Timpf said she gets hate from Fox News viewers and Democrats alike

FOX News personality Kat Timpf has opened up to The U.S. Sun about the sick comments she’s received throughout her pregnancy.

Timpf, 36, was surprised by the harsh online reactions after she announced her pregnancy last July.

Kat Timpf, who co-hosts Gutfeld! and appears on Fox News as a pundit and comedianCredit: Fox

Kat Timpf, who co-hosts Gutfeld! and appears on Fox News as a pundit and comedianCredit: Fox

Timpf showing her stomach in a podcast appearance in OctoberCredit: Instagram/kattimpf

Timpf with her Fox colleaguesCredit: Instagram/kattimpf

As a Fox News analyst and the co-host of Gutfeld!, Timpf is used to online trolls weighing in on her every move.

But she wasn’t expecting even more abuse about her decision to start a family with her husband, Cameron Friscia.

“You know what’s crazy? I really thought that being pregnant would make people be nicer to me but people are meaner to me now,” Timpf told The U.S. Sun in an exclusive conversation in October.

The pundit and comedian received even more criticism after she showed her stomach in a video of her recording a podcast episode with Barstool Sports’ Out and About in October.

Timpf said she used to hesitate to share pictures and videos of her showing her stomach because of a scar she has from a previous ileostomy surgery.

She said posting the clip took bravery as it’s a “big thing for me to be okay with showing that.”

“And that’s more important to me than people who are going to be horrified.”

The brief clip from October showed the comedian appearing on the podcast in a crop top, but it was enough to spark backlash “as if the video was of me pillaging and burning down a village,” Timpf joked.

Timpf clapped back at a troll in the comments of her post after they asked her why she was showing skin – even though it’s a typical move for pregnant women to show their bellies.

“Why is it important for you to leave this comment?” Timpf fired back at the Instagram user.

Fox News personality Kat Timpf announces she’s pregnant with husband 10 years after tragic event & reveals biggest shock

“In any case I’m proud of myself for being more comfortable with my ostomy scar and I happen to love this outfit! Hope people are nice to you today.”

She often responds to her critics on social media because they show empathy and back down “nine times out of ten.”

“Sometimes, some of [the comments] will bother me,” she admitted.

“It’s more so the state of the world,” she added, chalking it up to America’s divisive nature, which is one of the topics covered in her latest book I Used to Like You Until…: (How Binary Thinking Divides Us).

I get a lot of people telling me to stop talking about it and they’re sick of hearing about it. I’m like, ‘I’m so sorry that my pregnancy has been hard for you.’

Kat TimpfFox News personality

Timpf said the barrage of comments on posts about her stomach was relentless.

“Now if I need to get engagement up on my video I just need to wear a crop top and I’ll have people calling me horrible and disgusting,” she joked.

RESPONSE TO TROLLS

She said a number of trolls said they were annoyed with hearing about her pregnancy.

“I get a lot of people telling me to stop talking about it and they’re sick of hearing about it,” Timpf said.

“I’m like, ‘I’m so sorry that my pregnancy has been hard for you.’

“It’s nine months of my life and then I’m not gonna talk about it anymore and it’s not gonna be happening.”

She added, “I talk about what’s going on in my life.”

In a video from October 25, Timpf clapped back at critics who said she made being pregnant her entire personality.

“Hell yeah, it’s my whole personality. This thing that affects my whole life also affects my whole personality,” Timpf said.

HATE FROM BOTH SIDES

The firebrand, a self-professed independent, said she gets hate from both sides of the political spectrum.

“I get it from both sides because if I say something that viewers dont wanna hear on Fox… I’ll get it from them sometimes,” she said.

“But then I’ll get it from the other side because I work at Fox in the first place.”

Timpf has friends on both sides of the party lines and said she doesn’t let political views affect her relationships.

“Politics makes us fight with people that we know on behalf of people who don’t even know we exist,” she explained.

“We have so much to lose in terms of our relationships with each other but also in terms of our freedom.

“The more divided we are, the easier we are to control.”

PENDING DUE DATE

Timpf is working on Fox through the very last days of her pregnancy.

She finished up the press tour for her latest book, which came out in September, in the middle of December.

Timpf said in October that she never considered skipping the tour, despite her schedule meaning she would finish the run of shows at 32 weeks pregnant.

“I’m gonna do it. I went on television with an ileostomy so I can do shows pregnant,” she said.

The author is due any day now – she even posted an Instagram reel on Tuesday revealing she’s past her due date.

“Yes, I’m still pregnant. Yes, I’m past my due date,” she said, joking that it was the “longest pregnancy of all time.”

OPENING UP ABOUT MOTHERHOOD

Timpf told The U.S. Sun she’s scared to be a mom for all of the unexpected challenges it’ll bring.

