Roommates, sometimes a “new chapter” doesn’t mean what y’all think it does—and Todd Tucker is making that real clear! The former ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ star had folks side-eyeing his message after he dropped a video talking about starting a “new relationship” shortly after his divorce from Kandi Burruss was finalized. Whew… but before y’all jump to conclusions, Todd quickly set the record straight on what he really meant. And, it might not be what you expected.

RELATED: Todd Tucker Sparks Reactions After Sharing Message For Kandi Burruss Ahead Of Her One-Woman Show (PHOTO)

Todd’s New Chapter, Different Kind Of Relationship

On Sunday, Todd shared that after his divorce, which reportedly included a $426K lump sum settlement, he made a promise to himself to reconnect with his faith. In a video shared to his Instagram, the 52-year-old admitted it had been a long time since he last set foot in church. Along with a caption that read, “Not sure who needs to hear this its ok to start a new relationship,” he later revealed that a message from Jamal H. Bryant—often associated with the Bronner family’s ministry circle—inspired him to take that step.

He explained that if he was going to return, he wanted to be intentional about where he worships. Ultimately, he decided to attend a church connected to the Bronner family, who also live in his former neighborhood. Todd ended the clip by making it clear: while one relationship may have ended, he’s now focused on building a new one spiritually.

Folks Weigh In On His New Chapter

Fans quickly flooded Todd’s Instagram comment section with reactions, and folks definitely had a lot to say. Some praised his decision, calling his relationship with God the best one to start at any time. While others couldn’t help but point out they wished he had leaned into his faith during his marriage. Still, plenty of supporters showed love. And many said they’re happy to see him embracing this new chapter and growth in his life.

One Instagram user @shavonssmith commented, “The BEST relationship to start!!🙏🏽🙏🏽”

This Instagram user @thesamsonstyles said, “It’s never too late to unite with God, bro! I’m glad you’re taking this step🙏🏾💪🏾🫡👑”

And, Instagram user @tooanchored added, “I wish you and Kandi could’ve went together. Divorce is horrible but good for you.“

Meanwhile, Instagram user @iamdomoniquescott shared, “Super Excited For You!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️”

While Instagram user @thc_mylife said, “The best relationship to be in right now..🙌🏽 watch how you will be at peace.“

Finally, Instagram user @alisefrann wrote, “Never leave the relationship…💪🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾”

Todd’s Post-Divorce Message Raises Eyebrows

Looks like Todd Tucker recently had the internet talking. And this time, it was over a message that was sent to Kandi Burruss as she prepares for her one-woman show, ‘I Do, I Did, I’m… DONE.’ A post was shared to Todd’s Instagram in support of his ex-wife’s upcoming April 27 show at City Winery Atlanta, but instead of a simple send-off, a playful jab was included with him writing, “Yo a** ain’t done lol just kidding!” While the comment appeared to be made in jest, reactions were quickly sparked across social media, with many telling him to “spin the block.”

The buzz comes as their divorce was recently finalized, with reports previously confirming that the two have officially gone their separate ways and will be focusing on co-parenting their children, Ace and Blaze. While full details of their settlement have not been publicly disclosed, it has been noted that legal documents—including a parenting plan—were required to be submitted by mid-March, marking the next phase in their post-marriage dynamic.

RELATED: Issa Wrap! Kandi Burruss & Todd Tucker Reportedly Finalize Their Divorce (UPDATE)

Khloé Kardashian‘s ex shares details of his blended family dynamics.

Tristan Thompson reveals how all his baby mamas have pooled their effort to make it work as they all uphold the importance of family. The father of four made headlines along with the mothers of his children over the years, with mentions of repeated cheating scandals.

Khloé Kardashian’s relationship with her ex, Tristan Thompson, has evolved with time. The pair have faced rocky patches, especially when he cheated on the reality TV star multiple times, which led to the end of their romance.

Does Khloé Kardashian Have Bad Blood With Her Ex’s Other Baby Mamas?

Thompson has addressed the situation between all the members of his family, which consists of his four kids and their three mothers. He shares that everyone, including Kardashian, has a smooth relationship, noting that they have moved past the drama. The NBA star, in describing the status of the existing relationship between the mothers of his children, said that they are all friends.

To highlight the level of smooth sailing in the family, Thompson said, “We all have each other’s contact info. We’re all in a great place, because I think that’s the No. 1 thing.” He continued, explaining that no matter what happens, they are all tied together, all the kids are siblings, hence, they have to be in each other’s lives for years to come.

The pro-basketballer praised all his baby mamas for displaying high levels of maturity and understanding. Because they understand that the goal is to be great parents to the kids and communicate effectively, Thompson shared that coparenting has been great while speaking on a recent podcast. “Shout-out to my kids’ mothers, they’re phenomenal. They make my life easy,” he said after stating that having the same beliefs makes it easier for the parents to build a strong support system for the whole family.

Inside Tristan Thompson’s Relationship With The Mothers Of His Kids

The NBA champ’s oldest child, Prince, came from his relationship with Jordan Craig, whom he broke up with in 2016 amid her pregnancy. Shortly after, he began a relationship with Kardashian that same year and welcomed their daughter, True, in 2018. US Weekly reported that while the reality TV star was pregnant with their daughter, Thompson cheated on her with multiple women.

