Music mogul 50 Cent’s latest investment in Shreveport, Louisiana, benefits area’s nonprofits. The G-Unit Films and Television founder delivered a major donation Monday morning in Shreveport, directing hundreds of thousands of dollars to nonprofits serving the region. The announcement took place around 10:15 a.m., drawing community leaders and residents from across northwest Louisiana. The funding will support nine organizations operating in Shreveport and nearby Bossier City. Each nonprofit focuses on programs that assist families, youth development, and survivors of domestic violence. Jackson, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, said the donation fulfills a pledge he made while producing a recent documentary examining domestic violence allegations involving Sean “Diddy” Combs. “I said I would donate proceeds to domestic violence and sexual assault victims,” Jackson told attendees. “I keep my word.” The hip-hop entrepreneur also explained why he selected Shreveport as the location for the charitable investment. “I didn’t say where I would make the donations,” he said. “I like Shreveport.” The organizations include Gingerbread House, The Fountain’s Community Development Corporation, Families Helping Families Region 7, the Elle Foundation, Moms on a Mission, Best 13, the MLK Community Development Corporation, the MLK Neighborhood Association, and the Northwest Louisiana Youth Golf and Education Foundation. Rapper 50 Cent Donates Hundreds Of Thousands To 9 Nonprofits Across Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana Local leaders say the contribution will help strengthen community programs throughout the region. Shreveport City Council member Tabatha Taylor said Jackson’s involvement reflects a deeper commitment to the city. “It is a commitment he made when he chose Shreveport, Louisiana,” Taylor said. “Economic development matters, but people must also feel supported and whole.” One group receiving support, the Martin Luther King Jr. Neighborhood Association, was awarded $30,000 to expand educational and outreach programs. Volunteer Bennie Dotie said the timing of the donation felt meaningful. “I feel like it was God-sent,” Dotie said. “When he says all roads lead to Shreveport, this shows why those roads matter.” Jackson has expanded business ventures in Louisiana in recent years, including television and film production. His latest philanthropic move now places Shreveport and Bossier at the center of his growing presence in the region.

Rumors of a tense exchange between Usher and Justin Bieber at a glitzy Oscars afterparty spread fast online. However, rapper and radio host DaBrat says the gossip ballooned far beyond reality. The speculation followed an invite-only celebration hosted by Beyoncé and Jay-Z after the Academy Awards. The party took place at Chateau Marmont, a longtime celebrity hotspot. Several entertainment outlets claimed Usher and Bieber clashed during the soirée. Some reports suggested the moment nearly turned physical. Others described a heated verbal dispute between the former mentor and his superstar protégé. DaBrat quickly pushed back on those claims. Speaking on The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, the rapper said the alleged confrontation never matched the dramatic headlines. “I spoke to Usher and he said this is an exaggeration of a conversation,” she explained during the broadcast. Her comments cooled speculation that had dominated social media for days. Online posts framed the encounter as a major fallout between the two artists. Early reports cited unnamed sources who claimed Usher approached Bieber with “energy and anger.” Those claims fueled viral debates across entertainment blogs and fan forums. Still, DaBrat insisted the narrative ignored the deeper history between the singers. Rapper DaBrat Claims Heated Exchange Between Usher & Justin Bieber At Oscars Afterparty Didn’t Happen “He’s been nothing but supportive of plenty of issues Justin Bieber has faced over the years,” she said. Usher famously discovered Bieber in 2007 after the Canadian teenager posted cover videos on YouTube. The clips sparked a fierce industry bidding war. Usher ultimately partnered with manager Scooter Braun to guide the young singer’s career. The mentorship helped launch one of the biggest pop careers of the 2010s. Bieber later moved to Atlanta to work closely with Usher during his early development. Their public appearances have become rare in recent years. The pair last appeared together in 2021 at a Los Angeles Lakers game. Questions resurfaced in 2024 when Usher invited Bieber to join his Super Bowl LVIII halftime performance. Bieber declined the offer. Still, DaBrat insists there is no feud. “Justin is on his own journey dealing with his own reality that he created,” she said. “Usher wishes him the best and they have no hostility.” “They definitely love each other,” she added. “People see something small and run with it.”

