Hip-Hop stars Young Thug and Lil Wayne are at the center of a decade-old legal dispute in Cobb County, Georgia. Attorneys for Young Thug appeared Monday before Cobb County Chief Judge Eric Brewton. The hearing concerns a lawsuit filed by Alvin Lewis, who drove Wayne’s tour bus during a 2015 shooting. Gunfire struck the bus after a concert in Atlanta on April 25, 2015. No one was physically injured. Lewis now seeks damages for emotional distress. Lewis alleges Young Thug, whose legal name is Jeffery Williams, and Bryan Williams, known as Birdman, bear responsibility. Both defendants deny involvement. Defense attorney Jeffrey Reilly told the court that Lewis lacks direct evidence linking either rapper to the shooting. He also challenged evidence involving gangs and disputes among the artists. “Georgia law does not support such a broad brush of liability,” Reilly said. Lewis’ attorney, Jeffrey Gewirtz, offered a different account. He argued Young Thug and Birdman paid Jimmy Winfrey, known as Peewee Roscoe, to carry out the attack. Hip-Hop Star Young Thug’s Attorneys Return To Court For Lil Wayne 2015 Tour Bus Shooting Lawsuit Atlanta police arrested Winfrey after locating his white Chevrolet Camaro. Authorities also found an assault rifle, according to testimony. Winfrey pleaded guilty to gang charges in 2018. The Georgia Supreme Court later overturned that conviction after finding his plea involuntary. Winfrey subsequently accepted a plea deal in Young Thug’s racketeering case. Prosecutors identified the bus shooting as an alleged act supporting the criminal enterprise. Gewirtz cited jail calls between Young Thug and Winfrey. He argued the conversations showed Winfrey sought “street cred” and avoided being labeled a “rat.” Reilly said Young Thug’s $25,000 contribution toward Winfrey’s legal fees reflected their childhood friendship. He denied that Winfrey worked for either rapper or their record labels. The case also revisits tensions between Wayne and Birdman. Wayne previously accused Cash Money Records of restricting his music. Wayne later settled litigation against the label for more than $10 million. He also objected to Young Thug’s proposed “Barter VI” title. Gewirtz said Young Thug posted threats against Wayne days before the shooting. Reilly said Young Thug admired Wayne and considered him an idol. Judge Brewton also heard challenges to Lewis’ evidence, including hearsay and expert testimony. He said he will rule on whether the case proceeds to trial.

Tracee Ellis Ross has addressed the viral rumors surrounding her personal life, calling the recent social media speculation that she was expecting a child “nuts.” The actress and producer sat down for a candid conversation on the “What Now? With Trevor Noah” podcast to dismantle the false claims that had been circulating online since June. The rumors gained traction after a manipulated post surfaced depicting Ross holding a pregnancy test. The “Black-ish” star found the situation particularly bizarre because the image did not even feature her own body. Ross noted that her fans were the first to point out the discrepancies in the photo, observing that the hands and nails did not match hers. “That shit was nuts,” Ross said during the podcast. “I thought that was crazy. I was like, ‘What are you guys talking about?’” The actress joked that if there had been a photo of her with a “bloated tummy,” she might have understood the confusion, but the sheer fabrication of the image left her bewildered. During the interview, Noah suggested that such misleading content is often driven by social media algorithms and clickbait tactics designed to generate revenue regardless of accuracy. This is not the first time Ross has had to clear the air. She previously denied the pregnancy rumors during an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” At that time, Ross explained that she had been receiving a wave of congratulatory text messages. She initially assumed the well-wishes were for her Broadway debut in the play “Every Brilliant Thing.” Ross, who is 53, has long been open about the societal pressures placed on women regarding marriage and motherhood. She told Fallon in June that she was not pregnant and even quipped that she wouldn’t even know how to get “preggers” at this stage in her life. While the internet was busy speculating about her personal life, Ross has remained focused on her professional achievements. The actress recently celebrated a reunion with her “Girlfriends” castmates who attended her Tony-nominated revival on Broadway. The actress concluded by questioning the motives behind the rumors, asking if it was simply a “slow news day” that led to such an elaborate fabrication. Despite the noise, Ross continues to prioritize her career and her own narrative over social media gossip.