“I’m so terrified because I feel like you’ll never know what kind of kid you’re going to have,” she explained.

“I didn’t wait til I was 35 to do this because I’m not terrified of doing this.

“I’m gonna try to teach my kid how to think and not what to think.”

Her journey to motherhood is also full of new emotions as Timpf’s mom passed away on Election Day 10 years ago.

“It’s just so overwhelming for me to prepare to become a mom when I don’t even remember what it’s like to have a mom myself, sadly,” she said, echoing the moving opinion piece she penned for Fox last summer.

‘SAPPY’ CONFESSION

In the face of the intense emotions and unwarranted hate that pregnancy has brought her, Timpf said her feelings of excitement outweigh any concerns.

“This is so cheesy and so hack, but I’m so excited to do this with my husband,” she said.

“I have a great man as my husband and I just can’t wait to just do this with him.”

Timpf and Friscia, a military veteran, have been married since 2021.

She’s previously said that she wasn’t sure she wanted to get married or have a family before Friscia came along, according to People.

Timpf told The U.S. Sun, “This is so weird but I’ve been let down by so many things in my life: people and pursuits and I’m never gonna regret giving love to this child.

“I know that’s kind of sappy and it’s kind of weird to even hear myself talk like that but that’s what I’m really excited about.”

She added, “I’m so excited for this to be over because I just can’t wait to meet my kid.”

Timpf in an appearance on Fox NewsCredit: Fox News

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DeWanna Bonner’s Arrival in Indiana: A Game-Changer for the Fever

From the moment DeWanna Bonner put on an Indiana Fever jersey, her presence sent shockwaves through the WNBA. Her arrival isn’t just another veteran signing—it’s a statement. Bonner brings championship experience, leadership, and a relentless competitive edge to a young, hungry Indiana Fever squad that is looking to elevate its game. But what really caught everyone’s attention? Her excitement about playing alongside electrifying rookie Caitlin Clark.

The Right Opportunity at the Right Time

Bonner had plenty of options when choosing her next team. So why Indiana? The answer was simple yet powerful: location and potential. “My kids are literally right up the road, and I’ve spent a lot of time away from them,” she shared. That factor played a significant role in her decision. But there was more to it than just family—Bonner saw something special brewing in Indiana.

After watching the Fever’s young core battle fiercely in last year’s playoffs, Bonner recognized a spark. A team that showed resilience and refused to back down was exactly the kind of squad she wanted to join. With dynamic pieces like Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, Lexie Hull, and now Caitlin Clark, she saw an opportunity to fit into a team on the rise.

“They have a great core, so why not just add to that and try to take us to the next level in the playoffs?” Bonner said. “They didn’t lay down and quit in the playoffs. They fought back. That made me excited. I want to be a part of that.”

A Championship Mentality for a Franchise on the Rise

The Fever’s recent seasons have been a rebuilding effort, but Bonner could be the missing piece that propels them forward. She holds the record for most playoff minutes in league history—she knows what it takes to win when the stakes are highest. Her playoff experience is invaluable for a young team still learning the grind of a deep postseason run.

“Playoffs are a whole different ball game,” Bonner explained. “I hope I can provide leadership and knowledge to help the team be better prepared. You don’t want to get punched in the face in Game 1, because it’s hard to come back from that.”

Bonner’s experience, leadership, and scoring ability make her a crucial addition. Her understanding of game-time adjustments and the pressure of high-stakes moments will be a major asset for a team that’s still learning to navigate those challenges.

A Dynamic Duo: Bonner and Clark

Beyond her excitement for Indiana’s young core, Bonner’s enthusiasm for teaming up with Caitlin Clark was particularly striking. Clark, who took the league by storm as a rookie, has already established herself as a generational talent. Now, she’ll have a seasoned mentor in Bonner—someone who’s been through it all and can guide her through the ups and downs of a long WNBA season.

“I think she’s a great player, and I’m happy to be on the same side as her now instead of guarding her,” Bonner joked. “She’s dynamic, and I’m excited to see what she does in her second year with more experience and understanding of the league.”

Bonner isn’t just looking to complement Clark—she’s looking to help elevate her game. “Hopefully, I can make her job a little easier, and she can make mine easier, too.” That’s a dangerous thought for the rest of the league. If Clark was already dominant in her rookie year, imagine what she can become with a veteran like Bonner in her corner.

Beyond the Court: Building a Winning Culture

Bonner’s impact won’t just be felt on the court. She’s stepping into a leadership role that will shape the Fever’s culture moving forward. “It’s not just about the talent on paper,” she noted. “It’s about how we gel, how we bond, and everyone buying into their roles and our team goals.”

For a team that’s experienced highs and lows, that kind of veteran guidance is critical. Bonner understands the importance of chemistry, communication, and accountability—all factors that can take a team from being a playoff contender to a championship threat.

