A viral TikTok video has reignited public admiration for Judge David Fleischer of Harris County, Texas, known for his rigorous scrutiny of cases involving Black defendants. The latest clip shows Fleischer dismissing charges against a motorist accused of interference with the duties of a public servant after a traffic stop, questioning the sufficiency of the evidence presented by prosecutors. The video, shared widely this week, has been viewed nearly 11 million times.

The case involved a Black driver stopped for alleged speeding and unsafe lane changes. The prosecutor’s affidavit claimed the man exited his vehicle during the stop, prompting an officer to demand he return inside. When the motorist hesitated and asked, “Do I have to?” the officer reportedly attempted to detain him, citing resistance when the man “tensed up and locked his arms.” Fleischer, however, found the reasoning inadequate, repeatedly asking, “What’s he doing wrong?” as the prosecution struggled to substantiate the charges.

Fleischer’s decision turned on a lack of probable cause, which he emphasized throughout the hearing. Addressing the prosecution’s argument that exiting the car constituted interference, Fleischer appeared incredulous. “Really? Just getting out of the car? No,” he declared before dismissing the case. His pointed questions and insistence on the evidence underscored his reputation as a judge who does not tolerate weak charges, particularly those that appear to target Black defendants unfairly.

Viewers on TikTok lauded the judge’s handling of the case, with many praising his restraint in advising the defendant not to speak, potentially avoiding self-incrimination. Others highlighted Fleischer’s closing remarks to the defendant, which balanced stern advice—“Be careful out there”—with empathy: “Life is hard as it is. People are always out to get you. Be nice, and things will go well for you.”

This latest viral moment has renewed calls for greater accountability within the justice system and reminded viewers of the importance of judicial elections. Comments on the video reflected a broader sentiment that Fleischer’s approach exemplifies what fairness in the courtroom should look like, with one viewer noting, “This is why local elections to vote for judges is so important.”

The passing of James Earl Jones signifies the conclusion of a pivotal era in American culture. Jones, along with Harry Belafonte and Sidney Poitier, was one of the few Black actors who rose to prominence during the 1960s, a time marked by racial tension and social upheaval. While each of these figures engaged with the political struggles of the period in their own ways, Jones distinguished himself by using his performances to comment on race and identity. His contributions came primarily through the art of storytelling, rather than direct political activism.

In 1967, as racial unrest flared across the U.S. and more than 150 riots erupted in cities nationwide, Jones was already a well-established actor, known for his work in both theater and television. While contemporaries like Belafonte took to public demonstrations and Poitier offered financial support to civil rights activists, Jones took on a different challenge. He chose to play the lead role in The Great White Hope, a play by Howard Sackler based on the life of Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight boxing champion. The production became a significant cultural moment, addressing the systemic racism that Johnson faced during his rise to fame.

The Great White Hope explored the life of Jack Jefferson, a fictionalized version of Jack Johnson, and delved into his turbulent relationship with a white woman, Eleanor Bachman, from 1908 to 1915. Jefferson’s refusal to adhere to societal expectations, especially in his personal life and professional career, made him a target for legal and social persecution. This defiance mirrored the struggles of many Black Americans during the Civil Rights Movement, making the play a powerful commentary on race relations in the U.S. Jones’ portrayal of Jefferson earned him a Tony Award, cementing his legacy as an actor capable of tackling complex roles with significant social implications.

Jones’ performance deeply resonated with audiences, including Muhammad Ali, who had been stripped of his own heavyweight title in 1967 for refusing to fight in the Vietnam War. Ali famously remarked that The Great White Hope reflected his own struggles, demonstrating the timelessness of Jefferson’s story and the relevance it had to ongoing battles for racial justice. Dominic Taylor, Acting Chair of Theater at UCLA, noted that Jones wasn’t just playing a character—he was challenging societal norms and contributing to the broader cultural conversation on Black identity and strength .

James Earl Jones’ work in The Great White Hope illustrated how art could serve as a form of activism, engaging audiences in conversations about race, power, and defiance. As Taylor observed, Jones was “looking to change the culture” by reshaping how Americans understood what it meant to be a fighter . His contributions to theater and film were not just performances, but cultural interventions that continue to influence discussions on race and justice today.

