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How Black Actors Shape Hollywood’s Breast Cancer Discussion

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Breast cancer is not just one other statistic – it is the leading killer of black women in America, hitting our community harder than most. For non-Hispanic black women, that is it the primary reason behind death from cancermaking awareness and early motion more essential than ever. Black women are there too more prone to die from a breast cancer diagnosis than white women.

Black actresses taking up roles portraying health issues will not be just acting; on screen, they’re warriors, difficult the narrative, highlighting our strength, and provoking Black women all over the world to regain their health. Their stories remind us that this fight is personal and that we now have the ability to alter this history.

Television shows with black actors coping with breast cancer

Black actresses have played roles on television shows that bring the fight against breast cancer to the forefront, and up to date shows delve into the emotional and cultural complexities of those health struggles.

‘Being Mary Jane’ and Gabrielle Union’s TV Family Challenges

Gabrielle Union and Lisa Vidal on the Being Mary Jane press event. Photo: BET.com

Gabrielle Union plays Mary Jane Paul on this moving drama, one episode of which depicts a terrifying breast cancer scare involving an in depth friend. This moment resonates deeply with Black women – a stark reminder of vulnerability, but additionally a testament to resilience.

Mary Jane’s concerns about her health are compounded by her strained relationship together with her niece, her desire to have a baby, and her concerns about fertility resulting from her age. She also struggles together with her mother’s deteriorating health, haunted by the potential for inheriting the identical fate.

Although friend Mary Jane’s breast cancer scare ultimately seems to be a false alarm, the plot continues to explore the impact of the disease as her boss and friend Kara faces an actual battle, undergoing surgery within the series finale.

The Real Housewives of Miami and the true story of Guerdy Abraira

Guerdy Abraira, Real Housewives of Miami, RHOM, Guerdy Abraira breast cancer,
Guerdy Abraira attends the premiere of Universal Pictures’ “Bros” on the AMC Lincoln Square Theater on September 20, 2022 in New York City. (Photo: Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images,)

Some stories hit harder because they’re too true. Guerdy Abraira’s battle with breast cancer on “The Real Housewives of Miami” shows that behind the charm lies fortitude, courage and an unstoppable will to survive.

“I am lucky that this breast cancer was detected at an early stage. Of course it’s still scary, but I have love and support from those around me and that’s the only fuel I need,” Abraira wrote in her report. Instagram post. “For those who do not undergo regular medical examinations, I encourage them to do so. Your life depends on it.”

“The Sugar Queen” and narratives about women’s health

A likelihood encounter with actress Tina Lifford (right) in a scene with Dawn Lyen Gardner helped one author change her perspective on her lupus diagnosis. (Photo: Skip Bolen / 2019 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved)

Although “Queen of Sugar” doesn’t tell a particular story about breast cancer, actress Tina Lifford, playing the role of Violet Bordelon, discovers quite a few threads related to health. Violet has lupus – a crucial detail mentioned by series creator Ava DuVernay, who believes it is important to indicate you could courageously fight chronic diseases. DuVernay she was combating lupus herself for 27 years and is currently in remission.

“What (Violet) represents – not specifically character, but experience – she represents… She highlights everything I believe in and stand for when it comes to a broader conversation about inner fitness,” Lifford told theGrio in a 2019 interview.

“The Family That Preys” and the role of Alf Woodard

In this Saturday, February 8, 2020 file photo, Alfre Woodard arrives on the thirty fifth Film Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica, California (Photo: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)

Breast cancer awareness and stories don’t just make it to the small screen. Several movies feature Black characters coping with the fear and diagnosis of breast cancer, sometimes as a most important plot point and sometimes as a subplot of the story.

In Tyler Perry’s 2008 comedy-drama, Alfre Woodard shines as Alice Pratt, a resilient mother coping with complex family issues and financial disparities. The film delves into the contrasts between the lives of two families, highlighting class challenges and struggles. Cancer weaves throughout the narrative, influencing characters’ decisions and highlighting the silent battles that shape the stories of Black women.

