Black History continues to happen everyday. This month, we decided create a Superhero Guide To Black History Month highlighting musicians, politicians, actors and athletes of influence who are not only dominating in their crafts, but are also helping shape culture in unforgettable ways. Below is a character guide to one of our featured heroes, Serena Williams . Sign Up For Our Newsletter! Close Thank you for subscribing! Please be sure to open and click your first newsletter so we can confirm your subscription. Email Submit Civilian Name : Serena Williams Super Name : Tenny Blitz Superpower : Serving In Everything Origin : Tennis Conquered Territory : With her phenomenal forehand, Serena Williams came into the tennis world and took it by storm. Since the early 1990’s, Serena’s father got her as well as her sisters into the sport while still trying to help them still live a normal teenage life. During her career as early as 1999, she’s won the U.S. Open, French Open, Wimbledon, Australian Open as well as several gold medals in the Olympics. Off the tennis court Serena can be found in music videos with Beyonce , commercials for Nike, Gatorade and on the cover of magazines such as GQ and Vogue as well as putting together her fashion line for SerenaWilliams.com. She also inspires young athletic girls to focus on their dreams in the sports they love despite what others may say. In 2017 at eight weeks pregnant Serena won the Australian Open and gave birth to her baby girl, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr. and married the love of her life, Alexis Ohanian later that year. Serena in 2018 topped the Forbes’ list as one of the highest-paid female athletes and continues to help out the youth with her foundations and donations. ALSO TRENDING ON RICKEYSMILEYMORNINGSHOW.COM : Vintage Photos Of Black History Being Made In America “Black Panther” Returns To Theaters For Free In Honor Of Black History Month These Teachers Have The Most Inspiring Black History Month Decorations We’ve Ever Seen! Follow @TheRSMS PHOTO: Creative Services – iOne/Getty
TV One is celebrating Black History Month with a tribute to inspirational black women and a full schedule of programs that exemplifies this year’s theme: Represent Change. Across its digital and social platforms, TV One will feature in-depth profiles of influential black women documenting their start, their struggle and ultimately, how they became champions of change. Both elements of the campaign will run throughout February. “This is a pivotal time for women of color in our nation and we’re proud to amplify the voices of women who are influencing change in our society as part of our Black History Month programming,” General Manager Michelle Rice said. “TV One will also feature programs highlighting the rich stories of women behind the Civil Rights Movement and other heroes who changed the course of American history.” While the network focuses all year long on all facets of Black life and culture, Black History Month on TV One is a special time to honor the tremendous contributions that African Americans have made throughout the world. Every Wednesday beginning Wednesday, February 6 at 9 p.m. ET, the network will air movies that celebrate women at the forefront of important moments in history, including the TV One original film Behind the Movement, A Raisin in the Sun, Cadillac Records and more. Additionally, TV One will present weekly themed episodes of its signature Unsung Hollywood beginning Wednesday, February 6 at 8 p.m. ET featuring female artists who’ve inspired change that will lead into the feature movie presentations including Vanessa Bell Calloway, Pam Grier, Eartha Kitt and Sheryl Lee Ralph. Rounding out the network’s Black History Month line-up is a three-day marathon of the classic sitcom “Good Times” in honor of the show’s 45th anniversary on February 8. The “Good Times” marathon begins on Friday, February 8 at 10 a.m. ET and airs through Sunday, February 10 until 4:30 a.m. ET.
