Revered and reviled U.S. diplomat Henry Kissinger, whose death at 100 on Nov. 29 was met with the widespread view that his realpolitik was responsible for some of this country’s worst global war crimes, loved American celebrity — both his own, an expression of state power, as well as that of others, especially performers. He was “the ultimate starfucker,” noted Daniel Drezner, professor of international politics at the Tufts University’s Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, in an appraisal published earlier this year on the occasion of Kissinger’s centennial.
Prior to meeting President Richard Nixon in 1967, Kissinger made frequent trips to Santa Monica to consult with the Rand Corporation, a global policy think tank. But after being appointed as national security adviser by the newly elected president in 1969, his profile skyrocketed — and the glitz of Hollywood was within reach. Fascinated since childhood with American popular culture, Kissinger pursued the...
Prior to meeting President Richard Nixon in 1967, Kissinger made frequent trips to Santa Monica to consult with the Rand Corporation, a global policy think tank. But after being appointed as national security adviser by the newly elected president in 1969, his profile skyrocketed — and the glitz of Hollywood was within reach. Fascinated since childhood with American popular culture, Kissinger pursued the...
- 11/30/2023
- by Gary Baum and Seth Abramovitch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
What made the original "Frasier" series so good? It's a question we at /Film have been feverishly searching for answers to in light of Paramount+'s release of the "Frasier" revival, which is quite mixed, if it's the original series you're holding it to as a standard. There aren't as many jokes per minute, the understanding of its central character isn't always perfect, and they're only just figuring out which elements from the original series were okay to discard, and which needed to be in the mix for the cake to come out tasty.
One of the shakier aspects of this calculus has been the revival's handling of its character dynamics. This is a fully defensible area of weakness -- character dynamics are both the hardest aspect of sitcoms to iron out and the singular aspect that makes them soar or sink. Opinions vary, but if you ask for mine,...
One of the shakier aspects of this calculus has been the revival's handling of its character dynamics. This is a fully defensible area of weakness -- character dynamics are both the hardest aspect of sitcoms to iron out and the singular aspect that makes them soar or sink. Opinions vary, but if you ask for mine,...
- 11/9/2023
- by Ryan Coleman
- Slash Film
The Women's Media Center hosted their 2023 Women’S Media Awards on October 19th at the Whitby Hotel in New York City.
Mariska Hargitay, Fredricka Whitfield, Koritha Mitchell, Emily Ladau, Karen Lincoln Michel and Akila Radhakrishnan.
Credit/Copyright: John Lamparski/Getty
The Wmc Awards were presented to outstanding leaders and champions for women in media. This year’s Wmc 2023 Women’s Media Awards honorees were:
Mariska Hargitay, Fredricka Whitfield, Karen Lincoln Michel, Emily Ladau, Koritha Mitchell, and Akila Radhakrishnan.
Women’S Media Center Co-Founders Jane Fonda and Robin Morgan, and Wmc President & CEO Julie Burton appeared at the gala. Wmc Board Chair Janet Dewart Bell, Wmc Board Vice Chair Erica González Martínez, former Wmc President Carol Jenkins, and Wmc Board member Rebecca Adamson also made appearances at the gala.
The Women’S Media Center 2023 Women’s Media Award Honorees were:
· Mariska Hargitay, Emmy-winning actor, director, producer, activist, Founder & President of the Joyful Heart Foundation,...
Mariska Hargitay, Fredricka Whitfield, Koritha Mitchell, Emily Ladau, Karen Lincoln Michel and Akila Radhakrishnan.
Credit/Copyright: John Lamparski/Getty
The Wmc Awards were presented to outstanding leaders and champions for women in media. This year’s Wmc 2023 Women’s Media Awards honorees were:
Mariska Hargitay, Fredricka Whitfield, Karen Lincoln Michel, Emily Ladau, Koritha Mitchell, and Akila Radhakrishnan.
Women’S Media Center Co-Founders Jane Fonda and Robin Morgan, and Wmc President & CEO Julie Burton appeared at the gala. Wmc Board Chair Janet Dewart Bell, Wmc Board Vice Chair Erica González Martínez, former Wmc President Carol Jenkins, and Wmc Board member Rebecca Adamson also made appearances at the gala.
The Women’S Media Center 2023 Women’s Media Award Honorees were:
· Mariska Hargitay, Emmy-winning actor, director, producer, activist, Founder & President of the Joyful Heart Foundation,...
- 10/27/2023
- Look to the Stars
Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan, and Gloria Steinem — the Co-Founders of The Women’S Media Center — have announced the honorees for the 2023 Women’s Media Awards, to be held on Thursday, October 19th, at the Whitby Hotel in New York City.
The Women’S Media Center 2023 Women’s Media Award Honorees are:
Mariska Hargitay, Emmy-winning actor, director, producer, activist, Founder & President of the Joyful Heart Foundation, will be honored with the Wmc Sisterhood is Powerful Award. Fredricka Whitfield, CNN News anchor, will be honored with the Wmc Pat Mitchell Lifetime Achievement Award. Karen Lincoln Michel, President of Ict, formerly Indian Country Today, and President and CEO of IndiJ Public Media, will be honored with the Wmc Carol Jenkins Award. Emily Ladau, Disability Rights Activist, author of Demystifying Disability, will be honored with the Wmc Progressive Women’s Voices Impact Award. Koritha Mitchell, award-winning author, cultural critic, literary historian, professor of English, will...
The Women’S Media Center 2023 Women’s Media Award Honorees are:
Mariska Hargitay, Emmy-winning actor, director, producer, activist, Founder & President of the Joyful Heart Foundation, will be honored with the Wmc Sisterhood is Powerful Award. Fredricka Whitfield, CNN News anchor, will be honored with the Wmc Pat Mitchell Lifetime Achievement Award. Karen Lincoln Michel, President of Ict, formerly Indian Country Today, and President and CEO of IndiJ Public Media, will be honored with the Wmc Carol Jenkins Award. Emily Ladau, Disability Rights Activist, author of Demystifying Disability, will be honored with the Wmc Progressive Women’s Voices Impact Award. Koritha Mitchell, award-winning author, cultural critic, literary historian, professor of English, will...
- 9/5/2023
- Look to the Stars
Loretta Swit remembers well the night she won her first Emmy Award.
On Sept. 7, 1980, the “Mash” star sat in her agent’s living room in Beverly Hills, watching the ceremony on TV when she heard her name called out and saw her picture flash on the screen. Swit was not in the audience at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium that year because her union, the Screen Actors Guild, was on strike.
Swit and her fellow “Mash” troupers Alan Alda, Mike Farrell and Jamie Farr were among the most vocal and visible actors on picket lines and at press conferences when SAG initiated its first work stoppage in 20 years on July 21, 1980. The reality of her Emmy win – after seven consecutive nominations — sunk in for Swit when she suddenly got a phone call from Europe from her friend Jacqueline Bisset. “She was so excited. She said, ‘Hey, you won!’ ” Swit recalls.
Forty-three years later,...
On Sept. 7, 1980, the “Mash” star sat in her agent’s living room in Beverly Hills, watching the ceremony on TV when she heard her name called out and saw her picture flash on the screen. Swit was not in the audience at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium that year because her union, the Screen Actors Guild, was on strike.
Swit and her fellow “Mash” troupers Alan Alda, Mike Farrell and Jamie Farr were among the most vocal and visible actors on picket lines and at press conferences when SAG initiated its first work stoppage in 20 years on July 21, 1980. The reality of her Emmy win – after seven consecutive nominations — sunk in for Swit when she suddenly got a phone call from Europe from her friend Jacqueline Bisset. “She was so excited. She said, ‘Hey, you won!’ ” Swit recalls.
Forty-three years later,...
- 9/1/2023
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
The 48th Annual Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (Awmf), illuminated the night with an extraordinary celebration of women in media held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.
Becky Brooks, Awmf President, Marlo Thomas, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Annie Howell, Awmf Board Chair
Credit/Copyright: Getty on behalf of The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation
The evening honored the exceptional talent that have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring audiences, and revolutionizing storytelling.
Inside the gala, a powerful atmosphere prevailed, showcasing stories of triumph, civil rights activists, and women who are actively shifting culture through their narratives. The winners of this year’s Gracie Awards embody the spirit and courage exemplified by Gracie Allen, and they serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make in shaping our media landscape.
Marlo Thomas, renowned for her groundbreaking role as television’s first independent...
Becky Brooks, Awmf President, Marlo Thomas, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient, Annie Howell, Awmf Board Chair
Credit/Copyright: Getty on behalf of The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation
The evening honored the exceptional talent that have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring audiences, and revolutionizing storytelling.
