MaCray Debuts His Style On LA Hair

Happy New Year, g-moguls!  I know how all media will be dishing on the Golden Globes today, but she’s not like the others, people. You see, if it’s not reminiscent of the glitz and glamor of old Hollywood, then this g-mogul could give less than a care. Honestly, I hardly know any of the new young celebs and frankly, they don’t make movies like they used to. It’s the world of Reality Television, folks. Although horror movies remain my favs. Props does go out to Meryl Streep for keeping it real in her speech. Saw snippets from talk shows where she so eloquently held America’s new president-elect/ former host of celebrity apprentice and Putin’s new best friend accountable for the harm he’s done and still doing with his loose lips that imitated a disabled reporter.

The award-winning actress didn’t call him by name or even regurgitate the countless derogatory remarks he’s made about president Barack Obama, women and people of color. Congrats to Tracee Ellis Ross and Viola Davis, African-American actresses who finally got recognized by a polarizing white people’s Hollywood medium for their outstanding performances. Keepin it real that’s all.

I got hundreds of views from y’all these last weeks leading up to the premier of La Hair, on a post I penned back in 2012 on the colorful and outspoken hairstylist, Macray. I  correctly predicted him as the new break out star on the now defunct, CHICAGOLICIOUS! Y’all can view that post here:  https://wwwclara54.wordpress.com/2012/08/07/mccray-chicagiolicious-breakout-reality-tv-star/ I’ve decided to quench your thirst with more about Macray as he joins Kim Kimble’s LA Hair, along with 5 other new stylists. Yes, Kim Kimble got rid of Dontay, China,  Anthony, Terry and the rest of her old crew, except for the nail stylist Naja, who Kim uses to spy for her.

Kim Kimble’s new crew was put in place to boost the reality show’s ratings and bring in more cash for the network and for her. A cautionary warning for these shows to consider, is that the viewers can spot contrived and over dramatized crap a mile away. When Kim and her sister get into a squabble right out the gate, it’s not believable. And speaking on “fake”, how many of you think Welcome To Sweetie Pies, Ms. Robbie’s son, Tim has found a new girlfriend in Jennifer Williams ( first seasons Basketball Wives) and who believe she needs Tim to help launch her clothing line? And how evident is the lack of chemistry between these two? The closest they came to intimacy was her saying “babe.” Come on OWN, your viewers are not imbeciles. Trust that the g-mogul is on the trail of this insanity. Okay, rant aside. Now, back to the topic at hand…

In the premier episode of Kim Kimble LA Hair, Macray has toned it down a bit…disappointingly. He sports a neatly trimmed beard and haircut ( loved the locs though) and portrayed a calmer demeanor. Perhaps he’s getting a ‘feel’ for his new gig before breaking into his authentic self. He’s also a dad of three. I don’t know if it’s with his white lover from the South or not, but the two of them  appeared on Chicagolicious and were hilarious together as Macray tried to deal with his lover’s jealousy. I predict there will be entertaining drama from this former history teacher whose star is ascending.

More tea on the new Kim Kimble LA stylists:

1. MaCray- former history teacher finally broke away after teaching for two years to follow his dreams of becoming a hair stylist. I predicted his breakout star power back in 2012 and the g-mogul with the most-est (me) believe he’ll change Kim Kimble’s La Hair for the betterment of all…

2. Giorgio Van Gogh- no relation to the painter, people 🙂 is an actor straight from the old school antics (he is an actor) and a bit of a showman as evidenced in Thursday’s premier. I think he also will be catering to the whims of Kim Kimble. Giorgio reportedly got his start doing appearances at hair shows…

3. This is apparently a very established woman in her own right. Stacey i barber to the stars, having celebrities like Will Smith and Mike Tyson as clients. She seems to be the most level-headed (maturity) of the crew.

4. Tiger! This Asian persuasion seems to be more flamboyant than Macray. Add ambitious to the mix and Macray might have a bit of competition on his hands. I mean who can go wrong with reality profiles like Tamar Braxton and Blac Chyna among his pedigree clients?