Text “RICKEY” to 71007 to join the Rickey Smiley Morning Show mobile club for exclusive news. ( Terms and conditions ). Source: Brian To/WENN.com / WENN Jess Hilarious is usually making fans laugh with her “Jess With The Mess” entertainment news on social media and on the hit show “Rel,” but some are a little upset with her after some recent events. According to Love B. Scott on social media she went back and forth with someone in the comments section of a post and called them a ‘f*ggot.’ Sign Up For Our Newsletter! Close Thank you for subscribing! Please be sure to open and click your first newsletter so we can confirm your subscription. Email Submit After the incident people began talking about it on social media and recently Jess went on social media to apologize. So this happened. pic.twitter.com/dMVqLOF2Mk — Taylor Gray (@officialtaygray) February 4, 2019 SEE ALSO: Jess Hilarious Explains The Problem With Cardi B’s Baby Name [EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW] On Instagram , she wrote in the caption of her video, “Listen, I have NEVER been homophobic in my fucking life. I love gay people as they love me. Yesterday I called a young man a “faggot” For disrespecting me. And for that, to the LGBT community I sincerely apologize. However if I feel disrespected and that someone hit below the belt, whether they are gay or not, I’m going to return the same energy. I’m trying to control my anger at this point in my career By being more positive, but just like anybody else, it’s a growing process. I ask that the LGBT gives respect as they want it. If you feel as if you can’t forgive me and I am still canceled on your watch I totally understand Still Love you guys.” Listen, I have NEVER been homophobic in my fucking life. I love gay people as they love me. Yesterday I called a young man a “faggot” For disrespecting me. And for that, to the LGBT… https://t.co/ZVWVJlYVs6 — Jess Hilarious (@jess_hilarious) February 5, 2019 Some didn’t feel her apology was sincere and took to social media to talk about it. Watch the apology, here and tell us your thoughts. “I'm not homophobic!! I just use slurs when someone makes me sad” — quinn hansen (@VPhoebiden) February 5, 2019 Jess Hilarious is y'all karma for hyping up every single person on the internet. Y'all always letting trash people WIN. She's never been funny but she's always been MEAN. Her jokes consists of her literally insulting and attacking people. How's that comedy? — Bran (@McQueenB_) February 5, 2019 Girl we saw your TRUE REACTION and REAL FEELINGS to what you did. And this is not your first transphobic or homophobic transgression. But okay. pic.twitter.com/a7Bm632SAy — Multipotentialite. (@JuwantheCurator) February 5, 2019 Check out the top 20 comedians below! ALSO TRENDING ON RICKEYSMILEYMORNINGSHOW.COM : Bow Wow Arrested In Atlanta After Fight With Woman 21 Savage Arrested By ICE Agents, Says He’s A UK Citizen Jussie Smollett Speaks Out For the 1st Time After Attack [ione_media_gallery src=”https://rickeysmileymorningshow.com” id=”1806098″ overlay=”true”] Follow @TheRSMS
Source: Hot 97’s Summerjam 2017 at the Metlife Stadium in New Jersey Featuring: Desiigner Where: East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States When: 11 Jun 2017 Credit: WENN.com Uploaded By Godspeed Add Desiigner to the growing list of people who are not feeling Kanye . The Brooklyn rapper took issue with his record label boss last week. As spotted on High Snobiety, Desiigner addressed the rather large elephant in the room about his career which seemed to stall after the hype of his hit single “Panda” died off via an IG live video. “I brought G.O.O.D Music back and everybody know that. So what ya’ll talking about I fell off? It only dropped two mixtapes bro; two. Ya’ll people mad ungrateful; mad ungrateful for the music I gave ya’ll.” He also took time to make it clear that Yeezy has done very little for him professionally and any moves being made are because of him. “Nobody is doing this sh*t for me, bro. Nobody is doing this sh*t for me. I had signed to Kanye West. The biggest n**ga. Y’all n**gas think he’s the genius. Y’all think that n***a’s sh*t. But to me, n**ga, that n**ga’s crazy, n**ga. To me, n**ga, I’ve been doing this sh*t myself.” While the “Timmy Turner” rapper may have a point it would not be fair to point out that West seemingly made “Panda” that much bigger when he flipped it to “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 2”. You can view Desiigner’s rant below. Ironically he followed up the broadside by dropping a new song called “Finesse”. Peep it below. — Photo: WENN
