In case you missed, we have the first look at Elise Neal as legendary singer Gladys Knight in the upcoming LIFETIME Aaliyah biopic. Also, Aretha Franklin shades Nicki Minaj and others during a recent interview. More inside…

LIFETIME’s telefilm Aaliyah: Princess of R&B is set to premiere next week. And just in time before it makes its television debut, the first look at “Hollywood Divas” star Elise Neal starring as seven-time Grammy Award winner Gladys Knight as surfaced.

The 48-year old actress will play the "Empress of Soul" in the made-for-tv film Aaliyah: Princess of R&B. Gladys played an important role in Aaliyah’s success as she allowed the young singer to perform with her in Las Vegas when she was just 11-years-old. Gladys was Aaliyah’s aunt by marriage, married to Aaliyah’s uncle Barry Hankerson. Barry guided Aaliyah’s career as her manager when she first entered into the entertainment industry.

Elisa will be joining lead star Alexandra Shipp as Aaliyah, budding Canadian actress Chattrisse Dolabaille as Missy Elliot and actor Izaak Smith (who appeared on “So You Think You Can Dance”) will play Timbaland. Daytime talkshow host Wendy Williams joined the project as an executive producer along with Aaliyah Productions Inc., Howard Braunstein (The Informant!) and Debra Martin Chase (The Princess Diaries).

The telefilm premieres Nov. 15th at 8/7c on LIFETIME. 

Speaking of legendary divas....

Iconic singer Aretha Franklin is busy on the promo circuit promoting her new album of diva covers, Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics.

The Queen of Soul sat down with the Wall Street Journal to chop it up about her newest feat. This album marks her highest debut on the Billboard charts of her entire career. Yes…at 72-year-old, the Queen is still making her presence known in the music industry.

During the interview, the 18-time Grammy Award winner was asked to describe a group of popular “divas” of today in her own words. When asked about Alicia Keys she called her a, “young performer, good writer, producer". Whitney Houston? “Whitney was a talent.” Then, the reporter asked Ms. Franklin what she thought about Nicki Minaj. Her response is laugh worthy. She said,

"Nicki Minaj…Hmm…I’m going to pass on that.”

The shade...

He also asked her about Taylor Swift in which she said,

“OK…great gowns, beautiful gowns. “

Ha!

The Queen of Soul was also asked about that tell-all biography written by famed biographer David Ritz. She said,

“No he’s come up with a book of trash. Lies, lies and more lies.”

She then revealed her personal choices of who she would prefer to play her in a biopic film about her life. Aretha said she would like six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald or Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson to depict her in a film Nice! Check the interview above.
 

In another interview with Billboard, Aretha talks about her musical influences on artists such as Beyonce, Alicia Keys and Jennifer Hudson. She dished,

I think they're doing a very good job -- Beyoncé, Alicia, Jennifer [Hudson]. I hear my influence sometimes; I know when my voice, when something I'm known for, has passed. But these young ladies, for the most part, are all very original.

She also talked about wanting to someday meet “Rolling In The Deep” singer Adele (whose song appears on Aretha’s new album) and Alicia Keys’ style evolution. She added,

I haven't had the occasion to meet Adele. She lives in England. So when I'm flying, or when she comes over here, perhaps we'll have a chance. I think she's a very fine singer, a very strong writer and performer.

I call Alicia the girl of a thousand faces. Her appearance is always changing, so you never get used to what she looks like. She's very stylized, but she has recorded some really great things. I especially like that old-school song she has, "You Don't Know My Name," and of course that New York song ["Empire State of Mind"]! I'm really glad she wrote that, because from time to time we need a new song for New York, for Detroit, for Chicago. And there really hadn't been one since Liza Minnelli did "New York, New York," so that was very timely.
 

Photos: Blackfilm

Rihanna took a break from the studio to party it up at the “Porcelain Ball” at Melrose Ballroom in NYC. Also, “LAHH Hollywood” star Morgan Hardman is refusing to be seen by a doctor in NYC in fear of the Ebola virus. Sighs...

Get the deets inside….

Dressed in all black, Rihanna hit the NYC streets with friends as they made their way to the 25th anniversary of House of Miyake Mugler, dubbed the Porcelain Ball’, at gay nightclub Melrose Ballroom in NYC.

The Bajan beauty took a break from the studio to party the night away alongside Twilight star Robert Pattinson and a few of her favorite fashion designers Adam Selman and Balmain creative designer Olivier Rousteing.

