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Atlanta’s own Lil Baby has reached another milestone in his career. Known for his chart-topping hits and reshaping the modern rap game, Lil Baby recently graduated from Harvard Business School, adding a prestigious achievement to his growing list of successes. Yes, the rapper, born Dominique Arman Jones, who brought us Drip Too Hard and The Bigger Picture is now also an Ivy League graduate. The news sent waves across social media, with fans celebrating the rapper’s dedication to self-improvement. While Lil Baby has always been about his business—whether dominating the Billboard charts or launching new businesses—earning a degree in business administration from one of the world’s most prestigious universities takes his hustle to a whole new level. Lil Baby admitted that he never aspired to be a rapper, but music ultimately became the path he was destined to follow. In his Prime Video documentary, Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby,  we learn that Lil Baby has always embodied the spirit of a hustler. Recently, a video snippet of Lil Baby circulated online, showing him attending a class at Harvard and celebrating his graduation with a party thrown by his family. Lil Baby has often been private about his personal goals, but his decision to enroll at Harvard Business School was motivated by his drive to expand his knowledge in business and entrepreneurship. From managing his 4PF (Four Pockets Full) record label to engaging in philanthropic efforts, Lil Baby’s influence extends far beyond music. In 2020, he launched the My Turn Scholarship Fund , which helps underprivileged students access higher education. Now, as a Harvard graduate, he embodies the very values he’s encouraged in others. Lil Baby’s graduation from Harvard Business School changes the perception and stereotypes about rappers. This now gives an example to his fans and the younger generation about the importance of education, even for those who have already achieved financial success. Photo Credit: Instagram - @LilBaby

Fans of the new crime drama Cross  have been raving about the series since its debut on Prime Video. The show has become a major hit, quickly climbing to the number-one spot on the streaming platform. Audiences are praising the series not only for its engaging storyline and authentic representation of Black culture but also for its standout cast. While Aldis Hodge has been widely celebrated, Isaiah Mustafa, who plays John Sampson, Cross's loyal best friend and partner, is also getting attention for his performance. Social media has been buzzing with people newly discovering Mustafa. But let’s be clear: put some respect on his name. Mustafa has been a familiar face on our screens for years. Yes, Mustafa is the  "Old Spice Guy." In 2010, he burst onto the scene with the viral Old Spice commercials, becoming a cultural phenomenon. His suave demeanor, impeccable comedic timing, and clever monologues had audiences locked in and set a new standard for advertising. Mustafa was a trailblazer in creating iconic brand characters, similar to personas like "Jake from State Farm" and Progressive's Flo. Mustafa’s portrayal of the suave Old Spice spokesman remains iconic, cementing his status in pop culture. While commercials rarely launch careers, Mustafa turned his Old Spice fame into a springboard for larger opportunities, seamlessly transitioning into bigger roles on screen. Mustafa has been acting for years, with appearances in TV shows like NCIS , Grey's Anatomy and Black-ish . However, he truly made waves as Luke Garroway in Freeform’s Shadowhunters , the TV adaptation of Cassandra Clare’s popular The Mortal Instruments  book series. Playing the role of a werewolf leader with a heart of gold, Mustafa became a fan-favorite character in the supernatural drama. His portrayal of Luke garnered a loyal following, which helped ease his transition into other fantasy genres. Although Mustafa has appeared in films like Madea's Big Happy Family  and Horrible Bosses , his acting talents truly took center stage in 2019 when he starred as Mike Hanlon in the horror blockbuster It: Chapter Two . The Stephen King adaptation was both critically acclaimed and a box office hit, allowing Mustafa to showcase his range as a serious actor capable of tackling layered and intense characters. As the adult version of one of the Losers’ Club members, Mustafa's performance balanced nostalgia, depth, and bravery. Mike’s role as the group’s historian and the one who convinces them to reunite and face Pennywise will always be remembered. In Cross , Mustafa continues to shine in each scene he’s in. His portrayal of John Sampson’s relationship with Alex Cross reflects dynamics that many Black men can relate to. The chemistry between Hodge and Mustafa feels incredibly authentic and rooted in reality. Working alongside your best friend or brother can come with its challenges, but it always carries a sense of love and camaraderie, and many would aspire to have such an opportunity. Cross  has already been greenlit for a second season, so we’re excited to see what the new season will bring. We’re especially eager to see what else Mustafa has in store.

