Film star Nate Parker talked to TheYBF.com about his upcoming love story, Beyond The Lights, why Hollywood doesn't produce more Black-led romance movies and how his wife feels about his steamy love scenes.  More inside...

In the highly anticipated love story, Beyond The Lights, Nate Parker (shown at the film's premiere with director Gina Prince-Bythewood and co-star Gugu Mbatha-Raw) stars as a young police officer who falls in love with a suicidal Grammy-winning starlet, despite protests from both their parents. Written, produced and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (Disappearing Acts, Love & Basketball), the film hits US theaters on November 14th and TheYBF.com talked exclusively with Nate about Hollywood’s fear of Black love stories (“It’s a journey to get them made, you know, it’s a stigma that exist in Hollywood that we fight everyday), on co-star Gugu Mbatha-Raw (“She is well prepared, well read, elegant, just everything about her screams longevity”), his crush on film legend Ruby Dee (“She was gorgeous”) and why his love scenes brought his wife to tears (“She said she loved it and it was weird”). 

On getting his start and moving to Hollywood:

I was a computer programmer. I was never in acting when I was young...I went to a modeling event with my then girlfriend. I met someone when I was there. He asked if I would like to be a part of the program, if I’d like to try and be an actor. I moved out and took his class and that was that. Within a week I moved to LA and had an agent in like 3 days, and then got my first job in 3 months and I never stopped working.

On his first gig:

My first job was actually a commercial, a Sprint commercial. It was back when minutes became free after 7 o clock remember that?! Honestly I remember not answering my phone until 7 o clock.

On his wife’s reaction to Beyond The Lights:

It’s funny because I was nervous. Anytime you’re doing love scenes…it’s just work, you’re a professional. But our job is to be convincing. Our job is to do so much work and do so much preparation that it becomes real life you know.
I talked to Gina and was like I want you to go and be comfortable…so you know I arranged a screening so my wife could see it alone. So she could have the experience of putting it the way she wanted.

I went home and cleaned the house very well and waited patiently for her arrival…I didn’t know what she was going to say. She came in and she was just in tears. She said she loved it and it was weird; but, what she said is….I get to have him every day.

On Hollywood’s resistance to Black love stories:

I think it’s the same reason why there aren’t more black intelligent films. It’s a journey to get them made, you know, it’s a stigma that exist in Hollywood that we fight every day. But the interesting thing is we don’t give our audience enough credit. The reality is people want to see experience that involves the human condition. In Toronto the crowd gave a standing ovation. I was overwhelmed, the standing ovation it speaks to the heart of the film, love doesn’t have a color. You know neither does identity. The reality is, as human beings we go through stuff and I think when you make a film and you make it well, people will connect with as human beings.

On Hollywood’s pursuit of money over art:

If it’s a question to make money, the idea is always, how can we make the most money? Well if we make Beyond The Lights about a white figure, because they are more majority, black people make up 4%, we’ll make more money because its…you know what I mean……

On co-star Gugu Mbatha-Raw's (above) greatest talents:

She’s the most talented actress I’ve ever worked with. She is well prepared, well read, elegant, just everything about her screams longevity. I have a feeling about these things. She’s incredible, she’s an incredible person and she’s an incredible talent.

On Producers Reggie & Gina Prince-Bythewood

They’re a walking example of this film. They’re in desperate love. You can see it in the way they deal with their children. And they bring that love to their work. I’ve never heard Gina raise her voice. For the record, to never raise your voice as a director means you can motivate people simply by being yourself. She never has to go to extreme measures with people. And people work so hard for her you know. And Reggie, he is always there for her. Never tried to dominate, he never tried to push her to do things she doesn’t want to do, he was just there. When she needed help or when she needed someone to talk to or when she just wanted to hang out with the kids, he’d bring the kids. It was great. It was wonderful watching a healthy relationship.

Comparing Gina’s film Love & Basketball to Beyond The Lights:

I think there are alike traits in all of her films. If you look at Love and Basketball and now Beyond The Lights, she has captured the essence of love. I think she just has a genius that a lot of people don’t have. She’s a writer, she’s a director, she’s a producer, she’s a renaissance woman and I think everything she does will be successful and I count myself to be apart.

On if he has “crushes” on other women:

Absolutely not. Well maybe Ruby Dee. Man, I love Ruby Dee. When she passed away it hit me on an emotional level. She was so beautiful. A lot of people never looked up pictures of her when she was young. Oh my goodness she was gorgeous. She was drop dead gorgeous. I have a picture with her. I met her at a play and that was my crush. And I’m still in love with her.

On his next projects:

I’m about to direct a film that starts in December…my directing feature film debut.

We’ll keep you posted about Nate’s directorial debut, and check out Beyond The Lights (starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Nate Parker, Minnie Driver, Colson “MGK” Baker and Danny Glover) on November 14th.
 

Photos via Getty

The sexy Tyson Beckford is solidifying his role as Hollywood’s chocolate heartthrob with his upcoming role in the erotic thriller Addicted. TheYBF.com chopped it up with the fineness that is Mr. Beckford where he talks about his relationship with Victoria’s Secret model Shanina Shaik, how she handles his steamy sex scenes, whether he’ll ever do full frontal nudity in a film and much more inside....

Supermodel Tyson Beckford has gone from ripping the Ralph Lauren Polo runway to making his presence known in Hollywood. And for his most recent gig, he’s starring in the provocative silver screen adaptation Addicted, based on the best-selling novel by Zane, due to hit theaters October 10th.

Directed by Billie Woodruff, Tyson plays a motorcycle riding bad boy.  The type of no-holds-barred man who ends up sleeping with married successful businesswoman Zoe Reynard (Sharon Leal) as she pursues a secretive life of infidelity, unbeknownst to her husband (Boris Kodjoe).

TheYBF.com's correspondent Krysta Underwood had a little chit-chat with the 43-year old Hollywood chiseled man -- after fanning herself a few times. 

And during their chat, he revealed he and his Victoria’s Secret model girlfriend Shanina Shaik NEVER broke up. It’s interesting to note, Shanina was romantically linked to Cleveland Browns player Julian Posey back in May of this year. The two had a ball snapping and posting up Instagram selfies to their accounts as they watched the American League Cleveland Indians Game. In fact, the VS model’s rep confirmed to MailOnline that the two were actually dating.  Oh, and he explains why she's actually considered Black.

But, Tyson sings a bit of a different tune. When asked if he and his 23-year-old girlfriend had gotten back together (after we spotted him all over her at the US Open recently) he said,

"Yeah! I don’t know why people had thought we had taken a break we just weren’t seen together so you know how they come up with that," he said. "She’s actually out there by the pool getting her tan on! She’s training now for the upcoming VS show. I’m a true supporter of her and it was her lifelong dream to do it and I said I’ll help you if you’re down to do the work."

Oh…ok.

The sexy model-turned-actor also talked about why he isn’t dating a “black woman”, how his girlfriend handles having to watch his steamy sex scenes, whether he would strip down and do full frontal nudity in a film and much more.

Here are the highlights:

How do you respond when people say why aren’t you with a black girl?

