While political conflicts like Israel-Palestine, Ukraine-Russia, or U.S. elections dominate global headlines, Africa remains largely overlooked. Despite widespread chants of “From the river to the sea,” the ongoing suffering in Sudan and the Congo barely registers. Black suffering is happening across the continent right now, and barely anyone’s paying attention. Let’s talk about what’s really going down — and why staying informed isn’t optional.

Some of these stories will shock you. Others are downright gut-wrenching — and all of them demand our attention.

Sudan – Civil War & Ethnic Cleansing

War between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ignited back in April 2023, and has since displaced over 10 million people. In Darfur, there are credible reports of ethnic cleansing targeting non-Arab communities, including mass killings and gender-based violence. The horrific conflict has forced over 8 million people to flee their homes, while some 5 million are at risk of starvation, per PBS. 

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Resource War & Sexual Violence

Conditions are growing worse in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as attacks at the hands of armed rebel militias skyrocket, leading to an alarming increase in sexual violence targeting both women and children. “In the face of this unprecedented security and humanitarian crisis, the situation for women and children continues to deteriorate,” UN officials warned, per United Nations News.

The country faces mass displacement, rape as a weapon of war, and illegal resource exploitation, especially for coltan (used in electronics). Over 6 million people have died since the 1990s.

Ethiopia – Tigray Genocide & Starvation

The Tigray War (2020–2022) — a civil conflict between Ethiopia’s National Defense Force (ENDF) and their allies (including Eritrea) against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) — saw the systematic use of starvation, mass killings, and sexual violence. They struck a peace deal, but tens of thousands are still missing or displaced. Humanitarian access is restricted, and atrocities may be ongoing under the radar.

Nigeria – Boko Haram, Mass Kidnappings, and State Violence

More than a decade of terrorism from Boko Haram has killed tens of thousands. Girls continue to be kidnapped, schools attacked, and civilians terrorized in Nigeria’s northeast. Separatist movements and violent crackdowns by police also plague the south and southeast. Boko Haram is a militant Islamist group in northeastern Nigeria, aiming to topple the government and impose strict Sharia law. #ProtectBlackGirls

Cameroon – Anglophone Crisis

The Anglophone Crisis, also known as the Ambazonia War of Independence, is an ongoing armed conflict in the English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon. Since 2016, the government has brutally suppressed the Anglophone minority seeking independence or greater autonomy. Thousands have died in the conflict, with reports of villages being razed, extrajudicial killings, and the silencing of journalists and activists.

Somalia – Al-Shabaab Terror and Starvation

Somalia is battling ongoing attacks from the Islamic extremist group Al-Shabaab — who emerged in the mid-2000s — while facing famine conditions worsened by drought and global neglect. Civilians are trapped between government, U.S. drone strikes, and militants, with humanitarian aid frequently blocked.

Burkina Faso – Jihadist Attacks and Military Coups

The rise of armed Islamist groups has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis — over 2 million displaced. The country has also undergone two military coups since 2022, further destabilizing the region and enabling extremist violence to go unchecked. Burkinabé military officer and politician, Ibrahim Traoré — who took control of Burkina Faso in 2022 — is now being regarded as a savior, after positioning himself as a revolutionary leader fighting Western influence… and so far, the people seem to be on his side. 

Mali – Ethnic Massacres & French Withdrawal Fallout

Following the withdrawal of French troops, militant attacks have surged. Ethnic tensions between Fulani and Dogon groups have led to massacres and retaliatory killings, and the junta’s military rule has led to human rights violations.

South Sudan – Ongoing Civil Conflict

Although they gained independence in 2011, South Sudan remains riddled with ethnic violence, political instability, and famine. Women and children are often the targets of systematic sexual violence, and nearly 8 million people are in need of aid.

Central African Republic (CAR) – Warlord Rule & Religious Violence

Since 2013, fighting between Muslim Seleka and Christian anti-Balaka militias has led to mass displacement and brutal atrocities against civilians. Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group now operate in the region, committing human rights abuses — most disturbingly, with impunity.