Donning a face netting black beret, the "Diamonds" singer was spotted greeting some eager members of her RIHNavy.

And inside, Rih surprisingly hit the runway to pop a few dance moves before the end of the night:

 

A video posted by Im So Serperior (@_shvwn) on Nov 11, 2014 at 9:43pm PST

Go Rih!

Elsewhere.....

“Love & Hip Hop Hollywood” star/Ray J's ex-assistant Morgan Hardman arrived at LAX showing off her injured hand after an altercation that went down between her and co-star/Ray J’s girlfriend Princess Love during the reunion show taping this week.

Apparently, she decided to treat the injury herself rather than seek medical attention from a hospital in New York in fear of contracting the Ebola virus. Wait...what?! Sighs...Morgan bandaged her hand up in hopes of having a doctor look at it once she touched down in L.A.

According to Morgan, Princess Love had nothing to do with injuring her hand. She claims after Princess attacked her during the reunion show taping, security on the set would not let her fight back. In a fit of rage, she punched a wall and injured her hand. Chile....

Photos/Video: Splash News/@shvwn

Beyonce is scheduled to slay the stage tonight at the 2014 MTV Europe Music Awards. But before she wows the audience with an epic performance, she shared some hot shots of her in a gray “99 Problems But My A** Ain’t One” one-piece along with some “outfit-of-the-day” pics. Check them inside….

Beyonce has 99 problems…but her a** clearly isn’t one of them!

In some new snapshots posted to her website, Mrs. Carter (who recently partnered up with TopShop for her own activewear label) flexed and graciously filled out a gray one-piece swimsuit with the words “99 Problems But My A** Ain’t One” painted across the front. And we totally agree.
 

Taking notes from the Parisian fashion scene, Bey also showed off in a black and white tripped JOSEPH sweatshirt with matching skirt, topped up with one of her fave accessories, a black fedora.

For a fun and flirty look, Bey slipped into a letter printed romper, perfect for a casual night out on the town with her husband Jay Z.

Then the “Flawless” one struck a pose in a burgundy top and gray skirt for a more sophisticated look.

And she also shared two new shots of the outfit she trekke around Parisin as she, Jay and Blue Ivy looked for a home located near Elysee Palace, where the President of France lives.

Tonight, Mrs. Carter is scheduled to take the stage at the 2014 MTV Europe Music Awards held at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro arena in Scotland. Along with her performance, we can expect to see Nicki Minaj rock the stage (she’s also hosting the event) and Alicia Keys. Will you be watching?

Photos: Beyonce.com

Nicki Minaj was busy owning the 2014 MTV EMAs today in Glasgow, Scotland.  Check out her MANY looks while hosting and copping an Award inside...

Today at The Hydro in Scotland, Nicki Minaj donned multiple looks while hyping up the 20th anniversary show of the MTV EMAs.  The show is airing here in the States as we type, but we've got flicks of Nicki hitting the red carpet, doing her hosting duties, performing "Super Bass"/"Anaconda", and copping the Award for Best Hip Hop Artist:

Nicki graced the carpet in a flirty little black dress and a printed green jacket for a sexy & chic look.

And snapped a few pics in the press room with the EMA before the festivities started.

And in a Peter Hidalgo dress, that looked more like a piece of artwork, she flew down from the ceiling to kick off her hosting duties.

Nicki rocked a flirty white Roberto Cavalli mini-dress while accepting her award for Best Hip Hop Artist, beating out her YMCMB label mate Drake, Eminem, Iggy Azalea, and Kanye West.

More looks from tonight:

Nicki's "Golf" outfit...

And she also rocked a look by Gareth Pugh.  Nice.

But Nicki's not getting love from everyone today.  She dropped the lyric video for her new track "Only" featuring Drake, Weezy and Breezy.  And it looked like this:

As you can imagine, folks were NOT loving the Nazi-inspired symbolism and sentiments throughout the video.  But, were these visuals mistaken for the Young Money paraphernalia?

Refinery 29 explained the controversy saying:

The animation portrays Minaj as a powerful dictator leading a massive army with tanks. She's flanked on either side of her throne by red-and-black banners with circular logos of her record label Young Money's initials. Members of her army are wearing armbands with the same logo. Unfortunately, the YM symbol, banners, and armbands all look alarmingly similar to visuals from another interesting moment in history: Hitler's Third Reich.

