Author Archives: Sonya's Spotlight
← Older posts Newer posts →PROJECT HAIL MARY
March 30, 2026Science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) wakes up on a spaceship light years from home with no recollection of who he is or how he got there. As his memory returns, he begins to uncover his mission: solve the riddle of the mysterious substance causing the sun to die out. He must call on his scientific knowledge and unorthodox ideas to save everything on Earth from extinction… but an unexpected friendship means he may not have to do it alone. Screenplay by: Drew Goddard Based on the novel by: Andy Weir Run time 2 hours, 36 minutes Genres Action, Adventure, Science Fiction Starring Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller, James Ortiz, Lionel Boyce, Ken Leung, Milana Vayntrub, Priya Kansara Directed By Phil Lord & Christopher Miller Produced By Amy Pascal, p.g.a., Ryan Gosling, p.g.a., Phil Lord, p.g.a., Christopher Miller, p.g.a., Aditya Sood, p.g.a., Rachel O’Connor, p.g.a., Andy Weir Executive Produced By Patricia Whitcher, Lucy Winn Kitada, Nikki Baida, Ken Kao, Drew Goddard, Sarah Esberg
Posted in TV | Leave a commentTANK’S A TRIPLE THREAT: #1 HIT, NEW HULU ROLE & VERZUZ SHOWDOWN!
March 27, 2026Tank is hitting a new stride, and the timing could not be bigger. The multi-Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling artist has officially earned his 11th No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart with his latest single “Control,” continuing a run that has made him one of the most exciting forces in R&B. “Control” is connecting in a real way. The record taps into the energy of Janet Jackson’s classic while still feeling fresh, giving fans something nostalgic yet very much of the moment. It is another reminder of Tank’s ability to deliver records that stick, building on a catalog that has defined his staying power and influence in the genre. In addition, Tank is stepping into a major television moment. It was announced that he has joined Season 4 of Hulu’s hit drama Reasonable Doubt alongside Meagan Good. He will take on the role of Eric Cropper, a super-wealthy R&B star and longtime client of Jax, played by Emayatzy Corinealdi. Described as charming, calculating, and used to getting his way at all costs, the character marks a standout addition to the series’ next chapter. The show, which has become a runaway hit for Hulu, continues to build on its strong ensemble cast, and Tank’s addition brings a new layer of intrigue and star power. No stranger to the screen, he has previously appeared in projects like HBO’s Togetherness and BET’s The New Edition Story and The Bobby Brown Story, consistently leaving a lasting impression with each role. And the momentum keeps building. Tank was geared up for one of the most anticipated R&B events in recent memory as he prepared to face off against Tyrese in Verzuz last night. Since the announcement, fans had been vocal, calling it a true celebration of R&B and a matchup long overdue. For Tank, this is what he lives for. Known for his confidence, stage presence, and deep catalog, he stepped into the Verzuz battle ready to compete. With 11 No. 1 records, years of hits, and the culture paying attention, he approached …
Posted in Elevate, Spotlight | Leave a commentFrom Atlanta Dreams to Stardom: Tameka ‘Tiny’ Harris Gets Real on Uncensored | Thursday, March 26 at 8/7C
March 24, 2026The Xscape Star Opens up about Fame, Family, and Finding Her Voice in Her Own Story. Tiny Reflects on meeting her husband T.I. for the first time.https://youtu.be/5g2rQBPNxFc?si=xNSQw79O4acm0Tcz Tiny Harris on the highs and lows of her marriage to T.I. https://youtu.be/OWoVaP0MFEI?si=3Cf1Bi43DtMfm7z2 Tiny Harris remembers The Notorious B.I.G. apologizing about his diss song to Xscape the same night he was killed.https://youtu.be/NQ398Q_dxy0?si=mwMmPHHyawJB-xYs Tiny remembers not feeling supported by Jermaine Dupri and her group when she got pregnant with her first child.https://youtu.be/QxoaAnbutRI?si=xUBt-bGSxbKthM5I WHO: TV One premieres an all-new episode of Uncensored featuring Award-winning singer and Xscape member Tameka ‘Tiny’ Harris.WHAT: Uncensored – Tiny Harris traces her rise from Atlanta teen with big dreams to chart-topping star. Tiny candidly addresses the highs and lows of fame, life with T.I., motherhood, and the ongoing journey to define herself beyond headlines.WHEN: Thursday, March 26, 8PM/7CWHERE: TV OneWHY: Tiny’s story is about identity in the midst of scrutiny. Her episode explores marriage, music, motherhood, and maintaining self-worth in the glare of public opinion. ________________________________________________________________________________________ Shaunie Henderson, T-Boz on UNCENSORED Powerful Testimony, Transparency, and Triumph. MUST-SEE EPISODESThese episodes offer meaningful moments for reflection and dialogue — touching on faith, perseverance, purpose, and the importance of community support.We encourage you to share this opportunity with your church members, small groups, and ministry leaders. Start your weekend early and tune in Thursdays at 8p/7c. Plus, join the conversation on social with #UncensoredTVOne.Let’s continue uplifting stories that inspire strength, truth, and transformation.
