After announcing that they would be taking an indefinite break to focus on their various, individual personal and professional career goals, The Black Eyed Peas played one last concert together as a group at The Sun Life Stadium in Miami Wednesday night (Nov 23) for the the final night of their tour.

“Black Eyed Peas is a family. We are friends, and we helped each other get here – and you guys are an extension of that friendship. We are here in this stadium today representing family and love, a day before Thanksgiving, and we thank you guys for the love,” BEP frontman Will.i.am shared with the sold-out crowd.

“We are not breaking up,” Taboo told Reuters on Monday, with Apl.de.ap adding, “We’re going to take a little vacation and focus on our personal things.”

Other performers who shared the stage with the Peas Wednesday night were Queen Latifah, Cee-Lo Green, Sean Kingston, T-Pain, Jason Derulo and Flo Rida (not pictured).

Check out over 10+ pics below:

Pallbearers help carry the casket of rapper Heavy D at his funeral service at Grace Baptist Church on November 18, 2011 in Mount Vernon, New York.

Heavy D, who died at age 44 in Los Angeles from what his family said was complications from pneumonia, was laid to rest in a star studded funeral service in his hometown of Mount Vernon, New York on Friday (Nov 18).

A-List stars like like Jay-Z, Will and Jada Smith, Diddy, Queen Latifah, John Legend, Usher, Samuel L. Jackson and many more were all in attendance at the rap legend’s two-and-a-half hour funeral service at Grace Baptist Church, which was reportedly filled to capacity.

A mourner holds the program for Heavy D's funeral service at Grace Baptist Church on November 18, 2011 in Mount Vernon, New York.

Heavy D’s 11-year-old daughter Xea Myers spoke briefly during the service, telling the mourning attendees that her father was “still here, not in the flesh, but in the spirit.”

Diddy also talked about his late friend, including how he helped give him his start in the music industry, and how their longtime friendship continued up until Heavy D’s death.

“He became my friend. He became my brother, and I’m not talking about friend-brother like we cavalierly use the word, I’m talking about a real friend, a real brother,” Diddy said. “Somebody I shared my dreams and my secrets with, somebody that’s been there for me at my lowest point, my darkest hour when nobody wanted to be beside me.”

President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama even offered a few words of encouragement to Heavy D’s family in the form of a note, which was read aloud by Rev. Al Sharpton:

“We extend our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. He will be remembered for his infectious optimism and many contributions to American music. Please know that you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.”

A memorial fund has been set up to help financially aid Heavy D’s young daughter Xea. Details can be found on the website: http://rememberheavyd.com

R&B singer/songwriter and philanthropist Alicia Keys rounded up some of her A-List celebrity friends to join her last Thursday night (Nov 3) in New York City for her annual Keep A Child Alive Ball.

The gala, which raised $3 million for the children’s charity “Keep A Child Alive” featured appearances from Keys’ husband Swizz Beatz, Serena Williams, Carmelo and LaLa Anthony, Queen Latifah, Kerry Washington, Tyra Banks and more, as well as performances from Usher, Will.i.am, Jay Sean, Nora Jones and Alicia Keys herself, among others.

The $3 million raised will go towards providing lifesaving AIDS treatment, care and support for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and the Middle East.

“I am overwhelmed by the kindness I witnessed last night at the eighth annual Black Ball NY,” Alicia Keys said in a statement. “I am forever grateful to all of our supporters whose generosity will provide AIDS treatment and care for so many in desperate need.”

Look below for 30+ photos from the 2011 Keep A Child Alive Ball:

Lil Wayne poses with his 12-year-old daughter Reginae Carter in the audience at the 2011 BET Awards.

Other famous faces spotted in the crowd of the 11th annual ceremony included Nelly & Ashanti, Nicki Minaj, Diddy, the entire Smith family (Jaden, Willow, Will and Jada), Keri Hilson, Laz Alonso, Big Sean, Mary J. Blige, Justin Bieber and plenty more.

Check out 20+ pics below:

Halle Berry and her daughter Nahla were spotted as they headed out for pizza while out and about in Los Angeles yesterday (Thurs. Jun 23).

Socialite/reality TV star Kim Kardashian was seen going for a yacht ride in New York City Thursday (Jun 23).

Rocker Lenny Kravitz was photographed leaving his downtown hotel in NYC Thursday afternoon.

A friendly Queen Latifah spoke to the paparazzi as she made a stop at Ralph’s grocery store in Los Angeles Thursday.

Kimora Lee and her husband Djimon Hoounsou were spotted leaving Il Pastaio Restaurant in Beverly Hills after having lunch together Wednesday (Jun 22).

Wearing sunglasses and a short pink dress, R&B singer Ashanti greeted fans outside Katsuya restaurant in Hollywood Thursday evening (Jun 23) before a late-night dinner.

