Jo Koy has heard the critical responses to his Golden Globes monologue.
“I had fun. It was a moment I’ll always remember,” he said of his time hosting the 2024 awards show on GMA3 the morning after. He then paused. “It’s a tough room. It was a hard job. I’m not gonna lie. Getting that gig and then having the amount of time that we had to prepare, that was a crash course.”
When Koy took the stage Sunday night to open the show, he quickly grew defensive in his monologue after he felt some of his jokes falling flat in the Beverly Hilton’s celebrity-filled room.
“I got the gig 10 days ago!” he told the audience. “You want a perfect monologue?”
“Some I wrote, some other people wrote,” said Koy, who was announced as host on Dec. 21. “I wrote some of these, and those are the ones you’re laughing at.
“I had fun. It was a moment I’ll always remember,” he said of his time hosting the 2024 awards show on GMA3 the morning after. He then paused. “It’s a tough room. It was a hard job. I’m not gonna lie. Getting that gig and then having the amount of time that we had to prepare, that was a crash course.”
When Koy took the stage Sunday night to open the show, he quickly grew defensive in his monologue after he felt some of his jokes falling flat in the Beverly Hilton’s celebrity-filled room.
“I got the gig 10 days ago!” he told the audience. “You want a perfect monologue?”
“Some I wrote, some other people wrote,” said Koy, who was announced as host on Dec. 21. “I wrote some of these, and those are the ones you’re laughing at.
- 1/8/2024
- by Jackie Strause
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
When Jo Koy was announced as Golden Globes host on Dec. 21, it was just a little over two weeks to air. “When they asked me, it was an immediate yes, I couldn’t believe this was happening,” Koy tells Variety. “And then I woke up and went, ‘wait a minute. I have two weeks to write jokes!
“Actually, I think I had less than two weeks because I didn’t get my writers until five days later,” he adds. “When Tina [Fey] and all those other hosts got the gig, they had months to prepare. I’m literally looking at just days! It’s been a crash course in hosting.”
But Koy is relishing this moment. The comedian, who recently sealed a deal to bring his next two stand-up comedy specials to Netflix (his fifth and sixth for the streamer), says he’s aware of the symbolism behind hosting a major awards show ceremony.
“Actually, I think I had less than two weeks because I didn’t get my writers until five days later,” he adds. “When Tina [Fey] and all those other hosts got the gig, they had months to prepare. I’m literally looking at just days! It’s been a crash course in hosting.”
But Koy is relishing this moment. The comedian, who recently sealed a deal to bring his next two stand-up comedy specials to Netflix (his fifth and sixth for the streamer), says he’s aware of the symbolism behind hosting a major awards show ceremony.
- 1/3/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Back on the Strip is a comedy movie directed by Chris Spencer from a screenplay by Chris Daniel and Eric Spencer. The comedy movie follows the story of Merlin (Spence Moore II), who moves to Las Vegas in hopes of making it as a magician, but instead because of his good looks and great body gets recruited into the Black male strippers The Chocolate Chips. Back on the Strip also stars Wesley Snipes and Tiffany Haddish. So, if you loved Back on the Strip here are some similar movies you should watch next.
The Full Monty Credit – 20th Century Fox
Synopsis: Six unemployed men, inspired by a touring group of male strippers, decide they can make a small fortune by putting on a striptease show of their own-but with one small difference. They intend to go the “full monty” and strip completely naked! In this hilarious, heartfelt comedy, these six...
The Full Monty Credit – 20th Century Fox
Synopsis: Six unemployed men, inspired by a touring group of male strippers, decide they can make a small fortune by putting on a striptease show of their own-but with one small difference. They intend to go the “full monty” and strip completely naked! In this hilarious, heartfelt comedy, these six...
- 8/24/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Re-releases reliably dot the theatrical calendar and this week have a standout. Oldboy, the 2004 Cannes prize-winner, re-released by Neon on its 20th anniversary restored and remastered, grossed $235k on Wednesday and $150k Thursday — for a total cume $385k on 250 screens heading into the weekend.
San Francisco, NYC and LA, led by Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, are the top-performing cities so far for Park Chan-wook’s classic film — the first screening in U.S. theaters since its original North American release in 2005.
Oldboy follows Oh Dae-Su (Choi Min-sik), who, after being kidnapped and imprisoned for fifteen years, is released but must find his captor in five days. The critically acclaimed film is the second installment of Park’s The Vengeance Trilogy, preceded by Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002) and followed by Lady Vengeance (2005). Oldboy won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. It grossed $15 million worldwide, and saw...
San Francisco, NYC and LA, led by Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, are the top-performing cities so far for Park Chan-wook’s classic film — the first screening in U.S. theaters since its original North American release in 2005.
Oldboy follows Oh Dae-Su (Choi Min-sik), who, after being kidnapped and imprisoned for fifteen years, is released but must find his captor in five days. The critically acclaimed film is the second installment of Park’s The Vengeance Trilogy, preceded by Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002) and followed by Lady Vengeance (2005). Oldboy won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. It grossed $15 million worldwide, and saw...
- 8/18/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
There have been funny male stripper movies (The Full Monty), auteur-directed male stripper movies (Magic Mike), Black male stripper movies (three Chocolate City films). Now comes Back on the Strip, yet another attempt to wrest humor and drama from the spectacle of scantily clad men gyrating to audiences of wildly appreciative women. The independent film receiving a wide release definitely leans toward the funnier end of the spectrum, with its overqualified cast including many formidable comedic talents. But despite some amusing moments, it never really takes off, burdened by a tiresome romantic subplot that periodically stops the movie dead in its tracks.
The story revolves around Merlin (Spence Moore II), whose name stems from his lifelong desire to pursue a career as a magician. His supportive single mother Verna (Tiffany Haddish), who narrates the proceedings, encourages him in his dreams and roots for him when he makes an appearance at a local talent contest.
The story revolves around Merlin (Spence Moore II), whose name stems from his lifelong desire to pursue a career as a magician. His supportive single mother Verna (Tiffany Haddish), who narrates the proceedings, encourages him in his dreams and roots for him when he makes an appearance at a local talent contest.
- 8/18/2023
- by Frank Scheck
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It would come as no surprise to learn that “Back on the Strip” started out as a “Magic Mike” parody. I’m not saying that it did. But what else could explain the bizarrely literal premise of an ensemble indie comedy in which our hero is a wannabe magician who heads to Vegas hoping to be the next David Copperfield, only to wind up shaking his wand for a Chippendales-style male dance revue instead?
What makes “Strip” so consistently funny for most of its too-long two-hour running time isn’t Merlin’s lame prestidigi-dream (that part feels like co-writers Chris Spencer and Eric Daniel have been watching too many Nickelodeon movies) but the sorry state of his fellow dancers: a has-been crew called the Chocolate Chips. That fairly original hook allowed the filmmakers to round up an A-list lineup for this C-grade endeavor. The movie features everyone from Tiffany Haddish...
What makes “Strip” so consistently funny for most of its too-long two-hour running time isn’t Merlin’s lame prestidigi-dream (that part feels like co-writers Chris Spencer and Eric Daniel have been watching too many Nickelodeon movies) but the sorry state of his fellow dancers: a has-been crew called the Chocolate Chips. That fairly original hook allowed the filmmakers to round up an A-list lineup for this C-grade endeavor. The movie features everyone from Tiffany Haddish...
- 8/18/2023
- by Peter Debruge
- Variety Film + TV
For the 12th year, B. Riley Securities presented the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation “Big Fighters, Big Cause” Charity Boxing Night on Wednesday, May 24 at The Beverly Hilton.