Although hair weaves were traditionally thought of as being for women, more Black males have begun using this adaptable hairstyle in recent years to improve their looks, boost their self-esteem, or try out new looks. Hair weaves are becoming a more and more popular choice, whether your goal is to boost volume, experiment with a bold new look, or fill in thinning regions. Learn all there is to know about Black men's hair weaves and why they are revolutionizing contemporary grooming. What Are Hair Weaves for Men? Hair weaves are a non-surgical way of adding hair extensions to your natural hair that involves procedures such as stitching, bonding, or gluing. While sew-ins and lace fronts are prominent alternatives for women's hair weaves , men's weaves focus on achieving a natural, seamless look tailored to masculine tastes. These weaves can include fade cuts, afros, dreadlocks, or waves, making them incredibly versatile. Why Black Men Choose Hair Weaves Address Hair Loss: For many Black males suffering from hair thinning or receding hairlines, weaves provide a temporary yet efficient solution to regaining their hairline without undergoing costly surgery. Style Exploration: Hair weaves allow guys to try out new looks without committing to permanent alterations. From tiny twists to aggressive fades, the options are limitless. Confidence Boost: Let's face it—looking nice makes you feel good. A well-done hair weave can transform your appearance and boost your confidence in social or business settings. Popular Hair Weave Styles for Black Men The High Fade: A weave with a high fade cut  creates a sharp, clean look that's perfect for professional environments. Curly Afro: Ideal for men who want to rock a voluminous, textured style, curly afro weaves are bold and stylish. 360 Waves: A weave can help you achieve those perfect, envy-worthy waves without waiting for your natural hair to grow. Locs and Braids: Weaves provide an instant solution for those who love the look of dreadlocks or box braids but don't want to commit to the long-growing process. How Hair Weaves Are Installed for Men Depending on the weave style, the installation procedure is simple but varies. A skilled stylist will first examine your natural hair and scalp to choose the finest approach. Most men's weaves are applied using a lace base and adhesives, giving your hair a natural appearance that blends in perfectly with your natural hair. Maintenance Tips for Men’s Hair Weaves Proper maintenance is key to keeping your hair weave looking fresh and natural. Whether you’re rocking a fade, locs, or waves, taking care of your weave ensures it lasts longer and stays flawless. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you maintain your style with confidence. Frequent Cleaning: Weaves require regular cleaning, just like your actual hair. Steer clear of heavy product buildup and use mild shampoos. Moisturize: Keep your weave hydrated to preserve its structure and sheen because black men's hair is typically dry by nature. Professional Touch-Ups: To keep your weave stable and natural-looking, see your stylist every few weeks. Hair weaves for Black guys are breaking down stereotypes and redefining what it means to take pleasure in one's appearance. Whether you're battling with hair loss, want to change up your look, or simply want to try something new, weaves offer a versatile and transformational answer. As men's weaves become more popular, there will be more opportunities to explore and adopt styles that truly reflect your personality. If you've ever considered weaving, now is the time to try it. With professional installation and proper care, a hair weave can help you achieve a fresh, confident look that turns heads.