Pop singer Jason DeRulo is pictured here leaving the ITV studios in London Thursday afternoon  following a guest appearance on the UK’s “Daybreak” show.

Photogs caught Lady Gaga signing autographs for fans as she was leaving a popular Japanese restaurant while out in Tokyo Wednesday night (Jun 22). Gaga was in Japan to perform at the 2011 MTV Japan Music Awards, held the very next day.

Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick were spotted out together Wednesday in Los Angeles getting back into their convertible Ferrari after spending the afternoon together. Earlier in the day, Kourtney and Scott went out for lunch at Il Pastaio Restaurant before heading to Neiman Marcus for a little shopping.

And Ciara, rocking a figure-hugging horizontally striped dress, was seen out and about in Beverly Hills running errands Wednesday afternoon.

The 2011 BET Awards line-up has just gotten bigger!

In addition to performances from powerhouses Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige, Drake, Beyonce, Alicia Keys and Lil Wayne, BET has added heavy hitters Bruno Mars, Nicki Minaj, Justin Bieber, Queen Latifah and Gladys Knight to their upcoming 11th annual show.

Nicki Minaj is also up for several awards with the likes of fellow Young Money star Drake, as well as her collaborators Kanye West, Rihanna and Trey Songz, fellow performer Bruno Mars, rapper B.o.B., and R&B singer Cee Lo Green.

The 2011 BET Awards airs live from Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium on June 26th.

No one says “goodbye” like Oprah!

A bunch of the media mogul’s most famous friends, including Beyonce, Stevie Wonder, Jamie Foxx, Alicia Keys and many more packed into the United Center in Chicago for “Surprise Oprah! A Farewell Spectacular,” a star-studded send-off for the legendary talk show host.

Beyonce kicked off the festivities with a performance of her new single “Run the World (Girls),” which was followed by a poem recital from Maya Angelou (accompanied by Alicia Keys on the piano), a performance from music legend Aretha Franklin, an appearance from Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, a performance from Usher and more. The event also featured appearances form many other celebrities, including Tyler Perry, Tom Hanks, Maria Shriver (Arnold Schwarzenegger’s estranged wife), Simon Cowell, Patti Labelle, Tom Cruise & Katie Holmes and tons more.

“Surprise Oprah! A Farewell Spectacular” will air on television today (May 23) and tomorrow (May 24).

Check out tons of pics, as well as video footage of Beyonce’s performance, below:

Actress/Singer/Rapper Queen Latifah was spotted grabbing a late lunch on Tuesday (Jan 11) at Urth Cafe in Los Angeles, CA.

Latifah, who recently hosted the People’s Choice Awards, smiled for the paps as she walked to her Mustang convertible looking comfy and laid back in some kicks and a jacket.

More pics of the Queen below!

Celebs were front and center last Wednesday night (Jan 5) as they attended the Covergirl 50th Anniversary Celebration at BOA Steakhouse in West Hollywood, CA.

Some of the famous faces who walked the red carpet and were spotted inside the shindig were Queen Latifah, Taylor Swift, Raven Symone, Hank Baskett & his wife Kendra Wilkinson, Ellen DeGeneres & her wife Portia de Rossi, and more.

Check out 15+ pics below!

Well looky here…

A couple of weeks ago we posted pictures of Queen Latifah and her longtime “girlfriend,” Hollywood trainer Jeanette Jenkins, all boo’d up and groping each other on a private yacht off the coast of France. The pair were spending some QT together alongside their newly married friends Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz who were having their honeymoon at the time.

Well since then, Alicia and Swizzy have left Europe…..and apparently so has the Queen’s “girl” Jeanette, because Queen Latifah was just spotted late last week sight-seeing in Spain with ANOTHER woman who we know was most definitely NOT Jeanette! According to paps on the scene, the two did a little sight-seeing and grabbed drinks in Barcelona, Spain before heading to La Santa Maria for a “romantic dinner.”

…. Queen’s a pimp! Juggling two women at once? Play on, playa! (LOL) Peep the pics of Queen Latifah and her mystery woman hanging out in Spain below…

Expectant newlyweds Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz shared their honeymoon with Queen Latifah and her girlfriend Hollywood trainer Jeanette Jenkins aboard a yacht called “the Obsession” off the coast of France.

Alicia showed off her baby bump in a bikini as the couples were spotted relaxing aboard the boat and enjoying each other’s company Wednesday afternoon (Aug 4). Paparazzi nearby even managed to snap a few pics of Jeannette grabbing the Queen’s junk as the two shared an embrace on the balcony of the boat.

Check out 10+ pictures of Alicia, Swizzy, Queen Latifah and Jeanette having a couple’s retreat on the Obsession off the coast of St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France below…

Photos: Just Jared

Diddy brought along his Dirty Money crew to help him, Queen Latifah and network exec. Stephen Hill announce the nominees and performers for the upcoming 2010 BET Awards, which will be held next month in Los Angeles. Leading the nods is Hollywood power couple Jay-Z and Beyonce, who each have 5 and 4 nominations respectively. Other artists to note are Alicia Keys, Trey Songz and Melanie Fiona, who all have 4 nods a piece. Even teen pop sensation Justin Bieber scored himself a nomination of his own!