'My girlfriend is actually Saudi Arabian, Pakistani, and Lithuanian so she’s a big mix of a lot of things. And in Australia she’s considered black.'

So you do still have love for black women?

'Oh yeah of course! I grew up dating everything, so I don’t discriminate. And it’s sad that it’s still racist comments about where’s the black girls. I don’t see color.'

Did you read the book "Addicted"?

'I didn’t read the book but I knew about the book from high school and college because you guys [women] were all in it. And sometimes boys would be boys and I would snatch the book and get chased down the hall and a girl would catch me and slap me on the back and I’m like why ya’ll reading them nasty books anyway. [laughs]

Looking back on some of those moments I remember when one girl was done with the book she would give it to their girlfriend like Girlllllllll!! I remember they would be sharing the book. I remember that totally in school. Zane has been around and I’m just starting to find out how big her following is.'

How does your girlfriend feel about all the sex scenes?

'I brought her to set one day when we were shooting the bathroom scene and Boris was like what you doing playboy!? What you doing rookie!? They were all looking at me like, ROOKIE MOVE! But her and [co-star] Sharon [Leal] talked and Sharon’s boyfriend was there at the time and they talked and I talked to him. I kind of had to go and be friendly with him. Not because I felt it was a need but it was just like the right thing to do. We had a fun time.'

Are you solidifying yourself as an on screen heartthrob?

"Oh definitely! I figured after doing Addicted I needed to do something crazier so then Chocolate City came and it was like oh boy! This is gone do it! In this business, as a black actor, you kind of try to strategically plan how to do your stuff and I have friends like Laz Alonso, Michael K. Williams and so many other friends and I’m like alright I gotta do something different from what these guys are doing. So I gotta create my own core audience that will run out and see the movies that I’m in. That’s why I took that chocolate city script. And my manager was like “I don’t know about this one” but I read it and I was like this is gonna be good!!"

How do you feel about nudity? Would you ever do full frontal?

"Yeah! I thought when I committed to 'Chocolate City' that I would have to be fully nude. It was no problem. The most that I get nude is my shorts down and you see my butt. That’s about it.

They didn’t want to go there [with nudity] and there were real strippers in the film and guys were tying off. They had their rubber bands and I was like I don’t need no rubber band! I went and looked at the pictures of my girlfriend and I put the oil on and when the music came on it was over! We were grabbing girls and dry humping them, throwing them out in the crowd and when the director yelled cut I would be like are you alright girlfriend?? [laughs]"

How do you feel about the celebrity nude hacking scandal? Do you have any secrets in the cloud?

"Mine would be boring. I come from that model world where you’ve pretty much seen us naked already. I did that naked show with the transgender and the only thing we didn’t show in that was frontal nudity. And then I just did Arsenic magazine, I’m nude in that and I’m surrounded by white girls, latin girls, and that’s provocative in itself because they were like “WHERE ARE THE BLACK GIRLS!?” I said well they casted for the look they wanted for that day. The Arsenic in no way is a racist magazine. The owner of it is a black guy."

 

Who is your #WCW Woman Crush Wednesday? And it can’t be your girlfriend.

"I had Rihanna once.  I had Beyonce and then she [my girlfriend] got mad and I had to take them all down. My WCW is my motorcycles or my car. There are some girls I would like to pick but I just can’t. Happy wife, happy life. "
 

Was he joking bout the Queen Bey though?  Hmmm....

Take a peep at Tyson in action below :

Addicted hits theaters October 10th.

Photo/ Interview: YBF Correspondent Krysta Underwood

When Bravo's cameras are rolling, expect some bottle action or wiggery yanking to go down at some point.  TheYBF.com has learned that "Blood, Sweat & Heels" stars Melyssa Ford and Geneva Thomas got into a major altercation last night, and Geneva has been arrested.

Exclusive details inside...

TheYBF.com has exclusively learned that Geneva Thomas of "Blood, Sweat & Heels" was arrested in Manhattan last night.  It all stemmed from a fight with fellow cast member Melyssa Ford, and it was ALL caught on camera.

Here's what we know:

The cast of Bravo's "Blood, Sweat & Heels" is currently filming the second season.  Last night, while cameras rolled at a boat party at Pier 40 near Hudson River Park, an altercation popped off between Melyssa and Geneva.

Our source tells us that Geneva allegedly attacked Melyssa with a vodka bottle.  The brawl resulted in Melyssa having to get stitches, so we're told, and Geneva getting arrested.  We've verified that Geneva was booked at 9:42pm Tuesday evening and was taken to the 6th Precinct of Manhattan.  She has allegedly been charged with two felony assaults.

Geneva will face the judge at Manhattan Criminal Court at 2p today.

Geneva was also arrested last month for allegedly not paying a cab driver.  She claimed the driver charged her an unjust and unfair amount.

Interestingly enough, on the first season of the show, Geneva and then co-star Demetria Lucas were at odds with the trio of Melyssa, Daisy Luellyn and Micah Hughes.  But just last week at Geneva's birthday party at The Park 112 in Harlem (directly above), Micah (far right) & Daisy (far left) were there along with new cast member Chantelle Fraser (red devil costume) .  But no Melyssa in sight.

We reached out to Geneva and her publicist for comment and are waiting to hear back.

Photos: Stephen Knight/Getty

Melyssa Ford is back in the hospital after the "Blood Sweat & Heels" brawl earlier this week!  Get the deets and the first pics of Melyssa since the incident inside....

That bottle action from castmate Geneva Thomas is the gift that keeps on giving.  A miserable gift.  We've learned that Melyssa Ford was rushed to the hospital again today after her injuries from Tuesday night's brawl between the "Blood Sweat & Heels" co-stars.

Apparently, Melyssa's injuries were more serious than the initial three stitches she received after Geneva allegedly hit her in the head with a vodka bottle at a boat party in Manhattan.

She was being taken back to hospital today because of her head injuries.  We've also learned that she can't walk due to several gashes under her feet from broken glass during brawl.  And based on the pics we nabbed of her hopping on crutches today outside of the hospital, her right foot looks quite injured.

We're told that thanks to all the trauma and drama, she hasn't slept since the incident.

Geneva was arrested after the party brawl and charged with two counts of assault.

In today's YBF kids, Nia Long took her kids out to the ball game...to watch the Spurs. Meanwhile, Alicia Keys released a children's book.  More inside...

Last night, Nia Long and her sons Massai Zhivago Dorsey II& Kez Sunday Udoka watched the San Antonio Spurs defeat the LA Clippers (89-85) at the Staples Center. Nia Long pulled a twofer that evening because the busy mom got cool points from her son s (for sitting them courtside) and she got to spend time with her boo, Ime Udoka, a former NBA player and now an assistant coach with the Spurs.  Ime is also Kez's father....and Kez is his mother's TWIN.

In New York.....

