A new kind of daily puzzle is on its way.
iHeartMedia and The New York Times best-selling author A.J. Jacobs have announced a joint daily puzzle podcast, The Puzzler, releasing this fall. It received an initial order of 260 episodes.
The short-form, daily podcasts will challenge listeners and celebrity guests with original, audio-friendly puzzles that are complete with weird history, fun trivia and lots of laughs.
The celebrity guests will be featured along fellow puzzle fans who will test their skills in real-time with Jacobs, before challenging listeners to solve the puzzles themselves.
The Puzzler was inspired by Jacobs’ most recent book, The Puzzler: One Man’s Quest to Solve the Most Baffling Puzzles Ever, from Crosswords to Jigsaws to the Meaning of Life, which explores the enduring power of puzzles — why people love them, what they do to people’s brains and how they can improve the world.
“I truly...
iHeartMedia and The New York Times best-selling author A.J. Jacobs have announced a joint daily puzzle podcast, The Puzzler, releasing this fall. It received an initial order of 260 episodes.
The short-form, daily podcasts will challenge listeners and celebrity guests with original, audio-friendly puzzles that are complete with weird history, fun trivia and lots of laughs.
The celebrity guests will be featured along fellow puzzle fans who will test their skills in real-time with Jacobs, before challenging listeners to solve the puzzles themselves.
The Puzzler was inspired by Jacobs’ most recent book, The Puzzler: One Man’s Quest to Solve the Most Baffling Puzzles Ever, from Crosswords to Jigsaws to the Meaning of Life, which explores the enduring power of puzzles — why people love them, what they do to people’s brains and how they can improve the world.
“I truly...
- 7/9/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 2022 Tribeca Festival has named its jury totaling more than five dozen members across 18 categories with Alan Zweibel, Aidan Quinn, Anne Archer, Rose Troche and Oge Egbuonu judging the U.S. Narrative Feature Competition.
Jessica Alba, Darren Aronofsky and Daryl Hannah are among jurors for the 2022 Human/Nature Prize, a new award this year going “to the project that best illuminates the pressing environmental issues of our time.”
The Nora Ephron Award, created to honor the spirit and vision of the legendary filmmaker and writer and presented for the tenth year, will be juried by Pam Grier along with Amandla Stenberg and Lisa Addario.
Rosanna Arquette, Lucy Boynton, Anthony Edwards and Nikki Karimi are the jury for International Narrative Feature.
Also set to select projects in categories including film, audio storytelling and games are Debra Winger, Andre Holland, Niecy Nash, Alex Winter, Lucy Boynton, Nanfu Wang, Sheila Nevins of MTV Documentary Films...
Jessica Alba, Darren Aronofsky and Daryl Hannah are among jurors for the 2022 Human/Nature Prize, a new award this year going “to the project that best illuminates the pressing environmental issues of our time.”
The Nora Ephron Award, created to honor the spirit and vision of the legendary filmmaker and writer and presented for the tenth year, will be juried by Pam Grier along with Amandla Stenberg and Lisa Addario.
Rosanna Arquette, Lucy Boynton, Anthony Edwards and Nikki Karimi are the jury for International Narrative Feature.
Also set to select projects in categories including film, audio storytelling and games are Debra Winger, Andre Holland, Niecy Nash, Alex Winter, Lucy Boynton, Nanfu Wang, Sheila Nevins of MTV Documentary Films...
- 6/2/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Clubhouse has forged a pact with online talks purveyor Ted to bring an exclusive programming lineup to its burgeoning audio platform.
The partnership will see thought leaders from Ted speaking to the global Clubhouse community on an array of subjects, including healthcare, science, culture, and self-improvement. The deal kicks off on Monday on the official Ted Club on Monday with a recurring weekly series called Thank Your Ass Off. Focused on thanking the unsung heroes of our lives, the series is hosted by New York Times bestselling author A.J. Jacobs and creative strategist Mir Harris.
In a release, Clubhouse said numerous rooms will stem from the partnership -- including weekly rooms, limited mini-series, and special one-off rooms dedicated to specific speakers or events, like book releases.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
The partnership will see thought leaders from Ted speaking to the global Clubhouse community on an array of subjects, including healthcare, science, culture, and self-improvement. The deal kicks off on Monday on the official Ted Club on Monday with a recurring weekly series called Thank Your Ass Off. Focused on thanking the unsung heroes of our lives, the series is hosted by New York Times bestselling author A.J. Jacobs and creative strategist Mir Harris.
In a release, Clubhouse said numerous rooms will stem from the partnership -- including weekly rooms, limited mini-series, and special one-off rooms dedicated to specific speakers or events, like book releases.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
- 7/12/2021
- by Geoff Weiss
- Tubefilter.com
MTV Studios is reviving another classic MTV series, Celebrity Deathmatch. The recently launched studio is developing a reimagined version of the cult-favorite claymation stop-motion satire that skewered celebrities, politicians and everyone in between during its famed original 1998-2002 run. Ice Cube is attached to star and will executive produce alongside his partner Jeff Kwatinetz through his Cube Vision production company. Series creator Eric Fogel will return to executive produce as well, with additional showrunners and talent to be named shortly.
The all-new Celebrity Deathmatch will be shopped as a weekly series to premium and streaming networks in 2019. The show is the first step in a plan for reinventing the franchise across consumer products, gaming, theatrical and more.
MTV in June announced the creation of MTV Studios with exploiting library IP as a main goal and an initial slate that included a reimagining of MTV’s animated comedy Daria, an update...
The all-new Celebrity Deathmatch will be shopped as a weekly series to premium and streaming networks in 2019. The show is the first step in a plan for reinventing the franchise across consumer products, gaming, theatrical and more.
MTV in June announced the creation of MTV Studios with exploiting library IP as a main goal and an initial slate that included a reimagining of MTV’s animated comedy Daria, an update...
