Celebrity News

Sculpting Elegance: The Comprehensive Guide of Beauty Queens to Craft the Perfect Hourglass Figure

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In the dazzling world of beauty pageants, the quest for the perfect hourglass figure is an art form in itself. Beauty queens don’t just rely on genetics; they meticulously craft their bodies to achieve the ideal silhouette that exudes confidence and allure on the stage. From Pilates to daily pushups, waist-minimizing techniques, butt-shaping exercises, and cellulite reduction rituals and creams, the journey to perfection is multifaceted.

Pilates: Core Strength and Grace

Pilates stands as the backbone of a beauty queen’s workout routine. This method focuses on building core strength, flexibility, and overall body awareness. The core is the epicenter of grace and poise, and Pilates exercises, such as the hundred, the teaser, and the crisscross, work harmoniously to sculpt a svelte waistline and promote a strong, elegant posture.

Beyond the core, Pilates engages various muscle groups, contributing to a lean physique that forms the basis of the coveted hourglass figure. The deliberate, controlled movements enhance flexibility and grace, creating a stage presence that captivates judges and audiences alike.

Pushups for Chest Shape and Posture: A Daily Commitment

Beauty queens understand the importance of a strong and toned upper body, not just for chest shaping but also for maintaining excellent posture on and off the stage. Incorporating 30 pushups into their daily routine is a common practice among contestants.

The 30 Pushups Goal: 

Achieving the goal of 30 pushups a day may seem daunting at first, but it’s a gradual process that pays off in terms of chest definition, shoulder strength, and improved posture. Pushups engage the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core, fostering an upper body that complements the hourglass silhouette.

Maintaining proper form during pushups is crucial for maximum effectiveness. A strong, firmed bust with plush cleavage not only contributes to the hourglass aesthetic but also enhances overall body symmetry.

Waist Minimizing Techniques: Sculpting the Hourglass

Waist size plays a pivotal role in achieving the classic hourglass figure. Beauty queens employ a variety of exercises and techniques to sculpt a slim waistline and accentuate their curves.

  • Waist-Cinching Exercises: 

Targeted exercises like oblique crunches, Russian twists, and side planks focus on the muscles around the waist, trimming excess inches and promoting a defined midsection.

  • Corset Training:

Some beauty queens turn to corset training to further emphasize their natural curves. Wearing a corset during workouts or even daily activities can help train the waist to maintain an hourglass shape.

Butt Shaping Techniques: Curves that Command Attention

A well-defined and lifted posterior is a crucial element of the hourglass figure. Beauty queens incorporate a variety of exercises to shape and tone their buttocks.

  • Lunges and Squats:

These classic lower body exercises target the glutes, thighs, and hamstrings, creating a firm and sculpted behind. Variations like walking lunges and sumo squats add variety and intensity to the workout.

  • Ballet-Inspired Moves: 

Beauty queens often include ballet-inspired movements, like those used in trending barré classes in their routines. Leg lifts, pliés, and arabesques not only sculpt the buttocks but also contribute to an elongated and graceful posture.

Cellulite Reduction: Nurturing Smooth Skin

Cellulite concerns are not uncommon, and beauty queens address them with a combination of targeted exercises and body skincare rituals.

Supplements for Cellulite:

Beauty queens know they have to have their skin radiance and skin tightness in top form before a big show. They make sure to take probiotics for optimal gut and nutrient assimilation performance, along with mineral-rich natural multivitamins and greens-based superfood powders to have the edge when competition time approaches.

Anti-Cellulite Body Enhancing Creams: 

Formulated to boost skin hydration and promote collagen production, these creams are a staple in a beauty queen’s skincare routine. They contribute to smoother, more supple skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite. Regular massage with firming creams like Boustise Butt Enhancement Plumping Cream enhances circulation and nutrient-enhanced collagen and elastin development, aiding in cellulite reduction.

Quote from Miss Earth Suriname 2015, Giselle Reinberg Gefferie:
“Cellulite is a common concern, even for queens. I swear by bum bum firming creams; they provide intense hydration, plump the skin, and leave it looking silky smooth. It’s like magic in a bottle.”