Inside the gala, a powerful atmosphere prevailed, showcasing stories of triumph, civil rights activists, and women who are actively shifting culture through their narratives. The winners of this year’s Gracie Awards embody the spirit and courage exemplified by Gracie Allen, and they serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make in shaping our media landscape.
Marlo Thomas, renowned for her groundbreaking role as television’s first independent...
- 5/30/2023
- Look to the Stars
The Alliance for Women in Media will award Marlo Thomas with the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s 48th Anniversary Gracies Awards, Variety can exclusively reveal.
On May 23, Thomas will be presented with the award at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, an honor bestowed upon women in media who embody the essence of the late Gracie Allen for whom the awards ceremony is named. Additionally, Sofia Carson and Diane Warren will be performing at the event.
Thomas is an Emmy, Peabody, Golden Globe and Grammy award-winning actress, author and activist. She is a Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama in 2014. She rose to acclaim after leading the sitcom “That Girl” and has gone on to star in numerous films and TV shows including “It Happened One Christmas,” “Ocean’s 8,” “Nobody’s Child” and “Friends.”
“Marlo Thomas is not only a true icon of the entertainment industry,...
On May 23, Thomas will be presented with the award at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, an honor bestowed upon women in media who embody the essence of the late Gracie Allen for whom the awards ceremony is named. Additionally, Sofia Carson and Diane Warren will be performing at the event.
Thomas is an Emmy, Peabody, Golden Globe and Grammy award-winning actress, author and activist. She is a Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama in 2014. She rose to acclaim after leading the sitcom “That Girl” and has gone on to star in numerous films and TV shows including “It Happened One Christmas,” “Ocean’s 8,” “Nobody’s Child” and “Friends.”
“Marlo Thomas is not only a true icon of the entertainment industry,...
- 5/18/2023
- by McKinley Franklin
- Variety Film + TV
Celebrity acting coach Sandra Seacat, whose students included Jessica Lange, Andrew Garfield and Laura Dern, died of natural causes Tuesday in Santa Monica, Calif. She was 86.
Seacat’s unique coaching style made her the acting teacher of a generation and helped actors create honest naturalist performances. Aside from Lange, Garfield and Dern, Seacat taught actors such as Harvey Keitel, Marlo Thomas, Aaron Eckhart, Meg Ryan, Misha Baryshnikov, Isabella Rossellini, Melanie Griffith, Don Johnson, Mary Kay Place, Peter Falk, Shia Labeouf, Martin Henderson, Mickey Rourke and Michelle Williams.
“Sandra lived by seeing magic and possibility in everything. She met the discovery of character and story with equal protectiveness, irreverence, humility and grace,” recalled Dern in a statement. “She taught us the practice of investigating healing through acting. But more than that. She invited us to know ourselves as artists and humans in ways I could’ve never begun to explore without her.
Seacat’s unique coaching style made her the acting teacher of a generation and helped actors create honest naturalist performances. Aside from Lange, Garfield and Dern, Seacat taught actors such as Harvey Keitel, Marlo Thomas, Aaron Eckhart, Meg Ryan, Misha Baryshnikov, Isabella Rossellini, Melanie Griffith, Don Johnson, Mary Kay Place, Peter Falk, Shia Labeouf, Martin Henderson, Mickey Rourke and Michelle Williams.
“Sandra lived by seeing magic and possibility in everything. She met the discovery of character and story with equal protectiveness, irreverence, humility and grace,” recalled Dern in a statement. “She taught us the practice of investigating healing through acting. But more than that. She invited us to know ourselves as artists and humans in ways I could’ve never begun to explore without her.
- 1/19/2023
- by Julia MacCary
- Variety Film + TV
Sandra Seacat, the actress and influential acting coach who as a Lee Strasberg disciple taught the craft to the likes of Laura Dern, Mickey Rourke, Harvey Keitel, Common, Andrew Garfield, Michelle Williams and many others, has died. She was 86.
Seacat died Tuesday of natural causes in Santa Monica, family friend and publicist Stan Rosenfield announced.
Seacat’s students said her innovative techniques were able to extract out of them their most truthful, powerful and naturalistic performances.
“Sandra lived by seeing magic and possibility in everything,” Dern said in a statement. “She met the discovery of character and story with equal protectiveness, irreverence, humility and grace. She taught us the practice of investigating healing through acting.
“But more than that, she invited us to know ourselves as artists and humans in ways I could’ve never begun to explore without her. She’s been my teacher since age 17, and I had...
Seacat died Tuesday of natural causes in Santa Monica, family friend and publicist Stan Rosenfield announced.
Seacat’s students said her innovative techniques were able to extract out of them their most truthful, powerful and naturalistic performances.
“Sandra lived by seeing magic and possibility in everything,” Dern said in a statement. “She met the discovery of character and story with equal protectiveness, irreverence, humility and grace. She taught us the practice of investigating healing through acting.
“But more than that, she invited us to know ourselves as artists and humans in ways I could’ve never begun to explore without her. She’s been my teacher since age 17, and I had...
- 1/19/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sandra Seacat, a longtime New York and Hollywood acting teacher whose students would become or already were some of the biggest names in the business – Andrew Garfield, Jessica Lange, Laura Dern, Harvey Keitel, Michelle Williams and Common, to choose just a sampling, died of natural causes Wednesday surrounded by loved ones in Santa Monica. She was 87.
Her death was announced by a rep for her family.
Related Story Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries Related Story Michael Lehrer Dies: Second City Alum Was 44 Related Story Edward R. Pressman Dies: Prolific 'Wall Street', 'American Psycho' & 'Badlands' Producer Was 79
“She was a revolutionary, a culture changing teacher of acting and storytelling,” said actor Andrew Garfield, calling her a “beacon for all of us of what a life of deep meaning and beauty can look like. And she was irreverent and forever playing like a joyful unbridled child.
Her death was announced by a rep for her family.
Related Story Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2023: Photo Gallery & Obituaries Related Story Michael Lehrer Dies: Second City Alum Was 44 Related Story Edward R. Pressman Dies: Prolific 'Wall Street', 'American Psycho' & 'Badlands' Producer Was 79
“She was a revolutionary, a culture changing teacher of acting and storytelling,” said actor Andrew Garfield, calling her a “beacon for all of us of what a life of deep meaning and beauty can look like. And she was irreverent and forever playing like a joyful unbridled child.
- 1/19/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
That Girl broke ground in television, and it returns to TV in a special marathon on Sunday, January 1 on Antenna TV. Ahead of its return, Marlo Thomas tells TV Insider what she did to make sure Ann Marie was different from women anyone had ever seen on TV. “There’d never been [a show about] some young girl in her 20s moving to the big city with her eyes wide open.” Thomas starred as aspiring actress Ann Marie. Thomas, in the enviable position of being sought by TV executives, bargained for a strong female lead. “I said, ‘You know, all these scripts, the girl is the wife or secretary or daughter of somebody,’” she recalls. “‘Have you ever considered doing a show where the girl is somebody?’” Thomas’ spunky Ann Marie and an optimistic feminist legacy resulted. The episode airing on Antenna TV’s “Fresh Start” marathon on Sunday, January 1 is just a...
- 12/30/2022
- TV Insider
Hallmark Christmas movies remain as cozy as ever, with tree-lighting, cookie-decorating and magical snowfall still the currency of the realm. But since the arrival of Wonya Lucas as the new CEO of Hallmark Media (formerly Crown Media) in 2020, the network’s offerings have branched out in many ways: Lots more diversity, of course — including, this year, Hallmark’s first holiday romance centered on a same-sex relationship and the network’s first film focused on Kwanzaa — but also new and different plots.
The memes show no sign of dying, but the movies themselves don’t always match the traditional roadmap. Two of this year’s new movies didn’t end with a kiss, a change previously unthinkable in Hallmark-land.
How do I know all this? Because I watched all 43 new 2022 Hallmark holiday movies (including the three that premiered in July on Hallmark Channel and the nine that premiered on Hallmark Movies...
The memes show no sign of dying, but the movies themselves don’t always match the traditional roadmap. Two of this year’s new movies didn’t end with a kiss, a change previously unthinkable in Hallmark-land.
How do I know all this? Because I watched all 43 new 2022 Hallmark holiday movies (including the three that premiered in July on Hallmark Channel and the nine that premiered on Hallmark Movies...
- 12/24/2022
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
As Hollywood origin stories go, it doesn’t get more inspirational than the philanthropic spark that led Danny Thomas to launch St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It’s a tale that has been well told, but it bears repeating at this time of year.
