Tyler Perry has officially addressed the notable absence of Janet Jackson in the latest installment of his beloved film franchise, “Why Did I Get Married Again?” The new movie, which premiered on Netflix on Sept. 9, reunites the core cast of the previous films but left fans questioning the whereabouts of Jackson’s character, Dr. Patricia Agnew. During a recent interview with Culture Creators, Perry clarified that there was no behind-the-scenes conflict leading to the casting change. Instead, the reason for Jackson’s absence was a simple matter of logistics. Perry noted that the Grammy-winning singer and actress was committed to her performance schedule in Nevada during the production window. “At the time, she was doing her residency in Vegas, so we couldn’t work out the time,” Perry said during the interview. He emphasized that the door remains open for the iconic star to rejoin the series in potential future chapters, adding, “Who knows what could happen in the future.” The third film in the series arrives nearly two decades after the original 2007 hit “Why Did I Get Married?” and its 2010 sequel, “Why Did I Get Married Too?” The franchise has long been a staple of Perry’s portfolio, known for its exploration of complex relationship dynamics and the bond between a close-knit group of college friends. While Jackson is missing from the current lineup, the third installment features the return of the original ensemble and introduces Academy Award-nominee Taraji P. Henson to the cast. The film has already generated significant buzz on social media, trending on Netflix shortly after its release as viewers catch up with the lives of the central characters. Perry, who has maintained a prolific output for the streaming giant, recently dominated the platform with the third season of “Beauty in Black.” The writer-director confirmed development of the third “Married” film last July following years of persistent fan requests for a follow-up to the 2010 sequel. For now, Jackson’s character is not part of the unfolding drama, but Perry’s comments suggest that Dr. Patricia Agnew could eventually reunite with her friends if scheduling permits for a fourth installment.

Basketball star LeBron James announced a new partnership with prediction market platform Polymarket, according to The Athletic. ​He now joins an expanding lineup of athlete endorsements in the space. ​The Philadelphia 76ers star joins Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bryson DeChambeau and Lionel Messi, who all have endorsed Kalshi,  Polymarket’s main competitor. ​In a 60-second video posted to X (formerly Twitter), James teased the partnership with a commercial showing him step off an elevator after pressing a button marked “sports.” Captioned “Step inside Polymarket HQ,” the spot features a star-studded ensemble including Eli Manning, Rajon Rondo, Spike Lee, Alexandra Daddario, Emily Ratajkowski, and Derek Jeter. Step inside Polymarket HQ. Somebody get the ice bath ready for @EliManning after that tackle. In partnership with Polymarket pic.twitter.com/xfv1nr6OOb — LeBron James (@KingJames) September 8, 2026 ​Responding to James’ post on X, Polymarket’s account wrote, “Thanks for stopping by our HQ,” followed by a goat emoji. ​“With football season around the corner, we look forward to tapping into James’ love for the sport and exploring other ways to bring Polymarket to wider audiences,” the message read. ​But that’s not all James has been up to. James shook up the NBA landscape in July 2026 by agreeing to a two-year, $8 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. He previously played eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers. ​Taking a dramatic pay cut for his record-breaking 24th season, the 41-year-old icon—who framed the move as his “last decision” before retirement—chose Philadelphia to chase a fifth championship. Joining forces with dynamic co-stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and newly acquired Jaylen Brown, James brings his legendary playmaking and veteran leadership to a retooled Sixers squad eager to end the franchise’s title drought dating back to 1983. ​”This is my last decision. I’m not going for money. And I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice. And I still want to work. I still want to grind and still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship,” he tweeted. I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team, and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time.”