Some commenters on the video admitted this did look like pro-Nazi symbolism, and as fans, they believe she was trying to show a paradox--illustrating how she's conquered the rap game despite all the haters.  Hmmm...

Either way, maybe not the smartest move, especially not in the entertainment industry.

Photos: Getty/Nicki's IG

Jourdan Dunn, Emeli Sandé and more all showed up at The Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland tonight looking fabulous for the 2014 MTV EMAs.  Check out their glam looks inside....

Yoncé model Jourdan Dunn pretty much shut down the MTV EMAs red carpet tonight in two looks.  And we can't decide which on e we love more--black or white:

The gorgeous model stunned on the carpet in a tiny LWD showing all the cleavage with a silver band offering a bit more support.  She paired the look with white Louboutin pumps and a few arm bangles.

And to present on stage:

This sexy black sheer embellished double slit dress was everything.  HOT.

Singer Emeli Sandé rock a stylishly chic look as she presented alongside Alicia Keys.

The Scottish singer even snapped a pic backstage with Alicia and Bono as they held up a sign in honor of Alicia's "We Are Here" campaign.  Cute!

Red Foo from LMFAO snapped some selfies on the carpet.

MTV Host Sway hit the carpet.

And so did UK singer Alesha Dixon.  Lovely dress for her.

Check out host and performer Nicki Minaj's red carpet look HERE in case yu missed it.

Photos: Getty/Emeli's IG

Nicki Minaj not only hosted the 2014 MTV VMAs Sunday in Glasgow, she rocked the stage with a new track called "Bed of Lies" and her hits "Super Bass" and "Anaconda".  Check out her performance inside, plus Alicia Keys rocking "We Are Here"...

While rocking nothing but a see thru black catsuit with strategic coverings, Nicki Minaj and her "Anaconda" took over the stage at The Hydro in Scotland Sunday night. 

She's blasting an ex-lover in the newly revealed "Bed Of Lies" track, which will appear on The Pink Print, and then she served up two of her hits. 

Before the performance, the show opened by transporting viewers back to 1994, where a young Nicki Minaj watched the first-ever MTV EMA from her bedroom (so she says) before traveling into the future, making a grand entrance into the 2014 MTV EMA in a frilled ball gown and sequined bra, by soaring across the stage.

“Her Royal Minajesty” ran the evening, taking home the award for Best Hip Hop.

Also performing:

A gorgeous and very pregnant Alicia Keys.  She serenaded the crowd from the nearby viewing party at the O2 Academy Glasgow, with a performance of her Best Song with a Message-nominated track ‘We Are Here’ being beamed into the SSE Hydro and to MTV EMA viewers the world over.

Check it below:

Danai Gurira, who stars on the AMC hit series "The Walking Dead", is serving up some gorgeousness in the new issue of BELLO.  More inside...

Every Sunday evening, 15-16 million fans tune in to watch actress Danai Gurira star as Michonne on AMC's "The Walking Dead", a zombie-slashing survivor who has a way with a sword. 

But in the latest issue of BELLO, Danai (born in Iowa, raised in Zimbabwe) ditches both her dreadlocks and her sword to model some of the hottest fashions for the Fall/Winter 2014.  

Dania, who attended Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota had some positive things to say about her college experience and how it's influenced her adult life, saying:

"I had an amazing thought-provoking time while I was there.  It actually really thought me how to think for myself....a real taste of what it meant to stand up for a cause, to believe in something, to gain my own political voice.  And that was all in Midwest!"

Read the full interview here.

Photos via BELLO/Alexsandar Tomovic

It was couples night yesterday in L.A. & London.  Get the pics of a few of your YBF faves on date nights inside....

Last night at Craig's restaurant in Hollywood, Kevin Hart and his "rib" Eniko made their way to the restaurant for a little date night action:

The Wedding Ringer star treated his fab fianceé to a lovely dinner, and we wonder if it was a double date with Clippers baller Chris Paul and his wife Jada:

The Pauls were also spotted arriving as they took a night away from their two kiddies.  Chris got in a good meal (and probably some good laughs) before tonight's game against the Spurs.  Loving Jada's look.

Also in L.A., pregnant actress Zoe Saldana and husband Marco Perego stopped to visit a friend's house in Beverly Hills yesterday:

The parents-to-be, who are expecting twins, have been busy hunting for a new home.  The babies are almost here (and Zoe looks READY to be done with this pregnancy process) ...so hopefully they find something soon!