Singer Alicia Keys, who's expecting her second child with producer Swizz Beatz, appeared on "Live With Kelly & Michael" today to promote her children's book Blue Moon: From the Journals of Mama Mae and LeeLee (Mama Mae & Lee Lee).  It's the first volume in the series that she wrote AND illustrated the publication. Her second book in the series is called Mookey. According to the Amazon synopsis,

Blue Moon is an inspirational and magical tale of discovery created by Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys, and was inspired by her childhood relationship with her own grandmother. Blue Moon introduces readers to young and imaginative LeeLee, who just moved to the big city, and her magical grandmother, Mama Mae. To help LeeLee adjust to her new home, Mama Mae tells her the story of Abey, a young Native American girl from the 17th century, and her adventurous yet magical evening when she too wasn't sure of her surroundings.

During their chat, Alicia told Michael and Kelly that her son, 4-year-old son Egypt, wants a brother.  Egypt suggested they name the baby Prince Eric after one of his favorite movie characters in The Little Mermaid.  Adorbs. 

Photos via Nia Long Instagram/Alicia Key's Instagram

As its nationwide debut approaches, Beyond The Lights director Gina Prince-Bythewood chopped it up with TheYBF.com about putting Black love on the silver screen and creating Black film stars. More inside...

We love a YBF chick who creates fabulousness on her own, without waiting for others to do it for her.  Director Gina Prince-Bythewood (shown above with film stars Nate Parker and Gugu Mbatha-Raw) is a woman after our own hearts.  She's a true romantic, obviously.  She's also been married for 16 years to her best friend...so she's knows a little something about love. With films like Love & Basketball and Disappearing Acts under her belt, it's clear that love is a theme that plays throughout each film project she tackles.

After graduating from UCLA film school, she went on to meet her husband and partner Reggie Rock Bythewood during their first week as writers on "A Different World". Gina believes in the power of love and wants moviegoers to walk out of Beyond The Lights with the same passion. "I see love from within and it’s important for me to share it."

What you may not know: Despite love being a universal theme (and despite successful on-screen love stories like Jody & Yvette's and Monica & Quincy's), it wasn't easy to get Hollywood on board with marketing a love story with Black leads.  Getting Beyond The Lights greenlit was a long and tedious journey. After writing the first draft in 2007, the script would got through several rewrites and get turned down by numerous studios before it finally landed at Relativity Media. She tells us, “It's been a long journey, but everything happens for a reason. It all works through God. “

When asked about her persistence in getting the film made, she shared, “I only write what I’m passionate about and that fuels the fight. You have to write something that you think others want to see and it's true to you. 'Beyond The Lights' was in me. I saw it everyday. I pictured it everyday. And that got me in the chair writing.

On Friday, moviegoers will get to see her newest a love story that she says was inspired by a live concert performance of Alicia Keys' song's "Diary" and written with the same intensity of the Black classics.

Here's what we learned (including her advice on how to find true love):

On her favorite love story
"My favorite love story is Black Orpheus (a 1959 foreign film made in Brazil by French director Marcel Camus). I’d never seen Black love portrayed so beautifully. And it’s just a really cool film. For me, it was very important. Growing up, I never had images to look up to on screen or on TV, or people who looked like me. And very few images of love."

On “love” as a recurring theme in her films:
"As a filmmaker, I love to see love stories. I love to go to the movies. I love to get wrecked and then built back up and inspired. And I want to fall in love again. So for me, I like to write what I see. It’s important for me to put that image out there of love."

On seeing “black love” on the silver screen:
"It’s important to combat the perception that Black people don’t want to fall in love and get married and fight for each other. Because we do. And I think the more we see it, the more it will become normalized and will contradict some of the negative images that we see."

On what makes “Beyond The Lights” so important:
"It’s important to put a love story in the world. A story that’s deep. That makes me feel. Makes me care. A movie that moves you. Men and women as well. The thing about “Love & Basketball” was that it attracted both men and women. And that’s the same with "Beyond The Lights". It’s a universal love story and there’s depth."

On Hollywood’s failure to produce more Black box-office stars:
"[Hollywood] is not developing Black stars. It’s a catch-22. When I first saw Nate in"The Great Debaters", I thought to myself, 'Who is this guy and why hasn’t he had the opportunity to be a true leading man?' But…he’s got that opportunity now. And Gugu is another star whom I think is going to blow. And now, we hope these are two people who can go on to get movies greenlit on their own."

On her own “love story” with husband, director Reggie Rock Bythewood
"We were hired a week apart on “A Different World.” It was both of our first jobs in the industry. We clicked and we were best friends first. And it evolved from there. We just think the same way and have the same dreams and aspirations. We have two boys. Been married sixteen years. It’s really about working with and wanting so much for each other. Our scripts go through each other before they get out into the world. I'm grateful to have somebody there to make sure that I succeed. And all the great elements of my male characters come from my husband. I see love from within and it’s important for me to share it."

On what makes “Beyond The Lights” a different-type of love story”:
"This is not just a man saving a woman. It’s two characters saving each other. And helping each other find their voice and fall in love that way."

Her advice on how to find true love:
"Find your voice, find your authentic self and be confident and brave enough to live an authentic life. Once you do that, then you’re more open, and love will come into your life. To love another - you have to love yourself first."

Hear, hear Gina!

Beyond The Lights (starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Nate Parker, Minnie Driver, Danny Glover, Chaka Khan, Amar'e Stoudemire) opens in theaters November 14th.

Photos via Getty/JKDOWD MEDIA

B.o.B. and Trey Songz teamed up for the video treatment of B.o.B.’s “Not For Long” track. TheYBF.com has the exclusive first look at the behind the scenes footage inside…

Grand Hustle rapper B.o.B. and R&B crooner Trey Songz joined forces on the P-Lo and Mark Nilan Jr.-produced track “Not For Long”. And we've got an exclusive sneak peek of what went down behind the scenes for the upcoming video treatment.

Directed by Jerome D, the 26-year-old rapper (who celebrated his birthday Nov. 15th) trekked it to Miami (taking a break from the “No Genre" tour with Kevin Gates) to create the visuals for the feel-good love song. The video appears to be a fun and flirty clip that, according to B.o.B., everyone will enjoy.

You can catch the world premiere of “Not For Long” tomorrow on MTV Jams & MTV2.

Peep the BTS clip below:
 

You can cop “Not For Long” on iTunes now.

Actress/songstress Antonique Smith is bursting on the music scene with a brand new video for her new single “Hold Up Wait A Minute”. Check it inside….

Antonique Smith, widely known for her portrayal of Faith Evans in the film Notorious, is ready to take over the R&B world with a new single and her debut album.

For her first musical offering, the actress/songstress gives us a sneak peek at her brand new Larenz Tate-directed video “Hold Up Wait A Minute (Woo Woo)”. In the visuals, the blonde bombshell hits the streets of L.A. to dance it up to the uptempo, horn heavy track. And the sexiness that is Lance Gross, who recently bacame a father,serves as her love interest. We're here for it.

Although the single centers around an explosive volatile relationship, Antonique explains the universal appeal of its message. She said, “It’s time to take the power back for all the injustices in our lives – from Mike Brown to the kidnapping of innocent Nigerian girls and all the demoralizing issues in between. This is an anthem for people worldwide that demand respect. Hold Up Wait A Minute!”

