It’s strange to see how many media outlets are focusing on Melania Trump in the last hours of the Trump presidency. My guess is that the focus on Mel is because Donald Trump is knowable – we understand that he’s a childish boor, an unhinged white supremacist and a wannabe Nazi. Even though Melania is trash, there is an “unknowable” quality about her, a four-year-long mystery about what the f–k she does with her time and what she really thinks about her husband’s bulls–t. So outlets like CNN and the Washington Post are framing the last hours of the Trump administration through whatever Melania is doing and saying, since we know that Donald Trump is just sitting around, raging and screaming. Some highlights from this WaPo piece:

Melania is unfazed: Several people who have been in touch with Melania Trump said she is aware of the intense criticism both she and her husband have gotten since the deadly Jan. 6 Capitol riot, but that unlike her spouse she appears completely unfazed. They said she would have been happy to attend President-elect Joe Biden’s swearing-in ceremony, as every outgoing president and first lady have for the past 152 years. But rather than dwell on what could have been, she focuses on what she has control over: choreographing her own exit, trying to cement her legacy as a first lady who devoted much time to renovations of the White House, and making plans to continue her “Be Best” initiative. Quietly, she has also been working with Chief Usher Timothy Harleth to facilitate the move-in of the Bidens.

Donald Trump is super-upset about Biden’s inauguration entertainment: Since Jan. 6, every day has dumped more bad news on the president, including his historic second impeachment. But one person close to the president said it can be hard to predict what will bother him most and that even with all that was going on, he was particularly upset that Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Tom Hanks and other stars agreed to perform as part of Biden’s inaugural celebrations.

Melania’s big plans: After she departs the White House with her husband Wednesday, she plans to duck out of the spotlight for a while, friends said. But she plans on resurrecting her “Be Best” campaign that focused on children’s well-being, including raising awareness of the dangers of cyberbullying and opioids and other drugs. “She plans to continue and expand it,” said Kellyanne Conway, a former White House adviser who has stayed in touch with her. “She knows her input and influence on her legacy issues can be greater outside the White House.”

Oh God, the Trump Library: The soon-to-be former first lady also is expected to be involved in the site selection, planning and design of the Trump presidential library, which probably will be located in Florida. Her stepdaughter Ivanka Trump also has expressed interest in the library and has bought a new home in Florida. Right from the start of the Trump administration, Melania, 50, and Ivanka, 39, clashed. Even before Melania officially moved into the White House, Ivanka Trump told people she would like the first lady’s office to be renamed the “first family’s office.” Both women also wanted to decorate the Oval Office — in very different styles — until the president stepped in and canceled both plans. “The library location has not even been scouted yet, but Ivanka has made her interest clear,” said one person aware of the discussions. “As usual, Melania will have to contend with the other family members.”

Kellyanne Conway is doing a lot to fluff up Melania: “She was against the protracted challenge to the election results, especially after the results were certified,” Conway said. “I know she was against the [Jan. 6] rally and saying things to him. I think she thought it was futile and possibly chaotic. She was the only family member who was not there.” According to Conway, the first lady was complying with requests for record-keeping regarding items at the White House and not watching television when a mob first breached the Capitol. When she saw what was happening, she urged her husband to intervene and end the riot.

[From WaPo]

We all knew that Kellyanne Conway would come crawling back into the limelight, but I’m surprised that Conway is hitching her wagon to Melania of all people? The truth is, no one expects Melania to do f–k all. Melania is going to Florida with her husband and she’ll get to shop and have affairs and avoid her husband and play tennis and that’s it. She’s not going to still do charity work. We probably won’t see her again for years. Also: literally no one believes that Melania intervened with her husband on Jan. 6th. No one. Just like no one believes Melania ever interferes with her husband. Also: it’s so predictable that Donald Trump is super-mad about the big celebrities performing at Biden’s inauguration.

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red, Backgrid.

As I mentioned I ordered the lap desk and it works great for my laptop when I’m working on the couch. I’m using it now! My macbook is 13.3” and it fits perfectly for that and is comfortable on my lap. The everything bagel seasoning tastes great and the bottle is really big, it will last a long time. I used it on bagels and it’s hard to tell the difference from the Trader Joe’s brand. The protein powder featured last week tastes good (for protein powder) and I like how it sweetens up my smoothies. It doesn’t seem too chalky either. Here are some more things I’m looking at.