At a recent Harlem Row Fashion event, supermodel Naomi Campbell found herself in the spotlight for more than just her runway prowess. During the event, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour presented Campbell with an award, but not without a remark that raised eyebrows. Wintour began her speech by saying, “I am a very punctual person, and I have the honor of presenting tonight to someone who is often late.” The comment, aimed at Campbell, quickly went viral, with many perceiving it as a thinly veiled jab. Although the supermodel wasn’t present at the time of the remark, the exchange set off a flurry of online chatter.

Wintour’s speech continued with praise, acknowledging Campbell’s fearless advocacy for equality throughout her career. “Naomi is honestly one of the most fearless people I know… she began to speak the truth about inequality and injustice when it was not so common to do so,” Wintour said. However, any further interaction between the two powerhouses was cut short when Wintour left the event before Campbell’s arrival, reportedly due to other commitments. Harper’s Bazaar editor-in-chief Samira Nasr ultimately presented the Fashion Icon Award to Campbell, who later took the stage with her own brand of sharp wit.

In her acceptance speech, Campbell graciously thanked Wintour for attending, while also subtly addressing the editor’s earlier comment. “Everything’s meant to work out the way it’s meant to work out,” Campbell said, adding, “I’d much rather have this.” The model, known for her unapologetic attitude, remarked on her commitment to speaking the truth, acknowledging both the professional support Wintour had offered her over the years and the complex dynamics of their relationship. Social media lit up following the exchange, with fans celebrating Campbell’s “legendary” clapback while reigniting discussions about Wintour’s fraught history with diversity in the fashion industry.

Edward Dorsey, the son of a prominent Atlanta music producer, has been arrested for fatally shooting his father during a family dispute. The shooting took place on the morning of May 2 inside an Arium Lenox Apartment in Brookhaven, police confirmed.

The 2100 block of Gables Drive was swarmed with police after reports of a shooting were called in. The authorities identified the victim as Clinton Dorsey, a 48-year-old most well-known in the Atlanta music industry under the name “D-Billz.”

Clinton’s business partner Kal Austin reported that D-Billz was with his son Edward — who was visiting him at his apartment. Austin recalled stepping out of the apartment for just a moment when father and son got into a heated argument.

Brookhaven police said Edward Dorsey had a gun at this time.

Brookhaven Police Sgt. John Clifford said, “That argument turned to being physical, and that turned to Mr. Dorsey, retrieving a firearm, and shooting Clinton Dorsey.”

As reported by Fox 5 Atlanta, Clinton and Edward were arguing over the family business of dog breeding, and the argument escalated into a physical altercation.

When the argument turned physical, “the son went and retrieved a semi-automatic pistol and shot and killed Mr. Dorsey,” Sgt. John Clifford told the outlet. Police placed Edward under arrest and charged with voluntary manslaughter.

Source: Music Producer Clinton ‘D-Billz’ Dorsey Shot And Killed In Familial Argument

A new eight-episode installment of Goosebumps is in the works.

Disney has greenlit Goosebumps for a second season. Based upon R.L. Stine’s worldwide bestselling Scholastic book series of the same name, the second season of Goosebumps will have a brand-new story, setting and cast.

“Audiences everywhere fell in love with the series’ chills, thrills, heart and humor, making it one of Disney Branded Television’s most-watched shows of last year,” said Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television. “We can’t wait to dive deeper into the brilliant mind of R.L. Stine, and to collaborate once again with Sony Pictures Television, Scholastic Entertainment, and our fantastic creative team to bring an entirely new mystery to Disney+ for season two.”

The second season of Goosebumps will document a pair of teenage siblings who discover a threat within their home, setting off a chain of events that unravel a profound mystery revolving around five teenagers who mysteriously vanished in 1994.

