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Andy Cohen Says Amazing Things About Kandi Burruss in Wake of Stunning Real Housewives of … on February 6, 2024 at 4:04 pm The Hollywood Gossip

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Andy Cohen is as stunned and as saddened by the news as everyone else.

On Sunday night, on the red carpet ahead of the Grammy Awards, Kandi Burruss told Variety that she was leaving The Real Housewives of Atlanta — after 14 incredible seasons!

Burruss had been a key and steady cast member on this Bravo hit since 2009.

Wow, huh?

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Kandi Burruss attends the 76th Annual Tony Awards Meet The Nominees Press Event At Sofitel New York at Sofitel New York on May 4, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)

One day after the veteran reality star confirmed this decision, the show’s executive producer broke his silence on her stunning departure.

“Kandi announced last night on the Grammy red carpet that she’s not gonna be returning to The Real Housewives of Atlanta after an unbelievable run,” Any Cohen said on the February 5 episode of his SiriusXM Andy Cohen Live radio show.

“Incredible run.

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“And you think about how much she not only went through on the show, but brought to the show.”

Andy Cohen takes part in SiriusXM’s Radio Andy Annual Holiday Hangout at SiriusXM Studios on December 14, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SiriusXM)

Throughout her run as a Real Housewife, Burruss introduced viewers to her scene-stealing mother Mama Joyce.

She also wrote former costar Kim Zolciak’s hit song “Tardy for the Party.”

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Heck, she even met husband Todd Tucker during the cast’s season four trip to South Africa and also created her own Bravo spinoff Kandi & The Gang.

Cohen only had positive things to say about Kandi, both in terms of her work in front of the camera and behind the scenes.

Kandi Burruss attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 4, 2024. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

“She wanted to be the best,” he told listeners.

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“She has been one of my favorite people to work with in my whole time. First, as an exec at Bravo, and then as an E.P. of The Housewives and hosting Watch What Happens Live. I love how competitive she is. I love how thoughtful and smart she is.

“She is so strategic.”

Meaning what, exactly?

Kandi Burruss arrives for Prime Video’s premiere of “The Underdoggs” at the Culver Theatre in Culver City, California, January 23, 2024. (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)

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Cohen elaborated as follows:

“She would call me anytime she had a thought about either the way the show was being marketed or not marketed or about the way that it was being scheduled, or she had a lot of really smart opinions and thoughts and she always wanted to know more.

“‘What’s your strategy here? What are you thinking?’ It was always a great dialogue, and then, sometimes at the end of the conversation, she would say, ‘You know what? I’m glad I called. I totally get it now.’

“Sometimes she would say, ‘Y’all are wrong,’ and you know, and a lot of times she was right.”

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Kandi Burruss attends 2023 Variety’s Women Of Reality TV at Spago on November 29, 2023 in Beverly Hills. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)

Explained Burruss ahead of the aforementioned Grammys:

“It’s been 14 seasons, and they allowed us to sit around for a little too long, but during that time I had started working on a lot of other things, and I got some nice big projects coming soon, so I’m super excited about those things.”

It’s unclear what sort of projects Kandi has been working on — but she’s a very successful musician and songwriter.

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The reality star even won a best R&B song Grammy in 2000 for penning TLC’s smash track “No Scrubs.”

Burruss emphasized on Sunday that she needs a “break,” not fully closing the door on an eventual return.

(Getty)

Cohen, on his radio show, went on share details of the moment Burruss told him she was leaving the program.

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“We had a long talk the other day, she and I and Todd on the phone,” the 55-year-old said.

“I appreciate her saying, ‘You know what? I think this is just time.’ She knows the show is at a crossroads right now and I don’t even want to talk about where we’re going with it.”

Indeed, Cohen had previously said there will be significant cast changes ahead of the next Real Housewives of Atlanta season.

Concluded Cohen, after acknowledging that both sides ended up “crying” on their call:

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“She is one of the greats. So, thank you Kandi for your service. I did tell her, I was like, ‘You know, Kandi, you could drop back in in a year or two.’”

Andy Cohen Says Amazing Things About Kandi Burruss in Wake of Stunning Real Housewives of … was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.

[[{“value”:”Andy Cohen has some amazing things to say Kandi Burruss in the wake of this reality star deciding to leave The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
Andy Cohen Says Amazing Things About Kandi Burruss in Wake of Stunning Real Housewives of … was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.”}]] 

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Entertainment

California Bans AI Clones from Replacing Real Talent

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California just made a dramatic stand for human creativity, defeating the threat of AI actor clones with a sweeping new law that puts people—not algorithms—back in the Hollywood spotlight. With the stroke of Governor Gavin Newsom’s pen in October 2025, the state has sent a clear message to studios, tech companies, and the world: entertainment’s heart belongs to those who create and perform, not to digital facsimiles.

California Draws a Hard Line: No More AI Clones

For months, the entertainment industry has been divided over the use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. Studios, lured by promises of cost-cutting and creative flexibility, have invested in software that can mimic an actor’s face, voice, and even emotional range. But for performers, this wave of synthetic reproduction has triggered alarm—encouraged by chilling stories of deepfakes, unauthorized digital doubles, and contracts that let studios reuse a star’s likeness indefinitely, sometimes without pay or approval.

The new California law, anchored by AB 2602 and AB 1836, changes everything:

  • Every contract must explicitly detail how studios can use digital replicas or voice models, preventing once-common “blank check” agreements that overlooked this risk.
  • No one—not studios nor streaming giants—can create or release AI-generated clones of an actor, living or dead, without clear, written consent from the performer or their estate.
  • The law gives families new powers to defend loved ones from posthumous deepfake exploitation, closing painful loopholes that once let virtual versions of late icons appear in new ads, films, or games.