5. James Wright had a good thing going before joining Kim Kim LA Hair. He’s been backup singer to many in the business, including Toni Braxton and Michele’. We all know him as the “Pattie Pie” guy. The YouTube sensation singing the praise of Patti La belle’s sweet potato pies a couple of years back. Reportedly, Patti wasn’t paying James for her surge of new fame and fortune, but she did invite him to cook with her! Can you say stingy & cheap? Just sayin’

6. Okay, so I deliberately saved this newbie wonder for last. Jay reminds me of how “green” and “clueless” yours truly was when she left home at 18 to claim her fame and fortune…dang still tryin’ to claim that ‘fortune” doncha know, but I digress. Jay has little experience but she has a big personality and the first rule of thumb for her was the importance of how first impressions matter- in that you have to dress for success in Kim Kimble’s salon. The crew was ordered by Kim to give Jay a much-needed makeover. Jay was a good sport about it and loved the results. I predict that Jay won’t be getting along with the opinionated Naja, but time will tell.

Here’s a sneak peek from the premiere airing Thursdays at 8pm on We TV.

She did the mike drop?

holla’

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Whoopi Goldberg Celebrates A Birthday, A Few Favorite Things and A Legacy Award

Happy December, my peeps! So, here’s the rub. Whoopi Goldberg celebrated a birthday last month on The View by sharing some of her favorite things with us. Because I had already listed Oprah Winfrey’s catalogue of her 100 plus favorite things for Christmas, the g-mogul need to make amends. I see a lot of y’all came looking in November, expecting a few of Whoopi’s favorite things. I always aim to please my audience, cause I heart y’all for riding with the g-mogul.That’s why the gurl got ya covered todaaaaay!

Before I share Whoopi’s fav birthday listings, I think it’s worth a congrats to Ms. Goldberg for being awarded the Elizabeth Taylor’s Legacy Award for her longtime work as an AIDS advocate. Whoopi received the award Thursday,on World AIDS Day. Clueless that she was about to receive the award from four of Elizabeth Taylor’s grandchildren, she was asked a lead in question by one of the View’s co-hosts, causing her to reflect upon events leading up to getting a call from the fabulous, diamond studded, late movie star and Aids activist.

Whoopi said she got the call from Ms.Taylor, asking her for a favor.The actress told Whoopi she didn’t have to do it if she didn’t want to. Whoopi was like, Elizabeth Taylor, of course, she’d do whatever. Like who would say no to Elizabeth! Thus, Whoopi Goldberg, already a voice in the fight against Aids in the 80s joined forces with other celebs who rally-ed with Elizabeth Taylor to raise awareness and funds for the Aids epidemic

Elizabeth Taylor became an activist in the fight against Aids in the 80s because no one knew what or why people were dying from this disease. When her best friend and fellow celebrity, actor Rock Hudson died from the disease, it propelled Elizabeth Taylor to get involved and ultimately dedicate the remainder of her life to bringing awareness in hopes of finding a cure.This tidbit was taken from the vault of yours truly celeb memory Rolodex.The news that Rock Hudson had died of the disease wasn’t as shocking, considering his appearance before his death. He was acting on Dynasty and even kissed actress Linda Evans, who reportedly was afraid she had caught the disease!

Video of Whoopi getting surprise award on The View:

Happy 61st birthday Whoopi Goldberg! A few of the Whoops favorite things:

1. The little free library at littlefreelibrary.org

2. Tattoo Ink are box tattoos that are not permanent at getinkbox.com

3. Tickle Water. com for kids have no artificial sweeteners and Sugarfina Candy at sugarfina.com. The green apple frogs are Whoopi’s favorite.

4. Warther Cutlery Knives are deigned for comfort and durability.http://warthercutlery.com/

5. Genesis Champagne & Wine Preservers,for the alcohol(ics) in you:) “Bartender,’nother round for the holidays!”

6. And the last item on Whoopi’s favorite things list?(drum-roll) Of course, those darn ugliest design sweaters of hers. You can find them at Lord & Taylor’s for around $40

Okay, dropping the mike on y’all. Happy Holidays!

holla’

 

Back- Stabber -TV- Show On Amazon.Com

So, my peeps, I’ve sort of come out from my self-imposed hiatus from the blogs (due to internalizing all the crap that’s piling up in such discriminatory and violent practices leading to loss of life; impacting our children health and well-being and the safety and protection of our families and loved ones) I’ve grown sick & tired of the ugliness of trolls sprouting inflammatory rhetoric on social media,in the news media and so forth and decided enough was enough. I was and do remain in need of self-care in my sabbatical space of healing. I also needed to commit to doing work that made a positive impact and have commenced to do so…I’m finally on the right road again.