- 12/5/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
After CBS yesterday wrapped its round of early pickups of the series it considered no-brainers for renewal, it has started to shed the weakest of the rest. Monday comedy Living Biblically has been pulled from the schedule effective immediately. Starting next week, it will be replaced by repeats of The Big Bang Theory.
The move is not a surprise. Living Biblically is CBS’ least watched series this season and tied for last place in adults 18-49 (Live+same day). CBS earlier this season also pulled freshman Monday comedy Me, Myself & I off the schedule after several modestly rated airings. Neither is expected to return next season.
Through its eight airings to date, Living Biblically averaged 4.2 million viewers and a 0.65 18-49 rating (L+Sd).
Living Biblically and Me, Myself & I have been part of a CBS’ Monday lineup that has been struggling mightily this season, leading to the network leaving every...
The move is not a surprise. Living Biblically is CBS’ least watched series this season and tied for last place in adults 18-49 (Live+same day). CBS earlier this season also pulled freshman Monday comedy Me, Myself & I off the schedule after several modestly rated airings. Neither is expected to return next season.
Through its eight airings to date, Living Biblically averaged 4.2 million viewers and a 0.65 18-49 rating (L+Sd).
Living Biblically and Me, Myself & I have been part of a CBS’ Monday lineup that has been struggling mightily this season, leading to the network leaving every...
- 4/19/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
CBS has pulled “Living Biblically” from its primetime schedule, with reruns of “The Big Bang Theory” to run in its place.
Sources say the sitcom could return at a later date.
The sitcom follows a man who decides to live as instructed in the Bible, based on A.J. Jacobs’ book “The Year of Living Biblically.” Jay R. Ferguson stars with Lindsey Kraft, Ian Gomez, David Krumholtz, Tony Rock, and Camryn Manheim. “The Big Bang Theory” star Johnny Galecki executive produces with writer Patrick Walsh and Andrew Haas and Spencer Medof.
Also Read: Ratings: CBS' 'Living Biblically' Not Off to a Hell of a Good Start
The comedy is produced by Alcide Bava Productions, in association with CBS Television Studios and Warner Bros. Television.
CBS renewed 11 of its series earlier this week, totaling 17 series renewals for next year so far.
As far as pilots go, the network has ordered eight comedy pilots, including the revival of “Murphy Brown.” Other comedy pilots include “25,” “Fam,” “History of Them,” “I Mom So Hard,” “Pandas in New York,” “Welcome to the Neighborhood,” and the untitled Austen Earl and Tim McAuliffe project.
Also Read: CBS' 'Living Biblically' Won't Tackle Homosexuality in Season 1
CBS drama pilots in the works include the “Cagney and Lacey” reboot starring Sarah Drew and Michelle Hurd, “Chiefs,” “The Code,” “F.B.I.,” “God Friended Me,” “La Confidential,” “Magnum P.I.,” “Main Justice,” “Murder” and “Red Line.”
See our complete 2018 pilot grid over here.
Read original story ‘Living Biblically’ Pulled From CBS’ Schedule At TheWrap...
Sources say the sitcom could return at a later date.
The sitcom follows a man who decides to live as instructed in the Bible, based on A.J. Jacobs’ book “The Year of Living Biblically.” Jay R. Ferguson stars with Lindsey Kraft, Ian Gomez, David Krumholtz, Tony Rock, and Camryn Manheim. “The Big Bang Theory” star Johnny Galecki executive produces with writer Patrick Walsh and Andrew Haas and Spencer Medof.
Also Read: Ratings: CBS' 'Living Biblically' Not Off to a Hell of a Good Start
The comedy is produced by Alcide Bava Productions, in association with CBS Television Studios and Warner Bros. Television.
CBS renewed 11 of its series earlier this week, totaling 17 series renewals for next year so far.
As far as pilots go, the network has ordered eight comedy pilots, including the revival of “Murphy Brown.” Other comedy pilots include “25,” “Fam,” “History of Them,” “I Mom So Hard,” “Pandas in New York,” “Welcome to the Neighborhood,” and the untitled Austen Earl and Tim McAuliffe project.
Also Read: CBS' 'Living Biblically' Won't Tackle Homosexuality in Season 1
CBS drama pilots in the works include the “Cagney and Lacey” reboot starring Sarah Drew and Michelle Hurd, “Chiefs,” “The Code,” “F.B.I.,” “God Friended Me,” “La Confidential,” “Magnum P.I.,” “Main Justice,” “Murder” and “Red Line.”
See our complete 2018 pilot grid over here.
Read original story ‘Living Biblically’ Pulled From CBS’ Schedule At TheWrap...
- 4/19/2018
- by Ashley Boucher
- The Wrap
Freshman CBS multi-cam comedy “Living Biblically” has been pulled of the network’s primetime schedule, Variety has confirmed.
“Big Bang Theory” repeats will air in the show’s Monday timeslot for the next two weeks. No return date has been set, though the show could return to burn off the remainder of its episodes at a later date. The move does not bode well for a potential second season. CBS has thus far renewed 17 of their current series, but none of their Monday comedies. “Kevin Can Wait,” “Man With a Plan,” and “Superior Donuts” are all awaiting words on potential third seasons. Fellow Monday series “Scorpion” is also currently in limbo.
“Living Biblically” follows a modern-day man who, at a crossroads in his life, decides to live according to the Bible. The show is based on the bestselling book by A.J. Jacobs, “The Year of Living Biblically.” It stars Jay R. Ferguson,...
“Big Bang Theory” repeats will air in the show’s Monday timeslot for the next two weeks. No return date has been set, though the show could return to burn off the remainder of its episodes at a later date. The move does not bode well for a potential second season. CBS has thus far renewed 17 of their current series, but none of their Monday comedies. “Kevin Can Wait,” “Man With a Plan,” and “Superior Donuts” are all awaiting words on potential third seasons. Fellow Monday series “Scorpion” is also currently in limbo.
“Living Biblically” follows a modern-day man who, at a crossroads in his life, decides to live according to the Bible. The show is based on the bestselling book by A.J. Jacobs, “The Year of Living Biblically.” It stars Jay R. Ferguson,...
