Here’s why we’re adding some extra sugar and cream to our coffee today:
- Rapper Andre “3000” Benjamin’s father has passed away. A spokesperson for the band confirmed that Lawrence Walker died in Atlanta on Wednesday. The details of the death are unclear however it has been reported that Walker was chopping wood for his fireplace and suffered a heart attack when he returned indoors. The news comes less than a year after Benjamin lost his mother, Sharon Benjamin-Hodo. Our deepest condolences go out to Benjamin and his family. [HipHopWired]
- Think Like a Man star Romany Malco has been cast as the lead in ABC’s Kevin Hart pilot Keep it Together. The multi-camera comedy is based on Hart’s life and takes a humorous look at the post-divorce life of a couple trying to work on their friendship for the sake of the children. Hart is expected to have a recurring role if the pilot moves to a series. [HollywoodReporter]
- Sheryl Lee Ralph is gearing up to bring the musical Mighty Real: A Fabulous Sylvester Musical back to New York. The Off-Broadway production, written by Anthony Wayne, tells the life story of disco icon Sylvester through his music. “I know Sylvester is singing and dancing under that great disco ball in heaven and we prepare to light up Broadway with his music and memory,” said Ralph. The production opens September 12. [TheUrbanDaily]
- Actor Anthony Mackie is currently hosting season 6 of the annual AfroPop documentary series, which chronicles pop culture across the African diaspora. The entire series is streaming online through March 17. Catch the pick-up basketball documentary Doin’ It in the Park.