judge, Atlanta, guilty — (Photo: solidcolours/Getty Images)

by Kandiss Edwards

November 12, 2025

TikTok Creator Held Liable For ‘Alienation Of Affection,’ Ordered To Pay $1.75M For Loveless Marrriage

TikToker ordered to pay big bucks for an extramarital affair with a married man.

TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard was found liable for “alienation of affection” and “criminal conversation” and ordered to pay $1.75 million.

The North Carolina jury held Kennard liable for criminal conversation ($250,000) and alienation of affection ($1.5 million), the Charlotte Observer reported.

Akira Montague’s attorney, Robonetta Jones, praised the outcome as justice for her client and accountability for the plaintiffs.

“The evidence presented in this case overwhelmingly supported my client’s stance that Brenay Kennard not only alienated the affections of Akira’s husband but also inflicted emotional injury on his children as well, “Jones wrote in a statement to People. “Akira, her family and I would like to thank all those who have supported her on this journey.”

In a statement to People, Kennard, who counts nearly three million followers on TikTok and 274,000 on Instagram, and Timothy Montague both spoke out over what they believe was an unjust verdict.

“The truth will always be the truth, and it’s easy to believe the lies, especially when playing the victim card,” Kennard wrote. “[Akira] may have won the battle, but not the war. God will have the final say.”

Similarly, Timothy stands by his testimony that the marriage was loveless. Thus, Kennard should not have been held liable for the union’s dissolution.

“It’s easy to make someone out to be the villain when you don’t want to face the truth or take accountability,” he wrote. “The marriage was NOT full of genuine love. All parties involved know that. God will get the glory.”

The lawsuit filed in Durham County Court accused Kennard of having an affair with her manager, Timothy Montague. At the time of the affair, Timothy was still married to his now ex-wife, Akira Montague. The suit alleged that Kennard engaged in behavior designed to seduce Montague and publicly flaunted their relationship online. Kennard publicly shared images of his children, which Akira claimed caused emotional anguish. Furthermore, Akira claims the affair deprived their children of a two-parent home.

North Carolina is one of only six states that still permits the tort of alienation of affection, allowing a spouse to sue someone they believe interfered with their marriage.

Kennard not only faces the civil judgment, but the impact on her brand following the high-profile ruling could be significant. Collection efforts may include seizing future earnings and monetized content revenue streams unless a settlement is reached.

Candace Parker, WNBA, Basketball, adidas — (Photo: Getty/Kelly Balch)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

November 12, 2025

Candace Parker Joins Pro Athlete Community As Co-Chair

'What PAC is doing is truly transformational for athletes, and I’m proud to be part of a movement that’s redefining what life after sports can look like.'

The Pro Athlete Community (PAC) recently announced that it has brought on former WNBA player Candace Parker to join its Board of Advisors.

Parker is joining the organization’s advisory board as Co-Chair, becoming PAC’s first woman in that position. She joins NFL superstars and Super Bowl Champions, broadcasters and analysts, Devin and Jason McCourty on the board.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Candace Parker – a legend whose leadership and purpose inspire far beyond the court – as Co-Chair of the Pro Athlete Community (PAC) Board of Advisors, joining @devinmccourty and @jasonmccourty“

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“I’m incredibly excited to be joining PAC’s Board of Advisors,” said Parker in a written statement. “For many professional athletes, retirement marks the start of a brand-new chapter—one that can be full of opportunity, growth, and reinvention. While the transition can be challenging, it’s also an exciting chance to discover new passions and purpose. What PAC is doing is truly transformational for athletes, and I’m proud to be part of a movement that’s redefining what life after sports can look like.”

In her new role, Parker will help advance PAC’s mission to provide athletes with better opportunities after their playing careers, away from the sports in which they built their careers. That includes top-tier education, business opportunities, and mentorship, helping them create meaningful jobs and lives beyond their playing days.

She will be directly involved with efforts to increase access for women athletes and ensure that they receive equal representation within PAC’s network. Parker will work with PAC Co-Founders Chip Paucek and Kaleb Thornhill to help the organization match the growth of women’s sports in the past two decades. That includes further elevating and amplifying opportunities for PAC’s athletes from women’s sports.

“We’re building something really special here,” said Pro Athlete Community Co-Founder and CEO Chip Paucek. “To have someone of Candace’s caliber – as a person and former athlete – take a leadership position in PAC speaks volumes. We look forward to working with her to continue growing our network of dynamic athletes and maximizing our impact.”

