Melissa Noel

1 week ago | essence.com | Melissa Noel

Tyler Perry is facing a lawsuit from actor Derek Dixon, who alleges the media mogul used his industry power to sexually harass and assault him while promising career opportunities. In the lawsuit filed Friday in Los Angeles Superior Court and first reported Tuesday, June 18, Perry is accused of creating a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” that escalated over time.

2 weeks ago | essence.com | Melissa Noel

The emmy-winnng actor and literary advocate, brought both celebration and real talk to the graduation stage, urging students to embrace their purpose and push past fear. “Fear is the tool of the colonizer,” he told the crowd. “We have to make ourselves immune to the okey-doke.”It was a moment of truth-telling that hit home. When asked what he hopes the graduates walk away with, Burton didn’t hesitate: “Tell your authentic story. Find your authentic self.

2 weeks ago | essence.com | Melissa Noel

Each summer, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture brings together Grammy-winning artists, grassroots organizers, political leaders, and everyday changemakers to celebrate and advance Black culture and community. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans—a city long recognized as a beacon of Black cultural excellence—the festival honors Black joy, justice and progress through bold conversations, iconic performances, and unforgettable moments.

2 weeks ago | essence.com | Melissa Noel

The man accused of killing NJ Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour has been found guilty on all counts. A New Jersey jury convicted Rashid Ali Bynum in connection to the 2023 shooting death that shocked Sayreville and drew national attention to the tight-knit community. Bynum, 29, was convicted of first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a weapon and several other charges, according to ABC7 News NY. He will be sentenced on August 18.

2 weeks ago | essence.com | Melissa Noel

Khaby Lame, the world’s most-followed TikToker, was briefly detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last week for an alleged over visa violation. The 25-year-old influencer was taken into custody June 6 at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, ICE confirmed in a statement to USA TODAY. Lame, who was born in Senegal and is a citizen of Italy, entered the United States on April 30 and was found to have “overstayed the terms of his visa,” the agency said.