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Lena Waithe: To Chicago, With Love

After eight groundbreaking seasons, Lena Waithe, creator of The Chi, reflects on what it meant to reframe and celebrate her hometown, grow with the series, and leave a lasting mark.

'The Chi' Takes One Final Bow

The cast reflects on what it meant to tell the South Side’s story, and how doing so changed them for the better.

Making Michael

Colman Domingo, Nia Long and Jaafar Jackson take on the responsibility of portraying the man—and the family—behind the fame.
In the magazine

The Women's Playbook

Across major league teams and sports reaching far beyond the average or typical, these women are the engines keeping some of our favorite teams running.

A Flo of Her Own

Sha’Carri Richardson’s nail tech, Kinaya Haug, discusses helping the track megastar express herself via nail art.

Home Style: Black-Owned Décor To Spruce Up Your Space For The New Year

Upgrade your home for 2025 with items handpicked by interior design couple Robin and Regina Reaves.
Watch

Brooke DeVard Gets Ready For The Moment In H&M At Black Women In Hollywood

In the luxe lounge at ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood, the Naked Beauty host blends style, intention, and storytelling—all while wearing H&M.

Sterling K. Brown Pulls Up To ESSENCE To Talk Paradise Season 2

The Emmy-winning actor opens up about returning to Hulu’s Paradise, the emotional weight of Season 2, and what viewers should expect next.

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

Toya and Reginae celebrate Black History Month with authentic New Orleans recipes passed down through their family.

If Not For My Girls: A Coca-Cola® Holiday Moment With Sisterhood at the Center

For this special ‘If Not For My Girls’ with Coca-Cola, the cast comes together for a Friendsmas full of warm memories, cultural flavors, and traditions that feel like home.

Brooke DeVard Gets Ready For The Moment In H&M At Black Women In Hollywood

In the luxe lounge at ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood, the Naked Beauty host blends style, intention, and storytelling—all while wearing H&M.

Sterling K. Brown Pulls Up To ESSENCE To Talk Paradise Season 2

The Emmy-winning actor opens up about returning to Hulu’s Paradise, the emotional weight of Season 2, and what viewers should expect next.

Roots and Recipes: Toya and Reginae Cook Up New Orleans Classics

Toya and Reginae celebrate Black History Month with authentic New Orleans recipes passed down through their family.
Content
5 hours ago

Questlove Speaks On Creating The Earth, Wind & Fire Doc, Manifestation, And Finding Inspiration Through Books

The Roots co-founder reflects on Maurice White’s ambition, and why knowledge is the key to success. “I’m wholly obsessed with self-improvement and what I can learn,” he said.
13 hours ago

Here Are All Of The Details Behind Jay-Z’s Courtside Curls

After combing out his locs for his Roots Picnic performance, here’s how the rapper kept his curls looking healthy for the NBA Finals game.
16 hours ago

First Look: ‘Diarra From Detroit’ Sets Return Date For Season Two

Premiering July 29 on Paramount+, the acclaimed comedy-mystery welcomes guest stars including Method Man, Morris Chestnut, and Amber Riley.
17 hours ago

After A Trial That Captivated The Nation, Karmelo Anthony Is Sentenced To 35 Years

Anthony, who was 17 at the time of the fatal encounter, received a 35-year sentence after jurors rejected arguments that he acted in self-defense.
18 hours ago

The Hottest Colors To Rock For The Warmer Months 

These are the standout shades defining summer 2026—handpicked and ESSENCE editor-approved.
18 hours ago

Why This New Mugler Fragrance Is Supermodel Anok Yai's Summer Scent

Supermodel Anok Yai is the face of Mugler's latest fragrance, Alien Pulp, which she'll spritzing all summer long.
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