Lemmie Plummer, CEO of The Zeus Network Speaks With TEA-GIF on Fox Soul 

“Just because you’re black, does not mean you’re above reproach and correction.” 🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯 Something that a lot of people in our community refuse to accept.

I’m glad you and Al held your composures and were able to convey your points in an articulate and mature manner. Lemmie was unnecessarily defensive and ultimately made himself look horrible. You can’t throw the “I’m a CEO” card around when you aren’t even able to conduct yourself like one.

I was waiting on this!!!! He was DEFLECTING DEFLECTING DEFLECTING He killed me with the OH SO YOU’RE SAYING MY VIEWERS ARE CRACKHEADS!?!? That’s the equivalent of someone saying “oh you’re talking about my kids” when someone says “GO HOME & TAKE CARE OF YOUR KIDS"

😂😂😂😂😂 Claudia know if Zeus calls with the right check,she’ll go running. Thats always been my issue with her,she talks out both sides of her mouth. She can say the most articulate,insightful,substantive thing in one breath but she’ll engage in the very same behavior she persecutes if given the chance.

Thanks Q, I'm glad you're holding him accountable. Yes, he's a young, successful, back man but we should not continue to exploit and promote bad behavior on these large platforms. We should be trying to better ourselves and seek proper help and counseling. I understand your whole point and appreciate what you're standing for. Thank you!!!! ❤️

I totally agree with you, I am so tired of people feeding into this behavior just because it makes money, let's stop encouraging and rewarding this behavior.

I had to pause it several times... ooohhh chile... you were spot on Funky! He knew exactly what you meant. The content not the consumers!

Good for you. This Brother wanna talk about how he is 36 and is the CEO of his own network. He definitely showed his ass, maturity level as a young CEO. He needs to learn how to take criticism and not come off as having a chip on his shoulder and in his feelings. He didnt come off like a CEO. He needs to hire a publicist before having another interview. All he had to say although we have some content on our channel that is considered "trash". We are looking forward to be able to develop more shows that reflect the positive impacts of the black community. PERIOD. What really pissed me off is that he tried to come for TEA -G-IF! Saying that the show is basically trash as well. But then a few minutes later saying how he loves the show. We are good on this brother coming back on this platform again. He should be a politician since he can't answer a question without smirking and making the narrative about anyone else but him. Thank you Funky for holding it down and calling out his BS! I would have loved to be a fly on the wall during those commercial breaks. Oh, girl!!

I’m glad you discussed the interview on your platform. Lemme really never allowed himself to be interviewed. He sat there and deflected all of the points that were brought up by the hosts. One thing that I got from the interview is that he is fully aware of the content he’s delivering and he chooses to do it anyway. It’s just sad because this is the type of mess that sells.

I'm glad Funky and Al held him accountable.

I've never watched nor have had a desire to watch anything on this network. That interview further cemented why I won't in the future. Kudos to you and AL for keeping it professional.

I was surprised how Claudia left you and Al hanging. She definitely was making sure she wasn't in jeopardy of gaining another job at Zeus!

This is why I appreciate you because you tend to say exactly what I be feeling

You did a great job, holding his feet to the fire and not back pedaling on what you said. I definitely saw the shift in Claudia when he said you were employed by Zeus.

So glad he brought up Claudia! Claudia switched up hard

CLAUDIA WAS ACTING SCARED TO SPEAK THE TRUTH AND IT PISSED ME OFF!!! SHE KNOWS THAT THE ZEUS NETWORK PROMOTES TRASH SHOWS!! 😡😡😡😡

Sir when u said 🗣THERE IS NO CABARET! I fell out laughing on the floor I swea! 🤣

Babyyy, when i tell you i was WAITINGGGGG for this after that ridiculous interview. 😆😭 Thank you, Dineva. 😊😘

And thank you for acknowledging Claudia completely switching up. She lost cool points for that but get yo low hanging fruit checks Claudia. But u spoke for yourself. The rest of us completely agreed with Funky and what Al was attempting to try and get to

I love you Q I’m so glad u stood in what u was saying and didn’t change ur tune! You stay true to what u believe in and I love it ❤️❤️

