Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward Season 2 Episode 19 The Art of the Game Airs May 4 2024 on NBC
Get ready for an action-packed episode of “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” titled “The Art of the Game,” airing at 11:00 Am on Saturday, May 4, 2024, on NBC. In this episode, viewers will get an inside look at the lives of the legendary Harlem Globetrotters as they continue to spread joy and entertainment across the globe.
TNT, one of the Globetrotters, spends quality time with her family in her adopted hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, offering a glimpse into the personal side of these iconic athletes. Meanwhile, Hot Shot takes Wham on a memorable trip to an aquarium in Kentucky, where they explore and learn about aquatic wildlife conservation efforts.
Additionally, coaches Lou and Handles mentor and train players at the annual showman’s camp in Atlanta, helping them hone their basketball skills and showmanship. Don’t miss this exciting episode as the Harlem Globetrotters continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
TNT, one of the Globetrotters, spends quality time with her family in her adopted hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, offering a glimpse into the personal side of these iconic athletes. Meanwhile, Hot Shot takes Wham on a memorable trip to an aquarium in Kentucky, where they explore and learn about aquatic wildlife conservation efforts.
Additionally, coaches Lou and Handles mentor and train players at the annual showman’s camp in Atlanta, helping them hone their basketball skills and showmanship. Don’t miss this exciting episode as the Harlem Globetrotters continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
- 4/27/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
The View hosts kicked off their segment in the usual way Tuesday, covering the latest major headlines with fiery exchanges. Only this time, the matter that captivated them the most in their first “Hot Topics” session was the reporting that Donald Trump fell asleep during the first day of his criminal trial in New York. To mark the occasion, the cohosts filed out onto the stage to the tune of Wham!’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go,” with Whoopi Goldberg explaining, “Yesterday was the first day of You Know Who’s hush money trial, and among the many reports coming out of the courtroom is that You Know Who could not keep his eyes open.” They then reviewed one of the many, many hilarious late-night host’s takes on the same story: Jon Stewart’s line from The Daily Show Monday night. “Imagine doing so many crimes that...
- 4/16/2024
- TV Insider
Get ready for a heartwarming episode of “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” airing on NBC at 11:00 Am this Saturday, April 6th. In Season 2, Episode 16, titled “Home Court Advantage,” viewers are in for a treat as Wham, one of the beloved Harlem Globetrotters, returns to his hometown of Stone Mountain, Georgia.
Join Wham as he reconnects with family, friends, and his favorite teacher from his childhood. In a touching gesture, Wham invites his former teacher and her class on a special field trip to a local animal sanctuary, spreading joy and inspiration to all.
But the generosity doesn’t stop there. The Harlem Globetrotters team also pays a visit to a youth football league in South Los Angeles, where they share their love for sports and encourage young athletes to pursue their dreams.
Filled with heartwarming moments and inspiring stories, “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” highlights the importance of giving...
Join Wham as he reconnects with family, friends, and his favorite teacher from his childhood. In a touching gesture, Wham invites his former teacher and her class on a special field trip to a local animal sanctuary, spreading joy and inspiration to all.
But the generosity doesn’t stop there. The Harlem Globetrotters team also pays a visit to a youth football league in South Los Angeles, where they share their love for sports and encourage young athletes to pursue their dreams.
Filled with heartwarming moments and inspiring stories, “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” highlights the importance of giving...
- 3/30/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
Since 2015, there’s been no need to go on a minibreak to a cultural European destination. Richard Ayoade and Joe Lycett have gone for us. They’ve waited at airport security lines displaying their miniature toothpaste tube in a clear plastic bag. They’ve bought mystery crisps from railway vending machines. They’ve been to the museums, tried the local delicacies and gone on the sightseeing tours, so that we could stay luxuriously put.
Indeed, for a good chunk of 2020, staying put was the only option, which is when Travel Man: 48 Hours In…really came into its own. During lockdown, you could spin the globe, choose a location, load up All4 (as it was then known), and have a packed weekend there from the comfort of your sofa. All the experience of short haul travel with none of the having-to-mime-migraine-symptoms-to-a-Hungarian-pharmacist. Bliss!
Now Travel Man: 48 Hours In… is back...
Indeed, for a good chunk of 2020, staying put was the only option, which is when Travel Man: 48 Hours In…really came into its own. During lockdown, you could spin the globe, choose a location, load up All4 (as it was then known), and have a packed weekend there from the comfort of your sofa. All the experience of short haul travel with none of the having-to-mime-migraine-symptoms-to-a-Hungarian-pharmacist. Bliss!
Now Travel Man: 48 Hours In… is back...
- 3/21/2024
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward Season 2 Episode 15 The Gifted Givers Airs March 2 2024 on NBC
Get ready for an uplifting and heartwarming episode of “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” as Season 2 Episode 15, titled “The Gifted Givers,” airs at 11:00 Am on Saturday, March 2, 2024, exclusively on NBC. In this special installment, viewers will witness the Harlem Globetrotters spread joy and goodwill as they embark on a series of heartwarming acts of kindness.
