T(abel) Reads 27

Friday September 19th, 2025 - Edition 027

EVERYONE'S FAVORITE BI-WEEKLY NEWS SOURCE... UNLESS YOU'RE NOT EVERYONE

ROMANTIC HOMICIDE?

As The Internet Digs Deeper, One Artist's Bright Future Takes A Darker, More Uncertain Turn

MUSIC

The music industry is reeling after shocking headlines surrounding 20-year-old pop star D4vd. A body was discovered in a car registered to him, later identified as a 15-year-old girl missing for nearly a year. D4vid has since cancelled his world tour as speculation swirls about his potential connection. While authorities have not released official statements, online investigators have unearthed photos of D4vd and the victim together, even pointing out matching tattoos. The fallout has been swift. Kali Uchis removed their collaboration “Crashing” from streaming services, and several artists have quietly distanced themselves on social media. Fans are left in disbelief, watching one of pop’s rising stars face a potentially career-ending scandal. While it’s too early to draw definitive conclusions without legal confirmation, the optics are undeniably grim. Music is no stranger to controversy, but this situation could redefine how the industry responds to artists facing serious criminal implications.

ART AND FASHION

Endless scrolling, endless tabs, and still nothing in your cart, sound familiar? Ralph Lauren is betting AI can solve that with Ask Ralph, a new digital stylist built into their website. Acting like an in-store associate, it can take prompts, critiques, and suggestions, whether you’re asking, “What should I wear to a music festival?” or “Show me kids’ teddy bear sweaters.” It’s part of fashion’s growing embrace of AI tools designed to merge personalization with commerce. Another rising star is The Fitted App, launched in June 2024 by Max Birch. The app lets you photograph and upload your wardrobe, creating a personal database that AI then analyzes, identifying brands, sizes, and generating curated outfit recommendations. Beyond styling, it doubles as a resale and swap marketplace, keeping closets both fresh and sustainable. For shoppers who struggle with decision fatigue or want smarter ways to manage their wardrobes, these tools are true game changers.

TV AND FILM

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards aired September 7 from UBS Arena, simulcast on CBS and Paramount+. LL Cool J hosted a night of standout performances and big winners. Lady Gaga dominated with four trophies, including Artist of the Year, while Ariana Grande earned Video of the Year for “Brighter Days Ahead.” Rosé and Bruno Mars took Song of the Year for “APT,” and Alex Warren was named Best New Artist. A historic moment came when Mariah Carey accepted her first-ever VMA, the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, cementing her legacy with a medley that stole the show. Beyond the VMAs, the box office spotlight belongs to Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle. The anime blockbuster stunned with a $70 million domestic debut, the highest U.S. opening ever for the genre. With $148 million worldwide its first weekend, dazzling animation, and critical praise, the film confirmed anime’s growing dominance in mainstream cinema.

SPORTS

Two weeks into the NFL season and the narratives are already shifting quickly. Kansas City sits at 0-2, an unexpected stumble for the defending champs. In Green Bay, Micah Parsons’ dominance has fueled chatter about the Packers’ Super Bowl potential. The injury bug is also making headlines, most notably Joe Burrow undergoing surgery for turf toe. Meanwhile, Indianapolis has emerged as the early surprise, led by Daniel Jones’ resurgence that has propelled the Colts to a 2-0 start and the NFL’s best point differential. Shifting to baseball, the American League West has become the most captivating race in the final stretch. The Mariners’ 10-game winning streak earlier this month vaulted them past Houston and Texas, creating a three-team dogfight. This weekend’s Seattle-Houston matchup could decide the division crown. The loser will still be alive in the wild card chase alongside Texas and Cleveland. October baseball is nearly here, who’s your pick?

DOMESTIC

Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot in the neck while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, during his American Comeback Tour. The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson, was arrested 33 hours later and now faces charges of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering, with Utah officials considering the death penalty. The assassination has sparked national uproar, with many framing it as a politically motivated attack. In Washington, Republicans introduced a resolution honoring Kirk as a “courageous patriot,” though Democrats have pushed back, underscoring the polarized reaction. Meanwhile, Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, has stepped into his role as CEO and Chair of Turning Point USA, pledging to continue his work and expand the organization’s reach. The tragedy has already galvanized supporters and intensified debate over political violence in America, ensuring Kirk’s legacy will remain a powerful rallying point.