Her upcoming album, Love is Everything is expected to drop in early 2015 with production from superproducer Dr. Dre,Toby Gad (Beyoncé, Fergie), Danja (Justin Timberlake, Usher), Jukebox (Willow Smith, Eve). The budding singer dished on the making of her album spilling,“It’s a love and R&B album, and also very empowering. I’ve experienced quite a few things and gained a little bit of wisdom. I’m trying to drop some jewels for both women and men as we navigate our way through life.”
 

Stay on the look out for the official premiere of "Hold Up Wait Minute" coming soon.

Nicki Minaj is serving up some fresh fierceness in new pictorials for the December 2014 VOGUE Italia issue. Also, we have the inside scoop on Nick's secret listening party for The Pinkprint in NYC. Peep the pics and get the scoop inside…

Say what you want about Nicki Minaj…but chick can definitely put on when it’s time to get in front of the camera.

Shot by Francesco Carrozzini, the “ONLY” raptress was on her best supermodel behavior for some hot editorials in Italian VOGUE's December 2014 issue. And we are loving every shot.

With the recent revelation of Lil Wayne’s disdain with Cash Money and accusations that the label won’t release Tha Carter V, we hope Nicki’s The Pinkprint won't be pushed back at the VERY last minute or not released as well.  We know the Barbz aren't going to go for that!

Speaking of The Pinkprint....

Nicki Minaj is on the verge of releasing, what she dubs, her most personal album yet. And in the days leading up to the highly anticipated release, YMCMB’s first lady gave us a first-hand sneak peek of The Pinkprint during a secret listening party in NYC recently. A few celeb friends, Nick Cannon and Mona Scott Young were in attendance.  And so was TheYBF.com.

After going through the 19-tracklist of songs, it seems to paint a picture of what could have possibly went wrong between her and rumored boyfriend Safaree “SB” Samuels. Remember they allegedly called it quits recently with SB covering his many "Nicki" tattoos. It's also ALLEGED Nicki went ape sh*t on SB, smashing out windows on his (or hers) car and having the cops remove him from her property. Sounds like a bad break-up, so we're sure this album was therapeutic for her.

In between tracks, Nicki revealed this album is very special and emotional to her, making sure not to reveal too much. On one song titled “I Lied”, she asked the audience if they have ever been in a relationship where they thought they wanted to be with a person, but it all ended up being a lie. Hmmm…this certainly sounds like she could be talking about her possible break-up with SB.

Yesterday, another telling track leaked from her album titled "All Things Go" where she raps about possibly getting an abortion, being engaged and issues with her family since becoming famous.
 

The Pinkprint will drop Dec. 15th. Will you be copping it?

BONUS:

Here's a new promo clip of Nicki as she gears up for her performance on “Saturday Night Live” tomorrow night. The Head Barb linked up with Hollywood actor James Franco (who will be hosting) for a cute promo clip leading up to the show. We hear Nicki will be performing “Bed of Lies”, “ONLY” and a new track from her upcoming album. Check the clip above.

Photos: Nicki's IG/YBF Correspondent Jonnita C.

Before the cast and director of "Selma" hit up an Official Academy screening of their Golden Globe nominated film, we chatted up the stars of the movie  about what police injustice protestors in 2014 can learn from those who already did it...and mastered it.

Check out our interviews inside...

Recently, Golden Globe nominated-director Ava Duvernay and stars Common, Carmen Ejogo and David Oyelowo screened their soon-to-be-Blockbuster film Selma for official Academy of Motion Pictures members in NYC (which means the run for the Oscar is ON!). 

But right before that, YBF Correspondent Jeff J caught up with the cast at the NYC Selma premiere.  And we caught some riveting words from Oprah that made us straighten up, tighten up, and rethink the efficiency of our current protests.

The actress/media mogul, who plays Annie Lee Cooper, broke down the parallels between activism in 2014 and Civil Rights era...and what the young activists of 2014 should learn from the young activists of the 50's and 60's.

I think this film can teach people a lot.  What this film says is it's been done. Y'all are not the first to do it, the first to have an idea, the first t be upset.  he didn't even have a right as citizens to vote in this country. And because of that, you had MLK as a leader and his band of brothers with disciplined, rigorous, peaceful protests.

And Oprah powerfully explains why what we're going through these days already has tried and true solutions.  Solutions from people who had MUCH less than we do in 2014.  She said about playing her character:

What it takes to go and register to vote when you know you can lose your job.  And you go to register and then you're denied denied.  And she went year, after year, after year she went back to try again.  Because the right to be a full citizen in this country meant that much to her.  So I stand on that, I stand on it, I stand in it, and I look at that like that's who I am and that's where I come from.

I did that role not just for her, but for every man and woman who ever walked ot the registrar's office....and stamped denied.

Michael K. Williams rocked an "I Can't Breathe" tee and talked about what's lacking in America today:

"I think Selma is a very important movie period.  And for it to come out at this time is so poignant.  Dr. King, his legacy in my opinion stood, he stood for unity among all people, all races, civil rights, humanity, respect and communication.  And i think that's hugely lacking right now in our society.

Hopefully people will take this movie and continue the peaceful protests and dialog."

Selma premieres Christmas Day.

YBF Correspondent: Jeff J / Videographer: Tiffany Ferguson

Oh, Mr. Howard.  We simply HAD to sit down with actor Terrence Howard for an exclusive interview about all things "Empire".  The Academy Award nominee dished on playing the controversial role of a father with a gay son.  And he also spilled on how his co-star Taraji P. Henson played a major part in him landing the role, their on-screen chemistry and much more. Get it all inside….

The countdown for the highly anticipated FOX drama series “Empire” is officially underway. And TheYBF.com caught up with lead star Terrence Howard for some dishy chit chat as he told us about his role as Lucious Lyon.

The new drama series, written & directed by Academy Award nominee Lee Daniels, tells the story of how the CEO of Empire Entertainment and former street thug (and charismatic, savvy music superstar father of three sons) owned the Hip Hop game with his skills and wit. But in a turn of events, the Hip Hop mogul learns he has ALS (which will render him crippled in a matter of three years), so he’s on the hunt for his successor. His ex-wife Cookie Lyon (played by Taraji P. Henson) and his offspring battle for his throne.

The problem is…none of his sons meet his expectations to become the heir to the family dynasty.

YBF correspondent Safiya Ellis got a chance to chop it up with the Best Man Holiday star (who has three children in real life) where he shared his feelings about playing a controversial father raising a gay son. Terrence told us,

“Well, I loved the fact that the character, you know having a homosexual son in a state of family when family should 'ya know, here he is a hip hop mogul. He is supposed to be the epitome of a 'man' in the black community.  He's raising three strong Hip Hop sons and one of his sons is homosexual. “

On the show, Lucious hates the fact his son is a homosexual and is embarrassed by it all. Their relationship is beyond dysfunctional as derogatory names repeatedly get unapologetically tossed around.

“Ya know Lucious calls him a ‘bitch’ and he makes no qualms about that,” revealed Terrence.

Lucious’ bad boy image and the fact that he feels untouchable allows him to say and do anything he wants. Terrence explained,

“So for me to play a character that is Archie Bunker, or really the rest of America unmasked, Lucious says exactly how he feels when he feels it...And despite who's watching.  Because he has five billion dollars and he doesn’t need anybody's approval, 'ya know."

