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Articles by Ty Cole
WATCH: ‘America Amended’ Ep. 2: Black Artists Have Always Used Their Voices. But Are We Truly Free to Express Ourselves?
Black Americans have long used music, art and storytelling to make their voices heard, challenge injustice and build community. But what does freedom of expression really mean for a community whose creativity has helped shape American culture? That question is at the heart of Episode 2 of The Root’s six-part docuseries, America Amended.
EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK: Episode 2 of ‘America Amended’ Explores Free Expression in Detroit
In Episode 2 of The Root’s docuseries America Amended, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Trymaine Lee travels to Detroit to explore how Black artists use the First Amendment to carry forward their community’s legacy. Black Americans have long used music, art and storytelling to make their voices heard —but what does freedom of expression mean when your creativity shapes a nation’s culture?
17 Black Movie Love Interests Who Were Walking Red Flags
Some of our favorite Black movie romances had us rooting for couples who, looking back, probably needed therapy more than anything else. Between Harper’s messy love life in “The Best Man,” Quincy’s questionable behavior in “Love & Basketball,” and Franklin’s secrets in “Disappearing Acts,” Hollywood has given us plenty of love stories that had us overlooking some serious red flags.
From Temporary Foster Placement to Forever Family: Inside The Beautiful Story of Black Mom’s Journey to Adopt a White Toddler
What started as a temporary foster placement developed into a beautiful family bond for Georgia mom Kayla Summers and her now three-year-old daughter, Paisleigh. According to TODAY.com, Summers, a Black 30-year-old single mother, welcomed Paisleigh, who is white, into her home in June 2024 when the little girl was just 12 months old. At the time, the plan was for Paisleigh to reunite with her biological family.
Queer Author Luke Larkin Makes Horror Novel Debut With “The Unheld”
Queer storytellers are showing up everywhere right now, and not just in the spaces people usually expect us to be. We’re writing romance, comedy, thrillers, sci-fi, and yes, horror too, telling the stories we actually want to tell without feeling like every project has to center queerness to still come from a queer point of view. Luke Larkin is part of that wave. His debut novel, The Unheld, is an atmospheric horror Western that digs into loneliness, family, belonging and survival.
WATCH: ‘America Amended’ Ep. 1: Black Americans Died for the Right to Vote. Has It Given Us Real Power?
Black Americans have fought and died for the right to vote. But more than 150 years later, has that hard-fought right translated into the political power our communities deserve? That question takes center stage in the premiere of The Root’s new six-part docuseries, America Amended, which debuted today (Oct. 11).
Black TV And Movie Villains Who Spoke Truth
Some of the most ruthless characters in Black television and film weren’t always wrong. From Papa Pope’s unforgettable lectures on power in “Scandal” to Toni Childs refusing to apologize for her standards on “Girlfriends,” these characters lied, manipulated, betrayed, and occasionally made everybody’s lives miserable. But every now and then, they delivered a truth nobody else wanted to hear. We don’t have to defend their actions to admit they were onto something.
Exclusive: How Angela Rye’s New YouTube Series is Tackling Misinformation
Angela Rye is betting that facts can still cut through the noise. The former executive director of the CBC (Congressional Black Caucus) is launching “Cite Your Source,” a new weekly YouTube series built around tough conversations, real-time fact-checking and holding guests accountable for the claims they make.
When Life Is ‘Life-ing,’ These Songs Know Exactly What to Say
Sometimes the right song can pull you back to yourself. Whether it’s Cleo Sol offering a moment of stillness, India.Arie reminding us to see our own beauty, or Victoria Monét turning confidence into a full-body experience, these songs meet us in different places and still manage to leave us feeling a little more grounded, a little more whole and a little more sure of who we are.
Why the ‘A Different World’ Reboot Gets Black Queer Representation Right
In the new chapter of “A Different World,” the character Amir offers something long overdue in Black queer representation: normal, integrated existence. Here is an open letter to show creators Felicia Pride and Debbie Allen on why his storyline matters: Dear Felicia Pride, Debbie Allen, and everyone who had a hand in bringing this new chapter of “A Different World” to life, Thank you for Amir.
