Essence Awards 2026: Serving LOOKS

    Zendaya shut it DOWN wearing Whitney Houston's iconic white gownβ€”pure fashion history on that blue backdrop. Everyone was runway realness from every angle: regal capes, gold floral accents, power shoulders, velvet drama. Black excellence dripping in

    Breaking news:

    NBA YoungBoy Covers Funeral Costs for 10-Year-Old Kimani Thomas

    Baton Rouge rapper NBA YoungBoy is showing compassion for a grieving family in his hometown after the tragic passing of 10-year-old Kimani Thomas. The young boy died in an accidental shooting, and now YoungBoy is ensuring the family doesn't have to worry about funeral expenses.

    Pioneering Black Women in Hip-Hop

    Hip-hop has long been considered a male-dominated industry, but the truth is, Black women have been at the forefront of the culture since its inception. From DJs to MCs to producers, these pioneering women have paved the way for the genre we know and love today.

    Paapa Essiedu Harry Potter Reboot Backlash

    Paapa Essiedu opens up about the racist backlash he received over his role in the 'Harry Potter' reboot, including death threats against him and his family.

    Doja Cat’s Father Speaks Out on Racist Allegations

    Media Take Out has obtained a scorching new interview where Dumisani Dlamini claims he provided for Doja Cat's mom and three other children for 15 years, and accuses her of brainwashing Doja with racist narratives to turn her against him.

    Featured Articles

    Teyana Taylor Named First-Ever Chief Curator of Essence Festival 2026

    Teyana Taylor has been named the inaugural Chief Curator of the 2026 Essence Festival of Culture, bringing her creative collective The Aunties to shape one of Black culture's most beloved annual events. The festival runs July 3–5 in New Orleans.

    Travis Scott and T.I. Urge Supreme Court to Rule That Tying Lyrics to Death Sentences Is Unconstitutional

    Travis Scott and a handful of artists are defending a Black Texas man on death row whose rap lyrics were used as evidence during sentencing for a double murder, arguing that using the lyrics to justify capital punishment is unconstitutional. (SCOTUS)

    The Lost Story of Upsilon Delta Pi

    In 1910 Chicago, nine Black high schoolers formed the Do-Li-So Club, rebranding as Upsilon Delta Pi Sorority by 1911. Facing a public school ban on Greek orgs, they boldly incorporated on Dec. 7, 1911β€”making them America's first incorporated Black sorority.

    Eritrea Women’s Day 2026: Our Values, Our Shield

    The spirit of resilience and unity was palpable this...

    Adjani Salmon Calling Out the Entertainment Industry

    β€˜Dreaming Whilst Black’ creator Adjani Salmon exposes systemic issues and calls out the entertainment industry following the release of season two.

    BREAKING

    Dr. Christine Houston’s Indelible Mark on Black Culture

    Dr. Christine Houston's trailblazing career in television writing and production has left an indelible mark on black culture. From her start at the iconic Amos 'n' Andy Show to creating landmark programs like 227, Houston has been a driving force in elevating black voices and stories on the small screen.

    Build Skincare Routine On Budget the Black Way

    Get ready to glow with our expert tips on building a budget-friendly skincare routine. From affordable cleansers to natural exfoliants, we've got you covered!

    Celebrating Black Music’s 80% Share in UK Market

    Black music reigns supreme in UK market, accounting for 80% of total revenue according to new report.

    Regina Hall vs Teyana Taylor: Exclusive Beef Details Revealed

    Rumors of on-set tension between Regina Hall and Teyana Taylor during filming of Oscar-winning film "One Battle After Another" have emerged. Insiders describe the actresses as complete opposites, with Hall being low-key and professional while Taylor brought what insiders call "extra" energy. This alleged personality clash reportedly continued during the Oscar press tour, with cameras catching Hall appearing disengaged during Best Picture celebrations.

    Sope Dirisu: The New Face of High Fashion

    Sope Dirisu shines as the cover star of Man About Town, blending fashion and talent. His presence marks a pivotal moment for the portrayal of Black men in luxury media, showcasing Black British voices redefining style. This visibility emphasizes the significance of representation in traditionally exclusive industries.

