“Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” writer and performer David Steinberg pays tribute to Tom Smothers, who died Dec. 26 at age 86.
I met Tommy (and Dick) Smothers when we were performing at the Hungry I in San Francisco in the late 1960s. I did standup, and Tommy immediately wanted me to be on the show they were creating because I was a different kind of comedian — like they were. I had done a sermon, which was something I had developed at Second City. Tom and Dick, Tom especially, couldn’t get over the uniqueness of it. “Let’s put it on the air!” he said.
The second time Tommy asked me to come on the show, I did one of my sermons.
“Moses takes the shoes off his feet, approaches the burning bush, burns his feet. God goes “Aha! Third one today!” Moses swore. We are not sure what he said. There...
I met Tommy (and Dick) Smothers when we were performing at the Hungry I in San Francisco in the late 1960s. I did standup, and Tommy immediately wanted me to be on the show they were creating because I was a different kind of comedian — like they were. I had done a sermon, which was something I had developed at Second City. Tom and Dick, Tom especially, couldn’t get over the uniqueness of it. “Let’s put it on the air!” he said.
The second time Tommy asked me to come on the show, I did one of my sermons.
“Moses takes the shoes off his feet, approaches the burning bush, burns his feet. God goes “Aha! Third one today!” Moses swore. We are not sure what he said. There...
- 1/1/2024
- by David Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Tom Smothers, who with his younger brother Dick changed the face of comedy with their musical humor and The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, died Tuesday in Santa Rosa, California, following a cancer battle. The news was announced by the National Comedy Center, on behalf of Smothers’ family. He was 86.
Tom and Dick Smothers started out as folk musicians in the early ’60s, and soon discovered that, while they were not good enough to be professional musicians, the act worked if they mixed in comedy.
Dick Smothers said in a statement, “Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner. I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage – the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another.
Tom and Dick Smothers started out as folk musicians in the early ’60s, and soon discovered that, while they were not good enough to be professional musicians, the act worked if they mixed in comedy.
Dick Smothers said in a statement, “Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner. I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage – the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another.
- 12/27/2023
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Tom Smothers, one half of the Smothers Brothers musical comedy duo, died on Dec. 26 in Santa Rosa, Calif. due to cancer. He was 86.
Smothers’ younger brother and co-star of “Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” Dick Smothers announced that Tom died at home with his family.
Dick Smothers said in a statement, “Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner. I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage — the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”
Tom and Dick Smothers were known for their musical comedy act in which they performed folk songs on acoustic guitar and double bass, respectively, and bantered together. Elder brother Tom was known for his signature line,...
Smothers’ younger brother and co-star of “Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” Dick Smothers announced that Tom died at home with his family.
Dick Smothers said in a statement, “Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner. I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage — the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”
Tom and Dick Smothers were known for their musical comedy act in which they performed folk songs on acoustic guitar and double bass, respectively, and bantered together. Elder brother Tom was known for his signature line,...
- 12/27/2023
- by Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
Tom Smothers, the countercultural comedy icon admired for the 1960s variety program he created and hosted with his younger brother, Dick, and for the tenacity he displayed in frequent clashes with CBS censors, has died. He was 86.
Smothers died Tuesday at his home in Santa Rosa, California, after a battle with cancer, his brother announced in a statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter by the National Comedy Center.
“Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner,” Dick, 84, said. “I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage — the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour ran from February 1967 until April 1969, when the pair were fired after...
Smothers died Tuesday at his home in Santa Rosa, California, after a battle with cancer, his brother announced in a statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter by the National Comedy Center.
“Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner,” Dick, 84, said. “I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage — the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour ran from February 1967 until April 1969, when the pair were fired after...
- 12/27/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After 12 seasons and a staggering 24 years on the air, Larry David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” will finally bid farewell. What began as a mock, behind-the-scenes look at a fictional David putting together a new comedy special blossomed into one of the most enduring and outrageous series of all time. Although neither David nor his character would want to be sentimental, to commemorate the announcement of its imminent series finale, revisit the dozens of awards nominations it received for its first 11 seasons.
Though he would likely never describe himself as an actor, David has a long list of nominations for his acclaimed, exaggerated performance as himself. The lovable curmudgeon earned six Emmy bids for Comedy Actor in 2003, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2012 and 2018. He also racked up three Golden Globes noms in 2003, 2005 and 2006 and three SAG bids in 2006, 2010 and 2018, which demonstrates how different awards bodies have been receptive to his hilarious portrayal of his so-called “social...
Though he would likely never describe himself as an actor, David has a long list of nominations for his acclaimed, exaggerated performance as himself. The lovable curmudgeon earned six Emmy bids for Comedy Actor in 2003, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2012 and 2018. He also racked up three Golden Globes noms in 2003, 2005 and 2006 and three SAG bids in 2006, 2010 and 2018, which demonstrates how different awards bodies have been receptive to his hilarious portrayal of his so-called “social...
- 12/18/2023
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
Larry Charles’ résumé is all over the place. As a writer, he penned some of Seinfeld’s most memorable episodes (see: “The Library”). As a TV director, he skewered his industry with Curb Your Enthusiasm and Entourage. As a filmmaker, he embraced mockumentary with Borat and Brüno. But his latest entry, by his own admission, might be his most unhinged to date. He just released Dicks: The Musical, a hard-r spoof of The Parent Trap featuring telepathic sewer creatures, a disembodied CGI vagina and Megan Thee Stallion walking men on leashes like dogs. “I don’t have a legacy or body of work or anything like that, so I don’t think about stuff like that,” the Dicks director explained on the eve of its Oct. 6 theatrical launch. “I never know what I’m doing next.”
Charles is about as unassuming as a comedy icon can be, having spent four...
Charles is about as unassuming as a comedy icon can be, having spent four...
- 10/13/2023
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A group of top showrunners met today to discuss the WGA strike – a day after it emerged the studios told writer/producers were not excused from producing duties during the labor action.
The meeting was held at the WGA Theater in Beverly Hills with the likes of Damon Lindelof, Shawn Ryan, Steve Levitan, Justin Spitzer, David E. Kelley, Bill Lawrence and David Steinberg in attendance.
It comes after the majority of studios, including Warner Bros. Discovery, Disney and Paramount sent out letters to showrunners, telling them to continue to produce.
“Those studio emails have had the opposite intended effect now,” one showrunner who attended today’s gathering told Deadline. “Now we are more united, more convinced than ever that there is no non-writing aspect of what we do.”
“Scary times but writers are united,” said another who attended.
Showrunners have warned that everything they do is writing and many have...
The meeting was held at the WGA Theater in Beverly Hills with the likes of Damon Lindelof, Shawn Ryan, Steve Levitan, Justin Spitzer, David E. Kelley, Bill Lawrence and David Steinberg in attendance.
It comes after the majority of studios, including Warner Bros. Discovery, Disney and Paramount sent out letters to showrunners, telling them to continue to produce.
“Those studio emails have had the opposite intended effect now,” one showrunner who attended today’s gathering told Deadline. “Now we are more united, more convinced than ever that there is no non-writing aspect of what we do.”
“Scary times but writers are united,” said another who attended.
Showrunners have warned that everything they do is writing and many have...
- 5/6/2023
- by Peter White and Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Budd Friedman, comedy club pioneer and founder of the original Improv comedy club, has died. He was 90. Friedman died Saturday of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, his wife, Alix, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Friedman founded the original Improv in New York City in 1963, giving early career breaks to comedians and acting superstars like Jay Leno, Bette Midler, Richard Pryor and more.
He opened his second location in Hollywood in 1975, just three years after Johnny Carson moved “The Tonight Show” from New York to Los Angeles, marking the brand’s first expansion. Friedman and his partner, Mark Lonow, would go on to open 22 Improvs across 12 states before selling the company in February 2018 to Levity Entertainment Group.
