There are many people who would pay good money to get a glimpse of what Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s home life is like. Well, Bradley Cooper is somebody who’s seen it, and he described the experience as “crazy.”
During a recent SAG-AFTRA Foundation interview with Willie Geist, Cooper explained that he was trying to recruit Beyoncé to star alongside him in A Star Is Born, and he reminisced about a time he visited her at home:
“I went to Beyoncé’s house, and Jay-Z was watching Judge Judy, I still remember. Yeah, I’m not kidding. And I was freaking… I was so… I remember I had this weird cough when I was pitching it to her, it was so crazy. And she was incredible and so was he. And we developed it for like a year together. I mean, she’s one of the greatest people of all time, and then that fell through.
For the record, the bit about Beyoncé nearly being in the movie isn’t news, as it’s mentioned in this 2018 Variety feature. Interestingly, as that piece also notes, the idea for the A Star Is Born remake (the original movie came out in 1937 and was remade in 1976) had been around since the ’90s. At one point, Whitney Houston was apparently considered to star.
Check out Cooper’s full interview above, with the A Star Is Born story starting at about 41 minutes in.
Donnell Rawlings, widely recognized for his infectious humor and charismatic presence, has carved a notable niche in the realm of comedy. As audiences continue to revel in his wit and comedic prowess, many wonder about the financial standing of this seasoned comedian. Delving into his journey from humble beginnings to the heights of success, we explore Donnell Rawlings’ net worth in 2024 and the factors that have contributed to his financial prosperity.
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 09: Comedian Donnell Rawlings performs onstage during the TBS Comedy Festival 2017 – The Last O.G.’s Presents: A Toast To The O.G.’s Of Comedy With Tracy Morgan & Cedric The Entertainer on November 9, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for TBS)
Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Donnell Rawlings embarked on his comedy journey with determination and passion. Early on, he honed his comedic skills in local comedy clubs, captivating audiences with his sharp wit and relatable humor. Rawlings’ dedication to perfecting his craft paved the way for opportunities on the comedy circuit, setting the stage for his eventual breakthrough.
Breakout Moment & Rise To Prominence
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 19: Comedian Donnell Rawlings performs at Radio City Music Hall on June 19, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
Donnell Rawlings’ breakthrough came with his role as a cast member on the iconic comedy sketch show, Chappelle’s Show. Collaborating with the legendary Dave Chappelle, Rawlings became synonymous with memorable characters and hilarious sketches, earning widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Moreover, his contributions to the show solidified his status as a comedic force to be reckoned with and propelled him to newfound heights of fame and recognition.
Venturing beyond the confines of television, Rawlings embarked on successful stand-up tours, further captivating audiences with his electrifying performances and razor-sharp comedic timing. His ability to connect with diverse audiences through laughter further solidified his position as one of the most beloved comedians in the industry.
Filmography & Other Ventures Contributing To Donnell Rawlings’ Net Worth
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 01: Donnell Rawlings onstage during April Fools Comedy Jam presented by Rip Michaels at Barclays Center on April 01, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
In addition to his television and stand-up comedy endeavors, Donnell Rawlings has expanded his presence into the world of film and entertainment. With notable roles in various comedy films and television series, including Spider-Man 2, The Wire, andBMF, Rawlings has showcased his versatility as a performer and further enhanced his financial standing.
Moreover, Rawlings’ entrepreneurial spirit has led him to explore various business ventures, including podcasting and brand partnerships, which have undoubtedly bolstered his net worth. Through strategic collaborations and a relentless work ethic, Rawlings has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry while continuing to amass wealth and success.
Conclusion
In 2024, Donnell Rawlings’ net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, per CA Knowledge, a testament to his unwavering dedication, talent, and entrepreneurial acumen. From his humble beginnings in the world of comedy to his meteoric rise to prominence, Rawlings has remained a steadfast force in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his humor and charm. As he continues to evolve and expand his reach, there’s no doubt that Donnell Rawlings will remain a fixture in comedy for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans worldwide.