Witch hazel facial mist that comes in rose, cucumber and lavender

This alcohol free witch hazel mist by Thayers is under $11 for 8 ounces. It comes in unscented, lavender, rosewater, coconut and cucumber versions. I love my Trader Joe’s spray on rosewater and think I’ll replace it with this when it runs out. This mist has over 7,600 ratings, 4.6 stars and a B on Fakespot. Reviewers call it “super hydrating,” say it’s soothing on the skin and that it has a nice, light scent. “Your face will be nice and moisturized and will feel and look very plumped.” “this product makes my skin instantly hydrated and dewey.” “My face has never looked clearer or been softer.”

A wearable blanket for a warm cozy feeling all day

This wearable blanket by Tirrinia is longer than most of the other wearable blankets I’ve seen, making it warm for your feet as well. I am always bundled up on the couch so I may as well buy a full body blanket! It comes in versions with a hood and without and in 12 different colors and prints. I know it makes this lady look like a monk and I’m ok with that. It has 4.6 stars, 1,600 ratings and a B on Fakespot. People say it’s warm, cozy and excellent for wearing around the house. “This blanket is everything the reviewers said. It’s warm and comfortable. Great for a cuddly cloudy rainy day or just plain cold.” “Very soft and comfortable. Ideal for those who enjoy snuggling up with a book to read during winter.” “Great to wrap up in while watching tv.” Some say it can be heavy so you may want to consider that if you’re buying one for a frailer person.

An anti-aging cream with retinol

This anti-aging cream by Artulano has 3% retinol, hyaluronic acid and vitamin e. It has 774 ratings, 4.6 stars and an A on Fakespot. It’s only $17 for 3.4 ounces and there’s a $3 off coupon, making it even more reasonable. Women say they like it and see a difference in fine lines and blemishes. “I’ve been using it around my eyes and forehead in the morning. And I swear it’s been smoothing my wrinkles.” “One week into using it, I noticed that the area around my eyes looked more plump and smooth.” “I have only used it for 2 weeks and my acne prone skin is almost completely clear. “

A set of 30 mask lanyards for just $11

This is a set of 30 mask lanyards in both round and flat versions. They come in so many different color options including multicolor, black, gray and white and all white. I looked at many other lanyards but they had mixed reviews as being flimsy or two short. The ones with plastic clips are said to be more durable too. These have 725 ratings, 4.5 stars and an A on Fakespot. If you get these you can give them away to friends and family. Plus they work with glasses too. “I have been giving these away to co-workers, children and friends along with my homemade masks. Everyone absolutely loves these.” “This is a good deal for the quantity that you get. The colors are so vibrant . Great as gifts.”

Face mask extenders from Velcro can help save your ears and get a precise fit

The fit of your mask is key to keeping you safe. These face mask extenders by Velcro can help you get a better mask fit, avoid fogged glasses and sore ears. They have over 3,300 ratings, 4.3 stars and a B on Fakespot. People with over-ear hearing aids say they’re perfect and that you can even use them under your hair. Healthcare professionals who wear masks all day say these are the best extenders they’ve found. They write “I’ve tried other extenders, including the plastic ones with several hooks and ribbons with buttons sewn on. This beats all of those.” “The Velcro straps allowed me to keep the ear loop pulled off the backs of my ears so I could wear them for up to 8 hours a day.”

A hydrating mask that works overnight

This sleeping mask by Nightingale is good for all skin types. It has over 1,200 ratings, 4.2 stars and a B on Fakespot. Women say it’s deeply hydrating and that they wake up with smoother, softer skin. It’s also said not to aggravate acne-prone skin. “Ive been using this product for more than a week and I have to say it is so hydrating and moisturizing! My skin definitely feels softer, bright, and glowing” “It makes my skin glow in the morning and my makeup just glides on.” “This is a very smooth, silky mask. I like that it doesn’t leave me feeling oily or caked on, and it leaves my face feeling fresh.”

A three pack of colorful workout tanks for $20

I need more workout tanks now that the summer is coming. You can get three colorful high-rated workout tanks from icyzone for under $20! They come in sizes x-small to xx-large and in 12 different color combinations. They have almost 17,500 ratings, 4.3 stars and a B on Fakespot. Women say they’re comfortable to work out in, that they’re flattering and look pricier than they are. Plus they’re said to be long, which I always appreciate in workout tops. You may want to size up if you like a loose fit. “The material is soft and not constricting, and it’s very flattering.” “I love them. They are the perfect basic tank. I sized up so that I can knot them up in the front.” “I love, love, love these. They’re my favorite shirts.”

