This Week In Good Black News: Viola Davis Is Receiving Another Honorary Degree, 50 Cent's Empire Is Headed Overseas, And An HBCU Choir Is Making History
This week's roundup is all about firsts and historic moments.
Viola Davis is a natural treasure, and she will be receiving an honorary doctorate from the American Film Institute. And yes, rightfully deserved.
She's not the only one receiving honor and praise. New Orleans Saints defensive back Brett Maxie has been announced as an inductee to the team's Hall of Fame Class of 2025.
And we love to see our HBCU babies make history. The Florida Memorial University’s Ambassador Chorale will be making their debut at Carnegie Hall. Get into this Good Black News post-Juneteenth.
Viola Davis To Receive An Honorary Doctorate From The American Film Institute
Viola Davis has added so much to Hollywood, from stellar performances to her versatility in film. Her accolades are most deserving. Davis is adding another accolade to her belt, as the American Film Institute is awarding the "G20" star an honorary degree for her "groundbreaking work across film and television."
This isn't the first time our girl has received an honorary degree. In 2024, the 59-year-old actress received an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the University of Rhode Island.
Sharing her accomplishment on social media, she jokingly mentioned her doctor status in her Instagram caption.
"Call me Dr. Davis! That's right! Uhh....you can still call me "Viola" after you call me Doctor!" she said in her post.
50 Cent Launches His Action Channel In The U.K.
One thing about Curtis Jackson, he's all about making money moves. Deadline reported that the businessman has expanded his empire and will now have an action channel launched in the United Kingdom.
In an exclusive interview with the publication, the actor shared how he already had his sight set on London as the channel's first overseas home.
"You know, everybody loves London,” he shared.
“If you’re from New York, or you’re a recording artist from America in general, the first stop and your first dose of international love is London.”
Brett Maxie Has Been Announced As An Inductee To The New Orleans Saints Hall Of Fame
New Orleans Saints legend Brett Maxie is earning his rightful place in the Hall Of Fame as he was announced as apart of the 2025 class.
The defensive back spoke at a press conference, sharing how "grateful" he is about the induction.
"I'm grateful and I'm honored to be part of such a prestigious and admired unity of men," he began.
"I want to thank you for affording me with being apart of the 2025 class. I will represent the New Orleans Saints and fans with the highest of gratitude, respect, and dignity."
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New Edition Member Ricky Bell Is Welcoming A Bundle Of Joy To His Family
New Edition member, Ricky Bell, will have a new edition to his family as he and his wife, Amy Correa Bell, are welcoming their first bundle of joy.
The 57-year-old shared the news on Father's Day with his social media fans, captioning how he's "been looking forward" to the this moment.
"Been looking forward to celebrating this day," he wrote.
"God’s “Mercy” has arrived… Happy Father's Day!"
Florida Memorial University’s Ambassador Chorale Are Set To Make Carnegie Hall Debut
If this isn't Black excellence, baby, I don't know what is.
A historic first is happening on Saturday (June 21), as Florida Memorial University’s Ambassador Chorale will be performing at Carnegie Hall.
This performance is apart of the Choirs of America “In Harmony” concert series.
The choir posted on their social media and shared their excitement of the pivotal moment.
"On Saturday, June 21, our 30-member ensemble will take the stage at one of the world’s most prestigious venues, representing South Florida’s only HBCU with power, pride, and purpose," the choir's instagram page captioned.
"From performing across the globe to now gracing Midtown Manhattan with a solo of “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” this is more than just a performance—it’s a moment in history."