Sam Mendes is an influential figure in the world of theater and film. He has amassed a considerable fortune throughout his career. As of 2024, Mendes’s net worth stands at an impressive $30 million, a testament to his success in both mediums. This financial valuation, sourced from Net Worth Post, reflects the monetary rewards of his endeavors and his significant impact on the arts. Moreover, Mendes’s journey through theater and cinema showcases a blend of innovative storytelling, dynamic direction, and a keen eye for detail that has garnered critical and commercial acclaim worldwide.
The Rise Of A Theatrical Visionary
Sam Mendes, director during Universal Pictures’ “Jarhead” World Premiere – Arrivals at Arclight Hollywood in Hollywood, California, United States. (Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WireImage)
Sam Mendes’s career began in the theater, where his innovative productions quickly set him apart. His tenure at the Donmar Warehouse in London is particularly noteworthy; the theater became a beacon of creativity and excellence under his artistic direction. Mendes’s productions of classics like Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya and Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night reinvigorated the texts for modern audiences and earned him prestigious awards, including several Olivier Awards. His ability to draw out nuanced performances from his actors and his visionary staging techniques have left an indelible mark on the theater world, establishing him as one of its most forward-thinking directors.
Transition To The Silver Screen
IVER HEATH, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: Daniel Craig and Sam Mendes attend the photocall to announce the start of the production of the. 24th Bond Film ‘Spectre’ at Pinewood Studios on December 4, 2014 also in Iver Heath, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Mendes’s transition from theater to film was marked by his directorial debut, American Beauty (1999), which won five Academy Awards, including Best Director. This film highlighted Mendes’s adeptness at exploring complex characters and themes through a visually stunning and emotionally resonant lens. His subsequent films, such as Road to Perdition (2002) and Revolutionary Road (2008), further showcased his versatility and ability to tackle a variety of genres and narratives. Mendes’s foray into the James Bond franchise with Skyfall (2012) and Spectre (2015) brought a new depth to the series and achieved remarkable box office success, cementing his status as a director capable of helming large-scale productions.
A Legacy Of Innovation & Excellence
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – OCTOBER 30: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) (L-R) Honorees Sam Mendes, Orlando Bloom, and J.J. Abrams attend. The GREAT Britain Campaign during the 2015 Jaguar Land Rover British Academy Britannia Awards presented by. American Airlines at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on October 30, 2015 also in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for The GREAT Britain Campaign)
Mendes’s contributions to film and theater have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the knighthood he received in 2020 for his services to drama. Beyond his directorial achievements, Mendes has nurtured new talent and supported the arts, particularly through establishing the Theatre Artists Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic. His work extends beyond the immediate productions he oversees, contributing to the broader cultural landscape and inspiring future generations of artists. Mendes’s legacy is not just in the stories he has told but in how he has told them, blending artistic integrity with commercial appeal to create works that resonate globally.
Black History Month is here and, for the latest episode of Wom/n Worldwide, we’re celebrating the record-setting achievements of Black women in music and entertainment that you should know about.
Over the last few years, the pages of the her-story books have been filled with several notable entries from Black women across the arts. From music to TV and, of course, movies, host Drew Dorsey pays tribute to these awe-inspiring trailblazers kicking down doors throughout the industry.
In this episode, we honor icons like Jennifer Hudson and Viola Davis for their recent entry into the exclusive EGOT club, but these phenomenal women aren’t the only onscreen powerhouses that take centerstage. Dorsey also shines the spotlight on TV stars Quinta Brunson, Ayo Edebiri, and Niecy Nash-Betts.
And the flower-giving didn’t stop there. We couldn’t miss out on marking the streaming and charting history set by SZA’s highly-anticipated sophomore album, SOS, or the impressive feat Nicki Minaj’s long-awaited Pink Friday 2album accomplished for women in rap music. What about the sheer dominance Beyoncé has shown at the Grammy Awards? Yes, Dorsey dives into that, too, along with a few sweet caveats about Queen Bey’s culture-shifting album, Renaissance.
Rooney Mara, with her enigmatic screen presence and choice of complex roles, has carved out a distinctive niche in Hollywood. By 2024, Fresherslive reports her net worth to be at $25 million, a reflection of her successful career in film and her ventures off-screen. Mara’s journey from indie films to starring roles in major Hollywood productions showcases her versatility as an actress and her commitment to her craft.
