50 Cent and actor Marlon Wayans appear to have buried the hatchet after a monthslong social media feud, surprising attendees at CinemaCon this week. The two entertainment heavyweights were seen laughing and conversing backstage at the industry event, signaling a definitive end to their recent public dispute. Video footage from the Las Vegas convention showed the pair in high spirits, a stark departure from the digital barbs they exchanged earlier this year. The rift initially began over 50 Cent’s upcoming documentary regarding Sean “Diddy” Combs. Wayans had publicly questioned the rapper’s motivations, suggestng the project was fueled by personal bias rather than journalistic integrity. The criticism prompted a characteristically sharp response from 50 Cent, whose real name is Curtis Jackson. The “Power” executive producer spent weeks targeting Wayans in social media posts before eventually expressing exhaustion with the conflict. “I’m not beefing with Marlon no more,” Jackson wrote in a recent post that signaled a shift in tone. Wayans has previously addressed the negative impact of such public disagreements, particularly within the Black entertainment community. “I don’t think brothers need to be quarreling in public like that,” Wayans said in a previous interview regarding the spat. He further explained his decision to de-escalate the situation, stating that the public back-and-forth was “bad for the culture.” Neither Jackson nor Wayans has released a formal statement regarding the meeting, but the visual evidence of their cordial interaction has effectively ended speculation of ongoing hostility. View this post on Instagram

Victoria Monét stopped by HOT 97 to talk to Nessa about her new single “Let Me” and the personal growth behind this era. She opens up about making major life changes, including shifting her team and relationships, and how that “shedding” shaped where she is now. She also gets real about love, what “the right way” to love her looks like, and the viral moment where she breaks down the importance of consistency and being observant in a relationship. Victoria even shares where she stands today, revealing she’s been single for over two years and is open to dating, while teasing her relationship status through unreleased music she played during the interview. Victoria also talks about stepping outside of music, including attending culinary school and how cooking connects her to her family and culture. She reflects on the pressure that came after her Grammy wins, the backlash that followed, and how she had to ground herself before creating this next album. She shares a vulnerable moment about dealing with vocal issues and how she worked through them physically and mentally, calling this her most meaningful music yet. Plus, she talks about going on tour with Bruno Mars, collaborating with Bryson Tiller, her daughter’s growing love for music, and why this upcoming project could define her career. Stream “Let Me” out now and watch the full interview on HOT 97.

O’Shea Jackson Jr. and Destin Tucker recreated an iconic scene from the hit movie “Friday” to promote the Los Angeles Rams. The sons of legendary stars Ice Cube and Chris Tucker step into their fathers’ footsteps in a new marketing campaign titled “Thursday,” which debuted ahead of the NFL Draft. The promotional video serves as a rhythmic homage to the original film, featuring Jackson Jr. and Tucker in roles modeled after the beloved characters Craig and Smokey. Filmed at locations reminiscent of the South Central Los Angeles neighborhood seen in the movie, the short film captures the same comedic timing and porch-sitting atmosphere that made the original a staple of 1990s cinema. The Rams’ creative team structured the campaign to celebrate local culture while generating buzz for the team’s upcoming season. In addition to the leading pair, the “Thursday” video includes guest appearances from actor Terry Crews, rapper YG and several active Rams players. Social media users quickly pointed out the striking physical resemblances between the young actors and their fathers, with the video garnering millions of views within hours of its release. “Not gonna lie, that was cold…” read one comment. “Honestly.. They deserve a Super Bowl win for this..” read another. View this post on Instagram The team said the collaboration was designed to be a love letter to Los Angeles, blending the city’s love for football with its rich cinematic history. While rumors of a final “Friday” sequel have circulated for years, this campaign offers fans the closest glimpse yet at what a modern iteration of the story might look like.

