'Something Wrong is Going On': Family Members Raise Alarm in Wendy Williams Documentary

A bombshell trailer for Lifetime's "Where is Wendy Williams?" sent shockwaves through fans Friday, raising questions about the former talk show host's well-being. Executive-produced by Williams herself, the two-part documentary promises an unfiltered look at her life, career and recent struggles.

The trailer opens with Williams declaring, "From 6 years old, all I wanted was to be famous." It then charts her journey from aspiring radio personality to becoming the beloved "Queen of Daytime" talk TV, captivating audiences for 12 years with her unfiltered opinions and bold persona.

But the tone shifts abruptly as the trailer declares, "At the peak of her career, she was gone." This leaves viewers wondering about the circumstances surrounding her sudden departure from the spotlight.

Williams' deep desire to return to television is revealed. "All I know how to do is be famous," she says, "I really want to be back on television." However, her son casts doubt, stating, "I feel as though she's worked enough… she has people around who are yes people and allowing this to continue."

The trailer delves into the controversial 2022 court decision granting Wells Fargo financial guardianship over Williams amid concerns of exploitation. Williams herself vehemently opposes the arrangement, demanding, "Did you see a neurologist to find out if I'm crazy? Oh my God, no! I have no money, and I'm going to tell you something, if it happens to me, it could happen to you." This raises questions about the guardianship system and its potential consequences.

Worrying scenes depict Williams using a wheelchair and struggling to walk, fueling concerns about her physical health. The trailer also shows individuals confronting her with an empty bottle and expressing concerns about memory loss. These visuals, while lacking context, create a sense of unease and speculation.

However, the trailer also highlights Williams' enduring spirit and the support of her family. "I miss my family. I'll be here no matter how many times somebody may fall down," she states.

"Where is Wendy Williams?" premieres February 24th and 25th on Lifetime, aiming to spark conversations about guardianship, support systems and the challenges faced by public figures. The documentary promises to offer a glimpse into the complexities of fame, family dynamics, and navigating personal struggles in the public eye.

Watch the trailer above.

Watch: Cardi B Previews NYX Super Bowl Ad in New Teaser

Courtesy Photo

Cardi B will star in NYX Professional Makeup's upcoming Super Bowl commercial, airing during the second half of the February 12th game. The 30-second spot will feature Cardi B alongside other women, showcasing NYX's popular Duck Plump High Pigment Plumping Lip Gloss in a humorous and lighthearted manner.

A 15-second teaser released Thursday offers a glimpse of the commercial, featuring the rapper examining a tube of NYX gloss before applying it and uttering her signature phrase.

In conjunction with the ad, NYX is launching an exclusive "Cherry Spice" shade of the lip gloss, worn by Cardi B in the commercial. Priced at $13, the shade is available only on the cosmetics company's website.

This marks Cardi B's first-ever beauty partnership. The collaboration extends beyond the Super Bowl, with NYX launching the exclusive lip gloss shade and creating interactive social media experiences throughout the campaign.

Watch the teaser below.

From Watching Over to Witnessing Greatness: Usher Recalls Early Encounter with Beyoncé

In a revealing interview on Shannon Sharpe's popular YouTube show "Club Shay Shay" on Thursday, R&B superstar Usher offered a heartwarming anecdote about encountering a young Beyoncé, then part of the group Girls Tyme (later known as Destiny's Child), during their early days in Atlanta.

Setting the record straight on longstanding rumors, Usher clarified he was never Beyoncé's nanny but acknowledged his role as the older presence during their early days. "I guess I watched over them while they were doing something in the house," Usher shared during the interview.

Beyond mere supervision, Usher recognized something extraordinary in the budding superstar. "I think I knew there was something very special about all of them," he admitted, emphasizing Beyoncé's unparalleled talent, brilliance and brightness. He credited choreographer Frank Gatson for echoing his early sentiments, noting Gatson's endorsement of Beyoncé's unique qualities.

As the interview unfolded, Usher expressed pride in witnessing Beyoncé's rise to fame. "It's amazing to see what she's done," he marveled, highlighting her multifaceted success not just in music but across various creative endeavors.

Usher's revelations extended beyond personal anecdotes to encompass his experience dancing with the legendary Michael Jackson. He described the encounter as "nerve-wracking" and shared the praise he received for seamlessly combining singing and dancing.

The conversation also touched upon Atlanta's current dominance in the music industry, with Usher, a proud representative of the city's vibrant scene, underscoring the importance of celebrating the broader cultural movement fueling the music.

Shifting gears to the state of R&B, Usher offered a nuanced perspective, debunking the notion that R&B is dead. He challenged the conventional measure of success based solely on chart positions, asserting that R&B's influence permeates various genres, acknowledging its roots in gospel, blues and modern music.