Anthony Anderson, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Cedric the Entertainer attend the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation Big Fighters, Big Cause Charity Boxing Night
Credit/Copyright: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation
Actor Chris Spencer hosted the exclusive star-studded event which featured first-class entertainment, a National Anthem performance by emerging pop/R&b singer Gabby Samone, four action-packed live fights presented by Golden Boy Promotions, and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
The evening also honored Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Anthony Anderson with the 2023 Golden Glove Award, recognizing his commitment to raising awareness for diabetes. Anderson is an advocate for diabetes awareness and a spokesperson for the “Get Real About Diabetes” campaign.
Anthony Anderson, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Cedric the Entertainer attend the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation Big Fighters, Big Cause Charity Boxing Night
Credit/Copyright: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation
Actor Chris Spencer hosted the exclusive star-studded event which featured first-class entertainment, a National Anthem performance by emerging pop/R&b singer Gabby Samone, four action-packed live fights presented by Golden Boy Promotions, and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
The evening also honored Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Anthony Anderson with the 2023 Golden Glove Award, recognizing his commitment to raising awareness for diabetes. Anderson is an advocate for diabetes awareness and a spokesperson for the “Get Real About Diabetes” campaign.
- 5/31/2023
- Look to the Stars
"It's time for you to get on stage, and do it your way!" Gvn Releasing is handling the US opening of this comedy titled Back on the Strip, made by writer / actor Chris Spencer. While it's not made explicity clear in the trailer, this seems like a spoof of the Magic Mike movies, with an old crew of male strippers coming back for a revival show in Las Vegas. "The Chocolate Chips" must get together again to help out a friend of theirs, a magician named Merlin, who is sent by his mom to Vegas to get his act together. The old crew features Wesley Snipes, Jb Smoove, Gary Owen, Bill Bellamy, and Faizon Love (the funniest one in this), along with Spence Moore II, Tiffany Haddish, and Raigan Harris. This looks like it has some good jokes and funny lines, but it also looks extremely cheesy, especially set in Vegas.
- 5/8/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation today announced that Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Anthony Anderson will receive the Golden Glove Award at its 12th annual “Big Fighters, Big Cause” Charity Boxing Night presented by B. Riley Securities on Wednesday, May 24 at The Beverly Hilton.
The star-studded evening is set to be hosted by Chris Spencer with a National Anthem performance by emerging pop/R&b singer Gabby Samone, action-packed live fights presented by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
“I am excited to be given the ‘Golden Glove’ Award by the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation. Being a champion for those living with diabetes and raising awareness for the disease is a passion of mine and has been a big focus of my advocacy and I am humbled to be honored in this way...
The star-studded evening is set to be hosted by Chris Spencer with a National Anthem performance by emerging pop/R&b singer Gabby Samone, action-packed live fights presented by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
“I am excited to be given the ‘Golden Glove’ Award by the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation. Being a champion for those living with diabetes and raising awareness for the disease is a passion of mine and has been a big focus of my advocacy and I am humbled to be honored in this way...
- 4/25/2023
- Look to the Stars
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Dead Ringers and a Queen Charlotte celebration.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie special screening
Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Seth Rogen and Sebastian Maniscalco attended a special screening in Los Angeles on Saturday for their Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Michael Jelenic, Aaron Horvath, Sebastian Maniscalco, Nintendo’s Takumi Kawagoe, Christ Pratt, Brian Tyler, Charlie Day, Nintendo’s Koji Kondo, Illumination CEO Chris Melendandri, Kevin Michael Richardson (Bottom second L-r) Seth Rogen, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto and Jack Black Chris Pratt and Charlie Day Anya Taylor-Joy
Dead Ringers premiere
On Monday, Prime Video hosted the world premiere of psychological thriller series Dead Ringers in NYC, with star and EP Rachel Weisz along cast members Britne Oldford, Poppy Liu,...
The Super Mario Bros. Movie special screening
Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, Jack Black, Seth Rogen and Sebastian Maniscalco attended a special screening in Los Angeles on Saturday for their Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Michael Jelenic, Aaron Horvath, Sebastian Maniscalco, Nintendo’s Takumi Kawagoe, Christ Pratt, Brian Tyler, Charlie Day, Nintendo’s Koji Kondo, Illumination CEO Chris Melendandri, Kevin Michael Richardson (Bottom second L-r) Seth Rogen, Anya Taylor-Joy, Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto and Jack Black Chris Pratt and Charlie Day Anya Taylor-Joy
Dead Ringers premiere
On Monday, Prime Video hosted the world premiere of psychological thriller series Dead Ringers in NYC, with star and EP Rachel Weisz along cast members Britne Oldford, Poppy Liu,...
- 4/7/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Up-and-comers Piper Curda (May December) and Nico Greetham (American Horror Story) have signed on to star in Something Casual — an independent romantic dramedy from writer-director Brandon Buczek (Your Own Road).
Related Story ‘Wind River: The Next Chapter’ Adds Jason Clarke, Scott Eastwood & Chaske Spencer Related Story 'Love, Victor': Nico Greetham Boards Hulu Series' Final Season Related Story Yasmine Aker Joins 'Good Trouble' In Recasting; 'Legacies' Adds Piper Curda
Pic follows a struggling, first-generation artist, Alex (Greetham), and a professional dancer, Frankie (Curda), as they navigate the soulless casual hookup culture of Los Angeles. Dating apps and casual sex reign supreme and a series of misunderstandings leaves these two star-crossed lovers oscillating between confusion (ghosting and ignoring) and obsession (sex and pasta).
Something Casual was independently financed by private investors and produced by Your Own Road Productions LLC. Buczek, Anie Delgado, Gabrielle LeBlanc and Ben Rejzer are producing,...
Related Story ‘Wind River: The Next Chapter’ Adds Jason Clarke, Scott Eastwood & Chaske Spencer Related Story 'Love, Victor': Nico Greetham Boards Hulu Series' Final Season Related Story Yasmine Aker Joins 'Good Trouble' In Recasting; 'Legacies' Adds Piper Curda
Pic follows a struggling, first-generation artist, Alex (Greetham), and a professional dancer, Frankie (Curda), as they navigate the soulless casual hookup culture of Los Angeles. Dating apps and casual sex reign supreme and a series of misunderstandings leaves these two star-crossed lovers oscillating between confusion (ghosting and ignoring) and obsession (sex and pasta).
Something Casual was independently financed by private investors and produced by Your Own Road Productions LLC. Buczek, Anie Delgado, Gabrielle LeBlanc and Ben Rejzer are producing,...
- 3/7/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Attendees of the 2022 Emmy Awards came away from the show with a new understanding of the supernova that is Lizzo.
The multi-faceted artist, who ended the night as an Emmy winner for her Amazon Prime Video reality series “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” cut quite a figure through the Microsoft Theater. Her fire-engine red tulle dress ran the length of a city block, extending out in all directions with the help of many hoops. During commercial breaks, photographers and Emmy-goers crowded around Lizzo‘s table to snap pics at such a furious pace that it looked like a strobe light to those who weren’t on the floor as part of the unusual ballroom-style seating for nominees and their entourages.
Moreover, Lizzo brought the party up the Loge level where a cheering section of “Big Grrrls” performers and producers kept spirits lively by chanting lyrics to her hit “About Damn Time.
The multi-faceted artist, who ended the night as an Emmy winner for her Amazon Prime Video reality series “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” cut quite a figure through the Microsoft Theater. Her fire-engine red tulle dress ran the length of a city block, extending out in all directions with the help of many hoops. During commercial breaks, photographers and Emmy-goers crowded around Lizzo‘s table to snap pics at such a furious pace that it looked like a strobe light to those who weren’t on the floor as part of the unusual ballroom-style seating for nominees and their entourages.
Moreover, Lizzo brought the party up the Loge level where a cheering section of “Big Grrrls” performers and producers kept spirits lively by chanting lyrics to her hit “About Damn Time.