His comedy clubs also helped provide a platform for superstars like Adam Sandler, Richard Lewis, Dick Cavett, David Steinberg, Steve Landesberg, David Brenner, Lily Tomlin, Freddie Prinze, Gabe Kaplan, Chris Rock,...
Friedman founded the original Improv in New York City in 1963, giving early career breaks to comedians and acting superstars like Jay Leno, Bette Midler, Richard Pryor and more.
He opened his second location in Hollywood in 1975, just three years after Johnny Carson moved “The Tonight Show” from New York to Los Angeles, marking the brand’s first expansion. Friedman and his partner, Mark Lonow, would go on to open 22 Improvs across 12 states before selling the company in February 2018 to Levity Entertainment Group.
His comedy clubs also helped provide a platform for superstars like Adam Sandler, Richard Lewis, Dick Cavett, David Steinberg, Steve Landesberg, David Brenner, Lily Tomlin, Freddie Prinze, Gabe Kaplan, Chris Rock,...
- 11/13/2022
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
Budd Friedman, the Broadway producer who founded The Improv comedy club franchise and kickstarted the careers of some of Hollywood’s biggest comic voices, died of heart failure Saturday in Los Angeles. He was 90 years old.
“The comedy world lost a giant today,” the Hollywood Improv wrote in a statement Saturday evening. “In 1963 he changed the world of comedy by creating the first comedy club for the masses to come together in laughter. In 1963 he changed the world. He went global. He was a pioneer. He was a gentleman. He was a luminary.”
The comedy world lost a giant today.
In 1963 he changed the world of comedy by creating the first comedy club for the masses to come together in laughter.
In 1963 he changed the world.
He went global.
He was a pioneer.
He was a gentleman.
He was a luminary. pic.twitter.com/l1pA38AGww
— Hollywood Improv (@HollywoodImprov...
“The comedy world lost a giant today,” the Hollywood Improv wrote in a statement Saturday evening. “In 1963 he changed the world of comedy by creating the first comedy club for the masses to come together in laughter. In 1963 he changed the world. He went global. He was a pioneer. He was a gentleman. He was a luminary.”
The comedy world lost a giant today.
In 1963 he changed the world of comedy by creating the first comedy club for the masses to come together in laughter.
In 1963 he changed the world.
He went global.
He was a pioneer.
He was a gentleman.
He was a luminary. pic.twitter.com/l1pA38AGww
— Hollywood Improv (@HollywoodImprov...
- 11/13/2022
- by Katie Reul
- Variety Film + TV
Budd Friedman, the comedy club pioneer who founded the original Improv in New York in 1963 and gave early career breaks to the likes of Jay Leno, Robert Klein, Bette Midler, Richard Pryor and Andy Kaufman, has died. He was 90.
Friedman died Saturday of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, his wife, Alix, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Three years after Johnny Carson and The Tonight Show departed Manhattan for Burbank, Friedman opened a Hollywood outpost of the Improv on Melrose Avenue in 1975 in his first expansion of the brand.
There were 22 Improvs across 12 states in February 2018 when Friedman and partner Mark Lonow sold the company to Levity Entertainment Group, whose investors included Irving Azoff.
At his flagship New York hotspot, located at West 44th Street and Ninth Avenue in Hell’s Kitchen, Friedman also employed Rodney Dangerfield as an Mc, Elayne Boosler...
Friedman died Saturday of heart failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, his wife, Alix, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Three years after Johnny Carson and The Tonight Show departed Manhattan for Burbank, Friedman opened a Hollywood outpost of the Improv on Melrose Avenue in 1975 in his first expansion of the brand.
There were 22 Improvs across 12 states in February 2018 when Friedman and partner Mark Lonow sold the company to Levity Entertainment Group, whose investors included Irving Azoff.
At his flagship New York hotspot, located at West 44th Street and Ninth Avenue in Hell’s Kitchen, Friedman also employed Rodney Dangerfield as an Mc, Elayne Boosler...
- 11/13/2022
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nrdc (Natural Resources Defense Council) will host its fifth fundraising event, “Night of Comedy” in New York presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery.
The evening will bring incredible talent together in support of Nrdc’s ongoing work to fight climate change and protect public health, while offering comic relief during these challenging times.
Nrdc’s “Night of Comedy” will pay special tribute to Nrdc Honorary Trustee and Night of Comedy Founder, Anna Scott Carter, for her tremendous service on behalf of Nrdc and its mission to safeguard the earth and the natural systems on which all life depends.
The evening’s line-up will include renowned comedians Seth Meyers and Mike Birbiglia, Michael Che, Chloe Fineman, Nick Kroll and Hasan Minhaj.
Night of Comedy founder Anna Scott Carter & Graydon Carter are joined by David & Pam Zaslav as National Co-Chairs. Other co-chairs include Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann, Claire Bernard, Jimmy and Jane Buffett,...
The evening will bring incredible talent together in support of Nrdc’s ongoing work to fight climate change and protect public health, while offering comic relief during these challenging times.
Nrdc’s “Night of Comedy” will pay special tribute to Nrdc Honorary Trustee and Night of Comedy Founder, Anna Scott Carter, for her tremendous service on behalf of Nrdc and its mission to safeguard the earth and the natural systems on which all life depends.
The evening’s line-up will include renowned comedians Seth Meyers and Mike Birbiglia, Michael Che, Chloe Fineman, Nick Kroll and Hasan Minhaj.
Night of Comedy founder Anna Scott Carter & Graydon Carter are joined by David & Pam Zaslav as National Co-Chairs. Other co-chairs include Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann, Claire Bernard, Jimmy and Jane Buffett,...
- 9/2/2022
- Look to the Stars
Nrdc (Natural Resources Defense Council) will host its fifth fundraising event, “Night of Comedy”, on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at Cipriani South Street, Casa Cipriani in New York.
The evening will pay special tribute to Nrdc Honorary Trustee and Night of Comedy Founder, Anna Scott Carter, for her tremendous service on behalf of Nrdc and its mission.
“Anna Scott Carter has helped shape a better future for us all,” said Manish Bapna, president and CEO of Nrdc. “She has dedicated much of her life to developing bold and creative strategies to broaden environmental awareness and bring about change. Her innovation and commitment to protecting our planet are only matched by the overwhelming warmth, joy, and generosity she brings to the table every day. We are fortunate to have her as part of our Nrdc family.”
Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the evening’s line-up will include renowned comedians Seth Meyers and Hasan Minhaj,...
The evening will pay special tribute to Nrdc Honorary Trustee and Night of Comedy Founder, Anna Scott Carter, for her tremendous service on behalf of Nrdc and its mission.
“Anna Scott Carter has helped shape a better future for us all,” said Manish Bapna, president and CEO of Nrdc. “She has dedicated much of her life to developing bold and creative strategies to broaden environmental awareness and bring about change. Her innovation and commitment to protecting our planet are only matched by the overwhelming warmth, joy, and generosity she brings to the table every day. We are fortunate to have her as part of our Nrdc family.”
Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the evening’s line-up will include renowned comedians Seth Meyers and Hasan Minhaj,...
- 7/27/2022
- Look to the Stars
Earlier this week, Nrdc (Natural Resources Defense Council) hosted its first-ever Los Angeles fundraising comedy event, “Night of Comedy” at NeueHouse Hollywood.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepts an award onstage during the Nrdc Night of Comedy Benefit
Credit/Copyright: Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Nrdc
The evening honored Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, producer and Nrdc Trustee Julia Louis Dreyfus for her extraordinary commitment and service to the planet.
Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the evening’s line-up included renowned comedians Nicole Byer, Pete Holmes, Leslie Jones, Nick Kroll and Tig Notaro, all of whom came together in support of Nrdc’s on-going work to fight climate change and protect public health. The evening helped to raise awareness for the need to keep fighting for our future—but offer welcome comic relief during these challenging times. Other notable guests included Tony Hale, Baratunde Thurston, Mitch Glazer, Kelly Lynch, Brian Grazer, among others.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepts an award onstage during the Nrdc Night of Comedy Benefit
Credit/Copyright: Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Nrdc
The evening honored Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, producer and Nrdc Trustee Julia Louis Dreyfus for her extraordinary commitment and service to the planet.
Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the evening’s line-up included renowned comedians Nicole Byer, Pete Holmes, Leslie Jones, Nick Kroll and Tig Notaro, all of whom came together in support of Nrdc’s on-going work to fight climate change and protect public health. The evening helped to raise awareness for the need to keep fighting for our future—but offer welcome comic relief during these challenging times. Other notable guests included Tony Hale, Baratunde Thurston, Mitch Glazer, Kelly Lynch, Brian Grazer, among others.
- 6/10/2022
- Look to the Stars
Nrdc (Natural Resources Defense Council) will host its fundraising comedy event, “Night of Comedy” in Los Angeles for the first time, on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at NeueHouse Hollywood.
The evening will honor Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, producer and Nrdc Trustee Julia Louis-Dreyfus for her extraordinary commitment and service to the planet.
“In this critical year for climate progress—the support of these comedy all-stars is more important than ever,” said Manish Bapna, president and CEO of Nrdc (Natural Resources Defense Council). “Julia is an extraordinary advocate for the planet, using her voice to raise awareness about the gravity of climate change and providing hope by highlighting solutions. She is a cherished part of the Nrdc family, and we are honored to work together to build a cleaner, healthier and more just world.”
Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the evening’s line-up will include renowned comedians Chelsea Handler, Leslie Jones,...
The evening will honor Emmy Award-winning actor, comedian, producer and Nrdc Trustee Julia Louis-Dreyfus for her extraordinary commitment and service to the planet.
“In this critical year for climate progress—the support of these comedy all-stars is more important than ever,” said Manish Bapna, president and CEO of Nrdc (Natural Resources Defense Council). “Julia is an extraordinary advocate for the planet, using her voice to raise awareness about the gravity of climate change and providing hope by highlighting solutions. She is a cherished part of the Nrdc family, and we are honored to work together to build a cleaner, healthier and more just world.”
Presented in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, the evening’s line-up will include renowned comedians Chelsea Handler, Leslie Jones,...
- 5/9/2022
- Look to the Stars
Refresh for updates… Friends, colleagues and fans have been quick to react to the news of beloved comedian and actor Gilbert Gottfried’s death today at 67.
“Rip Gilbert. Opening for Gilbert Gottfried at Carolines and Princeton Catch was one of the great thrills of my early stand up life,” wrote Jon Stewart. “He could leave you gasping for breath…just indescribably unusually hilarious…Damn.”
Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2022: Photo Gallery
“The most underrated comedian of all time, a wonderful friend, husband & father,” said comedian and director David Steinberg in a statement. “I will miss you. The world just got a lot less funny.”
“Nobody was funnier than @RealGilbert on a roll,” wrote comedian and filmmaker Judd Apatow. “He could put you into convulsive hysterics. He was also the sweetest man.”
“Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh at times when laughter did not come easily. What a gift,” wrote Seinfeld‘s Jason Alexander.
“Rip Gilbert. Opening for Gilbert Gottfried at Carolines and Princeton Catch was one of the great thrills of my early stand up life,” wrote Jon Stewart. “He could leave you gasping for breath…just indescribably unusually hilarious…Damn.”
Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2022: Photo Gallery
“The most underrated comedian of all time, a wonderful friend, husband & father,” said comedian and director David Steinberg in a statement. “I will miss you. The world just got a lot less funny.”
“Nobody was funnier than @RealGilbert on a roll,” wrote comedian and filmmaker Judd Apatow. “He could put you into convulsive hysterics. He was also the sweetest man.”
“Gilbert Gottfried made me laugh at times when laughter did not come easily. What a gift,” wrote Seinfeld‘s Jason Alexander.
- 4/12/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Johnny Brown, the actor, comedian and singer best known for his role as superintendent Nathan Bookman on the popular 70s sitcom “Good Times,” died Wednesday. He was 84 years old.
Brown’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Broadway actress Sharon Catherine Brown, through a post shared on her Instagram. No further details on Brown’s death are available at this time.
“He was literally snatched out of our lives. It’s not real for us yet,” Sharon Catherine Brown wrote. “So there will be more to say but not now. Dad was the absolute best. We love him so very much.”
Prior to his sitcom stardom, Brown was a seasoned entertainment veteran, regularly performing in nightclub acts with his future wife, June Russell. Early in his career he dabbled in recording music, releasing the single “Walkin’, Talkin’, Kissin’ Doll” for Columbia Records in 1961 and “You’re Too Much in Love...
Brown’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Broadway actress Sharon Catherine Brown, through a post shared on her Instagram. No further details on Brown’s death are available at this time.
“He was literally snatched out of our lives. It’s not real for us yet,” Sharon Catherine Brown wrote. “So there will be more to say but not now. Dad was the absolute best. We love him so very much.”
Prior to his sitcom stardom, Brown was a seasoned entertainment veteran, regularly performing in nightclub acts with his future wife, June Russell. Early in his career he dabbled in recording music, releasing the single “Walkin’, Talkin’, Kissin’ Doll” for Columbia Records in 1961 and “You’re Too Much in Love...
- 3/5/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Refresh for updates… Tributes are pouring in for Oscar-winning actor, director, civil rights activist and humanitarian Sidney Poitier, who has died at age 94.
“For over 80 years, Sidney and I laughed, cried and made as much mischief as we could,” said Harry Belafonte in a statement (the two met in the mid-1940s while working at The American Negro Theatre in New York City). “He was truly my brother and partner in trying to make this world a little better. He certainly made mine a whole lot better.”
In a statement to Deadline, Denzel Washington said, “It was a privilege to call Sidney Poitier my friend. He was a gentle man and opened doors for all of us that had been closed for years. God bless him and his family.”
Sidney Poitier: A Groundbreaking Career In Pictures
Westworld actor Jeffrey Wright was among the first to share his thoughts on Poitier’s passing.
“For over 80 years, Sidney and I laughed, cried and made as much mischief as we could,” said Harry Belafonte in a statement (the two met in the mid-1940s while working at The American Negro Theatre in New York City). “He was truly my brother and partner in trying to make this world a little better. He certainly made mine a whole lot better.”
In a statement to Deadline, Denzel Washington said, “It was a privilege to call Sidney Poitier my friend. He was a gentle man and opened doors for all of us that had been closed for years. God bless him and his family.”
Sidney Poitier: A Groundbreaking Career In Pictures
Westworld actor Jeffrey Wright was among the first to share his thoughts on Poitier’s passing.
- 1/7/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Sidney Poitier, the trailblazing and iconic Black actor, director, civil rights activist and humanitarian, has died, the Bahamian Minister of Foreign Affairs announced Friday.
Details of his death were not immediately available.
The first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor — for 1964’s Lilies of the Field — Poitier was towering figure in Hollywood and beyond, starring in such classics as A Raisin in the Sun, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, In the Heat of the Night and To Sir With Love, to name a select few, while taking on a global profile for his unceasing calls for civil rights, racial equality and human dignity.
Offscreen, Poitier’s work and support for civil rights in the 1960s put him at the forefront of the movement and made him one of its most prominent public faces. He attended, along with his lifelong friend Harry Belafonte, the 1963 March on Washington,...
Details of his death were not immediately available.
The first Black actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor — for 1964’s Lilies of the Field — Poitier was towering figure in Hollywood and beyond, starring in such classics as A Raisin in the Sun, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, In the Heat of the Night and To Sir With Love, to name a select few, while taking on a global profile for his unceasing calls for civil rights, racial equality and human dignity.
Offscreen, Poitier’s work and support for civil rights in the 1960s put him at the forefront of the movement and made him one of its most prominent public faces. He attended, along with his lifelong friend Harry Belafonte, the 1963 March on Washington,...