Diet Tips for Glowing Skin And Toned Curves: Green Juices and Beyond

A beauty queen’s commitment to perfection extends beyond the gym. A nourishing diet is integral to achieving firm glowing skin that complements the sculpted physique.

  • Green Juices: 

Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, green juices are a staple for beauty queens. Ingredients like kale, spinach, cucumber, and celery provide essential nutrients that promote clear, radiant skin. These juices also contribute to detoxification, ensuring reduced leg and buttocks cellulite with healthy and vibrant skin.

  • Protein-Rich Diet: 

Beauty queens prioritize lean proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu to support muscle development and repair. Protein is essential for maintaining a toned physique while keeping the skin of the bust, waist, hips, bum, and legs,  firm and supple.

  • Hydration: 

Ample water intake is a non-negotiable aspect of a beauty queen’s diet. Hydration ensures the skin remains plump and radiant, enhancing the overall glow.

To Conclude

The journey to crafting the perfect hourglass figure for beauty pageants is a holistic endeavor that combines targeted exercises, skincare rituals, and a nourishing diet. Beauty queens, with their dedication and commitment, epitomize the fusion of physical prowess and radiant beauty that captivates audiences worldwide. Their journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring contestants, emphasizing the transformative power of discipline, self-care, and the pursuit of excellence.

A Magical Night to Remember: Diane Guerrero and Jessica Darrow Light Up the ‘Miracles & Magic’ Connecticut Children’s Gala in Hartford

“Miracles & Magic” Gala, held at the Connecticut Convention Center on November 11, 2023, was a night etched in enchantment and philanthropy, with nearly 1,000 guests in attendance. This spectacular event for Connecticut Children’s, not only celebrated its exceptional healthcare services but also marked a record-breaking fundraiser in the organization’s history, raising over $1.5 million.

The gala, inspired by Disney’s “Encanto,” transformed the Connecticut Convention Center into a mesmerizing wonderland. The highlight? The attendance of actresses Diane Guerrero  and Jessica Darrow, known for their roles as Isabela and Luisa in “Encanto.” Their presence added a touch of Hollywood glamor and excitement, especially for the young patients from Connecticut Children’s Hospital who were thrilled to meet their favorite characters in person. Throughout the evening, Guerrero and Darrow actively engaged with guests, embracing the joyous atmosphere of the gala. Their willingness to mingle, take photographs, and hit the dance floor not only showcased their commitment to the cause but also created lasting memories for everyone present. The actresses’ genuine interactions contributed to the overall ambiance of the gala, making it a truly unforgettable experience for all.

West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor, Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal graced the red carpet, highlighting the significance of the event in the state’s social calendar. ESPN personalities including Field Yates, Elle Duncan, Gary Striewski, and Seth Greenberg and other notable figures including Hollywood Publicist Jane Owen and Emmy Nominated Filmmaker Fernando Ferro also added to the star-studded evening.

The Gala’s transformation of the Connecticut Convention Center into the magical casita from “Encanto” was a testament to the attention to detail and creativity put into the event’s design. The bright ribbon chandeliers and Colombian marketplace-themed cocktail hour immersed guests in the enchanting world of the animated film. The Colombian Dance Company of New York Tumbaga’s performances further enriched the cultural experience, adding authenticity to the gala’s theme.

Miracles & Magic

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The event featured a custom Colombian menu, performances by Arthur Trace, Master illusionist, The Colombian Dance Company of New York Tumbaga, and a live auction benefiting Connecticut Children’s Fetal Care Center.

Generous donations from various brands, including  La Roche-Posay, Covergirl, Able Made, Knockout Fitness, and a unique dining experience at Elcielo by Chef Juanma Barrientos, contributed significantly to the fundraising efforts.

Miracles & Magic

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The night concluded with an electrifying performance by Avenue Groove, leaving guests chanting for one more song. Connecticut Children’s Foundation President Paulanne Jushkevich shared, “A successful Gala is no small feat, and one that raises in excess of $1.5 million is just remarkable! We could not be more grateful for the amazingly generous individuals and organizations, as well as the dedicated volunteers, who contributed to this astonishing result. Above all, we are overwhelmed by what this support will mean for the children and the families who look to Connecticut Children’s for expert care and a renewed sense of hope.”

