The Pussycat Dolls, the girl group formed by Robin Antin in the mid-1990s which featured former “X Factor” judge Nicole Scherzinger, is suing British news outlet the Daily Mail over stories it ran in October 2017 claiming that the members were abused and that the group served as a “front for a prostitution ring.”
The allegations were made by a former backup singer named Kaya Jones, who was quoted extensively in an Oct. 17 article with the headline: “Exclusive: Defiant ex-Pussycat Doll Ms. Jones tells how top record exec sexually assaulted her in the back of his limo – one day after saying the band was more ‘prostitution ring’ than pop group.” In various articles related to the claims, she also asserts that the girls were “drugged” and that Antin was “responsible” for their treatment as well as the 2014 suicide death of Simone Battle, a member of girl group G.R.L.
The allegations were made by a former backup singer named Kaya Jones, who was quoted extensively in an Oct. 17 article with the headline: “Exclusive: Defiant ex-Pussycat Doll Ms. Jones tells how top record exec sexually assaulted her in the back of his limo – one day after saying the band was more ‘prostitution ring’ than pop group.” In various articles related to the claims, she also asserts that the girls were “drugged” and that Antin was “responsible” for their treatment as well as the 2014 suicide death of Simone Battle, a member of girl group G.R.L.
- 5/21/2018
- by Shirley Halperin
- Variety Film + TV
A former member of The Pussycat Dolls has likened the group to a “prostitution ring,” claiming that she was consistently exploited and forced to “sleep with whoever they say” during her time in the girl group.
Kaya Jones took to Twitter on Friday to accuse managers and executives of taking advantage of the music troupe she joined as a teenager in 2
“My truth. I wasn’t in a girl group. I was in a prostitution ring,” she wrote. “Oh & we happened to sing & be famous. While everyone who owned us made the $”
The singer, 33, continued, “How bad was it? People...
Kaya Jones took to Twitter on Friday to accuse managers and executives of taking advantage of the music troupe she joined as a teenager in 2
“My truth. I wasn’t in a girl group. I was in a prostitution ring,” she wrote. “Oh & we happened to sing & be famous. While everyone who owned us made the $”
The singer, 33, continued, “How bad was it? People...
- 10/16/2017
- by Stephanie Petit
- PEOPLE.com
Girl group G.R.L. is back! Original members Lauren Bennett and Natasha Slayton have teamed up again and added new member Jazzy Mejia, E! News exclusively confirms. The original group (which also included Paula Van Oppen and Emmalyn Estrada, neither of whom are a part of the latest era of G.R.L.) broke up in June 2015, nine months after the tragic suicide of G.R.L.'s own Simone Battle. The reformed trio addressed the "incredible highs and lows" G.R.L. has been through and why the time is now to reunite and make music, telling E! News in an exclusive statement, "After the heartbreaking loss of Simone, a beautiful soul gone far too soon, we are unsure about whether to...
- 8/5/2016
- E! Online
Girl group G.R.L., whose member Simone Battle committed suicide last September, has officially broken up. Kemosabe Records, RCA Records, Larry Rudolph and Robin Antin released the following statement Tuesday to Billboard: "Nearly 9 months following the tragic death of band member Simone Battle, girl group G.R.L. announces today that they are disbanding. We wish them continued success in each of their next creative endeavors." G.R.L., originally a quintet, initially stayed together as a foursome in the wake of 25-year-old Simone's passing. In January 2015, the group's remaining members Paula Van Oppen, Lauren Bennett, Emmalyn Estrada and Natasha Slayton, debuted "Lighthouse," a music video...
- 6/3/2015
- E! Online
Just not the same. The girl group G.R.L. have decided to split, it was announced on Wednesday, June 3. The news comes nearly a year after bandmate Simone Battle died at age 25. "Nearly 9 months following the tragic death of band member Simone Battle, girl group G.R.L. announces today that they are disbanding," Kemosabe Records, RCA Records, Larry Rudolph, and Robin Antin said in a statement, via Billboard. "We wish them continued success in each of their next creative endeavors." Battle joined G.R.L. - Emmalyn Estrada, Lauren [...]...
- 6/3/2015
- Us Weekly
“Walking On Air” by Lance Bass (feat. Bella Blue)“It’s my debut single and I’m shamelessly plugging it here.” “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson“From vocals to the instruments, this song is perfection. As a Mississippi native, I smile when Bruno Mars name-checks Jackson.” “Lighthouse” by G.R.L.“So emotional! Their first cut since [singer] Simone Battle passed away. Emotional and just beautiful.” “Tattooed Heart” by Ariana Grande“This song made me first take note of one of the best singers around. She reiterates it with every single release.” “Forever For Now” by LP“It’s haunting [...]...