- 1/7/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Tiffany Haddish has joined the National Comedy Center’s advisory board of the directors. She fills the seat formerly held by the late Carl Reiner.
The announcement coincides with Lucille Ball’s 110th birthday. The center is located in Ball’s hometown of Jamestown, New York.
“Comedy is a true art form — its artists deserve to be celebrated and its creative work needs to be preserved,” Haddish said on Friday morning. “I’m truly honored to be part of the National Comedy Center. Lucille Ball was an extraordinary influence on my career and my work, so to help bring her vision for this cultural institution to life is a dream come true for me.”
Lewis Black, founding chair of the advisory board, said, “On behalf of the entire advisory board, it’s a thrill to have Tiffany Haddish join us. With Tiffany’s participation, we become a more vital resource...
The announcement coincides with Lucille Ball’s 110th birthday. The center is located in Ball’s hometown of Jamestown, New York.
“Comedy is a true art form — its artists deserve to be celebrated and its creative work needs to be preserved,” Haddish said on Friday morning. “I’m truly honored to be part of the National Comedy Center. Lucille Ball was an extraordinary influence on my career and my work, so to help bring her vision for this cultural institution to life is a dream come true for me.”
Lewis Black, founding chair of the advisory board, said, “On behalf of the entire advisory board, it’s a thrill to have Tiffany Haddish join us. With Tiffany’s participation, we become a more vital resource...
- 8/6/2021
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Phish have issued a statement urging their fans get vaccinated and wear a mask when social distancing isn’t possible during the band’s upcoming summer tour.
The band’s statement arrived Wednesday, July 28th, just hours before playing their first show since February 2020 — practically a lifetime for a band that tours regularly each year. That first show, however, also happens to be at the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas, a state that’s been among the hardest hit by the latest coronavirus surge.
“[T]he best thing you can...
The band’s statement arrived Wednesday, July 28th, just hours before playing their first show since February 2020 — practically a lifetime for a band that tours regularly each year. That first show, however, also happens to be at the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas, a state that’s been among the hardest hit by the latest coronavirus surge.
“[T]he best thing you can...
- 7/28/2021
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Public Relations firm Stan Rosenfield & Associates has rebranded itself as Rmg (Rosenfield Media Group), effective Oct. 1.
The re-branding comes seven-and-a-half years after Zach Rosenfield joined PR entertainment industry vet Stan Rosenfield and expanded the company’s reach beyond talent representation to include producers, production companies, content creators, sports based ventures and corporations. The rebranding also recognizes the evolving executive structure since Zach Rosenfield joined the company, as well as the rise of Katie Feldman within the talent division and Ethan Friedman with company’s client base of producers and production companies.
Rmg is also providing consulting services for companies and institutions looking to create relationships within the entertainment industry; their first client in this space is Inc. 5000 company, Belay. Rmg has hired Amanda Sprague to oversee the firm’s corporate strategies, and work closely with Zach Rosenfield and Friedman on the day-to-day representations of the firm’s entertainment and business based clients.
The re-branding comes seven-and-a-half years after Zach Rosenfield joined PR entertainment industry vet Stan Rosenfield and expanded the company’s reach beyond talent representation to include producers, production companies, content creators, sports based ventures and corporations. The rebranding also recognizes the evolving executive structure since Zach Rosenfield joined the company, as well as the rise of Katie Feldman within the talent division and Ethan Friedman with company’s client base of producers and production companies.
Rmg is also providing consulting services for companies and institutions looking to create relationships within the entertainment industry; their first client in this space is Inc. 5000 company, Belay. Rmg has hired Amanda Sprague to oversee the firm’s corporate strategies, and work closely with Zach Rosenfield and Friedman on the day-to-day representations of the firm’s entertainment and business based clients.
- 9/29/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Though everybody knows Larry David as the face of and genius behind HBO’s miraculously long-enduring comedy “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” few may realize the outsized importance of David’s right-hand man Jeff Schaffer. Co-creator of “The League” and this season’s “Dave,” Schaffer began working on “Curb” 15 years ago, and now serves as a writer, director, and executive producer of the Emmy-winning series. The latter role has landed Schaffer four Emmy nominations, but a bid for his work as director has proved elusive.
For the series’ tenth season, which found David’s curmudgeon opening a coffee shop purely out of spite and facing claims of sexual harassment, Schaffer might have his best chance yet at earning a rightful nomination for directing. Compared to last year, when “Curb” was on hiatus, the competition has winnowed: “Fleabag” has wrapped, so reigning champ Harry Bradbeer will not defend his title, and “Barry” is sitting this Emmy cycle out,...
For the series’ tenth season, which found David’s curmudgeon opening a coffee shop purely out of spite and facing claims of sexual harassment, Schaffer might have his best chance yet at earning a rightful nomination for directing. Compared to last year, when “Curb” was on hiatus, the competition has winnowed: “Fleabag” has wrapped, so reigning champ Harry Bradbeer will not defend his title, and “Barry” is sitting this Emmy cycle out,...
- 6/22/2020
- by David Buchanan
- Gold Derby
Fred Willard, best known for his roles in Best in Show, This Is Spinal Tap, Everybody Loves Raymond, and Modern Family, died of natural causes at the age of 86, according to Variety.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news my father passed away very peacefully last night at the fantastic age of 86 years old,” his daughter Hope Willard tweeted on Saturday. “He kept moving, working and making us happy until the very end. We loved him so very much! We will miss him forever.”
Willard first came into national consciousness as the sidekick to Martin Mull’s host on the nightly Fernwood 2 Night. He is well known as part of the revolving troupe of actors – including Michael McKean, Harry Shearer, Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy – assembled by director Christopher Guest.
“How lucky that we all got to enjoy Fred Willard’s gifts,” Guest’s wife,...
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news my father passed away very peacefully last night at the fantastic age of 86 years old,” his daughter Hope Willard tweeted on Saturday. “He kept moving, working and making us happy until the very end. We loved him so very much! We will miss him forever.”
Willard first came into national consciousness as the sidekick to Martin Mull’s host on the nightly Fernwood 2 Night. He is well known as part of the revolving troupe of actors – including Michael McKean, Harry Shearer, Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy – assembled by director Christopher Guest.
“How lucky that we all got to enjoy Fred Willard’s gifts,” Guest’s wife,...
- 5/17/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Robin Williams' comedic legacy will live on on YouTube.
The estate of the iconic comedian -- who took his own life in 2014 -- has launched a YouTube channel that will house clips from Williams’ classic stand-up routines. The channel will also feature interviews with Williams' friends and family, with new videos uploaded every week through the month of June, Insider reports -- meaning that quarantined fans should be able to find something to keep them busy laughing for the next couple months.
Six videos are already live, including two clips from a 2002 set dubbed Robin Williams Live On Broadway, as well as an interview with fellow comedian Lewis Black and a conversation with Williams’ former manager, David Steinberg. The two-week-old venture, appropriately dubbed Robin Williams Official YouTube Chanel, was created to commemorate the Oscar winner by direct marketing company Time Life and the Robin Williams Estate. The videos also promote...
The estate of the iconic comedian -- who took his own life in 2014 -- has launched a YouTube channel that will house clips from Williams’ classic stand-up routines. The channel will also feature interviews with Williams' friends and family, with new videos uploaded every week through the month of June, Insider reports -- meaning that quarantined fans should be able to find something to keep them busy laughing for the next couple months.
Six videos are already live, including two clips from a 2002 set dubbed Robin Williams Live On Broadway, as well as an interview with fellow comedian Lewis Black and a conversation with Williams’ former manager, David Steinberg. The two-week-old venture, appropriately dubbed Robin Williams Official YouTube Chanel, was created to commemorate the Oscar winner by direct marketing company Time Life and the Robin Williams Estate. The videos also promote...
