ThE hIt ShOw "Er"

Have you seen the hit TV show "ER"? 

Admitting that I'm not an avid watcher of this show, however, when it was set to be cancelled the backlash that ensued was so profound -- I at least had to see what all the fuss was about. ABC acknowledged the requests of millions of Americans and brought back "ER". 

Actress Angela Bassett played the role of Dr. Banfield, who lost her baby. She was bitter and at times very mean, then I understood her feelings came from the fact that she blamed herself for her son's death. The blame caused great pain within her marriage, and it changed who she was as a person while controlling her life. 

In one particular scene Dr. Banfield, reflected back on her son's death while she was in the middle of saving another child's life. 

Watching the death of her son play through her memory as she stood in surgery, was enough to make me burst into tears while Thanking God that she saved the little girls life. This episode allowed us to view the doctor from a warm-blooded perspective, since all she had exuded throughout the show was especially cold-blooded. 

Dr. Green (who was apart of the original "ER" cast) was reintroduced as the person who attempted to save Dr. Banfields' son's life. 

Green was dying of cancer when he tried saving the little boy's life, and skipped his own Chemo-therapy treatment to do it.
 

This episode as an emotional roller coaster ride. The last thing I watched that made me this jittery was a movie titled, 'Little Children'. I think I maybe permanently hooked on ABC's "ER". 

 

To check out scenes from the show last week click here. 

2008 LA

ChEeTaH gIrL aDrIeNnE bAiLoN eXpOsEd

Allegedly, during Adrienne Bailon's travels somehow nude photos were stolen from her laptop at an airport in New York, and the photos were sent to several media outlets.

According to reports the alleged theft of the nude photos, was a stunt devised by Ms. Bailon herself and a celebrity blogger friend in order to garner attention. Bailon's publicist felt she needed to do something different for her image and that the pictures would do the trick, although they were originally meant for Bailon's boyfriend, Robert Kardashian.

Is Adrienne following in her soon to be sister-in-laws footsteps? 

Let's not forget how Kim Kardashian became a huge superstar all from a home video, where she partook in sexual pleasures with then singer boyfriend, Ray J. 

Why would the Disney Cheetah girl pull this kind of stunt and then tell on herself? 

I respect her for having the cojones to come forward and tell the truth, although her respect within the entertainment industry may falter. In hindsight, she may get her wish of staying relevant after all, when people joke about this for years to come.

2008 LA

ThE sEcReT lIfE oF bEeS

Run quick and run fast everyone! This movie is a must see, for real for real. 

Having high expectations of this film, was in part due to the extraordinary cast. The movie exceeded my expectations and the lovely cast of women gave amazing performances.

With the current presidential election happening this movie couldn't have come at a better time. 

The film talks of the segregated past, slavery, and racism and shines a bright light on the fact that white America, did whatever they could to keep black people from the voting booths. I thought this to be significant, especially since stealing the American vote has always been an agenda among certain political figures, and still happens today.

Fourteen year old actress Dakota Fanning, had her first onscreen kiss -- and with a brotha! Singers Alicia Keys and Jennifer Hudson definitely proved themselves to be talented actresses, we already knew rapper turned actress Queen Latifah was gonna bring it home, and every time I think Sophie Okonedo can't get any better -- she takes it to another level.

This movie was excellent and besides the fact that I wished I was cast in it (smiles), I give the director Gina Prince-Bythewood and executive producer Jada Pinkett-Smith, HUGE props for making this masterpiece. 

2008 LA

PaRiS hIlToN'S "nEw BfF" rEaLiTy ShOw

Have you guys been watching, 'Paris Hilton's New BFF' show? 

The episode I saw, was enough to convince me not to watch it again. Paris began the show by giving adolescents challenges to compete against one another to win prizes; this didn't bother me as much, as I understand competition within a game - but the things she had them doing weren't really challenging. 

For example: One challenge was to see which contestant could party the longest; after partying all night in a club the contestant's were whisked away to a country club for another challenge. At the country club the challenge was to see which contestant, wasn't to tired to ride on the back of a buff man. 

Ooookay, she lost me. I just didn't get it. 