He added,

“It's being able to play somebody that’s brutally, objectively and subjectively honest, in every circumstance.”

The Butler actor also talked about the undeniable on-screen chemistry between himself and No Good Deed star Taraji P. Henson, whom he has starred in several projects with. He revealed Taraji requested he play the role of Lucious to Lee Daniels and said if he wasn’t a part of the project, she was dropping out! Sound familiar? She did something similar with Idris Elba for No Good Deed.

Terrence tells us,

“She was on a Skype conversation with Lee and he was auditioning her and she was like ‘well if your not going to use Terrence Howard I’m not going to do it!’ Click! And Lee was like ‘Huh’? Lee listened and she can’t be a better Cookie. She says the same thing about me, but yea you can imagine that we love each other very much [on the show].”

We love seeing them together!

Peep more highlights from our chat below:

You are playing a major role reversal when it comes to what one would say is typically seen. Your ex wife and mother of your three children Cookie (Taraji) does a 17 year bid in prison and you have to take care of the kids while aking on a 'mother' role.  How do you feel about that?

TH: Well one of the things that I love about Taraji or Cookie is that she recognizes what was going to be most beneficial for the family. Lucious could have gone to jail and taken the time, but Lucious was the talent. Lucious was able to translate that $400,000 dollars and turn it into a multi billion dollar business. I think they made the right choice in that. Was he fit to be a mom? No. No man is fit to be a mom. He didn’t do too good of a job as a father because he was so busy trying to make sacrifice. You're either going to make the money or you're going to have a great family. Make the money or have a great family. Most people make the mistake of making the money, and the purpose of making the money is to raise the family.  Then they loose the family.

So I approached it from those points -- you don’t realize the regret of your life until it’s over. And he didn’t realize it until he finds out he has ALS and he realizes he will never get to rebuild that relationship or get back tha time he spent out on tour making money or in a meeting or leaving his wife in jail for that period of time. You will never get that time back. So, I’m approaching it from that place of missed time and trying to desperately grab at whatever moment that you have now.  And you cant be nice about it because look, kids, y’all don’t know I’m dying in three years? I need you to get your head right. 

Lee Daniels and Danny Strong.  We always consider Lee Daniels a button pusher because he tackles issues that are very controversial and you mentioned your character battling ALS.  News around the disease is pretty current with the ice bucket challenges that took place.  How were you really able to researche and get into character? Or is that something that you were dealing with personally with family?

TH: Fortunately, my family has been free of any kind of muscular disorders. I’m so thankful on that behalf, but one of the beautiful things and the terrible things about ALS is often times its misdiagnosed because the symptoms aren’t consistent with particularly losing your voice. One of the things you loose is your muscle control in your voice box, so you may have trimmers or you may not have trimmers. There is a fear of what’s about to happen.  Maybe while I’m walking down these stairs my leg will give out or I may bust my face on this concrete. The fear is what is consistent throughout this disease.
 

So if they entered into the acting business, what advice would you give to your three children?

A: To remember there are no black eyes and bloody noses, it's life or death.  So any scene that you're in, you find the truth.  And you don’t let it go, no matter how somebody might try and seduce you here or there. You stick to your truth and you stay there and the audience will always believe a truthful person.
 

Check out this promo reel featuring the father-son dynamic between Lucious and his homosexual son below:

The epic family battle begins when the powerful new drama premieres Wednesday, Jan. 7th at 9 PM ET on FOX. We can't wait!

Photos: FOX

Bobby Brown is keeping hope alive as he and the Brown & Houston families hold vigil at Bobbi Kristina's bedside.  Bobby was recently spotted at his hotel in Atlanta in good spirits.  But other family members and other sources maintain that doctors have no hope for a recovery.

The latest updates inside...

Bobby Brown was spotted making a phone call at the W Hotel bar in Midtown Atlanta Wednesday evening (above).  And we're told he looked to be in better spirits than expected.

Yesterday, there were conflicting reports about whether doctors told family members to say their goodbyes to 21-year-old Bobbi Kristina Brown.   Credible news sources reported doctors want the family to come to terms about her health and say goodbye. 

But Bobby Brown's lawyer issued a statement saying it was untrue.

Still, following that statement, family member Jerod Brown confirmed that doctors have no hope for a recovery.  But he made it clear the family is holding out for a miracle.  He posted the above picture and stated yesterday on his Facebook page:

Hey y'all, a few of you all have been messaging me , commenting under photos about her condition....Though it seems the odds are against her, though doctors don't see any hope for change, though we might want to play detective and find out how she got there, though it looks impossible for her to stand again STILL PRAY FOR BK ‪#‎StillPrayForBK‬ Campaign starts NOW! Bobbi Kristina Houston'Gordon

It could be semantics at this point about what the family is/isn't being told about Bobbi Kristina's status.  And, as expected from a father, Bobby could be attempting to stave off any negative words or energy about his baby girl's health, despite the actuality of the situation.

It also appears Bobbi Kris' family is indeed NOT on one accord about handling Bobbi Kristina's dire situation, as reports ave been stating all week.  NBC News Atlanta reports that just this morning, Bobby's sister Tina Brown hit Shayne Brown (Bobby's cousin) in the head with a bottle during a fight at the W Hotel:

According to Atlanta Police, Tina Brown hit Shayne Brown in the head with a bottle. Shayne Brown is a cousin of Bobby Brown, Bobbi Kristina's father; Tina Brown is Bobby Brown's sister.

Shayne Brown drove himself to a nearby hospital, while Tina Brown left the hotel before police arrived, according to Atlanta Police Officer Kim Jones. Shayne Brown was treated for lacerations to his head.

Completely unfortunate.

[UPDATE] Radar Online provided the police report.  And it's a doozy.  Tina Brown is actually Shayne Brown's mother.  A snippet from radar about what the police report says (as written by an officer on the scene):

“Upon arrival, I spoke with [Bobby’s cousin] Mr. Shayne Brown, whom appeared to have a laceration to the left side of his forehead,” the report states. “Mr. Brown stated that he was attending a party for Bobby Brown’s birthday. Mr. Brown stated that was in a altercation with his mother about a valet parking ticket” near the bar area in the hotel.

“Mr. Brown stated that while arguing with his mother, she spit in his face and hit him on his head with a glass bottle,” the report claimed, noting that a witness corroborated Shayne’s version of the events.

By then, his mom Anita “Tina” Brown had left the scene. Shayne insisted he didn’t want to press charges, but he did drive to the hospital, where cops took photos of his injuries.

[UPDATE 2] The 9-1-1 call has been released, which you can listen to here.  Cissy Houston has also arrived to the hospital today to visit Bobbi Kris. Tyler Perry flew her in on his private jet.

TMZ reports today that Bobby Brown is holding out for a miracle from God, and that is why he will not take his baby girl off life support.  And this could be one of the reasons for the fights amongst the family members.  According to the site:

Bobby's feelings are not shared by doctors, who have advised him she will not improve and pulling life support is an appropriate action. But Brown and his family -- who are deeply religious -- believe doctors cannot account for miracles ... miracles the family has seen before.