“The sky is the limit for this team,” she said. “We just have to put the work in.”

A Sold-Out Season and a New Era for the Fever

One of the most remarkable aspects of Bonner’s excitement is her recognition of Indiana’s passionate fan base. The Fever’s resurgence has ignited new energy in the franchise, with sold-out crowds becoming the norm. “It’s crazy,” Bonner said. “You went from just a little bit of fans in the stands to a sold-out arena every night—even on the road. That says a lot about this team and this organization.”

Indiana is no longer just a team on the rise—it’s a team that demands attention. The addition of Bonner signals that the Fever aren’t just content with making the playoffs—they want to make noise when they get there.

What’s Next?

With training camp approaching, the Fever’s final roster is still taking shape. But one thing is certain: Indiana is building something special. With Bonner’s leadership, Clark’s star power, and a talented supporting cast, the Fever are poised to take a significant step forward.

“I’m excited for this franchise,” Bonner said. “They deserve it.”

Fever fans should buckle up—this could be the most thrilling season in years. With DeWanna Bonner in the mix, Indiana might just be ready to make a deep playoff run and shake up the WNBA landscape.

 

John Rich Speaks Out on the Divide Between Country Music and Politics

John Rich, one-half of the famous country duo Big & Rich, is not just known for his music but also for his outspoken conservative political views. His recent comments on the state of the country music industry and its relationship with politics have sparked discussion among fans and industry professionals alike.

The topic of political expression within the country music industry resurfaced prominently in August when Carrie Underwood found herself in the midst of controversy. Underwood liked a tweet from conservative commentator Matt Walsh, which featured a video of Walsh speaking at a Nashville school board meeting where he voiced his opposition to mask mandates for school children. This simple online interaction ignited backlash, with many criticizing Underwood for seemingly aligning with Walsh’s stance. The reaction showcased the polarized nature of political discourse in the entertainment industry, especially within country music.

John Rich’s Take on the Controversy

John Rich recently sat down with Taste of Country to discuss the growing divide between country music artists and their audience when it comes to political ideology. Rich did not hold back, expressing his frustration with the pressure that artists face in the industry.

“We’re at a point in this country where you can’t express your opinion, even in the slightest bit, without running the risk that they’re going to come at you with their razor blades at the ready to cut you up and tear you down just over your opinion,” Rich stated.

His comments highlight a broader concern that many conservative-leaning artists feel—the fear of speaking out due to potential backlash from both industry executives and a segment of the audience. Rich emphasized that there is a stark contrast between the country music industry and the fans who consume the music. According to him, many within the industry lean liberal, while much of the audience holds more conservative values.

“You’ve got a lot of artists that are not Carrie Underwood’s size, but they are up-and-comers or mid-level artists that have got just as strong of opinions as anybody, but they will not say anything because if they do, the industry will crush them,” Rich explained.

Rich’s stance is unique because he has reached a level of success that allows him to speak his mind without fear of repercussions from record labels or industry gatekeepers. He asserts that newer artists, who still depend on the industry for exposure and career growth, often feel silenced.

Rich’s Perspective on Free Speech in the Industry

Rich made it clear that he refuses to censor himself, particularly when it comes to issues he feels strongly about. “I’m in a unique position where I don’t care about the industry. I just really don’t care,” he said.

He continued by discussing his role as a parent and the values he hopes to instill in his children:

“How could I look at my kids and basically tell them, ‘Don’t express yourself through your freedom of speech rights because you’re afraid it might cost you some money or it might cost you some favor with people’? I do not want my kids living like that.”

This statement underscores his belief in the importance of standing by one’s principles, regardless of the financial or professional consequences. Rich acknowledged that the music industry itself may not support him, but he is willing to let the chips fall where they may.

“The industry doesn’t give a [expletive] about what happens to me anymore, but the audience out there is picking up on what I’m saying,” he said.

Despite potential setbacks in terms of industry support, Rich remains confident that he will continue to find an audience for his music. He believes that the connection with his fans is more valuable than industry recognition.

“There are new opportunities coming my way. I’m still going to write songs no matter what because that’s what I do. I may not make a bunch of money on them like I used to, but that’s okay. That’s the existence for me that I’m happy with right now.”

The Growing Political Divide in Country Music

Rich’s comments bring attention to a larger issue in country music—the increasing tension between artists’ political beliefs and industry expectations. While country music has long been associated with conservative values, the industry itself has evolved, with many executives and influencers leaning toward a more progressive stance. This shift has created a challenging environment for artists who hold right-leaning beliefs but fear the repercussions of expressing them publicly.

