It looks like Lil Durk isn’t taking any chances with his defense! The rapper just added heavyweight defense attorney Brian Steel to his legal squad as he gears up for a federal murder-for-hire trial. And fans are already speculating that the team’s glow-up is about to be next-level. 

RELATED: She Said WHAT?! Lil Durk’s Daughter Prank Calls Him In Jail And The Timeline Is Rolling (VIDEO)

Durk Just Leveled Up His Legal Squad

According to legal documents filed on March 6, Brain Steel is joining Lil Durk’s defense team as a pro hac vice, meaning he can step into the case even without a California law license. He’ll be taking over for Jonathan M. Brayman. Jury selection kicks off August 20, nearly two years after Durk and several members of his Only the Family collective were first arrested. Additionally, Drew Findling, another legal heavy hitter, remains on the team. As the date nears, Durk’s case is seemingly shaping up to be one of the most high-profile rap trials of 2026. 

Brian Steel is officially representing rapper Lil Durk in his murder-for-hire case in Los Angeles federal court.

Jury selection is to begin Aug. 20. pic.twitter.com/dHNxgheShV

— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) March 9, 2026

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Does Steel’s Name Ring A Bell?

Known for handling the biggest hip-hop cases, Steel made headlines defending Young Thug in the YSL RICO trial and later representing Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs in criminal proceedings. Speaking to Billboard, Steel described his hands-on approach: “I get very close to my clients. I meet their families… I gotta believe in the person… God willing, something good will come out.” Translation: Durk isn’t just getting a lawyer — he’s getting a ride-or-die defense.

The Story Behind Durk’s Legal Battle

As previously reported, Durk faces serious charges, including conspiracy, murder-for-hire, and firearm use in connection with a 2022 alleged attempt on Quando Rondo’s life. Furthermore, the rapper has pleaded not guilty and, based on his recent posts, he’s been feeling the pressure. Earlier this year, Durk hinted at the personal toll of being behind bars, writing on Instagram, “Crazy how you gotta wait until it’s dark out to see who really with you.” 

Fans Can’t Stop Buzzing About Durk’s Legal Upgrade

Fans immediately flooded X to let y’all know Brian Steel is about to get Durkio signed, sealed, delivered, and home — because let’s be real, this lawyer does not play. Comments are blowing up with hype, jokes, and straight-up excitement over the courtroom.

oh yeah durk coming home now brian don’t play

— 𝐽𝑎𝑧 ‘ ꨄ (@thadollxx) March 9, 2026

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3PEAT STEELE DURK GOIN FREE

— hppu (@ItsNotupph) March 9, 2026

Bout that time

— D.B.C ✭ 🕷️ (@J0Y30irTY) March 9, 2026

durk gon be free by end of the year im callin it

— YeatEmpire (@YeatEmpire) March 9, 2026

Oh yea durk gon be home soon pic.twitter.com/3osLNCpT1n

— It’s Yo Boy Wiz (@jiggywizz) March 9, 2026

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Brian about to do a sweep 😩

— Shannon (@Shannonddcq123) March 9, 2026

RELATED: Big 31! India Royale Shares Birthday Message Lil Durk Sent Her From Behind Bars (LISTEN)

It’s been almost two years since X-Men ‘97 aired its Season 1 finale, and fans around the world are still waiting to see how the story continues in Season 2. It’s been confirmed that X-Men ‘97 Season 2 will premiere this summer, but Marvel has yet to assign the animated series a slot on its Disney+ calendar for the year. It’s safe to say X-Men ‘97 is one of the most anticipated new releases of 2026, though, especially considering the show is still the highest-rated Marvel project ever, despite not taking place in the MCU. It holds a nearly flawless 99% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes and a 91% on the audience-driven Popcornmeter, and it’s already been renewed for Season 3 before the Season 2 premiere. It’s a textbook example of a successful show.

There may still be a few months until X-Men ‘97 is playing on Disney+ around the world, but Marvel has just given a gift to fans of its most popular mutants. Marvel has officially announced a new prequel comic book, X-Men ’97: Season Two, which will take place between the events of X-Men ‘97 Seasons 1 and 2. The book was written by Steve Foxe with art from Salva Espin and a cover from Todd Nauck, and there will be variant covers available from Jhony Caballero, Natacha Bustos, and Dan Jurgen. The comic goes on sale on June 3, likely around the same time that X-Men ‘97 will premiere, and the official synopsis for the new story reads as follows:

“X-MEN ‘97: SEASON TWO will lead directly from the end of the acclaimed first season to the start of the upcoming season two, setting the stage for the time-sprawling saga that awaits viewers, exploring the season’s biggest plot threads, and spotlighting the major new characters—and teams—joining the cast.