KN95 masks because if you don’t have these you should

The new virus variant is more contagious and I’ve been double masking with a KN95 mask (the Chinese version of the N95), a cloth mask plus a shield. The visors with the glasses frames are great and they don’t fog up like the ones that have the foam bands. There are so many antimaskers where I live that it’s stressful to go out, but I feel better with the KN95 mask and extra layers. These are 25 masks for $39.95 making them $1.60 a piece. These have 4.6 stars, over 2,500 ratings and a B on Fakespot. People like the cone shape and say it helps them breathe better. They also have a metal strip at the nose to help give a better fit. They come in white and black versions and in a larger pack of 50. I do rewear mine, I just wait a few days and rotate them. This is not medical advice! It’s just what I do. Reviewers write “Although these ones give me a bird like look they make it so I feel like I can breath. They’re also layers which offers extra protection.” “Overall, I was impressed by the quality of the masks – they seem higher quality and are more comfortable than others I’ve bought.”

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I didn’t even hear about this until I happened upon a particularly nasty tweet about it, which just goes to show you: the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s haters are actually promoting the Sussexes’ work without meaning to. I guess those haters had the time, since they rarely have anything to talk about, work-wise, with William and Kate. So, on Monday, America celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A lot of white supremacists posted MLK quotes and there was a lot of yelling and rolling of eyes. But it was also a day – or a three-day weekend – of service for a lot of people, including the Bidens and the Sussexes. On Sunday, Prince Harry and Meghan sent meals to the volunteers at The Mission Continues:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are honoring Martin Luther King Day with a special gesture. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex provided some lunchtime fuel for the Los Angeles nonprofit The Mission Continues over the holiday weekend — and referenced the civil rights pioneer as a source of inspiration.

“In honor of this day of service, and in recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and all that he stood for, we want to send our thanks and gratitude to the team at The Mission Continues,” Harry, 36, and Meghan, 39, said in a message to the organization’s volunteers. “We’re so proud of all the work you’re doing to support your community and hope you enjoy this small token of our appreciation. Thank you for your service today and every day. We look forward to joining you soon. Stay safe and keep up the good work.”

They signed their names as simply “Harry and Meghan” above their Duke and Duchess of Sussex titles.

This weekend’s food was organized by Homegirl Catering, a community social justice organization visited by Harry and Meghan in June.

On Sunday, The Mission Continues was just as grateful for Harry and Meghan’s assistance —and that of their recently launched Archewell Foundation, which has the concept of helping support community organizations at its core. “We’d like to send a huge thank you to The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with Archewell Foundation, for fueling the volunteers of our LA Service Platoon with lunch yesterday, so they can continue their hard work at the Compton VFW and help those living in the Compton community!” the non-profit posted on Instagram. “We’re truly honored to have their support! #MLKDayON.”

[From People]

Harry worked with The Mission Continues in November, taking part in a day of food distribution in association with Walker Family Events Foundation. The Mission Continues is a national nonprofit with chapters around the country, and the entire organization is staffed by veterans. I’m a little bit surprised that we didn’t see Meghan and Harry volunteer in person for A Day of Service, but California has crazy coronavirus-infection numbers and so maybe they just decided not to risk it.

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A post shared by The Mission Continues (@themissioncontinues)

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red.

Almost one year ago exactly, Gwyneth Paltrow introduced a new product on her Goop site: a $75 candle with an odd name. The name was so odd, Gwyneth was clearly inviting scorn and attention. The name? This Smells Like My Vagina. Since I don’t want to retype that a million times, let’s just call it the Bajingo Candle. The Bajingo Candle was overpriced and stupid and thirsty, and Gwyneth had a grand old time talking about it on various chat shows, and acting like we were all impossibly gauche and middle-class for even laughing at her dumb Bajingo Candle. Well, now Gwyneth is taking it to the next level: Exploding Bajingo Candles, so the peasants can burn down their own peasant homes.

This Gwyneth Paltrow candle didn’t pass the smell test, according to a report. A “This Smells Like My Vagina” candle that the actress peddles on Goop exploded into flames in the living room of a UK woman who won the odoriferous product in a quiz, the Sun reported.