Eritrea – Dictatorship & Forced Conscription

Under President Isaias Afwerki, Eritrea is one of the most repressive regimes in the world. Citizens, including children, are forced into indefinite military service, with dissent punished by imprisonment, torture, or death. While the law specifies an 18-month service period, in reality, many end up serving indefinitely, often lasting for decades. Critics have likened these harsh practices to a form of slavery. 

Mozambique – Cabo Delgado Insurgency

In the north of Mozambique, Al-Shabaab have waged a brutal insurgency since 2017, leading to beheadings, rapes, and burned villages, even as recent as reports dated 2024. The fight over liquified natural gas reserves has drawn in foreign mercenaries and militaries, escalating violence.

Rwanda/DRC Tensions – Proxy War Brewing

Rwanda is accused of backing the M23 rebel group in DRC — the location we covered in No. 2 — which has displaced hundreds of thousands. This proxy conflict has the potential to explode into a regional war, with innocent people caught up in the crossfire. It’s a powder keg, barely mentioned in global coverage… if at all. At this very moment, many are on edge regarding what’s to come next.

PHOTO : Getty Images

Temple University is rolling out a powerful new elective this fall titled “Kendrick Lamar and the Moral of M.A.A.D. City,” centered around the Pulitzer Prize–winning artist’s lyrical genius, social impact, and connection to the modern Black experience!

Led by Professor Timothy Welbeck, the course dives deep into Kendrick’s discography—from good kid, m.A.A.d city to DAMN.—exploring themes of race, identity, trauma, resistance, and moral reflection through his storytelling.

🎓 WHY KENDRICK? WHY NOW?

According to Welbeck, Kendrick isn’t just a rapper—he’s a cultural historian with a mic. “He’s one of the most important voices of his generation,” Welbeck said. “His work is reflective of the Black experience in ways that are incredibly powerful and nuanced.” The course will include guest speakers, lyrical breakdowns, and academic discussions that frame Kendrick’s music as more than entertainment—it’s art with a purpose.

✊🏾FOR THE CULTURE

Temple’s track record speaks for itself— with past courses that have successfully honored Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Tupac, and Kendrick’s inclusion only solidifies hip hop’s seat at the academic table.

📍 COURSE BREAKDOWN:

💡 What’s Being Taught:

Kendrick’s storytelling through music

Morality in good kid, m.A.A.d city

Religion, race, and identity in lyrics

📚 Topics Include:

Systemic injustice & community trauma

Hip-hop’s role in activism

Cultural responses to his work

📅 FALL 2025 IS LOOKING REAL SCHOLARLY.

This course isn’t just for fans—it’s for thinkers, changemakers, and students ready to dissect what Kendrick has been trying to tell us all along: this is deeper than rap.

So whether you’ve been bumping K.Dot since Section.80 or just woke up from the Mr. Morale era, Temple’s course is proof that hip hop’s finest belongs in the books just as much as on the charts.

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Love, spontaneity, and European dreams collide in Prime Video’s latest swoon-worthy romantic drama, The Map That Leads To You, which officially premieres August 20. Based on the bestselling novel by J.P. Monninger, the sun-drenched, wanderlust-filled film stars Outer Banks breakout Madelyn Cline and Riverdale heartthrob KJ Apa. The streamer has just dropped the first official trailer, giving fans a glimpse of what may become the next big Gen Z romance obsession.

Directed by the legendary Lasse Hallström (Dear John, Safe Haven), the film promises both breathtaking European landscapes and the emotional intensity of a once-in-a-lifetime love story. Think Before Sunrise meets The Summer I Turned Pretty, with a healthy dose of unexpected detours and emotional revelations.

A Chance Encounter on a Train Sparks a Journey Across Europe and Within

The film opens with Heather (Cline), a perfectionist post-grad who has carefully mapped out a celebratory trip through Europe with her best friends (played by High School Musical: The Musical: The Series star Sofia Wylie and Ozark alum Madison Thompson). She’s barely keeping it together, itinerary in hand, when she bumps literally into Jack (Apa), a spontaneous and brooding American following the footsteps of his late grandfather by visiting every place mentioned in an old journal.

