Pop Culture

Ice Cube Explains Declining “Verzuz” With LL Cool J & Scarface

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Ice Cube has undoubtedly made his fair share of hits throughout his decorated career. However, he declined to participate in a Verzuz battle with both LL Cool J and Scarface.

His reason? Because it’s all love on his side.

 Ice Cube speaks during SiriusXM and Pandora Playback with Mount Westmore including E-40, Too Short & Ice Cube at SiriusXM Studios on December 07, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

In a recent appearance on the Bootleg Kev Podcast, Cube explained he has an entirely different concept for the famous battles. 

The “No Vaseline” rapper was asked about whether or not he has any desire to compete in a head-to-head hit battle. His answer remains no. 

His preferred concept is just for him and his opponent to play each other’s favourite songs of theirs. Of course, this ultra-friendly format isn’t exactly how the Verzuz battles actually go down.

Currently, artists go head-to-head in the popular web series by choosing the best of their own hits. After going back and forth over 20 rounds, the viewers determine the winner on their own terms.

As a result, the N.W.A. star is not interested. “I can’t go against people I admire. LL is an OG to me in the game, so I can’t see it. Me and Scarface love each other, but we don’t communicate enough to do a Verzuz together. I don’t want it to be competition,” says the 53-year-old. 

Just last year, the Houston native funnily made similar comments about the possibility of a Verzuz clash against his friend. In an interview with The Breakfast Club, the “Smile” rapper claimed he would beat Cube by playing his favourite “Cube sh*t.” 

In other recent news, Ice Cube has dropped his new album as a member of MOUNT WESTMORE. The supergroup finds the Ride Along actor uniting with three other West Coast hip-hop legends – Snoop Dogg, E-40 and Too $hort.

SNOOP CUBE 40 $HORT officially dropped just last night (December 9). The project had been teased since last year.

What do you think of Ice Cube’s proposed format for a Verzuz battle? Comment down below, and check back in with HNHH later for more hip-hop news updates.

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Cardi B Says She Removed Her “Ass Shots,” Advises Fans Not To Get Butt Injections

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As a world-renowned entertainer, Cardi B knows that maintaining her image is a huge part of securing the bag. In the past, the mother of two has been open with her cosmetic surgery endeavours. Now, she’s advising her followers to skip out on the “ass shots” if they want some work of their own done.

During a recent Instagram Live session, the New York native brought up past rumours that surfaced after she gave birth to her youngest child, Wave. “My ass was f*cking huge,” she said of her body at the time.

Cardi B is seen departing the Ronald Reagan Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse on October 21, 2022 in Santa Ana, California. Cardi B is being sued for copyright infringement after allegedly using an image of a man’s tattoo on an album cover. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

“I gained almost 20 pounds and that went everywhere on my body. A lot of people thought that as soon as I gave birth, I got my body done. No, bitch, I didn’t. In August, I did surgery and I removed 95 percent of my biopolymers. It was a really crazy process,” Cardi went on to explain.

The 30-year-old also gave viewers a reminder that she was just 20 when she went through with the procedure. She didn’t “turn purple” or experience severe pain as a result. Still, though, she vehemently opposes them according to her most recent rant.

“If you young — if you 19, if you 20, if you 21 — and sometimes you too skinny and you be like, ‘Oh my god, I don’t got enough fat to put on my ass,’ so you resort to ass shots, don’t f*cking do it,” she vented. “I am super, super, super, super against ass shots. I’m super against biopolymers.”

Having undergone several other procedures herself, Cardi continued, “I all the way support you if you want to do alterations to your body, but do not get ass shots. I will never f*cking recommend them.”

The “WAP” hitmaker additionally noted that her latest pregnancy “did a f*cking number” on her body, which led her to get rid of 95% of her butt injections. She said that doctors had to “shape [her] butt” during the surgery, but seems more than happy with the end results.

“That n*gga butchered me up great,” she praised her surgeon. “That n*gga put his knife to work!”

Check out Cardi B’s full live stream below. Additionally, make sure to check back in with HNHH later for more pop culture news updates.

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Nick Carter Responds To Rape Allegation From Woman With Cerebral Palsy

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As Nick Carter mourns the death of his brother, he now faces serious allegations of sexual assault. Last month, Nick’s younger brother Aaron Carter passed away just one month ago, and investigators continue to await toxicology reports. Meanwhile, a 39-year-old woman has sued Nick Carter for an alleged incident that she claims occurred in 2001 on a Backstreet Boys tour bus.

Shannon “Shay” Ruth with cerebral palsy and autism reportedly filed a sexual battery lawsuit against the music icon. She alleges that Carter raped her in Tacoma, Washington, after plying her with alcohol when she was 17 years old.