Another moving film by Tyler Perry, “For Colored Girls” explores a wide selection of topics related to physical and mental health, particularly as they relate to the lives, families and cultures of ladies of color. Loretta Devine delivers a compelling performance as Juanita, a heroine who goes on an emotional journey attempting to navigate the ups and downs of a relationship.

Why breast cancer and Black Hollywood health stories matter

Breast cancer hits near home for a lot of Black women, who face unique health disparities and sometimes bear the burden of fighting this disease in silence. Seeing Black women portrayed on screen not only validates their experiences, but additionally empowers them to fight.

These portrayals help normalize the fight against breast cancer and encourage others to take control of their health, reminding us that early detection and awareness are powerful tools within the fight against this disease. Watching our stories reminds us that no woman has to fight alone – we’re stronger together.

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This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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An attempt to save the image of Jeff Bezos’ future wife backfired after weeks of outrage and ridicule over her skimpy outfit

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Lauren Sánchez has apparently gained a popularity for her fashion hits and misses as social media users began following her every move.

Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ current fiancée stepped into the highlight long before she met the Amazon co-founder, after years spent as co-host of “Good Day LA,” a reporter for “Extra” and host of “So You Think You Can Dance,” and he even starred in a number of movies like “Ted 2.”

She faced criticism for posting a sultry selfie in November in a negligee-inspired gown by designer Laura Basca. In October, the 54-year-old again faced backlash when she showed off her latex Halloween costume as Catwoman.

Now, weeks after being deemed “cheap” and tasteless, the founder of Black Ops Aviation has turn out to be a subject of discussion.

Jeff Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sánchez shows off a “winter white” look, weeks after critics slammed her busty latex outfit. (Photos: @laurenwsanchez/Instagram, Theimagedirect.com via Page Six)

On December 5, Sánchez and the business mogul attended The New York Times’ DealBook event in New York City. For the occasion, she wore a white Alexander McQueen suit and a white lace corset. The beaming bride-to-be sent two mirror selfies of her outfit, which she signed: “winter white.”

One follower particularly was stunned by the whole look he ejaculated that she was “very attractive and beautiful, gorgeous and stunning, charming and fantastic young lady, sexy, charming, charming and elegant” in the photos that Sánchez took.

Two other people swooned over the photos and wrote: “So chic and elegant!” and “You look great.” But as you would possibly expect from online viewers, not everyone was impressed.

When Page six published paparazzi photos from the trip, the critic commented: “It’s 30 degrees in New York and she gets out of the limo in a white Miami smock, her bra visible to everyone. No taste. Nothing. A cashmere turtleneck, flannel trousers and a wool jacket can be classy.

Someone else sharply asked: “Who can be the first to tell her that she looks tacky and not elegant and refined? Does she even know what sophistication means? A 3rd person noted: “She looks more like she’s wearing a bathrobe.”

Another person wrote in a comment from a licensed pilot: “White means…” possibly referring to rumors that Sánchez and Bezos are scheduled to exchange vows over Christmas. At least one person doubted the couple would have the opportunity to say “I do.” This person said: “This will be the longest engagement ever. They will NEVER get married and we all know why!!!!”

Sánchez told the “Today” show hosts that she was in the process of planning the big day last month. She didn’t comment on speculation about exchanging Christmas vows.

Renewed interest and scrutiny of Sánchez has increased as the pair have been spotted in various locations in recent months. The couple reportedly began dating in 2018. Their engagement was announced five years later, in May 2023. Their upcoming wedding can be a second journey for each of them.

Sánchez was previously married to celebrity agent Patric Whitesell, with whom she has two children. She can be the mother of a son, whom she shares with Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Bezos was married to the mother of his three children, Mackenzie Scott, for 25 years once they divorced in 2019.


