On Saturday, August 19, the entertainment community will come together for Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) and its eighth roadblock fundraising special, supporting urgently needed research and new treatments for cancer.
Debuting in a refreshing new format, the televised celebration entitled “How It Started, How It’s Going” will recognize SU2C’s impact and progress over the last 15 years.
This year’s show will air on Saturday, August 19 at 8 p.m. Et and Pt / 7 p.m. Ct. Over the course of one hour, the show will celebrate 15 years of cutting-edge cancer research and highlight special moments with stars from film, television, sports and journalism who have supported the SU2C movement. The show will also feature renowned SU2C-funded cancer scientists, who will discuss the progress being made in the fight against cancer and the critical need to continue to fund life-saving research. There will also be touching stories...
Debuting in a refreshing new format, the televised celebration entitled “How It Started, How It’s Going” will recognize SU2C’s impact and progress over the last 15 years.
This year’s show will air on Saturday, August 19 at 8 p.m. Et and Pt / 7 p.m. Ct. Over the course of one hour, the show will celebrate 15 years of cutting-edge cancer research and highlight special moments with stars from film, television, sports and journalism who have supported the SU2C movement. The show will also feature renowned SU2C-funded cancer scientists, who will discuss the progress being made in the fight against cancer and the critical need to continue to fund life-saving research. There will also be touching stories...
- 8/8/2023
- Look to the Stars
Stand Up to Cancer is prepping a return to the airwaves.
The nonprofit has set an Aug. 19 fundraising special that will feature a slew of stars raising money for the cause while also toasting the org’s milestone 15th anniversary. The one-hour show — titled “How it Started, How it’s Going” — will feature a new format when it airs on Aug. 19, simultaneously on more than 50 participating platforms across the United States and Canada, including all four major broadcast networks in the U.S. It will be filmed at NeueHouse Hollywood.
Elizabeth Banks, Jessica Biel, Don Cheadle, Katie Couric, Danai Gurira, Tony Hale, Ken Jeong, Maria Menounos, Julianne Moore, Tig Notaro, Jimmy Smits, Eric Stonestreet and Justin Timberlake are confirmed to appear. Meanwhile, a montage of skits from past shows will feature Jack Black, Ben Falcone, Zach Galifianakis, Brad Garrett, Bill Hader, Jon Hamm, Kevin Hart, Ed Helms, Melissa McCarthy and Matthew McConaughey.
The nonprofit has set an Aug. 19 fundraising special that will feature a slew of stars raising money for the cause while also toasting the org’s milestone 15th anniversary. The one-hour show — titled “How it Started, How it’s Going” — will feature a new format when it airs on Aug. 19, simultaneously on more than 50 participating platforms across the United States and Canada, including all four major broadcast networks in the U.S. It will be filmed at NeueHouse Hollywood.
Elizabeth Banks, Jessica Biel, Don Cheadle, Katie Couric, Danai Gurira, Tony Hale, Ken Jeong, Maria Menounos, Julianne Moore, Tig Notaro, Jimmy Smits, Eric Stonestreet and Justin Timberlake are confirmed to appear. Meanwhile, a montage of skits from past shows will feature Jack Black, Ben Falcone, Zach Galifianakis, Brad Garrett, Bill Hader, Jon Hamm, Kevin Hart, Ed Helms, Melissa McCarthy and Matthew McConaughey.
- 8/7/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Kimberly Harrison (The Crossover) has been tapped as showrunner for Hulu’s limited series about Sammy Davis Jr. from Lee Daniels and 20th Television, which stars Elijah Kelley as the Candy Man.
Written by Daniels and Thomas Westfall based on Will Haygood’s biography, In Black and White: The Life of Sammy Davis Jr., and inspired by Alex Haley’s interview of Davis, the yet untitled eight-episode series explores the entertainer’s life through the lens of his racial identity and his complex relationship with the Black community.
Related: 2023 Hulu Pilots & Series Orders
It centers on Davis (Kelley), who rose from childhood stardom on the vaudeville stage to become one of the most famous African American entertainers of the 1950s and ’60s (and the only Black member of Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack). At the same time, he spent most of his career surrounded by controversy and ridicule – over...
Written by Daniels and Thomas Westfall based on Will Haygood’s biography, In Black and White: The Life of Sammy Davis Jr., and inspired by Alex Haley’s interview of Davis, the yet untitled eight-episode series explores the entertainer’s life through the lens of his racial identity and his complex relationship with the Black community.
Related: 2023 Hulu Pilots & Series Orders
It centers on Davis (Kelley), who rose from childhood stardom on the vaudeville stage to become one of the most famous African American entertainers of the 1950s and ’60s (and the only Black member of Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack). At the same time, he spent most of his career surrounded by controversy and ridicule – over...
- 2/13/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Omar Epps and Demi Singleton are among the latest cast additions to “The Deliverance,” Lee Daniels’ demonic possession feature for Netflix.
Also boarding the project are Miss Lawrence and Anthony B. Jenkins. The previously announced cast includes Andra Day, Glenn Close, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin, Tasha Smith and Mo’Nique, who won an Oscar for her performance in Daniels’ 2009 film “Precious.” The film will also see Singleton reunite with her “King Richard” co-star and onscreen mother, Ellis.
“The Deliverance,” formerly titled “Demon House,” is based on the stories of Latoya Ammons and her family, who claim to have been possessed by demons and tormented by other supernatural forces in their Gary, Indiana, home. Per the film’s logline: “A mother fights for her life, her faith and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.”
Also Read:
Lee Daniels to Direct Thriller ‘Demon House’
Along with Daniels,...
Also boarding the project are Miss Lawrence and Anthony B. Jenkins. The previously announced cast includes Andra Day, Glenn Close, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin, Tasha Smith and Mo’Nique, who won an Oscar for her performance in Daniels’ 2009 film “Precious.” The film will also see Singleton reunite with her “King Richard” co-star and onscreen mother, Ellis.
“The Deliverance,” formerly titled “Demon House,” is based on the stories of Latoya Ammons and her family, who claim to have been possessed by demons and tormented by other supernatural forces in their Gary, Indiana, home. Per the film’s logline: “A mother fights for her life, her faith and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.”
Also Read:
Lee Daniels to Direct Thriller ‘Demon House’
Along with Daniels,...
- 7/14/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
Lee Daniels has tapped Omar Epps, Demi Singleton, Miss Lawrence and Anthony B. Jenkins to join the cast of his upcoming exorcism thriller “The Deliverance” for Netflix.
The group joins previously announced stars Andra Day, Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin and Tasha Smith in the film, which is inspired by a terrifying true story. Day plays Ebony, a mother who fights for her life, her faith, and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.
In addition to directing the film, Daniels wrote the script with David Coggeshall, Elijah Bynum and Thomas Westfall. He also produces the project under his Lee Daniels Entertainment banner with Pam Williams, alongside Tucker Tooley through Tooley Entertainment and Jackson Nguyen and Todd Crites via Turn Left Productions. Executive producers are Greg Renker, Hilary Shor, Gregoire Gensollen, Jackie Shenoo.
Netflix nabbed the rights to the...
The group joins previously announced stars Andra Day, Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin and Tasha Smith in the film, which is inspired by a terrifying true story. Day plays Ebony, a mother who fights for her life, her faith, and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.
In addition to directing the film, Daniels wrote the script with David Coggeshall, Elijah Bynum and Thomas Westfall. He also produces the project under his Lee Daniels Entertainment banner with Pam Williams, alongside Tucker Tooley through Tooley Entertainment and Jackson Nguyen and Todd Crites via Turn Left Productions. Executive producers are Greg Renker, Hilary Shor, Gregoire Gensollen, Jackie Shenoo.
Netflix nabbed the rights to the...
- 7/14/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Omar Epps, Demi Singleton, Miss Lawrence and Anthony B. Jenkins have joined the cast of The Deliverance from director Lee Daniels.
The Netflix film earlier added Andra Day, Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin and Tasha Smith. Daniels directed Miss Lawrence in The United States vs. Billie Holiday, the biopic about the jazz icon.
The faith-based film marks a creative departure for Daniels. Inspired by a true story, The Deliverance portrays a mother fighting for her life, her faith and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.
The Deliverance is written by David Coggeshall, Elijah Bynum, Daniels and Thomas Westfall. The producer credits are shared by Tucker Tooley through Tooley Entertainment, Lee Daniels and Pam Williams for Lee Daniels Entertainment and Jackson Nguyen and Todd Crites for Turn Left Productions.
And Greg Renker,...
Omar Epps, Demi Singleton, Miss Lawrence and Anthony B. Jenkins have joined the cast of The Deliverance from director Lee Daniels.
The Netflix film earlier added Andra Day, Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin and Tasha Smith. Daniels directed Miss Lawrence in The United States vs. Billie Holiday, the biopic about the jazz icon.
The faith-based film marks a creative departure for Daniels. Inspired by a true story, The Deliverance portrays a mother fighting for her life, her faith and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence.
The Deliverance is written by David Coggeshall, Elijah Bynum, Daniels and Thomas Westfall. The producer credits are shared by Tucker Tooley through Tooley Entertainment, Lee Daniels and Pam Williams for Lee Daniels Entertainment and Jackson Nguyen and Todd Crites for Turn Left Productions.