Jalen Brunson is continuing his reign as the “King of New York.” According to ESPN, Brunson has been tapped to host the season premiere of Saturday Night Live alongside musical guest KATSEYE. Brunson will make his hosting debut Sept. 26. ​Fresh off leading the New York Knicks to a historic 2026 NBA Championship, Brunson keeps on winning. ​As the first active NBA player to host the sketch comedy series since LeBron James in 2007, Brunson cements his status as the undisputed “King of New York,” bringing his signature cool-under-pressure demeanor to late-night television. JALEN BRUNSON’S AMAZING CAREER ​Brunson capped off an indelible 2025–26 campaign by anchoring the New York Knicks to a 53–29 regular-season record. He led the franchise to its first NBA title since 1973, putting on a Brunson put on a masterclass in the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 32.6 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.2 rebounds across the series—punctuated by a legendary 45-point performance in a 94–90 Game 5 clincher. Unanimously, he was awarded the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP; his relentless leadership and clutch execution firmly cemented his status as the cornerstone of New York basketball. ​Along with Brunson, subsequent episodes will see Dakota Johnson returning for her third hosting stint on October 3 with musical guest Turnstile. Comedian Shane Gillis is hosting on October 10 with Rosalía. Breakout star Inde Navarrette is making her hosting debut for the Halloween episode on October 31 alongside Gracie Abrams. Behind the scenes, there are plenty of changes taking place at the iconic show. Longtime cast member Chloe Fineman has departed after seven seasons. Behind the scenes, Please Don’t Destroy collaborator Martin Herlihy has also stepped down as a writer after five seasons. Despite the departures, Studio 8H maintains a strong core anchored by veterans Kenan Thompson, Michael Che, Colin Jost, and Sarah Sherman, while continuing to integrate its newer class of featured players.

Music icon Beyoncé gifts the world with historic new music for her B-Day, but emerging artists like Iris Stryx, Boganz & Olakira, and Glizzy Glow are aligning the stars this week. The first Friday of September delivered a strong slate of hip-hop and R&B releases, led by Beyoncé and Erykah Badu. After long anticipation, Erykah Badu and The Alchemist joined forces for Before the World Blows. The 16-track album merges Badu’s neo-soul sensibilities with the producer’s signature hip-hop sound. Earl Sweatshirt, Westside Gunn, Thundercat, and Steve Lacy contribute to the project. Elsewhere, Mykki Blanco delivered CAFE PARADISO, a genre-blending release incorporating rap, rock, disco, and art-pop. Wisin expanded the broader urban-music landscape with La Universidad del Perreo. The 12-track reggaetón project draws from Puerto Rico’s underground scene. From Beyoncé historic collaborations to Iris Stryx’s arrival to Bognz & Olakira becoming superstars, here’s a complete list of new music you might have missed this week. Memphis Bleek, Iris Stryx, Boganz + MORE New Music You Might Have Missed This Week Shenseea & DJ Frass Come With The “Tightness” The dancehall princess hits the summer with a red-hot collaboration that will have fans rushing to the dance floor immediately. The producer-led single returns the international superstar to the sound that made us fall in love with her in the first place. It’s vibrant, exciting, and ready to take over the world. 414JungleBaby Lives Life Like It’s a “Movie” For Everybody Watching EP, the cinematic single showcases the new star’s lavish lifestyle as they impress with magnetic rhymes over catchy production. With all eyes on them, the Milwaukee rap star proves that today’s brightest superstars aren’t coming from the City of Angels, the A, or the Big Apple anymore. The song and album are must-hear and must-see attractions for any newfound fan discovering their next favorite artist. Memphis Bleek Knows The “Difference” In Greatness After “No More,” the Brooklyn legend’s latest release explores loyalty, betrayal, trust, and the lessons that come with personal growth.  The track captures Blizzle’s signature streetwise lyricism as he celebrates the lifestyle, relationships, and hard-earned position that come with decades of experience in the game. The single takes it back to where it all began in apartment 3D. Cupid Can’t Stop Making Hits But Ask “Why You Hatin’ On Me” The “Cupid Shuffle” hitmaker addresses the haters in his new Gospel-meets-R&B hit. Blending soulful R&B melodies with an uplifting gospel message, the song delivers a powerful reminder that obstacles and opinions don’t define your purpose. The crown is placed comfortably on his head, and he has no plans to leave the throne as the Linedance King anytime soon. 414JungleBaby, Cupid, Boganz + MORE New Music You Might Have Missed This Week Iris Stryx Has “No Regrets” The rising star’s latest single is about perseverance on her journey to greatness. With her sweet vocals, the Bahamian-born singer sings about the climb that took her far beyond the rejection she once experienced. The song helps others deal with personal struggles. Her forthcoming album represents the culmination of years of training, persistence, and personal growth. More importantly, her success shows that her greatest achievement isn’t measured by streaming numbers or chart positions, but by the transformation of a voice others once dismissed. Boganz & Olakira Shine Bright With “Abena” Continuing the global takeover of African sounds, Zambian Star teamed up with Nigerian Afrobeats hitmaker for the release of their new cross-border collaboration. The track is a high-energy Afro-fusion record that perfectly blends authentic Zambian percussion with a heavy West African bounce. Thematically, the new collaboration is an unapologetic tribute to African royalty, with two African Kings uniting their sounds to celebrate a “Ghanaian goddess of gold.” Driven by a highly infectious, club-ready pre-chorus—”Figure 8 oh / You carry back carry front oh.” To set the visual tone, Boganz and Olakira have released behind-the-scenes footage showcasing a dark, cinematic aesthetic dripping in cultural attire with the goddess dipped in gold. Beyoncé Taps Selena & More As Guests For New B-Day Queen Bey has been very generous lately. After dropping a new track featuring a Jay-Z remix, she’s celebrating her 20th anniversary of B-Day with some legendary additions. She remembers her Texas history with a new collaboration featuring late legendary Chicano singer Selena. They collaborate on a Spanish version of her hit “Irreplaceable.” The deluxe version proves that the album is timeless.