- 5/23/2015
- Us Weekly
G.R.L. is remembering Simone Battle with a touching tribute.
Group members Lauren Bennett, Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula van Oppen released "Lighthouse" on Thursday, a new song and video in memory of their late member Battle. The 25-year-old tragically lost her life to suicide in September.
Watch: Behind the Scenes with G.R.L.
“It’s a strange day,” Bennett tells ETonline. “It’s definitely bittersweet. It’s sad, but at the same time we’re very happy with the video. It’s a very positive message and reflection on her life, and we’re happy with that.”
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ETonline spoke with the girls about the gorgeous new video, their new charity partnership, and what the future holds for G.R.L.
Watch: G.R.L. Brings a New Meaning to Girl Power
ETonline: That video made me emotional, so I can only imagine how you all must be feeling.
Lauren Bennett: It's a...
Group members Lauren Bennett, Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula van Oppen released "Lighthouse" on Thursday, a new song and video in memory of their late member Battle. The 25-year-old tragically lost her life to suicide in September.
Watch: Behind the Scenes with G.R.L.
“It’s a strange day,” Bennett tells ETonline. “It’s definitely bittersweet. It’s sad, but at the same time we’re very happy with the video. It’s a very positive message and reflection on her life, and we’re happy with that.”
<span id="XinhaEditingPostion"></span>
ETonline spoke with the girls about the gorgeous new video, their new charity partnership, and what the future holds for G.R.L.
Watch: G.R.L. Brings a New Meaning to Girl Power
ETonline: That video made me emotional, so I can only imagine how you all must be feeling.
Lauren Bennett: It's a...
- 1/15/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
[Brightcove "3989667909001"] It should have been the greatest time of their lives. Last April, the all-girl band G.R.L. was just gaining buzz, heating up the charts with "Ugly Heart" and singing the chorus to Pitbull's popular radio jam, "Wild Wild Love." The five singers were huge in Australia and performed on the Today Show and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. And then, the unthinkable happened. Group member Simone Battle, 25, who had risen to fame as a finalist on the 2011 U.S. version of X-Factor, unexpectedly took her own life on Sept. 5, 2014. "It all just came to a stop," says member Paula Van Oppen,...
- 1/15/2015
- by Gillian Telling, @gilliantelling
- PEOPLE.com
[Brightcove "3989667909001"] It should have been the greatest time of their lives. Last April, the all-girl band G.R.L. was just gaining buzz, heating up the charts with "Ugly Heart" and singing the chorus to Pitbull's popular radio jam, "Wild Wild Love." The five singers were huge in Australia and performed on the Today Show and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. And then, the unthinkable happened. Group member Simone Battle, 25, who had risen to fame as a finalist on the 2011 U.S. version of X-Factor, unexpectedly took her own life on Sept. 5, 2014. "It all just came to a stop," says member Paula Van Oppen,...
- 1/15/2015
- by Gillian Telling, @gilliantelling
- PEOPLE.com
G.R.L. singer Simone Battle had just a few thousand dollars to her name when she committed suicide ... but her family claims there could be much more pouring in ... from lucrative contracts she signed shortly before her death.Battle had just $6,000 in cash to her name when she died, according to court docs filed by her mother, Donna Morgan. But Morgan claims Battle also had deals with Sony, Coca-Cola and other companies and the...
- 11/23/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
There was wonderful news out of Kensington Palace on Monday, but many of the other top stories on People.com this week weren't nearly as sunny. There was plenty of news that made readers angry and sad, and even the week's most surprising story involved inexplicable cruelty. Thankfully, there was also some comic relief here and there. Below, check out the five stories that got the strongest reactions on People.com this week. And let us know what you think of every story by clicking on the icons at the bottom. Prince George has been a joy for proud parents Prince William and wife Kate,...
- 9/13/2014
- by Tim Nudd, @nudd
- PEOPLE.com
There was wonderful news out of Kensington Palace on Monday, but many of the other top stories on People.com this week weren't nearly as sunny. There was plenty of news that made readers angry and sad, and even the week's most surprising story involved inexplicable cruelty. Thankfully, there was also some comic relief here and there. Below, check out the five stories that got the strongest reactions on People.com this week. And let us know what you think of every story by clicking on the icons at the bottom. Prince George has been a joy for proud parents Prince William and wife Kate,...
- 9/13/2014
- by Tim Nudd, @nudd
- PEOPLE.com
G.R.L. singer Simone Battle had been struggling with financial problems before committing suicide ... TMZ has learned. We know friends and family members told law enforcement ... Battle was depressed over money issues recently -- the family wasn't specific but they were clear ... money was bringing her down.The family didn't quite understand, because Battle was part of a successful singing group that had just completed an overseas tour.People close to Battle told cops...
