The Whitsdom Press

Category: entertainment

  • What Happened to Darius McCrary? Court Appearance Details

    Darius McCrary, the actor who played Eddie Winslow on the hit TV show Family Matters, is back in the news because of recent trouble with the law. Fans are searching for answers after his strange court appearance made headlines. Here is what we know about the actor’s legal situation, including his bail status and what happens next.

    Why Was Darius McCrary Arrested?

    The actor was arrested on October 5, 2025, while trying to cross the border into the United States in San Diego, California. The arrest was made because of an arrest warrant from the state of Michigan. This warrant was issued because McCrary missed a court date connected to a child support dispute case. The charges are related to failing to appear in court over the ongoing money issue.

    His representative has said that McCrary missed the court date because he had the COVID virus and could not check his mail. They also said he was at the border because he was doing good work, helping to build homes for people without shelter in Tijuana, Mexico.

    A Confusing Day in Court

    When Darius McCrary appeared in a San Diego courtroom, things became complicated. He told the judge he wanted to speak for himself instead of hiring a lawyer.

    During the hearing, McCrary kept telling the judge that he was there on a “special appearance.” This confused the judge, who had to ask him several times what he meant. The judge eventually had to step in and named a public defender, which is a free lawyer, to help the actor. The judge said this was needed because McCrary seemed “unable to understand” the legal rules of the court.

    Denied Bail and Extradition

    The court hearing ended with two important decisions for the Family Matters star.

    First, the judge denied bail for McCrary. This means he will stay in jail while waiting for the next steps in his case.

    Second, he agreed to be sent back to Michigan to face the child support charges. This process is called extradition. Authorities from Michigan now have about 30 days to come to San Diego to pick him up and take him to Michigan.

    This is not the first time the star has faced issues with these charges. Records show that this is the third time McCrary has been arrested for charges related to this case. As the case moves forward, the actor’s team says they are ready to fight the charges in Michigan.

  • The 2026 Grammys: A Simple Guide to the Early Buzz

    The 68th Annual Grammy Awards are already generating serious buzz! While the show, set for February 1, 2026, is months away, the music world is already deep into the process of submitting work and making predictions. If you don’t follow music awards closely, the whole thing can seem confusing, so we’ve broken down the biggest talk points in simple terms.

    Who’s Making the Biggest Play? Kendrick Lamar and Pop Royalty

    In the major categories like Album of the Year (AOY) and Record of the Year, a few heavy-hitters are dominating the conversation.

    • Kendrick Lamar is seen as a top contender. His latest album, “GNX,” is widely predicted to be a major challenger for Album of the Year. This is a big deal because, even though he’s won many Grammys, he has never won AOY for one of his own projects. He’s also submitted his popular track “Luther” (featuring SZA) for Record and Song of the Year. Separately, his song “Like That” and his featured part on Beyoncé’s “AMERIICAN REQUIEM” have also been submitted.
    • Lady Gaga is predicted to grab multiple nominations, especially for her new work, “Mayhem”. Some analysts even think she could lead the pack in total top-category nods.
    • Sabrina Carpenter is another star in the mix and could land major nominations.
    • Other artists expected to contend for the biggest awards include Bad Bunny and Billie Eilish.

    The Best New Artist Race: New Talent Hits the Big Time

    The Best New Artist (BNA) award is always a thrilling category because it shines a light on fresh talent. This year, the race is wide open!

    • Two names you’ll hear a lot are Alex Warren and Sombr. Alex Warren is considered a front-runner, especially after his hit single “Ordinary”. Sombr is also gaining serious buzz from viral success.
    • Other possible nominees include Addison Rae, Ella Langley, The Marías, and Lola Young.
    • There’s been a rule change that now makes more artists eligible for BNA. To be considered, an artist must have released a minimum of three singles or one album, but no more than three albums total

    The Simple Guide to Grammy Voting 🗳️

    The Grammys aren’t a popularity contest voted on by fans; the winners are chosen by music professionals. The voting process happens in clear stages:

    PhaseDateWhat It Means
    First Round VotingOctober 3 – October 15, 2025Music pros vote to choose the official nominees for each award.
    Nominations AnnouncedNovember 7, 2025The full list of who made the cut is released.
    Final Round VotingDecember 12, 2025 – January 5, 2026Voters pick the final winners from the list of nominees.
    Grammy CeremonyFebruary 1, 2026The world finds out who won!.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    The countdown is on, and the 2026 Grammys are looking like one for the books. Expect big performances, emotional wins, and maybe a few upsets too. Whether you’re team Kendrick, team Gaga, or just here for the music, this show’s about to deliver.