In the late 1950s and early ’60s, Thomas led the charge among Hollywood stars and in Arab American immigrant communities across the country to raise millions of dollars to build a hospital guided by the principle that no child would be turned away because of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay.
Today, St. Jude endures out of its home base in Memphis, Tenn., with a multi-billion dollar operating budget to provide life-saving care for children with catastrophic illnesses and conduct medical research into terminal illnesses. Simply put, St. Jude has become “America’s hospital,” in the words of Tony Thomas, producer of...
In the late 1950s and early ’60s, Thomas led the charge among Hollywood stars and in Arab American immigrant communities across the country to raise millions of dollars to build a hospital guided by the principle that no child would be turned away because of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay.
Today, St. Jude endures out of its home base in Memphis, Tenn., with a multi-billion dollar operating budget to provide life-saving care for children with catastrophic illnesses and conduct medical research into terminal illnesses. Simply put, St. Jude has become “America’s hospital,” in the words of Tony Thomas, producer of...
- 12/23/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
December is in full swing, and Hallmark's slate of holiday movies is here to help you enjoy the most wonderful time of the year. With a roster of 40 new titles leading up to the end of December, Hallmark's latest lineup of festive offerings is the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit all month long - and there are still a few movies left to catch before the holidays actually begin.
This year's titles star everyone from Jeremy Jordan to Hallmark mainstay Lacey Chabert, appearing in her 12th Christmas feature on the channel. Meanwhile, some of the movies focus on Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, while two films - "A Big Fat Family Christmas" and "Christmas at the Golden Dragon" - center around Chinese American stories. Elsewhere, the film "The Holiday Sitter" stars an LGBTQ+ couple, a first for a Hallmark Christmas movie. Plus, popular Hallmark Christmas leading men Paul Campbell,...
This year's titles star everyone from Jeremy Jordan to Hallmark mainstay Lacey Chabert, appearing in her 12th Christmas feature on the channel. Meanwhile, some of the movies focus on Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, while two films - "A Big Fat Family Christmas" and "Christmas at the Golden Dragon" - center around Chinese American stories. Elsewhere, the film "The Holiday Sitter" stars an LGBTQ+ couple, a first for a Hallmark Christmas movie. Plus, popular Hallmark Christmas leading men Paul Campbell,...
- 12/13/2022
- by Eden Arielle Gordon
- Popsugar.com
There are lots of things that people take for granted, and one of them is snow. Because snow is a miracle. Maybe not the old-fashioned cold stuff that floats down every year when it gets too chilly. A great many of us have had to shovel a frozen walkway and chip away at the ice on our windshields, so we could be forgiven for not being sentimental about that.
But motion picture snow. Oh wow, that's the good stuff.
The thing about motion picture snow is, it was a real pain in the butt to invent it. It's not like real snow was in abundance in the golden age of cinema, when films were largely shot on soundstages in Hollywood, California. So for decades ,when filmmakers needed to shoot a snowy scene, they used bleached cornflakes, which were so crunchy, they made it difficult to record sound. They were also so corny,...
But motion picture snow. Oh wow, that's the good stuff.
The thing about motion picture snow is, it was a real pain in the butt to invent it. It's not like real snow was in abundance in the golden age of cinema, when films were largely shot on soundstages in Hollywood, California. So for decades ,when filmmakers needed to shoot a snowy scene, they used bleached cornflakes, which were so crunchy, they made it difficult to record sound. They were also so corny,...
- 11/23/2022
- by William Bibbiani
- Slash Film
Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan, and Gloria Steinem — the Co-Founders of The Women’S Media Center — announce the honorees for the 2022 Women’s Media Awards, to be held on Thursday, November 17th, at the Mandarin Oriental in New York City.
The Women’S Media Center 2022 Women’s Media Award Honorees are:
· Andrea Mitchell, NBC News chief foreign affairs correspondent, host of MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell Reports, and author of Talking Back … to Presidents, Dictators, and Assorted Scoundrels, will be honored with the Wmc Pat Mitchell Lifetime Achievement Award.
· Robin Roberts, Co-Anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America, President of Rock’n Robin Productions, and best-selling author of multiple books, will be honored with the Wmc Visible and Powerful Award.
· Mariana Ardila Trujillo, lawyer, professor, one of the leaders in the successful decriminalization of abortion in the country of Colombia, and newly appointed Transitional Justice Director of the Ministry of Justice and Law in...
The Women’S Media Center 2022 Women’s Media Award Honorees are:
· Andrea Mitchell, NBC News chief foreign affairs correspondent, host of MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell Reports, and author of Talking Back … to Presidents, Dictators, and Assorted Scoundrels, will be honored with the Wmc Pat Mitchell Lifetime Achievement Award.
· Robin Roberts, Co-Anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America, President of Rock’n Robin Productions, and best-selling author of multiple books, will be honored with the Wmc Visible and Powerful Award.
· Mariana Ardila Trujillo, lawyer, professor, one of the leaders in the successful decriminalization of abortion in the country of Colombia, and newly appointed Transitional Justice Director of the Ministry of Justice and Law in...
- 11/14/2022
- Look to the Stars
Welcome to this week’s “Just for Variety.”
Is Chloe Bailey campaigning to play X-Men’s Storm? After the singer dressed as the superhero for Halloween, she earned all sorts of support on social media, including a message on Twitter from the original Storm, Halle Berry, exclaiming, “She’s taking it.” “I’ve always wanted to be a superhero, and she’s my favorite one, so you can fill in the blanks,” Bailey tells me. “She is just so fierce and sexy and strong — all of the things I want to be — and she’s beautiful at the same time. And she doesn’t take any shit.” Funnily enough, Bailey’s sister, Halle, told me in September at D23 that she’d also love to play Storm.
…
Michelle Williams, Steven Spielberg, Paul Dano at the AFI Fest screening of “The Fabelmans” held at Tcl Chinese Theatre on November 6, 2022 in Los Angeles,...
Is Chloe Bailey campaigning to play X-Men’s Storm? After the singer dressed as the superhero for Halloween, she earned all sorts of support on social media, including a message on Twitter from the original Storm, Halle Berry, exclaiming, “She’s taking it.” “I’ve always wanted to be a superhero, and she’s my favorite one, so you can fill in the blanks,” Bailey tells me. “She is just so fierce and sexy and strong — all of the things I want to be — and she’s beautiful at the same time. And she doesn’t take any shit.” Funnily enough, Bailey’s sister, Halle, told me in September at D23 that she’d also love to play Storm.
…
Michelle Williams, Steven Spielberg, Paul Dano at the AFI Fest screening of “The Fabelmans” held at Tcl Chinese Theatre on November 6, 2022 in Los Angeles,...
- 11/9/2022
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Flighty, fabulous, and “magical.” That’s what Marlo Thomas says to expect of her matriarch, Vivian, in Hallmark‘s upcoming A Magical Christmas Village. In the holiday flick, premiering November 4 on The Hallmark Channel, Thomas and Alison Sweeney co-star as a mother-daughter duo who couldn’t be more different. Sweeney’s Summer is also a mother to a daughter who takes after grandma more than anyone else. After a breakup, Vivian moves in with her daughter and granddaughter and immediately sets up a miniature Christmas village. The holidays take an expected turn when, as Chloe (Maesa Nicholson) begins setting up the village’s figurines, real-life events appear to mimic the scenes she creates. Vivian is a firm believer in magic, and “that’s the part that I love about her,” Thomas tells TV Insider and TV Guide Magazine’s Jim Halterman. “She has a daughter who doesn’t believe in...
- 11/4/2022
- TV Insider
Alison Sweeney has been a Hallmark staple for years, and Luke Macfarlane isn't far behind.
We're in for a real treat tonight when Alison and Luke are joined by the amazing Marlo Thomas (That Girl!) for A Magical Christmas Village.
Who doesn't need a little Christmas magic in their lives?
Here's what we know about the lastest movie in Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas extravaganza.
Summer is an architect living in a small town where she's raising her young daughter Chloe.
Summer's relationship with her mother, Vivian, could be a lot better, and she gets the chance to recitfy that when Vivian needs a place to stay.
Summer's orderly life becomes a a little more chaotic when she invites Vivian to move into her home during the transition.
Vivian is truly into the holiday spirit, and upon moving in, sets up an heirloom miniature Christmas village that resenbles their town.
This little town is magical,...
We're in for a real treat tonight when Alison and Luke are joined by the amazing Marlo Thomas (That Girl!) for A Magical Christmas Village.
Who doesn't need a little Christmas magic in their lives?
Here's what we know about the lastest movie in Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas extravaganza.
Summer is an architect living in a small town where she's raising her young daughter Chloe.
