Taryn Finley
Verified
As seen in:
MSN,
MSN Singapore,
The New York Times,
Yahoo Entertainment,
Yahoo Life,
HuffPost,
USA Today,
Yahoo Canada,
Yahoo News,
Yahoo News Malaysia
and
sr. culture writer @huffpost/@blackvoices | award-winning journalist | a lil country | impeccable taste in all things
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Taryn Finley
"A Different World" Is the Reason I Went to an HBCU. I Want That For the Next Generation.
A big swirling bucket of the latest rumors, celebrity news and Hollywood gossip. The premier celebrity gossip app. The only apps that gives you a comprehensive real time celeb news stream. Gossip Bucket aggregates and streams the latest gossip news and headlines from the top sources in one place.
"A Different World" Is the Reason I Went to an HBCU. I Want That For the Next Generation. Original
Balance Tv Taryn Finley Getty Images Taryn Finley Getty Images The first time I stepped on Howard University's campus was freshman move-in day. Unlike many of my classmates, I never toured or visited. But entering this new chapter in an unfamiliar place nearly 500 miles away from where I was born and raised immediately felt like I was returning home.
Tyler Perry's ‘Why Did I Get Married Again' fell short of its potential
Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married Again had the right intention but a flawed approach, and it's more than just being shot over a few days. The film — which unsurprisingly felt more like a stage play — premiered on Netflix nearly 20 years after viewers watched Sheila drive up that mountain to save her marriage in the original. And, unfortunately, it doesn't quite live up to its predecessors.
How An Anti-Inflammatory Diet Changed These Women’s Lives
Black women are taking that to heart, personalizing and documenting their own unique anti-inflammatory journeys Kia Tatyana was told to “just drink more water” when she told her doctor about her chronic migraines. Daily migraines were in the way of her being able to take care of her newborn son.
There are no sports fans like Black women. Why aren't brands acknowledging that?
This year's WNBA All-Star Weekend saw record-breaking numbers with nearly 20,000 attendees. Jordan Wood's iconic orange purse became a part of the New York Knicks' historic NBA Championship win. And fashionistas brought style and team spirit effortlessly with their FIFA World Cup fits this summer. Women are having one hell of a moment in sports. But beyond the influence and support they bring not just on the court and field, but on the sidelines, is turning with a monumental shift.
There Are No Sports Fans Like Black Women. Why Aren’t Brands Acknowledging That?
Black women fandoms aren’t just connecting — they’re surging, organizing, and showing up loud. Sporting organizations need to start paying attention. Key Takeaways Black women are powerful, passionate sports fans yet remain underrepresented by leagues and brands. Communities like Black Women Love Football showcase Black women's deep engagement and leadership in sports. Elevating Black women in media and leadership boosts sports' growth and cultural relevance.
Diarra Kilpatrick Knows the Real Treasure Is What Families Pass Down
Show creator Diarra Kilpatrick weaves Black history, inheritance and a whole lot of Detroit personality into Season 2 of Diarra From Detroit. Key Takeaways Diarra Kilpatrick’s show explores Black heritage, ancestral stories, and spiritual legacies in season two. The season blends comedy, mystery, and culture with a treasure hunt and rich Black traditions. Features star-studded cast and addresses deep themes like motherhood amid challenging social realities. Diarra Kilpatrick is full of stories.
Here's Everything We Know About Children Of Blood and Bone — & Its Controversy
Photo: Courtesy of Lephatse Motshana/Paramount Pictures. The Children of Blood and Bone controversy may not be coming to an end anytime soon. After the trailer for the Paramount Pictures film adaptation of the bestselling novel dropped on Tuesday, author Tomi Adeyemi doubled down on her decision to distance herself from the project.
Here’s Everything We Know About Children Of Blood and Bone — & Its Controversy
The Children of Blood and Bone controversy may not be coming to an end anytime soon. After the trailer for the Paramount Pictures film adaptation of the bestselling novel dropped on Tuesday, author Tomi Adeyemi doubled down on her decision to distance herself from the project. She shared in a TikTok video that working on the film was “the worst thing I have ever had to live through” that resulted in her “hyperventilating” to the point where she had to leave the set.