“I just like to know what happens next,” Heather tells Jack in the trailer, clearly rattled by his chaotic, no-plan lifestyle. “That kind of stresses me out.”

But despite her inner control freak screaming, Heather decides to throw caution and her return flight to the wind. She joins Jack on a spontaneous leg of his journey that takes them through the Lavender Fields of Provence, the Running of the Bulls in Spain, and even into a gorgeous little bookstore in Paris. It’s a coming-of-age, fall-in-love-while-getting-lost adventure that challenges Heather to question everything she thought she wanted.

Secrets, FOMO, and a Kiss No One Was Told About

Though Heather’s romantic escapades with Jack begin in private, they don’t stay that way for long. “Is that the guy following us out of the train station?” one of her friends asks in the teaser, eventually learning that Heather secretly kissed him without telling anyone. What begins as flirtation quickly spirals into an intense connection that both electrifies and unsettles Heather.

Jack isn’t just a free spirit. He’s carrying emotional baggage of his own. As he continues his grandfather’s mysterious travelogue, deeper questions emerge. What is he really searching for? Can their chemistry survive the weight of unspoken truths?

The trailer crescendos with a heart-wrenching declaration as Maggie Rogers’ “Anywhere With You” plays in the background. Heather pleads, “I’m getting on a plane to New York, and the thought of being a continent away from you is unbearable. Or is that just me?”

It’s not just her.

The Creative Powerhouse Behind the Romance

Behind the scenes, The Map That Leads To You has some major Hollywood heavyweights. Director Lasse Hallström is no stranger to emotional rollercoasters, having helmed tearjerkers like Dear John and The Cider House Rules. The screenplay is co-written by Vera Herbert (This Is Us) and Les Bohem (Taken), who also originated the story.

The production boasts an A-list team of romantic-drama veterans. Producers Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey, known for The Fault in Our Stars and Twilight, join forces with Isaac Klausner and John Fischer. Executive producers include Hal Sadoff, Matt Luber, and Petersen Harris. The result is a film that is meticulously crafted to pull on your heartstrings.

With a runtime of just 96 minutes, this PG-13-rated feature promises a tightly paced, emotional, and escapist summer film that’s perfect for fans of tender love stories, travel envy, and beautiful people falling for each other in cobblestone alleyways.

Cast Highlights

• Madelyn Cline as Heather, the meticulous and guarded young woman discovering her inner spontaneity






• KJ Apa as Jack, the charismatic stranger on a mission of self-discovery and accidental romance






• Sofia Wylie and Madison Thompson as Heather’s best friends, providing emotional anchors and comic relief






• Orlando Norman and Josh Lucas round out the ensemble, adding depth and surprise to Jack’s journey

A Story About Letting Go, Falling in Love, and Choosing Your Own Path

At its heart, The Map That Leads To You isn’t just about falling for someone in Europe. It’s about daring to live differently. Heather begins the trip with a plan and a future already imagined. Jack challenges her to embrace the unknown. Their story is a modern reminder that love doesn’t follow a schedule and sometimes, the best journeys are the ones we never intended to take.

As the official logline teases, “This chance encounter sparks an unexpected journey of self-discovery. As their connection deepens, secrets, life choices, and hidden truths will test their bond and change Heather’s life in ways she never imagined.”

The Map That Leads To You premieres August 20th exclusively on Prime Video, streaming in over 240 countries and territories.

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Leave it to the internet to turn one of music’s most beloved legends into the subject of a conspiracy theory. For years, people have whispered, theorized, and flat-out speculated about whether Stevie Wonder is actually blind. 

The rumors have persisted with an almost ridiculous tenacity. From internet trolls to stars like Shaquille O’Neal claiming Wonder recognized him in an elevator to comedian Anthony Anderson telling Stephen Colbert in 2016, “What y’all don’t know is, Stevie can see…It’s just an act,” the theories have left some people actually raising a brow at the singer. 

Well, Wonder finally decided to address the elephant in the room during a recent stop in Cardiff, Wales, on his Love, Light & Song U.K. tour. And his response was as graceful and profound as you’d expect from the man who gave us “Superstition” and “Living for the City.”