What Men Want hits theaters next week. The latest movie was super producer Will Packer that stars Taraji P Henson tells the story of Ali Davis, a successful black woman trying to make partner at a big sports agency in Atlanta that has clients like Lisa Leslie , Shaquille O’Neal and more. When she gets passed up for a big promotion to someone who isn’t as good as she is, Ali starts wonders what else she needs to do to succeed in a man’s world. Hoping to find answers from a psychic who makes her drink a weird concoction that suddenly allows her to hear what men are thinking. Using her newfound ability, Ali starts to turn the tables on her obnoxious male colleagues while racing to sign the next basketball superstar. This movie highlights a strong woman who isn’t afraid to make the first move on a guy, puts her career first and is willing to stop at nothing to get to the top. While watching this hilarious tale of Ali Davis I drew a parallel to some of my successful Black female friends who haven’t been able to find love. So I asked Taraji her thoughts on why men are cautious when approaching successful Black women. Taraji thinks when Black women label themselves as strong it can scar potential dates away. Taraji explained that “A lot of men feel like they don’t have anything to offer,” a successful Black woman but they need to, “Stop thinking of it in terms of material things. Usually, when a woman is successful and she’s made her way in the world and she’s got her money, she’s financially stable — What she needs and what’s often missing is the emotional support. Sometimes that’s literally what we need from a man. We need emotional support and to feel loved unconditionally.” That What Men Want star goes on to explain that when she has to go out in the world and fight her battles and prove her worth she needs a man at home who is saying, ‘Baby you can do it.’ Taraji goes on to explain how calling yourself a strong black woman can scare potential men you want to date away. In What Men Want Taraji’s ambition does come into play with her relationship interest in the film, which is played by former Underground star Aldis Hodge. The ups and downs of their relationship journey lead to some really funny on camera moments that make What Men Want extremely funny helping 2019 continue Hollywood’s run at some extremely great films. So on February 8th so see What Men Want if you want to see a funny movie that pushes gender norms while entertaining to the masses.
What Men Want hits theaters next week. The latest movie was super producer Will Packer that stars Taraji P Henson tells the story of Ali Davis, a successful black woman trying to make partner at a big sports agency in Atlanta that has clients like Lisa Leslie , Shaquille O’Neal and more. When she gets passed up for a big promotion to someone who isn’t as good as she is, Ali starts wonders what else she needs to do to succeed in a man’s world. Hoping to find answers from a psychic who makes her drink a weird concoction that suddenly allows her to hear what men are thinking. Using her newfound ability, Ali starts to turn the tables on her obnoxious male colleagues while racing to sign the next basketball superstar. This movie highlights a strong woman who isn’t afraid to make the first move on a guy, puts her career first and is willing to stop at nothing to get to the top. While watching this hilarious tale of Ali Davis I drew a parallel to some of my successful Black female friends who haven’t been able to find love. So I asked Taraji her thoughts on why men are cautious when approaching successful Black women. Taraji thinks when Black women label themselves as strong it can scar potential dates away. Taraji explained that “A lot of men feel like they don’t have anything to offer,” a successful Black woman but they need to, “Stop thinking of it in terms of material things. Usually, when a woman is successful and she’s made her way in the world and she’s got her money, she’s financially stable — What she needs and what’s often missing is the emotional support. Sometimes that’s literally what we need from a man. We need emotional support and to feel loved unconditionally.” That What Men Want star goes on to explain that when she has to go out in the world and fight her battles and prove her worth she needs a man at home who is saying, ‘Baby you can do it.’ Taraji goes on to explain how calling yourself a strong black woman can scare potential men you want to date away. In What Men Want Taraji’s ambition does come into play with her relationship interest in the film, which is played by former Underground star Aldis Hodge. The ups and downs of their relationship journey lead to some really funny on camera moments that make What Men Want extremely funny helping 2019 continue Hollywood’s run at some extremely great films. So on February 8th so see What Men Want if you want to see a funny movie that pushes gender norms while entertaining to the masses.