- 4/19/2018
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Whether you’re a Christian, an atheist, a Buddhist, a Muslim, or a devotee of any other religion, the show Living Biblically on CBS could be worth a watch. It is a hilarious new serial that is based on a book by A.J. Jacobs called The Year of Living Biblically. This comedic take on the book began airing on CBS yesterday – that is, February 26th, 2018. It has been received well so far and is set for several episodes. Living Biblically follows the central character – a brand-new father and film critic – who decides to become born again and
Five Things You Didn’t Know about “Living Biblically”...
Five Things You Didn’t Know about “Living Biblically”...
- 2/28/2018
- by Nat Berman
- TVovermind.com
In his new book, It’s All Relative: Adventures Up and Down the World’s Family Tree, journalist A.J. Jacobs recounts his investigation into the DNA and histories that link almost every human on the planet. His deep dive led him to meet some very famous — and very extended —cousins, including Olivia Wilde and President George H.W. Bush.
“We were all told since we were kids that humans are all one big family, but now it’s so concrete you can actually see how we’re all related to almost anyone on earth,” Jacobs tells People in an exclusive interview.
“We were all told since we were kids that humans are all one big family, but now it’s so concrete you can actually see how we’re all related to almost anyone on earth,” Jacobs tells People in an exclusive interview.
- 11/7/2017
- by Sam Gillette
- PEOPLE.com
No “Bull,” CBS wants you to know that the freshman Michael Weatherly series is actually the No. 1 new show of the year in total viewers, over NBC’s lauded “This Is Us.”
“We congratulate them on their success, but we like winning,” CBS senior exec VP Kelly Kahl said. He also pointed out that even CBS’ “Blue Bloods” has a larger audience than any other drama on the other networks, except “This Is Us.”
“The Big Bang Theory” is the “Wayne Gretzky of comedy,” he noted, arguing that no other half-hour comes close in total viewers, which is why they’re big on spinoff entry “Young Sheldon.” The show was recently renewed for two more seasons, a negotiation that Moonves characterized as amicable.
He also said he “hoped” that the show will continue even beyond that. “We’ll do these two years and we’re not going to just lay down,...
“We congratulate them on their success, but we like winning,” CBS senior exec VP Kelly Kahl said. He also pointed out that even CBS’ “Blue Bloods” has a larger audience than any other drama on the other networks, except “This Is Us.”
“The Big Bang Theory” is the “Wayne Gretzky of comedy,” he noted, arguing that no other half-hour comes close in total viewers, which is why they’re big on spinoff entry “Young Sheldon.” The show was recently renewed for two more seasons, a negotiation that Moonves characterized as amicable.
He also said he “hoped” that the show will continue even beyond that. “We’ll do these two years and we’re not going to just lay down,...
- 5/17/2017
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
Jay R. Ferguson wasn’t out of work long: His ABC comedy The Real O’Neals‘ was cancelled Thursday, and his new CBS sitcom By the Book was ordered to series Friday, TVLine has learned.
Ferguson and David Krumholtz (Numb3rs) will star in the multi-cam series — formerly known as Living Biblically — from Patrick Walsh, The Big Bang Theory‘s Johnny Galecki and others.
RelatedCBS Orders Boreanaz’ Seal Team, Moore’s S.W.A.T., Cumming’s Instinct, Piven’s Wisdom, Plus 2 Comedies
The series, based on the bestselling book by A.J. Jacobs, follows a modern-day man who chooses to live...
Ferguson and David Krumholtz (Numb3rs) will star in the multi-cam series — formerly known as Living Biblically — from Patrick Walsh, The Big Bang Theory‘s Johnny Galecki and others.
RelatedCBS Orders Boreanaz’ Seal Team, Moore’s S.W.A.T., Cumming’s Instinct, Piven’s Wisdom, Plus 2 Comedies
The series, based on the bestselling book by A.J. Jacobs, follows a modern-day man who chooses to live...
- 5/12/2017
- TVLine.com
CBS has picked up the Johnny Galecki (“The Big Bang Theory”) produced pilot “By the Book” to series, an insider told TheWrap Friday. The multi-camera comedy was previously being developed under the title “Living Biblically.” It’s based on the bestselling book by Esquire editor A.J. Jacobs, The Year of Living Biblically: One Man’s Humble Quest to follow the Bible as Literally as Possible.” “By the Book” will star Jay R. Ferguson, Lindsey Kraft, Ian Gomez, David Krumholtz, Tony Rock and Camryn Manheim. The network describes the comedy as the story of “a modern day man at a...
- 5/12/2017
- by Carli Velocci
- The Wrap
Lindsey Kraft is set as the female lead opposite Jay R. Ferguson in the CBS comedy pilot Living Biblically, from The Big Bang Theory star Johnny Galecki and Warner Bros TV. Based on A.J. Jacobs' bestselling book The Year of Living Biblically, the project, written by Patrick Walsh and directed by Andy Ackerman, centers on Chip (Ferguson), a modern-day man at a crossroads in his life who decides to live according to the Bible. Kraft will play Chip’s (Ferguson) wife Leslie…...
- 3/29/2017
- Deadline TV
Cougar Town alum Ian Gomez has booked a series regular role in CBS comedy pilot Living Biblically, from The Big Bang Theory star Johnny Galecki, writer Patrick Walsh (2 Broke Girls) and Warner Bros TV. Based on the A.J. Jacobs' bestselling book The Year of Living Biblically, the project, written by Walsh and directed by Andy Ackerman, centers on a modern-day man at a crossroads in his life who decides to live according to the Bible. Gomez will play Feather Gene. A dryly…...
- 3/3/2017
- Deadline TV
CBS has ordered to pilot “Living Biblically,” a new comedy project co-Executive Produced by “Big Bang Theory” star Johnny Galecki, TheWrap has learned. Patrick Walsh is writing and executive producing the potential new series, which is about a modern day man at a crossroads in his life who decides to live according to the Bible. It’s based on the bestselling book by A.J. Jacobs, and Galecki will serve as an Ep along with Spencer Medof and Andrew Haas. Also Read: CBS Orders Comedy Pilot From Chris Distefano, 'How I Met Your Mother' Creators The pilot hails from...
