Helping children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships
Celebrity supporters
Big Brothers Big Sisters has 10 known supporters, including Michael Jackson, Tim Allen, and Hill Harper
Areas of work ChildrenAt-Risk/Disadvantaged Youths Read more about Big Brothers Big Sisters's work and celebrity supporters. Related articles Hill Harper Becomes A Scholarship NamesakeBarry Manilow To Play Concerts For 25 CharitiesICAP To Hold 17th Annual Charity DaySamuel L. Jackson To Lead Celebrity Charity Golf TournamentKathy Ireland To Be Honored For Charity Work
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Copyright © 2024 Look To The Stars. This article may not be reproduced without explicit written permission; if you are not reading this via email or in your news reader, the site you are viewing is illegally infringing our copyright, and we would be grateful if you would contact us.
Celebrity supporters
Big Brothers Big Sisters has 10 known supporters, including Michael Jackson, Tim Allen, and Hill Harper
Areas of work ChildrenAt-Risk/Disadvantaged Youths Read more about Big Brothers Big Sisters's work and celebrity supporters. Related articles Hill Harper Becomes A Scholarship NamesakeBarry Manilow To Play Concerts For 25 CharitiesICAP To Hold 17th Annual Charity DaySamuel L. Jackson To Lead Celebrity Charity Golf TournamentKathy Ireland To Be Honored For Charity Work
Explore celebrities by social reach, cause, location, field and more with Insider Access →
Copyright © 2024 Look To The Stars. This article may not be reproduced without explicit written permission; if you are not reading this via email or in your news reader, the site you are viewing is illegally infringing our copyright, and we would be grateful if you would contact us.
- 4/26/2024
- Look to the Stars
Michael Jackson‘s “Billie Jean” deeply impressed an important R&b musician. He said that the track could have been transformed into 12 different hit songs if Jackson had divided it up in a certain way. The R&b icon discussed how he tries to find songs similar to “Billie Jean” every day.
An R&b maetro explained why ‘Billie Jean’ is Michael Jackson’s masterpiece
Antonio “L.A.” Reid is a major pop/R&b producer. He has worked with stars like Boys II Men, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton. In a 2011 essay he wrote for Rolling Stone, he said the King of Pop was the best entertainer of all time, comparing him to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Reid recalled seeing The Jackson 5 at a state fair when he was young. Reid recalled Jackson’s voice resonating throughout the fairground.
“‘Billie Jean’ is the most important record he made,...
An R&b maetro explained why ‘Billie Jean’ is Michael Jackson’s masterpiece
Antonio “L.A.” Reid is a major pop/R&b producer. He has worked with stars like Boys II Men, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton. In a 2011 essay he wrote for Rolling Stone, he said the King of Pop was the best entertainer of all time, comparing him to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Reid recalled seeing The Jackson 5 at a state fair when he was young. Reid recalled Jackson’s voice resonating throughout the fairground.
“‘Billie Jean’ is the most important record he made,...
- 4/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Blood on the Dance Floor” is one of the most underrated songs of the “Thriller” singer‘s career. While the song’s funky instrumental is fascinatingly dark, the song’s backstory is even darker. The song’s producer revealed that the King of Pop wasn’t even aware of the creepy coincidence behind “Blood on the Dance Floor.”
The connection between Michael Jackson’s ‘Blood on the Dance Floor’ and a shooting
In the 1990s, the “Man in the Mirror” star started experimenting with the R&b subgenre known as new jack swing. Who better to help him than Teddy Riley, the lead singer of the band Blackstreet? Riley worked with Jackson on the final three studio albums the King of Pop released in his lifetime — Dangerous, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, and Invincible — as well as the remix album Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix.
The connection between Michael Jackson’s ‘Blood on the Dance Floor’ and a shooting
In the 1990s, the “Man in the Mirror” star started experimenting with the R&b subgenre known as new jack swing. Who better to help him than Teddy Riley, the lead singer of the band Blackstreet? Riley worked with Jackson on the final three studio albums the King of Pop released in his lifetime — Dangerous, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, and Invincible — as well as the remix album Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix.
- 4/26/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Pet Shop Boys vocalist Neil Tennant has questioned whether Taylor Swift has a song as “famous” as Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.”
During a conversation with The Guardian’s head rock and pop critic Alexis Petridisi livestreamed earlier this week, the topic turned to the ubiquitous pop star. While Tennant admitted Swift is a compelling figure, the singer said he finds her actual music “disappointing.”
Get Taylor Swift Tickets Here
“Taylor Swift sort of fascinates me as a phenomenon because she’s so popular and I sort of quite like the whole thing,” Tennant said. “But then when I listen to the records — we both have the same feeling actually — for a phenomenon as big [as she is]… where are the famous songs? What is Taylor Swift’s ‘Billie Jean’?”
After an audience member brought up “Shake It Off,” Tennant responded: “Is it though? No, ’cause I actually even know that that’s the answer,...
During a conversation with The Guardian’s head rock and pop critic Alexis Petridisi livestreamed earlier this week, the topic turned to the ubiquitous pop star. While Tennant admitted Swift is a compelling figure, the singer said he finds her actual music “disappointing.”
Get Taylor Swift Tickets Here
“Taylor Swift sort of fascinates me as a phenomenon because she’s so popular and I sort of quite like the whole thing,” Tennant said. “But then when I listen to the records — we both have the same feeling actually — for a phenomenon as big [as she is]… where are the famous songs? What is Taylor Swift’s ‘Billie Jean’?”
After an audience member brought up “Shake It Off,” Tennant responded: “Is it though? No, ’cause I actually even know that that’s the answer,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Eddie Fu
- Consequence - Music
The Beatles were the best rock ‘n’ roll band ever, but there was one way in which Michael Jackson surpassed them. The King of Pop was simply a better entertainer than the Fab Four. That is not to say he always made superior music — but the “Thriller” singer had some gifts that The Beatles did not.
1 way Michael Jackson’s era was better than The Beatles’
The Beatles gave the world many of the best and most innovative pop songs of all time, including “Tomorrow Never Knows,” “Strawberry Fields Forever,” and “A Day in the Life.” However, their live performances never quite lived up to the magic they made in the studio. They would play professionally, but they weren’t much for razzle-dazzle. They were a band of their time. The Beatles stopped making music before 1970s acts like David Bowie, Kiss, and Alice Cooper revolutionized live shows and made them more theatrical.
1 way Michael Jackson’s era was better than The Beatles’
The Beatles gave the world many of the best and most innovative pop songs of all time, including “Tomorrow Never Knows,” “Strawberry Fields Forever,” and “A Day in the Life.” However, their live performances never quite lived up to the magic they made in the studio. They would play professionally, but they weren’t much for razzle-dazzle. They were a band of their time. The Beatles stopped making music before 1970s acts like David Bowie, Kiss, and Alice Cooper revolutionized live shows and made them more theatrical.
- 4/25/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Britney Spears is one of numerous female pop stars who will be forever compared to Madonna. Fascinatingly, Spears said two of Madonna’s songs sound timeless to her. The two songs have nothing in common.
Britney Spears called 2 Madonna songs ‘iconic’ in an essay she wrote for Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone ranked Madonna No. 36 on their list of the best artists of all time. As part of that article, the “… Baby One More Time” star explained why she admires the Queen of Pop. “Madonna was the first female pop star to take control of every aspect of her career and to take responsibility for creating her image, no matter how much flak she might get,” she wrote. “She’s proved that she can do so many different things — music and movies and being a parent, too.
“Her music has become iconic: Songs like ‘Holiday’ or ‘Live to Tell’ are timeless — not just disposable hits,...
