Archive for the ‘News’ Category

CELEBRITY NEWS: APRIL 9, 2024

April 9, 2024

CELEBRITY NEWS: APRIL 9, 2024
http://www.imdb.com/news/celebrity

Jackie Evancho (Singer, America’s Got Talent) – 24 years old
Lil Nas X (Rapper) – 25 years old
Elle Fanning (“The Great”/ “Super 8”) – 26 years old
Kristen Stewart (“Twilight” movies) – 34 years old
Jazmine Sullivan (R&B Singer) – 37 years old
Jesse McCartney (Singer) – 37 years old
Leighton Meester (Gossip Girl) – 38 years old
Jay Baruchel (“How To Train Your Dragon” movies) – 42 years old
Keshia Knight Pulliam (The Cosby Show) – 45 years old
Sunny Anderson (TV Chef) – 49 years old
Jenna Jameson (Webcam Model/ former Porn Star) – 50 years old
Cynthia Nixon (Sex And The City) – 58 years old
Paulina Porizkova (Model) – 59 years old
Marc Jacobs (Fashion Designer) – 61 years old
Dennis Quaid (“A Dog’s Purpose”/ Vegas) – 70 years old
Michael Learned (The Waltons) – 85 years old

FIRST LOOK/ ON TV/ MEGA MILLIONS

April 9, 2024

FIRST LOOK
http://www.eonline.com/news

ON TELEVISION (TUESDAY 4/9/24)
A&E: Neighborhood Wars (Premiere) at 9pm
BRITBOX: Hope Street (Premiere)
CRUNCHYROLL: Oblivion Battery (Premiere)
CRUNCHYROLL: Unnamed Memory (Premiere)
DISCOVERY:  Mud Madness (Premiere) at 9pm
FREEFORM: Grand Cayman: Secrets in Paradise (Premiere) at 10pm
HGTV: Renovation Aloha (Finale) at 9pm

The California Film Commission announced $152 million in tax credits for 12 television projects, led by Amazon MGM Studios’ “Fallout,” which is relocating from New York to California for season two. In addition, three recurring and eight new series will be part of the Film and Television Tax Credit Program. The roster of new series includes Amazon MGM Studios’ “Untitled Task Force Series”; 20th Television’s Ryan Murphy series, “Dr. Odyssey” and “Grotesquerie”; CBS Studios’ “NCIS: Origins”; WBD’s “Latitude” and “The Pitt”; and Faith Media Distribution’s “Blood Ties” and “Runaway Girl.” 
(Source: Cynopsis)

A major shareholder in Paramount Global is not a fan of Skydance Media’s overture to Paramount as the two companies talk merger. “We are distressed by recent reports that the Board is strongly considering a sub-optimal bid from Skydance that prioritizes the interests of one shareholder over the broader shareholder base,” said a letter from Matrix Asset Advisors to the Paramount board. “As reported, this deal focuses on monetizing Shari Redstone’s shareholding for cash at a significant premium.” Instead, Matrix is backing CEO Bob Bakish and the board’s strategy for a turnaround. 
(Source: Cynopsis)

It’s a wrap: CBS set season finale dates, starting with “Ghosts” on Thursday, May 2 at 8:31p. Monday, May 6 brings the season finales of “The Neighborhood, “NCIS” and NCIS: Hawai’i,” and the series finale of “Bob Hearts Abishola.” “The Amazing Race” hits the finish line on Wednesday, May 15, followed the next day by the series ender of “Young Sheldon” and season finale of “So Help Me Todd.” “S.W.A.T.” ends its run on Friday, May 17, the day “Fire Country wraps its second season. The season 36 finale of “48 Hours” airs Saturday, May 18, while “60 Minutes” has its season 56 finale on Sunday May19. Also ending their seasons on Sunday are “The Equalizer,” “Tracker,” and “CSI: Vegas.” All three “FBI” series end their seasons on Tuesday, May 21.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Cartoon Network Studios has dedicated a website to preserve its Artist Stairwell space, which was part of the CNS building in Downtown Burbank from 2000 until 2023, when the studio’s operations moved to the Warner Bros. Second Century building. Anyone from artists to accountants left their mark on the walls in the form of drawings, doodles, and sketches, creativity that was scanned and photographed, resulting in the creation of an interactive website. CNS artists, past and present, who contributed to the stairwell will also be able to contribute to the site by submitting annotations to their work via a special link on the page. “Cartoon Network Studios will always be a home for creators,” said Sam Register, President, Warner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios, Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe. “As we continue to further that legacy in our new buildings, it’s a joy to pay tribute to this beloved space for the animation community to enjoy and continue to be inspired.”
(Source: Cynopsis)