Summer's relationship with her mother, Vivian, could be a lot better, and she gets the chance to recitfy that when Vivian needs a place to stay.
Summer's orderly life becomes a a little more chaotic when she invites Vivian to move into her home during the transition.
Vivian is truly into the holiday spirit, and upon moving in, sets up an heirloom miniature Christmas village that resenbles their town.
This little town is magical,...
- 11/4/2022
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
You know it's almost time for Christmas when Hallmark unveils its Countdown to Christmas schedule.
The fun begins Friday, October 21 with Noel Next Door, before concluding December 18 with Hanukkah on Rye.
Scroll down for the the full list.
“Noel Next Door”
Friday, October 21 – Hallmark Channel Stars: Natalie Hall, Corey Sevier
Official logline: “A hard-working, single mom gets into a war of words with a neighbor who she feels is ruining Christmas, only to find that this misunderstood grouch just may steal her heart.”
“We Wish You a Married Christmas”
Saturday, October 22 – Hallmark Channel Stars: Marisol Nichols, Kristoffer Polaha
Official logline: “Becca and Robby are a married couple having a hard time connecting with each other as the holidays approach. Just before Christmas, they head to a cozy Vermont inn at the advice of their marriage coach so they can recharge.
Their weekend away gets unexpectedly extended when a mishap puts...
The fun begins Friday, October 21 with Noel Next Door, before concluding December 18 with Hanukkah on Rye.
Scroll down for the the full list.
“Noel Next Door”
Friday, October 21 – Hallmark Channel Stars: Natalie Hall, Corey Sevier
Official logline: “A hard-working, single mom gets into a war of words with a neighbor who she feels is ruining Christmas, only to find that this misunderstood grouch just may steal her heart.”
“We Wish You a Married Christmas”
Saturday, October 22 – Hallmark Channel Stars: Marisol Nichols, Kristoffer Polaha
Official logline: “Becca and Robby are a married couple having a hard time connecting with each other as the holidays approach. Just before Christmas, they head to a cozy Vermont inn at the advice of their marriage coach so they can recharge.
Their weekend away gets unexpectedly extended when a mishap puts...
- 9/23/2022
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Alison Sweeney's tenure at Hallmark will continue.
The beloved actress has inked a deal with Hallmark Media for a multi-picture overall deal, it was announced today.
“Alison Sweeney has been an incredible creative partner for us over the years – both on screen as well as behind the camera as a producer,” began Lisa Hamilton Daly, Executive Vice President, Programming, Hallmark Media.
“She’s long been a fan favorite and we can’t wait to continue our work together as we bring new stories to life.”
“I am thrilled to continue to work with Hallmark as they continue to support my work as an actress and as a producer,” Sweeney remarked.
“I’m very proud of our Christmas movie and excited for the future projects to come!”
Sweeney is set to star in A Magical Christmas Village, which she also executive produces, with Luke Macfarlane.
When her mother Vivian (Thomas...
The beloved actress has inked a deal with Hallmark Media for a multi-picture overall deal, it was announced today.
“Alison Sweeney has been an incredible creative partner for us over the years – both on screen as well as behind the camera as a producer,” began Lisa Hamilton Daly, Executive Vice President, Programming, Hallmark Media.
“She’s long been a fan favorite and we can’t wait to continue our work together as we bring new stories to life.”
“I am thrilled to continue to work with Hallmark as they continue to support my work as an actress and as a producer,” Sweeney remarked.
“I’m very proud of our Christmas movie and excited for the future projects to come!”
Sweeney is set to star in A Magical Christmas Village, which she also executive produces, with Luke Macfarlane.
When her mother Vivian (Thomas...
- 9/19/2022
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Exclusive: Christmas has come early for Hallmark Media: Alison Sweeney (The Wedding Veil trilogy) has agreed to a multi-picture overall deal with the channel.
“Alison Sweeney has been an incredible creative partner for us over the years – both on screen as well as behind the camera as a producer,” said Lisa Hamilton Daly, EVP Programming at Hallmark Media. “She’s long been a fan favorite, and we can’t wait to continue our work together as we bring new stories to life.”
Sweeney remarked: “I am thrilled to continue to work with Hallmark as they continue to support my work as an actress and as a producer. I’m very proud of our Christmas movie and excited for the future projects to come!”
As part of Sweeney’s deal, she is starring in A Magical Christmas Village, which she also executive produces with Luke Macfarlane (Moriah’s Lighthouse) and guest star Marlo Thomas.
“Alison Sweeney has been an incredible creative partner for us over the years – both on screen as well as behind the camera as a producer,” said Lisa Hamilton Daly, EVP Programming at Hallmark Media. “She’s long been a fan favorite, and we can’t wait to continue our work together as we bring new stories to life.”
Sweeney remarked: “I am thrilled to continue to work with Hallmark as they continue to support my work as an actress and as a producer. I’m very proud of our Christmas movie and excited for the future projects to come!”
As part of Sweeney’s deal, she is starring in A Magical Christmas Village, which she also executive produces with Luke Macfarlane (Moriah’s Lighthouse) and guest star Marlo Thomas.
- 9/19/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
If Luke Macfarlane had to describe his career so far, he would call it “chaos theory.” In 2005, shortly after graduating from Juilliard, he was cast in Over There, an FX series created by the late, great Steven Bochco, a gig that the young actor was certain would make him a TV star. “I really thought that was going to be the moment,” he says of the series that lasted one season.
Luckily, ABC’s Brothers & Sisters soon came calling. Macfarlane was cast in what was supposed to be a six-episode arc, but the role ran for nearly 100 — and he still considers it his most well-known. He played the love interest and eventual husband of Matthew Rhys’ character during a time when same-sex couples were an extreme rarity onscreen; Macfarlane himself came out during his tenure on the drama.
Now, more than a decade later,...
If Luke Macfarlane had to describe his career so far, he would call it “chaos theory.” In 2005, shortly after graduating from Juilliard, he was cast in Over There, an FX series created by the late, great Steven Bochco, a gig that the young actor was certain would make him a TV star. “I really thought that was going to be the moment,” he says of the series that lasted one season.
Luckily, ABC’s Brothers & Sisters soon came calling. Macfarlane was cast in what was supposed to be a six-episode arc, but the role ran for nearly 100 — and he still considers it his most well-known. He played the love interest and eventual husband of Matthew Rhys’ character during a time when same-sex couples were an extreme rarity onscreen; Macfarlane himself came out during his tenure on the drama.
Now, more than a decade later,...
- 9/9/2022
- by Seija Rankin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Who knew when the year began that a sequel to a 36-year-old movie starring its 60-year-old actor who headlined the original would be the box office champ so far this year? But “Top Gun: Maverick” starring Tom Cruise, which was released Aug. 23 on digital formats while still flying high in theaters is not only the No. 1 film of the year with a staggering haul of 683.4 million domestically and 720 million overseas. And the acclaimed film didn’t even play in China or Russia. “Top Gun: Maverick” is also the biggest film of Cruise’s career which began in 1981 with Franco Zeffirelli’s “Endless Love.”
And with the digital release, let’s relive 1986, the year we first felt the need for speed and flew into the danger zone. The year the original “Top Gun” took our breath away.
Top 10 Box Office Hits
Top Gun (natch)
Crocodile Dundee
Platoon
The Karate Kid Part...
And with the digital release, let’s relive 1986, the year we first felt the need for speed and flew into the danger zone. The year the original “Top Gun” took our breath away.
Top 10 Box Office Hits
Top Gun (natch)
Crocodile Dundee
Platoon
The Karate Kid Part...
- 8/24/2022
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
Before she began her five-season tenure as the star of “That Girl” in 1965, 27-year-old Marlo Thomas (daughter of small screen legend Danny Thomas) had appeared on more than a dozen TV programs. She ultimately earned four Best Comedy Actress Emmy nominations for the ABC sitcom and thus became the fifth woman to amass as many bids in the category for a single series, after Gracie Allen (“The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show”), Lucille Ball (“I Love Lucy” and “The Lucy Show”), Donna Reed (“The Donna Reed Show”), and Elizabeth Montgomery (“Bewitched”).
At the time of her first nomination in 1967, Thomas was the third youngest female comedy lead contender ever. Each of her four eventual losses in the category was to an actress at least three years her senior. Over the course of nearly six decades, she has fallen to 10th place on the list of youngest nominees, with two...
At the time of her first nomination in 1967, Thomas was the third youngest female comedy lead contender ever. Each of her four eventual losses in the category was to an actress at least three years her senior. Over the course of nearly six decades, she has fallen to 10th place on the list of youngest nominees, with two...