Megan Thee Stallion Announces Tour and Album Amidst Feud and Doxxing

In a bold move, Megan Thee Stallion has announced a summer tour and album titled "Hot Girl Summer" on Tuesday, reclaiming the term associated with her and fellow rapper Nicki Minaj despite their recent public feud.

The tour and album signal a powerful revival of empowerment and self-love, harking back to the collaboration that Megan and Minaj once celebrated together. This revelation unfolds amidst a contentious back-and-forth between the two artists, turning what was once a celebrated partnership into a clash marked by subliminal disses and online confrontations.

Confidently declaring on "Good Morning America," Megan stated, "The Hot Girl Summer Tour is gonna be 2024 summertime." This announcement goes beyond a mere return to the stage; it's a bold assertion of ownership for Megan, reclaiming a phrase she helped popularize and infusing it with fresh energy after years of navigating industry dynamics and personal battles.

While specific tour details, including dates and locations, remain under wraps, fans can anticipate the ultimate "Megan Thee Stallion experience." Expect sweat-drenched anthems celebrating self-love and female empowerment, interwoven with fire beats to create an electrifying spectacle. Adding to the excitement, Megan teased a new album dropping before the tour, promising fresh bangers to soundtrack the season's liberation.

However, the impending summer's heat is shadowed by a chilling development. Minaj, once a collaborator and friend, has become an antagonist in this unfolding drama. According to TMZ, Paradise South Cemetery, where Megan's mother rests, is now under heightened security after Minaj's fans leaked its location online — an incident that adds another layer to the ongoing battle between the two artists.

Their collaboration began showing cracks in late 2019, coinciding with Megan's work with Cardi B, Minaj's longtime rival. Public appearances together dwindled, and social media interactions became less frequent. In August 2020, Minaj's tweet questioning the narrative surrounding Megan's shooting was interpreted by many as insensitive, sparking accusations of betrayal. Minaj later clarified her tweet as a general message about protecting women, but the damage was done.

Subliminal disses in both artists' music fueled further speculation about a rift, reaching new heights in January 2024 when Minaj made disrespectful comments about Megan's late mother on a streaming platform. This ignited a social media firestorm and led to the doxxing of Megan's mother's gravesite.

Despite the ongoing drama, both Megan and Nicki Minaj continue to be successful solo artists with dedicated fan bases and numerous accolades. As Megan gears up for her "Hot Girl Summer" reclamation tour and album, the unfolding personal conflict will undoubtedly be closely watched by the public eye.

Hollywood Boulevard Sings Wilson's Praise: R&B Legend Receives 2,770th Star in Star-Fueled Ceremony

Screengrab: YouTube

From cold nights spent huddled on the unforgiving streets of Hollywood to a radiant star gleaming on the prestigious Walk of Fame, Charlie Wilson's journey is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of music. On Monday, surrounded by music royalty like Kanye West and Snoop Dogg, Wilson received the 2,770th star, marking a triumphant return to the very boulevard where he once sought refuge in his darkest hour.

Snoop, Ye, Tyler, Don Toliver, Charlie Wilson...

Goat gathering pic.twitter.com/wMHuRPmhGC

— RH (@RihYe_) January 29, 2024

The star-studded celebration unfolded on Hollywood Boulevard, where the echoes of Wilson's iconic hits like "You Dropped A Bomb On Me" and "Early In The Morning" must have danced on the wind years ago, unknowingly serenading the future hitmaker who walked amongst them. Now, an ecstatic crowd adorned with birthday balloons pulsated to these familiar rhythms, celebrating not only Wilson's 71st birthday but also his induction into the hallowed halls of the Walk of Fame.

"The Lord has truly blessed me," Wilson declared, his voice brimming with emotion as he gazed upon his star. For him, this wasn't just a career milestone; it was a symbol of redemption. Years ago, this very stretch of asphalt served as his cold, unforgiving bed during a period of homelessness and addiction. But tonight, the deafening cheers of the crowd drowned out the ghosts of his past, replaced by heartfelt tributes and the warmth of a community that had witnessed his struggles and now reveled in his triumph.

"To my Snoop," Wilson proclaimed, his eyes glistening with gratitude as he addressed his fellow music icon, "when some people would say no, you would make them say yes. What did you do to them, man?" His playful quip drew laughter from the crowd, highlighting the deep bond he shared with Snoop Dogg, who not only celebrated his artistic legacy but also acknowledged his unwavering support for their families.

Snoop Dogg, in turn, reflected on Wilson's impact beyond the realm of music, declaring, "Charlie Wilson, this man right here means the world to me, especially in terms of me and my wife." The scene unfolded like a surreal movie, with Kanye West materializing in his signature mask and gloves to pay his respects, and Pharrell Williams sending a pre-recorded message praising Wilson's enduring influence.