Extinction-day has come and gone, and your favorite X-Men are lost in time! Spinning out of Marvel Animation’s X-Men ’97 series, follow the X-Men left behind in a world that hunts and hates mutantkind! Can they survive? And just where – or when – are the X-Men now?! No X-Men ‘97 fan can miss this one!”

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When Will ‘X-Men ‘97’ Season 3 Come Out?

Image via Marvel

There’s been a two-year gap between the first and second seasons of X-Men ‘97, but fans can rest assured that this won’t be the case between seasons two and three. X-Men ‘97 star Lenore Zann, who voices Rogue in the hit Disney+ series, confirmed to Collider last year that she was about to head to the voice booth to begin recording lines for Season 3. The most likely window of release for X-Men ’97 Season 3 is likely sometime in 2027, only one year after Season 2.

Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on the new X-Men ‘97 prequel comic and updates on Seasons 2 and 3 of the hit Disney+ series.

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Release Date

March 20, 2024

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Directors

Jake Castorena

Writers

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Beau DeMayo

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Sofia Vergara appears to be getting into the Oscars spirit early after posting two throwback videos from the 2025 Oscars after-party.

The actress shared the clips on her Instagram Story, including one of her dancing with her “America’s Got Talent” co-star Heidi Klum.

In another video, the “Modern Family” alum showed off solo moves on the makeshift Oscars dance floor.

The two television personalities have built a close friendship both on and off the screen during their time on “AGT.”

Vergara’s post comes just two days before the 2026 Academy Awards are held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Sofia Vergara Turns Back The Clock With Oscars Dance Throwbacks

Hours before sharing the two #TBT clips on her Instagram Story, Vergara attended “An Unforgettable Evening,” a charity gala aimed at raising money for the Women’s Cancer Research Fund (WCRF).

The actress posted a series of updates from the event on her Story, including a brief snippet of a speech she delivered to attendees.

After the more serious posts, Vergara then took a trip down memory lane, revisiting last year’s Oscars and the joyful moments she shared with Klum at the after-party.

Neither “America’s Got Talent” alum was nominated or scheduled to present at the 2025 Oscars. Still, it is not uncommon for major stars to attend the celebrity events surrounding Hollywood’s biggest night.

Sofia Vergara And Heidi Klum Went Viral On The Oscars Dance Floor In 2025

Vergara and Klum attracted significant online attention for their looks and moves at the 2025 Oscars after-party, hosted by Vanity Fair.

Both videos from the night showed the TV stars dancing along to Michael Jackson hits, with the pair grooving to “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough” in the first clip.

Klum shared that moment on her own Instagram at the time, accompanied by three emojis in the caption.

Fans quickly filled the comments section with compliments, many praising the pair for their beauty and chemistry.

“OMG, you girls are just gorgeous,” one user wrote, while another added, “The cutest,” alongside a heart emoji.

In the second clip shared on Vergara’s IG Story, the actress was seen dancing solo to “Billie Jean.”

Vergara Said Klum Is ‘Like A Latin Girl Trapped In A German Body’

In a 2023 interview with Extra correspondent Terri Seymour, Vergara explained how the differences in her and Klum’s backgrounds actually helped her realize how similar they are.

“It was a surprise because you know I’m Latin, Heidi’s German,” Vergara said. “I was like, ‘Oh, I don’t think I’m gonna have anything in common with her.’ And then suddenly I realized she’s like a Latin girl trapped in a German tall model!”

Vergara went on to elaborate on the qualities in Klum that gave her that impression.

“She can dance, sing, go to a crazy party,” the actress added. “Energy, it’s like crazy. I want to be her when I grow up.”

Sofia Vergara’s Bikini Snap Prompted A Playful Reply From Klum

Vergara and Klum’s unique friendship was once again on full display when the “Griselda” star shared a bold Instagram photo of herself sunbathing poolside in a thong bikini back in June 2025.

Klum playfully jumped into the comments, joking that Vergara should join her because she was also sunbathing wherever she happened to be at the time.