- 4/2/2020
- by Geoff Weiss
- Tubefilter.com
Netflix is bringing out its stable of comedians for the first ever Netflix Is a Joke Festival, which will be held in Los Angeles from April 27 – May 3. Among the comedians that will appear are Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, David Letterman, Jamie Foxx, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, Kevin Hart and Martin Lawrence.
“It’s our honor to transform La for one week into the funniest place on earth,” Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said. “This festival is a unique celebration of the art of comedy, and the role it plays in reflecting our lives and defining culture. It’s a chance for comedy lovers to come together and see their favorite artists as well as discover new ones, and for us to be able to share the electricity and excitement of the festival in Los Angeles with Netflix members around the world.”
Also Read: Netflix...
“It’s our honor to transform La for one week into the funniest place on earth,” Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said. “This festival is a unique celebration of the art of comedy, and the role it plays in reflecting our lives and defining culture. It’s a chance for comedy lovers to come together and see their favorite artists as well as discover new ones, and for us to be able to share the electricity and excitement of the festival in Los Angeles with Netflix members around the world.”
Also Read: Netflix...
- 3/2/2020
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Get ready to laugh, Los Angeles: Netflix’s comedy brand, Netflix Is a Joke, will host a week-long comedy festival starting in April.
Entitled “Netflix Is a Joke Fest,” the festival will take place across over 20 venues in Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Bowl, Greek Theatre, Hollywood Palladium and The Largo, between April 27 and May 3. Produced by Netflix in association with Live Nation, it will feature some of the best in today’s standup performing, as well as paying homage to comedy legends.
Some of the performers taking part are Dave Chapelle, Martin Lawrence, David Letterman, Ali Wong, Wanda Sykes, Amy Schumer, Pete Davidson, Kevin Hart and more.
But more importantly for the festival, Netflix is also partnering with Comedy Gives Back, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create a safety net for comedians in need with mental health, medical and financial crisis support. During the festival, Comedy Gives...
Entitled “Netflix Is a Joke Fest,” the festival will take place across over 20 venues in Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Bowl, Greek Theatre, Hollywood Palladium and The Largo, between April 27 and May 3. Produced by Netflix in association with Live Nation, it will feature some of the best in today’s standup performing, as well as paying homage to comedy legends.
Some of the performers taking part are Dave Chapelle, Martin Lawrence, David Letterman, Ali Wong, Wanda Sykes, Amy Schumer, Pete Davidson, Kevin Hart and more.
But more importantly for the festival, Netflix is also partnering with Comedy Gives Back, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create a safety net for comedians in need with mental health, medical and financial crisis support. During the festival, Comedy Gives...
- 3/2/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is about to serve a flood of funny in Los Angeles with its Netflix is a Joke Fest, set for April 27-May 3. For one week, the streaming giant is partnering with Live Nation to bring over 100 live shows and events to various venues in L.A. with recorded shows available on the platform later this year.
Netflix Is A Joke, Netflix’s comedy brand, will present the all-star fest that will include Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, David Letterman, Jamie Foxx, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, Kevin Hart, Martin Lawrence, Sebastian Maniscalco, the cast of Schitt’s Creek and more.
In addition, the fest will feature Stand Out: An Lgbtq+ Celebration, putting the spotlight on Lgbtq+ comedic talent including Wanda Sykes Alan Carr, Hannah Gadsby, Margaret Cho, Rosie O’Donnell and Sandra Bernhard.
The fest will close on May 3 with the very first The Hall, a first-of-its-kind hall...
Netflix Is A Joke, Netflix’s comedy brand, will present the all-star fest that will include Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, David Letterman, Jamie Foxx, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, Kevin Hart, Martin Lawrence, Sebastian Maniscalco, the cast of Schitt’s Creek and more.
In addition, the fest will feature Stand Out: An Lgbtq+ Celebration, putting the spotlight on Lgbtq+ comedic talent including Wanda Sykes Alan Carr, Hannah Gadsby, Margaret Cho, Rosie O’Donnell and Sandra Bernhard.
The fest will close on May 3 with the very first The Hall, a first-of-its-kind hall...
- 3/2/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Today, there are loads of resources scattered around the web that can help newbie streamers establish themselves on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook. But when StoneMountain64 (aka David Steinberg) launched his YouTube channel and started building the foundations of his content career back in 2011, he had zero help navigating the still relatively new digital space. He had to figure out everything from the very basics, like what camera and screen recording software worked best for making gaming content, to the complicated stuff, like paying self-employment tax and negotiating brand deals, with no guidance.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
- 11/21/2019
- by James Hale
- Tubefilter.com
Tony Sokol Nov 29, 2019
Hey, you missed a spot. Martin Scorsese's The Irishman paints over some interrelated mob hits.
This article contains small The Irishman spoilers.
You have to have some knowledge of mob history to appreciate segments of The Irishman. Director Martin Scorsese is telling a very long history, based on an exhaustive book, I Heard You Paint Houses by author Charles Brandt. The biography details Frank Sheeran, played by Robert De Niro in the film, confessing to killing about 30 people. So Scorsese can be pardoned for skimming past key points, especially where Sheeran isn’t even part of a contract.
For example, Scorsese shows us a shooting in Columbus Circle. The film notes how significant the event is, but doesn’t present a full background, making it look like Joseph Colombo was killed by the African American shooter. He wasn’t. This is a necessary cut; the movie...
Hey, you missed a spot. Martin Scorsese's The Irishman paints over some interrelated mob hits.
This article contains small The Irishman spoilers.
You have to have some knowledge of mob history to appreciate segments of The Irishman. Director Martin Scorsese is telling a very long history, based on an exhaustive book, I Heard You Paint Houses by author Charles Brandt. The biography details Frank Sheeran, played by Robert De Niro in the film, confessing to killing about 30 people. So Scorsese can be pardoned for skimming past key points, especially where Sheeran isn’t even part of a contract.
For example, Scorsese shows us a shooting in Columbus Circle. The film notes how significant the event is, but doesn’t present a full background, making it look like Joseph Colombo was killed by the African American shooter. He wasn’t. This is a necessary cut; the movie...
- 11/14/2019
- Den of Geek
Tiffany Haddish and Billy Crystal will star together in the Astute Films’ comedy Here Today, a project that the latter Saturday Night Live alum will co-write and direct.
Here Today is billed as a May/September romantic comedy – but without the romance. Crystal plays veteran comedy writer Charlie Berns, who is slowly but surely losing his grip on reality. He befriends a talented young New York street singer Emma Paige played by Haddish and they form an unlikely, touching friendship that defies the generation gap aside and redefines the meaning of love and trust.
Here Today marks Crystal’s eighth time directing and his third on a feature film following Mr. Saturday Night and Forget Paris, in which he also starred. Crystal directed the HBO film 61*, starring Barry Pepper and Thomas Jane in 2001 which earned him an Emmy and Director’s Guild Nomination as Best Director for a film made for television.
Here Today is billed as a May/September romantic comedy – but without the romance. Crystal plays veteran comedy writer Charlie Berns, who is slowly but surely losing his grip on reality. He befriends a talented young New York street singer Emma Paige played by Haddish and they form an unlikely, touching friendship that defies the generation gap aside and redefines the meaning of love and trust.
Here Today marks Crystal’s eighth time directing and his third on a feature film following Mr. Saturday Night and Forget Paris, in which he also starred. Crystal directed the HBO film 61*, starring Barry Pepper and Thomas Jane in 2001 which earned him an Emmy and Director’s Guild Nomination as Best Director for a film made for television.
- 9/4/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix has partnered with comedy producer and director Marty Callner and Funny Business, Inc. for a stand-up comic tribute show entitled “The Hall: Honoring the Greats of Stand-Up,” the streamer announced Thursday.
The special will be executive produced by Callner and Randall Gladstein, partners in Funny Business, Inc., and manager/producer David Steinberg. The induction ceremony will be available on Netflix in 2020.
