Shannon Sharpe and Skip Bayless had a pretty horrendous falling out a few months ago. Overall, this was all because of Skip’s continued disrespect on Undisputed. Fans were getting sick and tired of it, and so was Shannon. Subsequently, Sharpe decided it was time for him to leave. Once he did so, he went over to ESPN and First Take where he is now good friends with Stephen A Smith. Meanwhile, Bayless is set to fade into obscurity sooner rather than later.
It was recently announced that Skip would no longer be on FS1 come next year. His contract is running out and he will not be renewing. There is a ton of speculation as to what he will do next although many believe he should retire. As for Shannon Sharpe, well, he gave his thoughts on all of this on “Nightcap,” his show with Chad Ochocinco. Below, you can see that Sharpe took a diplomatic approach while speaking on all of this.
Sharpe noted that he is grateful for the opportunity Bayless gave him. Furthermore, he was adamant that he wanted Skip to succeed. However, he knew that they could no longer succeed on the same show together. It was a mature approach and one that Bayless probably wouldn’t have taken himself. Either way, it is going to be interesting to see how Skip moves forward with this new chapter of his career. If one thing is for sure, he has been surpassed by Sharpe in every possible metric.
Let us know how you feel about Shannon Sharpe’s comments, down below. Do you believe that he is being too kind to Skip here? How did you feel about the end of Undisputed? Did Skip do Shannon dirty in the end? Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the entertainment world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite personalities and their upcoming or ongoing projects.
In a cover story for Rolling Stone, rapper Ice Spice talked about how SpongeBob SquarePants — both the unstoppable Nickelodeon series and the endlessly optimistic character — has inspired her work ethic.
“I think I learned a lot from that show,” she said. “He never wanted a day off, even when Mr. Krabs would tell him, ‘Go the f*ck home.’ He’d be like, ‘No, I need to work.’”
So that’s what SpongeBob characters are saying under the dolphin noise.
Later, Ice Spice discussed the response to the cover artwork for her upcoming album, Y2K! (here’s something to make you feel old: the first SpongeBob SquarePants episode aired seven months before the turn of the millennium).
“Throughout my entire career, I don’t think I’ve ever had a moment of strictly praise. I think, through it all, there was always a lot of hate,” she said. “And I kind of appreciate that, because I find that when people are only love, they’re not as real. I don’t dwell on how people are perceiving me, whether it’s negative or positive, because that’s really what you sign up for when you put yourself out there on a public platform. It’s for people to make their opinions about you.”
The longest-running urban comedy show, “Wild ‘N Out,” is set to embark on its “Wild ‘N Out Live: The Final Lap” tour in Fall 2024. This all-ages tour will bring the show’s signature high-energy, improvisational comedy to cities across the country, marking a significant milestone in comedy and television history.
For 20 years, “Wild ‘N Out” has served as more than just a show; it’s been a launchpad for stars like Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Katt Williams. The show has also provided a platform for up-and-coming comedians and musicians, showcasing their talents to a national audience.
Recognized for its cultural impact, “Wild ‘N Out” has received an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Variety Show (Series or Special). Its influence extends beyond television, shaping comedy trends and fostering a generation of performers who blend humor with social commentary.
“Wild ‘N Out has been a labor of love for the past 20 years,” said Nick Cannon. “We’ve created a platform for so many talented individuals, and it’s been incredible to watch them flourish. This final lap is our way of celebrating the legacy of the show and thanking the fans who have supported us along the way.”
“This Final Lap Tour is going to be epic!” said Rip Micheals, Wild ‘N Out cast member and tour creator. “Expect to see your favorite Wild ‘N Out family members back on stage, with past greats going head-to-head with the new legends of comedy. We’re pulling out all the stops to make this the most unforgettable tour yet.”
The “Wild ‘N Out Live: The Final Lap Tour” promises an unforgettable night of laughter and surprises. Cast members from past and present will engage audiences with hilarious improv games and freestyle battles. The tour will also feature musical performances by today’s hottest artists and interactive audience games, allowing fans to participate in the show’s iconic challenges.
For the latest details on the tour and more, visit www.wildnoutlivetour.com and follow Nick Cannon’s social media updates.
