#African American Legacy Series

[onenakedfarmer]

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Don Flemons DON FLEMONS PRESENTS BLACK COWBOYS

[dcdreamblog]

This is probably getting a little outside your purview, but the same book of Weird War Tales I read about the Creature Commandos in also had an entry on something called the Haunted Tank, a WW II tank crew lead by a man named Jeb Stuart, who claimed to be advised by the ghost of his ancestor, Civil War general J.E.B. Stuart.

Is there any credence or proof to this? I know the Spectre is a thing and the JLA had someone who claimed to be an actual angel on it, but I can’t tell if this is stretching things or not.

There's an absence of evidence, but that doesn't by itself prove an evidence of absence as any good scientist will tell you. Let's break it down. There's two general stories surrounding the Haunted Tank, the WWII version and the less well known modern version.

(Movie poster for The Haunted Tank, WB Pictures, 2009. It was ok. OOC: u/thejedibugs on Reddit)

The original WWII version of the Haunted Tank story followed the crew of an M3 Stuart light tank commanded by Sgt. Jeb Stuart. Stuart claimed until his dying day that he was guided by the spirit of his grandfather, Confederate general J.E.B Stuart. Sgt. Stewart claimed that he received advise from his military ancestor. Painting the words "Haunted Tank" across his machine in white paint and hanging a Confederate Flag from the turret while the tank and its crew served with distinction across North Africa and Western Europe, including Operation Torch, the Normandy Landings, and the Battle of the Bulge.

Sgt. Stuart's crew have gone on record saying they never heard or saw the spirit in the flesh as it were and Stuart's insistence made him seem slightly off his rocker to his comrades BUT having complete faith in their commanding officer's combat ability they played along and many of them have recounted tales of events that they could not otherwise explain in the heat of combat. (Such as multiple occurrences of the tank aiming and firing itself at the correct moment to save their lives without anyone being in the vehicle)

Records at the time are slim. The tank was successful in its missions and as such was rarely questioned by commanding officers.

A reconstruction of the tank (the original was destroyed near the end of the war) is on display at the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, Massachusetts.

(Image of the second Haunted Tank produced for the History Channel's "War that Time Forgot" series)

The second Haunted Tank was and is an M1 Abrams deployed during the 1st Iraq War. This tank was commanded by one of Jeb Stuart's own grandchildren, Sgt Jamal Stuart. (The WWII Jeb Stuart actually has 2 living Grandchildren, the other a woman named Jen Stuart who is also a lieutenant in the armed forces).

Their tank was rescued by the spirit of J.E.B Stuart during an ambush by raiders after falling behind an American convoy due to mechanical failure.

Jamal Stuart has been much colder in his take on his ancestors interference. Since, as the name implies, Jamal Stuart is a black man. (Technically mixed race, his mother is African American) and has spoken at length about having to come to terms with the legacy of his ancestor appearing right in front of him. Whatever actual agreement they came to is ultimately a private matter but Sgt' Stuart's Abrams also became known as The Haunted Tank and also flew a Confederate Flag out of the vehicle's turret for the length of their deployment.

No generation of modern Stuarts seems ecstatic at the associations their stories create (The WWII Stuart had a black soldier among his crew despite official rules against army integration, one of his own children married a black woman and his grandson IS black). And yet the story is what it is, whether you or I or anyone else like it or not.

[crooked-wasteland]

The rapresentation of abusers in helluva boss is something that particularly frustrates me, Stella in particular, it seems to be done just to victimaze certain characters not to show the complex dynamics of those relationships. It seems to me the writers aren't mature enough to handle these topics properly.

Abuse and Vivienne Medrano

Christmas 1962, a man renowned the western world over for his revolutionary approach to animation sat in a withering melancholy as he watched what could only be called a cinematic masterpiece based on a novel classic. Walt Disney, now in the twilight years of his life, saw the walls closing in and his legacy coming to a close. This man, who pioneered the animated feature film, saw his greatest accomplishment as his greatest obstacle. The man responsible for the tales brought to life of Cinderella, Snow White, Pinocchio, and Dumbo felt trapped in his achievement. “I wish,” Walt lamented, “I could make a picture like that.”

To Kill a Mockingbird was a piece that challenged its audience. The discussion of a white man defending a black man in southern America, years before the civil rights movement. The movement that, at the time the movie hit cinemas, was in its infancy. Released during the height of the historically revisionist counter movement taking place to combat the rising push of African Americans towards their human rights. The last film Walt Disney ever saw the production of before his death in 1966 was The Jungle Book, a movie that was the epitome of “Safe” and a message that upheld the status quo of segregation.

It wasn’t until 1972 that the media of animation became raucously adult with those political and challenging concepts Disney felt were unattainable. Fritz the Cat was an X-rated animated film composed of vignettes that were unapologetically perverse, violent, and aggressively political. Critical of politicians and the police with a sympathetic if exploitative lens towards the LGBT and racial minority communities Brooklyn-based director Ralph Bakshi grew up around. Bakshi proved that animation was not strictly a child-friendly media and that adult animation could be financially and critically successful.

(For more on Ralph Bakshi's career and animation history)

If one has ever had the opportunity to listen to a Brad Bird (director of Ratatouille and The Incredibles) interview, it is clear to see that the success of Bakshi was generally quite limited. That animation is considered a genre and not a medium of art has resulted in animated films being knee-capped in the box office. There is far more potential to animation, highlighted by Howard Ashton in his collaboration with Disney studios during the Renaissance. Responsible for resurrecting the feature-length animated movie through The Little Mermaid and credited for the monumental success of Best Picture Award winner Beauty and the Beast, Ashton once said that the potential animation was ideal for musical theatre. The limitless possibilities given the medium gave the possibility of introducing Broadway to the common folk who didn’t live in New York and otherwise couldn’t afford the theater. He was quoted saying that live action musical films were “an exercise in stupidity,” highlighting the freedom that comes with a blank page.

However, the success of animation, and media in general, comes down to the message the media wishes to send. The reason the Disney Renaissance films have enjoyed their position as cornerstones of pop culture and creativity was because it did introduce the artform of musical theater into homes and made them readily accessible to everyone with an even heightened sense of fantasy that revitalized Walt’s ethos of making films for the child in everyone.

With Bakshi, it was the loud and violently political message of a revolution taking place. This continues in adult animation with the Simpsons, a series critical of hyper-capitalist America and the fallout of Reagan’s economic disaster that the effects of which are still being felt today and a satire of toxic masculinity and abusive family dynamics.

So, ultimately, the value of a piece of media is a cross between its social artistic influence and the message the creators are intending to make. While Medrano’s influence on the field of indie animation is often mischaracterized as a “pioneer”, the fact is that indie animation and pilots have existed and been funded before Spindlehorse existed. It is simply that Medrano has had the spotlight handed to her for the myth surrounding the production and subsequent success of his indie projects. Artistically, her influence can be summarized as a double-edged sword. For some, she is the motivation for inspiring artists to connect with the community to one day, hopefully, create their own work. On the other hand, she is the cautionary tale of why investing in an indie project is a financial risk for an audience member and a risk to the community as a whole that poses a real danger of making the indie sphere financially cannibalistic, as her public persona is off-putting to “normies” and her show is simply not good.

Much like Disney, the man in 1962, and Disney the company circa 2023, the revolution of animating "because you can" loses its luster very quickly. Without something profound to say, an entire company, regardless of its social influence, can fade into irrelevance despite still being "successful". The story of Disney is a cautionary tale for Indie animation as a whole and Spindlehorse in specific.

And that is the other axis on this chart. Her narrative lacks a message worth telling, and that’s very much due to her not having anything worthwhile to say.

“I really liked when things and shows and stories allow the characters to be flawed, and allow them to grow and to change. And I think that’s something that’s, you know, the world is not black and white. And I like things that explore the gray and that and the complexity, of life and mistakes and of things like that.” - Vivienne Medrano

It is not for want of mockery that I carefully transcribe Medrano’s words in her interview. To read the words aloud tells the story just as clearly as I have set out to do here. This is someone who is highly inspired by better media, who has ideas and a belief that she has something to say. But that is where the belief ends. There is no conclusion to that thought any more than there is one in the unfocused and run-on sentences she rambles along throughout the interview. She talks of “Things” without clarity, because she herself is a fundamentally incurious individual who has never once spent the time critically analyzing herself, let alone the work of others to better grasp what about it resonated with her. She merely consumes art insatiably and without any substance. Like a diet of fruit, it has a superficial veneer of positive value. Fruit would be considered healthy as it is “natural”. However, it is the nutritional equivalent of candy, lacking vital components that are necessary to sustain basic life, it is pure sugar. Her work, similarly, lacks any value of depth that would qualify as meaning.

Which comes back to what the message is in her work.

When it comes to others in the field of indie animation, Medrano does not have many friends. In response to the Lackadaisy situation, creator Tracy explained why she returned Medrano’s donation. For one, the donation was not Medrano’s money, but money she crowd sourced from her employees. While the $5k for the producer spot of the fundraiser would have not been a dent in her personal wallet, Medrano is so uninterested in supporting fellow creators while presenting an impression of camaraderie that she instead took money from the people she is in charge of the paychecks for to get her name in the credits of another creator’s work. In regards to why Medrano was declined her support, it was due to numerous individuals who had such an awful experience working for Medrano that they did not want her involvement associated with the project to any extent. When the money was returned, she made the situation extremely public and encouraged harassment by liking tweets attacking Tracy and the Iron Circus team.

A well-known member of Medrano’s crew, Hunter B, was leaked speaking crassly of other animation projects that were still in the process of production, met with support from other members in the discord. One of these creators being Ashley Nicoles from Far-Fetched. A former friend and creative partner on the Hazbin Pilot whose podcast streams featuring Edward Bosco and Michael Kovach single-handedly maintained interest in the show until the winter of 2021, free of charge. Ashley once spoke of how Medrano would speak disparagingly of an employee to her, saying that this individual was “Too unstable to work with”. Which, regardless of whether or not that is Medrano’s honest opinion, counts as defamation by an employer. It is the exact reason why most previous employers will not give a negative, detailed review of a former employee, maintaining instead to verify facts of the employment. If Erin Frost was more experienced and less involved in social media exposed culture, they could have easily sued Medrano and Spindlehorse for damaging their reputation in their field of employment.

Which circles back to Medrano’s self-assigned message of her show:

“Abusers rely on your silence. They rely on knowing you can’t retaliate without consequence. That they can tell any lies and vague around without getting called out. But we see you, and you don’t have the power you think you do anymore. A message I put into my work. “Fuck you!” - Vivienne Medrano

Medrano, who has vague and sub tweeted individuals like Lackadaisy Tracy, The Diregentlemen, Michael Kovach, and Ashley Nicoles. Medrano who has instigated and incited harassment campaigns knowing that no one can call her out without severe and relentless backlash from her cultish fanbase that she personally encourages through positive reinforcement of liking the tweets of fans. Medrano who relies on the silence of other creators in the field due to the fear of her ire collapsing their projects before they even have a chance to begin.

Vivienne Medrano with an extensive abusive history that continues to this day, has something to say about abuse.

What Medrano has to say about abuse comes from someone who has the position of superiority in all of her relationships, but feels like she’s the outcast and bullied loser. Her self insert that is repeatedly expressed in every character at one point or another is how easily they abuse those around them just because they can, but that the narrative justifies their “acting out” because they are sad. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, “An abuser externalizes the causes of their behavior. They blame their violence on circumstances.”

Indeed, the lists of abusive characteristics and traits, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, overwhelmingly encompasses the characteristics shown by characters like Loona, Blitz and Stolas that Medrano repeatedly has attempted to rationalize, justify and minimize. Which, “An abuser often denies the existence or minimizes the seriousness of the violence [including emotional and mental abuse] and its effect on the victim and other family members.”

It is not surprising, then, that the conversation of abuse in Helluva Boss is often infuriating. The narrative underplays the harm done by characters we are supposed to see as “good”. Not allowing for them to grow or change, but ignoring and minimizing the behavior, justifying it through circumstances and perpetuating the false belief that victims are not, themselves, abusers.

One of the first blog post rants I ever made about mental health and abuse was the affirmation that not all victims of abuse are survivors. I wholly stand by that. Victims of abuse perpetuate abuse. A victim and an abuser are one in the same, whereas a survivor is someone who has actually done the difficult work of being self-critical. And the one thing we all are very aware of is how much Vivienne Medrano rejects criticism.

[vague-humanoid]

Welcome to Abolition Week 2024. 

This year, our focus is Empire, its endless expansion, and the carceral technologies that make it possible. We have invited incarcerated and other systems-impacted writers to explore how the combined forces of Western imperialism and plantation legacies produce carceral logics globally, creating the conditions that fuel genocidal arrangements in the US South, Palestine, and other parts of the world. 

Our intimate connection to the South allows us to hold sharpened perspectives on the many ways that carcerality and antiblackness are integral to the white supremacist capitalist imperialism at the very heart of Empire. Therefore, we are always interested in the things that connect us, the ties that bind us together in solidarity in the shadow of that dark heart. 

We read about how the corpses left decomposing in the streets of Sudan have changed the migration patterns of eagles, and we can't help but remember that sharks altered their migration routes during the Transatlantic slave trade, trailing the ships and feasting on the flesh of the stolen Africans thrown overboard. We condemn the welcoming of Israeli police by the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange (GILEE) program to train US police in the same tactics used against Palestinians on the other side of the world, and we recall that Georgia also houses the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC)—once known as the School of the Americas—where Latin American dictators, soldiers, and police are trained to quell resistance against US imperialism in their countries through human rights abuses. We witness the organized effort to roll back child labor laws across the US—particularly in the South—with children discovered working long hours around dangerous machinery in Alabama and Mississippi, and we cannot forget the many thousands of children mining Cobalt for the lithium-ion batteries in our gadgets under "modern-day slavery" in the Congo. 