    So tell me — who you rooting for this year?

  • The Feds Got Diddy! He’s Sentenced to Four Years and Change!

    Whew, chile! You know we gotta talk about the biggest mess that rocked the culture. For months, we’ve been watching the drama unfold, but now, the courts have dropped the final hammer on Sean “Diddy” Combs. It’s time to spill the real tea on his sentencing and break down exactly what got this mogul locked up.

    The Lawsuit That Blew the Whistle (The Civil Suit)

    Remember last year? That whole thing started with Cassie Ventura. She was brave enough to file a major lawsuit against Diddy, outlining years of terrible things—we’re talking serious allegations of abuse and assault. The minute that lawsuit went public in November 2023, the world stopped. Diddy thought he could sweep it under the rug with cash. They settled the case in less than 24 hours. Why so fast? Because rich men use money to stop the bad news. Period. A settlement is not a criminal punishment—it’s just a cash deal. But that one lawsuit opened the floodgates for everything else.

    The Feds Came Through: Why Diddy’s Face Card Bounced (The Criminal Trial)

    The lawsuit was just the appetizer. The real drama was the federal government coming for him with criminal charges. After a whole trial, the jury finally delivered the news everyone was waiting for. He managed to get off on the huge charges like sex trafficking and racketeering. He may have avoided life in prison, but he couldn’t dodge everything. The jury found him GUILTY on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. This is under a federal law called the Mann Act. Basically, they got him for taking people across state lines for sex stuff.

    The Sentence

    Now for the main event: the sentencing that just happened. A federal judge ordered Sean “Diddy” Combs to serve four years and two months (50 months) in prison for those prostitution-related crimes. He also has to pay a massive $500,000 fine.

    The defense tried to get him out right away, talking about his charity work and how he was sorry. But the judge was like, “Nah, this man had the power to keep hurting people, and he didn’t stop.” This sentence is all about accountability and sending a message. The message wasn’t strong enough in my opinion, because FOUR YEARS???

    Diddy is no longer the music mogul who “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop.” He’s a convicted felon, and the reign is officially over. That’s the tea.

  • Jimmy Kimmel Returns to Late Night TV After Suspension

    Why Jimmy Kimmel Live! Was Pulled

    On September 15, 2025, Jimmy Kimmel made comments in his opening monologue about politics and the tragic case connected to Charlie Kirk. His words caused backlash across social media and political circles. Within two days, ABC, owned by Disney, pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! “indefinitely.” The move came after Nexstar Media Group said it would not air the show on its ABC affiliates.

    Pressure From Politics and Networks

    The suspension did not happen quietly. The FCC chairman, Brendan Carr, warned that affiliates could face trouble with their broadcasting licenses if they kept airing the show. This created even more pressure on ABC. Political figures also jumped into the debate. Former President Donald Trump praised the suspension, while others—including Democrat and Republican leaders—said this was an example of censorship.

    Reaction From Fans and Hollywood

    Viewers were quick to react. Many Disney+ and Hulu users canceled their subscriptions in protest. At the same time, more than 400 Hollywood stars, writers, and public figures, including Barack Obama, signed a letter against Kimmel being silenced. They said it was a threat to free speech. The issue quickly turned into a national conversation about politics, business, and media freedom.

    Disney Brings Jimmy Kimmel Back

    On September 22, 2025, Disney announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would return the next night, September 23, after what the company called “thoughtful conversations.” However, not every station agreed. Sinclair Broadcast Group said their ABC stations would not air the show, instead choosing different programs. Nexstar has not yet fully confirmed its plans.