We're told Bobbi Kristina's condition has remained the same since Monday morning ... her brain functions are minimal and there has been no improvement.

Family sources say this has been an ongoing discussion and they believe Brown could come around to the doctor's point of view as time goes on ... but as of late Thursday he's not budging.

When his daughter was transferred to Emory University Hospital Tuesday Brown was hopeful the renowned staff could do something, but the fact that there's been no change is what doctors believe is the handwriting on the wall.

We'll keep you posted on all developments.

Photos: TheYBF.com/Jerod Brown

Raheem DeVaughn is channeling Janet Jackson for his brand new track "Anytime Anyplace".  And TheYBF.com has the exclusive premiere.  Check it inside...

The self-proclaimed Love King is still here.  And he's bringing Janet Jackson tease to our ears.

In anticipation of his fifth studio album release, Love, Sex, & Passion, Raheem DeVaughn is giving TheYBF.com readers an exclusive cover of Janet Jackson's popular hit single, "Anytime, Anyplace".

It's produced by Muhsinah and is just in time for Valentine's Day.  And Mr. DeVaughn does that sexy melodic beat we've loved for years just right.

Raheem's album hits stores Tuesday, February 17, 2015 and is available for Pre-Order on Amazon and iTunes.

You can catch Raheem on tour as he's joining Ledisi's Intimate Truth Tour with Leela James. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

Check out "Anytime Anyplace" below.

[For mobile/tablet users, listen via Soundcloud above.]

Although she stars on a television show that’s known for the cat fights, name calling and extra shade-ful comments, newcomer Demetria McKinney hopes to change the game a bit…or so she says.

Find out what she dished to TheYBF.com about changing the mentality of women inside….

Since making her debut on the BRAVO hit series “Real Housewives of Atlanta” this season, Demetria McKinney has already had her fair share of “reads” and throwing of the shade, largely towards her co-stars Phaedra Parks, Porsha Williams and NeNe Leakes.

But the former “House of Payne” star says she hopes she can change the game up with a little positivity.  And she wants to do so by helping change the mentality of women.

While on the red carpet at the 2015 NAACP Image Awards last week, TheYBF.com caught up with the singer/reality star (who hit the carpet with her boyfriend Roger Bobb) to weigh-in on the current state of African-American friendships amongst women.

“Black female friendships [are] a lost art,” said Demetria. “It’s something that I hope to kinda bring back a little bit in the show. I want to keep it classy, keep it cute, but I’m not going to be anybody’s punk either”.
 

Hmph.

She then added, 

"If I can walk up to you and say ‘O, my gosh you’re gorgeous’ it don’t have to go to ‘Oh, she was trying to sleep with me, why is she like that?’ Why does it have to be that mentality? We have to change our mentality. We have to uplift each other so that the men can jump in and follow suit”.  

Good point, but we highly doubt this will get accomplished on the platform that is "RHOA". We all know what reality tv is about.  And the environment the networks & producers create.  And the type of women they choose to cast.

Also on the carpet, TheYBF.comcorrespondent Lauren Smithcaught up with "Scandal's" sexy Scott Foley where he gave our YBF "Jake" fans a shoutout.  Plus, we caught up with other YBF celebs -- Marcus Scribner from "Black-ish", Imani Hakim from the upcoming Chocolate City, Affion Crockett, and the sexy Shemar Moore who all dished on their upcoming projects and their black Hollywod experiences.

Check the video below:

Photo: Getty, Video: Lauren Smith, Crispy Visuals/FrogDaBarber

Tonight, Young Money heiress Reginae Carter re-lives her Super Sweet 16 tonight (via an MTV special).  And during a chat with TheYBF.com, she dishes on having famous parents, the drama surrounding them, and how she handles bullies.  Meanwhile, Toya Wright gets candid about her troubled marriage and why Memphitz left.  Check out our interview inside...

Reginae Carter, the daughter of Lil Wayne& Toya Wright, stars in "My Super Sweet 16", airing tonight at 7pmET on MTV.  While promoting the Carlos King/Todd Tucker-produced special (see pics from the ritzy party here), Reginae opened up about being hip hop royalty and some of the perils that come attached to the throne.

As the 16-year-old daughter of celebrities, Reginae is often the source of ridicule and internet trolls. She talked to TheYBF.com about how she handles bullies and revealed the source of her thick skin saying, "I know me. You can't tell me nothing about me."

She also revealed a few candid anecdotes about what Toya and Lil Wayne have told her about boys!

Toya, who appears throughout the "My Super Sweet 16" program, was shockingly candid when it came to discussing her troubled marriage to Memphitz, which has been the source of rumor and gossip for months. When it come to rumors about abuse and/or infidelity - she didn't hold back. She revealed to us that she's standing by her man...but the same can't be said for him or his actions towards their marriage.

And of course, we had to ask about K. Michelle and Christina Milian - and Toya didn't disappoint there either.

Check it... 

On Memphitz’s claims that Toya is the reason he lost his job and his career
I didn’t see the interview (see Sister 2 Sister interview below), but that’s what we’ve been dealing with. That’s what’s going on. I just feel like I’m not the blame for that. Those things were happening before he met me. My husband is going through a lot right now and I’ll continue to pray for him in his situation and hope that it gets better for him. Because I took a vow for better or worse and a lot of people don’t understand that who aren’t married.

On standing by her man
You know, maybe your husband feels like you’re the reason that this [situation] happened. Maybe he’s going through something. All you can continue to do is be a good person and pray for him and help him get through it or whatever. But I’m not gonna sit up here and bash him. You know.

All I know is he changed from all the things that were going on. The defamation of character. And yes, he did lose his job. But I don’t feel like it’s my fault. Things happen. Maybe you made a few bad decisions in the past but I’m not the fault for it. I’m not gonna give up on the situation. I’m here for him and I’ll continue to be a supportive wife.

On Memphitz turning his back on their marriage
Um…yeah, I think he did. I feel like he thinks he’s in my shadow and he’s gotta get his life back. You gotta do what you gotta do.

On talking to Memphitz
We talk every now and then.

Is there anything she’d like to say to him now?
No. Negativity is an angry beast and I don’t want to speak into it. I’m gonna leave it alone and continue to do me and focus on me and mine. And for everything else…I leave it in God’s hands.

On rumors of indidelity – specifically with a local promoter named Mr. Ruggs. Were you involved with him romantically?
Negative. That is so not my character.

On K. Michelle (Memphitz’s ex)
I have nothing against K Michelle. I’m happy for her and all her success. And when I speak on the situation, it’s from the character I know of my husband. And people don’t know him. They only know her side of the story because she has a larger platform. What people don’t realize is that there’s always three sides to a story. One side, the other side and the truth. I have absolutely nothing against K Michelle. She’s a woman. I love to see women winning. There’s no love lost. But at the end of the day I’m gonna stand by my husband because that’s my husband. I wasn’t there. But I know my husband’s character and I’m big on character.

On Christina Milian
Wayne and I have a great relationship and we will always have a great relationship, and that’s something people may not understand. So Christina Milan or any other woman I don’t care about that. It has nothing to do with me. He knows how I feel about her…I have nothing against that woman.

On Birdman/Young Money
No comment. I just pray for them.

