Comedian. Television host. Movie Star. Top-rated syndicated Radio Personality. Father of 6. For over 20 years. Rickey Smiley is one of the most beloved performers in American media, earning a reputation for delivering boundless laughter on-air, on-stage, and on-screen. Every morning, millions of Americans in nearly 60 cities listen to Rickey Smiley and his 6 outrageous cast members on “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show.” His interviews with major celebrities, social political awareness and trademark prank phone calls have made Smiley one of the most listened to radio personalities in history. Rickey Smiley’s down home southern humor, opting to use insight rather than vulgarity to get laughs, is at the core of his success. His audiences are treated to such original characters as “Mrs. Bernice Jenkins”, “Lil’ Darrl,” “Joe Willie” and “Beauford.” Smiley is known for his clean comedic style and his reputation to sell out venues across the country. To movie audiences, Smiley is best known for “All About The Benjamins” and “Friday After Next”. He’s recorded 8 best selling CDs including iTunes #1 Best Selling Comedy Album, “Rickey Smiley- Prank Calls Number 6”. On television he”s hosted BET’s “Open Casket Sharp” and “Comic View”, appeared on “Showtime At The Apollo,” “Uptown Comedy Club”, HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam”and “Snaps”. Smiley graduated from Alabama State University, became KBFB’s (Dallas) morning show personality in 2004, and soon moved his show to WHTA Atlanta. When not performing, Smiley is the ultimate devoted father, single-handedly raising 6 kids, the subject of a soon to be released parenting book. QUOTE: “Success is when preparation meets opportunity” @thersms
One of the culture’s most beloved brands might be slotted for an upgrade. Industry experts speculate that Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy is in talks with Ralph Lauren regarding a possible merger.
As per Axios the American label might be getting courted by the luxury giant. According to the article LVMH has engaged with Ralph and company in exploratory conversations over the last two years to see if a business union between the two organizations is possible. If there is truth to the rumor this could be a marquee moment in fashion as the Ralph Lauren Corporation has built a reputation as a legacy brand and the acquisition could potentially increase LVMH’s market share in the United States market. Additionally, the reports point to Ralph Lauren, who currently holds the chief creative office and executive chairman title, as considering his options for succession.
Over the last couple of years the European-headquartered LVMH has made some very big bets on appealing to younger consumers. In 2021 they announced a 50% partnership with JAY-Z’s Armand de Brignac champagne house and purchased US jewelry brand Tiffany & Co. LVMH’s portfolio currently includes 70+ brands within the wine, spirits, fashion, cosmetics and leather goods categories including Louis Vuitton, Hennessy, Dior, Celine and Givenchy.
Representatives for Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy and Ralph Lauren Corporation have declined comment on the speculation.