- 9/13/2022
- by Emily Longeretta and Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
David A. Arnold, the much-loved stand-up comedian who was the creator and showrunner of the Nickelodeon series That Girl Lay Lay, has died. He was 54.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold,” his family said in a statement Wednesday. “David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”
“Our closely knit comedy community mourns the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it,” said Arnold’s close friend and fellow comedian Chris Spencer. “He was admired by his peers, respected by other veterans and revered by the burgeoning comedians that he mentored. He will me deeply missed,...
David A. Arnold, the much-loved stand-up comedian who was the creator and showrunner of the Nickelodeon series That Girl Lay Lay, has died. He was 54.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold,” his family said in a statement Wednesday. “David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”
“Our closely knit comedy community mourns the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it,” said Arnold’s close friend and fellow comedian Chris Spencer. “He was admired by his peers, respected by other veterans and revered by the burgeoning comedians that he mentored. He will me deeply missed,...
- 9/8/2022
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
David A. Arnold, a comedian and showrunner known for his standup work and as creator and showrunner of Nickelodeon’s “That Girl Lay Lay,” died unexpectedly on Wednesday. He was 54.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold,” Arnold’s family said in a statement. “David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devasted by this loss.”
Arnold’s death came as a surprise to industry insiders. He was affiliated with Kevin Hart, who produced Arnold’s second Netflix standup special, “It Ain’t for the Weak,” which debuted in July. The special revolves around routines focusing on Arnold’s family life as well as marital spats and entitled kids.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold,” Arnold’s family said in a statement. “David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devasted by this loss.”
Arnold’s death came as a surprise to industry insiders. He was affiliated with Kevin Hart, who produced Arnold’s second Netflix standup special, “It Ain’t for the Weak,” which debuted in July. The special revolves around routines focusing on Arnold’s family life as well as marital spats and entitled kids.
- 9/8/2022
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
David A. Arnold, a respected stand-up comedian, actor, television writer and producer on shows like “Fuller House,” died suddenly on Wednesday. He was 54.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold. David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time, as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss,” his family said in a statement.
“Our closely knit comedy community mourns the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it. He was admired by his peers, respected by other veterans, and revered by the burgeoning comedians that he mentored. He will me deeply missed, especially by his comedy fraternity,” Arnold’s best friend, Chris Spencer said in a separate statement.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold. David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time, as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss,” his family said in a statement.
“Our closely knit comedy community mourns the loss of one of the greatest to ever do it. He was admired by his peers, respected by other veterans, and revered by the burgeoning comedians that he mentored. He will me deeply missed, especially by his comedy fraternity,” Arnold’s best friend, Chris Spencer said in a separate statement.
- 9/8/2022
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
David A. Arnold, a comedian, actor, writer and producer who headlined two Netflix comedy specials and was a writer/producer on the Fuller House reboot, died today, Sept. 7. He was 54.
The Arnold family issued a statement confirming the death. “It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold. David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time, as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”
Arnold started out as a stand-up comic, performing at the Montreal Comedy Festival and on Jamie Foxx’s Laffapalooza on Comedy Central, among other projects.
He wrote for several comedy series, including Meet The Browns (TBS), The Rickey Smiley Show (TV One), Raising Whitley (OWN) and Tyler Perry...
The Arnold family issued a statement confirming the death. “It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our husband, father, brother and friend, David A. Arnold. David passed away peacefully today in his home and doctors have ruled the cause of death due to natural causes. Please keep our family in prayer and respect our privacy at this time, as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”
Arnold started out as a stand-up comic, performing at the Montreal Comedy Festival and on Jamie Foxx’s Laffapalooza on Comedy Central, among other projects.
He wrote for several comedy series, including Meet The Browns (TBS), The Rickey Smiley Show (TV One), Raising Whitley (OWN) and Tyler Perry...
- 9/8/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: J.B. Smoove (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Francesca Reale (Stranger Things) and newcomer Maria Mancuso will round out the cast of the rom-com Música, which Rudy Mancuso is directing and starring in for Amazon Studios and Wonderland Sound and Vision. The trio joins an ensemble that also includes Riverdale‘s Camila Mendes, as previously announced.
The recently-wrapped film follows a young man (Rudy Mancuso) plagued by the music in his head, who has to come to terms with an uncertain future while balancing love, family and Brazilian culture in Newark, New Jersey. The latest romance from Wonderland, on the heels of its success with titles including Love Hard, Holidate and Tall Girl, will ultimately premiere on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
Rudy Mancuso wrote the script with American Vandal‘s Dan Lagana, and is also composing the film’s original score and soundtrack, with McG and Mary Viola...
The recently-wrapped film follows a young man (Rudy Mancuso) plagued by the music in his head, who has to come to terms with an uncertain future while balancing love, family and Brazilian culture in Newark, New Jersey. The latest romance from Wonderland, on the heels of its success with titles including Love Hard, Holidate and Tall Girl, will ultimately premiere on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
Rudy Mancuso wrote the script with American Vandal‘s Dan Lagana, and is also composing the film’s original score and soundtrack, with McG and Mary Viola...
- 7/27/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Former HBO chief marketing officer Pamela Levine has been tapped as the new head of marketing for Disney Branded Television and National Geographic Content.
Levine, who is replacing the recently exited Jayanta Jenkins, will lead an integrated internal agency across brand and creative marketing, strategy, publicity, media planning, digital/social, events, talent relations and awards, supporting content created for Disney+, as well as the Disney and National Geographic-branded linear networks, per Disney General Entertainment.
In her new role, which she will begin June 27, Levine will jointly report to Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis and National Geographic Content President Courteney Monroe. Levine’s direct reports include Chris Albert, executive vice president, Marketing and Publicity; Chris Spencer, executive vice president, Creative Marketing; Kristin Corrigan, senior vice president, Marketing Strategy; Jessica Bodaken, vice president, Marketing Production; Abby Ho, vice president, Social Media & Engagement Strategy; and Katie Morrow, vice president, Media Planning.
Levine, who is replacing the recently exited Jayanta Jenkins, will lead an integrated internal agency across brand and creative marketing, strategy, publicity, media planning, digital/social, events, talent relations and awards, supporting content created for Disney+, as well as the Disney and National Geographic-branded linear networks, per Disney General Entertainment.
In her new role, which she will begin June 27, Levine will jointly report to Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis and National Geographic Content President Courteney Monroe. Levine’s direct reports include Chris Albert, executive vice president, Marketing and Publicity; Chris Spencer, executive vice president, Creative Marketing; Kristin Corrigan, senior vice president, Marketing Strategy; Jessica Bodaken, vice president, Marketing Production; Abby Ho, vice president, Social Media & Engagement Strategy; and Katie Morrow, vice president, Media Planning.
- 6/21/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Former 20th Century Fox and HBO marketing chief Pamela Levine is joining Disney General Entertainment as head of marketing for Disney Branded Television and National Geographic Content. She replaces Jayanta Jenkins, who exited the post earlier this month after a year and a half.
Reporting jointly to Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis and National Geographic Content President Courteney Monroe, Levine will lead the integrated internal agency across brand and creative marketing, strategy, publicity, media planning, digital/social, events, talent relations and awards, working on content for Disney+, as well as the Disney- and National Geographic-branded linear networks.
Levine starts June 27 and will be based in Burbank, while also spending time in the District of Columbia where National Geographic is based.
Among Levine’s direct reports in her new role are Chris Albert, EVP, Marketing and Publicity; Chris Spencer, EVP, Creative Marketing; Kristin Corrigan, SVP, Marketing Strategy; Jessica Bodaken,...
Reporting jointly to Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis and National Geographic Content President Courteney Monroe, Levine will lead the integrated internal agency across brand and creative marketing, strategy, publicity, media planning, digital/social, events, talent relations and awards, working on content for Disney+, as well as the Disney- and National Geographic-branded linear networks.
Levine starts June 27 and will be based in Burbank, while also spending time in the District of Columbia where National Geographic is based.