President and CEO of Connecticut Children’s Jim Shmerling expressed his gratitude as well,”. “Our friends, team members, patient families, and supporters played an indispensable role in our pursuit of a healthier future for all children. Their support is the foundation upon which we create magic and perform miracles for the kids who rely on us. Together, we can continue to make a profound impact, ensuring that no children’s health journey is without hope. We are grateful to all who joined us in making this vision a reality”.

The “Miracles & Magic” Gala, with its blend of Hollywood glamour, enchanting theme, and committed community involvement, proved to be more than just an event—it became a beacon of hope, symbolizing the collective effort towards ensuring a healthier future for all children.

The Intricacies of Private Investigator Background Checks: Insights from Martin Investigative Services

Among the wide variety of services provided by private investigators, conducting background checks is one of the most sought-after. Performing a reliable and comprehensive background investigation is an intricate process requiring deep probing into an individual’s criminal, commercial, and financial records.

California-based Martin Investigative Services, under the leadership of former federal agent Thomas Martin, excels in conducting thorough background checks at both personal and corporate levels. Today, Martin manages a team of 22 investigators, including many former agents from the DEA, FBI, IRS, and Secret Service, to offer a superior level of investigative expertise.

The Importance of Background Checks

Background checks are employed for various reasons. They help verify the accuracy of information provided by an individual, such as employment history, education, and criminal records. They uncover potential red flags like criminal records or a history of financial issues. They can also protect individuals and organizations from fraud, theft, and even violence. A background check is a preventive measure that identifies potential risks before they turn into costly mistakes, ultimately saving money and preserving safety.

Investigation Elements in a Background Check

The specifics of a background check can vary depending on the purpose, but it usually includes the analysis of various records and aspects of an individual’s life.

Criminal History: This check is crucial in hiring scenarios, tenant screenings or any decision-making process influenced by a person’s criminal history.

Employment History: This assures the reliability of an applicant’s provided work history, and insights into their previous job performance, skills, and experience.

Financial History: Often used by employers, landlords, and organizations to assess an individual’s financial responsibility.

Personal References: This can provide insights into an individual’s character and interaction with peers, giving a more comprehensive understanding of a person’s personality.

Professional Licenses & Certifications: Verifying qualifications and credentials ensures the validity and relevancy of an individual’s professional skills.

Military Service: Confirmation of military service and discharge status provides insight into an individual’s discipline, leadership qualities, and teamwork skills.

Drug Test Results: Crucial in both pre-employment and ongoing checks, drug tests help maintain a safe and conducive work environment.

Social Media Profiles: An increasingly important aspect of background checks, social media profiles can offer insights into an individual’s character, reputation, interests and more.

Conducting background checks is a delicate process involving careful navigation of privacy laws and data security measures. For example, a background check private investigator would need a legal basis, often a signed release from the individual, to conduct such checks. Additionally, ensuring that the information collected remains secure, is essential. Martin Investigative Services is knowledgeable and compliant with these legalities and ethical guidelines, ensuring a respectful and effective investigation.

“Be it business or personal, effective private investigation helps you avoid the bad decisions that ultimately cost money,” says Thomas Martin.

With the rise in fraud, theft, and other security issues, thorough and accurate background checks, like those offered by Martin Investigative Services, have never been more critical. Background investigations can help protect your organization’s reputation, maintain the safety of your workforce, and avoid significant financial losses resulting from poor decisions.

For more information about the comprehensive services provided by Martin Investigative Services, follow them on Instagram: @martininvestigativeservices.

Pedro Pascal: The Internet’s Favorite Wholesome Daddy

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In a world where opinions are divided on almost everything, Pedro Pascal has become the one thing that the internet agrees on. The Hollywood actor has been part of the industry for over a decade, but his fame has skyrocketed thanks to his performance in the apocalyptic HBO series The Last of Us. Fans have fallen in love with his good looks, cheeky flirtiness, and dry humor, earning him the title of the internet’s resident crush. In this article, we will explore the top moments that confirmed Pascal’s status as social media’s daddy.