“I must say to all of you, something that I was thinking, ‘When did I want to let the world know this?’ But I wanted to say it right now,” Wonder told the crowd. “You know, there have been rumors about me seeing and all that? But seriously, you know the truth.”

“Truth is, shortly after my birth, I became blind,” he continued. “Now, that was a blessing because it’s allowed me to see the world in the vision of truth, of sight. See people in the spirit of them, not how they look. Not what color they are, but what color is their spirit?”

Only Stevie Wonder could turn addressing conspiracy theorists into a masterclass on human connection and spiritual sight. The man who’s been creating music since he was 11 and scored his first Hot 100 chart-topper with “Fingertips” at just 13 has spent over six decades proving that vision comes in many forms.

Wonder lost his vision weeks after birth, but that hasn’t stopped him from becoming one of the most influential artists of all time. His 64-year career speaks for itself: 25 Grammy wins, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a catalog of songs that have soundtracked generations of communities around the world. 

While Wonder hasn’t released a new studio album since 2005’s “A Time to Love,” he’s been reportedly working on his first full album in nearly 20 years, “Through the Eyes of Wonder,” since 2008, which he says will showcase his experience as a blind man.

Unlike most of us, there is no set age for our favorite celebrities to retire. Some do so at age 18, others never do. That’s why now, The Root is taking a closer look at 15 musicians, athletes and actors and diving into who exactly should reconsider stepping away from the medium they love. Of course, this is all in jest! We love everyone on this list… but for some of y’all? It’s time to hang it up permanently.

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys has been giving us hits for well over two decades. From “Fallin’” in 2001 to “Show Me Love” in 2020, it’s clear that she still has the artistic stamina to deliver when necessary… but over the years, she’s slowed down on the music making. After her last few projects, many folks have expressed interest in seeing her take a full step away from music and invest in other ventures. Keys has her own skincare line and has even been a coach on “The Voice,” so at 44 years old, it might be time to put on her mentor hat permanently.

Tyler Perry

It’s no secret Tyler Perry has faced tons of criticism over the years. The entertainment mogul says he’s not fazed by the hate, but that doesn’t stop folks from wishing he’d simply put the pen down. After films like “Divorce in the Black” and “Straw,” many have called him out for using similar scripts, bad wigs and perpetuating negative stereotypes of Black women. Perry has no plans to retire, but if he wanted to, he’d be doing so with a long-lasting legacy and millions of dollars.

Ice Spice

Sure, Ice Spice is only 25 years old, but she’s been the face of much scrutiny ever since she hopped into the rap game. Originally, fans loved her catchy lyrics, red hair and boujee aesthetic, but now? Folks are getting tired of seeing and hearing the same things from the Bronx rapper. Her debut album “Y2K” under performed, despite having a major co-sign from the queen of rap, Nicki Minaj. And now a year later, Ice Spice isn’t the household name she once was in 2023.

Kanye West

Sighs… As much as Kanye “Ye” West is a cultural icon and musical genius, he had to make this list. Over the past few years, Ye’s music has been tainted with controversies, mental health issues and questionable romantic relationships. From aligning himself with President Donald Trump to spewing anti-Semitism and anti-Black hate speech, West is simply not the same rapper and producer once adored by Black culture and by fans around the world. It’s time for him to take a step away from the spotlight and focus on being the best father he can be for his children.

Rihanna

Speaking of parenthood, we’ve watched Rihanna transition from Bad Gal RiRi to a soon to be mother of three. And we’re here for it! Next year will officially mark one full decade without a Rihanna album, and her fans have been starving for more. But let’s be real, given that she and A$AP Rocky are living their best lives as parents on top of the Bajan billionaire’s very successful businesses outside of music, the chances of Navy getting another album just gets smaller and smaller as the years go by. It’s time for Rihanna to rip off the bandaid and officially announce her retirement from music. That way, her fans can grieve and finally move on!!