“The candle exploded and emitted huge flames, with bits flying everywhere,” Jody Thompson, 50, told the outlet.

“I’ve never seen anything like it. The whole thing was ablaze and it was too hot to touch. There was an inferno in the room,” the media consultant from Kilburn, North London, added.

Thompson, who lives with her partner, David Snow, said they threw the flaming candle out the front door.

“It could have burned the place down. It was scary at the time, but funny looking back that Gwyneth’s vagina candle exploded in my living room,” she said.

[From The NY Post]

The comedy, it’s not even subtle! A Bajingo Candle exploding, everything burning in a fire which was too hot to touch, they’re lucky to still have a home. I would sue. But that’s me. I would be eager to sue the f–k out of Gwyneth Paltrow and Goop and I would sit there, sobbing on the stand, talking about how Gwyneth’s Bajingo Candle ruined my life. (All that being said, if you’re paying $75 for a stupid Goop candle, I don’t feel sorry for you.)

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red, Backgrid.

In the post about Ben Affleck’s “woe is me” podcast interview, jbyrdku commented that there was an item in the Instagram account Deuxmoi that Ben and Ana had split. They actually had the news ahead of US Magazine. Deuxmoi’s post said simply that Ana dumped Ben. That tracks, because Ben doesn’t break up with anyone he just ignores them or cheats on them until they do it. After the news was confirmed by the celebrity outlets new items were posted on Deuxmoi that they split almost a month ago, which explains Ana’s trip to Cuba over the holidays. (I know it was Christmas but it’s also a pandemic.) Plus she got a haircut!

We just heard, in early December, that Ana had put her house on the market and moved in with Ben too. I guess that didn’t work out that well because US Magazine and People have the news, with each saying that the two were in “different points in their lives.” Here are those stories:

“Ben is no longer dating Ana,” a source tells PEOPLE. “She broke it off. Their relationship was complicated. Ana doesn’t want to be Los Angeles based and Ben obviously has to since his kids live in Los Angeles.”

“This is something that was mutual and something that is completely amicable,” another source close to Affleck and de Armas adds. “They are in different points in their lives; there is deep love and respect there. Ben continues to want to work on himself. He has three jobs lined up and he’s a solid father at home. They are both happy with where they are in their lives. – From People

“The breakup was amicable, [but] she was the one who called things off,” a source tells Us. “Ben and Ana were moving in different directions in their lives and stopped seeing eye to eye. The two couldn’t work through their differences and have decided to end their relationship.” – From US Magazine

[From People and US Magazine]

So Ben did that THR podcast interview to make the press focus on his career and how badly he was treated by the tabloids post Bennifer, right? He knew that this news was about to break and was practically telling them to go easy on him with this split. He’s so aggrieved, you guys! Why can’t we just focus on his acting! He didn’t go for pap walks with Ana. Everyone puts a cardboard cutout of themselves on their boyfriend’s lawn. You know that things started going south with Ana when that Washington Post article about them came out. While Ana may be the one who officially broke up with Ben, he started checking out when he realized that he was in the same pattern with Ana and the tabloids that he was in with J.Lo. I bet he blames Ana for that, when he’s the one who is making the same moves in his life yet again.

I’ll miss Afflarmas. Their movie, Deep Water, is coming out in August. Do you think Ana will have another high profile boyfriend by then? I do. I think she’s going to rub it in Ben’s face and it will be glorious.

Remember when she bought him a motorcycle for his birthday and they rode it for the paps? Ooh now I’m also remembering that story that Ana “picks dumb and immature fights” with Ben.

Ana de Armas Gifts Ben Affleck a New Motorcycle with Matching Helmets for His 48th Birthday? https://t.co/IRGlFPuI2D

— People (@people) August 16, 2020

Also this happened and it is real. It seems like a fitting end, although I wouldn’t put it past them to get back together once or twice. That’s Ben’s pattern too.