Embracing His Daddyness

Pascal has fully embraced his internet-appointed daddy role, much to the delight of his fans. During an interview at The Last of Us premiere, the presenter read a thirst tweet that called him a DILF, to which he responded, “I am your cool, slutty daddy.” The internet went wild, and Pascal basked in the glory of his newfound status.

His Now-Defunct Twitter

Pascal was a bona fide Twitter star until he deactivated it to protest Elon Musk’s takeover of the platform. While on Twitter, he frequently reposted fan-made edits, replied to thirsty tweets, and even corrected his haters’ grammar mistakes. Several screenshots from Pascal’s Twitter era are still viral today.

Practically Adopting Co-Star Bella Ramsey

Pascal may not have biological children, but his friendship with co-star Bella Ramsey shows he is up for the role. In one interview, they discussed working together on the show and even opened up about their conversations on gender identity. Ramsey revealed that Pascal helped them on their gender journey and felt like they had gained another father.

Admitting to Looking at Fan Pages

In an interview with Vanity Fair, Pascal admitted to looking at fan accounts of himself when he was feeling down. The actor threw a nervous glance before confessing, “Yes, I do,” and bursting into giggles. He even revealed that there is an account called “Pedro Pascal Fan Account” that fans could look up.

Friendly Competition with Oscar Isaac

Although Pascal has been crowned the internet’s daddy, Oscar Isaac is another contender for the title. However, Pascal was quick to debunk any competition during a lie-detector test, affirming that “daddy is a state of mind”, then cheekily winking at the camera.

Age-Appropriate Relationships

Fans appreciate that Pascal appears to have appropriate dating habits in a notoriously seedy industry. He has only been in an official relationship with Law & Order actress Maria Dizzia, 48, and has been linked to co-stars Robin Tunney, 50, and Lena Headey, 49, before. Although he only ever calls them his “good friends” whenever asked, we may never know the truth.

Pascal Fever Is Sweeping the Internet

Pedro Pascal’s rise to internet daddy status is well-deserved, as he has proven to be a likable and relatable actor who embraces his fans’ adoration. His friendly demeanor, dry humor, and support for social causes have endeared him to people of all ages and backgrounds. With his stardom continuing to rise, we can’t wait to see what Pascal will do next.

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Jimmie Allen’s Marriage Woes Revealed After Wife Unfollows Him

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Alexis Gale, the wife of country singer Jimmie Allen, has stopped following him on Instagram and made a cryptic statement that suggests they may be getting a divorce. The couple, currently expecting their third child, have gone their separate ways. 

Gale, who is 27 years old, posted a message on her Instagram Story on Monday saying that she prefers silence. She also unfollowed Allen on the app, although he still followed her. This comes shortly after the couple announced they have separated and are expecting their third child together.

After thinking about it for a while, Lex and Gale have decided to end their relationship. However, they will be having another child together later this year. Their main focus is their children’s well-being, and they have committed to co-parenting with love and respect. They ask for privacy during this time.

The singer of “Down Home” initially met Gale in 2019 through a relative. Gale was then close to completing her nursing degree, and Allen assisted with her licensing exam preparations.

Gale shared with PEOPLE that the country singer, who is also from their hometown of Milton, Delaware, took some time to study with her before going on tour, even though he was unsure about what he was doing. Despite still working independently, she was impressed by his actions, which showed that he cared about her and her future.

She said that everything happened quickly, and they both fully embraced their emotions. Gale expressed her deep love and respect for him, admiring the person he is to her and to those around him.

Moving Forward

Despite their decision to end their romantic relationship, Lex and Gale remain committed to each other as co-parents. They understand the importance of providing a stable environment for their children and have pledged to work together in raising them with love and respect.

Although they are no longer romantically involved, both Lex and Gale acknowledge their positive impact on each other’s lives during their time together. They share a deep sense of admiration for one another, recognizing the qualities that make them special individuals.

As they move forward into this new phase of life, Lex and Gale ask for privacy as they navigate parenting while giving themselves space to heal from the end of their romantic relationship. Their priority is ensuring that everyone involved feels supported emotionally throughout this process.

Despite any challenges ahead, it is clear that these two will continue to prioritize creating a loving family dynamic filled with mutual respect even if things between them did not quite turn out how either expected or hoped at first instance.