In a world where sustainability is crucial, adopting green living practices is an impactful way to contribute to the well-being of our planet. Small, conscious steps in our daily lives can collectively make a significant difference. Here's a guide to help you take those small but meaningful actions towards a greener and more sustainable lifestyle. 1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Embrace the timeless mantra of reduce, reuse, and recycle. Minimize waste by choosing products with minimal packaging, repurposing items, and recycling materials like paper, glass, and plastic whenever possible. 2. Conserve Water: Be mindful of water usage. Fix leaks promptly, install water-saving devices, and consider collecting rainwater for plants. Small changes in water habits can have a substantial impact on conservation efforts. 3. Energy Efficiency: Opt for energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs. Turn off lights and electronics when not in use, and consider investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels for your home. While renewable energy may not come cheap, you can easily boost your capital with paypal casino instant withdrawal , where your comfort and secure transactions take precedence. 4. Mindful Transportation: Reduce your carbon footprint by choosing eco-friendly transportation options. Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation when possible. If feasible, consider electric or hybrid vehicles for a cleaner commute. Electric vehicles are a particularly impactful choice, as they produce significantly lower emissions compared to traditional gas-powered cars. To support this shift, Gobins' op-tier EV charging stations are making it easier for individuals and businesses to transition to electric transportation. For those not ready to go fully electric, hybrid vehicles offer an excellent alternative by combining fuel efficiency with reduced emissions, making them a practical step toward more sustainable transportation. 5. Shop Locally and Sustainably: Support local businesses and choose products with sustainability certifications. This not only reduces the environmental impact of transportation but also supports businesses committed to eco-friendly practices. 6. Mindful Eating: Consider adopting a plant-based diet or incorporating more plant-based meals. Meat production has a significant environmental footprint, and reducing meat consumption can contribute to a greener lifestyle. 7. Create a Green Space: Planting trees and cultivating a garden not only enhances your surroundings but also contributes to carbon capture. Even in urban settings, small potted plants or a community garden can make a positive impact. 8. Reusable Lifestyle: Swap single-use items for reusable alternatives. Invest in a reusable water bottle, shopping bags, and containers. These simple changes reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills. 9. Educate and Advocate: Stay informed about environmental issues and share your knowledge with others. Advocate for sustainable practices in your community and support initiatives that promote eco-friendly policies. 10. Green Energy Choices: Choose energy providers that prioritize renewable sources. Many energy companies offer green energy options that allow you to support clean energy initiatives. 11. Reduce Chemical Usage: Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products and minimize the use of harmful chemicals in your home. This not only benefits the environment but also creates a healthier living space. 12. Participate in Community Initiatives: Get involved in local environmental initiatives and community clean-up events. Collaborating with like-minded individuals amplifies the impact of your efforts. Remember, every small step towards green living contributes to a collective effort for a healthier planet. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you're not just making a personal commitment to sustainability; you're actively contributing to a brighter, greener future for generations to come.

Just days after making history as the first transgender congresswoman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, Sarah McBride (D-DE) has become the target of an anti-transgender bathroom ban proposal. Introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), the resolution wants to bar members, staff, and visitors from using Capitol Hill facilities that do not align with their biological sex. If passed, the proposed rule would apply to all single-sex facilities within the U.S. Capitol and House office buildings, with enforcement responsibilities falling to the House sergeant at arms. Democratic leaders believe the proposal was a politically motivated attack on transgender individuals rather than a genuine legislative priority. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries did not mince words when addressing the resolution. “This is what we're doing? This is the lesson that you've drawn from the election in November. This is your priority, that you want to bully a member of Congress, as opposed to welcoming her to join this body so that all of us can work together to get things done and deliver real results for the American people?” Jeffries said during a press briefing. Jeffries went on to call out the apparent hypocrisy in Republican rhetoric, suggesting that their campaign trail promises to focus on economic recovery and addressing everyday challenges have quickly fallen by the wayside. "Did you lie to the American people? Are you really focused on solving problems for the American people? Are you really focused on lowering costs, addressing the high cost of living?” he asked. Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), a vocal supporter of the bathroom ban, defended the measure, stating, “This is about protecting the integrity of spaces designated for biological women.” Critics, however, argue that such rhetoric perpetuates harmful stereotypes and distracts from work that Congress should be doing. The House will vote on its rules package next month. While Republicans hold a slim majority, the resolution’s passage is not guaranteed, as moderate lawmakers within the GOP may hesitate to support measures that could alienate independent voters.