UPDATE: The person throwing away the Ana de Armas cutout is allegedly Ben Affleck’s brother, Oscar-winning actor Casey Affleck. https://t.co/4va2EcyZSt

— Ana de Armas Updates (@ArmasUpdates) January 19, 2021

why would you say Ben Affleck and Ana de Armas broke up when you could just say BenAna Split

— ????????? (@spinubzilla) January 18, 2021

photos credit: Backgrid and via Instagram

Melania Trump will go down in history as one of the worst people to ever occupy the White House. She is boring, dull, stupid, classless, ignorant, racist, terrible and lazy. At no point in the past ten weeks has Melania even called Dr. Jill Biden, much less invite her to the White House to show her the East Wing offices and the WH residence. As FLOTUS historians note, this is the first time in modern history – at least a century – that the outgoing First Lady has not even bothered to CALL, much less meet with, the new First Lady. Even First Ladies who f–king hated each other still adhered to tradition, to history, to the barest of ceremonial duties. CNN had a piece about the history of this tradition between First Ladies – go here to read. CNN also had this piece about what exactly will happen on the 20th for the actual hand-over of the White House. For the first time in a century, the outgoing “First Family” will not greet the incoming First Family on January 20th.

No greeting at the White House: On the morning of January 20, Donald Trump and Melania Trump will depart the White House as President and first lady, but they will not invite their incoming counterparts, Joe and Jill Biden, inside before they do. The dissolving of one of America’s most enduring transfer-of-power rituals — the outgoing president welcoming the incoming president on the steps of the North Portico, and then riding with them to the United States Capitol — is just one of the snubs the Trumps are perpetrating as they leave Washington.

The Bidens will be greeted by the White House usher: Instead of a president and first lady, the Bidens will be greeted by the White House chief usher Timothy Harleth, according to a source familiar with the day’s events and planning. Harleth, a 2017 Trump hire from the Trump International Hotel in Washington, will likely not stay on in the Biden administration, the source said, noting the role of chief usher in all probability will be filled by someone more familiar with the incoming president and first lady.

The other ex-presidents will be there: The afternoon of Inauguration Day, then-President Biden will participate in a ceremonial wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery, joined by former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama. It is during these hours the bulk of the Bidens’ personal effects will be moved into the White House and unpacked, according to another source with knowledge of executive residence practices.

Deep-cleaning: By that time, all Trump paraphernalia will be gone, and a thorough top-to-bottom cleaning of the entire White House campus will have been completed. Deeper cleaning protocols were arranged via the White House with outside contractors, on top of regular cleaning done by staff, including specialized attention to rugs, carpets, curtains and surfaces, to tackle any possibility of lingering germs, of the Covid-19 sort or otherwise. “Moving furniture and vacuuming, cleaning baseboards, vacuuming drapes, wiping down shades, cleaning chandeliers, washing windows, high dusting,” are areas all covered during the traditional move-in of a new president and his family, according to the residence source. “That cleaning will start as soon as Donald Trump and Melania Trump depart.”

Melania slept alone in the White House presidential suite: A particular focus of this move will be paid to the bedrooms in the residence, where new mattresses and box springs for the incoming first family are standard operating procedure, according to the source. Yet one part of the bedroom set-up will be markedly different with the Bidens than it was for the Trumps: the Bidens will be sharing a bedroom. Melania Trump spent the majority of her time in the White House in the large bedroom suite typically reserved for Presidents and their spouse, adjacent to the West Sitting Hall, according to a source with knowledge of the arrangement. “Donald Trump slept in his own bedroom, which was previously a study or den during other administrations,” the source said of the arrangement.

Childish behavior: The Inauguration Day snub of the Biden’s comes on the heels of a series of broken norms and childish behavior that comes directly from the President of the United States, who has been vocal about his disinterest in preserving any semblance of decency towards the man who will succeed him. Trump, according to several sources, is even mulling whether to write a letter to Biden to leave for him in the Oval Office, a standard-bearing tradition.

The Trumps are such trash: Though the Bidens have a unique perspective having visited the White House numerous times throughout Joe Biden’s decades-long political career, the lack of politeness from the Trumps stings. “It’s abhorrent,” said another former White House official who worked in the Trump administration. Small measures of decorum during the transition are being practiced, however. CNN has learned of at least three Trump administration officials who used private communication channels to reach out to their Biden administration counterparts in the last month, despite the President not conceding his loss.

Trump’s final hours: On Sunday, invitations were issued to Trump’s circle asking them to please attend — and bring up to five guests — his and Melania Trump’s going-away celebration at Joint Base Andrews, prior to boarding Air Force One early Wednesday morning for their last trip on the storied aircraft, which will deposit them in Florida. Trump has told staff he wants his tarmac send-off to include all the pomp and circumstance he feels he deserves, including a 21-Gun Salute, red carpet and military Color Guard. On Monday afternoon, an administration official told CNN the bells and whistles might all be for a very big audience of one — the President — and a small audience of others: “So far, there haven’t been a lot of RSVPs.”