Gotta love a feel good story about wellness and that holds true with Lil Rel Howery proudly sharing his weight loss journey. The thing is many are “fans” are speculating his amazing transformation is due to the use of Ozempic. First off, so what and why is that a bad thing even if it was true? It isn’t if you believe Howery but so what if people use the big “O.” Sad that Ozempic shaming is a thing. People will find any reason to be miserable.
Anwway, on July 22, the Chicago native posted a photo on Instagram from the red carpet premiere of his new film, “Harold and the Purple Crayon.” The image showcased a noticeably slimmer and leaner Howery. In his post, Rel explained his truth which was a dedication to health over the past five years has led him to feel and look the best he ever has. He attributed his success to quitting drinking, adopting a healthier diet, and improving his spiritual and emotional well-being.
“Whatever you do, please do it for yourself, and if you can, don’t take shortcuts. Really put the work in. This is all just straight hard work, nothing else, and that’s the honest to God truth,” Rel wrote. “Let me be an example of truly putting in the work. Also, please go see our new movie “Harold and the Purple Crayon” on August 2nd in theaters everywhere. #MovieMakingRel #RelTheUpgrade #ProudOfMe.”
But fans being fans or haters, however you want to classify them, quickly flooded the comment section with mixed reactions to his transformation. Many applauded his commitment and found inspiration in his journey.
One commenter joked, “Boy, you look like your own lil brother. [lmao] Good work G.” Another praised, “Your skin has a glow to it! The change from within is showing all over you! You look blessed, you look GOOD! This is MOTIVATION!”
Hollywood friends were congratulatory including Ludacris, Vic Mensa, Ava DuVernay, Terry Crews, and Tina Knowles to name a few.
Some skeptics accused Rel of lying about his weight loss and using Ozempic instead. Comments ranged from, “Why can’t people tell the truth about how they lost weight,” to, “Damn crack is one hell of a drug,” and “This guy done got on Ozempic.”
Here’s how Rel responded on the Gram … On July 24 with a video addressing his detractors. He firmly denied using Ozempic and emphasized that his weight loss was achieved naturally. “I’m on that Godzempic, Happyzempic, Hardworkzempic, PurposeZempic, and just plain Truthzempic,” he captioned the clip. “I’m grateful and glad I said yes to God’s assignment on my life and friends still here and gone that kept it 100 with me… #BlessedAndHighlyFavored.”
Whatever. Ozempic or not, and Howery makes it clear it is not, people need to live their truth and worry about their own wellness instead of attacking someone else’s. Period.
Get this, ”Fight Night” is adapted from the acclaimed iHeart true-crime podcast of the same name. It delves into the real events that took place in Atlanta on October 26, 1970. Will Packer, who produced the podcast, also serves as an executive producer for the series.
Kevin Hart plays Chicken Man, a hustler striving to make his mark among elite Black mafia members, gangsters, and powerful figures not just in Georgia but nationwide. He throws an afterparty to celebrate the historic fight between Muhammad Ali and Jerry Quarry, marking Ali’s return to boxing after being banned for refusing military draft. FYI, that was a big deal back then.
We won’t say to much but the party takes a disastrous turn when attendees are robbed in what is known as Atlanta’s most audacious underworld heist, with Chicken Man suspected of masterminding the plot. He must then work to prove his innocence as law enforcement seeks to bring justice to the victims.
Don Cheadle plays Detective J.D. Hudson, who faces the complex challenge of investigating the heist, especially since some victims are also criminals. That’s a good role for Cheadle, he has played a great cop or federal agent in several roles in the past.
So the podcast that inspired the limited series, first aired back in 2020, and provides the storyline:
“On October 26, 1970, Muhammad Ali triumphantly returned to boxing in Atlanta, Georgia. But the next morning, national headlines featured one of the biggest heists in history. At the center was a hustler named ‘Chicken Man.’ Fans arrived in Rolls Royces from New York City, wearing vibrant fur coats and diamonds. They entered the arena with engraved invitations, cheering when the first-round bell rang, minus two empty seats. After the fight, many top Black mafia leaders headed to Chicken Man’s house for a celebration, only to be met by sawed-off shotguns. On FIGHT NIGHT, J.D. Hudson, one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives, who helped lead Ali into the ring, was assigned to the robbery investigation by the police chief the next day. When asked years later, ‘When did the investigation end?’ J.D. replied, ‘When everybody was dead.’”
