The 26th Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, an official NFL-sanctioned event and a cornerstone of Super Bowl weekend for over a quarter of a century, is now set to dazzle audiences with an unforgettable evening of music, faith, and football during Super Bowl LIX week in New Orleans with a star-studded live taping on FOX. This year’s celebration is led by acclaimed hosts Bill Bellamy, comedian and actor known for his scene-stealing roles in Love Jones and Any Given Sunday, and New Orleans native Rocsi Diaz, Emmy Award-winning media personality who currently serves as co-host for Tubi’s We Got Time Today with sports legend Deion Sanders.
Joining Bellamy and Diaz to celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage and unbreakable spirit of New Orleans with epic performances and mashups is an incredible slate of award-winning artists, including The Isley Brothers, Muni Long, Yolanda Adams, Tori Kelly, and Jonathan McReynolds; New Orleans’ own Master P, Big Freedia, Lucky Daye, and Trombone Shorty; as well as the soulful harmonies of the NFL Players Choir, and heartfelt tributes to NFL players and leaders. This celebration under the theme “Keep Going” will premiere as a primetime special on FOX on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT, with additional airings on FS1, FOX Sports VOD, FOX Soul, and Tubi.
“Hosting the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is like hitting the trifecta—music, faith, and football all in one show! And you can’t beat doing it in New Orleans. I’m excited to bring some laughs, some energy, and to be part of this incredible night with an amazing lineup,” said Bellamy.
“Growing up in the lively vibe of New Orleans, I’ve felt the magic, resilience, and soul that make this city totally unique,” Diaz said with excitement. “Joining forces with Bill to host Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is a blast—it’s my moment to spotlight the beauty and spirit of the Big Easy! This isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of faith, community, and unity—values that define New Orleans and inspire the world. I’m beyond excited to help bring this epic night to life in my hometown!”
Honoring outstanding achievements on and off the field, the Lifetime of Inspiration Award will be presented to former NFL player and FOX Sports’ award-winning broadcaster Michael Strahan,celebrating his impact on sports, media, and philanthropy.
“Being recognized with the Lifetime of Inspiration Award is such an incredible honor,” said Strahan. “When I think about the legends who’ve received this award, it’s truly special to be part of this group. The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is more than just music or football; it’s about making a real impact on and off the field. I’m thrilled to participate in this exceptional event which showcases a commitment to fostering positive change.”
The Community Award will recognize New Orleans Saints player Cameron Jordan for his dedication to service and leadership, while Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams will be honored with the Rising Star Award. Additional honorees and show participants will be announced.
The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is brought to life by an outstanding production team dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience. The event is founded and executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as executive producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as showrunner and director, with GRAMMY®-nominated artist Adam Blackstone as music director, ensuring a seamless blend of performance, storytelling, and inspiration.
“As we celebrate the 26th year of the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration as an official NFL-sanctioned event, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the journey that has brought us here,” said Few, Founder and Executive Producer. “Returning to New Orleans, a city that embodies resilience, culture, and faith, feels like the perfect way to honor the essence of what this event has always stood for. New Orleans is a city with a heartbeat of music, a legacy of strength, and a deep sense of community—qualities that reflect the very soul of this celebration.”
TICKETS:
Tickets are available to the public and on sale now! Don’t miss this unforgettable night of inspiration, music, and celebration. Visit https://www.mahaliajacksontheater.com.
For interview opportunities or additional information, please contact: Tosha Whitten, FrontPage Firm, tosha@frontpagefirm.com
FOLLOW THE CELEBRATION:
Follow us @superbowlsoulful or visit superbowlsoulful.com for show updates and exclusive content.
BET+ and Hartbeat, the global entertainment company founded by Kevin Hart, have announced their first-ever original adult animated series, Lil Kev. Created by Hart himself, the highly anticipated half-hour series is set to debut in Spring 2025.
Inspired by Hart’s childhood experiences and comedic sensibilities, Lil Kev takes a satirical and unfiltered approach to real-life challenges. The series reflects Hart’s signature no-holds-barred humor and promises a mix of sharp wit and heartfelt storytelling.
The series is set in 1993 North Philadelphia and follows 12-year-old Kevin Hart, whose vivid imagination and boundless optimism clash hilariously with the gritty realities of his neighborhood.
Wanda Sykes stars as Kevin’s tough, God-fearing mother, Nancy, who juggles night shifts as an ER nurse while keeping Kevin on a straight path. Deon Cole joins the cast as Uncle Richard Jr., Nancy’s fitness-obsessed, hustling younger brother who recently returned from prison. Additional casting will be revealed in the coming months.
