Tag: Pop Culture

Human Interest

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Welcome Baby No. 3, Daughter Rocki Irish Mayers

Tanisha Cardozo

Rihanna has officially become a mother of three. On September 13, the Grammy-winning artist and entrepreneur welcomed her third child—a baby girl named Rocki Irish Mayers—with longtime partner and rapper A$AP Rocky. The couple confirmed the news via Instagram, where Rihanna shared a heartwarming image of herself holding her newborn daughter wrapped in a soft pink blanket, accompanied by a symbolic photo of pink boxing gloves tied with satin ribbons. The caption simply read: “Rocki Irish Mayers, Sept 13 2025.”

Rocki’s arrival completes what fans have been calling Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s “perfect family of five,” joining her older brothers—RZA, age 3, and Riot, age 2. The couple has been open about their joy at expanding their family. Back in July, during the premiere of The Smurfs Movie, in which Rihanna voiced the character of Smurfette, she revealed that both boys were thrilled about the idea of a new sibling. She also shared her own hopes, admitting she “always wanted a girl” but felt grateful either way, saying, “God knows best, right? And I love my boys.”

A$AP Rocky shared his own excitement in a statement to the Associated Press, saying, “It feels amazing. We were tired of holding that in, and now everyone can share in our joy. We’re definitely happy.”

For Rihanna, motherhood has been life-changing. Over the years, she’s reflected on how becoming a parent shaped her style, her confidence, and even her approach to creativity. She’s proudly embraced her role as a “boy mom,” telling E! News last year that it made her feel “really cool.” But now, with the arrival of her daughter, fans are eager to see how her journey as a mother evolves even further.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s relationship has only grown stronger with time and parenthood. “We’re best friends with a baby,” Rihanna famously told British Vogue in 2023. “Everything changes when you have a baby, but I wouldn’t say it’s done anything but made us closer.”

With Rocki Irish Mayers now part of the family, Rihanna’s world just became a little more pink—and the world is celebrating with her.

Films

Camp Rock 3 Officially Greenlit for Disney+ and Disney Channel with Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato Returning

Tanisha Cardozo

It’s official — Camp Rock 3 is coming to Disney+ and Disney Channel. Disney Branded Television confirmed today that the third installment of the beloved musical movie series has been greenlit, with the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato set to return in both acting and executive producer roles.

Filming began this week in Vancouver for the Disney Channel Original Movie, which promises to blend nostalgia with a new generation of rising talent. Joe, Nick, and Kevin Jonas will reprise their roles as Shane, Nate, and Jason, respectively, appearing as the members of the fictional band Connect 3. Demi Lovato also returns and joins the Jonas Brothers as executive producers on the project.

The story follows Connect 3 after they lose their opening act for a major reunion tour. The band returns to Camp Rock in search of the next big star, sparking a fierce competition among campers to earn the spotlight. Along the way, friendships are tested, new alliances form, and musical rivalries flare up.

Joining the cast are Liamani Segura as Sage, Malachi Barton as Fletch, Lumi Pollack as Rosie, newcomer Hudson Stone as Desi, Casey Trotter as Cliff, Brooklynn Pitts as Callie, and Ava Jean as Madison. Sherry Cola joins the franchise as Lark, while Maria Canals-Barrera reprises her role as Connie.

Directed by Veronica Rodriguez and written by Eydie Faye, the film is choreographed by Jamal Sims and produced by Disney Branded Television. Executive producers include Tim Federle, Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Demi Lovato, Betsy Sullenger, Spencer Berman, and Gary Marsh.

According to Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis, the return of Camp Rock is not only a celebration of its legacy but also an opportunity to introduce its music, characters, and themes to a new generation. The first two Camp Rock movies remain among the top 10 Disney Channel Original Movies of all time, with chart-topping soundtracks that helped launch the careers of its original stars.

With Camp Rock 3, Disney aims to recapture that cultural magic — this time with a mix of legacy talent and fresh faces — reminding fans old and new that the spirit of Camp Rock is very much alive.

Human Interest

Perrie Edwards Announces Second Pregnancy in Sweet Video with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Son Axel

Tanisha Cardozo

Perrie Edwards, best known as a member of the British girl group Little Mix, is expecting her second child with her fiancé, professional footballer Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The 32-year-old singer surprised fans over the weekend with a heartwarming pregnancy announcement on Instagram, where she shared a creatively styled video that has since gone viral.

In the video, Edwards is seen wearing a white T-shirt with the back reading, “If he wanted to he would…” As she turns to face the camera, her shirt reveals the front message: “…and he did!” — all while showing off her baby bump. The moment was made even more special when Alex and their 4-year-old son, Axel, joined her on camera. The family looked overjoyed as they celebrated the upcoming arrival of their newest member. Edwards captioned the post simply with, “Guess what hunnies…”

This joyful announcement holds even more meaning following the emotional revelations Edwards made just weeks prior on the We Need to Talk podcast. In the episode, released on August 19, Edwards opened up about the difficult experiences she and Alex have had with pregnancy, sharing that she had suffered multiple miscarriages — both before and after the birth of Axel. She described her journey as a “tricky situation” and called Axel their rainbow child, explaining that her first pregnancy ended very early in a miscarriage.

