Entertainment
Vince McMahon’s legacy is also one of perpetuating racial stereotypes – Andscape
Netflix documentary is a scathing six-part have a look at the life of Vince McMahon, co-founder and former president of World Wrestling Entertainment. The documentary examines McMahon’s greater than 40-12 months reign as probably the most powerful man in pro wrestling, including his long history of scandals from steroid trials down allegations of sex trafficking which effectively ended his profession. The documentary ends with questions on McMahon’s legacy, and while it’s hard for some to tell apart the character from Mr. McMahon, Vince’s genius and the person detailed within the assault allegations, an often missed part of McMahon’s story is someone who spent his entire profession perpetuating harmful racial stereotypes for mass consumption.
At WWE Survivor Series in 2005, McMahon himself wrote a script by which he was to go backstage and approach then champion John Cena. Cena, who is white, was in the method of transitioning from his rap gimmick to a more marketable GI Joe-style superhero. McMahon desired to proceed referencing the rapper’s gimmick, in order that they had the next exchange:
McMahon: What’s good in regards to the hood?
Price: I’m just holding it in and attempting to take care of business.
McMahon: Keep it up, my nigga.
McMahon then walked right past black wrestlers Booker T and Sharmell, who reacted in complete shock. But they didn’t retaliate. They never even noticed that moment again. It was unique comedy that gave the impression of an excuse for McMahon to say the N-word on pay-per-view. If you must see the video, you will have to go to YouTube has been scrubbed from the Survivor Series replay streaming on Peacock. By the time McMahon decided to air this sketch, he had already been liable for a long time of painful and insensitive moments involving non-white on-screen performances.
At its core, wrestling is all about exaggerating someone’s most simple characteristics and creating caricatures. For example, if someone is playing plumber, the character approaches the ring with a plunger. If the wrestler is a patriot, the character carries the flag into the ring. And if a wrestler comes from a marginalized community, that always becomes what that person is defined by. To this end, McMahon created some truly demeaning characters.
There was Saba Simba, a black man supposedly of African descent, who got here to the ring with a spear and danced wildly within the ring. There was a Black Tag Team duo called Cryme Tyme who robbed and cheated. There was Kamala, a Ugandan giant who is not of McMahon’s descent but was widely featured on WWE television as a savage cannibal. It was too “Mama” by Shelton Benjamin a mom-like figure who was attached to a black Olympic wrestler for no reason. And Virgil, the Millionaire’s mute servant who followed his orders. And the list could go on for days.
This doesn’t have in mind other communities which have been exploited similar to “Mexico” who rode into the ring on the back of a lawnmower; I do not think soJapanese wrestlers who had a castration plot for laughs; the Billy and Chuck “gay wedding”; and lots of offended ethnic groups and nationalities along the way in which.
Being a wrestling fan during much of McMahon’s reign was frustrating, considering that just about every popular black star he ever had were extremely talented wrestlers who had to beat offensive gimmicks and licks. The hottest black wrestlers of the last decade in the corporate, The New Day, achieved their level of fame only after finding a strategy to get past McMahon’s original idea of being Baptist preachers. One member, Kofi Kingston, won the WWE Championship in 2019. This victory made him only the fourth Black WWE Champion in company history (Bobby Lashley and Big E have also won WWE Championships since then). With this match, Kingston became the primary black man to fight for the title in any respect in six years. Just a few months later, in January 2020, he lost the belt to Brock Lesnar in eight seconds in embarrassing fashion.
Race appears in one fleeting moment , courtesy of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who in 1998 became the primary WWE Champion “of color,” as he put it. Johnson talked about his conversations with McMahon about race.
“I’m the first WWE champion of color,” Johnson remembers talking to McMahon. “And (McMahon) says, ‘I do know, but I do not see color.’ Vince… at all times said, “I do not care what color you might be. You may be black, green and purple… so long as you earn money, you shall be a champion. What Johnson doesn’t need to convey is that what brings money to WWE depends largely on how they describe wrestlers and the way McMahon chooses to portray them on television. For every success story of a black wrestler, there are several other terrible stories about those that didn’t make it.