And Greg Renker,...
- 7/14/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Omar Epps (Fatal Affair), Demi Singleton (King Richard), Miss Lawrence (Bros) and Anthony B. Jenkins (Chicago Med) have signed on for roles in Lee Daniels’ Netflix film The Deliverance, formerly titled Demon House. They join an ensemble that also includes Andra Day, Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Aunjanue Ellis, Caleb McLaughlin and Tasha Smith, as previously announced.
The Deliverance watches as a mother fights for her life, her faith and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence. Details on the characters to be played by the newest additions to the cast haven’t been disclosed.
The Deliverance was scripted by David Coggeshall, Elijah Bynum, Daniels and Thomas Westfall. Tucker Tooley is producing through Tooley Entertainment, along with Daniels and Pam Williams through Lee Daniels Entertainment, and Jackson Nguyen and Todd Crites through Turn Left Productions. Executive producers on the project include Greg Renker,...
The Deliverance watches as a mother fights for her life, her faith and the souls of her children after discovering their new home is haunted by a demonic presence. Details on the characters to be played by the newest additions to the cast haven’t been disclosed.
The Deliverance was scripted by David Coggeshall, Elijah Bynum, Daniels and Thomas Westfall. Tucker Tooley is producing through Tooley Entertainment, along with Daniels and Pam Williams through Lee Daniels Entertainment, and Jackson Nguyen and Todd Crites through Turn Left Productions. Executive producers on the project include Greg Renker,...
- 7/14/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: The United States vs. Billie Holiday, Hulu’s dramatic retelling of the “Strange Fruit” singer’s battle against the federal government, originated as a single chapter in Johann Hari’s 2015 book Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs.
When tapped by director Lee Daniels to pen the script, Pulitzer-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks transformed Hari’s pages into a screenplay that would weave Holiday’s hits into the scenes featuring Andra Day as the prolific jazz singer. “Suzan-Lori Parks exquisitely structured the songs to tell the story so each song moves our story ahead and tells the situation that we’re in,” Daniels said. “As the story is unfolding, each song is representative of the situation that Billie was going through.”
The United States vs. Billie Holiday takes place in the 1940s in New York and follows Holiday, who is targeted by the federal...
When tapped by director Lee Daniels to pen the script, Pulitzer-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks transformed Hari’s pages into a screenplay that would weave Holiday’s hits into the scenes featuring Andra Day as the prolific jazz singer. “Suzan-Lori Parks exquisitely structured the songs to tell the story so each song moves our story ahead and tells the situation that we’re in,” Daniels said. “As the story is unfolding, each song is representative of the situation that Billie was going through.”
The United States vs. Billie Holiday takes place in the 1940s in New York and follows Holiday, who is targeted by the federal...
- 3/4/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Sierra/Affinity continues to handle international sales
Hulu has confirmed February 26 as the awards-qualifying US debut of The United States vs Billie Holiday, a relatively late awards season entry that is generating strong buzz for Andra Day’s performance as the celebrated jazz singer.
Paramount had been set to distribute until financier New Slate Ventures recognised the current pandemic landscape, in which roughly 40% of US cinemas are open, was unsuitable for a theatrical launch.
A deal was struck with Hulu in December and the film will debut solely on the platform in the US, with no theatrical component. Paramount previously set a February 26 release date.
Hulu has confirmed February 26 as the awards-qualifying US debut of The United States vs Billie Holiday, a relatively late awards season entry that is generating strong buzz for Andra Day’s performance as the celebrated jazz singer.
Paramount had been set to distribute until financier New Slate Ventures recognised the current pandemic landscape, in which roughly 40% of US cinemas are open, was unsuitable for a theatrical launch.
A deal was struck with Hulu in December and the film will debut solely on the platform in the US, with no theatrical component. Paramount previously set a February 26 release date.
- 1/11/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Andra Day is singing jazz and feeling the blues in the first trailer for “The United States vs. Billie Holiday.” In the clip, it seems the whole world is against Holiday, with the government trying to prevent her from performing her iconic song “Strange Fruit.” But as she vehemently declares, she’ll sing “what the f— I want.”
Lee Daniels’ biopic on Holiday charts the tumultuous legal battle in which she became the target of an undercover narcotics sting operation led by Jimmy Fletcher, the man with whom she had an affair. “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” named after the 1947 court case against her, is inspired by the singer’s life story and her struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreak.
Though it was originally meant to be a theatrical release from Paramount, Hulu has officially acquired the U.S. rights to the film. The first trailer dropped on Monday...
Lee Daniels’ biopic on Holiday charts the tumultuous legal battle in which she became the target of an undercover narcotics sting operation led by Jimmy Fletcher, the man with whom she had an affair. “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” named after the 1947 court case against her, is inspired by the singer’s life story and her struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreak.
Though it was originally meant to be a theatrical release from Paramount, Hulu has officially acquired the U.S. rights to the film. The first trailer dropped on Monday...
- 1/11/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: On this Christmas Eve, we hear that a deal is coming together for Hulu to acquire Lee Daniels’ The United States vs. Billie Holiday.
The movie, which stars Andra Day as the legendary jazz singer, is currently scheduled for a theatrical release by Paramount on February 26, 2021, in time for this year’s Oscar season eligibility. However, sources say that deal with the Melrose Ave. studio never closed, and it hasn’t been determined yet whether a Paramount theatrical release will be part of the new deal with Hulu. Details of the deal are not final, but it is expected that Hulu will qualify the film for awards season, which is what Daniels wants. Paramount has trailers ready to go and even worked with the production on re-shoots.
CAA Media Finance is brokering the deal for The United States vs. Billie Holiday. I understand that the new deal is more...
The movie, which stars Andra Day as the legendary jazz singer, is currently scheduled for a theatrical release by Paramount on February 26, 2021, in time for this year’s Oscar season eligibility. However, sources say that deal with the Melrose Ave. studio never closed, and it hasn’t been determined yet whether a Paramount theatrical release will be part of the new deal with Hulu. Details of the deal are not final, but it is expected that Hulu will qualify the film for awards season, which is what Daniels wants. Paramount has trailers ready to go and even worked with the production on re-shoots.
CAA Media Finance is brokering the deal for The United States vs. Billie Holiday. I understand that the new deal is more...
- 12/24/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Jonathan Kier hails indie buyer response during ”incredibly productive” market.
Sierra/Affinity has finalised a raft of major territory deals on its Cannes virtual market slate in the latest encouraging show of strength by independent international buyers.
Sierra/Affinity president Jonathan Kier noted a “robust and enthusiastic” reaction from distributors to The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, Arthur The King, and Greatest Days.
Rights to Lee Daniels’ The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, which is in post-production and will get an Oscar-qualifying Us release via Paramount in the upcoming awards cycle, have gone to eOne in the UK and Spain,...
Sierra/Affinity has finalised a raft of major territory deals on its Cannes virtual market slate in the latest encouraging show of strength by independent international buyers.
Sierra/Affinity president Jonathan Kier noted a “robust and enthusiastic” reaction from distributors to The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, Arthur The King, and Greatest Days.
Rights to Lee Daniels’ The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, which is in post-production and will get an Oscar-qualifying Us release via Paramount in the upcoming awards cycle, have gone to eOne in the UK and Spain,...
- 7/13/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Paramount Pictures on Wednesday acquired the rights to release Lee Daniels’ next film, “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday,” a biographical film that stars Andra Day as the legendary jazz singer, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
The movie follows Holiday as she’s being targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics in an undercover sting operation led by federal agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. The film is inspired by Holiday’s life story, and “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday” examines the singer’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love.
Endeavor Content sold the film through the Cannes virtual market after Sierra/Affinity presented a preview of the film to international buyers.
Also Read: Lee Daniels to Direct Superhero Comic 'Stealth' From 'Walking Dead' Creators at Universal
Day stars alongside Natasha Lyonne, Garrett Hedlund, Trevante Rhodes and Da’Vine Joy Randolph...
The movie follows Holiday as she’s being targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics in an undercover sting operation led by federal agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. The film is inspired by Holiday’s life story, and “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday” examines the singer’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love.
Endeavor Content sold the film through the Cannes virtual market after Sierra/Affinity presented a preview of the film to international buyers.
Also Read: Lee Daniels to Direct Superhero Comic 'Stealth' From 'Walking Dead' Creators at Universal
Day stars alongside Natasha Lyonne, Garrett Hedlund, Trevante Rhodes and Da’Vine Joy Randolph...
- 7/2/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Paramount Pictures has scooped up the first feature film made by director Lee Daniels in nearly a decade, “The United States vs. Billie Holiday.”
Sold by Endeavor Content in an eight-figure deal out of Cannes’ big-spending virtual market, the project follows the dramatic true story of the Federal Department of Narcotics targeting the jazz legend with a sting operation. Sierra Affinity brought the project to market.
Grammy winner Andra Day stars as Holiday, with supporting turns from Trevante Rhodes (“Moonlight”), Garrett Hedlund (“Country Strong”) and Natasha Lyonne.