Posted in Fashion | Leave a commentTeyana Taylor Named Chief Curator Of ESSENCE Festival of Culture® 2026, Bringing Her Signature To The Big Easy
March 20, 2026Teyana Taylor arrives on the red carpet of the 98th Oscars® – Photo Credit – Etienne Laurent / The Academy The multi-hyphenate artist and her creative collective, The Aunties, will shape the cultural and creative direction of this year’s ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans. ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® has officially tapped Teyana Taylor and her creative collective, The Aunties, as Chief Curator for its 2026 festival, scheduled for July 3–5 in New Orleans. This newly minted role positions Taylor to shape the festival’s programming with her distinctive approach rooted in Black culture, feminine power, and intentional storytelling. An Oscar- and GRAMMY-nominated artist, Golden Globe winner, and ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood honoree, Taylor is no stranger to curating experiences that celebrate Black excellence. Through The Aunties, founded in 2017, she has built a reputation for bold, genre-defying work that honors artists’ visions while elevating their creative stories—a philosophy she now brings to the festival’s stages, spaces, and interactive experiences. For decades, the festival has welcomed attendees of all ages, but it has affectionately been known as the “Auntie Festival”—a cultural gathering where Black women are centered, celebrated, and seen across generations. The alignment feels especially fitting: Taylor and her creative collective now step in as the festival’s curatorial voice, bringing that same spirit of care, vision, and cultural leadership to every stage, conversation, and activation. “ESSENCE has always been more than a festival, it is a reunion,” Taylor said. “It is the place where Black women see themselves reflected at full scale: in their joy, in their genius, and in their magic. I don’t take this role lightly, I’m a true Auntie! The one in your corner, cheering you on, telling you the truth with love, and making sure every room you walk into knows you belong …
Posted in Celebrity Profile | Leave a commentSonya Jenkins’ Interviews, Articles & Social Scenes . . .
March 19, 2026“I am committed to encouraging others to live authentically while pursuing their purpose.” Sonya Jenkins Sonya Jenkins, an Atlanta native, is an independent filmmaker, author, actress, entertainment journalist, and publisher. With four films currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video, Jenkins continues to build a dynamic, multi-platform career. Her latest project, Smiley, The Flight Attendant—her first animated short—screened at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood as an Official Selection of the Indie Night Film Festival. She recently completed Smiley’s Sky-High Christmas, a holiday-themed animated film that continues the Smiley franchise and is slated for film festival submissions and future streaming distribution. Her published works include Shayla’s Catch, Motivation: The Path to Inner Power, Fiery Charm, and Smiley, The Flight Attendant, all available globally. As an actress, Jenkins has worked with acclaimed directors Ava DuVernay, Tyler Perry, and Lee Daniels. Among her notable roles is “The Coca-Cola Girl” in Lifetime Television’s The Trip to Bountiful, starring the late Cicely Tyson. Beyond the screen, Jenkins has held influential industry roles, including serving as the inaugural Entertainment Editor for Upscale Magazine, where she interviewed iconic entertainers, wrote cover stories, and hosted red carpet events. She has appeared as a speaker at the Congressional Black Caucus Book Pavilion in Washington, D.C., and as a featured author at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans. Her experience also includes serving as a Social Media Moderator for Delta Air Lines Inflight Service and speaking at the Motherless Daughters Foundation’s Youth in Aviation Camp in Atlanta. In 2025, Jenkins was named one of RESURGENCE’s 100 Most Influential Leaders to Watch, an honor presented by Global Women Wealth Warriors during the Red Dress Gala at Atlanta City Hall, accompanied by an official GW3 commendation acknowledged by Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp. In 2026, she was further recognized as “Most Influential” by the BB Online Awards. Jenkins earned a Bachelor …
Posted in Sonya's Highlights and More | Leave a commentNew Edition Nominated For Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame As Sold-Out Arena Tour Ignites National Praise