Carrie Underwood’s situation is a prime example of how even a simple online engagement—such as liking a tweet—can lead to a major controversy. Although Underwood did not explicitly state her own opinion on mask mandates, her engagement with Walsh’s tweet was enough to spark outrage among critics.

Rich’s perspective suggests that many country artists share conservative views but remain silent to avoid career-damaging consequences. This silent majority, as Rich implies, fears being ostracized by an industry that is increasingly intolerant of dissenting opinions.

Moving Forward: The Future of Political Expression in Country Music

With figures like John Rich continuing to speak out, the conversation surrounding free speech in country music is unlikely to fade anytime soon. The industry appears to be at a crossroads, with artists and fans alike questioning whether it is possible to separate music from politics.

For Rich, the path forward is clear—he will continue to be unapologetic about his beliefs, even if it means sacrificing industry favor. His confidence stems from the unwavering support of his audience, who appreciate his willingness to speak candidly.

As country music continues to evolve, the divide between industry expectations and audience values will remain a central issue. Whether more artists will follow Rich’s lead and embrace open political discourse remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: John Rich is not backing down.

Conclusion

The conversation surrounding politics and country music is far from over. As John Rich has demonstrated, there is a growing tension between artists and industry professionals, with many feeling pressure to stay silent about their beliefs. Carrie Underwood’s recent controversy highlights how even minor engagements in political discourse can lead to significant backlash.

Whether the industry will become more accepting of diverse political perspectives or continue to suppress certain voices remains to be seen. However, Rich’s stance serves as a rallying cry for artists who feel constrained by the current climate. In his words, “I’m going to say what I mean and mean what I say and let the chips fall.”

The Enduring Love Story of Toby Keith and Tricia Lucas: A Tale of Strength and Devotion

Toby Keith, the country music legend, left an indelible mark on fans worldwide with his distinctly country music style and massive hits like Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue. However, beyond his career success, his personal life was filled with ups and downs, with one constant by his side—his wife, Tricia Lucas. Their love story, spanning over three decades, was one of perseverance, devotion, and unwavering support.

A Chance Encounter That Changed Everything

In the early 1980s, Toby Keith was just a young aspiring musician trying to make a name for himself in the country music scene. It was during this time that he met Tricia Lucas, an ordinary woman from a small town, at a bar. Despite Toby’s struggles and lack of fame at the time, Tricia saw something special in him. She wasn’t just drawn to his talent but also to his resilience and determination. Their connection grew stronger, and in 1984, they tied the knot, embarking on a journey filled with challenges and triumphs.

Overcoming Early Struggles Together

Marriage is never easy, especially when one partner is chasing a dream as ambitious as Toby Keith’s. The early years of their marriage were marked by financial struggles and the difficulty of establishing Toby’s name in the industry. Tricia, however, stood firmly by his side. She was not just a supportive spouse but a pillar of strength who encouraged him to continue despite the setbacks. Her patience and unwavering belief in him gave Toby the motivation to push forward, eventually leading to his breakthrough in the 1990s.

As Toby’s career took off, Tricia continued to play a vital role behind the scenes. She managed their family, made personal sacrifices, and remained a grounding force in Toby’s life. Fame often comes with its own set of challenges, including constant media scrutiny and a demanding schedule. However, their love endured, proving that true partnership could withstand the pressures of success.

Facing Life’s Greatest Challenges

Life was not always kind to Toby and Tricia. One of the biggest challenges they faced came in 2023 when Toby was diagnosed with stomach cancer. The devastating news shook their family, but Tricia never wavered. She became Toby’s primary source of strength, taking care of him during his treatments and standing by his side through every difficult moment.

Toby himself acknowledged the difficulty of his battle with cancer, stating, “Cancer is a roller coaster. You just sit here and wait for it to go away. It may not ever go away.” Despite the grim prognosis, Tricia remained hopeful and dedicated, proving once again that her love for Toby was unwavering.

Saying Goodbye to a Legend

On February 5, 2024, Toby Keith passed away after a long and courageous fight against cancer. His death was a massive loss to the country music community and his fans worldwide. However, no one felt the pain of his departure more than Tricia. For weeks after his passing, she maintained a respectful silence, choosing to grieve privately rather than in the public eye. This led many fans and media outlets to speculate about how she was coping with such an immense loss.

After some time, Tricia finally spoke out, sharing heartfelt words about her late husband. She described Toby as “an amazing man, a husband, father, and respected companion. He gave me wonderful days, and I will forever cherish those memories.” Her words were not just a tribute to Toby but also a testament to the deep bond they shared throughout their lives.

Keeping Toby’s Legacy Alive

Even after his passing, Tricia chose to honor Toby’s memory in the best way possible—by continuing the work they both believed in. She remained actively involved in Toby Keith’s charitable foundation, especially OK Kids Korral, a facility that supports children battling cancer. This endeavor, close to both their hearts, became a way for Tricia to keep Toby’s spirit alive and ensure his legacy of generosity and compassion continued.