LeBron James is expanding his digital empire into fairways and greens with the launch of a dedicated golf-focused YouTube channel.  Known for his relentlessly competitive drive, James has embraced golf as his newest athletic obsession, framing the sport as a grueling personal challenge that keeps his competitive fire burning away from the hardwood.  Rather than relying strictly on standard sports commentary, his channel offers fans a vlog-style, behind-the-scenes look at his journey to master the game. The debut episode set a high bar, kicking off with an iconic buddy trip to Scotland’s Castle Stuart Links featuring a high-profile reunion of his 2016 NBA championship-winning Cleveland Cavaliers teammates, including Kevin Love, J.R. Smith, Tristan Thompson, Channing Frye, and Richard Jefferson.  The inaugural outing captured a 3-on-3 scramble match filled with classic banter, lighthearted arguments over past Finals moments, and stunning Scottish coastal scenery. Planned as a recurring monthly series, the channel blends high-stakes amateur golf with travel, food, local culture, and candid conversations.  The move places James at the center of the booming YouTube Golf community while showing a relaxed, relatable side of one of basketball’s greatest icons.  With golf legends like six-time major champion Rory McIlroy already publicly offering to give him lessons, the platform promises a unique mix of celebrity lifestyle, athletic humility, and star-studded guest appearances as James navigates the steep learning curve of the game  lebron’s ‘last decision’ In one of the most stunning free-agency moves in recent NBA history, LeBron James made the decision to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, marking the start of his record-breaking 24th season in a fourth distinct uniform. Concluding an eight-year era with the Los Angeles Lakers, the 41-year-old icon opted for a drastic pay cut—agreeing to a two-year, $8 million veteran-minimum contract—to chase his fifth championship ring in the City of Brotherly Love.  Framed by James as his “last decision,” the move was purely driven by competitive ambition rather than financial gain, allowing him to team up with dynamic guard Tyrese Maxey, former MVP Joel Embiid, rookie guard VJ Edgecombe, and newly acquired wing Jaylen Brown.

Drake has sparked fresh conversation across the music industry after bestowing high praise on an unexpected artist outside the hip-hop genre. In a recent social media interaction, the multi-platinum rapper crowned rising country music sensation Ella Langley as having a “goated pen.” The endorsement came through Instagram, where Drake commented on a post shared by Langley. The country singer has recently seen a surge in popularity, particularly with the success of her track “Choosin Texas.” While Drake is known for his deep ties to the rap world, his recognition of Langley highlights a growing appreciation for the narrative-driven lyricism inherent in modern country music. View this post on Instagram Drake recently made headlines for his appearance on a Kick live stream, where he participated in a “20v1” dating show format. While some critics suggested the rapper’s participation in viral streaming stunts could impact his legacy, his core fan base remained engaged with the rare, unfiltered access to the star. Langley’s rise in the Nashville scene has been marked by a raw, authentic writing style that has clearly resonated with the OVO founder. Drake has often used his platform to highlight emerging talent, though he typically focuses on R&B and rap artists. This isn’t the first time the rapper has looked toward the country charts for inspiration or partnership. His ongoing relationship with the Texas music scene and his penchant for blending genres suggest he may be looking to expand his sonic palette. Neither artist has officially confirmed a joint project, but fans of both genres are now closely watching for further interactions between the two. For Langley, the “goated pen” title serves as a significant co-sign from one of the most commercially successful songwriters of the last two decades. As the boundaries between rap and country continue to blur, this public nod may signal a new chapter for both artists.

Halle Berry gets real. Halle Berry is opening up about the evolution of her personal life, admitting that she frequently faked satisfaction during intimate encounters earlier in her life to satisfy the egos of her partners. The 59-year-old star shared her reflections on aging and intimacy, noting that her perspective has shifted significantly as she has matured. Berry explained that during her younger years, she often prioritized the needs and feelings of men over her own physical and emotional fulfillment. “In our youth, everybody has faked it because you just want it to be done,” Berry said. The actress elaborated that there were times when she simply wanted a sexual encounter to conclude, leading her to pretend she had reached a climax so that her partner would feel successful. Berry noted that this behavior was rooted in a desire to protect the self-esteem of the men she was with. She said women often feel the need to validate their partners’ performance, even at the expense of their own pleasure. Halle Berry opens up: In the past, she said she felt compelled to reach that point “so that he felt good about bringing us to orgasm.” However, the “Monster’s Ball” star emphasized that she no longer adheres to those social pressures. Now, Berry said she is far more assertive and vocal about her boundaries and desires. She described a new sense of empowerment where she will put a “dead stop” to anything she finds unpleasant. “I’m like, no, I come first like you come first to you,” Berry said regarding her current approach to relationships. She added that she now views intimacy as an experience that must be mutually enjoyable for both individuals involved, rather than a performance for one person’s benefit. Berry’s comments reflect a growing trend of high-profile women speaking out about reclaiming their autonomy as they enter new stages of life. By sharing her history of “faking it,” the actress said she hopes to encourage others to prioritize their own needs without guilt.

Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has accused producer Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones of voluntarily using drugs and hiring sex workers. In an exclusive report by AllHipHop’s Greg Watkins over the weekend, the allegations surfaced in Combs’ Aug. 11 amended answer and counterclaims. The filing responds to Jones’ $30 million federal lawsuit against Combs. Jones sued the music mogul in February 2024, alleging sexual assault, drugging and coercion. View this post on Instagram Combs denies Jones’ allegations and challenges his account of their work on “The Love Album: Off the Grid.” The filing also disputes Jones’ description of recruiting women in Miami. Jones previously said Combs and his associates directed him to bring women to a residence. He also alleged that Combs supplied him with a Bad Boy hat for that purpose. Combs denies issuing those instructions. “Mr. Combs never told Mr. Jones to ‘recruit[] sex workers,’” the amended filing states. The defense also denies instructing Jones to wear the Bad Boy hat while recruiting women. Music Mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs Alleges Hip-Hop Producer Lil Rod Hired Sex Workers For Himself & Took Drugs Willingly Instead, Combs alleges Jones independently hired sex workers for his own purposes. “Upon information and belief, Mr. Jones had a personal proclivity for sleeping with sex workers,” the filing states. Combs’ attorneys also dispute Jones’ allegations about drug use. The defense claims Jones voluntarily consumed drugs and alcohol while working on the album. “Mr. Jones voluntarily consumed drugs and alcohol while working on the Album,” the filing states. The filing further calls Jones’ allegation that Combs drugged him “positively false.” Combs contends Jones knew the allegation was false because the alleged conduct never occurred. Jones has maintained the opposite account. His complaint alleges Combs forced him to solicit sex workers and repeatedly drugged him without consent. A March 2025 ruling allowed several of Jones’ claims to proceed. Those claims include allegations involving sexual assault and sex trafficking. Combs’ latest accusations remain unproven allegations in his court filing. They do not independently establish Jones’ alleged conduct. Jones had not publicly responded to the amended counterclaims. The case remains pending before U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken in Manhattan federal court.

Deijae Devon Jester, convicted in the killing of late hip-hop star Pop Smoke, received a four-year Los Angeles County jail sentence Thursday. The new sentence stems from a fentanyl case involving his time in juvenile detention. Jester, 21, pleaded no contest in June to felony counts involving controlled substances and jail contraband. Prosecutors accused him of possessing fentanyl for sale and introducing contraband into detention facilities. View this post on Instagram The case adds another legal consequence to Jester’s involvement in Pop Smoke’s 2020 killing. Jester was 15 when the Brooklyn-born rapper was fatally shot during a home invasion in Los Angeles. Jester admitted a first-degree murder charge in 2023. He also admitted personally and intentionally discharging a firearm during the crime. A home-invasion robbery count formed part of the case. Because Jester was a juvenile at the time, he proceeded through the juvenile justice system. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said that process provided Jester an opportunity for rehabilitation. Deijae Devon Jester, Killer of Hip-Hop Star Pop Smoke, Sentence To 4 Years After Smuggling Fentanyl Into Los Angeles Juvenile Hall “Deijae Jester committed a devastating crime when he took the life of Pop Smoke,” Hochman said. “Because he was a juvenile, the law afforded him an opportunity for redemption.” Hochman said Jester instead trafficked fentanyl while detained. The district attorney warned that continued criminal conduct would bring further accountability. Jester’s mother, Nickia Tyonia Randall, faces related felony allegations. Prosecutors accuse her of attempting to deliver fentanyl pills to her son during a December 2025 visit. Authorities said Randall brought two latex balls to Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall in Sylmar. Investigators recovered one ball containing 25 fentanyl pills, prosecutors said. Pop Smoke, whose legal name was Bashar Jackson, died Feb. 19, 2020. He was staying at a rented Hollywood Hills home during a Los Angeles trip. Authorities said attackers obtained the address through a social media post. A detective testified that the robbers stole Jackson’s diamond-studded Rolex and sold it for $2,000. Pop Smoke broke through in 2018 with “Welcome to the Party.” His posthumous album, “Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon,” cemented his influence after his death.