    The Bigger Picture

    Disney lost FOUR BILLION DOLLARS after the suspension as angry viewers canceled their services. The fight also raised questions about whether government officials should be able to influence what shows can or cannot say. Some people see this as a warning about how politics and media power can collide.

    Jimmy Kimmel’s return is about more than one late-night show. It reflects the ongoing fight over free speech in media. It also shows the influence of political power on entertainment. Public opinion can quickly impact big companies. His comeback episode is likely to set the tone. It will influence future conversations about what late-night TV hosts can say in today’s polarized climate.

    https://youtu.be/KSD_ef5mDMM?si=m8X7m49aNuyi8EqI

  • Apollonia Sues Prince’s Estate for Name Ownership

    Patricia “Patty” Kotero—known to fans worldwide as Apollonia—starred in Prince’s iconic 1984 film Purple Rain. For over 40 years, she has built a career under that name. Now, she has filed a lawsuit against Prince’s estate, claiming ownership of the “Apollonia” name and trademark.

    Apollonia 6 (L to R: Susan Moonsie, Apollonia Kotero, and Brenda Bennett)

    Prince gave Kotero the name when casting her in Purple Rain. She performed as Apollonia in that film, formed the group Apollonia 6 in the mid-1980s, and continued her career using the name. Kotero hosts the podcast Apollonia Studio 6 (launched in 2022), and a Purple Rain musical—featuring a character named Apollonia—is set to premiere in Minneapolis in October before heading to Broadway.

    What Is the Lawsuit About?

    Patty argues that she has used the “Apollonia” name for decades—in films, television, music, podcasts (Apollonia Studio 6), and branding—and that Prince himself gave and encouraged her adoption of that name. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, seeks a court declaration affirming that she owns the trademark rights to “Apollonia.” She also asks for an injunction to stop Prince’s estate from interfering with her use of the name.

    What Prompted the Legal Action?

    In June 2025, Prince’s estate—Paisley Park Enterprises—filed its own trademark application for “Apollonia,” covering clothing and entertainment services. The estate also moved to cancel Kotero’s existing trademark filings Kotero asserts that the estate’s action threatens her identity and business, as she fears they could bring a trademark infringement lawsuit if she continues using her professional name.

    Kotero’s attorney, Dan Cislo, said she “fully expects to prevail in protecting her name”. Prince’s estate called the suit “frivolous” and “unwarranted.” They point out that Kotero’s registration was canceled at some point, that they offered her settlements, and that they never asked her to stop using the name during Prince’s lifetime.

    The late singer’s estate responds on Instagram to the recent lawsuit.

    This breaks my heart because I love Prince and Apolonia, but when it comes to entertainment law, liking somebody doesn’t go as far as the legalities. This case touches on key issues in entertainment law—trademark ownership, rights of artists to use a name tied to their identity, and posthumous control by estates. It also highlights how an artist’s long-standing professional identity can clash with estate or legacy management.

  • Understanding Lyme Disease: Justin Timberlake’s Brave Disclosure

    Justin Timberlake recently shared a deeply personal and surprising revelation with his fans: he has been silently battling Lyme disease. In a candid Instagram post, the multi-talented artist opened up about the “relentlessly debilitating” physical and mental toll the illness took on him, especially while he was on his “Forget Tomorrow World Tour.”

    For many, the news came as a shock. For others who have experienced Lyme disease firsthand, Timberlake’s words offered a powerful and much-needed moment of recognition. He described feeling “a massive amount of nerve pain” and “crazy fatigue or sickness” on stage, explaining why he sometimes had to lean on the crowd to sing along. His transparency highlights a crucial point: chronic illnesses, particularly those like Lyme disease, are often an invisible struggle. What might appear to be a lackluster performance or a moment of fatigue from the outside could be the result of a serious, ongoing health battle.

    Timberlake joins a growing list of public figures, including Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber, and Yolanda Hadid from Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, who have come forward to share their experiences with Lyme disease, helping to shed light on a condition that is frequently misunderstood and misdiagnosed.

    What is Lyme Disease?

    Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick, most commonly the blacklegged or “deer” tick. The disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. The symptoms of Lyme disease can vary widely and often mimic other illnesses, making diagnosis difficult. They are typically divided into three stages:

    1. Early Localized Stage: This stage usually occurs within 3 to 30 days after the tick bite. A classic sign is a red, expanding rash known as erythema migrans. This “bull’s-eye” rash is a key indicator, but it’s important to note that not everyone who gets Lyme disease develops it. Other early symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle and joint aches—all of which can feel like a bad case of the flu.

    2. Early Disseminated Stage: If left untreated, the infection can spread. Weeks or months after the bite, symptoms can become more severe, affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. This can lead to issues like facial palsy (weakness or drooping on one or both sides of the face), severe joint pain and swelling (particularly in the knees), heart palpitations, and nerve pain.

    3. Late Disseminated Stage: In some cases, if the disease remains untreated, it can lead to chronic and more debilitating symptoms months or even years later. This is often referred to as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). People with PTLDS may experience persistent fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and cognitive issues like “brain fog” even after antibiotic treatment.

    Treatment and Prevention

    The good news is that when diagnosed early, Lyme disease can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics, typically for 10 to 14 days. However, as Timberlake’s story and the experiences of others show, a delayed diagnosis can lead to a much more complicated and long-term battle.

    Prevention is key. The best way to protect yourself is to avoid tick-infested areas, especially in wooded or grassy regions. Using insect repellent with DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants, and checking your body and clothing for ticks after spending time outdoors are all crucial steps. If you find an attached tick, it’s important to remove it as soon as possible with fine-tipped tweezers, as the tick usually needs to be attached for at least 36 hours to transmit the bacteria.

    Justin Timberlake’s decision to share his story is a testament to his strength and a valuable contribution to the conversation surrounding Lyme disease. By being transparent about his struggles, he is helping to educate the public and connect with others who are facing similar challenges, reminding us all that even our biggest heroes have battles they fight behind the scenes.

    Beyond his musical success as a solo artist and as a member of *NSYNC, Justin Timberlake has received a host of accolades throughout his career. He is the recipient of ten Grammy Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, and numerous other honors, including nine Billboard Music Awards and MTV’s Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. His work has also extended to the big screen, where he has earned praise for his acting roles in films like The Social Network, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” from the animated film Trolls.

  • Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free Launch pgLang’s New Expansion: Project 3

    Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free have taken their creative company, pgLang, to the next level with a bold new expansion called Project 3. This move marks an exciting shift for the duo as they bring their unique vision to a wider range of creative and branding projects.

    Posted on pgLang’s Youtube channel titled “The Agency”. Directed by Dave Free and Jack Begert

    What is pgLang?

    pgLang is a company founded in March 2020 by Kendrick Lamar and his longtime collaborator Dave Free. The company was created as a space for creativity across multiple forms of media, including music, film, design, and visual art. It’s known as an “at-service company,” which means it’s built to help creators and brands tell powerful stories through different creative outlets.

    Over the years, pgLang has earned a strong reputation for innovation, winning six Cannes Lions awards and even being named Independent Agency of the Year in 2023. Until now, most of pgLang’s work has been focused on internal projects and collaborations. But that’s all about to change.

    Introducing Project 3

    project3 is the new technology and product division of pgLang. Its goal is to create “human-centered” technology. Instead of just making another app or gadget, project3 wants to develop products that help people connect with each other and the world in a more meaningful way, with less digital distraction.

    Their very first product is a collaboration with the tech company Light. It’s a special edition of the Light Phone II, a minimalist phone designed to be the opposite of a smartphone. It is currently sold out.

    Kendrick Lamar’s pgLang x Light Phone 2 — a stripped‑down ‘dumb’ phone priced at $299, capped at just 250 units — sold out within hours, offering calling, texting, basic tools, and a shake‑to‑answer “language” feature instead of social media or a browser. – Business Insider

    The pgLang Light Phone

    Here’s what makes this phone different:

    • Minimalist Design: It’s simple and doesn’t have a big, bright screen full of apps.
    • Core Functions Only: You can call and text, but there are no social media, news feeds, or internet browsers to distract you.
    • “Just a Tool”: The idea is to have a phone that serves as a tool, not as a source of endless entertainment or anxiety.

