When a titan music mogul (Denzel Washington), widely known as having the “best ears in the business”, is targeted with a ransom plot, he is jammed up in a life-or-death moral dilemma.
Brothers Denzel Washington and Spike Lee reunite for the 5th in their long working relationship for a reinterpretation of the great filmmaker Akira Kurosawa’s crime thriller High and Low, now played out on the mean streets of modern-day New York City, in this new film titled Highest 2 Lowest.
In Theaters August 15, Streaming on Apple TV+ September 5 RELEASE DATE: In Theaters August 15, Streaming on Apple TV+ September 5th
DIRECTOR: Spike Lee
CAST: Denzel Washington, Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, and A$AP Rocky
Watch the trailer above
Comedian Katt Williams is about to do a very different kind of one-man-and-a-microphone stand-up gig: PGA Tour on-course correspondent.
Williams is joining PGA Tour Live as an on-course correspondent at the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis. He’ll be inside the ropes with ESPN analyst Michael Collins to add color and commentary — and maybe some comedy. Williams previously joined Collins as a special guest over the course of a few holes at the 2024 Tour Championship — this latest gig is a vote of confidence and an upgrade.
The intention here is to bring a new audience to the PGA Tour, and Williams is a great admirer of the pros — and a great ambassador to the sport. He loves the game of golf — and he’s happy with the state of his game, Williams told The Hollywood Reporter. Though he carries a 19 handicap, which is pretty much the threshold of what is considered to be a “high handicap,” Williams said the number is a misrepresentation of how he plays.
“OK, so I had to establish a handicap when I tore my rotator cuff. So, I came in as a 19 handicap, but I shoot low 80s,” Williams said. “You certainly don’t want to bet me! I know it won’t be that when I get ready to do it again. Eighty-three is a good and gettable score for me all across the country at excellent courses.”
Don’t make the mistake of referring to golf as a “hobby” with Williams, as I did. The comic and actor sees golf as a metaphor for, well, pretty much everything.
“The thing that I like about golf is that it permeates so many different parts of your life,” Williams said. “It’s not like it fixes everything, but it gives you a new parameter for things. The first four holes not going to your liking? It has the ability to ruin the day, but it doesn’t have to. You can fix this front nine, you see? And level this front nine out to where you can still have a good 18.”
The man is a philosopher.
“I’m to the point where I don’t even really have bad shots. You know what I mean? Like if I aimed right, and I meant for the ball to go right, but the ball went left — where I am in my journey, I feel like the ball knows better than me, and that that must be the angle that I must need to take this at (the pin), and that’s why it went over there — not I made a mistake and shanked it, and it went over to the right,” he continued. “I don’t even look at it like that, and because that’s the way it is in golf, that’s the way it is in my real life. It’s almost toxic positivity. I know that that happened because I didn’t keep my head down, and I’m just going to try to make sure that I keep it down (the next time). It takes away a lot of pressure of doing poorly, because you’ve got so many opportunities to do a better job.”
Williams will get an opportunity to do another good job on Thursday, Aug. 7, and Friday, Aug. 8, beginning at 9 a.m. ET — we guess he didn’t make the cut (golf joke) — at the first postseason event of the 2025 FedExCup Playoffs. Williams will follow the marquee group (of an already pretty marquee group of golfers) while he’s there; the tournament will continue, sans Williams, through the weekend.
PGA Tour Live streams on ESPN+. The 2025 FedEx St. Jude Championship will also be live-streamed on Peacock.
The FedExCup Playoffs are the PGA Tour’s, well, playoffs. Beginning in 2007, the FedExCup is a season-long points competition; the top 70 point-getters make the postseason. The winner of the playoffs gets a $10 million bonus check; across the field, a total of $100 million is up for grabs.
All 70 FedExCup Playoffs golfers will tee off at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, with 50 making the BMW Championship and 30 ultimately deciding it all at the Tour Championship. By the end of the summer, we’re going to have a lot of rich(er) golfers.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
In this episode of Box Seats, we discuss the news about Shannon Sharpe being fired from ESPN, plus the news of a couple of NBA Players being arrested, from Marcus Morris to Gilbert Arenas. AND we also talked about the NFL Hall of Fame that took place last night.
We will also talk about all of the hottest topics in sports!
This episode features comedians Howie Bell and Marc Howard!