- 9/9/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Simone Battle, the G.R. L. singer and The X Factor alum, died last Friday in what has now officially been ruled a suicide by hanging.
Simone Battle Suicide
The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office determined Battle’s cause of death on Sunday, two days after the 25-year-old singer was found dead in her home in West Hollywood. Battle was reportedly found hanging in her bedroom closet at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 5, TMZ reported over the weekend.
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.," reads a statement from Robin Antin, founder of Reign Deer Entertainment, Kemosabe Records, RCA Records and Pussycat Dolls. "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time."
The women of G.R.L.
Simone Battle Suicide
The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office determined Battle’s cause of death on Sunday, two days after the 25-year-old singer was found dead in her home in West Hollywood. Battle was reportedly found hanging in her bedroom closet at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 5, TMZ reported over the weekend.
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.," reads a statement from Robin Antin, founder of Reign Deer Entertainment, Kemosabe Records, RCA Records and Pussycat Dolls. "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time."
The women of G.R.L.
- 9/9/2014
- Uinterview
Simone Battle's tragic death Friday at age 25 has been ruled a suicide by hanging, a Los Angeles County coroner's spokesperson said Monday. The G.R.L. singer and former X Factor contestant was just 25. News of her death was confirmed Saturday by her music group's management and record companies. On Saturday, G.R.L. group founder Robin Antin remembered Simone in a heartfelt Instagram post, writing, "Simone I will miss your smile, Your adorable laugh, Your loving spirit that you brought to all of us, The joy that you felt when you were singing, dancing, performing, laughing, and goofing around with your GRLs, and most of all the beautiful friendship and bond that tied us all together, that will forever...
- 9/8/2014
- E! Online
Pop group G.R.L. member Simone Battle's shocking death over the weekend has officially been ruled a suicide by hanging, the Los Angeles Coroner's office tells People. The singer was found dead at her Hollywood home on Saturday morning at age 25. Her record label confirmed her death, saying in an official statement, "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time." G.R.L. were just beginning to enjoy the spotlight as a pop band, singing the chorus...
- 9/8/2014
- by Gillian Telling, @gilliantelling
- PEOPLE.com
Pop group G.R.L. member Simone Battle's shocking death over the weekend has officially been ruled a suicide by hanging, the Los Angeles Coroner's office tells People. The singer was found dead at her Hollywood home on Saturday morning at age 25. Her record label confirmed her death, saying in an official statement, "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time." G.R.L. were just beginning to enjoy the spotlight as a pop band, singing the chorus...
- 9/8/2014
- by Gillian Telling, @gilliantelling
- PEOPLE.com
Over the weekend, G.R.L. singer and X Factor finalist Simone Battle passed away at the age of 25. On Monday, Sept. 8, CNN reported that the performer’s death was ruled a suicide, according to the Los Angeles County coroner’s spokesman. Battle hanged herself on Friday, Sept. 5, according to the coroner. She was last seen alive by her boyfriend at 3:45 a.m. on Friday in their West Hollywood apartment, and was found about four hours later in her closet. An autopsy was conducted on Sunday, determining that Battle’s [...]...
- 9/8/2014
- Us Weekly
Girl Group G.R.L.'s Simone Battle has passed away at the age of 25.
Girl Group G.R.L.'s Simone Battle has passed away at the age of 25.
Update: On Sunday, the cause of Simone Battle's death was ruled a suicide by hanging, according to the AP.
G.R.L. tweeted out these messages for Simone.
Words cannot express the depth of our loss. Simone's incredible talent was only surpassed by the size of her heart.
— G.R.L. (@grl) September 6, 2014
We will carry her memory with us in everything we do.
— G.R.L. (@grl) September 6, 2014
In a statement from Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records, and RCA Records, they say, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L. Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts...
Girl Group G.R.L.'s Simone Battle has passed away at the age of 25.
Update: On Sunday, the cause of Simone Battle's death was ruled a suicide by hanging, according to the AP.
G.R.L. tweeted out these messages for Simone.
Words cannot express the depth of our loss. Simone's incredible talent was only surpassed by the size of her heart.
— G.R.L. (@grl) September 6, 2014
We will carry her memory with us in everything we do.
— G.R.L. (@grl) September 6, 2014
In a statement from Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records, and RCA Records, they say, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L. Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts...
