A Different World, including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Dawnn Lewis, Cree Summer, Darryl Bell and Debbie Allen

by Kandiss Edwards

November 12, 2025

‘A Different World’ Is Coming Back Modern And Black

Hillman College is back with new Black stories in 'A Different World' continuation series.

On Nov. 10, Netflix announced that it has officially ordered a sequel series to the iconic ’90s sitcom A Different World.

The beloved Black sitcom is being reimagined over 30 years after its debut. The revival centers on Maleah Joi Moon as Deborah Wayne. Deborah is the youngest daughter of original characters Dwayne Wayne, played by Kadeem Hardison, and Whitley Gilbert, played by Jasmine Guy.

Debbie Allen, who produced and directed much of the original series, is returning as executive producer and will direct several episodes. In a statement, Allen spoke about the legacy of the original series and her excitement for its continuation.

“There couldn’t be a better time than now to reboot A Different World,” Allen said in a statement. “Our show changed lives, tripled the enrollment of historically Black colleges and gave a strong voice and platform for Young Black America.”

https://twitter.com/netflix/status/1987961780447178852

Alijah Kai Haggins, Chibuikem Uche, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, and Kennedi Reece will round out the cast as Deborah’s new college friends. The series is under the leadership of showrunner Felicia Pride, while original writer Gina Prince-Bythewood serves as executive producer.

Netflix ordered 10 30-minute episodes following the short-form format of the original series.

The sequel “follows Deborah as she enters her freshman year at her parents’ HBCU alma mater and finds the shadow of her parents difficult to escape,” Deadline reported.

While the original cast has not been confirmed to return in full, producers have suggested that several legacy characters may appear in guest roles. The appearances of fan favorites will help establish continuity and evoke nostalgia among OG fans.

The announcement comes on the heels of the KeKe Palmer-produced show Southern Fried Rice. Centered around an Asian woman attending a fictional HBCU, the show’s premise received significant backlash. Social media users were outraged as HBCUs are an integral part of African American and Black culture.

With the return of A Different World, Black stories and characters will be at the forefront, honoring the legacy of those who came before.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MAY 06: Lil' Kim during the Lovers & Friends music festival at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds on May 06, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/FilmMagic)

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

Lil’ Kim Pops Out At Brooklyn Nets Halftime Show For ‘Biggie’ Night Celebrating The Notorious B.I.G.

Lil Kim paid tribute to her beloved friend and collaborator at the Brooklyn Nets' "Biggie Night."

Lil Kim is doing her part to ensure the legacy of Biggie Smalls remains strong.

The New York emcee took the floor at the Brooklyn Nets’ halftime show during their Nov. 11 game against the Toronto Raptors. However, the night’s theme had a special celebration.

The NBA franchise debuted their Notorious B.I.G.-inspired jerseys, which rocked a “Brooklyn Camo” honoring the city’s culture and famed artist. To launch the celebration, the team drafted Lil Kim to perform during their halftime festivities. She announced her performance in a joint post with the team as they prepared to represent their hometown hero.

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“It’s Biggie Night, so you already know the vibes. Every time we rep the legend, it’s all good, babyyy bae baeee,” said the Bed-Stuy native, referencing Biggie’s own signature catchphrase. “Brooklyn, we ouuutssiiideee… Get ready for a fun-filled night! Let’s make it one for the books.”

Rightfully, the Queen Bee rapped her verse from “Notorious B.I.G.” alongside the Nets dancers. Wearing a shirt that read “REALLY HER,” Lil Kim proved why she earned her reign in female rap with the throwback performance.

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As for the new jersey debut, the “Brooklyn Camo” City Edition uniforms bring color back to the Nets’ design. However, the inclusion of a colorful outline evokes Biggie’s classic Coogi sweaters and the spirit of old-school Brooklyn. The NBA confirmed the jerseys also featured a “Bed-Stuy” patch, further recognizing Biggie and Lil Kim’s hometown.