The episode kicks off with Wham, one of the Globetrotters, visiting an organization that supports veterans to surprise his cousin Ira with an unforgettable skydiving experience. As Ira takes to the skies, viewers will share in the excitement and thrill of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
But the giving doesn’t stop there. The team also pays a visit to Bulldog’s hometown of Corpus Christi, where they challenge the Little Brothers and Little Sisters organization to an unforgettable game of basketball. With laughter, smiles, and plenty of slam dunks, this game promises to be a highlight of the episode.
The episode kicks off with Wham, one of the Globetrotters, visiting an organization that supports veterans to surprise his cousin Ira with an unforgettable skydiving experience. As Ira takes to the skies, viewers will share in the excitement and thrill of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
But the giving doesn’t stop there. The team also pays a visit to Bulldog’s hometown of Corpus Christi, where they challenge the Little Brothers and Little Sisters organization to an unforgettable game of basketball. With laughter, smiles, and plenty of slam dunks, this game promises to be a highlight of the episode.
- 2/24/2024
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
As my 13-year-old son and I browsed a Buffalo, NY, record shop on a recent Saturday morning, his eyes were drawn to two action figures dangling from the wall. Both were from the popular ReAction toy line, known for its delightfully offbeat takes on pop-culture icons as diverse as Joe Strummer, Megan Rapinoe, Jimi Hendrix, the Creature From the Black Lagoon, and late Metallica bassist Cliff Burton. The two figures my son grabbed confounded him even more than the Dee Snider hanging nearby. One of them was an intense, glasses-sporting figure brandishing a whip while wearing a red flower pot on his head. The other clutched a guitar while wearing shades and a yellow jumpsuit. “Devo,” I said happily, while starting to ponder this most unique and easily identifiable group.
What’s with the outfits? How did this band become so iconic? What did they do beyond “Whip It”? These are legitimate questions,...
What’s with the outfits? How did this band become so iconic? What did they do beyond “Whip It”? These are legitimate questions,...
- 1/25/2024
- by Christopher Schobert
- The Film Stage
Plot: The story of new wave band Devo, who rose to fame from their smash hit “Whip It.”
Review: If all you know about the band Devo is that they were those guys in the weird hats singing “Whip It,” you need to check out this doc from Chris Smith. In addition to making the cult fave American Movie, Smith has made several notable music documentaries over the years, including the recent Netflix documentary about Wham, but he has unique subjects here.
To put it bluntly, the members of Devo are among the most unlikely rock stars of all time. The brainchild of Kent State art students Gerald Casale and Bob Lewis, along with their friend Mark Mothersbaugh, the band began as a performance art satire. In early shows, they would play droning sounds and punish their audience, with Devo short for de-evolution, which was their take on the culture.
Review: If all you know about the band Devo is that they were those guys in the weird hats singing “Whip It,” you need to check out this doc from Chris Smith. In addition to making the cult fave American Movie, Smith has made several notable music documentaries over the years, including the recent Netflix documentary about Wham, but he has unique subjects here.
To put it bluntly, the members of Devo are among the most unlikely rock stars of all time. The brainchild of Kent State art students Gerald Casale and Bob Lewis, along with their friend Mark Mothersbaugh, the band began as a performance art satire. In early shows, they would play droning sounds and punish their audience, with Devo short for de-evolution, which was their take on the culture.
- 1/24/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Popular Christmas songs last forever, and Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime” is one of the most popular. The “Band on the Run” singer doesn’t care if it’s overplayed. Love it or hate it, “Wonderful Christmastime” distinguishes itself from most of the Christmas canon.
Paul McCartney wanted ‘Wonderful Christmastime’ to get the party started
In a 2022 article from his website, Paul discussed writing “Wonderful Christmastime.” “I like the idea of Christmas songs purely because they only come around at Christmas!” he said. “They remind us of the fun atmosphere of the whole season, and when I was writing ‘Wonderful Christmastime’ I was trying to capture that party aspect.”
Paul commented on the tune’s ubiquity. “I did hope it would keep coming back — which it has,” he said. “Sometimes people will go into a shop and hear it a little too much, but I don’t care! I’m happy!
Paul McCartney wanted ‘Wonderful Christmastime’ to get the party started
In a 2022 article from his website, Paul discussed writing “Wonderful Christmastime.” “I like the idea of Christmas songs purely because they only come around at Christmas!” he said. “They remind us of the fun atmosphere of the whole season, and when I was writing ‘Wonderful Christmastime’ I was trying to capture that party aspect.”
Paul commented on the tune’s ubiquity. “I did hope it would keep coming back — which it has,” he said. “Sometimes people will go into a shop and hear it a little too much, but I don’t care! I’m happy!
- 12/24/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
‘Tis the season for yuletide classics of yesteryear to finally reach the top spot on the charts as Wham!’s “Last Christmas” was awarded the U.K.’s Christmas Number One this week, 39 years after the song’s release.
The hotly contested Christmas Number One annually measures a single’s popularity in the U.K. in the week prior to Christmas, with classic rockers, pop singers, and festive tracks like Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” winning in decades past. In recent years, the Christmas Number One...
