NBA YoungBoy has received a presidential pardon from President Donald Trump. On Wednesday (March 28), YoungBoy, along with eight others, including real estate entrepreneurs Todd and Julie Chrisley and Michael Grimm, a former GOP Congressman, were granted clemency. In a statement, YoungBoy expressed his gratitude for being pardoned. “I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building – as a man, as a father, and as an artist,” YoungBoy said in a statement shared to social media. “This moment means a lot. It opens the door to a future I’ve worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this.” In addition to Michael Grimm and the Chrisleys, President Trump used his pardon power to grant clemency to a wave of individuals Wednesday, including:  — Former Connecticut Gov. John Rowland, who was convicted twice — Kentrell Gaulden, the rapper who goes by NBA YoungBoy and… — Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) May 28, 2025 “Big thanks to the Pardon Czar, Ms. Alice Marie Johnson, for fighting for second chances for so many people, and to my lawyer, Brittany K. Barnett, for being in my corner and all your hard work to make this possible,” his statement continued. “And thank you to everyone who believed in me.” Throughout his career, YoungBoy has faced constant legal troubles, including firearms charges and house arrest. Even while dealing with legal issues, the Baton Rouge rapper has dropped several albums and mixtapes while serving time in prison. Youngboy’s pardon comes in just as his upcoming 27-city concert run, which begins on September 2 in Dallas, is called the Make America Smile Again (MASA) .

During a pivotal day in the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, longtime stylist and associate Deonte Nash delivered emotional testimony, alleging the music mogul held a troubling level of control over Cassie Ventura during their decade-long relationship. Nash told jurors he witnessed repeated instances of abuse, including one in which Diddy allegedly slammed Ventura Fine’s head against a bed frame. He also claimed Diddy threatened to release intimate recordings and used emotional manipulation to isolate her from others. Nash described a dynamic marked by control, claiming Ventura would often cry over Diddy’s attempts to dictate her career, social life, and appearance. According to Nash, the pattern of behavior extended beyond private settings. At one point, he recounted Diddy berating him over Ventura’s look at an Oscars event, portraying a man intent on managing every facet of her public image. The pressure, Nash said, weighed heavily on Ventura’s emotional state. Kid Cudi Break-In, Jealousy Claims Surface in Diddy Trial Prosecutors also introduced testimony surrounding a separate incident involving Kid Cudi. LAPD officer Chris Ignacio told the court he saw a vehicle registered to Diddy’s company leaving the scene of an alleged break-in at Cudi’s home. The incident, prosecutors allege, was driven by jealousy related to Ventura. The courtroom also heard details about a separate episode where Ventura Fine allegedly suffered a gash requiring stitches after an argument turned physical in a hotel room. Nash said he and another team member attempted to intervene but were overpowered. “He was in a rage,” Nash recalled, describing how Diddy allegedly yanked Ventura Fine off a couch in the middle of the confrontation. Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense team pushed back during proceedings, calling for a mistrial over what they claimed were prejudicial statements by prosecutors regarding possible destruction of evidence. The judge denied the motion. Meanwhile, cross-examinations of law enforcement witnesses revealed forced entry at Cudi’s residence but no stolen property.

