Entertainment
Grammy-Winning Producer The-Dream Seeks Dismissal of Rape Lawsuit
Grammy award-winning producer and songwriter The-Dream, whose real name is Terius Gesteelde-Diamant, is seeking to have significant portions of a sexual assault lawsuit against him dismissed. The lawsuit, filed in June by Chanaaz Mangroe, a former protégé who performed under the name Channii Monroe, accuses Gesteelde-Diamant of rape and sexual battery.
Gesteelde-Diamant, known for writing hits for artists like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Mariah Carey, has denied the allegations. On Friday, his legal team filed a motion to dismiss the case, describing the claims as “a textbook example of a ‘shotgun pleading’.”
The motion argues that the rape allegation should be dismissed because, under California law, rape is not recognized as a separate civil cause of action. Additionally, they contend that the sex trafficking claim lacks essential elements, such as the occurrence of a “commercial sex act.”
Gesteelde-Diamant’s lawyers have also requested the removal of his label, Contra Paris, LLC, from the lawsuit. They argue that the label, based in Delaware, does not fall under the jurisdiction of California courts.
Desirée F. Moore, an attorney representing Gesteelde-Diamant, stated that the complaint should be dismissed in its entirety for failing to attribute specific factual allegations to each defendant. The outcome of the motion to dismiss is yet to be determined.
Entertainment
The Sidemen Transition from YouTube to Netflix for Bigger Horizons
The Sidemen, a powerhouse group of British YouTube creators, have announced a major shift in their content strategy, moving their reality series Inside to Netflix after reaching what they describe as “the limit” of YouTube’s potential.
The group, which includes renowned personalities like KSI, revealed that the second season of Inside will premiere on Netflix next year. Additionally, Netflix will produce a U.S. version of the series, marking a significant expansion for the Sidemen brand.
Known for their humor, creativity, and camaraderie, the Sidemen have amassed over 146 million subscribers across their YouTube channels since launching in the early 2010s. Originally focused on gaming content, they have since diversified into comedy sketches, travel challenges, podcasts, and even a dating show.
The reality series Inside, which debuted on YouTube in June, became an instant hit, with the opening episode garnering 14 million views. The show follows 10 influencers confined to a house for a week, competing for a prize of up to £1 million.
Its success caught Netflix’s attention, leading to the commission of both a second UK season and a U.S. adaptation. Both versions will air exclusively on Netflix, marking a departure from the group’s traditional platform.
The Sidemen, now backed by a production team of over 100 members, view the move as an opportunity to expand their creative vision. “We’ve always tried to push boundaries, and this feels like the next big step,” said member Vik.
Entertainment
One Direction Members and Loved Ones Bid Farewell to Liam Payne
Family, friends, and One Direction stars gathered in Buckinghamshire to honor Liam Payne at an emotional funeral on Wednesday, over a month after the singer’s untimely passing at 31.
The private service took place at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham, north-west of London. Payne’s former bandmates Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik joined mourners, including his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, ex-partner Cheryl, and their son Bear.
A white horse-drawn hearse adorned with floral tributes spelling “Son” and “Daddy” brought Payne’s coffin to the church. Other tributes included a 10-pin bowling-themed arrangement, reflecting one of his favorite pastimes.
Following the service, pallbearers carried the coffin from the church as Payne’s parents, Cheryl, and other close family members followed. Among the attendees were Cheryl’s Girls Aloud bandmates Kimberley Walsh and Nicola Roberts, as well as Simon Cowell, who signed One Direction to his label.
The heartfelt ceremony also drew appearances from notable personalities, including James Corden, Marvin and Rochelle Humes, Scott Mills, and Adrian Chiles.
Despite Payne’s global fame, fans largely respected the privacy of the occasion, heeding reminders on social media that “memorials are for fans, funerals are for family.” Only a small number of locals and well-wishers gathered outside the church.
Payne, who resided in nearby Chalfont St. Giles, was remembered for his warmth and talent. His passing has deeply affected his family, bandmates, and fans worldwide, marking the loss of a beloved figure in music.
Entertainment
Brooklyn Priest Replaced Following Sabrina Carpenter’s Music Video and Mismanagement Allegations
A New York priest, Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, has been removed from his post after allowing singer Sabrina Carpenter to film scenes for her Feather music video in a church, sparking controversy. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn announced his dismissal, citing the music video and further findings of administrative misconduct.
The video, released in October 2023, included provocative scenes filmed at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, showing Carpenter dancing on the altar in a short dress and a crucifix adorned with profanity. The Diocese expressed its dismay at the video and initiated an investigation, which uncovered additional irregularities.
In a statement, Bishop Robert Brennan explained that investigations by external firms revealed violations of church policies. These included unapproved financial transfers and personal use of church funds.
Among the allegations, it was found that from 2019 to 2021, nearly $2 million in church funds were transferred to accounts linked to a former staff member of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who faces multiple criminal charges.
The Diocese revoked Monsignor Gigantiello’s administrative powers in November 2023 after the video’s release and replaced him with a new overseer. Gigantiello, who previously served as the vicar of development for the Diocese, acknowledged the decision to allow filming in the church as a “lapse in judgment” but has not commented on the broader allegations.
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