Among Levine’s direct reports in her new role are Chris Albert, EVP, Marketing and Publicity; Chris Spencer, EVP, Creative Marketing; Kristin Corrigan, SVP, Marketing Strategy; Jessica Bodaken,...
- 6/21/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Pamela Levine is returning to entertainment.
The former 20th Century Fox Film and HBO exec has been tapped to head marketing for Disney Branded Television and National Geographic, reporting to both Ayo Davis and Courteney Monroe.
In her new role, Levine will lead an integrated marketing division across brand and creative, strategy, PR, media planning, digital/social, events, talent relations and awards for content created for Disney+ and other Disney- and Nat Geo-branded linear networks.
“Pam is an incredibly accomplished executive whose extensive experience launching, reimagining, and growing big entertainment brands is unparalleled,” said Disney Branded TV president Davis and Nat Geo topper Monroe. “She’s not only led marketing for some of the most successful film and television franchises of all time, but Pam has a stellar reputation as a strong, inspiring leader of high-performing, award-winning teams. We’re delighted to...
Pamela Levine is returning to entertainment.
The former 20th Century Fox Film and HBO exec has been tapped to head marketing for Disney Branded Television and National Geographic, reporting to both Ayo Davis and Courteney Monroe.
In her new role, Levine will lead an integrated marketing division across brand and creative, strategy, PR, media planning, digital/social, events, talent relations and awards for content created for Disney+ and other Disney- and Nat Geo-branded linear networks.
“Pam is an incredibly accomplished executive whose extensive experience launching, reimagining, and growing big entertainment brands is unparalleled,” said Disney Branded TV president Davis and Nat Geo topper Monroe. “She’s not only led marketing for some of the most successful film and television franchises of all time, but Pam has a stellar reputation as a strong, inspiring leader of high-performing, award-winning teams. We’re delighted to...
- 6/21/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Before Kevin Hart was a top comedian, a global movie star and a media mogul, he was a lost 20-year-old in Philly working at a sneaker shop in a 90s mall. That early chapter in Hart’s life is the inspiration for True To Size, a half-hour single camera comedy, which, in a competitive situation, has landed at Peacock for development. The project hails from stand-up comedian and writer Dan Levy (The Goldbergs), Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat Productions, Doug Robinson and Sony Pictures Television, where Robinson and his Drp Productions are based.
Hart has spoken openly about his stint as a sneaker salesman, which he took very seriously at the time and strived to be the best at despite only taking the job to make his mom happy and keep him out of trouble. The gig would eventually change his life when the store manager convinced him to try standup at an open mic.
Hart has spoken openly about his stint as a sneaker salesman, which he took very seriously at the time and strived to be the best at despite only taking the job to make his mom happy and keep him out of trouble. The gig would eventually change his life when the store manager convinced him to try standup at an open mic.
- 6/3/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
For the eleventh year, B. Riley Securities presented the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation “Big Fighters, Big Cause” Charity Boxing Night on Wednesday, May 25 at The Beverly Hilton.
Nick Jonas and Sugar Ray Leonard attend Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation's 11th Annual 'Big Fighters, Big Cause' Charity Boxing Night
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation
Actor Chris Spencer hosted the exclusive star-studded event which featured first-class entertainment, a National Anthem performance by Empire Nashville recording artist Sophia Scott, four action-packed live fights presented by Golden Boy, and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
The evening also honored Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum selling global superstar, actor, producer and philanthropist Nick Jonas with the 2022 Golden Glove Award. The award acknowledged Jonas’ commitment to helping raise awareness for diabetes. In addition to his many accomplishments, Jonas also co-founded Beyond Type 1, a global nonprofit...
Nick Jonas and Sugar Ray Leonard attend Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation's 11th Annual 'Big Fighters, Big Cause' Charity Boxing Night
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation
Actor Chris Spencer hosted the exclusive star-studded event which featured first-class entertainment, a National Anthem performance by Empire Nashville recording artist Sophia Scott, four action-packed live fights presented by Golden Boy, and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
The evening also honored Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum selling global superstar, actor, producer and philanthropist Nick Jonas with the 2022 Golden Glove Award. The award acknowledged Jonas’ commitment to helping raise awareness for diabetes. In addition to his many accomplishments, Jonas also co-founded Beyond Type 1, a global nonprofit...
- 6/1/2022
- Look to the Stars
Exclusive: Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting), Lenny Kravitz (Lee Daniels’ The Butler), Beverly D’Angelo (Violent Night), Colleen Camp (Back on the Strip) and Gavin Rossdale (The Bling Ring) have signed on to star alongside Vito Schnabel in the dark comedy The Trainer, which Tony Kaye (American History X) is directing from Schnabel and Jeff Solomon’s script.
The film currently in production, after nearly a decade in development, is based on an original story by Schnabel. It unfolds over eight days of sleep-deprived chaos and follows Jack (Schnabel), a down-on-his-luck fitness expert living with his mother in Los Angeles, who takes a maniacal swing at fame and fortune, trying to realize his version of the American dream.
Julia Fox, Steven Van Zandt, Taylour Paige, Stephen Dorff, John McEnroe, Gina Gershon, Luka Sabbat, Soo Joo Park, Brock O’Hurn, Bella Thorne, Laird Hamilton and Duke Nicholson are also set to star.
The film currently in production, after nearly a decade in development, is based on an original story by Schnabel. It unfolds over eight days of sleep-deprived chaos and follows Jack (Schnabel), a down-on-his-luck fitness expert living with his mother in Los Angeles, who takes a maniacal swing at fame and fortune, trying to realize his version of the American dream.
Julia Fox, Steven Van Zandt, Taylour Paige, Stephen Dorff, John McEnroe, Gina Gershon, Luka Sabbat, Soo Joo Park, Brock O’Hurn, Bella Thorne, Laird Hamilton and Duke Nicholson are also set to star.
- 5/4/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation has announced that Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum selling global superstar, actor, producer and philanthropist Nick Jonas will receive the Golden Glove Award at its 11th annual “Big Fighters, Big Cause” Charity Boxing Night presented by B. Riley Securities on Wednesday, May 25 at The Beverly Hilton Hotel.
The star-studded evening is set to be hosted by Chris Spencer with a National Anthem performance by Empire Nashville recording artist Sophia Scott, action-packed live fights presented by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
The 2022 Golden Glove Award will acknowledge Jonas’ commitment to helping raise awareness for diabetes. In addition to his many accomplishments, Jonas also co-founded Beyond Type 1, a global nonprofit organization that provides education and resources to support those affected by diabetes. With the largest digital footprint of any diabetes nonprofit,...
The star-studded evening is set to be hosted by Chris Spencer with a National Anthem performance by Empire Nashville recording artist Sophia Scott, action-packed live fights presented by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and a live and silent auction display featuring iconic memorabilia and one-of-a-kind items and experiences.
The 2022 Golden Glove Award will acknowledge Jonas’ commitment to helping raise awareness for diabetes. In addition to his many accomplishments, Jonas also co-founded Beyond Type 1, a global nonprofit organization that provides education and resources to support those affected by diabetes. With the largest digital footprint of any diabetes nonprofit,...
- 4/25/2022
- Look to the Stars
Exclusive: Blade star Wesley Snipes and his Maandi House Studios have partnered with Gifted Rebels and Pcb Entertainment on a new graphic novel, titled The Exiled.
The comic will follow Detective Niles “Roach” Washington as he pursues a serial killer in the aftermath of a deadly gas attack. As the killer rips the spines from his victims, using tools over 5,000 years old, the world outcasts Roach for his theories. But his instincts keep pushing him forward. With enemies on all sides, and within, he wades into the darkness to find the killer and uncovers Earth’s darkest secret.
Gifted Rebels’ Adam Lawson is adapting the comic book script from a story he created with Snipes and Pcb Entertainment’s President Keith Arem, with Gabriel “Eskivo” Santos (Knightwraith) doing the art and Valentina Bianconi handling the colors. Among The Exiled‘s unique features are hidden codes, which...
