The Lil Rel Howery-starring comedy Rel will not get a second season at Fox. The network has canceled the comedy series from Jerrod Carmichael, Mike Scully and 20th Century Fox TV, after one season.
Of the other two Fox freshman comedy series, Last Man Standing is fully expected to be renewed while The Cool Kids is heavily on the bubble.
There was a hint at Rel’s fate when Fox last fall opted not to give a back order to the series. (The network ended up trimming the original order from 13 to 12 episodes.)Rel did not take advantage of its post-Family Guy time slot on Sunday. Its first season averaged a modest 0.8 adults 18-49 rating and 2.1 million viewers in Live+7.
The Rel family suffered a tragic loss in January when co-creator/executive producer Kevin Barnett died suddenly while vacationing in Mexico, a little over a week after the season one finale had aired.
Written/executive produced by Josh Rabinowitz & Barnett and Howery, Rel was inspired by Howery’s life. It centered on Lil Rel, a prideful, self-made success who lives by the code to “always believe in yourself and great things will come,” finds that attitude put to the test when he learns his wife is having an affair with his own barber. He tries to rebuild his life post-divorce as a long-distance single father on the West Side of Chicago on a quest for love, respect, and a new barber.
Jess “Hilarious” Moore and Jordan L. Jones also co-starred in the series. Scully served as showrunner and executive produced alongside Carmichael.
Source: Deadline
Tracy Morgan Takes You Inside His Mansion ‘OG’ Style!
Tracy Morgan and his wife, Megan Wollover, want to give you a snippet of how they live from day to day. Check out the celebrity parents’ latest tour with PEOPLE to see what Tracy and Megan do when they are not working. Did we mention that little Maven Sonae Morgan, Megan and Tracy Morgan’s daughter, helps with the tour? Watch the segment below!
In Shocking Move, Beyoncé To Release Audio Of ‘Lemonade’ Film Across All Music Streaming Platforms
Beyoncé is offering up some more “Lemonade.”
Variety can exclusively reveal that the audio of Beyoncé’s 65-minute “Lemonade” film will drop across all music streaming services on Tuesday, April 23. The drop marks the third anniversary of the film’s debut on HBO. It’s also the first time all of Bey’s catalog is available for streaming.
The “Lemonade” film, which coincided with release of the album of the same name on April 23, 2016, also uses poetry written by Somali poet Warsan Shire that will be included in the new audio release.
Until now, the film was only available through Beyoncé’s co-owned streaming service Tidal. Divided into 11 chapters—”Intuition”, “Denial”, “Anger”, “Apathy”, “Emptiness”, “Accountability”, “Reformation”, “Forgiveness”, “Resurrection”, “Hope”, and “Redemption”—the film went on to earn four primetime Emmys.
“Lemonade,” Beyoncé’s second visual album, features guest vocals from The Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar, Jack White and James Blake. It was the best-selling album of 2016, selling 2.5 million copies worldwide and picked up Grammys for best urban contemporary album and best music video as well as a Peabody Award.
The audio release will come just six days after today’s Netflix premiere of “Homecoming,” the Beyoncé-directed 137-minute documentary about her headlining performance at Coachella in 2018 that paid tribute to historically black colleges and universities. She also returns to the big screen this summer, voicing Nala in director Jon Favreau’s remake of Disney’s “The Lion King.” The movie hits theaters on July 19.
Source: Variety, Billboard
Mary J. Blige And Nas To Co-Headline Summer Tour
Summer is coming up — the perfect time for a Mary J. Blige coheadlining tour. The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul — who has undertaken successful coheadlining tours with both Jay-Z and Maxwell, today announced that she will head out with veteran rapper Nas for a 22-city outing across North America this summer.
Produced by Live Nation, the tour will kick off July 11 in West Palm Beach, Fla. and make stops in Atlanta, Houston, Las Vegas and more. The jaunt will see the two performing in a number of indoor and outdoor spaces across amphitheaters and arenas, concluding on September 10 in Toronto, Ont. While no date has yet been announced in the duo’s mutual hometown of New York, it would be surprising if one weren’t in the cards.
Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Friday, April 19 starting at 10am local time at LiveNation.com. Citi is the official presale credit card of the tour; cardmembers will have access to purchase presale tickets beginning Wednesday, April 17 at 12pm local time until Thursday, April 18 at 10pm local time through Citi Entertainment. (Full dates appear below.)