Britney Spears called 2 Madonna songs ‘iconic’ in an essay she wrote for Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone ranked Madonna No. 36 on their list of the best artists of all time. As part of that article, the “… Baby One More Time” star explained why she admires the Queen of Pop. “Madonna was the first female pop star to take control of every aspect of her career and to take responsibility for creating her image, no matter how much flak she might get,” she wrote. “She’s proved that she can do so many different things — music and movies and being a parent, too.
“Her music has become iconic: Songs like ‘Holiday’ or ‘Live to Tell’ are timeless — not just disposable hits,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After five long years, “Have a Nice Day” director Liu Jian returns to New York with his newest project, “Art College 1994.” This hotly-anticipated feature checks off all the boxes. It cements Liu Jian's stamp as a rising animation auteur in China; it marks the completed its world tour at Berlinale, Annecy, New York Asian Film Festival, and more; and, what's more, the film features a star-studded voice cast that spans intellectuals, musicians, and other movie directors, including Jia Zhangke and Bi Gan.
Here, we catch a glimpse of a group of students at the Chinese Southern Academy of the Arts. Like many students, they seem to be suspended in a daze of malaise, and of them, Zhang Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) is especially lost. His best friend, Rabbit (Shaoxing), encourages Xiaojun to expand his practice to conceptual art. His crush, the soft-spoken piano student Hao Lili (Zhou Dongyu), is swayed by...
Here, we catch a glimpse of a group of students at the Chinese Southern Academy of the Arts. Like many students, they seem to be suspended in a daze of malaise, and of them, Zhang Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) is especially lost. His best friend, Rabbit (Shaoxing), encourages Xiaojun to expand his practice to conceptual art. His crush, the soft-spoken piano student Hao Lili (Zhou Dongyu), is swayed by...
- 4/24/2024
- by Grace Han
- AsianMoviePulse
Acclaimed writer John Logan will adapt Pulitzer Prize-winning author Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian” novel into a feature film for director John Hillcoat.
Hillcoat is also producing along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. Cormac McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer, while Cormac, who died in June 2023, will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
“It’s incredibly exciting to have John Logan on board,” John Francis said. “Very reassuring in the seemingly long list of good news concerning what was originally such an intimidating undertaking.”
The project was originally set up with director James Franco and star Russell Crowe in 2016, but fell apart over rights to the book.
Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, “Blood Meridian” follows the journey of the Kid, a fourteen-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.
Logan, a three-time Oscar nominee,...
Hillcoat is also producing along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. Cormac McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer, while Cormac, who died in June 2023, will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
“It’s incredibly exciting to have John Logan on board,” John Francis said. “Very reassuring in the seemingly long list of good news concerning what was originally such an intimidating undertaking.”
The project was originally set up with director James Franco and star Russell Crowe in 2016, but fell apart over rights to the book.
Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, “Blood Meridian” follows the journey of the Kid, a fourteen-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.
Logan, a three-time Oscar nominee,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Katcy Stephan
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar-nominated screenwriter John Logan has come aboard New Regency’s adaptation of the Cormac McCarthy novel Blood Meridian.
Logan, whose credits include Skyfall, The Aviator, Gladiator, and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, joins previously announced director John Hillcoat on the project.
Hillcoat will produce alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son John Francis McCarthy will serve as executive producer, and Cormac McCarthy will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
Blood Meridian is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s and follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the...
Logan, whose credits include Skyfall, The Aviator, Gladiator, and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, joins previously announced director John Hillcoat on the project.
Hillcoat will produce alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son John Francis McCarthy will serve as executive producer, and Cormac McCarthy will receive a posthumous executive producer credit.
Blood Meridian is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s and follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the...
- 4/24/2024
- ScreenDaily
Cormac McCarthy’s “Blood Meridian” has been one of the trickiest classic novels to adapt for the screen, but it now has a three-time Oscar nominee who may finally crack it.
John Logan, the writer of “Gladiator,” “The Aviator,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Skyfall,” and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” has been tapped to adapt “Blood Meridian” into a feature film.
Last year, New Regency announced it was developing a feature film based on the 1985 Western novel, and the studio attached John Hillcoat — who previously directed McCarthy’s “The Road” — to direct the film. Hillcoat is also directing and producing “Blood Meridian” alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency.
Cormac McCarthy is getting a posthumous executive producer credit on the film, and his son John Francis McCarthy is also serving as an EP.
“Blood Meridian” is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s. The story follows the journey of The Kid,...
John Logan, the writer of “Gladiator,” “The Aviator,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Skyfall,” and the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” has been tapped to adapt “Blood Meridian” into a feature film.
Last year, New Regency announced it was developing a feature film based on the 1985 Western novel, and the studio attached John Hillcoat — who previously directed McCarthy’s “The Road” — to direct the film. Hillcoat is also directing and producing “Blood Meridian” alongside Keith Redmon for New Regency.
Cormac McCarthy is getting a posthumous executive producer credit on the film, and his son John Francis McCarthy is also serving as an EP.
“Blood Meridian” is based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s. The story follows the journey of The Kid,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
John Logan — the writer behind Aviator and James Bond movie Skyfall — has been tapped to adapt Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian for New Regency.
The synopsis for the Western, known for its descriptive violence, reads: “Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, the story follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.”
As previously announced, John Hillcoat, who directed McCarthy adaptation The Road, will helm. Hillcoat will produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer with McCarthy receiving a posthumous credit.
Said Morgan, “Blood Meridian has been one of my favorite novels since first reading it in 1985. It’s a majestic, beautiful and uncompromising book and I’m thrilled to be able to help bring Cormac McCarthy’s dark masterpiece to the screen.
The synopsis for the Western, known for its descriptive violence, reads: “Based on historical conflicts along the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, the story follows the journey of the Kid, a 14-year-old from Tennessee, as he navigates the brutal and harrowing landscape of this new era.”
As previously announced, John Hillcoat, who directed McCarthy adaptation The Road, will helm. Hillcoat will produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency. McCarthy’s son, John Francis McCarthy, will serve as executive producer with McCarthy receiving a posthumous credit.
Said Morgan, “Blood Meridian has been one of my favorite novels since first reading it in 1985. It’s a majestic, beautiful and uncompromising book and I’m thrilled to be able to help bring Cormac McCarthy’s dark masterpiece to the screen.
- 4/24/2024
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Three time Oscar-nominated scribe John Logan is adapting National Book Award-winning author Cormac McCarthy’s novel Blood Meridian or The Evening Redness in the West for the big screen for New Regency.
John Hillcoat, who previously adapted McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Road, will direct and produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency.
The sprawling novel is widely considered one of the greatest works of American literature. Published in 1985, Blood Meridian or The Evening Redness in the West is an epic tale of the violence and depravity that attended America’s westward expansion which brilliantly subverts the conventions of the Western novel and the mythology of the Wild West. Based on historical events that took place on the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, it traces the fortunes of a 14-year-old Tennesseean who stumbles into a nightmarish world where Indians are being murdered and the market for their scalps is thriving.
John Hillcoat, who previously adapted McCarthy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Road, will direct and produce along with Keith Redmon for New Regency.
The sprawling novel is widely considered one of the greatest works of American literature. Published in 1985, Blood Meridian or The Evening Redness in the West is an epic tale of the violence and depravity that attended America’s westward expansion which brilliantly subverts the conventions of the Western novel and the mythology of the Wild West. Based on historical events that took place on the Texas-Mexico border in the 1850s, it traces the fortunes of a 14-year-old Tennesseean who stumbles into a nightmarish world where Indians are being murdered and the market for their scalps is thriving.
- 4/24/2024
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Jennifer Garner, Mark Ruffalo and Judy Greer reunited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of 13 Going on 30.
The trio shared on social media a video of the three of them reminiscing about the rom-com, which premiered in 2004.
“We are three Boomers braving zoom—because we want to thank you,” read the caption of the Instagram video. “To every person who has loved this movie along with us: Thank You. We see you, we appreciate you and we love you back. Forever thirty, flirty and thriving!”
“Twenty years ago, we were just on little — did we have — we had cell phones,” Garner said of the technological advances since the movie dropped at the turn of the century.
Ruffalo, who has played Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, says he gets “way more 13 Going on 30” people saying, “There’s two types of people in this world. There’s Hulk people, and there’s 13 Going on 30 people,...
The trio shared on social media a video of the three of them reminiscing about the rom-com, which premiered in 2004.
“We are three Boomers braving zoom—because we want to thank you,” read the caption of the Instagram video. “To every person who has loved this movie along with us: Thank You. We see you, we appreciate you and we love you back. Forever thirty, flirty and thriving!”
“Twenty years ago, we were just on little — did we have — we had cell phones,” Garner said of the technological advances since the movie dropped at the turn of the century.
Ruffalo, who has played Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, says he gets “way more 13 Going on 30” people saying, “There’s two types of people in this world. There’s Hulk people, and there’s 13 Going on 30 people,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Many of Michael Jackson‘s posthumously released songs are available on streaming. Three were removed. One member of Jackson’s family questioned their authenticity.
La Toya Jackson said some Michael Jackson songs removed from streaming are fishy
Jackson’s musical legacy is still being felt after his death in major ways. Following his death, the King of Pop’s estate put out two albums of previously unreleased material: 2010’s Michael and 2014’s Xscape. Some of the songs from Michael turned heads due to allegations the vocalist singing them was not Jackson.
According to NPR, Jackson’s sister, La Toya, once sewed seeds of doubt. “I am shocked that things have gotten this far,” she tweeted. “This is ridiculous. I was at the studio when these questionable files were delivered. I heard these ‘so-called’ Michael Jackson songs raw and without the distraction of the well-produced music by Teddy Riley. How they...
La Toya Jackson said some Michael Jackson songs removed from streaming are fishy
Jackson’s musical legacy is still being felt after his death in major ways. Following his death, the King of Pop’s estate put out two albums of previously unreleased material: 2010’s Michael and 2014’s Xscape. Some of the songs from Michael turned heads due to allegations the vocalist singing them was not Jackson.
According to NPR, Jackson’s sister, La Toya, once sewed seeds of doubt. “I am shocked that things have gotten this far,” she tweeted. “This is ridiculous. I was at the studio when these questionable files were delivered. I heard these ‘so-called’ Michael Jackson songs raw and without the distraction of the well-produced music by Teddy Riley. How they...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Part of why Michael Jackson‘s “Man in the Mirror” is so powerful is that the King of Pop had an incredible singing voice. Despite that, he was trying to sound like another 1980s singer. That singer revealed what she thought when she learned Jackson was trying so hard to sound like her.
The writer of Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ tells her story
Siedah Garrett co-wrote “Man in the Mirror,” which might be Jackson’s most famous ballad. During an interview with Blue Railroad, Garrett said that Jackson wanted to sound like Garrett when he recorded the song. “That was such a high compliment,” Garrett said. “We’d finished the part we had to fix on the duet so I was getting ready to leave. I was packing up and he said, ‘Where you goin?’ I said, ‘Aren’t we done? Isn’t this history, dude?’
“He said,...
The writer of Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ tells her story
Siedah Garrett co-wrote “Man in the Mirror,” which might be Jackson’s most famous ballad. During an interview with Blue Railroad, Garrett said that Jackson wanted to sound like Garrett when he recorded the song. “That was such a high compliment,” Garrett said. “We’d finished the part we had to fix on the duet so I was getting ready to leave. I was packing up and he said, ‘Where you goin?’ I said, ‘Aren’t we done? Isn’t this history, dude?’
“He said,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” isn’t a spooky song like “Thriller,” but it still made Quincy Jones nervous. One of Jackson’s collaborators explained why. She also said the King of Pop was not who the media portrayed him to be.
Michael Jackson’s ‘I Just Can’t Stop Loving You’ has a connection to ‘Man in the Mirror’
Siedah Garrett is a singer who will always be mentioned in the same breath as the King of Pop. Her two most famous songs are from Jackson’s album Bad. One is “Man in the Mirror,” which she co-wrote. The other is the pop ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” a duet between her and the “Thriller” star.
While “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” seems innocuous, Garrett told Blue Railroad that Jones had an issue with it. “Quincy said he listened...
Michael Jackson’s ‘I Just Can’t Stop Loving You’ has a connection to ‘Man in the Mirror’
Siedah Garrett is a singer who will always be mentioned in the same breath as the King of Pop. Her two most famous songs are from Jackson’s album Bad. One is “Man in the Mirror,” which she co-wrote. The other is the pop ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” a duet between her and the “Thriller” star.
While “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” seems innocuous, Garrett told Blue Railroad that Jones had an issue with it. “Quincy said he listened...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Madonna released more hits than just about anyone but not all of them are vocally challenging. Despite this, her co-writer said one of her hits proves the Material Girl has the best singing voice ever. He also revealed what he thinks of people who don’t see her as a real artist.
Madonna’s songwriter said 1 hit proved she could singer better than these rock stars
Though he is not a household name, Patrick Leonard is one of the most important songwriters in pop history. He worked with Madonna on many of her best songs from the 1980s and 1990s, including “Like a Prayer,” “La Isla Bonita,” “Live to Tell,” “Cherish,” and “Frozen.” During a 2017 interview with Boy Culture, the songwriter said he was upset by critics who felt Madonna was not a real artist, whatever that means.
“There’s people with a more controlled voice — the word ‘better’ is not fair,...
Madonna’s songwriter said 1 hit proved she could singer better than these rock stars
Though he is not a household name, Patrick Leonard is one of the most important songwriters in pop history. He worked with Madonna on many of her best songs from the 1980s and 1990s, including “Like a Prayer,” “La Isla Bonita,” “Live to Tell,” “Cherish,” and “Frozen.” During a 2017 interview with Boy Culture, the songwriter said he was upset by critics who felt Madonna was not a real artist, whatever that means.
“There’s people with a more controlled voice — the word ‘better’ is not fair,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Michael Jackson biopic movie Michael, being directed by Antoine Fuqua from a script by John Logan, has been ramping up on the casting front since Deadline first broke the story of the project in January 2023. The film is underway on production ahead of an April 18, 2025 release date via Lionsgate and Universal.
The film will focus on Jackson’s career highlights beginning with the days he fronted the Jackson 5 to becoming the world’s biggest star but also deal with the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50.
Casting started at the beginning. when Fuqua and producer Graham King tapped Jackson’s nephew and Jermaine Jackson’s son Jaafar to portray Michael in the singer’s prime. Juliano Krue Valdi has been set as the young Michael.
Fuqua said he’s been “blown away” by Jaafar’s resemblance to the King of Pop,...
The film will focus on Jackson’s career highlights beginning with the days he fronted the Jackson 5 to becoming the world’s biggest star but also deal with the pedophile accusations that dogged his later years up to his death in 2009 at age 50.
Casting started at the beginning. when Fuqua and producer Graham King tapped Jackson’s nephew and Jermaine Jackson’s son Jaafar to portray Michael in the singer’s prime. Juliano Krue Valdi has been set as the young Michael.
Fuqua said he’s been “blown away” by Jaafar’s resemblance to the King of Pop,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Robert Lang
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Derek Luke (Antwone Fisher) is the latest addition to Michael, the Michael Jackson biopic that Antoine Fuqua is directing for Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International, sources tell Deadline.
The actor will play famed attorney Johnnie Cochran, who repped Jackson in a 1993 child molestation case that was settled out of court. As previously announced, Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson leads the ensemble as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier and Juliano Krue Valdi among others set for key roles.
Scripted by by John Logan, Michael promises to bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. Pic will also...
The actor will play famed attorney Johnnie Cochran, who repped Jackson in a 1993 child molestation case that was settled out of court. As previously announced, Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson leads the ensemble as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier and Juliano Krue Valdi among others set for key roles.
Scripted by by John Logan, Michael promises to bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. The film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex. Pic will also...
- 4/23/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
College can be a time of great change in one's life: going it alone for the first time in training for the real world. The inclusion of the year in the title of Liu Jian's third feature “Art College 1994” is necessary in that it sets the scene for a changing time in China in terms of pop culture and, of course, art.
Art College 1994 is screening this Friday, April 26 in Metrograph, for an exclusive Week-Long NY Theatrical Run
Two roommates, Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) and Zhifei (Chizi) are art students who spend their days procrastinating, discussing the philosophy of art and the changing scene from classic to Western-influenced modern. Similarly, vocal student Hong (Papi) and piano student Lili (Zhou Dongyu) discuss their futures and possible marriages.
The two pairs mingle, with potential romantic liaisons hinted at, though their hypothetical, philosophical conversations play out in reality, as they come to...
Art College 1994 is screening this Friday, April 26 in Metrograph, for an exclusive Week-Long NY Theatrical Run
Two roommates, Xiaojun (Dong Zijian) and Zhifei (Chizi) are art students who spend their days procrastinating, discussing the philosophy of art and the changing scene from classic to Western-influenced modern. Similarly, vocal student Hong (Papi) and piano student Lili (Zhou Dongyu) discuss their futures and possible marriages.
The two pairs mingle, with potential romantic liaisons hinted at, though their hypothetical, philosophical conversations play out in reality, as they come to...
- 4/23/2024
- by Andrew Thayne
- AsianMoviePulse
Michael Jackson‘s “Man in the Mirror” is the rare pop song with a great message — a message Jesus Christ might have liked. In fact, the song seems like a paraphrase of one of the most famous passages from the gospels. Here’s a look at the spiritual dimensions of one of Jackson’s best ballads.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ is like the Sermon on the Mount
Some of Jesus Christ’s most famous teachings are in his Sermon on the Mount. Some of these statements are certainly challenging! “Do not judge, or you too will be judged,” Jesus says in Matthew 7. “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?...
Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in the Mirror’ is like the Sermon on the Mount
Some of Jesus Christ’s most famous teachings are in his Sermon on the Mount. Some of these statements are certainly challenging! “Do not judge, or you too will be judged,” Jesus says in Matthew 7. “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?...
- 4/23/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s Bad includes many of his most impressive songs. The writer of one of the album’s songs said it came from God. That’s fascinating, considering that the music video for the tune includes images of some of the most famous religious leaders who ever lived.
Michael Jackson knew a song from ‘Bad’ came from God even though nobody told him that
“Man in the Mirror” was co-written by Siedah Garrett. Grett might be most known for duetting with the King of Pop on his hit ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” During an interview with Blue Railroad, she said “Man in the Mirror” came from God. Despite this, she didn’t directly tell Jackson about its origins.
“My answer to him was that ‘I asked for it,'” she said. “I didn’t mention God because I didn’t know where he was as far as religion goes.
Michael Jackson knew a song from ‘Bad’ came from God even though nobody told him that
“Man in the Mirror” was co-written by Siedah Garrett. Grett might be most known for duetting with the King of Pop on his hit ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” During an interview with Blue Railroad, she said “Man in the Mirror” came from God. Despite this, she didn’t directly tell Jackson about its origins.
“My answer to him was that ‘I asked for it,'” she said. “I didn’t mention God because I didn’t know where he was as far as religion goes.
- 4/23/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Before Michael Jackson was a pop star in his own right, millions of Americans knew him as the lead vocalist on The Jackson 5’s “ABC.” The tune made history because of its title. Jackson released two other songs that made history for the exact same reason.
The Jackson 5’s ‘ABC’ is tied for the No. 1 single with the shortest title
Many companies measure the success of popular songs but Billboard is the most famous. When people say a song is “a No. 1 hit,” they are likely saying that the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. With The Jackson 5 and as a solo artist, Jackson was no stranger to success on the Billboard Hot 100.
Several songs are tied for having the shortest title on the Billboard Hot 100. They all have three characters in their names. Those songs include The Jackson 5’s “ABC,” Frankie Avalon’s “Why,” Edwin Starr’s “War,...
The Jackson 5’s ‘ABC’ is tied for the No. 1 single with the shortest title
Many companies measure the success of popular songs but Billboard is the most famous. When people say a song is “a No. 1 hit,” they are likely saying that the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. With The Jackson 5 and as a solo artist, Jackson was no stranger to success on the Billboard Hot 100.
Several songs are tied for having the shortest title on the Billboard Hot 100. They all have three characters in their names. Those songs include The Jackson 5’s “ABC,” Frankie Avalon’s “Why,” Edwin Starr’s “War,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
I've always been obsessed with horror. From childhood, when I bunked with my siblings and primas, we told each other spooky stories in the middle of the night to rock ourselves to sleep. Every evening we would take turns telling stories, and the stories seemed to get scarier and scarier. When it was my night to tell a story to the group, I knew I had to bring the best jump scares. I'd find myself spinning stories until my sisters' and primas' bodies would tense up in fear. I knew then that horror stories were something I could weave. There's something about having fear knotted up in your belly; it's like riding a roller coaster and waiting for the thrill of the drop.
Horror has always been a part of my life, so it felt natural for me to work on a book like "The Black Girl Survives in This One.
Horror has always been a part of my life, so it felt natural for me to work on a book like "The Black Girl Survives in This One.
- 4/22/2024
- by Saraciea Fennell
- Popsugar.com
Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney released two hit songs together in the 1980s but only made a music video for one of them. The video included a cameo by a future celebrity. One of Michael’s brothers discussed the creation of the iconic video.
Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney made a music video together for ‘Say Say Say’
Jermaine Jackson is one of Michael’s brothers. Jermaine’s voice can be heard on some of The Jackson 5’s hits. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine revealed that Michael had long wanted to work with Paul. The “Bad” hitmaker got his wish with the songs “The Girl Is Mine,” which appeared on Michael’s album Thriller, and “Say Say Say,” which Paul included on the record Pipes of Peace.
“Paul came to California to shoot the ‘Say, Say, Say’ video in which the...
Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney made a music video together for ‘Say Say Say’
Jermaine Jackson is one of Michael’s brothers. Jermaine’s voice can be heard on some of The Jackson 5’s hits. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine revealed that Michael had long wanted to work with Paul. The “Bad” hitmaker got his wish with the songs “The Girl Is Mine,” which appeared on Michael’s album Thriller, and “Say Say Say,” which Paul included on the record Pipes of Peace.
“Paul came to California to shoot the ‘Say, Say, Say’ video in which the...
- 4/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson helped define the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. For that reason, he will forever be known as one of the greatest geniuses in the history of pop and R&b music. However, the King of Pop watched another singer from the same time period in awe. He was lucky enough to watch this singer record one of the most acclaimed albums of all time.
A 1970s star told Michael Jackson to paint pictures using sound
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed his feelings toward Stevie Wonder. “Stevie was, and remains, a big friend of the family after working with us on many unreleased Jackson 5 tracks (and we did the background dooda-waps on his hit ‘You Haven’t Done Nothing’),” he explained. “We all shared the same precision: building up a song,...
A 1970s star told Michael Jackson to paint pictures using sound
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed his feelings toward Stevie Wonder. “Stevie was, and remains, a big friend of the family after working with us on many unreleased Jackson 5 tracks (and we did the background dooda-waps on his hit ‘You Haven’t Done Nothing’),” he explained. “We all shared the same precision: building up a song,...
- 4/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
R&b singer-songwriter Chris Brown is back in the news, and it’s still nothing to write back home about. This time he is on for calling out rapper Quavo in his latest track, Weakest Link. Like the latest ongoing rapper-feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, the media and fans are becoming privy to yet another duo taking shots at each other.
Chris Brown (credit: via Capital Xtra)
Chris Brown, who is no stranger to making headlines related to assault allegations, called out Quavo, whose clip of an elevator fight with his ex-girlfriend, rapper Saweetie, is going viral. Back in 2021, the ex-couple’s altercation was caught on a CCTV inside an elevator. Since Brown’s release, fans are looking back on the incident, with everyone having their own thoughts on it.
Chris Brown and Quavo’s Ongoing Feud
The feud between Chris Brown and Quavo is not that new. It...
Chris Brown (credit: via Capital Xtra)
Chris Brown, who is no stranger to making headlines related to assault allegations, called out Quavo, whose clip of an elevator fight with his ex-girlfriend, rapper Saweetie, is going viral. Back in 2021, the ex-couple’s altercation was caught on a CCTV inside an elevator. Since Brown’s release, fans are looking back on the incident, with everyone having their own thoughts on it.
Chris Brown and Quavo’s Ongoing Feud
The feud between Chris Brown and Quavo is not that new. It...
- 4/20/2024
- by Swagata Das
- FandomWire
Michael Jackson‘s “Smooth Criminal” doesn’t seem too provocative. However, one artistic choice in the song’s music video caused Jackson to leave his religion. He later looked to another celebrity for spiritual guidance.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ upset some Jehovah’s Witnesses
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine said the Jacksons were Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Jehovah’s Witnesses are a Christian denomination that began in the United States in the 19th century. They call their houses of worship “Kingdom Halls” rather than “churches.”
In 1982, Michael unintentionally upset members of his faith. Some Jehovah’s Witnesses felt that the iconic music video for “Thriller” was Satanic and asked that he not release it. That’s why the video begins with a disclaimer disavowing the occult. Jermaine dismissed the idea that there was anything evil about “Thriller,...
Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ upset some Jehovah’s Witnesses
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine said the Jacksons were Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Jehovah’s Witnesses are a Christian denomination that began in the United States in the 19th century. They call their houses of worship “Kingdom Halls” rather than “churches.”
In 1982, Michael unintentionally upset members of his faith. Some Jehovah’s Witnesses felt that the iconic music video for “Thriller” was Satanic and asked that he not release it. That’s why the video begins with a disclaimer disavowing the occult. Jermaine dismissed the idea that there was anything evil about “Thriller,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s stardom began with the release of The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back.” It took a lot to record that song and Jackson learned from the experience. The song also became the first of four No. 1 singles by The Jackson 5.
What the producer of The Jackson 5’s ‘I Want You Back’ said to Michael Jackson
Berry Gordy was the founder of Motown. He also served as one of the producers of The Jackson 5’s first (and perhaps most popular) single: “I Want You Back. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, The Jackson 5’s Jermaine Jackson discussed what Gordy did during the recording of “I Want You Back.”
“If he felt the drums needed something extra, he added it; if the bass was too busy or not busy enough, he changed it,” Jermaine wrote. “If the keyboards needed less impact, he...
What the producer of The Jackson 5’s ‘I Want You Back’ said to Michael Jackson
Berry Gordy was the founder of Motown. He also served as one of the producers of The Jackson 5’s first (and perhaps most popular) single: “I Want You Back. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, The Jackson 5’s Jermaine Jackson discussed what Gordy did during the recording of “I Want You Back.”
“If he felt the drums needed something extra, he added it; if the bass was too busy or not busy enough, he changed it,” Jermaine wrote. “If the keyboards needed less impact, he...
- 4/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Billie Jean” is a song about a man who may or may not have fathered a child with a woman he doesn’t like. One of Jackson’s brothers explained the song’s connection to Motown founder Berry Gordy. Gordy is a musical legend, but his label’s music faced some criticism from one of The Beatles.
‘Billie Jean’ was 1 of several Michael Jackson songs inspired by Motown’s Berry Gordy
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed the Motown formula. “If Americans’ brains went to Harvard, America’s talent went to Motown — and artists graduated with a lifetime’s knowledge,” he said. “‘You’re entering the finest finishing school in the business,’ Mr. Gordy told us.
“Our education was fast-track: every song should be a three-minute story with a beginning,...
‘Billie Jean’ was 1 of several Michael Jackson songs inspired by Motown’s Berry Gordy
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine discussed the Motown formula. “If Americans’ brains went to Harvard, America’s talent went to Motown — and artists graduated with a lifetime’s knowledge,” he said. “‘You’re entering the finest finishing school in the business,’ Mr. Gordy told us.
“Our education was fast-track: every song should be a three-minute story with a beginning,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
On Wednesday night, Broadway’s Marquis Theatre celebrated the official opening of the highly anticipated revival of The Wiz.
After a successful pre-Broadway tour that began last year, this new production breathes new life into the beloved musical. Under the direction of Schele Williams, known for her work on The Notebook and with choreography by JaQuel Knight, this revival promises an exciting and contemporary take on an enduring classic.
Taking on the iconic role of Dorothy is newcomer Nichelle Lewis, who brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the stage. Joining her is a star-studded cast that includes Wayne Brady as The Wiz, Deborah Cox as Glinda, Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow.
The ensemble comprises talented performers, including Allyson Kaye Daniel as Addaperle and Anthony Murphyas Lord High Underling.
After a successful pre-Broadway tour that began last year, this new production breathes new life into the beloved musical. Under the direction of Schele Williams, known for her work on The Notebook and with choreography by JaQuel Knight, this revival promises an exciting and contemporary take on an enduring classic.
Taking on the iconic role of Dorothy is newcomer Nichelle Lewis, who brings a fresh and vibrant energy to the stage. Joining her is a star-studded cast that includes Wayne Brady as The Wiz, Deborah Cox as Glinda, Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow.
The ensemble comprises talented performers, including Allyson Kaye Daniel as Addaperle and Anthony Murphyas Lord High Underling.
- 4/18/2024
- by Baila Eve Zisman
- Uinterview
Quentin Tarantino has many eyes analyzing him as of late ever since his announcement of The Movie Critic being the final feature film before he retires. Being a filmmaker with such rapport and reputation, there is no surprise that the expectations for his upcoming film were more than blooming.
While the film was supposed to mark his swan song, it seems to be getting sidetracked again and again.
Quentin Tarantino as McKenas Cole in Alias
Another report that came flying by with it was the involvement of Brad Pitt in the film. However, that does not seem to be the case. In fact, Tarantino’s focus may not even be on his final project at the moment.
SUGGESTEDQuentin Tarantino Should End His Career With This Threequel After Rumors of His Movie With Brad Pitt Getting Canceled
The filmmaker’s real goal may be far from public understanding, in a way...
While the film was supposed to mark his swan song, it seems to be getting sidetracked again and again.
Quentin Tarantino as McKenas Cole in Alias
Another report that came flying by with it was the involvement of Brad Pitt in the film. However, that does not seem to be the case. In fact, Tarantino’s focus may not even be on his final project at the moment.
SUGGESTEDQuentin Tarantino Should End His Career With This Threequel After Rumors of His Movie With Brad Pitt Getting Canceled
The filmmaker’s real goal may be far from public understanding, in a way...
- 4/18/2024
- by Adya Godboley
- FandomWire
Rap legends Salt-n-Pepa and Grandma’s Cookies have collaborated on a fresh-out-of-the-oven remix of a classic children’s tune. The iconic collaboration highlights the duo’s skills as they recreate and refresh a nursery rhyme standard. In an exclusive interview with Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Salt-n-Pepa share details of their collaboration with Grandma’s Cookies and discuss their legendary status in the rap world.
Salt-N-Pepa’s collaboration with Grandma’s Cookies is fresh, fun, and fantastic
In 1986, Salt (Cheryl James) and Pepa (Sandra Denton) released their first album, Hot, Cool & Vicious, becoming the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status by the Recording Industry Association of America. They remain one of the most legendary artists in their field, winning a Grammy Award and the industry’s Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, among other accolades. They were even featured...
Salt-N-Pepa’s collaboration with Grandma’s Cookies is fresh, fun, and fantastic
In 1986, Salt (Cheryl James) and Pepa (Sandra Denton) released their first album, Hot, Cool & Vicious, becoming the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status by the Recording Industry Association of America. They remain one of the most legendary artists in their field, winning a Grammy Award and the industry’s Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, among other accolades. They were even featured...
- 4/18/2024
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Smooth Criminal” is Satanic. It’s not a song about Satan or the occult, but it is a song about a Satanist. The King of Pop worried this could cause controversy for multiple reasons. “Smooth Criminal” wasn’t one of the biggest hits from that era of Jackson’s career, but it produced a hit cover.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal’ was inspired by a killer who worshipped Satan
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine noted the Al Capone theme of the “Smooth Criminal” video. “‘Smooth Criminal’ was actually inspired by a serial killer who spread fear throughout Los Angeles and San Francisco between 1984 and 1985,” Jermaine wrote.
“Richard Ramirez, a self-confessed devil worshipper, was the ‘Night Stalker’ who took 14 lives,” he added. “In most cases, he forced his way into people...
Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal’ was inspired by a killer who worshipped Satan
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine noted the Al Capone theme of the “Smooth Criminal” video. “‘Smooth Criminal’ was actually inspired by a serial killer who spread fear throughout Los Angeles and San Francisco between 1984 and 1985,” Jermaine wrote.
“Richard Ramirez, a self-confessed devil worshipper, was the ‘Night Stalker’ who took 14 lives,” he added. “In most cases, he forced his way into people...
- 4/18/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
It’s undeniable that Michael Jackson was the King of Pop and Madonna is the Queen of Pop — but only one of them had the higher net worth. While the two stars ruled the 1980s, they had very different careers. Shockingly, one of them was worth over a billion dollars more than the other.
Madonna’s net worth is huge
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Madonna was born on August 16, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan. She debuted with the now-forgotten single “Everybody,” but her self-titled debut album produced three subsequent hits: “Holiday,” “Borderline,” and “Lucky Star.” She became a megastar with her second album, Like a Virgin. Between the album’s title track and the song “Material Girl,” Madonna established herself as a provocative performer who was not afraid to flaunt her sexuality.
With her album Like a Prayer, the Queen of Pop started exploring spiritual topics through pop music. She reinvented herself repeatedly,...
Madonna’s net worth is huge
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Madonna was born on August 16, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan. She debuted with the now-forgotten single “Everybody,” but her self-titled debut album produced three subsequent hits: “Holiday,” “Borderline,” and “Lucky Star.” She became a megastar with her second album, Like a Virgin. Between the album’s title track and the song “Material Girl,” Madonna established herself as a provocative performer who was not afraid to flaunt her sexuality.
With her album Like a Prayer, the Queen of Pop started exploring spiritual topics through pop music. She reinvented herself repeatedly,...
- 4/18/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Despite being 81 years old, legendary Hollywood director and Oscar winner Martin Scorsese is not ready to retire. After his most recent film, Killers of the Flower Moon, was nominated for numerous awards, the acclaimed filmmaker is seemingly eyeing a new project and while it has yet to be greenlit, Scorsese has seemingly begun to put together a star-filled cast. The movie in question is a biopic about legendary singer and actor Frank Sinatra, and knowing Scorsese’s background in music, this biopic promises to be amazing.
Frank Sinatra is a legendary figure in American pop culture. He is first and foremost known as a musician, a talented singer with evergreen hits like “Fly Me to the Moon,” “New York, New York,” and “My Way,” but he was also a very talented and popular actor. Sinatra won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in From Here to Eternity...
Frank Sinatra is a legendary figure in American pop culture. He is first and foremost known as a musician, a talented singer with evergreen hits like “Fly Me to the Moon,” “New York, New York,” and “My Way,” but he was also a very talented and popular actor. Sinatra won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in From Here to Eternity...
- 4/17/2024
- by Arthur S. Poe
- Fiction Horizon
Michael Jackson‘s brother, Jermaine Jackson of The Jackson 5, made a bold statement about the King of Pop. Jermaine felt his brother’s life would have been saved if he had made one decision. Interestingly, it is a decision Jermaine made himself.
Michael Jackson’s brother, Jermaine Jackson, wanted him to convert to another religion
During a 2010 BBC interview quoted by Praise 102.1, Jermaine said a conversion to Islam would have saved the “Thriller” singer. “God is so powerful,” Jermaine said. “[Michael] was studying. He was reading a lot of books, because I brought him books from Saudi Arabia. I brought him books from Bahrain.”
Jermaine explained he wanted Michael to relocate to Bahrain, a small Muslim nation. “I was the one who originally put him in Bahrain because I wanted him to get out of America because it was having a cherry-picking time on my brother,” he revealed.
Jermaine went on...
Michael Jackson’s brother, Jermaine Jackson, wanted him to convert to another religion
During a 2010 BBC interview quoted by Praise 102.1, Jermaine said a conversion to Islam would have saved the “Thriller” singer. “God is so powerful,” Jermaine said. “[Michael] was studying. He was reading a lot of books, because I brought him books from Saudi Arabia. I brought him books from Bahrain.”
Jermaine explained he wanted Michael to relocate to Bahrain, a small Muslim nation. “I was the one who originally put him in Bahrain because I wanted him to get out of America because it was having a cherry-picking time on my brother,” he revealed.
Jermaine went on...
- 4/16/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s biggest hits were all inspired by one style of music — and it’s not pop. It’s not even modern. One of the other members of The Jackson 5 explained the King of Pop’s “scientific” approach to songwriting.
Michael Jackson’s brother explained what he was thinking when he wrote his biggest hits
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine had great insight into his brother’s musical compositions. The King of Pop felt music was a “science” and he wanted to study it the same way that scientists study DNA. Jermaine revealed that the “Thriller” singer tried to listen to classical pieces as much as possible in order to study their compositions. He also felt that different pieces had different “colors” and he discussed these colors with his brother.
“Michael’s...
Michael Jackson’s brother explained what he was thinking when he wrote his biggest hits
Jermaine Jackson was a member of The Jackson 5. In his 2011 book You Are Not Alone: Michael, Through a Brother’s Eyes, Jermaine had great insight into his brother’s musical compositions. The King of Pop felt music was a “science” and he wanted to study it the same way that scientists study DNA. Jermaine revealed that the “Thriller” singer tried to listen to classical pieces as much as possible in order to study their compositions. He also felt that different pieces had different “colors” and he discussed these colors with his brother.
“Michael’s...
- 4/16/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When news broke in early February that Mariah Carey had booked a return ticket to Las Vegas to mount another residency, it was revealed that she would design the set list as a celebration of her 2005 blockbuster album, The Emancipation of Mimi.
It inspired the title of the exclusive run — The Celebration of Mimi — as well as the timing. Carey took the stage at Park MGM’s Dolby Live to launch the 16-date residency on April 12, 2024, exactly 19 years to the day after the album was released. It’s no surprise Carey wanted to commemorate the 14-track effort, which sold more than 10 million copies worldwide and brought the elusive chanteuse back into familiar territory at the top of the charts. The success of Emancipation of Mimi was fueled by the No. 1 smash “We Belong Together” and punctuated by singles “It’s Like That,” “Shake It Off,” “Get Your Number,” “Don’t Forget About Us,...
It inspired the title of the exclusive run — The Celebration of Mimi — as well as the timing. Carey took the stage at Park MGM’s Dolby Live to launch the 16-date residency on April 12, 2024, exactly 19 years to the day after the album was released. It’s no surprise Carey wanted to commemorate the 14-track effort, which sold more than 10 million copies worldwide and brought the elusive chanteuse back into familiar territory at the top of the charts. The success of Emancipation of Mimi was fueled by the No. 1 smash “We Belong Together” and punctuated by singles “It’s Like That,” “Shake It Off,” “Get Your Number,” “Don’t Forget About Us,...
- 4/15/2024
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Stormy Daniels Doc Finds Global Distribution
Blue Ant Studios (Canada’s Drag Race) has taken worldwide distribution on Stormy, an in-depth documentary about the life of Stormy Daniels coming on the day of Donald Trump’s hush money trial. Daniels made headlines in 2018 when The Wall Street Journal reported that, just before the 2016 U.S. presidential election, she was paid $130,000 to stop her disclosing an affair she and Trump allegedly had in July 2006. Trump’s trial takes place from today in New York. Peacock’s Stormy is produced by Emmy-nominated Erin Lee Carr and producer/director Sarah Gibson (Orgasm Inc: The Story of One Taste), who were also behind the Britney vs. Spears explosive doc. “Our team is thrilled to have international rights for this sought-after documentary produced by two renowned filmmakers who specialize in portraying the stories of women...
Blue Ant Studios (Canada’s Drag Race) has taken worldwide distribution on Stormy, an in-depth documentary about the life of Stormy Daniels coming on the day of Donald Trump’s hush money trial. Daniels made headlines in 2018 when The Wall Street Journal reported that, just before the 2016 U.S. presidential election, she was paid $130,000 to stop her disclosing an affair she and Trump allegedly had in July 2006. Trump’s trial takes place from today in New York. Peacock’s Stormy is produced by Emmy-nominated Erin Lee Carr and producer/director Sarah Gibson (Orgasm Inc: The Story of One Taste), who were also behind the Britney vs. Spears explosive doc. “Our team is thrilled to have international rights for this sought-after documentary produced by two renowned filmmakers who specialize in portraying the stories of women...
- 4/15/2024
- by Hannah Abraham
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s no secret that Lady Gaga took lots and lots of inspiration from Madonna and there is nothing wrong with homage. However, sometimes, homage becomes theft. Gaga once released a track that took a little too much inspiration from one of Madonna’s defining hits. However, Gaga’s producer had no sympathy for fans who saw Gaga as a copycat.
1 of Madonna’s more political songs clearly inspired Lady Gaga
Madonna knew how to get fans on the dancefloor from the beginning of her career. With her album Like a Prayer, the Queen of Pop proved she had style and substance. The album has great pop beats, but it also deals with serious topics like family, trauma, religion, sexuality, and feminism.
The album’s big feminist anthem is “Express Yourself.” It’s a funky dance-pop track with a great vocal melody. That melody found its way into Gaga’s “Born This Way.
1 of Madonna’s more political songs clearly inspired Lady Gaga
Madonna knew how to get fans on the dancefloor from the beginning of her career. With her album Like a Prayer, the Queen of Pop proved she had style and substance. The album has great pop beats, but it also deals with serious topics like family, trauma, religion, sexuality, and feminism.
The album’s big feminist anthem is “Express Yourself.” It’s a funky dance-pop track with a great vocal melody. That melody found its way into Gaga’s “Born This Way.
- 4/15/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Michael Jackson‘s “Beat It” proved that the King of Pop could be the King of Rock when he wanted to be. While “Beat It” has an iconic music video, it isn’t Jackson’s best rock tune. It might not even be his second-best rock tune. Here’s a look at Jackson, the rock star.
Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ isn’t as good as ‘Give In to Me’
“Beat It” is musically violent, but it’s a song about pacifism. That’s an oddball choice if there ever was one. When John Lennon sang about nonviolence, he wrote folk ditties and pop ballads. Meanwhile, Jackson tries to instill peace, love, and understanding in his listeners while hitting them over the head with Eddie Van Halen’s guitar. In its own strange way, “Beat It” works beautifully, but it’s hard to accept Jackson as the sort of person...
Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ isn’t as good as ‘Give In to Me’
“Beat It” is musically violent, but it’s a song about pacifism. That’s an oddball choice if there ever was one. When John Lennon sang about nonviolence, he wrote folk ditties and pop ballads. Meanwhile, Jackson tries to instill peace, love, and understanding in his listeners while hitting them over the head with Eddie Van Halen’s guitar. In its own strange way, “Beat It” works beautifully, but it’s hard to accept Jackson as the sort of person...
- 4/15/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Madonna‘s songs were to the 1980s what Abba’s were to the 1970s — both artists produced lasting, classic dancefloor fillers with impeccable grooves. When Madonna sampled one of Abba’s best disco tracks, she could have desecrated a classic. Instead, she produced a song that’s superior to the original. Let’s take a look at how the Queen of Pop outdid Abba.
Madonna’s ‘Hung’ Up’ samples 1 of Abba’s only disco hits
While Abba was part of the disco era, they only released two big disco songs: “Dancing Queen” and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight).” The latter is most notable for a hypnotic riff. That riff formed the basis of Madonna’s “Hung Up,” one of her final songs to become a big hit in the United States.
Madonna’s song simply has better lyrics than Abba’s. Abba lyrics are often awkward and that’s part of their charm.
Madonna’s ‘Hung’ Up’ samples 1 of Abba’s only disco hits
While Abba was part of the disco era, they only released two big disco songs: “Dancing Queen” and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight).” The latter is most notable for a hypnotic riff. That riff formed the basis of Madonna’s “Hung Up,” one of her final songs to become a big hit in the United States.
Madonna’s song simply has better lyrics than Abba’s. Abba lyrics are often awkward and that’s part of their charm.
- 4/15/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Though the tide of late has turned more towards a Bohemian Rhapsody-powered focus on biopics of musicians, there is always room for other entertainers with particularly compelling stories. One such example is Saturday Night Live staple-turned-film comedy actor Chris Farley, whose star burned bright before it was snuffed out decades too early by excess and addiction. Paul Walter Hauser is now attached to star as Farley in the film to be directed by actor/producer and now filmmaker Josh Gad.
Farley, who initially had seemed destined to join his father in the oil business, was lured away by the thrill of performing, eventually ending up at Chicago's Second City improv troupe (which he joined the same day as fellow future comedy icon Stephen Colbert) and from there was recruited by Lorne Michaels for SNL.