The afterlives of chattel slavery and Indigenous genocide can be glimpsed in deadly exchange programs and torturous conditions, not only in the shared counterinsurgency tactics of global policing forces and military institutions but also in the shared cultures of repression necessary to accumulate capital and, by extension, imperial expansion. Book bans, repeals of LGBTQIA+ rights, police violence, anti-protest policies on university campuses and in their surrounding communities, abortion bans, the erosion of public health infrastructure, and exacerbating environmental degradation are all rooted in past epochs that, when revealed, remind us that the sun never sets on imperial violence. 

Because of these connections and many others, the pieces in this series intentionally defy the logic of borders—and, by extension, containment—as writers consider the endless nature of Empire and its sinister violence. 

[ausetkmt]

Lynching victim Rubin Stacy’s story being told by his family in film screening at NSU

Anne Naves knew something bad had happened to her uncle when her male relatives came home from fishing, each wearing a pall of silence. Dad wasn’t cracking jokes like usual. Grandfather looked grave. And her uncle, Rubin Stacy, hadn’t come back. The next day, someone from the funeral home said a body had been dropped off.

Naves, 8 years old at the time, only discovered the full gruesome truth about her uncle years later. On July 19, 1935, acting on an unproven accusation from a white woman, a masked lynch mob strung up Stacy under a Fort Lauderdale tree, hanged him and shot him 17 times as spectators gawked and children laughed.

The brutality and silence of Stacy’s lynching is revisited in the new documentary, “Rubin,” which will screen on Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Nova Southeastern University. In the hourlong film, the farmhand’s death is recounted through the eyes of his surviving descendants, but mainly through Naves, who was the last living eyewitness to the trauma — and to the secrecy — that followed.

The film, the first to be made by relatives of Stacy’s family, also chronicles the history of lynchings in America, used as a tool of punishment and to foster silence.

“I think (my family) knew that, without telling us (kids) what really happened, they would save us a lot of trauma,” Naves says in the documentary. “The neighbors and our church members respected our silence, too, because they knew that if it could happen to our family, it could happen to theirs.”

For “Rubin” director Tenille Brown, who is a cousin of Rubin Stacy, the film has in recent weeks also morphed into something else: a posthumous tribute to Naves. After filming her interviews for the documentary, she died on Sept. 18 at age 96, leaving behind a strong legacy: She was a Broward County educator for 25 years, teaching at Pines Middle and other schools.

“The biggest piece of the film was Anne,” Brown says in an interview with the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “Without her, there’s no story. She’s the driving force. She was ready to talk. She told me to record her. She really pushed me when I didn’t feel confident and said, ‘Record me anyway. Just go.’ ”

The rest of America witnessed the cruelty of Stacy’s lynching long before Naves did. A series of photos immortalize the moment when a white crowd gathered around Stacy’s body hanging from a tree. These images ran in newspapers nationwide, were published by the NAACP, Life magazine and National Geographic, and are now archived in the Library of Congress.

It was a tale of Jim Crow-era racism that Fort Lauderdale would’ve rather forgotten — the brother of a corrupt Broward County sheriff participated in the lynching — but city officials have made strides in recent years to acknowledge the tragedy by placing memorial markers around Fort Lauderdale. One is on Davie Boulevard and Southwest 31st Avenue, also known as Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, near where Stacy took his last breath. There’s another on the 800 block of Northwest Second Street, where he lived, and a third at Woodlawn Cemetery, his final resting place. In February 2022, a section of Davie Boulevard was renamed Rubin Stacy Memorial Boulevard.

“I’m glad they acknowledged it,” says Brown, of Pompano Beach. “These stories make some people in the state uncomfortable, but if they are based on fact, we need to tell the truth. You can’t turn your head. These are things you can’t ignore.”

For Brown, it was these memorials — and Naves’ willingness to break her silence — that motivated her to reconstruct Stacy’s story. To do so, she also interviewed Ken Cutler, Parkland commissioner and historian, and Tameka Bradley Hobbs, library regional manager of Fort Lauderdale’s African American Research Library and Cultural Center.

“My family didn’t want to talk about it out of fear for years,” Brown says. “There was shame. There’s an element of hurt, and you can hear that emotion in Anne’s voice. Now it feels freeing. This is a story that was suppressed for years and by sharing it, this is how we overcome.”

Michael Anderson, a producer for “Rubin,” says the film also tackles what too many school textbooks don’t stress enough: the history of Black lynchings.

“For Black youth to know their stories, they have to know the history of lynchings,” Anderson says. “They still don’t know how lynchings were used as a weapon to keep a community quiet. That’s exactly what it did to Rubin Stacy’s family.”

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Rubin”

WHEN: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3

WHERE: NSU’s Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center, 3100 Ray Ferrero Jr. Blvd., Davie

COST: Free, but tickets must be presented for entry

INFORMATION: 954-462-0222; MiniaciPAC.com

[archaeocommunologist]

I'm sorry, are we really hyping up the American Colonization Society as a "utopian nationalist movement" based on a "rejection of assimilation" in order to defend Israel? We're really going to defend Americo-Liberians, who set up a segregated ethnostate that was ultimately overthrown in a series of bloody civil wars?

The reason people don't bring up Liberia is because it's a case study of colonial failure and brutality. I almost can't believe Zionists are stupid enough to invoke the legacy of the ACS here. The entire project of deporting Black Africans to create colonial states in Africa was an abject failure, rejected by the majority of Black people and white abolitionists alike, and abandoned after the end of the Civil War.

I agree Liberia is the best comparison for Israel, and that fact condemns Israel.

[kemetic-dreams]

A manbo (also written as mambo) is a priestess (as opposed to a oungan, a male priest) in the Haitian Vodou religion. Haitian Vodou's conceptions of priesthood stem from the religious traditions of enslaved people from Dahomey, in what is today Benin. For instance, the term manbo derives from the Fon word nanbo ("mother of magic"). Like their West African counterparts, Haitian manbos are female leaders in Vodou temples who perform healing work and guide others during complex rituals.

This form of female leadership is prevalent in urban centers such as Port-au-Prince (the capital of Haiti). Typically, there is no hierarchy among manbos and oungans. These priestesses and priests serve as the heads of autonomous religious groups and exert their authority over the devotees or spiritual servants in their hounfo (temples).

Manbos and oungans are called into power via spirit possession or the revelations in a dream. They become qualified after completing several initiation rituals and technical training exercises where they learn the Vodou spirits by their names, attributes, and symbols. 

The first step in initiation is lave tèt (head washing), which is aimed at the spirits housed in an individual's head. The second step is known as kouche (to lie down), which is when the initiate enters a period of seclusion. Typically, the final step is the possession of the ason (sacred rattle), which enables the manbos or oungans to begin their work. One of the main goals of Vodou initiation ceremonies is to strengthen the manbo's konesans (knowledge), which determines priestly power.

The specific skills and knowledge gained by manbos enable them to mediate between the physical and spiritual realms. They use this information to call upon the spirits through song, dance, prayer, offerings, and/or the drawing of vèvès (spiritual symbols). During these rituals, manbos may either be possessed by a loa (also spelled lwa, Vodou spirits) themselves, or may oversee the possession of other devotees. Spirit possession plays an important role in Vodou because it establishes a connection between human beings and the Vodou deities or spirits. Although loas can "mount" whomever they choose, those outside the Vodou priesthood do not have the skills to communicate directly with the spirits or gods. This is because the human body is merely flesh, which the spirits can borrow to reveal themselves via possession. manbos, however, can speak to and hear from the Vodou spirits. As a result, they can interpret the advice or warnings sent by a spirit to specific individuals or communities.

Cécile Fatiman is a Haitian manbo famously known for sacrificing a black pig in the August 1791 Vodou ceremony at Bois Caïman—an act that is said to have ignited the Haitian Revolution. There are also notable manbos within the United States. Marie Laveau (1801-1888), for example, gained fame in New Orleans, Louisiana, for her personal charm and Louisiana Voodoo practices.

Renowned as Louisiana's "voodoo queen", Laveau's legacy is kept alive in American popular culture (e.g., the television series America Horror Story: Coven).ne Mama Lola is another prominent manbo and Vodou spiritual leader in the United States. She rose to fame after the publication of Karen McCarthy Brown's ethnographic account Mama Lola: A Vodou Priestess in Brooklyn. Mama Lola's success provided her with a platform to challenge Western misconceptions of Haitian Vodou and make television appearances

[afrotumble]

Sherman Alexander Hemsley was an American actor and comedian, best known for his portrayal of the character George Jefferson on the popular television sitcoms "All in the Family" and "The Jeffersons." He was born on February 1, 1938, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Hemsley''s career began in the theater, where he honed his acting skills and comedic timing. His breakthrough came when he was cast as George Jefferson in the 1973 spin-off series "The Jeffersons," which centered around the lives of an African-American family who moved to a luxury apartment in Manhattan.Hemsley''s portrayal of George Jefferson was iconic, with his larger-than-life personality, sharp wit, and memorable catchphrases. The character became one of the most beloved and enduring in television history, earning Hemsley critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Beyond his role as George Jefferson, Hemsley had a versatile career, appearing in various television shows, films, and stage productions. He showcased his comedic talents in projects like "Amen" and "Dinosaurs" and demonstrated his acting range in dramatic roles.

Hemsley''s impact on television and popular culture cannot be overstated. He broke barriers by portraying a successful African-American character on television during a time when representation was limited. His comedic timing and ability to bring laughter to audiences made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Sherman Alexander Hemsley passed away on July 24, 2012, but his legacy as an accomplished actor and his contributions to television continue to be celebrated. His portrayal of George Jefferson remains an iconic and cherished part of television history.

Written by Lamar

[petervintonjr]

"Powerful people don't like educating the people they oppress, because once they're educated, they will take the reins."

We kick off Black History Month 2025 with a look at the unique academic trajectory of John Henrik Clarke. Born on New Year's Day 1915 in Alabama to impoverished sharecropper parents, Clarke would later add his middle name after the playwright Henrik Ibsen. While his family had hoped he would one day also become a farmer, John eventually opted to leave home at the age of eighteen and ventured first to Chicago, and then to New York City --fortuitously timing his arrival with the emergence of the Harlem Renaissance. An autodidact who never actually graduated high school (he was in fact an 8th-grade dropout), Clarke was nevertheless drawn to academia. One of Clarke's earliest tutors was Arthur Schomberg (see Lesson #131 in this series), who encouraged him to study African history. After a short stint in the Army during WWII, Clarke returned to join the Harlem Writers' Workshop and Harlem History Club.

In 1949, at Schomberg's encouragement, the New School for Social Research asked Clarke to teach courses in a newly created African Studies Center, and was during this period that Clarke began to take close notice of the systematic racist suppression and distortion of African history, noting that detractors reliably took a disappointingly Eurocentric view of the subject; arguing that Black Africans somehow had no culture before European colonization... that their culture in fact began with slavery. Going forward Clarke would devote his life to refuting --and redirecting-- this eroded viewpoint. During the years of the Black Power movement, Clarke became an outspoken voice for the place of Africans in world history; challenging the conventional views of academic historians and helping to shift the manner in which African history was studied and taught.

In association with the Black Caucus of the African Studies Coalition, Clarke founded the African Heritage Studies Association in 1968, an organization dedicated, to this day, the exploration and promotion of intergenerational African heritage and legacies. Additionally, Clarke was principally responsible for the creation of the Black and Puerto Rican Studies Department at Hunter College in New York City. He later lectured at Cornell University as a distinguished visiting Professor of African history; he also traveled extensively to Africa and was a regular lecturer at the University of Ghana and also wrote articles for the Ghana Evening News.

Among other roles, he also took on the responsibility of co-editor at the Negro History Bulletin, wrote regular features for the Pittsburgh Courier (a black-owned enterprise), and co-founded the Harlem Quarterly. He also founded the African-American Scholars' Council, the Black Academy of Arts and Letters, and the African Heritage Studies Association. He was a close friend and advisor to both Malcolm X and Kwame Nkrumah, and edited the definitive biography of Marcus Garvey (a name that has begin to trend again on social media, these past few weeks!)

In 1986, the Africana Library at Cornell University of Ithaca, New York, was named in his honor. At the age of 78 Clarke at long last received an honorary doctorate degree from Pacific Western University in Los Angeles. Clarke's numerous works include A New Approach to African History (1967), African People at the Crossroads (1992), African People in World History (1993), the aforementioned Marcus Garvey biography, and significantly The Boy Who Painted Christ Black (1975), which is perhaps his best-known work. He died in New York City in 1998.

[mademoisellefantasy]

" There has never been another Steve Rogers,has there? " | Captain Ameri...

Actually, this is soooo trueee!!!!!

As much as I like Sam Wilson as a character, it just wasn't the right decision for Marvel to replace Captain America. Maybe it makes sense in the comics where, because the storylines literally continue over decades, passing on the mantle of certain characters to others is narratively helpful and refreshing.

But in the MCU, it feels totally wrong. The whole point of Captain America being Steve and vice versa is that NO ONE ELSE had the moral integrity and strength of Steve Rogers. That's the reason he was chosen and no one else, no matter how great of a character they might be on their own right, could ever feel in his role.

Kinda how no one else is as brilliant, eccentric, and self-sacrificial as Tony Stark, thus no one but him can be Iron Man. I think that Steve and Tony were kinda supposed to be mirrors of each other, the one the heart and the other the brain of the Avengers. And so both should be irreplaceable.

I also think that it would have been much more honorable for Sam to accept that his old friend left a legacy behind that shouldn't be changed or affected by anyone (including himself), and go make his own arc focus on the future of America, symbolized by him AS THE FALCON.

