
Exclusive: OWN's 'Complicated' Relationship Series 'Put A Ring On It' Returns For Season 4
OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network debuts season 4 of its successful relationship series Put A Ring On It Friday, March 17th at 9 p.m. EST | 8 p.m. CST, also available on the OWN app and discovery+. At the center of the emotionally-charged series are three couples embarking on the ultimate ‘do or die’ relationship test to determine whether they should ring wedding bells … or call it quits. Throughout the impassioned months-long experience, the Atlanta area couples will be guided by Relationship Coach Dr. Stacii Jae Johnson, who has been helping couples discover their truths and healthy romantic relationships for over 25 years.
Relationship Coach Dr. Stacii Jae Johnson
Courtesy of OWN
Each week, the couples are pushed, stretched, and tested to confront the one question they’ve been too afraid to ask: are they really ready for their 'happily ever after?' The couples go on a series of dates with other people to test the waters and perhaps discover if there might be a better love connection out there that they’ve been missing all along. Their goal: to decide whether it’s time to go their separate ways, or make the big leap and 'put a ring on it?'
Meet the Couples of 'Put A Ring On It' Season 4
Dunbar and Chance
Dating for: 2 Years
Dunbar and Chance
Courtesy of OWN
Ricky and Catherine
Dating for: 2 Years
Ricky and Catherine
Courtesy of OWN
Joya and Jasha
Dating for: 2 Years
Joya and Jasha
Courtesy of OWN
Put A Ring On It's average viewership grew across each of its first three seasons, climbing +22% from Season 1 (364k P2+) to Season 3 (443k P2+). On average during its most-recent season, Put A Ring On It was the #1 cable telecast in its time period among African-American women and #1 non-sports cable telecast among African-American households and total viewers.
The show is executive produced by Will Packer for Will Packer Media and Jeff Spangler and Rob LaPlante, Lighthearted Entertainment. Anthony Sylvester also executive produces.
Keep up with OWN Unscripted Shows on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Featured image courtesy of OWN
This post is in partnership with BET+
If there’s anything we’ve learned about Eva Marcille both onscreen and offscreen, it’s that she’s not one to underestimate. The multi-hyphenate star has worn many hats throughout her career, but her leading role on BET+’s spicy series All The Queen’s Men has us steadily coming back for more. The show takes us into the gritty world of Atlanta’s strip club scene, where the sexy chiseled male dancers at Club Eden get the whole spot to make it rain while dealing with their own personal storms behind the scenes. At the center of it all, Marilyn “Madam” DeVille (played by Marcille) runs the club and keeps its staff in check. Madam demands respect and takes zero mess. Yet somehow, she’s able to keep calm and unbothered despite the intense pressure she’s under. Marcille’s superb acting, combined with the refreshing perspective of a woman running all the plays, makes ATQM one of the most binge-worthy shows of the year.
With the upcoming release of this season's newest episodes just around the corner (January 12th) xoNecole got to chop it up with Marcille about what inspires the big bawse energy she brings to the screen. We also got this Scorpio queen to dish on how she juggles acting with being a mom of three, and what she hopes to demystify about strip club culture through this role.
xoNecole: You are phenomenal as Madam DeVille, who is a tough, no-nonsense type of character. What personal experiences do you draw from that help you portray her so well?
EM: All of the strong women in my family, from my grandmother to my mother and all the amazing Black women from activists, lawyers, and community leaders, are where I can draw from to help me portray Madam. We are boss!
Madam DeVille is under so much pressure right now, balancing her father’s care with being under the watchful eye of the feds AND running her club. Yet she keeps such grace under pressure. What do you think helps her stay calm and collected even as everything is coming to a head?
That is part of Madam’s grace; she thrives under pressure. She stays calm, knowing that win, lose or draw, she will always be comfortable with the outcome.
In your opinion, what are some common misconceptions about exotic dancers that you think this show helps debunk/shed light on?
Some common misconceptions about exotic dancers that the show helps shed light on I think is that they are actual people and human beings; they are more than just an object. They have lives, fears, passions, families, and dreams.
You’ve worn many hats in the entertainment business from modeling to reality tv to acting. Has this role challenged or stretched you in new ways?
This role has allowed me to unapologetically perform, from the range of my voice, to the boldness in clothes, to the non-mincing of words. Marilyn is honest. It’s an honor to be able to stretch with this project and cast.