Aside from charity work, Tricia also focused on her own well-being, recognizing that taking care of herself was essential. She surrounded herself with family, especially their children and grandchildren, finding comfort in their shared memories of Toby. Though the pain of losing him would never truly fade, Tricia knew that Toby would have wanted her to live a meaningful life, carrying forward the love and lessons they had built together.

The Strength of a Love That Never Fades

Tricia Lucas was not just the wife of a music legend; she was his partner, his rock, and the person who saw him through the highest highs and the lowest lows. Their love story was not a fairytale but a testament to true devotion—one that weathered every storm life threw their way. Even in Toby’s final days, he reassured Tricia, saying, “Though you may not believe it, I feel like I’ve lived a complete life. I have you, the kids, and fans who are always there. I have everything I need.”

As the world remembers Toby Keith for his incredible music and larger-than-life persona, Tricia Lucas will forever hold onto the quiet, intimate moments they shared—the love that endured beyond fame and fortune. And through her continued dedication to his legacy, she ensures that the memory of Toby Keith will never fade, proving that true love, even in loss, remains eternal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Qtb7olAxv8

Jelly Roll: From Adversity to Industry Challenger and Fan Favorite

At the age of 40, Jelly Roll has solidified his position as a prominent figure in American music. His journey from underground rap artist to mainstream country-rap sensation is a testament to resilience, personal transformation, and an unwillingness to conform to industry norms. His ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with rap and country influences has endeared him to fans while shaking up the music industry. However, beyond his music, Jelly Roll has also become a vocal critic of industry practices, most recently calling out questionable sales strategies that influence the Billboard 200 chart rankings.

A Rising Star with a Message

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, is more than just a musician; he is an artist who embraces his past struggles and channels them into his music. His songs, which often touch on addiction, redemption, and perseverance, have struck a chord with listeners who find solace in his sincerity. His rise to fame has been remarkable, moving from the underground hip-hop scene to dominating the charts and gaining recognition alongside major stars.

However, his recent revelations about industry sales tactics have sparked widespread discussion. In a candid interview, Jelly Roll hinted at a bizarre sales strategy used to propel an artist’s album to the number one spot. He expressed concerns about transparency in the industry, citing a dramatic last-minute sales surge of Charlie XCX’s album, Brat, which allegedly saw 40,000 copies sold through a third-party website right before the final count. This unexpected spike raised suspicions about the fairness of chart rankings and brought attention to longstanding issues within the music business.

Exposing Industry Practices

Jelly Roll’s concerns over transparency in album sales are not new, but his willingness to publicly address them is rare among artists. He noted that industry projections had estimated Charlie XCX’s album would sell significantly fewer copies than his own and fellow artist Rod Wave’s albums. However, the sudden surge in sales just before the count deadline cast doubt on the legitimacy of the numbers. This situation prompted Luminate, the company responsible for tracking album sales, to exclude those third-party sales from official tallies, ultimately allowing Jelly Roll to claim the number one spot on the Billboard 200.

This decision reignited debates about chart integrity and the role of major labels in manipulating rankings. Atlantic Records, Charlie XCX’s label, has been at the center of speculation, as the label has previously been accused of aggressive marketing tactics to boost album sales. While Jelly Roll refrained from directly blaming the artist herself, he emphasized that many musicians are unaware of the business strategies employed by their labels and management teams.

The Bigger Issue: Transparency in Music Sales

Jelly Roll’s revelations highlight a growing concern in the music industry—how sales are tracked and recognized. With the increasing prevalence of third-party sales and album bundles, chart rankings have become more complex and, in some cases, misleading. While artists like Kanye West have successfully used bundled sales to boost their chart positions, these strategies can create an uneven playing field, making it difficult to determine an album’s true popularity.

The controversy surrounding Charlie XCX’s album sales underscores the need for clearer guidelines and more transparency in how albums are counted. Fans expect fairness in the ranking system, and artists like Jelly Roll are advocating for a more honest industry. His willingness to speak out reflects his broader commitment to authenticity, not only in his music but also in his approach to the business side of his career.

A Letter That Symbolizes the Power of Music

Beyond industry debates, Jelly Roll has also demonstrated the impact of his music on fans’ lives. A recent moment that resonated deeply with both him and his supporters was his revelation about a letter he has kept in his truck for four years. The letter, handwritten by an anonymous fan, carried a powerful message: “Your music saved my best friend’s life. Thank you for being real and doing what you do.”

Jelly Roll shared this deeply personal story during an episode of What Drives Me, where he showed his customized truck— a special gift from his wife, Bunny XO, and his daughter, Bailey. The letter, taped to the dashboard, has remained there as a constant reminder of the profound impact his music has on people.