Nancy’s challenges include managing Kevin’s mischievous older brother Robert, dealing with her ex-husband Henry’s chaotic attempts to reconcile, and contending with Richard Jr.’s questionable advice. Despite these hurdles, Kevin’s journey is infused with humor, resilience, and heart as he navigates his path toward comedic greatness.
“I’m excited to deepen the partnership between Hartbeat and BET on a project so close to my heart,” said Kevin Hart. “With comedy veterans Wanda and Deon alongside me, we’re bringing Lil Kev to life—a hilarious celebration of stories inspired by my Philly roots, a place that will always be home to me.”
“Lil Kev marks an exciting milestone for BET+ as we continue to expand our content portfolio with bold, fresh, and culturally resonant storytelling,” said Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET Media Group. “Kevin Hart’s unique comedic voice has long been a favorite across our platforms, and we’re thrilled to bring his personal journey to life through this groundbreaking adult animated series.”
Jason Harvey, EVP of Strategy and Operations at BET+, added, “The story of Lil Kev is one we knew we wanted to develop from the moment it was pitched. With its dynamic cast and authentic narrative, the series perfectly represents the multifaceted experiences of our diverse audience.”
Lil Kev premieres in the spring of 2025.
The Wayans brothers reteam Scary Movie from Paramount and Miramax is hitting theaters on June 12, 2026.
Also opening on June 12 is the next Daniels-directed movie from Universal; their first pic since 2023 Best Picture Oscar winner Everything Everywhere All at Once.
It’s the first time in 18 years that the Wayans have gathered to pen a new original script for the restart of the satirical franchise. Rick Alvarez is also writing and producing. The series has sent-up such horror pics as Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer.
Scary Movie (2000) was one of the highest-grossing R-rated horror movies of all time. The film opened at $42.5 million which was the biggest opening for an R-rated horror movie and a black director at that time.
The Scary Movie film franchise was developed by Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans and Keenen Ivory Wayans. Keenen Ivory Wayans wrote and directed the first two films. Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans wrote and starred in the first two films. This will be the sixth film in the franchise.
Miramax is the studio behind the franchise and Paramount Pictures is releasing worldwide.
Scary Movie is part of Paramount’s first look deal with Miramax.
Paramount is trying to bring comedies back at the box office. They have the Trey Parker-Matt Stone untitled comedy set for July 4 this year, Naked Gun with Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson on Aug. 1, and now Scary Movie. Sony recently opened the R-rated Sza and Keke Palmer comedy, One of Them Days, to a first week take of $17M+.
Marlon Wayans just alerted everyone on social:
In this episode, we discuss Jimmy Butler being suspended again by the Miami Heat, pitcher Mariano Rivera being accused of covering up child sex abuse claims, and more!
Starring comedian Howie Bell!
Watch the episode below;
#BoxSeats #NFL #MVP #NBA #comedy #comedygrind #funny #hilarious #followus #BuffaloBills #DetroitLions #Lions #BaltimoreRavens #Baltimore #SuperBowl #KansasCityChiefs #AllenIverson #Sixers #WashingtonCommanders #Eagles #LebronJames #Philly #MarkAndrews #Fumble #Interception
George Lopez is retiring from stand-up comedy, but fans have one final special to look forward to.
From Prime Video, George Lopez: Muy Católico (Very Catholic), recorded last September at the famed Los Angeles venue, the Dolby Theater, will premiere on February 18. Across one hour, Lopez will share his reflections on aging, Latino family dynamics, and cultural quirks. He also embraces the challenges of getting older and touches on generational clashes and Latino superstitions.
“It is the last one. I’ve subjected the American people to enough of my crap. It seems like the right time; it’s been the one thing that has just never left me my whole life and it’s a wonderful place to leave it at this particular point,” Lopez told Tamron Hall about his decision to retire.
Viewers can continue to watch Lopez and his real-life daughter Mayan Lopez, who you can see on the right-hand side of the photo above, in the NBC comedy Lopez Vs. Lopez, which is currently in its third season. The duo plays father and daughter in the multi-cam series that explores a fictionalized version of their relationship which they co-created alongside Debby Wolfe.
George Lopez previously released 4 HBO comedy specials including The Wall (2017), It’s Not Me, It’s You (2012), Tall, Dark and Chicano (2009), which was nominated for a Best Comedy Album Grammy Award, and America’s Mexican (2007). His comedy concert, Why You Crying? from Showtime was released in 2004. His most recent special, We’ll Do It for Half, was released on Netflix in 2020.