Next, Paris filled a closet with clothes for the contestants because as she pointed out, it's very important to always "look hot" when hanging out with her.

What is this show about again? And what do the contestants get for winning all these challenges? 

Is their ultimate prize really going to be a friendship with Paris Hilton, forever? Will they really hang out and do friend things with Paris, for the rest of their lives? Come on now, what is the point of this show?

Nothing against the girl, but I think what she's teaching children is wrong. Her show is basically about who is willing to embarrass themselves enough to win the most challenges, in order to be Paris' best friend forever. Really? 

This reminds me of those movies when the supposedly "cool crowd", will invite the "dorky crowd" to a party under false pretense - and for pure entertainment purposes only. 

But isn't friendship supposed to happen naturally and be built on love and loyalty - not superficial things?

They should change the title of the show from, "Paris' New BFF" to "Paris' Puppet Playmates".

2008 LA

Dr. DrE's SoN pRoNoUnCeD dEaD

The son of a rap dynasty Andre Young Jr., was found unresponsive in his bed by his mother in their home in Woodland Hills, California, according to the Los Angeles County Coroner's office.

The young adolescent is the son of rapper/producer Dr. Dre, who allegedly was out with his friends on a Friday night but didn't wake up Saturday morning. Andre Young Jr., was pronounced dead at the scene. 

An autopsy is being conducted and the cause of death is still pending. A statement released by Dr. Dre's spokeswoman stated, "Dr. Dre is mourning the loss of his son Andre Young Jr. Please respect his family's privacy at this time."

Prayers to the family.

2008 LA

JuLiUs "ShOnUfF" cArRy DiEs At 56

Actor Julius Carry has died August 19, 2008.  

All 80's babies should remember the legendary classic film 'The Last Dragon', starring Julius Carry as the infamous villain "ShoNuff".  

In the film, Carry would yell his infamous line "who's the master!" 

Carry also starred in TV shows such as, The Jefferson's, Family Matters, and Jag. Julius Carry had complications with pancreatic cancer and was the ripe age of 56 years old.

My condolences to the Carry family. 

2008 LA

RaPpEr Da BrAt GeTs 3 YeArS iN pRiSoN

Rapper "Da Brat" born Shawntae Harris, was sentenced to 3 years in jail by the Superior Court Judge in Atlanta this week. 

Allegedly, Ms. Harris had an argument with a waitress one year ago at Club 72, which lead to the Hip Hop rapper hitting the waitress in the head with a rum bottle.

The waitress whose also a former Hawks cheerleader, received permanent scarring from the incident and had to be hospitalized. The SoSo Def artist must serve a 3 year sentence, 7 years probation, and 200 hours of community service; sheesh, talk about learning your lesson.

2008 LA

IsAaC hAyEs DeAd At 65

We've lost another legend! What is going on?!

Yesterday, comedian/actor Bernie Mac died and today Grammy award winning singer/actor Isaac Hayes, has died as well. Hayes was 65 years old and was found laying dead near his treadmill. He resided in Memphis, Tennessee, with family members.

Remembering this feeling, it's the same feeling I had when other legends died: Bernie Mac, Ray Charles, Gregory Hines, Luther Vandross, and Barry White.

Here's to hoping that life brings forth new breeds of Luther Vandross', Ray Charles', Barry Whites', Bernie Macs', and Isaac Hayes'; the world needs more artists like these men.

Mr. Hayes, thank you for your great music and entertaining characters in film and television. You'll be greatly missed. My condolences to the Hayes family.

No details released yet regarding the cause of death.

2008 LA

BeRnIe MaC dEaD aT 50

When first hearing of B-Mac falling ill due to pneumonia, my initial thoughts were "uh oh, I hope he gets better." 

And I went on with life assuming that he would, until yesterday it was reported that Bernie Mac, undeniably one of the funniest men of all time -- had died. All I could do was be silent. 

Reminiscing back to the first time I laid eyes on the tall chocolate brother; he had on stone washed jeans, a colorful shirt, and when Bernie graced the stage of 'Def Comedy Jam' he yelled out, "KICK IT! YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND! I AIN'T SCARED OF YOU MTF'S!" 