When reading the letter on the show, John Cena, the host, was visibly moved, asking Jelly Roll if he ever discovered the identity of the fan. Jelly Roll admitted that he had never been able to track them down but that the letter meant everything to him. The first time he read it, he cried in a parking lot, overwhelmed by the realization that his music had helped someone through a dark time. Since then, he has carried the letter with him as a symbol of his connection to his audience.

More Than an Artist—A Voice for His Fans

Jelly Roll’s openness about his struggles, industry challenges, and his deep bond with fans sets him apart in the music world. He does not see music as just a career but as a mission to connect with people who feel lost or unheard. His honesty in interviews and interactions, whether discussing the state of the music business or sharing personal letters from fans, has helped him build one of the most loyal fan bases in the industry.

He is also known for actively engaging with fans on social media, responding to messages, and sharing moments from his personal life. This level of connection goes beyond just being a performer—it establishes him as a relatable and genuine figure who values his supporters.

The Road Ahead for Jelly Roll

Jelly Roll’s rise to fame has not been easy, but his perseverance has shaped him into the artist he is today. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, and growing up in a challenging environment, he faced financial hardships and emotional struggles that later influenced the depth of his songwriting. His experiences with adversity have allowed him to craft music that resonates on a deeply personal level with listeners.

As he continues his journey, Jelly Roll remains committed to making music that speaks to the heart while advocating for fairness and transparency within the industry. Whether through exposing questionable sales practices or cherishing the handwritten letter from a fan, he proves that music is about more than just numbers—it’s about connection, honesty, and making a difference in people’s lives.

Jelly Roll’s story is far from over, and with his growing influence, he is bound to continue shaking up the industry while staying true to the values that brought him success. His fight for fairness, his devotion to his fans, and his unwavering authenticity ensure that his legacy will be more than just a series of chart-topping hits—it will be a testament to the power of music to heal, inspire, and unite.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbyFmxpcc_0

Texas country star George Strait recently announced that he’ll be hitting the road for a short five-concert tour run with Chris Stapleton as co-headliner. The “All My Exes Live in Texas” singer won’t be seeing his exes, as Texas is not included in the tour stop lineup. However, he will perform in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh in May, as well as in Buffalo, New York, Foxborough, Massachusetts, in June, and Los Angeles in July.

George Strait and Chris Stapleton performs onstage during the 58th Annual Country Music Association Awards in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024.© Denny Simmons / The Tennessean

“I keep trying to slow down a bit but you keep calling me back,” Strait said in a press release. “I can’t wait to see you for a few more again this year.”

This tour comes after Strait released his 31st studio album “Cowboys and Dreamers” in Sep. 2024. The Potent, Texas-born crooner, who is the only act in history to have a top 10 hit every year for the last three decades, frequently tours with Stapleton and Little Big Town.

Who will be joining George Strait and Chris Stapleton on tour?

Strait and Stapleton will be joined on tour by Parker McCollum, who will be opening up four of their five co-headlining shows. Little Big Town will be opening the show for the pair’s final tour date together in Los Angeles on July 19.

George Strait and Chris Stapleton’s tour dates with Parker McCollum:
May 10: Philadelphia, PA, at Lincoln Financial Field
May 31: Pittsburgh, PA, at Acrisure Stadium
June 14: Buffalo, NY, at Highmark Stadium
June 21: Foxborough, MA, at Gillette Stadium

George Strait with Chris Stapleton’s tour dates with Little Big Town:
July 19: Inglewood, CA, at SoFi Stadium

Is Chris Stapleton playing any other tour dates solo?

Stapleton will be on his “All-American Road Show” tour from early June to October.
June 4: Greenville, SC, at Bon Secours Wellness Arena
June 6: Charlottesville, VA, at John Pail Jones Arena

June 7: Charlottesville, VA, at John Pail Jones Arena
June 12: Grand Rapids, MI, at Van Andel Arena
June 13: Grand Rapids, MI, at Van Andel Arena
June 18: Greensboro, NC, at First Horizon Coliseum
June 20: Albany, NY, at MVP Arena
June 27: Tinley Park, IL, at Credit Union 1 Amphitheater

June 28: Tinley Park, IL, at Credit Union 1 Amphitheater
July 11-12: Milwaukee, WI, at Harley Davidson Homecoming
July 11: St. Louis, MO, at Hollywood Casino Amphitheater
July 23: Belmont Park, NY, at UBS Arena
July 25: New York, NY, at Madison Square Garden
July 26: New York, NY, at Madison Square Garden
Aug. 1: Noblesville, IN, at Ruoff Music Center

Aug. 2: Noblesville, IN, at Ruoff Music Center
Aug. 8: Glendale, AZ, at Desert Diamond Arena
Aug. 9: Glendale, AZ, at Desert Diamond Arena
Aug. 15: Salt Lake City, UT, at Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater
Aug. 16: Salt Lake City, UT, at Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater

Aug. 22: Denver, CO, at Ball Arena
Aug. 23: Denver, CO, at Ball Arena
Oct. 10: Hollywood, FL, at Hard Rock Live
Oct. 11: Hollywood, FL, at Hard Rock Live

Where can I buy tickets for the Strait-Stapleton tour?