Young Thug

After pleading guilty to racketeering charges, fans hoped Atlanta rapper Young Thug would turn over a new leaf. Instead of focusing his music on gang life, drugs and beef, many wished he would grasp his second chance of freedom and become a more positive role model. Unfortunately, that hasn’t happened– although it’s only been nine months since he walked free from an Atlanta jail. Instead, Thug has ramped up his one-sided beef with ex-YSL member Gunna. On top of that, the music Thug has released so far has not been enough to impress fans or mainstream radio. Maybe what the Atlanta legend needs is an official break from music.

Future

Future is another Atlanta rap icon, but unlike Young Thug, he’s been in the rap game for much longer. At age 41, Future has dropped more music than most vets do in their lifetime. Much of the criticism towards the rapper concerns the content of his songs, however. He’s known as a “toxic king,” but many fear he will never be able to give fans more than just that. How long can he keep up with the toxicity before folks get tired of the same subjects?

Nicki Minaj

Now, before the Barbs go crazy… hear us out. Nicki Minaj has been running the female rap game for over 10 years. She helped opened the doors for a new wave of rappers like Megan Thee Stallion, City Girls, Latto, Cardi B, Flo Milli and much more. With that, sometimes it’s best to quit while you’re ahead. Many music lovers thought her “Queen” album would’ve made the perfect final project from Minaj, but the Queens rapper sill hasn’t retired yet. After giving so much of her life and art to the world, it might be time for Minaj to sit back and enjoy her flowers. This means staying out the drama and letting the next female rappers take over.

Lil Wayne

It’s been a rough couple of years for Young Money. Between Nicki’s beef with Megan Thee Stallion, Drake’s beef with Kendrick Lamar and Lil Wayne’s imaginary war also with Lamar, we don’t know who needs a break more (it’s definitely Drake). In all seriousness, Lil Wayne’s most recent project “Tha Carter VI” proves he’s well-past his prime, although he can still rap like no one’s business. Wayne doesn’t need to release any more projects. He doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone anymore. Instead, he’ll likely remain on hip-hop’s greatest of all time list, especially if he clocks out now.

LeBron James

If it’s one thing LeBron James will do it’s spark retirement rumors. He’s the oldest player in the NBA, and honestly, that’s the only reason he’s on this list. If you’ve watched him play, you know he’s still got it! But any contact sport will begin weighing on your body after long periods of time. At 40 years old, James has spent more time playing in the NBA than he has not (22 years). He teased fans, saying once his eldest son, Bronny, gets to the NBA, he’d consider retiring… and welp. We’re going into Bronny’s second season on the Lakers. So now, it’s time for James to make a decision.

Diddy

This one is pretty self explanatory. After fighting for his freedom and life in a federal trial, the last thing Diddy needs to do is jump head first where he left off before his arrest. Diddy was found guilty on two lesser prostitution charges and is still facing 20 years behind bars. But when he does get out of prison, he’ll be standing at a crossroads: bow out of the spotlight for good or put what’s left of his businesses and professional relationships at risk as his public support continues to dwindle.

Beyoncé

Beyoncé is arguably the greatest performer of all time. With that, it’s more than surprising that the singer is still able to give her fans innovative shows and unbelievable vocal performances so far into her 27-year career. Plus, the singer has experienced several injures to her knee, foot and even her voice that have basically given her overprotective Bey fans heart attacks over the years. This year, she turns 44 years old. There’s not too many other singers and performers around her age that still are dedicated to putting on exhausting shows as she does. That’s why fans have speculated that after her highly anticipated Act III, following “Cowboy Carter” and “Renaissance,” Beyoncé will announce her retirement.

Simone Biles

The “G.O.A.T.” has hinted at retirement for a couple of years now. Simone Biles has proven herself beyond comprehension in the gymnastics world, and with 11 Olympic medals– seven being gold ones– there’s no one topping her athleticism. With nothing left to prove, Biles would be competing simply as a hobby, but all good things have to come to an end. At the same time, Biles said she’s looking at possibly returning for the 2028 Olympics, which will be held in the U.S.

50 Cent

50 Cent just turned 50 years old. Throughout his career, the New York rapper has transitioned from music to television, which hit shows like “Power” and “B.M.F.” And although we love 50 Cent as a rapper, it’s time he officially announce he’s done with music. Clearly, he spends most of his time away from the mic anyways. If he’s not trolling Diddy and Ja Rule online, he’s producing another television show.