How do you balance filming with being a mom to your three adorable kids?
It’s a juggling act balancing filming and being a mom. All I can say is with the help of my wonderful husband I am able to manage as he helps keep things seamless and easy. Most importantly, Sundays are family days. So, no matter how tired I am, I always make a good home-cooked meal on Sundays and spend the day with my family.
Finally, can you tell us what we can expect from Madam’s journey as season 2 continues?
As season 2 continues, you will see Madam out for vengeance. There can only be one QUEEN in town, and Madam will fight to remain on her throne at all costs.
When it comes to sharing the secrets behind her great skin, Halle Berry is continuing to do the Lord’s work and sittin’ pretty while doing so. As a firm believer in not gatekeeping the products that work for her, the 56-year-old Bruised star shared her favorites from last year that she thinks everyone, especially women, can benefit from in the months to come. “I wanted to share some of my FAVORITE things I think every woman should have in 2023,” she wrote in a recent Instagram post. “Hope these goodies bring you as much joy as they’ve brought me.”
We’d be remiss to come across such recommendations and not share them with the xoNecole readers, so here we are, sharing the tea the Hollywood beauty recently spilled. Scroll for Ms. Berry’s favorite things that keep her skin on glow, inside and out. As Halle says, let's "get into it."
Heal the Need Rescue & Recovery Serum
Olga Lorencin
A long-time user of Olga Lorencin skincare products, Halle has leveled up her beauty routine in 2022 by reaching for this favorite. “You’re going to need this for your face in 2023. Trust me. You put this on, you wake up, you got a new face,” Halle shares in her video. “It happens to me every morning. Believe me.”
This restoring oil-based serum delivers a deeply hydrating and reparative experience to your face thanks to ingredients like avocado oil and marula seed oil. If you want a more even skin tone and an intensely moisturized glow, look no further than this serum.
Knesko Skin Masks
KNESKO
These Reiki-charged, natural collagen masks are coveted and adored by many for a reason. "If you don't know about the KNESKO masks -- face masks, neck masks, lip masks -- get into it," she shares. "These are the best face masks I have found." Prepare to brighten, balance, and rejuvenate in 2023 and beyond.
Akkermansia Probiotics
Pendulum
Halle swears by this probiotic “for ultimate gut health.” “We all know that when your gut is healthy, your organs are healthy, your skin is healthy, your hair is healthy -- everything is healthy when your gut is healthy," she says. "Akkermansia is at a wonderful price point. You don't have to keep it in the refrigerator like some probiotics that are really powerful. This will change your life because it will change your gut."
Virtue Labs Restorative Treatment Mask
Referring to this mask as her "favorite, favorite" hair conditioner of the moment is only one of the things Virtue Labs Restorative Treatment Mask has working in its favor. The deeply hydrating mask is infused with keratin, making it the perfect solution for dry, damaged hair. The lightweight formula transforms brittle strands of all hair types with the help of ultra-nourishing ingredients.
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Featured image by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Champagne Collet & OBC Wines
Soft life me, please!
Reward yourself is your right, not a luxury. Whether it’s after a long day of work or just a long morning at the gym, the act of treating yourself is important and should happen often. Whether it's an indulgent and luxurious wash day using some of your favorite SheaMoisture products or a calming bubble bath, self-care is what you make it! This collection is inspired by the recent (yet extremely needed) trend of indulging in the ‘soft life’. While we can all agree that self-care should be a deliberate act, these products by Black women will be key in helping you create the perfect routine to love on yourself.
Manifestation Journal
The Manifestation Journal is the perfect place to manifest the life you deserve. “Less Planning, More Manifesting” is embossed in gold foil across the front of this 100% recycled paper journal to be a constant reminder that everything you want is within reach. Choose between lined or unlined pages to best fit your journaling needs.
UNWND Rest Pack
Don’t let this complex world be your vandal. Relax, sit back, review your time. Nothing is more rejuvenating when you UNWND. Enjoy this limited edition 3-piece collab brought to by the makers of lifestyle ease and elevation. You deserve it every time, even on the days you feel you fell short.
Set Includes:
- A Velvety Smooth Blanket by Unwrp
- A Sultry Fragranced Candle by Lit Bklyn
- A Summer Inspired Herbal Tea by Noirebud
Wellness Drops
Pure and simple, this tincture is made using the finest-quality Broad Spectrum CBD oil, 100% Coconut MCT oil, and organic orange essential oil. Balance can be used for daily wellness, and won't cause any haze or intoxication.
