In Episode 201 of Lost in the Script TV, we break down the escalating fallout from Essence Fest 2025 and how it’s deepening the rift between Foundational Black Americans (FBA) and segments of the Black immigrant community. Beginning at [3:00], we dive into the political landscape: Is Gavin Newsom setting up for a 2028 presidential run? What’s happening with Trump’s fading Black support? Then at [11:55], we move to the devastating Texas floods, with over 120 lives lost, we ask: why do Black communities suffer most during climate disasters, and what’s behind the growing “rainmaker” conspiracies?

At [23:48], we cover the Epstein file closure, where the DOJ declares no client list and rules his death a suicide, but who’s convinced? Then around [36:14], we tour major stories around the country, from Juneteenth backlash to diaspora tensions over cultural ownership. At [1:02:29], we get into explosive accusations out of Atlanta: Tyler Perry Studios is rocked by rape allegations, with claims of a cover-up implicating top executives.

The downfall of Akon’s $6 billion futuristic city project in Senegal is discussed at [1:21:20], what went wrong, and what does it mean for African development dreams? By [1:51:07], we examine growing immigration tensions, particularly how solidarity between Black Americans and Black immigrants is being tested under anti-immigrant rhetoric and policy threats. Finally, at [1:58:25], we close with a powerful conversation on FBA, cultural gatekeeping, and accusations of economic exploitation within Black communities, sparked by Essence Fest's controversial leadership and historic ties to wealth built from slavery.

From political moves to cultural warzones, this episode unpacks who controls Black culture — and at what cost.

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