Read More: Backstreet Boys’ Nick Carter Accused Of Rape; Denies Allegations

CNN reports in Ruth’s lawsuit, she states she was “picked out of a line of autograph seekers.” Then, she was invited to spend time with Carter on the tour bus. It was there that she says she was given “VIP juice,” assuming it was “cranberry juice and alcohol.” Ruth says she later learned she was diagnosed with the sexually transmitted disease HPV, or the Human Papillomavirus.

“The last 21 years have been filled with pain, confusion, frustration, shame, and self-harm that are a direct result of Nick Carter raping me,” she said during a press conference.

In light of the allegations, ABC has canceled their upcoming television special A Very Backstreet Holiday. Additionally, Carter responded to the accusation with denials.

(Photo by Jean-Paul Aussenard/WireImage)
Read More: Aaron Carter Accuses Brother, Nick, Of Sexually Assaulting A 91-Year-Old

“This claim about an incident that supposedly took place more than 20 years ago is not only legally meritless but also entirely untrue,” the singer said in a statement. “Unfortunately, for several years now, Ms. Ruth has been manipulated into making false allegations about Nick – and those allegations have changed repeatedly and materially over time.”

This isn’t the first time that Nick Carter has been accused of sexual assault. In 2017, singer Melissa Schuman also accused Carter of raping her when she was 15. He denied those allegations, as well. Carter’s late brother also publicly came forward to accuse the Backstreet Boys star of sexually assaulting multiple women. The siblings later reconciled before Aaron’s passing.

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Brittney Griner Gives Update Following Prison Release: “I’m Happy”

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Brittney Griner is finally a free woman. After serving 294 days in a Russian prison, she’s on her way back home to the United States.

Previously, the WNBA star made headlines due to her nine-year prison sentence for drug possession in the foreign country. She was arrested on February 17 for attempting to bring cannabis with her on a trip.

Phoenix Mercury fan Carley Givens takes a photo of a “Black Lives Matter” mural depicting Brittney Griner outside the Footprint Center on December 08, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. ((Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The sentence was not far off from the maximum that she was facing. Prosecutors had asked for a 9.5 year sentence in the trial. 

Four months later, the 32-year-old is on her way back home after a prison swap got official approval.

President Joe Biden consequently made the announcement yesterday (December 8) via Twitter. In the photos, POTUS and Vice President Kamala Harris are seen talking with the athlete’s wife, Cherelle Griner, in the White House. 

In a video of newly-released Griner en route back home on the plane, the Phoenix Mercury star looks undoubtedly thrilled. When asked about her mood, she simply responds “I’m happy” with a smile.

Rumours surrounding a possible prison swap in order to get Griner home previously began going around for a few months now.

The exchange between the U.S. and Russia was a one-for-one swap. Surprisingly, international arms dealer Viktor Bout was freed by the U.S. in order to bring Griner home.

In Russian footage, the world was witness to the trade taking place on the tarmac of a United Arab Emirates airport.

The Russian arms dealer has a gruesome nickname – “Merchant of Death.” Of course, this has sparked some debate about the fairness of the exchange.

Others have chimed in, suggesting that another detained American should have been freed instead of the WNBA player. Paul Whelan is a former U.S. marine, who was detained by Russian authorities in 2018.

Two years, later he was sentenced to 16 years in prison for his alleged involvement in an intelligence operation. However, he is still presently serving this time.

Nonetheless, the U.S. is standing by the swap. Officials are indicating that the country didn’t have a choice of which American to bring home.

Let us know your thoughts on the trade down below. Additionally, make sure to stay tuned to HNHH for the latest updates on Griner’s return home.

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Terrence Howard Announces Plan To Retire From Acting

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After decades in the entertainment industry, Terrence Howard announced his plans to retire from acting. The actor made things clear in a recent interview, saying, “This is the end for me.”

Sitting down with Entertainment Tonight, the Empire star revealed some sage advice that he received from the late actor Sidney Poitier in the past.

“I asked Sidney Poitier 10 years ago does he want to do any more work, and he said, ‘Why would I spend my last 10 years doing an impersonation of myself?’ And that’s what I’ve gotten to.” Howard shared.

While revealing his appreciation for new actors, the 53-year-old continues, “I’ve gotten to the point where now I’ve given the very best that I have as an actor. Now I’m enjoying watching other new talent come around, and I don’t want to do an impersonation of myself.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 14: Terrence Howard stars in a new ad campaign for Tubi, the worlds largest free movie and TV streaming service on October 14, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Tubi)

The Chicago native has enjoyed a successful career since he started in the early 1990s. 

After making guest appearances in various sitcoms, he later starred in Ray, Crash, and Four Brothers. In 2006, Howard earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in Hustle & Flow. 