Initially, the business mogul decided to continue the relationship and work through the odds, but ultimately called it quits when he kissed her sister’s BFF Jordyn Woods in 2019. The former lovebirds decided to give love a second fighting chance the following year, but the romance was short-lived. In 2021, Kardashian and the athlete reconciled briefly before the last straw when it was made public that Thompson was having a baby with another woman, Maralee Nichols.

At the time of his affair with Nichols, which resulted in the conception and birth of their son, Theo, Kardashian’s surrogate was already pregnant with their son, Tatum. Due to the short timeline of his relationship with the three women, the Thompson kids are very close in age, and their father described it as a beautiful occurrence, as they love spending time with each other.

The Athlete Allegedly Called His Third Child ‘A Mistake’

At the time when Thompson stepped out on Kardashian with Nichols, there were speculations that he and the TV star may have been engaged. Speculations arose from “The Kardashians” star’s social media as her photos featured a huge diamond ring on her left ring finger. The mom of two never confirmed or denied the rumors.

The Blast, however, reports that Nichols submitted Snapchat messages between her and Thompson in court documents showing that he told her that he was engaged and had plans to get married shortly. According to the message exchange, Nichols alleged that she was completely unaware of his relationship status as she called him out to take responsibility for Theo.

The basketballer allegedly told his baby mama that he had no plans of either being in the child’s life or building a family with Nichols. “Why not wait till you find the right person to have a family with. Why would you want a baby with a man that’s engaged? You wanna keep a mistake,” part of the message reportedly read.

Tristan Thompson Cleared His Name In A Previous Paternity Case

In 2021, another woman, identified as Kimberly Alexander, rose with claims that Thompson was the father of her child. She involved Kardashian in the drama after she came out with fake DMs showing concocted conversations between her and the TV star.

Alexander reportedly admitted to the DMs being faked, and the paternity test results showed that the athlete was not the father of her son. According to TMZ, the NBA star took the test twice, and the results clearly showed that he was not the dad. However, Alexander did not let go; she spread claims that the lab that did the test was a “Kardashian-affiliated facility.”

The media personality’s legal representative, Lynda Goldman, shut down the claims, explaining that the lab was one of the most reputable labs in the country, adding that Alexander’s lawyers approved and accepted the test results. Kardashian put out a cease-and-desist letter demanding that Thompson’s paternity accuser stop harassing or defaming her online, or else she would initiate a lawsuit.

Khloé Kardashian’s Ex Legal Drama Over Child Support

About three years ago, Thompson made headlines after a legal battle ensued with his first baby mama over child support dues. At the time, it was revealed that he was paying Craig $40,000 monthly for their son Prince despite the dip in his income.

There were no reports that the Canadian athlete had missed any payments, but Craig still filed for an “abstract of judgment” in L.A. The purpose of the document is to serve as a public record if a debt, which, in Craig’s case, is the child support payment, becomes unfulfilled by her son’s father.

The Blast also notes that at the time, Thompson was reportedly paying about $120.000 monthly to his three baby mamas as child support dues. Of this lump sum, $9,500 was the monthly due awarded to Theo’s mom after they dragged out the paternity case.

Shout-out to Khloé Kardashian’s ex for coming this far with his family!

Taina Williams is entering her late 20s era with a blonde bombshell look! She gagged her Instagram followers on April 1 when she shared photos from her 28th birthday shoot. Hours before, her fiancé, G Herbo, shared a sweet shoutout that had fans applauding their growth as a couple!

RELATED: Blushing Energy! 5 Times G Herbo Showed Taina Williams MAJOR Love & Had Fans Gushing (VIDEOS)

Taina Williams Goes Blonde For 28th Birthday

Williams is known for rocking a darker look with her hairstyles. But on Wednesday, she gagged the girls with her blonde tresses and cheetah-inspired look. The now 28-year-old shared photos in her animal-print lingerie, including matching high socks, leggings, and a cardigan featured in different shots. Her hair was styled in a roller set as she held what looked like a cigar in one hand. Other photos show her blonde hair flowing past her shoulders, with bangs to match. She also switched up her outfit to a gold corset with red shorts, black leggings and red pumps.

Fans & Loved Ones React To Taina’s Birthday & New Look

On her IG page, Taina Williams collected over 7,000 comments and more than 300,000 likes. Her fiancé stepped in with two compliments, one of exploding emoji heads and another that read, “TRIMMMMM.”

Meanwhile, Toya Johnson, Joie Chavis, Erica Mena, MissNikkiBaby, India Royale and Monica all wished her a happy birthday in separate comments. DreamDoll wrote, “Cleareddd,” adding heart-eye emojis. Draya Michele also dropped heart-eyes. Tiny’s daughter, Zonnique said, “We love a birthday serve!!!!” Bernice Burgos dropped fire and heart-eye emojis.

@roxxieehart commented, “Girlllllllllllllllll you ateeee got damn ! I’m proud😂🔥🔥.” 

“It’s giving Faith. It’s giving Pamela. It’s giving big f*cking Aries! Omg 😍,” @xolalalegend said.

“Broke the internet with these 😍,” @asiafrmanc added.

Taina Williams’ close friend Amaya Colon commented, “YEAHHHHH😍🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍😍.” 

@theyluvv.m0 wrote, “I see why he obsessed 🙂‍↔️😭.” 

G Herbo Shows His Fiancée Love

Herbo wanted to beat the fans to the punch when it came to showing his fiancée birthday love! Late Tuesday, he took to Instagram with a photo of him playfully grabbing Taina Williams’ neck. In the caption, he bragged about celebrating his lady all month long!