In The Odyssey , It's The Women (And Gods) Who Guide The Path To Restoration
Photo Credit: R29 Design + Melinda Sue Gordon/Universal Pictures Christopher Nolan takes The Odyssey , a story filled with gods, monsters and war, and makes it both spectacular and stunningly human. Known for his grandiose auteur, Nolan approached a millennia-old text that is already massive in nature with restraint that gives this adaptation about war-torn consequences, mythological creatures and fantastically fatal voyages a relatable grounding.
In The Odyssey , It’s The Women (And Gods) Who Guide The Path To Restoration
Christopher Nolan takes The Odyssey, a story filled with gods, monsters and war, and makes it both spectacular and stunningly human. Known for his grandiose auteur, Nolan approached a millenia-old text that is already massive in nature with restraint that gives this adaptation about war-torn consequences, mythological creatures and fantastically fatal voyages a relatable grounding. And even with the film’s hypermasculine themes, the women are the beating heart.
The 'Core Four' Made It to the 'Love Island USA' Finale. Here’s What Should Come Next
Key Takeaways The finale features the Core Four couples, each anchored by Black or Afro-identifying women. Trinity and Bryce are favorites to win, overcoming racial and distance challenges. Melanie and Sincere’s toxic relationship contrasts with the healthier dynamics of other couples. For six weeks, Love Island USA season 8 viewers have watched dozens of islanders try their luck at finding love with other singles in Fiji.
The Love Island USA Ladies Are Performing For Men Who Don’t Deserve Them — & It’s Hard To Watch
I’ve been cringing at Love Island USA all season long. And it’s not just because of the excessive make outs, disgusting fluid-filled challenges or Kenzie’s splits. With any dating reality show, there’s a level of performance that’s unnatural to what people may do in their everyday lives. It becomes a pressure cooker.
New Orleans Teens Are Keeping Jazz Alive Through the Trombone Shorty Academy Original
NEW ORLEANS — Tyler Stevenson, 17, stood in the spotlight for his solo on the same stage graced by James Brown and Buddy Guy decades ago at New Orleans’ historic nightclub Tipitina’s. This past spring was his final performance as a student of the Trombone Shorty Academy. After deepening his skills his senior year of high school, this center stage moment standing next to Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews came with a wave of emotions.
New Orleans Teens Are Keeping Jazz Alive Through the Trombone Shorty Academy
Appalachian Trail 5 hours ago Doing the Chestnut Challenge (Day 48) thetrek.co - Gerjan "Hungry" Hertgers • 5h We were awaken by a bird that makes car alarm sounds at 5:30. I didn’t mind, but Ferdinand was definitely not happy about it.
How to Maximize Your Vacation Resort Days
Kick off your vacation with these tips to enjoy every second of your trip this summer. Key Takeaways Plan activities and reservations early to avoid stress and ensure availability. Balance relaxation days with local dining, water adventures, and nightlife experiences. Allow time for spontaneous discoveries to enhance your vacation enjoyment. Certainty is the difference between a stress-free itinerary and inviting chaos into time away.
'Brown Paper Bag' Island?Colorism Is Making 'Love Island USA' Hard to Watch
Key Takeaways Season 8 of Love Island USA reveals persistent colorism, affecting dark-skinned contestants' desirability. The show highlights microaggressions and racial dynamics, with limited dark-skinned contestants cast. Viewers demand better representation and acknowledgment of colorism within the reality TV narrative. It’s hard to ignore how beige Love Island USA is this season.
These Festivals Will Keep You Outside this Summer
Key Takeaways Celebrate Black culture through diverse summer festivals in music, film, food, and arts. Key events include Blue Note Jazz Festival, Black Food and Wine Festival, Afro Nation, and Invest Fest. Festivals offer cultural enrichment, networking, entertainment, and culinary experiences worldwide. Black folks will still be outside this summer, but we're taking things even further.
The Euphoria Finale (Almost) Made Up For The Disaster That Was Season 3
Photo Credit: Eddy Chen/HBO Thank God Euphoria has come to an end. After watching this very weird and graphic season carelessly shuffle its characters through drug lords, sex work and crime bosses, it finally said something of substance. And though I enjoyed the finale — which creator Sam Levinson recently confirmed wraps the series — I find it difficult to clap too hard. (Spoilers ahead, obviously.) This past season was a circus that used overtly religious themes to clumsily get to the point.