- 9/7/2014
- Entertainment Tonight
According to a new report from TMZ, former X-Factor contestant and future G.R.L. (Reboot of the Pussycat Dolls) star, Simone Battle (left), unfortunately past away this past Friday morning, September 5th, from what is now speculated to be a possible hanging suicide! They claim, Simone was found dead in her Los Angeles,CA home. She was just 25 years old. Simone had previously made it to the Top 17 on X-Factor, and had just signed a deal to be apart of the new G.R.L. group that is being managed by Robin Antin and company. The L.A. County Cororner's Office told them, Simone's autopsy has not been completed yet, so nothing has been ruled out as cause of death. Simone's father told them, Simone was found in the bedroom of her apartment in a West Hollywood neighborhood. An update from the cops, stated Simone was "found hanging on...
- 9/7/2014
- by Megan
- OnTheFlix
Singer Simone Battle, 25, was found dead in her Los Angeles home on Friday, and on Sunday, members of her girl group (G.R.L.) and "X Factor" boss Simon Cowell took to social media to remember their young friend.
"I am so sad to hear about the news Simone Battle has passed away. She was such a fun nice person," Simon Tweeted about the former "X Factor" finalist. "It's such a loss. Rest in peace Simone."
I am so sad to hear about the news Simone Battle has passed away. She was such a fun nice person. It's such ...
Copyright 2014 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
"I am so sad to hear about the news Simone Battle has passed away. She was such a fun nice person," Simon Tweeted about the former "X Factor" finalist. "It's such a loss. Rest in peace Simone."
I am so sad to hear about the news Simone Battle has passed away. She was such a fun nice person. It's such ...
Copyright 2014 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
- 9/7/2014
- by access.hollywood@nbcuni.com (AccessHollywood.com Editorial Staff)
- Access Hollywood
This weekend fans and celebs honored lost talent. Joan Rivers' star-studded funeral was held on Sunday in New York City at Temple Emanu-El. Plus, G.R.L. singer and X-Factor alum Simone Battle died unexpectedly at the age of 25. Check out the rest of this weekend's top stories: Joan Rivers was laid to rest on Sunday, Sept. 7 at a funeral service in NYC's Temple Emanu-El on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The beloved comedienne, author, TV personality, and critic died at age 81 on Thursday, Sept. [...]...
- 9/7/2014
- Us Weekly
Former "X Factor" contestant Simone Battle's suicide has stunned her father ... who says the "G.R.L." singer never once let on that she was suffering as she got a taste of success in Hollywood.Anthony Battle tells us he and his daughter hadn't spoke on the phone in a few weeks ... but they texted every day and she seemed to be doing just fine. In fact, he says Simone was excited about where her career was heading.
- 9/6/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Simone Battle, member of girl group G.R.L, has died.
The 25-year-old singer was found dead in Los Angeles on Friday, Access Hollywood has confirmed.
G.R.L.'s record label and management team (Kemosabe Records, Reign Deer Entertainment, RCA Records and Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin) released a joint statement regarding Battle's sudden passing.
Photos: Sudden Endings - Stars Who Died Too Soon
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.," the group said in the statement released to Access on Saturday. "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are ...
Copyright 2014 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
The 25-year-old singer was found dead in Los Angeles on Friday, Access Hollywood has confirmed.
G.R.L.'s record label and management team (Kemosabe Records, Reign Deer Entertainment, RCA Records and Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin) released a joint statement regarding Battle's sudden passing.
Photos: Sudden Endings - Stars Who Died Too Soon
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.," the group said in the statement released to Access on Saturday. "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are ...
Copyright 2014 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
- 9/6/2014
- by access.hollywood@nbcuni.com (AccessHollywood.com Editorial Staff)
- Access Hollywood
G.R.L. pop singer Simone Battle, who rose to fame on the U.S. version of The X Factor, has died of an apparent suicide, according to reports. She was 25.
Per TMZ, Battle’s body was found in the bedroom of her Los Angeles home on Friday.
Although quickly eliminated during The X Factor‘s first season (where she was mentored by Simon Cowell), Battle made her mark; she landed a spot in the Pussycat Dolls reboot G.R.L.
“I am so sad to hear about the news Simone Battle has passed away,” Cowell said on Twitter. “She was such a fun nice person.
Per TMZ, Battle’s body was found in the bedroom of her Los Angeles home on Friday.
Although quickly eliminated during The X Factor‘s first season (where she was mentored by Simon Cowell), Battle made her mark; she landed a spot in the Pussycat Dolls reboot G.R.L.
“I am so sad to hear about the news Simone Battle has passed away,” Cowell said on Twitter. “She was such a fun nice person.
- 9/6/2014
- TVLine.com
It’s a sad day for music fans. Simone Battle, of the girl group G.R.L., has reportedly committed suicide in her Los Angeles home. According to TMZ, Battle’s body was discovered early on Friday, around 8:30 in the morning, hanging from a rod in her bedroom closet. It doesn’t appear an autopsy has been completed as...Read more»...