Charles Rangel, a renowned former congressman who represented the Harlem community on Capitol Hill for nearly fifty years, passed away on Monday. Michelle Stent, a spokesperson from the City College of New York, confirmed that Rangel passed in the hospital. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., paid tribute to Rangel’s legacy “Charlie Rangel was a great man, a great friend, and someone who never stopped fighting for his constituents and the best of America,” Schumer wrote on Monday. “The list of his accomplishments could take pages, but he leaves the world a much better place than he found it.” Charlie Rangel was a great man, a great friend, and someone who never stopped fighting for his constituents and the best of America. The list of his accomplishments could take pages, but he leaves the world a much better place than he found it. pic.twitter.com/d1j0YwzWs3 — Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) May 26, 2025 Born and raised in Harlem, his father, Ralph Rangel, was mostly absent and left the family. His mother, Blanche Mary Wharton, was a domestic worker and as a seamstress in a factory in New York’s Garment District. A promising student, Rangle dropped out of high school in his junior year and enlisted in the US Army. He was a veteran of the Korean War, where he earned a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.  After an honorable discharge, he attended college on the G.I. Bill, earning degrees from New York University and St. John’s University Law School. Beginning his work in politics, her served in the New York State Assembly and was appointed Assistant U.S. Attorney In 1970, he defeated legendary Harlem politician Rev. Adam Clayton Powell and would represent the community for more than 40  years. He became a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, dean of the New York congressional delegation, and, in 2007, the first Black chair of the influential Ways and Means Committee. In 2017,  Rangel retired from the United States Congress 2017 and began serving as the Statesman-in-Residence at The City College. In 2022, Rangel launched the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative (RIWI) at CCNY “to boost modern infrastructure jobs in upper Manhattan and the Bronx.” He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha and of the fraternity’s World Policy Council. Rangle was the last surviving member of The Gang of Four, also known as the Harlem Clubhouse, which dominated the political world of Harlem. He was predeceased by David Dinkins, Basil Paterson, and Percy Sutton. We at HOT97 extend our prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Congressman Charlie Rangel.

Chris Brown is showing major dad energy as he celebrates his daughter Royalty’s 11th birthday. On Tuesday, May 27th, the R&B singer shared a heartfelt post for his eldest child, making sure fans knew just how much he adores her. “Happy BIRTHDAY TO MY TWIN ,” Chris wrote on his Instagram Story. He added, “LOVE YOU SO MUCH CHICKEN NUGGET,” along with an “11” to mark her milestone age. The affectionate nickname and message continue Brown’s tradition of publicly acknowledging Royalty’s special moments, dating back to when she was first introduced to the world in 2014. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom) Royalty’s mom, Nia Guzman, also took to Instagram to honor their daughter with a series of loving tributes. One highlight was a sweet video montage capturing moments from Royalty’s childhood through the years. “HAPPY 11th BIRTHDAY TO MY PRINCESS @missroyaltybrown!!! I LOVE YOU SO SO SO MUCH,” Guzman captioned the touching clip. In addition to celebrating Royalty, Chris recently shared another sweet birthday moment. While closing out the 2025 Millennium Tour in Los Angeles, he joined Ray J in singing “Happy Birthday” to Bow Wow’s daughter, Shai Moss, who turned 14. The moment was caught on video and shared by Bow Wow himself. “On the last night of the Millennium Tour, she got her uncles [Chris Brown] and [Ray J] to sing,” Bow Wow wrote, sharing the heartwarming clip. Between heartfelt posts and surprise performances, Chris Brown is enjoying his role as a proud girl dad, making sure the young ladies in his life feel loved and celebrated.

Following her divorce, Jennifer Lopez says she is living her best single life. Earlier this year, Lopez divorced her fourth husband, Ben Affleck, after three years of marriage.  Speaking with Access Hollywood‘s Lauren Herbert, the reporter joked that Tiffany Haddish wanted to go “manhunting” with Lopez. Despite the offer, Lopez said that she is content with being by herself for the moment. “She said that to me, I said, ‘Girl, I’m not looking for no man,’” Lopez replied. “I’m happy right now. I’m not trying to ruin it, okay?” Previously,  Lopez told comedian Nikki Glaser that it was devastating to fall out of love with Affleck, but the split taught her some very valuable lessons. “But you have to be healthy. You have to be complete if you want something that’s more complete. You have to be good on your own,” Lopez said to Interview. “I thought I learned that, but I didn’t. And then, this summer, I had to be like, ‘I need to go off and be on my own. I want to prove to myself that I can do that.” Along with loving her single status, Lopez recently announced a new Las Vegas residency following the American Music Awards, which she hosted. Taking to Instagram, the “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” singer shared her excitement about heading back to “Sin City.” “SURPRISE JLOVERS!” Lopez, 55, captioned a post on Instagram with a promo image of the tour. “We’re back! I’m doing a residency in Las Vegas!” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jennifer Lopez (@jlo) “Join me for Up All Night Live In Las Vegas At The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Dec 30 – Jan 3, & select dates in March! Tickets on sale Friday, June 6 at 10 AM PT. ”