PAC was formed as a first-of-its-kind community built exclusively for professional athletes to navigate life beyond sports, comprising a collective of more than 1,600 athletes.

jollof rice, competition, — Skarfmacaronne, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

The Fifth Annual Battle Of Jollof Continues Tradition Of Feeding The Black Diaspora

The event proved that jollof rice continues to bring the community together.

The Fifth Annual Battle of Jollof cooked up some high energy in New York for those across the Black diaspora.

The event, which took place Nov. 7 at Pier 36, featured the best jollof makers as they represented their countries’ take on the signature West African dish. As the competition blended with cultural tradition, only one country could take home the crown for the best jollof of the year.

The high-profile event featured star-studded attendees across the entertainment industry. From Nigerian-American rapper Wale to Real Housewives of Beverly Hills‘ Bozoma St. John, the cook-off inspired those, no matter their background, to dig in. Other celebrity attendees included media host Speedy Morman, NBA and WNBA stars OG Anunoby and Arike Ogunbowale, and Afrobeats artist King Promise.

This year, Nigeria earned the title of the world’s top Jollof rice producer. Fans and judges tried out the two dishes, created by Ghana’s Chef Nana Wilmot and Michelin-recognized Chef Ope Amosu from Nigeria. While a close competition, the Naija nation reigned supreme with their recipe.

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However, jollof was not the only dish on the menu. Delicacies from other nations, such as Senegal and Ethiopia, were on full display for attendees to try.

Beyond the Battle of Jollof, the event had other contests that brought the community together. Nigeria bested Ghana again in a friendly yet fierce celebrity basketball game, winning 80-74. During the game’s halftime, a 1-versus-1 tournament was held alongside a DJ Battle with Supersmashbroz and DJ RB Nice.

Including partnerships with Tequila Don Julio, Wingstop, and Crown Royal, attendees sipped on specialty cocktails as winners took home bedazzled bottles of the spirits. To keep the fun going, the battle also hosted cultural activations and community-focused experiences, all centered on Black unity and heritage.

As the Battle of Jollof continues another year, it fulfills its purpose of bridging culture, community, and incredible eats for all to enjoy.

Morgan Freeman, AI — AL KHOR, QATAR - NOVEMBER 20: Morgan Freeman performs during the opening ceremony prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group A match between Qatar and Ecuador at Al Bayt Stadium on November 20, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

November 12, 2025

Morgan Freeman Slams AI’s Unauthorized Use Of His Voice: ‘You’re Robbing Me’

Morgan Freeman is cracking down on AI’s unauthorized use of his iconic voice, with his lawyers taking legal action.

Morgan Freeman is publicly denouncing the unauthorized use of AI to replicate his iconic voice, calling it a violation of his intellectual property.

The Oscar-winning actor’s deep, commanding voice has defined his career across film, TV, and music—from Driving Miss Daisy and The Shawshank Redemption to his award-winning narration in March of the Penguins. But as AI increasingly replicates famous voices, Freeman, 88, says the technology has cost him valuable work and exploits his signature sound.

“I’m a little PO’d, you know,” Freeman told The Guardian. “I’m like any other actor: don’t mimic me with falseness. I don’t appreciate it, and I get paid for doing stuff like that, so if you’re gonna do it without me, you’re robbing me.”

In fact, after learning of several projects using his iconic voice without permission, Freeman says he has begun taking legal action.

“Well, I tell you, my lawyers have been very, very busy,” he admitted.

Despite recent industry shifts, including the backlash over Tilly Norwood, a fully AI-generated actress unveiled this summer by technologist Eline Van der Velden, Freeman shows no signs of retiring. Guilds, actors, and filmmakers have criticized AI taking starring roles, but the veteran actor, who began his career in the 1960s, remains committed to his craft.

“Sometimes the idea of retirement would float past me, but as soon as my agent says there’s a job or somebody wants you or they’ve made an offer, the whole thing just boils back into where it was yesterday: how much you’re going to pay, where we’re gonna be?” he said.

“The appetite is still there. I will concede that it’s dimmed a little. But not enough to make a serious difference.”

As for Tilly Norwood, Freeman doesn’t view her, or any AI-generated talent, as a genuine threat.

“Nobody likes her because she’s not real, and that takes the part of a real person, so it’s not going to work out very well in the movies or on television,” Freeman said.

ibrahim-traore-du burkina faso — photo credit: picryl.com

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

African Nations Ink $4B Military Deals With Russia In Shift Away From Western Dominance

Many African nations in the Sahel region have welcomed the opportunity with Russia.