Unapologetically Fly: Black ’90s TV Stars Whose Style We Love
Before we had Instagram mood boards, TikTok aesthetics and influencers telling us what was “in,” we had television. For Black girls growing up in the ’90s, some of their biggest fashion inspiration came straight from the women they watched every week. The best part is that there wasn’t just one version of what a Black fashion girl looked like.
13 Classic ‘A Different World’ Episodes to Watch Before You Dive Into the Reboot
Nearly 40 years after we first got accepted into Hillman College, “A Different World” is opening its doors again. Netflix’s continuation arrives Sept. 24, this time following Deborah Wayne, the youngest daughter of Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert, as she tries to make a name for herself outside of her parents’ legendary Hillman legacy. And while a new generation is taking over the dorms, plenty of familiar faces are coming home too, including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer, Darryl M.
13 Black Couples Who Make Love Look Good
Let’s face it, relationships are not for the weak. So when we see couples, especially in Hollywood, who manage to make love look effortless, we can’t help but stop scrolling and say, “Yeah, I want that.” Keith Lee and his wife, Ronni, recently had one of those moments when they were caught on camera having a flirty moment together at a concert.
The Black Designers We Can’t Stop Talking About After New York Fashion Week
As New York Fashion Week ends, Black designers made sure our influence was felt from the runway to the front row. Familiar heavyweights like LaQuan Smith and Sergio Hudson showcased their latest looks for the Spring/Summer 2027 season, alongside rising stars, including Rachel Scott’s Diotima, Keith Herron’s Advisry and Jakarie Whitaker’s Hikari no Yami.
Looking for Love? Check Out Our Favorite Black Romance Films From the 2020s
For a generation raised on “Love & Basketball,” “Brown Sugar,” “The Best Man,” and “Love Jones,” there’s always going to be something special about seeing Black people fall in love on screen – especially when there’s no trauma at the center of the story. Sometimes we just want beautiful, Black people making questionable dating decisions, chasing their dreams and figuring out whether love can fit into the life they’re building.
These Black Stars Are Turning 50 in 2026
Some of the biggest names in music, television, film and sports are celebrating their big 5-0 in 2026, and quite a few of them have us questioning how that’s even possible. From the voices behind songs we still have in rotation to actors who have been on our screens for decades, this year’s birthday class is stacked. These days, 50 looks a lot different than it used to.
From Celebrity Hairstylist to Fragrance Founder, Why Kahh Spence’s Next Act Smells Like a Million Dollars
As a hairstylist, Kahh Spence spent more than a decade creating memorable looks for stars including Cardi B, Kehlani, Kelly Rowland, Normani and Victoria Monét. But after years of shaping how others showed up in the world, the Brooklyn native was ready to introduce himself as a businessman. In August 2025, he launched Samir Grey, a luxury fragrance and personal-care brand inspired by memory and intentional living.
Black Celebs Serve Looks and Vibes at the 2026 U.S. Open
The 2026 U.S. Open is bringing more than world-class tennis to New York City. Black stars are already showing up, showing out and turning the tournament into one of the summer’s biggest cultural events. Fan Week brought music, fashion, sports and entertainment to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens.
Not Trying to Be Grown: The Kid Musicians Rebuilding Tween Culture
In some circles, there has been a running conversation about the disappearance of tween culture in music. The kids seem to be jumping from preschool programming straight into adult territory, leaving youngsters between those stages without much created specifically for them.
Binge-Worthy Shows Guys Will Love to Watch This Weekend
After a week of meetings, emails and pretending not to watch the clock, the weekend is finally here. Now, it’s time to order some food, claim your favorite spot on the couch and find a show that’ll make you forget Monday is coming. Luckily, television has been feeding us in 2026. Whether you’re looking for crime, comedy, superheroes, international drama or just enough chaos to make your own life feel peaceful, there’s something waiting for you on one of these streaming services.
