The Humor Mill

‘Trading Places’ Musical Sets Pre‑Broadway Workshops With Bryce Pinkham & Ephraim Sykes

The stage musical version of the 1983 comedy Trading Places is taking its next major step toward Broadway with two invitation‑only workshop presentations scheduled for May 14th and 15th in New York City. Actors Bryce Pinkham and Ephraim Sykes will headline the workshops, portraying Louis Winthorpe III and Billy Ray Valentine—the roles originally played by Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy.

Directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon, the musical features a book by Thomas Lennon (Reno 911!), a score by Alan Zachary & Michael Weiner (First Date), choreography by Fatima Robinson, and music supervision by Rick Edinger. The project continues to build momentum following its 2022 world premiere at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre.

The workshop cast includes Mark Evans, Marc Kudisch, McKenzie Kurtz, Josh Lamon, Jennifer Sánchez, and Lenny Wolpe, along with an ensemble of Broadway veterans. The story follows street hustler Billy Ray Valentine and wealthy commodities broker Louis Winthorpe III, whose lives are upended when they become pawns in a cruel bet orchestrated by two scheming brothers—setting off a comedic journey of swapped fortunes and unexpected alliances.

The original 1983 film, directed by John Landis, became one of the year’s biggest box‑office hits and helped solidify Eddie Murphy’s rise as a major star. With the creative team now assembling and workshops underway, the musical continues its path toward an anticipated Broadway debut.

A New Chapter For ‘Django Unchained’ And ‘Zorro’ As A Crossover Film Looms

Sony has enlisted Oscar‑winning screenwriter Brian Helgeland to develop the screenplay for its upcoming Django/Zorro crossover film, a big‑screen project inspired by the 2014 comic series co‑written by Quentin Tarantino and Matt Wagner. The film marks a continuation of the world introduced in Django Unchained, expanding the story through a new narrative rather than a direct adaptation of the comic.

The original seven‑issue comic followed Django, still working as a bounty hunter, as he crossed paths with the legendary masked vigilante Don Diego de la Vega. Their unlikely partnership led them into a mission to liberate oppressed Indigenous communities, blending Django’s Western grit with Zorro’s swashbuckling heroism. While the film will draw inspiration from this premise, Helgeland is crafting an original story that builds on the comic’s themes and character dynamics.

Although Tarantino directed Django Unchained, he will not helm this crossover. However, he has given the project his approval as it moves forward at Sony, where he is also expected to make his final directorial film. Previous attempts to launch a Django/Zorro movie stalled due to rights issues and the pandemic, but those obstacles have now been resolved, allowing development to restart in earnest.

No director or cast has been announced, though Jamie Foxx is expected to reprise his role as Django. The portrayal of Zorro remains open, with speculation about whether the film will feature an older Don Diego de la Vega or a younger successor to the mantle. The project is still in early development, but Sony’s decision to bring in Helgeland—known for L.A. Confidential, Mystic River, and other character‑driven dramas—signals a serious commitment to bringing this long‑anticipated crossover to life.

AFI’s Eddie Murphy Tribute Brought Out Several ‘SNL’ Alumni, A ‘Chappelle’s Show’ Reboot Pitch, And More!

In a venue full of comedians, the mood at the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award tribute to Eddie Murphy on Saturday, April 18, was surprisingly earnest. To kick off the show, Kevin Hart came to the Dolby Theatre stage, calling his comedic predecessor an “idol.” Fellow “Saturday Night Live” star Kenan Thompson called Murphy “the blueprint,” while Tracy Morgan called him “my biological father.”

If there was anyone who had the box office icon’s number, it was his “Trading Places” co-star Dan Aykroyd, who couldn’t make the Los Angeles event, and instead had his daughter Belle read his speech word for word. “Good evening, sir. I know this is painful for you. The intense focus, the selfies, the salad. So we are all happy you came, and we know you are here for the right reason,” she read. 

Other presenters there to toast Murphy’s meteoric rise from pre-movie-stardom in the 1980s, when he was credited for saving a Lorne Michaels-less “Saturday Night Live,” shared stories of how much being in his orbit humbled them. His “Beverly Hills Cop” co-star Judge Reinhold shared how the first day they met, he tried to hide the fact that he showed up to set in a Buick that “wasn’t burnt orange; it was just burnt.” Meanwhile, Murphy arrived in a custom Rolls-Royce.