“One of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, Holiday spent much of her career being adored by fans across the globe, all while federal agents targeted her with an undercover sting operation aimed at prohibiting her from singing the controversial song ‘Strange Fruit,'” read a sales announcement obtained by Variety. The song is widely known as a “call to action that...
Sold by Endeavor Content in an eight-figure deal out of Cannes’ big-spending virtual market, the project follows the dramatic true story of the Federal Department of Narcotics targeting the jazz legend with a sting operation. Sierra Affinity brought the project to market.
Grammy winner Andra Day stars as Holiday, with supporting turns from Trevante Rhodes (“Moonlight”), Garrett Hedlund (“Country Strong”) and Natasha Lyonne.
“One of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, Holiday spent much of her career being adored by fans across the globe, all while federal agents targeted her with an undercover sting operation aimed at prohibiting her from singing the controversial song ‘Strange Fruit,'” read a sales announcement obtained by Variety. The song is widely known as a “call to action that...
- 7/2/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Drama to chronicle celebrated jazz singer’s struggles with fame, addiction, love.
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in what was believed to be a deal in the region of $8m on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in...
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in what was believed to be a deal in the region of $8m on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Drama to chronicle celebrated jazz singer’s struggles with fame, addiction, love.
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the high seven figures on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in the Us...
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the high seven figures on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in the Us...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Drama to chronicle celebrated jazz singer’s struggles with fame, addiction, love.
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the $8m region on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity were fielding multiple international offers on the drama at time of writing. That company and Endeavor Content, who jointly represented Us rights with executive producer Cassian Elwes, introduced the project to buyers last week. Other buyers including 101 Studios had been circling Us rights.
The timely story...
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the $8m region on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity were fielding multiple international offers on the drama at time of writing. That company and Endeavor Content, who jointly represented Us rights with executive producer Cassian Elwes, introduced the project to buyers last week. Other buyers including 101 Studios had been circling Us rights.
The timely story...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Another major sale coming out of the Virtual Cannes Market. Paramount Pictures has won North American rights to The United States Vs. Bilie Holiday, with Lee Daniels directing, producing, co-writing the script on the legendary jazz singer. Andra Day (Marshall) plays the iconic singer and Suzan-Lori Parkes wrote the script. Studio made an 8-figure commitment. It’s a big picture for Paramount at a time when the studio just as it tapped Emma Watts to be Motion Picture Group President.
The deal happened after Sierra/Affinity unveiled four minutes of footage to international buyers, and that sparked a strong pursuit by studios with Focus Features, Sony and 101 Studios, and it came down to 101 and Paramount. The picture is in post-production, and the plan is for it to be a major awards season release in the upcoming season. The international markets are expected to sell out quickly. The North...
The deal happened after Sierra/Affinity unveiled four minutes of footage to international buyers, and that sparked a strong pursuit by studios with Focus Features, Sony and 101 Studios, and it came down to 101 and Paramount. The picture is in post-production, and the plan is for it to be a major awards season release in the upcoming season. The international markets are expected to sell out quickly. The North...
- 7/2/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Sierra/Affinity is handling international sales of Lee Daniels’ “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday,” starring Andra Day as the iconic jazz singer, at the upcoming Cannes Virtual Market.
The biopic focuses on Holiday being targeted by federal agents with an undercover sting operation aimed at prohibiting her from singing her controversial 1939 song, “Strange Fruit,” which protested the lynchings of Black Americans. “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday” is inspired by the 2015 New York Time’s Bestseller “Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs” written by Johann Hari.
“With the world’s eyes forced to look at the centuries-old oppression of Black people, I hope ‘The United States Vs. Billie Holiday’ will add to this important conversation by shining a light on systemic racism and social injustice,” Daniels said. “I also feel that in this time of great reckoning it is essential we celebrate...
The biopic focuses on Holiday being targeted by federal agents with an undercover sting operation aimed at prohibiting her from singing her controversial 1939 song, “Strange Fruit,” which protested the lynchings of Black Americans. “The United States Vs. Billie Holiday” is inspired by the 2015 New York Time’s Bestseller “Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs” written by Johann Hari.
“With the world’s eyes forced to look at the centuries-old oppression of Black people, I hope ‘The United States Vs. Billie Holiday’ will add to this important conversation by shining a light on systemic racism and social injustice,” Daniels said. “I also feel that in this time of great reckoning it is essential we celebrate...
- 6/20/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
New Slate Ventures, Lee Daniels Entertainment, Roth Kirschenbaum Films among producers.
Sierra/Affinity will kick off talks next week at virtual Cannes on Lee Daniels’ Billie Holiday biopic, a timely project that addresses the Civil Rights movement as race relations dominate the headlines in the Us.
The sales agent represents international rights to The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, which will star Andra Day (Marshall) as the iconic jazz singer. Endeavor Content and executive producer Cassian Elwes, who produced Daniels’ The Butler, represent Us rights.
Trevante Rhodes (Moonlight), Garrett Hedlund, and Natasha Lyonne also star.
“With the world’s eyes...
Sierra/Affinity will kick off talks next week at virtual Cannes on Lee Daniels’ Billie Holiday biopic, a timely project that addresses the Civil Rights movement as race relations dominate the headlines in the Us.
The sales agent represents international rights to The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, which will star Andra Day (Marshall) as the iconic jazz singer. Endeavor Content and executive producer Cassian Elwes, who produced Daniels’ The Butler, represent Us rights.
Trevante Rhodes (Moonlight), Garrett Hedlund, and Natasha Lyonne also star.
“With the world’s eyes...
- 6/20/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Sierra/Affinity will handle international sales of The United States Vs. Bilie Holiday, with Lee Daniels directing, producing, co-writing the script on the legendary jazz singer. Andra Day (Marshall) plays her. Pic will be offered to buyers at Virtual Cannes Film Market.
Trevante Rhodes, Garrett Hedlund, Natasha Lyonne, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph also star.
Said Daniels: “With the world’s eyes forced to look at the centuries-old oppression of Black people, I hope The United States Vs. Billie Holiday will add to this important conversation by shining a light on systemic racism and social injustice. I also feel that in this time of great reckoning it is essential we celebrate the life and artistry of an unsung Civil Rights warrior, Billie Holiday.”
The film is being produced by New Slate Ventures, Lee Daniels Entertainment, Roth Kirschenbaum Films with Jordan Fudge, Lee Daniels, Pamela Oas Williams, Tucker Tooley, Joe Roth and Jeff Kirschenbaum.
Trevante Rhodes, Garrett Hedlund, Natasha Lyonne, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph also star.
Said Daniels: “With the world’s eyes forced to look at the centuries-old oppression of Black people, I hope The United States Vs. Billie Holiday will add to this important conversation by shining a light on systemic racism and social injustice. I also feel that in this time of great reckoning it is essential we celebrate the life and artistry of an unsung Civil Rights warrior, Billie Holiday.”
The film is being produced by New Slate Ventures, Lee Daniels Entertainment, Roth Kirschenbaum Films with Jordan Fudge, Lee Daniels, Pamela Oas Williams, Tucker Tooley, Joe Roth and Jeff Kirschenbaum.
- 6/20/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Vine personality-turned actor Melvin Gregg has joined the Lee Daniels-helmed drama The United States vs. Billie Holiday. Gregg, who can currently be seen on the third season of FX’s Snowfall series, joins Andra Day (playing Billie Holiday), Trevante Rhodes, Garrett Hedlund, Natasha Lyonne, and Evan Ross.
Miss Lawrence, who co-starred on Daniels’ Fox drama, Star, has also been added to the cast in the role of Miss Freddy.
The pic is 2015 New York Time’s bestseller Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari. Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks adapted the screenplay.
It follows Holiday’s career as she was targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics with an undercover sting operation led by black Federal Agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. It will explore Holiday’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love. Gregg will play Joe Guy,...
Miss Lawrence, who co-starred on Daniels’ Fox drama, Star, has also been added to the cast in the role of Miss Freddy.
The pic is 2015 New York Time’s bestseller Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari. Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks adapted the screenplay.
It follows Holiday’s career as she was targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics with an undercover sting operation led by black Federal Agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. It will explore Holiday’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love. Gregg will play Joe Guy,...
- 10/2/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Evan Ross, Dana Gourrier, Erik Laray Harvey Join Lee Daniels’ ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’
Exclusive: Lee Daniels has recruited Evan Ross, who recurred on his recently canceled Fox series Star, as well as Django Unchained and The Hateful Eight actress Dana Gourrier and Luke Cage‘s Erik Laray Harvey for his The United States vs. Billie Holiday feature.
Singer/songwriter Andra Day is taking on the role of the iconic jazz crooner known for classics like “Strange Fruit,” “I’ll Be Seeing You,” and “God Bless the Child.” Trevante Rhodes, Garrett Hedlund, Natasha Lyonne, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph will co-star.
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks penned the screenplay, which is inspired by the 2015 New York Time’s bestseller Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari.
The film, which hails from New Slate Ventures, Lee Daniels Entertainment, and Roth Kirschenbaum Films, will chronicle Holiday’s career as she was targeted by the Federal Department of...
