expansion of the league to 15 teams. This milestone season features the highly anticipated debuts of two new franchises: the Toronto Tempo, the league’s first Canadian team, and the Portland Fire.
Foolio Murder Case Suspect Seen Laughing in Courtroom Appearance
The killing of Foolio in June 2024 has now moved firmly into its courtroom phase, with testimony unfolding in Tampa, Florida, where he was shot while celebrating his birthday at a hotel. Five people were arrested in connection with the case, and proceedings against four of them began on April 22. The opening day drew attention for an unexpected courtroom moment captured by Law & Crime, as defendant Davion Murphy appeared to laugh while hearing the prosecution’s account of the events. The reaction was brief, but it quickly became a focal point for observers following the trial. Online, the moment sparked a wave of reaction, much of it critical. Some viewers described the behavior as unsettling, with one YouTube comment calling it “reprehensible” and suggesting it was an attempt to project toughness ahead of a long prison sentence. Another warned, “Yeah, might as well laugh while you can; because you won’t be laughing when that verdict and sentence is being read!!!!” A separate commenter went further, writing, “That’s an empty body right there, soul left a long time ago and all that is left is a shadow rotting in jail waiting to leave the earth.” Murphy, who could face the death penalty if convicted, has remained largely expressionless aside from the moment that drew attention. Prosecutors Allege Coordinated Gang Plot in Foolio Killing Trial In his opening statement, prosecutor Scott Harmon described the case as the product of a broader conflict he said stretched from Jacksonville into Tampa. He told jurors, “It is this animosity and hatred between these gangs that drove the conspiracy in this case that caused these four defendants to confederate and to conspire in this case to engage in this coordinated, planned, murderous attack,” adding, “All of those people in that hotel, none of that affected these shooters. They shot with impunity and with disregard.” His remarks laid out the state’s theory of a coordinated plan rather than an isolated act. Murphy is on trial alongside Rashad Murphy, Sean Gathright, and Isaiah Chance, all accused of tracking Foolio to the Tampa hotel where he was shot. Prosecutors allege the group worked together in the lead-up to the killing. A fifth defendant, Alicia Andrews, was previously convicted of manslaughter in October, resolving her portion of the case as the remaining trial continues.
Nicki Minaj’s Ex-Manager Alleges Discovery Obstruction in Assault Case, Rising Legal Fees
A legal dispute involving Nicki Minaj and her former manager, Brandon Garrett, has continued to develop since it was first filed in January. What began as a workplace grievance has expanded into a broader fight over discovery, filings, and the pace of disclosure. Garrett now contends that Minaj’s side has slowed the exchange of information while increasing his legal burden. Court reporting cited by MyNewsLA describes her written responses as “vague, repetitive boilerplate objections,” a characterization her attorneys dispute. His legal team is also seeking nearly $4,000 tied to motion-related costs. The underlying allegations stem from an incident during the 2024 Pink Friday 2 tour. Garrett claims the dispute began when he authorized someone else to collect a prescription he had been instructed to retrieve himself. According to the complaint, Minaj reacted angrily, saying, “Are you fking crazy having him pick up my prescription? You have lost your fking mind,” followed by, “If my husband were here, he would knock out your fking teeth.” He further alleges she told him, “You’re a dead man walking. You just fked up your whole life.” These statements are included in the filing and remain untested in court. Allegations of Assault and Fallout Set Stage for Legal Fight Garrett also alleges the confrontation turned physical, claiming he was struck in the face with enough force to snap his head back and knock off his hat. Security personnel reportedly intervened before the situation escalated further. He says he later spent hours in a bathroom before discovering he had been left behind in Detroit after Minaj’s team departed. Those claims remain part of an ongoing legal dispute and have not been resolved by a judge. In response, Minaj’s attorney, Judd Burstein, rejected the allegations in advance of formal service of the complaint. “We are unaware of the specific allegations. However, if the lawsuit is as reported by TMZ, it is completely false and frivolous. We are confident that the matter brought by this ex assistant will be resolved swiftly in Mrs. Petty’s favor.” The case is expected to proceed through pretrial motions as both sides prepare for further litigation.
Jack Harlow Shares When He Believed Drake Became Hip-Hop’s Best
Few figures have shaped Jack Harlow as steadily as Drake. Drake’s approach to melody and rhythm has long echoed through Harlow’s catalog. Listeners often point to the way Harlow moves between rapping and singing as part of that lineage. This stylistic overlap has become central to his sound. The connection is not only implied in interviews but also embedded in the music itself. For example, he included his interpolation and partial sampling of Drake on “Lovin On Me.” That choice helped sharpen comparisons between the two artists. Harlow has been explicit about the admiration. In Rolling Stone’s “My Life in 10 Songs,” he revisited Drake’s “10 Bands” from If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. He identified it as a turning point in how he viewed his peer. “I remember vividly this album coming out and being like, ‘Oh, Drake’s the best rapper alive…’ Yeah, it was powerful,” he recalled. The remark framed Drake not just as an influence, but as a benchmark. That perspective carried into their collaboration on “Churchill Downs,” where Harlow described observing Drake’s studio process firsthand. “Watching him work. Not punching in. Delivering that whole way through. It’s just cool to see a rapper really be a rapper and not be some packaged thing that a team is putting together.” He also highlighted Drake’s economy in production. He noted, “[Drake] does a great job of recognizing what’s actually necessary. A lot of his greatest songs are so spacious, him and a couple of instruments.” Harlow Praises Drake’s Growth as ‘ICEMAN’ Rumors Swirl Ahead of Release Harlow expanded on that idea more generally, saying, “I think people forget, just either out of habit or a need to compensate, that you don’t need that much sometimes. It’s really in the essentials…” He added that Drake’s evolution in flow and writing has continued steadily over time. Attention has now turned to ICEMAN, where anticipation is building around potential collaborations. When asked directly, Harlow said, “I’m anticipating it with you.” Drake has not confirmed any guest appearances ahead of the May 15 release. However, Central Cee, Yeat, and Julia Wolf have been mentioned in connection with earlier tracks. Whether those records remain on the final version is still unclear. As a result, speculation remains unresolved as the project approaches.