The hotly contested Christmas Number One annually measures a single’s popularity in the U.K. in the week prior to Christmas, with classic rockers, pop singers, and festive tracks like Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” winning in decades past. In recent years, the Christmas Number One...
- 12/23/2023
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney recreated the classic ‘Last Christmas’ single cover from British pop duo, Wham to celebrate the holiday season. Reynolds (47) and McElhenney (46) who together own U.K. soccer team Wrexham, styled their hair and outfits to mimic those worn by Wham! stars George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley on the original cover art, reports ‘People’ magazine.
Rob McElhenney then posted the hilarious results to his Instagram on Monday with Reynolds also sharing the image to his own Instagram Stories.
Underneath the pouting black-and-white picture, the pair replaced the names of the pop stars with their own and added the logo of their beloved Wrexham soccer club in the corner of the snap. The post’s caption simply read, “Wrexham!”.
As per ‘People’, the stars also donned leather jackets to stage their own version of the 1983 Wham! studio album Fantastic. Against a red backdrop, the duo posed for the...
Rob McElhenney then posted the hilarious results to his Instagram on Monday with Reynolds also sharing the image to his own Instagram Stories.
Underneath the pouting black-and-white picture, the pair replaced the names of the pop stars with their own and added the logo of their beloved Wrexham soccer club in the corner of the snap. The post’s caption simply read, “Wrexham!”.
As per ‘People’, the stars also donned leather jackets to stage their own version of the 1983 Wham! studio album Fantastic. Against a red backdrop, the duo posed for the...
- 12/19/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
It’s a holiday gift — 65 years in the making!
On Monday, Brenda Lee’s holiday classic “Rockin’ Around the Christmas” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s distinction arrives a whopping 65 years after it was first released when she was just 13 years old, breaking the record for longest climb to No. 1.
With this distinction, Lee also surpassed the 25-year gap between Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” release in 1994 and its ascent to the top in 2019.
Billboard shared a video of Lee’s reaction to the news.
On Monday, Brenda Lee’s holiday classic “Rockin’ Around the Christmas” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s distinction arrives a whopping 65 years after it was first released when she was just 13 years old, breaking the record for longest climb to No. 1.
With this distinction, Lee also surpassed the 25-year gap between Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” release in 1994 and its ascent to the top in 2019.
Billboard shared a video of Lee’s reaction to the news.
- 12/5/2023
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
[Warning: The above interview contains spoilers about the first two episodes of “Lessons in Chemistry.” Watch at your own risk.]
You will not be surprised to hear that one of the first things Carlos Rafael Rivera did after he was offered “Lessons in Chemistry” was read Bonnie Garmus‘ bestselling novel on which the Apple TV+ limited series is based — and it’s safe to say that he was very much enamored of it. “I read the story, and I realized, ‘Man, this could be cool!'” the Emmy- and Grammy-winning composer tells Gold Derby in a recent webchat (watch the full exclusive video interview above). “And then I found out Brie Larson would be starring [in] and also executive producing it. So it became obvious: ‘It’s a no-brainer opportunity!'”
Set in the 1950s and 1960s, “Lessons in Chemistry” follows Elizabeth Zott (played by Larson), a one-of-a-kind chemist, as she not only fights her way through a male-dominated science world that deems...
You will not be surprised to hear that one of the first things Carlos Rafael Rivera did after he was offered “Lessons in Chemistry” was read Bonnie Garmus‘ bestselling novel on which the Apple TV+ limited series is based — and it’s safe to say that he was very much enamored of it. “I read the story, and I realized, ‘Man, this could be cool!'” the Emmy- and Grammy-winning composer tells Gold Derby in a recent webchat (watch the full exclusive video interview above). “And then I found out Brie Larson would be starring [in] and also executive producing it. So it became obvious: ‘It’s a no-brainer opportunity!'”
Set in the 1950s and 1960s, “Lessons in Chemistry” follows Elizabeth Zott (played by Larson), a one-of-a-kind chemist, as she not only fights her way through a male-dominated science world that deems...
- 10/17/2023
- by Luca Giliberti
- Gold Derby
This Saturday, on October 21, 2023, at 11:00 Am, viewers can catch the 3rd episode of Season 2 of “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” on NBC.
In this episode, Cheese and Wham, members of the Harlem Globetrotters, visit The Ed Asner Family Center to learn about and interact with kids on the autism spectrum. They engage with the community and explore the benefits of equine therapy.
The team also has a heartwarming surprise for their coach and mentor, Chris “Handles” Franklin, by honoring him at a community event in Harrisburg. It’s a special moment to celebrate his contributions.
“Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” showcases how these talented athletes go beyond the basketball court, using their influence to make a positive impact in the lives of children and the community.
If you’re looking for an uplifting and inspiring show that highlights the power of sports to bring joy and support to different communities,...
In this episode, Cheese and Wham, members of the Harlem Globetrotters, visit The Ed Asner Family Center to learn about and interact with kids on the autism spectrum. They engage with the community and explore the benefits of equine therapy.
The team also has a heartwarming surprise for their coach and mentor, Chris “Handles” Franklin, by honoring him at a community event in Harrisburg. It’s a special moment to celebrate his contributions.
“Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” showcases how these talented athletes go beyond the basketball court, using their influence to make a positive impact in the lives of children and the community.
If you’re looking for an uplifting and inspiring show that highlights the power of sports to bring joy and support to different communities,...
- 10/15/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
On Saturday, October 7, 2023, at 11:00 Am, NBC will air Season 2, Episode 1 of “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” titled “Jumping Back Into Action.” In this episode, the Harlem Globetrotters, including Hot Shot and X-Over, will engage in several heartwarming activities.
First, they’ll teach basketball skills to kids with dwarfism at the Daaa Games, promoting inclusion and sportsmanship. Next, the team will lend a hand to foster care children who are transitioning into new homes, offering support during a challenging time.
Additionally, Wham, one of the Globetrotters, will visit an organization that supports veterans. He will surprise his cousin with a special skydiving experience, creating a memorable moment.
Tune in to NBC at 11:00 Am on Saturday, October 7, to watch “Jumping Back Into Action” and witness these inspiring stories.
Release Date & Time: 11:00 Am Saturday 7 October 2023 on NBC
Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward Jumping Back Into Action Cast – Season 2 Episode...
First, they’ll teach basketball skills to kids with dwarfism at the Daaa Games, promoting inclusion and sportsmanship. Next, the team will lend a hand to foster care children who are transitioning into new homes, offering support during a challenging time.
Additionally, Wham, one of the Globetrotters, will visit an organization that supports veterans. He will surprise his cousin with a special skydiving experience, creating a memorable moment.
Tune in to NBC at 11:00 Am on Saturday, October 7, to watch “Jumping Back Into Action” and witness these inspiring stories.
Release Date & Time: 11:00 Am Saturday 7 October 2023 on NBC
Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward Jumping Back Into Action Cast – Season 2 Episode...
- 9/30/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
George Michael wrote an R&b song about John Lennon and Elvis Presley. The tune uses the deaths of John and Elvis to ask a question about God. While that might sound odd, it’s the inevitable result of the deification of the two rock stars.
George Michael asked ‘If Jesus Christ is alive and well, how come John and Elvis are dead?’
While Michael is primarily known for the pop music he made in the 1980s and 1990s, “John and Elvis Are Dead” is a sultry R&b tune. It sounds more like Usher than The Beatles or the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. In the tune, Michael asks “If Jesus Christ is alive, how come John and Elvis are dead?”
The tune is basically a variation on theodicy — the theological question of why God allows bad things to happen to good people. It’s interesting that Michael uses...
George Michael asked ‘If Jesus Christ is alive and well, how come John and Elvis are dead?’
While Michael is primarily known for the pop music he made in the 1980s and 1990s, “John and Elvis Are Dead” is a sultry R&b tune. It sounds more like Usher than The Beatles or the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. In the tune, Michael asks “If Jesus Christ is alive, how come John and Elvis are dead?”
The tune is basically a variation on theodicy — the theological question of why God allows bad things to happen to good people. It’s interesting that Michael uses...
- 9/17/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Not so long ago, Netflix was the king of must-see documentaries – mostly about true crime, and nearly all from the other side of the pond. The ongoing appetite created for documentaries like Conversations With a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes and The Staircase sparked a trend that now goes far beyond Netflix, with all the major streamers, plus regular UK terrestrial channels, after a slice of the documentary action.
The good news is they’re not all about serial killers any more. The even better news is they’ve cottoned onto our wish to be entertained as well as educated, weaving clever storytelling narratives to tell a tale that will break boundaries, keep you invested, and often stay with you for a long time after the credits roll.
Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting British documentary series being released in 2023 and beyond, from the BBC,...
The good news is they’re not all about serial killers any more. The even better news is they’ve cottoned onto our wish to be entertained as well as educated, weaving clever storytelling narratives to tell a tale that will break boundaries, keep you invested, and often stay with you for a long time after the credits roll.
Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting British documentary series being released in 2023 and beyond, from the BBC,...
- 8/14/2023
- by Lauravickersgreen
- Den of Geek
Rob Lowe, 59, is reminiscing about his golden days.
Lowe posted a throwback photo of himself from the 80s with actress Demi Moore and late Wham’s singer George Michael. The nostalgic shot shows Lowe standing between Moore and Michael backstage at Michael’s Faith tour, which ran between 1988 and 1989.
“When you say: ’80s,’ I say…” wrote in the caption, welcoming others to finish the sentence.
One notable comment came from his son, John Owen, 28, who he shares with his wife of 32 years, Sheryl Berkoff. While John Owen is following in his father’s footsteps as an actor, Lowe’s and Berkoff’s eldest, Matthew Edward, 29, is a businessman.
“You’re old,” the 28-year-old left in the comments.
Lowe and Moore acted in two films together in the 80s, St. Elmo’s Fire and About Last Night.
In 2019, Lowe told The View that Moore influenced his journey to sobriety. As a teenager,...
Lowe posted a throwback photo of himself from the 80s with actress Demi Moore and late Wham’s singer George Michael. The nostalgic shot shows Lowe standing between Moore and Michael backstage at Michael’s Faith tour, which ran between 1988 and 1989.