For Vergara, the extra attention on the photo likely signaled success, as the post was part of a promotional campaign for her Toty sunscreen brand.

In an interview with E! News, the actress explained her company’s “suncare first” philosophy.

“Once I learned the sun not only causes cancer but also aging, I made suncare my first priority,” Vergara said.

Vergara Still Waiting On An Oscar Nomination

While Vergara continues to show an affinity for the Academy Awards, she has yet to earn an Oscar nomination for any of her work.

The Colombian-born star has spent most of her career dominating television rather than film, and her accolades reflect that trajectory.

Vergara is a five-time Emmy and Golden Globe nominee, with all ten nods recognizing her performances in “Modern Family” and, more recently, “Griselda.”

Intriguingly, the one small “chink in the armor” of her friendship with Klum came when the supermodel told ET Online she was “upset” that Vergara did not cast her in “Griselda.”

Blake Lively’s legal dispute with her “It Ends With Us” costar Justin Baldoni is entering a crucial stage as the case edges closer to trial.

The actress is now asking a federal judge to reject efforts to dismiss her claims, arguing that the evidence already collected should be considered before the lawsuit can be thrown out.

Blake Lively Urges Court To Consider Evidence Already Gathered

Blake Lively is pushing back against attempts by Justin Baldoni and other defendants to have her claims dismissed before trial.

Her legal team recently filed a letter in federal court urging Judge Lewis J. Liman to allow the lawsuit to continue rather than ending it through legal motions.

In the court filing obtained by PEOPLE, Lively’s attorneys referenced a recent decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.

They argued that the ruling supports their position that courts should examine the evidence gathered during litigation rather than relying solely on the wording of the complaint.

Quoting the appeals court decision, the lawyers wrote that dismissing a complaint under such circumstances “would hardly serve the efficient or just resolution of disputes” if evidence collected during the case may be enough to support the claims.

Lively’s legal team maintains that the same reasoning should apply to her lawsuit.

They say the court should consider the full body of evidence already collected during the discovery process, including documents and testimony, before deciding whether the claims should move forward.

Lively And Baldoni’s Legal Fight Moves Toward Trial

The filing marks the latest development in the ongoing legal dispute tied to the film, “It Ends With Us,” where Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni worked together.

Baldoni and other defendants have filed several motions asking the court to dismiss Lively’s claims.

One of those motions seeks summary judgment, which would allow the judge to decide the case based on the evidence already gathered without sending it to a jury trial.

However, Lively’s attorneys argue that the case deserves to be evaluated through a full trial rather than being resolved prematurely.

If the case proceeds as currently scheduled, both Lively and Baldoni are expected to take the stand.

According to their attorneys, each actor may testify when the trial begins.

For now, the case remains on track for a trial date set for May 18.

Blake Lively Case Heads Toward Critical Pretrial Phase

Even though the courtroom showdown appears to be approaching, legal experts say there are still several steps remaining before the trial begins.

Brian C. Stewart, a trial attorney at Parker & McConkie who is not involved in the case, explained that preparations will soon intensify if the case continues toward a jury trial.

“With a trial scheduled to begin on May 18, the parties and the court will move into final pretrial preparations, deciding on witness lists, exhibit lists, and arguing about what evidence the jury will be allowed to hear,” Stewart said.

He also noted that both legal teams will begin building their courtroom strategies as if a trial is guaranteed.

“A settlement can still happen, right up to and even during trial, but both sides will want to prepare as if trial is inevitable. Both sides will do their best to look like they are confident and ready to convince the jury,” Stewart told PEOPLE last month.

Settlement Talks Could Continue Behind The Scenes

Despite a recent mediation session that ended without an agreement, legal experts say settlement discussions could still happen at any time.

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni spent approximately six hours in federal court earlier this year for a court-ordered mediation session with Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave.

The meeting is a common step in civil litigation designed to encourage both sides to resolve disputes without going to trial.

Although the session ended without a deal, attorneys say that does not necessarily mean negotiations are over.

Steven Jensen, another trial attorney at Parker & McConkie who is not connected to the case, explained that settlement talks often continue quietly while both sides prepare for trial.

“Settlement talks will likely continue informally all the way up until the eve of trial,” Jensen said.

He also outlined the type of work attorneys will now begin behind the scenes.

