Denzel Washington Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom
Denzel Washington receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Joe Biden, honoring his extraordinary contributions to society and his enduring impact on Hollywood and beyond. We discuss it here!
Denzel Washington at the L.A. premiere for Gladiator II at the TCL Chinese Theatre on November 18, 2024.
Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency
By: Joshua Martin
On Saturday (Jan. 4th), Denzel Washington received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions to American and global society. Washington was one of nineteen honorees who attended a special ceremony hosted by President Joe Biden at the White House. Biden personally presented the iconic actor with this prestigious award, which is the nation’s highest honor.
“Together, you leave an incredible mark – and I mean this sincerely, this group – you leave an incredible mark on our country.”
In addition to Washington, this year’s recipients of the Medal of Freedom included NBA legend “Magic” Johnson, former Senator and Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, actor Michael J. Fox, fashion icon Anna Wintour, soccer star Lionel Messi, fashion designer Ralph Lauren, Bill Nye “The Science Guy,” and more.
Awarded to “good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the Presidential Medal of Freedom was first awarded in 1963. Past recipients include former athletes Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron and Muhammad Ali. Civil Rights activist Rosa Parks, former President Barack Obama and the legendary Blues musician B.B. King.
The legendary thespian and director recently celebrated a 70th birthday and continues to be an influential force in Hollywood and beyond. With no signs of slowing down, the recently released film “Gladiator 2” surpassed over $320 million dollars worldwide. Making it the highest-grossing film of his career.
Click the link below to watch Denzel receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Biden honors 19 politicians, philanthropists, cultural icons with Presidential Medal of Freedom
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Recipe for Change: Heartfelt Conversations on LGBTQIA+ Community and Acceptance
"Recipe for Change" series lights up the screen with a heartfelt episode that amplifies LGBTQIA+ voices, blending soulful meals with deeper conversations about identity and acceptance. We discuss it here!
B. Scott, Mal Wright, & Hayley Kiyoko Speak on LGBTQIA+ Community and Acceptance
By: Eboné Chatman
In the heart of the entertainment industry, where stories of resilience and triumph often emerge, a new episode of the YouTube series Recipe for Change from Spring Hill shines a spotlight on the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community. This particular installment features a diverse group of queer personalities, including B. Scott, Mal Wright, Hayley Kiyoko, Chrishell Stause, and Jesse Sullivan, as they engage in heartfelt discussions about community, safe spaces, and the profound journey of self-acceptance.
A Feast for Thought
Recipe for Change is known for its unique format, blending sumptuous meals with meaningful conversations. Each episode begins with a round table where participants enjoy exquisite dishes and delve into various topics relevant to the entertainment industry and beyond.
In this episode, renowned chef Susan Feniger, celebrated for her work on the Food Network's *Too Hot Tamales* and her influential Los Angeles restaurants SOCALO and Border Grill, takes the culinary helm.
The dinner starts with a vibrant vegetable ceviche, a dish as colorful as the guests' personalities! For the main course, Feniger serves a delectable Crispy Legged Thigh Chicken paired with crispy cauliflower, salsa verde, and pickled tomatoes. The meal concludes with an indulgent double chocolate espresso cake, providing a sweet backdrop to the evening's profound discussions.
Conversations that Matter
As dinner begins, a unique tradition unfolds. Each guest draws a question from a bowl, sparking conversations that are both personal and universal. The first question posed is, "What kind of reactions did you receive when coming out to people?"
Dine with Hayley Kiyoko, B. Scott & more | Recipe For Change: Honoring Queer Voices
Jesse Sullivan started the conversation by saying, “I came out twice. I came out as lesbian first,… but coming out as trans four years ago was a completely different story. Obviously this was a time where America was very Trump forward i’ll call it …and the reaction I had from people was just so different than coming out as gay. I lost a lot of family members, I lost a lot of people from the LGBTQ community, my lesbian friends at the time…It was so shocking to me because I didn't expect that”.
Hayley Kiyoko says, “you’re consistently coming out because, from my experience and from what I know, you’re coming out to yourself over and over and over again and you are trying to convince yourself that you love yourself and you love who you are. And on top of that you are coming out to others.”
She also states that she is hopeful that the “younger generations are able to create space for them to be themselves and at an earlier age.”
