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Here's What You Missed On The ‘Put A Ring On It’ Series Premiere
What do you get when you mix three long-term, in-love couples with a batch of eligible suitors looking to snag a compatible mate? A whole hour-long, front-row seat to some spicy commentary and telling reveals. And if that's something that sounds right up your alley, then look no further than the new Will Packer series Put A Ring On It. This show centers around these couples as they embark on the ultimate journey to discover if they're truly meant to be together--by dating other people.
So if you ever wondered whether or not the grass was truly greener on the other side in your relationship, allow this show to be the social experiment you need to answer all your questions. Friday night's series premiere was a DOOZY to say the least, so let's get all the way into it. Starting with…
The 'Put A Ring On It' Couples
Meet Ashley & Hollywood
Ashley and Hollywood, 'Put A Ring On It'
Courtesy of OWN
Let's start with these two lovebirds, Ashley and Hollywood. They're arguably my favorite couple but I may be biased because I'm in love with any and all Southern accents (they're both from New Orleans). They've been together for nine years and according to Hollywood, should have already been married by now. But as it's revealed in the initial sit down with resident relationship coach Dr. Nicole LaBeach, Ashley isn't quite sure if she's ready to head down that road just yet.
"I'm not afraid of marriage at all, I'm afraid of marriage with the wrong person. I'm scared to allow myself to be completely vulnerable with him, I'm scared to allow myself to get to that next level."
Now what you have left to be scared of after a nine-year-long relationship is beyond me, but as the conversation continues--we learn a very interesting fact. Hollywood had previously proposed to Ashley some years back but his cold feet and fear caused him to go back and forth on their engagement. Thus giving Ashley more than enough ammo to be doubtful of his ability to fully commit now. Hmph. Y'know, Maya Angelou always said, "When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time."
Meet Che' & Michael
Che' & Michael, 'Put A Ring On It'
Courtesy of OWN
OK, so this beautiful brown couple threw me for a loop and I'll tell you why. They've known each other for about six years, but have only been dating for two. Che' says they're soulmates and Michael truly believes that she is his best friend. So where's the disconnect, sis? Well, I'm glad you ask. At the heart of it, the two of them don't really agree on what a marriage truly is or is about. She feels that it's a natural evolution for two people in love, while he feels it's "two people who sign a contract to be together by force." And he may have a good reason for feeling that way.
You see, somewhere in between Che' and his relationship, Che' came to the conclusion that she actually still had feelings for her ex and broke things off. And so Michael did what any other single person would after being dumped-- dated other people. But not only did he date another woman, he moved to DC with said woman AND asked for her hand in marriage. And as luck (or karma if you wanna argue) would have it, the engagement only exacerbated issues between the two. So after coming to his senses, he moved back to ATL and back into Che's life emotionally scarred from a failed engagement. Thus making Michael hesitant to bring matrimonial havoc into his happy home.
"I don't think marriage is necessary because we wake up and choose to be with each other right now. We're in such a good place, I don't wanna ruin things."
I guess, chile.
Mi-Mi & Eyuless
Mi-Mi & Eyuless, 'Put A Ring On It'
Courtesy of OWN
This brings us to our final lovey dovey couple and we honestly meet them at a crossroads. These two met on a video shoot and let Eyuless tell it--it was love at first sight. (Even though Mimi admits to making a move on him first on their first date during their confessional.) They seem to mesh very well and balance each other out, according to Mi-Mi. But in the sit down with Dr. Nicole, we learned that everything isn't exactly what it seems to be on the surface. See the thing is, Eyuless WANTS to marry Mi-Mi, but previous relationship discretions, aka cheating, are keeping doubts at the front of Mi-Mi's mind.
It's not that she doesn't love him--she absolutely does. She just doesn't know if she wants to stay in this relationship or move forward. Plus, there are other hindrances that play a major role too like poor communication, insecurity, and lack of accountability. At the heart of it all, Mi-Mi just wants to be sure that it's going to last because she DOES NOT want a divorce, as we learn in her confessional. This marriage has to be the one. And if Eyuless isn't prepared to address and change some things, she's not so sure if this is a path she needs to continue down. This can arguably be true for all the couples in the group.