Rapper 21 Savage has stepped in to support an Atlanta family after a fatal shooting that has intensified concern across the city. The rapper has reportedly covered funeral expenses for 16-year-old Atlanta native Tianha Robinson, who was killed on April 4 at Piedmont Park. Robinson’s death has drawn widespread attention due to her age and the public setting. The park, known as a central gathering space, became the site of a deadly incident that has shaken residents’ sense of safety. Emergency responders arrived shortly after reports of gunfire. However, Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released many details, and the investigation remains ongoing. Rapper 21 Savage Reportedly Covers Funeral Cost For 16-year-old Slain Atlanta Native Tianah Robinson On 404 Day Community members have expressed grief and frustration in the days since the shooting. “She was just a child with her whole life ahead,” one resident said during a vigil. “This should not happen in a place where families gather.” Amid that grief, 21 Savage’s gesture has provided tangible support. By covering funeral costs, he removed a significant financial burden from Robinson’s family. “No family should have to worry about money in a moment like this,” a community organizer said. “That kind of help matters.” The rapper, who has longstanding ties to Atlanta, has supported youth programs and local initiatives in the past. His latest action reinforces his connection to the city during a moment of crisis. Vigils and memorials have since taken place across Atlanta, offering space for remembrance and solidarity. At the same time, the tragedy has renewed calls for solutions to gun violence. “We need accountability and prevention,” another resident said. “This cannot keep happening.” As investigators continue their work, Robinson’s loved ones and the wider community remain focused on honoring her life and seeking justice.

Rapper Trippie Redd and boxer Ryan Garcia are locked in a tense public dispute after a private encounter spilled into the spotlight. The clash unfolded on X, where both figures traded sharp words following Garcia’s recent livestream. Garcia first addressed the situation, explaining why he felt out of place during a visit to Trippie Redd’s home. “Guys, I’m sorry if it felt awkward,” he said. “When you’re not smoking weed with people that are smoking weed, it feels awkward.” Trippie Redd went on a rant on X after Ryan Garcia left his house, saying he felt dark energy especially due to his 666 eyelid tattoo, and that Trippie Redd became uncomfortable when they spoke about God pic.twitter.com/cBERLReJ4p — FearBuck (@FearedBuck) April 19, 2026 He went further, describing the environment as unsettling. “It was a lot of dark energy there… I could feel it,” he added. Despite that critique, Garcia framed his presence as purposeful. “We’re not going to judge him at all,” he said. “Put the light of Jesus shining on them.” He positioned the moment as spiritual outreach. “I hope that I plant some type of seed in him and I wish him the best,” Garcia explained. He ended with a pointed message: “You want me to side with the world or you want me to side with God?” Rapper Trippie Redd Claims Boxer Ryan Garcia Is A “Coke Head” During Their Social Media Exchange Trippie Redd fired back with a string of posts that quickly escalated the tension. “Ryan Garcia was off coke so bad when I first met him,” he wrote, dismissing the boxer’s account. He followed with sarcasm aimed at Garcia’s comments. “What makes you bright, coke?” he added, directly challenging the “dark energy” claim. The rapper also rejected any competitive narrative. “He mad I ain’t wanna box with his sorry ass,” Trippie Redd posted, brushing off the idea of a fight while asserting his stance. His remarks framed Garcia as seeking attention outside the ring. Garcia won the WBC world title in his last fight against Mario Barrios. Garcia responded with a brief, faith-driven message. “Demons are angry,” he wrote, punctuating the statement with prayer emojis. Trippie Redd’s rant on Garcia is the boxer’s latest interaction with a hip-hop star. Previous rappers to cross paths with the boxer include Blueface, DDG, and YG. Garcia released his first rap song in 2024.

Known for his controversial antics, rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine showed his generosity last week by gifting a couple $25,000 for their daughter’s heart transplant. View this post on Instagram In a video posted to Instagram, 6ix9ine surprised a family facing a medical crisis with a $25,000 gift. Their young daughter is battling a serious heart condition and urgently needs a heart transplant. The emotional clip captured the family’s reaction as they processed the life-changing support in real time. “She needs a heart transplant,” 6ix9ine said in the video, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The family, visibly overwhelmed, expressed gratitude as the moment unfolded on camera. Couple Receives $25k For Daughter’s Heart Transplant From Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine Beyond the financial contribution, the rapper also stepped in to assist with logistics. He arranged travel for the family from Ohio to Florida, where the child can receive specialized medical care. This added gesture underscored a deeper level of involvement in their journey. The post quickly gained traction across social media platforms. Viewers responded to the authenticity of the exchange, with many highlighting the emotional weight of the moment. As the video circulated, it sparked widespread conversation and support. In his caption, 6ix9ine hinted at a larger effort. “We’re giving away $50,000,” he wrote, inviting followers to share their personal struggles in the comments. “Me and my team are reading,” he added, suggesting that more families could receive help. The initiative received praised of responses. Many shared stories of medical hardship, financial strain, and urgent family needs. While some questioned how recipients would be selected, the overall reaction remained largely positive. Supporters praised the rapper’s actions as generous and necessary. Even critics recognized the significance of helping a family during a serious moment.