McMahon’s legacy is that of a person who was truly modern in entertainment and skilled wrestling. But now the headline is about terrible accusations of assault and sex trafficking that are synonymous along with his power and fame. To me, he has at all times been someone who contributed hundreds of hours of denigrating, racist stories and portrayals of marginalized groups on his airwaves. When discussing what McMahon means, it is unattainable to disregard the harm done by his stories. It should also reflect the greatness of every black, Latinx and queer artist who must overcome McMahon’s machinations to survive in his company, let alone find ways to thrive.
Entertainment
Outrage erupts as Kim Kardashian is called out for allegedly robbing Italians in a new ad campaign
Fashion mogul Kim Kardashian recently unveiled her SKIMS collaboration with Dolce & Gabbana, which is set to premiere on November 19. However, all attention is focused on the campaign accompanying the new capsule collection.
The Dolce & Gabbana x SKIMS campaign, shot by renowned photographer Nadia Lee Cohen, captures the charm of Sixties Italy and appears to pay homage to iconic Italian actress Sophia Loren. Featuring Kim and her sister Kourtney Kardashian, the visuals are designed to exude vintage charm while fusing fashion with the SKIMS aesthetic.
Kim was excited and promoted – we read in several posts on her Instagram, a space normally reserved for brands that pay tens of millions simply to be featured. Her 359 million followers enthusiastically welcomed the project and congratulated her on such a very important transaction.
However, not everyone likes the return to the past in promoting.
Critics at the moment are accusing the Kardashian sisters, who’re of Armenian descent, of once more crossing cultural boundaries. The campaign and two reality stars are accused on social media of appropriating a southern European identity.
When the style bomb is on a regular basis sent promotion, the comments showed how impressed lots of their followers were.
“The way they act culturally is really crazy,” one person said.
Another wrote: “Then no (sic) cosplaying Italians. I mean what race won’t be cosplaying at this point.”
Someone else said of the sisters’ campaign: “It’s always cosplay.”
Another person added: “I hope Italian grandma and grandpa are AI because why are you bothering these people dressed in underwear lol.”
One person wrote on Twitter: “More cultural appropriation from this white Armenian.”
One follower took issue with them comparing themselves to Loren’s fashion style, writing: “They take icons and put their names on them. When you type “Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, etc.” into Google, their names will appear. Keeping them associated with greatness. Sucks lack of originality, wash, rinse and repeat.”
More cultural appropriation from this white Armenian
— NC (@Money_Mo_213) November 14, 2024
There could also be some truth in associating the Kardashians with a few of the biggest stars in history by dressing like them and in some cases wearing dresses and jewellery that after belonged to deceased stars.
In 2022, Kim wore the identical dress that Marilyn Monroe wore to sing “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” to then-President John F. Kennedy on his forty fifth birthday sixty years earlier. The dress was transparent, with 2,500 crystals embedded in the material.
Historians and owners who worked to preserve the historicity of the dress say she destroyed it. They claimed she returned the dress with the material stretched and located new holes appeared in the clothing. The owners also said that a few of the rhinestones were either barely attached or had fallen off completely.
This is not the only dress the blonde actress has worn in the past few years. She also wore a green sequined Norman Norell gown by Monroe on the 1962 Golden Globes.
Kardashian recently made headlines for wearing an Attallah cross necklace once worn by Princess Diana. Made of gold, silver, amethyst and diamonds, it was the prized signature of the Princess of Wales.
The cross’s original owner, Naim Attallah, who often allowed Diana to wear it, sold it to Kardashian after she won it at auction in January 2023.
Kim first wore the necklace in public on her forty fourth birthday in October, after which on November 2 on the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) 2024 Art+Film Gala.
In addition to facing criticism for dressing like legends, she was accused of appropriating black culture.
One of the persistently she was scrutinized for her inclusion in black culture was when she wore Fulani braids after which said they were from a Seventies white actress who wore them in a 1979 movie “10”.
She hopped on Snapchat and said she was crazy about “Bo Derek Braids.”
Fans were quick to remind her that these hairstyles originated in Africa and encouraged her to learn more.
Entertainment
Denzel Washington takes talk show host to his seat over offensive claims he was an alcoholic – in new clip
Hollywood legend Denzel Washington has long been known for his dignified presence, each on and off the screen.
In a 2004 aired interview on “The Parkinson Show,” the Oscar winner answered demeaning questions with grace and humor, though the host’s line of questioning seemed to reinforce stereotypes about black men.
