The Sundance Film Festival breakthrough “CODA,” which went on to win best picture at the Academy Awards, expanded the conversation about diversity in Hollywood. The film, whose title stands for “Child of Deaf Adults,” won two top prizes at the festival and broke a Sundance record when Apple acquired it for $25 million. It follows a young woman who is the only hearing person in her family. She contemplates leaving the family’s struggling fishing business and her role as their interpreter to pursue her dreams at the Berklee College of Music. The cast includes Marlee Matlin, the only deaf actor to win an Oscar.

Megan Thee Stallion's schedule has been grueling, but she's not bothered by that. And not because she's as strong as her name suggests. It's because she can remember wishing to be on tour and going to shows. She says she's grateful for the year she's had. The rapper was named one of The Associated Press' Breakthrough Entertainers of the Year for blasting onto the music scene and giving us anthems like “Big Ole Freak” and “Hot Girl Summer.”

African American actresses have similar stories about hair struggles in Hollywood and say a lack of knowledge has led to challenging situations. Tiffany Haddish recalls leaving a movie set in tears in search of a stylist. Sierra Capri says it's a relief when an actress finds a stylist who understands black hair. Celebrity stylist Andrea Pezzillo understands why black actresses are wary of white hair stylists. Pezzillo, who is white, says she was never intimidated by black hair.

R&B music seems more explicit, but is it really? Well,it's complicated. R&B is both competitive and collaborative with hip-hopand its more expressive lyrics. With the two often merging and singers andrappers appearing in the same categories, the Grammys eventually added a newcategory, melodic rap. Colby Tyner, senior vice president of programming atRadio One and Reach Media, says there was once “a clear separation of churchand state'' but now the genres are ”a little bit together and so the musicreflects it.” Advances in technology allow artists to bypass radio play andreach listeners directly, eliminating the need for “clean″ censors.

Sadie Sink may have felt imposter syndrome when she first joined the cast of “Stranger Things,” but the 20-year-old actor is absolutely the real deal. Sink has been applauded by fans as her role of Max has become more central to the plot, and her role in “The Whale,” Darren Aronofsky’s buzzy new film, touted as Brendan Fraser’s comeback role, is also receiving critical praise. It could be a busy awards season: Sink will also pay attention to next year’s Grammys, as Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” earned a nod for song of the year and its short film, starring Sink and Dylan O’Brien, is up for best music video.

KANGDANIEL is one of K-pop’s brightest stars, but at just 26years old, he’s already learned there’s more to life than bright lights. Theartist who released his debut album, “The Story,” last year, says the pursuitof happiness is not a fanciful wish, but a way of life. KANGDANIEL publiclystruggled with depression in 2019. He is now wrapping up his first NorthAmerican tour with the final stop in Los Angeles on Saturday. KANGDANIEL'S pathto superstardom began in 2017 after winning the second season of reality TVtalent series “Produce 101,” which led to the formation of the K-Pop boy bandWanna One. He went solo two years later.

Many of the greatest moments in history of “The Challenge” are relived in MTV’s new docuseries, “The Challenge: Untold History." The six-episode docuseries, traces the time-defying evolution of the hit competition series that preceded juggernauts like “Survivor,” “Big Brother” and “The Amazing Race.” Sifting through more than 500 episodes, Bunim/Murray, the legacy production company which created the groundbreaking series “The Real World,” interviewed more than 30 past and present cast members, as well as producers, famous fans (Kim Kardashian, for instance) and media members. “The Challenge: Untold History” is airing over three weeks with back-to-back episodes each Wednesday night on MTV.

“Abbott Elementary” has received rave reviews from both fans and critics, and its creator believes she understands the charm of the new ABC mockumentary. Quinta Brunson says it brings back “the same feel and vibe" of beloved series such as “The Office” or “Parks and Recreation'' and “people are enjoying having something new.” he series, which became ABC’s first comedy to quadruple its ratings since its premiere, follows the staff at a struggling, underfunded Philadelphia school. Brunson, who first made internet waves with her viral video sketches and also starred in “A Black Lady Sketch Show,” leads the series.

Though New York's Fashion Week wrapped more than a month ago, there was plenty of fierce fashion and top models at the second annual "Gigi's Playhouse Fashion Show" on Wednesday. The event allows young people with Down syndrome to share their talent. Gigi's Playhouse is an education and achievement center that prepares young people with Down syndrome to engage more fully in their homes, schools and communities.

Make-a-Wish helps ailing kids and teens have a wish granted, such as meeting a celebrity, becoming a VIP at theme parks or traveling to a dream destination. It celebrated its 40th anniversary this week amid perhaps the most challenging time in its history. Make-A-Wish CEO Richard Davis says 5,000 wishes are currently on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. That includes 3-year-old Audrey, who is fighting cancer and wants to go to Disney World. Until things lift, the organization is helping cheer up kids in other ways. For Audrey, that included a car-themed parade with her favorite things for her birthday.

