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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In this 200th episode of Lost in the Script TV, we delve into the most pressing and contentious stories affecting Black America today. At 1:52, we break down the Diddy verdict — acquitted of RICO and sex trafficking, but still facing serious prison time for lesser charges. At 22:31, Jay-Z takes a legal L as his lawsuit against Tony Buzbee is dismissed. Then at 26:49, we discuss Nas’s new partnership with Queen Casino — is hip-hop entering the gambling game?

At 32:05, we give an update on Karmelo Anthony’s murder indictment in Texas and what it says about youth violence in America. At approximately 36:05, we guide you through key national updates that affect Black communities — from housing to politics. Then at 46:43, Zohran Mamdani stuns NYC with a major primary win over Cuomo, but old racial identity claims spark a backlash, even drawing a reaction from Trump.

At 1:25:29, Beyoncé comes under fire for her Buffalo Soldiers shirt — is it Black pride or a disrespect to Native history? At 1:36:27, we get into the explosive FBA vs. immigration debate and the real implications of Trump’s “citizen deportation” rhetoric. And finally, at 2:17:33, we unpack the tensions and possibilities of Pan-Africanism at this year’s Essence Fest.

Tap in for real talk, critical analysis, and unapologetic commentary from the front lines of Black culture and politics.

Is Andrew Cuomo really making a comeback — and are we supposed to forget how he left? At (2:16), we dig into Cuomo’s rumored run for NYC mayor and why former critics now support him. Then at (6:31), the U.S. joins Israel in deadly airstrikes on Iran. Are we on the edge of another Middle East war — or being drawn into one? At (20:36), we cover new developments in the Vance Boelter case. The conversation heats up at (24:51), when Michelle Obama’s viral comment — “I’m glad I didn’t have a son” — sparks a raw discussion about whether high expectations are hurting Black boys more than helping. At (35:00), we ask if Black Americans are expected to show up now that African immigrants are facing Trump-led deportations, and what true solidarity means. Later at (57:39), backlash grows against rapper The Mexican OT, while at (1:24:18), we explore how AI could reshape the future of Black creativity, jobs, and culture. The episode wraps with two explosive lawsuits: at (1:45:28), Tyler Perry faces a $260M sexual misconduct claim, and at (2:07:48), Fat Joe is accused by his hype man of years of abuse. Tap in — Lost in the Script TV is your weekly Black podcast breaking down politics, culture, and the stories that shape us. Subscribe now.