I’ve decided to continue monthly postings at Clara’s Celebrity Tea Blog and also began this posting schedule at my other blogs. Posting monthly will allow me the freedom I need to concentrate on other meaningful projects where I use my platform to bring awareness and accountability via articles, film, interviews, webinars and so forth.

Recently, I received this email:

We just wanted to follow-up with you about our new Amazon TV series ‘Back Stabber’. My name is Ryan Zamo, and I am the 27-year-old creator and writer of the new show. Since our June 24th premiere on Amazon, we have received national media coverage for our inspirational back story behind the project, and our messages of acceptance, equality and anti-bullying.

However, most importantly, we are excited to announce that on Monday we got the word from the HFPA that we are officially up for the 2017 Golden Globe Awards! [Including best limited series, and best actor, best actress, best supporting actor and best supporting actress in a limited series or motion picture made for television]

Ryan, an openly gay man asked me to join other media in bringing his message to the masses. It didn’t hurt that he gave the ultimate compliment to our site. ( I say “our” because I’ve grown so accustomed to your faces, real and imagined):)

“With just about 90 days left until the final votes are cast, it’s never been more crucial to get our story out. Seeing you are one of the most influential outlets when it comes to doing so, we know having your media power and coverage will help us do just that”!

Okay, y’all I’ll take that:)

As a heterosexual woman of color, my message in sharing Ryan’s work is clear~ ” Get your head and heart right and stop the hate!  Wherever love is God is. I appreciate your continued support and remain humbled and blessed to know that my work in all areas of my writings have yielded me a spot among such great company.

Here’s a clip from back-stabber-tv-show:

holla’

Recap Of Fun Summer Fashion From The Wendy Williams Show

Hello everyone! Today is June 1st, which means I forgot to send the usual monthly post for y’all. Well, people, it’s because the g-maven penciled time off dates from her two other blogs (subtle plug) https://clara54.wordpress.com/ and http://wisewoman2.wordpress.com. She forgot to post at the tea blog. This clearly means she’s off her game, but have no fear, she got ya!

Instead of the usual brand of teas today, however, we’re gonna talk about fashion. Yep, fashion is always fun and because the g-maven is “resting”, we’re just going to talk summer fun fashion and what’s trending for everybody. So, are we good?! Y’all know celebs like Kate Hudson and Beyonce’ have come out with their brand of athletic wear, and there’s the Jenner girls for the younger generation. But, did y’all know that some real housewives brought their line of clothing to HSN and made money hand over fists? Lisa Rinna even quipped how she makes more money in a few hour on HSN than she does doing an episode of the reality show (Real Housewives of Beverly Hills)

NeNe Leakes would know a thing or two about that conversation, considering she sold out her whole line of clothing at a HSN appearance, also. These celebs know how to get their coins. Speaking of which, Wendy Williams is a walking billboard, advertising her clothing line on the show. I mean, she literally wore pieces from her line everyday and had the animated Suzanne ( the one who gets Wendy’s audience riled up and clapping) to wear them too. I suppose that’s a great way to push your product, but, the opinion of this g-maven? It came off as Wendy being thirty and tacky:) Just saying. Y’all know Wendy is my gurl, but Jeez.

Here’s Video of Some Fun Summer Fashions obtained from an episode of The Wendy Williams Show.

I’m going for the off the shoulder tops, two piece or dress trend that can be athletic inspired. White and floral pieces are always a good summer choice. Body conscious pieces are not on my preferred fashion to-do list, but they’re striking pieces as well. Remember, white out fashion is the summer fun stand out.