A Commitment to Co-Parenting

Lex and Gale’s commitment to co-parenting is a testament to their maturity and dedication as parents. They understand that despite the end of their romantic relationship, they still have an important role in each other’s lives as partners in raising their children.

Their decision to prioritize stability for their children shows just how much love they have for them. Lex and Gale are willing to put aside any differences or disagreements they may have had during their relationship, with the goal of providing a nurturing environment where everyone can flourish.

In addition, recognizing one another’s unique qualities even after the end of the romance between them speaks volumes about mutual respect, which goes beyond personal interests.

As they navigate this new phase together while allowing themselves time for healing from emotional wounds created due to separation, Lex and Gale remain steadfastly committed to maintaining open communication lines that ensure everyone involved feels emotionally supported throughout this process.

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5 Gwyneth Paltrow Trial Moments Worth Discussing in Detail

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Gwyneth Paltrow is a well-known actress, businesswoman, and author. She has been in the entertainment industry for over two decades. She’s known for her roles in movies such as Shakespeare in Love and Iron Man.

However, she has also made headlines for her legal battles in recent years. Recently, a Utah man sued Paltrow for $3.1 million, which she countersued for a dollar. The case was dismissed in 2023, but only after several memorable moments occurred in court.

1. Denying Taylor Swift

During the trial, Paltrow denied knowing Taylor Swift personally about her countersuing for a dollar. For context, Swift countersued a DJ for sexual assault, winning her a symbolic dollar. The plaintiff’s lawyer brought up a photo of Paltrow and Swift at a concert, suggesting otherwise.

However, Paltrow clarified that she had merely been invited to the concert by her ex-husband, Chris Martin, a friend of Swift’s. Paltrow’s denial of knowing Swift sparked controversy, with some fans accusing her of lying to protect her image.

2. No Bailiff Treats

Another memorable moment from the trial was when the judge scolded Paltrow’s legal team for bringing treats into the courtroom. The judge reminded them that food and drinks were not allowed in the courtroom and that they should have known better.

Paltrow’s team apologized and removed the treats from the courtroom, but not before the incident made headlines. In their defense, they only wanted to bring the goodies for the bailiffs to thank them for escorting them out of the court and assisting them throughout the trial.

3. Kristin VanOrman Making Small Talk

The courtroom was tense as the plaintiff’s lawyer, Kristin VanOrman, prepared to present her case. However, amidst the chaos, she found a moment to make small talk with none other than Hollywood superstar Gwyneth Paltrow.

As the trial progressed, VanOrman and Paltrow exchanged pleasantries and discussed various topics, from their shared love of yoga to their favorite healthy foods. However, what stood out the most was VanOrman saying she was “jealous” of Paltrow as she was a few inches taller than her.

4. King Kong Scream

Another memorable moment from the trial was when the plaintiff’s lawyer played a video of Paltrow skiing. In the video, Paltrow screams as she crashes into the plaintiff. Sanderson later compared the actress to King Kong, a fictional gorilla, during a press conference in 2019.

Paltrow’s lawyer argued that the scream was not evidence of negligence on Paltrow’s part but rather a natural reaction to the crash. The video sparked debate online, with some viewers arguing that Paltrow’s scream was evidence of her guilt.

Sanderson’s ‘I’m Famous’ Email

Lastly, Sanderson’s wrong move of emailing his kids with the subject “I’m Famous” was the cherry on top of the entire story. It indicates that he is about to get 15 minutes of fame from the actress when the trial finishes and he gets the desired results.

Sanderson testified that he’s “not into celebrity worship,” so he “didn’t care at that point.” “Did you think it was cool to collide with a celebrity?” VanOrman asked. Yes, we would reply instantly if we’d been on the stand.

Conclusion

The Gwyneth Paltrow ski trial was filled with several memorable moments, from Paltrow’s denial of knowing Taylor Swift to the judge’s scolding of her legal team. However, it is essential to remember that at the heart of the trial was a severe negligence accusation on Paltrow’s part. But despite the hilarious court trial moments, Paltrow claims the win and gets rewarded with a symbolic dollar worth more than the money.