Kanye West x Charlie Wilson

EVERYBODYYYYY pic.twitter.com/tsG367s1fn

— Ye Streams (@kanyestreams1) January 29, 2024

Amidst the glitter and glamour, the undercurrent of resilience remained. Wilson's battle with prostate cancer in 2008 served as a stark reminder of life's fragility, but it also fueled his advocacy for early detection and treatment. Today, 16 years cancer-free, he continues to inspire through his music and his autobiography, "I Am Charlie Wilson," a testament to the human spirit's potential for overcoming adversity.

From Comedy Gold to Classic Soul: 'Abbott Elementary' and 'The Color Purple' Lead Diverse NAACP Image Nominees

Hollywood's streaming giants are poised for a major clash at the 55th NAACP Image Awards, with Netflix leading the pack with 55 nominations. Rival Amazon trails closely behind with 27 nods, setting the stage for a thrilling battle for supremacy across film, television and music.

The Color Purple has 16 NAACP Image Awards Nominations pic.twitter.com/feMQLdHkRi

— Chlöe x Halle Now (@cxhnow) January 25, 2024

But beyond the streaming duel, a timeless classic reasserted its cultural relevance. "The Color Purple" garnered a commanding 16 nominations in the Outstanding Motion Picture category, earning acting recognition for powerhouses like Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, Taraji P. Henson, Colman Domingo and Corey Hawkins.

This year's nominations, unveiled Thursday, showcase the dazzling spectrum of artistic talent within the Black community. On the television front, the critically acclaimed comedy "Abbott Elementary" landed multiple nominations for its star-studded cast, including Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James and Sheryl Lee Ralph.

2024 NAACP Image Awards Nominations

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Ayo Edebiri – “The Bear”⁰Ego Nwodim – “Saturday Night Live”⁰Janelle James – “Abbott Elementary”⁰Sheryl Lee Ralph – “Abbott Elementary”⁰Shoniqua Shandai – “Harlem” pic.twitter.com/H5gVXjcb3m

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 25, 2024

Music saw Victoria Monét dominate with six nominations, including outstanding new artist, outstanding female artist, and outstanding album for "Jaguar II." Super Bowl LVIII performer Usher also grabbed five nominations, including outstanding male artist and outstanding music video/visual album for "Boyfriend."

2024 NAACP Image Awards Nominees Announced: Victoria Monét and Usher Lead Music Categories https://t.co/Y3uDvDGbcU

— 102.1 THE VILLE (@1021THEVILLE) January 25, 2024

"NAACP President Derrick Johnson called this year's nominees 'an inspiration to us all,'" stating, "The Image Awards stand as a tribute to their creativity, talent, and dedication to authentic storytelling, a testament to the richness and diversity of our community."

The public can have their say in select categories through voting, open until February 24 at www.naacpimageawards.net. The 55th NAACP Image Awards air live on March 16 at 8 PM Eastern Time on BET and CBS. A full list of nominees is available here.

Woman of the Ghetto' Singer Marlena Shaw Passes Away at 81

Photo Credit: Cadet Records

Marlena Shaw, the revered soul and jazz vocalist whose voice graced timeless hits like "California Soul" and "Woman of the Ghetto," has died at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by Shaw's daughter, Marla Bradshaw, in a video posted on Facebook on Friday. No cause of death was given.

“It’s with a very heavy heart for myself and my family I announce that our beloved mother, your beloved icon and artist Marlena Shaw has passed away today at 12:03,” Bradshaw shared. “She was peaceful. We were at peace.”

Shaw's musical journey began in 1966 when she signed with Chess Records. Her rise to prominence came through Cadet Records, a subsidiary of Chess, where she released two defining albums: "Out of Different Bags" (1967) and "The Spice of Life" (1969). The latter featured the iconic "California Soul," penned by Ashford & Simpson. With its infectious groove and optimistic lyrics, the song became an instant classic, later sampled by countless artists and featured in numerous films and TV shows, solidifying its place as a timeless treasure.

RIP Marlena Shaw. The Spice Of Life LP was one of those records which shaped my teens, but as a kid raised on jazz, I can’t help but love seeing Marlena in action with Count Basie. Here they are in Stockholm in ‘68 pic.twitter.com/wigtj3HGoQ

— wrongtom (@TheWrongtom) January 20, 2024

In 1972, Shaw transitioned to Blue Note Records, where she continued to release critically acclaimed albums like "Marlena" (1972), "From the Depths of My Soul" (1973) and the live album "Marlena Shaw Live at Montreux" (1974). Her prolific career spanned eight record labels and yielded a total of 17 albums, each showcasing her versatility and artistic depth.