“When you say: ’80s,’ I say…” wrote in the caption, welcoming others to finish the sentence.
One notable comment came from his son, John Owen, 28, who he shares with his wife of 32 years, Sheryl Berkoff. While John Owen is following in his father’s footsteps as an actor, Lowe’s and Berkoff’s eldest, Matthew Edward, 29, is a businessman.
“You’re old,” the 28-year-old left in the comments.
Lowe and Moore acted in two films together in the 80s, St. Elmo’s Fire and About Last Night.
In 2019, Lowe told The View that Moore influenced his journey to sobriety. As a teenager,...
- 8/1/2023
- by Rose Anne Cox-Peralta
- Uinterview
Gen X can thank Wham!’s music manager Simon Napier-Bell for the neon, bold statement t-shirts and a Fila obsession.
Clad in some of the shortest shorts of the 80s, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley burst onto the scene with Wham!’s upbeat poppy tunes and a new brand of fashion. Napier-Bell said that Michael was the heart and soul of Wham!’s music side, whereas Ridgeley was the one with an eye for fashion.
But when it came to some of the most important fashions that shaped the era, Napier-Bell was behind driving that all the way to MTV.
Wham!’s fashion stemmed from money problems
“There was an early stage when Wham! got their first hit and then we were planning a first tour and they didn’t have any money because they’d signed a terribly bad record deal,” Napier-Bell recounted to Showbiz Cheat Sheet.
George Michael...
Clad in some of the shortest shorts of the 80s, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley burst onto the scene with Wham!’s upbeat poppy tunes and a new brand of fashion. Napier-Bell said that Michael was the heart and soul of Wham!’s music side, whereas Ridgeley was the one with an eye for fashion.
But when it came to some of the most important fashions that shaped the era, Napier-Bell was behind driving that all the way to MTV.
Wham!’s fashion stemmed from money problems
“There was an early stage when Wham! got their first hit and then we were planning a first tour and they didn’t have any money because they’d signed a terribly bad record deal,” Napier-Bell recounted to Showbiz Cheat Sheet.
George Michael...
- 7/27/2023
- by Gina Ragusa
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Pop star George Michael’s Christmas Day death in 2016 came as a shock, but the day the 53-year-old singer died was especially poignant, especially to those who knew how much Michael loved Christmas.
Michael’s former music manager, Simon Napier-Bell was enjoying a peaceful, candlelit dinner with his partner of 30 years when his phone rang on that fateful day.
“I was sitting by the River Sarawak in Borneo having Christmas dinner with my partner, my boyfriend of 30 years,” he recalled to Showbiz Cheat Sheet. “And there it came on my phone all of a sudden. ‘Can I talk to you?’ Journalists, journalists, journalists saying, ‘We got to talk to you. George Michael is dead.”
Napier-Bell added with a laugh, “It definitely, definitely spoiled my Christmas. So thank you, George. But I would have said that to him if he had been there. It was a shock and was really an awful thing to happen.
Michael’s former music manager, Simon Napier-Bell was enjoying a peaceful, candlelit dinner with his partner of 30 years when his phone rang on that fateful day.
“I was sitting by the River Sarawak in Borneo having Christmas dinner with my partner, my boyfriend of 30 years,” he recalled to Showbiz Cheat Sheet. “And there it came on my phone all of a sudden. ‘Can I talk to you?’ Journalists, journalists, journalists saying, ‘We got to talk to you. George Michael is dead.”
Napier-Bell added with a laugh, “It definitely, definitely spoiled my Christmas. So thank you, George. But I would have said that to him if he had been there. It was a shock and was really an awful thing to happen.
- 7/21/2023
- by Gina Ragusa
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Animated adventures as well as classics based on true stories abound on Netflix in July 2023. From theatrical releases that made waves — such as James Cameron’s “Titanic” to DreamWorks’ “Puss in Boots” — we’re running down some of the best new movies to stream on Netflix this month.
Those in the mood for family fun should check out “They Cloned Tyrone,” “The Out-Laws” and “Happiness for Beginners.” “Tyrone,” starring John Boyega and Jamie Foxx promises thrilling scenes and an overall suspenseful setting. “The Out-Laws,” starring Adam Devine, Nina Dobrev, Ellen Barkin, Pierce Brosnan and Poorna Jagannathan, combines action, danger and raunchy humor. “Happiness for Beginners” was adapted from comfort book queen Katherine Center, author of the novel of the same name, and stars Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes.
Read on below for our curated picks for the best new movies to watch on Netflix in July.
Also Read:
The 25 Best...
Those in the mood for family fun should check out “They Cloned Tyrone,” “The Out-Laws” and “Happiness for Beginners.” “Tyrone,” starring John Boyega and Jamie Foxx promises thrilling scenes and an overall suspenseful setting. “The Out-Laws,” starring Adam Devine, Nina Dobrev, Ellen Barkin, Pierce Brosnan and Poorna Jagannathan, combines action, danger and raunchy humor. “Happiness for Beginners” was adapted from comfort book queen Katherine Center, author of the novel of the same name, and stars Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes.
