Kenneth Williams Jr

Damon Dash Talks Venturing Into Tech And Rock Music

Black women in particular have long made sacrifices to secure financial stability for their families in the midst of systemic barriers such as racism, sexism and classism. Award-winning actress Nia Long illustrates these efforts through her portrayal of Eunice Garrett in The Banker. Garrett was the former wife of Bernard Garrett Sr., who secretly purchased banks in Texas to assist Black residents who were unable to attain loans due to the Jim Crow era.

From Ray to the forthcoming film Tyson, Jamie Foxx is known for bringing stories to life with his dynamic acting. Since taking ownership of BSB-Brown Sugar Bourbon in March, Foxx has been bringing his storytelling talent to entrepreneurship, paving the way for Black creatives who aspire to capitalize on the intersection of creativity and business.
For(bes) The Culture caught up with Foxx to discuss his newest business venture, Black entrepreneurship and how creatives can bring their dreams to fruition.

Five-time NBA all-star Chris Webber, once a champion on the basketball court, is now a champion of diverse storytelling. Webber’s production company, Webber-Gilbert Productions, has produced over 30 films to date including the Emmy nominated documentary, Charm City, which takes an intimate look at the city of Baltimore through the lens of community leaders, politicians and citizens as they fight to make the city a better place for its residents.

With the month of May designated to observe mental health awareness, it's remiss to not have Black women at the forefront of the conversation. Studies have shown Black women are more likely to experience depression when compared to their white and male counterparts. Michelle Williams sat down with Blavity News to discuss the importance of Black women having candid conversations about mental health and her new book Checking In: How Getting Real about Depression Saved My Life -- and Can Save Yours.

Who is your favorite actress of all time and why is it Angela Bassett?
While this question may be asked in jest, for many of us, there is some truth to it. For over thirty years, we’ve bore witness to the magic that is Ms. Bassett as she’s captivated audiences across the world through powerful storytelling, bringing many issues to the forefront that commonly affect the Black community.

When it comes to paying it forward, Mrs. Carter could teach a master class.
Five years ago, Beyoncé released her chart smashing sixth solo studio album Lemonade and it is still the gift that keeps on giving. The critically-acclaimed masterpiece spawned empowering, pro-Black anthems like "Formation," a world tour, and enough accolades to rival most of her contemporaries’ entire catalogs since its inaugural release.

Social media erupted with a myriad of responses to the literal display of Black boy joy. Many praised Hill for his ingenious storytelling and confidence while others accused him of perpetuating a demonic narrative aimed to cause the degradation of society as we know it.
Not only is the latter steeped in homophobia, but the double standards are also strikingly present as many of his peers, who happen to be heterosexual men, are rarely met with these sorts of accusations or expected to create music with the sole intent of being a good representation for children.

Jasika Nicole, the actress best known for her roles on The Good Doctor, Scandal, Underground and now Punky Brewster, appeared on Blavity's Facebook Live to discuss coming out, holding loved ones accountable, being Black and queer in Hollywood and the repressive nature of beauty standards.

Five-time NBA all-star Chris Webber, once a champion on the basketball court, is now a champion of diverse storytelling. Webber’s production company, Webber-Gilbert Productions, has produced over 30 films to date including the Emmy nominated documentary, Charm City, which takes an intimate look at the city of Baltimore through the lens of community leaders, politicians and citizens as they fight to make the city a better place for its residents.

The latest project to come out of the production company is a limited series, Fab Five, based on his forthcoming autobiography, By God’s Grace.

Laverne Cox is many things: an actress, trans trailblazer, film producer and more. But one title that she holds near and dear to her heart is that of an activist.
The 48-year-old Alabama native spoke with Blavity News to discuss how allies can act in solidarity with the trans community, how her advocacy intersects with her career in Hollywood and her latest endeavor to ensure Black women are placed in a position to secure the bag.

Recently joining the fight to eradicate unhealthy eating habits is Ayesha Curry. The New York Times bestselling cookbook author and restaurateur is one of the latest driving forces behind the dairy-free movement. Curry, who is no stranger to championing communities of color via her lifestyle magazine Sweet July, recently teamed up with So Delicious Dairy Free to create dairy-free versions of her most popular recipes.

Jasika Nicole drops by Blavity News to discuss being Black and queer in Hollywood, her new role in the revival of "Punky Brewster" and more.

Syleena Johnson drops by Blavity News to discuss career longevity and how she uses her platform to advocate for Black women.

Van Lathan is stopping by Blavity News to discuss to discuss his latest podcast, "Higher Learning" and Black culture.