    This special pgLang edition, called the “Light Phone for pgLang,” features unique design elements and aims to help users be more present in their daily lives.

    Why This is a Big Deal 🚀

    This move is important because it shows that Kendrick Lamar and Dave Free are thinking beyond the traditional entertainment industry. By launching project3, pgLang is exploring how technology impacts our lives and our creativity.

    They are not just selling music or merchandise; they are creating tools that reflect their artistic values. It’s a bold step that merges the worlds of hip-hop, art, and tech, proving that pgLang is one of the most innovative creative companies out there today. Keep an eye on project3—it looks like they’re just getting started.

    While we are on the subject of Kendrick Lamar…

    The Grand National Tour—Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s co-headlining North American stadium run in 2025—has generated phenomenal box-office returns grossing over $256 million across 23 shows (based on Billboard reporting) and averaged more than $11 million per night, securing its place as the biggest co-headlining tour of all time and setting multiple box-office records along the way. Shoutout to K-Dot, SZA, and pgLang!

  • Remembering Malcolm‑Jamal Warner: A Gentle Soul Gone Too Soon

    It’s with heavy hearts that we remember Malcolm‑Jamal Warner, the beloved actor who touched so many souls. He passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 54, after drowning during a family vacation in Costa Rica. A rip current near Playa Cocles swept him out to sea; brave bystanders and the Red Cross tried tirelessly to save him, but tragically, he could not be revived.

    A Star from Childhood

    Born August 18, 1970, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Malcolm-Jamal starred as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show from 1984 to 1992. He earned an Emmy nomination in 1986 for his warm and authentic portrayal of the Huxtable family’s son. To many, Theo was like the little brother we all admired—funny, smart, and kind.

    A Versatile Talent

    Malcolm‑Jamal didn’t stop at sitcom stardom. Over a four-decade career, he played memorable roles in shows like Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, The Fresh Prince of Bel‑Air, Sons of Anarchy, American Crime Story, Suits, and The Resident. He also hosted the Not All Hood podcast, tackling important conversations about mental health in Black communities.

    Music, Poetry & Grammy Glory

    But Warner was more than an actor. He was a skilled poet and musician. In 2015, he won a Grammy for Best Traditional R&B Performance with “Jesus Children of America”—a testament to his soulful artistry. He later received a Grammy nomination in 2023 for spoken-word poetry, and his album Hiding In Plain View showcased his thoughtful voice.

    Malcolm Jamal Warner’s tribute video to pioneers in Black History

    Loved by Colleagues & Fans

    The outpouring of love since his passing has been immense. His Resident and Cosby Show co-stars, along with stars like Tracee Ellis Ross, Jennifer Hudson, Morris Chestnut, and Kevin Hart, have honored him as talented, warm, generous, and deeply caring.

    In the words of Morris Chestnut:

    “He brought so much depth, warmth, and wisdom to every scene … One of the nicest in the business.” People.com

    A Human Beyond the Spotlight

    Though he cherished privacy, Malcolm‑Jamal was a devoted husband and father, leaving behind his beloved wife and daughter. He carried himself with humility—former friend Kevin Powell noted how “You would have never known he was a major child star… he was never someone who was into the celebrity of it” (CBS News).

    His Legacy Lives On

    Malcolm‑Jamal Warner’s legacy is rich and varied: a child star who grew into a well-rounded artist, a confident voice in difficult conversations, and a soul who radiated kindness everywhere he went. From being the archetype of “America’s son” to exploring his own creative paths in music, poetry, and advocacy, he will forever be remembered—and deeply missed.

    Malcolm-Jamal Warner reflected on his legacy in final interview on Melyssa Ford’s ‘Hot & Bothered’ podcast before his untimely death.

    May we honor him by celebrating joy, creativity, empathy—and loving fiercely.
    Rest in peace, Malcolm‑Jamal. Your journey inspired us all.

