Chicago – Chicago is acknowledged as one of the great comedy cities in the world mostly for The Second City influence. However like other cities, there is an ebb and flow regarding stand-up comedy, and during the late 1980s/early 1990s there was a stand-up boom in the Windy City, chronicled in the film “Out of the Loop.” Producer Scott Perlman provides the context behind the documentary, now available for free on Plex and Tubi, and for download on various platforms.
“Out of the Loop” is familiar documentary form, but there are several twists in the story that occur, exposing the uniqueness of Chicago … one of the main ones being the great divide between Black and White comics, also divided geographically between South and North sides. The truth, in this case, set several comics free and emphasized the lost legend of the late Bernie Mac. Featuring well know and lesser known...
“Out of the Loop” is familiar documentary form, but there are several twists in the story that occur, exposing the uniqueness of Chicago … one of the main ones being the great divide between Black and White comics, also divided geographically between South and North sides. The truth, in this case, set several comics free and emphasized the lost legend of the late Bernie Mac. Featuring well know and lesser known...
- 4/1/2024
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
The Ocean’s trilogy of movies is confirmed for 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray in the UK, with a release pencilled in for the end of April: more here.
Steven Soderbergh’s trilogy of Ocean’s films – Ocean’s 11, Ocean’s 12, Ocean’s 13 – brought together a starry ensemble cast for a trio of crime caper movies. Really successful ones at that, even if the sort-of twist in Ocean’s 12 continues to have a degree of Wtf did they really do that about it.
Ocean’s 11 in particular though is a an absolute treat, and there’s much to enjoy across the three films, which as coming to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray in the UK for the first time.
Warner Bros is putting the films out, initially in posh Steelbook casing, and they’re set to debut on 29th April 2024. What’s more, you’ve got four different options if you’re...
Steven Soderbergh’s trilogy of Ocean’s films – Ocean’s 11, Ocean’s 12, Ocean’s 13 – brought together a starry ensemble cast for a trio of crime caper movies. Really successful ones at that, even if the sort-of twist in Ocean’s 12 continues to have a degree of Wtf did they really do that about it.
Ocean’s 11 in particular though is a an absolute treat, and there’s much to enjoy across the three films, which as coming to 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray in the UK for the first time.
Warner Bros is putting the films out, initially in posh Steelbook casing, and they’re set to debut on 29th April 2024. What’s more, you’ve got four different options if you’re...
- 3/13/2024
- by Simon Brew
- Film Stories
Comedian Katt Williams recently stirred up a lot of controversy when he hopped on Shannon Sharpe’s podcast. He referenced many other celebrities and comedians in the passionate interview, including the original kings of comedy.
His feud with the kings of comedy isn’t new, as it’s been spanning for decades. Which was why Williams was so adamant in surpassing them in the comedy space.
Katt Williams was determined to break this original Kings of Comedy record Katt Williams | Jason Davis/WireImage
Williams has always made his feelings known regarding the proclaimed Kings of Comedy. The group famously consisted of Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and the late Bernie Mac. Spike Lee once filmed the comic legends as each took turns sharing their material with a large audience. The original Kings of Comedy tour made $37 million.
Williams’ grievances with the kings of comedy were primarily aimed at...
His feud with the kings of comedy isn’t new, as it’s been spanning for decades. Which was why Williams was so adamant in surpassing them in the comedy space.
Katt Williams was determined to break this original Kings of Comedy record Katt Williams | Jason Davis/WireImage
Williams has always made his feelings known regarding the proclaimed Kings of Comedy. The group famously consisted of Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and the late Bernie Mac. Spike Lee once filmed the comic legends as each took turns sharing their material with a large audience. The original Kings of Comedy tour made $37 million.
Williams’ grievances with the kings of comedy were primarily aimed at...
- 3/2/2024
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The puckish appeal of Charles Stone III’s The Underdoggs, a new spin on The Bad News Bears, is apparent from its opening title card, which offers a warning that its R rating was well earned, that no child should watch it, and that, well, the kids you really have to worry about are the ones whose parents don’t allow them to watch R-rated films.
Snoop Dogg stars as Jaycen “Two Js” Jennings, a former high school football star whose clutch, single-handed catch during his senior-year championship game set him up for a career as a young NFL hotshot who, predictably, flamed out in a blaze of ignominy, hubris, and sativa. (His puff-don’t-pass signature end-zone dance makes it clear that the “two Js” of his nickname aren’t derived from his first and last names.) Much like Bernie Mac’s character in Stone’s Mr. 3000, Jaycen seems...
Snoop Dogg stars as Jaycen “Two Js” Jennings, a former high school football star whose clutch, single-handed catch during his senior-year championship game set him up for a career as a young NFL hotshot who, predictably, flamed out in a blaze of ignominy, hubris, and sativa. (His puff-don’t-pass signature end-zone dance makes it clear that the “two Js” of his nickname aren’t derived from his first and last names.) Much like Bernie Mac’s character in Stone’s Mr. 3000, Jaycen seems...
- 1/25/2024
- by Eric Henderson
- Slant Magazine
Steven Soderbergh said he turned down the opportunity to return to the “Ocean’s” franchise, more than a decade and a half after directing”Ocean’s Thirteen.”
The director, who also helmed films “Ocean’s Eleven” and “Ocean’s Twelve” and produced spinoff “Ocean’s Eight,” told Variety that he is not planning to return to the heist series, regardless of the planned prequel and George Clooney’s sequel idea. The prequel film will star Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling and will take place in 1960s Europe; Clooney’s follow-up is described as a “Going In Style”-esque conclusion set after the events of 2007’s “Ocean’s Thirteen.”
However, Soderbergh is sitting out involvement in both.
“After we made the third movie, I felt like the series was very much concluded for me,” Soderbergh said of the Warner Bros.-distributed films. “When the studio approached me to see if I’d be involved in continuing the franchise,...
The director, who also helmed films “Ocean’s Eleven” and “Ocean’s Twelve” and produced spinoff “Ocean’s Eight,” told Variety that he is not planning to return to the heist series, regardless of the planned prequel and George Clooney’s sequel idea. The prequel film will star Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling and will take place in 1960s Europe; Clooney’s follow-up is described as a “Going In Style”-esque conclusion set after the events of 2007’s “Ocean’s Thirteen.”
However, Soderbergh is sitting out involvement in both.
“After we made the third movie, I felt like the series was very much concluded for me,” Soderbergh said of the Warner Bros.-distributed films. “When the studio approached me to see if I’d be involved in continuing the franchise,...
- 1/16/2024
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Kevin Hart is back with another Netflix film but this time instead of a comedy we see him as a master thief. Directed by F. Gary Gray, the Netflix film Lift revolves around a group of thieves who join hands with Interpol to get immunity for their past crime, but to do that they have to steal half a billion dollars worth of gold from a flying airplane without being caught by the owner of the gold, who is surprise surprise the bad guy. Lift also stars Úrsula Corberó, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sam Worthington, Billy Magnussen, Kim Yoon-ji, Jean Reno, and Vincent D’Onofrio starring in supporting roles. So, if you loved Lift and all of its action here are some similar films you could watch next.
The Italian Job (Paramount+ & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Paramount Pictures
From the same director and in the same genre as Lift, this film deserves to be on this list.
The Italian Job (Paramount+ & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Paramount Pictures
From the same director and in the same genre as Lift, this film deserves to be on this list.