Scott shares struggles with identity as there were a few iterations from androgynous then gender non-conforming, “which was before there was all of the inclusion you see today. Now the trans non-binary fits the best”.
Scott continues the conversation and adds that, “It's so important that people understand the complexities of it all. Gender identity is one component of it and how you express is another. There are so many variations of how you can express and I'm happy that I made it to the point now where there is more inclusion so I can hold space and feel like I don’t really belong.”
Mal Wright shares her experience with being the “only / other” in the room and wonders if the reason why she gets invited to speak in rooms that she wasn’t in before is because she is “digestible” as she has friends that look like her that aren’t invited into the same spaces, and why not?
A Call to Acceptance
As the episode draws to a close, the message is clear: true acceptance begins with listening and understanding. The guests' stories resonate deeply, reminding viewers of the importance of supporting one another and celebrating our unique identities.
Recipe for Change continues to set a high standard for meaningful content in the digital age. This episode, in particular, serves as a poignant reminder of the power of community and the ongoing journey toward self-acceptance. Through the lens of food and conversation, it invites us all to reflect on our own paths and the ways we can contribute to a more inclusive and accepting world.
In a society where divisions often seem insurmountable, Recipe for Change offers a recipe for unity, one conversation at a time.
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Courtney B. Vance, Nia Long, Prince, And More Lead 2025 Hollywood Walk of Fame Class
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce revealed the top tier 2025 Class of Hollywood Walk of Fame inductees, featuring icons like Courtney B. Vance, Sherri Shepherd, Nia Long, Prince, and more! We discuss it here!
Courtney B. Vance, Nia Long, Prince, And More Lead 2025 Hollywood Walk of Fame Class
By: Joshua Martin
On June 24th, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce unveiled the 2025 Class of Hollywood Walk of Fame inductees. The star studded list includes Courtney B. Vance, Sherri Shepherd, Busta Rhymes, Fantasia, The Isley Brothers, Prince, Misty Copeland, Bill Duke, Glynn Turman, Nia Long, Toni Vaz and WAR.
Fantasia shared her excitement via an Instagram post. The news came shortly after a street was renamed after her in her hometown.
“Little girl from High Point, North Carolina, made it to the [Hollywood Walk of Fame]. Wow!!!! I’m lost for words. God Kept every Promise.” - Fantasia via Instagram
Nia Long took to social media as well to express her adulation, going on to honor her mother who manifested this special moment.
“My mother used to tell me when I was a little girl I would have a star on the HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME one day. I never really believed it was possible. Life was hard back then. Today a dream came true for both of us. I’m so grateful to be included with this amazing group of artists. Thank you Jesus!!! Thank you to all of you who continue to support my artistry. Thank you @WalkofFameStar for this incredible honor. I love you Mommy.” - Nia Long via X/Twitter
Shepherd’s announcement was made by her best friend, Niecy Nash-Betts, who rapped Kendrick Lamar’s “They Not Like Us” as she urged the crowd to to “clap for her friend.”
Busta Rhymes also took to social media to express his excitement for the honor.
“I WILL NEVER STOP TELLING YOU EVERY SINGLE DAY!! THE BLESSINGS DON’T STOP SO WE WON’T EVER STOP!! THE DRAGON IS OFFICIALLY APART OF THE CLASS OF 2025 HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME AND I WILL BE OFFICIALLY RECEIVING MY HOLLYWOOD STAR!! IT’S A CELEBRATION IN THE BIGGEST #BLOCKBUSTA WAY AND WE AIN’T NEVER STOPPING!!” - BUSTA RHYMES via Instagram
Honorees have up to two years after they are chosen to set a date for their ceremonies. Among the list of 2024 inductees, Chadwick Boseman, Angie Martinez, Brandy, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Kerry Washington, Toni Braxton and Otis Redding still have ceremonies to be scheduled.
Walk of Fame - Class of 2025 Announcement
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Denzel Washington Broadway Comeback Set for Spring 2025
Denzel Washington is set to take on the lead role in a Broadway revival of 'Othello' scheduled for Spring 2025. We discuss it here!
Denzel Washington poses for the Oscar Nominee Luncheon on February 07, 2022 in Century City, CA.