Muni Long took some time to address those who have taken an issue with her personality. In a six-minute TikTok video, Long responded to a TikTok user who challenged her alleged claims that  “only Black women” are not down with her demeanor. “It’s only ever Black women that say they don’t like my personality. I’m being myself, I’m acting just like your raggedly mommy and your aunties,” Long said. “With them ashy cankles. This is how they act, but something wrong with my personality? Take a look in the mirror h*e, you don’t like you.” Following her viral remarks, Long stood by her comments before another TikTok user named NeverStopWithShari reminded her that Black women are the reason she became a successful artist. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Jasmine Brand (@the.jasmine.brand) “Muni Long was on her live today and let it be known that it’s only Black women that don’t like her,” the user said. “I think it was only Black women that supported you too. Nobody liked ‘Hours and Hours’ and all these songs until we liked it.” She also warned Long to “watch what she says” when speaking on Black women.” Long was quick to repsond with another video.  “The first question that I have for you, Ms. Shari, is … you said ‘you better watch what you say’ or what?” Long asked. “I know I look young because I drink water and mind my business, but I’m 36 years old. I’ll be 37 in September. I’ve been grown and taking care of myself for a long time. Nobody will talk to me like that.” “Black women it is okay to speak your mind and take up space, for you to assert yourself, for you to be kind instead of nice, for you not to keep taking the shirt off your back and giving it to the next man. You ain’t mammy. We don’t have to raise the world,” she concluded. Some accused her of missing the meaning behind the user’s message. “Did she…. completely miss the point of what the TikToker was saying? Like completely??” one user said. “I personally think she should address the ppl hating on her and NOT “black women” as a whole.”

Quinta Brunson, the Emmy Award-winning creator of the acclaimed sitcom Abbott Elementary, will receive Philadelphia’s Key to the City from Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. According to the news release, the honor is part of the dedication of a new mural at the Andrew Hamilton School. Titled Blooming Futures, the mural was designed by local artist Athena Scott, who will give remarks along with Brunson at the ceremony scheduled for Wednesday, May 28. Scott was the elementary school that served as inspiration for Abbott Elementary. Along with Brunson, Scott’s Blooming Futures was created with the help of “Hamilton school students and staff whom she met with for inspiration.” The new mural depicts the school as a garden, surrounded by dedicated educators cultivating the growing student population. Mural Arts, a world-renowned organization based in Philadelphia dedicated to education and uplifting creatives with their communities, made a guest appearance during the second season of Abbott Elementary. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mural Arts Philadelphia (@muralarts) In a statement, Brunson expressed her gratitude for the tremendous honor. “I am so grateful to be receiving the key to my hometown, Philly,” Brunson’s statement read.“This city shaped me, and now I get to give back with a mural that celebrates all it gave me. I am truly honored.” “The City of Philadelphia is beyond grateful to have someone as inspiring and compassionate as Quinta Brunson. She doesn’t just represent the spirit of Philadelphia on television, she brings her success home and shares it with the city that loves her back,”  Mayor Parker added.” It goes without saying that education and representation matter. As our young people look for role models, may they find inspiration in dream chasers and change makers like Quinta Brunson,” she continued. “And let us never forget the impact of a great teacher, who shows up every day to uplift, encourage, and fight for the future of our youth.”