Thank you ladies & gents, for the support of your follow! I hope to see y’all in July with brand new teas that will be well worth your wait. 🙂

holla’

 

New Listening Music For Your Holidays

What’s up December? Just chilling y’all:) No teas today, people. She’s got something much better and quite appropriate for the holidays. I wanted to introduce y’all to some beautiful music sent to my Twitter by Alexander Ernest, who by the way has his own music channel.

Y’all have a listen and give the young man a shout-out. Better yet, somebody sign him to your label. Just sayin’

See all you g-moguls and trend followers in January, 2016!

Have a blasting good “HO~ HO~ HO~ Merry Christmas!”

How Celebs Are Staying Relevant In Hollywood~

"It's getting hot out there and I ain't talking about celebs getting divorced or posing in the nude.That's old news people! The thirst is real as the hunger for relevancy becomes the new black out there in the world of Hollywood gone Hollyweird."

Good Morning my fellow g-moguls! You guys are making me sit down to write something cause y'all are blowing up my site and I sort of feel bad that I've been ignoring your patronage:( Anyhew, forgive my lack of 'tea' transgressions and I'm going to do better. Y'all know the teas are monthly now, but I'm going to try to post earlier. It seems celebrities out there in Hollyweird have reached an all time low with their tea spilling antics toward each other. I mean look how Cynthia dissed her cheating (allegedly)husband Peter on RHOA when her sister, Mallory asked if she was still attracted to ole boy, " even with his clothes off."

Now, I don't know about y'all, but if I was in front of the cameras and asked that question, even if I thought my man's body was something 'ug'ly, I would have saved face (mine & his) put on a big ole smile and answered, "Are you kidding me right now, gurl?! "Of course, I love me some Peter. Right down to his sagging belly button!". Just saying:)
Instead Cynthia response was a resounding , "No."

Now, y'all got to be savvy g-mogul when it comes to counting the ways these celebrities are striving for relevancy. Cynthia and Peter's story-line comes into play when I hear her diss him on national television. But, then a woman scorned and all of that. And Cynthia was filmed celebrating her birthday on board that 'below deck' cruise line with just her daughter and Claudia in attendance. So, where there's shade, there's bound to be repercussions.. And speaking of shade?

Ms. Vivica A Fox! Gurl, like gurl, what were you thinking?! Chile did Andy Cohen of (Watch What's Happening Live) put a little too much vodka in yours?

Didn't you learn a long time back that you don't go throwing shade and spilling sexual secrets that could stump a man's ego?!or expose his fetishes?! :) And didn't you know he would clap back?! The brother is from the streets where he knows how to play the game a darn sight uglier that an actress some hint at is trying a bit too hard to stay relevant. The story goes that Vivica was showing support to her new gig over at Fox's "Empire" for supposedly 50 cent support of an article indicating that the show was losing viewers because of too much "gay stuff" characterizations. And it seems 50 is till feeling some sort of way. Saying in a recent interview he thought his ex (Vivica) was desperate. Anyhew, reportedly, the rapper deleted his support of the piece denouncing gay characters.

It's all one big mess of celebrity hating on celebrity mess, if you ask me. Now Caitlyn Jenner got somewhat of a cool down reception from transgender protesters when she appeared in the Windy City to speak at a LGBT charity luncheon. Jenner attempt to speak to the protesters didn't fare so well, calling the former Olympian a disgrace to the trans people and felt like they had been violated because of her advocacy that didn't include the rich and famous demographic.

There's just too much going on in Hollyweird and it just keeps getting weirder. I mean when Whoopi Goldberg's daughter gets a reality show, y'all know the thirst is real! What?! Y'all know for yourself that some folks are just famous for being in the company of fame. Just sayin'

‘Supernatural’ Sneak Peek Plus Teas From The Fan Files

Alrighty then! So what was I doing October 7th at 8pm that I miss the return of those Winchester boys? I know exactly what I was doing…watching Big Ang tear down her hubby for being jobless on Celebrity Rehab:) Imagine the g-mogul’s disappointment when she forgot the premiere of Supernatural where Sam and Dean find themselves Out of the Darkness and Into The Fire. CRAP! just sayin’
Anyhew, not to be bested by missing out on a fav show that’s still in the running after 10 years,I managed to view the full episode online. This clip is a sneak peek for y’all.