AMC Networks announced a 2024-25 development slate for Content Room, its in-house branded entertainment studio. The current slate of Content Room originals under development include new seasons of “In the Kitchen with Harry Hamlin” and “Show Me More”; “The Walking Dogs,” inviting fans and brands to take a stroll with stars from The Walking Dead Universe and their beloved hounds; and social-first lifestyle series “Vibe Check with Reginae.” “Our Content Room originals have proven to be fun, partner-friendly extensions that both delight our fans and perform for our partners,” said Kim Granito, CMO of AMC Networks. In addition, AMC Networks’ Content Room unveiled “The Joy of Horror” a new year-long horror opportunity for advertisers that leans into the genre across platforms.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Asylum Entertainment Group is making an investment in London-based production company DARE Pictures (Diversity, Allyship, Representation, Empowerment), giving Asylum access to a global portfolio while broadening Asylum’s network of creative storytellers. “Asylum has an undeniable passion to reach audiences through its distinct and impressive IP, a passion we share at DARE,” said Derren Lawford, Founder & CEO of DARE Pictures. “The opportunity to evolve our company within Asylum’s unique global network provides us with the perfect platform to create more original and memorable stories from around the world.” 
(Source: Cynopsis)

Former network and studio head Holly A. Hines and Eric Jarboe, former COO of the Motion Picture Corporation of America, have launched LA-based film and TV studio Happy Accidents. “Producers in this era of content have the potential to shape the narrative landscape for years to come and Happy Accidents signifies a strategic convergence of experience, vision, and passion from all corners of the entertainment industry,” said Jarboe. “Holly and I are focused on global collaboration, partnerships, innovative financing models, and the highest-quality production standards.”
(Source: Cynopsis)

HarborView Equity Partners has invested in LatinX-focused Much Mas Media (“The Long Game”). “We believe Mucho Mas possesses the skillful ability to drive ROI by centering audiences and delivering compelling stories,” said HarborView founder Sherrese Clarke Soared. “We couldn’t think of a better partner to invest in as we grow our portfolio.” 
(Source: Cynopsis)

All in the family: TLC’s “Outdaughtered” returns Tuesday, May 7 at 9p, followed a week later by “Doubling Down with the Derricos” at 8p. 
(Source: Cynopsis)

Food Network’s “Summer Baking Championship” premieres Monday, May 13 at 8p. The competition was Food Network’s top freshman series in 2023.
(Source: Cynopsis)

All ten episodes of Peacock gladiator drama “Those About to Die” drop Thursday, July 18. The Roman Empire-set series stars Anthony Hopkins.
(Source: Cynopsis)

“Race to Survive” returns to USA Network on Monday, May 20 at 11p with a 75-minute episode. In the outdoor adventure competition, challengers must rely on a combination of endurance racing, survival skills and intuition as they navigate 150 miles of New Zealand’s harshest terrain. Up for grabs: $500,000.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Australian crime drama “Scrublands” premieres Thursday, May 2 on Sundance Now and AMC+. Based on Chris Hammer’s bestselling crime novel of the same name, the series follows a country town grappling with the aftermath of a horrible crime.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Season three of Netflix’s “Selling the OC” kicks off Friday, May 3. Same cast, new drama.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Aniplex of America and Crunchyroll will premiere “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc” on Sunday, May 12. As part of its previously announced Spring 2024 season lineup, Crunchyroll will simulcast new episodes every week. 
(Source: Cynopsis)

“John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s In LA” is set to stream live during the Netflix Is a Joke Fest, taking place May 2-12 in LA. The series debuts on the streamer on Friday, May 3. 
(Source: Cynopsis)

Season two of Hallmark Channel’s time travel drama “The Way Home”was the most-watched original series on cable among W18+ in Live+3 numbers, according to Nielsen, and reached 57 million unduplicated viewers.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Viewership for the NCAA men’s Final Four games hit 19.6 million, up from 18.6 million in 2023, according to AdImpact data. Linear viewership decreased from 70.2% in 2023 to 55.5% in 2024, while YouTube TV’s viewership share jumped from 11.7% to 21.9% year over year.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Warner Bros. Discovery delivered five nights of more than a 50% shareof primetime cable viewing among A18-49 across ad-supported cable during the first quarter of 2024. Ratings drivers included TNT Sports’ coverage of the 2024 NCAA Men’s Tournament in March as well as ID’s “Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV,” Food Network’s “Tournament of Champions” and “Wildcard Kitchen” and Adult Swim’s “Ninja Kamui.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Director Bruce Kessler died April 4. He was 88. Kessler’s numerous credits include “The Monkees,” “The Flying Nun,” and “The Fall Guy,” among others. Kessler was also known as an avid race car driver.
(Source: Cynopsis)

MEGA MILLIONS
Today’s Jackpot is $97 million.