And across the pond in London:

"Basketball Wives LA" star Draya Michele hosted an NFL afterparty at The Loop Bar in London's Mayfair last night.  She brought her boo Orlando Scandrick along as his team, the Dallas Cowboys, were also in London to play an exhibition game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Draya kept it sexy in a suede two piece look, her gray snakeskin Louboutin pumps, and a leather bomber jacket with a major fur trim/stole.  Nice look for her.  Seems like she's really trying to prove she can be a classy "wife" type.

Photos: WENN/Pacific Coast News/Splash/FameFlynet

In today's DO WE LOVE IT (Braids Edition) both Lala Anthony and Tia Mowry Hardrict are rocking braids this week.  See their photos inside...

This week, two of our YBF faves stepped out in new 'dos: Stylish braids:

On Instagram, Mrs. Anthony invited fans into La La Land where the queen rocks braids on her throne.  Why the sudden hair change?  Lala revealed to her followers that she's recently landed a movie role which she'll begin shooting in Detroit this week.  She got her hair braided at the request of the director. 

She captioned, "I start shooting a new movie this week....the director wants cornrows...lets do it! Detroit here I come!!! Thank you @myssmonique love these braids !!!
 

Before putting her hair in braids, Lala stepped out in NYC to celebrate a friend's birthday in a sexy black fedora.  She said,"Family First!!! I love my cousins @sir_rillo88 & @john_e_beasy making memories!!!!! #nyc"

In other new braids...

Tia Mowry, who stars on the hit Nick show "Instant Mom", is also rocking braids this week.  She debuted her new hairstyle over the weekend on Instagram while rocking head-to-toe Alexander Wang and a slip from Noe Undergarments.

On Sunday, Tia let her braids out as she made her way through the farmers market in LA.

With her Louis Vuitton clutch in hand, Tia was spotted shopping for produce and other healthy items. 

A few weeks ago, Tia revealed to Women’s Running magazine that she's adopted a high-energy diet and has started incorporating healthier foods into her life. She's also a vegan!

So, these ladies' new looks...

DO WE LOVE IT?

Photos via Splash/Tia Mowry's Instagram/LaLa Anothony's Instagram/@MyssMonique

Nene Leakes appeared on WWHL last night where she threw a few jabs at her RHOA castmates and offered some words of encouragement to Phaedra Parks.  More inside...

Last night, Nene Leakes stopped by Bravo's WWHL for a twofer (to celebrate last night's start of RHOA's 7th season & her new gig as the evil stepmother in Cinderella On Broadway).  

Wearing a Michael Costello dress, Alexis Bittar jewelry and Manolo Blahnik shoe, Nene didn't hold back as Andy fielded questions from the audience and asked a few of his own.  

When a caller asked Nene if she felt like her castmates were jealous of her, she said,"They don't support me...the hate is real honey. Every chance I have to stick it in their face (my success) I will."

Andy asked Nene about Apollo's sentencing and how Phaedra handled the situation.  She said, "It's really sad, all I can do i pray for them. I feel bad for her but I must say I like Apollo. I feel bad for him to." During a private conversation with Phaedra, Nene says she told her, "Be true to who you are because people are going to judge you anyway." 

After Andy aired a clip of Cynthia and Kenya Moore dissing her and throwing shade, Nene responded: "Let her have her moment, I don't have the time - I'm on Broadway!"

Boop! 

Nene says her co-stars don't support her:

On Cynthia Bailey:

On Phaedra and Apollo:

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

Apollo accused Phaedra of abandoning him.  But....do we blame her?

Photos via BRAVO

French Montana turned 30 with a major birthday party last night in L.A.  We're not totally convinced everyone who was there even knows who French Montana is, but it seemed like the party of the year.

Check out the Bad Boy turning ALL the way up with his boo Khloe Kardashian, her whole family (including Kris Jenner's new man), Diddy, Cassie, Tyga, Snoop, a few Housewives, Terrence J, Rocsi, Miguel, and more inside...

Diddy (along with Cassie) made sure his CirocBoy French Montana had an over-the-top 30th birthday party at an estate in Bel Air last night.  And plenty of folks were there to get some camera time.

After Kris Jenner celebrated her birthday Friday night in Vegas, and none of her kids attended, she and her man hi the carpet at French's bash with her daughter.  Hot dress for Khloe.

Not even going to ask...

Khloe's girls Lauren London and Malika Haqq were there to party.  And former "Real Housewives of Orange COunty" star Gretchen Rossi also made her way to the party...and posed it up with Uncle Snoop.