Burna Boy was only six years old when Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti passed away, but that was enough time for the future musician to be inspired. Kuti's life and legacy was portrayed in the wildly popular Broadway musical "Fela!" and the late icon was once managed by Burna Boy's grandfather. Burna Boy calls both Kuti and his grandfather his heroes. In July, Burna Boy appeared on the Beyoncé-curated "The Lion King: The Gift" album and he dropped his fourth record, "African Giant."

Nearly two decades after his classic “Confessions” album, Usher is spilling more of his inner thoughts. The multi-hyphenate megastar is aiming to become a member of the EGOT club before his career ends, referring to the rare entertainers who have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award. The R&B singer made the admission while discussing newly added dates for his “Usher: My Way The Vegas Residency” show. In addition to showcasing hits from his massive catalog, Usher’s Las Vegas residency celebrates the 25th anniversary of his 1997 sophomore album “My Way” which catapulted him into stardom. The eight-time Grammy winner is also prepping a new album.

Erykah Badu has unintentionally occupied the role of culture shifter and influencer for 20 plus years, well before it became a trendy, social media descriptor. Her impact has vibrated throughout music and fashion, and the “Green Eyes” songstress sees it clearly.

Greta Thunberg turned 18 in January, but she’s already made peace with her future: While most college students will change their concentrations multiple times, the Swedish high school student says climate change activism will be her life’s mission.

50 years of hip-hop: In their own words

When Simu Liu tweeted in 2014 asking Marvel for an Asian American superhero, he wasn’t vying for a job—he was venting at Hollywood’s status quo. But fast forward five years, Liu starred in “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” Marvel’s first film led by an Asian superhero. The blockbuster movie obliterated Labor Day and pandemic-era releases on its way to more than $430 million in ticket sales worldwide. Previously known for the hit Canadian comedy “Kim’s Convenience,” Liu is setting his sights on producing as well as roles not centered around martial arts which he says has historically been a box for Asian actors. Up next for Liu is “Arthur the King” with Mark Wahlberg and “One True Loves,” a romcom with Phillipa Soo and Luke Bracey.

Basketball megastar Stephen Curry is largely credited with transforming basketball from a must-see above the rim game to box office long range shooting. But the reigning NBA Finals MVP who recently broke the league's all-time 3-point record is now aiming at a different target: children’s books. The “I Have a Superpower” author says he wants to inspire young readers and "reach the next generation of kids that are dreaming big,” said Curry of the motivational book illustrated by Geneva Bowers out Tuesday. “We want them to be able to set their sights on what they want to accomplish in the world and really believe that it’s possible.”

Alicia Keys hasn’t felt completely free for much of her career. And while that may sound surprising coming from the heralded musician, these days, she’s loving the makeup-free skin she’s in and is settled into a space of confidence and liberation which has manifested into her new album, “KEYS.” The project is a back-to-basics approach for the classically trained pianist with a heavy emphasis on the instrument that catapulted her career into superstardom. The 26-track album is broken down in two sections: “Originals” which features many piano-driven songs, followed by the “Unlocked” portion which contains more hip-hop and four-to-the-floor remixes of those tracks.

Mariah Carey's iconic “All I Want for Christmas is You” song is the holiday gift that keeps giving, and now the Grammy winner is feeling generous again with a new Apple TV+ production, “Mariah Carey’s Magical Christmas Special.” Actor-comedian Tiffany Haddish narrates the special, which features performances by Carey, Ariana Grande, Snoop Dogg, Misty Copeland, Jennifer Hudson, Billy Eichner and more. Carey is also releasing a companion soundtrack featuring new interpretations of her songs.

The upcoming season of “The Boys” has so many surprises, revelations and themes ripped from today’s front pages that some actors are wondering if their show runner has psychic super abilities. Actor Laz Alonso says the show was shot in 2019, but there are scenes that will make you think it was shot during recent months. "The Boys'' is based off the comic by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson and follows a small group of mercenaries as they chase the popular but sometimes immoral ensemble of A-list superheroes called The Seven. The second season of Amazon Prime Video’s hit superhero show begins Friday. The first season was one of Amazon Prime’s most watched series.

Big Pokey, a Houston rapper known for regional hits such as “Ball 'N Parlay,” “Who Dat Talking Down," died after performing a show in Texas over the weekend. He was 48. Justice of the Peace Tom Gilliam III said Monday that an autopsy to determine the cause of death was pending. Powell was a member of Houston’s pioneering rap collective the Screwed Up Click, led by DJ Screw, the trendsetting DJ credited with creating the slow, pitched-down song that would define Houston and reach mainstream attention. Pokey was credited with helping elevate the city's hip-hop scene nationally. Tributes from other rappers are pouring in across social media. Rapper Bun B called Powell “one of the most naturally talented artists” in Houston.