The Euphoria Finale (Almost) Made Up For The Disaster That Was Season 3 Original
Thank God Euphoria has come to an end. After watching this very weird and graphic season carelessly shuffle its characters through drug lords, sex work and crime bosses, it finally said something of substance. And though I enjoyed the finale — which creator Sam Levinson recently confirmed wraps the series — I find it difficult to clap too hard. (Spoilers ahead, obviously.) This past season was a circus that used overtly religious themes to clumsily get to the point.
Why Black Women's Rage is Important in 'Is God Is' and Worth Supporting
Directed by playwright Aleshea Harris, this revenge thriller follows twin sisters Racine and Anaia as they embark on a mission to kill their father. Watching Angela Bassett’s Bernadine masterfully cuss her freshly estranged husband out as she dragged his clothes, jewelry and shoes into his vintage BMW before setting it ablaze and walking off unapologetically in Waiting To Exhale has become a rite of passage for Black women.
It’s Up! DoorDash Reservations Makes It Easier To Get a Seat At The Hottest Restaurants
Warmer weather means we’re outside! Whether you’re out of town on vacay or taking it easy in your own neighborhood, make a reservation to avoid long waits and guarantee your table at that viral ramen spot you’ve been wanting to try. DoorDash is making it easier to snag a reservation with a new platform that practically pays you to dine.
As DEI backpedaling continues, Solidcore CEO wants it to be the ‘de facto landing spot for Black women’
A few swipes down the fitness class corner of social media will show how much of a growing craze [solidcore] has become. Avid members share updates of their 100th class or leveling up in difficulty level, but there’s something interesting about how this pilates-adjacent workout has taken over. This boutique fitness studio once synonymous with petite white women has become one of many case studies that prove how critical diversity is for business.
As DEI backpedaling continues, Solidcore CEO wants it to be the ‘de facto landing spot for Black women’
Since he began leading the company in 2021, Bryan Myers has proven the business sense of leaning into a diverse clientele. A few swipes down the fitness class corner of social media will show how much of a growing craze [solidcore] has become. Avid members share updates of their 100th class or leveling up in difficulty level, but there’s something interesting about how this pilates-adjacent workout has taken over.
Sinners’ Oscars Wins Are Historic. The Film Also Doesn’t Need Awards For Validation
Sinners capped off a remarkable award season with history-making wins that now pave the way for future filmmakers. Ryan Coogler took home his first Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, making him the second Black American ever to win in the category. Meanwhile, Sinners director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw became the first woman in the history of the awards to win for Best Cinematography.
Sinners’ Oscars Wins Are Historic. The Film Also Doesn’t Need Awards For Validation
Story from Unbothered Sinners capped off a remarkable award season with history-making wins that now pave the way for future filmmakers. Ryan Coogler took home his first Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, making him the second Black American ever to win in the category. Meanwhile, Sinners director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw became the first woman in the history of the awards to win for Best Cinematography.
Is A Scandal Spinoff *Really* Happening? Tyriq Withers & Kerry Washington Fuel The Rumors
A Scandal spin-off series may not be happening yet, and for now only exists in the imaginations of super fans missing the Shonda Rhimes’ show, but Kerry Washington has officially given Tyriq Withers her stamp of approval to star in it.
Is A Scandal Spinoff *Really* Happening? Tyriq Withers & Kerry Washington Fuel The Rumors
Story from Entertainment A Scandal spin-off series may not be happening yet, and for now only exists in the imaginations of super fans missing the Shonda Rhimes’ show, but Kerry Washington has officially given Tyriq Withers her stamp of approval to star in it.
The NAACP Image Awards Gave The Sinners’ Cast The Love — & Safe Space — They Deserve Original
Story from Entertainment The 57th NAACP Image Awards felt like a long-overdue exhale after months of suffocating. On February 28, Black Hollywood and viewers alike found a soft place to land in the midst of the world’s chaos as they experienced a night of celebration and love for the art that is for us, by us. The cast of “Sinners,” Viola Davis and Colman Domingo were among those who won big during Saturday’s ceremony.
Opal Lee, ‘Grandmother of Juneteenth,’ Passes Torch to Granddaughter for Congressional Run
Opal Lee (Courtesy of Dione Sims) Dr. Opal Lee is often referred to as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” but she is also the real-life grandmother of Dione Sims, the woman running to represent Texas’s 25th District and fight gerrymandering. Since summer 2025, Sims has witnessed the effort to politically erase the voices of Black voters and people of color in her state with redistricting that could give the GOP 30 of the state’s 38 congressional districts.