But Dr. Nicole has just what they need to help make sense of everything, which brings me to…
The Dates
Now listen, I'm not sure if these couples were fully aware that this was part of the deal but when Dr. Nicole lets it be known that the couples would be dating other people as a means to ascertain their true feelings towards one another-- it was met with mixed emotions. And while most of the men expressed their slight disdain and confusion, back at home the real feelings began to show. Michael was a bit nonchalant towards Che', which caused her to feel as if Michael has become a bit too comfortable in their relationship. Meanwhile, Hollywood's initial playfully cautionary reaction turns a bit more serious and testy when Ashley's date arrives at their apartment. This leads Ashley to believe that Hollywood is somewhat intimidated, not by her new date per se, but what it represents: a potentially better future WITHOUT him.
And at Eyuless' crib, he and Mi-Mi get in a heated conversation resulting in him storming off at the thought of Mi-Mi having to experience another man for her to realize he's the only one that can "do for her the way he can." At any rate, Ashley and Che' go on their respective dates with men who bring a new energy into both of their lives. But Mi-Mi, having gotten an unexpected phone call concerning her father's illness, doesn't go and turns to Eyuless for comfort and assurance. This was honestly heartbreaking and touching to see them go through but I guess things can't always be "blue skies and rainbows." (It'll hit you on the ride home later.)
The Aftermath
When all three couples return for another sit down with Dr. Nicole, both Ashley and Che' admit to having a good time and being "refreshed" after coming in contact with two good men who have exceptional qualities that directly contrast that of their own lovers. But it's not until Mimi admits what went down in her household that they all learn a valuable lesson: marriage in and of itself won't change a damn thing.
"Marriage doesn't have any power, you do. You define it, you make the rules, you make the boundaries."
In essence, all a marriage license will do is amplify whatever work, happiness, and issues a couple is already experiencing. And if these couples don't get it together right now, then a ring and walk down the aisle won't solve anything or assuage their feelings. Truer words have never been said and that's word to Dr. Nicole. Next week, it's the men's turn to go on their dates and I'm already knowing this is about to be some mess. (That dap Hollywood and Michael gave each other, uh-uh.) I honestly hope these couples can find their way to a happy resolve, whatever that may be but regardless--I can already tell this season is about to get reaaaaaaaal interesting.
Put A Ring On Itairs every Friday night at 10pm ET only on the OWN Network. Keep up with the conversation online by following @owntv.
Featured image courtesy of OWN
Writer. Empath. Escapist. Young, gifted, and Black. Shanelle Genai is a proud Southern girl in a serious relationship with celebrity interviews, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and long walks down Sephora aisles. Keep up with her on IG @shanellegenai.
How This New Bond Repair Line Transformed One Mother's Postpartum Shedding Into The Ultimate Curl Comeback
This article is in partnership with SheaMoisture
For Crystal Obasanya, her wash day woes came shortly after her son did. The beauty and lifestyle content creator had been natural for years, but during postpartum, she quickly learned about one reality many mothers can relate to experiencing: postpartum hair loss. “Sis had thinning hair. Sis had split ends,” she shared about her hair changes in a Reel via xoNecole.
Over a year into her postpartum journey, Crystal explained she also had dry, brittle hair, noting that keeping it hydrated before pregnancy had already been “a task.” The 4C natural recalled going from thick hair during pregnancy to a thin hairline due to postpartum shedding as “devastating.” When it came to strengthening and revitalizing her hair, the new SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection was just the thing she needed to elevate her damaged coils to revive and thrive status and get them poppin' again.
SheaMoisture is providing us with the cheat code for transforming dry and damaged strands into thriving and deeply nourished crowns. By unveiling their 4-step hair system, the SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection is equipping you with the tools to reverse signs of hair damage caused by protective styling, heat, and color and is uniquely formulated for Type 3 and 4 hair textures.
The haircare system revives damaged natural hair by repairing and rebuilding broken hair bonds through a game-changing combination of HydroPlex Technology and AminoBlend Complex, a unique blend of fortifying amino acids formulated specifically for curly and coily hair. Scientifically proven to reduce breakage by 84% and make your hair six times stronger (vs. non-conditioning shampoo), the collection infuses your hair with the nourishment it craves and the strength it deserves.