- 8/23/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Before she began her five-season tenure as the star of “That Girl” in 1965, 27-year-old Marlo Thomas (daughter of small screen legend Danny Thomas) had appeared on more than a dozen TV programs. She ultimately earned four Best Comedy Actress Emmy nominations for the ABC sitcom and thus became the fifth woman to amass as many bids in the category for a single series, after Gracie Allen (“The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show”), Lucille Ball (“I Love Lucy” and “The Lucy Show”), Donna Reed (“The Donna Reed Show”), and Elizabeth Montgomery (“Bewitched”).
At the time of her first nomination in 1967, Thomas was the third youngest female comedy lead contender ever. Each of her four eventual losses in the category was to an actress at least three years her senior. Over the course of nearly six decades, she has fallen to 10th place on the list of youngest nominees, with two...
At the time of her first nomination in 1967, Thomas was the third youngest female comedy lead contender ever. Each of her four eventual losses in the category was to an actress at least three years her senior. Over the course of nearly six decades, she has fallen to 10th place on the list of youngest nominees, with two...
- 8/23/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Emmy voters certainly didn’t spread the wealth around with the 2022 nominations. Five of the seven supporting actress in a limited series or TV movie went to HBO’s “The White Lotus.” Four of the six guest actor in a drama series noms were nabbed by HBO’s “Succession.” And HBO Max’s “Hacks” scored four of the six guest actress in a comedy series nominations.
But multiple nominations in one category isn’t anything new in the Emmy universe. In fact, Emmy history was made 40 years ago when NBC’s landmark police procedural drama “Hill Street Blues” earned all five nominations for supporting actor in a drama series. Michael Conrad won his second consecutive Emmy as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus, who would end the morning roll call meetings with “Let’s be careful out there.” Conrad faced competition from the series’ Taurean Blacque, Charles Haid, Michael Warren and Bruce Weitz.
But multiple nominations in one category isn’t anything new in the Emmy universe. In fact, Emmy history was made 40 years ago when NBC’s landmark police procedural drama “Hill Street Blues” earned all five nominations for supporting actor in a drama series. Michael Conrad won his second consecutive Emmy as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus, who would end the morning roll call meetings with “Let’s be careful out there.” Conrad faced competition from the series’ Taurean Blacque, Charles Haid, Michael Warren and Bruce Weitz.
- 7/16/2022
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
The fourth season of Netflix’s “Stranger Things” is set in 1986. Talk about déjà vu.
The top movie of the year was “Top Gun” starring Tom Cruise and this year, the sequel “Top Gun: Maverick” is the top flick earning nearly 582 million in North America. “Cobra Kai,”the TV sequel to “Karate Kid,” is one of the most popular series on Netflix and several “Star Trek” series have blasted off on “Paramount+.
A handful the top ten TV series including “Cheers,” “Murder, She Wrote” and “The Golden Girls” are living on in repeats. One of the top series, “60 Minutes,” is still chugging away on CBS after 54 seasons making it the longest running primetime series on the small screen. And Michael J. Fox, who won the Emmy that year for “Family Ties,” will receive an honorary Oscar this fall.
So, in honor of “Stranger Things” let’s take the time...
The top movie of the year was “Top Gun” starring Tom Cruise and this year, the sequel “Top Gun: Maverick” is the top flick earning nearly 582 million in North America. “Cobra Kai,”the TV sequel to “Karate Kid,” is one of the most popular series on Netflix and several “Star Trek” series have blasted off on “Paramount+.
A handful the top ten TV series including “Cheers,” “Murder, She Wrote” and “The Golden Girls” are living on in repeats. One of the top series, “60 Minutes,” is still chugging away on CBS after 54 seasons making it the longest running primetime series on the small screen. And Michael J. Fox, who won the Emmy that year for “Family Ties,” will receive an honorary Oscar this fall.
So, in honor of “Stranger Things” let’s take the time...
- 7/11/2022
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
It was a night of record-making firsts and honoring legends from Hollywood’s Golden Era. John Forsythe and Marlo Thomas hosted the 34th Primetime Emmy Awards on ABC on September 19, 1982 — before cable TV and streaming services took over and network TV still ruled the small screen. Read on for our Emmys flashback 40 years ago to 1982.
One of the most celebrated dramas of all time set new records and dominated the acting categories. “Hill Street Blues” received 16 major nominations, breaking the two-decade record of 14 for “Playhouse 90” in 1959. It’s also the first series to receive nine acting noms in one ceremony. It would end the evening tied with “Fame” for the most wins with four, including Best Drama Series, a writing win (it received four out of the five bids in that category) and two acting trophies.
SEEEmmys flashback 20 years ago to 2002, when ‘Friends’ finally won and ‘The West Wing’ dominated...
One of the most celebrated dramas of all time set new records and dominated the acting categories. “Hill Street Blues” received 16 major nominations, breaking the two-decade record of 14 for “Playhouse 90” in 1959. It’s also the first series to receive nine acting noms in one ceremony. It would end the evening tied with “Fame” for the most wins with four, including Best Drama Series, a writing win (it received four out of the five bids in that category) and two acting trophies.
SEEEmmys flashback 20 years ago to 2002, when ‘Friends’ finally won and ‘The West Wing’ dominated...
- 6/21/2022
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
The awards race in the best actress and best supporting actress categories is brimming with real life protagonists getting the big screen treatment. From Nicole Kidman’s Lucille Ball (“Being the Ricardos”) to Lady Gaga (“House of Gucci”) and Kristen Stewart (“Spencer”), these women were tasked with preserving and presenting the legacy of flesh and blood icons, telling their stories truthfully and without judgment.
“I think everyone wants to be seen as a fully realized human being, not as just a caricature,” notes Kidman, who took home the Golden Globe for her lead turn in the Aaron Sorkin biopic.
Being entrusted with someone’s life story is a big responsibility, and these actresses took great care in their prep work. For her role as Tammy Faye Bakker in Michael Showalter’s “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” Jessica Chastain immersed herself in research. To play mother and coach of Serena and Venus Williams in “King Richard,...
“I think everyone wants to be seen as a fully realized human being, not as just a caricature,” notes Kidman, who took home the Golden Globe for her lead turn in the Aaron Sorkin biopic.
Being entrusted with someone’s life story is a big responsibility, and these actresses took great care in their prep work. For her role as Tammy Faye Bakker in Michael Showalter’s “The Eyes of Tammy Faye,” Jessica Chastain immersed herself in research. To play mother and coach of Serena and Venus Williams in “King Richard,...
- 1/21/2022
- by Michele Amabile Angermiller
- Variety Film + TV
Marlo Thomas Reflects on Working With Lucille Ball in Tribute to Aaron Sorkin’s ‘Being the Ricardos’
For Variety‘s Writers on Writers, Marlo Thomas pens a tribute to “Being the Ricardos” (screenplay by Aaron Sorkin).
There is a wonderful scene in “Being the Ricardos” — Aaron Sorkin’s wrenching chronicle of the pioneering TV comedy series “I Love Lucy” — in which Lucy drags two of her co-stars to the studio at 2 a.m., during a thunderstorm, to re-block a comic moment in a dinner scene that hadn’t gone well in rehearsal. It wasn’t even her bit — it was between her two fellow actors — but she knew it wasn’t good enough, funny enough. And so we watch Lucy push them to rehearse it — position them, instruct them — and they comply, even though their expressions reveal that they think she’s gone mad.
But Lucille Ball knew where the funny was. She could envision it. She could hear it. And she knew what to add to it to make it better.
There is a wonderful scene in “Being the Ricardos” — Aaron Sorkin’s wrenching chronicle of the pioneering TV comedy series “I Love Lucy” — in which Lucy drags two of her co-stars to the studio at 2 a.m., during a thunderstorm, to re-block a comic moment in a dinner scene that hadn’t gone well in rehearsal. It wasn’t even her bit — it was between her two fellow actors — but she knew it wasn’t good enough, funny enough. And so we watch Lucy push them to rehearse it — position them, instruct them — and they comply, even though their expressions reveal that they think she’s gone mad.
But Lucille Ball knew where the funny was. She could envision it. She could hear it. And she knew what to add to it to make it better.
- 12/22/2021
- by Marlo Thomas
- Variety Film + TV
With the holiday retail shopping season right around the corner, dozens of popular brands are making it easy for employees and customers to support kids and families at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital during the annual St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign.
Adding a dose of holiday cheer to the campaign are Jennifer Aniston, Luis Fonsi, Yara Shahidi, Michael Strahan, and Sofia Vergara who will join St. Jude National Outreach Director Marlo Thomas to rally consumers across the country to support St. Jude while shopping and donating in-store and online.
“It takes every single person – our retail partners’ employees, their customers and our celebrity friends who help raise critical awareness and support – to ensure that our work at St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies of cancer, no matter where they live,” said Thomas. “It is absolutely incredible the depths of kindness and generosity that people show to our precious families at St.
Adding a dose of holiday cheer to the campaign are Jennifer Aniston, Luis Fonsi, Yara Shahidi, Michael Strahan, and Sofia Vergara who will join St. Jude National Outreach Director Marlo Thomas to rally consumers across the country to support St. Jude while shopping and donating in-store and online.
“It takes every single person – our retail partners’ employees, their customers and our celebrity friends who help raise critical awareness and support – to ensure that our work at St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies of cancer, no matter where they live,” said Thomas. “It is absolutely incredible the depths of kindness and generosity that people show to our precious families at St.
- 10/26/2021
- Look to the Stars
Like everyone else, we love Lucy and celebrate the anniversary of Lucille Ball‘s landmark laffer “I Love Lucy,” which debuted on CBS exactly 70 years ago today on Oct. 15, 1951. The show won the Emmy for Best Situation Comedy twice and Ball claimed two trophies as well.
Ball went on to win two more Emmys for the last two seasons of her second series, “The Lucy Show”. In 1967, she edged out “Bewitched” stars Elizabeth Montgomery and Agnes Moorehead and “That Girl’s” Marlo Thomas. By the way, Montgomery never won an Emmy, despite nine nods, including five for her work as that witch with a twitch. The following year, in what was to be her final Emmy race, Ball prevailed yet again. Her competition: Montgomery and Thomas, as well as Barbara Feldon (“Get Smart”) and Paula Prentiss (“He and She”).
Watch that moment from the 1967 Emmycast when Ball wins. As her...
Ball went on to win two more Emmys for the last two seasons of her second series, “The Lucy Show”. In 1967, she edged out “Bewitched” stars Elizabeth Montgomery and Agnes Moorehead and “That Girl’s” Marlo Thomas. By the way, Montgomery never won an Emmy, despite nine nods, including five for her work as that witch with a twitch. The following year, in what was to be her final Emmy race, Ball prevailed yet again. Her competition: Montgomery and Thomas, as well as Barbara Feldon (“Get Smart”) and Paula Prentiss (“He and She”).
Watch that moment from the 1967 Emmycast when Ball wins. As her...
- 10/15/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Kristen Anderson-Lopez already has her Emmys dress ready to go. It’s actually what she’d hoped to wear to last year’s Golden Globes ceremony, which she didn’t attend due to her daughter battling a then-unknown respiratory illness she’d caught on a cruise ship. “She had Covid,” Anderson-Lopez told IndieWire. “We had Covid before we knew it was Covid.”
Thankfully, Anderson-Lopez and her family, including husband and songwriting partner Robert Lopez, made it through, but it only makes the two Emmy nominations the pair have secured for “WandaVision” all the more powerful. Fans and pundits the world over have discussed the role the Disney+ series played in helping them get through the uncertainty of 2020. For Anderson-Lopez, hearing the nomination alongside her daughters and their friends brought it full circle.
“[They] were so obsessed with ‘WandaVision’ every Friday in January and February. It was the thing that was allowing...
Thankfully, Anderson-Lopez and her family, including husband and songwriting partner Robert Lopez, made it through, but it only makes the two Emmy nominations the pair have secured for “WandaVision” all the more powerful. Fans and pundits the world over have discussed the role the Disney+ series played in helping them get through the uncertainty of 2020. For Anderson-Lopez, hearing the nomination alongside her daughters and their friends brought it full circle.
“[They] were so obsessed with ‘WandaVision’ every Friday in January and February. It was the thing that was allowing...
- 8/10/2021
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
Armed with the comedic punch and snap of That Girl’s Marlo Thomas and the poise of Audrey Hepburn, Cristin Milioti has built a rapidly blossoming career of deconstructing the romantic heroine.
The characters in repertoire may come off as the nice girlfriend, but they’re dealing with significantly more baggage than any Hepburn protagonist, from Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Regina Lampert in Charade, could bear.
And by the way, it’s not the girl in Milioti’s world who has the problems, it’s the guy.
Whether it’s an obsessed software developer boss whose trapped her in a Star Trek-like virtual game (the 2017 Black Mirror episode “USS Callister) or an overbearing paternal doorman who gets in the way of her promising love life (the 2019 Amazon anthology series Modern Love), Milioti’s alter egos have complicated lives.
In the HBO Max comedy series Made for Love,...
The characters in repertoire may come off as the nice girlfriend, but they’re dealing with significantly more baggage than any Hepburn protagonist, from Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s to Regina Lampert in Charade, could bear.
And by the way, it’s not the girl in Milioti’s world who has the problems, it’s the guy.
Whether it’s an obsessed software developer boss whose trapped her in a Star Trek-like virtual game (the 2017 Black Mirror episode “USS Callister) or an overbearing paternal doorman who gets in the way of her promising love life (the 2019 Amazon anthology series Modern Love), Milioti’s alter egos have complicated lives.
In the HBO Max comedy series Made for Love,...
- 6/6/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Charles Grodin had a 60-year career in Hollywood, ranging from guesting on 1950s TV Westerns to playing opposite such big-screen and TV stars as Robert De Niro, Warren Beatty, Goldie Hawn, Dustin Hoffman, Steve Martin, Jill Clayburgh, Farrah Fawcett, Cybill Shepherd, Marlo Thomas, Martin Short, Louis C.K. and, well, Miss Piggy.
The Emmy-winning actor, who died today at 86, had more than 70 credits on his résumé — from films including The Heartbreak Kid, Heaven Can Wait and Sunburn in the 1970s through The Lonely Guy and The Woman in Red to action-buddy classic Midnight Run, legendary flop Ishtar and the canine-infused Beethoven pics. He also starred in the 1986 primetime-soap spoof miniseries Fresno, won an Emmy for co-writing 1977’s The Paul Simon Special and fronted his own short-lived talk show.
Steve Martin, Albert Brooks Pay Tribute To Charles Grodin; Marc Maron Praises “Cranky Comedic Genius”
From his straight-man magnificence to leading-man panache and talk-show-guest brilliance,...
The Emmy-winning actor, who died today at 86, had more than 70 credits on his résumé — from films including The Heartbreak Kid, Heaven Can Wait and Sunburn in the 1970s through The Lonely Guy and The Woman in Red to action-buddy classic Midnight Run, legendary flop Ishtar and the canine-infused Beethoven pics. He also starred in the 1986 primetime-soap spoof miniseries Fresno, won an Emmy for co-writing 1977’s The Paul Simon Special and fronted his own short-lived talk show.
Steve Martin, Albert Brooks Pay Tribute To Charles Grodin; Marc Maron Praises “Cranky Comedic Genius”
From his straight-man magnificence to leading-man panache and talk-show-guest brilliance,...
- 5/18/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Charles Grodin, best known for the neurotic comic wit he demonstrated in such films as “The Heartbreak Kid,” “Heaven Can Wait” and “Midnight Run” and for his role in the “Beethoven” movies, died Tuesday at his home in Connecticut. He was 86.
The New York Times reported that his son said he died of bone marrow cancer.
After getting his start in television, Grodin graduated to both leading and character roles in motion pictures, usually portraying the exasperated urban neurotic. His dry, understated sense of humor also made him a perfect talkshow guest, and later, host of his own cable show. Grodin also wrote plays and books.
The wry 1972 comedy “The Heartbreak Kid,” written by Neil Simon and directed by Elaine May, highlighted Grodin’s trademark neurotic befuddlement, and won him a Golden Globe nomination. But it was one of the few successful films in his career in which he was center stage.
The New York Times reported that his son said he died of bone marrow cancer.
After getting his start in television, Grodin graduated to both leading and character roles in motion pictures, usually portraying the exasperated urban neurotic. His dry, understated sense of humor also made him a perfect talkshow guest, and later, host of his own cable show. Grodin also wrote plays and books.
The wry 1972 comedy “The Heartbreak Kid,” written by Neil Simon and directed by Elaine May, highlighted Grodin’s trademark neurotic befuddlement, and won him a Golden Globe nomination. But it was one of the few successful films in his career in which he was center stage.
- 5/18/2021
- by Carmel Dagan
- Variety Film + TV
Olympia Dukakis, who won an Oscar for her supporting role in the 1987 hit Moonstruck also starred in Steel Magnolias, Away From Her, the three Look Who’s Talking films and Mr. Holland’s Opus, died today at her home in New York City. She was 89 and had been in ill health for some time.