    Chuck Norris Dies at 86: Martial Arts and Internet Legend Passes Away

    Legendary martial artist, action movie star, and internet icon Chuck Norris has died at 86. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully in Hawaii.

    Barry Jenkins Talks Corporate America Grind | BlkCosmo

    Barry Jenkins isn't afraid to get real about working in corporate america as a black artist.

    Latto Pregnant? Baby Bump Exposed in New Music Video

    Latto's new 'business & personal' video has the internet saying one thing: is she expecting? her 'business & personal' video has us talking! latto's serving looks and possibly a bun in the oven.

    Usher & Justin Bieber Clash at BeyoncΓ© & Jay-Z After-Party

    Usher and Justin Bieber had a heated verbal confrontation at BeyoncΓ© and Jay-Z's exclusive Oscars after-party, with insiders saying Usher approached with energy and anger but no punches were thrown. The tense exchange unfolded amid a star-studded crowd including Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, Michael B. Jordan, Teyana Taylor, and Hailey Bieber, though the reason remains unclear.

    Nina Turner & Tamika Mallory Spill the Tea on Target Boycott Future

    Nina Turner and Tamika Mallory spill the tea on the Target boycott's future, firmly distancing themselves from Pastor Jamal Bryant in an explosive TheGrio exclusive.

    Teyana Taylor Named First-Ever Chief Curator of Essence Festival 2026

    Teyana Taylor has been named the inaugural Chief Curator of the 2026 Essence Festival of Culture, bringing her creative collective The Aunties to shape one of Black culture's most beloved annual events. The festival runs July 3–5 in New Orleans.

    EJ Johnson: “Cuter Than Any Girl” in Women’s Outfits

    EJ Johnson is leaving no crumbs! πŸ”₯ During a highly-discussed interview with Carlos King, the fashion icon confidently declared that they look "cuter than any girl" when stepping out in women's outfits. From their glamorous looks to their unfilter

    BREAKING

    Latto Confirms 21 Savage Is Father on New Album

    0
    Well… the internet was right. Latto revealed her baby bump while announcing her upcoming album Big Mama, set to drop May 29. She also released a new single and visual "Business & Personal (Intro)," and fans spotted 21 Savage's hands on her bump, basically confirming their long-rumored relationship.

    Lizzo Strips Down, Confronts Her Former Self in Don’t Make Me Love U Video

    0
    Lizzo is putting it all out there -- in more ways than one. On Friday, the singer dropped her new song "Don't Make Me Love U" ... and looked good as hell as she bares both her body and soul in the music video! In the visual for the emotional, the sin

    Chuck Norris, Legendary Action Star, Dies at 86, Hawaii

    0
    Chuck Norris has died at the age of 86, according to his family. The iconic star reportedly passed away Thursday morning in Hawaii, surrounded by loved ones. In a heartfelt statement, his family shared that he was at peace.

    Dwyane Wade Paints Nails to Match His Watches – PICS

    0
    Dwyane Wade has been painting his nails to coordinate with his watch collection, sporting black nails to match a black-faced diamond timepiece at the Oscars and green nails to pair with a green-faced Rolex.
    Brandy is speaking her truth in 2026. After Shyne, Ma$e, Cam'ron, and Ray J all made public comments about her personal life, she released a statement β€” and she did not hold back.

    Brandy Sets the Record Straight on Shyne and Calls Out Ray J in 2026...

    0
    Brandy released a statement clarifying the truth about her relationship with Shyne and publicly calling out Ray J after he and others made public comments about her personal life.
    Dystany Spurlock is about to become the first Black woman to compete in NASCAR's ARCA Menards Series.

    Dystany Spurlock Is About to Become the First Black Woman in NASCAR’s ARCA Menards...

    0
    Record-breaking motorcycle drag racer Dystany Spurlock is set to make history as the first Black woman to compete in NASCAR's ARCA Menards Series β€” and the culture needs to know her name.
    A Tuskegee coach was handcuffed on the sideline at a Morehouse game. Now Benjy Taylor is suing β€” and the HBCU world is paying very close attention. This is the conversation we need to be having about safety in our own spaces.