Robert Townsend told a story about screening his pivotal film “Hollywood Shuffle” for Murphy and his entourage of 15 people, completely nervous about how the comedian would respond to the film’s jokes at his expense. Not only was Murphy cool with it, but he also offered Townsend the opportunity to direct his second live comedy feature, “Raw,” then and there.

Martin Lawrence, a comedic icon in his own right, talked of being granted a chance to meet Murphy as a young comedian when they were at the same club. “I said, ‘Brother, can I take a picture with you?’ Eddie looked at me so smooth and cool, looked me in the eyes, and he said, ‘No.’” Lawrence, who would later star opposite Murphy in films like “Boomerang” and “Life,” joked he can take all the pictures he wants with him now that they are in-laws (one of Murphy’s sons is married to one of Lawrence’s daughters).

Even Stevie Wonder, who gently ribbed Murphy for making fun of a blind man, said that working together on a Murphy-hosted episode of “Saturday Night Live” remains “one of the greatest moments that I’ve lived. And I was so happy that my mother was happy that we finally did something together.”

Much was said about the actor’s range, and how he played almost the entire supporting cast in “The Nutty Professor” films, but Chris Rock pinpointed how Murphy’s contribution as a pioneering Black movie star was more low-key. “Like Brando, you’re the first Black man to just be cool, to just be yourself. It was just you.”

Murphy’s “Dolemite Is My Name” co-star Da’Vine Joy Randolph also shared how he would conserve all his energy on set until they started filming, teaching her “as actors, we must preserve ourselves so that we can give all of ourselves to our characters, but that we still have enough of ourselves left when they call cut and it’s time to go home.”

Arguably, the most emotional moment of the night was comedian Dave Chappelle’s presentation. He said he’d just done an interview where he was asked about reviving his groundbreaking sketch series “Chappelle’s Show.” “If you’d asked me that a year ago, I’d have said no. ‘Chappelle’s Show’ was a very difficult show to do, but it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. And one of the reasons that it was great was your brother, Charlie,” he said. Chappelle added that he had recently reached out to Murphy to come to his house and have their first real chat about the death of Murphy’s older brother, Charlie, nearly a decade ago.

“Eddie was the one that said, ‘Man, you should do a ‘Chappelle’s Show’ movie or something like that. And I said, ‘Man, that’d be tough without your brother.’ So Eddie, if I do it, man, do the Charlie parts and let’s fucking go,” said Chappelle, as Murphy lept out of his seat, indicating he was immediately game.

The night also included appearances from Eva Longoria, Bill Burr, Jennifer Hudson, and Mike Myers in full “Shrek” drag, but the person to actually hand Murphy his AFI Life Achievement Award was none other than Oscar-winner Spike Lee. Those in the know will remember that the pair of trailblazing Black filmmakers had not always seen eye to eye, but here, Lee made a point of saying that despite their diverging paths as two Brooklyn natives, “Eddie made us laugh and made our nation feel better. I took a camera and told stories on how our nation could be better. While we both pushed forward culture or we both pushed culture forward, we’re still not even done.”

Not only did Murphy turn the compliments on their head, provoking Lee to storm offstage at the suggestion that he may be a jinx to his beloved New York Knicks, but he also packed his acceptance speech with some scatological humor reminiscent of the jokes he first told as a burgeoning teenage standup.

“If y’all made me wait till I was 92, I would have come out here and said, ‘Fuck everybody! Fuck everybody,’” he said, referencing Lillian Gish, the eldest person to receive the honor. “Then I would shit on the floor. They would start playing that music, the music when they want you to stop, I would have just kept shitting. We staved off that happening by giving me this award tonight.”

The tribute also included recent Best Cinematography Oscar winner and AFI Conservatory graduate Autumn Durald Arkapaw receiving the Franklin J. Schaffner alumni medal. The event, which raised over $2.5 million for the Institute, will premiere on Netflix on May 31, 2026.

Source: Indiewire

Katt Williams Talks Trash For Anthony Edwards in New Adidas Ad

The last time Katt Williams starred in an adidas advertisement, it was an epic takedown of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on behalf of Anthony Edwards. Williams returned for a second ad today, but he focused his aim on the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

According to adidas, Edwards is too busy to put the world on notice. So, he enlisted Williams to speak for him and let fans know to get their popcorn ready, because this playoff run is about to be a movie.