Young Zendaya on the red carpet is the funniest meme on the internet right now
At this point, Zendaya has enough reaction memes in her arsenal to carry an entire group chat! Whether she's serving an unforgettable side-eye, looking completely confused or simply trying to keep a straight face, the actress has a facial expression for nearly every occasion. Now, her latest entry has social media doing what it does best, taking one perfectly timed red carpet photo-op moment and attaching it to some of the funniest—and most painfully relatable situations—imaginable.
Young Zendaya on the Red Carpet Is the Funniest Meme on the Internet Right Now
At this point, Zendaya has enough reaction memes in her arsenal to carry an entire group chat! Whether she’s serving an unforgettable side-eye, looking completely confused or simply trying to keep a straight face, the actress has a facial expression for nearly every occasion. Now, her latest entry has social media doing what it does best, taking one perfectly timed red carpet photo-op moment and attaching it to some of the funniest—and most painfully relatable situations—imaginable.
Black BookTok Drags Publisher for Botched Promo of a Popular Romance Novel
Podium Entertainment is facing backlash after a paid partnership with a Black BookTok creator went all the way wrong. The publisher tapped Nash Reads to promote “Capone,” a popular urban romance novel by Jahquel J, for which the company recently inked a traditional publishing deal. Now, the Black BookTok community is letting the creator and the publisher know that when it comes to this book, they have no credibility – and they have the receipts.
Black TikTok Creator Speaks Out After White Influencer Accused of Copying Her Video Word for Word
“My content was stolen, let’s roll the clips.” With those eight words, Black ADHD content creator Brianne Saturdays set off a viral storm earlier this month when she called out a white influencer who appeared to remake one of her videos word for word—with receipts.
Joe or Donell Jones? The Ultimate Track-by-Track Breakdown of Who Wins This R&B Verzuz
Calling all aunties, uncles, Chi-Town, and Georgia: this next Verzuz is strictly for you! R&B legends Joe and Donell Jones are going head-to-head on Thursday, Aug. 20, showcasing their iconic catalogs. But the ultimate question remains: who takes the win? On paper, Joe boasts more crossover hits, a bigger discography, and iconic features alongside everyone from Big Pun to 50 Cent and G-Unit.
Joe V. Donell Jones: The Ultimate Track-by-Track Breakdown of This R&B Verzuz
Calling all aunties, this next Verzuz is strictly for you! R&B legends Joe and Donell Jones are going head-to-head on Thursday, Aug. 20, showcasing their iconic catalogs. But the ultimate question remains: who takes the win? On paper, Joe boasts more crossover hits, a bigger discography, and iconic features alongside everyone from Big Pun to 50 Cent and G-Unit. Plus, his recent Tiny Desk Concert reminded folks that Joe Thomas can still stand flat-footed and sang in a mic that’s always on.
Some of Whitney Houston’s Iconic Looks Are Now Up For Sale
By Ty Cole Whitney Houston fans can now own pieces of her wardrobe as some of her most iconic outfits are set for auction, just in time for the late legend’s birthday. Born Aug. 9, 1963, Houston would have turned 63 this year, and nearly 15 years after her death, the woman forever known as “The Voice” is still being celebrated through the music, fashion and unforgettable moments that made her a global superstar. For the full story, please visit theroot.com
Some of Whitney Houston’s Iconic Looks Are Now Up For Sale
Whitney Houston fans can now own pieces of her wardrobe as some of her most iconic outfits are set for auction, just in time for the late legend’s birthday. Born Aug. 9, 1963, Houston would have turned 63 this year, and nearly 15 years after her death, the woman forever known as “The Voice” is still being celebrated through the music, fashion and unforgettable moments that made her a global superstar. This year, her birthday celebration will continue on Aug.