Tyra Banks Needs To Be Held Accountable. She’s Also The Perfect Scapegoat
Story from Entertainment Over the last few days, the social media firing squad has been aimed at Tyra Banks and the producers behind America’s Next Top Model, the cultural phenomenon of a reality show that aired from 2003 to 2018 and spawned dozens of international spinoffs. Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model is proof that the more things change, the more they stay the same.
‘I gave you your out’: Deion Sanders and Karrueche Tran get real about their relationship during his recovery
Deion Sanders and Karrueche Tran are sharing more about their relationship journey while Sanders was being treated for bladder cancer last year. The pair were first rumored to be dating in February 2025 and their relationship came to public light when images of Tran showing up for the Pro Football Hall of Famer as he recovered from surgery in July.
Adrienne Bailon-Houghton reveals Mickey Guyton was an original member of 3LW Original
Fans know 3LW’s members as Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Naturi Naughton and Kiely Williams, but the girl group looked quite different originally. Bailon-Houghton revealed in an interview with SiriusXM’s Page Six Radio that country singer Mickey Guyton was originally in 3LW. “The first song we ever cut, it was Kiely, Mickey Guyton and myself,” the singer told the hosts.
NBA players respond to Chris Paul's retirement: 'We can’t downplay our point guard'
Chris Paul is retiring from the NBA after 21 seasons. The point guard, nicknamed CP3, announced his departure on Friday (Feb. 12) in an Instagram post. “This is it! After 21 years I’m stepping away from basketball,” the 40-year-old shared. His decision came after being waived from the Toronto Raptors.
Retired NFL star Tre’ Johnson found dead at 54 during family trip
Tim Lopez doesn’t know of any other chef with a Super Bowl ring. He’s got one thanks to being part of the Philadelphia Eagles organization during …
‘It’s not over for me yet:’ ‘America’s Next Top Model’ judge Miss J shares heartbreaking update in Netflix documentary Original
Miss J stole the show as a judge on ‘America’s Next Top Model,’ transforming “can’t walks” into catwalks on the hit reality show. But in Netflix’s “Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model,” the runway coach revealed that he had a stroke on Dec. 27, 2022 that has left him wheelchair-bound. “I couldn’t walk, and I couldn’t talk, and I thought to myself, ‘What was I going to do?’ And that I couldn’t walk, and I couldn’t speak. It was emotional. I cried.
Ray J performs with apparent 'blood' running from his eye and heart monitor Original
Fans have concerns after Ray J’s recent Valentine’s Day performance in Shreveport, Louisiana weeks after he shared his grim health update. In a video shared to social media, Ray J, who’s real name is William Ray Norwood Jr., is seen on stage interacting with fans with what looks like blood running from his right eye from behind his sunglasses. Later in the performance the shirtless “Love & Hip-Hop” star reveals what appears to be a heart monitor or other medical device on his chest.
Retired NFL star Tre’ Johnson found dead at 54 during family trip Original
Former NFL player Tre’ Johnson died “suddenly and unexpectedly” on Sunday at the age of 54 his wife, Irene, confirmed on Facebook. Johnson was on a family trip at the time. The cause of death has not been made public. “His four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden, extended family, friends, and I are devastated and in shock,” his wife wrote. “If you know Tre’, you know what a devoted and loving father, he was to his children.
Issa Rae shares what fans should (and shouldn't) expect from her Paramount deal Original
Issa Rae wasn’t wearing a power suit when she sat down with four women journalists for a January roundtable, but her money-making prowess was in full effect as she rocked a brown leather skirt set and high ponytail. Fresh off of signing a three-year first look deal with Paramount, the “One Of Them Days” producer is excited about what lies ahead. Under the new deal, Rae will work with the Skydance-owned studio to develop and produce TV and film projects.
Judge blocks Trump administration's move to end protection status for Haitians Original
The Trump administration’s efforts to end temporary protection status for an estimated 350,000 Haitians were thwarted on Monday after a federal judge blocked the move. The status allows them to live and work in the United States as unrest in their country continues. According to the Associated Press, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes of Washington, D.C. has granted a request to pause the TPS termination for Haitians just before the designation was set to expire on Tuesday.