“Stand-up comedy is more than funny jokes — these artists shape our culture, teach us, and challenge us about the world and ourselves,” said Ted Sarandos, chief content officer, Netflix, in a statement. “We’re honored to partner with Marty, Randall, David, and everyone at the National Comedy Center as we celebrate the greats in this field, create a space for comedy lovers to come together, and share the induction ceremony with Netflix members everywhere.”
Previously, Callner directed HBO’s first ever stand-up special “An Evening with Robert Klein,...
The special will be executive produced by Callner and Randall Gladstein, partners in Funny Business, Inc., and manager/producer David Steinberg. The induction ceremony will be available on Netflix in 2020.
“Stand-up comedy is more than funny jokes — these artists shape our culture, teach us, and challenge us about the world and ourselves,” said Ted Sarandos, chief content officer, Netflix, in a statement. “We’re honored to partner with Marty, Randall, David, and everyone at the National Comedy Center as we celebrate the greats in this field, create a space for comedy lovers to come together, and share the induction ceremony with Netflix members everywhere.”
Previously, Callner directed HBO’s first ever stand-up special “An Evening with Robert Klein,...
- 6/27/2019
- by Dano Nissen
- Variety Film + TV
A new show that will honor some of stand-up comedy’s legendary performers will bow on Netflix next year and feature the first inductees into a new stand-up Hall of Fame.
The show will be titled The Hall: Honoring The Greats Of Stand-Up and will be available in 2020 on Netflix, executive produced by Marty Callner and Randall Gladstein, partners in Funny Business, Inc., and manager/producer David Steinberg. The induction ceremony for the new Stand-Up Hall will be held in Los Angeles.
The Hall of Fame itself will become a permanent part of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York.
“Stand-up comedy is more than funny jokes — these artists shape our culture, teach us, and challenge us about the world and ourselves,” said Ted Sarandos, chief content officer, Netflix. “We’re honored to partner with Marty, Randall, David, and everyone at the National Comedy Center as we celebrate the greats in this field,...
The show will be titled The Hall: Honoring The Greats Of Stand-Up and will be available in 2020 on Netflix, executive produced by Marty Callner and Randall Gladstein, partners in Funny Business, Inc., and manager/producer David Steinberg. The induction ceremony for the new Stand-Up Hall will be held in Los Angeles.
The Hall of Fame itself will become a permanent part of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York.
“Stand-up comedy is more than funny jokes — these artists shape our culture, teach us, and challenge us about the world and ourselves,” said Ted Sarandos, chief content officer, Netflix. “We’re honored to partner with Marty, Randall, David, and everyone at the National Comedy Center as we celebrate the greats in this field,...
- 6/27/2019
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix is extending its stand-up comedy brand with a ceremony honoring some of the legends of the form.
In conjunction with producer and director Marty Callner and his Funny Business Inc., the streamer in 2020 will air a special called The Hall: Honoring the Greats of Stand-Up. The inaugural hall of fame induction ceremony will be held in Los Angeles, and the hall will have a physical home in a new wing of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York — the hometown of comedy legend Lucille Ball.
Callner, Funny Business partner Randall Gladstein and David Steinberg, the longtime manager ...
In conjunction with producer and director Marty Callner and his Funny Business Inc., the streamer in 2020 will air a special called The Hall: Honoring the Greats of Stand-Up. The inaugural hall of fame induction ceremony will be held in Los Angeles, and the hall will have a physical home in a new wing of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York — the hometown of comedy legend Lucille Ball.
Callner, Funny Business partner Randall Gladstein and David Steinberg, the longtime manager ...
- 6/27/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Colleagues and former co-stars of Tim Conway came forward to pay tribute the “Carol Burnett Show” and “McHale’s Navy” star following his death on Tuesday at age 85.
“I’m heartbroken,” Burnett said in a statement to CNN. “He was one in a million, not only as a brilliant comedian but as a loving human being. I cherish the times we had together both on the screen and off. He’ll be in my heart forever.”
“The man was pure comedy. Riotously funny,” writer and producer Judd Apatow tweeted. “I finally got to see him work when he guest starred on The Larry Sanders show and he was all I dreamed he would be. As kind as he was funny. He will be missed.”
Also Read: Tim Conway, 'Carol Burnett Show' and 'SpongeBob SquarePants' Star, Dies at 85
The Emmy-winning actor died Tuesday morning in Los Angeles, and his...
“I’m heartbroken,” Burnett said in a statement to CNN. “He was one in a million, not only as a brilliant comedian but as a loving human being. I cherish the times we had together both on the screen and off. He’ll be in my heart forever.”
“The man was pure comedy. Riotously funny,” writer and producer Judd Apatow tweeted. “I finally got to see him work when he guest starred on The Larry Sanders show and he was all I dreamed he would be. As kind as he was funny. He will be missed.”
Also Read: Tim Conway, 'Carol Burnett Show' and 'SpongeBob SquarePants' Star, Dies at 85
The Emmy-winning actor died Tuesday morning in Los Angeles, and his...
- 5/14/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
This Earth month, an all-star cast of comedians will come together for the Natural Resources Defense Council's (Nrdc) Night of Comedy event, offering welcome comic relief in support of the organization’s work to protect public health and the environment in the face of ongoing assault from the Trump administration.
“This Earth Day comes while the world is at a critical juncture — experts are warning climate change’s worst impacts are much closer than expected if we don’t act big and act fast,” said Nrdc President Rhea Suh. “While the Trump administration is intent on moving our nation backwards, Nrdc remains relentless in building a better future for our children. We are honored this powerhouse group of comedians is lending their time and talent to this fight — and giving us all a chance to laugh during these challenging times.”
Presented in partnership with Discovery, Inc., the event will...
“This Earth Day comes while the world is at a critical juncture — experts are warning climate change’s worst impacts are much closer than expected if we don’t act big and act fast,” said Nrdc President Rhea Suh. “While the Trump administration is intent on moving our nation backwards, Nrdc remains relentless in building a better future for our children. We are honored this powerhouse group of comedians is lending their time and talent to this fight — and giving us all a chance to laugh during these challenging times.”
Presented in partnership with Discovery, Inc., the event will...
- 3/22/2019
- Look to the Stars
Buddy Morra, the former talent manager who at one time handled comedians as Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Robert Klein, JoAnn Worley, David Letterman, Martin Mull, Jim Carrey, Marty Short, Dana Carvey, Paula Poundstone, Dick Cavett, Woody Allen, Tom Poston, John Pizzarelli, Michael Feinsten, Michael Richards, and Jake Johannsen (among others) has died. He passed on March 19 after a long illness. He was 88.
“Buddy was the most important person in my career. He believed in me even before I did,” Billy Crystal told Deadline. “In 1974, I was with a struggling three-man comedy group, and he took me aside and said if I wanted to be a stand up that, he’d be there for me along with the highly respected Jack Rollins, Charlie Joffe and Larry Brezner. He gave me the confidence to go it alone. A humble, gentle, humorous man, we had great highs together, and a few setbacks, but...
“Buddy was the most important person in my career. He believed in me even before I did,” Billy Crystal told Deadline. “In 1974, I was with a struggling three-man comedy group, and he took me aside and said if I wanted to be a stand up that, he’d be there for me along with the highly respected Jack Rollins, Charlie Joffe and Larry Brezner. He gave me the confidence to go it alone. A humble, gentle, humorous man, we had great highs together, and a few setbacks, but...
- 3/21/2019
- by Anita Busch
- Deadline Film + TV
Seth Meyers, Mike Birbiglia, Tiffany Haddish, Hasan Minhaj, John Mulaney, John Oliver and Sarah Silverman will band together in New York City next month to save the Earth: Meyers will host the all-star “Night of Comedy” event to benefit a nonprofit organization pledged to protect the environment against the Trump administration.