Career Beginnings & Breakthrough
PARK CITY, UT – JANUARY 18: (L-R) Actor Alan Cumming, actress Sandra Bernhard, actor Zach Gilford, director Adam Salky, actress Rooney Mara, actor Ashley Springer, actress Emmy Rossum, and writer David Brind of the film “Dare” poses for a portrait at the Film Lounge Media Center during the 2009 Sundance Film Festival on January 18, 2009 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Rooney Mara’s foray into acting was marked by a series of roles that showcased her range and depth from the outset. Her early work in indie films laid the foundation for a career characterized by powerful performances and challenging roles. It was her breakthrough role in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo that brought her critical acclaim, earning Mara an Academy Award nomination. This role underscored her ability to fully embody complex characters, setting the stage for a career of ambitious and memorable performances.
Following her breakthrough, Mara continued to choose roles that solidified her reputation as a talented and dedicated actress. Her performances in films such as Carol and Her highlighted her ability to convey deep emotional resonance and complexity, further establishing her as a sought-after actress in Hollywood. Mara’s choice of projects reflects a deliberate selection process, favoring roles that offer depth and a connection to the character over mainstream appeal.
Philanthropy & Personal Ventures
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 10: (L-R) Actress Rooney Mara, director Spike Jonze and actors. Joaquin Phoenix and Scarlett Johansson attend ‘Her’ Premiere during The 8th Rome. Film Festival at Auditorium Parco Della Musica on November 10, 2013 also in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images)
Beyond her acting career, Rooney Mara is deeply committed to philanthropy and advocacy, focusing on animal rights and environmental sustainability. Her involvement in various charitable organizations and initiatives demonstrates use of her platform for causes she is passionate about. Additionally, Mara’s ventures into fashion, particularly in sustainable and ethical clothing, underscore her commitment to positively impacting the world.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 10: Actors Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix attend the ‘Her’ Photocall during the. 8th Rome Film Festival at the Auditorium Parco Della Musica on November 10, 2013 also in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Looking forward, Rooney Mara’s career shows no signs of slowing down. The actress continues to take on roles that challenge and inspire. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres and mediums speaks to her versatility and dedication to her craft. Overall, Mara’s influence in Hollywood extends beyond her on-screen achievements, embodying a commitment to authenticity, philanthropy, and artistic integrity.
Cillian Murphy, the enigmatic Irish actor known for his intense performances, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. With his piercing blue eyes and versatile talent, Murphy has become a prominent figure in Hollywood. As of 2024, his net worth stands at an estimated $20 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Let’s delve into the journey of this exceptional actor, from his humble beginnings to his current stature as a revered star.
(left-right) Director Danny Boyle, stars of the film Naomie Harris and Cillian Murphy, and producer Andrew Macdonald at the premiere of ’28 Days Later’, at the new Odeon Kingston cinema. * The new cinema in surrey is the largest Odeon in the UK. (Photo by Yui Mok – PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images)
Murphy’s journey to stardom began in the theaters of Ireland, where he honed his acting skills before transitioning to the screen. His breakout role came in 2002 with the psychological thriller 28 Days Later, directed by Danny Boyle. Murphy’s portrayal of Jim, a survivor in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, garnered critical acclaim and propelled him into the spotlight. His raw intensity and ability to convey complex emotions set him apart, earning him recognition as a rising talent in Hollywood.
Filmography: Oppenheimer & Peaky Blinders
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 12: Cillian Murphy during an An Evening with Steven Knight and Cillian Murphy from Peaky Blinders at Esquire Townhouse with Dior at Carlton House Terrace on October 12, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Nicky J Sims/Getty Images)
In recent years, Murphy has continued to captivate audiences with his compelling performances across various genres. Oppenheimer, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan, became a cultural phenomenon and a box-office smash. The film explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist who played a pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. Murphy’s involvement in such a prestigious project underscores his status as a sought-after actor in the industry.