“My beloved sister, Olympia Dukakis, passed away this morning in New York City,” wrote her brother Apollo, who confirmed her death on his Facebook page. “After many months of failing health she is finally at peace and with her [husband] Louis [Zorich].” The cause of death has yet to be determined.
Her other film credits include Over the Hill (1992), I Love Trouble (1994), Picture Perfect (1997).
Michael McKean, Bradley Whitford, George Takei & More Pay Tribute To “Brilliant, Strong, Hilarious” Olympia Dukakis
Her television credits include the 1993 transgender drama Tales of the City and its 1998 sequel, which earned her an Emmy nomination. Dukakis...
“My beloved sister, Olympia Dukakis, passed away this morning in New York City,” wrote her brother Apollo, who confirmed her death on his Facebook page. “After many months of failing health she is finally at peace and with her [husband] Louis [Zorich].” The cause of death has yet to be determined.
Her other film credits include Over the Hill (1992), I Love Trouble (1994), Picture Perfect (1997).
Michael McKean, Bradley Whitford, George Takei & More Pay Tribute To “Brilliant, Strong, Hilarious” Olympia Dukakis
Her television credits include the 1993 transgender drama Tales of the City and its 1998 sequel, which earned her an Emmy nomination. Dukakis...
- 5/1/2021
- by Bruce Haring and Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Starz announced that “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” will premiere on July 18.
Set in ’90s South Jamaica, Queens and serving as a prequel to the original Power franchise, the series stars Patina Miller, Mekai Curtis, Omar Epps, London Brown, Malcolm Mays, Hailey Kilgore, Joey Bada$$, Tony Sandeman, Shanley Caswell, Lovie Simone and Quincy Brown.
Creator and showrunner Sascha Penn executive produces alongside Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Courtney A. Kemp, Mark Canton, Chris Selak, Danielle De Jesus, Shana Stein and Bart Wenrich.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
Dates
ABC announced that the special tribute episode of “General Hospital,” which will celebrate actor John Reilly, will air on May 21. The episode features “General Hospital” fan-favorites Kristina Wagner, John J. York, Finola Hughes, Genie Francis and Jon Lindstrom reprising their respective roles as Felicia Scorpio, Malcolm “Mac” Scorpio, Anna Devane, Laura Collins and Kevin Collins. While mourning the death of World Security...
Set in ’90s South Jamaica, Queens and serving as a prequel to the original Power franchise, the series stars Patina Miller, Mekai Curtis, Omar Epps, London Brown, Malcolm Mays, Hailey Kilgore, Joey Bada$$, Tony Sandeman, Shanley Caswell, Lovie Simone and Quincy Brown.
Creator and showrunner Sascha Penn executive produces alongside Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Courtney A. Kemp, Mark Canton, Chris Selak, Danielle De Jesus, Shana Stein and Bart Wenrich.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
Dates
ABC announced that the special tribute episode of “General Hospital,” which will celebrate actor John Reilly, will air on May 21. The episode features “General Hospital” fan-favorites Kristina Wagner, John J. York, Finola Hughes, Genie Francis and Jon Lindstrom reprising their respective roles as Felicia Scorpio, Malcolm “Mac” Scorpio, Anna Devane, Laura Collins and Kevin Collins. While mourning the death of World Security...
- 4/26/2021
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Iconic recordings from Janet Jackson, Louis Armstrong, Marlo Thomas, Kool & the Gang, Labelle, Connie Smith, Nas, Phil Rizzuto, Jimmy Cliff and Kermit the Frog are among the latest aural treasures inducted into the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry.
Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden has named these and 15 other recordings as worthy of preservation this year, picked because of their cultural, historical and aesthetic importance to America’s sound heritage.
The selections span the years 1878 (a tinfoil recording of the voice of Thomas Edison) to 2008 (an episode of This American Life, marking the first podcast recording to ...
Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden has named these and 15 other recordings as worthy of preservation this year, picked because of their cultural, historical and aesthetic importance to America’s sound heritage.
The selections span the years 1878 (a tinfoil recording of the voice of Thomas Edison) to 2008 (an episode of This American Life, marking the first podcast recording to ...
- 3/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Iconic recordings from Janet Jackson, Louis Armstrong, Marlo Thomas, Kool & the Gang, Labelle, Connie Smith, Nas, Phil Rizzuto, Jimmy Cliff and Kermit the Frog are among the latest aural treasures inducted into the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry.
Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden has named these and 15 other recordings as worthy of preservation this year, picked because of their cultural, historical and aesthetic importance to America’s sound heritage.
The selections span the years 1878 (a tinfoil recording of the voice of Thomas Edison) to 2008 (an episode of This American Life, marking the first podcast recording to ...
Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden has named these and 15 other recordings as worthy of preservation this year, picked because of their cultural, historical and aesthetic importance to America’s sound heritage.
The selections span the years 1878 (a tinfoil recording of the voice of Thomas Edison) to 2008 (an episode of This American Life, marking the first podcast recording to ...
- 3/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
St. Jude’s Research Children’s Hospital’s National Outreach Director Marlo Thomas sat down to explain what makes the hospital so special in a new uInterview. “Well the great thing about St. Jude is that it’s a research center,” Thomas said. “If it was just a research center, it is such a great research center that that […]
The post Video Exclusive: Marlo Thomas Explains The Importance Of St. Jude’s appeared first on uInterview.
The post Video Exclusive: Marlo Thomas Explains The Importance Of St. Jude’s appeared first on uInterview.
- 12/8/2020
- by Marie Fiero
- Uinterview
In an unprecedented year and holiday season, Jennifer Aniston, Sofia Vergara, Michael Strahan, Luis Fonsi, campaign newcomer Yara Shahidi and many more celebrities are uniting with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® National Outreach Director Marlo Thomas to support the annual St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign.
Actors, artists, entertainers, sports personalities and more will support St. Jude through various activations, including appearances in online and radio spots as well as taking to social media to ask others to join St. Jude in the fight to end childhood cancer. These celebrity supporters include Anthony Hamilton, Banda El Recodo, Blanca Soto, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Dwane Casey, Erica Campbell, Gerardo Ortiz, Jake Owen, Jekalyn Carr, JoJo Siwa, Keith Urban, Kirk Franklin, Lady A, Luis Coronel, Major., Tim McGraw, Sam Hurley and The Game Theorists Matthew and Stephanie Patrick.
“I am so grateful for the generous loving spirit that we receive from our fabulous family of stars,...
Actors, artists, entertainers, sports personalities and more will support St. Jude through various activations, including appearances in online and radio spots as well as taking to social media to ask others to join St. Jude in the fight to end childhood cancer. These celebrity supporters include Anthony Hamilton, Banda El Recodo, Blanca Soto, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Dwane Casey, Erica Campbell, Gerardo Ortiz, Jake Owen, Jekalyn Carr, JoJo Siwa, Keith Urban, Kirk Franklin, Lady A, Luis Coronel, Major., Tim McGraw, Sam Hurley and The Game Theorists Matthew and Stephanie Patrick.
“I am so grateful for the generous loving spirit that we receive from our fabulous family of stars,...
- 11/16/2020
- Look to the Stars
Like everyone else, we love Lucy and celebrate the anniversary of Lucille Ball‘s landmark laffer “I Love Lucy,” which debuted on CBS exactly 69 years ago today on Oct. 15, 1951. The show won the Emmy for Best Situation Comedy twice and Ball claimed two trophies as well.
Ball went on to win two more Emmys for the last two seasons of her second series, “The Lucy Show”. In 1967, she edged out “Bewitched” stars Elizabeth Montgomery and Agnes Moorehead and “That Girl’s” Marlo Thomas. By the way, Montgomery never won an Emmy, despite nine nods, including five for her work as that witch with a twitch. The following year, in what was to be her final Emmy race, Ball prevailed yet again. Her competition: Montgomery and Thomas, as well as Barbara Feldon (“Get Smart”) and Paula Prentiss (“He and She”).
Watch that moment from the 1967 Emmycast when Ball wins. As her...
Ball went on to win two more Emmys for the last two seasons of her second series, “The Lucy Show”. In 1967, she edged out “Bewitched” stars Elizabeth Montgomery and Agnes Moorehead and “That Girl’s” Marlo Thomas. By the way, Montgomery never won an Emmy, despite nine nods, including five for her work as that witch with a twitch. The following year, in what was to be her final Emmy race, Ball prevailed yet again. Her competition: Montgomery and Thomas, as well as Barbara Feldon (“Get Smart”) and Paula Prentiss (“He and She”).