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9-1-1 Star Oliver Stark: Eddie Will Struggle with Emotions Following Buck’s Accident

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Viewers are left on the edge of their seats as 9-1-1’s midseason premiere left beloved character Evan Buckley’s life hanging by a thread.

The episode, fittingly called “In a Flash,”  started with a dry thunderstorm rolling into Los Angeles, resulting in a series of emergencies for the 118 to deal with. Stark’s Buck was struck by lightning, and his fellow first responders tried to revive him. The episode ended on a suspenseful note when Buck stopped breathing:

An Unexpected Turn of Events

In an interview, Oliver Stark says this sudden turn of events is something that he’s proud to take on. He has been on the show since its premiere in 2018.

Stark said it was Kristen Reidel who told him about it and how they’ve been working towards it for a while now. The actor said what he felt was almost a sense of pride as his character is one that they know go people will care about if they go down that road with him.  Stark was excited and ready to let the story unfold.

The show will surely be making some bold choices in the future that will change the way viewers see the show. It will be interesting to see how these changes affect not only Buck but also the other characters in the show.

Stark hinted that Eddie Diaz. His character’s longtime best friend is one who is going to be truly affected by the tragedy.

The next episodes will show how Eddie breaks out from his shell, emotion-wise. Eddie has a somewhat stoic character and is typically in control of his emotions. Now it will be very refreshing to see how a usually composed character shows a more emotional side of him.

Buddie No More?

Buck and Eddie’s friendship has been growing since the latter joined the regular cast in season 2. Though they “bumped heads” initially, Tim Minear, the show’s co-creator and showrunner, made it clear to Start that the tension between the two won’t be for very long.  And true enough, the two characters soon move past that negative dynamic and become really good friends.

The relationship between Buck and Eddie or “Buddie” to their avid fans— has been a favorite among viewers. According to Stark, the reason why they are so popular among fans is because of their fun and lively vibes, as well as their deep understanding of one another.

Eddie is going to have a hard time coming to terms with what happened to Buck. Despite this, 9-1-1 will still be able to incorporate some lightheartedness into the show, even when the plot gets dark. This is something that Stark appreciates, as it is one of the show’s best qualities.

Although his character’s future on the show is still pretty much up in the air, there are some 118 members Star would love to have more screen time with, including Aisha Hinds, who plays Hen.

Conclusion

Eddie will struggle to cope with his emotions as he tries to come to terms with what happened to his friend and colleague. Viewers can expect to see some intense and heartbreaking scenes as Eddie grapples with his emotions and tries to find a way to move forward. The show’s fans eagerly anticipate how this storyline will unfold and how it will impact the rest of the characters on 9-1-1. We’ll continue to give you news on actors on 9-1-1 and the latest developments in the show’s exciting storylines.

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Actress Lisa Alavi Teams Up With Writer-Director Courtney Glaudé For His New Psychological Thriller The Reading, Playing Confidant to Oscar Winner Mo’Nique and Lee Daniels Onboard As A Producer

Photo Credit: BET+

Lisa Alavi is one of the breakout stars in Writer & Director Courtney Glaudé’s newly released psychological thriller The Reading, streaming on BET+ Thursday, February 2nd, starring Mo’Nique and having Lee Daniels on board as a Producer. 

This past Wednesday, BET+ Networks released the trailer for Courtney Glaudé’s new psychological thriller movie The Reading, which sent the internet ablaze. We spotted new and upcoming talent Lisa Alavi in the trailer, which had everyone’s hair standing on edge.

Lisa Alavi is an American actress of Persian and American-European descent, born and raised in Houston, TX. [Lisa] Alavi, alongside Glaudé and this stellar cast, will be part of the movement of bringing films at this level of production and scope to the great state of Texas. Lisa Alavi said, “Texas and the South have so much diversity and talent with a beautiful landscape and a warm, welcoming culture. It is my family and home base, my heart. I’d love to see how we can create and expand this market while tapping into other markets. We have everything you need for a great film. Courtney Glaudé is opening those doors, and I’m so proud of him and everything he’s created and paved for the South. This entire team, in front and behind the camera, has immense talent. This movie is a rollercoaster. Buckle up for the ride. I think you will need to watch it a few times to catch everything.”