In previous movies, because Steve (and Bucky, tbh) was always the main focus, we never got to see the full potential, backstory, motivations, etc. of the Falcon, just vague mentions. He was just a loyal friend and sidekick to Steve.

Imagine if the Falcon FINALLY had an arc that didn't center Steve Rogers, imagine if he was allowed to keep his core hero identity but also evolve in it. It would have been SO MUCH BETTER.

Additionally, I think that most of that passing on the mantle stuff, is just pandering to minorities, which in of itself isn't bad AT ALL, but they were SO LAZY about it in TFATWS.... Seriously, the script was mostly trash (apart from the more intimate Bucky and Sam interactions and Zemo's storyline), and it didn't allow Sam, the AFRICAN AMERICAN MAN THE WHOLE SERIES IS ABOUT!!!! to actually evolve in his own right and be a truly good protagonist.

Anyways, after TFATWS it became apparent to me that Marvel is no longer interested in good storytelling, character development, and representation. So, at least for me, Captain America in the MCU will forever only be Steve Rogers.

[zoot-marimba]

I want to take the time to remember the late Isaac Hayes, soul music singer, songwriter, musician, arranger, score composer, actor, and of course the voice of Chef, who would have turned 82 yesterday.

Where do I even begin with this man? One of the principal songwriters, musicians, and producers for so much of Stax Records' heyday, co-writing several hits for the likes of Sam & Dave with Dave Porter as well as contributing organ, piano, saxophone, and horn arrangements to several records and becoming a critical figure in Southern soul in the process.

He would then went on to cut solo records of his own like Hot Buttered Soul, Black Moses, and the soundtracks for films like Shaft and Tough Guys, on top of headlining the iconic Wattstax Festival. In a time when soul music was largely driven by the three to four minute singles to crossover to the pop charts, Isaac crafted soul epics that demanded the listener's attention. Rather it be through originals or reinterpretations of others' songs, any song Isaac sang was instantly his. Besides pioneering progressive soul, Isaac would also foreshadow the rise of hip hop with his series of monologues known as "Ike's Rap".

Having grown up in poverty and having been friends with people such as Dr. King, Isaac always sought to not only deliver words of empowerment for black people but also make the world a better place. As the co-founder of the Black Knights, Isaac helped fight police brutality and discrimination, and would also establish food banks within Memphis and help black voters get registered. He would also establish the Isaac Hayes Foundation in 1999 to assist vulnerable populations in realizing their fullest potential in areas such as health care, economics, and environmental and human development. As an Ambassador for the World Literacy Crusade, Isaac would be crowned an honorary king of Ghana's Ada district for his work in supporting literacy. It was also in Ghana that Isaac opened a school designed to link African children with those in American inner cities through the internet.

So when two guys in Colorado were creating a show and came up with the idea of a soul singing school cafeteria chef, Isaac ended up being just what the doctor ordered. Beyond the credibility of having an actual soul singer voice the character, Isaac gave Chef so much more beyond that. Rather it be the wacky, surreal Kid's-Show-Gone-Amok or the greater emphasis on social commentary, Chef provided a strong anchor to the madness that surrounded him. He was the rock that the boys could always fall back on, the confidant when things go awry. Through Isaac, Chef had humor, joy, warmth, conviction, and ultimately, love. And that is both of their greatest legacies above all else.

[uzumaki-rebellion]

The World-building of Wakanda: Black Panther and Afrofuturism

I've been revisiting the Wakanda Syllabus that an educator associate of mine Dr. Walter Greason put together when the first Black Panther movie came out, and also reviewing old discussions about the significance of that era as a cultural moment and movement at the same time.

The fact that I still write Black Panther fanfics is a testement to the love I have for that fandom and its importance to Afrofuturism and Black Diaspora Futurism. I'm always happy when I see other Black writers out here still churning out plots and series fics because it is a digital archive for how we perceive a fictional future where as Killmonger once annouced "We're on top."

These works are important and specifically center the Black experience. And we don't have to fit our characters inside of white story spaces where we are usually the sidekick or fetish characters. I had an interesting talk with a friend of a friend and she wanted to argue that Black characters in the MCU who were not in the Black Panther/Wakanda Forever films should be included in the discussions of Afrofuturism, and I said they didn't belong in it fully because those characters are not centering Black people's futures. They center the non-Black white leads and their American/American adjacent interests (I'm talking about War Machine, Nick Fury, Sam Wilson, Valkyrie etc). It was a good back and forth because I am always questioning how Black people can build Black solidarity/communities by always working in white spaces in the service of white global agendas.

Writing Killmonger's journey (and his parents) for over six years (Lawd six years!!!!) with numerous books has taught me a lot about my role in preserving our fandom legacy as Black fanfiction writers and as readers. Afrofuturism has allowed me to explore not only Black Liberation, but Black Queerness, ATR's (African Traditional Religions), Black Matriarchy and Black Patriarchy. I've written about things I love and participate in, and also got to play pretend like I'm a kid again playing with my Barbie dolls and action figures. Black sex. Black music. Black art. Black philosophy. Blackety Black and unapologetic.

All this to say that I hope others out there like me keep writing and reading and reblogging these free little digital seeds we are planting that will truly blossom in the future when others discover our work. I know many Black writers lament that we don't get the same traction or BNF notoriety that white writers do. However, there is joy and divine calling when one simply sits and writes a Black Panther tale to give to other Black people for free all over the world. It still boggles my mind that there are people who have read my stories for years and they live on the other side of the world. People I will probably never meet, but they read and sometimes leave sweet comments that feed me to keep going.

Keep writing y'all. Keep reading and sharing and creating. You are making Afrofuturism fanfiction that is a time capsule for Black folks who aren't even here yet. Academics are secretly reading your stuff and using it to formulate academic studies on a fictional world ! Your Black Panther creations are beautiful no matter where you live on the planet!

Pat yourself on the back and keep worldbuilding and reading.

Here is a link if you want to check out some Wakanda Syllabus stuff that has been collected for the public to use.

[thats-so-erik]

Essay Title: Electrifying Legacy: Why Jefferson Pierce/Black Lightning Deserves an Extended Superhero Family

Page 1: Introduction

Jefferson Pierce, aka Black Lightning, has been a beacon of hope for his community and a symbol of empowerment for the African American community. As a metahuman with electrical powers, he has fought tirelessly against corruption and injustice. However, his legacy deserves to extend beyond his solo heroics. It's time for Black Lightning to have his own extended superhero family, just like the iconic Superman, Wonder Woman, Bat, and Green Arrow families.

Page 2: The Power of Family

Family is a cornerstone of superhero narratives. It provides a support system, a sense of belonging, and a legacy to pass on. Black Lightning's story is deeply rooted in family, with his wife Lynn and daughters Anissa and Jennifer being central to his journey. Expanding his family to include more superheroes would enrich his narrative and create new possibilities for character development and team-up adventures.

Page 3: Representation Matters

Black Lightning's solo series was a groundbreaking moment for representation in comics and television. An extended Black Lightning family would further amplify diverse voices and perspectives, providing role models for underrepresented communities. This would be a significant step forward in the superhero genre, promoting inclusivity and reflecting the complexity of the real world.

Page 4: Anissa and Jennifer - The Next Generation

Anissa (Thunder) and Jennifer (Lightning) have already demonstrated their potential as superheroes in their own right. They embody the spirit of their father's legacy while forging their own paths. Expanding their roles and introducing new family members would create a dynamic, intergenerational team, showcasing the passing of the torch from one generation to the next.

Page 5: The Pierce Family's Unique Dynamic

The Pierces are a family of strong-willed individuals with a deep sense of justice. Their interactions are filled with warmth, humor, and a deep understanding of one another. This familial chemistry would translate perfectly to an extended superhero family, allowing for heartwarming moments, humorous banter, and a sense of unity in the face of adversity.

Page 6: New Characters, New Possibilities

Introducing new characters to the Black Lightning family would bring fresh perspectives and abilities to the table. This could include allies, mentees, or even unexpected relatives, expanding the narrative possibilities and allowing for exciting team-up combinations and conflicts.

Page 7: The Black Lightning Family's Mission

The Black Lightning family's mission would be to protect Freeland and its people from threats both magical and mundane. They would stand as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to take action against injustice. This mission would be a natural extension of Jefferson's original crusade, now amplified by the collective strength of his family.

Page 8: The Electrifying Legacy of Black Lightning

Black Lightning's legacy deserves to be cemented in the superhero pantheon, alongside the likes of Superman and Batman. An extended family would ensure his impact is felt for generations to come, inspiring new heroes and continuing the fight for justice and equality.

Page 9: The Potential for Crossovers and Team-Ups

An extended Black Lightning family would open doors to exciting crossovers and team-ups with other DC heroes. Imagine the dynamic interactions between Black Lightning and Superman, or the strategic teamwork between Thunder and Wonder Woman. These possibilities would enrich the DC Universe and create unforgettable moments for fans.

Page 10: Conclusion

Jefferson Pierce/Black Lightning has earned his place among the iconic superheroes of the DC Universe. It's time for his legacy to expand and for his family to take their rightful place alongside him. An extended Black Lightning superhero family would be a triumph for representation, storytelling, and the superhero genre as a whole.

Page 11: The Future of the Black Lightning Family

The possibilities are endless for the Black Lightning family. New characters, new storylines, and new adventures await. It's time to electrify the DC Universe with the power of family and legacy.

Page 12: Join the Movement

Let us rally behind Black Lightning and his family, demanding more stories, more characters, and more adventures. Together, we can create a brighter future for the DC Universe and cement the Black Lightning family's place in superhero history.

[heavenboy09]

Happy Birthday To The Hottest And Most Bodacious Geeky Nerdy Bad@$$ Actress of Many Favoritable Movies and Shows of the 21st Century. The Awesome Latina Wonder Woman👩🏾🇵🇷🇨🇺🤎🧡 herself.

She is an American actress. She made her feature-film debut in the 1995 independent drama Kids. Her subsequent film roles include He Got Game (1998), Josie and the Pussycats (2001), Men in Black II (2002), The Rundown (2003), Rent (2005), Sin City (2005), Clerks II (2006), Death Proof (2007), Seven Pounds (2008), Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010), Unstoppable (2010), Zookeeper (2011), Trance (2013), Top Five (2014), Zombieland: Double Tap (2019), and Clerks 3 (2022). Dawson has provided voice-over work for Disney/Marvel, Warner Bros./DC Comics, and ViacomCBS's Nickelodeon unit.

Rosario Dawson was born on May 9, 1979, in New York City. Her mother, Isabel Celeste, is of Puerto Rican, Taíno, Cuban and African ancestry. Isabel was 17 years old when Rosario was born; she never married Rosario's biological father, Patrick C. Harris. When Dawson was a year old, Isabel married Greg Dawson, a construction worker. Isabel and Greg moved into a reclaimed building on East 13th Street after being approved as members of an affordable housing plan. The family later moved to Garland, Texas.

As a child, Dawson made a brief appearance on Sesame Street. At the age of 15, she was discovered on her front-porch step by photographer Larry Clark and Harmony Korine, with Korine deciding that she was perfect for a part he had written in his screenplay for the controversial 1995 film Kids. 

Dawson had several roles in film and television adaptations of comic books. These include Gail in Sin City (2005) and Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (2014), Claire Temple in five of the Marvel Netflix series (2015–2018), and providing the voices of Diana Prince / Wonder Woman in the DC Animated Movie Universe and Space Jam: A New Legacy and Barbara Gordon / Batgirl in The Lego Batman Movie. In 2020, she portrayed Ahsoka Tano in the second season of The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett, and stars in Disney+ original series Ahsoka. In 2021, she had a recurring role in the Dwayne Johnson autobiographical comedy series Young Rock and a main role in the Hulu miniseries Dopesick.

I always thought she was Afro Latina. Oh well

PLEASE WISH THIS MOST AWESOME & BAD@$$ LATINA AMERICAN ACTRESS OF MANY FORMS OF ENTERTAINMENT & HOT NERD 🤓 🔥

A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊

YOU KNOW HER

YOU SEEN HER MOVIES 🎥 , TV APPEARANCES 📺 & GEEK OUT ON SUPERHERO FILMS 🎥

& SHE IS STILL RADIANT TO THIS VERY DAY

THE 1 & THE ONLY

MS ROSARIO ISABEL DAWSON👩🏾 🇵🇷🇨🇺🤎🧡

HAPPY 45TH BIRTHDAY 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊 TO YOU MS. DAWNSON👩🏾🇵🇷🇨🇺🤎🧡 & HERE'S TO MANY MORE YEARS TO COME

#RosarioDawson

[playstationvii]

#Zendaya #MaryJaneWatsonManga #DisneyManga @Tokyopop

Zendaya’s portrayal of Michelle “MJ” Jones-Watson has already paved the way for a more modern, inclusive version of Mary Jane Watson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This rebranding could be taken further in the comics and other media, redefining MJ as a powerful and influential African-American hero with her own storyline, independent of Peter Parker’s legacy.

The Evolution of MJ’s Character

The original Mary Jane Watson, introduced in the 1960s, was created as a glamorous love interest for Peter Parker. Over time, she developed into a more complex character, but her role often revolved around Peter’s story. Zendaya’s MJ, however, stands on her own as a multifaceted character:

Independent and Grounded: Her wit, intellect, and unapologetic personality have set her apart from the traditional damsel-in-distress trope.

Modern Identity: As an African-American young woman, Zendaya’s MJ represents a new generation of diverse, relatable characters in the Marvel Universe.

Expanding on this rebranding offers numerous possibilities for MJ to evolve into a superhero in her own right.