Credit: DFree/Shutterstock
The legendary actor Denzel Washington will star in a revival of the Shakesperian theatrical play ‘Othella’ alongside ‘Road House (2024)’ actor Jake Gyllenhal. Spearheaded by Tony award winning director Kenny Leon, the production is set to open in Spring 2025 at the legendary Shubert Theatre in New York City.
The two time Academy Award winner, Washington, will portray Othello, a passionate war general who loses their sanity over jealousy. The role of Desdemona, Othello’s wife, has yet to be cast. Gyllenhal will star as Iago, Denzel’s main antagonist, who convinces Othello to question his wife's fidelity.
According to sources, the most recent Broadway production of Othello was in 1982 starring James Earl Jones as the lead.
Washington, a Tony Award Winner himself, is know stranger to Broadway. He starred in the 2010 production of Fences, which was later turned into a film and also earned a Tony Award nomination for his role as Thedore Hickman in the 2018 revival ‘The Iceman Cometh.’
Show Clip - Fences - "What About My Lif?"
The 69 year old made his Broadway debut in 1988 with Checkmates, he has also appeared in the 2014 revival of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ and the 2005 production of ‘Julius Caesar.’
2025’s ‘Othello’ will be the first time the duo of Leon and Washington has worked together since ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ in 2014, where Leon won his Tony Award for Best Direction of a Play. The two previously collaborated on the 2010 production of Fences.
Ticket information is currently unavailable but fans can stay up to date by signing up for alerts at othellobway.com.
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American Black Film Festival Honors 2024 Celebrates the Finest in Black Hollywood
ABFF Honors acknowledged Taraji P. Henson, Mara Brock Akil, and others for their significant contributions to the culture. We discuss it here!
Taraji P. Henson poses on the carpet for the 2024 American Black Film Festival.
Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
The sixth annual American Black Film Festival Honors recognized (Mar. 3rd) actress Taraji P. Henson, screenwriter Mara Brock Ali, and others for their on-screen excellence and importance to Black culture. A week before the Oscars, the intimate, invitation-only event was held in Los Angeles and hosted key festival stakeholders and celebrated artists.
One of Black Hollywood’s most prestigious events, was hosted by comedic legend Tommy Davidson and executively produced by ABFF founders Nicole and Jeff Friday.
Actors Taraji P. Henson and Jeffrey Wright received the Excellence in the Arts Award for their distinguished career achievements. Garrett Morris was presented with the Hollywood Legacy Award, which is presented to a trailblazing artist whose work has inspired generations and made an enduring contribution to film and television.
American actor Kelvin Harrison Jr. took home the honor of this year’s Rising Star Award, while industry veteran Mara Brock Ali received the Industry Visionary Award for her outstanding work and commitment to championing diversity and equity in the film and television industry.
Cord Jefferson, the writer and director of “American Fiction”, was presented with the Movie of the Year Award. A category filled with stiff competition, other nominees included A.V. Rockwell’s “A Thousand And One”, Ava DuVernay’s “Origin”, Blitz Bazawule’s “The Color Purple”, Juel Taylor’s “They Cloned Tyrone” and Antoine Fuqua’s “The Equalizer 3”.
Presenters included Tyrese, Wendell Pierce, Lamorne Morris, Leslie Jones, Issa Rae, Gina Prince-Bythewood and David Oyelowo.
“For decades, these esteemed ABFF Honorees have elevated their projects, and brought joy to audiences across the world. It is our honor to recognize Garrett, Taraji, Jeffrey, Mara [and Kelvin] for all their contributions to culture and the industry throughout their remarkable careers.”
The ABFF Honors started in 2016 and is apart of the American Black Film Festival which was founded by Jeff Friday in 1997. Since its inception, ABFF has been one of the leaders in spotlighting Black storytelling. This year’s festival will take place June 12th through the 16th.
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Rihanna celebrates the release of the new Fenty x Puma Creeper Phatty in LA
On December 18th, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky graced Hollywood's Neue House to celebrate Rihanna's latest sneaker collaboration with Puma, the Creeper Phatty as part of the FENTY x PUMA exclusive line. We discuss it here!