Singer/songwriter Andra Day is taking on the role of the iconic jazz crooner known for classics like “Strange Fruit,” “I’ll Be Seeing You,” and “God Bless the Child.” Trevante Rhodes, Garrett Hedlund, Natasha Lyonne, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph will co-star.
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks penned the screenplay, which is inspired by the 2015 New York Time’s bestseller Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari.
The film, which hails from New Slate Ventures, Lee Daniels Entertainment, and Roth Kirschenbaum Films, will chronicle Holiday’s career as she was targeted by the Federal Department of...
- 9/25/2019
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Natasha Lyonne, Garrett Hedlund and Trevante Rhodes are set to join the cast of Lee Daniels’ biopic on the life of Billie Holliday starring Andra Day, it was announced Tuesday.
“The United States vs. Billie Holliday” will be Daniels’ next film, and it will go into production early next month in Montreal.
The movie follows the legendary jazz musician and singer Holliday as she’s being targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics in an undercover sting operation led by federal agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. Inspired by her life story, “The United States vs. Billie Holliday” examines Holliday’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love.
Also Read: Lee Daniels 'Is Right' - Jussie Smollett Will Not Return for 'Empire' Final Season, Fox Chief Says
“It is an extraordinary responsibility to tell the story of the iconic Billie Holiday. Her story is...
“The United States vs. Billie Holliday” will be Daniels’ next film, and it will go into production early next month in Montreal.
The movie follows the legendary jazz musician and singer Holliday as she’s being targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics in an undercover sting operation led by federal agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. Inspired by her life story, “The United States vs. Billie Holliday” examines Holliday’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love.
Also Read: Lee Daniels 'Is Right' - Jussie Smollett Will Not Return for 'Empire' Final Season, Fox Chief Says
“It is an extraordinary responsibility to tell the story of the iconic Billie Holiday. Her story is...
- 9/17/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Deadline has learned that Lee Daniels is set to go into production next month in Montreal on The United States vs. Billie Holiday, a project he will direct and produce about the legendary jazz singer.
The pic follows Holiday (played by multi Grammy and NAACP nominee singer-songwriter Andra Day) during her career as she is targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics with an undercover sting operation led by black Federal Agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. The pic will intimately examine Holiday’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love.
Joining Day are Bird Box and Moonlight actor Trevante Rhodes, Mudbound and Tron actor Garrett Hedlund, and Russian Doll and Orange Is the New Black actress Natasha Lyonne and Dolemite Is My Name actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph.
“It is an extraordinary responsibility to tell the story of the iconic Billie Holiday. Her story...
The pic follows Holiday (played by multi Grammy and NAACP nominee singer-songwriter Andra Day) during her career as she is targeted by the Federal Department of Narcotics with an undercover sting operation led by black Federal Agent Jimmy Fletcher, with whom she had a tumultuous affair. The pic will intimately examine Holiday’s struggles with addiction, fame and heartbreaking love.
Joining Day are Bird Box and Moonlight actor Trevante Rhodes, Mudbound and Tron actor Garrett Hedlund, and Russian Doll and Orange Is the New Black actress Natasha Lyonne and Dolemite Is My Name actress Da’Vine Joy Randolph.
“It is an extraordinary responsibility to tell the story of the iconic Billie Holiday. Her story...
- 9/17/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The cancellation of musical drama Star was a “tough choice” for Fox but came as it wanted to give Empire the “send-off it deserves”.
Fox Entertainment CEO Charlie Collier told Deadline that the Star cancellation was tied in to the fact that it wanted to prioritize Empire as it moves into its sixth and final season.
Speaking on Fox’s upfronts press call, Collier said, “We looked at our priorities and were trying to prioritize giving Empire the send-off it deserves. The move [of Empire] to 9pm, made it a challenge because Star was always the lead-out from Empire and obviously we don’t have the 10pm hour, so it was another tough choice in a year where we were prioritizing Empire and obviously some of the other shows that we’ve put on the schedule.”
The first three seasons of Empire aired on Fox at Wednesday at 9pm before moving to...
Fox Entertainment CEO Charlie Collier told Deadline that the Star cancellation was tied in to the fact that it wanted to prioritize Empire as it moves into its sixth and final season.
Speaking on Fox’s upfronts press call, Collier said, “We looked at our priorities and were trying to prioritize giving Empire the send-off it deserves. The move [of Empire] to 9pm, made it a challenge because Star was always the lead-out from Empire and obviously we don’t have the 10pm hour, so it was another tough choice in a year where we were prioritizing Empire and obviously some of the other shows that we’ve put on the schedule.”
The first three seasons of Empire aired on Fox at Wednesday at 9pm before moving to...
- 5/13/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Actress and singer Jude Demorest shared a heartfelt message with fans Friday night following the cancellation of her Fox series Star.
“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you,” tweeted Demorest, who played Star Davis on the series. Her post included photos with some of the other actors on the show and an additional message to viewers.
“To every one of you who laughed, cried, sang & danced with us. Thank you. For the best three years. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart,” she wrote.
thank you. thank you. thank you. pic.twitter.com/K1tetqG98Q
— Jude (@wordtoJude) May 11, 2019
Ryan Destiny, who co-starred as up-and-coming singer Alexandra on the series, also took to Twitter Friday night to thank viewers for tuning in. “To the fans, we love you,” she tweeted along with a photo of the cast sharing an embrace.
To the fans, we love you. pic.twitter.com/q...
“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you,” tweeted Demorest, who played Star Davis on the series. Her post included photos with some of the other actors on the show and an additional message to viewers.
“To every one of you who laughed, cried, sang & danced with us. Thank you. For the best three years. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart,” she wrote.
thank you. thank you. thank you. pic.twitter.com/K1tetqG98Q
— Jude (@wordtoJude) May 11, 2019
Ryan Destiny, who co-starred as up-and-coming singer Alexandra on the series, also took to Twitter Friday night to thank viewers for tuning in. “To the fans, we love you,” she tweeted along with a photo of the cast sharing an embrace.
To the fans, we love you. pic.twitter.com/q...
- 5/11/2019
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
“Star” has been canceled after three seasons at Fox.
The musical drama from Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy told the story of three girls’ rise to fame. It starred Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Queen Latifah, Quincy Brown and Amiyah Scott.
Daniels, Pamela Oas Williams and Karin Gist were executive producers; Gist was also the showrunner. The series was a production of 20th Century Fox Television in association with Lee Daniels Entertainment.
The show was one of two Daniels had at Fox, the other being “Empire.” “Empire” was recently renewed for a sixth season despite the controversy surrounding series star Jussie Smollett. Smollet’s contract with the show has been extended but there are currently no plans for him to return for the show’s new season.
Earlier today, Fox also canceled freshman drama “The Passage” and comedy “The Cool Kids,” while “Lethal Weapon” was also canceled after three seasons.
The musical drama from Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy told the story of three girls’ rise to fame. It starred Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Queen Latifah, Quincy Brown and Amiyah Scott.
Daniels, Pamela Oas Williams and Karin Gist were executive producers; Gist was also the showrunner. The series was a production of 20th Century Fox Television in association with Lee Daniels Entertainment.
The show was one of two Daniels had at Fox, the other being “Empire.” “Empire” was recently renewed for a sixth season despite the controversy surrounding series star Jussie Smollett. Smollet’s contract with the show has been extended but there are currently no plans for him to return for the show’s new season.
Earlier today, Fox also canceled freshman drama “The Passage” and comedy “The Cool Kids,” while “Lethal Weapon” was also canceled after three seasons.
- 5/10/2019
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Fox’s music drama Star has been canceled after three seasons. Its producing studio, former Fox sibling 20th Century Fox TV, is already shopping it to other platforms.
Star’s cancellation is not unexpected. As we noted in our story yesterday on Fox’s decision to pick up four new drama series, with a fifth pending, the move did not bode well for the network’s bubble dramas Star, Lethal Weapon and The Passage. All of them were canceled today.
Created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star followed three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The series spent most of its run paired with Fox’s hip-hop family drama Empire. Family soap pilot Filthy Rich, whose series pickup at Fox is pending, is being eyed as a companion for Empire.
Star, which...
Star’s cancellation is not unexpected. As we noted in our story yesterday on Fox’s decision to pick up four new drama series, with a fifth pending, the move did not bode well for the network’s bubble dramas Star, Lethal Weapon and The Passage. All of them were canceled today.
Created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star followed three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The series spent most of its run paired with Fox’s hip-hop family drama Empire. Family soap pilot Filthy Rich, whose series pickup at Fox is pending, is being eyed as a companion for Empire.
Star, which...
- 5/10/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Lee Daniels has picked a new President for the TV arm of his production company and to run his Inclusion Fund.
Moving up from Head of Development for Lee Daniels Entertainment, to boss of Lee Daniels Television, Marc Velez will now run point on all new smalls screen projects for the Oscar nominee’s shingle, I’ve learned. At the same time, in a display of the emphasis the Empire co-creator is putting on bringing new voices and new talent into the industry, ex-Imagine and ex-Weinstein Company Svp Velez will run the Lee Daniels Inclusion Fund for his Wme-signed boss.
