The Hype Magazine Digital Issue #144 Begins 23 Year Celebration
Ta'Rhonda Jones Discusses Hosting Season Two of OWN's ‘The Never Ever Mets' in Lead Cover Story
As we gratefully open our 23rd year, we at The Hype Magazine, the #1 digital magazine in the world, are excited to launch 2025 with the release of Digital Issue #144, spotlighting actress, musician, and television personality Ta’Rhonda Jones in a compelling cover feature. Jones returns as the host of OWN’s hit reality series The Never Ever Mets, which airs Fridays at 8 PM ET/PT and follows seven couples who built relationships online but have never met in person. As the show enters its highly anticipated second season, it promises to explore emotional transparency, hidden truths, and the authenticity of modern love beyond digital screens.
In her exclusive #LiveSessions interview with The Hype Magazine, Jones shares insight into the new season, discusses online dating red flags, and reflects on how her own life experiences fuel her empathetic approach to hosting. “I’ve been through it. I know what it’s like to wonder if this love is real,” she states, offering a powerful perspective that blends personal truth with cultural relevance.
This issue also features a lineup of impactful stories from legendary voices. Actor Todd Bridges opens up about his sobriety journey, surviving childhood abuse, working alongside Muhammad Ali, and his emotional connection with Diff’rent Strokes co-star Gary Coleman. Da Inphamus Amadeuz, host of The Punchline Academy on Shade 45/SiriusXM, reflects on Hip Hop’s healing power and the importance of cultural preservation.
Actress-turned-musician Maia Marcella Hazel, best known for her role in Wonder Woman, declares, “Music is my language” as she takes center stage in her next artistic chapter. R&B icon Jon B celebrates 30 years in the music industry with the release of his new album Waiting On You, reaffirming the timelessness of his sound. Meanwhile, Ralph McDaniels and the iconic Video Music Box are honored in a special tribute celebrating the show’s 40-year legacy and groundbreaking impact on music and visual storytelling.
Digital Issue #144 marks The Hype Magazine’s first release of a milestone year, celebrating 23 years since its humble beginnings as a one-page community newsletter in 2002. Today, it is a global media force, committed to amplifying diverse voices and pushing cultural conversations forward. Under the editorial leadership of Dr. Jerry Doby, Editor-in-Chief since 2012, and the visionary guidance of Founder/CEO Dr. Jameelah “Just Jay” Wilkerson, The Hype Magazine is entering a bold new chapter of engagement and innovation.
“We built this brand on authenticity, opportunity, and connection,” says Dr. Wilkerson. “23 years later, that mission hasn’t changed—it’s only expanded. Our 2025 editorial strategy is about spotlighting not just the stars, but the spark that lights entire industries.”
As part of its 2025 strategic rollout, The Hype Magazine is embracing a digital evolution through The Hype Magazine Circular, a mobile-first editorial experience; launching scalable, membership-based promotions to empower creators and brands; and expanding its B2B services to include media coverage, press distribution, and strategic product placements.
The upcoming editorial calendar includes dynamic themes such as Technology, Business & Gaming in May; Food, Travel & Luxury in July; Gospel and Comedy Spotlights in August; and Culture, Fashion, and Influencer Features in September.
The Hype Magazine team thanks every supporter, reader, and contributor who’ve helped keep us #1 in the digital media space for 23 years! Stay tuned for more News from Hip Hop to Hollywood!
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