See why we’re having instant coffee:
• Chris Rock’s upcoming comedy, Finally Famous, has added a few new stars to its roster. Sherri Shepherd, Kevin Hart and J.B. Smoove have been added to the cast. The film follows a comedian-turned-actor (Rock) who’s trying to get his career back on track. He owes much of his success, and recovery from alcoholism, to his girlfriend (Gabrielle Union). Hart will play Rock’s Ivy-League educated agent, while Smoove will play Rock’s security guard and assistant. Shepherd has been cast as Rock’s high-school ex-girlfriend. The film is reportedly shooting now. There’s no word when it will premiere. [The Wrap]
• On Tuesday, Fat Joe was sentenced to four months in prison for tax evasion. The rapper neglected to file income tax returns on more than $3.3 million in income. He was also fined $15,000. He was originally charged with not filing income tax returns from 2007 to 2010—however, his charge was reduced after agreeing to a plea deal. Prior to this week’s sentencing, Joe paid back $718,000 in back taxes and did charity work. “There was a lot going on in the years that I did’t file my taxes,” said Joe. “But it was my responsibility.” [Reuters]
• Chris Brown is charged with a misdemeanor hit-and-run after a minor fender-bender on May 21st in San Fernando Valley, California. If Brown is convicted, he will face up to one year in jail. It’s not yet known how his latest run in with law will affect his probation. Brown took to Twitter to clear his name saying he and the driver exchanged information and that neither vehicle suffered damage. [Rolling Stone]
• Rihanna wants the man caught snooping around her property on June 17th to stay far away. The singer’s lawyers appeared in court to seek a temporary restraining order. The judge ordered Robert Melanson to stay 100 yards away from Rihanna, her home and more. Rihanna heads back to court on July 10th to make the restraining order permanent. [TMZ]