He was gaslighting. And I effin hate it when people gaslight. Hand clap 👏🏾 to him for “being black and a CEO” but that doesn’t mean go and exploit the people you represent. There’s so much more content that he could use that doesn’t involve soft porn and fighting

I agree. He said absolutely NOTHING!!! His shows are toxic! He was doing Jedi mind games in order not to address the obvious. A place he will have to define and defend those shows will be in court!! And I hope prosecutors use his segments on TEA-GIF that he had knowledge and endorsed the horrible behavior of his employees (Joseline and Ballistic) to nail him. I betcha he will change his content then…

(when asked if he had any final questions) Al said "Oh no... Thank you Mr Plummer, I enjoyed the interview very much' I laughed so loud. Lol. I did actually like how Lemmie handled himself.

Que, please keep doing what you’re doing! I agree with everything said. It’s sad that we’re glorifying violence and toxicity in our community and it’s honestly really sad. Thanks for being the voice of reason.

Claudia can get as mad as she wants to.....We LITERALLY SAW HER BP&PP during the interview!!!!! I lowkey caught secondhand embarrassment for her! She was juggling them checks in her mind lol

Thank you Dineva for standing your ground on this matter. Claudia came off biased due to her working for the toxic network! I’m over her, she is too inconsistent for me!

Not you calling out Claudia!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 i wasn’t ready!!!

Funky you seemed in attack mode in that interview and Lemmie held his composure and a true CEO. I might get a subscription.

I watched the interview twice and in my opinion, Lemmie knows exactly what he's doing. ALL of his trending shows are full of people that exudes toxicity, including Natalie Nunn. There's not a person alive that know the cast/ team member of the Zeus network any other way and let's be clear, THESE particular shows only target a specific audience that's young, social media driven and easily manipulated, and that's the 30 and under crowd and he's cashing in on them. No different than a record label owner signing an person that can't rap, however, the person has a huge following, it's exploitation and greed. Lemmie gave a bunch of ran around the barn answers. #KimmieScott

what I love and respect about Funky Dineva is the fact that when it's time to step up and step out of that lane, Quentin Latham will get you ALL the way together without being disrespectful. He hits from the hip intellectually and with precision. What Quentin said. Is what Quentin said.

"About face and singing dixies" 😭😭😭😭😭😭😃I'm weak!!!

I will say this - I watched Joseline’s Cabaret from Season 1. I thought it was amazing and a great, uncomfortable conversation about sex work. There was one fight that laid the groundwork for season 2, but that original conversation about sex work and how it’s treated in society. I would’ve liked to have that conversation still happen and actually see Joseline create a female-run Cabaret that goes against the patriarchy. Lemme did have the creative direction to continue this conversation and even bring in professionals to join in the convo, but chose to show violence is difficult to see. I also think The Conversation could’ve been amazing with a therapeutic element to it, now it’s just fighting. We saw Tommie drunk on set and there was no intervention, same with Hazel she was a few weeks post partum and Masika threw a glass at her. At a certain point like Dineva is saying it becomes low hanging fruit just about violence.

Q, Lem literally said that the content tends to be a bit more edgy & provocative than what we see on network tv, because it’s an app. He said this! You also said here that Lem went on to talk about him being a black man & selling his first show to BET at 21-years-old. First of all, that’s a big deal. Second, you’re entire argument was based on his status as a black male CEO. You literally said that he has a moral obligation to essentially air content that isn’t so salacious. So it isn’t exactly nonsensical that he mentioned his status as a black man. Personally, I do not think he has moral obligation to do anything. The same argument has often been posed about Mona Scott Young- that because she’s black, she shouldn’t showcase content like LHH. The consumers, however, love these shows. They are the ones who determine whether a show becomes a hit. Are we supposed to hold black entrepreneurs’ feet to the fire because they’re giving the Joselines & Natalies of the world a platform to showcase their stories?