- 9/6/2014
- by Jason Marshall
- Celebuzz.com
7:35 Am Pt -- Law enforcement sources tell TMZ Simone was found hanging on a rod in the closet of her bedroom around 8:30 Am on Friday.Singer Simone Battle, who rose to fame on the Us version of "X Factor" ... was found dead in her Los Angeles home ... and TMZ has learned it appears to be a suicide.25-year-old Battle was a singer in the girl group "G.R.L." ... which was the reboot of the Pussycat Dolls.
- 9/6/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Simone Battle, a U.S. ‘X Factor’ finalist and member of pop group G.R.L., was found dead in her West Hollywood home on Friday. The singer was 25. TMZ reports Battle was found hanging on a rod in the closet of her bedroom around 8:30 a.m. on Friday. A spokeswoman for the Lapd could not confirm the details of Battle's death when TheWrap reached out for comment. Battle's record company, however, confirmed her passing and released a statement to the media. See photos: Hollywood's Notable Deaths of 2014 “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle...
- 9/6/2014
- by Greg Gilman
- The Wrap
Simone Battle, a contestant on The X Factor's first season and member of the girl group G.R.L., died Sept. 5, the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. Battle, 25, died in West Hollywood, coroner's office lieutenant David Smith said. The cause of death is not yet known. G.R.L.'s management company Reign Deer Entertainment, Antin, Kemosabe Records and RCA released the following statement to THR: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L. Simone was an exceptional young talent and human
read more...
read more...
- 9/6/2014
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Simone Battle, member of the girl band G.R.L. was found dead in Los Angeles on Friday, her record company confirms. The cause of death is still unknown. An official statement from Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records and RCA records reads, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L. Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time." Battle, 25, first rose to fame as a finalist on the 2011 U.
- 9/6/2014
- by Gillian Telling, @Gilliantelling
- PEOPLE.com
Simone Battle, 25, member of the girl band G.R.L. was found dead in Los Angeles on Friday, her record company confirms. The cause of death is still unknown. An official statement from Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records and RCA records reads, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L. Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time." Battle first rose to fame...
- 9/6/2014
- by Gillian Telling, @Gilliantelling
- PEOPLE.com
G.R.L. singer Simone Battle has died at the age of 25, Us Weekly can confirm. The cause of death has yet to be revealed. "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L.," her management firm Reign Deer Entertainment tell Us in a statement. "Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time." Battle appeared on the [...]...
- 9/6/2014
- Us Weekly
The X Factor finalist and G.R. L. girl group member Simone Battle died on Friday of an apparent suicide. She was 25.
'X Factor' Finalist Dies
Battle was found dead in her home, according to her father, Anthony E. Battle. “She will be greatly missed and loved,” he told the Daily Mail. “She was an exuberant person and a very loved person.”
After the news of Battle’s tragic and untimely death broke, her management and record company released a joint statement:
“Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time.”
While Battle’s father claims that her death is still under investigation, it’s believed that the singer’s death is the result of a suicide attempt, according to TMZ. Battle was reportedly...
'X Factor' Finalist Dies
Battle was found dead in her home, according to her father, Anthony E. Battle. “She will be greatly missed and loved,” he told the Daily Mail. “She was an exuberant person and a very loved person.”
After the news of Battle’s tragic and untimely death broke, her management and record company released a joint statement:
“Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time.”
While Battle’s father claims that her death is still under investigation, it’s believed that the singer’s death is the result of a suicide attempt, according to TMZ. Battle was reportedly...
- 9/6/2014
- Uinterview
What do you get when you mix five early 20-something choreographers, dancers, actresses and singers, all of whom have serious vocal chops? That would be G.R.L. (a riff on the word "Girl," but pronounced like "T.R.L."), the sexy new girl-group featured on Pitbull's new radio hit, Wild Wild Love (No. 25 on the charts and still climbing). They've performed on both the Today show and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday. Formed in 2012, the group - featuring Simone Battle, Paula Van Oppen, Brit-born Lauren Bennett, Natasha Slayton and Canadian Emmalyn Estrada - are currently in...
- 4/3/2014
- by Gillian Telling
- PEOPLE.com
New York -- I'll tell want you want, what you really, really want: Girl groups.
Even if you don't want them – they're back on the scene. A new batch of pop tarts are ready to dominate the charts and fill a void since best-selling groups like Destiny's Child, TLC and the Spice Girls aren't dropping songs as fast as music fans want them.
The duo Icona Pop has one of the year's biggest hits – and possible song of the summer – with the anthem "I Love It." Little Mix won U.K.'s "The X Factor" in 2011 and Fifth Harmony finished third on the U.S. version of the show last year. The fivesome G.R.L. is signed to mega-hitmaker Dr. Luke (Katy Perry, Ke$ha) and The Rosso Sisters are currently in the studio with Ron Fair (Christina Aguilera).