- 1/13/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Steven Soderbergh's "Ocean's" trilogy is some of the most fun you can have with a movie. They are hyper-enjoyable heist romps about a group of guys being dudes. As our own Chris Evangelista put it, "Ocean's 11" is "a hang-out movie, where all the people hanging out are also plotting a massive heist." Even the sequels have some excellent gags, like Julia Roberts' character impersonating the real Julia Roberts in "Ocean's 12," or "Ocean's 13" having the whole "the nose plays" bit and the hilarious and poignant subplot about factory workers in Mexico going on strike — a bit that just get more timely with age.
It's been over 15 years since the last with Clooney and Soderbergh, and we haven't heard about a reunion — until now. Speaking with Uproxx, George Clooney has an exciting update about a potential follow-up to "Ocean's 13."
"We have a really good script for another 'Oceans' now,...
It's been over 15 years since the last with Clooney and Soderbergh, and we haven't heard about a reunion — until now. Speaking with Uproxx, George Clooney has an exciting update about a potential follow-up to "Ocean's 13."
"We have a really good script for another 'Oceans' now,...
- 12/14/2023
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
George Clooney is teasing a potential Ocean’s Eleven sequel that could be in the works as he has a “good script” in his hands.
During a recent interview, the actor who played Danny Ocean in the Steven Soderbergh-directed films hinted there could be more heists coming up.
“We have a really good script for another Ocean’s now, so we may end up doing another one. It’s actually a great script,” Clooney told Uproxx.
When the reporter asked if the film would be titled Ocean’s Fourteen, Clooney added, “Well … I don’t want to call it that… I mean, the idea is kind of like Going In Style.”
The Ocean’s universe is expanding, with a prequel to the 2001 film in the works starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Danny Ocean’s parents. Clooney also gave his thoughts on having Robbie and Gosling play his parents in the prequel.
During a recent interview, the actor who played Danny Ocean in the Steven Soderbergh-directed films hinted there could be more heists coming up.
“We have a really good script for another Ocean’s now, so we may end up doing another one. It’s actually a great script,” Clooney told Uproxx.
When the reporter asked if the film would be titled Ocean’s Fourteen, Clooney added, “Well … I don’t want to call it that… I mean, the idea is kind of like Going In Style.”
The Ocean’s universe is expanding, with a prequel to the 2001 film in the works starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Danny Ocean’s parents. Clooney also gave his thoughts on having Robbie and Gosling play his parents in the prequel.
- 12/13/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Starting in March of 2024, the ongoings of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital will be streaming on Disney+ for the very first time, TVLine has learned.
Streaming rights for the first 19 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy will be shared with Hulu and Netflix, and will be available via the bundled Disney app (Disney+ and Hulu) and the standalone Hulu service. Additionally, Hulu will maintain in-season rights to all ABC series, meaning it will be the only streamer to offer the entire run of Grey’s Anatomy, including the exclusive day-after availability of all upcoming Season 20 episodes. (The medical drama is set to return Thursday,...
Streaming rights for the first 19 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy will be shared with Hulu and Netflix, and will be available via the bundled Disney app (Disney+ and Hulu) and the standalone Hulu service. Additionally, Hulu will maintain in-season rights to all ABC series, meaning it will be the only streamer to offer the entire run of Grey’s Anatomy, including the exclusive day-after availability of all upcoming Season 20 episodes. (The medical drama is set to return Thursday,...
- 12/11/2023
- by Nick Caruso
- TVLine.com
After "Saturday Night Live" ended season 48 a little prematurely back in the spring due to the Hollywood strikes beginning, the late night sketch comedy show returned for season 49 this weekend. Despite the fact that the Screen Actors Guild is still on strike while negotiating for a new deal with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), SAG-AFTRA gave its full support for the cast of "SNL" to return to work, which meant former cast member Pete Davidson finally got to make his hosting debut.
While it might seem like a quick turnaround for Davidson to return as host so soon after leaving at the end of season 47, plenty of other more recent cast members have come back to the show as host just as quickly, such as Kristen Wiig, Andy Samberg, and Bill Hader. However, since Davidson wasn't exactly known for many recurring characters or impressions, it didn't...
While it might seem like a quick turnaround for Davidson to return as host so soon after leaving at the end of season 47, plenty of other more recent cast members have come back to the show as host just as quickly, such as Kristen Wiig, Andy Samberg, and Bill Hader. However, since Davidson wasn't exactly known for many recurring characters or impressions, it didn't...
- 10/15/2023
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Undisputedly one of the kings of stand-up comedy, Bernie Mac was as naturally funny as they come. He had a successful career as a performer and actor. Although he made his acting debut in 1992, Mac’s professional career began way back in 1977. Bernie Mac was born Bernard Jeffrey McCullough in the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, on October 5, 1957. At the peak of his career, Mac was one of the most respected celebrities in the African-American community. News of his death broke out on August 9, 2008. He died in the early hours of that morning after being...
- 10/12/2023
- by Onyinye Izundu
- TVovermind.com
Veteran producer and film executive Jason T. Reed has been named as the head of Skydance Sports, the company announced on Thursday.
Skydance Sports is the sports-focused studio collaboration that was established in 2022, a joint effort between David Ellison’s Skydance Media and the NFL.
With more than 20 years in the media and content industry, Reed’s history includes the creation and production of significant film and TV intellectual properties, such as “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” and the live-action version of “Mulan.” Furthermore, he had an 18-year tenure at The Walt Disney Company, where he excelled in international production and franchise management.
In his newly created role, Reed will spearhead Skydance Sports operations and oversee the development and production of the studio’s entire slate of sports-driven storytelling. This will encompass both scripted and unscripted content, documentaries and events, including NFL-related content.
Reed will report directly to...
Skydance Sports is the sports-focused studio collaboration that was established in 2022, a joint effort between David Ellison’s Skydance Media and the NFL.
With more than 20 years in the media and content industry, Reed’s history includes the creation and production of significant film and TV intellectual properties, such as “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” and the live-action version of “Mulan.” Furthermore, he had an 18-year tenure at The Walt Disney Company, where he excelled in international production and franchise management.
In his newly created role, Reed will spearhead Skydance Sports operations and oversee the development and production of the studio’s entire slate of sports-driven storytelling. This will encompass both scripted and unscripted content, documentaries and events, including NFL-related content.
Reed will report directly to...
- 10/5/2023
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Remembering The Comedians Of Comedy, Netflix's First True Original Production (A Quasi-Oral History)
If I asked you to name the first original production from Netflix, what would you say? An educated guess might bring you to "House of Cards" or "Lilyhammer," and that's a fair assessment. While the former was Netflix's first piece of original programming produced specifically for the company's streaming service (released in February of 2013), the latter technically has the honor of being Netflix's first original streaming production (premiering on Netflix in February of 2012), even though it was only partially funded by Netflix and actually premiered in Norway first under the TV network NRK1.
But what if I told you that neither of these was the first true Netflix original? What if I told you Netflix produced their first original production even before they created the now-defunct Red Envelope Entertainment? Yes, before streaming, Netflix had a film financing and acquisition arm that shuttered in 2008 after investing in more than 100 films and...
But what if I told you that neither of these was the first true Netflix original? What if I told you Netflix produced their first original production even before they created the now-defunct Red Envelope Entertainment? Yes, before streaming, Netflix had a film financing and acquisition arm that shuttered in 2008 after investing in more than 100 films and...