Another notable contribution to Murphy’s impressive filmography is his portrayal of Thomas Shelby in the hit television series Peaky Blinders. As the cunning and ambitious leader of a Birmingham-based gang, Murphy brings depth and complexity to the character, earning widespread acclaim from critics and viewers alike. The success of Peaky Blinders further solidifies Murphy’s reputation as one of the most talented actors of his generation.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 02: Cillian Murphy discusses “Peaky Blinders” with the Build Series at Build Studio on October 02, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)
Aside from his notable film and television roles, Murphy’s net worth is also influenced by various factors such as endorsements, investments, and real estate ventures. His endorsement deals with prestigious brands add to his financial portfolio, while smart investments in properties contribute to long-term wealth accumulation. Additionally, Murphy’s involvement in theater productions and voice acting projects expands his artistic repertoire and financial opportunities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cillian Murphy’s journey from a budding actor in Ireland to an international star is a testament to his dedication and talent. With an estimated net worth of $20 million in 2024, Murphy continues to thrive in an industry known for its unpredictability. Whether he’s portraying complex characters on screen or engaging audiences on stage, Murphy’s impact transcends borders and generations. As he continues to challenge himself with diverse roles and projects, one thing remains certain: Cillian Murphy’s worth extends far beyond his financial status.
Turns out that one of the most profitable movie franchises of all time could’ve featured another Southern hip-hop legend instead. Moreover, when asked about why he hadn’t shown up in the Fast & Furious films, André 3000 recently revealed during his appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that he auditioned for franchise, specifically the original’s sequel 2 Fast 2 Furious. While he appeared on the show last month, the clip started to make social media rounds this week, and many people expressed curious surprise and some shock. “I think Ludacris took the role,” 3 Stacks remarked. I actually tried out, I tried out for Fast & Furious, and Ludacris actually took the role.”
Furthermore, when asked by Colbert if this upset him, Andre 3000 was quite honest in his response. “No, not at all, ’cause I wasn’t ready,” he shared. “No, I mean, I remember that audition, man. I was so nervous, man. Like, I wouldn’t hire me. Yeah, possibly [the door’s open]. If they watching, yeah, put me in Fast 30.” “2 Fast 2 Flute,” Stephen suggested in the clip below, which got an “Ooh” from the Atlanta multi-hyphenate and another potential title: “Flute & Furious.”
Of course, both of them went on to have incredible careers in what they aimed for, with Ludacris actually starting a TV show based on his radio days very soon. Plus, he also has a lot of love for Andre 3000, reciprocating the respect. “So, top five flows, man,” Luda began a list during a XXL interview in 2020. “Andre 3000 is going to be in there. I feel like he always challenges, always challenges.”
In addition, here’s what he told Lil Wayne in May of 2020 about Outkast changing hip-hop. “It’s also interesting how when you take it back in history and you think about how Andre 3000 was like, ‘The South got something to say‘ at the Source Awards when they beat Mobb Deep on that album,” Ludacris recalled. “All respect due to my Mobb Deep, but that was a moment in time, in history, where everything started going a different way because it created that conversation. The people that weren’t up on Outkast, they literally started listening and they were forced to listen to it.” For more news and the latest updates on these amazing artists, stay logged into HNHH.
Mo’Nique recently appeared on an episode of the podcast Club Shay Shay, for an explosive 3-hour-long conversation which saw the Precious actress airing out her grievances with numerous former collaborators. Following Katt Williams’s footsteps, Mo’Nique utilized the platform to take aim at the likes of D.L. Hughley, Tiffany Haddish, Kevin Hart, and reignite a years-old feud with Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry. Mo’Nique sparked her feud with Tyler Perry well over a decade ago, and despite occasional lulls, the conflict has never found a resolution. Here’s a look into what she said, and the origins of the age-old feud.
After filming wrapped for the movie Precious, where Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry served as executive producers, Mo’Nique received a request to embark on a press tour to promote the film. The Original Queens of Comedy performer agreed to appear in promotional interviews and talk shows but refused to fly out to attend the Cannes Film Festival in France. Mo’Nique claims that producers urged her to promote the film at the prestigious event, though they explained that her appearance would be unpaid, as it was not part of her original contract for the film.
Mo’Nique refused to attend and later, issued a statement to The Hollywood Reporter expressing her frustration with the producers. “I’m doing a talk show, I’m doing a comedy tour,” she said. “I have a husband and I have babies. I have a little bit of downtime and I’m going to take advantage of it. So I’m not going anywhere because I’m not obligated to go anywhere. I’ve done my part.”