“ITS MIDNIGHT WHERE I AM SO I WAS THE FIRST TO SAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY WIFEY 4 LIFEY❤️❤️ @latainax3 EVERYBODY WISH HER HAPPY BIRTHDAY 4 ME!!! THERE SHOULD BE MILLIONS OF COMMENTS LOL WE ABOUT TO HAVE A BALL ALL MONTH ITS UP 🚦.”

About an hour after it went live, Taina Williams commented, “Thank you love you” with a red heart. In a follow-up post on Wednesday, G Herbo shared multiple photos with his fiancée, from them smooching to him holding her in his arms. His caption said, “❤️❤️🤞🏽🤞🏽 ME & MY SHITTT @latainax3 CANT WAIT TIL YOU GET OUT HERE!! WE FINNA PUSH OURS 🚦” and she commented three red hearts.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TAI-TAI! 

RELATED: Disgusting! Emmy Wright Has The Internet IN TEARS Over Her Reaction To Taina Williams & Asia Carter’s Toilet Prank

There’s no negating the fact that Weezer completely reformatted the rock industry. Consisting of Rivers Cuomo, Patrick Wilson, Brian Bell, and Scott Shriner, their ability to tell stories with wit and mastery pioneered geek rock. Because of this, many know Cuomo as the eccentric frontman who gave Weezer the eclectic touch necessary to solidify them as everlasting legends. However, what many don’t know about Cuomo is just how impressive his academic background is.

Alongside selling over 35 million records worldwide, Cuomo studied classical composition and English literature at Harvard University, attending between Pinkerton and The Green Album. Here’s a deep dive into how the lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter also proved himself to be academically brilliant, and how his time in Ivy League helped reshape the band’s sound completely.

Rivers Cuomo Attended Harvard After Finding Fame

Image via INSTARimages.com

When you’re at the height of new fame, you’ll typically dive deep into the rock star lifestyle and indulge in all the pleasures that come with money and status. However, for Cuomo, his interests skewed more academic. In the pursuit of higher knowledge, Cuomo enrolled himself at Harvard University in the fall of 1995, shortly after the success of Weezer’s debut, Blue Album.

Who’s Your Perfect Classic Rock Band?

He studied Classical Composition, English and American literature intermittently through 2006, balancing his studies with recording music and touring the globe. He made this pivot as quiet from public knowledge as possible, as he was genuinely serious about academics and longed to escape the identity of being a rock star. The experience ended up being as spiritually expansive as he’d hoped, often describing Harvard as a time in which he was surrounded by intelligent, motivated people and was able to bask in the freedom of living somewhat anonymously.

Cuomo’s Experience at Harvard University

Cuomo’s time at Harvard wasn’t all success. In fact, it may have indirectly served as the darkest period of his life. During his time as a student, Cuomo underwent leg-lengthening surgery to correct a difference in the length of his legs. Not only was it painful, but it left him handicapped for a good amount of time, only able to have mobility with a brace and cane. He spent time recovering in isolation and became deeply self-conscious about the deterioration of his appearance.

This experience helped shape one of Weezer’s most famous albums, Pinkerton. Cuomo became isolated, introverted, and frustrated while on campus, journeying through the pain of his recovery while adjusting to life using a cane. That alienation bled into the music, birthing a darker, more personal album that encapsulated the feeling of becoming a stranger to yourself. Songs like “Across the Sea,” “The Good Life,” and “Pink Triangle” were directly influenced by his suffering as a lonely student surrounded by a sea of people he could not quite connect with.

Related

Bob Dylan’s 1962 Debut Album Wasn’t a No. 1 Hit 64 Years Ago—but Became a Folk Classic

He didn’t start off so strong.

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The years he spent at Harvard coincided with Weezer garnering more and more fame. Many of his academic peers would wear his band merch without the knowledge that they were sitting right next to Cuomo himself. Walking with a cane and donning a beard that made him almost unrecognizable, he avoided the frenzy of fandom by living a life in disguise.

Yet, despite the trials, Cuomo accomplished exactly what he set out to do. In 2006, over a decade after he first enrolled, Cuomo graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Nothing about his pursuit of academia, nor his health trials, interfered with Weezer continuing to dominate the industry and master a distinct sound. In fact, his time at Harvard was essential in Weezer becoming the band we know today. Cuomo had once planned to make Weezer’s sophomore project, a concept album about characters in space, inspired by operas and musicals he had been listening to while touring. However, after becoming a student, Cuomo’s songwriting simply needed to become more personal and confessional, because he had new emotions to expel. Had he never attended Harvard, it’s likely that Pinkerton would have sounded completely different, or maybe not have existed at all.

Amid Shia LaBeouf‘s recent arrests and mounting charges, his ex-wife, Mia Goth, has reportedly come to terms with the difficult truth that his situation is one she cannot fix.

The “Transformers” actor was arrested twice in New Orleans last month and now faces multiple counts of simple battery following a bar altercation.

His downward spiral comes after his split from the “Frankenstein” actress. The pair had been together since 2012, briefly separated in 2018, and later reconciled, welcoming a daughter. Late last year, they finally went their separate ways. 

As his troubles continue to escalate, Goth is said to have accepted that helping him is beyond her control.

Mia Goth Reportedly Steps Back From Shia LaBeouf’s Legal Issues

According to sources close to Goth, she has come to terms with the limits of her involvement in LaBeouf’s ongoing struggles, despite still caring deeply for him.

“She’s aware what’s going on with Shia, but there is nothing she can do to help him,” one insider told People Magazine.