Jennifer Hudson

Talents like Jennifer Hudson only come once ever so often. After reaching EGOT status in 2022, Hudson decided to shift to daytime television. The “Jennifer Hudson Show” has been a major success, largely do to the viral spirit tunnels of her guests as they walk onto her main stage. She has been criticized for her interviewing skills, but that can be taught. So with that, it’s time for her to focus on that, instead of music. The singer dropped a Christmas album in 2024, making this only her fourth since her American Idol debut.

July 15, 2025July 15, 2025

Actor Derek Dixon, known for his roles in Tyler Perry’s The Oval and Ruthless, is speaking out for the first time since filing a bombshell $260 million sexual assault lawsuit against Perry in June!

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter via email, Dixon opened up about the alleged abuse, the silence he says he was forced to keep, and why he finally decided to come forward.

“I couldn’t stay silent anymore,” Dixon said.

“Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them.”

“It Was Always Conditional”

Dixon claims the relationship with Perry began with promises—career opportunities, show roles, production support—but quickly turned coercive. He alleges that Perry groped him, pulled down his underwear, and forced oral contact in multiple incidents, including one at Perry’s Georgia estate.

“There was always an unspoken expectation,” Dixon explained.

“If I wanted the career, I had to put up with the attention.”

According to Dixon, those moments weren’t isolated. He said the encounters were “emotional, physical, and manipulative,” and happened over the course of years.

“I Thought It Was Just The Industry”

Fear and power dynamics kept Dixon quiet for a long time.

“I honestly thought this was just how the industry worked,” he shared.

“That silence cost me my peace for years.”

“This Isn’t Just About Me”

When asked why he’s coming forward now, Dixon said it’s about protecting others.

“There are younger actors coming into this business every day. They shouldn’t have to choose between their dreams and their dignity.”

“This isn’t revenge. This is accountability.”

Perry’s Legal Team Responds

Tyler Perry has denied all allegations through his legal counsel, calling Dixon’s claims “completely false.”

“We are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail,” Perry’s attorney told The Hollywood Reporter.

As of now, Perry has not issued a personal public statement.

What’s Next?

•Filed: June 2025

•Allegations: Sexual assault, harassment, emotional distress

•Seeking: $260 million

•Status: Awaiting jury trial in Los Angeles Superior Court

This case is poised to shake Hollywood’s power structure once again. With Dixon now breaking the silence, all eyes are on how the courts—and the industry—will respond.

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While James Gunn’s Superman just rocketed to a $220 million global debut and reignited hope for a flailing DC Universe, OnlyFans model and social media influencer Ash Kash had something else to say: she thinks Superman is “by far the most annoying superhero.”

The tweet detonated like kryptonite in a fanboy forum.

“Superman is by far the most annoying superhero,” Kash wrote bluntly on X (formerly Twitter).

And within minutes, a cyber storm brewed. Thousands of comic book purists, film buffs, trolls, and confused stans flooded her mentions with reactions ranging from hilarious to hostile to hysterically meta.

Social Media’s Kryptonite Meltdown

One X user dryly remarked, “We might have found Lex’s burner account.” Another, less charitable, fired off: “Go suck some dick or something fuck outta here with that lame shit.”

Others took a more humorous route. “I fuck with Ash Kash, but what the fuck do she know about superheroes,” one user asked, stunned by the audacity.

“Corny as hell. But that is what makes him, him. Even Batman had to just accept it,” said another user in what sounded like a tortured defense of Superman’s Boy Scout image.

Some simply pleaded: “Babe delete this.” Another chimed in with the equally pitiful: “You still have time to delete this.”

A few, however, aligned with Kash’s hot take. “Ong, he’s the lamest superhero ever,” one person agreed. Another added, “Probably worst take I’ve seen today” which, frankly, sounds more like a compliment in the echo chamber of X.

Meanwhile, at the Box Office… Superman Crushes

Despite the Twitter carnage, James Gunn’s Superman has anything but an “annoying” trajectory. It’s the first comic book movie in a year to cross the $100 million threshold at the domestic box office, opening to a powerful $125 million in North America and an additional $95 million overseas, totaling a $220 million global launch.