The newbie to the spotlight had my attention ever since. Bernie's last public appearance was at a fundraiser for Democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama. 

B-Mac, you were audaciously talented and touched the hearts of so many people -- including mine. You will forever be missed and my condolences go out to the Mac family.

2008 LA

ShOoT-oUt DuRiNg SoSo DeF sUmMeRfEsT wEeKeNd

Club Dream was on the radar for Friday night, but after a shoot out happened at the night spot -- it has permanently been taken off my radar. 

Rapper/producer Jermaine Dupri gave a party last Friday night in Atlanta, when gun shots rang out. Allegedly, rapper P. Diddy, actors Nia Long, Sanaa Lathan, and singer Usher among others, hurried to exit the building.

Apparently, Club Dream began double charging party goers for access to the VIP section, and when the scandal was discovered people weren't necessarily happy about it and as a result, an unidentified man shot his gun in the air wounding a security guard. 

How much were people overcharged?  

Two days prior to the scheduled event, I called Club Dream and inquired about VIP pricing to which I was told two thousand. So if people were being double charged, were they being charged four instead of two thousand? Yes, I would've been angry if I were cheated out of money, but not to the point of shooting up the club.  

How did the gun get into the club anyway? I thought security was tight at this spot?  

Now that I know Club Dream doesn't check for weaponry, my chances of ever hanging out there are slim to none.

2008 LA

Dj "K-sWiFt "DiEs In TrAgIc PoOl AcCiDeNt

Khia "K-Swift" Edgerton, was a popular Baltimore DJ who made history as being the first woman in the country to coordinate a mix show for Radio One 92 Q Jams.

While hosting a party at her home Edgerton jumped into her pool, but didn't immediately resurface for a long time. As she was pulled out of the water she lay unconscious with a fractured neck. An emergency crew was notified as party guests waited aside to learn the final results; the final results being the young DJ's death.

K-Swift owned her own graphics and production company, and was a member of  "Murda Mami's" -- a female DJ squad.

A tragic ending to a beautiful life, K-Swift, rest in peace.

2008 LA

RaPpEr NaS pRoTeStS oUtSiDe FoX NeWs

In New York City yesterday veteran rapper Nas, took to the streets to protest outside the Fox News building -- along with the organization called 'Color of Change'.

The Hip Hop lyricists' new song titled "Sly Fox", speaks of the lies and rumors often reported by Fox News, and caught the attention of this particular organization who retained more than 600 thousand signatures -- in a plea to remove the propaganda machine from the airwaves.


Bill O'Reilly, host of the "O'Reilly Factor" on Fox News, stated that Nas was causing commotion as a way to trigger record sells and publicity for his new album. 

As a person that has followed the "One Mic" rapper, I can attest that the young brotha's lyrics have always been political in nature; giving way to history lessons for our youth. Nas constantly educates the people with his words within his music, rapping about slavery, Africa, and the US government -- all you have to do is listen.

Nas' stand against Fox News is certainly not a gimmick. Him taking a stand against hateful rhetoric, means taking a stand for us all.

So thank you Nas, for your bravery and strength.

2008 LA

GoLdEn GiRl StAr EsTeLlE gEtTy DiEs

Much respect to Estelle Getty, the vibrant and comical actress who played meddling mother Sophia on the hit TV show, The Golden Girls.

84 year old Estelle suffered from dementia and died this Tuesday. Thank you Estelle Getty, for many years of good laughs and great entertainment.

2008 LA

JeSsIcA sImPsOn LoVe TrIaNgLe

Lately, when you hear Jessica Simpson's name doesn't it appear to be about the same thing?

Jessica Simpson has found love, or Jessica Simpson has lost love. Since her divorce from 98 Degrees singer Nick Lachey, the blond beauty has definitely dated her fair share of bachelors. And although her former hubby, appears to have settled down with ex-MTV VJ beauty Vanessa Minnillo; Jessica seems to be on a spiraling wheel-o-love -- at least for now, as the veteran singer doesn't appear to stay single long.