She also recounted a particularly heartbreaking experience while she was on tour with Little Mix. During rehearsals, she started feeling unwell and suspected she might be pregnant again. Her instincts proved correct, but during a doctor’s visit, it became apparent that something wasn’t right. At 24 weeks, she lost the baby. Edwards described how the doctor’s concerned expression during the scan made her realize the seriousness of the situation even before hearing the words.

Despite the emotional hardships, the new chapter in her life has brought immense joy to the couple and their fans. Edwards’ willingness to speak publicly about her losses and to share the happiness of her current pregnancy has sparked an outpouring of support and love across social media. The announcement not only celebrates the growth of her family but also shines a light on the resilience and strength it takes to keep moving forward after loss.

As fans continue to shower the family with congratulations, Edwards’ story stands as a reminder of the importance of compassion, vulnerability, and hope in the face of life’s most personal challenges.

Music

Justin Timberlake Reveals Lyme Disease Diagnosis After Completing World Tour

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

August 1, 2025: Grammy-winning artist Justin Timberlake has revealed he is living with Lyme disease, a chronic bacterial infection that he says contributed to nerve pain, fatigue, and sickness during his Forget Tomorrow world tour.

The 44-year-old star made the announcement via Instagram, shortly after concluding his two-year tour in Turkey. He expressed the decision to go public was about “being more transparent” after enduring physical strain and public scrutiny over his performance quality in recent months.

“As many of you know, I’m a pretty private person,” Timberlake wrote. “But I want to share what I’ve been going through — I was diagnosed with Lyme disease. I don’t say this to gain sympathy, but to shed light on what I’ve been battling behind the scenes.”

What Is Lyme Disease?

According to the CDC, Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted through tick bites. If caught early, it can be treated effectively with antibiotics, but for some, long-term symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and neurological effects can persist for months or even years.

Other celebrities such as Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, and Shania Twain have also spoken about their struggles with the illness.

Touring Through Pain

Timberlake admitted he had considered ending the tour early due to his symptoms but ultimately found strength in performing:

“The joy that performing brings outweighed the stress my body was feeling. Not only did I prove my mental tenacity, but I now have so many special moments I’ll never forget.”

His openness comes after a turbulent few years, including a 2024 DUI charge, public criticism over his past relationship with Britney Spears, and fan backlash over inconsistent stage performances.

Despite these challenges, Timberlake remains a beloved global artist, with 10 Grammy Awards and a reputation as one of the best-selling solo performers of all time.

He is married to actress Jessica Biel, and the couple shares two children.

Timberlake closed his message by emphasizing empathy and clarity:

“I’m trying to be more transparent about struggles, so they aren’t misinterpreted.”

As fans and public figures rally in support, Timberlake’s story brings much-needed attention to an often-misunderstood illness — and a reminder that health, both mental and physical, matters deeply — even for the world’s biggest stars.

Sports

Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Legend and Pop Culture Icon, Dies at 71

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

“Whatcha gonna do, brother, when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”
For millions, it was more than a catchphrase — it was a movement.

Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognizable faces in sports entertainment, died on July 24, 2025, in Florida at age 71. Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan became the heart of WWE during its boom in the 1980s and helped transform pro wrestling into a global phenomenon.

With his handlebar mustache, bandana, red and yellow gear, and enormous biceps he called his “24-inch pythons,” Hogan built a persona that transcended wrestling. He headlined the first WrestleMania in 1985, feuded with giants like Andre the Giant and Randy Savage, and teamed with Mr. T in matches that turned athletic theater into global spectacle.

His charisma, dramatic promos, and shirt-ripping theatrics made Hulkamania a household term.

Beyond the Ring

Hogan starred in Hollywood roles such as Thunderlips in Rocky III, and brought his life to the small screen in Hogan Knows Best on VH1. He also crossed into political territory, controversially endorsing Donald Trump during the 2024 Republican National Convention, shouting, “Let Trumpamania run wild!”

But his path wasn’t without missteps. In 2015, he was removed from WWE’s Hall of Fame after a leaked tape revealed him using racial slurs. He apologized and was reinstated in 2018. A high-profile lawsuit against Gawker in 2016 led to a $140M jury award, though it later settled for less after the media company filed for bankruptcy.

Despite the scandals, fans never let go of the image of the all-American hero who tore his shirt and rallied crowds with sheer energy.

Still Giving Back

Even in his final year, Hogan remained connected to wrestling, becoming commissioner of the Real American Freestyle league — a new, unscripted wrestling format set to debut in August 2025. He saw it as a way to mentor a new generation of wrestlers and continue evolving the sport he helped define.

Final Farewell

Hogan died following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Police reported no foul play. As tributes pour in — from fans, wrestlers, and even Donald Trump — one thing is certain: Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestling superstar, he was a pop culture colossus.

His legacy is layered — filled with triumph, setbacks, and unforgettable showmanship. For those who grew up on Hulkamania, the ring will never feel the same again.

Rest in peace, Hulkster. Wrestling may have been scripted, but your impact was real.