Behind the camera are Shaye Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch who serve as creators and showrunners. Executive producers include Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, and Conal Byrne, Will Pearson, and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts, alongside Jeff Keating, Lars Jacobson, Hart, and Packer.
Kendrick Lamar was already one of the greatest rappers of all-time before he came after Drake. But following “Euphoria,”“6:16 In LA,” and “Not Like Us,” well, he’s still one of the greatest rappers ever, and also one of the funniest. “Why you trollin’ like a bitch? Ain’t you tired? / Tryna strike a chord and it’s probably A minor” gets me every time. Lamar’s pairing with the South Park creators, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, on a feature-length film seemed like an usual pairing when it was announced in 2022, but not so much anymore.
Here’s everything we know about The Untitled South Park Guys and Kendrick Lamar Project, which is what I’m calling it until an official title is revealed.
Plot
The Untitled South Park Guys and Kendrick Lamar Project is an original live-action comedy that will “depict the past and present coming to a head when a young Black man who is interning as a slave re-enactor at a living history museum discovers that his white girlfriend’s ancestors once owned his,” Entertainment Weekly reported in 2022. The script is from long-time South Park writer, producer, and voice-of-Towelie, Vernon Chatman. (He also created MTV2’s Wonder Showzen and Adult Swim’s The Heart, She Holler.)
Lamar and Dave Free will produce The Untitled South Park Guys and Kendrick Lamar Project through their company PGLang, while Stone and Parker produce for Park County.
“I’m excited to announce that we’re going into production this summer on a [comedy] from the creators of South Park, Matt Stone and Trey Parker,” Paramount film chief Brian Robbins said at CinemaCon earlier this year. “This script is one of the funniest and most original scripts we’ve ever read, and it’s certain to create some fireworks when it hits theaters on July 4, 2025.”
Parker and Stone are three-fourths of the way to an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony). All they’re missing is an Oscar — could this be it?
Cast
It’s unclear if Lamar, Parker, or Stone will appear in the film, but don’t expect to see Kanye West or Barbra Streisand (what a movie that would be).
Release Date
The Untitled South Park Guys and Kendrick Lamar Project hits theaters on July 4, 2025, two days after the Jurassic World movie with Scarlett Johansson.
Trailer
There’s no trailer yet and won’t be for awhile. Until then, you can always watch Kendrick Lamar’s star-studded “Not Like Us” music video or maybe this ranking of every South Park song. I haven’t watched the whole thing, but if “Let’s Fighting Love” isn’t in the top 5, I revoke my endorsement of the video.
The brand new reality series PLAYGROUND from executive producer Megan Thee Stallion exclusively premiering on Hulu on Friday, July 26
Playground LA is the premier studio for pro dancers to be discovered and book their big break. Classes taught by highly sought choreographers and auditions held by top music artists – including three-time Grammy award-winning musician Megan Thee Stallion – attract the most ambitious dancers in the world – and all the drama they bring with them. Romance, friendships, and tenacity are tested at every turn, as the next hot dancer is always around the corner, trying to beat the established pros for their shot at the spotlight.
Khaotic and Lil Scrappy stole the show on July 20th. The rappers were filming an episode for the upcoming season of Love and Hip-Hop: Atlanta, and proceeded to get into a fight. The whole thing was caught on camera, and the two men had to be separated as a result. Khaotic hopped on Instagram a few days after the fight to clear the air. He alleged that Lil Scrappy was to blame for the incident. He went as far as to suggest that Scrappy was trying to drum up attention for himself ahead of the new season.
“I don’t even know what Scrappy was doing,” Khaotic claimed. The rapper went on to explain that the Love and Hip-Hop cast had been subjected to a particularly long day of filming. “We had been on set for 12 hours that day,” he noted. “And me and Scrappy walked by each other several times…. We hadn’t talked in like a month outside of TV.” Then, out of nowhere, Scrappy decided to spring into action and attack Khaotic. At least, that’s the way Khaotic viewed it. “Out no nowhere, Scrappy just walked up on me,” the rapper recalled. “Security was holding him.”