"Living My Best Life" Post-It Notes
Go ahead and snag up these pretty pink post-it notes and remember what you gotta do in style.
"My Last Good Nerve" Tea Blend
Soothe those frazzled nerves with the relaxing scent and taste of lavender! Eases anxiety, lifts the blues and soothes nerves because... life.
Devotional Card Deck
This daily devotional deck of 60-cards helps you start your day and remind you that God is in control. Each card helps you posture your heart and mind for the day
Period Relief Vitamins
Meet your period’s new BFF. A potent women’s health vitamin that supports healthier hormones and alleviates the worst of PMS symptoms for a happier, healthier cycle.
The Layered Planner
The Layered Living Planner 2023 is more than just a planner. It is a life system for the modern woman equipped with a yearly, monthly, and weekly calendar in addition to our signature components that make planning and pivoting a lifestyle.
"I Rose Above It" CBD Bath Soak
Homebody's I Rose Above It Pearlescent CBD Bath Bomb Soak is the perfect addition to your daily wellness ritual, it's transformative in targeting digital overload and burnout. Relax and achieve beautiful inner peace as you soak and surrender all your worries down the drain.
We-Vibe Rabbit Sex Toy
Nova 2 offers constant clitoral contact with anew flexibility and custom shaping. Nova 2 has an ergonomic design which includes an all new adjustable internal stimulator to fit more body shapes and the softest, most bend stimulator yet.
Lavender Bath Bombs
Honey Pot's pH balance bath bombs are great for relaxing after a long day. Taking bath time to new self-care depths. These vagina-friendly bath bombs made with apple cider vinegar, honey and lavender are sure to keep you centered and keep your vagina happy.
Salt Detox Body Wash
Clogged pores and congested, breakout-prone skin are no match for the natural citrus power in our Detox Shower Gel! This powerful formula deeply cleanses pores to remove dirt, makeup, sweat, and other acne-causing bacteria and reveal clean, clear, glowing skin.
"Restore My Sleep" Adaptogen Blend
This blend works to improve sleep quality and duration while reducing overall stress levels to improve long term sleep performance.
Wanderlust Room Spray
An uplifting blend of wood & citrus notes. Proprietary blend made with Organic, Wildcrafted & Sustainably Farmed essential oils.
"Better Every Day" Guided Journal
With 365 prompts designed for self-love, reflection, and growth, this journal makes the perfect addition to your morning or nighttime self-care routine.
Window Seat Candle
This soy blend candle infuses scents of pomegranate and ginger.
Clear Home Energy Clearing Set
Introducing our revamped energy clearing set for you and your home. Clear and Balance ones energy with this set. Start with opening the windows and trace the outline of the body with sage smoke. Take a bath or shower with our pure Himalayan salt ball. Clear and set your intention with clear quartz. Selenite continues to clear and protect ones energy and space, and our new selenite charger is perfect for cleansing your crystals.
"God Got Me" Mug
God Got Me Mug. Words appear on both sides so this mug is great whether you are left or right-handed.
Bloom Hardcover Journal
Make your everyday journaling more personal, private, and stylish with this matte hardcover journal. Available in 5.75"x8" size of 75 lined single pages, these sturdy hardcover journals are fully customizable on the front and on the back covers. The matte laminate coating on the cover will make them stay true to your personal style.
Zen Chambré Spritz
"Smile, Breathe, And Go Slowly." Focus On the possibilities that can be found in each moment as the subtle scent of lemongrass and white tea permeates the air and provide an entry point to a more zen-like life. Use this light fragrant mist for your aura, body, pillow, or to freshen any room.
Crystals for Transformation
Set Includes:
- Moss Agate - new beginnings
- Howlite - helps mitigate stress
- Golden Sheen Obsidian - strength & patience
- Chrysocolla - helps emotions to flow
- Smokey quartz - helps transmute negative energy into positive
- Rutilated quartz - clarity and strength
- Blue apatite - courage , drive & focus
Words by Courtney Simpson
Featured image designed by Qori B.
Tis’ the season to shower the one you love with gifts that ring true to the heart, and that’s what this collection was curated around. The struggle to buy gifts for your boo thang may not be a new one, but it sure can be a frustrating one. You know that all-too-familiar feeling of late-night scrolling to ensure you don't get a lackluster reaction from bae.