Lil Wayne is speaking candidly about a rare moment of exclusion, addressing his absence from both Coachella 2026 and the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. The rap icon shared his thoughts on April 18 via X, offering fans a reflective message that quickly gained traction. “It’s truly a humbling experience when events like Coachella & the Grammys come around & like clockwork, I’m uninvited & uninvolved,” Wayne wrote. It’s truly a humbling experience when events like Coachella & the Grammys come around & like clockwork,I’m uninvited & uninvolved. I appreciate my position or space I hold in ya heart & mind if so bc you’re the humbling experience that’s timeless & 4dat I thk u. Iaintshitwithoutu — Lil Wayne WEEZY F (@LilTunechi) April 18, 2026 The statement signals a shift for an artist whose legacy once guaranteed presence on major stages. Still, rather than express frustration, he framed the moment as perspective. Wayne’s comments arrive as his latest project, Tha Carter VI, failed to secure nominations at this year’s Grammys. At the same time, his name did not appear on the Coachella 2026 bill. For a rapper with decades of influence, both omissions stand out. Rap’s Lil Wayne Says Exclusion From Coachella & Grammys Is A “Humbling Experience” In New Message Despite that, Wayne redirected focus toward his audience. “I appreciate my position or space I hold in ya heart & mind if so,” he continued. The sentiment reflects a broader shift in how veteran artists measure relevance in a fast-moving landscape. Lil Wayne is currently on tour in support of his latest album. He pushed the point further with a direct message of gratitude. “You’re the humbling experience that’s timeless & 4dat I thk u. I ain’t shit without u,” Wayne added. The closing line underscores his reliance on listeners, crediting them for sustaining his career through multiple eras. The tweet reads as both acknowledgment and recalibration. Wayne recognizes the industry’s changing priorities while reinforcing his connection to fans. Even without awards or festival slots, his voice remains powerful, supported by a loyal audience for decades.

Last Monday (April 13), Kazeem Famuyide, Hot 97’s new Mornings with Mero radio co-host and die-hard New York Knicks fan, blended sports and hip-hop by making a bold suggestion that the station should boycott playing Atlanta hip-hop while the Knicks play the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA playoffs. According to the host, the boycott is meant to “show some New York solidarity.” Famuyide’s suggestions made headlines last week in The Atlantic and Fox News. It appears that the station is behind Famuyide. He doubled down on his boycott remarks on social media. “Day one of my Atlanta music protest starts today, we ain’t trying to hear NONE of that until the first round over lol,” he tweeted.  Atlanta hip-hop has a long history of dominating radio with some of the biggest names in rap, including Young Jeezy, T.I., and Future. The New York Knicks go against the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the NBA playoffs. Hot 97 has gone Atlanta rap-less all week, leading up to Game 1 on Saturday. Hot 97’s Kazeem Famuyide of Mornings With Mero Wants Station To Boycott Atlanta Rap For New York Knicks-Atlanta Hawks NBA Playoff Series “We don’t want to hear no Atlanta artists right now,” Famuyide said on Friday (April 17). “Time to show some New York solidarity.” Famuyide assured that the boycott is only for the playoff matchup. Telling The Atlantic the boycott is about pride. “When people say I have a New York bias, it’s an issue, but if I say you have an Atlanta bias, a down south bias, that’s OK,” Famuyide told the outlet’s Jason Jones. “Any time we can show love and spotlight our city, especially when we need to band tougher, why not have the same pride in New York others have (in their regions)? It’s not bias, it’s just pride.” Mornings with Mero host, Kid Mero, who is also a die-hard Knicks fan, showed support to Famuyide on social media. Mero tweets, “KNICKS IN 5 CUZ IM BEIN POLITICAL!!! #BBQWINGS.” The New York Knicks beat the Atlanta Hawks, 113-102, in Game 1 on Saturday night (April 18). Game 2 is set for Monday, April 20, at Madison Square Garden.