The last time Katt Williams starred in an adidas advertisement, it was an epic takedown of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on behalf of Anthony Edwards. Williams returned for a second ad today, but he focused his aim on the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

According to adidas, Edwards is too busy to put the world on notice. So, he enlisted Williams to speak for him and let fans know to get their popcorn ready, because this playoff run is about to be a movie.

In the short film titled “Get Ya Popcorn,” the swaggering comedian talked trash while wearing the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 basketball shoes in the newly released “Glow” colorway.

“Hate to say, I told you so,” Williams said. “But I warned you. My guy, Ant-Man, is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. He wouldn’t be here to tell you himself, but he’s busy getting his ring finger measured. So I’ll speak for it.”

Side view of the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 "Glow" colorway colorway.
The adidas Anthony Edwards 2 “Glow” colorway. | adidas

Williams continued, “Get your popcorn ready. Because these playoffs, Ant wants all the smoke. It’s about to be a movie, a good movie. Like one of my movies, but with more dunking, trash talking, and victory lapping on enemy territory. So get you a seat, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the greatest show in modern sports. See you at the parade, b******.”

Adidas has also teamed up with the Timberwolves to treat fans in attendance at the Target Center for Game 1. They will have the chance to get a piece of Ant’s Peach World with an arena-exclusive popcorn bucket. 

Side view of the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 "Glow" colorway colorway.
The adidas Anthony Edwards 2 “Glow” colorway colorway. | adidas

In the video, Williams rocks the new Anthony Edwards 2 “Glow” colorway. The shoes are available now in adult ($130) and kid ($100) sizes at adidas.com.

The silhouette sports a sleek Core Black upper contrasted by Lime Burst details that trace the silhouette’s signature lines. The shoes are a perfect complement to the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Statement Edition uniforms, which they will wear in the NBA Playoffs.

Outsole of the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 "Glow" colorway colorway.

Tech specs for the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 include a propulsion Plate for torsional support and energy return. Meanwhile, the articulated Fangs deliver lockdown and containment. Lastly, LIGHTBOOST + Lightstrike combine rim and core construction with adidas’ leading cushioning platforms, offering superior comfort and responsiveness.

The NBA Playoffs are here, so fans can expect more heat from Edwards and adidas. Stay locked into Sports Illustrated’s Kicks On SI for all your footwear news from the NBA and beyond.

Ice Cube and Chris Tucker’s Sons Reimagine Classic Comedy ‘Friday’ For Los Angeles Rams Draft Promo

The Los Angeles Rams drafted the sons of Ice Cube and Chris Tucker to recreate their famous father’s classic comedy, Friday.

O’Shea Jackson Jr. and Destin Tucker headline the reimagined take, titled Thursday, starring alongside Terry Crews, YG, Kevin Dotson, Jared Verse, Byron Young and Big Boy as part of the team’s newest installment of its draft campaign. It dropped today ahead of the NFL Draft next week on all Rams digital and social platforms.

Friday, directed by F. Gary Gray from a script by Cube and DJ Pooh, came out in 1995 from New Line Cinema. It starred Cube as Craig and Tucker as Smokey, two friends who must come up with $200 they owe a local bully or there won’t be a Saturday. Agency partners at TBWA\Chiat\Day Los Angeles worked with the Rams to develop a reimagined version for the draft, one that “celebrates the cultural impact” of Friday in the communities where Rams fans live.

Thursday is a piece of a slew of fan-facing draft activities. Those include the Zillow Draft House, a pop-up near Cinépolis Inglewood in Hollywood Park that is now open, featuring a branded living room, a small-scale turf football field and a retail experience. From April 23-25, the Rams will host at Hollywood Park a Rams Block Party presented by Zillow that will feature carnival-style rides and games, “Main Street” activations and spaces to watch the NFL Draft live. Proceeds benefit the Rams Foundation.

Jackson is a veteran actor who made his debut by portraying his father in Straight Outta Compton. More recently, he starred in the Sundance title Idiots. His other credits include Swagger, Cocaine Bear, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Just Mercy, Den of Thieves, Ingrid Goes West, Godzilla: King of the Monsters, and more. Tucker is an actor, writer, and musician. He stars in the short film W.T.A.F.

A behind the scenes image from filming of the Los Angeles Rams draft special Thursday. Brevin Townsell/Los Angeles Rams

A behind-the-scenes image from filming of the Los Angeles Rams draft special Thursday

Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart & Jack Black Unveil New ‘Jumanji’ Title and Trailer at CinemaCon

CinemaCon attendees got a major surprise this year as Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black reunited to reveal the official title and first trailer for the next Jumanji installment. The trio took the stage to debut the footage, confirming that the blockbuster franchise is gearing up for another wild, game‑breaking adventure.