But don't worry, we got you sis! Whether you've just started dating that someone special or looking to impress your long-term love, this collection of gifts will lead you to that something special. You'll find romantic and thoughtful gifts spanning from health, wellness, skincare, fashion, and much more. Not only will you be presenting them with something thoughtful, you’ll be directly empowering the Black women-owned businesses, including Jam + Rico from SheaMoisture's coveted Shea List. A win is a win!
La Isla Necklace
2 " Medallion Coin Necklace with iconic Puerto Rican images, the national flower, the fort, the cuarto guitar, banana leaf and plantain.
Beard Care Kit
Our Beard Care Kit is essential for a strong and healthy beard! It's formulated to cleanse, moisturize, and condition your beard as well as your face. These products are a simple way to keep your beard smelling good and looking fresh!
Uncle Nearest 1865 Premium American Whiskey
Uncle Nearest is astonishingly smooth, and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite whiskey or bourbon cocktail.
Conversations and Chill Game
This is the best conversation starter game to ignite epic discussions! It’s the perfect card game for parties, game nights, pre-games, a casual chill night with friends, date nights for couples and more.
"Don't Be Good, Be Great" Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Make a grand statement with this unisex long sleeve tee.
"River" Herringbone Chain
River is the perfect herringbone chain and lays beautifully alone or layered with your other Filosopher favs. It's available in 3 widths, 4mm being our most popular width for this style.
Men's Beanie
A warm and stylish beanie that looks good on everyone. The smooth satin-lining won't make your head itchy, will fight frizz, keep your hair moisturized, and preserve your hairstyle longer.
ITA Hat
Sunscreen’s good, but a hat’s even better. Embroidered and made of 100% cotton, it’s the go-to hat you’ve been looking for.
Fragrance Duo
Irresistible fragrances crafted by Russell Wilson & Ciara, held within two entwined, magnetic bottles. RUSSELL for Him boasts notes of bergamot and black tea blend with ambrosian while lavender, juicy pear and waterlily wrapped with patchouli, musk and vetiver for a sensual finish. CIARA for Her evokes Red berries, freesia and pink peppercorn captivate with a bouquet of white flowers and peony at the heart. the finish is musk and sandalwood blended.
"Clarity" Candle
The CLARITY candle has a warm, sweet, cozy aroma that reminds you of your grandmothers homestyle baking. This candle was created with taking you to a space of relaxation and comfort in mind. This unity of vanilla, sweet almond, cinnamon, ginger and hints of cherry is sure to make you fall in love.
Kai Shoulder Bag
The Kai Bag is a year-around off-duty must-have. The compact and practical design makes this chic piece the perfect on-the-go essential. The style is embellished with an alloy Milano Di Rouge logo plaque, a front-zipped compartment, and detachable card holder perfect for accessibility while traveling.
Deluxe Beard Kit
The Koils by Nature Beard Kit is an all-natural and certified vegan line of skin and hair care products developed exclusively for men. Gentle enough to use every day, and infused with soft, fresh scents, the kit includes the dual-action beard and face cleanser and shaving foam, a moisturizer, beard butter, and oil.
Christelle Sunglasses
This combination frame essentially encapsulates our brand identity. It brilliantly blends acetate with metal to accentuate minor details on the temples. The square design and clear water frame equally exude vitality at every angle.
BeSeduced Couple's Beloved Box
A seductive blend of floral and spicy notes is sure to stimulate your passionate side. Seduction. It's an art form. That every couple should explore. Fully. Choose This Fragrance Family If You Enjoy Fragrances That Are Clean, Sultry, and Mysterious.
Coptic Cross Cufflinks
The Ethiopian Cross is one of the most detailed of all crosses. Its intricate lattice work represents eternal life. The three parts that terminate its points represent the holy trinity, a common element Coptic Style crosses.
African Net Sponge
This African Exfoliating Net, also know as a Sapo, or bathing sponge, is perfect for bathing and is used to gently exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells.
Journey Backpack
The calfskin leather for the bag was tanned in Morocco naturally; without the use of harsh chemicals. The bag is handmade with the utmost attention by trained master artisans. It is accented with brass buckles and closures.
Words by Courtney Simpson
Featured image designed by Qori B.