B lack women are making history in the field of medicine. According to the San Francisco Examiner , pediatrician and youth activist Dr. Nadine Burke Harris was appointed to become the state of California’s first surgeon general. Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday announced the appointment of Dr. Nadine Burke Harris as California's first-ever surgeon general. https://t.co/REW0TLjd7R — KPIX 5 (@KPIXtv) January 22, 2019 On Monday, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that he had selected Dr. Burke Harris to take on the new role, the news outlet writes. In the position, she will be responsible for examining the pressing health issues faced by people living in the state and implementing effective strategies to overcome them. One of the things on her agenda is providing outreach for young families. Burke Harris, 43, is well-suited for the position as she’s dedicated her career to spreading awareness about health conditions. She founded the Center for Youth Wellness in San Francisco in 2012 as a resource for children who were exposed to toxic trauma and stress at an early age. Harris is at the helm of the Bay Area Research Consortium on Toxic Stress and Health and is a part of several health-focused organizations including the National Academy of Medicine and the American Academy of Pediatrics National Advisory Board for Screening. Burke Harris took to social media to share her excitement about becoming the state’s first surgeon general. “Looking forward to rolling up my sleeves as CA’s first Surgeon General,” she posted on Twitter. “Thank you @GavinNewsom for your bold vision for health for all Californians. #preventscreenandheal!” Her appointment means a lot for representation in medicine. Institutions across the country are trying to empower Black students so that they can follow in her footsteps. According to a report released by the Association of American Medical Colleges, Howard University is the top institution for sending African-American applicants to U.S. medical schools. SEE ALSO: Howard University Tops List For Black Medical School Applicants Florida State University’s WhiteCoats4BlackLives Brings Attention To Racial Health Disparities [ione_media_gallery src=”https://newsone.com” id=”3844528″ overlay=”true”]
L ast year, law school graduate Ieshia Champs posted a graduation photo of her and her five children. The image of her milestone —symbolic of hard work, dedication, and perseverance—took the internet by storm. This year, Champs is taking her career to new levels. According to ABC 13 , she has been selected to be assistant county attorney for the Children’s Protection Practice Group of Harris County. Inspiring single mom of 5 lands job as assistant county attorney https://t.co/H7KSOsdcst pic.twitter.com/JHBnJTQZ13 — KHOU 11 News Houston (@KHOU) January 25, 2019 Champs was sworn in earlier this month. The Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law graduate has had a tough journey. She grew up in the foster-care system where she encountered traumatic experiences, dropped out of high school, and became a single mom at an early age. She’s also been through a lot of loss. When trying to get on the right track she was laid off from her job, experienced homelessness, and the father of two of her children succumbed to his battle with cancer. She used those experiences as fuel and continued to focus on her family and education; which has ultimately led her to where she’s at in her career now. County Attorney Vince Ryan believes that her story can serve as motivation for others. “Ms. Champs is an inspiration to all who are faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles in life,” he said in a statement, according to the news outlet. “We are fortunate that her path has brought her to our Office where she can continue to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by Children’s Protectives Services in Harris County.” Champs says coming into the office is surreal for her. “Sometimes I forget that I’m an attorney until I walk in this office and realize, ‘Hey, this is real’,” she told KHOU11 . “I feel like as a mother, I gave them something to look forward to and something that they can also give their children in the future.” SEE ALSO: #BlackExcellence: Single Mother Of 5 To Graduate Magna Cum Laude From Law School Rutgers Law School Appoints First Black Woman Dean [ione_media_gallery src=”https://newsone.com” id=”3844029″ overlay=”true”]