Lemmie left me thinking that his network was actually trash

I ain’t NEVA clicked so damn fast in my life!!!! I been waiting on this all night 🍿

That Claudia shit took me out. 🤣🤣🤣

i rolled my eyes so hard when he tried to use the black card. sir you know you are putting out trash! viacom has been put on blast as well!

It’s the hypocrisy as if you don’t work for or commentate on similar “trash” tv. He’s very right about what he says and you proved his points right. Just because you didn’t like his answers, doesn’t mean he was wrong

Thank you for not being afraid to hold US accountable. When you know better you do better. He knows exactly what he's doing. So be big and bad an OWN up to it...Be firm in your stance if you feel you are right. Deflecting, and overtalking doesn't change the flava of the tea.

🤣 It's so funny to me when some of us do the "hating on another black man", "protect black women", misogynoir, "you're being transphobic/homophobic", "you're an agent", and "are you FBA/B1" when you try to call out black people's specific actions. Pair that with the "but white people do it too" as a deflection.

This was a funny interview but I'm so glad someone told this guy the truth. Limmie Don't care because it's all about money for him. He don't care about black people just money and fame.

I only know about Zeus because of the advertisements mostly on blogs and they only advertise the “fighting/ratchet” shows. I had no idea he had other shows on his network.

I AGREE with you 100% ! Keep speaking this truth, somebody gotta do it.

You took control of the interview which I’m not mad at Al and Claudia wasn’t ready for that lol 😂

He answered the questions exactly how you said he should. He said they don't have advertising so they aren't subjective to what regular TV is and he said that the most popular shows are the trash ones. AND how is it his job to be responsible for what grown ass adults chose to do?? You got up there and decided to exploit yourself. How is that his responsibility

Just finished watching that interview clip and yes he is very smart but a little too smart. He knows how to dodge certain questions and throw those questions back at people. like that is his tool to defend himself. Like i commented in the interview comments, he uses this “we paid you, you got a check” thing to hold over people so they can’t bash them. And i’m glad you came over to your OWN shit because Claudia got a Zeus check and wasn’t trying to have any problems with them, the people who paid her. Same thing they did to Luenell when she was bashing them, “we paid you” aka we gave you a check, what’s the problem.

He showed who he was! he showed his character and omg the interview was good cause he fell into a trap in which he dug himself, you all did so good even though you guys didn't get a chance to speak 👏Lemmie Sir don't talk to Q this way have some respect you were gaslighting us and we didn't fall for it, own your ish omg iim getting so angry 😂

Dineva I love these conversations within our community too! I think this conversation is so dynamic and necessary. I wrote an entire dissertation and then erased it… I don’t wanna be that girl… so all I’ll say is I’ve never been this torn about an issue in my life. I truly see both sides!

Claudia instigated a fight on the One Mo Chance reunion. That’s why Lemmie asked her “ Did you start any fights?” to Claudia in the tone he did. These girls just fought and Claudia asked them if they wanted to fight again in the middle of them yelling. 🙄

Your two cent was all the way spot on. I watched the entire interview and the Zeus guy wanted to control the conversation and change the narrative to fit his point of view. He definitely reminded Claudia and she seem to have followed the coins…lol Funky, thanks for keeping it a buck!!

I saw it last night, you did a great job Q! He was doing a lot of talking but saying nothing!! I’m proud of you for standing your ground. I feel like Al had a lot to say but wasn’t allowed to do so, Claudia on the other hand was brown nosing!!!

Whether he agreed with you or not, the way he conducted himself in that interview was disgraceful. He is scorned.

I hear you Funky. I think there's a lot to unpack.. it would be awesome if you two could have a conversation one day, one-on-one. To me, it would be nice if the toxicity was also explored related to the fat-shaming jokes and other potentially hurtful comments on your ads for the products you sell at the start of your video. I'm sure it sells your products, I'm sure people find it funny, but it is also pretty low-hanging fruit to me. And that is something you have the power to potentially change.

Babyyyy I knew you was going to make a video after that mess Plummer was talking about!!

Yup, I’ve seen a ton of his interviews ( very well spoken) however he never says NOTHING. He has mastered the art of gas-lighting & talking his way out of hard questions.