- 2/7/2017
- by Linda Ge
- The Wrap
Deadline reports CBS has bought The Year of Living Biblically comedy from producer Johnny Galecki and writer Patrick Walsh. The project is based on A.J. Jacobs’ best-selling book of the same name.The Big Bang Theory star will executive produce through his Alcide Bava Productions, which is based at Warner Bros. Television. The single-camera comedy features, "...a modern-day man at a crossroads in his life who decides to live according to the Bible." Galecki and Walsh are executive producing with Spencer Medof and Alcide Bava's Andrew Haas. Read More…...
- 9/16/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
The Big Bang Theory star Johnny Galecki is solidifying his ties with CBS as a producer. The network has bought single-camera comedy The Year of Living Biblically, written by Patrick Walsh (2 Broke Girls), which Galecki executive produces through his Warner Bros TV-based Alcide Bava Prods. The comedy, which drew interest from multiple networks, is based on the A.J. Jacobs' bestselling book The Year of Living Biblically, which Alcide Bava and Wbtv acquired in December. The…...
- 9/14/2016
- Deadline TV
In its first development season, Alcide Bava Prods., the Warner Bros. TV-based company of The Big Bang Theory star Johnny Galecki, has sold its first project — a multi-camera comedy from writer Scott King, showrunner of the Hulu series Difficult People, which has been set up at CBS. Additionally Alcide Bava is developing a half-hour comedy series based on the A.J. Jacobs’ bestselling book The Year of Living Biblically. The untitled Scott King project, which has received…...
- 10/16/2015
- Deadline TV
Author A.J. Jacobs is mapping out a giant family tree in hopes of finding out how we're all one big, happy family. Then, on June 6, he'll hold a giant family reunion. (See globalfamilyreunion.com for details.) Each month until then, Jacobs will be interviewing one of his famous "cousins" for People. This month: Ludacris, who stars in Furious 7, the latest installment of the The Fast and the Furious franchise, and recently released his new album Ludaversal. We are cousins 38 degrees removed.Well, all right, cuz, all right. I found out one of your aunts married a Harlem Globetrotter.I didn't know that.
- 4/3/2015
- PEOPLE.com
Author A.J. Jacobs is mapping out a giant family tree in hopes of finding out how we're all one big, happy family. Then, on June 6, he'll hold a giant family reunion. (See globalfamilyreunion.com for details.) Each month until then, Jacobs will be interviewing one of his famous "cousins" for People. This month: Ludacris, who stars in Furious 7, the latest installment of the The Fast and the Furious franchise, and recently released his new album Ludaversal. We are cousins 38 degrees removed.Well, all right, cuz, all right. I found out one of your aunts married a Harlem Globetrotter.I didn't know that.
- 4/3/2015
- PEOPLE.com
Author A.J. Jacobs is mapping out a giant family tree in hopes of finding out how we're all one big, happy family. Then, on June 6, he'll hold a giant family reunion. (See globalfamilyreunion.com for details.) Each month until then, Jacobs will be interviewing one of his famous "cousins" for People. This month: Trop50 spokesperson Jane Krakowsi, who stars in the upcoming Netflix sitcom Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. You are my aunt's seventh cousin's wife's husband's eighth cousin twice removed.So we can still marry! We'll see how this phone call goes. I don't want to rush things. That's wise. You have deep Polish roots.
- 3/2/2015
- PEOPLE.com
Author A.J. Jacobs is mapping out a giant family tree in hopes of finding out how we're all one big, happy family. Then, on June 6, he'll hold a giant family reunion. (See globalfamilyreunion.com for details.) Each month until then, Jacobs will be interviewing one of his famous "cousins" for People. This month: Trop50 spokesperson Jane Krakowsi, who stars in the upcoming Netflix sitcom Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. You are my aunt's seventh cousin's wife's husband's eighth cousin twice removed.So we can still marry! We'll see how this phone call goes. I don't want to rush things. That's wise. You have deep Polish roots.
- 3/2/2015
- PEOPLE.com
Author A.J. Jacobs is tracing his family tree in hopes of mapping out how we're all related. Each month, Jacobs will chat with a famous "cousin" (see his chats with Daniel Radcliffe and Valerie Bertinelli) until June 6, 2015, when he plans to hold a huge family reunion. This month, Jacobs interviewed Olivia Munn, who's starring in the new action-comedy Mortdecai. You and I are distance cousins. You are my aunt's husband's fifth great-uncle's wife's first cousin's husband's third great-niece.Is this going to end with you asking me for money? It could be anything cash-equivalent.So bonds are okay? You are...
- 1/23/2015
- by Jeff Nelson, @nelson_jeff
- PEOPLE.com
Author A.J. Jacobs is out to trace his family tree and track down distant relatives - and map out how we're all related somehow. Jacobs is chatting with a famous "cousin" every month (See: last month's sit-down with Daniel Radcliffe) until June 6, 2015, when he's throwing a massive family reunion. (Go to globalfamilyreunion.com to join). This month the author caught up with Hot in Cleveland actress Valerie Bertinelli. You are, officially, my aunt's 6th great uncle's wife's mother's husband's brother's wife's 8th great-granddaughter.So I'm practically your sister. Right. Your father's family is from Italy. What did you get from your Italian side?...
- 9/12/2014
- by Jeff Nelson, @nelson_jeff
- PEOPLE.com
Best-selling author A.J. Jacobs is on a mission to trace his family tree and track down distant relatives - and map out how we're all related. Every month until June 6, 2015, when he's throwing a massive family reunion (go to globalfamilyreunion.com to join), the author will chat with one of his famous "cousins" for People. This month's relative? What If star - and recent birthday boy - Daniel Radcliffe: Radcliffe: How are we related, exactly? Jacobs: You are my first cousin once removed's husband's third great aunt's husband's fourth cousin twice removed's wife's second cousin's brother-in-law's sister-in-law's son-in-law's brother's great-grandson.