As far as performers are concerned, only three names have been announced so far: Drake, Trey Songz and Nicki Minaj. But expect more names to be added to the list soon! The 2010 BET Awards are scheduled to air live from Los Angeles on June 27th and will be hosted by Queen Latifah. And Diddy will host the post-show as he counts down the release of his new album Last Train to Paris, which is set to be released at midnight following the BET Awards.

Check out a few pictures from the 2010 BET Awards press conference at the Rooftop Garden in New York City Tuesday (May 18) below and continue reading for the full list of nominees…

Best Female R&B Artist
Beyonce
Mary J. Blige
Melanie Fiona
Alicia Keys
Rihanna

Best Male R&B Artist
Chris Brown
Raheem DeVaughn
Maxwell
Trey Songz
Usher

Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Ester Dean
Lil Kim
Nicki Minaj
Rasheeda
Trina

Best Male Hip Hop Artist
B.o.B
Drake
Fabolous
Jay-Z
Ludacris

Best New Artist
Justin Bieber
Melanie Fiona
Nicki Minaj
Wale
Young Money

Best Gospel
The Anointed Pace Sisters
Kirk Franklin Presents: Artists United for Haiti
Tamela Mann
Marvin Sapp
Vickie Winans

Best Group
Black Eyed Peas
Clipse
Diddy-Dirty Money
New Boyz
Young Money

Best Collaboration
Beyoncé (F/ Lady Gaga) – “Video Phone”
B.o.B (F/ Bruno Mars) – Nothin’ on You
Drake and Trey Songz – “Successful”
Drake (F/ Lil Wayne, Kanye West and Eminem) – “Forever”
Jay-Z and Alicia Keys – “Empire State of Mind”
Trey Songz (F/ Fabolous) – “Say Aah”

Video Director of the Year
Benny Boom
Gil Green
Anthony Mandler
Chris Robinson
Hype Williams

Video of the Year
Beyonce (F/ Lady Gaga) – “Video Phone”
B.o.B (F/ Bruno Mars) – “Nothin’ on You”
Melanie Fiona – “It Kills Me”
Jay-Z and Alicia Keys – “Empire State of Mind”
Jay-Z, Rihanna and Kanye West – “Run This Town”

Best Actress
Taraji P. Henson
Regina King
Mo’Nique
Zoe Saldana
Gabourey Sidibe

Best Actor
Quinton Aaron
Don Cheadle
Idris Elba
Jamie Foxx
Denzel Washington

Best Movie
“Avatar”
“Law Abiding Citizen”
“Michael Jackson’s This Is It”
“Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire”
“The Blind Side”

Young Stars Award
Selena Gomez
Lil JJ
Keke Palmer
Willow Smith
Tyler James Williams

Subway Sportswoman of the Year
Tamika Catchings
Vanessa James
Candace Parker
Serena Williams
Venus Williams

Subway Sportsman of the Year
Carmelo Anthony
Usain Bolt
Kobe Bryant
LeBron James
Tiger Woods

Viewer’s Choice
Beyonce – “Sweet Dreams”
Jay-Z and Alicia Keys – “Empire State of Mind”
Monica – “Everything to Me”
Rihanna (F/ Young Jeezy) – “Hard”
Trey Songz (F/ Fabolous) – “Say Aah”
Young Money (F/ Lloyd) – “Bedrock”

Best International Act
Kojo Antwi (Ghana)
Chipmunk (U.K.)
Dizzee Rascal (U.K.)
Estelle (U.K.)
Hip Hop Pantsula (South Africa)
K’NAAN (Somalia)
M.I. (Nigeria)
P-Square (Nigeria)
Corinne Bailey Rae (U.K.)
Sade (U.K.)

Centric Award
Melanie Fiona
Maxwell
Chrisette Michele
Monica
Sade

Queen Latifah says that everyone liked her at her high school, even though her mom was a teacher at the same school. On the newest episode of MTV‘s “When I Was 17,” the now 40-year-old actress/rapper recalls being very popular in her late teens despite being the teacher’s kid:

“When I was 17, I attended the same high school my mother taught at,” Queen Latifah reveals during the next episode of MTV‘s new show “When I Was 17,” which airs Saturday at 11 a.m. and also features Drake and Olympic softball player Jennie Finch. “Now this may sound like a bad thing to a lot of people, but thank God my mother was the cool teacher that everyone liked.”