Khaotic accused Lil Scrappy of being drunk at the time the fight went down. “Scrappy was already going through it with Ciara,” the rapper posited. “He was drunk, and out of nowhere, he just ran up on me like he had a problem… Why would you run up like you ready to fight?” Scrappy allegedly tried to play things off as though he merely wanted to talk to Khaotic, but security wasn’t buying it. They separated the two rappers before things could go any further. “Why you wait until we get on the camera,” Khaotic asked. “I don’t got a problem with you, Scrappy.”
Lil Scrappy also shared his side of the story on Instagram. He didn’t get into the specifics of his dynamic with Khaotic, but he made it clear that he’s not a fan of the rapper. He called Khaotic a “liar” and a “thief,” and alleged that he’d previously turned the other cheek. “I might don’t get in that a*s at first,” Scrappy said on IG Live. “Cause I be trying to be a good guy.” The rapper implied that Khaotic was talking bad about him behind his back, and downplaying his success. Evidently, he felt like the Love and Hip-Hop stage was the right place to address the issue. One thing’s for sure: season 12 is going to be intense.
Stax Records is thrilled to share that the critically acclaimed HBO docuseriesSTAX: Soulsville, U.S.A. has been honored with two Emmy® nominations including Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series. This prestigious recognition highlights the series’ exceptional storytelling and its profound exploration of the cultural and musical impact of Stax Records.
Stax Records is critical to American music history as one of the most popular soul music record labels of all time. In 15 years, Stax placed more than 167 hit songs in the Top 100 on the pop charts and a staggering 243 hits in the Top 100 R&B charts. It launched the careers of legendary artists such as Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, Rufus & Carla Thomas and Booker T. & the M.G.’s, among numerous others.
The HBO Original four-part documentary series STAX: Soulsville, U.S.A., an official selection of the 2024 SXSWFilm & TV Festival and winner of the TV Premiere Audience Award, is directed by filmmaker Jamila Wignot. The series, a production of Laylow Pictures and White Horse Pictures in association with Concord Originals, Polygram Entertainment, and Warner Music Entertainment, debuted on May 20 on HBO and is available to stream on Max. The docuseries is produced by Jamila Wignot and Kara Elverson; executive produced by Ezra Edelman, Caroline Waterlow, Nigel Sinclair, Nicholas Ferrall, Scott Pascucci, Sophia Dilley, Michele Smith, Jody Gerson, David Blackman, Charlie Cohen, and Ron Broitman. For HBO: executive producers, Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Tina Nguyen.
“We are proud that the docuseries has received critical acclaim and, most importantly, that the Stax artists and legacy are being recognized and respected as a cornerstone of American history,” shares Executive Producer Michele Smith, VP, Estate & Legacy Brand Management at Craft Recordings.
We closed out last week with Part 1 of pop culture moments that would be excellent episodes of The Boondocks, and we’re back with Part II. If you haven’t already checked out 1-25, we recommend you look that over. The Boondocks ran for four seasons beforecalling it quits in 2014, and fans have impatiently waited for an update on a revival. However, plans of a reboot seem to be thwarted for the time being, and we’re left with imaginging which moments in pop culture, internet, and Hip Hop history the Boondocks writers would take on. Here are a few ideas for the second half of this Boondocks series; as stated in Part 1, we know this list doesn’t include all that has happened in the last 10 years. These are just a handful of moments we believe The Boondocks would highlight effortlessly.
Read through 26-50 below and let us know what other events The Boondocks needs to spotlight if (*crosses fingers* when?) it returns.
26. Rihanna & A$AP Rocky’s Growing Family
After confirming their romance in 2021, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky apparently got to work. The longtime friends surprised their fans with news of their union, which was praised among their peers. In January 2022, they announced that they were pregnant with their first child, RZA. Then, during her epic Super Bowl Halftime performance, Rihanna revealed a baby bump, showing that the megastar singer and her equally famous beau were expecting again. The couple’s son, Riot, arrived in August 2023. Rihanna has endured quite a bit pertaining to her relationships in the industry, so this Hip Hop family should definitely be highlighted on The Boondocks.
27. The Unraveling Of Kanye West
Whew…Kanye West has had quite a ride during his time in the industry. From his breakout hit being about his near-death car crash, to his infamous line about George Bush, to his romances with the likes of Kim Kardashian and Amber Rose, Ye has been at the epicenter of controversy. However, it may be his more recent antics that would find a hot spot on The Boondocks. The accusations of anti-Semitism continue to haunt him, as do his social media rants and unraveling moments. Whether it’s his secretive Wyoming ranch or his bid for President of the United States, Kanye West’s longstanding career is ripe with Boondocks material. They should break it down into several episodes, the way they tackled Debra Lee and BET.