Raz-B, a member of the multi-platinum R&B group B2K, is mourning the sudden loss of his infant son, Astro Monte Thornton. The singer and his wife, Mona Li, confirmed the news this week, just three months after the child was born. Sources close to the family characterized the death as sudden and unexpected, though a specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. The couple, who also share a young daughter named Versai Carter Thornton, has asked for privacy as they navigate the tragedy. The arrival of Astro was a moment of public celebration for the family earlier this year. On May 18, Raz-B, born De’Mario Monte Thornton, shared his excitement with followers on social media while at the hospital. At the time, he wrote that the family was ready to welcome their newest addition and another boy to the Thornton legacy. Shortly after the birth, the couple posted a heartfelt message through their daughter’s Instagram account, expressing the joy of the new family dynamic. The post noted that it felt “amazing” for Versai to step into the role of a big sister. Raz-B remained active in the public eye throughout the summer, celebrating Father’s Day in June with a video montage that included footage of Astro’s birth. In the tribute, the family praised the singer for being their “safest place” and “forever hero.” The Shade Room was among the first to report that the couple is currently seeking seclusion to grieve their loss privately. As news of the infant’s death spread, fans and members of the music community began offering condolences to the singer.

50 Cent’s baby mama and Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex-girlfriend Daphne Joy is soaking up an island getaway and giving her Instagram followers a glimpse of the escape. The model and entrepreneur shared two revealing resort balcony photos Tuesday, Sept. 8. Joy appeared in each image wearing nothing but a towel. In the first photo, Joy straddled a balcony railing while taking in the surrounding view. She paired the sultry image with a simple caption: “Sweet Melodies.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daphne Joy (@daphnejoy) Joy followed with a second photo from the same balcony. She lounged in a chair while wrapped in a towel and gazed toward the scenery. “When I reach and touch your hand.. sweet melodies begin,” she wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daphne Joy (@daphnejoy) The romantic caption added a more intimate layer to the vacation snapshots. Joy did not identify the person behind the message or explain its inspiration. Her followers quickly filled the comments with compliments about her appearance and the picturesque setting. “Damn! You keep exceeding all expectations!” Instagram user @abbsworld1 wrote. Another follower, @jaycur2021, admired both Joy and the backdrop. “Beautiful skyline gorgeous breathtaking princess,” the user commented. Hip-Hop Moguls 50 Cent & Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Daphne Joy Breaks The Internet With New Photos Wearing Nothing But A Towel @rti271 focused on Joy’s beauty, writing, “You’re that insanely beautiful !! You made phone overheat Daphne .” “Your skin is absolutely flawless ,” added @shivanan141. Joy has remained a familiar face in entertainment, fashion and celebrity culture. She has also attracted attention through her relationships with prominent figures in hip-hop. She shares a daughter with rapper and music mogul 50 Cent. Joy previously dated Sean “Diddy” Combs, another high-profile chapter of her personal life. For these latest posts, however, Joy kept the spotlight on herself. Her minimal captions and tropical surroundings created an intentionally dreamy mood. “Sweet Melodies” became the theme connecting both images. Her second caption expanded the phrase into a reflection on touch, connection and romantic chemistry. The posts offered followers another look at Joy’s confident social media presence. They also showed how she can generate attention with little more than a scenic backdrop and a few carefully chosen words.