The rapper-turned-Oscar-nominated actress isn’t telling a tall tale, according to manager Sha-Kim Compere, who was a fellow classmate. “You would gravitate to her because of her free spirit,” he said of Latifah’s mother, an Irvington High School teacher in New Jersey. “She was one of the friendliest people.” Well, apparently, like mother like daughter, because Latifah explains that in high school, she was voted most comical and most popular by her peers. “I was that girl,” she says. “That’s how the people voted, and I have to honor the request of the people.”

This episode also features rapper Drake and Olympic softball player Jennie Flinch, and will air tomorrow morning (Sat. May 15) at 11 am on MTV. Take a gander at a younger Queen Latifah below and continue reading for video footage from tomorrow’s episode!

New mom Christina Milian hung out with her girlfriends last late last night and here she and her girls can be seen on their way out of the Hollywood Roosevelt in California early this morning (Thurs. May 13).

Former “Dancing with the Stars” contestant Niecy Nash and her dance partner Louis Van Amstel were spotted as they made their way into ABC studios earlier today in New York City. Despite being eliminated from the show this week, Niecy looked to be in good spirits.

LL Cool J stopped for a quick picture outside of ABC studios in Manhattan, New York City today before heading about his way following an appearance on “The View.”

R&B singer Toni Braxton signed autographs for a few fans outside of BBC Radio Two Studios over in London, England yesterday (Wed. May 12). The 8-time Grammy winner is promoting her new album Pulse in Europe. Pulse is Toni’s first album in five years.

Singer Kelis looked “fur”-ocious as she exited BBC Maida Vale studios in London Wednesday following an appearance on “The Live Lounge.” Se’s also in Europe promoting her new project. Flesh Tone, Kelis’ first album in four years, is due to be released in the UK next Monday (May 17). US fans will have to wait until July 6th for the new album to drop.

Singer turned reality TV star Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas from legendary the R&B group TLC showed off her custom handbag bearing her son Tron‘s picture while out and about in Beverly Hills Tuesday afternoon (May 11). You can catch Chilli weekly on her new VH1 reality series “What Chilli Wants.”

Still in heavy promo mode for her new movie “Just Wright,” actress Queen Latifah was spotted arriving at (left) and leaving (right) the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City Tuesday for an appearance on David Letterman.

Pop singer Britney Spears was spotted on the set of a new commercial for Candies Tuesday in Santa Monica, California.

Jennifer Lopez and her husband Marc Anthony were seen walking hand in hand as they went shopping together at the Pucci boutique while on vacation in St. Tropez Monday (May 10).

And funnyman Marlon Wayans was spotted after grabbing a few items at the grocery store in Los Angeles on Mother’s Day (Sun. May 9).

Newly single actress Halle Berry was spotted in Burbank, CA as she visited a friend in the area Wednesday afternoon (May 5).

Rapper/actor Common was all smiles in Soho, New York City yesterday (Wed. May 5) before he made his way to the Ziegfield Theater for the premiere of his new movie “Just Wright.”

Common’s co-star Queen Latifah was spotted outside of ABC studios to record an appearance on “Good Morning America” in an effort to promote “Just Wright” Wednesday.

The paps caught country/pop music sensation Taylor Swift getting some shopping in at an antique store in New York City Wednesday.

British singer Leona Lewis was spotted on her way out of the BBC Radio One studios in London Wednesday afternoon. The X Factor winner was kind enough to sign a few autographs for fans before going on her way.

Singer/songwriter Justin Timberlake and his girlfriend actress Jessica Biel were spotted leaving a restaurant in the Tribeca district of Lower Manhattan, New York City yesterday morning after grabbing a quick bite to eat for breakfast.

Actress Kerry Washington paid a visit to the “Late Show with David Letterman” Wednesday and can be seen here posing for a few quick pictures for the paparazzi outside the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City where the late-night talk show is filmed.

Actor/comedian Chris Rock was seen avoiding traffic while crossing the street in Manhattan Wednesday afternoon.

NYC shutterbugs caught comedian/actor Steve Harvey as he left his hotel in New York City Wednesday.

Fame-whore Tila Tequila was spotted arriving at Luxor Resort Casino’s LAX Nightclub in Las Vegas Wednesday night. She was there to kick off Cinco de Mayo festivities and performed her new single “I Love My DJ.”

Co-stars Common and Queen Latifah posed for a few pictures together at the premiere of their new movie “Just Wright” Tuesday evening (May 4) at New York City’s Ziegfield Theater. The film hits theaters next Friday (May 14).

Other celebs at the movie premiere were Nick Cannon, Toccara Jones, Dwyane Wade, Laz Alonso and more. 10+ Pictures of the folks mentioned and a few others at the “Just Wright” film premiere below…

Now that they are running things in the world of reality television, VH1 is trying its hand at an original series! Actresses LisaRaye McCoy and Stacey Dash both recently revealed to Vibe Magazine that they will be starring alongside fellow actress Lauren London in VH1′s first ever scripted series, “Single Ladies.”