Instead, Goth has redirected her energy toward raising their daughter and focusing on her career, choosing to focus on things she has “control over.” 

The insider further described LaBeouf’s and Goth’s relationship as a “sad situation,” noting that her concern for LaBeouf has remained unchanged despite everything that has unfolded.

“She’d love for them to be together as a family,” the source added. “She really cares about Shia. It was just not a good situation.”

Goth’s acceptance of the circumstances comes weeks after reports surfaced that she had urged LaBeouf to seek help for his drinking problems.

The “MaXXXine” actress is said to have encouraged him to enter rehab to manage his issues out of genuine concern. Although they are no longer together, Goth reportedly continues to look out for him and wants him to remain present in their daughter’s life. 

Police Were Called To Shia LaBeouf And Mia Goth’s Home Before Their Separation

While Goth remains concerned about LaBeouf’s well-being, his legal troubles have also brought details of their past relationship to light, including a reported incident shortly before their breakup.

According to The Blast, police were dispatched to LaBeouf and Goth’s Los Angeles residence following a 911 call that alleged a stalking incident and disturbance of the peace.

Pasadena Police Department records show officers responded to the emergency call on November 2, 2024, at approximately 11:12 p.m. local time.

The documents described an “uncooperative female” caller who was attempting to get her husband to leave the property. No formal statement was taken since the situation did not escalate further, and authorities ultimately classified the incident as a verbal altercation. 

Why Mia Goth Walked Away From Shia LaBeouf

More details have emerged about what led to the breakdown of the relationship, with sources saying Goth was the one who called it quits. 

“Mia broke it off with him because his behavior was erratic, and she didn’t want to deal with it anymore, as they were always getting into fights,” one source said, according to The Blast.

Another source claimed that LaBeouf’s personality also added to the cause of the strain, describing him as an “intense individual, and not the easiest person to be with.”

They added that his friends and colleagues have even found it difficult to handle him. 

The  Former Child Actor Was Spotted Kissing Another Woman 

With his relationship with Goth ended, LaBeouf appeared to have gotten into another one just right after. The Blast reported that he was spotted getting cozy with an unknown woman at a New Orleans club after his detention. 

As seen in the photos and videos of the duo, LaBeouf appeared in high spirits as he stood hand-in-hand with the woman, openly being touchy. She placed her hand on his chest while smiling up at him, and he leaned down to whisper in her ear before kissing her.

Eyewitnesses reported that the two locked lips multiple times throughout the night, hugged tightly, and at one point, LaBeouf even attempted to lift her off the ground while embracing her.

Shia LaBeouf Was Previously In A Confrontation With His Girlfriend 

LaBeouf has also continued to make headlines over his public confrontations, including a recent incident involving a girlfriend.

A viral clip captured the 39-year-old actor shouting “F-ck off” during an argument, while the woman appeared unbothered by his outburst.

Moments later, he was seen continuing to yell down the street as she walked away. However, just days later, The Blast reported that the pair were spotted together again, appearing relaxed and in good spirits, suggesting the tension had eased.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 19 seconds ago

Sometimes, there are interesting stories about Star Trek’s main characters. For example, Wesley Crusher was Gene Roddenberry’s self-insert OC, which is part of why he was a teenage super genius who always knew how to instantly save the day. Unfortunately, minor characters don’t usually have much of a story behind them beyond, say, why the writer thought their name was cool.

However, the same can’t be said for Samantha Wildman, the fan-favorite supporting character on Star Trek: Voyager. Accomplished science officer and mother of the popular Naomi Wildman, Samantha proved to be a wonderful addition to the series. However, this character wouldn’t have been created at all if not for one of the show’s writers wanting to honor a little girl whose death saved his wife’s life.

A Pregnant Character Is Born

Samantha Wildman has the interesting distinction of being the first Voyager crew member to give birth in the Delta Quadrant. She announced her pregnancy in “Elogium,” which was also her very first appearance in the series (she would later go on to be a mainstay supporting character). That episode was originally pitched by Jimmy Diggs, who has his own interesting distinction: he successfully pitched more Star Trek episodes than any other freelancer in franchise history.

It was easy for Diggs to pitch Star Trek stories because his own life was filled with so many crazy tales. For example, he was a Vietnam veteran who always remembered the surreal sight of fish (thousands and thousands of them) flocking to his naval ship during a starless, moonless night. As they glittered in the water, he felt like he was traveling through the stars, and this event later inspired “Elogium.” Before he pitched the episode, though, Diggs had to face something infinitely scarier than the war: the likelihood that his wife would die.

An Unsung Hero, Revealed

She desperately needed a kidney transplant. As with everyone who needs an organ, Diggs and his wife had to deal with the fear that she would not get the kidney in time and would die. Eventually, she got the organ she needed, but in a very bittersweet way. You see, the kidney was only available because of a little girl who had died in an accident.

Understandably, Jimmy Diggs was very moved by the young girl who, even in death, managed to save his wife’s life. The Samantha Wildman character was named after this little girl, giving her a kind of unexpected second life as a sci-fi icon. Ensign Wildman became a very popular character, so Star Trek fans have (knowingly or not) kept that young girl’s legacy alive for decades. Even her specialty aboard Voyager honors the sacrifice of this little girl. Her parents told Diggs that she really liked animals, so Diggs incorporated this aspect into the new character’s background. That’s how Ensign Wildman ended up a xenobiologist aboard the ship!

