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Michael B. Jordan Wins Oscar® for Best Actor in a Leading Role at The 98th Academy Awards | 2026

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Michael B. Jordan and his family arrive on the red carpet of the 98th Oscars® Michael B. Jordan arrives on the red carpet of the 98th Oscars® Jessie Buckley accepts the Oscar® for Actress in a Leading Role during the 98th Oscars® Ryan Coogler poses backstage with the Oscar® for Original Screenplay Teyana Taylor arrives on the red carpet of the 98th Oscars® MORE PHOTOS UPLOADING WINNERS ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE – WINNER – MICHAEL B. JORDAN – Sinners ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE – WINNER – SEAN PENN – One Battle after Another ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE – WINNER – JESSIE BUCKLEY – Hamnet ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE – WINNER – AMY MADIGAN – Weapons ANIMATED FEATURE FILM – WINNER – KPOP DEMON HUNTERS – Maggie Kang, Chris Appelhans and Michelle L.M. Wong ANIMATED SHORT FILM – WINNER – THE GIRL WHO CRIED PEARLS CASTING – WINNER – ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER – Cassandra Kulukundis CINEMATOGRAPHY – WINNER – SINNERS – Autumn Durald Arkapaw COSTUME DESIGN – WINNER – FRANKENSTEIN – Kate Hawley DIRECTING – WINNER – ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER – Paul Thomas Anderson DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM – WINNER – MR. NOBODY AGAINST PUTIN – David Borenstein, Pavel Talankin, Helle Faber and Alžběta Karásková DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM – WINNER – ALL THE EMPTY ROOMS – Joshua Seftel and Conall Jones FILM EDITING – WINNER – ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER – Andy Jurgensen INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM – WINNER – NORWAY Sentimental Value LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM – WINNER – THE SINGERS – Sam A. Davis and Jack Piatt WINNER – WO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALIVA – Alexandre Singh and Natalie Musteata MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING – WINNER – FRANKENSTEIN – Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel and Cliona Furey MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE) – WINNER – SINNERS – Ludwig Goransson MUSIC …

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Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in Michael – Photos

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Photos Courtesy of Lionsgate

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Atlanta: 17th Annual BronzeLens Women SuperStars Honors Salutes Tamara Tunie, Jasmine Burke and Jeresa Featherstone-Winfield

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BronzeLens 2026 Women Superstars Honors celebrated CBS’ groundbreaking daytime soap opera “Beyond the Gates” for its excellence behind and in front of the lens.Multitalented stage, screen, and film actress Tamara Tunie is a 2026 Legendary BronzeLens SuperStar. Tunie recently made history starring in the CBS Daytime series “Beyond the Gates,” the first soap opera to center on an affluent Black family. She stars as Anita Dupree, the family’s matriarch. Two of Tunie’s fellow female cast members will also be feted.Actress Jasmine Burke is a 2026 Visionary SuperStar. Burke was recognized for her role on “Beyond the Gates” as June, a homeless woman fighting to regain her life. Her heartfelt portrayal of her character matches her passion for serving the community with mental health resources through her Jasmine Burke Foundation. The 2026 Behind the Lens SuperStar is three-time Emmy Award-winning Costume Designer Jeresa Featherstone-Winfield. Featherstone-Winfield is captivating “Beyond the Gates” audiences with her talent in what she described as an opportunity of a lifetime and a chance to build a world from the ground up and dress characters who reflect the breadth and beauty of the Black experience.Animator, Director, Writer, Producer, and 2018 BronzeLens Women SuperStar Aoyoka Chenzira moderated an intimate ‘In Conversation’ with all the 2026 honorees culminates the awards program. CBSAtlanta News Anchor Sharon Lawson served as host for the evening and included special performances by actress/vocalist Saycon Sengbloh and Carey Durham, The Versatile Violinist. SONYA’S SNAPSHOTS

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NOW STREAMING ON YOUTUBE: Super Bowl Soulful Celebration – Cam Newton, Randy Moss & All-Star Performers