DATE
CITY
VENUE
7/11/19
West Palm Beach, FL
Coral Sky Amphitheatre at the S. Florida Fairgrounds
7/13/19
Tampa, FL
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre at the FL State Fairgrounds
7/14/19
Jacksonville, FL
Daily’s Place*
7/16/19
Atlanta, GA
Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park
7/20/19
Atlantic City, NJ
Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena*
7/21/19
Virginia Beach, VA
Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
7/24/19
Charlotte, NC
PNC Music Pavilion
7/25/19
Raleigh, NC
Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
7/28/19
Detroit, MI
DTE Energy Music Theatre
7/31/19
St. Louis, MO
Hollywood Casino Amphitheater
8/2/19
Houston, TX
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
8/3/19
Austin, TX
Austin360 Amphitheater
8/6/19
Kansas City, MO
Starlight Theatre
8/9/19
Phoenix, AZ
Ak-Chin Pavilion
8/14/19
San Francisco, CA
Shoreline Amphitheatre
8/16/19
Las Vegas, NV
The Joint*
8/17/19
Las Vegas, NV
The Joint*
8/20/19
Albuquerque, NM
Isleta Amphitheater
8/22/19
Dallas, TX
Dos Equis Pavilion
8/25/19
Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuscaloosa Amphitheater
8/31/19
Syracuse, NY
St Joseph’s Health Amphitheater
9/1/19
Boston, MA
Xfinity Center
9/10/19
Toronto, ON
Budweiser Stage^
*Nas not playing
^on sale beginning April 18th at 10am
Source: Variety
Wesley Snipes To Star In . And Exec Produce Heist Thriller ‘Payline’
Wesley Snipes is back in bad-guy mode while also doing some good for the environment.
The veteran actor has come aboard to star in and executive produce Payline, an indie action thriller from Dawn’s Light.
Richard Switzer and Jason Cherubini of Dawn’s Light are producing, along with Allan Ungar. Snipes, under his Maandi House Studios banner, and Alexander Ferguson will serve as executive producers.
Payline is described as being a cross between heist ensemble Ocean’s 11 and crime thriller Free Fire, with the story centering on a small-town casino that turns into a battleground after two groups of criminals attempt to rob it on the same night. Rob Robol and Jay Boyd wrote the script.
Snipes will play the leader of a group of ex-soldiers robbing the casino. It will be his first turn as a villain since Demolition Man, the 1993 sci-fi action movie that also starred Sylvester Stallone and Sandra Bullock.
The project aims to use sustainable methods that will make the planned production an environmentally friendly affair.
“This is a vehicle to demonstrate the next generation of indie filmmaking in a 5G powered world,” said Snipes in a statement. “It is our goal to show how a 100 percent Certified Renewable Energy film production can show love for the environment, community and still produce a kick-ass popcorn movie.”
Snipes and the producers want to debunk the idea that it costs more to make a sustainable movie than a “normal” production.
Stated Cherubini: “As we look to develop the next generation of media content, we know that it doesn’t just need to be diverse and exciting, but its production must support and protect the communities where it’s created.”
Snipes next appears opposite Eddie Murphy in Netflix’s Dolemite Is My Name and is one of the stars of RZA’s Cut Throat City, whose ensemble cast also includes Ethan Hawke, Terrence Howard and Eiza Gonzalez. His Maandi House Studios is described as a Next-Gen digital media content manufacturer with deals at WME Studios and NBC/Universal.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
BET Greenlights New DOCU-SERIES Titled ‘Copwatch America’
Yesterday, BET Networks announces its new 10-part one-hour docu-series. Across 10 frenetic episodes, “CopWatch America” cross-cuts the incredible stories of “copwatchers” from two U.S. cities, some of whom are life-long activists and others who are new to the movement. Through these characters, viewers will come to understand the specific issues facing each community. Armed only with their cameras, these “copwatchers” fight every day to protect citizens, amplify the truth, and keep abuses of power in check. As the series embeds with major Copwatch organizations in America’s most volatile cities, viewers will get to know the real heroes behind the cameras and the personal stories that compelled them to put their lives on the line for this cause. Examining all sides of the story, from police officers who insist they are just trying to build up their communities, to the copwatchers determined to speak truth to power, you never know what you might see next.
“BET Networks is committed to bringing important stories of systemic issues of race and justice across our nation to light. We are taking this on in a way no other brand and network can, through platforms like our powerful ‘Finding Justice’ franchise and our upcoming original docu-series Copwatch America,” said Marisa Levy, VP Head of Unscripted, BET Networks. “We look forward to partnering with acclaimed storytellers Renowned Films and Critical Content and continue to empower our community and focus on activists who use video cameras to protect the rights and in some cases, the lives of African Americans in police encounters.”
Created by Renowned Films “CopWatch America” is co-produced by Renowned Films and Critical Content. Executive Producers are Max Welch, Tim Withers and Duane Jones for Renowned Films and Tom Forman for Critical Content.
Max Welch, Executive Producer, and Co-Founder Renowned Films said “We’re incredibly excited to be working with BET, and the Copwatch movement on such an important and powerful series. “Copwatch America” will be shocking, eye-opening, exhilarating, explosive must watch action getting to the core of one of the biggest issues facing America, its police and the communities they serve today. Prepare for plenty of confrontation, powerful personal stories, injustices, and debate, as we capture the groundbreaking stories of those on both sides of the story in search of truth.”