Watch that moment from the 1967 Emmycast when Ball wins. As her...
- 10/15/2020
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
All eyes are on the father-and-son duo of Eugene Levy and Dan Levy, who could win Emmys for their work as actors and producers on “Schitt’s Creek,” but another parent and child beat them to the punch during the Creative Arts Awards. Ron Cephas Jones and his daughter Jasmine Cephas Jones both claimed acting prizes from the television academy.
Jasmine Cephas Jones won Best Short Form Actress on Thursday night, September 17, for her role in Quibi’s “#FreeRayshawn” as Tyisha, a woman trapped with her family as the police close in on them. Her co-star Laurence Fishburne won Best Short Form Actor as sympathetic Lieutenant Steven Poincy. Though this was her first Emmy nomination and win, it’s not her only acknowledgement from an industry peer group. She previously won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album as a performer on the cast recording of “Hamilton.” She starred in that...
Jasmine Cephas Jones won Best Short Form Actress on Thursday night, September 17, for her role in Quibi’s “#FreeRayshawn” as Tyisha, a woman trapped with her family as the police close in on them. Her co-star Laurence Fishburne won Best Short Form Actor as sympathetic Lieutenant Steven Poincy. Though this was her first Emmy nomination and win, it’s not her only acknowledgement from an industry peer group. She previously won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album as a performer on the cast recording of “Hamilton.” She starred in that...
- 9/20/2020
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
For Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Jennifer Aniston, Marlo Thomas, Sofia Vergara, Drew Barrymore and other St. Jude Celebrity Ambassadors will unite for the 30 Days #forStJude social media campaign to help raise awareness and support for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Drew Barrymore and St. Jude patient Damaya hang out at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in 2017
This year’s theme for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is “Let’s cure childhood cancer. Together.” With togetherness in mind, an all-star lineup of more than 50 celebrities will join Aniston, Vergara and Barrymore to take part in 30 Days #forStJude including: Luis Fonsi, Michael Strahan, Mark Wahlberg, Cindy Crawford, Kaia Gerber, Kate Beckinsale, Lucy Hale, Shaun White, JoJo Siwa, Halima Aden, Emma Roberts, Justin Hartley, Chrissy Metz, Ashley Greene, Jennifer Morrison, Lance Bass, Kathryn Newton, Nick Swisher, JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Claire Holt, Zac Posen, Jessica Szohr, Dave Annable, Odette Annable, Charlie Weber, Bryan Greenberg, Geoff Stults,...
Drew Barrymore and St. Jude patient Damaya hang out at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in 2017
This year’s theme for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is “Let’s cure childhood cancer. Together.” With togetherness in mind, an all-star lineup of more than 50 celebrities will join Aniston, Vergara and Barrymore to take part in 30 Days #forStJude including: Luis Fonsi, Michael Strahan, Mark Wahlberg, Cindy Crawford, Kaia Gerber, Kate Beckinsale, Lucy Hale, Shaun White, JoJo Siwa, Halima Aden, Emma Roberts, Justin Hartley, Chrissy Metz, Ashley Greene, Jennifer Morrison, Lance Bass, Kathryn Newton, Nick Swisher, JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Claire Holt, Zac Posen, Jessica Szohr, Dave Annable, Odette Annable, Charlie Weber, Bryan Greenberg, Geoff Stults,...
- 9/11/2020
- Look to the Stars
More than a few parent-child combos have both won acting Emmys over the years. They include Carl and Rob Reiner, Donald and Kiefer Sutherland, Danny and Marlo Thomas, Christopher and Amanda Plummer as well as James and Tyne Daly.
But this year is the first time that a parent and an offspring could both claim an acting statuette for appearing on the same show — Eugene and Dan Levy, who also play a father and son, Johnny and David Rose, on their comedy series “Schitt’s Creek.” The pair are also co-creators of the show about a wealthy family who are bilked out of their money and are forced to move to a small town they once bought as a joke and live in a rundown hotel. Joining them in the cast is Catherine O’Hara as mama Moira, a former soap opera actress, and Annie Murphy as daughter Alexis.
See‘Schitt’s...
But this year is the first time that a parent and an offspring could both claim an acting statuette for appearing on the same show — Eugene and Dan Levy, who also play a father and son, Johnny and David Rose, on their comedy series “Schitt’s Creek.” The pair are also co-creators of the show about a wealthy family who are bilked out of their money and are forced to move to a small town they once bought as a joke and live in a rundown hotel. Joining them in the cast is Catherine O’Hara as mama Moira, a former soap opera actress, and Annie Murphy as daughter Alexis.
See‘Schitt’s...
- 8/5/2020
- by Susan Wloszczyna
- Gold Derby
Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley announced today that they will host a very special “Free To Be…You and Me” episode of “Stars In The House” on Friday, June 26 at 8Pm Et on the Stars In The House YouTube channel and on starsinthehouse.com.
Actress and activist Marlo Thomas created the award-winning album, book, and television special in the early 70s, that was the first anti-racist, anti-sexist entertainment for children. Thomas will join Seth and James to talk about the legacy of “Free to Be…You and Me,” which inspired children around the world to dream big, and break away from gender and racial stereotypes, to become whatever they could be, not what they should be. The three will be joined by friends and fans of “Free to Be…You and Me,” including Sara Bareilles, Harry Belafonte, Drew Barrymore, Audra McDonald, Benj Pasek, Debra Messing, Free to Be Foundation co-founder Gloria Steinem,...
Actress and activist Marlo Thomas created the award-winning album, book, and television special in the early 70s, that was the first anti-racist, anti-sexist entertainment for children. Thomas will join Seth and James to talk about the legacy of “Free to Be…You and Me,” which inspired children around the world to dream big, and break away from gender and racial stereotypes, to become whatever they could be, not what they should be. The three will be joined by friends and fans of “Free to Be…You and Me,” including Sara Bareilles, Harry Belafonte, Drew Barrymore, Audra McDonald, Benj Pasek, Debra Messing, Free to Be Foundation co-founder Gloria Steinem,...
- 6/26/2020
- Look to the Stars
Marlo Thomas will join Stars In The House creators and hosts Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley Friday on their YouTube series to celebrate the actress’ groundbreaking 1970s TV special Free To Be…You and Me. The Stars In The House episode will also feature a new version of the Free To Be.. theme song sung by Sara Bareilles.
Bareilles will join Thomas and the hosts, as will Harry Belafonte, Drew Barrymore, Audra McDonald, Benj Pasek, Debra Messing, Gloria Steinem and Michael McElroy.
Viewers will will be able to interact with guests in real time, ask questions, and donate to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
“During this turbulent time of quarantine and social injustice,” Thomas said, “freedom for children as well as adults is on the line like never before. Also, in order to better embrace the non-binary community, we changed a lyric that referred to ‘boys’ and ’girls...
Bareilles will join Thomas and the hosts, as will Harry Belafonte, Drew Barrymore, Audra McDonald, Benj Pasek, Debra Messing, Gloria Steinem and Michael McElroy.
Viewers will will be able to interact with guests in real time, ask questions, and donate to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
“During this turbulent time of quarantine and social injustice,” Thomas said, “freedom for children as well as adults is on the line like never before. Also, in order to better embrace the non-binary community, we changed a lyric that referred to ‘boys’ and ’girls...
- 6/24/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
“I Love Lucy” is the subject of a heartfelt tribute from “Will & Grace” on April 9. In “We Love Lucy,” Grace (Debra Messing), Jack (Sean Hayes) and Karen (Megan Mullally) each imagine themselves as Lucy Ricardo opposite Will (Eric McCormack) as her hubby Ricky. Part of the fun is seeing this trio of talent also play Fred and Ethel in various combinations.
“Will & Grace” and “I Love Lucy” both won Best Comedy Series at the Emmys. The former did it in 2000; Hayes and Mullally won that year as well. McCormack prevailed in 2001 and Messing in 2003. “Will and Grace” is only the third TV series in Emmy history in which all four of the main cast won awards, following “All in the Family” and “The Golden Girls.”
Of the quartet of talent on “I Love Lucy,” it was only the women — Lucille Ball and Vivian Vance — who won over the TV academy voters.
“Will & Grace” and “I Love Lucy” both won Best Comedy Series at the Emmys. The former did it in 2000; Hayes and Mullally won that year as well. McCormack prevailed in 2001 and Messing in 2003. “Will and Grace” is only the third TV series in Emmy history in which all four of the main cast won awards, following “All in the Family” and “The Golden Girls.”
Of the quartet of talent on “I Love Lucy,” it was only the women — Lucille Ball and Vivian Vance — who won over the TV academy voters.
- 4/9/2020
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
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