As you can see, Samantha Wildman is more than just another fun, supporting character in Star Trek. She is also honoring the legacy of a young girl whose death saved a woman’s life, effectively embodying the franchise’s highest ideals. The real Samantha Wildman, like Kirk before her, helped turn death into a fighting chance to live for Jimmy Diggs’ wife. Now, she will live forever in sci-fi’s best franchise, continually inspiring all of us to do everything we can to make the world around us a better place. 

Brandy is reframing how the world views one of her most famous relationships. In her new memoir, ‘Phases,’ she shuts down suggestions that she was a “fast girl.” Instead, Brandy says Boyz II Men singer Wanya Morris took advantage of her being a child “in over [her] head.” The revelation has fans on both sides sounding off. Additionally, an alleged past interview of Morris admitting to being intimate with an underage Brandy is going viral.

she’s arrived. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/iGFnFZAN3H

— DE’RON 🌞 (@deronworld) April 1, 2026

RELATED: Shyne Reacts After Ray J Says He’ll “Slap The Daylights” Out Of Him & Mase For Claiming They Allegedly Dated Brandy At The Same Time

Brandy Was “Not A Fast Girl” Chasing After Wanya Morris

Back in 1995, ‘Brokenhearted’ by Brandy and Wanya Morris became a Billboard Hot 100 hit. It was the remix to the song released on her debut album, ‘Brandy.’ After collaborating, their friendship turned into something to be hidden from her parents. She lied to them constantly, she reportedly admits in her memoir ‘Phases.’

“They barely liked the idea of me dating at all, and telling them about us was out of the question,” Brandy wrote, per PEOPLE.

Brandy also admitted that she and Wanya knew “with diamond-cut clarity that public knowledge of [their] relationship would “ignite scandal.” Being out in the open, her being a minor and him in his early 20s, could mess both of their careers up. So, they pretended to have waited until she was 17. In reality, she lost her virginity to him while still a minor. She wrote of the red flags she missed or chose to ignore because she believed she was in love. They split up after he admitted to cheating on her. Since then, Brandy writes, Wanya Morris has framed her as a schoolgirl with a crush that didn’t come through. But that’s not the real narrative, Morris “took advantage,” she said.

“The shame ends here. The silence ends here,” she adds of coming to terms with the feeling that she was manipulated into and throughout the relationship. “I was not a fast girl with a crush. I was not a dramatic teenager who couldn’t handle rejection. I was not an unstable obsessive fan. I was a child. And he was an adult. And it’s time the world understood the difference,” Brandy wrote in ‘Phases,’ per PEOPLE.

Wanya Speaks Of Being Intimate With Brandy In Resurfaced Interview, She Shares Her POV In Memoir 

Amid the release of Brandy’s memoir, fans have dug into Wanya Morris’ past comments about their relationship. One ‘Breakfast Club interview, allegedly from 2014, is being covered across hip hop outlets, including Hollywood Unlocked and ‘The Morning Hustle.’ The clip is going viral because it shows Wanya Morris speaking of having sex with Brandy. After being asked whether Brandy was a minor when they slept together, he said, “We did the thing when she was 16, 17…She was old enough to get it.” Later, Morris explained they were in a relationship that grew and un-grew. Elsewhere, in an Instagram Live that circulated in 2020, Wanya Morris seemed to deny being involved when Brandy was a minor.

Meanwhile, in ‘Phases,’ Brandy paints a different picture. She says the sexual element of their relationship was Wanya Morris getting what he wanted from a young girl who didn’t recognize “she was being used,” per Entertainment Weekly. She reportedly wrote, “I think he saw me as conquerable. As someone whose boundaries could be negotiated away. I was in over my head.” She also explained that while she wanted to wait until marriage, she thought sex with him would “cement [their] bond.”

“I was young and inexperienced, and thought that following my heart meant following his lead, that what we shared transcended ordinary rules and limitations,” Brandy wrote, per EW. She said having sex felt like it, “Would prove I was mature enough for our relationship. Would make him happy. And so, I told myself I was ready. That this was my choice. But the truth is I felt like I had no choice. I felt like saying no meant losing him.”

Social Media Sounds Off About The Age Gap Issue

Aside from reactions to ‘Phases,’ the resurfaced clips of the Boyz II Men singer speaking on his past with Brandy are also catching heat.

I look back at when I was 22 yrs old. I would’ve felt like a nasty old man trying to be involved with a 16 yr old. What is wrong with these dudes?🤨 https://t.co/AsHso5JZwD

— FOST (@GeorgeFoster72) April 1, 2026

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wanya knew he shouldn’t have been dating a 16 year old brandy while in his 20s and then lied and said she was 18 cause his ass knew he was wrong, let’s not forget how he was on the breakfast club saying she was “old enough to get it” like HUH? i’m glad brandy woke up this tea.

— lauren ꨄ︎ (@J0DECIDAL) April 1, 2026

It was time for us to put this to bed. For good. I am so proud of Brandy and her courage here. https://t.co/tbyQXjoF2C

— Gerrick Kennedy (@GerrickKennedy) March 31, 2026

Wanya being 22 while Brandy was 15-16 is absolutely crazy.

Grown ass man with a child and even went as far as being the one she trusted with her virginity.

That’s foul. IDC how long it’s been.

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That’s foul. And all these years been lying saying she was 18.

Nah dawg.