Y’all Millennials already know about APPS you can download to your Iphone or PC, but, for baby-boomers like myself, I searched until I found their website of SUPERNATURAL Full episodes and sat through boring commercials until anotherepisode played.

Speaking of favorite shows, I know I was not going to miss Sleepy Hollow’s Crane and Ms Mills or “lieutenant” Mills, although Abbie is now ‘Agent’ Mills; a FBI agent whose new boss turns out to be Lance Gross, the’House of Payne’ actor who dated and broke up with former ‘America’s Next Top Model’ winner Eva Marcille in 2010. Now the actor is married and have a baby. Although the show is pushing Gross character as a romantic interest for Abbie, the g-mogul didn’t feel that much-needed chemistry. It has to be Abbie and Crane at some point, otherwise, what’s the use? Although it looks like lil sis Jenny might be getting mesmerized by the son of the late Sheriff Corbin.

My burning questions:

Where is the Captain hiding ‘undercover’? And what happened to GRIMM? (sic) It’s all a mystery I tell you!

– Which brings me back to Dean and the woman in the darkness that Sam never saw. seems the she-devil only had dark eyes for Dean and she saved him for a reason? Remains to be seen I fear. So, I won’t be watching Scandal cause she and fitts is boring as hell is hot. Now that Jake make things interesting.

Flash has another ‘Flash’ to deal with and Arrow is confusing me to no end. Vampire Diaries Stefan and Caroline should just suck blood; Damon and Bonnie would make a hot couple and constantly sharing dear diary news with a dead Elena gives me a headache. The Originals are still cool…long as Klaus stays bad-ass. Can y’all tell the g-maven is partial to scary?! Yep, luv to see how evil get kicked in the gut-ter:)

Y’all hear about the latest bout the new first family, though? Seems the Kardashians have taken that prestigious title from The President of the United States, yo! But, let’s not get it twisted like Cosmopolitan Magazine, folks…The Kardashians might be the first family of Reality TV and I wish I had their coins, but they are hardly President Barack and Michelle Obama!

Peace!

Wendy Williams …”I’ve Evolved!”

Hello my peeps! It’s been a while but I’m back in April, just like the g-mogul promised. I have an announcement to make at the end of the post, so stay tuned.:) Now, listen up, I wanted to bring you a clip from Friday’s Wendy Williams show, because she told her viewers and audience of co-hosts something that bears repeating. You won’t see it on the after show clip, so I’m going to say it here.

Wendy Williams is fresh off spring hiatus, people and she said these words on Friday, “I have evolved!” Now, y’all know when Wendy Williams tells us something like that, there’s gotta be a reason. The 50-year-old talk show diva was referring to her position on Reality TV watching and how she doesn’t care any longer about the ratchet-ness of Reality TV that involves cast members pulling hair (she said weaves) calling each other b*tches and jumping over conference tables. She went on to name some shows she did like, such as Botched, The Millionaire Matchmaker and Million Dollar Listings.

I agree with the Queen of talk on the state of ratchet reality televisions, but I have to say, I do get my Real Housewives of Atlanta and The Housewives of Beverly Hills on. Just sayin.:)

Now, the Love & Hip Hop franchise, Housewives of Melbourne ( this one reportedly getting the ax) Housewives of New York, The Manzoes, Housewives of New Jersey and Keeping Up With The Kardashians (by the way a spin-off with the Black twins in the lead overseeing the Dash girls are in the works) are all becoming a bore.

Anyhew, it seems most celeb teas these days are cause for the g-mogul yawn. When there’s nothing new and exciting to report to y’all about the lives of the rich, famous and overexposed, I won’t post,period. Any any ole celeb crap just won’t do. And that’s why I’m only going to post once a month at the blog!

Yep, after decades of penning tales, sharing my op-eds and following up on what outrageous thing a celeb did or said, to stay relevant , this g-maven find it all quite uninteresting. I will continue to post monthly celebrity news that I feel is “news” worthy in the future and I hope y’all continue to role with my brand of unique celeb reporting, cause there’s no me without you guys & gals!