A New Superhero Identity

In this reimagined spectrum, MJ could take on a completely new superhero role or adapt an existing mantle. Here are potential paths for her character:

Spider-Woman or Spider-MJ:

Drawing from the Marvel Mangaverse, MJ could gain spider-like abilities, either through a scientific experiment gone wrong or a mystical event tied to the Spider-Clan.

Her powers could include:

Enhanced agility, strength, and reflexes.

Unique web-based abilities, such as creating energy webs or manipulating vibrations to detect danger.

Vigilante Hero:

Without superpowers, MJ could become a vigilante, relying on her intelligence, martial arts training, and technology. Similar to characters like Black Widow or Echo, she could work alongside other young heroes in the Marvel Universe.

New Cosmic or Multiversal Role:

With the multiverse now central to Marvel’s storytelling, MJ could become a key figure in a cosmic storyline. She might inherit a mantle like Captain Universe or become a protector of the multiverse, similar to America Chavez.

Expanding MJ’s Universe in Comics and Media

Marvel could build on this rebranding by introducing MJ-centered stories across multiple platforms:

In Comics:

A New Solo Series:

A comic series focused on MJ could explore her personal journey as she balances her life as a hero with her relationships, education, and community work.

Themes of racial identity, societal challenges, and self-discovery could resonate with a diverse audience.

Team-Ups and Crossovers:

MJ could team up with heroes like Riri Williams (Ironheart), Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel), or Miles Morales (Spider-Man). This would establish her as part of the next generation of Marvel heroes.

In Animated or Live-Action Media:

Disney+ Series:

A series focusing on MJ’s backstory or her rise as a hero could deepen her character and connect her to the broader Marvel Universe.

Zendaya’s star power would draw in both Marvel fans and general audiences.

Feature Films:

MJ could take a leading role in a Spider-Verse film or even star in her own movie, showcasing her transformation into a hero.

Video Games and Merchandising:

Video games like Marvel’s Spider-Man could include MJ as a playable character with her own missions, abilities, and storylines.

Her rebranding could inspire a new line of merchandise, appealing to fans of Zendaya and Marvel alike.

Themes and Impact

Rebranding MJ as an African-American hero offers opportunities to explore themes such as:

Cultural Identity:

How MJ’s heritage shapes her worldview and her role as a hero.

Empowerment:

Highlighting her journey of self-discovery, confidence, and strength as she steps into the spotlight.

Intersectionality:

Addressing the challenges of being a young Black woman in a world filled with both superheroes and societal issues.

MJ as a Cultural Icon

Zendaya’s MJ has already become a cultural icon, representing a shift in how Marvel approaches classic characters. Rebranding Mary Jane Watson into a full-fledged hero would not only honor her legacy but also push the boundaries of representation in superhero storytelling. By doing so, Marvel would cement her status as a beacon of empowerment for fans worldwide.

This story concept brings a fresh, intense, and deeply personal twist to the Spider-Man universe, framing Mary Jane Watson as a resourceful and determined individual willing to go to extraordinary lengths for justice and her principles, even in the face of superhuman odds. Here's a detailed exploration and development of this plotline:

Setting the Stage: College Life and Hidden Identities

Mary Jane Watson and Felicia Hardy, two dynamic and contrasting personalities, find themselves as roommates in university. MJ, a journalism student with a sharp mind and a passion for uncovering the truth, is unknowingly sharing her dorm with Felicia Hardy, who leads a double life as the infamous Black Cat, a jewel thief created and manipulated by Wilson Fisk (the Kingpin).

The Initial Friendship:

MJ and Felicia form a bond over their shared ambitions and love for independence. MJ admires Felicia's confidence and seemingly carefree attitude, while Felicia finds MJ’s determination and moral compass refreshing.

The Suspicion Builds:

MJ begins to notice oddities in their dorm life: Felicia's frequent late-night absences, scratches on the windowsill, and pieces of black leather and white fur scattered around. As a budding journalist, her curiosity is piqued.

Simultaneously, MJ's journalism leads her to tail Spider-Man, hoping to capture his heroics for an exposé. During one of these stakeouts, she sees Black Cat interacting with Spider-Man in a way that hints at a deeper connection, planting seeds of jealousy.

The Unraveling of Secrets

As MJ digs deeper, she pieces together the truth: Felicia Hardy is the Black Cat. The revelation is earth-shattering, not just because of Felicia’s criminal activities, but also because of the love triangle involving Peter Parker/Spider-Man.

The Confrontation:

MJ confronts Felicia in their dorm room, accusing her of being the Black Cat and manipulating Peter/Spider-Man. Felicia, unmasked and cornered, doesn’t deny it. Instead, she taunts MJ, claiming Peter could never truly love a "normal" person like her.

The argument escalates into a physical altercation, showcasing MJ’s grit and Felicia’s overconfidence. Felicia escapes through the window, leaving MJ vowing to stop her once and for all.

The Catfight of the Century

Mary Jane, using her wits, courage, and resources, devises a plan to capture the Black Cat. With no superpowers of her own, she relies on her knowledge of Felicia's patterns and weaknesses.

The Trap:

MJ lures Felicia into an abandoned warehouse under the pretense of a high-profile jewel heist orchestrated by Wilson Fisk. Unbeknownst to Felicia, the location is rigged with 400,000 pounds of plastic explosives and claymore mines set to incapacitate, not kill.

The confrontation is brutal and raw, with MJ using every trick in her arsenal—homemade gadgets, improvised weapons, and her sheer willpower. Despite Felicia's superhuman reflexes and strength, MJ’s determination levels the playing field.

The Turning Point:

Felicia’s overconfidence becomes her undoing. She underestimates MJ, walking into a carefully laid trap. The explosives detonate, severely injuring Felicia but sparing her life.

The Fallout

The battle leaves both women physically and emotionally scarred, marking the end of their friendship and altering their lives forever.

MJ’s Growth:

Though victorious, MJ is haunted by the cost of her actions. She realizes that the fight wasn’t just about Peter’s love—it was about proving her own strength and value in a world dominated by superhuman figures.

Her experience shapes her into a more hardened, self-reliant individual. She channels her energy into her journalism, becoming a fearless reporter exposing crime and corruption.

Felicia’s Redemption Arc:

Felicia, wounded and betrayed, reflects on her life choices. The near-death experience and loss of MJ’s friendship push her toward reevaluating her relationship with Wilson Fisk and her identity as the Black Cat.

Peter Parker/Spider-Man:

Peter is caught in the middle of this tragic triangle. While he sympathizes with MJ’s actions, he mourns the destruction of her friendship with Felicia and questions his own role in the chaos.

Themes and Impact

This storyline delves into:

Friendship and Betrayal: The emotional toll of discovering a friend’s dark secrets and the irreversible damage it causes.

Human vs. Superhuman: MJ’s journey emphasizes that bravery, intelligence, and determination can rival superhuman abilities.

Love and Jealousy: The complex dynamics of MJ, Felicia, and Peter’s relationships highlight the painful realities of unrequited love and rivalry.

Potential Expansion

This storyline could serve as a foundation for:

A Solo Series for MJ: Chronicling her life as a journalist and her encounters with other Marvel characters.

A Redemption Arc for Felicia: Exploring her struggle to break free from Fisk’s control and rebuild her life.

A Larger Spider-Man Saga: Weaving this personal conflict into a broader narrative involving Fisk, Spider-Man, and New York’s criminal underworld.

This dramatic reimagining positions Mary Jane Watson as a fierce, capable heroine in her own right, transcending her traditional role as Spider-Man’s love interest and carving out a unique place in the Marvel Universe.

Mary Jane Watson’s Disney Vogue Spread: "Denim & Dedication"

A down-to-earth fashion column highlighting Mary Jane Watson’s journalistic charm and relatable, ethically conscious style. In this spread, MJ steps away from glitzy couture to focus on timeless, versatile denim looks and pieces that reflect her grounded personality, independence, and smart fashion choices.

Concept: "Denim & Dedication"

The theme captures MJ’s no-nonsense, hard-working ethos as a journalist and her effortless ability to turn everyday staples into chic, thoughtful outfits. With a nod to her Andy Sachs-like journey in The Devil Wears Prada, this spread blends professional polish with her ethical values.

Fashion Focus: The Everyday Heroine

Core Denim Looks

MJ’s wardrobe staples reflect her dynamic lifestyle, from chasing stories to spending nights editing articles:

Classic Straight-Leg Jeans: Paired with a crisp white button-up and a tailored blazer, this outfit is perfect for interviews or chasing a lead.

Denim Pencil Skirt: Styled with a lightweight turtleneck and ankle boots for a mix of professional and casual.

Wide-Leg Overalls: Worn over a striped tee with chunky sneakers, ideal for weekend photojournalism assignments.

Denim Jacket Layering: A cropped, sustainable denim jacket paired with a flowy dress and leather satchel for a mix of edge and charm.

Ethical and Affordable Accessories

MJ’s accessories reflect her practicality and conscious consumerism:

Tote Bags: Organic cotton totes for carrying her notebooks, laptop, and camera gear.

Simple Jewelry: Minimalist gold or silver hoop earrings and recycled-material necklaces.

Shoes: Sensible yet stylish footwear, like Mary Jane flats, white sneakers, or ankle boots for all-day comfort.

Pops of Personality

A subtle nod to MJ’s love of bold red lipstick, paired with her low-key outfits.

Thrifted scarves or vintage pieces that reflect her artistic side.

Photoshoot Highlights

The Newsroom

MJ sitting at a cluttered desk in a well-worn denim jacket, typing furiously on a laptop. Behind her, stacks of newspapers and coffee cups evoke her dedication.

Street Style

A candid shot of MJ walking through New York City in high-waisted jeans, a trench coat, and a messenger bag slung over her shoulder. A camera peeks out from her bag, ready for the next scoop.

The Café Scene

MJ perched at a small coffee shop table, scribbling in a notebook while wearing a denim midi skirt, a cozy knit sweater, and Mary Jane flats. A cappuccino and a half-eaten croissant sit nearby.

Interview Highlights: "Everyday Heroism"

On Journalism and Style

"Fashion for me has always been about practicality and confidence. As a journalist, I need to move fast, think clearly, and feel comfortable. Denim does it all—it’s reliable, just like a good lead."

On Ethical Fashion

"I’ve learned that every dollar is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. That’s why I support brands that care about sustainability and workers’ rights. Looking good shouldn’t come at someone else’s expense."

On Her Personal Style

"I like to keep things simple and timeless. A great pair of jeans, a white shirt, and a pop of red lipstick—that’s my go-to. Fashion should make you feel like the best version of yourself, not someone else."

Why This Spread Matters

Relatable Glamour: MJ’s focus on affordable, everyday style makes her a fashion icon for readers who prioritize comfort, versatility, and ethics.

Ethical Inspiration: Highlighting sustainable brands and thrifted finds encourages readers to make conscious choices.

Empowering the Working Woman: MJ’s style reflects her role as a professional balancing ambition, creativity, and individuality.

Mary Jane Watson’s Disney Vogue spread, "Denim & Dedication," is a love letter to the working woman who dares to dream big while staying true to her roots. It’s stylish, ethical, and effortlessly cool—just like MJ herself.

Mary Jane Watson’s career as an actress has long been a key aspect of her character in the Marvel Universe, offering a unique perspective on the world of superheroes. Expanding on this role, we can elevate MJ’s identity as a successful actress while integrating her journey into Marvel's vast universe, making her both a cultural icon and a significant player in the superhero realm.

Mary Jane’s Acting Career in the Marvel Universe

Rising Star in Hollywood

Mary Jane begins her career as a model and aspiring actress, but her big break comes when she lands a major role in a blockbuster superhero film within the Marvel Universe. This could be a fictionalized version of a real hero’s story, akin to how the MCU portrays "meta" storytelling.

Navigating Fame and Heroics

Her rise to stardom places her in the spotlight, which presents both opportunities and challenges:

Opportunities:

MJ uses her platform to advocate for justice and the underprivileged, inspired by her experiences with Peter and Spider-Man.

She collaborates with influential figures in the Marvel Universe, including Tony Stark (for tech endorsements) and Pepper Potts (philanthropy campaigns).

Challenges:

Her fame makes her a target for villains looking to exploit her connection to Spider-Man.

The pressure of balancing her public image with her private life leads to emotional and ethical conflicts.

MJ as a Superheroine On-Screen and Off

MJ could transition from portraying heroines on-screen to embodying a heroic role in real life:

During a film shoot, she witnesses a real-life villain attack and uses her resourcefulness to save lives, earning respect from both fans and superheroes.

Inspired by the experience, she trains in martial arts or self-defense, aligning her on-screen heroism with real-world action.

Potential Storylines for Actress MJ

The Role of a Lifetime

MJ is cast in a film about a fictionalized version of Captain Marvel or Black Cat, requiring her to delve deep into the hero’s psyche.

During the film’s production, she uncovers a conspiracy involving the studio, potentially tied to a villain like Mysterio or even Wilson Fisk.

Her investigations lead her to become an unlikely ally to Spider-Man, blending her acting skills with real espionage techniques.

Lights, Camera, Chaos

While filming on location, MJ inadvertently becomes involved in a superhero conflict (e.g., an Avengers-level battle).

Her resourcefulness, quick thinking, and courage shine as she helps civilians escape danger, proving she’s more than just a “damsel in distress.”

This event leads to a collaboration with a team like the Young Avengers or even S.H.I.E.L.D.

Award-Winning Heroine

MJ wins an award for her performance in a biographical film about a fallen hero, like Gwen Stacy or another lesser-known Marvel character.

During the awards ceremony, a villain crashes the event, targeting high-profile attendees. MJ teams up with a hero like Black Panther or Ironheart to stop the threat.