Which would you choose? This question appeared on social media, garnering thousands of responses across platforms. Some believed they could eventually be more profitable if they sat with the Roc Nation mogul and picked his brain over a meal. Yet, others wanted the immediate cash, thinking that would be more helpful to their circumstances than a conversation. Hov weighed in on the viral question, telling the public to take the money. It could be interesting to see this episode with Riley and if he would choose the stacks or the wisdom.
29. Tyler Perry’s Bid For BET
The relationship between The Boondocks and Tyler Perry is tense. The beloved series has already featured an episode centered around Perry and his stage plays, where Granddad gets cast to be Madea’s love interest. The Boondocks crew didn’t hold back in going in on Perry, and it has become one of the most remembered episodes in the series. Considering how The Boondocks presented BET as being poisonous to Black culture and the rumors that Perry wanted to purchase the network, this is prime material.
30. Katt Williams’s Club Shay Shay Interview
Some have said the wild ride 2024 has become is all thanks to Katt Williams kicking off the year with a bang. The comedian sat down with Shannon Sharpe for one of the most discussed and memed interviews of the year. Williams never bites his tongue—that could be in his standup routines or a serious conversation. During his interview, he called out his peers and revealed insights about Hollywood’s dark side, and some believe he predicted the unfolding of several of our industry icons. Meanwhile, Katt isn’t a stranger to The Boondocks. He voiced the character of A Pimp Named Slick Back, who appeared in several hilarious episodes.
31. Becoming TikTok Famous
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic sent the entire world into a frenzy. Businesses didn’t just close; some owners had to permanently shut their doors because they couldn’t recover from the losses. Yet, others found new income by hopping on TikTok. It wasn’t just about keeping businesses open; tens of millions of people flooded the platform with silly videos, deep conversations, and personal revelations to connect with the outside world. TikTok has launched the careers of some of today’s biggest pop culture stars, and its popularity is only increasing. The Boondocks could have fun with this one, with Huey and Riley potentially taking to the platform to push their views.
It came as a surprise when DaBaby and DaniLeigh started popping up together in social media posts. He featured her in his music video, they traveled together to celebrate their birthdays, and there were Instagram Stories of them showing affection and enjoying one another’s company. Soon, the pair revealed they were expecting a child. Still, things took a dramatic turn when their romance unraveled on Instagram Live. DaBaby told the world DaniLeigh a side piece and berated her in real-time. The former couple-non-couple argued, and soon, the police were called. Both artists haven’t recovered from the scandal—as a matter of fact, they’ve continued to be embroiled in fights, court cases, and reported tense co-parenting.
33. A.I. Rappers
Although A.I. is a helpful tool in corporate America and beyond, a dark cloud is hovering over its impact on the entertainment industry. In music, specifically, some have already begun testing Artificial Intelligence rappers, using famous artists’ voices. During Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s beef, the OVO leader used an A.I. Snoop Dogg and A.I. Tupac in one of his diss tracks. This move polarized Hip Hop, with many arguing that it was disrespectful to both artists. We can only imagine how The Boondocks would incorporate the rise of A.I. and creating a famous rapper that doesn’t even exist.
34. Dave Chappelle Trans Controversy & Stage Attack
Chappelle’s Show was a firestorm in the early 2000s, running for three seasons and creating some of the best quotes from any comedy series. He gave us unforgettable characters and ongoing standup specials that have been etched in history. Chappelle has been amid controversy throughout his career, but when he made remarks about the trans community, he faced backlash. Then, while performing at the Hollywood Bowl, a man with a weapon rushed the stage in a full-on attack. Thankfully, Chappelle walked away uninjured, but all of the dissension surrounding the comedy giant—and his unmoved reaction to the debates—would make for big laughs on The Boondocks.
35. Charleston White & His Antics
One of the wildest figures in social media culture is Charleston White. He has risen through the online ranks with his hot takes and wild statements. He even beefed with Soulja Boy, pepper spraying the rapper at a restaurant. Further, White has taken aim at almost every top-selling rapper today, as well as given his thoughts on all things political. A Boondocks feature with White could offer spicy interactions with Uncle Ruckus, who is just as unfiltered as the social media star.