Source: Nick Barrotta / Image via Nick Barrotta For your viewing pleasure… Nick Barrotta Talks Divorce Court, Upcoming Ventures Nick Barotta a.k.a Nicky B is more than just a pretty face. If you watch “Divorce Court ” then you should be familiar with the handsome bailiff that keeps plaintiffs and defendants in line alongside Judge Lynn Toler. Nick recently chatted with Bossip about his background, his acting, and his career goals. Tell us about your background. “I was a broadcast journalism major at Hofstra University. Being that Hofstra is near the city I took advantage of a lot of events and red carpets and I really fell in love with that side of the industry. From Hofstra I was able to get some great internships and early on I would sneak into parties and shake hands and build as many relationships as I can. I networked as much as possible and made a name for myself in New York.” How did you get started on Divorce Court? “The opportunity came across my desk, at first I wasn’t necessarily open to it because I thought I’d have to relocate to Atlanta. I wasn’t sure what the position was all about. Once I learned more about it and they brought up being able to work alongside Judge Lynn, I had to take the shot and fly down for the casting process. Someone I know who’s based in L.A. had a great relationship with some producers and one thing lead to another, and I made my way down there.” Source: Nick Barrotta / Image via Nick Barrotta What’s the craziest case you’ve ever heard on Divorce Court? “There’s been a whole lot of crazy things! Everything from a guy coming in who had 19 children with 11 different women who couldn’t remember the name of all of his kids, or a couple coming in having met through these crazy situations whether it be a threesome or some crazy situation that sparked this love interest. Everybody comes in with a different angle which makes this show so exciting to this day. It’s entertainment on one end but all these questions on the back end. I’m cracking up half the time because I can’t believe what’s going on.” What’s it like working with Judge Lynn? She’s pretty tough. “I was a little nervous when I had my first one-on-one with her. She’s got that intimidating personality but to be honest she’s one of the sweetest women I’ve ever met. She is just lovely, even with the cast, the crew and how she carries herself every day. She’s just a true professional, on camera she doesn’t hold back. As much as she cares about every person that comes on the show, she still means business. She’s the best at what she does and she gives you the hard truth. I’ve seen her talk to these people off camera and get to know them a little more and follow up to see how they’re doing.” Source: Nick Barrotta / Image via Nick Barrotta How would you describe your brand? “I would consider myself an entertainment personality. Someone who is still learning about himself but motivated driven and passionate about the industry and the whole entire experience in itself. As much as I’ve done some hosting and modeling stuff, I wear a few different hats and I think that’s a good or bad thing depending on who you ask. I like to stay busy and keep things interesting. What’s next for you? “I’m in the middle of meeting with a bunch of agencies that I’m really excited about. I’m doing a lot of fun things, I work with a marketing agency so I’m constantly going to a lot of events, I’m heading down to Super Bowl and working some of the bigger parties down in Atlanta. For me its always been about building relationships and I’m excited about building up this momentum. “Divorce Court” has been a great platform for me to not only learn about the industry but learn about myself. I’m excited to hopefully get back there for next season to contine to work with Judge Lynn. It’s nice to be at Tyler Perry Studios, I actually just met him. It’s just been fun to be at Tyler Perry Studios and working on a show that’s been around for so long. Judge Lynn’s been around for 12 seasons, the show’s going on 21 seasons. I’m just excited to continue to be a part of it!” Instagram, Twitter, Facebook: @NickyBTV
Source: David Crotty / Getty Taraji Keeps Getting Dragged Taraji really tried it . Her movie, What Men Want,” comes out next week and she’s making her press runs. Well, she decided to make things much harder for her career and movie prospects by going on an IG rant about why Harvey Weinstein wasn’t getting “muted” like R. Kelly despite the fact Weinstein is actually on trial for his crimes and Kelly…is not. She was quickly dragged but tried to bounce back with a clarification. LET ME BE CLEAR R. KELLY IS GUILTY AND WRONG AND SHOULD BE MUTED PERIOD!!!!! — Taraji P. Henson (@TherealTaraji) January 22, 2019 It was too late, however, as the dragging has commenced and only intensified since her statement came out. WE WERE ROOTING FOR YOU, TARAJI! Damn. Take a look… Between her and Erykah caping for R. Kelly? Taraji about to have #MuteWhatMenWant trending if she’s not careful. — M’BlockU (@rodimusprime) January 22, 2019