Simpson recently appeared on the day time talk show 'The View', describing her 8 month old relationship with Dallas Cowboy cutie, Tony Romo. When describing her new beau she didn't get excited -- as a matter of fact, she didn't smile once. No twinkle in the eyes, no blushing as she spoke his name like she use to do when speaking of Nick Lachey. However, she did say that she is "in love" with Romo and that it's definitely true love. 

 

Personally, I don't buy it for a minute, which leads me to believe that there maybe trouble in paradise?

But I wish them luck!

2008 LA

RuBeN sTuDdArD gEtS mArRiEd

American Idol teddy bear Ruben Studdard, has gotten married in his home state of Alabama.

Allegedly, Ruben was signing autographs at a local Walmart when the new Mrs. Studdard, entered the store to have a CD autographed by the singer as a gift for her friend. 

The fact that she came to meet the singer for a friend and not herself didn't seem to phase the velvet crooner, as he immediately rushed out the store after her. When he caught up with the future Mrs. Studdard, he asked for her phone number and they dated for 2 years thereafter -- the rest is history. 

Congrats on your new marriage Mr. and Mrs. Studdard!

Update: Mr. Studdard has since divorced Ms. Zuri McCants; I guess love at first sight doesn't last very long?

 2008 LA

LiNdSaY lOhAn A lEsBiAn?

Has anyone else noticed that Lindsay Lohan, has a girlfriend?

Great, wonderful, good for her, but when did she decide to switch teams?

Lindsay's new lesbian love is Samantha Ronson (seen-r), a well-known DJ in the Los Angeles area.

Did Lindsay decide to try something new, since the men in her life haven't been working out?

Maybe this will work better for the veteran actress; since she's been dating Ronson she hasn't been in the tabloids involving crazy drug and booze escapades. Lindsay actually seems to be enjoying life a lot more.

Stay positive Lindsay and good luck in your new relationship!

2008 LA

ThE bEt AwArDs 2008

During the BET awards this year, did you notice that the audience didn't appear excited to be there and barely clapped?

Actors Nia Long, Morris Chestnut, and Cuba Gooding Jr., made stage appearances and the audience gave them no love! Since the veteran actors haven't been in the spotlight in a while, you'd think the audience would've been happy to see them -- but excited clearly wasn't the magic word of the evening.

Every word Cuba Gooding Jr. uttered, was answered by the audiences' absolute silence. Maybe the "Boyz in the Hood" actor shouldn't have commented that "it's hard in the hood", especially since his residence is nowhere near "the hood".  And why were those his choice words for the crowd? Did he assume the audience was in fact from "the hood", and would Cuba have used this same phrase if he were in attendance at the Oscars?

Singer Keisha Cole took the stage next looking gorgeous nonetheless, but it appeared as if she were struggling a bit with her vocals. Then rapper Lil Kim appeared -- as if she were Keisha's saving grace, and the performance came together like glue. They killed it; but the goodness kept on coming! 

Old School singer Alicia Keys, came on the scene singing her sexy love ballad "Teenage Love Affair." Keys took it a step further by reintroducing an old school SWV song "I get so weak", while welcoming the 90's musical group back to the world. 90's groups TLC and En Vogue, also joined the stage in which  everyone sang the old school joint "Hold On To Your Love."

Singers Nelly and Fergie gave energetic performances, while soulful singers Jill Scott and Anthony Hamilton paid tribute to the legendary Reverend Al Green -- who received the 'BET Lifetime Achievement Award'. Al Green then took to the stage; taking us way back with the smooth grooves of the past. 

Synthesizer rapper extraordinaire T-pain, performed his many cameo songs with artists Kanye West and Rick Ross, and proved to be an anwesome set. Pop singers and dance magicians Chris Brown and Ciara, were electrical and all the way live; while singer Rihanna truly showed her vocal ability and strong emotion behind her song "it's over now", holding nothing back the Barbados beauty shined like a star throughout her performance. 

Towards the end of the show Alicia Keys, accepted her award for "BET Female R and B song" in which she proceeded to give an empowering message to the audience. that we shouldn't use the word "can't" in our vocabulary, and that we should get out and vote.

Lyrical genius Lil Wayne and rapper T-Pain, closed the show by performing "Lollipop" and "Amilli." The entire performance was fire, but we all know Weezy rarely disappoints. All in all, the good parts of the show definitely outweighed the bad and if you missed it -- catch it on repeat!