All five products of the SheaMoisture Bond Collection are infused with natural strengthening ingredients like Amla Oil and fair-trade shea butter. The collection consists of the 4-step breakage-fighting Bond Repair system, as well as the Bonding Oil.
“When trying it out, I quickly noticed that my hair felt revived and renewed, and my curls were so hydrated,” Crystal said while using the Amla-infused Bond Repair Leave-In Conditioner. “I also felt my hair strands were stronger.” So much so that the influencer felt brave enough to get her hair braided shortly thereafter. “I can definitely say that I will be keeping it in my hair wash routine,” she added in the caption of her Reel about her positive experience using the products.
SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection is making bond-building a key player in your wash day routines and the purveyor of life for thirsty manes. Because who doesn't want stronger, shinier, happier hair?
Step One: Bond Repair Collection Shampoo
Rejuvenate your hair with SheaMoisture Bond Repair Shampoo, your go-to solution for luscious locks. Packed with hella hydration power, this shampoo adds moisture by 60% while removing buildup without stripping your strands. This shampoo gently cleanses impurities while significantly enhancing shine, smoothness, and softness.
The Bond Repair Collection Shampoo is the first step in the 4-step Bond Repair system, all of which are powered by the uniquely formulated AminoBlend, and HydroPlex, SheaMoisture’s technology that rebuilds hair strength at its core.
Step Two: Bond Repair Collection Conditioner
Tailored to repair styling damage, this creamy conditioner locks in 12x more moisture than standard non-conditioning shampoos, boosting damaged hair strength by 1.5x with significantly less breakage. The creamy SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Conditioner deeply hydrates, enhances manageability, and leaves your hair looking healthier and shinier.
Step Three: Bond Repair Collection Masque
This Ultra Moisturizing reparative masque is a moisture-rich game-changer for those dealing with the aftermath of hair damage caused by styling. The SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Masque delivers 13 times more moisture compared to non-conditioning shampoos, ensuring your hair feels nourished and soft. Designed to repair and rejuvenate, this masque significantly strengthens damaged hair — making it twice as strong while reducing breakage.
Step Four: Bond Repair Collection Leave-In Conditioner
Elevate your curl game with SheaMoisture’s Bond Repair Collection Leave-In Conditioner. Lightweight and hydrating, the Bond Repair Leave-In Conditioner provides 12x more moisture than non-conditioning shampoos and tames frizz with 24-hour humidity control. Designed to define curls and coils, the leave-in conditioner enhances softness and shine allowing you to detangle effortlessly.
Bonding Oil
The SheaMoisture Bond Repair Collection Bonding Oil is a multitasking all-in-one formula that acts as a heat protectant and provides the hair with moisture, strength, shine, damage protection, and intense nourishment. This lightweight oil not only offers 24-hour frizz and humidity control but also fortifies your tresses, making them up to 5 times stronger with significantly less breakage.
Featured image courtesy
Head Stylist Moira Frazier Shares How She’s Shaping The Culture On The Set Of ‘Abbott Elementary’
A permanent smile radiates from my face while watching ABC’s hit sitcom, Abbott Elementary. Is the storyline or the will-they-won’t-they love story budding between Janine Teagues and Gregory Eddie the cause? Absolutely. But underneath the hilarious punchlines and perfectly executed jokes, there’s another story to take note of.
And it’s all about hair.
Moira Frazier, the Emmy-nominated Hair Department Head of Abbott Elementary, is the stylist bringing each character's hair story to life.
And with the world of film and television being a space where success often hinges on being in the right place at the right time, Fraizer attributes her entry into the industry to working “small $100-$200 jobs” early on. As a licensed cosmetologist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry and more than a decade in entertainment, Frazier has established herself as a hair maven in her own right.
Being the Hair Department Head of a Hollywood set can be made to look effortless, but Frazier says that work all begins with “meeting, upon meeting, upon meetings.”