- 7/25/2014
- by Jeff Nelson
- PEOPLE.com
Best-selling author A.J. Jacobs is on a mission to trace his family tree and track down distant relatives - and map out how we're all related. Every month until June 6, 2015, when he's throwing a massive family reunion (go to globalfamilyreunion.com to join), the author will chat with one of his famous "cousins" for People. This month's relative? What If star - and recent birthday boy - Daniel Radcliffe: Radcliffe: How are we related, exactly? Jacobs: You are my first cousin once removed's husband's third great aunt's husband's fourth cousin twice removed's wife's second cousin's brother-in-law's sister-in-law's son-in-law's brother's great-grandson.
- 7/25/2014
- by Jeff Nelson
- PEOPLE.com
What if we really are all one big, happy family? Seven months ago, A.J. Jacobs received an e-mail from a man in Israel claiming to be his 12th cousin - and part of an 80,000-person family tree, which included Karl Marx and some European aristocrats.Jacobs's reaction to the mysterious missive: "Part of me is thinking, 'Is this a scam and he's going to ask me to wire him $10,000?' And another part of me thought, 'Do I really want 80,000 new relatives?' " Suspicion (and horror) aside, Jacobs had found his new mission - and book subject. A bestselling author...
- 6/22/2014
- by Elaine Aradillas
- PEOPLE.com
Each week, host Jeff Probst will answer a few questions about the most recent episode of Survivor: Philippines.
Entertainment Weekly: I’m sorry, but I’m a little confused and think I need you to break this down for me, Jeff. Zane tells his tribe to vote him out since he performed so horribly in the challenge, but then tells us it is all a ruse to see if he is running the tribe. Is that the worst ruse of all time?
Jeff Probst: Only Zane knows his true motive for this surprising move. If I were betting, I...
Entertainment Weekly: I’m sorry, but I’m a little confused and think I need you to break this down for me, Jeff. Zane tells his tribe to vote him out since he performed so horribly in the challenge, but then tells us it is all a ruse to see if he is running the tribe. Is that the worst ruse of all time?
Jeff Probst: Only Zane knows his true motive for this surprising move. If I were betting, I...
- 9/20/2012
- by Dalton Ross
- EW - Inside TV
NBC has passed on the Jack Black-produced sitcom "My Life as an Experiment," according to the Esquire writer whose book provided the basis for the show -- but at least A.J. Jacobs got a cool souvenir. "Well, the NBC pilot based on 'My Life as an Experiment' didn't quite make the schedule. As the Jews say, may its memory be a blessing!" Jacobs (left) wrote on Facebook. Also read: NBC Picks Up 'Awake,' 'Playboy Club,' 'Grimm' He added: "I will always have the fake BlackBerry prop that I stole from the set," he...
- 5/13/2011
- The Wrap
After spending untold amounts of cash on hundreds of dramas and comedies — most of which will never make it to your living rooms — the five broadcast networks will begin announcing in New York next week which projects are good enough to earn a coveted fall pickup. (NBC and Fox will present their fall schedule to advertisers on Monday, followed by ABC on Tuesday, CBS on Wednesday and the CW on Thursday).
Buzz is already strong for several projects (for more on the hot ones, click here). But every year, we always wonder what diamond-in-the-rough was left on the cutting room...
Buzz is already strong for several projects (for more on the hot ones, click here). But every year, we always wonder what diamond-in-the-rough was left on the cutting room...
- 5/10/2011
- by Lynette Rice and James Hibberd
- EW - Inside TV
If you check over on Amazon right now, you'll see that Adam Mansbach's parenting book, Go the F*ck To Sleep is the top selling book in the Parenting section. It's also in the top 30 books being sold overall (a couple of weeks ago, it had reached the top 10). The book hasn't even been released yet. In fact, it won't be released until mid-June. But, it does have jacket blurbs from the likes of Jonatham Lethem, David Byrne, and A.J. Jacobs, which is good enough for me to put in my pre-order. It's also good enough for Fox 2000, who has just purchased the rights to adapt the novel, according to It's On the Grid. What's it about? "Go the Fuck to Sleep is a bedtime book for parents who live in the real world, where a few snoozing kitties and cutesy rhymes don't always send a toddler sailing blissfully off to dreamland.
- 5/10/2011
- by Dustin Rowles
And they’re off! Casting is all but completed and production has already begun on scores of pilots for the five broadcast networks. But not every comedy and drama will go the distance. Which project has the right stuff? What pilot already has you feeling like you popped a Lunesta? Check out the mammoth slate for fall consideration. (And remember, all projects are whittled down in late April/early May before the nets present their fall slates to advertisers in New York):
CBS
The Doctor (Rina Mimoun, David Nutter). A mother (Christine Lahti) reconnects with her adult children when...
CBS
The Doctor (Rina Mimoun, David Nutter). A mother (Christine Lahti) reconnects with her adult children when...
- 3/23/2011
- by Lynette Rice and James Hibberd
- EW - Inside TV
Filed under: TV News
Donald Sutherland has joined Paget Brewster in NBC's 'My Life as an Experiment' comedy pilot.
According to TVLine, Sutherland will play the father of Brewster's character, Stacie, a lawyer. The Jack Black-produced pilot follows a magazine writer played by Jon Dore. Sutherland's character is described as a pompous and successful heart surgeon.
The pilot is based on A.J. Jacobs' 'Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life As An Experiment.'
In other casting news ...
o. 'Wizards of Waverly Place' star David Henrie will star in CBS's 'Assistants.' In the pilot, Henrie plays Mike, a fresh face in Los Angeles who needs to learn the ropes of the celebrity world quickly. [Deadline]
o. Damon Wayans Jr. has joined the cast of Fox's untitled Zooey Deschanel comedy pilot. However, Wayans' role is in second position. His ABC comedy, 'Happy Endings,' premieres on the network next month.