2008 BET Awards Nominees and Winners

*Best Female R and B Artist:  

Alicia Keys

Mary J. Blige 

Mariah Carey 

Keyshia Cole 

Rihanna

*Best Male R and B Artist: 

Chris Brown

Raheem DeVaughn

J. Holiday

Ne-Yo

Trey Songz

*Best Group: 

UGK

Danity Kane

Day 26

Gnarles Barkley

Playaz Circle

*Best Gospel Artist: 

Marvin Sapp

The Clark Sisters

Deitrick Haddon

Kirk Franklin

Trin-I-Tee 5:7

*Best Female Hip-Hop Artist: 

Missy Elliott

Eve

Kid Sister

Lil Mama

Trina

*Best Male Hip-Hop Artist: 

Kanye West

Common

Jay-Z

Lil Wayne

Snoop Dogg

*Video of the Year: 

'International Player's Anthem' - UGK and OUTKAST, 

'The Way That I Love You' - Ashanti

'Honey' - Erykah Badu

'Just Fine' - Mary J. Blige

'Like You'll Never See Me Again' - Alicia Keys

'Good Life' - Kanye West featuring T-Pain

*Best Video Director: 

Erykah Badu and Mr. Roboto

Benny Boom

Gil Green

Chris Robinson

Hype Williams

*Best Collaboration: 

'Good Life' - Kanye West featuring T-Pain

'Kiss Kiss' - Chris Brown featuring T-Pain

'Let It Go' - Keyshia Cole featuring Missy Elliott and Lil' Kim

'Low' - Flo-Rida featuring T-Pain

'I'm So Hood (The Remix)' - DJ Khaled featuring T-Pain, Young Jeezy, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi, Lil Wayne, Fat Joe and Birdman

*Viewer's Choice:  

'Lollipop' (featuring Static) - Lil’ Wayne

'No One' - Alicia Keys

'Kiss Kiss' (featuring T-Pain - Chris Brown

'Let It Go' (featuring Missy Elliott and Lil' Kim) - Keyshia Cole

'Crank Dat (Soulja Boy)' - Soulja Boy 

'No Air'(featuring Chris Brown) - Jordin Sparks

*BET J Award:  

Raheem DeVaughn

Chaka Khan

Ledisi

Jill Scott

Angie Stone

*Best New Artist:   

The Dream

Estelle

Flo-Rida

Chrisette Michelle

Soulja Boy Tell 'Em

*Best Actress: 

Halle Berry

Angela Bassett

Queen Latifah

Jill Scott

Chandra Wilson

*Best Actor:  

Denzel Washington

Anthony Anderson

Don Cheadle

Idris Elba

Terrence Howard

2008 LA

FuTuRe FiRsT lAdY mIcHeLlE oBaMa On ThE vIeW

June 18, 2008 -- First lady in-waiting Michelle Obama, visited the day time talk show The View. Co-host Whoopi Goldberg was overcome with so much excitement, that she knocked her cup over and spilled her drink all over herself. I guess the thought that the first lady could actually be a Black woman, is enough for any minority to be enthusiastic over.

Michelle Obama was poised, elegant, comforting, humble, and down to earth. Co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck seemed a little nervous around Mrs. Obama, which is probably why she brought up the fact that bloggers (like myself) continue to write about an ongoing beef between the two women. 

  

Mrs. O, has probably become accustomed to Ms. Hasselbecks' jabs towards her husband; but Michelle gracefully dismissed any rumors and instead extended her hand to Elisabeth -- who grabbed her hand so quickly and with so much eagerness almost as if to say, "I'm really not a bad person and I'm sorry."

This was a particularly touching moment displayed between the future first lady and Elisabeth; I even commend her for not bashing Senator Obama at all in the past week and a half!

Great show, great ladies, good times! 

2008 LA

KaNye WeSt LaTe To HiS oWn CoNcErT

Apparently, Hip Hop artist Kanye West showed up late to his concert at the 'Bonnaroo Music Festival' in Manchester, Tennessee. 