36. Jussie Smollett Hoax Drama
There was a time when it seemed pop culture would never be released from the clutches of this scandal. New reports and rumors were daily, and debates unfolded regarding whether or not this was a hoax. Empire star Jussie Smollett found himself the target of one of the biggest scandals of 2019. It was then that he told police he was attacked by two racist white men who put a noose around his neck. Investigators weren’t convinced of his story, and it was revealed that brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo reportedly helped Smollett fake the scene. The actor continues to deny the allegations and even faced charges for lying to the police. The Boondocks loves a good trial episode, so this would be incredible to watch.
37. Nick Cannon’s Calvary Of Kids & Baby Mamas
No one is quite sure how many children Nick Cannon will have, but at the moment, the number stands at 12 in 13 years. Six women, including Mariah Carey, are on the list of mothers, and Cannon seemingly keeps a household with several of the ladies. Cannon has boasted about the joys of fatherhood, yet the public has been sharp in its criticism. Regardless, Cannon is keeping his options open concerning welcoming more children. Imagine what The Boondocks could do with this one.
38. MAGA Mania
Heavily regarded as a cult to some and a way of life for others, MAGA is here to stay. The “Make America Great Again” slogan took flight during Donald Trump’s first presidential campaign, and it’s only gained popularity among those who see the businessman as the Second Coming. Interviews with dedicated MAGA fans have stormed the internet with questionable commentary about the 45th president. The Boondocks would have to tap into this phenomenon.
39. Sha’Carri Richardson Suspended From Olympics
When Sha’Carri Richardson qualified for the delayed Tokyo Olympics, there was overwhelming support for the young star. However, she was suspended after officials revealed she tested positive for THC. Richardson said she used marijuana following the recent death of her mother, but that didn’t stop the public vitriol from all sides. She has since recovered from the backlash and will compete in the Paris Olympics. This could be a Boondocks hot take on the standards Black women are held to as opposed to their counterparts.
40. Jonathan Owens Not Knowing Who Simone Biles Was Before Dating
Simone Biles is considered the greatest gymnast in American history. Her name and face have been used to endorse dozens of brands, and she has been interviewed globally by every major news network there is. She’s a gold medal Olympian, and she continues to inspire people of all backgrounds to become champions. In 2023, Biles married Chicago Bears star Jonathan Owens, who said in an interview that he was completely unfamiliar with his wife when they met on a dating app. Moreover, when questioned about being in a relationship with someone of Biles’s caliber, he called himself the “catch.” The public immediately circulated clips of the chat, sparking an online discourse about the sports stars’ marriage. Biles has since come forward to defend her husband and union.
41. When Empire Ruled Television
For five years, fans were addicted to Empire. The Lee Daniels creation was a megahit, with record label mogul Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard) and his ex-wife Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) leading a family of talented sons who were stars. The real controversy, however, comes from rumors that real-life events inspired the show. When Lucious (*spoiler*) killed his good friend Bunkie, viewers drew parallels to Diddy and the late-great Notorious B.I.G. There is plenty to work with here for The Boondocks writers.
42. Jada Pinkett Smith & Her August Alsina “Entanglement”
As a collective, we know more about Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith’s family and relationship dynamics than arguably any other Hollywood couple today. Jada launched Red Table Talk alongside her daughter, Willow Smith, and mother, Adrienne Banfield-Norris. They talked extensively about their pasts and presents, but when Will made an appearance, it changed the game. It was revealed that the pair went through a separation, and during that time, Jada had an “entanglement” with R&B singer August Alsina. The social media response was unavoidable, taking over headlines from one end of the earth to the other.
43. Rachel Dolezal Pretending To Be Black
The term “transracial” took flight in the mid-2010s after Rachel Dolezal, then-president of the Spokane, Washington, NAACP chapter, surfaced in pop culture. The curly-haired, fair-skinned woman claimed she was Black, but upon investigation, it was learned she was a white woman born and raised in Montana. Further, Dolezal made wild claims about her upbringing and youth, all of which her parents have come forward to deny. Since then, Dolezal has stood firm in living as a Black woman. She has also changed her name to Nkechi Amare Diallo, leaving her infamy perfect for The Boondocks.