“We are incredibly proud of the work of our writers, producers, cast and crew and the vision they brought to season one, which a new generation of fans are loving alongside those who grew up in R.L. Stine’s iconic world,” says Katherine Pope, president of Sony Pictures Television Studios. “Like when you cracked open a new book in the ‘Goosebumps’ series, we can’t wait to see how the writers flip the show on its head as we explore the series as an anthology. Thanks to Disney Branded Television, who remain steadfast partners throughout this wonderfully chilling journey.”

Source: ‘Goosebumps’ Renewed For Season 2 At Disney+: Here’s What We Know So Far

Source: Courtesy / Paramount

Showtime secured the U.S. rights for the half-hour series Dreaming Whilst Black. The A24 and Big Deal Films will make their streaming debut on Paramount+ in the fall. Read more about the show’s new home and show description below.

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Co-created and co-written by and starring Adjani Salmon, Dreaming Whilst Black is adapted from the web series and acclaimed Big Deal Films-produced BBC pilot of the same name, which garnered a string of award wins and nominations for Salmon, including the 2022 BAFTA for Emerging Talent: Fiction and Screen International Star of Tomorrow.

Co-produced by UK-based indie Big Deal Films and A24, the series is loosely inspired by real-life events. It follows Kwabena (Salmon), an aspiring filmmaker stuck in a dead-end recruitment job who takes the first step to achieving his dream. However, he is quickly confronted with the tribulations of balancing finances, love and his own sense of reality.

Dani Moseley (Everything I Know About Love) reprises her role as Amy alongside Salmon. They are joined by Demmy Ladipo (We Are Lady Parts) as Maurice, Rachel Adedeji (Champion) as Funmi, Babirye Bukilwa (WE HUNT TOGETHER) as Vanessa, Alexander Owen (Jurassic World Dominion) as Adam and Will Hislop (Gangs of London) as Lewis.

Dhanny Joshi and Thomas Stogdon executive produce for Big Deal Films, along with Salmon. The series is written by Ali Hughes, Salmon and Yemi Oyefuwa, and directed by Jermain Julien, Koby Adom, Sebastian Thiel and Joelle Mae David. It’s produced by Nicola Gregory.

Source: Showtime Acquires US Rights For A24 Series ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’

Jill Scott’s Blues Babe Foundation celebrates 16 years helping youth make dreams come true, showing kids more so they want more!

A packed group of supporters then entered the auditorium to learn more about the Blues Babe Foundation as Dr. Val Gay, member of the Board of Directors, who happens to be a classically trained soprano, came on stage sharing with the audience all of the dynamic things the foundation has been doing for underserved children in the Philadelphia and Camden area that begin from grades 4th through 7th.  She went on to share the foundation keeps track of the participants all the way through High School. Another member of the BBF Board of Directors, Branden Pankey, Vice President Live Nation Urban, then came on to discuss how the BBF is sensitive to the needs of the community and how thankful they are for the community along with the  corporate supporters including the fantastic work that along with the financial resources, Pepsco, has provided.  

Zendaya attends the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on February 26, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

*When it comes to the most influential Black women that are searched on the internet, Zendaya ranks highest on the list.

Zendaya’s name had 2.71 million monthly average Google searches in 2022, making her the most-searched African American woman of the year, Yahoo reports. The second-most Google-searched Black woman in America last year was Serena Williams with 1.65 million monthly searches. Meghan Markle takes the third place spot with 1.56 million Google searches per month.

In related news, Meghan and Prince Harry recently held a small christening ceremony for their daughter Lilibet at the family’s house in Montecito, Calif. Tyler Perry flew out a 10-person gospel choir from Atlanta to perform at the event, NBC News reports.

Prince William, Kate Middleton, King Charles III, and Queen Consort Camilla were reportedly invited to the ceremony but did not attend.

Source: Zendaya is Most Googled Black American Woman of the Year

OPINION: The Brooklyn-based trio’s 1993 debut album is a production masterpiece featuring that song that literally everybody knows and quotes.

Editor’s note: The following article is an op-ed, and the views expressed are the author’s own. Read more opinions on theGrio.