You can now play in 43 states plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

NYLottery.NY.gov

RUSSELL SIMMONS IS NOT FAZED OVER DAUGHTER AOKI DATING MUCH OLDER RESTAURANTEUR VITTORIO ASSAF

April 9, 2024

RUSSELL SIMMONS IS NOT FAZED OVER DAUGHTER AOKI DATING MUCH OLDER RESTAURANTEUR VITTORIO ASSAF
https://www.tmz.com/2024/04/08/russell-simmons-reacts-responds-daughter-aoki-dating-older-restaurateur/

MEL GIBSON THANKS ROBERT DOWNEY JR. FOR DEFENDING HIM AFTER ANTISEMITIC RANT IN 2006

April 9, 2024

MEL GIBSON THANKS ROBERT DOWNEY JR. FOR DEFENDING HIM AFTER ANTISEMITIC RANT IN 2006
https://www.tmz.com/2024/04/08/mel-gibson-thanks-robert-downey-jr-defending-him-antisemitic-rant-arrest/#continued

DON LEMON (FORMER CNN HOST) MARRIES LONGTIME FIANCE, TIM MALONE IN NYC

April 9, 2024

DON LEMON (FORMER CNN HOST) MARRIES LONGTIME FIANCE, TIM MALONE IN NYC
https://www.tmz.com/2024/04/07/don-lemon-marries-tim-malone-wedding/

JASON KELCE MAKES A SURPRISE APPEARANCE AT WRESTLEMANIA 40 IN PHILADELPHIA

April 9, 2024

JASON KELCE MAKES A SUPRISE APPEARANCE AT WRESTLEMANIA 40 IN PHILADELPHIA
https://www.tmz.com/2024/04/06/jason-kelce-makes-surprise-appearance-at-wrestlemania/

AOKI LEE SIMMONS, 21 KISSES SERAFINA RESTAURANTEUR VITTORIO ASSAF, 65 ON BEACH VACATION, SEEMINGLY CONFIRMS ROMANCE

April 9, 2024

AOKI LEE SIMMONS, 21 KISSES SERAFINA RESTAURANTEUR VITTORIO ASSAF, 65 ON BEACH VACATION, SEEMINGLY CONFIRMS ROMANCE
https://toofab.com/2024/04/06/aoki-lee-simmons-kisses-vittorio-assaf-beach-vacation-romance/

CELEBRITY NEWS: APRIL 8, 2024

April 9, 2024

CELEBRITY NEWS: APRIL 8, 2024
http://www.imdb.com/news/celebrity

Silas Timberlake (Justin Timberlake & Jessica Biel’s son) – 9 years old
Moses Martin (Gwyneth Paltrow & Chris Martin’s son) – 18 years old
Taran Noah Smith (Home Improvement) – 40 years old
Taylor Kitsch (Friday Night Lights) – 43 years old
Patricia Arquette (The Act/ NBC’s Medium) – 56 years old
Robin Wright (“Wonder Woman”/ House of Cards) – 58 years old
Julian Lennon (Musician/ John Lennon’s oldest son) – 61 years old
John Schneider (The Dukes of Hazzard) – 64 years old
Brenda Russell (R&B Singer) – 75 years old

FIRST LOOK/ ON TV/ POWERBALL/ WEEKEND BOX OFFICE

April 8, 2024

FIRST LOOK
http://www.eonline.com/news

ON TELEVISION (MONDAY 4/8/24)
NBC, ABC, CBS: Total Eclipse 2024 Coverage at 2pm – 4pm
HULU: Ishura (Premiere)
NETFLIX: Spirit Rangers (Premiere)

NBC has canceled “Quantum Leap.” The reboot of the 1989-93 original, produced by Universal Television, had its season two – now series – finale on February 20. 
(Source: Cynopsis)

The women’s NCAA Semifinals was another record-breaker, with 14.2 million viewers tuning in to watch Caitlin Clark lead the Iowa Hawkeyes to a 71-69 win over the UConn Huskies. Viewership of the South Carolina/North Carolina match-up peaked at 9 million, according to early Nielsen numbers, while among P18-49 viewers, the games averaged 3.1 million, up 130% versus last year.
(Source: Cynopsis)