Read on below for our curated picks for the best new movies to watch on Netflix in July.
Also Read:
The 25 Best...
- 7/16/2023
- by Dessi Gomez and Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
The “Wham!” documentary on Netflix hit me like, well, you can guess.
Wham! was formed in 1982, the year after I was born; by the time I turned four, the pop duo was done. So you’ll forgive me if I lacked some context of the group’s real-time rise to stardom and ultimate split. Enter: Netflix, director Chris Smith (“Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond”), and Andrew Ridgeley’s mom.
When I streamed the self-titled Netflix doc, released on June 17, I didn’t expect much more than 92 minutes of schlock, a few catchy tunes, and maybe a good explanation for the “Choose Life” shirts from 1984’s very 1980s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” music video.
To my surprise, what we also didn’t get from “Wham!” was much George Michael drama. If that sounds like a major omission, given his various drug charges and one very famous 1998 arrest for...
Wham! was formed in 1982, the year after I was born; by the time I turned four, the pop duo was done. So you’ll forgive me if I lacked some context of the group’s real-time rise to stardom and ultimate split. Enter: Netflix, director Chris Smith (“Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond”), and Andrew Ridgeley’s mom.
When I streamed the self-titled Netflix doc, released on June 17, I didn’t expect much more than 92 minutes of schlock, a few catchy tunes, and maybe a good explanation for the “Choose Life” shirts from 1984’s very 1980s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” music video.
To my surprise, what we also didn’t get from “Wham!” was much George Michael drama. If that sounds like a major omission, given his various drug charges and one very famous 1998 arrest for...
- 7/13/2023
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
The first time Rolling Stone profiled Wham!, the shiniest, prettiest UK pop duo of their day, in 1985, the boys bristled when the reporter asked a common question: What exactly did Andrew Ridgeley do? George Michael said, “He just plays the guitar and has a good time.” Since Wham! records had practically no guitar, fans had to assume that Andrew was having a very good time. But Ridgeley was more diplomatic. He said, “My role is everything people don’t see, because they’re not in pop bands.”
That’s what the new Netflix documentary Wham!
That’s what the new Netflix documentary Wham!
- 7/9/2023
- by Rob Sheffield
- Rollingstone.com
Unabashed pop groups with fervid teenage followings tend to get trivialized, at least in the media. They’re dismissed as being slick and calculated and superficial. But there’s a story in “Wham!,” the new Netflix documentary about the quintessential pop duo of the 1980s, that testifies to what a chancy and audacious artist George Michael was even back in his teen-idol days.
The year is 1983. Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, coming off their first album, “Fantastic”, have established Wham! as an effective lightweight pop machine, with its two young stars prancing around the stage in sexy sportswear. The time has come to record “Careless Whisper,” a song they’ve had in their back pocket for several years (we hear the super-early demo version of it that they recorded in 1981 in Ridgeley’s living room on a Teac 4-track Portastudio). Michael has become enough of a powerhouse to hook up with Jerry Wexler,...
The year is 1983. Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, coming off their first album, “Fantastic”, have established Wham! as an effective lightweight pop machine, with its two young stars prancing around the stage in sexy sportswear. The time has come to record “Careless Whisper,” a song they’ve had in their back pocket for several years (we hear the super-early demo version of it that they recorded in 1981 in Ridgeley’s living room on a Teac 4-track Portastudio). Michael has become enough of a powerhouse to hook up with Jerry Wexler,...
- 7/8/2023
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
As the Wham! feature documentary on Netflix begins, you’ll hear lots of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley voiceovers about what fun they had: “When I was with Andrew, we were absolutely determined to have a fantastic time,” Michael says, and then Ridgeley adds: “Wham! was a brotherhood, it was playful”. All the while, you’ll be waiting for the big “But…” change in tone hinting that all was not quite as it seemed, and that this documentary is about to reveal some darker hidden truths.
Let us save you some time: there’s no “but”. This is a joyful celebration of Wham!, pure and simple. The documentary title – an uncomplicated, cartoony Wham! – says it all. What’s coming is a good, old-fashioned jukebox romp through this eighties pop duo’s short but brightly burning four-year stint at the top of the charts.
The narration is effective in its simplicity...
Let us save you some time: there’s no “but”. This is a joyful celebration of Wham!, pure and simple. The documentary title – an uncomplicated, cartoony Wham! – says it all. What’s coming is a good, old-fashioned jukebox romp through this eighties pop duo’s short but brightly burning four-year stint at the top of the charts.
The narration is effective in its simplicity...
- 7/7/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
On July 5, 2023, Netflix released “Wham!” Through archival interviews and footage, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley relive the arc of their Wham! career, from 70s best buds to 80s pop icons. The documentary is directed by Chris Smith and is holding fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a critics score of 83%. Fans are even more enthusiastic to walk down memory lane with the “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” hit makers, scoring it a perfect 100%. Read our full review round-up below.
Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian says, ”’Wise guys realise / There’s danger in emotional ties …’ Here was one of the most artlessly, chillingly brilliant pop lyrics of the 80s, from Wham!’s ‘Young Guns (Go For It)’, something to compare with the triumph of Madonna being a material girl in a material world. You can’t help thinking again about its relevance to Andrew Ridgeley and George Michael’s emotional ties...
Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian says, ”’Wise guys realise / There’s danger in emotional ties …’ Here was one of the most artlessly, chillingly brilliant pop lyrics of the 80s, from Wham!’s ‘Young Guns (Go For It)’, something to compare with the triumph of Madonna being a material girl in a material world. You can’t help thinking again about its relevance to Andrew Ridgeley and George Michael’s emotional ties...
- 7/6/2023
- by Vincent Mandile
- Gold Derby
Wham! has been a cultural phenomenon in the music industry even long after George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley decided to split and pursue their own paths. They last performed together in 1986, but ever since, the two of them have left a mark, especially in the pop genre, that not many have been able to surpass. This ninety-minute documentary film is directed by Chris Smith, and it takes us through the ups and downs that the pop group went through during their four-year stint. It is interesting to come across many of their anecdotes that raise many topics that might have been frowned upon back then.
The film begins with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley’s voiceovers talking about their friendship since their school days. They have been each other’s support since kindergarten, and they have had each other’s back ever since. This documentary is not just the story...
The film begins with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley’s voiceovers talking about their friendship since their school days. They have been each other’s support since kindergarten, and they have had each other’s back ever since. This documentary is not just the story...
- 7/6/2023
- by Smriti Kannan
- Film Fugitives
Most music fans wouldn’t confuse Paul McCartney and Wham!. Paul and The Beatles turned down $250 million to reunite in the 1970s; we’re certain Wham! never entertained that kind of payday to get back together. Still, there are some similarities between the two artists. They were both successful, but for a short stretch in 1984, one Wham! song kept Paul from reaching No. 1 on the charts.
(l-r) George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley of Wham!; Paul McCartney | Dave J Hogan / Contributor; Gene Arias/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images The Wham! song ‘Freedom’ kept Paul McCartney from going to No. 1 on the charts
Some of Paul’s most successful solo songs came in the 1980s. The disco/new-wave hybrid “Coming Up,” his Stevie Wonder collaboration “Ebony and Ivory,” and “Say Say Say” (featuring Michael Jackson) were all massive hits.
That was just the tip of the iceberg.
Paul branched out...
(l-r) George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley of Wham!; Paul McCartney | Dave J Hogan / Contributor; Gene Arias/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images The Wham! song ‘Freedom’ kept Paul McCartney from going to No. 1 on the charts
Some of Paul’s most successful solo songs came in the 1980s. The disco/new-wave hybrid “Coming Up,” his Stevie Wonder collaboration “Ebony and Ivory,” and “Say Say Say” (featuring Michael Jackson) were all massive hits.
That was just the tip of the iceberg.
Paul branched out...
- 6/12/2023
- by Jason Rossi
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Tl;Dr:
Prince’s “Purple Rain” was commercially overshadowed by another famous 1980s song. “Purple Rain” is so much better than the other hit. Prince is a lot more influential than the pop duo who made the other song. Prince | Ron Galella / Contributor
Prince‘s “Purple Rain” is one of his signature tunes. Sadly, an embarrassing bubblegum pop single stopped it from topping the Billboard Hot 100. Subsequently, the famous group behind that single hasn’t had much influence on music in recent years.
Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’ was outperformed by Wham!’s ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’
“Purple Rain” is arguably the most perfect pop single ever written. It mixes and matches elements of hard rock, soul music, electronica, and psychedelia without ever feeling overwrought or incohesive. Its unusual lyrics are pure poetry. According to Stereogum, the tune was blocked from the No. 1 spot by Wham!’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.
Prince’s “Purple Rain” was commercially overshadowed by another famous 1980s song. “Purple Rain” is so much better than the other hit. Prince is a lot more influential than the pop duo who made the other song. Prince | Ron Galella / Contributor
Prince‘s “Purple Rain” is one of his signature tunes. Sadly, an embarrassing bubblegum pop single stopped it from topping the Billboard Hot 100. Subsequently, the famous group behind that single hasn’t had much influence on music in recent years.
Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’ was outperformed by Wham!’s ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’
“Purple Rain” is arguably the most perfect pop single ever written. It mixes and matches elements of hard rock, soul music, electronica, and psychedelia without ever feeling overwrought or incohesive. Its unusual lyrics are pure poetry. According to Stereogum, the tune was blocked from the No. 1 spot by Wham!’s “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go.
- 5/14/2023
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
George Michael will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on the 40th anniversary of Wham’s first album. Michael burst onto the music scene in the early 1980s – years before his godson, James Kennedy from Vanderpump Rules was born.
Michael and Kennedy’s father Andros Georgiou were close friends and later business partners. While Michael was still with Wham, Georgiou was building his own music label. Eventually, Michael launched Aegean Records and made Georgiou his managing director.
James Kennedy knew George Michael as ‘Uncle George’
Georgiou recounted how close Michael was with his family and Kennedy from birth. “When I married Jackie [Andros’ wife and James’ mom], I told her, ‘[George] comes first. My kids are his kids and he’ll be in the delivery room with us’ and he was,” Georgiou told The Sun. “When my son James was born in January 1992, Yog [ a nickname he gave George Michael] and I gave him his first bath.”