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After a powerful Super Bowl weekend premiere and national broadcasts on BET, the 27th Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is now available to stream in its entirety on YouTube, giving audiences worldwide the opportunity to watch, rewatch, and share this unforgettable night of music, faith, football, and culture. Hosted by NFL MVP and broadcaster Cam Newton, this year’s special delivers a cinematic, story-driven production anchored by the theme “Go Higher.” The program spotlights NFL legends and rising stars whose impact extends far beyond the field, alongside a dynamic musical lineup that bridges generations and genres. At the heart of the evening is Lifetime of Inspiration Honoree Randy Moss, celebrated for his electrifying career and enduring cultural influence, including a special tribute from Coach Prime, Deion Sanders. The program also recognizes Faith in Action recipient Jameis Winston for his outspoken faith and community leadership, with a salute from Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson. Additional honors include HBCU Player Spotlight recipient Javon Hargrave, the South Carolina State University alumnus whose journey reflects perseverance and purpose, and a Community Impact Spotlight presented by Disneyland® Resort, featuring a surprise family experience for NFL veteran Keenan Allen. The full show opens with a burst of Bay Area energy as hot rising stars LaRussell and Miles Minnick team up with the legendary South Carolina State University Marching 101 Band at San Francisco’s EMPIRE Studios. Blending hip-hop, gospel, and HBCU pageantry, the electrifying opener sets the tone for a celebration rooted in pride and purpose. Five-time GRAMMY® winner Lalah Hathaway, filmed at Los Angeles’ Sun Rose Room, delivers a masterclass in soul, while Pastor Mike Jr. brings high-energy intensity with flashing lights, live acoustic drums, and precision choreography. The momentum continues with a rich collaboration from Darrel Walls and PJ Morton, and a triumphant performance from gospel icon Hezekiah Walker, straight from the set of Alicia Keys’ Broadway hit Hell’s Kitchen. The evening culminates in a powerful finale as American …

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YOU, ME & TUSCANY in theaters April 10

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Sometimes the wrong place is right where you need to be. From Will Packer, the blockbuster producer of Girls Trip, the Ride Along franchise, and ten movies that have opened No. 1 at the U.S. box office—including Night School, This Christmas and Think Like a Man—comes a delicious romantic comedy about one little lie, one large Italian villa, and two people getting lost in the sauce of love. Halle Bailey (The Little Mermaid, The Color Purple) stars as Anna, a young woman who has abandoned her dreams of becoming a chef and is now drifting through her twenties with a series of bad choices. When Anna loses her house-sitting job (and housing) in one fell swoop, a chance encounter with Matteo—a handsome Italian who happens to have a villa sitting empty in Tuscany—will inspire her to jet off for Italy, against the advice of her always-honest bestie, Claire (Home Before Dark’s Aziza Scott).  But Anna’s plan to crash at Matteo’s villa, without permission, just for one night, falls apart when Matteo’s mother, Gabriella (Italian film icon Isabella Ferrari) shows up at the house unexpectedly. In a panic, Anna allows Gabriella to believe that she is Matteo’s fiancée. That little lie becomes a big problem, though, when Matteo’s cousin, Michael (Regé-Jean Page; Bridgerton, Black Bag) shows up, and Anna discovers that the heat between them may ignite a fire that will transform her life. The film’s international cast includes Lorenzo de Moor (The Legend Hunters) as Matteo, Marco Calvani (The Four Seasons) as an Italian taxi driver who befriends Anna and Academy Award® nominee Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) as Anna’s house-sitting client, Mrs. Dunn.  You, Me & Tuscany is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kat Coiro (Marry Me, Matlock), from a screenplay by Ryan Engle (Rampage, Beast), based on an original idea by Ryan Engle and Kristin Engle. The film is produced by Will Packer (Girls Trip, Ride Along films) and …

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57th NAACP Image Awards 

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BET and NAACP proudly celebrated the best in Black culture at the “57th NAACP Image Awards,” hosted by beloved comedian, actor, and multi-NAACP Image Award winner Deon Cole at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California, February 28. The evening was a powerful tribute to Black excellence, honoring leaders, visionaries, and creatives making a remarkable impact across entertainment, advocacy, and culture. In a night rooted in pride, community, and culture, Colman Domingo was presented with the President’s Award in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service. Legendary group Salt-N-Pepa and DJ Spinderella were inducted into the prestigious NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, which celebrates trailblazers whose enduring influence continues to shape the music industry for generations. Viola Davis received the Chairman’s Award, which honors individuals who excel in public service and use their platforms to ignite and drive meaningful change. In a moving tribute led by Samuel L. Jackson, the “57th NAACP Image Awards” honored a life defined by legacy, service, and an unwavering commitment to others, commemorating the remarkable impact of Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose tireless advocacy changed the world. Members of the Jackson family were also in attendance during tonight’s ceremony. Presenters for the evening included Chase Infiniti, Delroy Lindo, NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson, Halle Bailey, Janelle James, NAACP Chairman Leon W. Russell, Lionel Richie, MC Lyte, Miles Caton, Nicole Beharie, Reg-Jean Page, Regina Hall, Ryan Coogler, Ryan Michelle Bathe, Sterling K. Brown, and the cast of Tyler Perry’s Sistas. MC Lyte was the voice of the evening, returning as the in-show announcer. For winners list visit https://naacpimageawards.net/press-releases/feb-28/ Photos Courtesy of NAACP, BET, Getty Images Compiled by Beth McCain

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JAZZ IN THE GARDENS 2026 RECAP: A WEEKEND OF R&B ICONS, SOUTHERN SOUL & HIP-HOP LEGENDS