“Spend Dat” rapper Yung Miami is not ruling out the road but wants to do it like Beyoncé. The Uptown Records signee says she still plans to tour behind her forthcoming solo debut. She just wants the moment to feel right. Speaking on “Way Up With Angela Yee,” Miami, born Caresha Brownlee, addressed her recent departure from BossMan Dlow’s tour. The decision left some fans disappointed. Yet Miami suggested the setback has not changed her ambitions. “I do want to go on tour, but I just think it needs to be the right tour at the right time,” she said. Yung Miami says She’s coming like Beyoncé on her next Tour …. pic.twitter.com/wQPUMP76fB — CELIA (@CELIAYONCE) August 14, 2026 For Miami, the next tour must offer more than a string of dates. She is preparing to make her live show a defining part of her solo era. That preparation includes spending time in the gym. “That’s why I’m in the gym working out,” Miami said. “I want to make sure that I put on a show.” Then came the benchmark. Rapper Yung Miami On Next Music Tour: “I’m Coming Like Beyoncé” “I’m coming like Beyoncé,” she said. “I want to give it my all.” Invoking Beyoncé places Miami’s touring ambitions against one of pop’s most demanding live standards. Beyoncé’s performances have long fused choreography, production and vocal precision into large-scale spectacles. Miami appears determined to bring that same intensity to her own stage. Her plans arrive as “Spend Dat” continues building momentum. The track has become an important early marker in Miami’s solo career. It also offers a glimpse of the musical identity she is developing beyond City Girls. Miami and JT helped define a new generation of Southern rap through the duo’s unapologetic style. Now, Miami is carving out a separate lane. A solo tour could become a crucial step in that evolution. For now, though, the rapper has not announced dates or confirmed her debut album’s release date. The wait leaves Miami with one clear objective: when she returns to the stage, she wants audiences to remember the performance. And if her Beyoncé-sized promise is any indication, she intends to leave nothing behind.

New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods are officially husband and wife. The couple exchanged vows in Malibu, California, over the weekend. Their celebration brought together Towns’ Knicks teammates, Hollywood stars and longtime friends. View this post on Instagram Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart were among the Knicks players reportedly attending. Their presence highlighted Towns’ bond with the team following his move to New York. The guest list reached far beyond the basketball world. Timothée Chalamet, Ben Stiller and Michael B. Jordan were reportedly among those at the wedding. Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber were also linked to the Malibu festivities. New York Knicks Karl-Anthony Towns & Jordyn Woods Get Married In Malibu The celebration included several personal touches inspired by Towns’ NBA career. Guests reportedly received hoodies featuring the phrase “Married in 5.” The design referenced Towns’ No. 5 jersey and his recent NBA Finals triumph with the Knicks. According to reports, attendees also received Fanatics gift bags and In-N-Out cups. The details brought a distinctly California flavor to the star-studded celebration. For Towns and Woods, the wedding marks the latest chapter in a relationship spanning more than five years. Towns proposed to Woods on Christmas Day last year in New York City. Woods has built her own profile through fashion, entrepreneurship and social media. She also became widely known through her former friendship with members of the Kardashian-Jenner family. Towns has established himself as one of basketball’s most recognizable stars. His arrival in New York added another dimension to the couple’s public profile. The Malibu wedding also showcased the growing intersection between professional sports and celebrity culture. Still, the weekend centered on a more intimate milestone for the couple. Towns and Woods have not publicly shared every detail from their ceremony. Their reported guest list, however, offered a glimpse into their expansive social circle. After years together, the NBA star and entrepreneur have officially begun their next chapter as a married couple. For Towns and Woods, the celebration was more than a celebrity event. It marked the start of their life together as husband and wife.

Prayers up! Hayden Panettiere, the versatile actress who captivated television audiences as a superpowered cheerleader and a country music star, has died. She was 36 years old. Representatives for the actress confirmed her passing late Sunday evening. While details regarding the cause of death have not been immediately released, the news has prompted an outpouring of grief from former co-stars and fans. View this post on Instagram Panettiere first rose to international prominence in 2006 on the NBC sci-fi hit “Heroes.” Playing Claire Bennet, a high school cheerleader with regenerative healing abilities, she became the face of the show’s popular marketing mantra: “Save the cheerleader, save the world.” The role earned her multiple awards and established her as a household name before she had even reached the age of 20. Following the success of “Heroes,” Panettiere transitioned to a more mature role in the ABC musical drama “Nashville.” Starting in 2012, she portrayed Juliette Barnes, a talented but troubled country music sensation. A golden globe nominee: Her performance, which included performing her own vocals for the show’s soundtrack, earned her two Golden Globe nominations for Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries, or Television Film. In addition to her television success, Panettiere was a significant figure in the horror genre. She starred as Kirby Reed in “Scream 4” in 2011, a character so beloved by fans that she was brought back for the franchise’s sixth installment in 2023. Her return to the big screen was celebrated as a triumphant comeback for both the actress and the character. Beyond her acting credits, which began with daytime soap operas “One Life to Live” and “Guiding Light,” Panettiere was known for her environmental activism. She frequently campaigned against commercial whaling and worked with various animal welfare organizations throughout her life. She is survived by her daughter, Kaya. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time. May she rest peacefully.