George Michael...
Michael and Kennedy’s father Andros Georgiou were close friends and later business partners. While Michael was still with Wham, Georgiou was building his own music label. Eventually, Michael launched Aegean Records and made Georgiou his managing director.
James Kennedy knew George Michael as ‘Uncle George’
Georgiou recounted how close Michael was with his family and Kennedy from birth. “When I married Jackie [Andros’ wife and James’ mom], I told her, ‘[George] comes first. My kids are his kids and he’ll be in the delivery room with us’ and he was,” Georgiou told The Sun. “When my son James was born in January 1992, Yog [ a nickname he gave George Michael] and I gave him his first bath.”
George Michael...
- 5/3/2023
- by Gina Ragusa
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Netflix growth in the UK Market has gone from strength to strength over the last few years, having recently revealed their commitment to the UK creative industry with a $6 billion investment.
Speaking on stage at See What’s Next, Anne Mensah, Vice President, Content, Netflix UK shared news of new productions for Netflix. Created and written by Joe Barton the Keira Knightley led ‘Black Doves. From Left Bank Pictures, ‘Department Q,’ an 8-part series, lead directed by multi-award-winning Scott Frank and adapted by Chandni Lakhani, based on the novels of the same name from Danish author, Jussi Adler-Olsen. Shooting will take place in Edinburgh, where the story is set. They will also deliver a ‘Bank of Dave’ sequel.
Netflix is known for its gems, and coming up over the next year it certainly looks like it’s the streamer is certainly going to deliver from documentaries on British Icons to...
Speaking on stage at See What’s Next, Anne Mensah, Vice President, Content, Netflix UK shared news of new productions for Netflix. Created and written by Joe Barton the Keira Knightley led ‘Black Doves. From Left Bank Pictures, ‘Department Q,’ an 8-part series, lead directed by multi-award-winning Scott Frank and adapted by Chandni Lakhani, based on the novels of the same name from Danish author, Jussi Adler-Olsen. Shooting will take place in Edinburgh, where the story is set. They will also deliver a ‘Bank of Dave’ sequel.
Netflix is known for its gems, and coming up over the next year it certainly looks like it’s the streamer is certainly going to deliver from documentaries on British Icons to...
- 5/2/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
One of Paul McCartney‘s most cinematic songs didn’t make it to No. 1 on the charts because of Wham!’s “Freedom.” The former Beatle wasn’t bitter about it. He had fun making the tune.
Paul McCartney | NBC/Getty Images Paul McCartney’s most cinematic song
In his book, The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present, Paul wrote that his song, “No More Lonely Nights,” is a straightforward love song. It’s about a lonely person saying, “Can’t wait till we’re together.” Other lines reinforce that idea: “Cause I know what I feel to be right” and “You’re my guiding light.”
Paul said the tune is also about heartache, being apart from a loved one, and wishing never to be apart again once you’re reunited. The “Yesterday” singer wrote the tune specifically for his film, Give My Regards to Broad Street. Paul confessed the song did better than the film.
Paul McCartney | NBC/Getty Images Paul McCartney’s most cinematic song
In his book, The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present, Paul wrote that his song, “No More Lonely Nights,” is a straightforward love song. It’s about a lonely person saying, “Can’t wait till we’re together.” Other lines reinforce that idea: “Cause I know what I feel to be right” and “You’re my guiding light.”
Paul said the tune is also about heartache, being apart from a loved one, and wishing never to be apart again once you’re reunited. The “Yesterday” singer wrote the tune specifically for his film, Give My Regards to Broad Street. Paul confessed the song did better than the film.
- 4/9/2023
- by Hannah Wigandt
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
“General Hospital,” the longest running scripted show currently in production, turns 60 on April 1, and to commemorate that momentous occasion, Variety gathered five of its iconic stars together. Here, Genie Francis, Maurice Benard, Kin Shriner, Kristina Wagner and Tristan Rogers discuss the ABC’s soap opera’s loyal fandom, and reminisce about its heyday, when supercouple Luke (Anthony Geary) and Laura (Francis) — creations of then-executive producer Gloria Monty — lifted the show into the pop culture stratosphere.
“General Hospital,” one of only four remaining daytime dramas, keeps breaking its own Emmys records — having won Outstanding Daytime Drama 15 times. Frank Valentini, its executive producer and showrunner since 2012, says incorporating the show’s legacy characters with new cast members is key to its longevity. “We’re not focusing on the history,” he says. “We’re moving forward with the history.” It helps that viewers see the cast as family: “For a large part of the audience,...
“General Hospital,” one of only four remaining daytime dramas, keeps breaking its own Emmys records — having won Outstanding Daytime Drama 15 times. Frank Valentini, its executive producer and showrunner since 2012, says incorporating the show’s legacy characters with new cast members is key to its longevity. “We’re not focusing on the history,” he says. “We’re moving forward with the history.” It helps that viewers see the cast as family: “For a large part of the audience,...
- 3/29/2023
- by Kate Aurthur
- Variety Film + TV
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