The show was written by former “Living Single” star Queen Latifah and will begin four-day rehearsals and filming in Atlanta this week. “Single Ladies” is said to appeal to fans of shows like “Girlfriends” and “Sex In The City.” No word just yet on when the new show will hit television but continue reading for more details…

“When Girlfriends got off the TV we didn’t have anything else to relate to,” says McCoy.”This would be something else as a series so we can do more and be a little bit more risqué.” Dash—who was first vying for a reality show with VH1—plays a celebrity stylist who is experiencing autonomy for the first time. “My character is very similar to my own life because I’ve never been single. Literally, since I’ve been 17 years old. She’s never been married, the character than I’m playing, whereas I’ve been married three times, so that’s the difference,” Dash says. “It’s a really good script.”

McCoy’s character, a video vixen, is a bit more experienced than Dash’s. “She doesn’t have one of anything nor does she believe in having one man. She believes in dating and being able to explore her possibilities. She’s much like Samantha of Sex in the City,” explains the Player’s Club star. “Very straight up and honest. She’s the one that has that spunk, I’d like to say that she’s the slut of the three.” McCoy, currently starring in her own reality show, TV One’s The Real McCoy, also mentioned to VIBE that London plays a younger, semi-shy character married to an NBA player. Although London will be a recurring character in the show, her rep confirms that the role is small.

Will you be tuning in?

The annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner was held over the weekend (Sat. May 1) at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C. This year’s dinner featured comedian Jay Leno and was attended by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.

Some of the celebrities who were seen at the event were Justin Bieber, Gabourey Sidibe, Jessica Simpson, Kim Kardashian, Rosario Dawson, Queen Latifah, the Jonas Brothers and more. Check out 20+ pictures below and when you continue reading…

VH1 reality stars Fantasia, Ray J and Brandy posed for pics together at the VH1 Upfront 2010 presentation yesterday (Mon. Apr 20) at Pier 59 studios in New York City.

Brandy and Ray J’s parents Sonja and Willie Norwood, Terrell Owens, Queen Latifah and more were also spotted on the red carpet of the event, which featured a performance from Fantasia, who is gearing up to release her next album.

Check out pics of Fantasia kissing on Ray J and more from the 2010 VH1 Upfront event below and when you continue reading…

The 82nd Annual Academy Awards, also known simply as “The Oscars,” was held Sunday night (Mar 7) in Los Angeles at the Kodak Theater. Some of the celebrities who walked the red carpet were Mariah Carey and her husband Nick Cannon, Mo’Nique, Gabby Sidibe, Jennifer Lopez, Paula Patton and her husband Robin Thicke, and more.

Check out 20+ pictures of celebs walking the red carpet at the 2010 Oscars, the biggest night in Hollywood, below and when you continue reading…

It looks as though the 3rd Annual Essence Magazine Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon was the place to be! Held Thursday night (Mar 4) at the Beverly Hills Hotel in California, the annual event honored a room full of women, including Cicely Tyson, Gabourey Sidibe, Zoe Saldana, Queen Latifah, Mary J. Blige and more for their achievements in Hollywood and in the entertainment industry.

Other celebs in the building were Common, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, Keri Hilson, Serena Williams, Vivica A. Fox and tons more. Check out 30+ pictures from the 3rd Annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon below and when you continue reading…

A large number of celebrities took part in helping BET raise money for Haiti relief Friday night (Feb 5) at the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami, FL during the BET SOS Saving Ourselves – Help for Haiti benefit concert, which was hosted by Queen Latifah, Diddy and Pharrell Williams. Artists like Chris Brown, Monica, Ludacris, Justin Bieber, Nas and Haiti’s own Wyclef Jean took to the stage and performed while folks like Common, Spike Lee, Trey Songz, Mike Tyson and more manned the telephone lines.

Continue reading for 30+ pictures of celebrities at the BET SOS Saving Ourselves – Help For Haiti concert…

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES / WIRE IMAGE

As part of media week for the upcoming Super Bowl XLIV football game, Queen Latifah and Carrie Underwood attended the Pregame show and National Press Conference at the Ford Lauderdale Convention Center in Florida yesterday (Thurs. Feb 4).

The singers, who will both be performing just before the Super Bowl goes down on Sunday (Feb 7), busted out and performed a rendition of General Larry Platt’s “Pants on the Ground” in front of the media at the press conference.

Underwood, a former winner of American Idol, was joking asked about the cultural significance of the song: “As a songwriter I know we all aspire to write something that is catchy and has a message. And I think the youth of America can learn a lot from Pants on the Ground. And they can pull their pants up … because it causes all kinds of back problems. I’ve seen the studies.”