Donald Sutherland has joined Paget Brewster in NBC's 'My Life as an Experiment' comedy pilot.
According to TVLine, Sutherland will play the father of Brewster's character, Stacie, a lawyer. The Jack Black-produced pilot follows a magazine writer played by Jon Dore. Sutherland's character is described as a pompous and successful heart surgeon.
The pilot is based on A.J. Jacobs' 'Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life As An Experiment.'
In other casting news ...
o. 'Wizards of Waverly Place' star David Henrie will star in CBS's 'Assistants.' In the pilot, Henrie plays Mike, a fresh face in Los Angeles who needs to learn the ropes of the celebrity world quickly. [Deadline]
o. Damon Wayans Jr. has joined the cast of Fox's untitled Zooey Deschanel comedy pilot. However, Wayans' role is in second position. His ABC comedy, 'Happy Endings,' premieres on the network next month.
- 3/18/2011
- by Chris Harnick
- Aol TV.
Acting vet and onetime Dirty Sexy Money patriarch Donald Sutherland has landed a lead role in NBC’s comedy pilot My Life as an Experiment, TVLine has learned exclusively.
Produced by Jack Black, Experiment chronicles the adventures of gonzo magazine journalist A.J. Wilder (comedian Jon Dore) and how his unique profession impacts his family (including wife Stacie, played by Criminal Minds‘ Paget Brewster).
Sutherland will play Stacie’s dad and A.J.’s father-in-law, a highly respected, very accomplished heart surgeon and a pompous, arrogant guy to boot.
The potential series is based on the best-selling book by journalist/author A.J. Jacobs,...
Produced by Jack Black, Experiment chronicles the adventures of gonzo magazine journalist A.J. Wilder (comedian Jon Dore) and how his unique profession impacts his family (including wife Stacie, played by Criminal Minds‘ Paget Brewster).
Sutherland will play Stacie’s dad and A.J.’s father-in-law, a highly respected, very accomplished heart surgeon and a pompous, arrogant guy to boot.
The potential series is based on the best-selling book by journalist/author A.J. Jacobs,...
- 3/17/2011
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
‘Criminal Minds’ actress Paget Brewster has signed on to play the female lead in NBC’s new pilot ‘My Life as an Experiment,’ www.tvline.com is reporting. The comedy series, which is being produced by Jack Black, follows magazine journalist A.J. Wilder, set to be played by comedian Jon Dore. The show will also follow how his career affects his personal life. Brewster has signed onto play A.J.’s lawyer wife Stacie. The news of Brewster’s new role on the series, which is based on the best-selling book Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life as an Experiment by journalist A.J. Jacobs, comes after ‘Criminal Minds’ producers reduced her role on the current sixth season of [...]...
- 3/13/2011
- by karen
- ShockYa
Paget Brewster's time on "Criminal Minds" is coming to an end (for now), but she could be back on TV next season.
Brewster has landed a starring role in an NBC comedy pilot called "My Life as an Experiment." The show is based on writer A.J. Jacobs' book "Guinea Pig Diaries" and will star comedian Jon Dore as a journalist who submits to a range of lifestyle experiments, from "radical honesty" to crashing the Oscars. Brewster will play his no-nonsense wife, TVLine reports.
Brewster's last episode of "Criminal Minds" airs Wednesday (March 16), but it may not be the last viewers see of her on the CBS show. Should "Experiment" not get picked up, the "Minds" producers have offered to make her an every-episode regular next season.
Other casting news:
Scott Foley, Kyle MacLachlan and Michael Boatman have come aboard CBS' drama "The Doctor." The show stars Christine Lahti...
Brewster has landed a starring role in an NBC comedy pilot called "My Life as an Experiment." The show is based on writer A.J. Jacobs' book "Guinea Pig Diaries" and will star comedian Jon Dore as a journalist who submits to a range of lifestyle experiments, from "radical honesty" to crashing the Oscars. Brewster will play his no-nonsense wife, TVLine reports.
Brewster's last episode of "Criminal Minds" airs Wednesday (March 16), but it may not be the last viewers see of her on the CBS show. Should "Experiment" not get picked up, the "Minds" producers have offered to make her an every-episode regular next season.
Other casting news:
Scott Foley, Kyle MacLachlan and Michael Boatman have come aboard CBS' drama "The Doctor." The show stars Christine Lahti...
- 3/12/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Comedian Jon Dore has landed the lead in NBC's comedy pilot My Live as an Experiment. And, in a big (and not so good) news for fans of CBS' Criminal Minds, series co-star Paget Brewster has been cast as the female lead in the pilot, from Sony, Reveille and Jack Black's Electric Dynamite. Written by Cathy Yuspa and Josh Goldsmith based on the book by A.J. Jacobs, My Life as an Experiment centers on magazine immersion journalist A.J. Wilder (Dore) who explores all sorts of unique experiences. Brewster will play A.J.'s feisty and adorable lawyer wife. Brewster has no deal for Criminal Minds beyond this season so, if My Life as an Experiment goes to series, she won't return to the CBS drama (at least not as a regular). UTA-repped Brewster was given the option to do a pilot this year when CBS modified her series...
- 3/12/2011
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Paget Brewster has firmed up her post-Criminal Minds career plans: The fan fave has signed to play the female lead in NBC’s comedy pilot My Life as an Experiment.
Produced by Jack Black, Experiment chronicles the adventures of gonzo magazine journalist A.J. Wilder (comedian Jon Dore) and how his unique profession impacts his home life. Brewster will play Stacie, A.J.’s feisty lawyer wife.
The potential series is based on the best-selling book by journalist/author A.J. Jacobs, Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life As An Experiment.
Ironically, the news comes on the eve of Brewster’s...
Produced by Jack Black, Experiment chronicles the adventures of gonzo magazine journalist A.J. Wilder (comedian Jon Dore) and how his unique profession impacts his home life. Brewster will play Stacie, A.J.’s feisty lawyer wife.