READ MORE: Terrence Howard Believes We “Have To Respect” Jussie Smollett Jury’s Decision

Per Complex, the actor previously claimed in 2019 that he would retire after Empire officially ended. Though the hit Fox show finished with six seasons in 2020, Howard continued to act in several films.

But now, it appears the Best Man star is finally ready to leave the profession.

Rooting for his fellow entertainers to find success, Howard also shared with Entertainment Tonight, “Yes, there’s some better actors out there that can do things that I was never able to do. So, I want to applaud them, I want to be excited about what they do.”

What are your thoughts on the seasoned actor ending his years-long career? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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Kanye West Loses Honorary Degree As SAIC Condemns “Dangerous Statements”

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He has lost billions in partnerships, lucrative deals have dissolved, and now Kanye West no longer holds an honorary degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. The South Side native has consistently praised his hometown in his music and given back to local communities. His success earned the attention of the Art Institute, but today (December 8), it was announced that they have rescinded their honorary doctorate.

West was awarded the honor back in 2015 during a highly publicized ceremony. Following the rapper’s recent pro-Nazi rhetoric, students and alumni reportedly petitioned for the school to take action. “The School of the Art Institute of Chicago condemns and repudiates Kanye West’s (now known as Ye) anti-Black, antisemitic, racist, and dangerous statements, particularly those directed at Black and Jewish communities,” the school shared in a statement.

Read More: Kanye West Tells Jewish People To Forgive Hitler

They continued: “Ye’s actions do not align with SAIC’s mission and values, and we’ve rescinded his honorary degree.”

Much of West’s global fanbase has been disappointed in comments made in recent years. From his takes on slavery to his admonishing of Harriet Tubman’s impact to his most recently admitted respect for Adolf Hitler, West has seemingly become his own worst enemy. He continues to sit down for hot-take interviews with far-alt-right outlets as he speaks with controversial political figures.

During his conversations with Infowars Alex Jones and Proud Boys founder Gavin McInnes, West admitted to liking Hitler. He also argued that Nazis have received a poor reputation because of the Jewish community, and he also denied that 6 million people were killed during the Holocaust.

(Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Read More: Kanye West To Alex Jones: “I Like Hitler”

Additionally, Ye has officially revealed his bid for president and will run in the U.S. 2024 election. His platform remains unclear, but he has made appearances with white supremacist Nick Fuentes.

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Friends Of Takeoff’s Alleged Killer Patrick Clark Think He’s Being “Framed”

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A popular Houston DJ has been arrested in connection with Takeoff’s death, and now friends of Patrick Xavier Clark are speaking out. The Migos star was killed in the early morning hours of November 1 while at a private event. A verbal disagreement ensued, and sadly, Takeoff was shot and killed. Police stated that the rapper was an innocent bystander who was struck by stray bullets.

As Hip Hop continues to mourn the late star, the investigation into his death continues. Takeoff was in a room of upward of 30 people when he was killed, but police claim they are struggling with finding witnesses who will cooperate. Nevertheless, arrests have been made, but Clark has denied responsibility.

Read More: Takeoff Update: Alleged Killer Wants Judge To Help Fund Defense

The Daily Beast reportedly also caught up with people who knew Clark personally, including rapper Jmali. According to the artist, DJ Pat wasn’t a violent person.

“You could see by the reactions of everyone that we’re shocked because that’s not the type of person [Clark] is,” Jmali said. “He was about business, not violence.”

“Pat was similar to Takeoff in that he was quiet and just went about his business,” the rapper added. “That’s why this is so surprising to everyone here.”

Read More: Suspect In Takeoff’s Murder Case Is “Nervous” & Concerned”: Report

Additionally, a friend of Clark’s, who reportedly wanted to remain anonymous, told TDB they believed he was being “framed” for Takeoff’s murder. They also didn’t think Clark would “jeopardize” himself and his life’s work.

“I know him. He’s not like that. I honestly feel like they got the wrong guy,” a person told the outlet. “He doesn’t get mad or hostile. He’s very nice and thoughtful. That’s all I have to say. I feel he is being framed.”

Prosecutors believe otherwise and allege Clark wanted to flee to Mexico as the investigation heated up.

Read More: Takeoff’s Alleged Murderer Planned Mexico Trip Before Arrest 

Cameron Joshua was also arrested in connection with the incident, however, he faces a firearm charge. Investigators don’t believe Joshua had anything to do with Takeoff’s death, but he has been tacked for “carrying a weapon illegally at the party.”

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Celine Dion Details Rare Condition, Stiff-Person Syndrome

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In an emotional, transparent video shared on Instagram, Celine Dion reveals health issues that caused her to amend her world tour. The music icon has been a global sensation for decades as her classic hits are considered a soundtrack to an era of music history. It has been argued that she is one of the greatest vocalists of her generation, if not beyond, but she revealed she has quietly batted Stiff Person Syndrome.