Ray J shares sobering health update after being hospitalized: ‘2027 is definitely a wrap for me’ Original
Ray J believes his time is limited after a near-death experience that landed him in the hospital. In a video shared to social media on Tuesday night, the “One Wish” singer claimed, “2027 is definitely a wrap for me.” A friend in the video objected, to which Ray J, 45, responded, “That’s what the doctor said.” “My baby mama gon’ be straight, my kids gon’ be straight, if they want to spend all the money, they can. I did my part here,” he said, adding, “I shouldn’t have went this hard, bruh.
Ray J shares sobering health update after being hospitalized: ‘2027 is definitely a wrap for me’
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 25: Ray J is seen onstage during the "College Hill Cast Meet & Greet" at House Of BET on June 25, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)Photo by: Paras Griffin / Getty Images Ray J told followers his health is “not OK,” saying his heart is beating at 25 percent. Ray J believes his time is limited after a near-death experience that landed him in the hospital.
Judge throws out Misa Hylton’s $5 million lawsuit against Mary J. Blige Original
A New York judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed against Mary J. Blige by her former friend and stylist Misa Hylton. In the lawsuit, filed on April 29, Hylton sought $5 million, claiming that the Grammy-winning singer attempted to poach rapper Vado from her management roster. In addition to the dismissal, Judge Phaedra F. Perry-Bond issued a warning to Hylton for missing the deadline to respond to Blige’s motion to dismiss the complaint.
Tell-It Report: How Tennessee State Went From Near Financial Collapse to a $13.2 Million Surplus in a Year
In Gullah Geechee communities, a “tell-it” was a designated lookout, community warning system and the most trusted source for news and information. The Tell-It Report is ContrabandCamp’s weekly roundup of the Black stories that deserve more attention — from politics to entertainment.
Ryan Coogler reveals original plot for Black Panther 2: 'Chadwick was going to kill it' Original
Ryan Coogler just gave a sneak peak of his original plans for “Black Panther 2.” The Bay Area-born director appeared on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast as a part of his award season press run for “Sinners.” He revealed to host Josh Horomitz how he initially imagined the Marvel film’s sequel before star Chadwick Boseman’s death.
Tell-It Report: Fired UNC Charlotte Employee Sues After Video Showed Her Discussing DEI
In Gullah Geechee communities, a “tell-it” was a designated lookout, community warning system and the most trusted source for news and information. The Tell-It Report is ContrabandCamp’s weekly roundup of the Black stories that deserve more attention — from politics to entertainment.
Diasporic Connection: Finding Deeper Roots In The Bahamas
Source: 7 Fine Art / 500px / Getty Several miles south of Nassau’s bustling, overly commercialized tourist trap of Paradise Island, Beverly Archer instructed me to follow her into her home. “Don’t be shy, dear,” the 75-year-old said with a tone and accent as thick as the bowl of fish and grits she had just served me as she introduced me to her brother, nephew, and other family members. They were gathered around the kitchen island playing spades and filling the room with guffaws.
Diasporic Connection: Finding Deeper Roots In The Bahamas
Source: 7 Fine Art / 500px / Getty Several miles south of Nassau’s bustling, overly commercialized tourist trap of Paradise Island, Beverly Archer instructed me to follow her into her home. “Don’t be shy, dear,” the 75-year-old said with a tone and accent as thick as the bowl of fish and grits she had just served me as she introduced me to her brother, nephew, and other family members. They were gathered around the kitchen island playing spades and filling the room with guffaws.
Diasporic Connection: Finding Deeper Roots In The Bahamas
Source: 7 Fine Art / 500px / Getty Several miles south of Nassau’s bustling, overly commercialized tourist trap of Paradise Island, Beverly Archer instructed me to follow her into her home. “Don’t be shy, dear,” the 75-year-old said with a tone and accent as thick as the bowl of fish and grits she had just served me as she introduced me to her brother, nephew, and other family members. They were gathered around the kitchen island playing spades and filling the room with guffaws.
Diasporic Connection: Finding Deeper Roots In The Bahamas
Source: 7 Fine Art / 500px / Getty Several miles south of Nassau’s bustling, overly commercialized tourist trap of Paradise Island, Beverly Archer instructed me to follow her into her home. “Don’t be shy, dear,” the 75-year-old said with a tone and accent as thick as the bowl of fish and grits she had just served me as she introduced me to her brother, nephew, and other family members. They were gathered around the kitchen island playing spades and filling the room with guffaws.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Taryn
Contact Taryn, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack