Laman Rucker

Essence Honors 'Do Right Men,' Laman Rucker, Jaheim Make The Cut

Laman Rucker

Essence Magazine revealed its final list of 'Do Right Men' this week including Hollywood stars Laman Rucker and Lance Gross; R&B crooner Jaheim; and Atlanta Falcon's fullback Ovie Mughelli.

Chronicling over 30 single black men including businessmen, artists, ballers and everyday heroes, Essence sat each gentleman down to find out why they love black women, what they consider doing right and for the ladies...what they consider a romantic evening.

Hollywood actor Laman Rucker, who is known for roles in Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married" and the UPN series "Half & Half," was selected based upon his 'do right' attitude off camera. According to Essence, the Pittsburgh-born thespian speaks nationwide about the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness with BET's Rap-It-Up Campaign. Since 1998 the organization has provided testing initiatives, speaking forums and school events reaching millions across the country. "There is a staggering number of people in our community who we are losing to this disease," says Rucker. "I believe that a big part of being an artist is social responsibility and activism."

As for the ladies and how he would treat his woman he says "I knew my lady [at the time] had a stressful day and was feeling really tense. She came home and I didn't let her touch anything or do anything. I cooked her dinner, rubbed her feet and prepared the bathroom, and made sure it smelled nice before we took a shower together."

In addition to Rucker, R&B crooner Jaheim was also deemed a 'Do Right Man' for his work with teens. According to Essence, Jaheim established the Urban Dreams Foundation, a youth outreach initiative that also builds affordable housing in the Newark, New Jersey area. When asked why he loves women Jaheim responded "We can't function without them." According to Essence, although a sexy serenade is clearly in his repertoire, Jaheim also likes to treat his women to some home-cooked comfort food.

While Essence chronicled a number of 'Do Right Men,' one R&B crooner by the name of R.Kelly was not so lucky as the magazine noted R.Kelly as 2008's #1 'Do Wrong Man.' Lebron James, O.J. Simpson, T.I. and Michael Vick were also named 'Do Wrong Men'.

For more on Essence's Do Right Men 2008 feature, visit Essence.com to review the 'Do Right Men' profiles..