The upcoming film now has its official name, signaling a fresh chapter in the rebooted series. While plot details remain tightly guarded, the trailer hints at even bigger stakes, new environments, and the signature body‑swap chaos fans have come to expect.

Johnson, Hart, and Black appeared together at CinemaCon, leaning into their trademark banter as they introduced the trailer. Their chemistry — a major driver of the franchise’s success — was on full display as they teased new challenges, new characters, and even more outrageous comedic moments.

The exclusive footage showcased sweeping action sequences, unexpected twists inside the game world, and a few surprise character transformations. Early reactions from the audience described the trailer as “bigger,” “funnier,” and “more chaotic” than the previous films.

With the title now revealed and the first trailer out in the world, anticipation for the next Jumanji is officially underway. More details — including full cast announcements and story specifics — are expected as the film moves closer to release.

Dave Chappelle Stands Firm Through Backlash And Considers Revisiting ‘Chappelle’s Show’

YELLOW SPRINGS, Ohio (AP) — Dave Chappelle strolled through the Ohio village’s downtown like he always does: unbothered, unhurried and unmistakably himself.

There was no stage, no spotlight — just Yellow Springs, where he’s lived for decades, a place he spent summers as a child while his father worked as dean of students at nearby Antioch College.

It’s in places like this, away from the glare, where Chappelle finds clarity and continues to sharpen a comedic voice that has sparked debate, drawn criticism and, through it all, refused to bend.

“I’ve had a lot of support from my people,” said Chappelle, an Emmy and Grammy winner. “That’s what’s sustained me.”

He sat down with The Associated Press before walking through the town, where he’d recently participated in the ribbon-cutting for a restored 19th-century schoolhouse that now houses a public radio station and will serve as office space for his company, Pilot Boy Productions.

Enduring the backlash over his jokes

Chappelle said he didn’t initially expect his voice to carry the weight it does today.

“Sometimes people will attach things to your voice that don’t necessarily have anything to do with you,” he said. “Your responsibility is to be true to yourself and your work.”

That voice has become one of the most scrutinized in comedy, particularly after criticism of jokes about transgender people in his Netflix specials. The backlash surrounding “The Closer” in 2021 drew protests and internal pushback at Netflix, turning his work into a flashpoint in broader debates over comedy, culture, and free speech.

Chappelle said he has never set out to provoke controversy, describing his work as an extension of the same stand-up he has always done. He said the reaction often felt disconnected from the audiences who continue to show up.

“The media used to talk (expletive) about jokes that I did … and none of that stuff swayed my audience,” he said. “So I feel like I need to be true to something.”

Chappelle said being in Yellow Springs allows him a different perspective without the pressures of the entertainment industry.

“One of the best sovereignties that a person can enjoy is the sovereignty of their mind,” he said. “Just the idea of knowing where you land and the rest of the world begins.”

Reconsidering ‘Chappelle’s Show’

For many fans, Chappelle’s voice is still tied to “Chappelle’s Show,” the Comedy Central series that premiered in 2003 and quickly became a cultural force with its sharp satire on race, politics and pop culture.

The show ran for two full seasons with an abbreviated third season released in 2006 after Chappelle walked away during production. It was a decision he later attributed to burnout and concerns about the show’s direction.

Now, Chappelle says he’s at least open to the idea of revisiting it.

“If you’d asked me that question a year ago, I’d have told you absolutely not,” he said. “But in the last few weeks … I’m considering it.”

Chappelle acknowledged the comedy landscape has shifted, with digital platforms and social media creating new pathways for humor and a new generation of creators shaping the conversation in real time.

Finding perspective on criticism

As he walked through town, Chappelle framed criticism less as a verdict than something to endure. He pointed to “The Muhammad Ali Reader,” a collection that documents the intense criticism the late boxing legend faced during his career.

“It’s every negative thing they said about him,” he said. “And history proved him to be absolutely right. … As bad as that weather was, there’s another side to it.”

Chappelle framed the tension around his work in a broader cultural context.

“Black life in America, there’s always an ‘or else’ to all of it,” he said. “Don’t say this or else; don’t do that or else. And then there’s those few brave people who say, ‘Or else what?’”