The holiday season is the perfect time to edit your wardrobe for the new year, adding a bit of pizazz to your everyday look. After a year of dopamine dressing, the return to heels, and the comeback of in-person events, this holiday season is predicted to be more over-the-top than ever before. Bring on the sparkles, feathers, and deliciously coveted monochromatic outfits!
Few things feel better than slaying a lewk with your nearest and dearest, but one of them is doing that in black-owned, women-owned clothing. This curated collection of hand-picked items is perfect to introduce to your everyday style this season or share with a loved one as a Christmas gift. The creativity and ingenuity that comes from black women are unmatched, especially in fashion.
Together with SheaMoisture, we've curated the perfect holiday shopping spree! From elevated workwear to statement trench coats and ostrich feather boots, you’ll be sure to find something in this collection for everyone.
Nzinga Shine Bodysuit
The Nzinga bodysuit is one design, delivered with two of our best fabrics. The unique cuts in the Nzinga bodysuit puts couture in athleisure, and chic in comfort. Designed to go from Pilates to brunch, you pick the day and your level of shine.
Palms Boot in Ivory
Introducing the Palms Boot in ivory, a dreamy boot adorned with ivory feathers all over. Built on the brand's classic Palms Boot, this style is a showstopper that's also incredibly comfortable.
Mean Mug Tee
This t-shirt is made of 100% combed ring-spun cotton, super soft baby jersey knit and has a longer body length.
Model Behavior White Collar Coat
This white coat is versatile, fashionable, and belted to cinch the waist. Available in a range of sizes from small to 5x.
Havana Ring
Ready to turn heads?! If so, this ring is definitely for you! The Havana Ring is apart of our newest collection. It’s bold and has an abundance of Shine!
Byrd Classic Knit Cardigan
Comfy, cozy, and stylish. Pair with the Byrd Knit Pants in Cream as a matching knitwear set.
Laura Clutch
Classic zip clutch made from premium calfskin with four built-in credit card slots and personalized detachable tag. All tags are customized by hand. And a portion of all sales goes to the brand's charities.
Orchid Pink Sandals
Strappy sandals are back and better than ever with a perfect pop of color and a neutral heel to add to your heel collection.
Neisy Earrings
For the class act Sucré girl with just enough attitude. Give 'em a run for their money, sis.
Amira Knit Dress
Amira is just too good to be true. With a number of flirty details, down to the asymmetrical neckline and hem, this silhouette is bound to look good on every body type. Designed in a furry, yarn fabric with a stunning pop of color, she is ready for a night on the town.
Khari Eyeglasses
The stylish Tortoise shell glasses are hand-crafted in Italy and also come in black.
Black and White Zuri Baby Bag
One of our most popular prints since we began. An absolute Iris favorite. This is a white leather with black stripes. It gives off this geometric theme that we absolutely love.
Mari Jade Dress
The MARI DEEP V KNIT DRESS combines a choker look, plunging neckline, and oversized sleeve to give a casual sexy that cannot be ignored. The waist tie makes for versatility in wearing this piece.
Bobbi Blazer
Intended to be worn everyday, this comfortably oversized blazer is a minimalist wardrobe essential. The relaxed but tailored silhouette produces a soft structure that not only flatters the body, but allows for additional layering underneath.
Lekki Star Bag
The Lekki Star is the first bag from the Lekki Series, which launched officially in the Spring of 2022. This collection is named after a high society in the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria - a city full of creative and fashionable people.
Cooper Silk Robe
The Mawu Silk Kimono is designed for you to drape yourself in copper silk luxury . Cut to fit just below mid-thigh, from the softest luxury silk, featuring a draped ¾ length sleeve and appliqué with our signature Divine Feminine Ankh Embroidery.
Large Initial Necklace
Known for their dainty-edge approach to contemporary jewelry, ByChari is offering one of our very first designs as part of our Essentials collection. The one thing we do well is initials, here we are offering a sweet neckline adornment, perfect for any occasion. Make it count!
Apricot & Grapefruit Puff Sleeve Bodysuit
From the beach to the bashment our one piece has the perfect balance of muted and vibrant colors with just enough dramatic flair in the puff sleeve to turn eyes.
Buckle Halter Pump
Make a statement with these sexy 4-inch leather black satin heels. Perfect for the board room, date night, or a night out with the girls!
Words by Courtney Simpson
Featured image designed by Qori B.