- 10/2/2023
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Is there a point when traditions become too traditional?
While they can give people a sense of security or peace, they reach a point where the world has moved on too much for what they were predicated on to be relevant.
A crisis occurs when they try to catch up with the world, but other people have formed other traditions.
We will discuss everything that happened on Billions Season 7 Episode 8, so if you're yet to get caught up, beware of spoilers.
Events of the hour were set almost exclusively in a retreat for influential people. The Owl was a regular gathering where men would let the animal in them roam free where no rules of proper society existed.
And if you hear somewhere where there are no rules, or they are barely enforced, you can always count on Chuck Senior to have some stake in it.
It was worth noting...
While they can give people a sense of security or peace, they reach a point where the world has moved on too much for what they were predicated on to be relevant.
A crisis occurs when they try to catch up with the world, but other people have formed other traditions.
We will discuss everything that happened on Billions Season 7 Episode 8, so if you're yet to get caught up, beware of spoilers.
Events of the hour were set almost exclusively in a retreat for influential people. The Owl was a regular gathering where men would let the animal in them roam free where no rules of proper society existed.
And if you hear somewhere where there are no rules, or they are barely enforced, you can always count on Chuck Senior to have some stake in it.
It was worth noting...
- 9/29/2023
- by Denis Kimathi
- TVfanatic
Steve Harvey is slamming rumours, once again, surrounding him and his wife.
On Monday, the “Family Feud” host addressed the misconceptions people have about his wife, Marjorie Harvey, regarding the early timeline of their relationship and Steve’s last marriage, particularly those who believe Marjorie had something to do with his previous marriage ending.
People have been stirring up rumours that Marjorie cheated on Steve with a personal chef and bodyguard.
Read More: Steve Harvey Slams Rumours About His Wife Marjorie Cheating On Him: ‘Lord Have Mercy’
“The woman I married is a good woman,” the comedian said on Monday’s broadcast of the “Steve Harvey Morning Show”. “She’s the best thing to ever happen to me. She’s God-fearing, she’s loyal, she’s faithful, and she’s a kind and loving person. I don’t care what nobody say—and y’all quit talking about she was...
On Monday, the “Family Feud” host addressed the misconceptions people have about his wife, Marjorie Harvey, regarding the early timeline of their relationship and Steve’s last marriage, particularly those who believe Marjorie had something to do with his previous marriage ending.
People have been stirring up rumours that Marjorie cheated on Steve with a personal chef and bodyguard.
Read More: Steve Harvey Slams Rumours About His Wife Marjorie Cheating On Him: ‘Lord Have Mercy’
“The woman I married is a good woman,” the comedian said on Monday’s broadcast of the “Steve Harvey Morning Show”. “She’s the best thing to ever happen to me. She’s God-fearing, she’s loyal, she’s faithful, and she’s a kind and loving person. I don’t care what nobody say—and y’all quit talking about she was...
- 9/12/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
Larry Wilmore‘s American sitcom for Fox, The Bernie Mac Show, was one of the funniest sitcoms of the early to mid-2000s. Although it wasn’t his first television appearance, The Bernie Mac Show introduced TV audiences to the comedic genius of Bernie Mac. The show’s 30-minute episodes premiered on November 14, 2001, and aired its finale on April 14, 2006. With a total of 104 episodes spread across 5 seasons, The Bernie Mac Show was a breath of fresh air, blending humor, heart, and an unforgettable cast. Over a decade since the show’s finale, The Bernie Mac Show remains popular amongst...
- 8/31/2023
- by Onyinye Izundu
- TVovermind.com
“Poker Face” fan-favorite Natasha Lyonne received a Best Comedy Actress Emmy nomination this year alongside Quinta Brunson (“Abbott Elementary”), Rachel Brosnahan (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”), Christina Applegate (“Dead to Me”) and Jenna Ortega (“Wednesday”). As of this writing, Lyonne is in last place to win at Gold Derby, with less than 3% of our prognosticators backing her. However, the fact that she recently gained the favor of the Television Critics Association proves she should be taken much more seriously. Are we underestimating her at the 2023 Emmys?
Given Lyonne’s status as the very first regular acting Emmy nominee from any Peacock program and her show’s absence from all other major categories, her doubters initially had a leg to stand on, but that isn’t the case anymore. Her TCA Award victory for Individual Achievement in Comedy is an undeniably big deal and gives her many statistical advantages that should cause her competitors and naysayers concern.
Given Lyonne’s status as the very first regular acting Emmy nominee from any Peacock program and her show’s absence from all other major categories, her doubters initially had a leg to stand on, but that isn’t the case anymore. Her TCA Award victory for Individual Achievement in Comedy is an undeniably big deal and gives her many statistical advantages that should cause her competitors and naysayers concern.
- 8/15/2023
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
For just about every decade that there has been a sitcom on television, it’s been easy to identify those stars who shine bright as the current face of comedy. In the ’50s, it was Jackie Gleason and Lucille Ball. In the ’60s, it was Dick Van Dyke and Andy Griffith. The ’70s brought us Bob Newhart, Mary Tyler Moore and Bea Arthur, followed by Sherman Hemsley, Bill Cosby and Michael J. Fox in the ’80s, Jerry Seinfeld, Roseanne Barr and the cast of Friends in the ’90s, Charlie Sheen and Bernie Mac in the early aughts and Tina Fey, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Jim Parsons in 2006 and beyond.
But ever since Veep and The Big Bang Theory went off the air in 2019, the spotlight has remained surprisingly vacant — the result of an expanding and ever-changing business in which multi-camera sitcoms have become vestiges of the past while contemporary comedies have...
But ever since Veep and The Big Bang Theory went off the air in 2019, the spotlight has remained surprisingly vacant — the result of an expanding and ever-changing business in which multi-camera sitcoms have become vestiges of the past while contemporary comedies have...
- 8/11/2023
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
The Upshaws is a family comedy series but not exactly fit for watching with a family. The Netflix original series is created by Wanda Sykes and Regina Y. Hicks, and it follows the Upshaw family living in Indiana as they deal with wilder and funnier obstacles life puts in their way. The Upshaws stars Mike Epps, Kim Fields, and Wanda Sykes. The Netflix series is coming back with its fourth season soon and while you wait for the upcoming season here are some shows you should watch next.
The Carmichael Show (Hulu & Peacock) Credit – NBC
Synopsis: From the comedy of Jerrod Carmichael and Nick Stoller comes an irreverent sitcom inspired by Jerrod’s relationships with his say-anything, contrarian father, his therapist-in-training girlfriend, his ever-hustling brother and his mother who is always, always, always right with Jesus.
The Ranch (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Synopsis: Set in a Colorado ranch, this multi-camera comedy series stars Ashton Kutcher,...
The Carmichael Show (Hulu & Peacock) Credit – NBC
Synopsis: From the comedy of Jerrod Carmichael and Nick Stoller comes an irreverent sitcom inspired by Jerrod’s relationships with his say-anything, contrarian father, his therapist-in-training girlfriend, his ever-hustling brother and his mother who is always, always, always right with Jesus.
The Ranch (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Synopsis: Set in a Colorado ranch, this multi-camera comedy series stars Ashton Kutcher,...