However, the jerseys were not the only thing to represent Biggie and Brooklyn’s impact on hip-hop. According to AllNewHipHop, the jerseys were one part of the Nets’ partnership with the Biggie Smalls estate. The court itself took on a “Biggie” theme throughout the programming. Spectators enjoyed giveaways, including a Biggie Bobblehead, and entertainment from Lil Kim as they celebrated the King of East Coast hip-hop.

As the partnership unfolds, Nets fans can expect to see more games featuring the collaborative jerseys. As the NBA team showcases its city’s cultural influence across the world, highlighted through Biggie Smalls, it continues to “Spread Love The Brooklyn Way.”

by Mary Spiller

November 12, 2025

Supreme Court Skeptical Of Formerly Incarcerated Rastafarian’s Bid To Sue For Forced Haircut

Justices appear divided over whether federal law allows damages for religious rights violations by state prison officials.

On Nov. 10, the Supreme Court appeared reluctant to allow an incarcerated Louisiana man to seek monetary damages from prison officials who forcibly cut his dreadlocks in violation of his religious beliefs, suggesting the justices may rule that Congress did not authorize such lawsuits under existing law. The case centers on Damon Landor, a devout Rastafarian who says his faith prohibits him from cutting his hair under the Nazarite vow.

According to NBC News, Landor, who had not cut his dreadlocks in nearly two decades before entering prison, claims his religious rights were violated when officers at Raymond Laborde Correctional Center shaved his head in 2020, despite his objections.

Landor’s attorneys argue that the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) allows for damages when religious freedoms are violated, citing a 2020 Supreme Court ruling that found such relief permissible under a similar law, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

However, during oral arguments, several conservative justices appeared unconvinced. Louisiana Solicitor General Benjamin Aguinaga maintained that RLUIPA does not authorize suits for damages against state officials, noting the difference between cases involving federal employees and those involving state-funded institutions.

Justice Neil Gorsuch emphasized the absence of clear legislative language supporting Landor’s claim.

“Congress could easily have written a statute that does this,” he said. “It didn’t do that.”

He further warned that permitting such lawsuits could open the door to claims against state officials in other federally funded programs, citing the example of a state university coach facing potential litigation over team eligibility decisions.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett echoed that concern, pointing out that federal appellate courts have consistently ruled against similar damages claims. “It’s hard to see how it’s clear if every circuit is coming out differently,” she told Landor’s attorney, Zachary Tripp.

The Court’s three liberal justices, however, expressed support for Landor’s position. Justice Sonia Sotomayor argued that officials should already be aware they could face legal consequences when violating federal rights, saying, “We’re all presumed to know the law when we take our jobs.” Justice Elena Kagan added, “Why would the rule be any different under RLUIPA?” noting that state officials are already subject to other civil rights suits.

Landor, who was serving a five-month sentence for a drug offense, presented officers with a prior court ruling affirming that cutting a Rastafarian’s hair violates religious rights. Despite this, two guards restrained him while another shaved his head.

Lower courts sided with the state, prompting Landor’s appeal to the Supreme Court, where the decision could redefine how far religious protections extend for those behind bars.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

November 12, 2025

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Prison Rehab Program Could Cut His Sentence By A Year

Sean "Diddy" Combs is taking part in a prison rehab program that could shorten his sentence by up to a year.

Sean “Diddy” Combs is participating in a drug rehab program during his 50-month prison term, which could reduce his sentence by up to a year.

On Nov. 11, Juda Engelmayer, spokesperson for the incarcerated hip-hop mogul, revealed that Combs has begun rehab treatment at Fort Dix Federal Correctional Institution in New Jersey, The New York Times reported. Following his sentencing and conviction on two counts of transporting people for prostitution, Engelmayer said the Bad Boy founder is dedicated to sobriety and personal healing while serving his sentence.