Jensen explained, “Each side will resume discovery and begin preparing pre-trial motions, which set the stage for permissible evidence at trial. Additionally, each side will need to map out a plan for trial – witnesses to call, cross-examinations of defense witnesses, exhibits to use, jury consulting and questionnaires, opening and closing arguments, and other preparations. Many cases do settle before trial despite multiple failed attempts at settlement. There is still a likelihood the parties [will] settle the case before trial.”

Judge Decision Could Shape Blake Lively Case Outcome

Another major development could arrive when Judge Lewis J. Liman rules on the pending summary judgment request.

Greg Doll, an attorney not involved in the dispute, said the judge’s decision could determine whether the lawsuit moves forward to trial or ends sooner.

“The next step in the case is that Judge Liman will issue his summary judgment order, which he is no doubt holding in abeyance until after the settlement conference to increase the chance of settlement based on the parties’ uncertainty about how he intends to rule,” Doll explained.

He added that if the judge allows the claims to continue, the case will likely move directly into the final stage before trial.

“Unless Judge Liman disposes of Lively’s case on summary judgment, the next step will be pre-trial motions and trial,” he added.

For now, Blake Lively’s legal team is pressing the court to allow the case to proceed, setting the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched celebrity legal battles of the year.

Over the years, Shakira has built a remarkable singing career, earning global recognition with chart-topping songs, record-breaking performances, and numerous awards. Now, the Colombian superstar has another milestone to celebrate after being nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, adding to her ever-growing list of achievements.

Shakira Says Being Nominated Feels ‘Surreal’

In February, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced the 17 nominees for the 2026 class. Some of the artists included in the list are Shakira, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, and Jeff Buckley.

On March 12, AP News caught up with Shakira to talk about her ongoing Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, her decades-long career, and her Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination.

The 49-year-old singer shared her elation, saying, “I feel really humbled and excited at the same time. It’s incredible to be nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a little bit surreal as well.” She added that although she has “experimented” with different genres of music throughout the years, she started as a rock artist.

Shakira has released 12 studio albums since the start of her career in 1991, when she was just 15 years old. As she told the outlet, all her albums have rock songs. “That’s an intricate part of my artistic persona. And everything that I listen to is rock music,” she added.

The Singer Feels Like All Her Wishes Are Coming True

Shakira rose to fame in the late ’90s, but it wasn’t until the release of her first English-language album, “Laundry Service,” in 2001 that she achieved global recognition. Since then, she has released several chart-topping songs, including “Hips Don’t Lie,” Whenever, Wherever,” “Underneath Your Clothes,” and the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem, “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).”

After more than three decades in the music industry, Shakira said 2026 has been amazing so far. “I don’t know what’s going on. But this year, like, all my wishes are coming true, and I think this nomination is one of those things that you probably fantasize about sometime in your career but try not to get too fixated on it,” she said.

Shakira Is Proud To Represent The Latin Community

As of 2026, there are almost 400 key figures in the music industry who have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame since its first induction class in 1986. According to reports, there are only a few inductees from the Latin community, including Carlos Santana, Richie Valens, and Linda Ronstadt.

If inducted, Shakira will make history as the first Colombian artist to join the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “I feel very proud as a Latina… I think it might be the first time for a Latino woman, someone born and raised in Latin America,” she shared, adding that it’s an honor to be nominated, especially since she has been devoted to the rock genre since she was a teen.

The singer shared that she’s ecstatic for the Latin community. “I’m happy to feel that I’m representing a part of my community there,” she said.

Shakira’s Dream Performance

Shakira will be performing at the Pyramids of Giza on April 7, decades after she first performed in the same location in 2007. The singer will also be performing at a free concert on Copacabana Beach in May. As she said, visiting different cities around the globe has been exciting for her.

When asked about her dream location, Shakira mentioned Paris. “I’ve always thought it would be pretty crazy to sing at the Eiffel Tower or the Champs-Élysées in Paris. That would be like the ultimate concert as well.”

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The singer shared that her accomplishments this year have energized her, adding that making and performing music has brought her “so much joy.”

Shakira Broke A Guinness World Record In January

Shakira holds several Guinness World Records, and in January, she added another one to her list. As previously reported by The Blast, the singer set the record for the highest-grossing tour by a Hispanic artist of all time, generating $421.6 million for the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour.

Shakira was ecstatic about her achievement and thanked her fans, crediting them for their enthusiasm for her music. “I can only be grateful for the loyalty and passion of my fans, who give meaning to everything I do, and without them, none of this would be happening,” she said.