Jonathan Majors to Be Sentenced Next Week, Loses Conviction Appeal
Elgin Nelson
New York judge Michael Gaffey has denied the defense motion to overturn Jonathan Majors’ assault and harassment convictions, paving the way for his sentencing on April 8. Majors, known for roles in Marvel productions, faces a potential one-year prison term following a December 2023 jury verdict. Despite claims of innocence and allegations of being a victim of abuse and racism, Majors was convicted for assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, over a year ago. In the aftermath, Majors has faced a defamation lawsuit from Jabbari and a downturn in his career, losing management and PR representation as well as roles in film and advertising. Despite the setbacks, his agency, WME, has continued to support him.
New Lawsuit Alleges Kanye West Enforced Extreme Physical Measures at Donda Academy
Elgin Nelson
A former employee of Kanye West’s Donda Academy private school, Trevor Phillips, has filed a lawsuit alleging severe discrimination, harassment, and retaliation by the rapper, now known as Ye. Phillips claims West spread antisemitic conspiracy theories, compared himself to Adolf Hitler, and expressed desires to shave students’ heads and lock them in cages. The lawsuit also details alleged threats of physical violence, inappropriate sexual behavior, and anti-LGBTQ comments. Attorney Carney R. Shegerian stated that the lawsuit aims to vindicate the rights of the injured clients and send a message that West’s messages promoting discrimination, antisemitism, and admiration for Hitler have no place in society. This legal action adds to a series of discrimination and wrongful termination lawsuits against West and his school, including claims filed by former teachers and a photographer who alleges assault, battery, and negligence. West has yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
Steve Harvey Partners with Dr. Phil for New TV Network
Staff
Merit Street Media–the multi-platform network spearheaded by Dr. Phil McGraw–has announced a strategic partnership with Steve Harvey. The comprehensive agreement encompasses production, talent development, and on-air services for the multi-hyphenate entertainer, who becomes an equity partner in Merit Street with the deal. Harvey will co-executive produce a docu-style special, slated to air this fall, about his Steve Harvey Mentoring Program where young men attend a week-long camp in Georgia to get the tools and inspiration they need to flourish into positive leaders in their community and for their families. Additionally, Merit Street acquired over 300 episodes of Harvey’s syndicated daytime talk show. “Partnering with my good friend on such an innovative network allows me to continue my mission of empowering and inspiring individuals through entertainment,” said Harvey of the venture that is set to launch this month. The fully distributed, cable, satellite, and free over-the-air broadcast media brand is set to reach over 65 million TV homes.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Launches Skincare Line
Staff
Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson’s latest business venture, Papatui, embodies both his passion for wellness and men’s care. Available at PAPATUI.com and in Target, the recently launched brand offers a range of quality men’s care products–from skin and hair care to tattoo maintenance–all at affordable prices. Developed with skincare experts over three years, Papatui’s products are designed with clean and effective ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid, and exclude parabens, sulfates, and alcohol. Inspired by Johnson’s Samoan heritage and his personal care routine, PAPATUI aims to empower men to prioritize their well-being, offering luxury fragrances developed in collaboration with Dsm-Firmenich. Priced between $7.99 and $9.99, this carefully formulated collection signifies a new era in men’s personal care. “People have asked me about my skin care for years, and people know that I’m a big advocate for all men to take care of themselves, inside and out,” said Johnson. Men’s wellness will always be very important to me, and I’ve been lucky enough to have access to some of the best resources and minds when developing Papatui. Now all my men out there can trade-up to high-end products without having to pay high-end prices. I believe these products will help men take better care.”