[From CNN]

It would be the final screw-you on Inauguration Day if Trump threw himself a lil’ Nazi military parade and no one showed up. But I still hate the idea of Tin-Pot Dictator Bone Spurs ordering the military to honor him one last time. Ugh. This CNN piece also noted that while Mike Pence called Kamala Harris roughly nine weeks after she and Joe Biden won the election, Mother Pence has not called Doug Emhoff. I could say something very rude here but I won’t. I’m just happy to see these garbage people being thrown out.

Melania also thought that people would care about her farewell speech. Idiot.

A Farewell Message from First Lady Melania Trump pic.twitter.com/WfG1zg2mt4

— Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) January 18, 2021

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red, Backgrid.

Liam Neeson is 68 years old. He’s in great shape and despite being almost 70, he’s still enjoying a lucrative career as an action star. Not many can say that and, of course, none that can are women. But Liam says he’s hanging up his action shoes because he’s just getting too gosh-darned old. Well, he’ll stop after he finishes the last couple of scripts he has left to film. Then he’ll be done, for real… probably.

Liam Neeson may soon be retiring his very particular set of skills. Following 2008?s Taken, the actor experienced a career renaissance playing variations of the hardened hero seeking justice his own way, from Non-Stop to Cold Pursuit to this year’s The Marksman. But Neeson says an end to his action film days is in sight.

“Oh, yeah. I think so,” he tells ET’s Lauren Zima. “I’m 68 and a half. 69 this year. There’s a couple more I’m going to do this year — hopefully, COVID allowing us — there’s a couple in the pipeline and, then I think that will probably be it. Well, unless I’m on a Zimmer frame or something.”

The Marksman casts Neeson as an ex-Marine turned reclusive rancher who must protect an 11-year-old boy from drug cartel assassins. “I love doing ‘em. I love beating up guys half my age,” he says, though he admits he had something of a revelation while filming his next flick, Blacklight.

“I’ve just finished one in Australia and I had a fight scene with a kid — lovely, sweet actor called Taylor — and halfway through the fight I looked up, I was breathless and it didn’t cost him a cent, and I said, ‘Taylor, what age are you?’ He said, ’25.’” Neeson laughs, “I said, ‘That’s the age of my eldest son!’”

[From ET]

I don’t really watch action films. I have nothing against them, they just aren’t my go-to. So I had to hop on IMDb to see what the last Liam Neeson film I’d seen was and sure enough, the only films of his I’ve seen in the last 10 years were Widows and Men in Black: International (not counting The Lego Movie, in which he was a voice talent). I liked him in both those films, and the MiB sequel was crap with a capital C, so I guess I can see why he keeps getting hired for those roles. But it is a bit much to accept that Liam is out there believably beating up 25-year-olds. I could see an older man outwitting his younger opponent, but sheer brute force? Come on.

Later in the article, it talks about fans telling Liam they want him to reprise his Zeus role from Clash of the Titans to become a part of the Wonder Woman franchise. Liam, who had to admit he’d never seen Wonder Woman, didn’t realize she was Zeus’ daughter and jokingly said he’d call his agent. At least I hope he was joking, we really don’t need that crossover. What I do know is that when I was looking through his IMDb, I noticed Liam’s next announced project is to play Philip Marlow in a project currently called Marlowe. This would be a fantastic departure for him and a role I could absolutely see him sliding into. Marlowe is still rough and tumble, but he’s fallible and road worn. He mixes smarts with grit, not necessarily bronze. I love Raymond Chandler and honestly, Liam’s a good successor to Humphrey Bogart. It’d be nice to get excited about a Liam Neeson project again.

Embed from Getty Images

Photo credit: Avalon and Getty Images

I’m more of a fan of Trisha Yearwood than her husband, Garth Brooks. Trisha seems cool as hell and really funny (I love her cooking show). Garth seems… like a bro. But I’ve heard before that Garth and Trisha are both Democrats and donors to Democrats, same as Faith Hill and Tim McGraw. It’s like a little secret in Nashville: some country stars are Democrats! Take that, Bro Country. So, surprise, Garth Brooks is going to perform at Joe Biden’s inauguration, joining Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez for some special inaugural performances. I get it in Gaga and J.Lo’s cases – they were out there, campaigning for Biden-Harris for months. Garth Brooks… wasn’t? Not visibly. But another way to read this is that President Biden is trying to show some of those MAGA rednecks that they come over to the good side, look, Garth Brooks is there. Garth made a statement about performing:

Country music icon Garth Brooks will perform at President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris’ inauguration on Wednesday. The Presidential Inaugural Committee revealed the Brooks performance in a press conference Monday.