  • NFL Superbowl Halftime Show: Over 100M Views and 125 FCC Complaints

    Kendrick Lamar made history (once again) on February 9, 2025. He became the first solo rapper to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. His performance was watched by over 133 million people, breaking viewership records. But not everyone was cheering.

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) received 125 complaints about the show. This sparked debates about race, music, and what’s “appropriate” for TV. Let’s break down what happened.

    What Did People Complain About?

    1. “Too Explicit”: Many viewers claimed Lamar’s lyrics and gestures were inappropriate for families. Parents said their kids “didn’t need to see or hear this,” even though the show was censored for TV.
    2. “Why No White Performers?”: A surprising number of complaints focused on the lack of white artists on stage. Some called it “racist” to feature only Black performers, arguing it excluded other races. One person even asked, “Why was Uncle Sam Black?” when actor Samuel L. Jackson played the role.
    3. The Drake Drama: Lamar performed his diss track Not Like Us, which criticizes fellow rapper Drake. Some complaints accused Lamar of spreading “false claims” about Drake being a pedophile during the show.
    4. Serena Williams’ Dance Moves: Tennis star Serena Williams joined Lamar on stage. She did the “Crip Walk,” a dance linked to gang culture. Critics called it “promoting gangs,” though others saw it as celebrating Black heritage.

    Below is the full packet of complaints about the 2025 Superbowl Halftime show. This came from the FCC website at www.fcc.gov. Get ready to laugh

    Why This Matters

    The complaints highlight bigger issues in America:

    • Race and Representation: For decades, Super Bowl halftime shows were dominated by white artists. Lamar’s all-Black lineup challenged that norm, leading some viewers to accuse the NFL of “reverse racism.” Others saw it as a win for diversity in mainstream media.
    • Art vs. “Family-Friendly”: Lamar’s music often tackles tough topics like racism and inequality. But critics argued the Super Bowl should stick to “safer” entertainment. This isn’t new—artists like Rihanna and Janet Jackson (because of Justin Timberlake) also faced backlash for pushing boundaries.
    • Hip-Hop’s Growing Influence: Despite complaints, Lamar’s show proved hip-hop’s cultural power. His GNX album sales soared after the performance. The performance on YouTube has 113 million views. New fans praised his bold storytelling.

    The Bigger Picture

    Most complaints came from older, conservative viewers who didn’t connect with Lamar’s style. Meanwhile, younger audiences loved it. Social media exploded with memes and videos dissecting every moment of the show. The NFL even released a documentary about how the performance was made, highlighting its massive preparation.

    KDot’s performance wasn’t just about music—it was a statement. By celebrating Black culture and calling out societal issues, he sparked conversations that lasted long after the game ended.

    What’s Next?

    The FCC complaints won’t hurt Lamar’s career. He starts his Grand National Tour with SZA in April, selling out stadiums nationwide. But the debate continues: Should the Super Bowl stick to “safe” acts, or let artists express themselves freely? As hip-hop keeps dominating music, expect more boundary-pushing performances—and more complaints.

    In the end, Kendrick Lamar’s show reminded us that art isn’t meant to make everyone comfortable. Sometimes, it’s meant to make us think, and he has younger people writing dissertations about his music.

  • Drake’s ‘Fighting Irish” Freestyle

    …was really a journal entry that he finally decided to read and share with the class. Produced by Conductor Williams, Drake discussed the following:

    • The beef between he and Kendrick Lamar how he felt LeBron James snaked him during the beef
    • Giving cold shoulders at the All White Party in the Hamptons months after the beef
    • Gave his shoutout to 21 Savage for checking on him.
    • He’s REALLY mad at Lebron James

    One part that stuck out to me was Drake briefly mentioning how his father, Dennis Graham, had another child, and Drake said in the freestyle “…that’s not my sister.” 🤔 (Dennis has plenty other children besides Drake.)

    But Drake…Why release this in 2025? Why not in 2024 after the beef? It seems this was recorded last year. This would have been a good response to “Meet the Grahams” instead of “The Heart, Pt. 6”. Instead, you chose to sue your label for supporting and pushing “Not Like Us” and drop this. No guts, no glory Aubrey.

    Here’s the full clip to freestyle. Take a listen.