“Mr. Combs is an active participant in the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) and has taken his rehabilitation process seriously from the start,” Engelmayer said. “He is fully engaged in his work, focused on growth, and committed to positive change.”

Since transferring to the low-security Fort Dix facility on Oct. 30 after more than a year at MDC in Brooklyn, New York, Combs has joined the prison’s rehab program and begun working in the chapel library.

“He works in the chapel library, where he describes the environment as warm, respectful, and rewarding,” Engelmayer said.

News of his rehab program comes days after he denied being caught with homemade alcohol made from Fanta, sugar, and apples. In a since-deleted tweet, Combs’ team said the “Bad Boy for Life” rapper remains focused solely on his rehabilitation while serving his sentence.

“The rumors claiming Mr. Combs was caught with alcohol are completely false,” a post on X read. “His only focus is becoming the best version of himself and returning to his family.”

Recent reports indicate Combs faces disciplinary action for making an unauthorized three-way call, which could temporarily suspend his phone and commissary privileges. News of Combs’ prison rehab and job assignment follows his Oct. 3 sentencing to 50 months, with 14 months credited for time served. He is expected to be released in May 2028.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

Allen Iverson Teams Up With Guess Jeans For Capsule Collection Reviving 90s Streetwear Style

The 90s sports fashion icon is making his mark on the new era of streetwear with Guess.

Allen Iverson is forever remembered as a phenomenon on and off the basketball court.

Now, the NBA legend has teamed up with Guess Jeans for a capsule collection highlighting the streetwear style of the 90s. The two classic icons in pop culture and fashion have come together for a campaign that redefines authenticity for the modern age.

The collection took inspiration from Iverson’s 1993 Sports Illustrated photoshoot, which also featured the famed athlete in a Guess t-shirt. Drawing back to the first instance of Iverson’s pairing with the brand, they used the now-iconic image on its own t-shirts.

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The capsule showcases five iterations of the new tee, reviving Iverson’s presence in mainstream fashion while calling back to his era of fame. Remembering his time before he became a household name in hoops, Iverson recalled Guess’ own impact on the culture.

“Everybody wanted to wear GUESS,” shared the 50-year-old, according to StupidDope. “In high school, it was the flyest thing out — but back then, I couldn’t afford it. My dad gave me a pair once for doing something good — maybe for my grades or something like that. I’ve always had love for GUESS because it was the style back then, and it just had a different swag when I had it on.”

As he made his professional debut, Iverson swiftly became an inspiration for ball players with swagger of their own. His unique yet unforgettable approach to fashion has remained a pillar of sports culture today, with modern athletes recognizing him as a trailblazer for creativity before heading to the court.

“Iverson represents a generation that changed how we see sport, fashion, and identity,” said Nicolai Marciano, Chief New Business Development Officer at Guess Jeans. “His energy, resilience, and authenticity embody what GUESS JEANS stands for today — a fearless approach to personal style rooted in cultural impact. “

Remembering how these images transformed the fashion and sports media landscape, Iverson and Guess are capitalizing on this moment and bringing back the nostalgic 90s aesthetics. As Iverson remains a pioneer of court-side style and timeless streetwear, this new collection brings his legacy to a new era.

True to the people, each product remains affordably priced at $44. Fans and fashion-lovers can check out the pieces on Guess’ website and Amazon.

NFL, Laveranues Coles, Jacksonville Police Officer

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

November 12, 2025

12-Year-Old Girl Arrested After Being Accused Of Committing 2 Robberies

The unidentified girl was apprehended for a crime that took place in October

A 12-year-old girl from Washington, D.C. was taken into custody after being accused of being involved in two robberies in October.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced that the pre-teenager was arrested after participating in the robberies, which occurred less than 30 minutes apart from each other. The unidentified girl was apprehended Nov. 9, and police officials stated that the crime took place Oct. 5. The girl was hit with two charges of robbery, one for Snatch, and the second for Force and Violence. Police confirmed the girl did not commit the crimes alone.