The special is produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Travieso Productions.
Source: Deadline
In this episode, we discuss the new hire of Ben Johnson as the new coach of the Chicago Bears, plus how this will affect the Lions as they lose their OC. We also discuss the ripple effect it can have on the team, and more. We take a look at the upcoming games this weekend, and we also talk about the rumors running rampant around the NFL.
Watch the latest episode below;
#BoxSeats #NFL #MVP #NBA #comedy #comedygrind #funny #hilarious #followus #BuffaloBills #DetroitLions #Lions #BaltimoreRavens #Baltimore #SuperBowl #KansasCityChiefs #WashingtonCommanders #Eagles #LebronJames #Philly #MarkAndrews #Fumble #Interception
Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, and Tosin Cole are taking on the lead roles in the highly-anticipated film adaptation of “Children of Blood and Bone.” Gina Prince-Bythewood is directing the action fantasy film, based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel, for Paramount Pictures.
The studio has also dated the film for release on Jan. 15, 2027 in Imax.
Mbedu, who previously starred in Prince-Bythewood’s historical epic “The Woman King,” will play Zelie, a young woman living in a fantasy African kingdom who embarks on a quest to reclaim the magic that was violently stolen from her people by the ruthless King Saran. The story follows Zelie and her older brother Tzain (Cole) as they form an alliance with the king’s daughter, Princess Amari (Stenberg) and son, Prince Inan (Idris) to fight back against his brutal rule.
Published in 2018, Adeyemi’s “Children of Blood and Bone” has become a smash hit, with the novel and its two sequels, “Children of Virtue and Vengeance” and “Children of Anguish and Anarchy” (collectively known as the “Legacy of Orïsha” trilogy) spending a combined 175 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. In total, the series has sold almost three million copies worldwide and garnered critical acclaim, with “Children of Blood and Bone” being featured as a Top 100 Fantasy Books of All Time; a New York Times Notable Children’s Book; and a Kirkus Prize Finalist, among other distinctions.
Plus, with Stenberg’s casting, Adeyemi’s journey comes full-circle: in interviews promoting the first novel, the young author explained that “The Hunger Games” — and particularly the backlash to Stenberg’s casting as Rue and Lenny Kravitz as Cinna in the 2012 film — inspired her to begin writing about the Black experience.
“I’m the kind of person who gets motivated by anger, so I was like, ‘Oh man, I’m going to write a story that’s so good and so black that everyone’s going to have to read it even if you’re racist,’” Adeyemi told EW. “That became my writing mission.”
In 2022, Paramount Pictures Motion Picture Group co-presidents Daria Cercek and Mike Ireland acquired the rights to the the “Legacy of Orïsha” trilogy in a highly competitive bidding war. Since then, the project has been a top priority for the studio leadership, including co-CEO Brian Robbins. In Dec. 2023, Prince-Bythewood was announced to direct “Children of Blood and Bone” and co-write the screenplay with Adeyemi, with casting as the next crucial step.
In addition to breakout talents Mbedu, Stenberg (“The Hate U Give,” “Bodies Bodies Bodies”), Idris (“Snowfall,” “F1”) and Cole (“Supacell”), the film will feature an incomparable ensemble cast including Academy Award winner Viola Davis (“The Woman King,” “G20”) as Mama Agba; Grammy and Emmy winner and Academy Award nominee Cynthia Erivo (“Wicked”) as Admiral Kaea; SAG Award winner Idris Elba (“Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw”) as Lekan; BAFTA winner Lashana Lynch (“Bob Marley: One Love,” “Day of the Jackal”) as Jumoke; and Academy Award nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor (“12 Years a Slave”) as King Saran.
In negotiations to join the cast are Academy Award winner Regina King (“Shirley”) as Queen Nehanda; Diaana Babnicova (“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot”) as Folake; and Bukky Bakray (“Rocks”) as Binta. Also forthcoming will be additional castings from an open casting call for actors living in Nigeria.
With this impressive ensemble nearly assembled, production on “Children of Blood and Bone” is set to begin in South Africa in the coming weeks.
Wyck Godfrey and Marty Bowen of Temple Hill Entertainment, together with Karen Rosenfelt of Sunswept Entertainment — the filmmaking team behind the “Twilight” series – will produce the film alongside Matt Jackson of Jackson Pictures. Adeyemi and Reggie Rock Bythewood will executive produce.
Stenberg is repped by Entertainment 360, UTA, imPRint and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lescano Bobb & Dang; Idris is represented by CAA, M88 and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, Newman, Warren, Richman, Rush, Kaller, Gellman, Meigs & Fox; and Cole is represented by CAA, Curtis Brown, Ed Smith and Tapestry.