Terrence J brought his girlfriend Nicole Isaacs along, and they snapped a pic with her look-a-like Kim.

Kim posted plenty of pics through the night and labeled the "family".  Oh really?  We found it interesting that she cropped Tyga out of the topmost pic (that her sister Kylie was also in) when SHE posted it.  Feeling a bit of allegiance toward Blac Chyna all of a sudden?  Word has it she thinks her little sister and Tyga were wrong to out her in an impossible position considering Chyna is her bestie and she feels family members shouldn't date her friends' exes.  But isn't it odd she doesn't seem to feel the same way about the Khloe/French/Trina triangle?

Singer Sevyn Streeter was there looking pretty in green.

Rocsi rocked a sexy lace dress for the occasion.

They toasted it up with multi-millionaire Mohamed Hadid (who you've seen on a few of the "Housewives" franchises).

Tyga and former Pussycat Dolls member Melody Thornton his the carpet beforehand.

Newlyweds Evan and Ashlee Simpson Ross cuddled up at the party.

Diddy and "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star Lisa Vanderpump stopped for a moment to snap a pic.

And Miguel and his girlfriend Nazanin kept it cute on the carpet as well.

Fun times.

Photos: WENN/Khloe, French, Kim, Diddy's IGs

It's all about the fellas on today's episode of "The Real" as the husbands takeover and Vincent reveals a secret to Tamar!  Watch the clips inside...

Today on "The Real", the hosts are joined by their husbands: Vincent Herbert (Tamar), Freddy Harteis (Jeannie), and Adam Housley (Tamera) as they set the record straight about all of the tea their wives spill daily.

During the show, Freddy clears up Jeannie’s comments about him being a “mitch," while Adam shares that Tamera has forgotten to get him gifts for special occasions and Vince reveals Tamar would kill him if she knew he really wants another baby!  Check out their funny exchange:

Tamar Braxton: Scoot over.

Vincent Herbert: She would kill me if she knew that I really do want another baby.

Everyone: Awww…

Vincent Herbert: Clap that up! Clap that up! Clap! Clap! I need to hear y'all. Exactly! Yes! Yes! Yes! I want another baby.

Tamar Braxton: By who?

Vincent Herbert: So now you want me to have a blonde…

Tamar Braxton: Watch your mouth Jack!

Vincent Herbert: Okay then…by you. You know by who.

The couples also played a few cutesy games.  You know chicks love some coupledom:

Peep the clips below:

The hosts share their opinion on allowing your partner to have a say about your physical appearance:

Photos via Patrick Wymore/WARNER BROS.

Fantasia has seemingly confirmed what we've all been speculating for a while now: She and her boyfriend Kendall Taylor are married.  Or so it seems. Deets inside on her diamond wedding ring and how she gushes about her "King"....

Congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Taylor!  It appears Fantasia has pretty much confirmed that she's now a married woman. 

She's been dating Kendall Taylor, the COO of Metro Transportation, LLC, for at least 3 months.  And when they first showed off their relationship on Instagram, we noticed a ring on Kendall's wedding ring finger.  Same for Fantasia.  But neither outright confirmed.

Now, after multiple IG posts showcasing their love, Fantasia showed off a brand new diamond ring from her man...that she's wearing in her newest IG snap.

Fanny revealed:

So He said: I want to get you the Ring of Your Dreams.. I want you to Look down and smile knowing your mine and you deserve this.. I'm NOT A material girl and it could have been a ring out the Bubble Gum Machine but Just Continue to give me the Love you give to me Big Daddy...

He said: I know but as your King THIS is what I want for my Queen

Alrighty.  Well good for these two.  Hopefully this new relationship Fanny is sharing with the world world out to be The One.

She's posted many more pics and loving words for her boo like the below:

I Love You So Much Kendall Taylor... I'm Proud to be Yours

God..... I Thank You!!! He's Everything I Prayed For... To Feel Protected and To Have Someone To Cover Me In Prayer.. To Believe when I don't Believe.. Man!!! This Weekend has me So Ready To Bring An Album They've Never Heard From Me.. I Love You Kendall Taylor...

We're not sure if a wedding did or will take place, but these two are definitely more than "just dating" at this point.  Congrats to them if they've made it official!

Photos: Fantasia's IG

Oh Ginuwine!  Say it aint so!  News hit today that the R&B singer is facing some seriously hard times, and is on the verge of bankruptcy.  But thanks to pre-trial hearings (that also involve his former Executive Producer), he also learned he's divorcing his wife Solé!