Megan Thee Stallion is opening up about her past relationship with NBA star Klay Thompson. During a recent interview, the “Hiss” rapper revealed that her time dating the professional basketball player was marked by a lack of peace, leading her to feel “on edge all the time.” The musician reflected on the difficulties of balancing her high-profile career with a relationship that she now believes was a poor fit. Megan explained that she spent much of the romance attempting to conform to Thompson’s lifestyle rather than maintaining her own identity. “I think I just kept trying to make pieces fit that didn’t belong, trying to fit myself into someone else’s life,” she said. The rapper noted that the compromise caused her to lose sight of her own needs, adding that she felt she was “losing myself a little bit.” She told the magazine that she has since moved into a new chapter focused on self-discovery and reclaiming her personal power, stating she is now in the space of “finding me again.” Megan also addressed the importance of mutual respect in a partnership, implying that her self-worth should have been more highly valued by her former partner. She suggested that a significant other should be grateful for her presence rather than treating her with disrespect. The rapper further emphasized that she requires a true “50-50 equal” in a relationship rather than a dynamic where she is expected to carry the weight for both parties. The interview touched on the subject of infidelity, a topic that has followed the pair since their breakup was first reported in April. Megan reiterated that fidelity remains “non-negotiable” for her. She shared advice for others dealing with similar situations, asserting that a partner’s decision to cheat is a reflection of their own character and not a commentary on the victim’s attractiveness or importance. While Megan continues her “Hot Girl Summer” branding and focuses on her music career, Thompson has seen significant changes in his professional life. After playing for the Dallas Mavericks during his time with the rapper, the veteran guard has since joined the Miami Heat. Thompson was recently spotted in August attending a concert with an unidentified woman, signaling that both stars have officially moved on. Despite the personal hurdles, Megan appeared confident about her future. She told the outlet that she is no longer willing to settle for less than she deserves, emphasizing that she is “Megan Thee Freakin’ Stallion” and expects her future partners to recognize that status.

Jhené Aiko has officially ended her six-year hiatus, announcing that her highly anticipated new studio album, “Westside Whimsy,” will be released this Friday, Sept. 11. The announcement came via social media Tuesday, where Aiko shared the project’s cover art featuring a close-up of the singer against a teal backdrop, adorned with crystal teardrops. The album, released through Def Jam Recordings, marks her first full-length effort since the critically acclaimed “Chilombo,” which debuted in March 2020. Aiko first introduced the “Westside Whimsy” title to fans in January through a collaboration with the high-end grocer Erewhon Market, where she launched a limited-run smoothie of the same name. During a California wellness retreat in April, the 38-year-old artist offered insight into the sonic direction of the project, citing heavy influences from her home state and the previous century. “All the music of the ‘90s has really influenced me, but especially West Coast car culture, surfing culture, beach, laid-back,” Aiko said during the retreat. She added that the magical atmosphere of California and her love for long road trips served as primary inspirations for the new music. The announcement sparked immediate excitement across the music industry, drawing supportive comments from peers including Kehlani, H.E.R., Ella Mai and Chloe Bailey. “You guys so much has happened in the last 6 years ..I’m so excited and nervous to share this with you. It’s like every time I tried to lock in, life knocked me on my ass. I’m so grateful that I was finally able to finish..love you” Aiko wrote via Instagram. View this post on Instagram Fans have spent years waiting for a follow-up to her signature blend of ethereal R&B and soulful storytelling. With “Westside Whimsy” arriving just days after its official announcement, the R&B community is bracing for what Aiko describes as a “magical” tribute to the West Coast. The album will be available on all major streaming platforms this Friday.