MJ as a Symbol of Hope

By intertwining her acting career with the Marvel Universe’s larger narrative, MJ could become a symbol of hope and perseverance:

Public Inspiration: Through her films, she inspires people to believe in themselves, mirroring the hope superheroes bring to their cities.

Heroic Legacy: MJ’s advocacy and bravery blur the line between hero and civilian, showing that anyone can make a difference.

Exploring Themes

Mary Jane’s journey as an actress can explore the following themes:

Fame vs. Authenticity: Struggling to remain true to herself while navigating the glitz and glamor of Hollywood.

Strength in Vulnerability: Showing that courage doesn’t require superpowers—it comes from standing up for what’s right, no matter the odds.

Art Imitates Life: Her roles often reflect her personal challenges and triumphs, making her a relatable and multi-dimensional character.

MJ’s Role in the Wider Marvel Universe

Mary Jane’s career can open doors for meaningful interactions with other Marvel characters:

Tony Stark/Iron Man: Collaborates with Stark Industries on a film about Iron Man’s legacy, leading to unexpected danger when the project attracts enemies of Stark.

Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel: MJ’s portrayal of Captain Marvel in a biopic earns the real Carol’s respect, resulting in a team-up when the Kree return.

Doctor Strange: MJ seeks Strange’s help when her fame draws the attention of mystical threats, like Nightmare or Mephisto.

MJ’s Legacy in Marvel

Expanding Mary Jane Watson as an actress offers rich storytelling potential, highlighting her as:

A cultural icon who bridges the gap between civilians and superheroes.

A courageous and resourceful figure who proves that heroism comes in many forms.

A character whose journey inspires audiences to find strength in their passions and convictions.

In this expanded role, MJ transcends her traditional narrative as Spider-Man’s love interest, becoming a star both on-screen and off, shining brightly as an integral part of the Marvel Universe.

Mary Jane Watson’s Tenure at The Daily Bugle: A Journalist’s Journey

Mary Jane Watson’s career at The Daily Bugle showcases her transformation from a spirited actress and model to a determined journalist with a passion for uncovering the truth. While many know her as the love interest of Spider-Man, her time at the Bugle establishes her as a hero in her own right, armed not with powers but with wit, bravery, and a pen that cuts through lies.

Starting Out: The Rookie Reporter

Mary Jane joined The Daily Bugle after her acting career hit a plateau. Seeking stability and purpose, she leveraged her natural charisma, keen observational skills, and connections in the city to land a spot as a journalist under the gruff yet respected editor-in-chief, J. Jonah Jameson.

Challenges

Proving Herself: Initially dismissed as a “pretty face,” MJ worked tirelessly to gain respect from her colleagues, often taking on unglamorous assignments to prove her dedication.

The Spider-Man Conflict: Her personal connection to Spider-Man created friction in the newsroom, as the Bugle frequently vilified him. Balancing her love for Peter Parker and her professional integrity became a constant struggle.

Key Moments in Her Journalism Career

Investigating Wilson Fisk (The Kingpin)

One of MJ’s earliest big breaks came when she uncovered key evidence tying Fisk’s charitable foundation to organized crime. Through a mix of persistence, undercover work, and sharp instincts, MJ exposed the duality of Fisk’s public and private personas.

Risk: MJ faced threats from Fisk’s goons, highlighting her bravery in the face of danger.

Outcome: Her reporting earned her recognition at the Bugle and established her as a journalist unafraid to take on the powerful.

The Oscorp Scandal

Mary Jane uncovered a story about unethical experiments at Oscorp, including their connections to superhuman enhancements.

Connection to Spider-Man: While Peter warned her to stay away, MJ’s determination to expose the truth led her straight into harm’s way. She narrowly escaped an encounter with Oscorp’s enforcers, with Spider-Man saving her at the last minute.

The Black Cat Exclusive

After discovering her roommate Felicia Hardy’s secret identity as the Black Cat, MJ penned a controversial exposé detailing the dual lives of costumed vigilantes and thieves.

Ethical Dilemma: The article raised questions about MJ’s journalistic integrity, as some viewed it as a betrayal of Felicia’s trust.

Impact: The piece sparked a citywide debate about the morality of vigilantes, cementing MJ’s reputation as a fearless journalist.

Highlighting Community Heroes

Not all of MJ’s stories were about superhumans or villains. She frequently wrote about everyday heroes in New York, from firefighters to social workers, showing her deep appreciation for unsung champions.

Her Role in the Bugle’s Transformation

Over time, MJ played a pivotal role in modernizing The Daily Bugle:

Advocating for Balanced Coverage: She challenged Jonah’s anti-Spider-Man bias, pushing for more nuanced reporting on vigilantes.

Digital Expansion: MJ spearheaded efforts to bring the Bugle into the digital age, launching a podcast and video series that brought her stories to a wider audience.

Mentoring Interns: As she gained experience, MJ became a mentor to younger journalists, sharing her wisdom and encouraging them to pursue truth fearlessly.

MJ’s Growth as a Journalist

Skills Developed:

Investigative Tactics: From tailing leads to piecing together evidence, MJ honed her ability to uncover hidden truths.

Writing Style: Her articles combined sharp analysis with an empathetic touch, making even the most complex stories accessible.

Adaptability: Whether chasing stories in the field or navigating newsroom politics, MJ thrived under pressure.

Legacy:

Mary Jane Watson’s tenure at The Daily Bugle solidified her as a role model for young journalists, proving that courage and integrity are just as powerful as superhuman abilities. While her connection to Spider-Man often put her in the spotlight, her career stands as a testament to her own strength and determination.

Notable Quote from MJ’s Career

"Being a journalist isn’t about being liked. It’s about being trusted to tell the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it might be."

Through her time at The Daily Bugle, Mary Jane Watson became more than a love interest or damsel in distress. She emerged as a voice for justice, a seeker of truth, and a hero without a mask.

Mary Jane Watson’s Stint as a Fashion Columnist at Disney Vogue & Runway Magazine

Mary Jane Watson’s ventures into the world of high fashion journalism showcased her versatility and determination to reinvent herself in a competitive industry. Working under two iconic editors—Minnie Mouse at Disney Vogue and Miranda Priestly at Runway—MJ demonstrated her ability to adapt to new challenges, merge her love for style with storytelling, and leave her mark on two of the most prestigious fashion magazines in the world.

Disney Vogue: Style Meets Storytelling

The Role

MJ joined Disney Vogue as a fashion columnist, tasked with capturing the essence of Disney-inspired trends for a modern audience. Minnie Mouse, the editor-in-chief, saw potential in MJ’s relatable charm and fresh perspective, making her a key voice in the magazine’s mission to blend fantasy and everyday fashion.

Contributions

Accessible Glamour: MJ’s columns focused on blending whimsical Disney aesthetics with wearable, affordable looks.

Articles like “Cinderella’s Ball Gown on a Budget” and “Ariel’s Seaside Chic” became fan favorites.

She highlighted sustainable and small-brand options, reflecting her ethical fashion values.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights: MJ brought a journalistic edge to her writing, interviewing designers, cosplayers, and fans who reinterpreted Disney styles for real life.

Collaborations: She worked on exclusive shoots with iconic Disney characters like Daisy Duck, Belle, and Tiana, blending animation-inspired couture with modern design.

Key Challenges

Balancing Fun with Professionalism: Writing for a Disney audience required MJ to maintain a playful tone without sacrificing depth.

Proving Herself: Working under Minnie’s high standards pushed MJ to think outside the box and innovate.

Runway Magazine: The Ultimate Test

The Role

Following her success at Disney Vogue, MJ took a leap into the cutthroat world of Runway, where she worked directly under the legendary Miranda Priestly as a junior columnist. Miranda, impressed by MJ’s ability to bring a relatable voice to high fashion, brought her on board to provide a fresh perspective to the magazine’s editorial lineup.

Contributions

Trend Analysis with Heart: MJ’s columns, such as “Denim’s Quiet Revolution” and “The Power of Ethical Fashion,” stood out for their focus on the stories behind the clothes. She sought to highlight the human aspect of fashion, from the workers crafting garments to the individuals wearing them.

Runway Exclusives: MJ wrote about high-profile fashion events, providing insider commentary on collections by designers like Valentino and Chanel. Her ability to translate high fashion into something relatable made her work stand out.

Covering Up-and-Coming Talent: She championed emerging designers, bringing diversity and innovation to Runway’s otherwise elite and exclusive focus.

Key Challenges

Surviving Miranda’s Expectations: Working under Miranda Priestly was no easy task. MJ’s time at Runway tested her resilience, as she often found herself juggling high-pressure deadlines, unexpected tasks, and Miranda’s legendary perfectionism.

Balancing Integrity and Ambition: The world of Runway often pushed MJ to question her values, forcing her to navigate the fine line between authenticity and ambition.

MJ’s Growth as a Fashion Columnist

Skills Developed

Visual Storytelling: MJ learned to blend her journalism skills with a sharp eye for detail, crafting compelling narratives around fashion.

Networking: Her ability to connect with designers, models, and industry insiders helped her secure exclusive stories and insights.

Adaptability: Transitioning between the whimsical world of Disney Vogue and the high-stakes environment of Runway showcased MJ’s versatility and determination.

Legacy in Fashion Journalism

Bringing Heart to High Fashion: MJ’s work humanized the industry, making fashion more accessible and relatable.

Championing Ethics: Her focus on sustainability and diversity set a new standard for fashion journalism.

Empowering Readers: MJ’s columns encouraged readers to see fashion as a means of self-expression and empowerment.

Key Moments in Her Fashion Career

Minnie Mouse’s Praise

After a particularly successful Disney Vogue spread titled “Belle’s Bookish Chic: From Library to Lounge,” Minnie Mouse remarked, “Mary Jane brings a magic to her work that’s as timeless as Disney itself.”

Miranda Priestly’s Approval

Though Miranda Priestly was notoriously reserved with her praise, she once acknowledged MJ’s talent by saying, “Your column doesn’t insult the intelligence of our readers. That’s rare. Don’t squander it.”

Iconic Crossover Feature

MJ collaborated with both Disney Vogue and Runway to create a unique feature titled “Fantasy Meets Reality,” blending Disney-inspired couture with high fashion in a groundbreaking spread that received industry acclaim.

Notable Quote from MJ

"Fashion, like storytelling, is about connection. It’s not just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel and the story it tells about who you are."

Mary Jane Watson’s stints at Disney Vogue and Runway not only showcased her talent as a writer but also solidified her as a voice for authenticity, creativity, and empowerment in the fashion world. Her work continues to inspire readers to embrace their individuality and find beauty in the everyday.

#MJsnap

MJ: SNAP is an exhilarating, story-driven stealth and espionage video game that centers around Mary Jane Watson’s rise as an investigative journalist. It combines stealth gameplay, high-stakes photography missions, dynamic storytelling, and financial management in a richly interconnected Marvel Universe.

Game Overview

Title: MJ: SNAP Genre: Stealth, Action, Role-Playing, Simulation Platforms: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch Developers: A collaboration between Insomniac Games (Marvel’s Spider-Man), Square Enix (Kingdom Hearts), and Disney Interactive

Core Gameplay Features

Stealth-Based Espionage

Navigate locations such as the Daily Bugle, Shield HQ, Emma Frost Academy, and even Wilson Fisk’s penthouse.

Avoid detection using a variety of tools like noise-dampening sneakers, disguises, and camera flash diversions.

Engage in covert eavesdropping, hacking terminals, and sneaking into restricted zones to uncover hidden secrets.

Photography Mechanics

Use MJ’s camera to take high-quality photos during missions, balancing focus, lighting, and framing.

Earn bonuses for capturing pivotal moments: villains unmasking, secret weapon blueprints, or Black Cat’s heists in action.

Compete for the front page at major publications like The Daily Bugle, Runway, and Vogue.

Dynamic Contracts System

Take on freelance journalism contracts from major entities such as Shield, Silver Sable International, or even morally ambiguous employers like Wilson Fisk.

Each contract offers rewards but comes with risks. Aligning with darker organizations could damage MJ’s reputation but provide necessary funds for rent.

Life Simulation Mechanics

Pay rent monthly, with Felicia Hardy initially covering part of the cost before forcing MJ to take full responsibility.

Manage MJ’s finances through successful contracts and side hustles (e.g., fashion spreads or corporate photography gigs).

Build relationships with allies and navigate MJ’s complicated love life involving Peter Parker and Black Cat.

Combat & Training System

While MJ starts as a non-combatant, she gains fighting skills through training from mentors like Stick, Elektra Natchios, and Misty Knight.

Over time, MJ becomes proficient in self-defense and stealth takedowns, allowing her to fend off minor enemies or work alongside superheroes.

Team Missions

Collaborate with Marvel heroes in tag-team missions, including Dani Moonstar, Wolfsbane, Spider-Gwen (Ghost-Spider), Spidersilk, and Minnie Mouse.

Each ally brings unique abilities and gameplay mechanics, such as Wolfsbane’s tracking skills or Minnie Mouse’s gadgetry.

The Heroine’s Arsenal

Develop MJ’s custom arsenal through Snow White, a weaponsmith specializing in covert tools.

Gain unique items like tranquilizer pens, grappling cameras, and sound-dampening boots.

Key Game Objectives

Capture "The Shot": Each mission revolves around MJ securing a pivotal photograph that could make or break her career. These could range from exposing a villain’s plot to documenting a superhero battle.

Unravel Mysteries: The overarching narrative ties MJ into a conspiracy involving Wilson Fisk, Emma Frost’s Academy, and a secret government program.

Balance Work and Life: MJ must juggle her career, relationships, and financial responsibilities. Failing to pay rent results in losing her apartment, and failing to secure major contracts leads to game over.