The interview, intended to promote Washington’s then-film “Man on Fire,” took a turn when host Sir Michael Parkinson suggested that Washington had struggled with alcoholism and possible gang involvement in his youth.
The exchange began with Parkinson stating that Washington didn’t need to “explore” the alcohol facets of his character due to his own alleged experience. He played the role of a person named John W. Creasy who struggles with alcoholism. He attempts to take his own life while battling his past actions as a former CIA agent and Force Recon Marine.
(At) some point in your life you were in danger of becoming an alcoholic. Isn’t it?”
“Me? Right now as we speak!” Washington responded, surprised by this assumption.
Parkinson then explained by asking about Washington’s younger years.
Washington, remaining calm, replied, “When I was younger? Well, I think we were all in danger, but we didn’t know it. When Parkinson pressed on, citing “research” and articles about Washington’s past, the daddy of 4 laughed, replying: “Really? I higher read them.
The British broadcaster continued by suggesting that after his parents’ divorce, Washington “went off the track” by drinking and hanging out with the flawed crowd. The actor responded by admitting that he was offended and acting like a young man, but it surely wasn’t about drinking.
“I was already hanging out with the wrong crowd before they got divorced,” he said, adding: “I believe it had more to do with not a lot drinking, but just getting offended about it, attacking — entering into fights, things like that. Just a bit of kid who didn’t understand what was happening and was taking it out on whoever was nearby.
When Parkinson asked if he was in a gang, the New York native revealed the reality about his difficult background, sharing that the majority of his friends from his youth “were killed or went to jail.”
He praised his mother for having “the common sense to get me out of it” and sending him to a personal school, which, satirically, was “where all of the alcoholics and drug addicts really were. Little did she know.
“The rich kids had all the drugs,” Washington added. Later he laughed and said, “Mom, I never smoked a cigarette until you sent me to school.”
Many individuals who saw the 20-yr-old’s interview commented on Washington’s handling of the interview.
“Denzel was classy, he could get angry with Micheal’s questions about alcoholics and his parents, but he’s too cool for that,” one person wrote, and one other commented. “The interviewer was just rude and he knew it, and Denzel knew it. Yes, Denzel was very witty and fashionable in the top.
A 3rd comment clearly stated, “Denzel is the boss.”
It just wasn’t concerning the comments about drinking and gangs, other parts of the interview seemed to piss off the actor and viewers.
“The look Denzel gives him 9:08 was like, “Oh, you f—,” one commenter said, a nod to his role as crooked detective Alonzo Harris in 2001’s “Training Day.”
#DenzelWashington the most effective to ever do it!! pic.twitter.com/pIYdYbH3D3
— Degen Dude (@DegenDude_) November 12, 2024
Someone else said: “The subtle art of ridiculing an interlocutor who asks stupid and false questions. Tastefully presented here by Denzel.”
One fan was clear: “I’ve never heard of him being an alcoholic.”
Although Washington didn’t talk about drinking excessively, he often talked about his journey, the challenges of his youth, and the support systems that guided him, including his involvement with the Boys and Girls Club of America.
He also credited Sidney Poitier as a mentor, teaching him about privacy and self-respect. In a 2012 interview with GQ, Washington recalled Poitier’s advice: “If they see you without spending a dime all week, they will not pay to see you on the weekend. … If you walk past the magazine section in the supermarket they usually’ve known you all of your life, there is not any mystery about it.”
This wisdom shaped Washington’s approach to fame and public life, emphasizing the importance of secrecy and honesty.
The “Malcolm X” star’s down-to-earth approach to life was also evident in other public interactions.
After Will Smith’s controversial slapping incident on the 2022 Oscars, he was seen advising the West Philly native and telling him, “Be careful at the best of times, that’s when the devil comes for you.” This message reflected Washington’s belief in remaining calm and honest even under pressure.
He also allegedly uttered words of reproach to Sean “Diddy” Combs while he and his wife attended one in all his exclusive parties. The “Training Day” actor saw something he didn’t like and reportedly snapped at Bad Boy’s director, “You don’t respect anyone,” before storming out.
Known for embodying dignity, Washington rarely allows his temper to surface, but he isn’t afraid to express himself when mandatory.
When paparazzi accosted him outside the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Washington turned and said calmly but firmly, “You’re talking to a man right now. … How about… respecting me?” He let the person know that respect was crucial thing and even offered a smile to relieve any tension.