A successful run on the show translated, as it often does, to film roles, and...
Farley, who initially had seemed destined to join his father in the oil business, was lured away by the thrill of performing, eventually ending up at Chicago's Second City improv troupe (which he joined the same day as fellow future comedy icon Stephen Colbert) and from there was recruited by Lorne Michaels for SNL.
A successful run on the show translated, as it often does, to film roles, and...
- 4/14/2024
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
One Michael Jackson song seems to be about a regular friendship. It’s actually about a friendship with a killer rat. Jackson revealed how this tune came together so fast, even though he struggled with a lot of self-doubt.
1 Michael Jackson song was the theme for a horror film
Listen to any of Jackson’s songs, and it’s clear he put lots of effort into his music. Even when he didn’t write or produce his music, his voice was impeccable. All these years later, he rhymes one of pop music’s best singers.
During a 1980 interview posted to Blank on Blank, Jackson said he was a perfectionist, but that didn’t mean he always worked slowly. “I do vocals pretty quick,” he explained. “But for instance ‘Ben,’ I did in one take. I went right in and cut it.” For context, “Ben” is a ballad about a killer...
1 Michael Jackson song was the theme for a horror film
Listen to any of Jackson’s songs, and it’s clear he put lots of effort into his music. Even when he didn’t write or produce his music, his voice was impeccable. All these years later, he rhymes one of pop music’s best singers.
During a 1980 interview posted to Blank on Blank, Jackson said he was a perfectionist, but that didn’t mean he always worked slowly. “I do vocals pretty quick,” he explained. “But for instance ‘Ben,’ I did in one take. I went right in and cut it.” For context, “Ben” is a ballad about a killer...
- 4/14/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Usher is revealing who his first celebrity crush was!
The 45-year-old singer recently married Jenn Goicoechea, his partner of roughly eight years. The two tied the knot following Usher‘s 2024 Super Bowl halftime show performance.
Usher just revealed that one of his ex-girlfriends was the first celebrity he ever crushed on!
Keep reading to find out more…
“My first celebrity crush was Chilli,” the artist told Essence. “I think I was 11 or 12 something like that.”
Usher was in a relationship with Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas from 2001 to 2004.
Back in February, the “Love in this Club” singer revealed that he had proposed to Chilli before their split.
“I wanted to marry her,” he shared with People. “I proposed and she told me no. I went through a great deal of pain after that, not trusting women or wanting to open up.”
If you missed it, Usher revealed the important lessons Michael Jackson shared with him.
The 45-year-old singer recently married Jenn Goicoechea, his partner of roughly eight years. The two tied the knot following Usher‘s 2024 Super Bowl halftime show performance.
Usher just revealed that one of his ex-girlfriends was the first celebrity he ever crushed on!
Keep reading to find out more…
“My first celebrity crush was Chilli,” the artist told Essence. “I think I was 11 or 12 something like that.”
Usher was in a relationship with Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas from 2001 to 2004.
Back in February, the “Love in this Club” singer revealed that he had proposed to Chilli before their split.
“I wanted to marry her,” he shared with People. “I proposed and she told me no. I went through a great deal of pain after that, not trusting women or wanting to open up.”
If you missed it, Usher revealed the important lessons Michael Jackson shared with him.
- 4/13/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Screen looks at the key take-aways from the annual exhibitors convention in Las Vegas which ran April 8-11.
Studios put corporate speculation to one side
Amid all the huff and puff about resigning Paramount Global board members and exclusive merger talks with Skydance Media, Disney CEO Bob Iger’s boardroom victory over Nelson Peltz, and whatever fate may befall David Zaslav’s Warner Bros Discovery, studio executives put on a show, having no alternative.
There was the usual talk of the value of theatrical and how distributors and theatre owners need to collaborate more closely. This is all par for...
Studios put corporate speculation to one side
Amid all the huff and puff about resigning Paramount Global board members and exclusive merger talks with Skydance Media, Disney CEO Bob Iger’s boardroom victory over Nelson Peltz, and whatever fate may befall David Zaslav’s Warner Bros Discovery, studio executives put on a show, having no alternative.
There was the usual talk of the value of theatrical and how distributors and theatre owners need to collaborate more closely. This is all par for...
- 4/13/2024
- ScreenDaily
Screen looks at the key take-aways from the annual exhibitors convention in Las Vegas which ran April 8-11.
Studios put corporate speculation to one side
Amid all the huff and puff about resigning Paramount Global board members and exclusive merger talks with Skydance Media, Disney CEO Bob Iger’s boardroom victory over Nelson Peltz, and whatever fate may befall David Zaslav’s Warner Bros Discovery, studio executives put on a show, having no alternative.
There was the usual talk of the value of theatrical and how distributors and theatre owners need to collaborate more closely. This is all par for...
Studios put corporate speculation to one side
Amid all the huff and puff about resigning Paramount Global board members and exclusive merger talks with Skydance Media, Disney CEO Bob Iger’s boardroom victory over Nelson Peltz, and whatever fate may befall David Zaslav’s Warner Bros Discovery, studio executives put on a show, having no alternative.
There was the usual talk of the value of theatrical and how distributors and theatre owners need to collaborate more closely. This is all par for...
- 4/13/2024
- ScreenDaily
Michael Jackson said disco was better than rock music in some regards. That was a very provocative statement at the time! The King of Pop went on to explain why he didn’t care much for diving up genres, likening music to bird calls.
Michael Jackson defended disco during a racist backlash to it
Today, disco music is about as controversial as apple pie. However, in the late 1970s, the genre was polarizing. Some critics and fans hated it because they felt it did not live up to the quality of the rock ‘n’ roll music of the previous decade. Others felt disco was taking up too much of the music market. Most disconcertingly, some audiences attacked disco because of its association with Black and LGBTQ communities.
Jackson wasn’t primarily a disco singer. However, he released disco/disco-inspired tunes such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.
Michael Jackson defended disco during a racist backlash to it
Today, disco music is about as controversial as apple pie. However, in the late 1970s, the genre was polarizing. Some critics and fans hated it because they felt it did not live up to the quality of the rock ‘n’ roll music of the previous decade. Others felt disco was taking up too much of the music market. Most disconcertingly, some audiences attacked disco because of its association with Black and LGBTQ communities.
Jackson wasn’t primarily a disco singer. However, he released disco/disco-inspired tunes such as “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” and “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.
- 4/13/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Hollywood decamped for Las Vegas this week for CinemaCon, looking to reassure movie theater owners and executives that they had what it takes to keep audiences flocking to cinemas through 2024 and beyond. And despite odes to the magic of the big screen experience, there was a whiff of desperation in the artificially-oxygenated, cigarette-perfumed air of Caesars Palace, where the annual exhibition trade show takes place.
That’s because the box office hasn’t recaptured its pre-pandemic stride — studios estimate that roughly 15% to 20% of frequent moviegoers have yet to resume their old entertainment habits now that Covid has dissipated. Plus, the labor strikes that consumed the media industry for much of the previous year as actors and writers hit the picket lines resulted in production delays that left theaters with fewer movies to hawk on their marquees.
But it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Despite the challenges, studios are ready...
That’s because the box office hasn’t recaptured its pre-pandemic stride — studios estimate that roughly 15% to 20% of frequent moviegoers have yet to resume their old entertainment habits now that Covid has dissipated. Plus, the labor strikes that consumed the media industry for much of the previous year as actors and writers hit the picket lines resulted in production delays that left theaters with fewer movies to hawk on their marquees.
But it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Despite the challenges, studios are ready...
- 4/12/2024
- by Brent Lang, Rebecca Rubin and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
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