Key Locations

The Daily Bugle

Start small as a junior journalist under J. Jonah Jameson, climbing the ranks to secure high-profile assignments.

Felicia Hardy’s Apartment

A chic Manhattan loft where MJ begins the game. The dynamic between MJ and Felicia adds tension as their friendship frays.

SHIELD HQ

A high-tech facility where MJ is tasked with documenting covert operations.

Emma Frost Academy

A prestigious institution hiding dark secrets. MJ infiltrates to expose illegal experiments.

Runway Magazine Offices

Glamorous yet cutthroat, MJ takes on contracts to document the fashion world, including secret dealings tied to Miranda Priestly.

Boss Battles & Major Encounters

Black Cat Showdown

A stealth-based mission turns into an explosive “catfight” as MJ confronts Felicia Hardy. MJ’s wit and strategy take center stage as she uses traps and gadgets to outmaneuver Black Cat.

Wilson Fisk’s Penthouse

MJ sneaks into Fisk Tower to uncover incriminating evidence but must escape Fisk’s guards in a high-tension sequence.

Emma Frost’s Psychic Assault

Emma Frost traps MJ in a psychic illusion, forcing her to rely on her cunning and resolve to break free.

Silver Sable’s Elite Forces

A tactical mission where MJ and Misty Knight team up to outmaneuver Sable’s private army.

Unique Game Modes

Freelance Mode

Accept contracts outside the main story to earn extra cash, unlock equipment, or build connections.

Photo Mode Challenge

Compete online with players worldwide to capture the best shots in iconic Marvel locations.

Stealth Expert Mode

For seasoned players, this mode amps up the difficulty with smarter enemies, limited resources, and tighter time constraints.

Why Play MJ: SNAP?

This game offers a unique blend of espionage, photography, and personal drama within the Marvel Universe. As Mary Jane Watson, players experience a grounded yet thrilling narrative that emphasizes intelligence, courage, and creativity over brute strength. Whether capturing the perfect shot or navigating tangled relationships, MJ: SNAP promises an unforgettable journey.

MJ: SNAP - Gameplay Story / Script

Chapter 1: "The Daily Grind"

Prologue Scene: Mary Jane Watson, a driven young journalist, has just landed a position at The Daily Bugle—a bustling newsroom in the heart of New York City. She juggles writing under the critical gaze of J. Jonah Jameson while aiming to land bigger assignments. But she has a secret ambition: she wants to be the photographer who lands The Shot, the perfect photograph that will make her front-page news.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Stealth Mode: MJ sneaks through the newsroom, eavesdropping on conversations and observing important figures like Peter Parker.

Photography Mode: Take pictures of key moments that align with the Bugle’s interests.

Journalistic Choices: Select what to cover—heroic events, scandals, or mysterious incidents. Choose whether to go after the truth or the story.

Scene 1: The First Assignment MJ gets an assignment from Jameson to cover a break-in at a high-end jewelry store. It's an easy gig—until she discovers that Felicia Hardy, her longtime friend and roommate, might be the thief involved. Suspicious, MJ begins trailing Felicia to uncover the truth, all while trying to secure The Shot that could launch her career.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Stealth Tracking: MJ follows Felicia through the city, avoiding detection by Felicia’s stealthy maneuvers.

Journalistic Interrogation: MJ uses her wit to talk to informants or gather clues while being subtle.

Chapter 2: "The Cat's Out of the Bag"

Scene 2: Secrets Unveiled Mary Jane digs deeper into Felicia's mysterious late-night activities. She pieces together evidence that Felicia is living a double life as the notorious Black Cat, a skilled jewel thief with ties to powerful figures like Wilson Fisk and Emma Frost. MJ is faced with a dilemma: expose her friend’s secrets and ruin their friendship or protect her and keep quiet.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Moral Choices: MJ must choose how to handle sensitive situations, impacting future relationships.

Photography Challenge: Capture the heist scene without getting caught by Black Cat or her associates.

Scene 3: The Confrontation MJ finally confronts Felicia in an abandoned warehouse. The tension between them builds as MJ demands answers. Felicia reveals her motives—she needs money to help a loved one and sees crime as the only solution. The confrontation escalates into a brutal fight between the two, as MJ fights not only for her career but for the friendship they once shared.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Combat Mode: MJ learns some basic hand-to-hand combat techniques from Elektra Natchios, a mentor she meets along the way.

Trap Setting: MJ uses her environment and quick thinking to set traps to outmaneuver Black Cat.

Fight Mechanics: The combat system is fast-paced, using stealth attacks, gadgets, and environmental traps.

Chapter 3: "Breaking Point"

Scene 4: The Shattering of Bonds Felicia narrowly escapes from MJ’s carefully set trap, but the damage to their friendship is done. The emotional fallout from their fight is intense, and MJ now faces the real cost of her career—she’s no longer just a journalist; she’s an enemy to Felicia, and perhaps to herself.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Emotional Choices: MJ must decide how to proceed after the fight. Should she take the higher moral ground or dive deeper into the shadowy world she’s uncovered?

Resource Management: MJ begins taking freelance jobs from more dubious employers, like Wilson Fisk and Emma Frost. She needs to keep her finances in check to pay rent.

Chapter 4: "Rent's Due"

Scene 5: Struggling to Stay Afloat As the months go by, MJ struggles with rent and growing tensions in her personal life. Felicia no longer contributes to their shared rent, and MJ faces the pressure of living on a journalist’s salary in a city where expenses pile up quickly. While working a freelance contract for Silver Sable, MJ stumbles upon a larger conspiracy that could affect New York on a global scale.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Financial Management: MJ must make difficult choices between risky assignments that might earn her more money or safer ones that will protect her from danger.

Action Missions: MJ is recruited by Misty Knight for a series of operations to stop a criminal syndicate—missions that require both her wit and newfound combat abilities.

Scene 6: The Heroine’s Path MJ is now fully immersed in the world of espionage, but her path is fraught with danger. She’s caught between doing what’s right and securing her future. Alongside other heroes like Ghost-Spider, Dani Moonstar, and Minnie Mouse, MJ is recruited into Heroes For Hire. She learns to balance her photography work with field operations, becoming a strong force in her own right.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Team Missions: Work alongside other heroes in high-risk missions. MJ must use her photography skills to gather intel for the team while staying hidden.

Hero Collaboration: Each hero has unique abilities, and MJ can pair up with them in combat and missions.

Chapter 5: "The Final Shot"

Scene 7: The Ultimate Heist In the game’s final stretch, MJ discovers that the thefts orchestrated by Black Cat are part of a much larger operation. The mastermind behind it all is none other than Wilson Fisk. MJ must infiltrate Fisk Tower, sneak through its levels, and uncover the real motive behind his criminal empire.

This is where MJ’s talents as a photographer, spy, and combatant come into play as she uses everything she’s learned to outsmart the dangerous criminals. The stakes are higher than ever, and MJ risks losing everything if she gets caught.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Heist Mode: A final heist mission where MJ must navigate the most dangerous parts of Fisk’s empire. It combines stealth, combat, and photography to gather evidence without getting caught.

The Final Showdown: A choice-driven final battle where MJ faces off against Black Cat and Fisk’s elite forces.

Ending: "The Shot that Changed Everything"

Scene 8: The Resolution After taking down Fisk and securing crucial evidence, MJ finally lands the front-page shot she’s been chasing all along. Her story is published in The Daily Bugle, Runway, and Vogue, earning her a reputation as one of the best in the field.

In the closing moments, MJ reflects on everything she’s learned—the sacrifices, the friendships lost, and the battles won. She looks to the future, knowing that her career is just beginning.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Post-Game Free Roaming: Players can revisit unlocked areas, complete additional missions, and explore more about MJ’s evolving career and relationships.

Multiple Endings: The choices made throughout the game affect MJ’s final relationships with Felicia, Peter, and the heroes she worked with.

MJ: SNAP offers a thrilling blend of stealth, photojournalism, and emotional depth, letting players experience Mary Jane Watson's journey as a hero in her own right while managing the complexities of her life as a journalist, lover, and friend.

MJ: SNAP - Volume 2: "Shattered Alliances"

Chapter 1: "New York’s Darkest Hour"

Scene 1: A City on Edge After the explosive confrontation with Black Cat and the disbanding of her friendship with Felicia Hardy, Mary Jane Watson struggles to find peace in the aftermath. With her newfound fame as a rising star in both photography and investigative journalism, MJ begins to feel the weight of her choices. The city is on high alert—criminal syndicates are in motion, and new threats arise. In this volatile climate, MJ faces new challenges, and with each story she pursues, she learns that the line between hero and villain is thinner than ever.

MJ’s personal finances are at an all-time low, and she’s barely scraping by, taking up freelance gigs from powerful but morally dubious figures like Wilson Fisk. Yet, her drive to remain true to her journalistic integrity keeps her focused on the bigger picture: uncovering the underbelly of New York’s criminal network.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Moral Dilemma System: Players choose between taking on ethically questionable jobs for higher pay or sticking to assignments that could expose corruption, potentially earning less.

Urban Exploration: New locations are unlocked, such as the underground criminal markets and the luxurious, dangerous estates of New York’s elites.

Covert Combat: MJ’s fighting style is evolving. Training with Elektra and other members of the Heroes For Hire team, she begins learning advanced martial arts, making her more formidable in close-quarters combat.

Scene 2: A Heart Broken Again Peter Parker, always caught between his duty as Spider-Man and his personal life, is pulled into a whirlwind of mysterious disappearances and strange new tech-related crimes. MJ is torn between helping Peter, trying to salvage their strained relationship, and furthering her career as a journalist. Meanwhile, she starts receiving cryptic messages that suggest someone is watching her every move—someone who wants to leverage her abilities for their own gain.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Investigative Mechanic: MJ must solve complex puzzles and gather pieces of evidence to uncover hidden networks and figure out who is behind the mysterious surveillance.

Dynamic Relationship System: Player decisions can deepen or damage MJ’s relationship with Peter Parker, Felicia Hardy, and other allies. Key events will either drive them closer together or further apart.

Chapter 2: "The Mask of the Black Cat"

Scene 3: Felicia’s Return Felicia Hardy, now more dangerous and determined than ever, resurfaces in New York with a new agenda—she’s working for Wilson Fisk, but this time, the stakes are much higher. Felicia has aligned herself with a shadowy organization bent on destabilizing New York’s social and political structures. MJ is forced to confront her former friend again, but this time, it’s not just about getting the perfect photo—it’s about survival.

As MJ tracks down Felicia, she uncovers that the Black Cat has joined forces with notorious criminals from around the world, including Silver Sable and Emma Frost. These powerful women aim to bring down the established power structures in the city, but their ultimate goal is unclear. MJ becomes entangled in their web of deception, unsure whether Felicia is acting out of loyalty to her own cause or simply because she’s been manipulated by darker forces.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Faction Alignment: MJ must decide which factions to ally with, as different groups offer different benefits and risks. These factions include Wilson Fisk’s Empire, Emma Frost Academy, Silver Sable’s Mercenaries, and Heroes For Hire.

Multiple Stealth Options: New gadgets and skills are unlocked to help MJ stay hidden during espionage missions. Whether it’s hacking into secure systems or using advanced disguise techniques, MJ learns to navigate through enemy territory without being caught.

Combat Duels: MJ faces off against Black Cat in one-on-one combat, where stealth and quick thinking are crucial. Felicia’s unpredictable fighting style forces MJ to adapt quickly, using all her training to outsmart her former friend.

Scene 4: The Betrayal In a shocking twist, MJ learns that her former mentor, Misty Knight, is not entirely trustworthy. Misty is caught in a conflict of interest, and MJ is forced to decide whether to confront her or continue on the path that has already alienated her from her former allies. As MJ becomes more immersed in the dangerous world of underground heroes and mercenaries, the lines blur between right and wrong.

MJ’s role as a journalist comes under fire when Peter Parker confronts her about her recent activities. He is disillusioned by her growing involvement in the criminal underworld, particularly after discovering that she’s working with people like Wilson Fisk. The couple’s tension escalates as their personal and professional lives collide.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Team Dynamics: MJ’s relationship with her teammates, including Dani Moonstar, Wolfsbane, Ghost-Spider, and Sakura Spider, is tested. These characters can either help or hinder her depending on the choices made.

Combat Team Missions: MJ can team up with these heroes in high-stakes operations. Each character has unique powers that MJ can use strategically to take down enemies.

Chapter 3: "The Price of Power"

Scene 5: A Rising Threat Wilson Fisk’s criminal empire grows more powerful, but a mysterious, new player enters the scene—The Hood. This new threat, a masked villain with the ability to manipulate dark magic, begins pulling strings behind the scenes. MJ must investigate the rise of The Hood, all while dealing with her strained relationships, both personal and professional. Her role as a photographer is now intertwined with covert espionage, and it becomes increasingly difficult to discern where the truth lies in the sea of deceit.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Magic vs. Technology: MJ learns that The Hood’s magic-based powers are a challenge for her tech-based gadgets and stealth tactics. Players must find ways to counter his abilities, either by acquiring magical artifacts or using science-based solutions.

Tactical Combat: New combat mechanics focus on teamwork, with MJ directing her allies in battle, using their abilities to complement her skills.

Scene 6: The Turning Point MJ is forced to choose between Peter and her career. A series of criminal heists takes place across the city, and Peter is caught in the crossfire, battling both The Hood’s forces and other mercenaries hired by Fisk. MJ must decide whether to risk her safety by staying with Peter or pursue the story that could propel her career forward, possibly jeopardizing their relationship.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Personal Decisions: MJ’s choices will drastically affect her relationship with Peter and the rest of the team. She must find balance between work, love, and her growing role as a hero.