Her advice to other mothers
Teenage girls…there’s a lot going on. You have to develop a relationship. No, they’re not your friend; But, you have to have some type of friendship. Like….with social media and the direct line of contact people have with your kids…you have to have communication. Since day one, I’ve always kept it real with my daughter. Just like we had to learn the hard way, they have to learn the hard way. But you don’t stop giving advice. I’m going to always have time for her and make sure I do things the right way because she’s looking at me. I’m a role model. I’m a strong woman. Keep it classy. My daughter is cut from a different cloth, she has very tough skin and that’s what I love about her.

On why she turned down “LAHH Atlanta”
Because that's really not who I am. I’m not gonna go on tv and argue with somebody about their past and just…it’s too much drama. I’d rather do something based around my family and not people I don’t really know. I just didn’t think it was a good idea and I still stand behind that.

Does she regret going into reality TV/sharing her life on reality TV
No, I don’t because it’s a lot of negative stuff going on now and one thing about the people that follow me…I feel like I’ve been able to touch and help them by sharing my story. And because of that I feel like I’ve done something good.

On what she’s told Reginae about love
Everybody falls in love and everybody has things they go through when they’re in a relationship. But one thing I can say…a marriage if different from a relationship. It’s deeper. Things have been crazy…but my advice to my daughter is to be a woman. The real definition of a woman is to be there through thick and thin. And if my daughter is with somebody and she truly loves them…I could see if she had infidelity issues or he beat her or something she couldn’t control, then I’d say that’s an unhealthy relationship and she should walk away. But I’ve NEVER experienced those things.
 

On to Young Nae....

On Young Money and the feud with Birdman
I’m in the studio and working on I’m music. There is a lot of stuff going on with the label Young Money/Cash Money but I’m signed to my father’s label Young Money. I’m still working. I love them both. It’s messy and both of them are my family. I leave that with them. It’s none of my business.

On Bullying
I know me. Whatever the haters wanna about me…that’s fine. You can’t tell me nothing about me. I’ve heard the rumors but I couldn’t care…honestly. I’m really a sensitive person…but when I read that stuff it doesn’t bother me. It only bothers me if it comes from someone I know personally who can look me in the face. The stuff on the computer…that’s lame. I’m a part of the “No Bullying” campaign and it’s to silence negative and drama and just know who you ARE.

On what her dad Lil Wayne and mom Toya have told her about boys:
It’s the same thing for any other kid. My father is like, “Oh Boys…” But he’s knows I’m smart. He likes to meet them and talk to them but it’s nothing too serious. We go on little movie dates and my mom….she’s like my best friend. I talk to her about boys. It’s nothing really serious. Just puppy love.

On why she chose to do “My Super Sweet Sixteen”
I’ve always wanted to be on My Super Sweet 16 and I wanted to go big with my party. I wanted everyone to “feel” what my Sweet Sixteen dream was.

On what viewers will see
There’s drama with my friends involving me getting ready for my party. All the stress I was going through with my friends. Deciding who was invited or who wasn’t invited.

On celebs who’ll make appearances
There’s Nicki Minaj and a few more that you guys can see on Monday, February 16th.

On her birthday gifts (a BMW and Ferrari)
Well…I usually drive the BMW because I’m not old enough to drive the Ferrari yet. So my parents are holding it until I turn 18.
 

"My Super Sweet 16" with Reginae Carter, Toya Wright and Lil Wayne premieres Monday, Feb. 16 at 7/6c!

In case you missed it....

During our chat above, Toya responded to Memphitz's recent interview where he explains how his life change (not for the better) after he and Toya got married.

Photos via Toya Wright & Reginae Carter

Jodeci is currently on the comeback trail and now they’re gearing up to release a new video for their track “Every Moment.” Get an exclusive look at behind-the-scenes flicks inside….

If you haven’t heard, Jodeci is gearing up for a huge comeback!  K-Ci, Jojo, DeVante and Mr. Dalvin made headlines after reuniting on stage at the 2014 Soul Train Music Awards last year, debuting a new track with B.o.B. titled “Nobody Wins.” Since then, it was announced the guys will be hitting the road with R. Kelly for the “Real Kings of R&B” tour.

Then, they released their newest track “Every Moment” last month and now they’re gearing up to release the visuals.

The video will premiere on Jodeci’s Facebook fan page (www.facebook.com/jodeci) on February, 25th at 8 PM ET and will debut on VEVO February 26th. "Every Moment" was shot by Hype Williams and the concept (hitting the slopes in Aspen, Colorado) was created by Breyon Prescott and styling was done by celebrity stylist April Roomet. Celebrity photographer Lynn Goldsmith was on set to capture stills from the video shoot

TheYBF.com has an exclusive look at the fellas on set, and their snowy-mountain fashions are on fleek. 
 

As they gear up to release the new video, they're also are readying a new album titled, The Past, The Present, The Future. This is their first album in nearly 20 years and it's expected to drop March 31st.

Peep the tracklist below:

01. “Too Hot”
02. “Sho Out”
03. “Checkin For You”
04. “Those Things” (co-prod. Timbaland)
05. “Every Moment”
06. “Nobody Wins” f. B.o.B.
07. “Incredible” (co-prod. Timbaland)
09. “Jennifer”
10. “Body Parts”
11. “Stress Reliever”
12. “Sho Out” f. Liana Banks

Are you excited?

Photos via Lynn Goldsmith

Tuesday, TheYBF.com was front and center at the White House for the “Champions of Change” event to honor those working diligently to promote college completion and success at historically black colleges and universities. “E! News” co-host Terrence J and actress Keshia Knight Pulliam were tapped to speak on the HBCU alumni panel. Find out their reasons for attending college inside and see a pics from inside the White House….

The White House held a special event Tuesday to honor faculty, staff members and alumni from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The “Champions of Change" affair recognized HBCU leaders who work to build pathways to graduation at their respective institutions. And TheYBF.com was invited as a special guest to take part in the distinguished occasion.

About 150 people filled the Eisenhower Executive Office Building’s South Court Auditorium to recognize the “Champions of Change” who are doing extraordinary things to empower and inspire members of their communities. Each #HBCUChamp was nominated by their university’s president to attend the distinguished program.  And we learned a few interesting things about a couple YBF celeb college graduates.

The event featured three panel discussions, one of which was moderated by “E! News” co-host/HBCU alum Terrence J. Terrence is a graduate of North Carolina A&T University. He was tapped to lead the HBCU Alumni Panel and Spelman College graduate/former child star Keshia Knight Pulliam joined him. The HBCU Alumni Panel also included Kamillah Wood, Albert Sanders, Stephanie Young and Samantha Master.

Other notable attendees included Senior Advisor to the President Valerie Jarrett (atop) who issued the welcome remarks, and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx, who gave the keynote remarks.
 

During the discussion, TJ and Keshia opened up about why they chose to further their education, attending historically black institutions. Upon graduating high school, Terrence revealed he had no interest in attending college. So what got him through the doors? Girls, of course. He said once he learned there would be cute girls on campus, he made the decision to go. But once he arrived, it was about even more. 