African nations have built a budding relationship with Russia, securing multi-billion dollar military deals that threaten the West’s impact on the continent.

Russia has a growing impact, particularly in Africa’s Sahel Region. Countries in the area, such as Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, have responded positively to Russia’s welcome. The latest instance of business is through military-industrial contracts, which Sputnik reported 46 African countries have signed on for thus far.

Russian state-owned arms export company, Rosoboronexport, confirmed the matter to its native news outlet, as reported by Business Insider Africa.

“We work with Rwanda, Uganda, Congo, the DRC, Nigeria, and Angola, which ensures us a significant geographical presence,” shared Aleksandr Mikheev, CEO of Rosoboronexport.

On a cultural level, many of these nations have begun shedding ties to the Western nations that once ruled as colonial powers. Nations are ridding of this colonial influence by removing them from federal implementation, such as reinstating indigenous languages as national ones.

In Burkina Faso, the West African country has also done away with Western dress attire in the courtroom. Fellow nations have also dismantled French military bases, another indicator of the disavowing of this presence.

The imports of Russian arms comes from a growing desire by African countries to advanced their militaries. Nations who signed on to this pricey contract will gain access to high-grade military equipment, as well as maintenance services and technologies.

Russian initiatives across Africa have also spread to training programs for civilians, furthering integrating the European nation into African society. This news of Russia’s growing impact, however, is not wholly surprising.

The country was a main exhibitor at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) event last year, displaying battle tanks, flamethrowers, and rocket launchers among its assortment of guns. What these countries plan to do with this foreign weaponry remains unknown, but the advancement of their military prowess could spark international discussion and concern.

This news comes as Western powers like the United States have become ostracized from their international allies under the Trump administration. Donald Trump also recently threatened military action in Nigeria over claims of increased Islamic terrorism against Christians in the area.

In the meantime, it appears that Russia will capitalize on this opportunity as the U.S. promotes a stricter foreign policy.

Duke University, Delta University — The Delta Sigma Theta sorority building in Washington D.C.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

Yale Chapter Of Delta Sigma Theta Hosts Harlem Renaissance-Inspired Week For Global Social Action

The "REDaissance" featured book and food drives, teach-ins about Sudan, and more.

The Yale Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. held an event week that paid tribute to a significant moment of Black history.

Inspired by the advocacy found throughout the Harlem Renaissance, the Pi Alpha Chapter hosted its own “REDaissance.”

Taking place in early November, the five-day series of events focused on the Black sorority’s core tenet of social action. The chapter’s president, Aubrey Vaughn, explained the week’s mission to the Yale Daily News.

“Social Action is a core tenet of our organization and its work, which is why we were honored to host a week of events touching on Social Justice issues both at home and abroad, emphasizing our commitment to responsible citizenship,” Vaughn wrote.

The Harlem Renaissance was the curation of Black visionaries, thinkers, and artists, all dedicated to using their work to inspire change across the world. Encouraged by the likes of Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston, the sorority sisters used their program to educate about contemporary social issues and freedom fights.

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One event featured a teach-in on Sudan, along with a book drive with the local bookshop, New Haven Reads. According to the BBC, Sudan is currently in the midst of a civil war, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis for its people, including many women and children.

The Delta Sigma Theta chapter hosted a panel to discuss the current situation in Sudan. Many have deemed the recognition of this crisis as slightly overshadowed by other global issues, particularly due to widespread anti-Blackness.

“I was inspired to do a teach-in and donation drive for Sudan because Black lives are so often undervalued, and I was disheartened by the lack of attention being paid to such a horrific humanitarian crisis,” shared DST member Ryen Eley.

Attendees left the session with new inspiration to take action, including ways to write their representatives about speaking up for Sudan. The teach-in not only raised awareness of what’s happening to the Sudanese people but also offered ways to advocate against these injustices, even from afar.

As for the Book Drive, the event promoted the importance of Black literary works and authors. Participants also donated books to New Haven Reads. The local shop offers free books to the community, especially during book deserts.

Another event included a dinner discussion with Su’ad Abdul Khabeer, the author of “Muslim Cool: Race, Religion, and Hip Hop in the United States.” In collaboration with fellow student organizations, such as the Afro-American Cultural Center, Muslim Life at Yale, and the Yale Black Muslim Student Association, the dinner and accompanying food drive sparked discussions on the Black community, culture, and faith.