- 8/9/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
The comedy world has been blessed with countless brilliant individuals whose laughter and wit have brightened our lives. Tragically, some of the most gifted stand-ups and comic actors have been taken from us too soon. Their stories are a mixture of laughter, pain, and heartache, leaving indelible marks on the comedy world. In this blog post, we pay tribute to the comedians who died young, exploring their lives, personal struggles, and the legacies they left behind.
Related: The 10 Best Stand-Up Specials of All Time (Ranked Best to Worst)
Short Summary Lenny Bruce, John Belushi, Chris Farley, Bernie Mac, Patrice O’Neal, and Mitch Hedberg all left legacy of courageous comedy. Bill Hicks and Andy Kaufman revolutionized the art of comedy with their boundary-pushing performances. Kevin Barnett, Jak Knight & Nick Nemeroff tragically passed too soon. Greg Giraldo & Freddie Prinze lost to addiction, a heartbreaking reminder that rising stars can be gone instantly.
Related: The 10 Best Stand-Up Specials of All Time (Ranked Best to Worst)
Short Summary Lenny Bruce, John Belushi, Chris Farley, Bernie Mac, Patrice O’Neal, and Mitch Hedberg all left legacy of courageous comedy. Bill Hicks and Andy Kaufman revolutionized the art of comedy with their boundary-pushing performances. Kevin Barnett, Jak Knight & Nick Nemeroff tragically passed too soon. Greg Giraldo & Freddie Prinze lost to addiction, a heartbreaking reminder that rising stars can be gone instantly.
- 5/28/2023
- by Buddy TV
- buddytv.com
The Neighborhood is welcoming a special guest star for the show’s fifth season finale at CBS as star Cedric the Entertainer‘s longtime pal D.L. Hughley joins the mix for the May 22 episode. As fans of both actors may recall, they were members of the iconic Original Kings of Comedy group that also featured Steve Harvey and the late great Bernie Mac. Along with announcing Hughley’s casting, we’ve got your exclusive first look at his appearance in the finale with sneak peek photos, above, and below. (Credit: CBS) In the finale episode titled, “Welcome to Opening Night,” Calvin (Cedric the Entertainer) pushes Marty (Marcel Spears) to move up the opening of their new business to get a valuable celebrity endorsement from D.L. Hughley who is playing a version of himself. While Dave (Max Greenfield) continues to struggle with the return of his father, Lamar (played by...
- 4/18/2023
- TV Insider
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com audio film review for the newly released “Out of the Loop,” an overview of the Chicago stand up scene, with many notable names that began their career in the Windy City. Currently available through Video On Demand, since April 11th.
Rating: 4.5/5.0
“Out of the Loop” is a talking head documentary, but there are several twists in the story that occur that exposes the uniqueness of Chicago … one of the main ones being the great divide between Black and White comics, also divided geographically between South and North sides. The truth, in this case, sets several comics free and emphasizes the lost legend of the late Bernie Mac. Featuring well know and lesser known comic talents including goddess Judy Tenuda (who recently passed away), Jeff Garlin, T,J Miller, Megan Gailey, Hannibal Burress, Deon Cole, Dwayne Kennedy, Marsha Warfield, Lil Real Howery and SNL-er Chris Redd,...
Rating: 4.5/5.0
“Out of the Loop” is a talking head documentary, but there are several twists in the story that occur that exposes the uniqueness of Chicago … one of the main ones being the great divide between Black and White comics, also divided geographically between South and North sides. The truth, in this case, sets several comics free and emphasizes the lost legend of the late Bernie Mac. Featuring well know and lesser known comic talents including goddess Judy Tenuda (who recently passed away), Jeff Garlin, T,J Miller, Megan Gailey, Hannibal Burress, Deon Cole, Dwayne Kennedy, Marsha Warfield, Lil Real Howery and SNL-er Chris Redd,...
- 4/13/2023
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
It was clear the days of the Big Four networks dominating the Emmys were slowly coming to an end 20 years ago; however, despite cable networks starting to gain momentum (with two receiving their first major wins), NBC and CBS still made a strong showing at the 55th Emmy Awards on September 21, 2003. HBO came into the night with a strong 53 major nominations, while NBC had 38 and CBS had 28; in the end, HBO and CBS tied with eight majors awards each and NBC trailed with six. Garry Shandling opened the event with a comedic monologue, while numerous presenters, including Ellen DeGeneres, George Lopez, Conan O’Brien, Martin Short and Wanda Sykes, carried the rest of the show without a host. Read on for our Emmys flashback 20 years ago to 2003.
HBO claimed two spots in the Best Drama category, for “The Sopranos” and “Six Feet Under,” but NBC was the victor, with “The West Wing...
HBO claimed two spots in the Best Drama category, for “The Sopranos” and “Six Feet Under,” but NBC was the victor, with “The West Wing...
- 4/10/2023
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
SiriusXM has inked Kevin Hart to host and showcase more comedy shows on its platforms.
On Wednesday, the satellite radio company unveiled a new multi-platform, multiyear deal with the comedy superstar and his Laugh Out Loud network. Hart will host new regular and live programs on his channel, Laugh Out Loud Radio, while sending additional comedic content like radio shows, podcasts and on-demand video to land elsewhere on the SiriusXM network.
That will include a new season of Hart’s podcast Gold Minds with Kevin Hart debuting today, with appearances by Jason Bateman, Neil Burger, Ryan Coogler, Daymond John, Method Man, Stephen A. Smith and Lena Waithe.
“SiriusXM has been a valued relationship of mine and Hartbeat’s for some time and the fact that we were able to launch Gold Minds and now expand the program to include the brightest, boldest, and most impactful voices of our time blows my mind,...
On Wednesday, the satellite radio company unveiled a new multi-platform, multiyear deal with the comedy superstar and his Laugh Out Loud network. Hart will host new regular and live programs on his channel, Laugh Out Loud Radio, while sending additional comedic content like radio shows, podcasts and on-demand video to land elsewhere on the SiriusXM network.
That will include a new season of Hart’s podcast Gold Minds with Kevin Hart debuting today, with appearances by Jason Bateman, Neil Burger, Ryan Coogler, Daymond John, Method Man, Stephen A. Smith and Lena Waithe.
“SiriusXM has been a valued relationship of mine and Hartbeat’s for some time and the fact that we were able to launch Gold Minds and now expand the program to include the brightest, boldest, and most impactful voices of our time blows my mind,...
- 3/15/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ice Cube might have started out in the world of music. But the rapper has also become quit the established actor over the years, appearing in more than two dozen movies. In fact, Ice Cube reportedly carries a net worth of $160 million. However, early on, the rapper never thought he had a chance at landing a role in his film debut, the Oscar-nominated drama Boyz n the Hood.
‘Boyz n the Hood’ was Ice Cube’s first major breakthrough movie
The 1995 film Friday arguably established Ice Cube as a big-screen leading man. After all, he carried top billing on that hit comedy, which also catapulted Chris Tucker to stardom. And since then, he’s appeared in countless hits, including two Friday sequels, the Barbershop franchise, 21 Jump Street and its sequel, Ride Along and its sequel, and most recently, 2020’s The High Note.
But 1991’s Boyz n the Hood was something special.