Others are using reality TV to help establish their brands: The Saturdays,...
Even if you don't want them – they're back on the scene. A new batch of pop tarts are ready to dominate the charts and fill a void since best-selling groups like Destiny's Child, TLC and the Spice Girls aren't dropping songs as fast as music fans want them.
The duo Icona Pop has one of the year's biggest hits – and possible song of the summer – with the anthem "I Love It." Little Mix won U.K.'s "The X Factor" in 2011 and Fifth Harmony finished third on the U.S. version of the show last year. The fivesome G.R.L. is signed to mega-hitmaker Dr. Luke (Katy Perry, Ke$ha) and The Rosso Sisters are currently in the studio with Ron Fair (Christina Aguilera).
Others are using reality TV to help establish their brands: The Saturdays,...
- 7/15/2013
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Former “X Factor” contestant Simone Battle show her gutsy side in “We the Party,” a gritty coming-of-age film by Mario Van Peebles. Battle, who plays Cheyenne, said the gateway to her understanding her character was Cheyenne’s grittiness. “My character’s very studious, very driven. She knows what she wants, and she has a dream. Cheyenne’s so much like me,” she said. “When I was in school, I always challenged myself. I always wanted to get straight As, I always wanted to do my best, and I was a little square at times, so I think I’m similar to Cheyenne. Academically, we are right on the same page and we both have [ Read More ]...
- 8/3/2012
- by monique
- ShockYa
Chicago – The Van Peebles name has had a long and historic contribution to the history of movies from the 1970s to today. Director Mario Van Peebles has extended a tradition of filmmaker credibility that began with his father Melvin’s breakthrough with “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song” (1971) and continues with Mario’s recent release, “We the Party.”
“We the Party” is a stylish, fly-on-the-wall look at modern high school life, mostly in the tradition of the big party/John Hughes feel, and coming of age through a series of unexpected events. Mario Van Peebles son, Mandela, plays the lead role of Hendrix Simmons, part of a group of close-knit friends who are participating in the realities of the current high school scene – with the new interactions of technology and multiculturalism – through to the normal adolescent rituals of prom, dating and trying to fit in. The high spirited cast and production...
“We the Party” is a stylish, fly-on-the-wall look at modern high school life, mostly in the tradition of the big party/John Hughes feel, and coming of age through a series of unexpected events. Mario Van Peebles son, Mandela, plays the lead role of Hendrix Simmons, part of a group of close-knit friends who are participating in the realities of the current high school scene – with the new interactions of technology and multiculturalism – through to the normal adolescent rituals of prom, dating and trying to fit in. The high spirited cast and production...
- 4/16/2012
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Chicago – Mario Van Peebles is a second generation filmmaker, following the footsteps of his revolutionary director father, Melvin Van Peebles. In keeping with the family business, Mario has included his children in his latest film, “We the Party,” a high school movie about this particular time in history for youth and their culture, and the impact this era has on them.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
Highly stylized and voyeuristic, this film succeeds as a hopeful view of Los Angeles high school hijinks, updated for the mix of cultures that is the experience of the City of Angels. Where it is less successful is in the sermonizing, which doesn’t flow as naturally as the kids being kids. There is a moral to the story, but that morality is laced with sticky plot points that might play better for adults, but doesn’t gibe as organically in relationship to a younger perspective.
“We the Party...
Rating: 3.0/5.0
Highly stylized and voyeuristic, this film succeeds as a hopeful view of Los Angeles high school hijinks, updated for the mix of cultures that is the experience of the City of Angels. Where it is less successful is in the sermonizing, which doesn’t flow as naturally as the kids being kids. There is a moral to the story, but that morality is laced with sticky plot points that might play better for adults, but doesn’t gibe as organically in relationship to a younger perspective.
“We the Party...
- 4/6/2012
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
"We the Party" has a poster that makes it look like a more urban entry in the popular "Step Up" franchise, but is hilariously tagged as being "From the Director of 'New Jack City,'" a movie that most of the cast and pretty much anyone they're targeting to watch the movie, have either forgotten about entirely or never seen because it's too fucking old. It is, however, quite evocative of "We the Party," a movie that tries to be edgier, more outrageous, and (oddly) more socially conscious than most teen movies, but ends up being just as tired and cliché (if not more so), combining familiar beats from every high school flick imaginable and shellacking them in the tired aesthetics of 1990s music videos.
The titular shindig in "We the Party" is one put on by Hendrix Sutton (Mandela Van Peebles – there are about a half-dozen credited Van...
The titular shindig in "We the Party" is one put on by Hendrix Sutton (Mandela Van Peebles – there are about a half-dozen credited Van...