I think you came into the interview hot, and that made him become defensive. I think that had your delivery been better, he would’ve had the conversation with you. I agree with him. If Viacom can do it, why can’t he? Yes he does have a cultural responsibility, and he has fulfilled that with other content.

Funky, I adore you, but I agree with Lemmie on this (except for when he tried to put words in your mouth). He's not obligated to be socially responsible for the content that he puts out on his network and the consumer has the option to watch it or not. I'm not and will likely never be a subscriber of Zeus because none of their shows are my cup of tea. People have choices 🤷🏾‍♀

PROUD OF YOU. NO BACK PEDALLING OVER HERE MITCH! Even on the topic of Claudia. I was so sick of her

He deflected because he know what shit he provides is deplorable. The “accomplishments”, yeah we can’t take that away but, the truth and message still remains the same DEPLORABLE.

I'm late to the party but, truly on time after watching Tea-GIF(the playback that is🙄). I honestly felt hijacked from what I look forward to watching on playback however, this video came right on time to save the day to EVERYTHING I felt and some with the best twist of humor that I love from you. That talk back from Claudia and the look on Al face and you letting the foolishness roll off your back was the professionalism that we need to see on display. Keep up the great work it so looks GREAT on you.

He did a lot of deflecting and used a lot of manipulative tactics…. I honestly feel like you need to interview him on this platform… it’ll be raw and transparent….

I never heard of Zeus but I wish yall would’ve talked more about how to own a network. I want a network 😂

So funny thing is, I actually agreed with your sentiments prior to the interview even tho I enjoy trashy tv myself (I watched baddies) but after that interview I’ll never support Zeus again. The gaslighting and the weaponizing of black success was far too much. Two things can be true; you can be extremely successful and giving people the fix they want and it could not be of quality. IE: McDonalds. And this goes beyond the toxicity of the content. As you mentioned; the story telling isn’t clear, the editing isn’t that great, the production (camera men) aren’t either.

Whew Funky I’m glad you said it! I’m so sick of the redesigned 2022 minstrel show that is being propagated by black folks. It’s old and ignorant and it projects a deficit and negative characterization of black people. Ole’ boy needs to get on his history!

He literally did Luenell the same way. He's an embarrassment to black People if you ask me.

Lemuel literally said and made the point that he is giving his audience what they want…and he also told you guys that he had many other shows and programming, but no ones watching the positive stuff. To your point, Lemmie is not the problem, “we” (those that watch the negative stuff) are. Thanks for this fair video. 💕

Yesss Claudia really Song another tune from her previous statements and I would be watching her ‼️ and you and Al held it down your Correct in all your Statements yes it can be entertaining but it can be more

Maaaaan I could tell the look on Funky's face, he was about to make a video and I'm here for it! That man made me feel some kinda way...

Thank you for this. “Exploiting the lowest denominator of the culture” hence the bigger picture being blocked for self-serving reasons.

Yep, I was waiting for this 😊😊😊😊😊

Glad you stood your ground, he can't come at everyone like he did Luenell

This is constructive criticism done right! You didn't attack the person, just challenged his ideals. Great job!

He was gaslighting you. He knows what you were saying.

I just didn’t like that interview. He was an asshole. I mean I get it. You have to defend your brand. But you have to be open to constructive criticism

I've never watched anything on Zeus Network and have no desire! Just looking at the clips on Social media, it's not for me!!! Q, I'm glad you did this breakdown because it shows that I'm not missing anything over there!!!

🤣🤣😂😂 LOL when he started talking about Claudia doing the about face, and Al couldn't get a word in I'll hollered. 🤣🤣🤣 Your a real one Q.😘

He hijacked and over talked!!! Whewwww Chile my head got to spinning !!

Yessss! I was hoping you’d do a follow up!!

I work in programming and I will tell you that there is more to getting the numbers up than just having the programming accessible. He has more power than you think...