— ERIC LAMONT (@BlameEricLamont) March 31, 2026

The comments on literally every platform on instagram that’s talking about this Brandy/wanya situation are truly disgusting. So many people, women especially, are calling her everything but a child of God, and wanya escapes blame yet again.

— Mille👩🏽‍❤️‍💋‍👩🏽 (@millesbabies) April 1, 2026

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in retrospect, it’s wild how cruel the media was to underage Brandy and Aaliyah with regard to their upsettlingly high-profile “relationships” with grownass men. I hate how dedicated folks were to perpetuating the “fast” stereotype rather than hold these men accountable. https://t.co/EEXdCpPQSX

— champagne and cherri, babÿ (@cherrilizabiff) March 31, 2026

we had Demi, KeKe, and now Brandy. i’m so glad these women are standing up and speaking out about how they were prayed on

keep exposing these predators https://t.co/xBsjpJaAuq

— 𝕛𝕒𝕟𝕖𝕒 (@heyyitsjanea) April 1, 2026

RELATED: Keke Palmer And Demi Lovato Reflect On Dating Older Men As Teenagers (VIDEO)

A California doctor, Dr. Hong-An Jan, is reportedly facing a felony charge and a lawsuit after a days-old baby, Charles Wang, allegedly died following a circumcision procedure.

RELATED: Prayers Up! 1-Year-Old Reportedly Dies After 14-Year-Old Mom Allegedly Crashes While Under The Influence

Officials Charge California Doctor After Newborn Dies Post-Procedure

Prosecutors have reportedly charged Dr. Hong-An Jan with felony involuntary manslaughter in connection with the 2024 death of newborn Charles Wang. The infant was reportedly between two to three days old, per conflicting reports from Law & Crime and other outlets. PEOPLE reports that Jan allegedly injected a synthetic opioid into Charles on Feb. 27, 2024, at his private clinic in Garden Grove. According to WGXA, the baby’s toxicology report showed high levels of Demerol, a Schedule II narcotic painkiller, instead of the required anesthetic Xylocaine.

Law & Crime says Charles’ parents noticed the newborn seemed lethargic and unresponsive after the circumcision. However, Dr. Jan reportedly advised them that it was “normal” and “not a cause for concern.” However, the next day, doctors pronounced Charles dead after his parents rushed him to the hospital. Doctors determined that acute Demerol intoxication led to bronchopneumonia, which purportedly caused Charles’ death.

Newborn Baby’s Parents React To Tragic Loss

Charles’ parents, Yiqi Wang and Hongyu Lu, have reportedly filed a civil lawsuit against Dr. Hong-An Jan. They are accusing him of wrongful death, medical malpractice, and fraud. Jan previously oversaw Hongyu Lu’s care during childbirth, and he later allegedly advised the parents to have Charles circumcised the day after he was born.

“Jan only looked at Charles and reassured his parents that these symptoms were normal post-circumcision reactions and advised them to return home,” the suit claimed, per the Los Angeles Times. “He did not take any blood samples or order any laboratory studies, even though he observed the symptoms … symptomatic of opiate substances.”

What’s Next For Dr. Hong-An Jan?

Dr. Hong-An Jan reportedly pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter on Feb. 19 and is set to appear in court on May 1 for a pre-trial hearing. Also, a court order reportedly suspended Jan’s medical license on Feb. 19, 2026.

RELATED: Atlanta Couple Awarded $2M After Doctor Allegedly Shared Graphic Pic Of Decapitated Baby On Social Media

90 Day Fiance, Elise Benson loses it in a bar when she’s had enough of Josh Lawson‘s emotional connection to his gal pal Nat. Aviva Duhamel gets a no from a pregnancy test but says yes to Stig Da Artist’s proposal. Forrest is giddy the morning after he loses his V-card to Sheena. And Lisa gets cleansed in a bizarre ritual. Let’s take a closer look at the crazy in this recap of Season 8, Episode 16 Mile High Club.

90 Day Fiance: Elise Benson’s Jealousy Gets The Best of Her

On 90 Day Fiance, Elise Benson just can’t shake her suspicion over Josh Lawson’s relationship with best friend Nat. After a fight, the pair move forward claiming they are falling for one another. But it isn’t long before Nat comes up and it’s really bugging Elise. Josh is a yacht broker. His job is on notice after he took a company yacht on a joy ride and crashed it. Elise Benson wants the details. And it seems Nat was on board on the fateful day in question.

Elise Benson grills Josh. He says the damage to the boat wasn’t as bad as he initially thought. And he’s already paid it off. In spite of his irritation, Elise isn’t sold that there’s not more to his relationship with Nat than meets the eye. Josh suggests they all go out for drinks and try to come to some sort of common ground and get along. Elise Benson agrees but gets a dig in when Josh wants to shower. She suggests he’s “got to shower for Nat”.

Everyone is polite at first as the trio gathers at a bar. But it isn’t long before Elise Benson starts jabbing at Nat on 90 Day Fiance. She wants to know why they constantly text. And claims Nat has a financial hold on Josh. This angers Nat and Elise suggests she will ask the opinion of all the bar patrons. She starts screaming about the situation and a few agree with her that it’s crazy. But it’s Elise Benson who looks crazy and Nat bolts after declaring her toxic. And it’s Nat who Josh runs after the embarrassing scene.

90 Day Fiance: Aviva Duhamel says Yes to Stig Da Artist

Before The 90 Days couple Aviva Duhamel and Stig Da Artist share a tense 5 minutes awaiting the results of a pregnancy test. Aviva is hopeful for a positive result. Stig Da Artist plays along but admits in an aside he doesn’t think they are quite ready yet. They huddle together over the test and a result finally comes through: one line. In other words negative. They comfort each other and Stig suggests an outing to the Mayan Ruins to cheer up.