Police officials state that the first robbery was committed around 7:47 p.m. The victim was riding a bike after purchasing groceries. Allegedly, a group of juveniles approached. One of them threw a bicycle into the path of the victim, and after doing so, two of the juveniles tried to steal the bike. Instead of taking the bike, they took some of the groceries before leaving the scene.

The next crime took place 19 minutes later when the second victim rode a scooter past a group of juveniles. The suspect allegedly snatched the scooter but stashed it after seeing an MPD mountain bike police officer riding toward them. Before abandoning the vehicle, the suspect purportedly took a mobile phone that was attached to the scooter.

The other juveniles who may have been involved in the crimes have not been arrested or identified. As the case continues to be investigated, the Metropolitan Police Department is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for anyone providing information that leads to the arrest and indictment of those involved in the robberies. Anyone who may have info can call the police department at (202) 727-9099, or text through the MPD Text Tip Line at 50411.

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by Sharelle B. McNair

November 12, 2025

Trump Pardons Georgia RICO Defendants While Case Risks Being Dismissed Without Fani Willis Replacement

Willis warned that the state would have difficulty in filling her spot as the country is living in a “culture of fear.”

As individuals in the Georgia election interference case were granted pardons by President Donald Trump, the case risks being tossed out by a judge after the state has failed to find a replacement prosecutor to take over, after disqualifying Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, CBS News reported.

Days before the Veteran’s Day holiday, Trump pardoned several of his friends listed in Georgia’s ongoing RICO indictment, including former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and attorneys Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro. However, the case is in limbo as the state’s deadline of Nov. 14 to appoint a new lead prosecutor approaches. Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee has ordered the deadline or he will dismiss the indictment as a whole for “want of prosecution.” In other words, the case would be tossed since the prosecutor “failed to actively pursue” it.

In a statement, Executive Director of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council, Pete Skandalaki, said the group “cannot intelligently answer questions of anyone requested to take the appointment or to do his own due diligence in finding a prosecutor who is not encumbered by a significant appearance of impropriety.” However, he highlighted that his team has been working diligently to fulfill the judge’s orders. “We will continue to carry out our responsibilities without being influenced by matters outside the scope of our assigned task, with the goal of complying fully with Judge McAfee’s order.”

Willis warned that the state would have difficulty in filling her spot after the Georgia Supreme Court ruled to remove her from the election interference case against Trump and his followers. She feels the country is living in a “culture of fear” as the president has set a precedent to threaten anyone who holds him accountable for his actions. “The reality is it’s going to be hard to find a prosecutor that’s not afraid to prosecute that case when one of the primary defendants is threatening anyone that would dare to prosecute them,” Willis said in an October 2025 interview.

“To only do they not have the resources to do the case, but there’s fear mongering going on right now.”

If the federal case gets tossed, there is still hope for the state charges the indictment holds as, according to Georgia Recorder, Trump’s pardon has no direct effect on the racketeering case in Fulton County. Eighteen alleged co-conspirators were accused of participating in a conspiracy to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election by casting fake electoral votes and pressuring county election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss to falsely admit to witnessing ballot fraud.

One of the pardons went to former celebrity publicist Trevian Kutti, who Willis accused of trying to scare Freeman into issuing doubt on Fulton County’s election system. He celebrated the pardon on Instagram with a post featuring a song “Praise God” by his former client, Ye, formally known as Kanye West. “WOKE UP THIS MORNING WITH PARDON FROM THE PRESIDENT. STILL UP ON TOP. THE DEVIL IS MY OPP. CAN’T PAY ME TO STOP! MY GOD AT THE TOP! THANK YOU @realdonaldtrump,” she wrote.

Tené Nícole Agency Announces 2025 Pow(H)er Experience And Larenz Tate As The ‘Pow(H)er Man of the Year’

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

Tené Nícole Agency Announces 2025 Pow(H)er Experience And Larenz Tate As The ‘Pow(H)er Man of the Year’

The event will continue bringing women and men together to promote wellness, potential, and growth.