Victoria Monét has confirmed her relationship with British rapper Stormzy.  During an appearance on Keke Palmer’s podcast, she described Stormzy as “a really special guy.” She says she’s learning a lot about him. “I havee so much respect for him and I got to learn more about him by dating him.” Speculation about their relationship began in October 2024 when the pair were photographed sharing a kiss at London’s Heathrow Airport, shortly after Monét announced her separation from her longtime partner, John Gaines. Monét and Gaines, who share a daughter named Hazel, had actually parted ways ten months prior but delayed the public announcement to avoid false rumors. Similarly, Stormzy had ended his on-again, off-again relationship with TV host Maya Jama in July 2024. Both Monét and Stormzy have emphasized mutual respect and amicable separations from their previous partners. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Jasmine Brand (@the.jasmine.brand)

The third week of Sean “Diddy” Combs’s federal trial resumed Tuesday, May 27, as prosecutors continued building their case against the music mogul. Diddy, a central figure in hip-hop culture for decades, is facing serious charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty, and the trial is expected to extend into the summer months. Capricorn Clark, a former assistant to Diddy, took the stand in one of the trial’s more emotionally charged testimonies to date. Her name was previously mentioned by rapper Kid Cudi, born Scott Mescudi, who testified that Clark had informed him about Diddy allegedly entering his home without consent. Clark’s long-standing friendship with Diddy’s former partner, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura—also a key figure in the prosecution—has placed her at the center of this ongoing legal battle. Clark followed two other former assistants who also testified about their time working with Diddy. She described professional struggles after leaving her position in 2012, stating she went three years without consistent employment. According to Clark, her former association with Diddy made it difficult to reestablish her footing in the industry. Clark Alleges Abuse, Threats, and Coercion in Diddy Testimony During her testimony, Clark recalled witnessing an alarming encounter between Diddy and Ventura. “He kept kicking her. He never used his hands,” she said. The courtroom remained focused as Clark delivered her account, which has not yet been corroborated by additional evidence or witness statements. Clark also spoke of an incident tied to the Kid Cudi testimony, describing how Diddy allegedly arrived at her home in a state of rage and armed. “He was livid, furious, mad at me,” she said, recalling that he told her, “Get dressed, we’re going to go kill him.” Defense attorneys have not yet issued a detailed response to this portion of her testimony. Another segment of Clark’s account focused on what she described as an act of coercion. She testified that Diddy accused her of stealing jewelry, brought her to an office building, and had her confronted by a large man who informed her she would be given a polygraph test. “If I didn’t pass,” she said, “I’d be thrown into the East River.” Clark claimed she was subjected to five days of testing before being released. Clark’s testimony adds another dimension to the prosecution’s portrayal of Diddy as someone who allegedly used fear, control, and retaliation in his personal and professional relationships. The defense maintains that the charges are unfounded and continues to contest the credibility of the witnesses. The trial remains ongoing, with more testimonies expected in the days ahead.

Kanye West is back peddling from his past discriminatory remarks against the Jewish community and claims he’s “done” feeding into Antisemitic propaganda. On Thursday (May 22), in a series of X posts, the controversial rapper and mogul revealed that he’s not only “done” with antisemitism, but he has “love for all people.” The rapper also makes an emotional plea to God, asking for forgiveness. Kanye also claimed that he’d forgiven all the people who’ve “caused him pain” in the past. In 2022, Kanye West made mutliple discriminatory comments about the Jewish community. Following the fallout and loss of brand deals, the rapper seemingly leaned deeper into antisemitism. Earlier this month, the rapper dropped a controversial track titled, “Heil Hitler (HH).” However, it seems something inspired the rapper to change his tune. X.com/KanyeWest In other news, Kanye West recently shared his displeasure with Kid Cudi, following his testimony in the ongoing Diddy RICO trial. In an X post on Saturday (May 24), West stated, “I wish Cudi hadn’t testified against Puff. We need to not be locked in white systems. Praying for Puff and his family.” Kid Cudi, whose real name is Scott Mescudi, took the stand on May 22, 2025, detailing a series of incidents from 2011. He testified that after he began a relationship with Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s then-girlfriend, Combs allegedly broke into his home and later orchestrated the firebombing of his Porsche using a Molotov cocktail. Cudi described a subsequent confrontation where Combs exhibited a menacing demeanor, likening him to a “Marvel supervillain.” Following his testimony, Cudi expressed relief, stating, “I’ve been seeing all the love and support. I just wanna say thank you so much, man… This is a stressful situation. I’m glad it’s behind me.”