#NBAPlayoffs #NBAfreeagency #Freeagency #Indiana #IndianaPacers #OKC #OklahomaCItyThunder #BostonCeltics #NBAPlayoffs #NewYorkKnicks #DenverNuggets #OKC #Denvernuggetts #NFL #NBA #NBATrades #comedy #comedygrind #NFLTrades #NFLRumors #NFLFreeagency
Stand-up comedian and actor Tone Bell is stepping into one of his most layered roles yet as the lead in the upcoming dark comedy titled Transcending, which just wrapped principal photography in Kansas City, Missouri. The film, directed by Mike Luciano and written by Raleigh Cain, marks a bold new chapter in Bell’s career, blending surreal humor with emotional depth.
Bell plays a starving artist from the big city, reeling from a breakup with his wife (played by Kirby Howell-Baptiste)—who leaves him for a DJ. Seeking solace, he’s sent by his tough-love sister (played by Nicole Byer) to a quirky bed-and-breakfast in rural Kansas City.
There, he meets Raleigh Cain’s character, a magnetic young widow and best-selling author who believes her late husband’s soul has transcended into the walls of her farmhouse. As their chemistry grows, so does the surreal nature of their connection—she’s literally in love with the house.
Together, they navigate grief, healing, and self-discovery through unconventional methods, surrounded by a cast of eccentric locals:
The film leveraged Missouri’s transferable tax credit and Kansas City’s film rebate program, part of a growing trend of indie productions flocking to the Midwest.
Known for his roles in Survival of the Thickest, Disjointed, and Fam, Bell has steadily built a reputation for blending humor with heart. Transcending offers him a chance to stretch into more dramatic territory while maintaining his comedic edge.
Bell is repped by CAA and Mosaic Media Company, and the film is expected to hit the festival circuit in 2026, following post-production in Los Angeles.
Transcending isn’t just another quirky indie—it’s a meditation on grief, identity, and the strange ways we find connection. With Tone Bell at the helm and a powerhouse ensemble behind him, the film promises to be one of the most talked-about entries in next year’s festival lineup.
From the inventive mind of Jeff Carroll comes Spoof Streetz, a bold, laugh-out-loud comic series that flips pop culture on its head. With a sharp Black and people-of-color lens, this collection dives into everything from viral internet madness to blockbuster absurdities. Inspired by Mad Magazine, Wild ’N Out, Key & Peele, and Chappelle’s Show, Spoof Streetz delivers edgy satire and social commentary with unapologetic humor. Inside, you’ll meet a Black superhero grappling with America’s racial reality, Wild’N Out cast members fighting off a zombie outbreak, a flat-earther athlete taken to the planet’s edge, and a fierce, no-nonsense matriarch and her friends trying to cook a soul food feast gone hilariously wrong. Aimed at teens and young adults, this is comedy with a conscience—raw, real, and ridiculously fun.
“I wanted to bring Hip Hop-style comedy to the world of comic books. I enjoyed EC comics like MAD magazine, Tales from the Crypt, Weird Science, and their other genre comics. After a funny story called The Ass Doctor in CyberFunk Streetz got strong reactions, I knew I had something. People told me how funny it was, and I thought, Wow, I can do a comic with funny stories. Spoof Streetz is my book of funny stories, but I have a comic of space stories and an anthology of crime stories in the works. I’ve done two Horror Streetz comics, and I have another Horror Streetz as well,” said Jeff Carroll of his work.
Genre comics exploded in popularity during the 1940s and 1950s, covering horror, crime, sci-fi, and satire. EC Comics led the charge with bold, adult-themed storytelling that challenged social norms. Faced with censorship, many publishers folded or shifted formats, like Mad, which became a magazine to evade the Comics Code. These comics paved the way for socially aware storytelling and inspired generations of creators in film, television, and literature.
EC Comics, revived by William Gaines, became famous in the 1950s for bold horror, crime, and sci-fi stories. In 1952, Gaines and Harvey Kurtzman launched Mad, a satirical comic that took off with its Superman parody. To avoid censorship, Mad became a magazine in 1955, securing creative freedom. It went on to influence generations of comedians and writers, becoming one of America’s most iconic humor publications.
Hip Hop Comix N Flix is a publishing and film Production Company that was opened in 2006. The goal is to produce works of literature and film that inspire and provoke progressive thought while maximizing entertainment and enjoyment.
Jeff Carroll is an award-winning filmmaker, comic book creator, and sci-fi writer known for pioneering Hip Hop horror and socially conscious genre storytelling. He’s written over 15 books, produced six films, and created acclaimed comics like FangerNails and The Last Harlemite. His work has appeared in major Black sci-fi anthologies and festivals, and he continues to amplify diverse voices through media, education, and cultural panels.
For more information on him https://linktr.ee/jeffcarrolllinks
In this episode of Box Seats, we discuss the shooter that went on a rampage in New York yesterday, and his possible plans to attack the NFL Headquarters!