USA TODAY

Carrie will sing the national anthem prior to Sunday’s game between the Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints while Queen Latifah will perform America the Beautiful. Both performers are rooting for the New Orleans Saints. More pics of the Queen and the Underwood below and a video can be found of the pair talking to the press when you continue reading…

Actress/musician Queen Latifah played host to the 2010 People’s Choice Awards, held Wednesday night (Jan 6) at the Nokia Theatre L.A. Live in Los Angeles. Latifah and rapper/actor LL Cool J presented the “Favorite Female Artist” award to Taylor Swift together during the show.

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES / WIRE IMAGE

Actor/musician Queen Latifah was spotted promoting her new “Queen” fragrance Tuesday afternoon (Nov 24) at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City.

The Queen says she smelled about 50 different fragrances before picking the winner. She said the reason for the dilemma was that many of the fragrances were “a little too mature or a little sweet.”

Queen Latifah’s latest album, Persona, is in stores now…

PHOTOS: GETTY / WIRE

Black Hollywood came out in droves Sunday night (Nov 1) to support the AFI Fest 2009 Screening of the new movie “Precious,” which stars newcomer Gabourey Sidibe and actress/comedienne turned late night talk show host Mo’Nique.

Some of the big names who walked down the red carpet of the big Hollywood event, held at were Oprah, Tyler Perry, Queen Latifah, Mariah Carey, Nick Cannon, Mary J. Blige, Will Smith and much much more.

Check out a ton of pics from the “Precious” screening after the break! And be on the look-out for the movie when it releases to theaters nationwide this Friday (Nov. 6).

Here are some new photos of various celebrities conducting their every day (seemingly normal) lives!

First up we have Kim Kardashian and her BFF Brittny Gastineau, who were both spotted doing some shopping at Barneys New York in Los Angeles Friday afternoon (Oct 23). Rapper/actress Queen Latifah was seen leaving Urth Cafe after a morning work-out in West Hollywood Friday morning (Oct 23). And the west coast paparazzi also snapped some pics of singer/actress Brandy as she did some shopping on Robertson Blvd in Los Angeles Sunday (Oct 25).

Check out all of the pictures below!

As you may already know, Queen Latifah has returned to her roots as an emcee and recently released her new music video for “Fast Car,” which features fellow female rapper Missy Elliott. In the video, directed by Juwan Lee, you’ll also see cameo appearances from Angie Martinez, Jadakiss, Paula Patton, Robin Thicke, Common and Cool & Dre, the duo who produced the track.

Queen Latifah’s seventh studio album, Persona, is in stores now! Continue reading to peep the new video.

R&B singer/songwriter Mary J. Blige, supermodel Naomi Campbell and actress Regina King attended the 4th annual “Black Girls Rock!” awards Saturday evening (Oct 17), held this year at the New York Times Center. Other famous faces at the event were Raven Symone, Janelle Monae, Queen Latifah and more.

Continue reading for all of the pics!

R&B singer/songwriter Alicia Keys played host to her sixth annual Black Ball to benefit the “Keep A Child Alive” AIDS organization Thursday night (Oct 15) at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City. The huge celebrity guest list at the event included Halle Berry, Usher, Samuel L. Jackson, Nick Cannon, Tyler Perry, Robin Thicke, Mary J. Blige and more. Alicia performed with John Mayer at the event, and also premiered her new song “Sleeping with a Broken Heart.”

You can check out a lot more pictures from the red carpet and inside the Ball when you continue reading!

Co-stars Queen Latifah and Common shared a hug as they posed for a picture at the “Just Wright” wrap party at Greenhouse Tuesday night (Aug 25) in New York City. Other celebs who attended the celebration include Paula Patton, Robin Thicke, Serena Williams and more. Continue reading to check out all of the pics!

Rapper/singer/actress Queen Latifah filmed her music video for “Fast Cars,” the first single from her upcoming 7th studio album, Persona, at the Wall Township Speedway in Belmar, NJ Sunday afternoon (Aug 23). In addition to the Queen, the video will feature her “Just Wright” co-stars Common and Paula Patton, along with Paula Patton’s husband, singer/songwriter Robin Thicke. The 2010 Ford Mustang will also be the center of the attention in the clip.

In related news, it’s being reported that she, along with Victoria Beckham, is in line to take Paula Abdul‘s spot in the upcoming season of American Idol. Despite reports of Jennifer Lopez being set to be the new judge, reports state that she’s only been asked to do a couple of guest spots in the future. But all of this is pure speculation as nothing has been confirmed by Fox or American Idol execs.

D/L: QUEEN LATIFAH – PEOPLE

Rapper/actor Common and rapper/singer/actress Queen Latifah were spotted on the streets of Manhattan in New York City Tuesday afternoon (Jul 28) as they filmed scenes for their new movie “Just Wright.”

The movie, set to release sometime in 2010, revolves around a sports trainer who finds herself falling in love with a professional basketball player while rehabilitating him from a career-threatening injury.