“All Screwed Up,” labeled as a visual tribute, hopes to celebrate and shed light on the life and legacy of Houston music pioneer DJ Screw. Although Monday will mark 20 years since his death, elements of Screw’s signature slow, pitched-down sound is still heard through some of today’s biggest stars such as Beyoncé, Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West. “All Screwed Up,” a project that mixes biopic-style footage with animation tells the story of DJ Screw before he started getting attention, will be released Monday as part of a $99 commemorative set. Its creators say they'll release the video for free at a later date.

“Stone Cold” Steve Austin missed out on many seemingly mundane experiences during his legendary, bloodied, broken-bodied rise to becoming one of the most popular wrestlers of all time. But the Texas Rattlesnake is making up for lost time with his new adventure reality series, “Stone Cold Takes on America.”

“It’s about doing different things in America and doing some of the things that I’ve always wanted to do,” said the six-time WWE champion. “Like almost anything in life, to reach a high level

Petri Hawkins Byrd has stood side-by-side with Judith Sheindlin during approximately 12,500 cases on the hit show “Judge Judy.” Referred to as Officer Byrd on the show, he is arguably the most well-known bailiff in court TV history. But after 25 years, the show ends this season. Byrd previously worked with Sheindlin in the late 80s in the New York City court system. When Sheindlin got the TV show in 1995, he jokingly said he was available if she needed him and he's been running the TV courtroom since. Sheindlin says in a statement that Byrd is a “consummate professional.” Byrd also sings, has film and TV credits and hosts an Instagram Live show with his wife.

A random trip to Walgreen's spurred Babyface to create his new album, ‘Girls Night Out,’ after a young fan said she was introduced to his legendary catalog after his 2020 Verzuz appearance with Teddy Riley. The new 13-track album features collaborations with many of today's popular R&B female singers, like Kehlani, Ella Mai and Ari Lennox. The Songwriters Hall of Fame member wrote with each artist on the album, a way of collaborating that he hasn't always used in his career. “They’re far more invested in their voice in terms of what they say and how they say it…that wasn’t so much of the late ’80s and ’90s,” said Babyface of this new generation of female talent. “They got to make sure it’s an honest thing from them.”

Kelsea Ballerini's new album, “Subject to Change,” is a record traversing through love, heartbreak, infatuation, confusion and accountability. Despite recently announcing her five-year marriage to fellow country singer Morgan Evans was ending, the new project is far from a heartbreak album. "It’s the most upbeat record I’ve ever put out. But there’s so much more meat on the bones,” explained the pop-country songstress. Ballerini has writing credits on all 15 tracks of the album — her first since 2020’s pandemic-marred “Kelsea” — and only boasts one guest appearance, “You’re Drunk, Go Home," a collaboration with Kelly Clarkson and Carly Pearce.

“I’m definitely texting him nonstop. I think there hasn’t been an episode, a Sunday where I haven’t been like, ‘This happened — let me know your thoughts.'"

Jasmine Jordan is getting an intimate look into the psyche of her heralded father, Michael, just like the rest of the world. The 27-year-old wasn’t born when her dad won the first two of his six championships with the Chicago Bulls, so like many watching “The Last Dance,” there are some things she’s learning for the first time.

Adam Lambert, who rose on the music scene as the runner-up on American Idol in 2009, says he’s happy to see more mainstream LGBTQ artists find major success.

“I think it’s less taboo to be queer in the music industry now because there’s so many cases you can point to like, ‘Oh, it worked for him. It worked for her.’ I think 10 years ago, it was a lot different,” Lambert said in a recent interview. “Ten years ago, it was kind of like no one really knew. And I met a lot of amazing people in the i

The “Tamron Hall” show just premiered its fourth season, but it's not a well-oiled machine yet — and that’s intentional. “The only thing that shines in this room are the Emmys. I want this show to evolve,” says the two-time daytime Emmy winner. Although the show has held its own during its tenure, it's bracing for new Black hosts to enter the already crowded daytime space. But Hall refuses to let them all be lumped in together. “We are owed the respect to recognize what each of us bring to the table," she says. ”We’re not all the same, and to make us all the same is unfair.”

Lauren London makes her return to acting in “Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse" and says Michael B. Jordan helped pave the way. London, who was engaged to rapper Nipsey Hussle when he was shot and killed in March 2019, says Jordan reached out gently about starring as his wife in the film, which debuts Friday on Amazon Prime Video. London says the 11 days of shooting proved to be cathartic and gave her some alone time to grieve Hussle's death. She says now that she's working again, she's being deliberate with her projects, and she is grateful to see how many fans still share remembrances about Hussle each day.