RIP to one of the greatest & beautifully distinctive Soul/Jazz/Blues songstresses, Marlena Shaw. 🕊️

Since it’s #NationalDJDay, what better way to celebrate 2 Icons than sharing this fly-assed routine of ‘California Soul’ by the one n only @SkratchBastid 🔥🔥

RIP Guru as well 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/omhOTSE6Hr

— Evezzy-E (@EvezzyE) January 20, 2024

While "California Soul" remains her most recognized song, Shaw's repertoire extended far beyond this single hit. Her soulful renditions of "Feel Like Making Love," "Loving You Was Like A Party" and "Go Away Little Boy" captivated audiences with their raw emotion and playful energy. Her 1990 Grammy nomination for her cover of "Is You or Is You Ain't My Baby" further cemented her place as a vocal powerhouse with an impressive range.

Beyond her solo career, Shaw's musical tapestry became a treasure trove for hip-hop artists.

Jay-Z's iconic "California Love" wove Shaw's vocals into a smooth West Coast anthem, while Gang Starr's "Check the Technique" laid a gritty boom-bap foundation with the song's chorus. But Shaw's influence wasn't limited to this one hit. DJ Shadow's "Organ Donor" chopped and reimagined "Loving You Was Like a Party" into a mesmerizing soundscape, and Laika reclaimed the iconic melody for female empowerment in her own "California Soul." Even the defiant fire of "Go Away Little Boy" found new life in Xzhibit's hard-hitting "Infiltrator."

Funkenstein's Forever Groovin': George Clinton Earns Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

Screengrab: YouTube

George "Dr. Funkenstein" Clinton, the 82-year-old funk pioneer, was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Friday. The ceremony featured speeches from notable figures such as Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, legendary Motown songwriter Janie Bradford and civil rights lawyer Ben Crump.

“This feels good as s***,” exclaimed Clinton during the ceremony. “I’m proud as hell.”

Serving as the creative force behind the iconic bands Parliament/Funkadelic, Clinton played a pivotal role in crafting timeless classics such as “(I Wanna) Testify,” “P. Funk (Wants to Get Funked Up),” “Star Child (Mothership Connection),” “Tear the Roof Off the Sucker (Give Up the Funk),” “Flash Light,” “Aqua Boogie,” “One Nation Under a Groove,” “(Not Just) Knee Deep” and “Atomic Dog.”

Parliament-Funkadelic's musical influence transcends the dance floor, weaving into the very fabric of contemporary genres. Their groundbreaking fusion of psychedelia, funk, rock, and soul ignited a sonic revolution resonating across generations.

Reflecting on his seven-decade music career, Clinton shared insights into the highs and lows, emphasizing the ever-changing nature of fame. “I learned early on in this journey that you are only as big as your latest hit,” he remarked. “So you had to keep things in perspective, to keep from getting a big head. I found out that there would be times when it seemed like everyone knew your name. Then were times when no one knew you. I learned to respect the balance.”

Recounting his early inspirations and challenges, Clinton revealed how rejection by Motown for not looking as cool as the Temptations led him to adopt a new, hippie-inspired look for his groundbreaking groups Funkadelic and Parliament. “About as anti-Motown as you could get!” he quipped.

Before Clinton’s speech, Kiedis took to the podium, sharing his memories of being inspired by the funk icon and living near him during the production of Red Hot Chili Peppers' 1985 album, "Freaky Styley." “We started writing, and George started teaching us,” said Kiedis. “For me personally, George became an instant friend, a teacher, a mentor, a father figure, a co-conspirator, an instigator, and, honestly, a conductor of alien enterprises, truth be told.”

Bradford, looking back at the '70s heyday of Funkadelic, congratulated Clinton on his continued work at 82. “My kids think I’m cool because I know George Clinton. I think I am blessed that he is my friend and I am his. Congratulations, George!”

Crump emphasized the unifying power of Clinton’s music, stating, “Now more than ever in the world, we need music that brings us all together. And nobody’s music brings us all together quite like this brother’s brings us together — one nation under a groove. This brother got brothers and sisters all across the globe coming together through the Mothership Connection.”

The star, located at 6752 Hollywood Blvd. in front of the Musicians Institute, marks the 2769th addition to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In addition to the Walk of Fame induction, a documentary titled "Mommy, What’s a Funkadelic?" is in the works, delving into Clinton’s life and influence. Written by Ishmael Reed and co-directed by Alan Elliott and Christopher Harris, the documentary promises an absurdist take on Parliament-Funkadelic’s history with unprecedented access to Clinton’s archive.

Watch the trailer below.