Tickets for George Strait’s co-headlining tour with Chris Stapleton can be found at georgestrait.com, and tickets for Chris Stapleton’s “All-American Road Show” tour can be found at chrisstapleton.com.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: George Strait joins Chris Stapleton on 2025 co-headlining tour. Are they coming to Texas?

Season 27 of The Voice is underway!

NBC’s hit reality show The Voice is once again on the hunt for the next big thing in music. As blind auditions continue, the panel of accomplished coaches are each gradually filling their team with talented singers, hoping one will be crowned winner at the end of the season.

Michael Buble returned to the big red chair for his second season as a coach, John Legend returned after taking last season off, and Adam Levine returned to the show after a 10-year hiatus. Country sweetheart Kelsea Ballerini is the rookie this year, serving as a coach for the first time.

Page Mackenzie Auditions For The Voice With Pistol Annies Cover

Aspiring musician Page Mackenzie hoped to earn the Voice coaches’ favor with a sassy cover of a Pistol Annies hit. The 32-year-old is originally from Charleston, South Carolina, but she currently lives in Nashville to pursue her music career.

The Pistol Annies, the country music trio formed by Miranda Lambert, released their debut single, “Hell on Heels,” in June 2011. The song earned them two CMT Music Awards nominations and was later certified platinum by the RIAA.

Page’s edgy style was well suited for the song, which warns of a woman unafraid to go after what she wants.

Page Mackenzie Becomes The Next Member Of Team Kelsea

Page Mackenzie’s performance caught the attention of Kelsea Ballerini and Michael Buble, who turned their chairs almost simultaneously.

Both coaches fought to have the vocalist join their team. Michael praised the contestant for her range, and Kelsea pointed out the common ground she shares with Page by “knowing what it’s like to be a woman in country music.”

Ultimately, Page chose to join… Team Kelsea! 

Afterward, she expressed her gratitude online and wrote:

“I have no words. Kelsea Ballerini – thank you ♥️ thank you for believing in me & thank you for being the human you are. Let’s do the damn thing!!!”

Watch Page Mackenzie’s Voice audition of “Hell on Heels” by the Pistol Annies in the video below! 

Damian Lillard calls ‘Dame Time,’ helps his team win NBA All-Star Game tournament

Injury robbed Milwaukee Bucks fans of seeing Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard going against each other in the NBA All-Star Game final on Sunday night at the Chase Center in San Francisco, as Antetokounmpo’s calf strain prevented him from playing for the “Global Stars” vs. Lillard’s “OGs” team.

Antetokounmpo, who has been out of action since Feb. 5 with the injury to his left calf, had to watch as Lillard’s team won the game 41-32. Lillard, who entered the weekend nursing a sore hamstring, played just 2 minutes, 42 seconds of the final after it was paused for quite some time for a broadcast break. He missed his only shot.

The league introduced a new format to the all-star contest for this year, featuring four teams playing in a mini-tournament. The games were played to 40.

The league’s 24 all-stars were “drafted” onto eight-person teams by TNT analysts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith, and the fourth team was a rising stars squad comprised of first-and-second year players.

Lillard, part of O’Neal’s “OGs” helped his team advance to the final by hitting the game-winning shot – a three-pointer – to give them a 42-35 victory over the “rising stars” team managed by Candace Parker. Lillard punctuated the moment with his signature “Dame Time” wrist tap.

The Bucks point guard scored a team-high nine points in 8:31 of game play.

Antetokounmpo, the league’s leading vote-getter for the 2025 NBA all-star games, was on hand for the festivities and watched his team beat Smith’s “young stars” squad 41-32.

Along with Antetokounmpo, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and Minnesota star Anthony Edwards sat out the games with injuries.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard Have Interesting Suggestions for Future All-Star Games After 2025 Edition Flopped

Feb 18, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Eastern Conference guard Damian Lillard (0) of the Milwaukee Bucks, guard Tyrese Maxey (0) of the Philadelphia 76ers, and forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) of the Milwaukee Bucks receive the trophy following their victory against the Western Conference All-Stars in the 73rd NBA All Star game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

The 2025 edition of the NBA All-Star Game was not well-received and many are now giving their opinions on how to fix it. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard both got an idea.