March 18, 2026Multi-platinum supergroup New Edition: Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky, Mike, Ralph, and Johnny, has been officially nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, marking a defining milestone for the group whose influence reshaped modern R&B and established the blueprint for today’s global boy-band phenomenon. The group credits the momentum behind its Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination and the success of its current national arena run, The New Edition Way Tour, with numerous sold-out dates, largely to the unwavering support of the NE4Lifers. For decades, NE4Lifers have mobilized across cities and generations, helping drive sold-out arenas and sustained cultural relevance nearly 50 years into the group’s career. “New Edition isn’t just another R&B group — they are the blueprint for American boy bands. Before the late ’80s and ’90s pop explosion, New Edition was defining the sound, style, and formula everyone else followed,” said ABC (WFAA). Across the country, critics have underscored both the group’s legacy and live performance excellence: The Los Angeles Times noted: “New Edition commanded the stage with undeniable energy, delivering polished, in-sync choreography, a testament to the foundation laid early on and the lasting imprint of the band’s original manager and choreographer, Brooke Payne.” Pollstar emphasized their sustained vitality: “Here, seemingly sipping from the fountain of youth, New Editions’ Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Bobby Brown, Ronnie DeVoe, Johnny Gill, and Ralph Tresvant pack unwavering lead vocals and strong steps.” Essence affirmed their historic importance: “New Edition came back and took us through their ’80s catalog… establishing them as one of the most important groups in R&B history.” The Detroit News wrote: “They’re the original boy band — everyone from New Kids on the Block to BTS owes them a debt of gratitude.” And the Chicago Sun-Times concluded: “Nearly 50 years later, the OGs showed why they still wear the crown.” New Edition redefined youth-driven R&B-pop by combining vocal precision, synchronized choreography, …
Posted in R&B Pop Culture | Leave a commentShaunie Henderson, T-Boz on UNCENSORED
March 17, 2026Powerful Testimony, Transparency, and Triumph. On Thursday nights at 8p/7c, UNCENSORED on TV ONE continues to share bold, authentic stories from voices who are shaping culture while standing firm in faith and purpose. MUST-SEE EPISODES These episodes offer meaningful moments for reflection and dialogue — touching on faith, perseverance, purpose, and the importance of community support.We encourage you to share this opportunity with your church members, small groups, and ministry leaders. Start your weekend early and tune in Thursdays at 8p/7c. Plus, join the conversation on social with #UncensoredTVOne.Let’s continue uplifting stories that inspire strength, truth, and transformation.
Posted in Fashion | Leave a commentMichael B. Jordan Wins Oscar® for Best Actor in a Leading Role at The 98th Academy Awards | 2026
March 16, 2026Michael 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® Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Hannah Beachler and Ryan Coogler attend the Governors Ball following the 98th Oscars® Michael B. Jordan accepts the Oscar® for Actor in a Leading Role during the live ABC Telecast of the 98th Oscars® The 98th Academy Awards were held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood to honor the movies released in 2025. Below is a list of all the winners of the evening. 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 Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski CASTING WINNER (new category) 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 WINNERS (it’s a tie!) THE SINGERS Sam A. Davis and Jack Piatt AND TWO …
Posted in In The Spotlight, 98TH ACADEMY AWARDS | Leave a commentAtlanta: 17th Annual BronzeLens Women SuperStars Honors Salutes Tamara Tunie, Jasmine Burke and Jeresa Featherstone-Winfield
March 15, 2026BronzeLens 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. Video: https://youtu.be/2EDpsLPGMqo?si=u9G8BXRqQG4T4oOI SONYA’S SNAPSHOTS History was made at the BronzeLens Brunch with the Brothers. For the first time ever, 11 male cast members from the historic series “Beyond the Gates” on CBS joined us for an inspiring conversation moderated by Ray Cornelius. As a groundbreaking new daytime drama already making television history, it was an honor to welcome the men of “Beyond the Gates” and hear their stories, …
Posted in Atlanta Scene | Leave a commentNOW STREAMING ON YOUTUBE: Super Bowl Soulful Celebration – Cam Newton, Randy Moss & All-Star Performers
March 15, 2026After 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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