    Tuskegee Coach Benjy Taylor Sues Morehouse After Sideline Handcuffing Incident

    0
    Tuskegee University head coach Benjy Taylor is filing a lawsuit against Morehouse College and the officers who handcuffed him on the sideline during a game β€” and the HBCU community is demanding accountability.
    Ciara and Russell Wilson on the red carpet, sparking rumors of another pregnancy.

    Ciara Pregnant Again? RisquΓ© Outfit Sparks Rumors

    0
    Ciara made a statement with her latest look, and people are convinced it means she's adding to her little squad!

    Mary J. Blige Calls 50 Cent a ‘Beautiful Person’ β€” But Warns About His ‘Wrong Side’

    Mary J. Blige went on Big Boy's Neighborhood and delivered the most honest take on 50 Cent anyone has offered all year β€” praising him as a boss, a friend, and a man capable of real vulnerability, while making clear his "wrong side" is not to be tested.

    Teyana Taylor Clears the Air on X

    Teyana Taylor clapped back on X after a viral Oscars clip made her look β€œextra.” The singer-actress says she only checked a security guard for putting hands on her after the show wrapped, not for losing, and refuses to apologize for defending her boundaries.

    Jayme Lawson Challenges Pressure for Perfect Black Characters in Film

    'Sinners' star Jayme Lawson is challenging Hollywood's pressure for perfect Black characters, demanding nuanced, flawed, and authentic portrayals instead.

    Tiffany Haddish Dating Preference: The Viral Diaspora Debate

    Tiffany Haddish has sparked a massive viral diaspora dating debate after explicitly stating her preference for non-American Black men. Discover why social media is completely divided.

    Advertisement

    Lifestyle

    Ciara Pregnant Again? RisquΓ© Outfit Sparks Rumors

    Ciara made a statement with her latest look, and people are convinced it means she's adding to her little squad!

    Jahna Sebastian Accuses Swizz Beatz & Alicia Keys Over Teen’s Behavior

    Jahna Sebastian is making shocking allegations against Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys, blaming them for their 17-year-old daughter Nicole's substance use and violent behavior.

    Nene Leakes Shows Off Stunning New Look After Transformation

    At 58, NeNe has managed to avoid the overly done look that so many celebrities fall into after years of procedures. Instead of dramatic surgeries all at once, she takes a maintenance approach, visiting her surgeon for small tweaks every few years.

    Technology

    X Enforces New Restrictions on AI-Generated Conflict Videos

    X has officially rolled out strict new policies targeting creators who post AI-generated war footage without disclosure. Here is what you need to know about the crackdown.

    Android Users Will Soon Be Able To Share Live Video With 911 Responders

    Android users across the U.S. are about to get a major safety upgrade with a new feature rolling out to emergency platforms that will allow 911 responders to access a live video feed straight from a caller’s phone during critical moments. According to The Verge, if someone calls 911 for a medical emergency, responders will be able to tap into the live feed to guide the caller until help arrives.

    Viral Black and White AI Rihanna Video Sparks Industry Debate (Video On Our Site)

    A hyper-realistic black and white AI-generated music video of Rihanna has hit the internet, blurring the lines between reality and simulation. The clip has ignited a firestorm of debate regarding the future of human creativity and the threat of AI in the music industry.

    AI Nicki Minaj vs Cardi B Boxing Match

    They created an AI boxing fight video between Nicki Minaj & Cardi B 😱😱😱

    Iconic Memes, Reimagined Black

    In honor of Black History Month, We have made some of our favorite memes Black. Your welcome. #BlackHistoryMonth #BlkCosmo

    The Vince Reunion Is Finally Here

    Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, two of the most electrifying players in NBA historyβ€”and real-life cousinsβ€”are teaming up for a groundbreaking new project: the video podcast, Cousins, set to premiere exclusively on the AMP Sports network.

    Influencer Kristy Sarah Scott Files for Divorce From Husband Desmond Scott

    When a marketing team falls apart... Social media influencer Kristy Sarah Scott has filed for divorce from her husband Desmond Scott.

    Food

    Celebrate Banana Bread Day

    Today marks National Banana Bread Day, celebrating the ultimate comfort bake born from Great Depression ingenuity when thrifty American cooks mashed overripe bananas into quick bread using newfound baking powderβ€”no waste, all sweet genius.