The comic will follow Detective Niles “Roach” Washington as he pursues a serial killer in the aftermath of a deadly gas attack. As the killer rips the spines from his victims, using tools over 5,000 years old, the world outcasts Roach for his theories. But his instincts keep pushing him forward. With enemies on all sides, and within, he wades into the darkness to find the killer and uncovers Earth’s darkest secret.
Gifted Rebels’ Adam Lawson is adapting the comic book script from a story he created with Snipes and Pcb Entertainment’s President Keith Arem, with Gabriel “Eskivo” Santos (Knightwraith) doing the art and Valentina Bianconi handling the colors. Among The Exiled‘s unique features are hidden codes, which...
- 4/4/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Yasmine Aker (FBI) has booked a major recurring role on the upcoming fourth season of Freeform’s Good Trouble in a recasting.
Created by Joanna Johnson, Peter Paige and Bradley Bredeweg, Good Trouble follows the residents of downtown Los Angeles’ The Coterie as they juggle career, love and the twenthysomething growing pains at a time in your life where your friends are your family.
Aker will play Angelica, a queer waitress who navigates her way through a complicated new relationship with Malika (Zuri Adele) while dealing with the fallout of her last relationship. She replaces Odelya Halevi, who was recently cast as a series regular in NBC’s Law & Order revival.
Johnson serves as showrunner and executive producer. Christine Sacani, Greg Gugliotta, Jennifer Lopez, Benny Medina, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, Maia Mitchell and Cierra Ramirez also executive produce.
Aker recurs as Mona Nazari on FBI. Her guest-starring credits include Tacoma Fd and Grey’s Anatomy,...
Created by Joanna Johnson, Peter Paige and Bradley Bredeweg, Good Trouble follows the residents of downtown Los Angeles’ The Coterie as they juggle career, love and the twenthysomething growing pains at a time in your life where your friends are your family.
Aker will play Angelica, a queer waitress who navigates her way through a complicated new relationship with Malika (Zuri Adele) while dealing with the fallout of her last relationship. She replaces Odelya Halevi, who was recently cast as a series regular in NBC’s Law & Order revival.
Johnson serves as showrunner and executive producer. Christine Sacani, Greg Gugliotta, Jennifer Lopez, Benny Medina, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, Maia Mitchell and Cierra Ramirez also executive produce.
Aker recurs as Mona Nazari on FBI. Her guest-starring credits include Tacoma Fd and Grey’s Anatomy,...
- 2/24/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Bill Bellamy, the actor and stand-up comic best known for his cult comedy classic How to Be a Player, has signed with Buchwald for representation.
Bellamy hosts and exec produces the TV One series Bill Bellamy’s Who Got Jokes?, currently in its fourth season, which has over the years featured appearances from such rising comedians as Tiffany Haddish, Lil Rey Howery and Karlous Miller.
Bellamy recently finished shooting a role in Chris Spencer’s Back on the Strip, opposite Haddish, J.B. Smoove and Wesley Snipes, and was recently seen as the lead in the BET+ film A Rich Christmas, starring prior to that in Universal Pictures’ Kindergarten Cop 2 and The Bounce Back opposite Shemar Moore.
He’s also appeared on the TV side in such series as TV Land’s Hot in Cleveland, HBO’s hit comedy Insecure and Netflix’s Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.
Bellamy hosts and exec produces the TV One series Bill Bellamy’s Who Got Jokes?, currently in its fourth season, which has over the years featured appearances from such rising comedians as Tiffany Haddish, Lil Rey Howery and Karlous Miller.
Bellamy recently finished shooting a role in Chris Spencer’s Back on the Strip, opposite Haddish, J.B. Smoove and Wesley Snipes, and was recently seen as the lead in the BET+ film A Rich Christmas, starring prior to that in Universal Pictures’ Kindergarten Cop 2 and The Bounce Back opposite Shemar Moore.
He’s also appeared on the TV side in such series as TV Land’s Hot in Cleveland, HBO’s hit comedy Insecure and Netflix’s Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.
- 2/17/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Elie Samaha, Missy Valdez, Geno Taylor and Daniel Diamond’s newly launched Luminosity Entertainment have set their first movie, the comedy Back on the Strip, starring Wesley Snipes and Tiffany Haddish.
Luminosity will finance, produce and distribute feature films theatrically in the U.S. and handle foreign sales.
Back on the Strip reps the theatrical directorial debut of Chris Spencer, the creator and EP of Real Husbands of Hollywood and EP and scribe of Grown-ish. It follows a young man, Merlin (Spence Moore II), who moves to Las Vegas to pursue his dream of becoming a magician after losing the woman of his dreams. But when a costume malfunction reveals his physical “gifts,” he is recruited to become the frontman of an infamous male revue group. The comedy chronicles a series of escapades as Merlin tries to achieve magician success, pursuing his dream girl and finding family in the process.
Luminosity will finance, produce and distribute feature films theatrically in the U.S. and handle foreign sales.
Back on the Strip reps the theatrical directorial debut of Chris Spencer, the creator and EP of Real Husbands of Hollywood and EP and scribe of Grown-ish. It follows a young man, Merlin (Spence Moore II), who moves to Las Vegas to pursue his dream of becoming a magician after losing the woman of his dreams. But when a costume malfunction reveals his physical “gifts,” he is recruited to become the frontman of an infamous male revue group. The comedy chronicles a series of escapades as Merlin tries to achieve magician success, pursuing his dream girl and finding family in the process.
- 10/19/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
“Real Husbands of Hollywood” is being revived at BET Plus.
The comedy series is returning for a six-episode limited revival at the streamer, with Kevin Hart, Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Jb Smoove, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Cynthia McWilliams and Jackie Long all returning. The new series will also feature a range of celebrity guest stars like the original series. Past guest stars have included Shaquille O’Neal, Johnny Depp, Trey Songz, Wanda Sykes, Conan O’Brien, Snoop Dogg, George Lopez, Nia Long, and Terry Crews.
The original “Real Husbands of Hollywood” debuted on BET back in 2013 and ran for five seasons, with the series also releasing two specials. The show originated as a sketch at the BET Awards and was created by Hart, Chris Spencer, and Ralph R. Farquhar. The series follows the daily lives of Kevin and other celebrities, each playing a fictionalized version of themselves, as they venture through their surreal life in Hollywood.
The comedy series is returning for a six-episode limited revival at the streamer, with Kevin Hart, Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Jb Smoove, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Cynthia McWilliams and Jackie Long all returning. The new series will also feature a range of celebrity guest stars like the original series. Past guest stars have included Shaquille O’Neal, Johnny Depp, Trey Songz, Wanda Sykes, Conan O’Brien, Snoop Dogg, George Lopez, Nia Long, and Terry Crews.
The original “Real Husbands of Hollywood” debuted on BET back in 2013 and ran for five seasons, with the series also releasing two specials. The show originated as a sketch at the BET Awards and was created by Hart, Chris Spencer, and Ralph R. Farquhar. The series follows the daily lives of Kevin and other celebrities, each playing a fictionalized version of themselves, as they venture through their surreal life in Hollywood.
- 7/29/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Kevin Hart’s “Real Husbands of Hollywood” is getting a six-episode revival series at BET+, the streaming service said Thursday.
The original “Real Husbands of Hollywood” was created by Hart, Chris Spencer and Ralph R. Farquhar in 2012 based on a sketch on performed at the BET Awards. The show, which ran for five seasons on BET from 2013 to 2016, followed the daily lives of Kevin and other celebrities, each playing a fictionalized version of themselves, as they venture through their surreal life in Hollywood.
Starring Hart and returning original cast members Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Jb Smoove, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Cynthia McWilliams and Jackie Long, the revival series follows the group five years after the events of the original BET comedy, with the crew “giving the climb to fame, fortune and virality one last go.”