“It’s so boss having Marc at the helm of Lde TV” Star co-creator Daniels told Deadline today of Velez’s promotion. “He is one of the most creative minds in the game and I’m beyond proud to be working alongside another gay man of color,” added the Lee Daniels Entertainment CEO.
Moving up from Head of Development for Lee Daniels Entertainment, to boss of Lee Daniels Television, Marc Velez will now run point on all new smalls screen projects for the Oscar nominee’s shingle, I’ve learned. At the same time, in a display of the emphasis the Empire co-creator is putting on bringing new voices and new talent into the industry, ex-Imagine and ex-Weinstein Company Svp Velez will run the Lee Daniels Inclusion Fund for his Wme-signed boss.
“It’s so boss having Marc at the helm of Lde TV” Star co-creator Daniels told Deadline today of Velez’s promotion. “He is one of the most creative minds in the game and I’m beyond proud to be working alongside another gay man of color,” added the Lee Daniels Entertainment CEO.
- 4/8/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Terrence J (Think Like A Man) and Sleepy Hollow alum Lyndie Greenwood are set for recurring roles in the upcoming third season of Fox’s music drama series Star.
Terrence J will play Ryan French, a celebrity host who has a big following, but he wants to use his platform to effect social change. Greenwood will portray Megan Jetter, stunning and sophisticated, friendly yet fearless, she is a lawyer who just set up her own firm back in town. After a failed marriage, there is a stiffness beneath her warmth. Business is business.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The large ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Brandy Norwood, Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, William Levy,...
Terrence J will play Ryan French, a celebrity host who has a big following, but he wants to use his platform to effect social change. Greenwood will portray Megan Jetter, stunning and sophisticated, friendly yet fearless, she is a lawyer who just set up her own firm back in town. After a failed marriage, there is a stiffness beneath her warmth. Business is business.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The large ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Brandy Norwood, Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, William Levy,...
- 9/11/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) today announced more than $123.6 million has been pledged collectively so far in connection with the star-studded Sept. 7 “roadblock” fundraising telecast in the United States and Canada.
The funds pledged toward the SU2C scientific model will be directed to collaborative research programs utilizing SU2C’s scientific oversight in both the United States and Canada.
“Having more than 70 broadcast and cable networks and streaming and social platforms donate the time to air the show is record-breaking for SU2C, and we are profoundly grateful for their commitment,” said Sherry Lansing, a member of the Stand Up To Cancer Council of Founders and Advisors (Cfa) and member and past chairperson of the board of directors of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization of which Stand Up To Cancer is a division. “This was our best-ever fundraising special. The more than $123.6 million pledged will...
The funds pledged toward the SU2C scientific model will be directed to collaborative research programs utilizing SU2C’s scientific oversight in both the United States and Canada.
“Having more than 70 broadcast and cable networks and streaming and social platforms donate the time to air the show is record-breaking for SU2C, and we are profoundly grateful for their commitment,” said Sherry Lansing, a member of the Stand Up To Cancer Council of Founders and Advisors (Cfa) and member and past chairperson of the board of directors of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization of which Stand Up To Cancer is a division. “This was our best-ever fundraising special. The more than $123.6 million pledged will...
- 9/11/2018
- Look to the Stars
Stand Up To Cancer raised more than $123.6 million in pledges from Friday night’s starry fundraising telecast, the organization announced today. The Sept. 7 telecast was SU2C’s best-ever fundraising special.
The event, which included appearances by James Corden, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Matt Damon, Trevor Noah and Jon Hamm, among many others, aired on more than 70 broadcast and cable networks and streaming and social platforms in the United States and Canada. Money raised will go to collaborative research programs utilizing SU2C’s scientific oversight.
“Having more than 70 broadcast and cable networks and streaming and social platforms donate the time to air the show is record-breaking for SU2C,” said Sherry Lansing, a member of the Stand Up To Cancer Council of Founders and Advisors. “This was our best-ever fundraising special. The more than $123.6 million pledged will support extraordinary new research programs that will save lives.”
To date, more than $603 million...
The event, which included appearances by James Corden, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Matt Damon, Trevor Noah and Jon Hamm, among many others, aired on more than 70 broadcast and cable networks and streaming and social platforms in the United States and Canada. Money raised will go to collaborative research programs utilizing SU2C’s scientific oversight.
“Having more than 70 broadcast and cable networks and streaming and social platforms donate the time to air the show is record-breaking for SU2C,” said Sherry Lansing, a member of the Stand Up To Cancer Council of Founders and Advisors. “This was our best-ever fundraising special. The more than $123.6 million pledged will support extraordinary new research programs that will save lives.”
To date, more than $603 million...
- 9/9/2018
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Sun Records star Chad Michael Murray is heading to another music drama series with a heavily recurring role in the upcoming third season of Fox’s Star.
Murray will play Xander McPherson, an opportunistic real estate investor who is involved in a toxic relationship with Cassie Brown (Brandy Norwood). Xander plays white collar but learned his hustle on the street and knows how to use his charm and power to get what he wants.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The large ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Benjamin Bratt, Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, Michael Michele, Stephen Dorff and Luke James.
Daniels and Donaghy executive produce with Pamela Oas Williams. Karin Gist serves as showrunner and executive producer.
Murray will play Xander McPherson, an opportunistic real estate investor who is involved in a toxic relationship with Cassie Brown (Brandy Norwood). Xander plays white collar but learned his hustle on the street and knows how to use his charm and power to get what he wants.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The large ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Benjamin Bratt, Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, Michael Michele, Stephen Dorff and Luke James.
Daniels and Donaghy executive produce with Pamela Oas Williams. Karin Gist serves as showrunner and executive producer.
- 8/27/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
William Levy (Girls Trip) is joining the cast of Fox’s music drama series Star as a new series regular for the upcoming third season.
Levy will play Mateo Ferrera, a driven media mogul who can charm the devil into church. He is rich, successful, smooth as silk and married to his equal, Nina Ferrera, played by Camila Banus. Mateo makes and breaks his own rules as he sprints toward success. The first generation son of immigrant parents, he is determined to make his mark and build his legacy by any means necessary.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The large ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Benjamin Bratt, Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, Michael Michele,...
Levy will play Mateo Ferrera, a driven media mogul who can charm the devil into church. He is rich, successful, smooth as silk and married to his equal, Nina Ferrera, played by Camila Banus. Mateo makes and breaks his own rules as he sprints toward success. The first generation son of immigrant parents, he is determined to make his mark and build his legacy by any means necessary.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
The large ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Benjamin Bratt, Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny, Brittany O’Grady, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, Michael Michele,...
- 8/17/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Carlotta will be seeing more of her sister Cassie in the upcoming season of Star. Brandy Norwood, who recurred on Season 2, has been promoted to series regular for Season 3 of the Fox music drama series.
Norwood plays Carlotta’s (Queen Latifah) sister Cassie Brown. Season three, will be a “War of the Brown Sisters” as they vie for control of the Atlanta music scene.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
Daniels and Donaghy executive produce with Pamela Oas Williams. Karin Gist serves as showrunner and executive producer.
Former Moesha star Norwood is a multi-Platinum, Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress. Her additional film and TV credits include Cinderella, horror film I Still Know What You Did Last Summer and TV series The Game and America’s Got Talent.
Norwood plays Carlotta’s (Queen Latifah) sister Cassie Brown. Season three, will be a “War of the Brown Sisters” as they vie for control of the Atlanta music scene.
Co-created by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy, Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cutthroat music business.
Daniels and Donaghy executive produce with Pamela Oas Williams. Karin Gist serves as showrunner and executive producer.
Former Moesha star Norwood is a multi-Platinum, Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and actress. Her additional film and TV credits include Cinderella, horror film I Still Know What You Did Last Summer and TV series The Game and America’s Got Talent.
- 7/2/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
“Star” has been renewed for a third season at Fox.
The musical drama centered on a girl group trio trying will be returning for the 2018-19 television season.
The series stars Jude Demorest, Brittany O’Grady and Ryan Destiny as the singers of the group, with Queen Latifah as their mentor and surrogate mother. Benjamin Bratt, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, Michael Michele, Stephen Dorff and Luke James also star.
This announcement follows the renewal of Daniels’ first Fox drama, “Empire,” which is “Star’s” sister series on Wednesday nights and saw a crossover event this season. Fox has also already renewed “9-1-1,” “The Resident,” “The Gifted,” “The Orville” and “The Simpsons.” The network has also ordered new dramas “The Passage” and “Proven Innocent” to series, as well as a new comedy entitled “The Cool Kids.”
“Star” is a production of 20th Century Fox Television in association with Lee Daniels Ent.
The musical drama centered on a girl group trio trying will be returning for the 2018-19 television season.
The series stars Jude Demorest, Brittany O’Grady and Ryan Destiny as the singers of the group, with Queen Latifah as their mentor and surrogate mother. Benjamin Bratt, Amiyah Scott, Quincy Brown, Miss Lawrence, Michael Michele, Stephen Dorff and Luke James also star.
This announcement follows the renewal of Daniels’ first Fox drama, “Empire,” which is “Star’s” sister series on Wednesday nights and saw a crossover event this season. Fox has also already renewed “9-1-1,” “The Resident,” “The Gifted,” “The Orville” and “The Simpsons.” The network has also ordered new dramas “The Passage” and “Proven Innocent” to series, as well as a new comedy entitled “The Cool Kids.”