A tragic incident happened in Las Vegas last week when 43-year-old Brandon Durham was fatally shot by a police officer in his own home after calling 911 for help. Durham, a father of one, was looking for help when he reported a potential home invasion. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department responded to Durham’s call on November 12, with reports of shots fired at his residence. When officers arrived, they discovered evidence of damaged cars and shattered windows. Inside the home, officers encountered a confrontation between Durham and 31-year-old Alejandra Boudreaux, a woman he reportedly knew and who had forcibly entered the home. Body-camera footage released by authorities shows Officer Alexander Bookman kicking in the door and confronting the chaotic scene. In a heated struggle, Durham and Boudreaux appeared to be wrestling over a knife. Officer Bookman shouted, “Drop the knife! Drop the knife!” before firing one shot that struck Durham, causing him and Boudreaux to fall to the ground. According to the footage, Bookman then fired five additional shots at Durham as he lay on the floor. It remains unclear who was holding the knife at the time of the shooting. The arrest report states that following the gunfire, Boudreaux reportedly told the officer, “You shot the wrong person.” Officers tried to save Durham’s life but were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Boudreaux was later arrested for her alleged role in the incident. Durham’s death has sparked outrage among his family and the local community. His loved ones are calling for Officer Bookman to be held accountable for what they believe was an unnecessary use of lethal force. “Brandon called for help, and instead, his life was taken,” said a family spokesperson. “This is not justice; this is a tragedy that could have been prevented.” However, Officer Bookman’s attorney has maintained that his client acted within the law and protocol, arguing that the officer perceived an immediate threat to his safety and to those involved in the altercation. Assistant Sheriff Dori Koren, addressing the media, described the shooting as the eighth fatal officer-involved incident this year for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The case has reignited discussions around police training, use-of-force protocols, and the challenges officers face when responding to volatile domestic disputes.

Jaleel White, best known for his role as Steve Urkel on Family Matters,  has been speaking with media outlets about his new memoir, Growing Up Urkel . During his stop on The Breakfast Club,  he opened up about his first kiss, which happened on the set of the hit TV show. While the story could have been seen as funny or awkward, it really shows the double standard in how society, both then and arguably even today, treats men in uncomfortable or boundary-crossing situations. White, just 13 at the time, recounted a scene in which his character receives a kiss from an older actress during a live taping. During rehearsals, the kiss was just a peck. But with the energy of a live studio audience, the actress took things further, surprising the teen with what White described as "the whole shebang." While he managed to stay in character, White admitted he was overwhelmed, later retreating to his dressing room with tears down his face. "That was weird," White recalled, sharing that he never kissed a girl before. When his father and the executive producer asked him what was wrong, he explained, "She put her tongue in my mouth." The response was laughter from both, and when White returned to set, the crew greeted him with jokes and high-fives, one even saying, "She put it on you, young fella." White rationalized the moment, saying, "That might have been yucky the way it went down, but apparently I'm going to get a lot more of that." If the roles had been reversed—an older male actor surprising a 13-year-old female co-star with a passionate kiss—it would have definitely been a big deal, rightfully so. Charlamagne Tha God jokes, “Let’s start the Men Too movement...what's her name?” But White isn't bitter and doesn’t want anyone to harass the actress. He understands the double standard. "No, don't do that. Do not find this woman. Do not troll this woman at all. No, I'm serious. That's one of the things that I'm very protective of. We have to embrace what double standards were, leave them in the past," White explains. As a society, we've made progress in recognizing and addressing inappropriate behavior. However, men and boys who experience uncomfortable moments often don’t receive the same attention. Stories like White’s show how these experiences are often trivialized, treated as a joke, or even celebrated, leaving little room for men to process the emotional impact. Photo by Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic)