“The spasms affect every aspect of my daily life, sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal cords to sing the way I’m used to,” Dion said. “I have to admit it’s been a struggle. All I know is singing, it’s what I’ve done all my life.”

Read More: Celine Dion Begs Drake To Not Get Her Face Tattoo; Invites Him Over For Dinner

According to reports, Stiff Person Syndrome is a rare neurological disease that causes painful spasms and increasing muscle stiffness. This can be triggered by various factors, including changes in temperature or weather, as well as loud noises.

“I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time,” said the “My Heart Will Go On” hitmaker. “And it’s also been really difficult for me to face these challenges and to talk about everything that I’ve been going through…It hurts me to tell you that I won’t be ready to restart my tour in Europe in February.”

Additionally, only one in one million people are diagnosed with the disease.

(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Read More: Kanye West & Kim Kardashian Celebrate Anniversary With Celine Dion

Sadly, Dion’s condition has caused her to postpone the European leg of her world tour until 2024. Several dates have been canceled indefinitely.

“I have a great team of doctors working alongside me to help me get better,” she also said. “I’m working with my sports medicine therapist every day to build back my strength and my ability to perform again.”

In 2021, Dion reportedly suffered spasms while rehearsing for her anticipated Las Vegas residency. In the end, it was canceled altogether.

Revisit Celine Dion’s mega-hit “My Heart Will Go On” from the blockbuster film Titanic below.

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Seth Rogen Trolls Kim Kardashian At “Women In Entertainment Breakfast”

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Seth Rogen teased Kim Kardashian during The Hollywood Reporter’s “Women in Entertainment Breakfast” on Wednesday. Confused by Kardashian’s absence, Rogen joked about her having nothing better to do.

“Are we going to talk about how Kim Kardashian didn’t show up?” Rogen asked the crowd. “I have seen every episode of ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashians’ I know she doesn’t have anything more important to do than this.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 28: Seth Rogen arrives at Premiere Of Warner Bros Pictures’ ‘Motherless Brooklyn’ on October 28, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images)

Rogen then back down remarking that she probably had good reason to miss out.

“She’s honestly… she’s probably dealing with a lot right now,” he added.

As for why Kardashian skipped out on the event, her team explained the decision in a statement provided to TMZ.

“The wrong event date was given to Kim’s team several weeks ago,” they said. “The error was realized only on Monday and unfortunately, her schedule could not be moved around at the last minute due to a prior work commitment. She was incredibly disappointed to not be able to attend since she never cancels.”

Season 2 of The Kardashians finished airing on Hulu, last month. Rogen, on the other hand, recently starred in Steven Spielberg’s The Fabelmans.

Rogen wasn’t the only one to make fun of Kim Kardashian at the event. Chelsea Handler also poked fun during her time on stage, joking about security at the event not being enough for Kim.

While she wasn’t in attendance at the breakfast event, Kardashian did post new pictures on Instagram.

Check out Seth Rogen’s comments at the Women in Entertainment Breakfast below. Hollywood Reporter held the event in honor of its 2022 Women in Entertainment Power 100 list.

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Will Smith Says “Emancipation” Has Helped Him Overcome Oscars Slap

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Will Smith says that playing Peter in his new film Emancipation helped him get through the months after his infamous Oscars slap. While promoting the film, Smith explained that the role has helped him with overcoming adversity.

“It’s like when you can locate and center yourself in your divine purpose, you can withstand anything and everything,” he said, according to ABC News

HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 24: Actor Will Smith attends the Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Focus” premiere at TCL Chinese Theatre on February 24, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

The film follows an escaped slave inspired by “Whipped Peter,” who evades slave hunters in search of freedom.

He continued: “Peter has absolutely helped me through these last few months, just reestablishing within myself in what my purpose is in this world.”

“This movie was so grueling. Literally across the board, everybody had to devote a hefty amount of suffering to what you see on that screen,” Smith said. “So my greatest wish, and I guess I can talk about my greatest fear, is that my team would be penalized for my actions. I’m out with this film that I love and strictly want my people to get their flowers.”

Antoine Fuqua, who directed Emancipation, says that Smith slapping Chris Rock was just a “mistake.”

“For me, it’s a mistake,” Fuqua said. “Hopefully everybody can get back on track and God bless everyone. But we’re talking about 400 years of brutality.”

Notably, Smith is still eligible for nominations and awards at the Oscars, despite his 10-year ban from the Academy. He cannot, however, accept them at the ceremony.

Smith has also said he’s gotten to feeling “purified and transformed” since the incident.

Emancipation arrives on Apple TV+, Friday. Check out the trailer for the film below.

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