    Judge Rules Buffalo Wild Wings Can Keep Calling Them β€œBoneless Wings” Despite Lawsuit

    An Illinois judge ruled that Buffalo Wild Wings can continue calling its popular menu item β€œboneless wings,” rejecting a lawsuit that claimed they should be labeled as β€œchicken nuggets.”

    Rihanna’s Billionaire Grocery Run

    Billionaire Rihanna shopping at Bristol Farms yesterday. She’s so real πŸ₯Ή

    Soul Food: 10 Must-Visit Black-Owned Restaurants

    Soul food β€” two words that immediately bring a smile to my face, with a nostalgia reminding me of my Nana in the kitchen. Soul food is an offering of food that comes from the heart and feeds the soul. It’s more than comfort food, having a legacy of it

    Maryland Undergrads Host Community Food Drive

    Phi Beta Sigma undergrad chapters in Maryland hosted a food drive, "Standing on Business," collecting donations to create over 300 care packages for local shelters. "It's always great to serve our community and help those in need."

    Bowmore’s $80,000 Aston Martin Scotch Whisky Is Inspired By The Valkyrie Hypercar

    This 50-year-old whisky is priced for wealthy collectors only.Bowmore...

    Latest articles

    Lens App Explained: Why Creators Should Pay Attention

    Lens is a new social platform that gives creators full ownership of their content and audience, offering a powerful alternative to traditional apps that control reach, monetization, and visibility.

    Aldis Hodge & Isaiah Mustafa: Cross Stars Unleashed

    Cross is built on brotherhood, and ESSENCE is giving Aldis Hodge and Isaiah Mustafa the full leading‑man treatment for it. In their March 2026 feature, the duo breaks down how Prime Video’s Cross isn’t just another crime thrillerβ€”it’s a character stu

    Cardi B’s Implant Dislodges During Performance (Video)

    During her headlining set in Houston last week, fans in the front row claim one specific stunt went too far, with onlookers suggesting an implant may have actually broken loose after she slammed her backside against a chair during her performance.

    Mama Tina’s Gumbo Shuts Down at Houston Rodeo, Reopens Next Day

    Mama Tina's Gumbo booth at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo was temporarily shut down by the health department on Monday following a complaint investigation, but reopened the next day after addressing the issue.

    Tyler Perry’s Beauty in Black Season 2 Part 2 Is Streaming Now β€” Kimmie Just Took Everything

    Beauty in Black Season 2 Part 2 drops on Netflix today with 8 new episodes. Here's what to expect from Kimmie's full takeover of the Bellarie beauty empire and what the final season renewal means.

    Brandy Shyne: We Never Dated + Response to Ray J

    Brandy clarified she had a platonic friendship with rapper Shyne in the late 90s, not a romantic relationship, addressing misconceptions that resurfaced after his recent media tour. She also distanced herself from her brother Ray J's viral rant while emphasizing she prefers to handle situations on her own terms.

    Advertisemnt

    Travel

    Travel Fashion: Embrace Your Unique Style on the Go

    Fashion and travel are like distant cousins, different but still related. They both influence one another in various ways. One of the most apparent ways fashion is inspired by travel is through culture.

    Lucas Museum: Hobson & Lucas Honored

    Congratulations to Mellody Hobson and George Lucas on the upcoming opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles’ Exposition Park in 2026! A celebration of visual storytelling.

    China’s Tallest Bridge: Huajiang Grand Canyon

    China's Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, the world's tallest at 2,051 feet, offers breathtaking views and thrills like bungee jumping. This engineering marvel in Guizhou province transforms cross-canyon travel from hours to minutes, blending adventure with stunning scenery.

    Black Women’s Travel Sabbatical | BlkCosmo Blerds

    A travel sabbatical offers a rejuvenating escape, allowing exploration beyond work's confines. For Black women, this break can be profoundly liberating, fostering a reconnection with personal freedom and a chance to decompress from societal pressures.

    Inside Motor Valley, Home Of Italy’s Most Iconic Automakers

    This hallowed strip of Northern Italy houses the headquarters...