Feb 16, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Chuck’s Global Stars forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) of the Milwaukee Bucks during player introductions before the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
The league introduced a new format for the annual festivities wherein the All-Star selections were divided into three teams, around 7-8 players each, and have them play against each other together with the winners of the Rising Stars challenge.

The change did not produce its intended results, however, with players, fans, and press members calling it among the worst editions of the ASG. This time though, it is not the players who are being blamed but the format itself.

Oklahoma City Thunder’s Jaylen Williams who was part of the rising stars complained, too, about how short the game was.

 
Feb 16, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Shaq’s OGs guard Stephen Curry (30) of the Golden State Warriors and forward Jayson Tatum (0) of the Boston Celtics and guard Damian Lillard (0) of the Milwaukee Bucks and forward Kevin Durant (35) of the Sacramento Kings celebrate with the trophy after defeating Chuck’s Global Stars during the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard on how to fix ASG

The Greek Freak did not participate in the court action but he was there for media hours. Lillard’s squad – Team OG – ended up as the champions.

Although they have different levels of participation in the ASG, both of them agree that something’s gotta change.

For Antetokounmpo, he only repeated what he has been thinking in the past years – Team USA vs Team World.

“I would love that. I think it’d be the most interesting & most exciting format…I think that would give me a little more extra juice,” he told reporters after the game.

Lillard wants to go back to the old format but with a little bit of twist. He wants to raise the stakes.
Feb 16, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Shaq’s OGs guard Damian Lillard (0) of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after a play against Candace’s Rising Stars during the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
“Dame Lillard wants to go back to an East-West All-Star game, says her be fine with home court in the Finals being on the line. Alternately, he says if this format stays, maybe an “all Snub” team would be better as the 4th team instead of the Rising Stars,” Lillard was quoted as saying by Rachel Nicols.

All-Star 2025 was met with mixed reviews by fans, but the new format didn’t stop players like Giannis Antetokounmpo from having a good time. The Milwaukee Bucks star got to interact with many of his peers in the league as well as other celebrities, some of which was captured on his mic’d up.

Feb 16, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Chuck’s Global Stars forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) of the Milwaukee Bucks during player introductions before the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Giannis Laughed With Victor Wembanyama About Coming Off the Bench

Antetokounmpo was selected as a member of Charles Barkley’s team for the 4-team tournament on Sunday and was teammates with San Antonio Spurs prodigy Victor Wembanyama. Although the Greek Freak was already going to be sidelined for the game due to a lingering calf issue, Wembanyama, who earlier had voiced that he would be approaching All-Star Weekend with a high level of focus and determination, was also not in the starting lineup for Team Chuck. This fact led Antetokounmpo to make a light-hearted comment to the French superstar.

Hey brother, you will never come off the bench in your career. What are you talking about? What!? Brother you will never come off the bench!

Jan 31, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

The former number one pick, “Wemby” has not had to come off the bench in his career when healthy. The same cannot be said for Antetokounmpo, who entered the NBA as a “project” and only started in 23 games his rookie year and did not become a full-time starter until the following season.

There are many paths to NBA stardom, and while Giannis and Victor have each taken their own path, they seemed to enjoy being teammates at All-Star Weekend.

Heat @ Mavericks – NBA Game Preview for February 13, 2025 08:30 PM EST

Giannis Made Sure Charles Barkley Know He Wouldn’t Be Able to Guard the Likes of Wembanyama or Nikola Jokic

As warm-ups commenced, Giannis chopped it up with his coach and made sure to let Barkley that he would not have been able to guard the All-Star bigs on his team back in the day.

Back in the day, you couldn’t guard him. You could not guard him. So anything you say on TV that does not matter. You never face something like this. I got to face [Wembanyama]. I got to face [Jokic]. This is what I got to deal with.

The NBA has never seen players like Wembanyama or Nikola Jokic, both modern bigs with incredibly rare skillsets. While Barkley was known for having plenty of guard skill back in his day, both Wemby and the Joker have that and more at over 7 feet tall. Barkley could not help but laugh at Giannis’ comments and agreed that he would not have been able to stop them.

Jan 29, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) controls the ball as Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) guards in the fourth quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The Antetokounmpo Family Got in on the Action Despite Giannis Not Playing

Although the Bucks star was not playing in the game, Giannis was able to sit courtside with his eldest children, Liam and Maverick. After introducing them to the referee and helping them listen in the pre-game huddle, the trio then sat on the end of the bench to enjoy the matchup between Chuck’s International Stars and Kenny’s Young Stars.

Nov 22, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) plays with his son, Maverick Shai, 3, during warmups before game against the Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

The kids certainly seemed to be having a blast, with plenty of screaming and cheering, some of which was directly into the microphone. Giannis at one point told his sons to “stay quiet now so they can focus” in a moment that all parents will be able to relate to.