Ending the week with a financial literacy workshop, the young women’s sorority signed off on a strong series that blended global discourse with local community impact to inspire not only its participants but also Yale’s entire campus.

Delonte West Arrested Again After Allegedly Being Found Unconscious

The former Cleveland Cavaliers player was reportedly given Narcan to revive him

Oft-troubled former NBA player Delonte West was reportedly arrested after being found unconscious in Virginia, adding to his history of reported drug abuse and homelessness after ending his professional basketball career.

According to TMZ Sports, West was given Narcan, the FDA-approved nasal spray that quickly reverses the effects of opioid overdose, possibly saving his life after local police officers received a call about a man being discovered unconscious. The incident took place on Nov. 3 in Fairfax County after officers arrived with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers.

Police offered to take the former basketball player to the hospital, but he refused. However, authorities stated that he was so intoxicated that they placed him in custody for his own safety. West was charged with obstruction/resisting arrest without force and public intoxication. He has since been released on bond, but no further information has been released.

This news comes almost exactly a year to the day from his last reported arrest. TMZ Sports previously reported that on Nov. 2, 2024, he was accused of trespassing on property from which he had been banned. West was allegedly in an area in Huntington and would not leave the premises. After police officers viewed video surveillance showing him on the property the previous day, they arrested him after obtaining an arrest warrant.

West’s issues have been well-documented as far back as 2020, when then-Dallas Mavericks owner and “Shark Tank” co-host Mark Cuban placed him in rehab. The Mavericks were the last NBA team on which West played. He was a member of the team from 2011 to 2012. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and was battling substance abuse issues and homelessness when he was found panhandling.

He played for four different teams — the Mavericks, the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Seattle SuperSonics, and the Boston Celtics — during his eight-year NBA career, following his collegiate career at St. Joseph’s University. West averaged 9.7 points and 3.6 assists per game in the NBA before heading for a career playing basketball internationally.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MAY 06: Lil' Kim during the Lovers & Friends music festival at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds on May 06, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/FilmMagic) — Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/FilmMagic

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

Lil’ Kim Pops Out At Brooklyn Nets Halftime Show For ‘Biggie’ Night Celebrating The Notorious B.I.G.

Lil Kim paid tribute to her beloved friend and collaborator at the Brooklyn Nets' "Biggie Night."

Lil Kim is doing her part to ensure the legacy of Biggie Smalls remains strong.

The New York emcee took the floor at the Brooklyn Nets’ halftime show during their Nov. 11 game against the Toronto Raptors. However, the night’s theme had a special celebration.

The NBA franchise debuted their Notorious B.I.G.-inspired jerseys, which rocked a “Brooklyn Camo” honoring the city’s culture and famed artist. To launch the celebration, the team drafted Lil Kim to perform during their halftime festivities. She announced her performance in a joint post with the team as they prepared to represent their hometown hero.

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“It’s Biggie Night, so you already know the vibes. Every time we rep the legend, it’s all good, babyyy bae baeee,” said the Bed-Stuy native, referencing Biggie’s own signature catchphrase. “Brooklyn, we ouuutssiiideee… Get ready for a fun-filled night! Let’s make it one for the books.”

Rightfully, the Queen Bee rapped her verse from “Notorious B.I.G.” alongside the Nets dancers. Wearing a shirt that read “REALLY HER,” Lil Kim proved why she earned her reign in female rap with the throwback performance.

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As for the new jersey debut, the “Brooklyn Camo” City Edition uniforms bring color back to the Nets’ design. However, the inclusion of a colorful outline evokes Biggie’s classic Coogi sweaters and the spirit of old-school Brooklyn. The NBA confirmed the jerseys also featured a “Bed-Stuy” patch, further recognizing Biggie and Lil Kim’s hometown.

However, the jerseys were not the only thing to represent Biggie and Brooklyn’s impact on hip-hop. According to AllNewHipHop, the jerseys were one part of the Nets’ partnership with the Biggie Smalls estate. The court itself took on a “Biggie” theme throughout the programming. Spectators enjoyed giveaways, including a Biggie Bobblehead, and entertainment from Lil Kim as they celebrated the King of East Coast hip-hop.

As the partnership unfolds, Nets fans can expect to see more games featuring the collaborative jerseys. As the NBA team showcases its city’s cultural influence across the world, highlighted through Biggie Smalls, it continues to “Spread Love The Brooklyn Way.”

A Different World, including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Dawnn Lewis, Cree Summer, Darryl Bell and Debbie Allen — (Photo: ABC/LOU ROCCO)

by Kandiss Edwards

November 12, 2025

‘A Different World’ Is Coming Back Modern And Black

Hillman College is back with new Black stories in 'A Different World' continuation series.