For RAW Rolling Papers founder Josh Kesselman, not all smoke sessions are created equal, especially when they involve hip-hop heavyweights. During a recent interview, Kesselman compared the smoking styles of Chief Keef and Snoop Dogg.  “Chief Keef will smoke more in a sitting… he’s lighting one after the other,” Kesselman said. “In the short term, like if you’re doing a sprint, Keef’s gonna win. But in the long run… Snoop would win.”   RAW Rolling Papers founder, Josh Kesselman and Chief Keef, enjoy a smoke session High Times Magazine The moment speaks to Kesselman’s deep ties to both cannabis culture and music. It’s something that’s been core to RAW since day one. raw origin Long before building a global brand, Kesselman was a rolling paper obsessive. In 1993, he sold nearly everything he owned and moved into a friend’s storage shed in Florida to open his first smoke shop. His fascination with natural, unbleached papers eventually led to the creation of RAW.  “I thought about everything I’d ever seen in the history of rolling papers, and realized that we smokers had never made the paper that I was envisioning,” Kesselman said. He launched the brand in 2005 after years of trial, learned lessons, and persistence. “I even knew what I wanted to call it, ” the High Time publisher says. “After a Big Daddy Kane song where he’s thinking about how he’s gonna give it to you raw… “‘24/7, chilling like a villain. The meaning of raw is ready and willing.’” We named it raw after raw life 247, after Big Daddy Kane and we went at it.” Today, that same passion has expanded beyond products. Josh Kesselman recently acquired High Times Magazine, a legacy platform he credits with helping RAW rise early on. His vision is to rebuild it into a cultural staple for a new generation, starting with its March 2026 issue featuring Rick Ross, designed as a collectible, coffee-table-style release. Raw Rolling Papers Founder Josh Kesselman High Times Magazine Kesselman’s impact continues to ripple across music and culture, including unexpected moments like the viral “4RAW” shoutout from Timothée Chalamet and EsDeeKid. “We always wonder if music inspires the smoke or if smoke inspires the music… with ‘4 RAWS’ it’s BOTH,” Kesselman said. “It’s genuine culture… you can’t script that and you can’t buy it.” Kesselman is set to appear at the upcoming High Times Cannabis Cup on May 1st in Atlantic City, NJ. The event will be hosted by Smoke DZA – with performances by Beanie Sigel and Kur.

Tiger Woods hopes to return to golf after his treatment following his DUI arrest. PEOPLE reports that a source says “Woods is doing what is needed to feel good both physically and mentally.” “He knows he needs to beat his issues and also deal with the pain from not only playing golf but also from his regular fitness schedule,” the source revealed. “People around him are supporting him, both personally and professionally. All of this is helping him deal with it enough to get through it.” Another source stated that Woods “still has golf in him,” but the challenges have become “harder” because of the injuries he’s suffered and his age. “He just wants to get better in all areas of his life,” the source notes. On March 27, 2026,  Woods was involved in a rollover car accident and arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Woods attempted to pass a pressure-cleaner truck when he clipped the back of its trailer, causing his Land Rover to flip onto its side. Authorities noted that Woods appeared impaired, telling deputies he was distracted by his cell phone and radio at the time of the collision. Although a breathalyzer test showed no alcohol in his system, he was found in possession of prescription painkillers. He was charged with a misdemeanor. WOODS RELEASES STATEMENT FOLLOWING HIS DUI ARREST Following the vehicular accident, Woods released a statement on social media. “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods wrote. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health.” “I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones, and myself at this time.” The PGA Tour also released a statement saying that Woods will continue to have “our full support as he takes this important step.”