Terrence revealed he didn’t do well his first semester, but that didn't deter his success. He eventually became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., became the class president, and graduated with a 3.6 GPA.

Former “Cosby” star Keshia Knight Pulliam also spoke about why she decided to attend a university, despite already having fame and financial success. She revealed how growing up, she felt most people made the choice to go to college in hopes of eventually landing their dream job/career, which in turn would make them make money. Despite her huge success as a child actor, she said not going to college was never an option. While filming the “Cosby Show” as a child, she said she was inspired to further her educational career. And it's likely Bill Cosby played a role in her decision, as he’s an advocate for young people getting a college education.
 

During the panel, the participants also discussed topics such as alumni donating money back to their HBCUs, diversity and inclusion at HBCUs, first-generation college students and how extra-curricular activities helped their experiences.

After the program, TJ and a few others were able to tour parts of the White House and meet senior level staff. The tv personality nabbed a flick with the First Family's newest dog Sunny.  Cute!

Keshia got the chance to chop it up with a student, who happened to be a big fan. She stopped to snap a pic with him holding up a Hillman College ("A Different World") sweatshirt.  And yes, we want one too!

VP Joe Biden's Chief of Staff Steve Ricchetti caught up with the group inside the Vice President's Ceremonial Office.

TJ's Fraternity brothers Fred Whit and Uche Byrd were there to represent, throwing up "the hooks" while in the Ceremonial Office.  Of course.

And the tv host took a moment to reflect while looking at the Washington Monument.  Fab times and a fab cause!

Photos: TheYBF.com's Jamishia Smith/Uche Byrd/@iamterrencej

Mary Mary singer Tina Campbell and her husband Teddy Campbell are working on saving their marriage after infidelity accusations made by Tina. TheYBF.com has the very first sneak peek at the first episode of the upcoming new season where we see the two take the first steps at reestablishing their foundation. Check it inside….

If you’re a “Mary Mary” fan, you saw the explosive breakdown of Mary Mary singer Tina Campbell after she found out her husband Teddy Campbell was sleeping around on her (supposedly on numerous occasions) last season. And TheYBF.com has first sneak peek at episode 1 of the upcoming season.

After struggling with trying to forgive her husband after he betrayed her trust (and taking some of the blame), Tina and her husband Teddy have decided to stay together and work through the heartbreak. Now, the real work comes in as they try to move forward with their relationship. But of course, that comes with having to deal with the baggage from the past.

In our exclusive first sneak peek, Teddy comes to terms with getting rid of the car his wife damaged during a rage as she released her frustrations after finding out about his infidelity. She totally destroyed his classic vehicle, smashing windows, ripping up the interior and keying the outside. So, rather than having the vehicle fixed, he decided to get rid of the car to keep the negative memories in the past as they work on trying to save their marriage.

Check it below:

Meanwhile....

Tina's sister Erica Campbell is struggling with balancing her solo career (which is taking off) and being a part of the gospel singing duo Mary Mary, who is mangerless. In the super trailer, we see Erica's husband Warryn Campbell and Tina bump heads over business, causing Erica to be caught in the crossfire. It also appears Erica is missing in action while her sister renews her vows. To make matters even worst between the sisters, it appears Tina has now embarked on her own solo career and has sought out help from Mary Mary's former manager Mitchell Solarek (who they fired previously). Lordt....

Yes, it's many things. Check out the teaser below in case you missed it:

The new season of "Mary Mary" premieres Thursday, March 5th at 10/9c on WE tv.

Photos: Erica & Tina's IG

Two brand new BRAVO reality shows are allegedly in the works. And TheYBF.com has the deets! “RHOA” star NeNe Leakes and her former co-star/frenemy Kim Zolciak-Biermann is supposedly starring on a new show together. Also, a new housewives show “Real Housewives of Potomac Mills” will be joining the Housewives franchise. Deets inside….

You’ve seen the "original peach holders" NeNe Leakes and Kim Zolciak-Biermann go from the best of friends to mortal enemies and back to being friends again over the years. The current and former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” stars rekindled their friendship during an episode of on Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live" back in December. And now, we hear the two are currently working on a brand new show together.

Here’s what we know….

A production source tells TheYBF.com NeNe and Kim will reunite for a new show that will sort of serve Thelma and Louise realness. They will be two best friends doing absolutely everything together with cameras in tow to capture their antics.

Hmm…we’re wondering if the show will bring them closer together since patching things up, or if it will tear them apart again (we saw what went down on “RHOA”). We will keep you posted on any additional details once they become available.

And on another new show coming to BRAVO….

We hear there is a new show joining the “Real Housewives” franchise. And it appears it will center around a group of hairstylists in Northern VA.

Our production source tells us “Real Housewives of Potomac Mills” is currently in the works and it will supposedly follow black hairstylists working their way to the top. We can confirm at least one of the stylists set to star on the show is a black woman, so it will likely follow multiple black women doing their thing in the hair industry. Hmm…a show about what goes on in a salon sounds pretty interesting. We know how “real” it gets in the salon.

If this show follows the “Housewives” blueprint, we’re sure they’ll bring the weave pulling, cat fighting and shade throwing antics, but we’re hoping they’ll also show the business side of these entrepreneurial women working to build their own empires.

We’ll keep you posted!
 

Photo: WENN

Amber Rose has a steamy makeout session with former "Moesha" star Marcus Paulk in her latest film, Sister Code.  Check out our exclusive pics of Amber and Marcus "at work" inside...

A few weeks ago we told you about Sister Code, an upcoming feature starring Amber Rose, Drew Sidora and Eva Marcille, and now we have EXCLUSIVE pics from the set.

In Sister Code, Amber Rose stars as “Lexi”, one of three foster sisters living in LA. Former "Moesha" star Marcus Paulk stars as her love-interest Danger, and we've got some exclusive pics from one of their sexier scenes.  

But....Danger isn't the only fella Amber "Lexi" Rose hooks up with in the film!  It looks like Lexi enjoys having fun with male companions.

Sister Code opens May 8th, here's the synopsis:

Sister Code tells the story of three foster sisters (Eva, Amber & Drew) with extremely different personalities whose world is turned upside down when their foster mother passes away. The James sisters then have to lean on one another when a tragic secret is revealed and rely on the teachings their mother instilled in them as children about sticking by one another no matter what.

Eva stars as the shrewd businesswoman Sheila, Drew plays the caregiver Lavae, and Amber is the free-spirited younger sister Lexi. Corey Grant is directing the film and it also stars “Real Husbands of Hollywood” and “Survivor’s Remorse” star Erica Ash, actress Essence Atkins, Duane Martin, Anne-Marie Johnson (who plays the mother) and former “Moesha” star Marcus Paulk.

Oh...and get this....

Upon returning to the U.S from her club hosting tour in the UK, Amber Rose was greeted at the airport by rapper Machine Gun Kelly. According to TMZ sources, Machine Gun Kelly was feeling all over Amber's booty and the two were spotted holding hands as they made an exit out of the airport. Peep those pics here.

Hmm...we wonder what her estranged husband Wiz Khalifa (who drops bars and is featured in Kelly's video for "Mind of a Stoner") has to say about all this...or if he even cares.

Photos via Mike Mosely