“This is a great day in our household, this is not a political statement, this is a statement of unity,” Brooks said Monday. “This is history, and it is an honor to get to serve.”

Brooks says he was asked to perform by Dr. Jill Biden last week and made the decision to do so Sunday night. Brooks will be part of the swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol, not the concert or parade programming slated for later in the day Wednesday. Brooks will join Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez, who are also slated to perform at the inauguration ceremonies.

“There is a common theme in every presidential election: New beginnings, new starts, but it is the word unity, the word love, the word that we belong to each other. It is going to take all of us, what I want for all of us to do is listen,” Brooks said. “We are more divided than ever, that bridge that brings us together, it is reaching across, loving one another, because that is what is going to get us through the most divided times that we have.”

Brooks says he has performed for every president since Jimmy Carter, with the exception of Ronald Reagan. He had also performed at Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2008, and was asked to do so at President Trump’s inauguration in 2016, but was unable to appear due to a concert he had committed to in Cincinnati.

“In this case you must rise beyond red and blue, black and white, gay and straight, male and female, look at it from America,” Brooks said, adding that he wants attendees of his concerts leaving the show “loving each other more than the way they came in.” He also recalled one of his favorite quotes, which, fittingly, came from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “We can’t start living until we rise above the narrows of our own individualistic concerns, and focus on the broader concerns of all humanity.”

[From THR]

Yeah. I mean, nice sentiments or whatever. But I’m not in any way ready to take the first steps to meet the F–k Your Feelings crowd halfway. These are not typical political divisions. One side says the election was fair and Joe Biden won. The other side says “we’re going to erect gallows outside of the Capitol and murder congressional leaders because Donald Trump told us to do that.” F–k unity with these people. Stop telling the normal side that we need unity. Tell the batsh-t crazy side to put down their weapons and turn themselves into the FBI.

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red.

A post shared by Michelle Obama (@michelleobama)

Since the Capricorns are getting ready to turn things over to the Aquarians, we like to close things out with a real firework show of power players. The 17th in particular is showcase of Capricorn excellence when it comes to birthdays. Last Sunday, Betty White turned 99, James Earl Jones turned 90, Jim Carrey turned 59 and Dwyane Wade turned 39. Muhammad Ali, Eartha Kitt and Benjamin Franklin, may they all rest in peace, were Jan 17 babies as well. And, of course, the Mighty MObama – Former First Lady and All Around Bad @ss, Mrs. Michelle Obama turned 57. But you didn’t need me to tell you that because almost everyone else posted something to social media letting us know it was time to honor her.

Michelle Obama entered the 57th year of her life Sunday with a slew of well-wishes from friends and family members.

In a post on her own Instagram feed, Obama shared a black-and-white image of herself along with a message of gratitude for the many birthday messages she received.

“Thank you all for the lovely birthday wishes!” Obama wrote. “I know this past year has been difficult for us all on so many levels, so I just hope you all are taking care of yourselves and finding joy in the smallest moments. Love you all. ?”

Obama’s reference to the difficulties of the past year offered a nod to her outspokenness when it comes to the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic, her passion in regards to racial justice and the Black Lives Matter movement, and the recent attack on the Capitol by a mob of violent supporters of President Donald Trump.

[From People]

I was trying to limit my time on electronics this weekend but when I jumped on, I saw the flood of Instagram and Twitter blessings for Michelle’s birthday and it filled me with bliss. I cannot think of any other political spouse who had to work so hard to gain the public’s acceptance. She had every insult hurled at her, had to endure the smallest, pettiest criticisms every single step of her journey in the public eye and she handled all of it with grace. To see her now celebrated so joyously and by so many is soul-filling. I love that she allowed us to be in that moment with her.