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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Apart from the song with singer-songwriter India Shawn – Andscape

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India Shawn is a contemporary muse with a chilled nature, crafting love stories and heartfelt tales in smooth, charming songs. With over a decade of experience in the music industry as a singer-songwriter, Shawn has incredible strength. She was born in Los Angeles, and her musical roots reach throughout the country. Beginning her profession in her hometown, Shawn eventually found herself in Atlanta, where she immersed herself in the city’s deep-rooted R&B scene, further shaping her artistry.

“I transferred to ATL, I was in 10th grade, and that’s when my music journey really started,” Shawn told Andscape. “I met people who were trying to get by, so I ended up recording and learned what songwriting was really early on.”

Before releasing her debut EP in 2012, Shawn wrote songs and collaborated with artists similar to Chris Brown, El DeBarge, Keri Hilson and Monica. In 2013, she gained much more notoriety when Solange Knowles published her song “I’m Alive” on the Saint Heron compilationmarking her as an artist value watching.

Following the release of the single “There Must Be a God” from the Andscape soundtrack, she caught up with Shawn to learn more about the muse behind the vibes.


Singer India Shawn grew up singing in church with her family. “I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” she said.

India Shawn

Name:
India Shawn

Hometown:

Los Angeles

Artistic soundscape

Airy, soft, telling a story, multidimensional, soft, mysterious, atmospheric

The oldest musical memory

Shawn’s soulful sound is deeply rooted in her upbringing, with influences drawn from her childhood memories and the musical culture of her church. “I sing with my sister all the time, and I also grew up singing behind my mom in church. She was the leader of praise and worship. So I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” Shawn said. “I had these little solos in church, and I believe what made me consider in it was that after the service people got here as much as me with tears of their eyes and said, ‘You really moved me while you sang.’ “These early moments of connection with music and audiences laid the foundation for conveying depth and sensitivity through her music.

Influences

For Shawn, music, especially R&B, has all the time held a special place in her life. “Me and my sister are harmonizing in the living room, just picking some of our favorite songs, including for me Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men and (and) Brandy,” she said of her early music memories.

Creative process

Shawn often draws inspiration from real-life experiences and relationships that influence her music. She weaves this into the authenticity and atmosphere of her songs, but she didn’t immediately recognize where her inspiration got here from. “It’s funny that it took me so long to make that connection, but I realized that I was telling my whole story and presenting my business through my music,” she said. “It took me two albums to realize, wait a minute, I’m giving people a lot to understand here… these aren’t just songs. This is truly the life I live.”

Challenges and development

As Shawn’s profession grows, so do his moments of appreciation and reflection. “I literally just thought about a very gradual progression of my career. It’s like step by step, but there are more breakthrough moments. My first tour, which was so beautiful, I just knew I could pack a room and people knew my lyrics and sang my songs to me. Those moments that make the waiting not in vain.”

Shawn has plenty of recommendation for up-and-coming singer-songwriters. Her biggest sacrifice? Collaboration is essential. “I think (cooperation) is really why I’m still here. So find your people… you’ll know when it feels right, you’ll have that freedom and fluidity, and you’ll be able to really create things and create without having to think too much.” He also shares the importance of patience. “Just be patient during the journey. This has been a theme throughout my profession. Let it develop. I feel like more things come from being in that flow and being present reasonably than forcing all of it.

Current project

There should be a God”, the lead single from Andscape , now streaming on Hulu, also serves as a teaser for Shawn’s solo album. “(This song) is such a manifestation of God’s love,” she said. “I think when you find yourself in a place of waiting, you can feel very hopeless. So when you see glimpses of God’s love again, or the fact that you know there is a higher power, there is a source that is thinking about you, has you in mind, has a perfect plan for you, it’s just like the clouds parting. And this is the moment, I understand. I understand that I had to go through all this to get here. And that’s exactly what I felt in the studio that day.”

Sheila Matthews is a digital producer at Andscape and a proud HBCU graduate. She believes “Return of the Mack” must have won a Grammy, and her Twitter mentions are open to all debate.

This article was originally published on : andscape.com
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ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence

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With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is anticipated to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.

Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.

From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.

In case you missed it, take a take a look at 17 of the very best celebrity beauty moments from the week below.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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