The ruins impress Aviva. And the pair decide to go to the very top of a tall structure. But halfway there he surprises Aviva by getting down on one knee. He proposes, promising to be loyal to Aviva forever. She is overjoyed and didn’t want to leave Belize without a ring. So, of course she says yes. The couple then continue their climb to the top and Aviva flashes her ring celebrating her engagement to the Belizean pop star.

Before The 90 Days: Forrest and Sheena Get Closer

Forrest is feeling confident after standing up to his mom Molly and choosing to stand by Sheena’s side. But now it’s time to take things even further for the 90 Day Fiance couple. First steps to the future include finally consummating the relationship. A big deal since they are both virgins. Forrest arranges a getaway complete with rose petals on the bed. He’s also armed himself with some protection. Sheena changes into lingerie and it’s game on.

In a cringe bout of TMI Forrest is giddy the morning after. While he found it sloppier than expected, he is on cloud nine with Sheena, his “vixen of the internet”. The encounter has made him even more sure that he can’t bear to be away from Sheena. So he makes the choice to stay in the Philippines since without a job the K-1 visa is out of reach. But first they have to tell Molly and it won’t be easy.

TLC Couple Lisa and Daniel Go Through a Crazy Ritual

It’s never boring when it comes to Before The 90 Days couple Daniel “Tito” Herrera and Lisa. Between crazy uncles, lion kings, past secrets and wig wars, the pair are exhausted. But yet another crazy situation arises. After Lisa divulged her long history with her “fellow women” and a still pending divorce, the ancestors call for a cleansing. Which involves a distressed bleating goat, large root vegetables, spitting out schnapps and screaming all while ringing a bell.

It’s tough to watch. The “cleansing” also involves Lisa forking over even more money in addition to buying the goat and yams. After the migraine inducing scene, the couple leave with the permission to move forward with a marriage. Of course after she finalizes her fifth divorce.

90 Day Fiance: Trish’s Dad Demands Rick Makes a Decision

Rick Van Vactor is getting used to village life on 90 Day Fiance. Trish takes him on a quaint trip to buy vegetables and fruits at local stands. She used to actually sell fruits with her grandmother at one of the stalls. She reminds him that her dad wants answers about whether Rick will have children with her. He waffles and wants more time. Trish explains how important the experience would be for her since her mom left her as an infant.

It’s painful for Trish to explain that her mom took a new husband after leaving her dad when Trish was only one. And refused a ritual that would allow her to see her children. Rick consoles her. But still has to face her father. It doesn’t go well when Rick balks and asks for more time. Her uncle says if he can’t give her children they will keep her. Her dad refuses to give him more time demanding a decision immediately. Till next time!

There is a time and a place for intense movies, and maybe that time is not right now. Other things are intense, and so if you get the chance to sit down and actually watch a movie, maybe intensity is best avoided. It’s understandable if you feel that way, and so if you’re after comfort, good vibes, and whatever the cinematic equivalent of a nice hug is, then the following movies have got your back.

Many of these aim to be crowd-pleasing, while others are a little more obscure and out-there, and maybe not conventionally entertaining, though undeniably easy to appreciate if you’re in the mood for something a little different. They’re not ranked in any particular order, either, since having to decide between which movie, say, is #6 and which is #7 can be stressful in itself, and stress is not what we’re here for right now.

10

‘Amélie’ (2001)

Image via UGC Fox Distribution

Essentially, Amélie is a movie about being nice. The titular character is withdrawn and has admittedly unconventional ways of being a good Samaritan to strangers, but that’s what she does anyway, and that’s what most of the movie shows her doing. She also has her own arc that involves falling in love and becoming less withdrawn in the process.

It’s all done without too much concern for story, or at least less concern for telling an intricate/unpredictable story than most movies out there. The approach works, and it’s helped by how stylish Amélie is, too. It’s a movie about niceness that also looks incredibly nice, with a bold use of color throughout and an overall energy that makes it feel quite fantastical at times, on top of being romantic and gently comedic.

9

‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)

Image via Studio Ghibli

My Neighbor Totoro is another movie that’s not about too much narratively, and that’s okay. It’s potentially the gentlest and most comforting of all the movies Hayao Miyazaki has directed, which is saying quite a lot, and it’s mostly about two sisters having to deal with a move to the countryside because their mother’s sick. And, while there, they discover fantastical creatures living in a nearby forest.

The animation here is as great as you’d expect, given the director and the fact that it’s a Studio Ghibli production, and My Neighbor Totoro is also great to just sink into, or let wash over you, if you can let a movie do that. The likes of Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke might be better films, but My Neighbor Totoro could well be the most worth checking out if you’re after a comfort watch.

8

‘Hot Rod’ (2007)

Image via Paramoutn Pictures

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Thoroughly committed to being as silly as possible for pretty much its whole runtime, Hot Rod is incredibly funny, and even the jokes that sort of miss the mark are endearing in their own ways. It’s a movie that just wants you to have a good time for a while, pretty much encouraging the turning off of one’s brain in the process, and something so purely and wholeheartedly comedic in tone is sometimes just what you need.

