Obamas May Produce Tiger Woods Film Chronicling His Greatest Run in Golf

A film about Tiger Woods’ rise to golf dominance is in development at Amazon MGM Studios, with Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, Higher Ground, in talks to produce.

According to Deadline, the movie will be directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, who helmed the critically acclaimed King Richard, the biopic about Venus and Serena Williams’ father that won Will Smith an Academy Award. The project will adapt Kevin Cook’s book, “Tiger Slam: The Inside Story of the Greatest Golf Ever Played,” focusing on Woods’ legendary run of four consecutive major championship wins between 2000 and 2001.

While Woods’ career has been marked by both triumph and controversy, the film will steer clear of his personal scandals and legal troubles, instead spotlighting his early dominance in golf. In 1997, Woods became the first Black golfer to win a major tournament, revolutionizing the sport and inspiring a new generation. Three years later, he achieved what became known as the “Tiger Slam,” winning the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, PGA Championship, and the Masters in succession — an accomplishment unmatched in modern golf.

Cook’s book details Woods’ tactical genius, mental discipline, and unrelenting pursuit of perfection, with insights from his caddies, coaches, and competitors.

Should Higher Ground officially join the project, it would mark another high-profile sports venture for the Obamas’ company. Their previous work includes the Netflix basketball documentaries “The Starting Five” and “The Redeem Team,” as well as the civil rights biopic “Rustin.”

Irwin Winkler, the legendary producer behind “Rocky,” “Creed” and “Goodfellas,” is also attached.

Despite injuries threatening his career in recent years, Woods has remained an enduring figure in golf. Last December, he partnered with his 15-year-old son, Charlie Woods, at the PNC Championship, showing glimpses of his old form. He continues to make select tournament appearances, though his latest Achilles injury puts his future in doubt.

The timeline for the film’s release remains unclear, but Amazon MGM has ramped up its theatrical investments, planning 12 to 14 major releases per year starting in 2026.

This biopic will be the latest in a string of Woods-related projects, following HBO’s two-part “Tiger” documentary, which examined both his meteoric rise and the scandals that led to his temporary fall from grace.

omingo Earns Second Consecutive Best Actor Nod, Following in Denzel Washington’s Footsteps

Colman Domingo, nominated for Best Actor at the 97th Academy Awards for his role in Sing Sing, continues to make history with back-to-back Oscar nods. He is the first actor to achieve this milestone since Denzel Washington in 2018. (Photo: Courtesy of A24)

The 97th Academy Awards nominations have been announced, offering a glimpse into the year’s most celebrated achievements in film. From blockbuster spectacles to groundbreaking performances, the list reveals a dynamic field of contenders. The Oscars, set to air live on March 2, will once again take place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, showcasing the best of global cinema.

This year’s nominations are particularly significant for Colman Domingo, who made history in 2024 as the first Afro-Latino to earn a Best Actor nomination for “Rustin.” Domingo has now secured his second consecutive nod, this time for his stirring performance in “Sing Sing,” a deeply moving film about the resilience and humanity of incarcerated individuals. He becomes the first actor to achieve back-to-back nominations in the category since Denzel Washington’s dual nods for “Fences” (2017) and “Roman J. Israel, Esq.” (2018).

Domingo’s nomination not only underscores his immense talent but also highlights a significant shift in Hollywood toward recognizing more diverse voices and stories. He joins a competitive Best Actor lineup that includes Adrien Brody (“The Brutalist”), Timothée Chalamet (“A Complete Unknown”), Ralph Fiennes (“Conclave”), and Sebastian Stan (“The Apprentice”).

Spotlight on Black Excellence and Representation

The 2025 Oscars are a banner year for Black artists across multiple categories. Cynthia Erivo, celebrated for her powerhouse performances on both stage and screen, earned a nomination for Actress in a Leading Role for her portrayal of Elphaba in “Wicked.” The film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical received widespread recognition, including a Best Picture nod and a Supporting Actress nomination for Ariana Grande.

Zoe Saldaña also shines among this year’s nominees, earning a Supporting Actress nod for her performance in “Emilia Pérez,” a genre-defying musical that has captivated audiences worldwide. The film, which blends themes of identity and artistry, earned multiple nominations, including for Best International Feature.

The Best Original Song category further amplifies Black artists’ contributions, with Abraham Alexander and Adrian Quesada’s “Like a Bird” from “Sing Sing” joining a competitive slate of nominees.

A Broader Field of Stories

While Black artists and narratives are receiving well-deserved recognition, the Oscars also celebrate diverse storytelling across genres. Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic “Dune: Part Two” leads the technical categories, earning nominations for Cinematography, Visual Effects, and Sound, among others. “Wicked” dazzled with its lush production, earning nods for Costume Design, Production Design, and Film Editing, while films like “Nosferatu” and “The Brutalist” showcased bold and inventive cinematic visions.