‘Boyz n the Hood’ was Ice Cube’s first major breakthrough movie
The 1995 film Friday arguably established Ice Cube as a big-screen leading man. After all, he carried top billing on that hit comedy, which also catapulted Chris Tucker to stardom. And since then, he’s appeared in countless hits, including two Friday sequels, the Barbershop franchise, 21 Jump Street and its sequel, Ride Along and its sequel, and most recently, 2020’s The High Note.
But 1991’s Boyz n the Hood was something special.
- 2/24/2023
- by Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Oscars, airing March 12 on ABC, have the remainder of their key production team set. The group ranges from veteran lighting designer Robert Dickinson embarking on his 34th voyage on the show and co-executive producer Rob Paine on his 28th, to three new female producers getting their first shot with the venerable awards telecast.
Rickey Minor takes charge of the orchestra’s baton for the first time since 2020, while Dave Boone is coming back as a writer, his 13th Oscars in the last quarter century. Executive producers and showrunners Glenn Weiss (who is also directing the show for the 8th time) and Ricky Kirshner made the announcement.
Here are the players AMPAS announced today:
Rob Paine has worked on the Oscars telecast for over two decades and returns for his 28th year in a new role as co-executive producer. Paine has more than 200 credits to his name, spanning four decades.
Rickey Minor takes charge of the orchestra’s baton for the first time since 2020, while Dave Boone is coming back as a writer, his 13th Oscars in the last quarter century. Executive producers and showrunners Glenn Weiss (who is also directing the show for the 8th time) and Ricky Kirshner made the announcement.
Here are the players AMPAS announced today:
Rob Paine has worked on the Oscars telecast for over two decades and returns for his 28th year in a new role as co-executive producer. Paine has more than 200 credits to his name, spanning four decades.
- 2/9/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
“You People,” Kenya Barris’ feature directorial debut for Netflix, is laden with good intentions: Collaborating with Jonah Hill as a co-writer and star for this new comedy makes sense when one considers that both men are Los Angeles natives celebrated for their comedic flair and also devotees of hip-hop culture. Add to that the reunion of co-stars Eddie Murphy and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, both comic giants who came up together on “SNL” in the 1980s, and expectations run high.
But good intentions aren’t enough to float what is essentially a hip-hop–tinged, LA-centric comedic update of “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner.” It’s a concept that has seen a few iterations over the years — most notably 2005’s “Guess Who,” starring Bernie Mac, Ashton Kutcher, and Zoe Saldana — and “You People” also draws some inspiration from “Meet The Parents,” with faith-based differences providing most of the tension.
Hill stars as Ezra Cohen,...
But good intentions aren’t enough to float what is essentially a hip-hop–tinged, LA-centric comedic update of “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner.” It’s a concept that has seen a few iterations over the years — most notably 2005’s “Guess Who,” starring Bernie Mac, Ashton Kutcher, and Zoe Saldana — and “You People” also draws some inspiration from “Meet The Parents,” with faith-based differences providing most of the tension.
Hill stars as Ezra Cohen,...
- 1/26/2023
- by Ronda Racha Penrice
- The Wrap
In a nutshell the brilliantly hilarious, pertinent, and wickedly smart new movie, You People is in some ways a new age Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner, that landmark 1967 Tracy-Hepburn-Poitier Oscar winning comedy about the effect an interracial relationship has on the parents of the young couple. Of course back then it was a major social issue and even had trouble booking some southern theatres. The idea was switched in a Bernie Mac/Ashton Kutcher 2005 remake that all those years later did not have the same impact. With anti-semitism and racism back on the rise in 2023 America however the concept of an interracial/interfaith marriage, Black and White, Jew and Muslim, could not be more timely or needed, and in co-star Jonah Hill’s and director Kenya Barris’ whipsmart screenplay is also a knock-you-out-of- your-seat laugh riot. Ironically I saw it this week at its World Premiere at the same...
- 1/20/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Terry Zwigoff's 2003 film "Bad Santa" was more or less destined for cult classic status. Starring an Academy Award-winning actor, "Bad Santa" was deliberately crass and misanthropic, an antidote to the treacly sentimentality that ordinarily infuses films explicitly about Christmas.
In "Bad Santa," Billy Bob Thornton plays an itinerant mall Santa named Willie who uses his seasonal job to plan last-minute mall heists with his partner Marcus (Tony Cox), who poses as one of Santa's Elves. The heists typically go well, but just barely, as Willie is a wrathful, cruel alcoholic who has a great deal of trouble controlling his constant base impulses toward cussing and lechery. The late Bernie Mac played Gin, a mall manager who caught wise to Marcus' and Willie's plan, and Lauren Graham played Sue, a woman with a Santa Claus fetish that Willie was happy to indulge. Nine-year-old Brett Kelly played an unobservant boy named...
In "Bad Santa," Billy Bob Thornton plays an itinerant mall Santa named Willie who uses his seasonal job to plan last-minute mall heists with his partner Marcus (Tony Cox), who poses as one of Santa's Elves. The heists typically go well, but just barely, as Willie is a wrathful, cruel alcoholic who has a great deal of trouble controlling his constant base impulses toward cussing and lechery. The late Bernie Mac played Gin, a mall manager who caught wise to Marcus' and Willie's plan, and Lauren Graham played Sue, a woman with a Santa Claus fetish that Willie was happy to indulge. Nine-year-old Brett Kelly played an unobservant boy named...
- 12/3/2022
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
When “This Is Us” star Sterling K. Brown received the 2018 Screen Actors Guild Award for Best TV Drama Actor, Best TV Comedy Actor became the only competitive SAG category that has yet to be conquered by a Black performer. Following the unsuccessful bids of Bernie Mac, Anthony Anderson and Tituss Burgess, Tyler James Williams could soon close the loop by being honored for his work on ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” This potential victory would make him only the 10th Black artist and third Black man to ever win an individual TV SAG Award.
According to Gold Derby’s SAG Awards predictions, Williams is one of the likeliest candidates for a 2023 Best TV Comedy Actor nomination. His portrayal of straight-laced first grade teacher Gregory Eddie has earned him the fifth place spot on our list, behind Bill Hader (“Barry”), “Only Murders in the Building” pair Steve Martin and Martin Short, and...
According to Gold Derby’s SAG Awards predictions, Williams is one of the likeliest candidates for a 2023 Best TV Comedy Actor nomination. His portrayal of straight-laced first grade teacher Gregory Eddie has earned him the fifth place spot on our list, behind Bill Hader (“Barry”), “Only Murders in the Building” pair Steve Martin and Martin Short, and...
- 12/1/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
With the holiday season fast approaching, it's that time of year when movie journalists and film critics start wheeling out their lists of alternative and anti-Christmas classics. If ever there was a film tailor-made for such picks, it is "Bad Santa."
In the true spirit of seasonal generosity, screenwriters Glenn Ficarra and John Requa created a script gleefully intended to offer offense to all comers, and everyone involved looks like they're having plenty of fun working their way onto Santa's naughty list. Yet the key to the film's longevity is that it remains firmly on the side of clever-offensive; if it was simply another bland gross-out comedy, it probably wouldn't have become an instant cult classic that, despite its potty mouth and all-round vulgarity, still warms our cockles after repeat viewings.
As the instantly forgettable sequel proved, you can be crass, foul-mouthed, and gross, but to pull it off and...