Photo Credit: Gilbert Flores / Getty Images
On December 18th, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky graced Hollywood's Neue House to celebrate Rihanna's latest sneaker collaboration with Puma, the Creeper Phatty as part of the FENTY x PUMA exclusive line. Rihanna provided creative direction and design for this line, pushing the boundaries of both fashion and sport since its inception in 2015.
As guests entered the venue, they were met with a mirrored wall illuminated by green neon lights spelling out Creeper Phatty. Inside, the atmosphere resembled an adult arcade, featuring claw machines offering a chance to win a pair of the new kicks, step mania, and a professional photo opp in front of the iconic Fenty x Puma shoe display. The bar served refreshing cocktails named to match the celebration: "Creeper Phatty" for tequila lovers, "The Outcast" for vodka enthusiasts, and the "Baby Phatty" mocktail for those in a dry December. Female DJs curated the playlist, ensuring the crowd stayed lit—it was truly a memorable experience.
Numerous celebrities and influencers showed their support, including comedian Affion Crockett, model Slick Woods, actor Evan Ross, and Jason Lee. A$AP Rocky stood by, supporting his "Good Girl Gone Bad" as she engaged with the media and posed for pictures.
Rihanna, the style icon herself, accessorized her outfit with purple and red Creeper Phatty sneakers. She sported a lavender fur coat, a leather purple jacket underneath, slouchy blue jeans, and a white t-shirt. Completing her look, Rihanna styled her hair in a honey-blonde fashion, complemented by a striking red and purple cosmetic palette. Notably, Rihanna intentionally introduced kid sizes in this new sneaker line so that her sons could participate in the world of fashion their parents have shaped.
Rihanna shows off the new Creeper Patty's at the Fenty x Puma launch event in Los Angeles.
Photo Credit: Gilbert Flores / Getty Images
Available in three colorways—"PUMA black and warm white," "speed blue and lime pow," and "lavender alert and burnt red"—the redesigned classic silhouette retails for $140 for adults and $75 for children. If your Christmas shopping isn't complete, worry not—these sneakers make the perfect addition to any list! The Creeper Phatty is currently available for purchase on Puma.com.
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Dwayne Johnson Makes 7-figure Donation to SAG-AFTRA Relief Fund
Actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson makes historic 7-figure donation to support struggling actors amidst Hollywood strike. We discuss it here!
Dwayne ‘The Rock Johnson attends the 95th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, California on March 12, 2023. (Getty Images/Gilbert Flores)
By: Joshua Martin
In a surprising move, A-List Hollywood actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson contributed a “landmark” seven-figure donation to SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Financial Assistance Fund set up for struggling actors amidst their ongoing strike against major Hollywood studios which began on July 13th. Leaders of the foundation President Courtney B. Vance and Executive Director Cyd Wilson sent a letter to 2,700 of the union’s highest-earning actors explaining the financial strains the strike would cause.
This is the first industry shutdown in 60 years, but it will take a while for viewers to notice a change in what is airing on television and streaming platforms since most of the content that is getting ready to be released was shot a year ago. Right now late night shows are showing re-runs due to the writers strike.
“It was a love fest. It’s like, ‘Man, you’re stepping up in a way that is allowing others to know the dire necessity of it,' “This is him saying, ‘In such a time as this, I’m here and I’m not going anywhere, whatever you need me to do.’ And that sends a huge message to other folks to do the same thing.” - Courtney B. Vance
Shortly after the announcement that thousands of film and television stars were going on strike, “The Rock” decided to step up for his fellow Screen Actors Guild members. In a statement Vance expressed how thankful he was and how the donation will help those in need of assistance during such a difficult time.
"Everyone knows what happens when you go on strike, when you stand for something — as the saying goes, if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for everything," he added. "You can’t stand unless you have support underneath you, on the side, up top and up front. So Dwayne is letting everyone know, ‘I’m here. What are you going to do?” - SAG President Courtney B. Vance
For the first since 1960, both Hollywood actors and writers are on strike simultaneously. Members of SAG-AFTRA are seeking pay and residual increases, higher caps on pension and health contributions and regulating the use of artificial intelligence. The Screen Actors Guild has more than 160,000 members, although the strike only affects the union’s roughly 65,000 actors.
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Meet Joshua Martin, Senior Video Editor for 247 Live Culture!
Email: Joshua@247LCTV.com