The Jordan Brand’s Tatum 5 is set to take the basketball by storm. Continuing his evolution as one of Jordan Brand’s premier signature athletes, the Tatum 5is designed to handle Jayson Tatum’s explosive cuts and fluid playmaking. The low-profile silhouette pairs lightweight mesh with sculpted support overlays and responsive Zoom Air cushioning. Also, the shoe makes a distinct statement with bold, narrative-driven colorways—drawing direct inspiration from Tatum’s personal life, family roots, and championship ambition.  At the core of the design is a dynamic utility strap that delivers maximum containment without extra bulk, ensuring a secure, distraction-free fit. Up front, a 10mm forefoot Air Zoom unit provides explosive energy return and seamless transitions, while a molded midfoot wrap and reinforced heel ensure elite stability through sharp cuts and sudden stops. Underfoot, the HART 2.0 rubber herringbone outsole guarantees razor-sharp traction for precise footwork. View this post on Instagram The silhouette introduces an updated signature detail. It features Tatum’s #0 on the heel, reshaped to honor the Gateway Arch in his hometown of St. Louis. Debuting in the dual “Sunrise” and “Sunset” colorways—inspired by the Boston skyline at dawn and dusk. The complementary releases pay tribute to Tatum’s round-the-clock work ethic. In a media event held at the Nike headquaters in New York City, Tatum shared the creative vision behind the shoe “It’s dope because most of the time you get to throw out colorways. And share things that are deeply important to you. Storytelling is huge, and when it’s organic, the consumer really feels that and understands it. But what I’ve also enjoyed is collaborating with the creative minds on the brand side,” Tatum told HOT97.  “They come to me with ideas and colorways to see what I think. so I can’t take all the credit. They do an amazing job. Take the ‘Laser’ colorway, for example: it highlights my tattoos, like the championship ring, the chapel at Duke, and white calla lilies, which are my mom’s favorite flowers,” he continued. “When people see those details, they can connect the dots and say, ‘Oh, I’ve seen that story before.’ Bringing real moments from my life into the design is what makes the storytelling special.”  TATUM’S BIG COMEBACK YEAR This season, Jayson Tatum is looking to lead the Celtics into a new era. With a new supporting cast, Tatum’s ability to reclaim his peak All-NBA form will ultimately dictate Boston’s playoff hopes. The Jordan Tatum 5 “Sunrise” colorway launches on September 24 in China, with a wider global and U.S. release expected during Holiday 2026, .

For decades, Inside the NBA has been arguably the best sports show for more than two decades. But Hall of Famer Charles Barkley recently announced that this year may be his and Ernie Johnson’s last season. ​That legendary run is reaching its conclusion following Barkley’s revelation on The Bill Simmons Podcast that he and Johnson plan to step away from the iconic studio desk following the 2026–27 season. ​Calling themselves a “package deal,” Barkley revealed that he extended his broadcasting career to ensure behind-the-scenes crew members maintained their jobs during the show’s transition to ESPN. He says he’s agreed to anchor two final seasons alongside Johnson before hanging up the microphone for good. ​”Me and Ernie are a package deal. So right now, unless Ernie changes his mind, next year is my last year, 100 percent,” Barkley told Bill Simmons of Ringer. ​“The only reason I stayed is so that everybody could keep their jobs behind the scenes. I’m hoping the show keeps going on ESPN, but if Ernie retires after next season, I’m done,” Barkley continued. I have so much love and respect for that guy. If he says done, I’m done.” Barkley also explained that other networks offered him more money before he decided to stay with Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny “The Jet” Smith. “I met with NBC, and with Amazon. NBC offered me a deal. I’m like, ‘I appreciate it, but no, thank you.’ Amazon never offered me a deal, but I met with him. I said, “No, thank you. So, I think I’m retired. I get a call from Ernie, who’s the person I trust and respect the most,” Charles Barkley said. “Ernie said to me, ‘Chuck, would you please stay for two more years?’ I said, Ernie, I love you, man,” he added. “You’re the best. I said, I’ll stay for two more years.” Inside the NBA returns for the start of the 2026–27 NBA regular season on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.