“Star” is a production of 20th Century Fox Television in association with Lee Daniels Ent.
- 5/10/2018
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Fox has given a third-season renewal to Star, its music-themed drama co-created and executive produced by Lee Daniels and Tom Donaghy.
The series is produced by 20th Century Fox TV in association with Lee Daniels Entertainment. All series renewals and new series pickups at Fox so far this season have gone to shows from the network’s current studio sibling.
Boosted by having Empire as a lead-in, Star has averaged a 1.9 adults 18-49 Live+7 rating to rank just behind 9-1-1 and Empire on the list of Fox’s highest rated series in the demo; its multi-platform audience of 7.2 million, up +71% versus its Live + Same Day delivery. While these are solid numbers, Star also is expensive to produce, and its international sales have been challenging, which made the renewal decision a bit more complex.
Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom,...
The series is produced by 20th Century Fox TV in association with Lee Daniels Entertainment. All series renewals and new series pickups at Fox so far this season have gone to shows from the network’s current studio sibling.
Boosted by having Empire as a lead-in, Star has averaged a 1.9 adults 18-49 Live+7 rating to rank just behind 9-1-1 and Empire on the list of Fox’s highest rated series in the demo; its multi-platform audience of 7.2 million, up +71% versus its Live + Same Day delivery. While these are solid numbers, Star also is expensive to produce, and its international sales have been challenging, which made the renewal decision a bit more complex.
Star follows three talented singers – running from their pasts and desperate for a new start – with ambitions of stardom,...
- 5/10/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Hollywood observed an important anniversary last week – 75 years of charitable giving under the aegis of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (Eif).
Entertainment Industry Foundation 75th Anniversary Party hosted by Tony and John Goldwyn
Credit/Copyright: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Entertainment Industry Foundation
Tony and John Goldwyn hosted the 75th anniversary celebration for the Entertainment Industry Foundation, one of Hollywood’s leading charities, which their grandfather Samuel Goldwyn helped found.
Eif was founded in 1942 by Hollywood luminaries Samuel Goldwyn, Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, Gene Kelly, Joan Crawford, Cecil B. DeMille, and the Warner brothers, to leverage the voices and creative talents of the entire entertainment industry to raise funds for vital causes. With the support of actors and executives; guild and union members; and employees of studios, networks and talent agencies, more than $1 billion has been pledged since its inception for Eif initiatives addressing important health, education and social issues.
“For 75 years,...
Entertainment Industry Foundation 75th Anniversary Party hosted by Tony and John Goldwyn
Credit/Copyright: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Entertainment Industry Foundation
Tony and John Goldwyn hosted the 75th anniversary celebration for the Entertainment Industry Foundation, one of Hollywood’s leading charities, which their grandfather Samuel Goldwyn helped found.
Eif was founded in 1942 by Hollywood luminaries Samuel Goldwyn, Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, Gene Kelly, Joan Crawford, Cecil B. DeMille, and the Warner brothers, to leverage the voices and creative talents of the entire entertainment industry to raise funds for vital causes. With the support of actors and executives; guild and union members; and employees of studios, networks and talent agencies, more than $1 billion has been pledged since its inception for Eif initiatives addressing important health, education and social issues.
“For 75 years,...
- 3/27/2018
- Look to the Stars
Fame is a trip and Lee Daniels’ new series “Star” will invite viewers to come along for the ride. Partnering with Tom Donaghy, the duo are pulling back the curtains on the gritty and dark reality of trying to make it in the music scene. Ahead of its special preview this December, a new teaser for their Fox series has just been released.
“Star” follows three talented singers (newcomers Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny and Brittany O’Grady), desperate for a new start and with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cut-throat music business on their road to success.
Read More: Taraji P. Henson: Why the ‘Empire’ Star Digs Donning Different Hats
Demorest is Star, a tough-as-nails young woman who grew up in the foster care system and decides to form a girl group with her sister Simone (O’Grady) and her best friend Alexandra (Destiny). The series also features Queen Latifah as Carlotta,...
“Star” follows three talented singers (newcomers Jude Demorest, Ryan Destiny and Brittany O’Grady), desperate for a new start and with ambitions of stardom, as they navigate the cut-throat music business on their road to success.
Read More: Taraji P. Henson: Why the ‘Empire’ Star Digs Donning Different Hats
Demorest is Star, a tough-as-nails young woman who grew up in the foster care system and decides to form a girl group with her sister Simone (O’Grady) and her best friend Alexandra (Destiny). The series also features Queen Latifah as Carlotta,...
- 10/13/2016
- by Liz Calvario
- Indiewire
Fox has given a put-pilot commitment to the Ms. Pat TV show comedy, starring comedienne Ms. Pat (Patricia Williams), who will co-executive produce. Deadline reports Empire's Lee Daniels and Brian Grazer are executive producing, with writer Alyson Fouse, Pam Williams, and Effie Brown.Ms. Pat hails from Imagine TV, Lee Daniels Entertainment, and 20th Century. It is based on the comic's stand-up as well as her forthcoming memoir, which Deadline says, "...tells the story of a most unlikely suburban mom. Her hustle and entrepreneurial spirit were forged on the mean streets of Atlanta, but she now finds herself in conservative middle America alongside her loving husband and two distinct sets of kids raised under very different circumstances."Read More…...
- 8/17/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Continuing their support for women directors, Horizon Award co-founding producers Cassian Elwes, Lynette Howell Taylor, and Christine Vachon, announced the winners of the second annual Horizon Award. Academy Award nominee Chloë Sevigny will bestow up-and-coming filmmakers Macarena Gaona, Juliette Gosselin, Shanice Malakai Johnson, and Florence Pelletier with the Horizon Award at a reception in Park City, Utah, with creative talent, producers, entertainment executives and media in attendance to celebrate these rising women directors and their achievements in independent filmmaking.
The Horizon Award ceremony and reception will take place on Sunday, January 24th, 2016 at 6:30 pm at the WireImage Portrait Studio at Village at the Lift (825 Main Street, Park City), co-hosted by Jeff Vespa.
The Horizon Award is an annual award that seeks to identify and mentor talented, up-and-coming female directors – the primary goal being to support women directors early enough in their development to help them overcome the hurdles in advancing their learning curve and careers.
In addition to the Horizon Award, the four winners will receive grants from the Adrienne Shelly Foundation. The Foundation supports the artistic achievements of female filmmakers through a series of grants that reflect Adrienne Shelly’s dedication to the art of filmmaking and her own successful transition from actress to filmmaker.
This year’s winners are:
Horizon Award First Place
Juliette Gosselin (University of Quebec in Montreal) & Florence Pelletier (Concordia University, Montreal)
Co-directors of "Mes Anges à Tête Noire"
Horizon Award Runners-Up
Macarena (Macqui) Gaona (New York University) Director of "Channel 999 and Channel 1000"
Shanice Malakai Johnson (Scottsdale Community College) Director of "End to the Suffering"
On making the announcement, Cassian Elwes said: “I’m so excited to announce the winners of the second annual Horizon Award. This year’s overwhelming number of submissions and caliber of work made it very hard indeed to pick just one winner – the jury identified one grand prize winner, and two runners-up. Additionally, we have added new partners to our already formidable team – proving that not only is the move towards gender equality in the zeitgeist, but that there are very real advocates amongst our peers. After the recent summit for systemic change (hosted by Sundance and Women in Film), I am more convinced than ever that we can make a difference and that history is on our side. I remain steadfastly committed to the idea that, one day soon, women will have exactly the same opportunities as men to direct movies.”
Franklin Leonard, Founder and CEO of The Black List and one of the award’s original advocates added: “We are passionate supporters of this award that recognizes fresh voices and perspectives in storytelling. This effort mirrors our own effort – the Black List's 500 Feminist Films project, created by our Director of Community, Kate Hagen. We look forward to mentoring the winners in the year to come.”
The jury was comprised of 38 influential directors, producers, and executives from the filmmaking community who viewed 483 short film submissions from over 200 colleges and universities world-wide, including the U.S., Canada, England, Australia, India, China, South Africa, Scotland, France, Mexico, Portugal, Columbia, Brazil, Russia, Serbia, the Ukraine, and more. This year, submissions increased by over one hundred from last year, with additional countries and universities participating. Submissions were received from Nyu, USC, UCLA, Chapman, Emerson, Penn State, Loyola Marymount, University of Wisconsin, University of Washington, Syracuse, Tcu, Ryerson (Toronto), Oxford, University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, University of Delhi, and more.
Now in its second year, the Horizon Award provides an all-expense-paid trip for the winning female college students to the Sundance Film Festival, where they will have the opportunity to present their films to some of the industry’s most influential names. The winners receive mentorship, festival access, and important introductions by Elwes, Howell, and Vachon to agents, producers, executives, festival staff, and other influencers throughout the Sundance Film Festival.