Additionally, the “Real Husbands of Hollywood” BET+ revival will feature several “surprising celebrity guest...
The original “Real Husbands of Hollywood” was created by Hart, Chris Spencer and Ralph R. Farquhar in 2012 based on a sketch on performed at the BET Awards. The show, which ran for five seasons on BET from 2013 to 2016, followed the daily lives of Kevin and other celebrities, each playing a fictionalized version of themselves, as they venture through their surreal life in Hollywood.
Starring Hart and returning original cast members Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Jb Smoove, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Cynthia McWilliams and Jackie Long, the revival series follows the group five years after the events of the original BET comedy, with the crew “giving the climb to fame, fortune and virality one last go.”
Additionally, the “Real Husbands of Hollywood” BET+ revival will feature several “surprising celebrity guest...
- 7/29/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Real Husbands of Hollywood is making a comeback. BET+ has greenlighted a six-episode limited series revival of the hit BET reality TV parody show from Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat Productions and Jesse Collins Entertainment. The show is currently in production in Los Angeles with a premiere date Tbd.
Original series star Hart is set to return for the revival, along with original cast members Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Jb Smoove, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Cynthia McWilliams and Jackie Long. They’ll join a slew of celebrity guest stars who Kevin likes to call “friends.”
Real Husbands of Hollywood was created by Hart, Chris Spencer and Ralph R. Farquhar in 2012, after originating as a sketch on the BET Awards. The series first premiered on BET in 2013 and ran for five seasons ending in 2016. The series follows the daily lives of Kevin and other celebrities, each playing a fictionalized version of themselves,...
Original series star Hart is set to return for the revival, along with original cast members Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Jb Smoove, Nelly, Nick Cannon, Robin Thicke, Cynthia McWilliams and Jackie Long. They’ll join a slew of celebrity guest stars who Kevin likes to call “friends.”
Real Husbands of Hollywood was created by Hart, Chris Spencer and Ralph R. Farquhar in 2012, after originating as a sketch on the BET Awards. The series first premiered on BET in 2013 and ran for five seasons ending in 2016. The series follows the daily lives of Kevin and other celebrities, each playing a fictionalized version of themselves,...
- 7/29/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
D-Nice has enlisted Common, Sheila E., and the Isley Brothers for the first installment of the Club Quarantine Live music series, which takes place on August 29th at the Hollywood Bowl. Tickets for the series, along with all events for the Hollywood Bowl 2021 summer season, are on sale now.
Hosted by Donnie Wahlberg and Chris Spencer and produced in partnership with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the first event also features Trey Songz, Deborah Cox, Amerie, Carl Thomas, Mary Mary, Erica Campbell and Kiana Lede. More dates in the series are forthcoming.
Hosted by Donnie Wahlberg and Chris Spencer and produced in partnership with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the first event also features Trey Songz, Deborah Cox, Amerie, Carl Thomas, Mary Mary, Erica Campbell and Kiana Lede. More dates in the series are forthcoming.
- 6/2/2021
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Exclusive: American Black Film Festival creators/producers Jeff and Nicole Friday have launched ABFF Play, streaming service and digital movie theater platform to showcase Black and Brown content, culture and creativity. The service, which hails from the Friday’s newly formed company Streamland USA LLC, will also host the first virtual edition of ABFF, which kicks off August 21.
The hybrid, ad-supported platform will include VOD rentals of independent films, live-streamed PPV events for stand-up comedy specials, stage plays, concerts, virtual conferences, and online film festivals, as well as free coverage of ABFF events, short films and original content from web series, podcasts, and other branded entertainment.
Its inaugural slate includes the Social Justice Now Film Festival, starting October 21, and the Black Hollywood Comedy Nights a four-part pay-per-view series executive produced by Jeff Friday and hosted by comedian/writer Chris Spencer (Creator of BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood). Featuring top Black and Brown stand-up comedians,...
The hybrid, ad-supported platform will include VOD rentals of independent films, live-streamed PPV events for stand-up comedy specials, stage plays, concerts, virtual conferences, and online film festivals, as well as free coverage of ABFF events, short films and original content from web series, podcasts, and other branded entertainment.
Its inaugural slate includes the Social Justice Now Film Festival, starting October 21, and the Black Hollywood Comedy Nights a four-part pay-per-view series executive produced by Jeff Friday and hosted by comedian/writer Chris Spencer (Creator of BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood). Featuring top Black and Brown stand-up comedians,...
- 8/20/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Peacock is developing a teen comedy drama about Black teenagers in L.A. from Real Husbands of Hollywood creator Chris Spencer and Grown-ish writer Chad Sanders.
How To Survive Inglewood is created and written by by the pair, who will exec produce alongside Morgan Freeman and Lori McCreary of Revelations Entertainment. Matt Milkovich is producing for Revelations Entertainment
Ucp, a division of Universal Studio Group, is the studio.
The comedy drama follows Black teenagers trying to get through the absurd, treacherous, and embarrassing obstacles that come with adolescence. After moving from the suburbs to Inglewood, the Sanders family will find that teenage years are universally magical, confusing, scary, and hormonal, but in this new environment, the emotional swings are crazier because the stakes are higher.
Chris Spencer and Chad Sanders (left) were recently set to write the Universal Pictures-Will Packer Productions sports drama One and Done.
The project...
How To Survive Inglewood is created and written by by the pair, who will exec produce alongside Morgan Freeman and Lori McCreary of Revelations Entertainment. Matt Milkovich is producing for Revelations Entertainment
Ucp, a division of Universal Studio Group, is the studio.
The comedy drama follows Black teenagers trying to get through the absurd, treacherous, and embarrassing obstacles that come with adolescence. After moving from the suburbs to Inglewood, the Sanders family will find that teenage years are universally magical, confusing, scary, and hormonal, but in this new environment, the emotional swings are crazier because the stakes are higher.
Chris Spencer and Chad Sanders (left) were recently set to write the Universal Pictures-Will Packer Productions sports drama One and Done.
The project...
- 7/30/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal Pictures is developing “One and Done,” a sports drama written by Chad Sanders and Chris Spencer. The film focuses on one of the nation’s top high school athletes and his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
Packer and James Lopez will produce through their Will Packer Productions. The movie marks Sanders and Spencer’s first major writing job.
“This is a timely story about a young man’s journey of discovery at an Hbcu and his fight against the Ncaa system,” Packer said.
Executive vice president of production Matt Reilly and creative executive Tony Ducret will oversee the movie on behalf of Universal.
Packer recently produced the romantic drama “The Photograph” starring Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield, which bowed over Valentine’s Day weekend.
He had three releases in 2019: “What Men Want” starring Taraji P. Henson, “Little” and a remake of “Jacob’s Ladder” with Michael Ealy.
His...
Packer and James Lopez will produce through their Will Packer Productions. The movie marks Sanders and Spencer’s first major writing job.
“This is a timely story about a young man’s journey of discovery at an Hbcu and his fight against the Ncaa system,” Packer said.
Executive vice president of production Matt Reilly and creative executive Tony Ducret will oversee the movie on behalf of Universal.
Packer recently produced the romantic drama “The Photograph” starring Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield, which bowed over Valentine’s Day weekend.
He had three releases in 2019: “What Men Want” starring Taraji P. Henson, “Little” and a remake of “Jacob’s Ladder” with Michael Ealy.
His...
- 6/30/2020
- by Justin Kroll
- Variety Film + TV
Chad Sanders and Chris Spencer are set to write the Universal Pictures-Will Packer Productions sports drama One and Done.
One and Done will center around one of the nation’s top high school athletes and his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
“This is a timely story about a young man’s journey of discovery at an Hbcu and his fight against the Ncaa system,” said Packer about One and Done which he’ll produce with James Lopez.