In a move that surprised damn near everyone, Lil Kim and Cyndi Lauper performed “Time After Time” on stage together Saturday night (Jul 18) at the Mandela Day 46664 Celebration Concert … and Lil Kim sang! Albeit, Kim didn’t do very well with her vocals but we give her credit for being bold enough to do something like that in front of so many people. With a little more confidence and some vocal training, homegirl might be able to carry a little tune!

Alicia Keys, Will.i.am, Aretha Franklin and more also helped Nelson Mandela celebrate his 91st birthday at the annual 46664 event, which was held this year at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall. Continue reading for more pics and for the video of Kim performing.

[VIDEO] LIL KIM & CYNDI LAUPER PERFORMING “TIME AFTER TIME”

PHOTOS: WIRE IMAGE / GETTY IMAGES

Here’s a newly released photo of Kim Kardashian and her boyfriend, NFL star Reggie Bush, touring the Motswedi Rehabilitation Centre over in Mochudi, Botswana (a city in southern Africa) on Tuesday (Jul 14). Kim and Reggie both are over there for charity as a part of the Russell Simmons Diamond Empowerment fund.

We also posted new candid photos of Queen Latifah, Evan Ross, Venus Williams and more. Continue reading for all of the new pics.

PHOTOS: WENN / FILM MAGIC / WIRE IMAGE / GETTY IMAGES

Check out these recent pictures of celebrities attending different events this week.

John Legend performed at Hard Rock Live, Kim Kardashian and her sister Khloe hit up the Three-O Vodka Bubble launch and Nelly helped Pokerstars.net celebrate The World Series of Poker in Vegas.

Continue reading to see photos of Queen Latifah, Jeremy Piven and more!

PHOTOS: WENN / WIRE IMAGE / GETTY IMAGES / FILM MAGIC

Here is the final batch of photos from Michael Jackon‘s public memorial service. On Tuesday, July 7th 2009, celebrities, dignitaries, and MJ fans alike all packed into the Staples Arena in Los Angeles to celebrate the life of an icon that was taken away from us way too soon. Above, R&B singer Usher can be seen posing with a very pregnant Jennifer Hudson backstage just before the memorial commenced. Continue reading to see photos of the different celebrities (Chris Brown, Wesley Snipes, Spike Lee, Kim Kardashian and more) who attended the ceremony.

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Wearing dark sunglasses and a single yellow rose pinned to his jacket, a noticeably emotional Usher performed “Gone Too Soon,” a track from Michael Jackson‘s 1991 Dangerous album, at the King of Pop’s farewell service Tuesday (Jul 7) in Los Angeles at the Staples Center.

Other celebrities and important public figures who spoke and/or performed at the public ceremony include Queen Latifah, Smokey Robinson, Rev. Al Sharpton, Mariah Carey, Jennifer Hudson, and more. Continue reading to check out all of the pictures.

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Perhaps the most touching moment of Michael Jackson‘s public memorial at the Staples Center in Los Angeles was when his 11-year-old daughter, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, made her impromptu speech about her dad:

“Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. I just want to say I love him so much.”

She then broke down in tears and was immediately consoled by her aunt Janet, who was standing right beside her the entire time. A very sad and touching moment indeed. Continue reading for that video and videos of all of the people (Brooke Shields, Queen Latifah, his brother Marlon Jackson and more) who went up to say what Michael Jackson meant to them and to the world.

MJ’s Daughter Paris Michael Katherine Jackson

Brooke Shields

Queen Latifah

Kobe Bryant & Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Barry Gordy

Martin Luther King III and Bernice King

MJ’s Brothers Jermaine & Marlon Jackson

Smokey Robinson

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee

Beyonce was among many performers who took the stage Friday night (Jul 3) in New Orleans during Day 1 of the 2009 Essence Music Festival. The Coca-Cola sponsored event also saw performances from Ne-Yo, John Legend, and others. Continue reading for lots of pics from day one of the event and keep checking back as we upload photos from the entire weekend!

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Here Jamie Foxx can be seen paying tribute to Michael Jackson (comedically, of course) as the host of the 2009 BET Awards, which aired live from Los Angeles Sunday night (Jun 28) on BET. Jamie Foxx is probably one of the few people who can make light of a sad situation and have everyone laughing and crying at the same time. The BET Awards was supposed to dedicate the entire show to Michael, per the press release sent out Friday, but failed to impress.

The show itself was pretty good, but they should have never mentioned dedicating the show to MIchael if they didn’t have the time to do it right. That said, we really hope they put together an entire special to honor the late King of Pop so they can at least try to save face. But for now, continue reading for photos of Soulja Boy, Jay-Z, Monica, Beyonce, Ne-Yo and many more celebrities who participated in this year’s BET Awards.

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Ne-Yo and his girlfriend Tenille Jiminez stopped for a quick pic in the audience as they watched the 2009 BET Awards go down at the Shrine Auditorium Sunday (Jun 28) in Los Angeles. Continue reading for lots of pics of celebrities like Beyonce, Kanye West, Soulja Boy, Keri Hilson, Monica, Keyshia Cole, Lil Wayne and much more chilling in the audience and backstage at the show.