Marking Earth Month, the event is set for April 30 at the New-York Historical Society to benefit the Natural Resources Defense Council. Presented in partnership with Discovery, Inc., event chairs include a roster of high-profile media and entertainment names: Graydon and Anna Carter; Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann; Claire Bernard; Jimmy and Jane Buffett; Alan Horn and Cindy Harrell Horn; Andy and Betsy Lack; Lorne and Alice Michaels; Garrett and Mary Moran; Ronald Perelman and Anna Chapman; Richard and Lisa Plepler; Josh Sapan and Ann Foley; David Steinberg and Robyn Todd Steinberg; and David and Pam Zaslav.
The announcement describes...
Marking Earth Month, the event is set for April 30 at the New-York Historical Society to benefit the Natural Resources Defense Council. Presented in partnership with Discovery, Inc., event chairs include a roster of high-profile media and entertainment names: Graydon and Anna Carter; Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann; Claire Bernard; Jimmy and Jane Buffett; Alan Horn and Cindy Harrell Horn; Andy and Betsy Lack; Lorne and Alice Michaels; Garrett and Mary Moran; Ronald Perelman and Anna Chapman; Richard and Lisa Plepler; Josh Sapan and Ann Foley; David Steinberg and Robyn Todd Steinberg; and David and Pam Zaslav.
The announcement describes...
- 3/20/2019
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Refresh for updates… Bob Einstein is being remembered by castmates, colleagues and his brother Albert Brooks as a comedian’s comedian — “excruciatingly brilliant,” as his friend and Curb Your Enthusiasm co-star Richard Lewis described him.
Series creator and star Larry David said in a statement: “Never have I seen an actor enjoy a role the way Bob did playing ‘Marty Funkhouser’ on Curb. It was an amazing, unforgettable experience knowing and working with him. There was no one like him, as he told us again and again. We’re all in a state of shock.”
Lewis and David were joined by Curb castmate Cheryl Hines and writer David Mandel in praising the “Super Dave” creator. “We lost a friend today,” tweeted Hines, “Thanks for all of the laughs on Curb Your Enthusiasm…The comedy world will miss you.”
Einstein’s longtime pal Lewis tweeted: “His long career is hard to match.
Series creator and star Larry David said in a statement: “Never have I seen an actor enjoy a role the way Bob did playing ‘Marty Funkhouser’ on Curb. It was an amazing, unforgettable experience knowing and working with him. There was no one like him, as he told us again and again. We’re all in a state of shock.”
Lewis and David were joined by Curb castmate Cheryl Hines and writer David Mandel in praising the “Super Dave” creator. “We lost a friend today,” tweeted Hines, “Thanks for all of the laughs on Curb Your Enthusiasm…The comedy world will miss you.”
Einstein’s longtime pal Lewis tweeted: “His long career is hard to match.
- 1/2/2019
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Creative Artists Agency (CAA) is expanding its reach into the gaming influencer space. The talent agency, which has long repped video game developers and publishers like Respawn and Obsidian, has signed its first-ever gamer creators: Nick Eh 30 (real name Nicholas Amyoony) and StoneMountain64 (David Steinberg).
Both Amyoony and Steinberg are top Fortnite players, Variety reports, who have racked up an impressive slate of accomplishments to date.
Steinberg is a prominent Facebook streamer who has more than 1.4 million followers on the platform, as well as 1.8 million subscribers on YouTube and 110,000 followers on Instagram. He’s known for his Yolo series, where he plays battlefield games with teams of random gamers while role-playing as a commanding officer. He placed fourth in the first-ever Fortnite Celebrity Pro-Am tournament in Los Angeles this summer, and was nominated for 'Streamer Of The Year' at the 2018 Esports Awards.
At posting time, Amyoony has 2,260 Fortnite wins, making...
Both Amyoony and Steinberg are top Fortnite players, Variety reports, who have racked up an impressive slate of accomplishments to date.
Steinberg is a prominent Facebook streamer who has more than 1.4 million followers on the platform, as well as 1.8 million subscribers on YouTube and 110,000 followers on Instagram. He’s known for his Yolo series, where he plays battlefield games with teams of random gamers while role-playing as a commanding officer. He placed fourth in the first-ever Fortnite Celebrity Pro-Am tournament in Los Angeles this summer, and was nominated for 'Streamer Of The Year' at the 2018 Esports Awards.
At posting time, Amyoony has 2,260 Fortnite wins, making...
- 12/17/2018
- by James Loke Hale
- Tubefilter.com
The Prostate Cancer Foundation (Pcf) hosted the 2018 New York Dinner at the Restaurant Daniel at 60 East 65th Street in New York City and raised $11 million dollars to support the foundation.
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo
The highly anticipated Dinner at Daniel was an exquisite culinary experience featuring a special guest performance by Grammy Award winners Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo. The memorable evening welcomed leaders in medicine, top research scientists and distinguished New York City socialites to explore refined European cuisine, world-class wines and the gracious hospitality at Restaurant Daniel in support of the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Notable attendees included: Michael Milken, Lori Milken, Dr. Jonathan Simons, Plum Simons, John Barry, Daria Barry, Bonnie Pfeifer Evans, Igor Tulchinsky, Joe Torre, Ali Torre, Rob Citrone, Cindy Citrone, Seth Bernstein, Marie Bernstein, Larry Leeds, Steven Cohen, Ted Virtue, Dani Virtue, Charles Swansen, Elizabeth Berry-Swansen, Victor Rodin, Neal Rodin, Jeff Karish, Samantha Coyne,...
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo
The highly anticipated Dinner at Daniel was an exquisite culinary experience featuring a special guest performance by Grammy Award winners Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo. The memorable evening welcomed leaders in medicine, top research scientists and distinguished New York City socialites to explore refined European cuisine, world-class wines and the gracious hospitality at Restaurant Daniel in support of the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Notable attendees included: Michael Milken, Lori Milken, Dr. Jonathan Simons, Plum Simons, John Barry, Daria Barry, Bonnie Pfeifer Evans, Igor Tulchinsky, Joe Torre, Ali Torre, Rob Citrone, Cindy Citrone, Seth Bernstein, Marie Bernstein, Larry Leeds, Steven Cohen, Ted Virtue, Dani Virtue, Charles Swansen, Elizabeth Berry-Swansen, Victor Rodin, Neal Rodin, Jeff Karish, Samantha Coyne,...
- 12/14/2018
- Look to the Stars
Steve Carell and David Steinberg are pitching their comedy interview series Inside Comedy to cable and streaming networks. The series, hosted by Steinberg and executive produced by him and Carell, ran on Showtime for seasons, from 2012 to 2015. The pay cable network has not ordered more seasons since, and the rights recently reverted to Carell and Steinberg. The duo are now trying to find a new home for the show.
Originally envisioned as a feature-length documentary, Inside Comedy went to produce 36 episodes for Showtime. It featured Steinberg interviewing such comedy greats as Billy Crystal, Don Rickles, Robin Williams, Steve Martin Julia Louis Dreyfuss, Ellen DeGeneres and Jerry Seinfeld.
Originally envisioned as a feature-length documentary, Inside Comedy went to produce 36 episodes for Showtime. It featured Steinberg interviewing such comedy greats as Billy Crystal, Don Rickles, Robin Williams, Steve Martin Julia Louis Dreyfuss, Ellen DeGeneres and Jerry Seinfeld.
- 10/26/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
David Steinberg, executive producer of “Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind” and longtime manager to Williams, watched the legendary comedian perform countless shows over the years. But one memory that sticks out occurred while his client was on a United Service Organizations tour, where Williams performed standup for hundreds of wounded servicemen and women before personally greeting each of them.
“Someone who could do that can certainly mask some of what’s going on inside of him,” Steinberg told Variety.
On the red carpet for Wednesday’s premiere of HBO’s Williams documentary at the Tcl Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, filmmakers, actors and comedians shared their on-screen and off-screen memories of Williams, who died by suicide in 2014.
Though nearly four years have passed since Williams’ death, mental health has been a widely discussed topic in recent weeks following the suicides of fashion designer Kate Spade and cooking personality Anthony Bourdain.