Updated Nov. 12, 2025

Tené Nícole’s Support Your Girlfriends has announced the programming and honorees for its 2025 Pow(H)er Experience. Actor Larenz Tate will receive the “Pow(H)er Man of the Year” Award at the empowering event.

Tate is known for his critical roles in African American movies, such as Inkwell, Menace To Society, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, and the cult classic Love Jones, alongside Nia Long. However, Tate works with NASCAR, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and YMCA through his nonprofit Tate Foundation to address social justice and bring opportunities to underserved communities.

Tene Nicole, the women-focused creative agency, will continue to elevate women across all industries for a full day of empowering sessions. Taking place in New York City at Jay Conference at 515 Madison Ave. on Wednesday, Nov. 19, the seventh annual event will feature substantive experiences, all about women and men tapping into their potential and pow(H)er.

The day will include four tracks about building one’s goals, potential, business, and wealth. With partners such as Grow with Google, Chase and BLACK ENTERPRISE, the sessions include topics such as monetizing creative talents, incorporating AI, to taking charge of one’s mental health.

With an emphasis on revolutionizing women’s wellness and career trajectory, the Pow(H)er experience encourages diverse women trailblazers to reconnect with themselves and their goals while strengthening relationships with one another. The gathering will end with a Celebrity Fireside Chat, moderated by Tené Nícole founder Nikkia McClain, featuring panelists such as Dr. Yoalnda Ragland, reality television personality Guerdy Abraira, as well as Yandy Smith Harris and Tamika D. Mallory.

The following day several Pow(H)er nominees that remain “unapologetically HER” in their specific fields will be recognized at the Dream Hotel Downtown NY, starting at 6 p.m. With its theme of “Midnight Bloom,” the awards dinner and gala will highlight women change-makers from social justice, fashion, and beauty.

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Honorees include anti-gun violence advocate Erica Ford for social justice, media personality Angela Wright for community, and former wall street analyst Ashley Fox in the finance sector.

Previously profiled on BE, Karen Mitchell is another honoree for her success in entrepreneurship. The CEO of True Indian Hair has catapulted her brand into an eight-figure empire.

This year’s festivities plans to expand the Pow(H)er community as they champion diverse leaders and long-lasting impact. With another year of immersive programming, Tené Nícole’s Support Your Girlfriends continues its mission for personal and professional growth.

The Pow(H)er experience includes more than dynamic workshops and panels but financial coaching and wellness conversation for attendees’ holistic renewal.

Registration for both events is available now.

Ndamukong Suh, NFL, Finance Podcast, SIAC, brawl

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 12, 2025

Knuck If You Buck! Massive Fight Erupts At Tampa Bay Football Classic With 27 Players Suspended

The fight occurred during the spotlighted rivalry game that took place at an NFL stadium.

A massive fight occurred during the Nov. 8 HBCU football classic between Bethune-Cookman and Grambling State University.

Both the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats and Grambling State Tigers traveled to Tampa Bay to compete at Raymond James Stadium. The Tampa Bay Football Classic was meant to spotlight the two HBCU teams at a grander venue usually reserved for NFL matchups.

However, chaos erupted as both teams returned to the field after halftime, with tensions sparking physical blows that even left the coaching staff injured. According to HBCU Gameday, officials had to eject several players before the game could resume.

However, the all-out brawl left the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) with no choice but to swiftly discipline the many players involved. The result, issued Nov. 10 after an investigation by SWAC officials, left 27 players suspended following the shocking incident.

From the Grambling football roster, 18 players received suspensions, with nine from Bethune-Cookman also facing a similar fate. Of the many players punished, three faced a double suspension for their involvement. The football players must sit out for two games as their seasons resume.