Author James Patterson introduced the Alex Cross character in his 1993 novel Along Came a Spider. Over the decades, Alex Cross has evolved, transitioning from the pages of Patterson’s novels into screen portrayals by Morgan Freeman, Tyler Perry, and now, Aldis Hodge. The first time Alex Cross graced the screen was in 1997’s Kiss the Girls , with the incomparable Freeman leading the way. Patterson recently revealed that he turned down a seven-figure offer to adapt his Alex Cross  book series—because Hollywood wanted to whitewash his character. He stood firm in his vision, ensuring the detective remained the complex and dynamic Black character he envisioned. "When I wrote the first Alex Cross book, I didn’t have a lot of money and Hollywood came calling — knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, Patterson shared with The Hollywood Reporter . "They offered seven figures, and I did not have a lot of money. They said, 'We just want one change; we want Alex to be a white guy.' And I said, 'F*** you.' It was painful, but I did it. So we didn’t sell it right away. But a few years later, Paramount came, so we did a couple of movies with Morgan." Freeman brought a quiet intensity to the character, showcasing intellect as his greatest weapon. His Alex Cross wasn’t just solving crimes; he was dissecting the minds of criminals with surgical precision, unraveling their darkest secrets while holding firm to his own moral compass. Freeman’s portrayal was calm and commanding—characteristics emblematic of the 1990s but not often seen in Black characters of that era. He gave us a Black protagonist who not only inspired respect but also set a standard for representation in law enforcement roles. Fast forward to 2012, Perry stepped into Cross’s shoes in Alex Cross , a bold departure from Freeman’s version. Perry, known for his comedic roles and the Madea  franchise, faced skepticism when cast as the younger, more action-oriented detective. But Perry’s Alex Cross was deeply personal. The film focused on the character’s vulnerabilities and the emotional toll of his work. The film’s plot had Cross battling his wits with a psychopathic killer who targeted his family. While Perry’s performance didn’t resonate with everyone, it was a bold and unfiltered take, showing Cross in a way we hadn’t seen before. And now, the baton has been passed to Hodge in Prime Video’s Cross . The Alex Cross franchise has transitioned to TV, in true streaming world fashion. Hodge breathes fresh life into the character, making him more relatable and multidimensional than ever. For younger viewers, this series serves as an introduction to a detective who’s both brilliant and deeply human. For longtime fans, it’s a reimagining that goes deeper into the complexities of a Black man navigating crime fatherhood, and relationships. The series perfectly blends Freeman and Perry's interpretations of the character, intertwining the detective's skills with the complexities of being a Black man in one compelling story—and more. Prime Video's original is an outstanding adaptation of the book's version of the character, while also filling in some of the narrative gaps from the source material. The series addresses systemic issues while also exploring Cross’s personal struggles as a father and a lover. It’s a layered portrayal that feels authentic and timely. Hodge gives a lot of credit to Ben Watson, the showrunner of the series. "I feel like this show serves as an extension of being able to explore the world of Cross. I feel like we're inviting people to every bit of Cross because Ben Watkins took the lines that were written in between the words in the books, and he brought that to the forefront in its full capacity," Hodge explains in an interview with The Quintessential Gentleman . The series offers a more complete picture of Alex Cross than ever before, blending action, intellect, and emotional complexity into a character that feels real and relevant. Hodge has redefined the character for a new generation. While Alex Cross may evolve, his essence as a brilliant, resilient and deeply human figure remains timeless. With a second season already greenlit, we can't wait to see more of Hodge's Alex Cross.

The Ukraine-Russia war has escalated. On the 1,000th day of the war, Ukraine launched US-made ATACMS missiles across the border into Russian territory for the first time. The missiles struck a Russian weapons arsenal in the Bryansk region, marking a major escalation in the ongoing war and raising tensions between Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington. The strike, which occurred at 3:25 a.m. local time on Tuesday, involved six ballistic missiles targeting a military facility, according to Russia’s Defense Ministry. Russian intercepted five of the missiles and damaged another but fragments from the strike caused a fire on the site. Moscow claimed there were no casualties or significant damage, but this changes a lot. This strike came just two days after the Biden administration granted Ukraine approval to use the long-range ATACMS weapons against Russian targets. Until now, Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied weapons has been largely confined to defending its own territory. The decision to provide Kyiv with ATACMS, which have a range of up to 190 miles, shows a shift in the United States’ approach to supporting Ukraine.