The Horizon Award was founded by producer, Cassian Elwes ("Margin Call," "All is Lost," "Dallas Buyers Club"), and Michelle Satter, Founding Director, Sundance Institute’s Feature Film Program, in response to a Sundance Institute and Women In Film Los Angeles study that revealed that only 4.2% of the top 100 films each year from 2002-2013 were directed by women. Elwes partnered with Howell ("Captain Fantastic," "Mississippi Grind," "Big Eyes," "The Place Beyond the Pines:), and Vachon ( "Goat," "Carol," "Boys Don’t Cry," "One Hour Photo," "Far From Heaven"), to create the award as an opportunity for young female directors to have mentorship and networking opportunities in conjunction with Sundance, the home of American Independent film.
You can see links for more info on the study:
Phase I and II
Phase III
Sponsors and Partners for the 2016 Horizon Award are: The Black List, CreativeFuture, The Creative Mind Group, Done To Your Taste Catering, FilmLA, Indiegogo, Mprm Communications, the Adrienne Shelly Foundation, Sundance Institute, Twitter, Verge, Vimeo, WireImage, Adina Design, and Women in Film. This impressive group has come together to support an award that they hope will continue to identify, nurture, and launch the careers of future female directors for years to come.
Full List of Jurors:
Stephanie Allain Producer ("Dear White People," "Hustle & Flow")
Dori Begley Magnolia Pictures (Svp, Acquisitions)
Amy Berg Director ("Janis: Little Girl Blue," "Deliver Us From Evil," "Prophet’s Prey")
Arianna Bocco IFC Films (Svp, Acquisitions & Co-Productions)
Robbie Brenner The Firm (Partner, President of Film)
Susan Carter Hall Painter
Amal ElWardi Zeal Media Company (Producer)
Cassian Elwes Producer ("Margin Call," "All is Lost," "Dallas Buyers Club")
Janet Grillo Director ("Jack of the Red Hearts," "Fly Away")
Poppy Hanks Macro Venture (Svp, Development & Production)
Catherine Hardwicke Director ("Miss You Already," "Red Riding Hood," "Twilight")
Lynette Howell Taylor Producer ("Captain Fantastic," "Mississippi Grind," "Big Eyes")
Liza Johnson Director ("Elvis & Nixon," "Return," "Hateship Loveship," "In the Air")
Eda Kowan Lionsgate (Svp, Acquisitions & Co-Productions)
Gina Kwon Amazon Studios (Executive, Comedy)
Helen Lee-Kim Good Universe (Partner, Head of International)
Laura Lewis CAA (Agent, Film Finance)
Alix Madigan Broad Green Pictures (Head, Creative)
Marianna Palka Actress/Director ("I’m the Same,""Always Worthy," "Good Dick")
Bruna Papandrea Pacific Standard (Producer/Partner)
Keri Putnam Sundance Institute (Executive Director)
Dee Rees Director ("Bessie," “Empire”)
Laura Rister Untitled Entertainment (Head of Production)
Rena Ronson UTA (Partner)
Michelle Satter Sundance Institute (Director, Feature Film Program)
Cathy Schulman Stx Entertainment (President & Chief Content Officer)
Lauren Selig Shake and Bake Productions (Executive Producer)
Mary Jane Skalski Producer ("The Visitor," "Mysterious Skin," "The Station Agent")
Lara Thompson E1 Entertainment (Svp, Worldwide Acquisitions)
Christine Vachon Producer ("Goat," "Carol," "Boys Don’t Cry")
Ruth Vitale CreativeFuture (CEO)
Angie Wang Director ("Cardinal X")
Hanna Weg Producer ("Septembers of Shiraz")
Tanya Wexler Director ("Hysteria," "Finding North," "Ball in the House")
Joanne Wiles ICM (Partner/Agent, Motion Picture Talent)
Pam Williams Pam Williams Productions ("Lee Daniels’ The Butler," "Fail Safe")
Lisa Wilson The Solution Entertainment (Co-Founder/Partner)
So Yong Kim Director ("Love Song," "For Ellen," "In Between Days")...
The Horizon Award ceremony and reception will take place on Sunday, January 24th, 2016 at 6:30 pm at the WireImage Portrait Studio at Village at the Lift (825 Main Street, Park City), co-hosted by Jeff Vespa.
The Horizon Award is an annual award that seeks to identify and mentor talented, up-and-coming female directors – the primary goal being to support women directors early enough in their development to help them overcome the hurdles in advancing their learning curve and careers.
In addition to the Horizon Award, the four winners will receive grants from the Adrienne Shelly Foundation. The Foundation supports the artistic achievements of female filmmakers through a series of grants that reflect Adrienne Shelly’s dedication to the art of filmmaking and her own successful transition from actress to filmmaker.
This year’s winners are:
Horizon Award First Place
Juliette Gosselin (University of Quebec in Montreal) & Florence Pelletier (Concordia University, Montreal)
Co-directors of "Mes Anges à Tête Noire"
Horizon Award Runners-Up
Macarena (Macqui) Gaona (New York University) Director of "Channel 999 and Channel 1000"
Shanice Malakai Johnson (Scottsdale Community College) Director of "End to the Suffering"
On making the announcement, Cassian Elwes said: “I’m so excited to announce the winners of the second annual Horizon Award. This year’s overwhelming number of submissions and caliber of work made it very hard indeed to pick just one winner – the jury identified one grand prize winner, and two runners-up. Additionally, we have added new partners to our already formidable team – proving that not only is the move towards gender equality in the zeitgeist, but that there are very real advocates amongst our peers. After the recent summit for systemic change (hosted by Sundance and Women in Film), I am more convinced than ever that we can make a difference and that history is on our side. I remain steadfastly committed to the idea that, one day soon, women will have exactly the same opportunities as men to direct movies.”
Franklin Leonard, Founder and CEO of The Black List and one of the award’s original advocates added: “We are passionate supporters of this award that recognizes fresh voices and perspectives in storytelling. This effort mirrors our own effort – the Black List's 500 Feminist Films project, created by our Director of Community, Kate Hagen. We look forward to mentoring the winners in the year to come.”
The jury was comprised of 38 influential directors, producers, and executives from the filmmaking community who viewed 483 short film submissions from over 200 colleges and universities world-wide, including the U.S., Canada, England, Australia, India, China, South Africa, Scotland, France, Mexico, Portugal, Columbia, Brazil, Russia, Serbia, the Ukraine, and more. This year, submissions increased by over one hundred from last year, with additional countries and universities participating. Submissions were received from Nyu, USC, UCLA, Chapman, Emerson, Penn State, Loyola Marymount, University of Wisconsin, University of Washington, Syracuse, Tcu, Ryerson (Toronto), Oxford, University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, University of Delhi, and more.
Now in its second year, the Horizon Award provides an all-expense-paid trip for the winning female college students to the Sundance Film Festival, where they will have the opportunity to present their films to some of the industry’s most influential names. The winners receive mentorship, festival access, and important introductions by Elwes, Howell, and Vachon to agents, producers, executives, festival staff, and other influencers throughout the Sundance Film Festival.
The Horizon Award was founded by producer, Cassian Elwes ("Margin Call," "All is Lost," "Dallas Buyers Club"), and Michelle Satter, Founding Director, Sundance Institute’s Feature Film Program, in response to a Sundance Institute and Women In Film Los Angeles study that revealed that only 4.2% of the top 100 films each year from 2002-2013 were directed by women. Elwes partnered with Howell ("Captain Fantastic," "Mississippi Grind," "Big Eyes," "The Place Beyond the Pines:), and Vachon ( "Goat," "Carol," "Boys Don’t Cry," "One Hour Photo," "Far From Heaven"), to create the award as an opportunity for young female directors to have mentorship and networking opportunities in conjunction with Sundance, the home of American Independent film.
You can see links for more info on the study:
Phase I and II
Phase III
Sponsors and Partners for the 2016 Horizon Award are: The Black List, CreativeFuture, The Creative Mind Group, Done To Your Taste Catering, FilmLA, Indiegogo, Mprm Communications, the Adrienne Shelly Foundation, Sundance Institute, Twitter, Verge, Vimeo, WireImage, Adina Design, and Women in Film. This impressive group has come together to support an award that they hope will continue to identify, nurture, and launch the careers of future female directors for years to come.