Deets inside, plus exclusive updates we've learned....

How the mighty have fallen.  Ginuwine may have seemed to be back on a path of redemption and sustainability when it was announced that he would be 1/3 of the group TGT, along with Tank & Tyrese.  But it seems not enough money is coming in to support his (ex?) wife Solé, their PLENTY of kids, and expenses.

According to the NY Daily News, the "Pony" singer is on the verge of bankruptcy...and he's got more problems than just mula:

The news of the downfall came during a pretrial hearing pitting Ginuwine — real name Elgin Baylor Lumpkin — against Robert Reives, executive producer of his hit debut album, “The Bachelor.”

“Mr. Lumpkin is very close to declaring bankruptcy,” Ginuwine’s lawyer, Bruce Beckner, said. “He owes my firm a ton of money and a bunch of other people a ton of money. He owes Uncle Sam 300-odd thousand dollars in back income taxes.”

Whoa.  And the revelations continued:

Reives says he is owed royalties from a $1.25 million five-album deal Ginuwine signed with Sony, and seeks as much as $250,000.

Ginuwine argues that Reives’ claim falls outside the statute of limitations, and that he isn’t owed anything. The two sides will argue their case in Manhattan Federal Court Monday.

But here's the kicker, it was revealed at the hearing, that Ginuwine's money woes stem from the DIVORCE from his wife Tonya M. Lumpkin (aka Solé).  Oh?!

We'll let you know what comes of that court room meet-up.  But in the meantime, we did our own asking around to dig for more info.  And here's what we've learned:

We're told that Solé was allegedly Ginuwine's business manager, at least she acted as such, for SEVERAL years.  She was the main point of contact for promoters/event planners/venues who wanted to book Ginuwine to perform.  The business-manager relationship began to come to an end, though, some time this past spring.

A former member of Ginuwine's management team tells us that the singer made far more money than people would think.  He raked in at least $75k-100k/month while performing overseas and elsewhere, allegedly.  He would allegedly do shows for $25,000 a pop, and would have at least 3-5 booked every month.  And this was before TGT. 

We're told he allegedly made pretty good money with TGT as well, but thanks to having to pay for more expenses like bands, a split with groupmates, and other musical expenses, it was less money made than when he was solo. 

Our source tells us they are shocked by this bankruptcy discussion.  But said source also tells us the rift between Solé and Ginuwine has been brewing for over a year now.  So a split is not too surprising.

EXTRAS:

1.  Well-known D.C. club promoter Marc Barnes was arrested for misdemeanor second-degree theft and destruction of property, all stemming from a Liberian woman's ID being taken and shredded at The Park at Fourteenth due to "fake ID allegations".  STORY

Photo: Ginuwine

An activist group is taking the BRAVO network to task for profiting from reality shows that oftem show Black women physically fighting and carrying ont.  More inside...

Lately, BRAVO's lineup of reality shows ("RHOA", "Blood, Sweat & Heels", "The New Atlanta" and "Married to Medicine") has rivaled VH1 when it comes down to tv brawls and negative depictions of Black women.  In light of the negative press generated by the glass shattering fight between Geneva Thomas and Melyssa Ford a few weeks ago, ColorOfChange.org Managing Director of Campaigns, Arisha Hatch, released the following statement:

“Violence involving Black cast members has become a reliable ratings boost for Bravo. Prior to last season's reunion show altercation, major brawls on shows like The New Atlanta and Married to Medicine were aired with much fanfare, hyped up as must-see television events.

“Bravo is not at the mercy of the behavior of the casts of its shows. Reality TV producers routinely utilize staged, hostile environments and specific editing strategies to conjure the story they wish to tell. We demand Bravo and Andy Cohen turn away from these stereotypical narratives, and stop profiting from violence involving Black people.

“Judging by recent reports of yet another massive brawl during taping for the upcoming season of Bravo’s Blood, Sweat, and Heels, it seems there’s no end in sight for Bravo’s reliance on dangerous stereotypes. During that fight, between Black castmates Geneva Thomas and Melyssa Ford, a bottle was reportedly smashed over Ford’s head, sending her to the hospital. Thomas has since been arrested. Under no circumstances should Bravo air this or any other fights involving Black people.