Some of Whitney Houston’s Iconic Looks Are Now Up For Sale
Now The Korean supergroup BTS has pulled its blockbuster album “Arirang” from Grammy Awards consideration, in protest of the new Asian Pop Music Performance category. The move is a remarkable rebuke to the Grammys from a band that has long aimed for American mainstream stardom. In a statement, the …
Will Hollywood Face the Complicated Truth About Harry Belafonte?
John Legend is set to portray Harry Belafonte in Bill Condon’s apartheid-era drama The Road Home, but as Hollywood prepares to celebrate the legendary entertainer and activist, will it also confront how he allegedly felt about Black women? Belafonte’s place in history is undeniable, but if we’re going to discuss someone’s history, all good and bad parts need to be shared.
Woman Sends Brutal Message to Usher’s Loyal Fans After Her Awkward Concert Appearance Goes Viral
One woman learned the hard way that being invited onstage with Usher comes with certain expectations. During the Nashville stop of his co-headlining R&B Tour with Chris Brown, the R&B veteran selected a woman from the audience to join him for his signature serenade. As he performed “Can U Handle It,” she sat on the bed positioned onstage while the singer attempted to turn up the charm. The only problem is she didn’t appear to be feeling it.
Professor sets an AI trap and catches 32 students red-handed
AI may be making life easier for college students, but one professor found a creative way to see who was using it to get through his class. Dr. Jason Gibson, a professor at Alcorn State University in Mississippi, revealed that 32 out of 35 students failed a portion of their midterm after falling for a trick hidden inside the assignment. The students were asked to write about the Industrial Revolution and how it continues to impact society today.
Professor Sets An AI Trap and Catches 32 Students Red-Handed
AI may be making life easier for college students, but one professor found a creative way to see who was using it to get through his class. Dr. Jason Gibson, a professor at Alcorn State University in Mississippi, revealed that 32 out of 35 students failed a portion of their midterm after falling for a trick hidden inside the assignment. The students were asked to write about the Industrial Revolution and how it continues to impact society today.
Cardi B says she is working on an empire to make sure her kids are always taken care of
growgoodbeauty NOLA y’all showed up and showed OUT 🤩 Thank you to @essencefest and everyone who stopped by to shop, learn, and grow with us! Stay tuned to see where you’ll find us next 👏
Roxane Gay Is Entering Her Next Chapter
For more than two decades, Roxane Gay has challenged readers to think deeper, question harder, and confront the uncomfortable truths that shape our lives. Through bestselling books like Bad Feminist, Hunger, and Difficult Women, the writer, cultural critic, professor, and public intellectual has become one of the most influential literary voices of her generation.
Is It Gay to Have a Birthday? Social Media Trend Exposes Toxic Black Masculinity
There was once upon a time when a Black man’s masculinity was measured by traits such as integrity, responsibility, and how they treated the people around them. Somewhere along the way, in a dark a corner of the internet, some have decided masculinity should be instead be measured by whether you’re willing to buy your homeboy a birthday cake.
Michelle Obama Reflects on Her Late Mother’s Death
Michelle Obama is entering a new chapter of life with intention, but it was her reflections on the loss of her mother that left audiences reaching for tissues.
Black Internet to Jennifer Aniston: What You Won’t Do is Steal ‘Girlfriends’
If Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow are serious about returning to sitcom television, social media has one humble request – pick another title. During a recent conversation for Variety’s Actors on Actors series, the former “Friends” co-stars reminisced about their time on the iconic NBC sitcom and discussed the possibility of reuniting for another comedy series.
Karamo Brown Wanted a Slimmer Face. Instead, a Trendy Surgery Changed His Life Forever
Karamo Brown had already been candid about his fractured relationship with some of his former “Queer Eye” cast mates. Now, the television personality is opening up about another painful chapter from his life. The Root previously reported how the 45-year-old’s mother was left in tears after overhearing some of his former co-stars speaking negatively about him during a set visit—a moment he described as a major breaking point in his decision to address the tension publicly.