Actors Celebrate a Major Victory

The legislation rides the momentum of the recent SAG-AFTRA strike, where real-life talent demanded control over their own digital destinies. Leaders say these protections will empower artists to negotiate fair contracts and refuse participation in projects that cross ethical lines, restoring dignity and choice in an industry threatened by silent algorithms.

Stars, unions, and advocacy groups are hailing the law as the most robust defense yet against unwanted AI replications.

As one actor put it, “This isn’t just about money—it’s about identity, legacy, and respect for real artists in a synthetic age.”

A New Chapter for the Entertainment Industry

California’s move isn’t just a victory for local talent—it’s a warning shot to studios everywhere. Companies will now be forced to rethink production pipelines, consult legal counsel, and obtain proper clearance before digitally cloning anyone. Global entertainment platforms and tech developers will need to comply if they want to do business in the world’s entertainment capital.

These laws also set a template likely to ripple through other creative fields, from musicians whose voices can be synthesized to writers whose work could be mimicked by generative AI. For now, California performers finally have a powerful shield, ready to fight for the right to shape their own public image.

Conclusion: Human Talent Takes Center Stage

With its no-nonsense ban on AI actor clones, California draws a bold line, championing the work, likeness, and very humanity of its creative stars. It’s a landmark step that forces the entertainment industry to choose: respect real talent, or face real consequences. The age of the consentless digital double is over—human performers remain the true source of Hollywood magic.

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Chaos and Comedy: Darby Kingman’s “Camp Wackapoo: Rise of Glog”

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Darby Kingman’s “Camp Wackapoo: Rise of Glog” redefines summer camp comedy with a wild, energetic story about ambition, chaos, and the joy of embracing the unexpected. The film centers on a relentlessly competitive camp counselor who’s determined to finish first—only to face a motley crew of unruly campers and a summer unlike any other.

As Darby puts it, “Not everything is that deep. It really honestly was to make people laugh. She has all these kids that are not working with her and she’s just losing her mind. It’s crazy, silly, goofy, and it was a blast.”

What started as a simple scene for Darby’s acting reel evolved into a full-fledged film with encouragement from her mentor at Debbie Reynolds Acting School. Darby dove into every role—writing, directing, starring, and meticulously preparing each prop and costume. “Plan and prepare, but also be flexible and ready to be in the moment—that’s when the magic happens,” she advises.

Working with a handpicked cast of her own dance students, Darby built an atmosphere of real teamwork and camaraderie. She credits the “precious” energy of her young cast, her creative director of photography, and the overall spirit of her production team for turning the project into something bigger than herself. Her experience is an inspiring blueprint for indie filmmakers:

“Take initiative and control of your career. You can’t just sit around and wait for somebody to pick you. Figure out what you’re good at and go for it. Create something that brings joy to others.”

Her production motto? “Preparation is key, but you have to be ready to go with the flow—that’s when the magic happens.” Darby’s fearless creativity, focus on collaboration, and love for comedy shine throughout “Camp Wackapoo: Rise of Glog.” It’s more than just a camp satire—it’s a heartfelt testament to hard work, original humor, and leadership from the ground up: “People need to laugh right now. That’s a win.”

Catch “Camp Wackapoo: Rise of Glog” and experience Darby’s infectious energy and comic genius at the Deluxe Theatre on November 1, 2025. Get your tickets now at Houstoncomedyfilmfestival.com.

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Diane Keaton Dies at 79

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The world of film and entertainment is mourning the loss of Diane Keaton, an Oscar-winning actress renowned for her enduring talent, individuality, and influence on generations of performers and fans. Keaton died at the age of 79 in California on Saturday, October 11, 2025, her family confirmed. Details remain private, with her family requesting privacy as they grieve this profound loss.

A Distinctive Talent

Diane Keaton rose to fame in the 1970s through a series of memorable roles, most notably as Kay Adams in “The Godfather” trilogy and as the quirky, unforgettable lead in Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall,” for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. Her performances in films like “The First Wives Club,” “Something’s Gotta Give,” and the “Book Club” series solidified her reputation as an actress with unique comedic timing and dramatic depth. Keaton was celebrated not only for her artistry but also for her androgynous fashion sense, characterized by menswear-inspired looks, hats, and an easy, effortless style that influenced generations.

Legacy and Tributes

Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from Hollywood and beyond. Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn, and Jane Fonda were among the countless stars who expressed devastation and admiration for Keaton’s incomparable legacy. Hawn recalled their friendship and collaborations, writing: “Diane, we aren’t ready to lose you…you stole the hearts of the world and shared your genius with millions”. Midler echoed the sentiment, praising Keaton as “brilliant, beautiful, extraordinary” and a truly original presence in Hollywood.

Private Struggles and Final Months

Though fiercely independent and known for her openness, Keaton kept her declining health private in her final months. Friends and neighbors noticed her retreat from public life and social media, and she was recently seen less often in her Brentwood neighborhood. In the past, Keaton candidly discussed her ongoing battles with skin cancer and bulimia, openly advocating for personal health and authenticity.

Remembering Diane Keaton

Diane Keaton leaves behind a legacy defined by her fearless performances, unique style, and enduring influence on the arts. She is survived by her two children, Dexter and Duke. As Hollywood and her global fanbase mourn, her pioneering spirit and unmistakable voice will continue to inspire generations.

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