The potential series is based on the best-selling book by journalist/author A.J. Jacobs, Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life As An Experiment.
Ironically, the news comes on the eve of Brewster’s...
- 3/12/2011
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
After a rather aggressive pilot season that has spared no expense in terms of big names (Stephen Spielberg, David E. Kelly, Chelsea Handler, Debra Messing, Peter Berg, Michael Patrick King, Jack Black, etc.), NBC has more or less finished ordering pilots for 2011-12. All in all, there are 24 pilots in total (11 dramas, 13 comedies) and a lot of 'em don't sound half bad.
I know, you can hardly tell anything by titles and descriptions, as shows good on paper can be executed poorly and shows that sound ridiculous can be the funniest or most touching show around, but now that we finally have every order in, it's not a bad idea to look through what they have here, what they need, and where they're going as a network.
What they have here is a whole lot of risks (especially on the drama side), but that's what it's going to take in...
I know, you can hardly tell anything by titles and descriptions, as shows good on paper can be executed poorly and shows that sound ridiculous can be the funniest or most touching show around, but now that we finally have every order in, it's not a bad idea to look through what they have here, what they need, and where they're going as a network.
What they have here is a whole lot of risks (especially on the drama side), but that's what it's going to take in...
- 2/9/2011
- by Shilo Adams
- TVovermind.com
NBC is pretty much done ordering pilots for the 2011-12 prime time season and, under the new leadership of Robert Greenblatt, the network seems to be doing exactly what it needs to dig itself out from behind CBS and Fox: It needs to go big and bold. (Right now, NBC ranks third among adults 18-49 with a 2.6 rating/7 share and fourth in viewers, with 7.8 million). Though the network has picked up its share of (safe) comedies, it’s definitely taking some much-needed risks with drama development. The Wonder Woman project from David E. Kelley may come with a high-price tag,...
- 2/9/2011
- by Lynette Rice
- EW - Inside TV
NBC ordered four pilots Wednesday, including one based on Chelsea Handler’s book, “Are You There Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea.”
Though she’ll executive produce, the host of E!’s “Chelsea Lately” isn’t currently attached to star — raising the possibility that someone else could play a character inspired by her and her misadventures. I hope Chelsea stars, because she is one sexy momma!
A disjointed collection of memories and experiences, Are You There Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea is an overenthusiastic voice from Chelsea Handler. Her anecdotes cover a range of topics from sex to sibling rivalry to parental humiliation, all showcasing how smart and witty she can be-in hindsight. Whether rambling about how she’s freaked out by red-headed men or bemoaning her arrest and short stint in prison, she is funny, like Judy Blume, if Judy Blume were into vodka, Ecstasy, and sleeping with midgets and nineteen-year-olds.
Though she’ll executive produce, the host of E!’s “Chelsea Lately” isn’t currently attached to star — raising the possibility that someone else could play a character inspired by her and her misadventures. I hope Chelsea stars, because she is one sexy momma!
A disjointed collection of memories and experiences, Are You There Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea is an overenthusiastic voice from Chelsea Handler. Her anecdotes cover a range of topics from sex to sibling rivalry to parental humiliation, all showcasing how smart and witty she can be-in hindsight. Whether rambling about how she’s freaked out by red-headed men or bemoaning her arrest and short stint in prison, she is funny, like Judy Blume, if Judy Blume were into vodka, Ecstasy, and sleeping with midgets and nineteen-year-olds.
- 1/27/2011
- by Kevin Coll
- FusedFilm
From Wonder Woman…to Chelsea Handler! NBC made a flurry of pilot orders today, including one inspired by Handler’s bestselling book Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me Chelsea. The E! talk show host will executive produce the multi-camera comedy – along with Tom Werner, Mike Clements, and Tom Brunelle – that will focus on the lives of a group of 20-somethings who live and work together with a very outspoken young woman. Other exec producers include Julie Larson and Dottie Dartland Zicklin. Handler will not appear.
NBC also ordered these other comedy pilots today:
Untitled Whitney Cummings Project. Starring and...
NBC also ordered these other comedy pilots today:
Untitled Whitney Cummings Project. Starring and...
- 1/26/2011
- by Lynette Rice
- EW - Inside TV
Updated, 1/7: Each year, the five broadcast networks develop hundreds of scripted dramas and comedies in hopes they’ll become the next NCIS and Desperate Housewives, or the latest Modern Family and The Big Bang Theory. And like every year, a great deal of them are not worth mentioning here — mostly because they involve the bland types of cops, lawyers, and doctors who you’ve already seen fighting crime or sneaking a kiss on the way to the ER.
But fascinating projects continue to pass the first smell test at the broadcast networks. The key is whether the suits take...
But fascinating projects continue to pass the first smell test at the broadcast networks. The key is whether the suits take...
- 1/6/2011
- by Lynette Rice
- EW - Inside TV
Green Hornet to the rescue! Seth Rogen and writing partner Evan Goldberg will help rewrite Neighborhood Watch, a comedy that follows a group of fathers on a suburban block who form a watch group, only to uncover a plot that threatens to destroy the world. [THR]
News that School of Rocks hard: Mike White has accepted the offer to direct the adaptation of Seth Grahame-Smith’s Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. I bet I know who the movie’s first victims will be!
King of Queens reruns will air on Spike TV as of 2011, and on TV Land (okay, who feels old?...
News that School of Rocks hard: Mike White has accepted the offer to direct the adaptation of Seth Grahame-Smith’s Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. I bet I know who the movie’s first victims will be!
King of Queens reruns will air on Spike TV as of 2011, and on TV Land (okay, who feels old?...
- 11/16/2010
- by Kate Ward
- EW.com - PopWatch
Exclusive: An empty nesters comedy from 'Til Death creators Cathy Yuspa and Josh Goldsmith has landed at CBS. Titled Free, the multi-camera comedy centers on a married couple who explore their freedom and start to have fun and live their life when they drop their kids off at college. The husband-and-wife writing duo are writing-executive producing the project, which has received a script commitment. Sony Pictures TV, where Yuspa and Goldsmith are based with an overall deal, is producing. This is Yuspa and Goldsmith's second project this development season. They are also writing My Life As an Experiment, a single-camera comedy for NBC based on the best-selling non-fiction book by A.J. Jacobs. The project, which they are executive producing with Jack Black, received a seven-figure penalty. Yuspa and Goldsmith have been in a similar situation before. Five years ago, they also set two projects, a multi-camera comedy involving empty nesters,...