I hear her on the difficult year, we all do. One of the cool things about having a January birthday is psychologically you feel like you get to hit the reset button with both the start of a new chronological year and a new birthday year. So it really does feel like a time to start anew and if anyone can jump start 2021 into a functioning year, it’s Michelle. I know both she and her husband will want to step back and not overshadow the Bidens as they assume their role as our First Family. I respect that. But I also know they will all find a place for each other in this new political landscape because no one wants to see less of the Obamas. Fortunately, with Michelle’s podcast and hopefully more books or articles, her voice will remain with us. Happy Birthday, Mrs. Obama. I hope you take the rest of the month to celebrate. You’ve certainly earned it.

Happy Birthday, @MichelleObama ?? pic.twitter.com/gMXnJWx5qf

— Dr. Jill Biden (@DrBiden) January 18, 2021

Happy birthday, @MichelleObama. Thank you for pouring every ounce of yourself into empowering the next generation of leaders. Our country, and myself, are better off because of you. pic.twitter.com/Hlvymr2Ndq

— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) January 17, 2021

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Photo credit: Instagram and Twitter

A post shared by Javicia Leslie (@javicia)

We heard in July that Javicia Leslie will be the new face of CW’s Batwoman after Ruby Rose declined to renew her contract. While Javicia is celebrating her big opportunity, some of her family members are putting on a not so enthusiastic front. Javicia was on Jimmy Kimmel recently. She said that her comic-loving brother was very nonchalant when she announced she got the role. Her brother was absolutely obsessed with the comic world and she used to watch the cartoons, movies and TV shows with him so his reaction has been quite baffling. Despite the sibling rivalry in this situation, Javicia has a superfan in her mother whom Javicia says introduces her as whatever role she is playing. In this case, her mom introduces Javicia as Batwoman to people. Below are a few excerpts from the interview via People:

“And I remember when I told him that I booked Batwoman, he was so nonchalant about it. I’m like, ‘Yo, I’ve known you your entire life and you’re obsessed with comics and like I’m Batwoman and you give me nothing!’ ” Leslie shared.

She continued, “And then the first thing he says to me is ‘I’m so mad Supergirl is coming to an end.’ ”

Leslie also revealed that her brother was more excited about the upcoming season four premiere of Black Lightning on February 8.

“I think he’s trying to play it cool,” she said.

Her mom, however, told many people before the announcement was public.

“My mom is my biggest support and like a superfan. She’s like the type of person if we’re out and she’s trying to introduce me, she’s going to introduce me as whatever role I’m playing at the moment,” Leslie explained.

“So, we just go to like the grocery store and ‘This is my daughter Javicia. She’s Batwoman,’ ” she said, imitating her mother.

Leslie also shared that she sent a promo image of herself suited up as Batwoman despite Warner Bros.’s strict policy and later found out that her mother printed it poster size to hang up in their family home.

[From People]

This is the cutest damns story I have read in a while. Javicia’s mother is absolutely adorable and I love how proud she is of her daughter. I was cracking up when Javicia said that her mom made a huge poster of a picture of the press pictures that people were not supposed to see and hung it up in the living room. That right there is a true fandom in one woman. Moms are the best.

I did not watch Batwoman when Ruby Rose was in the role despite liking Ruby Rose. I may catch up on the first season and watch the new show with Javicia. I haven’t seen her in other shows so this will be my first time seeing her in action. I am glad she is representing several communities as well. Black girls and the LGBTQ communities will have their very own superhero. CW has been doing a great job with diversifying its casts in the DCEU particularly. Javicia will make a great addition to the fandom. I didn’t know that she is a master in Muay Thai which definitely prepared her for the role of Batwoman and that she went to a historically Black college. I love how Javicia said she stole her Batwoman landing from Kate Beckinsale in Underworld. Listen, Kate was badass in the Underworld and it makes me want to watch this season of Batwoman even more.

Like Javicia’s brother, I too am looking forward to the new season of Black Lightning and am gutted that Supergirl was canceled. As for Javicia’s brother acting all salty, I am sure he will come around. More than likely, he is secretly more proud of Javicia than even their mother. At some point he will embrace the fact that his sister is now a part of one of his favorite universes and openly express his excitement. Family definitely has a way of keeping one humble, but family can also be very supportive and make you feel proud of your achievements.

Here’s the full interview:

A post shared by Javicia Leslie (@javicia)

A post shared by Javicia Leslie (@javicia)

A post shared by Javicia Leslie (@javicia)

A post shared by Javicia Leslie (@javicia)