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  • 50 Black Queer Queens Slaying Sports & Style

    Get ready to update your #WCW (Woman Crush Wednesday) list because we’re shining a spotlight on 50 incredible Black queer queens who are absolutely dominating! Whether they’re making game-winning shots on the court or serving unforgettable looks courtside, these women are icons. With the WNBA season in full swing and the NBA playoffs heating up, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the talent and style gracing the sports world.

    Queens of the Court and Beyond

    This year’s edition is all about the ‘sports girlies’ – those who play the game and those who are always courtside, looking fabulous while cheering on their favorites. We’ve got WNBA stars who are fierce competitors and fashion-forward attendees who know how to make an entrance. These women aren’t just athletes; they’re trendsetters, role models, and unapologetically themselves.

    From electrifying plays to stunning fashion moments, these 50 women embody strength, grace, and undeniable charisma. They are breaking barriers, challenging norms, and inspiring a new generation with their confidence and talent. Let’s dive into some of the incredible individuals making waves this week.

    Featured Athletes and Style Icons

    This list features a dazzling array of talent. We’re talking about artists like Tinashe, who brings her signature style to NBA playoff games, and WNBA powerhouses such as Brittney Griner and Jewell Loyd, who are dominating the league. It’s not just about the players, though; we also celebrate those who bring their A-game in fashion, like Tessa Thompson and Janelle Monáe.

    The list also includes beloved figures like Queen Latifah, Niecy Nash-Betts and her wife Jessica Betts, and the iconic Laverne Cox. Each woman on this list brings a unique energy, whether they’re on the court, on screen, or making a statement with their personal style. Their presence is a powerful reminder of the diverse and vibrant Black queer community.

    More Than Just a List

    This isn’t just a collection of names; it’s a celebration of visibility and representation. In a world that often overlooks or underrepresents Black queer women, this list serves as a powerful affirmation. It highlights their achievements in sports, entertainment, and beyond, showcasing their influence and impact.

    We’re inspired by their dedication, their resilience, and their ability to shine so brightly. They are role models for aspiring athletes, artists, and anyone looking to live their truth with confidence and flair. Their journeys are a testament to the power of authenticity and the beauty of embracing one’s identity.

    Who’s On Your List?

    This compilation is just a snapshot of the incredible talent out there. From rising stars to established legends, these 50 Black queer queens are leaving their mark. They are proving that you can excel in multiple arenas, from athletic prowess to setting fashion trends.

    Who are your favorite Black queer queens dominating sports and style right now? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Kiki Shepard: A Tribute to the ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ Star

    We’re deeply saddened to mark the passing of Kiki Shepard, a true icon who graced our screens and lives with unparalleled elegance. News of her departure on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 74, has left many reflecting on the incredible legacy she built – one that many can only dream of achieving.

    A Star on ‘Showtime at the Apollo’

    From her roots in Tyler, Texas, Kiki Shepard became a national treasure. When she joined the hit series ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ in 1987, alongside co-hosts like Steve Harvey and Sinbad, television was forever changed. Her presence on stage was captivating, exuding grace, poise, and impeccable style that matched her vibrant personality. She wasn’t just a co-host; she was an integral part of the show’s heartbeat, a television mother figure for many who eagerly awaited her appearances.

    It seemed Kiki was destined for the stage, a path perhaps paved by her early dance lessons, her sister’s Miss USA title, and parents who deeply appreciated the arts. This foundation gave us the Kiki Shepard we knew and loved – a star who made every act feel like a winner just by being present.

    More Than a Host: A Mentor and Advocate

    Kiki Shepard was instrumental in introducing the world to generational talent, including D’Angelo and Lauryn Hill. Comedian Gabriel Iglesias once shared how Kiki saved him from a potentially rough set by advising him to change his “too loud” shirt, trusting her judgment implicitly. This anecdote highlights not just her role as a host, but her genuine care for the performers.

    Beyond her television career, which concluded with her final lap on the classic variety show in 2002, Kiki dedicated herself to impactful work. In 2006, she founded the KIS Foundation, Inc. This organization tirelessly raised awareness, provided support, and advocated for families affected by sickle cell disease. Though she didn’t have the disease herself, her commitment as a champion for the cause, especially within the Black community, was unwavering.

    A Legacy of Sisterhood and Service

    As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, sisterhood was deeply ingrained in Kiki’s spirit. Her humanity, evident in the outpouring of love and memories following her passing, touched countless lives. She exuded an aura that captivated audiences for decades, and it’s certain she entered the heavenly gates with that same bold, unforgettable presence.

    Kiki Shepard was more than just our Vanna White; she was an undeniable, once-in-a-lifetime, beautiful Black woman. Now an ancestor, her impact will be cherished and remembered forever. Her 74 years were a testament to giving her all to this world. Job well done, my good and faithful servant.

    What are your favorite memories of Kiki Shepard on ‘Showtime at the Apollo’ or her advocacy work? Share them in the comments below!