44. The Death Of Prince
One of the greatest musicians of our time passed away in 2016, shocking the world. He had been sick with the flu and underwent a medical emergency just days before his death. Sadly, Prince was found unresponsive at his Paisley Park home on April 21. His cause of death was determined to be an accidental overdose of fentanyl. Prince’s artistry has been widely celebrated, and while the effects of his loss still haunt fans, The Boondocks could pay comical tribute.
Of course, some moments don’t warrant jokes. Yet, that hasn’t stopped The Boondocks from tackling those issues. Basketball fans were shocked when it was announced in January 2020 that Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash in California. Then, it was shared that his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna Bryant, lost her life alongside her father. Six family friends also died in the crash, leaving devastation reverberating through several families. The Boondocks paying homage to such a monumental figure and drawing from the worldwide response to the tragedy would be an inspirational feature.
46. Jordan Peele Becomes A Master Of Black Horror
Who knew that the guy from MadTV would become one of the greatest filmmakers in Black horror? Jordan Peele has been active in the comedy space for some time. Key & Peele, a hit sketch series with Keegan Michael-Key, followed in the footsteps of Chappelle’s Show with a twist. However, Peele’s career would take a different direction when he released his directorial debut, Get Out. The movie was just the beginning of a series of Black horror films rejuvenating the genre. BlacKkKlansman, Us, Candyman, and Nope soon followed—all taking over the box office. If The Boondocks dedicated a Halloween episode inspired by Peele’s work, it could be unforgettable.
47. Omarion Being Unbothered By Fizz & Apryl Jones
Love & Hip Hop Hollywood may be on a hiatus for now, but there was a time when it was one of VH1’s top unscripted shows. It once featured former B2K frontman Omarion and his then-fiancée Apryl Jones. The couple’s relationship issues were on full blast, with them welcoming the arrival of their firstborn at the time. In later seasons, Apryl returned with a new beau: Fizz, Omarion’s B2K groupmate. The controversy sparked Omarion’s “unbothered” persona, as he publicly took it all with a grain of salt. Jones would argue that things were different behind the scenes.
48. Hip Hop Podcasts
Hip Hop is ripe with commentary from critics, fans, and artists. There has been a dramatic increase in Hip Hop-centered podcasts, from Joe Budden’s top-earner to Noreaga and DJ EFN’s Drink Champs. Even Akademiks launched his own sit-down series, and DJ Vlad has been thriving in the scene since premiering VladTV in 2008. Speaking of Vlad, he has appeared on The Boondocks in the Sergeant Gutta (a character based on Soulja Boy) episode when he’s beefing with Thugnificient. With so much Hip Hop commentary up for the parodying, The Boondocks wouldn’t be without material.
49. Global Response To The Murder Of Nipsey Hussle
In March 2019, Nipsey Hussle was gunned down in front of his Marathon Clothing store in Los Angeles. The beloved Crenshaw rapper’s life was taken by an associate, Eric Holder, who was rumored to have been triggered by snitching allegations. The global response to Hussle’s passing was incredible, with people descending on his store’s location with candles, flowers, notes, and tributes. It was one of Hip Hop’s most significant losses in recent years, but the reaction to the tragedy is what really shook the industry. Many were accused of jumping on bandwagons and only praising Neighborhood Nip for clout. On The Boondocks, we already saw Riley’s reaction when Gangstalicious was shot and hospitalized. One can only imagine how he would react if one of his favorite rappers were killed.
50. Going Toe-To-Toe On Verzuz
The 2020 pandemic had the industry scrambling for inventive ways to continue sharing artists, new music, Swizz Beatz and Timbaland gathered their team and came up with Verzuz, beginning on Instagram Live. Thousands tuned in to watch two artists in a similar lane play their favorite or top hits back to back. A little trash-talking was inevitable, but all in good fun. Verzuz helped carry Hip Hop through the pandemic and even found success following the lockdown. Yet, corporate tape has switched up the series, with bigger productions, leaving some fans wanting production to return to Verzuz roots. Now that Verzuz has reportedly inked a deal with Elon Musk, Swizz and Tim face new criticisms. A Boondocks episode about this could be centered on the concerts themselves or Verzuz’s new venture with Xitter’s leader.