Universal EVP of Production Matt Reilly and Creative Executive Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of the studio.
Sanders is repped by Oronde Garrett and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein & Lezcano. Spencer is repped by Parallel Entertainment and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein & Lezcano.
Packer’s movies have grossed more than $1 billion with ten pics that have opened at No. 1 including Girls Trip and Night School, which were the top...
One and Done will center around one of the nation’s top high school athletes and his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
“This is a timely story about a young man’s journey of discovery at an Hbcu and his fight against the Ncaa system,” said Packer about One and Done which he’ll produce with James Lopez.
Universal EVP of Production Matt Reilly and Creative Executive Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of the studio.
Sanders is repped by Oronde Garrett and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein & Lezcano. Spencer is repped by Parallel Entertainment and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein & Lezcano.
Packer’s movies have grossed more than $1 billion with ten pics that have opened at No. 1 including Girls Trip and Night School, which were the top...
- 6/30/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal is teaming with Will Packer on sports drama One and Done.
The original feature from writers Chad Sanders and Chris Spencer will follow one of the nation’s top high school athletes as he makes his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
Packer and James Lopez will produce through Will Packer Productions. Matt Reilly and Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of Universal.
Packer has a first look deal with the studio, which has worked with him on box office hits Girls Trip and the Ride Along movies. Most recently Packer's recent film credits with Uni include Tiffany Haddish ...
The original feature from writers Chad Sanders and Chris Spencer will follow one of the nation’s top high school athletes as he makes his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
Packer and James Lopez will produce through Will Packer Productions. Matt Reilly and Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of Universal.
Packer has a first look deal with the studio, which has worked with him on box office hits Girls Trip and the Ride Along movies. Most recently Packer's recent film credits with Uni include Tiffany Haddish ...
- 6/30/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Universal is teaming with Will Packer on sports drama One and Done.
The original feature from writers Chad Sanders and Chris Spencer will follow one of the nation’s top high school athletes as he makes his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
Packer and James Lopez will produce through Will Packer Productions. Matt Reilly and Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of Universal.
Packer has a first look deal with the studio, which has worked with him on box office hits Girls Trip and the Ride Along movies. Most recently Packer's recent film credits with Uni include Tiffany Haddish ...
The original feature from writers Chad Sanders and Chris Spencer will follow one of the nation’s top high school athletes as he makes his unprecedented decision to attend an Hbcu.
Packer and James Lopez will produce through Will Packer Productions. Matt Reilly and Tony Ducret will oversee on behalf of Universal.
Packer has a first look deal with the studio, which has worked with him on box office hits Girls Trip and the Ride Along movies. Most recently Packer's recent film credits with Uni include Tiffany Haddish ...
- 6/30/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Cedric the Entertainer To Host Star-Studded ‘Healing Through Laughter’ Coronavirus Comedy Fundraiser
Cedric the Entertainer is teaming up with some of his famous friends and Def Comedy Jam for a coronavirus fundraiser called “Healing Through Laughter.”
The Neighborhood star will be joined by fellow comics Chris Tucker, Adele Givens, Spice Adams, Corey Holcomb, D.L. Hughley and Luenell for the livestream on Sunday, April 5, Cedric’s team said in a press release.
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Also participating are Jb Smoove, Ashima Franklin, Michael Blackson, Tk Kirkland, Bill Bellamy, Mike Epps, Chris Spencer, Gary Owen, Jess Hilarious, Tony Baker, David Arnold, Earthquake, Donnell Rawlings and Affion Crockett.
Organizers say 100% of the proceeds will go toward basic protective equipment for essential workers and individuals in...
The Neighborhood star will be joined by fellow comics Chris Tucker, Adele Givens, Spice Adams, Corey Holcomb, D.L. Hughley and Luenell for the livestream on Sunday, April 5, Cedric’s team said in a press release.
More from DeadlineGov. Andrew Cuomo Warns New York 'Not Yet Ready’ For Coming Coronavirus PeakDuran Duran's John Taylor Reveals Coronavirus Diagnosis, Recovery: "We Can And Will Beat This Thing"NBC News's Kate Snow Says Husband Chris Bro Is Sick With Coronavirus Symptoms
Also participating are Jb Smoove, Ashima Franklin, Michael Blackson, Tk Kirkland, Bill Bellamy, Mike Epps, Chris Spencer, Gary Owen, Jess Hilarious, Tony Baker, David Arnold, Earthquake, Donnell Rawlings and Affion Crockett.
Organizers say 100% of the proceeds will go toward basic protective equipment for essential workers and individuals in...
- 4/5/2020
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Although it will never get the same hipster cred as Seattle grunge or the diehard fan base of Florida death metal, the New York noise-rock scene that gestated in the Reagan era is just as important to the development of today’s underground music as its Eighties contemporaries. Human Impact, a new band that collects members from three of New York noise’s most important groups — the hardcore-influenced, ultraviolent Unsane, industrial anger mongers Cop Shoot Cop, and erstwhile Lower East Side pummelers Swans — actually sounds like all these groups making...
- 12/11/2019
- by Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
Even before he sets foot on the court in an NBA game this season, LeBron James has had quite a year. Continuing a steady stream of film and TV projects through his SpringHill Entertainment and longtime manager Maverick Carter, the basketball megastar has amassed an impressive list of development partnerships across the media landscape.
On the TV side alone, James has struck series deals with every broadcast network, many prestige cable outlets, and a streaming service to boot. Aside from the biggest title on his film docket, the long-awaited “Space Jam 2,” James has lent his stamp to a number of features that exist outside the basketball world.
And these aren’t solely ideas for the future, working their way toward a possible pickup. Since last fall, he’s helped produce all of the following films and programs:
high school football documentary “86 Blocks” for Fox Sports civil rights documentary “Rise...
On the TV side alone, James has struck series deals with every broadcast network, many prestige cable outlets, and a streaming service to boot. Aside from the biggest title on his film docket, the long-awaited “Space Jam 2,” James has lent his stamp to a number of features that exist outside the basketball world.
And these aren’t solely ideas for the future, working their way toward a possible pickup. Since last fall, he’s helped produce all of the following films and programs:
high school football documentary “86 Blocks” for Fox Sports civil rights documentary “Rise...
- 10/17/2018
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Comedian Chris Spencer is developing a multi-camera comedy at Fox that boasts LeBron James among its executive producers, Variety has learned.
The series is currently titled “I Just Do” and is inspired by Spencer’s comedy. It’s about an African-American family therapist and his loving and expressive Latina wife living beyond their means in an upper-middleclass neighborhood, where they are raising twin teenagers with the “help” of their intrusive parents.
Fox has given the project a script commitment with a penalty attached. Spencer will star in the series in addition to serving as a writer and co-executive producer. John Beck and Ron Hart will also write in addition to executive producing. James and Maverick Carter will executive produce via their SpringHill Entertainment banner. J.P. Williams will also serve as a co-executive producer. Warner Bros. Television and SpringHill will produce.
In addition to his stand up, Spencer has appeared as...
The series is currently titled “I Just Do” and is inspired by Spencer’s comedy. It’s about an African-American family therapist and his loving and expressive Latina wife living beyond their means in an upper-middleclass neighborhood, where they are raising twin teenagers with the “help” of their intrusive parents.
Fox has given the project a script commitment with a penalty attached. Spencer will star in the series in addition to serving as a writer and co-executive producer. John Beck and Ron Hart will also write in addition to executive producing. James and Maverick Carter will executive produce via their SpringHill Entertainment banner. J.P. Williams will also serve as a co-executive producer. Warner Bros. Television and SpringHill will produce.
In addition to his stand up, Spencer has appeared as...
- 10/10/2018
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Fox has given a script commitment with penalty to I Just Do, a multi-camera comedy starring and co-written by comedian Chris Spencer. It hails from LeBron James’ SpringHill Entertainment and Warner Bros. TV where the company is based.