Duane Jones, Executive Producer, and Co-Founder Renowned Films commented, “It has never been more of an important time to bring the remarkable stories of cop watchers across the US and their continued fight against injustice to the public. Renowned understands how important the conversation sparked by “Copwatch America” will be, and we look forward to working with BET to dig deep into this complex narrative. With never-before seen, unprecedented access to the frontline over ten compelling episodes, we will detail the personal experiences of those affected on all sides by this deadly epidemic.”
“I’ve spent my career telling law enforcement stories, but never from this perspective. Not even close. Hats off to BET for allowing us to tackle this subject matter in a way that speaks to their audience and this time,” added Tom Forman, CEO, Critical Content.
Jussie Smollett Prosecutor Complained Charges Against Actor Were Too Harsh
Newly released emails and text messages reveal that Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, whose office oversaw the Jussie Smollett case, thought the 16 disorderly conduct charges brought against the Empire actor were too severe.
Thousands of internal text messages and emails about the investigation were released Tuesday night following a Freedom of Information Act request by the ChicagoTribune.
Foxx’s office announced on February 19 that she had recused herself from the case, but electronic communications show her saying later that the charges against a “washed up celeb who lied to cops” were too harsh compared to the sexual abuse charges R. Kelly is facing.
“Sooo……I’m recused, but when people accuse us of overcharging cases…16 counts on a class 4 becomes exhibit A,” Foxx wrote in a text message to her top assistant, Joseph Magats, on March 8.
“Pedophile with 4 victims 10 counts. Washed up celeb who lied to cops, 16. On a case eligible for deferred prosecution I think it’s indicative of something we should be looking at generally. Just because we can charge something doesn’t mean we should,” she said two weeks before the charges against Smollett were dropped.
Foxx’s office released a statement to the Chicago media explaining why she was communicating with a top deputy about the case after recusing herself: “After the indictment became public, I reached out to Joe to discuss reviewing office policies to assure consistencies in our charging and our use of appropriate charging authority. I was elected to bring criminal justice reform and that includes intentionality, consistency, and discretion. I will continue to uphold these guiding principles.”
Smollett told officers he was assaulted on January 29, by two masked men on the streets of Chicago as they shouted racist and homophobic slurs.
The actor, who is African-American and gay, claimed the attackers wrapped a noose around his neck, doused him with a chemical and shouted, “This is MAGA country.” Police later said Smollett paid brothers Ola and Abel Osundairo to stage the attack.
The actor was arrested, and charged with the 16 counts for allegedly filing a false police report. He pleaded not guilty, yet in a surprise move on March 26, the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office dropped the charges after he agreed to forfeit his $10,000 bail and perform community service.
As for Kelly, in February he was charged with 10 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. Chicago prosecutors allege the chart-topping R&B singer sexually abused four females, including three underage girls, with the alleged abuse occurring between 1998 and 2010. Kelly has denied the allegations.
Source: Deadline
WATCH: Final Trailer Released Of ‘Dark Phoenix’!
When she loses control, bad things happen.
20th Century Fox has released the final trailer for DARK PHOENIX. To honor the passion of X-Men superfans, some of the biggest X-Men fans around the world were selected to experience the final trailer first. Now that they have received it, we can share it with you!
The film stars James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Sophie Turner, Tye Sheridan, Alexandra Shipp, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Evan Peters, and Jessica Chastain, and is scored by composer Hans Zimmer.
Watch the final trailer HERE:
The Comedy Wings Of The ABFF Selects Its Finalists; Finals Showcase To Be Hosted By Deon Cole
ABFF Ventures announced today their selection of finalists who will compete at the 7th annual ABFF Comedy Wings Competition, presented by HBO. Last night, nine comedians competed in the ABFF Comedy Wings Semifinals Showcase held at the HaHa Comedy Club in Los Angeles, hosted by Chris Spencer.
The contestants were judged by accomplished artists and industry executives, including “Def Comedy Jam” Producer Bob Sumner; Comedian and Actor Jay Phillips; Television Executive and Producer Rikki Hughes; Comedian and Actor Guy Torry; Comedian and Actor J.B. Smoove; Comedian and Actress Kym Whitley; Manager, Talent Development Robert Patla; Comedian and Actor Red Grant; ABFF Ventures CEO Jeff Friday, Founding Partner at Curated By Media Cameron Mitchell and Comedian and Actress, Erica Ash.
The finalists will receive an all-expense paid trip and (2) festival passes to the 23rd American Black Film Festival from June 12-16. Each finalist will then go toe-to-toe in a comedy battle on Friday, June 14th at the New World Center in Miami for a chance to win a $5,000 cash prize and attend an informational meeting with HBO talent executives. Comedian Deon Cole will host this highly popular night of hilarity at its best.