A’ja Wilson and Bam Adebayo are basketball’s “Power Couple.” Since going public with their relationships last year, the two have been seen at each other’s games. ​Speaking with Vogue, Wilson expressed how connecting with Adebayo has been a game-changer for her life. ​‘I’m in love. But I also have to credit Bam because he loves me properly. I think that doesn’t get talked about a lot,” Wilson said. “He loves me on my days when I don’t know if I love myself. “And he does it in a way that’s not love-bombing. It’s more, ‘What do you need?’ Granted, he’s attractive, yes. But the real reason is that he just knows how to love me properly. And my parents like him.” ​Wilson also spoke on the need for the WNBA to properly compensate the league’s players just before the new CBA agreement was reached. ​”This is something that we need to stand on,” Wilson said to me of the negotiations while they were going on. “For real this time. This isn’t just like, ‘Oh, I want the million-dollar contract.’ This is for the generations after me. I don’t have a problem sitting at the table until we get what we want and get what we deserve.” View this post on Instagram ​She also shared how she met Beyoncé for the first time and how she’ll never forget. ​“Beyoncé is amazing. Now, when I see her, I’m like, ‘Oh my God, I met that lady. Get out of the way, everybody.’ Nothing else matters,” ​Wilson then spoke about how she formed lifelong bonds of sisterhood in her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha. I am, like, so grateful for the sisterhood that I formed in college through AKA, only because it allowed me to be a woman. It allowed me to be a young girl, because sometimes being a student athlete, you’re kind of trapped in this world of just, like, gym, class, gym, class, like, that was it.” ​“But when I gained my 60 sisters, I got an opportunity to actually enjoy the… college side of it…,” she added. “And so, as I’ve gotten older and I’ve become a leader… I have to credit AKA and our sisterhood when it comes to that.”

Latto is setting the record straight when it comes to her personal life. Amid ongoing speculation about her relationship, the artist made it clear that she’s not interested in proving anything to the public. In a recent interview with Paper Magazine, Latto addressed the curiosity surrounding her romance—widely believed to be with fellow rapper 21 Savage—and emphasized that her decision to keep things private is intentional. “I have nothing to prove to anyone. I have no rumor to clear up,” she says. “I’ve been with my man for years now, and it ain’t going nowhere. To me, that’s clearly a result of me moving and operating how I do.” Latto says, reinforcing her confidence in both herself and her relationship. The two artists have been linked since around 2020, with fans often speculating about their connection based on subtle clues and social media moments. Over time, Latto has acknowledged the relationship in her own way, referring to her partner as “my man” in interviews without diving into specifics. “too many cooks in the kitchen” “When it comes to female rappers, female artists — we’re told that we have to put so much of our life out there, and then it becomes too much about our personal life and not enough of the music,” Latto explains. “That’s how stuff just ends up crashing and burning, because you got too many cooks in the kitchen. I’m my own person outside of my relationship as well. I don’t want to make that the forefront of my existence, my career. I got a man at home, I’m happy and I’m well taken care of, and that’s about all anyone needs to know.” View this post on Instagram As previously reported, Latto announced her upcoming album, Big Mama, with a huge reveal that she is pregnant. “BIG MAMA (the album) 5/29. Business & Personal (Intro) song & video out now. Thank you God” she wrote via Instagram. View this post on Instagram

“Music is a passport.” — That’s what Mapy’s mother told her, and it turned out to be the truest words she’d ever hear. Mapy is an award-winning violinist who grew up in the projects, where no one else was playing classical music. She fell in love with the violin the day she played Biggie’s “Juicy” by ear — and never looked back. In this video, Mapy shares how music opened doors she never thought possible, from being overlooked as a law firm assistant to commanding stages around the world. She talks about breaking cultural boundaries with her instrument, inspiring self-taught musicians in places without teachers, and navigating the unique challenges women face in the music industry. Her message to young girls with big dreams? “If you have that vision, it’s because it’s possible.” In this video:0:00 — Growing up different1:30 — Falling in love with the violin through hip hop3:00 — Breaking boundaries between cultures4:00 — The challenges women face in music5:00 — A message to young dreamers