Hakeem Jeffries, the New York congressman and current Democratic leader in the House, solidified his role as the face of the Democratic Party in Congress on Tuesday. Reelected by his colleagues during an internal vote, Jeffries will continue to lead House Democrats in the upcoming session, despite the party's inability to reclaim the majority in November’s elections. Jeffries is the first Black lawmaker to hold the role of party leader in Congress. His leadership style has been widely praised for its balance of vision, pragmatism, and a deep commitment to issues that resonate with a diverse base. While his reelection underscores confidence in his leadership, it also comes in the shadow of a Republican-controlled House and the return of Donald Trump to the White House. The GOP’s dominance ensures that the gavel will stay with Speaker Mike Johnson.

On November 14, Prime Video’s highly anticipated crime thriller Cross , starring Aldis Hodge, will premiere. We had the opportunity to watch all eight episodes, which will be available on the premiere date, and they truly deserve all the buzz they’ve been getting. (We promise no spoilers) The show, based on James Patterson’s popular Alex Cross  novels, has already been renewed for a second season by Prime Video. The series follows Hodge as Alex Cross, a detective and forensic psychologist, face-to-face with the complex world of criminal investigation—where he must decode both killers and victims to bring justice. The series is authentically Black, not only due to the majority of its characters but also because the stories and references are all culturally relevant. In an exclusive interview with The Quintessential Gentleman,  Hodge spoke about the significance of playing Alex Cross and what drew him to this character. “The framework of the character,” Hodge says with excitement. “The script was amazing. I put it down after 15 pages and called my team immediately, and said, ‘I want to meet with Ben [Watkins, the show’s creator]’...It was literally the exact thing I was looking for in that moment." Hodge’s Alex Cross is more than a tough detective; he’s a character who brings equal parts strength and vulnerability, a duality we rarely see in Black male characters. "I was looking for a reprieve to stand in one's own power, to impose without being imposing, to show street smarts and book smarts, elegance, eloquence, rawness, edge, and class all in the same box. And then just present that without having to explain it or apologize for it, to present that without having to be submissive about it, without having to bow down and bend to anybody about it. And that's exactly who and what Cross is. You know, he's a giant," Hodge shared. If you're a fan of the Alex Cross  series, you know the character as someone who walks a line between justice and personal struggle. Hodge said that the show’s creator did a masterful job at bringing depth to Cross, building on the character’s established traits and adding new layers. "I feel like this show serves as an extension of being able to explore the world of Cross. I feel like we're inviting people to every bit of Cross because Ben Watkins took the lines that were written in between the words in the books, and he brought that to the forefront in its full capacity," Hodge explains. In the Cross  universe, viewers experience a world that authentically reflects the life of a real Black man and his interactions with the various relationships in his life. The show doesn’t shy away from tackling tough topics such as Black identity, mental health, and grief, all seamlessly woven into a thrilling crime drama. Cross also explores the detective’s family dynamics, particularly his love life, something that Hodge finds vital to the story’s authenticity. “I love that they have a complex Black man with a complex Black love story,” he says. Check out the full interview. Photo Credit: Keri Anderson/Prime Video

Prime Video has just dropped the highly anticipated trailer for its new crime thriller series, Cross , set to premiere on November 14. The series, led by Aldis Hodge , is based on the best-selling Alex Cross novels by James Patterson . Before its debut, the buzz around the show was so strong that it has already been renewed for a second season, indicating Prime Video's confidence that the series will be a success. Cross stars Hodge as Alex Cross, a detective and forensic psychologist with a knack for getting inside the minds of both killers and their victims. The trailer gives viewers a glimpse into the dark, thrilling world Cross navigates. Hodge is also a producer on the project with Ben Watkins serving as the showrunner and executive producer. The series f eatures Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Sharon Taylor, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, Jennifer Wigmore, Eloise Mumford and Ryan Eggold. Check out the trailer.