- 4/5/2012
- by Drew Taylor
- The Playlist
Clips from Mario Van Peebles' We The Party comedy from Arc Entertainment. Snoop Dogg, Yg, The New Boyz, The Rej3ctz, The Pink Dollaz, Mario Van Peebles, Michael Jai White, Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Tiny Lister, Melvin Van Peebles, Mandela Van Peebles, Simone Battle, Moises Arias, Orlando Brown and Quincy Brown. We have 8 clips up for your viewing pleasure from the comedy. Mario Van Peebles directs the film which opens April 6th, and is produced by Michael Cohen, Dwjuan F. Fox and Tal Vigderson. We the Party is a colorful, cutting-edge, multicultural comedy about a group of teenagers coming of age during America’s first black presidency. “Teenagers are at the center of a seismic cultural shift,” says writer/director Mario Van Peebles. “Their world is changing fast, from their music to their dancing, jerking, twerking, skateboarding, dating and facebooking. Thug life is old school now and, for some, smart is the new gangsta!
- 3/27/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Clips from Mario Van Peebles' We The Party comedy from Arc Entertainment. Snoop Dogg, Yg, The New Boyz, The Rej3ctz, The Pink Dollaz, Mario Van Peebles, Michael Jai White, Salli Richardson-Whitfield, Tiny Lister, Melvin Van Peebles, Mandela Van Peebles, Simone Battle, Moises Arias, Orlando Brown and Quincy Brown. We have 8 clips up for your viewing pleasure from the comedy. Mario Van Peebles directs the film which opens April 6th, and is produced by Michael Cohen, Dwjuan F. Fox and Tal Vigderson. We the Party is a colorful, cutting-edge, multicultural comedy about a group of teenagers coming of age during America’s first black presidency. “Teenagers are at the center of a seismic cultural shift,” says writer/director Mario Van Peebles. “Their world is changing fast, from their music to their dancing, jerking, twerking, skateboarding, dating and facebooking. Thug life is old school now and, for some, smart is the new gangsta!
- 3/27/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
The word “Finale” — spelled out in all caps using pure molten lava — bubbled and exploded across a giant electronic screen. A lithe young woman in a red-and-white striped, fur-trimmed bathing suit writhed seductively inside an oversized snow globe. And Melanie Amaro, Chris Rene, and Josh Krajcik were reduced to blubbering, carol-singing wrecks.
The message may not have been subtle, but let’s be honest, that’s never really been Simon Cowell’s forte: In No Particular Order, The X Factor reminded us in incredibly loud and extremely close-up fashion, that Christmastime is here; that Nicole HarbingerOfDoom is a master of...
The message may not have been subtle, but let’s be honest, that’s never really been Simon Cowell’s forte: In No Particular Order, The X Factor reminded us in incredibly loud and extremely close-up fashion, that Christmastime is here; that Nicole HarbingerOfDoom is a master of...
- 12/23/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
The X Factor USA said goodbye to five hopefuls this week when each of the judges had to send home one act (or in Simon Cowell's case two acts) from their category after the first live performance show. Cowell chose to eliminate Simone Battle and Tiah Tolliver, while Paula Abdul opted to send home The Brewer Boys, Nicole Scherzinger voted for Dexter Haygood, and La Reid said goodbye to Phillip Lomax. Here's what The Brewer Boys, Dexter Haygood and Phillip Lomax had to say in a video posted to the official X Factor YouTube account: The X Factor's Top 12 will perform live for (more)...
- 10/28/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
The X Factor USA judge Simon Cowell has said that his contestants were superior to the other judges' acts on Tuesday night's first live show. Cowell's girls category of Rachel Crow, Drew Ryniewicz, Tiah Tolliver, Simone Battle and Melanie Amaro all took to the stage alongside the rest of the X Factor Top 17 for their first live performances this week. Speaking to Access Hollywood backstage, he said: "I was happy with the show and more happy that my contestants just killed everyone else's. "It was so one-nil! We are so doing better, I am thrilled." Each of the judges had to eliminate one act from their category, except for Cowell who had to eliminate two following his decision to invite Amaro to join his category as a fifth contestant after realizing he had made a mistake in sending her (more)...
- 10/26/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
X Factor USA contestant Simone Battle has spoken about her experience touring with the Black Eyed Peas. The 22-year-old, who is being mentored by Simon Cowell in the competition, previously served as a backup dancer for will.i.am and the Black Eyed Peas. Battle told Fox All Access: "Touring with the Black Eyed Peas I definitely learned how important it is to be yourself on stage and just be free. "You don't have to worry so much about 5, 6, 7, 8 choreography, it's about interacting with the crowd because they feed you so much positive energy." She added: "I just remember standing back there and doing my little steps and watching how each one of them was so alive on stage and just connected with each other and everyone in the arena - it was amazing." Watch Simone Battle talking to Fox (more)...