In the animated realm, “Inside Out 2” and “Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl” headline the Best Animated Feature category, reaffirming the Academy’s commitment to honoring creativity in all its forms. Documentary categories, meanwhile, spotlight urgent and compelling narratives, including “Black Box Diaries” and “Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat.”

Domingo’s Legacy in the Making

As the Oscars near, Colman Domingo’s historic nomination continues to resonate. His back-to-back recognition not only cements his place in Hollywood history but also serves as a reminder of the power of representation on the industry’s biggest stage. Through performances that celebrate the complexity and depth of Black experiences, Domingo stands as a beacon of what Hollywood’s future can look like.

“I’ve always wanted to tell stories that matter,” Domingo said in a recent interview. “This recognition isn’t just for me—it’s for everyone who has ever been overlooked or underestimated.”

The 97th Academy Awards promises to be a night to remember, honoring groundbreaking achievements while pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.

Click here for a complete list of the nominees. 

Rapper and Actor Saafir Dead at 54

Photo Credit: Instagram/xzibit

The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Reggie "Saafir" Gibson, a pioneering West Coast rapper and actor, who died Tuesday morning at the age of 54. His death was confirmed by close friend and longtime collaborator, Xzibit, who shared the news via an emotional Instagram post.

"Approximately at 8:45 am this morning, my brother Reggie known to the world as Saafir passed away," Xzibit wrote. "We have so much history I can't even explain what I'm feeling right now. We surrounded him and let him know how much we loved him. He can rest now."

Rest in Peace Saafir 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/lGtXmKVE5R

— Tommy Boy Records (@TommyBoyRecords) November 20, 2024

Emerging in the early 1990s, he gained recognition for his intricate wordplay, complex rhyme schemes and socially aware lyrics. His debut album, "Boxcar Sessions," released in 1994, remains a landmark in West Coast underground hip-hop. He solidified his position in the genre with notable works like "The Hit List" and "Trigonometry."

In addition to his solo success, Saafir was a member of Digital Underground, the groundbreaking collective that famously featured Tupac Shakur and the late Shock G. He also collaborated with Xzibit and Ras Kass to form the Golden State Project, initially called the Golden State Warriors, until legal challenges from the NBA prompted a name change.

Saafir's talent extended beyond music. He appeared in the 1993 film "Menace II Society," directed by the Hughes brothers, portraying Harold Lawson. The movie, noted for its gritty depiction of life in South Central Los Angeles, became a pivotal work in urban cinema.

One of my favorite rap songs EVER

Ahmad, Ras Kass and Saafir - Come Widdit (1994)

All three went ballistic.

RIP Saafir pic.twitter.com/OvOtZV7iVc

— Andreas Hale (@AndreasHale) November 19, 2024

In recent years, Saafir faced a series of health challenges, including the removal of a cancerous tumor from his spine, which left him using a wheelchair. Despite these setbacks, his spirit and impact on the music industry remained strong and inspiring.

Xzibit called on the hip-hop community to support Saafir’s family during this challenging time. "Friends, Family, everyone that rocked with us from the Hip Hop community, if you could be so solid and reach out for @chopblack his younger brother, and @lilsaafir his son, the family really needs to be supported during this time," he said.

'Black Panther 3' Rumors Heat Up as Denzel Washington Discusses Marvel Role

Courtesy Photo Paramount Pictures 

During a media tour for the upcoming "Gladiator" sequel, Denzel Washington surprised fans by revealing potential plans to join Marvel's "Black Panther 3," hinting at a major new role in the MCU.

Denzel Washington is on the cusp of joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the highly-anticipated
"Black Panther 3." In an interview with Australia’s "Today" show, Washington said that director Ryan Coogler is crafting a role tailored specifically for him in what would mark the actor's first foray into the MCU.

Denzel Washington has revealed he’ll be starring in Black Panther 3! Ryan Coogler is currently crafting a role specifically for him. Anyone remember when Chadwick Boseman gave that heartfelt speech thanking Denzel for paying his tuition? God bless his soul.

Mrs. Trump Thomas… pic.twitter.com/v8vhswHsM2

— Video Hub (@videosdatgohard) November 12, 2024

"I don't know how many more films I'm gonna make, probably not that many. I want to do things I haven't done," Washington shared, hinting at the possibility of winding down his illustrious career while still seeking new creative challenges.

Though Marvel Studios has yet to confirm "Black Panther 3," Washington’s remarks have fueled speculation that development is in motion. His potential involvement promises to elevate a franchise already steeped in cultural significance. "Black Panther" (2018) shattered box office records and barriers, grossing over $2 billion worldwide alongside its sequel, "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" (2022), while earning acclaim for representing African culture and celebrating Black excellence.