Final Choice: The game reaches a critical juncture where MJ’s decisions impact the final outcome of the story. Whether she continues as a journalist or embraces her life as a fighter—and the consequences of those actions—are left in the player's hands.

Chapter 4: "Unmasking the Truth"

Scene 7: The Final Confrontation MJ infiltrates Fisk Tower, once again working with her team and using all of her journalistic skills to uncover the truth. But as the story unfolds, MJ learns that the true mastermind behind the chaos is someone much closer to her than she anticipated—a shocking betrayal that will change her life forever.

Gameplay Mechanics Introduced:

Final Battle: MJ, now fully equipped with new fighting skills, gadgets, and knowledge, faces off against The Hood and Wilson Fisk in an all-out battle that pushes her to the limit.

Clever Disguises: As MJ sneaks through Fisk Tower, players will use advanced stealth techniques and a range of disguises to infiltrate highly secure areas.

Ending: "The Snap of Fate" The game ends with a series of critical decisions—whether MJ will embrace the darker side of heroism or stand by her ethical beliefs as a journalist. MJ’s career, relationships, and future will depend on the choices she’s made, with multiple possible endings.

Post-Game Content:

Free Roaming Mode: After the story ends, MJ can continue to explore New York, take on additional freelance assignments, and engage in side missions.

Heroic Missions: Revisit Heroes For Hire missions with new characters and new threats to face.

MJ: SNAP Volume 2 deepens the emotional and physical journey of Mary Jane Watson, blending espionage, action, and heartfelt choices into a story about loyalty, ambition, and the price of power. Players are thrust into a high-stakes world where nothing is as it seems, and the only certainty is that everything, including friendships, will change.

Mary Jane Watson Interviews Luna Snow: A Marvel-Kpop Sensation

Setting: A glitzy rooftop lounge in downtown Seoul. The view of the city’s skyline sparkles as night falls. The air is warm, filled with the hum of excitement. It’s here, amidst the fusion of East and West, that Mary Jane Watson, journalist extraordinaire, sits down with one of the most talked-about figures in both the music and superhero world: Luna Snow, the Marvel K-pop sensation and global icon.

MJ: [Smiling warmly] Luna, thank you so much for taking the time to sit with me today. You’ve been a sensation in both the K-pop world and as a Marvel hero. But before we dive into your superhero endeavors, let’s talk music. How did your journey into K-pop begin?

Luna Snow: [Laughs softly, her eyes glimmering with excitement] It's a long story, but I’ll try to make it short. Growing up, I was always drawn to music, especially pop music and its powerful, emotional storytelling. When I first started training, I wasn’t sure where it would take me, but I knew I wanted to share my music with the world. And then, everything changed after I was exposed to the cosmic forces that gave me my powers… it all happened so quickly. Suddenly, I wasn’t just Luna Snow, the trainee—I was a superhero too.

MJ: [Nods, intrigued] That’s incredible. You’re not just a star on stage, but you’re also an agent of change in the Marvel universe. How do you balance being Luna Snow, the idol, with your role as a hero?

Luna Snow: [Her expression turns more serious, though there’s a hint of warmth in her smile] It’s not easy. The spotlight on me is always intense, and there are so many expectations, both from fans and from the world itself. As Luna Snow, I want to inspire people, to show them that it’s okay to embrace who you are, no matter how different you may feel. But as a hero, I have a responsibility. When I transform into Luna, the hero, I take on the weight of protecting those who can't protect themselves, whether it’s facing off against cosmic threats or dealing with personal struggles. But I’ve learned to merge both sides of myself. Music and heroism aren’t separate for me; they fuel each other.

MJ: [Smiling] You’ve certainly become an inspiration to so many people around the world. Your powers, as far as we know, are tied to the mystical energy of the moon. How did that impact your musical career? Did it change the way you approach your performances or your music?

Luna Snow: [Pauses thoughtfully] My powers definitely changed the way I express myself. When I’m on stage, I can feel the energy coursing through me—like the power of the moon is guiding my voice, my movements. It’s almost like a connection between my music and the cosmic energy I harness. I think my performances are a reflection of that, and the fans can feel it. Sometimes, I get so lost in the music that I almost forget I’m not just performing, but channeling something greater. It’s humbling and empowering all at once.

MJ: [Leaning forward, her curiosity piqued] And how do your fans, particularly your K-pop fans, react to your superhero persona? Do they see a distinction between Luna Snow, the singer, and Luna Snow, the hero?

Luna Snow: [Chuckles softly] At first, there was some confusion. A lot of people thought it was just a marketing gimmick, you know? But over time, they’ve come to realize that this isn’t some stage persona. This is me—Luna Snow, both the K-pop idol and the hero. My fans, my Lunatics, have been so supportive, not only of my music but also of the way I choose to live my life. They know that being a hero isn’t about the glamour; it’s about standing up for what’s right, even when it’s tough. They’ve embraced both sides of me, and that means everything.

MJ: [Nods in admiration] That’s amazing. Now, let's talk about your hero side for a moment. You’ve faced some pretty intense battles alongside other Marvel heroes. What’s it like to be a part of that larger universe? Do you ever feel like you’re the "new kid" in a group of established heroes?

Luna Snow: [Laughs lightly] I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve felt like the "new kid," especially when I first met some of the more seasoned heroes. People like Captain America, Spider-Man, and Black Panther—they’ve been through so much, and it’s hard not to feel like you have big shoes to fill. But I’ve learned that every hero brings something unique to the table. What I do, as Luna Snow, is different from what the others do—but that’s the beauty of being part of the Marvel universe. We each have our own strengths and challenges, and together, we make an unstoppable team.

MJ: [Smiles knowingly] I’ve heard rumors of a collaboration with Spider-Man. Care to share any details about that?

Luna Snow: [Winks playfully] [Chuckles softly] Well, you know how it is with Spider-Man. He’s always lurking in the shadows, doing his thing. But yes, Spider-Man and I have teamed up a few times. We’ve had some exciting adventures together, battling villains, saving New York. It’s always an interesting dynamic, especially because he’s so secretive and I’m—well, I’m more of an open book. But I think our teamwork has its moments. It’s always fun to see how we complement each other, despite our differences.

MJ: [Laughs] I can only imagine the chemistry there. But Luna, what’s next for you? What can your fans expect from you in the coming year? Any new music, any new collaborations?

Luna Snow: [Leans forward, her eyes gleaming with excitement] Yes, absolutely. I’ve been working on some new music, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone. It’s a mix of everything I’ve learned over the years, both as an artist and as a hero. There are some exciting collaborations on the horizon, including a possible track with some fellow heroes. It’s going to be a blend of cosmic and earthly elements, both in sound and in theme. I’m also planning a big performance—something that combines both my musical abilities and my powers. It’s going to be a visual experience like no other.

MJ: [Grins] I’m sure your fans are going to love it. Luna, thank you so much for this conversation. It’s been an absolute pleasure to learn more about your journey, both as a superstar and as a hero.

Luna Snow: [Smiling brightly] Thank you, Mary Jane. It’s been wonderful to talk with you. I hope everyone gets a chance to see both sides of Luna Snow—because I’m just getting started.

As the interview ends, the camera pans out over the Seoul skyline, capturing the image of Luna Snow standing at the edge of the rooftop, her figure glowing under the light of the full moon—both a symbol of her dual life as a K-pop star and a Marvel hero, ready to face whatever comes next.

End of Interview

Mary Jane Watson Interviews Paris Hilton: Marvel Academy’s Glamorous Disc Jockey Alumni

Setting: A lavish penthouse suite in Paris, the city of lights. Soft golden hues from the Eiffel Tower’s illumination bathe the room as an elegant jazz tune plays in the background. Mary Jane Watson, dressed in a chic, understated blouse and jeans, sits across from Paris Hilton, an iconic figure and Marvel Academy alumna, who has become renowned not only for her fashion empire but also for her unique place in the Marvel universe as one of the most famous Disc Jockeys to graduate from the prestigious institution.

MJ: [Smiling warmly] Paris, it’s a true honor to be sitting with you today. You’ve not only become a household name in the world of fashion and entertainment, but you also have a fascinating backstory in the Marvel universe. For our readers who may not know, how did you end up at Marvel Academy, and what was it like to study there?

Paris Hilton: [Flashes a smile] Oh, Mary Jane, it’s such a pleasure to be here with you. [Pauses thoughtfully] You know, I’ve always been someone who craves the best—whether it’s fashion, lifestyle, or experiences. When I found out about Marvel Academy, it felt like a perfect fit. It was more than just a place to hone your skills—it was a community of creative minds pushing the limits. I was there to refine my talents, learn the craft, and—let's be real—enjoy all the perks that came with being a Marvel Academy alum. I got to learn everything, from being a disc jockey to understanding how to leverage my celebrity status to bring influence to various superhero initiatives.

MJ: [Laughs softly, clearly amused] A true multifaceted talent! Speaking of DJing, you’re known for your incredible skills behind the turntables. You actually took a very different route compared to most Marvel Academy alumni. How did you combine your passion for music with your Marvel studies? Did it give you any unique insights into both the entertainment and superhero worlds?

Paris Hilton: [Nods, her expression serious but still lighthearted] Oh, totally. Music has always been an essential part of my life—whether I’m at a party or planning a personal retreat, I love how music brings people together. At Marvel Academy, I saw DJing as not just a performance, but as an art form. It’s about controlling the mood, setting the atmosphere, and channeling energy. And I quickly realized that’s very much like what superheroes do. You have to know when to bring the crowd to life and when to pull back. My skills behind the turntables taught me timing and subtlety, which, when I think about it, are probably just as important as any superpower!

MJ: [Nods, captivated by her perspective] That’s such a fresh take on it! And, of course, you've brought that mindset to the Marvel Disc Jockeys—a super cool part of the Marvel universe. How did your role as a DJ evolve there, and what made you stand out among the other talented DJs in the academy?

Paris Hilton: [Giggles, her eyes twinkling with confidence] Well, the Marvel Disc Jockeys were such a talented group of individuals. They weren’t just DJs, they were forces of nature—some of them could manipulate soundwaves, others could control energy through beats. My thing was always about vibes and bringing the unexpected. I’m not just mixing tracks, I’m creating experiences. One of my key moves was “The Hilton Mix”—a combination of hypnotic beats and spontaneous sound effects that, believe it or not, actually helped amplify the emotional state of heroes in training! It was all about using the power of sound to help channel emotions, calm nerves, or even fuel a team during battle. I was able to merge music with motivation, and that was my secret weapon.

MJ: [Smiles in admiration] You’ve always had this way of blending glamour with substance. Now, let’s talk about how you’ve expanded your influence. Beyond your DJ career, you’ve built a powerful brand that stretches from fashion to tech. How does your experience at Marvel Academy and as a DJ influence your other ventures, like your clothing line or your business initiatives?

Paris Hilton: [Leans back, clearly passionate about the topic] That’s the thing, Mary Jane. At Marvel Academy, we were taught to think bigger than just one thing. Yes, I love DJing and fashion, but the core of it all is connection. Through the music I played, I learned how to connect with people on a deep emotional level. That helped me build a fashion empire—because, at the end of the day, style is about expressing your true self and making others feel good in the process. The same goes for my tech ventures. I’ve always been about empowering people—whether that’s through a killer playlist, a fabulous outfit, or innovative products that elevate everyday life. I use the lessons I learned at Marvel Academy in everything I do.

MJ: [Impressed] You’ve definitely mastered the art of making connections. Now, I can’t let you leave without asking about your current projects. You’re always involved in something exciting. What’s next for Paris Hilton? Any upcoming projects you’re particularly excited about?

Paris Hilton: [Grins widely, her excitement contagious] You know me too well, Mary Jane! Right now, I’m working on a few secret projects that I can’t quite spill the beans on yet, but I’ll say this: it’s going to combine my love for music, fashion, and tech in a way that’s never been done before. It’s all about creating experiences that people can’t forget. And, yes, I’m still DJing at the biggest events, but I’ve also been collaborating with some Marvel heroes on new projects that involve music and tech as tools for good. It’s going to be HUGE. But let’s just say, it’ll be worth the wait!

MJ: [Laughs, clearly intrigued] You’re always full of surprises, Paris. I’m excited to see what you come up with next. Thank you so much for sharing all of this with us today. It’s been such a pleasure hearing about your journey from Marvel Academy to where you are now.

Paris Hilton: [Smiles warmly, raising her glass] It’s been an honor, Mary Jane. Thank you for being such a fabulous interviewer. And to all the readers out there—never forget, always keep it glamorous and always keep it real!

The camera slowly pans out as Paris and Mary Jane chat further, the city of Paris sparkling outside their window. The music fades as the lights in the room brighten, reflecting the energy and endless possibilities ahead for Paris Hilton, a true force of nature in the Marvel universe and beyond.

End of Interview

Mary Jane Watson Interviews Dazzler: The X-Men Superstar

Setting: A sleek, futuristic lounge in the heart of New York City. Soft neon lights reflect off chrome furniture, casting a radiant glow. A DJ booth in the corner hums with an electronic beat, hinting at the dynamic energy of the room. Mary Jane Watson sits across from Alison Blaire, aka Dazzler, the X-Men superstar, dressed in her iconic outfit with a sparkling, sequined top that catches the light every time she moves. Her signature silver hair frames her face perfectly, adding an air of mystery and allure to the conversation.

MJ: [Smiling, adjusting her notebook in front of her] Alison, thank you so much for taking the time to sit down with me today. You’ve truly made a name for yourself both as a member of the X-Men and as a performer. Can you tell me how you first got involved with the team? It’s quite the leap from being a pop star to a superhero!