Throughout his profession, Washington managed to balance humility with strength, demonstrating that respect, humor and honesty were the cornerstones of his personality.
Parkinson can have wanted to get some juicy or controversial commentary from the actor, possibly comparing him to other stereotypes about black men. Still, Washington’s measured responses only reinforced his status as a real gentleman in Hollywood… one who is not easily fooled by intrusive questions.
Entertainment
Kanye West’s wife Bianca Censori fumes after going braless at Disneyland days after panties party in Japan
According to Daily mailYeezy’s architecture chief arrived at the theme park in Anaheim, California, wearing a cream sleeveless minidress, white leggings, white rain boots and a white long-sleeved top.
Censori was dressed more modestly than the standard leather outfits. However, the previous Australian model decided to go braless with two friends at the Disneyland Resort.
Stylist Gadir Rajab shared a photograph of Censori, Christian VelasquezAND Dion Lee at Disneyland on his Instagram story. Rajab also posted clips of them on various rides.
TMZ reports that Censori and her entourage paid for VIP treatment, which included a personal guide and expedited access to resort attractions. The VIP package reportedly costs around $500-$700 per hour.
During their trip to Disneyland, Cesori and the crew visited Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Cars Land. They also rode the Matterhorn Bobsleds roller coaster.
Censori has grow to be a lightning rod on the web, normally because of her typically risqué wardrobe. Daily Mail commentators had so much to say concerning the celebrity’s latest braless public outing.
“I’ve heard of girls being thrown out of Disneyland for wearing more clothes than Bianca. Why isn’t she treated the same way and thrown out?” one person interrogated.
“At least she knew this nonsense (which she does entirely by choice) wouldn’t be washed out at Disneyland. I’ve never seen her with clothes on!” one other comment was read.
In response to the proven fact that Censori was at the park without West, the commenter wrote, “He sure looks happier without him around!” Another person agreed, writing, “Only once have I seen her smile. And he is not there.”
Someone else suggested: “It’s a family friendly place! Lots of little kids! Has she no sense of place!” A 3rd person asked: “Why does an adult visit Disneyland without children? To me it’s just weird.
A like-minded person added: “Why do they let her walk around like that in front of the kids?? Disneyland has a very strict dress code.”
Disneyland website imposes a dress code on guests. For example, visitors are prohibited from wearing clothes that “reveal excessive amounts of skin that may be considered inappropriate for a family environment.”
Additionally, bare feet are considered inappropriate attire in “The Happiest Place on Earth”. Previously Censor he went barefoot during a Disneyland date with Kanye West in April 2024.
Censori walked through the park seven months ago with bandages on her feet. She also wore a beige bodysuit covered with brown fabric. West was wearing a white hoodie and grey sweatpants.
Censori’s newer recordings in Japan with West feature her in plain, near-nude clothes. She was filmed wearing a black bra, black cheek-baring shorts and a black belt.
Barely dressed, Censori and her husband were in a dimly lit nightclub in Tokyo last week. The couple danced to the rap star’s performance “Problematic” track from his collaborative album “Vultures 1” with R&B singer Ty Dolla $ign.
Despite rumors of a possible divorce, Censori and West recently traveled to Japan together. The 47-year-old Grammy winner traveled to Asia as a part of his “Vultures” tour, and Censori joined him later.
in October TMZ reports that the Wests are going through a “difficult phase” in their marriage. The outlet claimed that Bianca returned to Australia to spend time along with her family while Ye remained in Japan.
Censori and West are said to resolve any marital problems with nude marriage counseling. The “Jesus Walks” rapper apparently enjoys being naked in private.
“He and Bianca started therapy naked. Apparently they feel more liberated and can completely bare their soul when they are undressed,” source revealed Radar on the Internet.
The insider continued, “People assume it’s just Bianca walking around with no clothes on, but behind closed doors Kanye is actually embracing his own fetish for being in the buff.”
West and Censori married in a personal ceremony in December 2022. A month earlier, Ye had finalized his divorce from his first wife, reality television personality and businesswoman Kim Kardashian.
There was speculation that Censori and Kardashian had animosity. The bad blood allegedly stems from Censori’s interactions with West and Kardashian’s 4 children – North, 11, Saint, 8, Chicago, 6, and Psalm, 5.
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