Mo’Nique Claims She Was Blackballed From The Industry
After Mo’Nique frustrated Tyler Perry and the other producers of Precious, she claims her career suffered, and they labeled her with the scarlet letter of being difficult to work with. In the years following the inception of this feud, Mo’Nique says Precious director Lee Daniels has personally expressed regret regarding the way producers have treated her. However, both Oprah and Tyler Perry have refused to publicly apologize.
Mo’Nique claims to have an audio recording of Tyler Perry, taken in 2022, in which the House Of Payne creator agrees to mend fences and admit his wrongdoings publicly, though Perry seems to have never followed through on that promise. During her Club Shay Shay appearance, Mo’Nique explained that she sent the audio recording to controversial civil rights leader Al Sharpton, who agreed to step in and mediate a public discussion between them.
After speaking with Al Sharpton, Mo’Nique says she received radio silence from the reverend for over 6 months. “The next time we saw Al Sharpton, he was on a podium talking about ‘We don’t need to fly commercial, cuz we can fly Tyler Perry’s private jet.’ …that’s why maybe I’m not hearing back from him,” she explained during her Club Shay Shay. At this time, Tyler Perry has never publicly addressed the feud, or taken responsibility for the state of Mo’Nique’s career. Clearly, Mo’Nique is not ready to move on from the beef just yet, as she prepares to take her grievances on the road during Katt Williams’ Dark Matter tour.
Spike Lee posed for a picture with Ice Spice in Brooklyn on Saturday. In response to the legendary filmmaker sharing the photo on Instagram, fans theorized that the two are in a relationship. Lee quickly shot down those rumors in response.
“Yesterday Da Boogie Down Bronx Made A Visit To CRKLYN. Peace To @IceSpice.” he captioned the post. Ice Spice dropped a goat emoji below. When one user commented, “now Spike,” with laughing emojis, he fired back: “Git Ya Mind Outta Da Gutter [surprised face emoji].”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 07: Spike Lee talks with David Remnick during The 2023 New Yorker Festival at Webster Hall on October 07, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for The New Yorker)
Fans also shared plenty of praise for Ice Spice. “I love ice spice, anyone who doesn’t like it is my enemy,” one user wrote. Another added: “One of the most talented singers since Whitney Houston and Madonna. Every song that Ice Spice does is like a Michael Jackson Thriller video. The dancing and singing she does. SHES UNDERRATED!” Check out her picture with Spike Lee below.
Other fans asked Lee to cast her in one of his projects. “Please put ice spice in your kurosawa remake,” a fan wrote. Despite being known for her career in hip-hop, Ice Spice previously told Teen Vogue that she was originally planning to pursue a career in acting. “I love movies,” she said, last year. “I always wanted to be a part of that, whether it was [starring in] or helping direct it, I wasn’t allowed to, for some reason, I was mad salty about that for years.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Spike Lee and Ice Spice on HotNewHipHop.
Specifically, Sony has filed a lawsuit against Anthem Films, Nybo Productions, and Black Label Media, claiming that payments for including Houston’s catalog in the movie should have been paid by July 2023. The publication noted that the exact amount owed is unknown.
“As a result of Anthem’s failures, Defendants’ use of the SME Recordings in the Film has been unauthorized, and Defendants have had no legal right to use the SME Recordings,” Sony’s claim said. “Despite being given notice of their infringing conduct, Defendants have continued to distribute and otherwise exploit the SME Recordings in connection with the Film without authorization.”
“Defendants’ conduct has caused and continues to cause substantial and irreparable harm to Plaintiffs and the estate of Whitney Houston while enriching Defendants at the expense of Plaintiffs and the estate of Whitney Houston,” it added.
The producers are now being accused of “direct copyright infringement” and “vicarious copyright infringement,” but both parties did not return Rolling Stone‘s request for comment on the lawsuit matter.
KLYN. Peace To @IceSpice.” he captioned the post. Ice Spice dropped a goat emoji below. When one user commented, “now Spike,” with laughing emojis, he fired back: “Git Ya Mind Outta Da Gutter [surprised face emoji].”