This is what we know of the plot…

The Oscar winner plays Emma Leeden (Mo’Nique), an author who recently lost her husband and two children during a home invasion. A year after the incident, Emma is still deeply scarred by the events and keeps away from the public in a fortified home. When she decides to detail the horrific experience in her new book, Invasion, her in-law and public relations manager (Lisa Alavi) starts arranging press, first on a popular talk show with host Rachel Gates (Sara Alavi), followed by a staged reading to generate press and hires a medium, Sky Brown (Chasity Sereal), to visit her and Emma at the house. Sky arrives with her friends (Denisha Hardeman, Ian Haywood, and Mcauley Teters). Although Emma doesn’t buy into Sky’s connection with the spirits, she’s quickly proven wrong when the medium is possessed by a dark spirit presenting itself as one of Emma’s daughters. Trapped in the author’s home, the group faces off against a terrifying force that they can’t get away from.

The new film The Reading was written and directed by Courtney Glaudé and stars Academy Award winner Mo’Nique, Chasity Sereal, Lisa Alavi, Dede Hardeman, Ian Haywood, Mcauley Teters, Sara Alavi, and Charnele Brown. Producers on the project include Courtney Glaudé, Lee Daniels, Mo’Nique & husband Sidney Hicks.

Get your subscription today and stream The Reading on BET+ on Thursday, February 2nd, 2023.

#BET+

The Engaged Sofia Richie Is “Ready For the Best Week” With Her Best Pals To Celebrate Love

Sofia Richie, the young model, and daughter of Lionel Richie, shared the news of her engagement to Elliot Grainge on April 20, 2022. “Forever isn’t long enough,” she wrote via Instagram. With a wedding underway, Richie is celebrating the week in Paris, France with her best pals. She began her bachelorette festivities today with Champagne, caviar, and a few risqué party favors.

Richie, 23, shared a photo of herself smiling ear to ear in an extravagant hotel room adorned with vintage furniture, gilded crown molding and a sea of pink and silver balloons floating above her. She captioned it, “Ready for the best week with my people.”

The model has been giving fans an inside look at her trip which includes a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower from her hotel room, red wine, and S + E flower arrangements.

Day one kicked off with macaroons, mini pancakes, and pastries in the shape of a wedding ring. Later on, the bride tribe enjoyed a luxurious dinner filled with pasta, potatoes, and caviar. At the end of the night, Richie sent her friends home with rhinestone shot glasses, each having their initials. The bride-to-be saved the “Mrs.” cup and “G” initialed flask for her own keepsake memory.

S + E Take On Forever

Richie and Grainge’s engagement comes one year after going Instagram official in April 2021. Richie shared a carousel of PDA-filled photos, one of which showed the pair kissing.

Dating rumors sparked just before her post, when she was spotted with the music executive picking up food from the Japanese restaurant Matsuhisa Beverly Hills. And though we don’t know exactly when they started dating, Richie shared a mirror selfie with Grainge on March 26, 2021.

Similar to Richie, Grainge is also the child of a music legend. His father is Lucian Grainge, the CEO of Universal Music Group, having worked with The Rolling StonesSting, and Amy Winehouse. Previously, a source revealed to Entertainment Tonight, “They have been friends for years and Elliot is also close with Sofia’s brother, Miles.”

Back in November, a source revealed that Richie and Grainge were ready to take their relationship to the next level. “They have talked about getting engaged and it’s something that Sofia wants and is looking forward to. They are a great match and it’s going really well. Sofia and Elliot currently live together and the adjustment has been so easy and seamless.”

The source continued to share with E!News, “They have truly formed a solid bond recently and Sofia loves that they don’t have any drama. She loves how chill and calm Elliot is and they have a lot of fun together, even when they’re just being low-key at home.”

And, unlike her relationship with Scott Disick, Richie’s father is a big supporter of her future with Grainge. The insider revealed, “He thinks they are a perfect match and it was a very natural progression for Sofia and Elliot to get together. They are all family friends and Sofia and Elliot [started] hanging out more recently this year. She thinks he’s hilarious and loves that he is a chill guy.”

Well, with one day down and the rest of the week to go, we’re excited to see what Richie has planned for her bachelorette! And, even better… the wedding!

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