50 Cent trolls Usher after he defended Diddy in a recent interview. As previously reported, during a recent conversation with Jabari Young for Forbes’ The Enterprise Zone, Usher says he doesn’t have anything ill to say about Diddy. “I think certain people are prosecuted and maybe not recognized for the greatness that they offer,” Usher said. “I don’t have anything negative to say about Sean Combs. My experience was not what the world has seen and how he’s been, you know, misrepresented.” Usher continued, “I’m not saying that every man is perfect,” he explained. “I’m not saying that all of us don’t have flaws, but I can’t with any sense of humanity not recognize the valuable contributions that this man made for us as Black entrepreneurs, for us as people who transition culture and ideas into something that’s tangible. So many people benefited from what he created. And I acknowledge that. That’s why I see him as legacy.” 50 Cent caught wind of the comments, and trolled Usher via Instagram. “Usher like..I don’t want people to know what he did to my a*s. I’m a grown man now my a*s is off limits. LOL” View this post on Instagram Usher has yet to respond to 50 as of yet. Combs is currently serving a 50-month sentence at the Federal Correctional Institution Fort Dix on charges related to transportation for prostitution. This development continues to shape public discussion around his career and legacy.

Nicki Minaj has reportedly been “shut out” of the 2026 Met Gala due to her “loud and unapologetic” behavior on and off-stage. The annual event, scheduled for May 4 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, is overseen by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who curates its high-profile guest list. According to reports, Minaj’s absence follows a series of public controversies and industry tensions. The update on the Grammy Award-winning rapper’s banning comes from from Naughty But Nice‘s Rob Shuter. “Nicki’s invitations didn’t just slow down — they vanished,” he said ahead of the event. “Hollywood stopped returning her calls. This isn’t subtle anymore. She’s been shut out.” “There’s an invisible wall around her now,” the insider said. “And no one wants to be seen opening the gate.” Minaj has been a reoccurring attendee to the star-studded event, wearing head turning fashion looks. Sources indicate that Minaj’s recent political statements and appearances have contributed to the situation. A notable moment cited was her appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Phoenix, Arizona, in December 2025, where she spoke about political figures and addressed her past views, stating, “It’s ok to change your mind.” “That was it,” a source said. “Hollywood doesn’t forgive this kind of alignment — especially when it’s loud and unapologetic. In December, Minaj took aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom, slammed transgender healthcare for minors, and made other controversial outbursts. She then continued boasting about President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. In January, Minaj called herself President Trump’s “number one fan.” The rapper, who once encouraged her gay fans to “be brave,” has switched stances to align herself with a party that actively tries to erase DEI programs and push legislation that undermines the rights of LGBTQIA+ students. Her ongoing public dispute with Roc Nation, – primarily centered on its founder JAY-Z and CEO Desiree Perez, have also contributed to her exclusion from the annual event. “Between the politics and the Roc Nation war, nobody wants to touch this,” another insider said. “There’s no formal ban — just a collective step back.” Minaj last attended the Met Gala in 2025, wearing a custom Thom Browne design. The 2026 theme, “Costume Art,” will focus on fashion as a sculptural and embodied art form, with a dress code encouraging creative interpretation of clothing and the body.