Karamo Brown Reveals His Mother Was Hurt By His ‘Queer Eye’ Co-Stars
For Karamo Brown, the most painful part of the ongoing conversation surrounding his fractured relationships with some of his former “Queer Eye” castmates wasn’t what was said about him, but rather who heard it. In a new cover story with PEOPLE, the host spoke about the behind-the-scenes tension that has followed the Emmy-winning Netflix series in recent years.
Gary Coleman’s Family Still Has Questions Surrounding His Death
The world mourned the loss of former child star Gary Coleman, who passed away on May 28, 2010, after suffering a brain hemorrhage. But those closest to him had questions about the circumstances surrounding his death, after his ex-wife, Shannon Price, appeared on a popular true crime television series.Now, his mother, Sue Coleman, and other loved ones are speaking on the matter. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading.
More Than 130 Groups Launch ‘One Nation, Overcharged’ Campaign Against America’s Healthcare Crisis
In America, people can finance a vacation, split a designer bag payment into four installments and get same-day delivery on almost anything, but somehow seeing a doctor still feels financially out of reach for millions. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 0:00 Remaining Time -0:00 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
A TikToker Ranked Designer Bags By Class, Now The Internet is Coming For Him
At this point, TikTok can turn literally anything into a class discourse, even a handbag. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 2:16 Remaining Time -2:16 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. TextColorTransparency BackgroundColorTransparency WindowColorTransparency Font Size Text Edge Style Font Family End of dialog window.
From Coach to Gucci: A TikToker Ranked Designer Bags By Class, Now The Internet is Coming For Him
At this point, TikTok can turn literally anything into a class discourse, even a handbag. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 0:00 Remaining Time -0:00 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. TextColorTransparency BackgroundColorTransparency WindowColorTransparency Font Size Text Edge Style Font Family End of dialog window.
Queen Latifah’s Quiet Confirmation Reflects a Shift for Black Queer Women in Hollywood
For decades, conversations around Queen Latifah and her sexuality largely existed in the spaces between what was said and what wasn’t. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:01 Duration 2:16 Remaining Time -2:15 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. TextColorTransparency BackgroundColorTransparency WindowColorTransparency Font Size Text Edge Style Font Family End of dialog window.
“Is God Is” Composer Reveals the Creative Way He Made the Film’s Music With No Money
Ahead of its official release, the new film “Is God Is”is already generating major buzz – and not just because of its star-studded cast. Between its striking visuals, genre-bending storytelling, and an original piece of work fans have been yearning for, the film adaptation of the stage play is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about releases among film lovers online.
Zahara Jolie is Now a Proud Spelman Grad
Watching a young Black woman cross Spelman’s graduation stage is symbolic—especially when that woman is Zahara Jolie. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 1:10 Remaining Time -1:10 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. TextColorTransparency BackgroundColorTransparency WindowColorTransparency Font Size Text Edge Style Font Family End of dialog window.
Angelina Jolie’s daughter Zahara is Now a Proud Spelman Grad
Watching a young Black woman cross Spelman’s graduation stage is symbolic—especially when that woman is Zahara Jolie. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 0:00 Remaining Time -0:00 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. TextColorTransparency BackgroundColorTransparency WindowColorTransparency Font Size Text Edge Style Font Family End of dialog window.
Lauryn Hill Reveals Why She Never Released Another Solo Album
For years, fans have speculated on why Lauryn Hill never released a sophomore studio album after 1998’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” a project widely considered as one of the greatest albums ever created. Now, the legendary artist herself is stepping into the conversation. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 0:00 Remaining Time -0:00 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Charles Barkley Reminds Us That Pro Sports Still Have Not Fully Embraced Queer Athletes
For decades, professional sports have projected a version of masculinity built on toughness. A version that equates strength with being straight. However, Charles Barkley has no issue with saying the quiet part out loud, and that’s just what he did this past week on Inside The NBA. To view this video please enable JavaScript. Video Player is loading. Current Time 0:00 Duration 0:00 Remaining Time -0:00 Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
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