In the true spirit of seasonal generosity, screenwriters Glenn Ficarra and John Requa created a script gleefully intended to offer offense to all comers, and everyone involved looks like they're having plenty of fun working their way onto Santa's naughty list. Yet the key to the film's longevity is that it remains firmly on the side of clever-offensive; if it was simply another bland gross-out comedy, it probably wouldn't have become an instant cult classic that, despite its potty mouth and all-round vulgarity, still warms our cockles after repeat viewings.
As the instantly forgettable sequel proved, you can be crass, foul-mouthed, and gross, but to pull it off and...
- 11/23/2022
- by Lee Adams
- Slash Film
Donald Glover is a pretty intensely talented guy. Starting out as a writer on "30 Rock" before landing his first big on-screen role on "Community," Glover has been working with great comedic talent since he was 24 years old. This was all while he also honed his talent as a rapper, under his pseudonym Childish Gambino. He became known for his production and pop culture-inspired lyrics and now has four studio albums.
The point is, Glover has as much show-business experience as anybody out there. He's been a writer, an actor, a musician, and everything in-between, and he's only 38. The guy knows his way around creative projects, whether they're entirely his, like his music career, or the vision of someone else, like "Community."
Glover brings this plethora of experience to his current big project, FX's "Atlanta," a comedy whose eccentric ambition matches that of its creator. It wasn't an easy show to get made,...
The point is, Glover has as much show-business experience as anybody out there. He's been a writer, an actor, a musician, and everything in-between, and he's only 38. The guy knows his way around creative projects, whether they're entirely his, like his music career, or the vision of someone else, like "Community."
Glover brings this plethora of experience to his current big project, FX's "Atlanta," a comedy whose eccentric ambition matches that of its creator. It wasn't an easy show to get made,...
- 9/15/2022
- by Matt Rainis
- Slash Film
On May 31st, “America’s Got Talent” returned with a spectacular two-hour premiere episode of its 17th season. Host Terry Crews welcomed series judges Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel back to the dais with performances from the first set of performance artists. But who were the best acts from the season opener? And did any move forward that shouldn’t have? Below we rank the 10 acts who advanced from worst to best.
You may remember last season’s winner, Dustin Tavella, the third magic act to take the title. He was preceded by Brandon Leake on season 15, the show’s first-ever spoken word poet to make the main stage. A majority of the winners have been singing acts — there have been seven overall, if we’re not including Darci Lynne who is a ventriloquist but also sings. Did any of Tuesday’s acts have what it takes...
You may remember last season’s winner, Dustin Tavella, the third magic act to take the title. He was preceded by Brandon Leake on season 15, the show’s first-ever spoken word poet to make the main stage. A majority of the winners have been singing acts — there have been seven overall, if we’re not including Darci Lynne who is a ventriloquist but also sings. Did any of Tuesday’s acts have what it takes...
- 6/1/2022
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
You already know. The infamous expletive uttered by the crooked Sen. Clay Davis, played by Isiah Whitlock Jr., added spice to the lawman side of HBO's "The Wire" series. On the Baltimore-based crime drama, institutions are put under the microscope, and one of the refractions of a broken political system is Whtilock's politician, said to be loosely based upon Maryland State Senator Larry Young according to journalist William Zorzi's essay in "The Wire: Truth Be Told." The character is known for taking bribes and for his profane exhaustion, summed up by a single word, stretched out like taffy for maximum effectiveness.
While Bernie Mac extols the diversity...
The post The Wire's Most Famous Catchphrase Needed to Be Used Sparingly appeared first on /Film.
While Bernie Mac extols the diversity...
The post The Wire's Most Famous Catchphrase Needed to Be Used Sparingly appeared first on /Film.
- 5/20/2022
- by Anya Stanley
- Slash Film
A lot was taken from the Buffalo, New York, community on Saturday, May 14. Peace. Security. Ten fathers, mothers, grandmothers, grandfathers, neighbors, and community members.
The racist attack at Tops Supermarket and the man who traveled across the state to murder Black people couldn’t wrest one thing from victims’ family and friends, however. They still have their memories — stories about their loved ones that go far beyond their ages and occupations or where they lived. And in those loved ones, in some respect at least, these people live on.
Below,...
The racist attack at Tops Supermarket and the man who traveled across the state to murder Black people couldn’t wrest one thing from victims’ family and friends, however. They still have their memories — stories about their loved ones that go far beyond their ages and occupations or where they lived. And in those loved ones, in some respect at least, these people live on.
Below,...
- 5/17/2022
- by Brenna Ehrlich, Cheyenne Roundtree and Andrea Marks
- Rollingstone.com
Middle-earth comes back to life in a new teaser for Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, arriving later this year.
The video — which made its debut during NBC’s Super Bowl broadcast on Sunday; you can watch it above — offers a sneak peek at the multitude of characters who will make up the expansive, live-action fantasy series, including Morfydd Clark’s Galadriel, commander of the Northern Armies and a bearer of one of the Rings of Power, and the half-elf Elrond (Robert Aramayo), a politically ambitious leader and the eventual founder of the elven realm of Rivendell.
The video — which made its debut during NBC’s Super Bowl broadcast on Sunday; you can watch it above — offers a sneak peek at the multitude of characters who will make up the expansive, live-action fantasy series, including Morfydd Clark’s Galadriel, commander of the Northern Armies and a bearer of one of the Rings of Power, and the half-elf Elrond (Robert Aramayo), a politically ambitious leader and the eventual founder of the elven realm of Rivendell.
- 2/14/2022
- by Keisha Hatchett
- TVLine.com
Image Source: Getty / Kelly Balch / Earl Gibson III / Alexander Tamargo
If there's one thing Guy Torry, DeRay Davis, and Kym Whitley have in common, it's their passion for comedy. Phat Tuesdays founder Torry brought together the greatest in their craft at The Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard as a chain reaction to the 1992 LA riots. The legacy continues in the new Amazon Prime Video series "Phat Tuesdays." Torry, Davis, and Whitley tell Popsugar about everything from the magic of Black audiences to their memories of the late comedian Bob Saget. We also asked them their least-favorite question: who are your favorite comics, from the giants of the '90s to up-and-comers?
"This is the question I hate the most because it's too many," Torry explains. DeRay and Whitley explain that many Black comics don't get the exposure they deserve. "It's so frustrating," Whitley says, specifically referencing Black women not given opportunities.
If there's one thing Guy Torry, DeRay Davis, and Kym Whitley have in common, it's their passion for comedy. Phat Tuesdays founder Torry brought together the greatest in their craft at The Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard as a chain reaction to the 1992 LA riots. The legacy continues in the new Amazon Prime Video series "Phat Tuesdays." Torry, Davis, and Whitley tell Popsugar about everything from the magic of Black audiences to their memories of the late comedian Bob Saget. We also asked them their least-favorite question: who are your favorite comics, from the giants of the '90s to up-and-comers?
"This is the question I hate the most because it's too many," Torry explains. DeRay and Whitley explain that many Black comics don't get the exposure they deserve. "It's so frustrating," Whitley says, specifically referencing Black women not given opportunities.
- 2/11/2022
- by Naledi Ushe
- Popsugar.com
Even if you’ve never heard of Phat Tuesdays, a night at The Comedy Store in Hollywood where various Black comedians got a chance to shine and get discovered, many of the names that graced the stage are well-known.