Wow 😮 love that you can keep it real with Claudia like that. Honestly that’s why Claudia hired you too 👀

Once again Funky, a well rounded, thought out observation and discourse. I so love you for that special talent. Yes! You need to have Lemme on your show uninterrupted; there was so much to be had as a viewer if you guys we're left to grow the debate/discussion. (This was not Claudia's shining moment 🤫)

Funky you are correct, just as our environment is comfortable with going live in their telephones to show case fights. Lemme just put it in a bigger platform. Allowing our people to tear each other down in front of the world. There has to be some form of control. What’s gonna happen when these same people attempt beating his ass. Will that be ok because that’s what everybody wants! And we are happy to see us doing great. Just not in a place where it’s embarrassing us in front of the world-just like them other folks!

Both of you all had valid points but what was particularly interesting was the point he made that yall do trash news as well. Valid point.

Y'all handled that interview very well

Lemmie definitely hijacked the conversation, and I don't condone encouraging people to physically fight. Not a good look. However, I love when people have their own and have the ability to do what they love and make good money doing it, and not have to answer to a toxic boss. Kudos to all of you who are able to do it 👏

We can always count on you for the real! Great commentary Q!! You saw right thru his BS

Had a chance to watch the interview..I think everyone held their own and I'm not defending Lemmie but people have been programmed to gravitate to messy behavior..that's what brings $$$ and ratings..ask Mona Scott, Shaunie Oneal, etc.

Lemmie doesn’t promote his other shows like he does the BBCLA or The Caberet…

He proved his point and he got with you

Q, you are speaking for the masses(for those of us who have a moral compass ).🙏🏽

As a CEO he’s not going to say my shows are trash. There’s an audience and like all company’s goal is to make money. Until people stop watching thus no money in it, it’ll continue. Hopefully we can have other quality shows to counter but TRASH SELLS Q, I do appreciate your honest line of questions during the interview.

I knew a video was coming about that interview and the back and forth between you two...he definitely hijacked it!!

I actually watched it and I found that you were more fired up than he. Was it edited?? I felt that he answered the questions very eloquently and professionally. I do feel that he shifted the narrative from negative to positive (for me). You degraded his business, his network, and the Talent on the network. I feel that he defended his business to the 10th power. He had valid points when he said that you don't attack the white networks that showcases violence, ghetto behavior, or straight BS. People won't always agree with others point of views and will have to agree to disagree. As a "journalist", it appears that you wanted smoke with him asap.... To the point where you told Al that you"had it"...as if u wanted to "get him together". How is that professional? You can't tell him how to speak. He told you that he had a market for the content that he publishes and customers that pay for it. What else do you want from him?? Ive watch you and have been for years but I think you were wrong. I feel that the producers and Claudia felt that you were out of line as well.... Hence the redirection after the commercial break. Professionalism is key no matter what profession it is. I look forward to Fridays show. Peace and love ❤️

I actually think now that you've seen his entire catalog and he sees your full perspective, you could have productive dialogue. I think this is a much greater, and much needed conversation.

I totally agree with you and I’m so tired of it I seen it one and had to turn because it is toxic but I do understand that the family friendly ones don’t get much play or conversations Keep doing what you do funky

Yeees I can watch TGIF Recap THEN this at work tonight🔥🔥🔥 I’m bout to have 0 productivity

And stop saying your nobody Q. You have accomplished a lot and overcame more. We see you too love.💙

I'm so thankful for this video!! We really have to do some internal housecleaning. Thank you Funky!!!

This followup was very fair and honest. You held his feet to the fire and yet didn't rip him apart and highlighted his good work as much as you pointed out the trash. You also made the very good point that it is just as much our job not to watch it and speak against that type behavior and content and teach our children not to think that's cute. That type of content is highlighting and reinforces problematic behavior. Our children see it and mimic it because they think it must be o.k. because these stars are doing it on T.V. Unfortunately some of our less-than-smart adults think if someone sees them on social medial acting like this they'll get sign to a reality T.V. show and grab a bag for bad behavior as well. It's on us as much as it is on him.

I appreciate you standing in your truth when it came to this topic in that interview. I was high watching that interview and he was talking so much and going around in circles I was wondering if I was hallucinating. He didn’t accept any responsibility and he was defending the BS.