Digable Planets — the Brooklyn-based rap trio of Butterfly, Ladybug Mecca and Doodlebug — was always a group that I felt both should’ve been more revered while also understanding why maybe they weren’t. They’re an enigma, I suppose. For starters, they made two absolutely amazing albums in 1993’s “Reachin’ (A New Refutation of Time and Space)” and 1994’s “Blowout Comb,” the latter being one of the Blackest musical offerings of all time — I will forever die on that hill.

But even the group’s first album is an absolute production marvel. The album is a beautifully produced (and mixed; that cannot be stated enough) “jazz rap” album. It features jazz-heavy samples in a way that I’m sure even Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest had to appreciate. Digable Planets’ most famous musical offering from their debut album, “Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat),” is as perfect a song as you’re going to get, perfectly meshing Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers’ “Stretching” with hip-hop drums and lyrical catchphrases that still work in 2023 — 30 years later. There’s a reason why it was a chart hit and won a Grammy — it’s dope, plain and simple. And if you ever needed an example of “jazz rap,” this is your song.https://www.youtube.com/embed/cM4kqL13jGM?feature=oembed

But that jazz-rap label is limiting. The album doesn’t necessarily just feel like jazz. Naw, to me, the album feels like New York City. When I listen to songs like “What Cool Breezes Do” and “Nickel Bags,” I feel like I’m listening to the soundtrack for a walk down a Brooklyn street. It’s Timberland music, through and through, to me. Perhaps that perspective was driven by my location in the South when it dropped.

When “Reachin’” was released, I was still eight years away from my first time ever stepping foot on a New York City street, but I can say with confidence that this album had the vibe I felt. The whole album’s feel is New York City. Lyrically, it fits perfectly fine in the early-to-mid ’90s. The members of the group weren’t exactly lyrical titans, but they sounded fine on the beats, and unlike some classic albums from the time, I didn’t spend the entire listening wishing somebody else had bum-rushed the studio session. Plus, vocally, each member had a distinct enough voice to be interesting.

This is why I’ve always been confused by the lack of street-level reverence for this album. By all accounts, most folks don’t really think heavily about Digable Planets as essential ’90s listening, short of “Rebirth of Slick.” The album production was dope, the lyrics were fine, and it had a monster hit single.

Source: Digable Planets’ first album, ‘Reachin’ (A New Refutation of Time and Space)’ just turned 30. This album should be more revered than it is.

Lauryn Hill is gearing up for the 25th anniversary of her iconic album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, and might be going on tour to celebrate.

The Grammy award-winning singer took to the stage over the weekend to perform at ONE Musicfest in Atlanta and seemingly teased at a 2023 tour. Photographer Julia Beverly shared clips from the show on Instagram as well as Lauryn’s confirmation of an upcoming tour.

“Atlanta, we love you so much. 25 years ago, so we gonna be back with those songs the way you can recognize them, ayyy?” Hill told the crowd.

A post shared by Julia Beverly (@juliabeverly)

In Beverly’s caption, she shed more light on Hill’s tour announcement.

“She announced (last slide) that she will be performing ‘those songs the way you can recognize them’ next year in honor of the 25th anniversary,” Beverly shared before offering a suggestion to whoever will be in charge of the tour’s lighting.

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“(As a photographer I just ask that they please put a spotlight on her on stage, lmao [laughing my a** off], backlighting killing me),” she jokingly noted.

Hill released her solo debut back in August 1998 to critical acclaim. Featuring contributions from Mary J. Blige, D’Angelo, and Carlos Santana, the album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart after selling more than 422,000 sales in its first week, Complex reported.

The album helped her sweep the 1999 Grammy awards, where she took home five statues, including Album of the Year, Best R&B Album, and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “Doo Wop (That Thing).”

In February 2021, The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) confirmed Hill’s debut album went diamond and has sold more than 10,000,000 units. The feat put Hill alongside the likes of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Adele’s 21, Britney Spears’ …Baby One More Time, Eminem’s The Marshall Mathers LP, and 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me as diamond-certified artists.

Source: Lauryn Hill Teases 2023 Tour to Celebrate 25th Anniversary of ‘Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’