- 11/15/2010
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
HollywoodNews.com: Jack Black is getting animated.
His production shingle Electric Dynamite has landed its “Tiny Monsters” cartoon at Fox TV.
The toon was written by Ali Rushfield (“In the Motherhood”) and centers on a click of mean chicks in junior high. Variety had the news.
Executive producers include Black, Electric Dynamite president Ben Cooley and the firm’s TV executive Priyanka Mattoo. Carolyn Bernstein of Reveille is also producing.
Other TV projects Electric Dynamite has in the works include “My Life as an Experiment” at NBC which is based on the A.J. Jacobs book.
Jack Black’s next film is also with Fox, “Gulliver’s Travels” which bows on December 22 in 3D. Film is a modern take on the classic Jonathan Swift book and co-stars Emily Blunt and T.J. Miller.
pd
Photo credit: PR Photos
Follow Hollywood News on Twitter for up-to-date news information.
Hollywood News, Hollywood Awards, Awards,...
His production shingle Electric Dynamite has landed its “Tiny Monsters” cartoon at Fox TV.
The toon was written by Ali Rushfield (“In the Motherhood”) and centers on a click of mean chicks in junior high. Variety had the news.
Executive producers include Black, Electric Dynamite president Ben Cooley and the firm’s TV executive Priyanka Mattoo. Carolyn Bernstein of Reveille is also producing.
Other TV projects Electric Dynamite has in the works include “My Life as an Experiment” at NBC which is based on the A.J. Jacobs book.
Jack Black’s next film is also with Fox, “Gulliver’s Travels” which bows on December 22 in 3D. Film is a modern take on the classic Jonathan Swift book and co-stars Emily Blunt and T.J. Miller.
pd
Photo credit: PR Photos
Follow Hollywood News on Twitter for up-to-date news information.
Hollywood News, Hollywood Awards, Awards,...
- 11/1/2010
- by HollywoodNews.com
- Hollywoodnews.com
CNN anchor Anderson Cooper will be launching a syndicated daytime talk show with Telepictures Productions and Warner Bros. Domestic Television. The show is set to air in Fall 2011. [THR]NBC has picked up a pilot adaptation of A.J. Jacobs' nonfiction book The Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life as an Experiment. The comedy, which is produced by Jack Black, "is about a man fixated on self-improvement who takes on difficult experiments and lifestyles, all of which makes things tough on his family." [THR]Everybody Loves Raymond and 'Til Death star Brad Garrett is set to host a kids...
- 10/1/2010
- by Peter Schaus, Oceanport TV Examiner
- Examiner - TV in New York
Enjoy some snack-sized pieces of TV news. They're delicious and nutritious.
NBC has ordered a comedy pilot that has Jack Black as one of its executive producers. The untitled show, which Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa ("The King of Queens," "'Til Death") are writing, is based on A.J. Jacobs' book "The Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life As an Experiment." [The Live Feed]
Kyle MacLachlan, late of "Desperate Housewives," will guest on at least two episodes of "How I Met Your Mother" later this fall. He'll be playing the ex-husband of Jennifer Morrison's character, who maybe-possibly-you-never-know could turn out to be the mom in question. [EW]
Fox's sci-fi series "Terra Nova" has cast British actress Shelley Conn ("Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "Mistresses") as its female lead. She'll play the wife of Jason O'Mara's character. [Deadline]
"The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "The Late Show with David Letterman" finished premiere week nearly even in the ratings.
NBC has ordered a comedy pilot that has Jack Black as one of its executive producers. The untitled show, which Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa ("The King of Queens," "'Til Death") are writing, is based on A.J. Jacobs' book "The Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life As an Experiment." [The Live Feed]
Kyle MacLachlan, late of "Desperate Housewives," will guest on at least two episodes of "How I Met Your Mother" later this fall. He'll be playing the ex-husband of Jennifer Morrison's character, who maybe-possibly-you-never-know could turn out to be the mom in question. [EW]
Fox's sci-fi series "Terra Nova" has cast British actress Shelley Conn ("Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "Mistresses") as its female lead. She'll play the wife of Jason O'Mara's character. [Deadline]
"The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "The Late Show with David Letterman" finished premiere week nearly even in the ratings.
- 9/30/2010
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
That's right people! According to THR NBC has indeed picked up a pilot from funny guy Jack Black who will also produce this along with Sony TV and Reveille.The pilot is based on A.J. Jacobs' book "The Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life as an Experiment." Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa ('Til Death) have writing duties. I smell a hit for the comeback kids at NBC!
Plot:
The show is about a man fixated on self-improvement who takes on whdifficult experiments and lifestyles, all of which makes things tough on his family.
Black's production company will produce along with Reveille and Sony TV.
- 9/30/2010
- by brians
- GeekTyrant
Funnyman Jack Black is continuing his expansion into every available medium. He's already conquered the movie scene--and with starring roles in films by Stephen Chow and Richard Linklater, that doesn't look to be changing anytime soon--and has built a significant following with his band Tenacious D, who have recently written a song for the new Heavy Metal movie. Next up, he's heading to television in his first non-cameo role, not counting his three-episode stint on HBO. The project is based on A.J. Jacobs' nonfiction book The Guinea Pig Diaries: My Life as an Experiment, and is about "a man fixated on self-improvement who takes on difficult experiments and lifestyles, all of which makes things tough on his family". Learn more after the break. The Hollywood Reporter says NBC made a pilot order-with-penalty deal with Black, whose production company will help produce the show. Writers for the pilot will be...
- 9/30/2010
- by Adam Quigley
- Slash Film
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.