Former NBA star Charles Barkley is once again stirring debate, this time over parenting. During a recent appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Barkley defended spanking as a form of discipline. He argued that some modern parenting approaches lack firmness and accountability. “I believe in discipline. I’m not going around telling people to beat their kids,” Barkley said. “But I think if you don’t spank your kids and discipline them, they turn into some of these brats that we got today.” His comments quickly drew attention across social media and parenting circles. The Hall of Famer made clear he expected backlash but remained unapologetic. “You can blast me on social media,” Barkley said. “I don’t ever read any comments. I don’t care what y’all think.” A Familiar Voice, A Controversial Take Barkley, known for his outspoken style during his playing and broadcasting career, linked discipline at home to behavior in sports. He suggested that younger athletes struggle with coaching because they were not held accountable as children. “You can’t even yell at them anymore,” Barkley said. “Yes, hell you can yell at your kids.” He added that spanking, when used appropriately, helps children understand consequences. “I’m not here for child abuse,” Barkley said. “But how are kids gonna know they’re doing something wrong?” The remarks echo similar positions Barkley has expressed in past years. He has long argued that strict parenting helped shape his own development. Experts Push Back on Corporal Punishment While Barkley framed spanking as discipline, medical experts strongly disagree. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against corporal punishment. The group says research links spanking to negative outcomes, including increased aggression and mental health issues. Dr. Robert D. Sege, a pediatrician involved in the group’s policy, emphasized alternatives. “The purpose of discipline is to teach children good behavior,” Sege said. “Effective discipline does so without the use of corporal punishment.” The organization recommends strategies such as positive reinforcement and consistent, non-physical consequences. Despite the criticism, Barkley made clear he stands by his views. “I’m gonna say what I gotta say,” he said. “Some of y’all gonna like it. Some of y’all are not.”

Reality star Chrisean Rock is facing an active bench warrant after failing to appear for a scheduled court hearing in California, according to records from the Los Angeles Superior Court. Court documents indicate a judge issued the warrant after Rock did not attend an arraignment set for Feb. 26. The hearing stemmed from misdemeanor charges alleging she drove with a suspended license in Hermosa Beach in December 2025. Prosecutors filed two misdemeanor counts on Jan. 26, according to reports from TMZ, which first reported the case details. The charges accuse Rock of operating a vehicle despite a suspended license, an offense that can carry fines and additional legal penalties under California law. During an arraignment, defendants typically appear before a judge to enter a plea and receive scheduling instructions for future court proceedings. However, court records show Rock did not appear at the February hearing. As a result, the judge authorized a bench warrant for her arrest. Courts commonly issue such warrants when a defendant fails to attend a mandatory appearance. Bench Warranted Issued For Reality Star Chrisean Rock In Los Angeles Superior Court Legal observers say the warrant allows law enforcement to detain the individual and return them to court. “Bench warrants are routine when a defendant misses an arraignment,” one Los Angeles defense attorney said. “The court uses them to ensure the person returns to address the charges.” Public court records do not reflect additional filings since the warrant was issued, suggesting the warrant remains active. Rock gained widespread attention through music releases and appearances in reality television shows, such as Baddies. Her public profile has also grown through frequent social media activity and highly publicized personal disputes. Attempts to reach Rock for comment were unsuccessful. She has not publicly addressed the warrant. If authorities detain her, Rock would likely appear before a judge in the Los Angeles Superior Court to respond to the charges and address the missed hearing. “The court could set bail or reschedule the arraignment,” the attorney added. “The immediate goal is simply getting the defendant back before the judge.”

In celebration of Ayesha Curry’s birthday, Steph Curry took to Instagram to share a deeply personal tribute that quickly went viral. Curry’s post highlighted Ayesha not just as his partner, but as an individual constantly evolving. He praised her for embracing “new versions” of herself and acknowledged the hard work she puts in behind the scenes—both professionally and as a mother to their four children. “Happy birthday to the one that makes this whole thing work! This past year has been one of my favorites” the message begins. “The determination to go after what you want. The grind and work behind the scenes. Stepping into new versions of you with courage that inspires me every day. I love it all.” “You don’t play when it comes to our family. Our kids know you always show up and have their back no matter what. With the biggest heart I know. We are lucky and We love you! @ayeshacurry“ View this post on Instagram The post reignited ongoing conversations about their relationship. Over the years, both Steph and Ayesha have been open about the pressures of public scrutiny, occasionally addressing rumors and criticism head-on. “He love his wife . When the whole world against your wife you still stand by her side . That is a great man , not everyone gets that lucky . Everyone mad about him choosing his wife and family over nobodies and irrelevant people . That man does not know yall …” reacted one fan. “Yall want him to dislike her so bad and he’s on cloud nine every day just breathing the same air as her … love this for them..” commented another. View this post on Instagram