Winans Sentenced
Michael Winans, member of the legendary gospel family, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for an $8 million financial scam. Winans had been using the church pulpit to sell Saudi Arabian oil bonds that turned out to be fake.
“I want to apologize to everyone. … These were decisions that were negligent and irresponsible,” said Winans, 30. Winans claimed no “malicious intent,” but admitted he continued to sell the bonds after discovering they were worthless. Over 1,000 fell for the sceme in 2007 and 2008.
Michael is the son of Michael Winans Sr., a member of The Winans, a gospel quartet. His uncle, Marvin Winans, famously provided the eulogy at Whitney Houston’s funeral.
First Black Bachelorette?
A Kentucky woman is campaigning to become the first black Bachelorette. Dr. Misee Harris, a 28-year-old pediatric dentist, hopes to do so to bring more diversity to the dating program.
“I realized that being the bachelorette would give me a better opportunity to find love and a stronger platform for all of my creative dreams and charity work,” she told The Grio. “It also would allow me to inspire other black women and girls to dream big and know their worth.”
Harris’s efforts are largely a response to comments by Bachelorette producer Mike Fleiss that women of color don’t want to be on the program.
“We really tried, but sometimes we feel guilty of tokenism,” he said to Entertainment Weekly. “Oh, we have to wedge African-American chicks in there! We always want to cast for ethnic diversity, it’s just that for whatever reason, they don’t come forward. I wish they would.”
The bigger question–does anyone still watch The Bachelorette?
Tina Fey says “no way” to hosting the Oscars next year. Claims the gig would be “months of trying on dresses.” [CS Monitor]
Rachel McAdams (aka Regina George) has broken up with boyfriend Michael Sheen after two years. No word on whether Aaron Samuels is available. [Yahoo]
Jennifer Aniston will reportedly wed Justin Theroux in a few weeks after she finishes filming an upcoming move in Connecticut. The odds are looking good for her to beat also-engaged ex Brad Pitt to the altar. [USA Today]
Like all classy moms to be, Kristin Bell rocks a belly shirt and gigantic baby bump. [US Magazine]
WashU fraternity SAE suspended for alleged racist activity. [Huffington Post]
Solange performs new song “Don’t Let Me Down” on Letterman. [Rap Up] *Note, this is her first gig since performing in the back of a cab.*
Law and Order SVU pen Rihanna and Chris Brown-inspired episode about a pop star, a rapper and assault. I guess the writers’ stance on the reconciliation is clear. [theybf]