Furthermore, the heightened violence prompted the SWAC to impose fines against the two universities. Grambling State will have to pay $40,000 for its players’ involvement, while Bethune-Cookman will pay a $25,000 fine.

SWAC Commissioner Dr. Charles McClelland expressed the conference’s disappointment with the players’ behavior.

“We’re extremely disappointed by the events that transpired during halftime of the Bethune-Cookman at Grambling State football game,” McClelland said. “Acts of that nature have zero place in the Southwestern Athletic Conference and intercollegiate athletics. The Conference Office has and will continue to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for all acts deemed to be unsportsmanlike and contrary to the high standard of good sportsmanship we expect.”

Both teams’ coaches uttered similar apologies on behalf of their squads. While Grambling State did take home the rough victory, the coach, Mickey Joseph, issued an apology for his and his staff’s own responsibility in the matter.

“I just want to apologize to the SWAC and to Bethune-Cookman University for what happened,” Joseph said. “That’s not who we are at Grambling State. We have to be better. I have to be better. My staff has to be better.”

Immediately after the win, Joseph defended his team in some controversial post-game comments. Following backlash, Joseph retracted his words, emphasizing that the fight did not represent Grambling’s values.

“It was emotional,” Joseph continued. “But at the end of the day, we represent something much bigger. Grambling has always stood for discipline, respect, and pride. We’ll take our punishment, and we’ll learn from it.”

Coach Raymond Woodie of Bethune-Cookman also issued a statement. He remarked that one of his assistant coaches was struck during the violence, noting how the tension escalated too far. The coach asserted that the competition should remain in gameplay, not in violence against fellow HBCU football players.

“We preach discipline and integrity,” Woodie said. “We can compete as hard as we want between the whistles, but when the game stops, that stuff has to stop, too. That’s not just about Bethune-Cookman — that’s for all of us in the SWAC.”

In the aftermath, Coach Joseph says that they will take the punishment and learn from the ordeal, hoping to “handle it internally” as well to prevent further brawls.

by Mary Spiller

November 12, 2025

La Toya Jackson Sparks Concern After Sharing Cryptic Video From Doctor’s Visit

The 69-year-old singer kept a positive tone in her message to fans while prompting an outpouring of concern and support online.

La Toya Jackson’s latest social media post has fans worried after the singer shared a brief video update from what appeared to be a medical appointment. The 69-year-old artist took to Instagram over the weekend, recording herself inside a doctor’s office.

“Hi guys, I hope everyone’s doing well,” she said in the clip. “I’m here at the doctor again, so I’m hoping that everything goes well with me, all results are good.”

Wearing a bright orange hat, a matching scarf, and oversized black sunglasses, she ended the short video with a smile and a cheerful send-off, “Have a great day.”

Despite her upbeat tone, she didn’t specify why she was visiting the doctor or what condition she might be monitoring.

In the caption, Jackson maintained her signature optimism, writing, “Wishing you guys a fun filled lovely weekend with much joy!!! Sending love and light to you all! Please stay safe, and of course most of all healthy!”

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The video drew immediate attention from her followers, who flooded the comments with words of encouragement and concern. Some asked directly if she was alright, while others wrote messages like “sending prayers” and “wishing you well.”

Her family members also chimed in with love and support. Her nephew Taryll Jackson, son of her late brother Tito Jackson, commented, “Love you!.” Her niece Brandi Jackson, daughter of Jackie Jackson, echoed the sentiment, writing, “I love you.”

Just last week, Jackson thanked Jackie and his wife, Emily, for sending her flowers, though she didn’t explain the occasion. “These are absolutely gorgeous,” she said in another Instagram video. “Made my day.”

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This isn’t the first time fans have expressed concern about the entertainer’s health. Last December, Jackson sparked similar reactions when she appeared noticeably slimmer during a trip to Qatar, with many remarking on her frail appearance.

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While Jackson has not disclosed any details about her health, her fans and family continue to rally behind her.