Stars such as Cedric the Entertainer, Nick Cannon, Tiffany Haddish, Chris Tucker, Dave Chappelle and more got their big breaks on that night, thanks to comedian and founder Guy Torry, who created a showcase for rising Black comedy stars back in the 1990s. His journey to The Comedy Store and all the good, bad and ugly that happened afterward is fascinatingly...
Stars such as Cedric the Entertainer, Nick Cannon, Tiffany Haddish, Chris Tucker, Dave Chappelle and more got their big breaks on that night, thanks to comedian and founder Guy Torry, who created a showcase for rising Black comedy stars back in the 1990s. His journey to The Comedy Store and all the good, bad and ugly that happened afterward is fascinatingly...
- 2/4/2022
- by Mekeisha Madden Toby
- TVLine.com
Steve Harvey has no plans for another stand-up comedy special and blames “cancel culture.”
“The only way I can do one more special is if it’s at the end of my television career because it will end my television career,” Harvey told media on Tuesday during the TCA panel for his ABC series Judge Steve Harvey airing Tuesday nights at 8 p.m.
“We’re in the cancel culture now. No stand-up [comedian] alive that is sponsor-driven can say anything he wants to. Chris Rock can’t. Kevin Hart can’t. Cedric the Entertainer can’t. D.L. Hughley can’t. I can go down the list. The only person that can say what they want to say on stage is Dave Chappelle because he’s not sponsor-driven, he’s subscription-driven.”
He continued, “One of the reasons I stopped doing stand-up is because my wife told me God was about to do...
“The only way I can do one more special is if it’s at the end of my television career because it will end my television career,” Harvey told media on Tuesday during the TCA panel for his ABC series Judge Steve Harvey airing Tuesday nights at 8 p.m.
“We’re in the cancel culture now. No stand-up [comedian] alive that is sponsor-driven can say anything he wants to. Chris Rock can’t. Kevin Hart can’t. Cedric the Entertainer can’t. D.L. Hughley can’t. I can go down the list. The only person that can say what they want to say on stage is Dave Chappelle because he’s not sponsor-driven, he’s subscription-driven.”
He continued, “One of the reasons I stopped doing stand-up is because my wife told me God was about to do...
- 1/11/2022
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Anthony “Aj” Johnson, a comedian and actor best known for his parts in “Friday” and “House Party,” has died, representatives for Johnson confirmed to TheWrap Monday. He was 55.
According to Johnson’s reps, the actor — who played addict and thief Ezal in “Friday” and E.Z.E. in “House Party” — died earlier this month. His cause of death has not yet been released.
“Our Bh Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson,” Johnson’s spokespeople said in a statement to TheWrap. “We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved Wife, Children, Siblings and Manager. Please give them the time they need to process and grieve such a huge loss.”
Per TMZ, Johnson’s nephew said the actor “was...
According to Johnson’s reps, the actor — who played addict and thief Ezal in “Friday” and E.Z.E. in “House Party” — died earlier this month. His cause of death has not yet been released.
“Our Bh Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony ‘Aj’ Johnson,” Johnson’s spokespeople said in a statement to TheWrap. “We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved Wife, Children, Siblings and Manager. Please give them the time they need to process and grieve such a huge loss.”
Per TMZ, Johnson’s nephew said the actor “was...
- 9/20/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Lucy Liu finally spilled the tea on longtime reports of friction with Bill Murray on the set of 2000’s “Charlie’s Angels.”
In an interview on this week’s episode of the Los Angeles Times podcast “Asian Enough,” the actress recalled Murray’s “inexcusable and unacceptable” language toward her between takes.
“As we’re doing the scene, Bill starts to sort of hurl insults, and I won’t get into the specifics, but it kept going on and on,” Liu said. “I was, like, ‘Wow, he seems like he’s looking straight at me.’ I couldn’t believe that [the comments] could be towards me because what do I have to do with anything majorly important at that time?“
Liu said that she wasn’t willing to brush off the attack. “I literally do the look around my shoulder thing, like, ‘Who is he talking to behind me?’ I say, ‘I’m so sorry.
In an interview on this week’s episode of the Los Angeles Times podcast “Asian Enough,” the actress recalled Murray’s “inexcusable and unacceptable” language toward her between takes.
“As we’re doing the scene, Bill starts to sort of hurl insults, and I won’t get into the specifics, but it kept going on and on,” Liu said. “I was, like, ‘Wow, he seems like he’s looking straight at me.’ I couldn’t believe that [the comments] could be towards me because what do I have to do with anything majorly important at that time?“
Liu said that she wasn’t willing to brush off the attack. “I literally do the look around my shoulder thing, like, ‘Who is he talking to behind me?’ I say, ‘I’m so sorry.
- 7/28/2021
- by Ashley Turner
- The Wrap
CBS looked inside its own neighborhood to find this year’s Emmy host: Cedric the Entertainer will take the stage when the 73rd Primetime Emmys airs on Sept. 19. Cedric the Entertainer stars in the Eye network comedy “The Neighborhood,” which airs Mondays.
Back to helm the Emmys together for a second conesecutive year are Hudlin Entertainment and Done+Dusted (which marks the fourth year in a row for that production company). Reginald Hudlin and Ian Stewart are executive producers and Hamish Hamilton will serve as director of the telecast. Last year Hudlin made history as the first-ever Black producer of the Emmy telecast.
The Television Academy and CBS announced the host and producer news on Monday morning, a day before nominations are revealed for this year’s Emmys. As expected, the ceremony will return to the Microsoft Theatre in downtown Los Angeles’ L.A. Live complex, in front of “a...
Back to helm the Emmys together for a second conesecutive year are Hudlin Entertainment and Done+Dusted (which marks the fourth year in a row for that production company). Reginald Hudlin and Ian Stewart are executive producers and Hamish Hamilton will serve as director of the telecast. Last year Hudlin made history as the first-ever Black producer of the Emmy telecast.
The Television Academy and CBS announced the host and producer news on Monday morning, a day before nominations are revealed for this year’s Emmys. As expected, the ceremony will return to the Microsoft Theatre in downtown Los Angeles’ L.A. Live complex, in front of “a...
- 7/12/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Photo: 'Charlie's Angels'/Sony Pictures Television Bringing Back The Oldies Yes, you read that right. The angels are back! Unfortunately, this will not be an announcement for another installment, but it is still exciting news for people who enjoy the films. Just a couple of days ago, Netflix has taken on the comedic, action, and adventure classic, ‘Charlie’s Angels’. And no, I am not talking about the 2019 remake, I’m talking about the real deal...Also by the real deal, I do not mean the original series of the 80s’. I mean the 2000 version that we all know and love. It’s so great to see familiar and funny faces such as Cameron Diaz, Lucy Liu, Drew Barrymore, Bill Murray, and the late and great, Bernie Mac, now that they are back to grace our screens. Related article: ‘In the Heights’ – Behind the Scenes and Full Commentary/Reactions from...
- 7/9/2021
- by Danessa Naj'e Lopez
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
M88 has signed writer and actress Nefetari Spencer for management, The Hollywood Reporter has exclusively learned.
Spencer will serve as head host writer for the BET Awards this Sunday, the first woman to hold that position in the show’s history.
She most recently has written for the Kids Say the Darndest Things revival and TBS’ Friday Night Vibes, which are both hosted by Tiffany Haddish. Spencer is no stranger to working with major comedy talent, beginning her career as the late Bernie Mac’s assistant and since then having written material for Craig Robinson, Leslie Jones, Tracee Ellis Ross, Regina Hall, Niecy ...