“Someone who could do that can certainly mask some of what’s going on inside of him,” Steinberg told Variety.
On the red carpet for Wednesday’s premiere of HBO’s Williams documentary at the Tcl Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, filmmakers, actors and comedians shared their on-screen and off-screen memories of Williams, who died by suicide in 2014.
Though nearly four years have passed since Williams’ death, mental health has been a widely discussed topic in recent weeks following the suicides of fashion designer Kate Spade and cooking personality Anthony Bourdain.
- 6/28/2018
- by Christi Carras
- Variety Film + TV
During his lifetime, Robin Williams was an iconic comedian, a talented actor and a beloved husband and father. But above all, Williams had a heart of gold. It was that specific characteristic of the late comic that was most often acknowledged by attendees at Wednesday night's Los Angeles premiere of HBO's documentary film Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind.
Hosted by actor Billy Crystal and Williams' former manager David Steinberg at the Tcl Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, the evening brought together some of the industry's most notable comedians and those who knew him best to preserve the ...
Hosted by actor Billy Crystal and Williams' former manager David Steinberg at the Tcl Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, the evening brought together some of the industry's most notable comedians and those who knew him best to preserve the ...
- 6/28/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
During his lifetime, Robin Williams was an iconic comedian, a talented actor and a beloved husband and father. But above all, Williams had a heart of gold. It was that specific characteristic of the late comic that was most often acknowledged by attendees at Wednesday night's Los Angeles premiere of HBO's documentary film Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind.
Hosted by actor Billy Crystal and Williams' former manager David Steinberg at the Tcl Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, the evening brought together some of the industry's most notable comedians and those who knew him best to preserve the ...
Hosted by actor Billy Crystal and Williams' former manager David Steinberg at the Tcl Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, the evening brought together some of the industry's most notable comedians and those who knew him best to preserve the ...
- 6/28/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
The first trailer from the forthcoming documentary on comedian Robin Williams is out from HBO Documentary Films.
Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind bows on July 16 on HBO, offering an intimate portrait of one of the world’s most beloved and inventive comedians, Told largely by Williams himself, the documentary examines his life, career, and what drove him to give voice to the characters in his mind.
The documentary promises never-before-seen footage and in-depth interviews with Billy Crystal, Eric Idle, Whoopi Goldberg, David Letterman, Steve Martin, Pam Dawber, Zak Williams and others.
The documentary is directed by Marina Zenovich, produced by Alex Gibney and Shirel Kozak, with executive producers Sheila Nevins, David Steinberg, Kristen Vaurio, and Zenovich.
See the trailer above.
Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind bows on July 16 on HBO, offering an intimate portrait of one of the world’s most beloved and inventive comedians, Told largely by Williams himself, the documentary examines his life, career, and what drove him to give voice to the characters in his mind.
The documentary promises never-before-seen footage and in-depth interviews with Billy Crystal, Eric Idle, Whoopi Goldberg, David Letterman, Steve Martin, Pam Dawber, Zak Williams and others.
The documentary is directed by Marina Zenovich, produced by Alex Gibney and Shirel Kozak, with executive producers Sheila Nevins, David Steinberg, Kristen Vaurio, and Zenovich.
See the trailer above.
- 6/7/2018
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
"Robin was like nothing I'd ever seen." HBO has debuted an official trailer for Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind, made by doc filmmaker Marina Zenovich. This doc originally premiered at the Sundance Film Festival this year. It's a loving tribute to the late Robin Williams, a comedic mastermind and beloved actor, who touched all of our hearts in some way through his work, before passing away in 2014. The doc features new interviews with Lewis Black, Billy Crystal, Pam Dawber, Whoopi Goldberg, Eric Idle, David Letterman, Steve Martin, David Steinberg, Zak Williams, and more. It also has tons of archival footage that covers his entire life and career. I saw this at Sundance, and while it is deeply moving and heartfelt, it's a more straightforward doc and not as clever or unique as I was hoping. That said, it's worth seeing just to celebrate Robin Williams once ...
- 6/7/2018
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
The first trailer for the HBO documentary about the late comedic genius Robin Williams has just been released. The film, directed by Marina Zenovich and produced by Alex Gibney and Shirel Kozak, is an intimate — and heartbreaking — portrait of one of the world’s most beloved and inventive comedians.
Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind follows the comedian/actor through his extraordinary life and career and reveals what drove him to give voice to the characters in his mind. Told largely by Robin himself, with lots of never-before-seen footage, the film will premiere on HBO on July 16.
Also included in this labor of love are in-depth interviews with those who loved and knew him with friends Billy Crystal, Eric Idle, Whoopi Goldberg, David Letterman, Steve Martin, Pam Dawber, and Zak Williams, to name a few.
The film’s executive producers are Sheila Nevins, David Steinberg, Kristen Vaurio and Zenovich.
Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind follows the comedian/actor through his extraordinary life and career and reveals what drove him to give voice to the characters in his mind. Told largely by Robin himself, with lots of never-before-seen footage, the film will premiere on HBO on July 16.
Also included in this labor of love are in-depth interviews with those who loved and knew him with friends Billy Crystal, Eric Idle, Whoopi Goldberg, David Letterman, Steve Martin, Pam Dawber, and Zak Williams, to name a few.
The film’s executive producers are Sheila Nevins, David Steinberg, Kristen Vaurio and Zenovich.
- 6/7/2018
- by Anita Busch
- Deadline Film + TV
<em>Cash Cab</em> is coming back.
Discovery Channel has renewed the series starring comedian Ben Bailey. The New York-set series finds unwitting passengers entering the "Cash Cab" expecting a normal taxi journey, only to discover they're instant contestants in a game that could earn them a cash prize.
Answering questions in categories from pop culture to hard science, contestants must think under pressure. If they get stumped, pedestrians and friends can help them out via phone, text or social media. If the riders get three questions wrong, they're out on the street.
Comedian David Steinberg <em>(Curb Your Enthusiasm, Seinfeld)</em> returns ...
Discovery Channel has renewed the series starring comedian Ben Bailey. The New York-set series finds unwitting passengers entering the "Cash Cab" expecting a normal taxi journey, only to discover they're instant contestants in a game that could earn them a cash prize.
Answering questions in categories from pop culture to hard science, contestants must think under pressure. If they get stumped, pedestrians and friends can help them out via phone, text or social media. If the riders get three questions wrong, they're out on the street.
Comedian David Steinberg <em>(Curb Your Enthusiasm, Seinfeld)</em> returns ...
- 5/14/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
David Steinberg has signed with Gersh for representation and Untitled Entertainment for management. The comedian-director, who most recently helmed episodes of the return of HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm, also serves as executive producer on Discovery’s Cash Cab, and is exec producer and host of his Showtime interview series Inside Comedy. Steinberg remains repped by the law offices of David…...
- 2/13/2018
- Deadline TV
Diminutive actor David Steinberg was featured as Meegosh in Ron Howard’s 1988 fantasy Willow.
Steinberg was born in Los Angeles in 1964, and was raised by his adoptive parents in Queens, New York. The 3′1 actor appeared as a leprechaun in the children’s television horror series Are You Afraid of the Dark?. He was also seen in the films Prometheus and the Butcher (2006), Epic Movie (2007) as an Oompa Loompa, Agent One-Half (2008), and Transylmania (2009).
Steinberg died in Valencia, California, on March 15, 2010, at age 45.
Steinberg was born in Los Angeles in 1964, and was raised by his adoptive parents in Queens, New York. The 3′1 actor appeared as a leprechaun in the children’s television horror series Are You Afraid of the Dark?. He was also seen in the films Prometheus and the Butcher (2006), Epic Movie (2007) as an Oompa Loompa, Agent One-Half (2008), and Transylmania (2009).
Steinberg died in Valencia, California, on March 15, 2010, at age 45.
- 4/7/2010
- by Jesse
- FamousMonsters of Filmland
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