Full List of Jurors:
Stephanie Allain Producer ("Dear White People," "Hustle & Flow")
Dori Begley Magnolia Pictures (Svp, Acquisitions)
Amy Berg Director ("Janis: Little Girl Blue," "Deliver Us From Evil," "Prophet’s Prey")
Arianna Bocco IFC Films (Svp, Acquisitions & Co-Productions)
Robbie Brenner The Firm (Partner, President of Film)
Susan Carter Hall Painter
Amal ElWardi Zeal Media Company (Producer)
Cassian Elwes Producer ("Margin Call," "All is Lost," "Dallas Buyers Club")
Janet Grillo Director ("Jack of the Red Hearts," "Fly Away")
Poppy Hanks Macro Venture (Svp, Development & Production)
Catherine Hardwicke Director ("Miss You Already," "Red Riding Hood," "Twilight")
Lynette Howell Taylor Producer ("Captain Fantastic," "Mississippi Grind," "Big Eyes")
Liza Johnson Director ("Elvis & Nixon," "Return," "Hateship Loveship," "In the Air")
Eda Kowan Lionsgate (Svp, Acquisitions & Co-Productions)
Gina Kwon Amazon Studios (Executive, Comedy)
Helen Lee-Kim Good Universe (Partner, Head of International)
Laura Lewis CAA (Agent, Film Finance)
Alix Madigan Broad Green Pictures (Head, Creative)
Marianna Palka Actress/Director ("I’m the Same,""Always Worthy," "Good Dick")
Bruna Papandrea Pacific Standard (Producer/Partner)
Keri Putnam Sundance Institute (Executive Director)
Dee Rees Director ("Bessie," “Empire”)
Laura Rister Untitled Entertainment (Head of Production)
Rena Ronson UTA (Partner)
Michelle Satter Sundance Institute (Director, Feature Film Program)
Cathy Schulman Stx Entertainment (President & Chief Content Officer)
Lauren Selig Shake and Bake Productions (Executive Producer)
Mary Jane Skalski Producer ("The Visitor," "Mysterious Skin," "The Station Agent")
Lara Thompson E1 Entertainment (Svp, Worldwide Acquisitions)
Christine Vachon Producer ("Goat," "Carol," "Boys Don’t Cry")
Ruth Vitale CreativeFuture (CEO)
Angie Wang Director ("Cardinal X")
Hanna Weg Producer ("Septembers of Shiraz")
Tanya Wexler Director ("Hysteria," "Finding North," "Ball in the House")
Joanne Wiles ICM (Partner/Agent, Motion Picture Talent)
Pam Williams Pam Williams Productions ("Lee Daniels’ The Butler," "Fail Safe")
Lisa Wilson The Solution Entertainment (Co-Founder/Partner)
So Yong Kim Director ("Love Song," "For Ellen," "In Between Days")...
- 1/22/2016
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
In a film market that is more difficult to read than ever, independent filmmakers are finding themselves with countless options for financing and distributing their films. But just because there are more options, that doesn't mean things are easier. Read More: The 7 Dirty Secrets of Film Financing At the recent Middleburg Film Festival, moderator John Horn, host of Kpcc’s "The Frame," sat down with Rick Allen, CEO of SnagFilms, producers Pam Williams ("Lee Daniel's The Butler"), George Parra ("American Hustle") and Mark Sennet, financier and producer William Hasselberger and actress and producer Bo Derek to talk tips and tricks for financing your film and getting it seen in an increasingly competitive market. Start with the story. "I think it’s all about the script," said Williams. "It's all about the elements of the film that hopefully come together before you pitch. It's about the thematics. What does...
- 11/6/2015
- by Aubrey Page
- Indiewire
(Cbr) Eurythmics member and record producer Dave Stewart will begin production on a film adaptation of his Virgin Comics graphic novel "Zombie Broadway," Deadline reports. Described as a “horror musical,” "Zombie Broadway" lives up to the promise of its eye-catching title: usical theater actors fight off waves of the undead with the power of song. The 2008 graphic novel was created by Stewart along with David Harris and co-writer Christine Schenley. The film has already found a screenwriter and director in Cole Haddon (NBC’s "Dracula") and acclaimed music video director Jonas Akerlund, respectively. “I’ve always been obsessed with the idea of film married with a story and music,” Stewart said. “Jonas [Akerlund] has shot loads of music videos, but one of the first ones that caught my attention was ‘Smack My Bitch Up.’ I was not let down when I met him, not only with his wild imagination but his...
- 9/27/2014
- by Brett White, Comic Book Resources
- Hitfix
Exclusive: Eurythmics co-creator and record producer Dave Stewart is moving forward on Zombie Broadway, a feature adaptation of his 2008 Virgin Comics graphic novel about an undead uprising on the Great White Way. Along with The Butler producers Pam Williams and David Jacobson, Stewart has tapped Cole Haddon (NBC’s Dracula) to script and Spun helmer Jonas Akerlund to direct the horror musical in which a group of Broadway performers battle zombies with the power of showtunes. Start-up financing firm First Artist Ventures secured early development financing for the project and producers are taking the script to financiers and talent with the aim of filming in 2015.
Stewart created the original Zombie Broadway graphic novel with David Harris and Christine Schenley. He’ll executive produce the musical, described as The Rocky Horror Picture Show meets Bullets Over Broadway, and has already written the music with Michael Bradford. During his three-decade career the...
Stewart created the original Zombie Broadway graphic novel with David Harris and Christine Schenley. He’ll executive produce the musical, described as The Rocky Horror Picture Show meets Bullets Over Broadway, and has already written the music with Michael Bradford. During his three-decade career the...
- 9/25/2014
- by Jen Yamato
- Deadline
The 45th Annual NAACP Image Awards went off without a hitch earlier this evening (February 22) with "12 Years a Slave" continuing to make waves snagging the biggest prize of the night.
Before her film won Outstanding Motion Picture, the gorgeous Lupita Nyong'o added another piece of hardware to her already impressive collection taking home a trophy for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture, while Kerry Washington snagged up her second Image Award with a win for Best Actress in a Dramatic Series. Kerry's show "Scandal" also won Outstanding Drama Series.
In addition, the hilarious Kevin Hart took home Entertainer of the Year, while Oprah Winfrey paid tribute to the late Nelson Mandela with a touching speech and musical dedication.
"He was everything we have all have heard and more. He was humble and he was unscathed by any kind of bitterness after all that we know he's been through," Winfrey said.
Before her film won Outstanding Motion Picture, the gorgeous Lupita Nyong'o added another piece of hardware to her already impressive collection taking home a trophy for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture, while Kerry Washington snagged up her second Image Award with a win for Best Actress in a Dramatic Series. Kerry's show "Scandal" also won Outstanding Drama Series.
In addition, the hilarious Kevin Hart took home Entertainer of the Year, while Oprah Winfrey paid tribute to the late Nelson Mandela with a touching speech and musical dedication.
"He was everything we have all have heard and more. He was humble and he was unscathed by any kind of bitterness after all that we know he's been through," Winfrey said.
- 2/23/2014
- GossipCenter
Top producers and scribes take center stage in The Hollywood Reporter's Producers and Writers Roundtables, which air starting at 7 p.m. tonight on PBS SoCaL as part of a holiday television event. THR's Stephen Galloway and Matthew Belloni sat down for an open conversation with Lone Survivor's Mark Wahlberg, American Hustle’s Charles Roven, Lee Daniels’ The Butler’s Pam Williams, Captain Phillips’ Michael De Luca, 12 Years a Slave’s Dede Gardner and Gravity’s David Heyman that included discussions about collaborating with A-list filmmakers, renegotiating with talent for sequels, and personally and professionally handling the unexpected exit of a lead (The Dark Knight’s Heath Ledger, Harry Potter’s Richard Harris, Fifty Shades of Grey’s Charlie Hunnam).
read more...
read more...
- 12/30/2013
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Hollywood Reporter has released their latest Oscar season roundtable video and this time the producers are front and center and among the participants you have Michael De Luca (Captain Phillips, Fifty Shades of Grey), David Heyman (Gravity), Charles Roven (American Hustle, Man of Steel), Pam Williams (Lee Daniels' The Butler) and Dede Gardner (12 Years a Slave, World War Z). Obviously one of the topics is money and they also get into the role of a producer right off the bat, but I found it interesting when Michael De Luca started discussing the casting process for Fifty Shades of Grey and fan reactions and their expectations for the character. He admits to being on Twitter and interacting with fans, but in the end says of the book by E.L. James that she had written a fantasy and no man could ever fulfill the image the fans had in their minds.
- 11/21/2013
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
The Hollywood Reporter's been doing a great job with their annual Roundtable video series, posting fascinating in depth discussions with some of this year's top screenwriters, actors and directors and cinematographers. For their Producers Roundtable, THR sat down with David Heyman ("Gravity"), Charles Roven ("American Hustle"), Mark Wahlberg, Pam Williams ("Lee Daniels' The Butler"), Michael De Luca ("Captain Phillips") and Dede Gardner ("12 Years a Slave") to talk about the ups and downs of moviemaking on a grand scale. Highlights include Roven talking about the personal toll the death of Heath Ledger took on the making of "The Dark Knight," and Wahlberg revealing how he almost fired his agent over losing "Fifty Shades of Grey" in a bidding war. Watch the discussion below:...
- 11/21/2013
- by Nigel M Smith
- Indiewire
The Hollywood Reporter's round table series continues on, today with their Producers panel. Included are Mark Wahlberg ("Lone Survivor"), Pam Williams ("The Butler"), Dede Gardner ("12 Years a Slave"), Charles Roven ("American Hustle"), Michael De Luca ("Captain Phillips") and David Heyman ("Gravity"). Interview highlights below, plus full video. On misconceptions about producers:Mark Wahlberg: For me, it's like, "Oh, you're starring in a movie, so you demanded a vanity credit." You can damn well be sure that I'm involved in every single aspect of it.Roven: …No two films are the same. Even if you're making a sequel, it's different because it's like alchemy: One different ingredient will change the whole thing. There could be more problems in the marketing or the casting, and there's always that one guy on the crew that's not exactly right, or budgets are spiraling out of control. What are you going to do? How...
- 11/21/2013
- by Beth Hanna
- Thompson on Hollywood
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