“Stereotypical portrayals of Black people -- as angry, belligerent, and violent -- are dangerous, shaping negative perceptions in the minds of viewers that, when acted upon, can mean real life harm for Black communities; discriminatory hiring practices, less attention from doctors, and harsher treatment by law enforcement, just to name a few. Bravo and Andy Cohen must move beyond these harmful, one-dimensional portrayals.”

ColorOfChange says they are demanding Bravo to no longer profit from black violence.  What do you think?  It is BRAVO's responsibility to police the images of Black women on the network?

Photos via Geneva's IG/Melyssa's IG

Rihanna struck a few poses on the White House lawn during a private tour, while Kim and Kanye headed to her mom's Beverly Hills office with her Nori-designed Hermes Kelly bag in tow.  See pics inside...

Rihanna in 2016?  We're not sure about Ms. Fenty's political aspirations -- espcially if she doesn't plan on eyeing dual ccitizenship in the US -- but she surely made an impression on The White House lawn today.

The fireworks started on the lawn with Rihanna wearing a dress from Stella Jean Ltd's Fall 2014 collection, a Balmain Paris handbag and Manolo Blahnik sandals. And she put some "Scandal"-related captions on her pics like "Fitz, darling..." and"CYRUS!!! LET ME IN!!" #DayAtTheWhiteHouse.

That damn Rih Rih...

Rihanna, a fan of "Scandal", joked about her "Abby" moment. On the music front, Riri's 8th studio album is expected to drop soon.  And she's also performing at the Concert for Valor tomorrow night on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

In California....

Kim Kardashian West was seen heading to her mom's office along with her husband Kanye West in Woodland Hills, California yesterday.

As Kim fixed the bottom of her skirt, we noticed that she was carrying her Hermes Kelly bag that their daughter North West designed for her birthday. 

Well isn't that special.  What CAN'T Nori do?

Photos via Rihanna's Instagram/FameFlynet/Melissa's IG

It was a weekend full of parties on both coasts.  Check out The Carters in L.A. partying with Pharrell & J.D., plus Bow Wow dancing it up with his birthday girl fiancée Erica Mena....

At Mastro's Restaurant in L.A. last night, hip hop honchos Jay Z, Diddy, Pharrell Williams and Jermaine Dupri all partied it up in celebration of Warner North America President Big Jon's 50th birthday.  And after they had plenty of fun int he photobooth, Beyonce serenaded the birthday boy.

Fun times.  Good to see hop hop's biggest acts still showing love to a powerful black music executive.  Happy birthday!

Over in NYC, duo Shad Moss/Bow Wow of "106 & Park" celebrated his fiancee "Love & Hip Hop" star Erica Mena's birthday last night.  And after bending down to kiss her man all over the carpet, Erica and her crushed velvet dress also got in some kisses when her cake was presented:

Bow and Erica twerked for the cameras and partied all night.

Fun times, we're sure.

EXTRAS:

1.  Tyga was arrested in South Central tonight on the set of a vieo shoot. He was reportedly stopped for reckless driving.  It's unknown why he s put in cuffs.  STORY

Photos: Splash/JD's IG/DJDnice's IG

Is Solange Knowles about to be a bride for the second time?  That's what reports are stating.  Get the deets on the "Losing You" singer's alleged  upcoming wedding weekend details inside...

A few weeks ago, we noticed a diamond ring on Solange's wedding ring finger while she was partying with her big sis Beyonce in New Orleans:

And it looks like that very well may have been the engagement ring folks thought it was.  Because according to reports, baby sis is getting married...THIS WEEKEND!

Us Weekly reports that Solange and longtime boyfriend Alan Ferguson are set to wed this weekend in New Orleans, where Solange has been living with her 10-year-old son Julez.

The alleged wedding deets are under wraps, but the outlet claims to have the scoop:

Though much of the details of the event are being kept under wraps, Us Weekly has learned the weekend’s schedule.

On Friday, Nov. 14, the group will enjoy a movie night together before Saturday’s rehearsal dinner. Then on Sunday, Nov. 16, Knowles and Ferguson will make it official in front of friends and family.
 

Hmmm...the twosome have been dating for over six years.  And we wouldn't be surprised if Alan (who is supposedly 51-years-old) is ready to make it official, while Solange may be ready to try her had at marriage once again.  We'll keep you posted!

In other couples news:

Clippers baller Matt Barnes and former "Basketball Wives: LA" star Gloria Govan are supposedly headed for a divorce.  It's all supposedly over a secret loan Gloria decided to take out...and that she now still owes and is being sued for.  But interestingly, the two showed up at the same event this weekend.