Watching comedy’s next chapter

Even as he reflects on his own career, Chappelle said he’s paying close attention to the next generation of comedians. He pointed to Druski as part of a new wave showing how audiences engage with comedy.

“I love what he does,” Chappelle said before drawing a distinction between digital success and stand-up. That freedom to fail, he suggested, is essential to the development as a comedian — which can be harder to find in today’s fast-moving digital landscape.

“One of the worst things that can happen to a comedian is becoming successful before they get good,” Chappelle said. “Because you miss the part where you get to explore and make mistakes.”

Still performing, still reflecting

Chappelle remains active onstage, including upcoming performances tied to the Netflix Is a Joke Fest in Los Angeles in May.

Back home, he continues to perform at his own comedy club — which used to be a firehouse — in Yellow Springs, where he has hosted surprise sets and brought in high-profile guests, including Travis Scott, Lizzo, Wyclef Jean, Marsha Ambrosius, Clipse, 50 Cent and Christopher Cross.

The village has also drawn attention beyond its size. Over the weekend, Michelle Obama and her brother, Craig Robinson, interviewed Chappelle for their podcast at the radio station.

After decades in comedy, he said he doesn’t spend much time thinking about his legacy, though the idea occasionally comes up in conversation with peers like Chris Rock.

“I’ll be like, ‘They’re gonna write books about us,’” he said. “And those guys will laugh. But they might … or they might not.”

Asked whether he feels he’s living out his purpose, Chappelle paused.

“Man, I’m a lucky guy in that respect,” he said. “I don’t know if I’m doing that on purpose, but I dreamt of being a famous comedian. Took me 40 years, but I did it. … This is better than I dreamt of.”

Kevin Hart Returning for Action Sequel Ride Along 3 — 10 Years Later

A decade after Ride Along 2 hit theaters, Kevin Hart is officially gearing up to return to the franchise that helped cement his status as a box‑office comedy powerhouse. Universal Pictures has revived development on Ride Along 3, reuniting Hart with longtime co‑star Ice Cube for another round of high‑energy buddy‑cop chaos.

The Ride Along series has been dormant since 2016, despite strong box‑office performance and fan demand. Earlier attempts to launch a third film stalled due to creative differences and shifting studio priorities. But momentum has finally returned: Universal has hired writer Daniel Gold, known for his work on Workin’ Moms, to craft a fresh screenplay that reportedly brought the entire original team back into alignment.

Director Tim Story and producer Will Packer, who shaped the first two films, are also in talks to return, signaling a full creative reunion.

The long delay wasn’t due to lack of interest—Hart and Ice Cube have both expressed enthusiasm for a third installment over the years. Instead, the slowdown reflected a broader industry trend: big‑screen comedies have struggled as audiences gravitated toward streaming platforms. With studios now revisiting proven theatrical brands, Ride Along 3 is emerging as a strong contender for a box‑office comeback.

While plot details remain under wraps, the franchise’s core dynamic is expected to return: Hart’s fast‑talking Ben Barber and Ice Cube’s no‑nonsense James Payton navigating crime‑fueled mayhem with mismatched energy and reluctant brother‑in‑law chemistry. Their partnership has always been the heart of the series, and both stars are reportedly enthusiastic about reuniting—pending final script approval.

The first two Ride Along films collectively earned nearly $279 million worldwide, making the franchise a reliable mid‑budget hit for Universal. That financial track record, combined with Hart and Cube’s enduring star power, explains why the studio is ready to roll the dice again.

With the screenplay still in development, Ride Along 3 doesn’t yet have a release window. But after ten years of anticipation, the confirmation that Hart and Cube are actively involved has reignited excitement among fans of the action‑comedy duo.

Queen Latifah To Host The ’52nd American Music Awards’ On CBS

Marking 30 Years Since Her AMAs Hosting Debut, the Legendary Artist, Actor, Producer, and Entrepreneur Will Honor the Most Influential Artists and Songs of Today

CBS and Dick Clark Productions (DCP) announced that GRAMMY(R) Award-winning musician, critically acclaimed Emmy and Golden Globe(R)-winning and Academy Award(R)-nominated actress and producer Queen Latifah will host the 52ND AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS (AMAs), airing LIVE coast-to-coast from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25 (8:00 PM, ET, 5:00 PM, PT) on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.*

Queen Latifah has a longstanding history with the AMAs, previously serving as a co-host in 1995 and delivering memorable performances in the years since. The 52ND AMAs will honor the most influential artists and songs of today alongside unforgettable performances and special moments in a multi-genre, cross-generational celebration of music.