Spencer will serve as head host writer for the BET Awards this Sunday, the first woman to hold that position in the show’s history.
She most recently has written for the Kids Say the Darndest Things revival and TBS’ Friday Night Vibes, which are both hosted by Tiffany Haddish. Spencer is no stranger to working with major comedy talent, beginning her career as the late Bernie Mac’s assistant and since then having written material for Craig Robinson, Leslie Jones, Tracee Ellis Ross, Regina Hall, Niecy ...
- 6/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
M88 has signed writer and actress Nefetari Spencer for management, The Hollywood Reporter has exclusively learned.
Spencer will serve as head host writer for the BET Awards this Sunday, the first woman to hold that position in the show’s history.
She most recently has written for the Kids Say the Darndest Things revival and TBS’ Friday Night Vibes, which are both hosted by Tiffany Haddish. Spencer is no stranger to working with major comedy talent, beginning her career as the late Bernie Mac’s assistant and since then having written material for Craig Robinson, Leslie Jones, Tracee Ellis Ross, Regina Hall, Niecy ...
Spencer will serve as head host writer for the BET Awards this Sunday, the first woman to hold that position in the show’s history.
She most recently has written for the Kids Say the Darndest Things revival and TBS’ Friday Night Vibes, which are both hosted by Tiffany Haddish. Spencer is no stranger to working with major comedy talent, beginning her career as the late Bernie Mac’s assistant and since then having written material for Craig Robinson, Leslie Jones, Tracee Ellis Ross, Regina Hall, Niecy ...
- 6/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Twenty years ago, Larry Wilmore had already earned two Emmy nominations for his work on In Living Color and The PJs, but it was his pilot episode of The Bernie Mac Show that struck gold.
In 2002, Wilmore became the first Black writer to win the Emmy for outstanding writing for a comedy series. Wilmore says the show, in which a fictionalized version of stand-up comedian Mac and his wife take in his sister’s children after his sister enters rehab, was unlike traditional sitcoms in that it “was all about behavior,” and was inspired by everything from French New Wave films ...
In 2002, Wilmore became the first Black writer to win the Emmy for outstanding writing for a comedy series. Wilmore says the show, in which a fictionalized version of stand-up comedian Mac and his wife take in his sister’s children after his sister enters rehab, was unlike traditional sitcoms in that it “was all about behavior,” and was inspired by everything from French New Wave films ...
- 6/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Amber Ruffin and Robin Thede go way back.
The writers, producers and performers entered late-night TV around the same time (Ruffin in 2014 on “Late Night With Seth Meyers” and Thede the following year on “The Nightly Show With Larry Wilmore”). Before that, they’d each other for years, previously appearing together at improv shows where they would act out “lost” (aka fake) “227” episodes live.
Ruffin ended up writing on the first season of Thede’s “A Black Lady Sketch Show” in 2019, but now the long-time friends are blazing individual trails in the late-night sketch comedy space. Thede’s HBO series just aired its second season, while Ruffin is celebrating the freshman year of her Peacock series “The Amber Ruffin Show.”
Variety brought them together to talk about finding creativity amid the Covid-19 pandemic, how the lack of wide representation for Black women in the sketch space affects what they do...
The writers, producers and performers entered late-night TV around the same time (Ruffin in 2014 on “Late Night With Seth Meyers” and Thede the following year on “The Nightly Show With Larry Wilmore”). Before that, they’d each other for years, previously appearing together at improv shows where they would act out “lost” (aka fake) “227” episodes live.
Ruffin ended up writing on the first season of Thede’s “A Black Lady Sketch Show” in 2019, but now the long-time friends are blazing individual trails in the late-night sketch comedy space. Thede’s HBO series just aired its second season, while Ruffin is celebrating the freshman year of her Peacock series “The Amber Ruffin Show.”
Variety brought them together to talk about finding creativity amid the Covid-19 pandemic, how the lack of wide representation for Black women in the sketch space affects what they do...
- 6/21/2021
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
One of the biggest questions regarding this biopic has to be who is going to be playing Bernie Mac, and the follow-up would have to be whether or not that individual is going to be able to make it work. But the news that Bernie Mac will be getting a biopic on his life is something a lot of fans can get behind since throughout his time in the business, Mac was one of the most regarded comedians of his time. Sadly he passed away in 2008 from complications due to pneumonia, but during his time in the business, he
Yes, There Is a Bernie Mac Biopic in Development...
Yes, There Is a Bernie Mac Biopic in Development...
- 6/18/2021
- by Tom
- TVovermind.com
Tina Fey’s newest comedy, “Girls5Eva,” follows a ‘90s girl group reuniting after 20 years to recapture their old magic. Along the way, the group discovers that some of the messages from their songs that were once culturally acceptable, are now very much not.
Fey, who serves as an executive producer on “Girls5Eva,” discussed how the plot line came to mind during a conversation at the Tribeca Festival 2021.
“We’re culturally looking back at stuff that we all took as totally normal, fun and just cool in the ’90s, whether it’s the way David Letterman dismantled Lindsey Lohan or an underage Britney Spears singing ‘Slave 4 U,'” Fey said. “We’re all looking back at those things now and being like, ‘Oh, we all cosigned that? Oh, that’s terrible.'”
Fey sat down with longtime collaborators Meredith Scardino, Robert Carlock and Jeff Richmond on Friday night to talk about...
Fey, who serves as an executive producer on “Girls5Eva,” discussed how the plot line came to mind during a conversation at the Tribeca Festival 2021.
“We’re culturally looking back at stuff that we all took as totally normal, fun and just cool in the ’90s, whether it’s the way David Letterman dismantled Lindsey Lohan or an underage Britney Spears singing ‘Slave 4 U,'” Fey said. “We’re all looking back at those things now and being like, ‘Oh, we all cosigned that? Oh, that’s terrible.'”
Fey sat down with longtime collaborators Meredith Scardino, Robert Carlock and Jeff Richmond on Friday night to talk about...
- 6/12/2021
- by Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
A biopic about the late comedy legend Bernie Mac is in development at John Legend’s production company, Get Lifted, the music star’s producing partner Mike Jackson said on Thursday.
Jackson made the announcement during a Q&a with Legend at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, saying that a deal had just been made between the studio and Bernie Mac’s estate that “John doesn’t know about yet.”
“Look at you, breaking news,” the seemingly surprised Legend said.
Bernie Mac rose to prominence on the Chicago stand-up comedy circuit before becoming one of the biggest comedic stars of film and television in the 2000s, earning two Emmy nominations for his lead performance on “The Bernie Mac Show.” On the big screen, he was best known for appearing alongside Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.L. Hughley in Spike Lee’s stand-up showcase film “The Original Kings of Comedy,...
Jackson made the announcement during a Q&a with Legend at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, saying that a deal had just been made between the studio and Bernie Mac’s estate that “John doesn’t know about yet.”
“Look at you, breaking news,” the seemingly surprised Legend said.
Bernie Mac rose to prominence on the Chicago stand-up comedy circuit before becoming one of the biggest comedic stars of film and television in the 2000s, earning two Emmy nominations for his lead performance on “The Bernie Mac Show.” On the big screen, he was best known for appearing alongside Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.L. Hughley in Spike Lee’s stand-up showcase film “The Original Kings of Comedy,...
- 6/11/2021
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
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