The franchise's accolades speak volumes. The original film became the first superhero movie to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards, taking home three Oscars for Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, and Best Original Score. It also earned the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture and a Grammy Award for its standout soundtrack.

Central to this success was the late Chadwick Boseman, whose portrayal of King T'Challa became a beacon of pride and inspiration. Revered for his authenticity and depth, Boseman's legacy continues to resonate, both on and off the screen. His untimely death in 2020 marked a profound loss, with tributes pouring in from across the globe. Boseman was posthumously honored with a Golden Globe for his role in "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom." His impact extended beyond performance; he credited Washington for funding his Oxford acting education, famously saying, "There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington."

The significance of the "Black Panther" films extends beyond Hollywood. They reshaped narratives by spotlighting African heritage, challenging industry norms, and becoming a cultural milestone. For many, the films were a celebration of representation and a redefinition of what is possible in mainstream cinema.

As for Washington’s potential role, speculation runs high. Some suggest he could play Bashenga, the legendary first Black Panther and Wakanda's founder, bringing his gravitas to pivotal flashbacks. Others envision him as T'Chaka, offering a nuanced portrayal of a younger version of T'Challa’s father. Alternatively, Washington could inject depth as a formidable new antagonist, posing a fresh challenge to Wakanda’s stability and resilience.

Marvel has yet to provide an official word on "Black Panther 3" or confirm Washington’s involvement. However, fans are already eagerly anticipating what this legendary actor could bring to the world of Wakanda.

Quincy Jones, Maestro Who Shaped American Music, Dies at 91

Kingkongphoto & www.celebrity-photos.com, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer whose work spanned across genres and generations, from producing Michael Jackson’s historic “Thriller” album, the best-selling album of all time, to writing award-winning film scores, died on Sunday at the age of 91.Jones’ publicist, Arnold Robinson, said the music titan died at his home in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles, surrounded by family.

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” Jones’ family said in a statement. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

Jones' career rose from humble beginnings, running with gangs on the South Side of Chicago, to reaching the heights of the music and entertainment industry.

He was among the first Black executives to break through in Hollywood and became a prolific producer, arranger, and composer, responsible for some of the most memorable moments in American music.

Jones worked with an extraordinary roster of talent over the decades, collaborating with stars such as Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald and Michael Jackson. His contributions to music included jazz, pop, and soul, as well as landmark film scores. He was instrumental in producing Jackson's “Thriller,” which went on to become the best-selling album of all time, and he also co-produced “We Are the World,” the 1985 charity anthem for famine relief in Africa.

Jones’ influence went beyond music. He worked on television and film projects, including composing scores for “Roots” and “In the Heat of the Night.” He also organized President Bill Clinton’s first inaugural celebration, underscoring his role as a cultural figure who bridged music and public life.

R. Kelly's Children Break Silence on Family Trauma in Documentary

R. Kelly's daughter, Buku Abi, is set to disclose a deeply personal and "heartbreaking secret" in a forthcoming documentary titled "R. Kelly's Karma: A Daughter's Journey."

Abi, born Joanne Kelly, is at the center of the documentary, which also features interviews with her siblings, Jaah and Robert Kelly Jr., and their mother, Drea Kelly, R. Kelly's ex-wife.

A promotional post for the film hints that Buku will reveal the painful secret that "shattered her childhood." In the trailer, Abi, 26, speaks about the lasting impact of her father's actions. "For a long time, I didn't even want to believe that it happened. I didn't know that even if he was a bad person, that he would do something to me,” she says.

Drea Kelly, who has been vocal about her experiences, also speaks in the documentary about the trauma her children endured. "What he did to me, he did to me, but you didn't have to do it to my kids," she tearfully shares in the trailer.

The documentary aims to provide insight into the pain experienced by R. Kelly's family members, as they lived under the shadow of one of music’s most notorious figures. In 2022, R. Kelly, 57, was convicted of federal charges including child pornography and sexual abuse of minors. While he continues to appeal his convictions, the documentary highlights the ongoing harm caused by his actions.

Abi reflects in the trailer on how her father’s convictions altered her life. “Nobody wants to be the child of the father that is out here hurting women and children,” she says. “He knows exactly why we can’t have the relationship we would have liked to have with him.”

In one particularly emotional moment, Abi, fighting back tears, explains how difficult it has been to reconcile her father’s crimes with the person she once viewed as her "everything."

R. Kelly was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2023 for child pornography and enticing minors. His ex-wife, Drea Kelly, laments in the trailer, “Just because you’re not a good husband doesn’t mean you can’t be a good father. And the fact that he didn't even try…”

The film will stream on TVEI (Totally Very Entertaining Internet) starting Oct. 11.

John Amos, Emmy-Nominated Actor of 'Roots' and 'Good Times' Fame, Dies at 84

John Amos as James Evans Sr. on the set of the groundbreaking 1970s sitcom "Good Times."