“I am so excited to return to the American Music Awards stage to host this year,” said Latifah. “It’s been an incredible year for music and there is no better place to celebrate than in Vegas.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Queen Latifah back as host of the American Music Awards,” said Jay Penske, CEO, Dick Clark Productions. “A true powerhouse and trailblazer, she brings a dynamic presence and deep connection to both fans and fellow artists, making her the perfect choice to lead a night celebrating the biggest names and most defining moments in music.”

Queen Latifah is a GRAMMY(R) Award-winning artist and Oscar-nominated actress whose career spans music, film, television, and production. She earned an Academy Award nomination, along with Golden Globe and SAG nominations, for her role as Mama Morton in “Chicago,” and won both a Golden Globe and SAG Award for “Life Support.” A trailblazer in entertainment, she became the first hip-hop artist to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006 and has received seven GRAMMY nominations, winning Best Rap Solo Performance in 1994. Her cultural impact was further recognized with the National Medal of the Arts in 2024 and honors at the 2023 Kennedy Center Honors. Beyond acting, she has built a successful production career through Flavor Unit Entertainment, producing films and television projects including “Bessie” and “The Perfect Holiday.”

Making her big screen debut in Spike Lee’s 1991 film “Jungle Fever,” Latifah then starred in “Set It Off” and co-starred with Holly Hunter and Danny DeVito in the critically acclaimed “Living Out Loud.” From 1993-1998, Latifah starred in the network comedy “Living Single.” Following “Chicago,” she starred in and executive-produced the box office hit “Bringing Down the House.” Her additional film credits include “The Secret Life of Bees,” alongside Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys and Dakota Fanning; Neil Meron and Craig Zadan’s “Hairspray”; “Mad Money” opposite Diane Keaton and Katie Holmes; “Just Wright”; “Joyful Noise”; “The Last Holiday”; “Beauty Shop”; “Girls Trip” alongside Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina Hall and Tiffany Haddish; and “Hustle” opposite Adam Sandler. She took to the stage and small screen performing as the title character in the television musical “The Wiz Live!” and as Ursula in ABC’s live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid.”

In recent years, Latifah headlined and executive produced CBS’ THE EQUALIZER, which became the #1 new series in the 2020-2021 season. Looking ahead, she is set to reprise her role as Ellie in “Ice Age: Boiling Point,” continuing her long-running involvement in the popular animated franchise.

Last year’s AMAs reached over 10 million unique viewers across its CBS and Paramount+ premiere on Memorial Day and encores on MTV, CMT and BET. The CBS broadcast marked the show’s largest audience since 2019, with a +38% increase over its last live airing in 2022 on ABC.

Nominations for the 52ND AMAs will be announced on Tuesday, April 14, with fan voting opening the same day, which will remain open until Friday, May 8. Additional details, including performers, presenters and special honorees for the 52ND AMAs, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets for the star-studded must-see show are now available on AXS.

*Paramount+ Premium plan subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live, but will have access to on-demand the day after the special airs.

Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias Teams With Fuse Media to Launch Family‑Friendly FAST Channel ‘Fluffy TV’

Comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias is expanding his brand into the streaming world with the launch of Fluffy TV, a new family‑friendly FAST channel created in partnership with Fuse Media. The channel will spotlight Iglesias’ signature humor while offering a lineup designed for viewers of all ages.

Fluffy TV will feature a curated mix of Iglesias’ stand‑up specials, behind‑the‑scenes content, and comedy programming that aligns with his upbeat, inclusive style. The goal is to create a space where families can enjoy comedy together — a rarity in the current streaming landscape.

Fuse Media, known for its multicultural entertainment platforms, will distribute Fluffy TV across major FAST services. The partnership taps into Fuse’s growing presence in the ad‑supported streaming space and Iglesias’ massive global fanbase.

In addition to Iglesias’ own work, the channel plans to showcase emerging comedians, family‑friendly series, and original short‑form content. The focus is on humor that’s accessible, positive, and community‑driven — a natural extension of Iglesias’ long‑standing appeal.

For Iglesias, Fluffy TV marks a new chapter in his career, giving him a dedicated platform to reach fans beyond live tours and traditional specials. It also positions him as one of the few comedians with a branded FAST channel built around their comedic identity.

Fluffy TV is set to roll out across multiple FAST platforms later this year, with additional programming announcements expected as the launch approaches.