Written by John Beck, Ron Hart and Spencer, I Just Do is inspired by Spencer’s standup. It’s about an African-American family therapist (Spencer) and his loving and expressive Latina wife living beyond their means in an upper-middleclass neighborhood, where they are raising twin teenagers with the “help” of their intrusive parents. The co-mingling of Black and Latino cultures gives a unique perspective on the universal challenges of marriage and family.
Beck and Hart executive produce alongside James and Maverick Carter via SpringHill Entertainment. Spencer and his manager, J.P. Williams, co-executive produce.
It’s been a very busy broadcast selling season for SpringHill with four projects set up so far. I...
Written by John Beck, Ron Hart and Spencer, I Just Do is inspired by Spencer’s standup. It’s about an African-American family therapist (Spencer) and his loving and expressive Latina wife living beyond their means in an upper-middleclass neighborhood, where they are raising twin teenagers with the “help” of their intrusive parents. The co-mingling of Black and Latino cultures gives a unique perspective on the universal challenges of marriage and family.
Beck and Hart executive produce alongside James and Maverick Carter via SpringHill Entertainment. Spencer and his manager, J.P. Williams, co-executive produce.
It’s been a very busy broadcast selling season for SpringHill with four projects set up so far. I...
- 10/10/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
“White Famous” won’t be getting a second season on Showtime. The network has canceled the comedy starring “Saturday Night Live” alum Jay Pharoah just over two weeks after the season one finale aired, TheWrap has learned. Based on the life of Jamie Foxx, the show starred Pharoah as an up-and-coming comedian trying to break into the mainstream. It debuted October 15, with the final episode airing Dec. 10. “White Famous” was co-created by Tom Kapinos, Chris Spencer and Buddy Lewis, and executive produced by Jamie Foxx, Jamie King, Tom Kapinos, and Tim Story. Showtime declined a request from TheWrap for comment.
- 12/30/2017
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
No longer in the Fastlane, Bill Bellamy is trying his hand at being a family man: The comedic actor has landed the lead role in Fox’s untitled Chris Case comedy pilot, TVLine has learned.
Bellamy will play Jay “Havoc” Hammond, a retired professional football player who’s starting his career as a sports announcer. The potential series follows Jay as he moves in with his white wife (played by Ugly Betty‘s Becki Newton) and his two new stepsons Colin and Harry and tries to adapt to fatherhood.
RelatedPilot Season ’16: Scoop on This Fall’s (Possible) New Shows,...
Bellamy will play Jay “Havoc” Hammond, a retired professional football player who’s starting his career as a sports announcer. The potential series follows Jay as he moves in with his white wife (played by Ugly Betty‘s Becki Newton) and his two new stepsons Colin and Harry and tries to adapt to fatherhood.
RelatedPilot Season ’16: Scoop on This Fall’s (Possible) New Shows,...
- 3/17/2016
- TVLine.com
The first three episodes of the third season of Being Mary Jane have been jaw-dropping, and Stephen Bishop’s character David has been at the center of it all. When I spoke to the actor before the Season 3 premiere, he said he’d been sworn to secrecy about much of the the new season, but revealed that his favorite scenes from last season were the ones he shot with Chris Spencer. “He and I have been friends for a long time,” Bishop said,” but we’d never gotten to shoot together. It was fun to see him do drama. He’s such a … Continue reading →
The post 5 Questions with Stephen Bishop of Bet’s “Being Mary Jane” appeared first on Channel Guide Magazine.
The post 5 Questions with Stephen Bishop of Bet’s “Being Mary Jane” appeared first on Channel Guide Magazine.
- 11/2/2015
- by Kellie Freeze
- ChannelGuideMag
Over the years, we’ve dealt with pushback against Black stories being told on the big and small screens. At this year’s American Black Film Festival, a panel of creators, producers and writers of some of the most riveting shows on television shared their experiences and words of advice as Black content creators. Panelists included, Janine Sherman Barrois ("ER," "Criminal Minds"), Chris Spencer ("Real Husbands of Hollywood"), Mara Brock Akil ("Girlfriends," "Being Mary Jane") and Salim Akil ("Soul Food the Series," "The Game"). Shadow and Act was present for the lively discussion. Here are some highlights. On Becoming A...
- 6/23/2015
- by Aramide A Tinubu
- ShadowAndAct
If wither of the above titles mentioned in the header are your cup of tea, then this one's for you... Troy Byer wrote and directed this romcom, titled "I Really Hate My Ex," which will be released by Lionsgate in March. In short, the film follows 3 women who kidnap their exes and hold them hostage until they get the answers they think they need, in order to be free. It stars Chris Spencer, Leon Robinson, Darrin DeWitt Henson, Shari Headley, Jd Lawrence, Troy Byer, Bresha Webb, Ernie G., Daphnee Duplaix, Tomiko Fraser Hines, Christopher Bailey, and Michael Bernard Beck. Troy Byer also produced the film, with Karon Aghotte, and Christopher Bailey. It's...
- 2/20/2015
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
The 46th NAACP Image Awards aired tonight on TV One and we have the complete list of winners!
Video: Oprah, Kevin Hart Among NAACP Image Awards Nominees
The event, hosted by Anthony Anderson, featured presenters such as Will Smith, Russell Simmons, Keegan-Michael Key, Taraji P. Henson and Tracee Ellis Ross. Prior to the award show, Affion Crockett and Chris Spencer hosted a gala dinner on Thursday announcing the winners for 45 non-televised categories.
Oscar-nominated Selma was awarded the top film honor, while ABC's freshmen series black-ish and How to Get Away With Murder took home the evening's top TV awards. But it was Empire star Taraji P. Henson who stole the show, snagging Entertainer of the Year (presented by Oprah Winfrey), as well as Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her turn in No Good Deed.
Check out the list below to see who walked away as big winners.
Entertainer Of The Year:
Taraji P. Henson
Literature:...
Video: Oprah, Kevin Hart Among NAACP Image Awards Nominees
The event, hosted by Anthony Anderson, featured presenters such as Will Smith, Russell Simmons, Keegan-Michael Key, Taraji P. Henson and Tracee Ellis Ross. Prior to the award show, Affion Crockett and Chris Spencer hosted a gala dinner on Thursday announcing the winners for 45 non-televised categories.
Oscar-nominated Selma was awarded the top film honor, while ABC's freshmen series black-ish and How to Get Away With Murder took home the evening's top TV awards. But it was Empire star Taraji P. Henson who stole the show, snagging Entertainer of the Year (presented by Oprah Winfrey), as well as Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her turn in No Good Deed.
Check out the list below to see who walked away as big winners.
Entertainer Of The Year:
Taraji P. Henson
Literature:...
- 2/7/2015
- Entertainment Tonight
It seems like Kevin Hart is everywhere these days. 2014 saw Hart star in three No. 1 films (Ride Along, About Last Night, Think Like a Man Too) and land a role in the acclaimed Top Five alongside Chris Rock. His latest film, The Wedding Ringer, hits theaters this week, and his upcoming schedule (Get Hard, also starring Will Ferrell) shows no signs of slowing down. Cheers to that! If you want to say you liked Hart before his breakout year, Netflix has the hook-up on some oldies but goodies. From stand-up comedy specials to reality television parodies, this dude has done it all — and it’s streaming for your viewing pleasure. Here are 11 Hart-heavy treats that are just one click away.
Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain (2013)
[Photo Credit: Summit Entertainment]
Hart takes the stage at Madison Square Garden to deliver some stand-up realness as part of his Let Me Explain world tour. He sold out the joint,...
Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain (2013)
[Photo Credit: Summit Entertainment]
Hart takes the stage at Madison Square Garden to deliver some stand-up realness as part of his Let Me Explain world tour. He sold out the joint,...
- 1/16/2015
- by Christopher Rosa
- VH1.com
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