Keep it real, my peeps…holla’

Former “Fresh Prince” Alumni Blasts RHOA Kenya Moore

Happy Chinese New Year, y’all. Hey now! It seems to be going down between the original Aunt Viv from the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Janet Hubert and Miss Kenya (RHOA) Moore. Y’all know how the former Aunt Viv alumni seems to rear up like the Sphinx every now and again to either, correct something said about her or to throw shade on someone who has directed shade in her direction. Remember how she wrote an open letter to Wendy Williams, after the talk diva talked smack about her a while back?

Well, people, Aunt Viv has risen again 🙂 this time to put Kenya Moore on blast! It seems Kenya Moore hired Ms. Hubert to work on her sitcom, aptly titled ” Life Twirls On” (y’all see episodes on Real Housewives where Kenya is casting for the sitcom a Kenya Moore production. The casting includes Kenya Moore’s cast-mate, former model, Cynthia Bailey.

The tea from the lips of Janet Hubert is that she didn’t get paid, allegedly because the actress refused to sign on the dotted line that enlists her to come on to the Real Housewives of Atlanta to help promote Kenya’s sitcom. In the words of Cuba Gooding Jr, “Show me the money” apparently wasn’t happening after the fact from Kenya to Janet, which set the actress off. The actress rant against Kenya Moore, RHOA and basically black reality shows is trending all over social media; soon, Wendy Williams team will get the scoop, fact check and discuss it in hot topics on her show. Just sayin’

Anyhew, allegedly, the actress, formerly known as “Aunt Viv” is warning all actors against taking (scam) roles on reality television. She is quoted as saying “Last time she worked with someone this evil (Kenya Moore) was on Fresh Prince. No more black shows for me.” Ouch, Aunt Viv, that hurt! Oh, just watch:)

My Interview With Actor Lyriq Bent On His Leading Role in “The Book of Negroes”

Okay, now y’all, it took the g-mogul a minute to track down this handsome and busy actor of television and film, because according to his people, the man was busy “working and traveling.” But, finally, Lyriq Bent sat down to answer a few questions about his lead role, opposite actress Aunjanue Ellis ( of The Help, Ray and Sleepy Hollow fame) in the upcoming six part mini-series, “The Book of Negroes” that airs February 16th – 18th on BET.

And no, I didn’t ask about his marital status, people:) but, rather about his unique first name (pronounced Lyric-like in songwriting) This is how he explained what this g-maven thinks is uniquely odd. Just sayin.’

-There’s no story to my name that I know of. It’s just something my parents liked and ended up naming me

My name is pronounced like “lyrics” to a song.

The cast of The Book Of Negroes include stars like Cuba Gooding Jr. and Louis Gosset Jr. Some of you guys might recall that Louis Gossett Jr. won an Emmy for his portrayal of Fiddler in the 1977 miniseries, “Roots.’ With these great talents in mind, yours truly asked the actor if he was nervous about taking on the lead role.

I wasn’t exactly nervous, more thrilled and excited to play the part. Book of Negroes is such an incredible story and knowing that put a great responsibility on me. I was also surrounded by such incredible talent on both sides of the camera. Being around that made me want to be better.

-Chekura plays a big part in Aminata’s life and knowing that required that I depict the character as honestly and best as I could. I had many conversations with the author to try to understand the character through his eyes so I could understand how to capture that essence of what Lawrence had originally envisioned for that character.

I asked Lyriq what he wanted viewers to take away from The Book of Negroes.

I want people walk away with their own experience of what BoN has to offer. I’ve walked away with my own experience and I want people to find their own truth.

You guys need to mark your calendars for this historical miniseries airing Monday, February 16th-18th on BET. Check your local listings, people. And there’s more good news for my peeps! After you tune in to watch the miniseries, you can gear up to read more of my interview with Lyriq Bent at my new Celebrity Dish column appearing in the March issue of URBAN IMAGES MAGAZINE-shut the front door!

Alright, y’all can calm down:) In the meantime, I’m gonna leave y’all with a clip of The Book of Negroes.

holla'