Davis is represented by CAA and the Lasher Group; Erivo is represented by UTA, Entertainment 360, Peikoff Mahan and The Lede Company; and Elba is represented by The Artists Partnership, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole and The Lede Company.
King is repped by CAA, John Carrabino Management, Ascend Artist Representation and Gang, Tyre, Ramer; Babnicova is repped by Gersh, ColorCreative, Sylvia Young Agency in the UK and lawyer Derek Kroeger; and Bakray is repped by Entertainment 360, Independent Talent Group, Granderson Des Rochers.
Source: Variety
T.I. is proving that the way you begin in the music industry isn’t how you have to end. The multi-hyphenate star held his first stand-up comedy special called An Evening Of Comedy With Comedian TIP Harris on Sunday (Jan. 19) and Monday (Jan. 20) at Atlanta’s Center Stage.
With performances by The Haha Mafia comedians — a collective of top-tier Atlanta comedians including Navv Greene, Kelly “K Dubb” Walker, Erica Duchess, Tyler Chronicles, Jayski, and T.I. himself — the crew put together an unforgettable set. “It’s not just about the jokes—it’s about telling the truth, reflecting on life, and sharing a laugh,” he explained to The Source.
For over two decades, T.I. has been a trailblazer in music, but his transition into comedy showcases an entirely new side of him. Trying out his jokes with a few intimate sets at venues like City Winery in Atlanta and New York, T.I. gradually expanded his comedic reach, performing at larger venues such as The Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club in Las Vegas. He also appeared on BET+’s reboot of Comic View, where he shared the same stage as seasoned comedians.
As T.I. embarks on this next chapter, he continues to blend humor with substance—weaving his personal experiences with hilarious social commentary. From reflections on his fame and fatherhood to witty takes on society—the “U Don’t Know Me” spitter’s comedy is as bold as his music.
Source: VIBE
ABC is giving Abbott Elementary early admission to its 2025-26 schedule.
The network has ordered a fifth season of Abbott, the Emmy-winning comedy from creator and star Quinta Brunson. The renewal comes midway through the show’s fourth season, and on the heels of the show’s most-watched episode of the current season.
The show’s Jan. 8 episode, a crossover with FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, drew 8.05 million viewers with a week of multi-platform viewing — a season-high for Abbott Elementary and its second most-watched episode over that time frame ever, behind a post-Oscars showing last year. About 39 percent of those viewers (3.15 million) watched the episode on Hulu or Disney+.
Since moving up an hour to 8:30 on Wednesdays, the show has recorded two of its three largest same-day audiences of the season so far, according to Nielsen (the third, incidentally, was for an episode that aired at 8 p.m. in December).
The early renewal is nothing new for Abbott Elementary, which has scored pickups well ahead of the May upfronts in each of its first three seasons. The series is the first to earn a spot on ABC’s 2025-26 slate.
Along with Brunson, the show’s cast includes Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, Lisa Ann Walter, William Stanford Davis, and Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Warner Bros. Television and 20th Television produce Abbott Elementary. Brunson executive produces with Justin Halpern and Patrick Schumacker of Delicious Non-Sequitur Productions, Randall Einhorn, and Brian Rubenstein.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
Emmy-winning comedian Trevor Noah will return as master of ceremonies of the 67th annual Grammy Awards, for the fifth consecutive year. Noah will also serve as a producer on the show.
As previously announced, the 67th annual Grammy Awards telecast on CBS will continue to be held on Feb. 2 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, but will have a “renewed sense of purpose: raising additional funds to support wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery and dedication of first responders who risk their lives to protect ours,” according to last week’s announcement. Grammy Week has also been abbreviated and will focus on the MusiCares benefit, the Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala (which has become a fire-relief fundraiser) and the show itself.
The show will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network and will be available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount+.
In an interview with Variety days before last year’s show, Noah was asked what the most nerve-wracking aspect of the job is for him . “I know this sounds like a weird thing to say, but you don’t want to disappoint the artists that you love,” he replied. “Like, I cannot imagine what it would be like to tell a joke and turn and see Beyonce going [shakes his head and scowls]. Because that would mean whenever I listened to Beyonce’s music, I would forever have that image in my head. If you don’t do well for a live audience, OK, you’re gonna bounce back; if you don’t do well for a home audience, OK, some people are going to comment online. But to have the look of disappointment come from an icon or somebody that you really love — I do not wish for that experience. So I work twice as hard.”
Source: Variety