Kanye was supposed to take the stage at 2:45am, after that time passed he was to be delayed until 3:15am, and that time passed as well -- but Kanye finally made his appearance around 4:25am. The rapper stated that his lateness was due to difficulty setting up the concert stage, but some concert goers negated that excuse and instead commented that the stage was already set up. 

After the performance concert goers remarked that Kanye's show "wasn't worth the wait", and that they'll never go to another "Kanye West" concert again. 

Was the concert only horrible to the audience because they were already angry? 

The audience boo'ed the "college drop-out" artist when he took to the stage, and was completely flabbergasted that he didn't apologize for being late. 

Better luck next time, Kanye?!

2008 LA

NiCk HoGaNs CaR aCcIdEnT cAsE

Have you seen the news about Nick Hogan's car accident case?   

The accident caused Hogan's "best friend" and former US Marine John Graziano, to permanently succumb to a vegetative state which implies no walking or talking ever again. He won't marry his fiancee or live a normal healthy life ever again.

After a drunk Nick broke the speed limit by 100 mph he was arrested and taken to jail, shortly thereafter a recorded phone call between Nick and his mother surfaced. In the recording Mrs. Hogan appeared to baby her son, all while he complained about being locked up for hours with nothing to do.

Did Nick seem more concerned with his own well being than his friends?

Apparently so, and his complaining obviously gave way to  preferential treatment, in which he was moved to a cell with other cell mates to remain social, he gained unlimited access to a phone, Play Station, television, and was even granted his own shower.

On another recorded call -- this time to Mr. Hogan, Nick was told by his father that "God punished the victim for his ways." Nick responded to his father that his friend was "a negative person." 

The newly imprisoned Hogan then proceeded to tell his dad that he wished to have a reality show "lined up" for him when he gets out of jail as a means of making money right away. To which the infamous wrestler obliged his son stating "yes" -- he'll set things up.

Does it seem as if Nick's parents are trying harder to be his friend than his parent? 

How do you not reprimand your child for being more concerned with money than his own friend? Nick seemed completely oblivious to the amount of pain he caused, and proved it by ranting and raving over material possessions when another persons life is in jeopardy as a result of young Nicks' reckless actions, and all the Hogan's can do is fault the victim while thinking about money? 

Hogan senior was caught speaking erroneously on the late night talk show 'Larry King Live', when he stated that his relationship with the victims' parents were good and that they were understanding. When in fact the victim's parents released a statement calling the Hogan's "unremorseful, hypocrites, and the biggest phonies."

Money talks?

Nick Hogan was set to serve 8 months in jail however, a deal was worked out for an earlier release date.

Should Nick serve more time? Will he learn a viable lesson from this situation? 

2008 LA

KeEpInG uP wItH tHe KaRdAsHiAn DrAmA

    Seen l-r: Kris Jenner;her husband Bruce Jenner;Khloe;Kourtney;Kim Kardashian

Have you seen the new reality show, 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians'?

One episode brought me to tears, as the family visited their deceased father's favorite Armenian restaurant 'Carousel', paying homage to his life. 

Afterwards, the Kardashian sisters partied it up at a local club with young Khloe, who appeared to have gotten completely enbriated. Kim and Kourtney, left the club and didn't make Khloe aware and as a result, the fair-haired Kardashian was pulled over by the police for driving under the influence.

Arrested and charged with a DUI, Khloe calls Kourtney from jail asking for a ride home the next afternoon. Khloe pleaded with her sister to not tell their mother so Kourtney tells Kim, (which means telling their mother) and by the time it reaches Kris she is fuming! 

I know Khloe, is considered grown but maybe her sister's could've checked on her before they left the club?  

Khloe walks out of jail the next afternoon and to her surprise it wasn't Kourtney there to pick her up, instead it was her mother that stood waiting - and she wasn't shy about expressing her feelings regarding her daughters behavior. Eventually, Kris came to understand Khloe's "acting out", came from the grief she still felt over her father's death.

Later in the episode, the family sat around watching old home videos of their dad when they were little. It was definitely an emotional episode.

In up coming Kardashian drama, Kourtney thinks she's pregnant by her boyfriend Scott! Uh oh, more Kardashian chaos! 

2008 LA