AllStar JR Reportedly Taken Into Custody While Heading to a VladTV Interview
In recent weeks, a volatile episode involving AllStar JR and NBA Ben 10 has moved from rumor to sustained public scrutiny. Reports indicated that Ben 10 suffered a gunshot wound in a sensitive area and remains hospitalized. While in the hospital, he has continued to post brief videos from his bed. As those updates circulated, AllStar JR adopted a combative posture. He released a diss track directed at Ben 10 and J Prince Jr.. Additionally, he used social media to needle figures tied to the incident. That tone has drawn criticism and curiosity in equal measure. The episode has unfolded largely online. There, reaction tends to move faster than verified detail. By midweek, attention shifted again when reports surfaced that AllStar JR had been arrested in California. According to widely shared accounts, the arrest occurred while he was traveling to an interview with VladTV. That detail quickly became part of the story itself. Authorities have not publicly clarified the basis for the arrest or whether it is connected to the earlier shooting. As a result, that uncertainty has left room for speculation to take hold, particularly across social platforms where fragments of information are often treated as conclusions. For now, key facts remain unconfirmed. Speculation Swirls as Facts Remain Limited in a Still-Unfolding Case The mention of VladTV has revived a long-circulating claim online that the platform operates, intentionally or not, as a space where guests risk legal exposure. The idea has persisted for years without substantiated proof. Yet, it tends to resurface whenever an interviewee later faces legal trouble. In this instance, some observers have drawn parallels, though no evidence has established a direct link. The pattern reflects how quickly narrative frameworks can attach themselves to incomplete reporting. What is clear is that the situation remains unresolved. Ben 10 continues to recover in the hospital, while AllStar JR’s legal status has yet to be fully detailed by officials. Investigators have released few specifics, and no comprehensive account has been provided. Until more information emerges, the story remains a developing one. It is shaped as much by verified updates as by the pace of online reaction.
D4vd’s Phone Reportedly Contained a ‘Significant Amount’ of Child Pornography
Prosecutors said during a Thursday court hearing that investigators reviewing a phone tied to D4vd uncovered what they described as a “significant amount” of illegal material involving minors. Officials did not specify whether any of the files relate to Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in a Tesla registered to D4vd. The disclosure, delivered without extensive detail, added another layer to a case that has already drawn national attention. Authorities indicated that the forensic review is ongoing and may inform future proceedings. For now, the scope and relevance of the material remain unclear. Inside the courtroom, the 21-year-old performer, born David Anthony Burke, appeared in custody wearing an orange jumpsuit before Charlaine F. Olmedo. D4vd responded quietly, including with “Yes ma’am,” as the judge outlined how the preliminary hearing will move forward. The exchange was brief and procedural, offering little beyond confirmation of the next legal steps. Observers described a restrained atmosphere, with no substantive arguments presented. The focus remained on scheduling and formalities rather than evidence. D4vd was taken into custody on April 16, months after the discovery of Rivas’ dismembered remains in the front trunk of a vehicle linked to him. He has pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, lewd acts involving a minor under 14, and mutilation of a body. He is being held without bail at Los Angeles Men’s Central Jail and has reportedly been placed in segregation. Prosecutors allege he “personally used a deadly and dangerous weapon, a sharp instrument, to commit the crime.” An autopsy later classified the death as a homicide, citing “penetrating wounds of the torso with smooth edges that may represent sharp force injuries.” Search for Justice Intensifies as New Details Emerge in Rivas Case Investigators say Rivas was last seen on April 23, 2025, after visiting a Hollywood Hills rental property associated with the artist. At the time her remains were identified months later, D4vd had been touring in support of his album Withered and briefly continued performing before canceling the remaining dates. A planned deluxe edition of the project was also set aside. If convicted, he faces either life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet said whether capital punishment will be pursued. In a statement released April 21, Rivas’ family spoke publicly for the first time since her death, expressing both grief and gratitude to investigators. “Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance. Every Friday night was movie night and we spent wonderful times together,” they said. “We love her very much and she always told us that she loved us. We miss her deeply. All we want is justice for Celeste.”
Kevin Hart Hilariously Leaves Cam’Ron Interview Over Dame Dash Question
Kevin Hart made a swift exit from his recent interview on Cam’ron’s podcast, “Talk With Flee,” after refusing to answer a question regarding music mogul Damon “Dame” Dash. The encounter, which has since gone viral, saw Hart leave the set after participating for only a single question. The comedian left when Cam’Ron asked him a question about Dame Dash, with whom Hart has had public interactions in the past. “When you see Dame Dash today, what do you think?” Cam’ron asked. In a separate interview on “The Danza Project” last month, Cam’ron expressed frustration over Dash’s tendency to bring private disagreements into the public eye, noting that he remains grateful for the early career boost despite their current distance. “Dame done so much for me… and I’m forever grateful for that,” Cam’ron said in the previous interview. “My problem is… regardless of what happens, I never take our problems to the internet.” He expressed confusion as to why Dash frequently mentions his name in online spaces, leading Cam’ron to believe they would likely never reconcile. Dash has historically been more vocal about a potential truce. In social media posts shared last year, the entrepreneur expressed a desire to “squash” the beef and apologized to his hometown of Harlem for the division.