IATSE is gaining “significant momentum” in negotiating with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers ahead of the April 29 date set for bargaining on the Basic Agreement, which covers the major issues affecting all 13 West Coast guilds. “I congratulate the Negotiating Committee of Local 871 on their effective work,” said IATSE’s Mike Miller, International VP, in a message to members. The union’s contract expires July 31.
(Source: Cynopsis)

A former “Vanderpump Rules” cast member has filed a lawsuit accusing Bravo and NBCUniversal of demoting her in retaliation for her speaking out about being mistreated on the show. Faith Stowers, who appeared on seasons 4 and 5 of the show, alleges she was discouraged from reporting a “knife incident” involving castmate Lala Kent to the police, and was subjected racism and sexual harassment. Stowers is being represented by entertainment attorneys Bryan Freedman and Mark Geragos, whose TV clients have included the likes of Bethenny Frankel, Tucker Carlson and Chris Cuomo.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Pat Sajak’s final episode as host of “Wheel of Fortune” will air Friday, June 7, the game show’s season 41 finale. Sajak, who has served as host since 1981, announced his retirement last year. Ryan Seacrest takes the “Wheel” next season.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Amazon and Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine are developing a TV series based on Witherspoon’s 2001 film, “Legally Blonde.” Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage (“Gossip Girl”) are attached to write.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Peter Claffey (“Bad Sisters”) and Dexter Sol Ansell (“Emmerdale”) will star in the HBO series “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Night.” The drama is set a century before the events of “Game of Thrones.”
(Source: Cynopsis)

Production is underway on docuseries “She Dared to Dream,” about influential female politicians. The first film in the series focuses on Representative Ayanna Pressley, a Democrat representing Massachusetts’ 7th Congressional District. Abby Ginzberg (“Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power”) and Angela Tucker (“Belly of the Beast”) are executive producing.
(Source: Cynopsis)

Get your glasses out – a reminder about today’s eclipse coverage: CNN will have Brianna Keilar and Boris Sanchez reporting on “CNN News Central” from 1-4p…. NewsNation’s Brian Entin is anchoring with “NewsNation Now” talent Nichole Berlie and Connell McShane from Chicago from 1pm – 4:30p….NBCUniversal Local will present content on its NBC and Telemundo streaming news channels, beginning at 12p….CBS News and Stations is offering multiplatform coverage with “Total Eclipse of the Heartland,” airing on CBS and the CBS News Streaming Network at 2p….The Weather Channel is broadcasting live from 7 locations across the United States. …FOX Weather is airing marathon coverage leading up to and throughout the event…ABC News and Nat Geo will offer two-hour live special “Eclipse Across America.”
(Source: Cynopsis)

The WBNA has signed an multi-year rights extension with Prime Video,which will televise 21 games for the league’s upcoming 28th season. And with superstar college players Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese declaring for this year’s WNBA draft, it should be a big year. “We’re thrilled to continue bringing exclusive national coverage of the WNBA and highlighting these exceptional athletes to Prime members,” said Charlie Neiman, Head of Sports Partnerships for Prime Video. “Following a successful 2023 season, we’re looking forward to reaching even more milestones with the WNBA and furthering our commitment to women’s sports.”
(Source: Cynopsis)

CrossFit announced Hustle Up as an Official Sponsor of the Masters,Teenage, and Adaptive CrossFit Games. “Over the three weeks of the CrossFit Open, more than 343,500 athletes from 185 countries participated in the world’s largest participatory sporting event, showcasing just how large our community is,” said Don Faul, CEO of CrossFit. “Hustle Up will provide an additional avenue to bring the global community even closer together, as we have a new way to communicate our shared passion for fitness with our 12,000-plus affiliates and members in 146 countries.”
(Source: Cynopsis)

POWERBALL
Today’s Jackpot is $20 million. 

Powerball is played in 43 states.

NYLottery.NY.gov

WEEKEND BOX OFFICE
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire – $31.7 million
Monkey Man – $10.1 millio
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire – $9 million
The First Omen – $8.4 million
Kung Fu Panda 4 – $7.9 million
(Source: Box Office Mojo)

SEAN “DIDDY” COMBS AND HIS SON CHRISTIAN COMBS ARE SUED OVER ALLEGED SEXUAL ASSAULT AND BATTERY

April 6, 2024

SEAN “DIDDY” COMBS AND HIS SON CHRISTIAN COMBS ARE SUED OVER ALLEGED SEXUAL ASSAULT AND BATTERY
https://www.eonline.com/news/1398918/sean-diddy-combs-and-son-christian-sued-over-alleged-sexual-assault-and-battery