On Nov. 10, Netflix announced that it has officially ordered a sequel series to the iconic ’90s sitcom A Different World.

The beloved Black sitcom is being reimagined over 30 years after its debut. The revival centers on Maleah Joi Moon as Deborah Wayne. Deborah is the youngest daughter of original characters Dwayne Wayne, played by Kadeem Hardison, and Whitley Gilbert, played by Jasmine Guy.

Debbie Allen, who produced and directed much of the original series, is returning as executive producer and will direct several episodes. In a statement, Allen spoke about the legacy of the original series and her excitement for its continuation.

“There couldn’t be a better time than now to reboot A Different World,” Allen said in a statement. “Our show changed lives, tripled the enrollment of historically Black colleges and gave a strong voice and platform for Young Black America.”

https://twitter.com/netflix/status/1987961780447178852

Alijah Kai Haggins, Chibuikem Uche, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, and Kennedi Reece will round out the cast as Deborah’s new college friends. The series is under the leadership of showrunner Felicia Pride, while original writer Gina Prince-Bythewood serves as executive producer.

Netflix ordered 10 30-minute episodes following the short-form format of the original series.

The sequel “follows Deborah as she enters her freshman year at her parents’ HBCU alma mater and finds the shadow of her parents difficult to escape,” Deadline reported.

While the original cast has not been confirmed to return in full, producers have suggested that several legacy characters may appear in guest roles. The appearances of fan favorites will help establish continuity and evoke nostalgia among OG fans.

The announcement comes on the heels of the KeKe Palmer-produced show Southern Fried Rice. Centered around an Asian woman attending a fictional HBCU, the show’s premise received significant backlash. Social media users were outraged as HBCUs are an integral part of African American and Black culture.

With the return of A Different World, Black stories and characters will be at the forefront, honoring the legacy of those who came before.

Texas, locs, school suspension — (Photo by Larry George II/Unsplash)

by Mary Spiller

November 12, 2025

Supreme Court Skeptical Of Formerly Incarcerated Rastafarian’s Bid To Sue For Forced Haircut

Justices appear divided over whether federal law allows damages for religious rights violations by state prison officials.

On Nov. 10, the Supreme Court appeared reluctant to allow an incarcerated Louisiana man to seek monetary damages from prison officials who forcibly cut his dreadlocks in violation of his religious beliefs, suggesting the justices may rule that Congress did not authorize such lawsuits under existing law. The case centers on Damon Landor, a devout Rastafarian who says his faith prohibits him from cutting his hair under the Nazarite vow.

According to NBC News, Landor, who had not cut his dreadlocks in nearly two decades before entering prison, claims his religious rights were violated when officers at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center shaved his head in 2020, despite his objections.

Landor’s attorneys argue that the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) allows for damages when religious freedoms are violated, citing a 2020 Supreme Court ruling that found such relief permissible under a similar law, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

However, during oral arguments, several conservative justices appeared unconvinced. Louisiana Solicitor General Benjamin Aguinaga maintained that RLUIPA does not authorize suits for damages against state officials, noting the difference between cases involving federal employees and those involving state-funded institutions.

Justice Neil Gorsuch emphasized the absence of clear legislative language supporting Landor’s claim.

“Congress could easily have written a statute that does this,” he said. “It didn’t do that.”

He further warned that permitting such lawsuits could open the door to claims against state officials in other federally funded programs, citing the example of a state university coach facing potential litigation over team eligibility decisions.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett echoed that concern, pointing out that federal appellate courts have consistently ruled against similar damages claims. “It’s hard to see how it’s clear if every circuit is coming out differently,” she told Landor’s attorney, Zachary Tripp.

The Court’s three liberal justices, however, expressed support for Landor’s position. Justice Sonia Sotomayor argued that officials should already be aware they could face legal consequences when violating federal rights, saying, “We’re all presumed to know the law when we take our jobs.” Justice Elena Kagan added, “Why would the rule be any different under RLUIPA?” noting that state officials are already subject to other civil rights suits.

Landor, who was serving a five-month sentence for a drug offense, presented officers with a prior court ruling affirming that cutting a Rastafarian’s hair violates religious rights. Despite this, two guards restrained him while another shaved his head.

Lower courts sided with the state, prompting Landor’s appeal to the Supreme Court, where the decision could redefine how far religious protections extend for those behind bars.