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Actress Queen Latifah and NY Giants defensive end Justin Tuck participated in the 2009 Atlantic League All-Star Game and the Hot 97 vs. KISS-FM Celebrity Softball Showdown, held at Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium Tuesday afternoon (Jun 23) in Newark, New Jersey. Other celebs at the event were Adrienne Bailon, Kerry Rhodes & Thomas Jones of the NY Jets and more. Continue reading for all of the pics from the game.

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Queen Latifah recently revealed in her July 2009 cover story for Essence Magazine that as a child, she was sexually abused by a teenager who was taking care of her.

“He violated me,” she says of the abuser. “I never told anybody; I just buried it as deeply as I could and kept people at an arm’s distance. I never really let a person get too close to me. I could have been married years ago, but I had a commitment issue.” Eventually, she opened up to her parents, who separated when she was young.

“When I was 22, my brother died, and I knew that I couldn’t carry his death and that secret,” she says. “I had to get it off my chest. My mother felt terrible. She was kind of a country girl, so she wasn’t up on how slick people could be. When I told my dad, he said nothing.” Latifah says now that it was scary when her father didn’t respond. “He’s a man of action,” she says.

SOURCE: ESSENCE

Read all about this and more in the latest issue of Essence Magazine, on stands now.

Actress Queen Latifah attended the 2009 Fidelity FutureStage Finale Monday (Jun 15) night at The Imperial in New York. Continue reading for more pics of her performing and posing for pics on the red carpet of the event.

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One of Hollywood’s hottest married couples, Will Smitth and Jada Pinkett Smith, were spotted outside the Ed Sullivan Theater after Jada taped a recent appearance on the “Late Show with David Letterman” Monday (Jun 15) in New York City. Jada’s new television series, “Hawthorne,” premieres tonight at 9/8c on TNT.

Funnyman Jack Black (we love this guy!) was also spotted outside of the Ed Sullivan theater after his taping of “The Late Show with David Letterman” Monday (Jun 15) in NYC. His latest film, Year One, hits theaters this Friday, June 19th!

Actress Queen Latifah was sighted by the paps as the left her hotel in New York City, located in Midtown Manhattan, Monday (Jun 15).

R&B/gospel singer Ruben Studdard was spotted outside of MTV Studios Monday (Jun 15).

Actress Elise Neal and TV personality Claudia Jordan were both spotted on Robertson Blvd buying strawberries after having lunch at The Ivy Monday (Jun 15) in Los Angeles.

Singer Nick Lachey and his girlfriend Vanessa Minnillo were spotted boo’d up Monday (Jun 15) in the West Hollywood section of Los Angeles, CA.

Gym Class Heroes frontman (and MTV Ambassador) Travis McCoy met Bulelani Mvotho (left), the recipient of the 2009 Staying Alive Foundation Award, Monday (Jun 15) in Cape Town, South Africa. MTV’s Staying Alive initiative is an organization that is helping to raise awareness of youth-driven HIV prevention over in Africa.

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BET Networks recently announced via press release that rappers Jay-Z, Fabolous and Young Jeezy and gospel duo Mary Mary have all been added to the official line-up of performers for the 2009 BET Awards. The annual ceremony’s star-studded line-up of performers already includes platinum-selling artists like Beyonce, Kanye West, The Dream, Soulja Boy, Ne-Yo and Maxwell so the new additions to the roster will no doubt be in good company.

The popular African American entertainment network also announced that Queen Latifah, Taraji P. Henson, Sherri Shepherd, Idris Elba, Paula Patton and Solange Knowles have all been confirmed as presenters at the show, which will take place live via Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium on Sunday, June 28th at 8:00 P.M.

Actor/comedian Jamie Foxx is set to host the show. Hit up the show’s official website for more details, including the nominees, honorees and everything else in between!

Actress Kate Walsh and Sean Diddy Combs posed for a pic together on the red carpet of the 37th Annual FiFi Awards Wednesday (May 27) at The Armory in New York City. The annual ceremony, attended by over 1,000 members of the international fragrance community, is sponsored by The Fragrance Foundation and honors the creativity of the fragrance industry.

The awards are presented by celebrities from the world of fashion, theater, film and television. Other celebrity attendees were Paris Hilton, Queen Latifah, Mary J. Blige and fashion designer Marc Ecko. Continue reading for all of the pics!

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Queen Latifah celebrated her 39th birthday Saturday night at SIR Studios in Hollywood, and the celebrity guest list included the likes of Kim Kardashian, Lil Kim, MC Lyte, David Banner, Vivica A. Fox and more. Continue reading to peep the rest of the pics and to see who else hit up Dana’s birthday party!

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