The Comedy Wings Competition is one of several platforms innovated by the ABFF that is designed to uncover talent and introduce them to a broader audience. ABFF has always participated in the cultivation of Black talent and has provided a stage over the years for dynamic performers such as Kevin Hart, Cedric the Entertainer, Craig Robinson, Tommy Davidson and Bill Bellamy.
“The Comedy Wings Competition highlights emerging comedians and allows us, through our long-time partnership with HBO, to showcase this talent to the entertainment industry. We’re very excited about this year’s lineup of finalists and expect one or more of them to a break out star,” said Jeff Friday, CEO of ABFF Ventures.
“HBO has been proudly supporting The Comedy Wings competition since its inception,” said Dennis Williams, Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, HBO. “It has become one of the highlights of the festival and we are thrilled to be able to open doors and provide opportunities to diverse, groundbreaking comedic voices. HBO has a longstanding reputation for discovering and nurturing talent and we are excited to laugh with the finalists that will grace the stage this year at the ABFF!”
This year’s five finalists are emerging comics from across the United States, with diverse styles and sensibilities. The 2019 ABFF Comedy Wings finalists are:
Allan Cunningham
Comedian Allan Cunningham is one of the last great storytellers. His laid-back demeanor allows him to paint a hilarious picture so vivid you can hang on the wall. Off stage you can catch him mastering his craft as an actor, director and writer.
Brian Tucker
From humble beginnings in Atlanta Georgia, Brian Tucker also known as B-Tuck, began his stand-up comedy career in 2013. He started regularly hosting at the Original Uptown Comedy Corner. As well as touring comedy clubs all across the east coast including Comedy Zone, Stardome, Zanies, Stand Up Live, and Atlanta Comedy Theater. Since starting his career, he has worked with major acts such as Ricky Smiley, Michael Colyer, Mark Curry, Kountry Wayne, Karlous Miller, and TK Kirkland.
Kevin D. White
Comedian Kevin D. White is an American stand-up comedian and writer that loves poking fun at cultural stereotypes one joke at a time. Being a native of Chicago, IL and with over 15 years in stand up, his creative content is undeniably funny. He has shared the stage with some of today’s leading legends such as, Katt Williams, Lil Rel, Hannibal Burress, Damon Williams, Faison Love and Deon Cole just to name a few. White is more than ready to become one of your favorite comedians.
Reginald Thomas
Reg Thomas has been moving across the country with his brand of smart comedy, in which he focuses on his upbringing and experiences in life. He is simply a productive stoner living in a crazy world, trying to make sense of it all. Thomas has produced content for media companies including BuzzFeed, Atlantic Records and KicksOnFire.com. He has written for Complex Magazine, been on Trutv for their show Jobs Unlisted and, also produces the touring comedy show Productively Stoned. He has toured with Amanda Seales, Chris Redd and Jordan Rock.
Tyana Davis
Tyana Davis, known professionally as Ty Davis, is a comedian, radio personality, writer, producer and actress. She is a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina but resides in Maryland. After her mother retired from the military in 2001, she moved to Baltimore where she started her comedy career almost five years ago. Ty frequently performs at The Baltimore Comedy Factory, DC Improv, various venues in the DMV and along the upper east coast. She is the host of The Morning After Show on DTLR Radio Monday through Friday 11am-2pm ET.
Festival passes are on sale at www.abff.com and offer five (5) different levels of access to Festival events. Registration ends May 22nd for discounted rates. Questions regarding registration may be directed to info@abffventures.com.
Sponsors of the 2019 American Black Film Festival are HBO® (Founding and Presenting Sponsor); BET Networks, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), Comcast NBCUniversal (Presenting Sponsors); Capital One, Hilton, Prudential, Turner (Premier Sponsors); American Airlines, Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), Sony, TV One (Official Sponsors); Accenture, Gentleman Jack, OWN, truTV, Warner Bros., Urban Movie Channel (UMC) (Supporting Sponsors); SAGIndie (Industry Partner); and Black Enterprise, Blackfilm.com (Media Partners).
Robert Townsend Discusses ‘The Making Of The Five Heartbeats’ To Netflix’s ‘Strong Black Lead’ Series
In case you weren’t aware, NETFLIX launched a series titled STRONG BLACK LEAD, where there are conversations with several powerful black actors who have paved the way and mad Hollywood history.
Actors such as John Witherspoon, Jackee Harry, Margaret Avery, and Bill Duke have sat down to discuss their careers.
In their latest episode, they sit down with actor, comedian, producer, and director Robert Townsend to discuss his latest documentary, ‘The Making Of The Five Heartbeats‘ which is a behind the scenes look at the hit iconic film ‘The Five Heartbeats‘.
You can check it all out by clicking on the link below;