- 10/25/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
Welcome to our new feature we like to call “The X Factor Dyk of the Day.” As each of The X Factor’s Top 17 contestants prepare to take to the stage Live to sing for their lives and the opportunity to move on to the next round of performances, we thought it would be nice to catch up with each of the ladies in Simon’s category aka “The Girls” (Drew, Melanie, Rachel, Simone, and Tiah) and share a few little facts that we think are interesting – check it out
Drew Ryneiwicz
Dyk? Drew’s celebrity crush is…….(hold for it…..)
Melanie Amaro
Dyk? Melanie doesn’t beat around the bush in describing Simon as a mentor. He may look sweet and kind when he’s barefoot in France, but the reality is he wants to win…
Rachel Crow
Dyk? Ok, Aside from being the cuttest thing in the world,...
Drew Ryneiwicz
Dyk? Drew’s celebrity crush is…….(hold for it…..)
Melanie Amaro
Dyk? Melanie doesn’t beat around the bush in describing Simon as a mentor. He may look sweet and kind when he’s barefoot in France, but the reality is he wants to win…
Rachel Crow
Dyk? Ok, Aside from being the cuttest thing in the world,...
- 10/25/2011
- by foxallaccess
- Fox All Access
The X Factor USA will eliminate five of its Top 17 acts on the first live show of the season. Simon Cowell, La Reid, Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger's acts will perform live for the first time on Tuesday, October 25 at 8/7c on Fox. A message posted on the show's official Twitter account stated: "Breaking news! 5 of the 17 acts will be eliminated by the judges on 10/25. Find who's out at 8/7C on Fox!" Each judge chose four acts to take through to the live shows following the Judges' Houses stage, although Cowell later realized he had made a mistake in sending Melanie Amaro home and invited her to join his girls category as a fifth act. The other girls in Cowell's category for the live shows are: Tiah Tolliver, Drew Ryniewicz, Rachel Crow and Simone Battle. Reid is mentoring (more)...
- 10/24/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
X Factor USA judge La Reid has said that he was "very happy" that fellow judge Simon Cowell rethought his decision to send Melanie Amaro home. Cowell initially chose not to advance Amaro to the live shows following her performance at Judges' Houses, but then realised that he had made a mistake and asked her to be the fifth member of his girls group for the live shows. Reid, who is mentoring the boys, told reporters on a conference call: "I was very happy that Simon did go back and rethink Melanie because I thought she was really fantastic in the auditions. However it works out, I think so far it's working out for the better." When asked if he agreed with Cowell's choices, which also include Tiah Tolliver, Simone Battle, Drew Ryniewicz and Rachel Crow, the record executive admitted that he might have (more)...
- 10/22/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
And the Emmy nominees for Best Supporting Object in the Trumped-Up Reality-Show Drama of The X Factor‘s Top 17 Announcement Episode are: Nicole Shapeshifter’s shimmering eyelashes; the pillow used to mop up Stacy Francis’ tears-and-mascara gravy; the matching “wedding bands” worn by all three (!) members of rejected boy band The Anser; Tora Woloshin’s floppy white hat; and Steve Jones’ soft but muscular embrace. And the statuette goes to…
…the pillow used to mop up…wait! Simon Cowell is rushing the stage. He’s calling an audible and changing the script. The winner is Christa Collins’ “Creepy/Awesome Baby on a Lilypad” Hat!
…the pillow used to mop up…wait! Simon Cowell is rushing the stage. He’s calling an audible and changing the script. The winner is Christa Collins’ “Creepy/Awesome Baby on a Lilypad” Hat!
- 10/19/2011
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Simon Cowell surprised viewers on The X Factor USA when he chose to take five girls through to the next stage of the competition rather than just four. The music mogul initially told Melanie Amaro that she was going home but then invited her to return after admitting that he had made a mistake. Melanie and fellow contestants Simone Battle, Rachel Crow, Drew Ryniewicz and Tiah Tolliver will join the rest of the Top 17 acts in performing live on Tuesday, October 25 at 8/7c on Fox, when the judges will decide which contestants become the 'top finalists'. > X Factor USA reveals Top 16 as competition takes a twist
> X Factor USA Top 16: Do you agree with the judges' choices? The top finalists will then take to the stage live on Wednesday, November 2 at 8/7c on Fox where they will perform for America's vote for (more)...
> X Factor USA Top 16: Do you agree with the judges' choices? The top finalists will then take to the stage live on Wednesday, November 2 at 8/7c on Fox where they will perform for America's vote for (more)...
- 10/19/2011
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
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