“Once I get a script, we’re breaking down every character from the standpoint of how they’re written,” she tells xoNecole. “I'm going into the psyche of each [Abbott] character we’re developing to see what this person is like.” As a viewer, it’s easy to spot the intention behind the character’s hair story as they embody personalities and even figures we might know in real life.
Take Barbara Howard, for instance. A poised, matriarchal presence among the teachers, with a church background that keeps her grounded in her work and a beacon of wisdom when needed. For here, a classic pixie cut just makes sense. “We all know that older lady at the church, honey,” Fraizer says. “She'll never change her hair. She wears the same wig for years and years.”
Courtesy of Moira Frazier
For Ava Coleman, an around-the-way, career-oriented, bougie cousin archetype played by Janelle James, a slick, long, yet kinky straight style was chosen. “When it comes to hair, especially on Ava, the hair has to move,” she tells xoNecole. “If you notice, none of my wigs on the show are stiff because, working with Janelle James, she moves a lot, and she talks with her hands. So it’s important for me to use super high-quality hair.”
Creating wigs that match the highest quality standards is no small feat, especially in the latest season of Abbott where their 8K cameras captured every detail. Frazier dedicates an entire week to building each full lace wig from scratch. “We have to step our game up this season because we filmed in 8K cameras, which means you're going to see everything,” she says. “I had to get lace that's not available on the commercial market, my lace gets flown in from London.”
Unlike traditional methods that involve simply bundling hair, her wigs are created by hand, resulting in a natural and flexible appearance. “And when I say from scratch, I mean I ventilate every wig,” she punctuates. This meticulous process ensures the wigs are custom-fitted and highly realistic, particularly for high-profile clients like Tatyana Ali and other guest stars, to achieve an impeccable finish.
Over the last three seasons, we’ve seen the evolution of our Philly-based characters, not just in how they present themselves but in how they’re coming into who they are as a person. This is particularly true for Janine Teagues.
On Abbott Elementary, Janine's hair evolution mirrors the universal experience of growing into oneself, particularly for young women just trying to figure themselves out. “She's a young teacher in her early 20s, just graduated college, and she's trying to find herself. We've all been there, trying to find our look. She's coming out of that awkward stage and trying to get into adulthood and womanhood,” she says.
In the first season, Janine is seen with her natural curly hair, a look that signifies her initial stage of self-discovery. As the seasons progress, her hairstyles evolve, symbolizing her gradual shift towards maturity and self-confidence, experimenting with straight hair and on to a half-up, half-down style. These changes reflect her exploration of different looks and her journey towards finding a style that truly represents who she is. “It's like she's easing into these looks,” Frazier says.
On the set of shows where characters constantly change their styles, proper hair care is essential. Fraizer uses her Lace Lock Melting Spray instead of glue to secure wigs, to hold the hair in place for the duration of filming. Unlike glue, which can be impractical for daily application, the melting spray and her unique Lace Lock Wig Grip provide a reliable hold without causing damage.
This thoughtful approach to hairstyling on Abbott Elementary underscores the importance of hair in the self-expression, identity, and representation of Black women both on- and off-screen.
Janine Plays Barb and Melissa Perfectly - Abbott Elementary
Black hair carries profound cultural and personal significance, a reality that deeply influences hairstyling choices for Black characters on television. For Fraizer, the styles, colors, lengths, and textures are deliberate in accurately portraying Black hairstyles to the masses. “Because it has to make sense,” she says. “As Black people, we wear our hair in so different ways. It would have been easy to put everybody in a super kinky curly wig on our show, but for us, I wanted to show versatility.”
By embracing this diversity, the show honors the cultural richness and individuality of Black hair, ensuring that every character’s hairstyle, as well as the child actors, adds a meaningful contribution to the narrative.
For Black women aspiring to excel in the world of styling and department leadership, Frazier says that the journey to the top is paved by continuous growth and cultivating strong relationships.
“Don't burn the bridge along the way,” she says. “You have to have a positive attitude and be ready to come to work and do the work. You can never give up because one job can lead to the next job, and that can lead to the biggest job.”
She continues, “Learn how to do everything. It's okay to specialize in one thing — but now you're limited. Keep educating yourself because there are levels to this, and the more you educate, the higher you go.”
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Feature image courtesy of Moira Frazier