For comparison, that’s higher than Man of Steel’s $116.7 million debut and enough to make it the biggest opening ever for a solo Superman film.

Superman also becomes only the third movie of 2025 to cross $100 million opening weekend, joining A Minecraft Movie($162.8M) and Disney’s Lilo & Stitch live-action remake ($146M). That’s no small feat, especially considering the so-called “superhero fatigue” that’s been hobbling both Marvel and DC.

Critics and audiences alike are embracing the reboot. The film scored an impressive A- CinemaScore, a 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, and 82% from critics. It’s the kind of response DC hasn’t seen since The Batman in 2022 or Wonder Woman in 2017.

The Stakes for DC and Why This Matters

This isn’t just about a single cape-wearing man flying through the sky. Superman is the make-or-break moment for DC Studios after nearly a decade of chaotic flops like Black Adam, Shazam! Fury of the Gods and The Flash.

The film marks the official beginning of the “Gunn-Safran Era,” the ambitious creative revamp of the DC Universe helmed by James Gunn and Peter Safran under Warner Bros. Discovery. The duo took over in 2022 after a string of back-to-back failures and were tasked with rebooting an entire cinematic universe from the ashes.

Gunn, known for his irreverent touch with Guardians of the Galaxy, is now steering DC into uncharted territory. And Superman is the cornerstone of this new ten-year plan, which includes upcoming projects like Supergirl, Clayface, and the Lanterns HBO Max series.

David Zaslav: “Superman is Just the First Step”

Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav couldn’t be happier. In a company-wide memo, he declared:

“This weekend, we watched Superman soar as James Gunn’s passion and vision came to life on the big screen. Superman is just the first step. The DC vision is clear, the momentum is real, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”

Zaslav also revealed that Gunn was handpicked after describing the DC heroes as his “family” in an early meeting. “His love for the DC world runs deep, and it shines in every frame of his work,” he wrote.

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The Supreme Court is allowing President Donald Trump to put his plan to dismantle the Education Department back on track and go through with laying off nearly 1,400 employees.

With the three liberal justices in dissent, the court on Monday paused an order from U.S. District Judge Myong Joun in Boston, who issued a preliminary injunction reversing the layoffs and calling into question the broader plan.

The layoffs “will likely cripple the department,” Joun wrote. A federal appeals court refused to put the order on hold while the administration appealed.

The high court action enables the administration to resume work on winding down the department, one of Trump’s biggest campaign promises.

The court did not explain its decision in favor of Trump, as is customary in emergency appeals.

But in dissent, Justice Sonia Sotomayor complained that her colleagues were enabling legally questionable action on the part of the administration.

“When the Executive publicly announces its intent to break the law, and then executes on that promise, it is the Judiciary’s duty to check that lawlessness, not expedite it,” Sotomayor wrote for herself and Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson and Elena Kagan.

Education Department employees, who were targeted by the layoffs have been on paid leave since March, according to a union that represents some of the agency’s staff.

Joun’s order had prevented the department from fully terminating them, though none had been allowed to return to work, according to the American Federation of Government Employees Local 252. Without Joun’s order, the workers would have been terminated in early June.

The Education Department had said earlier in June that it was “actively assessing how to reintegrate” the employees. A department email asked them to share whether they had gained other employment, saying the request was meant to “support a smooth and informed return to duty.”

The current case involves two consolidated lawsuits that said Trump’s plan amounted to an illegal closure of the Education Department.

One suit was filed by the Somerville and Easthampton school districts in Massachusetts along with the American Federation of Teachers and other education groups. The other suit was filed by a coalition of 21 Democratic attorneys general.

The suits argued that layoffs left the department unable to carry out responsibilities required by Congress, including duties to support special education, distribute financial aid and enforce civil rights laws.

Ever since President Donald Trump officially banned diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) at the federal level, companies around the world have been scrambling to adjust to this new way of life. Now, former gubernatorial candidate and author Stacey Abrams is breaking down exactly why companies should take a second thought before terminating DEI completely.