Plus, we talk about CTE and all of the things we have learned that are associated with the disease.
We also talk about the hottest topics in sports, PLUS the TOP 5 Questions of the day!
The show features comedians Howie Bell, Maurice Smith, and D Jones!
#NBAPlayoffs #NBAfreeagency #Freeagency #Indiana #IndianaPacers #OKC #OklahomaCItyThunder #BostonCeltics #NBAPlayoffs #NewYorkKnicks #DenverNuggets #OKC #Denvernuggetts #NFL #NBA #NBATrades #comedy #comedygrind #NFLTrades #NFLRumors #NFLFreeagency #Shooter #assassinate
In a landmark move reflecting its ambitious Vision 2030 economic diversification plan, Saudi Arabia is set to host the world’s largest comedy festival from September 26 to October 9, 2025, in Riyadh’s vibrant Boulevard City.
This historic event will gather more than 50 internationally acclaimed comedians, including household names like Kevin Hart, Russell Peters, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Pete Davidson, and Chris Tucker, marking a transformative moment in global entertainment. The festival is a central feature of Riyadh Season 2025, underscoring the Kingdom’s drive to position itself as a leading hub for culture, tourism, and live events in the Middle East and beyond.
Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), under the leadership of Chairman Turki Alalshikh, has officially unveiled an unprecedented lineup of comedy stars for the inaugural Riyadh Comedy Festival.
Announced via Alalshikh’s official X account, the festival promises to be “the biggest comedy festival in the world,” with over 50 performers from diverse backgrounds taking the stage in Boulevard City over two weeks.
Among the headline acts are internationally renowned comedians such as Kevin Hart, Sebastian Maniscalco, and Russell Peters—the Canadian-Indian comedian famed for his multicultural material and worldwide fanbase. Hollywood icon Chris Tucker, celebrated for the Rush Hour franchise, and Aziz Ansari, Emmy winner and co-creator of Master of None, will also be featured.
The festival further boasts Pete Davidson, known for Saturday Night Live and Peacock’s Bupkis, as well as Tom Segura, whose Netflix special Bad Thoughts earned an Emmy nomination. Other notable names include podcast hosts Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee (Bad Friends), Emmy-nominated writer Nimesh Patel, Amazon Prime standout Sam Morril (You’ve Changed), and British-Iranian comedian Omid Djalili.
Additional performers confirmed so far include Chris Distefano, Mark Normand, Hannibal Buress, six-time Emmy and three-time Grammy winner Louis C.K., and Australian favorite Jimeoin. The lineup continues with Andrew Schulz, Bill Burr, Jessica Kirson, Jimmy Carr, Jo Koy, Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, Maz Jobrani, Whitney Cummings, and Zarna Garg.
These comedians represent a wide spectrum of comedic styles, from sharp political satire and deadpan delivery to high-energy storytelling and cultural commentary, ensuring that the festival appeals to a truly global audience.
The entire event will unfold at Boulevard City, Riyadh’s sprawling, high-tech entertainment district located in the Hittin area along Prince Turki Al-Awwal Road. Spanning over 220 acres, the venue is divided into themed zones, including open-air plazas, theaters, music stages, and the iconic Times Square-inspired “Square” with towering digital screens.
BET Also Licenses Sketch Comedy Series “The Hospital” from KevOnStage Studios and Fullwell Entertainment’s SpringHill
A Satirical Sketch Comedy, “The Hospital,” Features an Ensemble Cast Of Comedic Actors, Stand-Up Comedians, and Social Media Stars Serving Laughter with ‘Total Medical Negligence’
BET Media Group announced today that the hit BET+ Original Series Churchy will return for its highly anticipated second season on August 21, with all 10 episodes available to stream at once. The breakout comedy made waves in its debut, becoming the most-watched scripted comedy on the platform during its premiere week. In addition, BET has greenlit The Hospital, another original series from the creative mind of comedian Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks.
In Churchy, Fredericks will reprise his role as Pastor Corey Carr Jr., who inherits leadership of Bethlehem Temple, along with a surprise book of debts. He and his wildly unqualified church crew must navigate the daily headaches of ministry life, all while fending off a vengeful rival’s plan to replace the church with a trampoline park.
Returning Churchy series regulars include Mark JP Hood, Lexi Allen, and Anthony Elfonzia, Quin Walters, Tahir Moore, alongside new additions Jasmine Luv, and Nic Few. Guest stars for the second season include Tabitha Brown, Kirk Franklin, Keith Lee, and Tony Baker.