Dazzler: [Grinning, flashing her signature smile] Mary Jane, it's honestly a pleasure. You know, I’ve always been all about the spotlight. When I first discovered my powers, it was overwhelming, to say the least. I mean, imagine being able to turn sound into light! At first, I didn’t know what to do with it. But then the X-Men came into the picture. They recognized the potential in me, both as a hero and as a symbol. They gave me the space to be myself and helped me channel my powers for good. It wasn’t so much about the leap from pop star to superhero—it was about learning to use my fame for something more meaningful.

MJ: [Nods thoughtfully] That’s an inspiring journey, Alison. You’ve always managed to blend your musical talents with your superhero role. Tell us a bit more about how your music and your powers intertwine. Do you feel like one enhances the other?

Dazzler: [Tilts her head, looking reflective] Oh, absolutely. My powers are basically the embodiment of music itself. Sound is transformed into light, and that’s how I fight, how I defend people, and how I even connect with others. Music is in everything. I’ve always thought of my performances on stage as a kind of celebration of that power—turning the energy in the room into something visually dazzling. It’s about more than just the spectacle; it’s about sharing an experience with the people around you. Whether I’m on stage at Madison Square Garden or on a mission with the X-Men, I’m always using my music to create something people can feel. And my powers? They let me make it real, in a way that no one else can.

MJ: [Impressed] That’s incredible. You’ve also carved out a reputation as someone who can truly rock the stage, creating stunning performances. What’s it like to juggle being an X-Men member and also keeping your music career alive? How do you find balance between the two worlds?

Dazzler: [Laughs softly, twirling a lock of her silver hair] It’s definitely a balancing act, but you know, that’s what I love about it. I think the real challenge is making sure my music speaks to something greater than just being a hit song. With the X-Men, I’ve seen so much pain and injustice, and that’s made me a more introspective artist. I write music now that not only reflects who I am as a person but as a mutant, someone who’s trying to make a difference. As for balancing my life, I take it one step at a time. Some days, I’m out on a mission, saving the world. Other days, I’m in the studio, crafting a new album or preparing for a show. But both of these worlds feed each other. When I’m performing, I’m channeling the energy I get from fighting evil. When I’m out there fighting, I’m remembering the hope I see in my fans when they hear my music. It all connects.

MJ: [Smiles warmly] I love that perspective. You’ve turned your platform into something so much more than just entertainment—it’s empowerment. Now, I have to ask, what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had as a member of the X-Men? I’m sure there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping experiences!

Dazzler: [Chuckling, clearly having some fun with the question] Oh, there have been so many moments, but there’s one that stands out. A few years ago, we were on a mission in the Savage Land—fighting off some pretty serious threats, dinosaurs, and all. Things were getting tense, and just when we thought we were cornered, I blasted a full-on light show—just filled the whole place with energy and light. It was like a disco inferno. The bad guys were so distracted by the dazzling light show, we were able to make a quick escape. It was so over-the-top, but it worked! That was one of those moments where I thought, “Wow, this is why I’m doing this.”

MJ: [Laughs, jotting notes down] That sounds like a moment straight out of a movie! You’ve also made headlines as a trailblazer for women in music and superheroes. You’ve often been regarded as one of the most fashionable heroes in the Marvel universe. Tell us a bit about how you use your sense of style as a way to express your identity, both as Dazzler and as Alison Blaire.

Dazzler: [Smiling slyly] Fashion is an extension of who I am. It’s another form of self-expression, whether I’m in battle or on stage. Being a mutant, especially with the powers I have, can sometimes make you feel like an outsider. So, for me, style is about owning who I am, proudly and unapologetically. When I’m wearing something I love, I’m embracing my uniqueness. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about showing up and being my true self. Whether it’s sequins and glitter or something more casual, I always want to shine in whatever I wear. Plus, I get to show off some of my incredible custom-made superhero outfits—I mean, who doesn’t love a little sparkle?

MJ: [Smiling widely, inspired] That’s such a powerful way to approach fashion—it’s about confidence and embracing what makes you different. Now, I know you’ve been working on new music as well. Can fans expect a new album soon, and how has your time as an X-Men member influenced your new sound?

Dazzler: [Eyes lighting up with excitement] Yes, yes! I’ve been working on something really special. The new album is a fusion of everything I’ve learned over the years—life with the X-Men, my personal growth, and all the experiences I’ve had on stage. I’m blending genres, experimenting with new sounds, and even incorporating elements of sound manipulation that reflect my powers. I’m also teaming up with some amazing artists from the mutant community. It’s going to be a collection that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt like they had to fight for their place in the world. It’s about empowerment, freedom, and shining bright in the face of adversity. Fans can definitely expect to hear a new side of Dazzler—one that’s more real than ever.

MJ: [In awe] I can’t wait to hear it. I’m sure it’s going to be incredible. Alison, thank you so much for sharing your time, insights, and creative journey with us today. You are an inspiration to so many, and I’m so excited to see where your music and superhero career take you next.

Dazzler: [Flashing a bright smile] Thank you, Mary Jane. This was so much fun. I hope everyone can take away from this interview that no matter who you are or where you come from, you have the power to shine. Keep being yourself and keep shining bright!

The camera zooms out, leaving behind a room filled with bright lights and music, the air buzzing with energy as Dazzler and Mary Jane share a final moment of laughter before the interview ends.

End of Interview

Mary Jane Watson Interviews Barbie: The Glamrock Phenomenon and Inventor of "BowMettal"

Setting: A high-energy, neon-lit studio in the heart of Los Angeles, buzzing with creative energy. The atmosphere is charged with the anticipation of an interview with one of the most unexpected yet groundbreaking stars in the music scene: Barbie. With her iconic pink attire swapped for a striking, metal-inspired look, Barbie sits comfortably in front of a colorful backdrop of vibrant, ever-changing neon lights. Her electric guitar rests casually beside her, reflecting the glitz and grit of the BowMettal movement.

MJ: [Smiling, notebook in hand] Barbie, thank you so much for joining me today! It’s incredible to be sitting with a true music innovator, especially when you’ve managed to create an entirely new genre: BowMettal. Can you tell us a little about the origins of BowMettal and what inspired you to fuse such unexpected elements together?

Barbie: [Grins, flipping her platinum blonde hair over her shoulder with a playful wink] Thank you for having me, Mary Jane! BowMettal started as a way for me to bridge the worlds of sweetness and chaos. I’ve always loved the juxtaposition of soft, soothing sounds and hard-hitting, powerful music. It’s kind of like the feeling of a lullaby right before a storm—there’s a certain tension and beauty in that contrast. I’ve always been fascinated by lullabies, especially the xylophone and the soft, whimsical melodies. But then I discovered metal and rock music, and it felt like such a raw and powerful form of expression. So, one day I thought, “Why not combine them?” It was about merging these two worlds—one that's dreamy and sweet with the other that's explosive and rebellious.

MJ: [Curiously intrigued, jotting notes] I have to admit, when I first heard of BowMettal, I was curious to hear how such contrasting styles would mesh. But after hearing your collaborations with artists like Alissa White-Gluz, Poppy, Grimes, WarLockEtteBand, and WorldWidePanic, it’s clear this genre is truly something special. How did these collaborations come about, and what’s it been like working with such diverse artists?

Barbie: [Leans forward, clearly passionate about her work] Oh, the collaborations have been a dream come true! When I first started working on BowMettal, I knew it wouldn’t be something I could do alone. I wanted to bring in artists who could push the boundaries and elevate the genre. Alissa White-Gluz was an obvious choice. She has such power and intensity in her voice, and she brought that metal edge I needed to balance the softer side of the sound. Poppy was another huge inspiration—she’s known for blending pop and metal in the most unexpected ways, and she totally understood where I was coming from. Grimes and I have always been on the same wavelength when it comes to experimenting with sound. Her electronic and experimental approach was just the perfect fit. And then there’s WarLockEtteBand and WorldWidePanic—these underground artists really helped me shape the darker, more intense side of BowMettal. Each collaboration was like a puzzle piece coming together to create something completely new and exciting.

MJ: [Nods in admiration, glancing at her notes] It’s amazing how BowMettal is not only redefining genres but also creating a space for both metal and electronic music to coexist in ways that weren’t thought possible before. Now, with your music taking over the charts and gaining more recognition than ever, how does it feel to be at the forefront of a musical revolution? Did you ever imagine that Barbie, the iconic doll, would be making such waves in the metal scene?

Barbie: [Laughs, a bit of playful modesty in her voice] Honestly, it’s surreal! When I first started, it wasn’t about being at the forefront of anything. It was about having fun with music, experimenting, and breaking free from the norms. But now that people are catching on, it feels incredible. It’s empowering to see how people from all walks of life are connecting with BowMettal. I think a lot of people were surprised at first—Barbie? Metal? But that’s the beauty of it. It’s about challenging perceptions and showing that no matter where you come from, you can make whatever kind of music you want. My career has definitely evolved, and I think that’s a good thing. It’s proof that reinvention and pushing boundaries are powerful tools in the creative world.

MJ: [Smiling thoughtfully, looking up from her notes] It’s clear that reinvention is something you’ve embraced wholeheartedly. Speaking of reinvention, you’ve really stepped into a whole new image with BowMettal. What was it like moving from the pink and pastel world of Barbie to this bold, glam-rock aesthetic? How does this new image represent your personal evolution as an artist?

Barbie: [Chuckles, running a hand through her new edgy hairdo] Oh, it was definitely a big shift! But you know, it’s all part of my journey. Barbie has always been about embracing different sides of myself. I’ve always had the glam, the fashion, and the fun side, but there’s also this other side of me that’s about strength, rebellion, and taking risks. When I started BowMettal, I knew I had to fully embody that transformation. It was about bringing all of those pieces together. The glam aspect of my image still remains—after all, you can’t get rid of glitter and sparkles too easily—but it’s now fused with darker, more intense elements that speak to my more powerful, more rockstar side. The new look is empowering, it’s bold, and it’s unapologetically me.

MJ: [Nods with understanding, clearly impressed] I love that! You’ve mentioned before that you feel a deep connection to the fans who’ve embraced BowMettal, especially the “misfits” and those who don’t always fit in. How important is that connection for you, and how do you see BowMettal evolving in the future?

Barbie: [Her voice softens with sincerity] It means everything to me. Music has always been a way for me to communicate with others, and when I see my fans embracing the music and the message behind it, it’s incredibly rewarding. I know what it’s like to feel like an outsider—to not fit the mold that society tries to put you in. And BowMettal, at its core, is about saying, “Hey, it’s okay to be different. In fact, it’s better to be different.” It’s about celebrating that individuality. As for the future of BowMettal, I see it growing and evolving even further. I want to keep pushing the envelope with new sounds, new collaborations, and new ideas. There’s so much room to experiment, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. Who knows? Maybe next, we’ll bring in some more unexpected genres or work with even more artists who are out of the box. One thing’s for sure—I’m not stopping anytime soon.

MJ: [Grins widely, clearly excited by the possibilities] I can’t wait to see where BowMettal goes from here. Barbie, thank you so much for taking the time to share your journey with us today. You’ve truly created something that’s changing the musical landscape, and I’m sure your fans are going to keep loving every second of it.

Barbie: [Flashes a bright smile, raising her hand to give a subtle glam-rock salute] Thank you, Mary Jane! And to everyone out there, keep rocking and shining. The future is bright, and we’re just getting started.

The camera pulls back, leaving the studio bathed in neon lights as Barbie picks up her electric guitar, playing a few heavy chords, the sound echoing as Mary Jane smiles in admiration.

End of Interview

[film-classics]

Fredi Washington - The Dark Duse of Hollywood

Fredericka "Fredi" Washington (born on December 23, 1903 in Savannah, Georgia) was an American actress who refused to live by racial stereotypes. She is one of the first Black Americans to gain recognition for her work on film and on the stage, earning her the nickname of "The Dark Duse of Hollywood."

The daughter of parents who were both of mixed African and European ancestry, Washington had green eyes and light skin that belied the era’s common expectations of what an African-American “looked like.” She moved to Harlem along with her family during the Great Migration.

Washington's entertainment career began in 1921 as a chorus girl on Broadway. She was hired by dancer Josephine Baker as a member of a cabaret group. She quickly became a popular, featured dancer, and toured internationally.

Washington turned to acting and moved to Hollywood in 1928. She made her movie debut the year after. Her best-known movie roles were in Imitation of Life (1934) and One Mile from Heaven (1937); both films were social commentaries of the era's views on race.

Despite receiving critical acclaim for her performance, studio heads had no idea what to do with a biracial woman. Considered too beautiful to play servant roles (the only mainstream opportunities for Black actresses in the 1930s) and since the film production code prohibited suggestions of miscegenation, she wore dark, heavy makeup in race films.

After turning down several roles requiring her to pass for White, she quit movies, moving back to New York City. Her experiences in the film industry and theater led her to become a civil rights activist and a writer. Washington died, aged 90, from pneumonia following a series of strokes while living in Stamford.

Legacy:

Co-founded the Negro Actors Guild of America in 1936 and served as its first executive secretary

Served in the American Women's Voluntary Service during World War II

Actively involved with and lobbied for social activist groups, such as the Cultural Division of the National Negro Congress, the Committee for the Negro in the Arts, the Actors' Equity Committee on Hotel Accommodations for Negro Actors throughout the United States, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People since 1937

Served as the entertainment editor for The People's Voice from 1943 to 1948

Gifted a collection of her personal papers to the Connecticut Historical Society in 1958, the Amistad Research Center in Tulane University in 1975 and 1979, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture at The New York Public Library in 1982

Inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1975

Received the CIRCA Award for lifetime achievement from the Detroit Institute of Arts in 1979

Received an award from the Audience Development Company (AUDELCO), a New York-based nonprofit group devoted to preserving and promoting African-American theater, in 1981