They both rolled to NFL stylist Brandon Williams’ Simple Is Perfect Capsule Collection Launch at Austere in Downtown Los Angeles on Friday.  But they definitely kept their distance and snapped pics on the red carpet separately.  Looks like the divorce is really full speed ahead...

Photos: Solange's Tumblr/Getty/Cashmere Agency

Lupita Nyong'o was a vision in white at Monday night's GLAMOUR Magazine Women of the Year awards.  Get the pics and the YBF chicks who also took over the event inside....

The Glamour 2014 Women Of The Year Awards went down at Carnegie Hall Monday night.  And Lupita outshined everyone, as expected.  She wore a gorgeously ornate white long-sleeved dress with gold embellished trim and matching shorts underneath, a look from the Chanel Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2015 Collection:

The Lancome beauty looked simply flawless with Lancome gold shadows and a deep berry lip to top off her look.

GLAMOUR's December 2014 cover girl (and March 2014 cover girl) posed it up with some major folks throughout the night - from Anna Wintour toGLAMOUR EIC Cindi Leive to Chelsea Clinton:

And she accepted her Women of the Year Award graciously.  By the way, when this look by Chanel came down the Haute Couture runway earlier this year, it also had a matching hat!

"Orange Is The New Black" star Laverne Cox rocked a sexy royal blue dress with a mesh bust:

The cast has already started shooting season 3 of the show.

Writer and Executive Producer extraordinaire Shonda Rhimes was also on hand to present a Women of the Year award to Robin Roberts.

NBC personalities Hoda Kotb and Debroah Roberts (and her and Al Roker's daughter Laila) hit the carpet.

"GMA" anchor Robin Roberts donned a wine-colored cocktail dress with a leather top by Gucci, a Jimmy Choo clutch and Alaia shoes.  Cute look for her.

And former "Young & The Restless" star, who is gearing up for the movie Soul Ties, also hit the carpet to celebrate:

Nice.

And here's what a few of our faves--Lupita, Shonda, Mindy & Robin--had to say backstage when asked to share some inspirational words they live by: 

Photos: Getty/Glamour's IG

Niecy Nash has never been one to be ashamed of her curvy bod (remember her "Reno 911" character?) and even less ashamed to say whatever the hell she pleases.  So she's holding nothing back in a new interview for Playboy magazine.  Check it inside, plus her hot new pics....

She's the author of the relationship book It's Hard To Fight Naked, the star of TVLand's "Soul Man", and also the star of HBO's "Getting On".  But the 44-year-old married star isn't just talented on screen.

In her new interview with Playboy magazine, Niecy's dishing up what it takes to keep a man happy -- a drained penis and a stomach full of food. 

What I say in the book is, "A BJ a day keeps the divorce attorney away" and I say that because I feel like men are profoundly simplistic, which is the reason I wanted to call my book what I used as the title of chapter three, which is, "Stomach Full, Penis Empty: A Woman's Guide to a Happy Marriage." Keeping him fed and drained, you have no problem. We are really more complicated than they are and I think that women are more generous with oral sex because we nurture by nature. We want to be pleasing by nature, that's in our DNA, so I think that a lot of the behavior we're looking for sexually, you might have to educate your partner. Sometimes, men just assume they're going to get it and you need to be like, "Give me mine. Ladies first."

She continued about the importance of communicating sexual needs, likes and wants  to keep a relationship in order.  And she also revealed how her hysterectomy changed her sex life for the better:

What's so interesting is that [women are] more willing to have conversations about "Do you want to get married? Where do you see this relationship going? Do you want to have children?" than we are to ask, "What kind of sex do you like? What are you into there?" You know what I mean? And that's a conversation that a lot of people dive into but if you're going to be with someone for the rest of your life and they're failing to meet your sexual needs is like doing a slow dance with death. We need to make sure we can meet right there in the middle. The best thing that could have ever happened to me, and I was so fearful when I did it, was I got my tubes tied and had a hysterectomy. It gives me and my husband a different liberty — we can do what we do anytime, anywhere, at a moment's notice. So that's a sidebar into my situation, but I can get the party started.

Well...

 

A video posted by niecynash1 (@niecynash1) on Nov 11, 2014 at 12:44pm PST

Check out the BTS footage above from her (fully clothed) Playboy shoot and read the rest of her interview HERE.

Photographer: Robert Ector