Abrams most notably took on MAGA during the 2018 and 2022 elections for governor in the state of Georgia. Although she lost to current Gov. Brian Kemp, Abrams is still regarded as one of the few politicians who never backed down from MAGA… Now, she’s warning companies to do the same.

“This notion that simply complying a little bit stops at the water’s edge is antithetical to every history we have ever written, and it costs you,” Abrams said during a panel at New York University on July 11, Fortune reported. For her, obeying by the rules and mandates of Trump and his administration once will only guarantee the administration test you again.

After Trump’s election, companies like Disney, Ford and Google rushed to either rollback their DEI policies or simply get rid of them totally. “It may not cost you in the short term, but in the long term,” Abrams added.

It comes down to this: which do these billion-dollar companies value more? The Trump administration or the customers who fuel their success. According to Abrams, many American consumers are less inclined to support companies who quickly turned their backs on them.

“I’m also less sympathetic to multi-billion dollar corporations that are concerned about losing a few contracts when they’re willing to sacrifice whole communities for that purpose,” she added. On the flip side, companies that doubled down on their DEI policies will more than likely see success. Just take a look at Costco, the buy-in-bulk grocery giant which has seen historic growth for consecutive weeks, according to AfroTech.

“Costco has always been grounded in this responsibility,” Abrams continued. “Therefore, irrespective of the change, they never had to change their policies, they never had to promote who they were. They simply are. And we can see the distinction between Costco and other institutions.”

It’s no secret Costco is standing proudly in his efforts to protect DEI, and with that, many Americans are urging consumers to spend their money where they are valued. Rev. Al Sharpton and criminal justice reform activist Korey Wise took the charge seriously and paraded in a Harlem Costco to “buy-cott” the store. “We’re supporting those who are not rolling back DEI,” Patrice Perry, crisis director for Sharpton’s nonprofit told The New York Post.

After stepping away from politics after her 2022 loss, Abrams has pivoted to focus on other causes affecting smaller communities. She is also set to release her new novel, a thriller called “Coded Justice,” which addresses ethical and legal questions concerning artificial intelligence development.

PHOTO: Getty Images

Noir Nation, it’s getting messy behind the scenes of Biggie’s legacy. 👀 The estate of Voletta Wallace, mother of the late Notorious B.I.G., has officially filed a lawsuit against Faith Evans, accusing the R&B icon of refusing to share profits from the sale of B.I.G.’s image and name rights.

According to court documents, the estate alleges that Evans—who was married to Biggie from 1994 until his tragic death in 1997—has violated a longstanding agreement by withholding her share of revenue from joint business dealings tied to Biggie’s name, likeness, and brand.

🧾 WHAT THE LAWSUIT SAYS:

The estate claims that Evans is “wrongfully retaining profits” from the sale and licensing of Biggie’s rights, which they say should be split between both parties. The paperwork suggests that while Evans continues to benefit from her affiliation with Big, she hasn’t held up her end of the financial bargain when it comes to recent deals.

The lawsuit reportedly seeks a full accounting of profits, along with a judge’s order demanding Evans pay what the estate believes it’s owed.

🗣️ FANS WEIGH IN

Online reactions have been split. Some fans say Faith has every right to the money as Biggie’s widow and the mother of his child. Others argue that Ms. Wallace has always been the gatekeeper of her son’s legacy and that any financial moves should go through the estate.

“Biggie’s name belongs to his mama, not Hollywood,” one user posted on X.

“Faith Evans gave us ‘I’ll Be Missing You’ and kept Biggie’s name alive for decades,” another argued.

🔍 WHAT’S AT STAKE?

This lawsuit doesn’t just involve money—it could affect future documentaries, albums, merch, and licensing deals tied to the Notorious B.I.G. brand. With hip hop estates becoming multimillion-dollar businesses, who controls the legacy—and who profits from it—matters more than ever.

🕊️ A LEGEND’S LEGACY IN LIMBO

Biggie’s posthumous influence remains massive—from murals in Brooklyn to induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But legal battles like this highlight the complexity of preserving a legacy when family, business, and grief collide.

Neither Faith Evans nor the Wallace estate has issued a public statement at the time of this writing.

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