The Hospital, a new satirical sketch comedy series that offers a behind-the-scenes look at what happens when you mix improv comedy with ‘total medical negligence,’ will premiere on BET linear on September 10.
Set inside the ‘most incompetent medical facility in the country,’ and mostly improvised, the four-episode series, The Hospital, is performed by a mix of established and emerging comedic actors, stand-up comedians, and social media stars.
The Hospital stars Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks, Tony Baker, Chris “CP” Powell, D’Lai, Dinora Walcott, Quin Walters, Tahir Moore, Candice Renee, Tamara Jade, Patrick Cloud, Mel Mitchell, Jordan Conley, Loren Lott, and Jazmine Robinson.
BET’s relationship with Fredericks is a key example of its strategy to leverage the creator economy for longer-form content by giving a broader platform to talents originating as social and digital first. As evident with Churchy and The Hospital being placed in the traditional fall TV lineup, Fredericks’ brand of outlandish and relatable humor is resonating with existing audiences and gaining broader reach, which also benefits the network.
Churchy credits include Kevin Fredericks and Melissa Fredericks as executive producers for KevOnStage Studios. Richard A. Washington as supervising producer. Mark J.P. Hood and Korey Washington as producers. Richard A. Washington and David Murphy wrote the series. The series was directed by Jared Leaf.
The Hospital credits include Kevin Fredericks and Richard A. Washington serving as the creators, showrunners, and directors. Kevin Fredericks, Melissa Fredericks, and Richard A. Washington serve as executive producers for KevOnStage Studios. Kevin Fredericks, Richard A. Washington, Brandon Cormell, Roxxy Haze, and Dominic Oliver are writers.
LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Jamal Henderson, and Lezlie Wills serve as executive producers for SpringHill, the award-winning studio within Fulwell Entertainment, on both series.
Comedy titan Chris Rock is trading punchlines for poignant drama in his latest cinematic venture—a collaboration with indie powerhouse A24. The untitled film, tentatively referred to as Misty Green, marks Rock’s first project with A24 and his fourth directorial feature, following Top Five (2014), I Think I Love My Wife (2007), and Head of State (2003).
At the heart of the film is Rosalind Eleazar, who plays Misty Green, a gifted actress whose career has been derailed despite her talent. Her fortunes begin to shift when someone from her past—played by Rock himself—offers her a second chance.
Joining the cast are:
While their roles remain under wraps, the ensemble promises a compelling mix of dramatic depth and star power.
The film is currently in production in Los Angeles, with Rock not only directing and starring but also penning the original script. He’s producing alongside Peter Rice and David Worthen Brooks, with Nelson George, Shaum Sengupta, and Miles Alva serving as executive producers.
This project is rumored to be Rock’s most ambitious yet, blending his insider knowledge of Hollywood with a sharp, character-driven narrative. The story explores themes of redemption, legacy, and the complicated dynamics of fame.
Rock’s pivot to drama—especially under the A24 banner—signals a bold evolution in his filmmaking. Known for his incisive social commentary and comedic timing, Rock is now channeling those strengths into a story that’s expected to be both emotionally resonant and culturally relevant.
With production underway and anticipation building, Misty Green could be one of A24’s standout releases in 2026.
Hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes is set to be immortalized in Hollywood history as he receives the 2,818th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame this Friday, August 1, in the Recording category. The ceremony will take place at 6201 Hollywood Boulevard, in front of East Town, and will be livestreamed for fans worldwide.
Born Trevor George Smith Jr., Busta Rhymes burst onto the scene as part of Leaders of the New School, before launching a solo career that redefined rap’s visual and lyrical boundaries. Known for his rapid-fire delivery, flamboyant style, and genre-bending collaborations, Busta has sold over 20 million albums, earned 12 GRAMMY nominations, and delivered hits like:
His influence spans decades, with accolades including the BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2023) and MTV’s Global Icon Award (2024).
Busta’s talents extend to the big screen, with roles in Higher Learning, Shaft, and The Rugrats Movie. He’s also starring in the upcoming reboot of The Naked Gun alongside Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson, releasing the same day as his star ceremony.
The ceremony will be hosted by radio legend Big Boy, with guest speakers including:
Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez praised Busta as “one of hip-hop’s most enduring and electrifying voices… His star will stand as a testament to his lasting impact on hip-hop music and American culture.”
At 53, Busta shows no signs of slowing down. He’s gearing up to release his 12th studio album, Vengeance, this September, promising fans “everything you’ve known to love me for—and more.”
This honor isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a celebration of hip-hop’s enduring legacy and Busta Rhymes’ indelible mark on music, culture, and entertainment.