12 Shocking, Barely-Known Secrets and Scandals of Black Hollywood

Hollywood isn’t just about fame—it’s brimming with scandalous secrets. From Diahann Carroll and Sidney Poitier’s prolonged affair to Michael Jackson’s tumultuous marriage with Lisa Marie Presley, Black Hollywood’s history intertwines talent and turmoil. Insights into romantic intrigues, infidelities, and complex relationships unveil a layered narrative that complicates the glamour of stardom.

For ages, Hollywood’s been the glittering stage for Black talent, spawning incredible stars like Sidney Poitier and Whitney Houston. But hold onto your popcorn—beneath the fame lies a tangled web of messy scandals that’d make even the most seasoned tabloid journalist blush. Let’s dive into the juiciest secrets of Black Hollywood, shall we?

First up, Diahann Carroll and Sidney Poitier’s romance, which feels straight out of a soap opera. They crossed paths in 1959 while both were hitched to other folks, but that didn’t stop the chemistry. Carroll spilled the tea in her memoir, revealing Poitier urged her to divorce, but when it came time, he got cold feet. Their passionate affair managed to last ten whole years, despite the marriage kerfuffle.

Then there’s the intriguing bond between Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. Despite a 14-year age gap, MJ was head over heels for Ross. However, to all us romantics hoping for a love story, there’s no solid evidence they ever took it beyond friendship. Their connection remains one of those tantalising mysteries of old-school fame—both mutually adored yet ever so platonic.

Pam Grier’s shocking health story is something you wouldn’t believe unless you heard it from the horse’s mouth. Imagine discovering cocaine buildup during a routine check-up? Grier did just that, and it turns out her boyfriend, the famous Richard Pryor, was the culprit. When she offered to help, Pryor wasn’t having any of it, leading to a split after she put her health first.

And let’s not forget Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley! Fresh scandals emerged from Presley’s recent memoir, where she detailed their brief yet troubled marriage. Presley was initially petrified Jackson was a virgin at 35 and had only kissed a couple of celebs. Guess they should’ve had a few heart-to-hearts before tying the knot—divorce came knocking in just two years.

Jim Brown, a both polarising and fascinating character, found himself engaged to college undergrad Diana Stanley. Though their romance came and went quicker than a flash, controversies surrounding Brown lingered well after their split, with whispers of domestic violence in his history. Quite a complicated legacy left behind there.

In recent years, Smokey Robinson shared some surprising tidbits about his love affair with Diana Ross. He described it as a lovely encounter lasting about a year while he was still married. The saga ended when Ross decided she couldn’t bobble along in the arrangement any longer. What a tangled web of youthful passion and familial loyalty!

Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston’s connection post-“The Bodyguard” sparked speculation about something more than just a professional bond. Costner viewed himself as Houston’s protector—talk about dedication. Some may argue that at Houston’s funeral, Costner’s words painted a picture of a love deeper than friendship.

Then there’s Dorothy West, who famously proposed to Langston Hughes. She sought a ‘lavender marriage’—imagine that! But Hughes wasn’t on board. Ah, romance and creativity, forever a tricky duo.

Speaking of duos, Bobby Womack’s life was a bit more scandalous. After his mentor’s death, Womack married Sam Cooke’s widow. Right on the heels of that decision, he jumped into an affair with Cooke’s daughter. Not exactly what you’d call smooth sailing there.

Ah, Janet Jackson and James DeBarge’s whirlwind marriage—secrecy was the name of the game there. A year-long union hidden from the world due to DeBarge’s drug troubles ended in annulment pretty swiftly. Rumours of a secret child? Jackson said no way—no hiding from a father, even if it meant clearing up the wild imaginations of fans.

Last but not least, Halle Berry’s turbulent marriage to Eric Benét, once a beacon of hope, unfortunately turned shady. Allegations of infidelity by Benét surfaced when Berry had just snagged an Oscar. Benét sought help but sadly, their trust was shattered, resulting in a drawn-out battle ending in divorce.

Marlon Brando and Richard Pryor’s rumoured affair surfaced again recently, thanks to Quincy Jones’ revelations; Brando had a whole list of romantic connections that included prominent men in Hollywood, making the plot thick as molasses. What a legacy of love and secrets we’ve unwrapped here, don’t you think?

In summary, Black Hollywood is a treasure trove of stories that transcend the glitz and glamour, revealing secrets ranging from passionate love affairs and shocking health crises, to tumultuous marriages and complicated romances. These revelations offer insight not just into the lives of these iconic figures, but also into the complexities of love and fame in the world of entertainment. It seems the deeper you dig, the more fascinating and sometimes jaw-dropping the tales become.

Original Source: www.theroot.com