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Miami Gardens, FL – Jazz in the Gardens (JITG) 2026 delivered another unforgettable weekend of music, culture, and community as thousands gathered at Hard Rock Stadium for two days of electrifying performances. The festival’s second day also coincided with International Women’s Day, with several artists taking moments to recognize and celebrate the women in the crowd.Saturday’s overcast skies did nothing to dim the crowd’s energy as fans packed the grounds ready to sing along to timeless hits. By Sunday, the Miami heat returned in full force, setting the stage for a high-energy finale. DAY ONE HIGHLIGHTSDamien Escobar Opens with Soulful Strings Violinist Damien Escobar set the tone for the night with a smooth, genre-blending performance that reimagined classic R&B through the power of live strings. Stepping onto the stage with his violin, he drew the audience into an emotionally layered set with interpretations of “For the Love of You,” “Caught Up in the Rapture,” “Rock Steady,” and “What You Won’t Do for Love,” creating an early moment of connection that settled naturally over the crowd and laid the foundation for an evening of star-studded performances. Joe Turns JITG into Lovers’ Lane Joe followed with the kind of polished stage presence that instantly shifted the atmosphere. Dressed in a standout Tiffany blue suit, he leaned into his signature grown R&B catalog with smooth, effortless vocals, performing hits like “More & More,” “What If a Woman,” “If I Was Your Man,” and “All the Things (Your Man Won’t Do).” By the time he reached “All the Things,” the crowd was fully locked in, singing back nearly every word. D-Nice & Friends Bring the Party D-Nice & Friends turned the festival into a R&B celebration with appearances from SWV, Donell Jones, Case, and Sunshine Anderson, while cultural tastemaker Kenny Burns kept the energy high as host, hyping the crowd and singing along throughout the set. Donell …

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Michael in theaters April 24

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Jafar Jackson as Michael MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins. Written by: John Logan Starring Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long, with Miles Teller and Colman Domingo Directed By Antoine Fuqua Produced By Graham King, John Branca, John McClain FOLLOW #MICHAELMOVIE ONLINE

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FIBA Break Explained

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By Malia Fisher Now that I’ve shared some of the challenges of playing basketball overseas in my last commentary, let’s explore the positives. During a typical European season, there are FIBA (Federation International de Basketball Amateur) breaks. These breaks allow national team players to return home and compete in events like the Olympics, Eurobasket, and other national competitions. All other international basketball organizations pause during this time to accommodate these players. While national team players have limited rest, those who don’t have an opportunity to relax, travel, and explore. Depending on the team, players without national team duties can have anywhere between two and ten days off. My teammates and I were fortunate enough to have four days off to do whatever we wanted. Without hesitation, I decided to explore the enchanting city of London, England. Why London? Well, it’s always been a dream city for me. From watching movies and reading books to hearing about its mysterious and bustling atmosphere, I knew it was the first place I wanted to visit. Four days wasn’t enough time to explore everything London had to offer. Just an hour and a half plane ride away, stepping into a new city where the sights had only been imagined in my mind was an exhilarating experience. There was a flutter in my stomach, knowing that if it weren’t for basketball, I wouldn’t have this opportunity. A wave of immense gratitude washed over me. From the iconic London Eye to the historic Big Ben, from the vibrant Borough Market to every charming coffee shop bursting with personality, London has so much to offer.  As I have long since returned from a dream vacation, I return to reality where I am still nursing an ankle injury back to normal. Exactly, five weeks ago, I partially tore …

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The Physical Price of Competing as a Professional Athlete

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A few weeks ago, I discussed some of the intangible struggles that athletes face daily. In this article, I’ll share a more physical aspect. On October 26th, the Rutronik Stars Keltern faced off against Eigner Angles Noerdlingen. Despite sticking around through the first half, they were ultimately undermatched by our size and depth. Shortly after the start of the third quarter, I was put in the game. I was on track to have a record night, with 11 points in the first half, but then the universe had other plans. As I was coming down from what would have been my seventh rebound of the night, I landed on the foot of another player suffering a grade 2 ankle sprain.  I tell you this story to emphasize the following statement: Being an athlete means showing up every day willing to put your bodily health on the line. I’ve been fortunate in my basketball career to have never experienced a season-ending injury, but others are not so lucky. At the professional level, a severely sprained ankle could be the difference between your income and unemployment. A torn ACL could be the difference in a person not being able to support their family. One wrong hit or fall could be the difference in your quality of life. The physical sacrifice that athletes make on all levels is not appreciated enough, and it’s an immutable part of the job. In college, it’s very normal for your team’s athletic trainer to accompany you to the hospital, speak on your behalf to the doctor, and support your needs while you’re there. In contrast, Germany and my team specifically don’t have a team-specific athletic trainer, and I don’t speak German. So, while my team traveled to Lithuania to play in the Eurocup this week, I stayed …

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