It’s an entertaining and chaotic movie about someone who’s obsessed with being a stuntman, but he’s not very good at actually doing stunts without getting hurt or causing destruction. There’s also something to be said about a movie that looked like it was fun to make, since that can rub off on the people watching it, proving sort of infectious, and Hot Rod is that kind of fun-looking (and feeling) film.

7

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ (1946)

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Doing everything you could ask for, from a Christmas movie, and maybe even a little more on top of that, somehow, It’s a Wonderful Life is naturally going to be one of the first things that comes to mind when you hear the phrase “life-affirming movie.” And, no, not just because it was the word “Life” in the title, and also not because it’s nothing but good vibes for a couple of hours or so.

The vibes are eventually good, but It’s a Wonderful Life puts you through some turbulent stuff before then, and does the same for its main character, who slowly learns that he has more worth than he initially thought, largely thanks to some fantastical influences. There’s a tremendously rewarding and well-earned ending here, and even 80 years later, it’s still about as uplifting and cathartic as movies have ever gotten.

6

‘Paterson’ (2016)

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In Paterson, there’s a man named Paterson, and he goes about what seems to be a pretty relaxed life, and it’s one he finds satisfaction in, even if it might look a little boring on the surface. And Paterson, the movie, might also sound a bit boring, if you lay it out in that way, even with that way being accurate to what it is and what it’s going for.

There’s plenty to like and appreciate here, though, once you get on the film’s wavelength. Paterson feels meditative and peaceful, and just being those things ends up being enough to make it genuinely compelling for a couple of minutes shy of two hours. Even watching a person go about a strict routine over the course of a week turns out to be compelling, if you’re a sufficiently good filmmaker (Jim Jarmusch) and equipped with a perfectly utilized Adam Driver.

5

‘Perfect Days’ (2023)

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Another movie about a simple lifestyle and a routine being followed, Perfect Days is easy to compare to Paterson, but it’s about a man in a different profession living in a very different environment, too. While Paterson in Paterson was a bus driver, the protagonist of Perfect Days is a toilet cleaner, and his work – plus the other things in his life – take him around Tokyo.

It might sound cheesy, but Perfect Days is a movie about just enjoying and trying to appreciate small or seemingly insignificant things, and also being in touch with one’s emotional state. It manages to be very touching at times, even with the seemingly low stakes, and calling it, ironically enough, one of the most perfect movies in recent memory doesn’t feel hyperbolic.

Image via Universal Pictures

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With E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, there was both a noble and successful attempt to make a science fiction movie that could appeal to anyone, all centered on the unlikely friendship between a boy and an alien. The latter gets stranded on Earth, and the former endeavors to help him reconnect with his own kind and get him home, even if that’ll ultimately mean they have to part ways.

In that sense, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is bittersweet, and certainly feels quite sad at times for something that’s ultimately life-affirming, yet the emotional balance is pulled off perfectly here, and it’s the right kind of touching for such a film; emotional without being devastating and all that. If you want to see Steven Spielberg’s sentimental streak at its most effective, that’s exactly what you get here.

3

‘Cinema Paradiso’ (1988)

Since you’re reading (or maybe skimming over) an article about movies right now, there’s a pretty good chance you like movies, right? If you do indeed like movies enough to also enjoy movies that are about movies, then Cinema Paradiso is about as essential a watch as a film could be, since it might well be the ultimate movie about cinema that’s not a biographical/historical movie about the making of a specific film.

It’s more of a coming-of-age movie about a young boy who finds that cinema is a great escape from the hardships of the real world, and a way to connect with people, too. Also, even when finding a connection with others gets hard, later in life, the movies are always there for him, and the love for cinema keeps enduring in one way or another. Cinema Paradiso is also a good deal less cheesy than all those words might make it sound, but it’s hard to break down and analyze such a film; one you’re much better off just feeling instead.

2

‘Toy Story’ (1995)

Image via Pixar Animation Studios

Since the sequels are a good deal more devastating (though not without some sweet to go along with the bitter), Toy Story, as in the original, is the one being singled out here. It’s also got a bit of sadness with the whole arc Buzz Lightyear goes through, which is somewhat heavy-going for an animated family movie, but it doesn’t overwhelm or prove suffocating when the rest of the movie is breezy and comforting.

Toy Story is a fun, colorful movie when you’re young, and to some extent, it’s still that if you watch it as an adult, but then you also appreciate what it’s going for beyond just entertainment once you’re of a sufficient age. Not that it’s deep by the standards of, like, arthouse cinema, though there is still a fair bit here to think about, which is cool considering it’s, at first glance, a kind of goofy kids’ movie about toys that come alive and talk.

1

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)

Image via MGM

Singin’ in the Rain is, out of all the classic Hollywood musicals, maybe the easiest to get into and appreciate. It’s got a breezy story about the film industry transitioning from silent movies to talkies, done in a way that’s a good deal more lightweight than, say, Babylon (which does reference Singin’ in the Rain, both the movie and the song of the same name, more than once throughout).

If you don’t usually like broad and cheery old-school musicals, it’s still worth watching Singin’ in the Rain, since it could well be the one to convert you. There’s a focus on comedy here, above all else, and then a bit of romance thrown in for good measure (not an overwhelming amount, though). It’s a film that wants you to have a good time, and one where it’s hard to imagine too many people watching it and not having that sort of experience throughout. It’s inherently (or maybe even intensely, for what it’s worth) likable, as a film.

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Singin’ in the Rain

Release Date

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April 11, 1952

Runtime

103 Minutes

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Director

Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly

Writers

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Adolph Green, Betty Comden

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