 John Amos, the acclaimed actor best known for his roles as the stern but loving father on the 1970s sitcom "Good Times" and as the adult Kunta Kinte in the landmark miniseries "Roots," has died. He was 84.

Amos died of natural causes Saturday in Los Angeles, his publicist Belinda Foster said.

His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, released a statement via email: “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold…and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV dad. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”   

This one hits different. My condolences go out to the family of a true legend, John Amos 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/7MKqE7szVk

— Martin Lawrence (@realmartymar) October 1, 2024Born in East Orange, New Jersey, on Dec. 27, 1939, Amos had an early passion for football and played at Colorado State University, where he earned a degree in sociology. Despite tryouts with the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos, his brief professional football career was unsuccessful.

Amos found his calling in acting, beginning with roles on 1970s shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," where he played weatherman Gordy Howard, and "Sanford and Son." However, his stardom soared with his role as James Evans Sr. on "Good Times." The CBS sitcom, which aired from 1974 to 1979, became a cultural touchstone, portraying one of television's first Black two-parent families.

John Amos' acting career all started thanks to a poem, written about being cut from countless football teams ✍️

RIP to one-time Kansas City Chief and one of a kind entertainer. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/6tVnwGtKgt

— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) October 1, 2024Despite the success of "Good Times," Amos was outspoken about his dissatisfaction with the show's direction, particularly its portrayal of the Black family. In a 2020 interview, he revealed his disagreements with the white writers: “I felt like I knew more about what a Black family should be and how a Black father would act than our writers…Their idea of what a Black family should be was totally different from mine, and mine was steeped in reality.”  After three seasons, Amos was written off the show; his character was killed in a car accident.

In 1977, Amos made history again with his role as Kunta Kinte in the Emmy-nominated miniseries "Roots." Based on Alex Haley's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the series was a ratings phenomenon and earned Amos critical acclaim. “I knew that it was a life-changing role for me, as an actor and just from a humanistic standpoint,” Amos said in a 2021 interview with Time magazine. “It was like a reward for having suffered those indignities.”

Over the years, Amos continued to leave his mark with roles in films such as "Coming to America" and its 2021 sequel, "Die Hard 2" and "Uncut Gems." He also made notable appearances on TV shows like "The West Wing," "Hunter," "Men in Trees" and "The Ranch."

Amos was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2020.

James Earl Jones, Iconic Voice of Darth Vader, Dies at 93

Eva Rinaldi, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

James Earl Jones, the actor whose deep, resonant tones brought life to some of the most beloved characters in film and theater, has died at 93.

Born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi, Jones overcame a childhood stutter to become one of the most recognizable voices in entertainment history. His early years in theater paved the way for a remarkable career, earning him his first Tony Award for his portrayal of boxer Jack Johnson in "The Great White Hope" in 1969.

Jones's deep, commanding voice reached an even broader audience when he was cast as the voice of Darth Vader in George Lucas's "Star Wars" franchise. His portrayal of the menacing Sith Lord became a cultural phenomenon, with the character's voice instantly recognizable to fans around the globe.

However, Jones's contributions to cinema extended far beyond the galaxy far, far away. He also voiced King Mufasa in Disney's "The Lion King" (1994), a role that added a layer of warmth and wisdom to the beloved animated film. In addition to his voice work, Jones took on significant roles portraying real-life figures, such as civil rights leader Vernon Johns in "The Vernon Johns Story" and Alex Haley, the celebrated author in "Roots: The Next Generations."

Jones's achievements were not confined to film. He was a dedicated stage actor who returned to Broadway
multiple times, earning two additional Tony Awards, including one for his powerful performance in August Wilson's "Fences" in 1987. Even in recent years, he continued to grace the stage, appearing in a 2015 Broadway revival of "The Gin Game." His contributions to American theater and film were further recognized in 2011 when he was honored with an Honorary Academy Award, celebrating his vast influence on the arts.

Throughout his career, Jones broke barriers as a Black actor in Hollywood, inspiring countless performers who followed in his footsteps. His distinctive voice, often described as the "voice of God," became a sought-after sound for narrations, commercials, and documentaries, further cementing his cultural legacy.

Despite his towering presence in the entertainment industry, Jones was known for his humility and often credited his success to the guidance he received from mentors and the unwavering support of his family. He is survived by his son, Flynn Earl Jones, who continues to uphold his father's artistic legacy.

James Earl Jones: Awards and Honors

Tony Awards

Best Actor in a Play (1969): The Great White Hope
Best Actor in a Play (1987): Fences
Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre (2017)

Grammy Award

Best Spoken Word or Non-musical Album (1978): Great American Documents

Emmy Awards

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Special (1991): Heat Wave
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (1977): Roots

Academy Awards

Honorary Award (2011)

Other Notable Honors

National Medal of Arts (1992)
Kennedy Center Honors (2002)
Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award (2009)