Dozens of top Hollywood creatives and activists have signed an open letter in response to the shuttering of production company Participant — imploring the industry to continue to effect change through film and television as the defunct company once did.
George Clooney, Aflonso Cuarón, Ava DuVernay, Jane Fonda, Regina King, Viola Davis, #MeToo founder Tarana Burke, civil rights attorney Bryan Stevenson, Color of Change president Rashad Robinson and more are signators, in addition to groups like GLAAD and Human Rights Watch. The letter was coordinated by the National Domestic Workers Alliance (Ndwa), which collaborated with Participant and director Cuarón on a visibility campaign for his 2018 Oscar winner “Roma.”
“As we say goodbye to Participant, we must underscore that values-based storytelling is needed now more than ever,” the letter states. “There is a whole ecosystem of people, connected by the work of the last 20 years of Participant, ready to work with you.
George Clooney, Aflonso Cuarón, Ava DuVernay, Jane Fonda, Regina King, Viola Davis, #MeToo founder Tarana Burke, civil rights attorney Bryan Stevenson, Color of Change president Rashad Robinson and more are signators, in addition to groups like GLAAD and Human Rights Watch. The letter was coordinated by the National Domestic Workers Alliance (Ndwa), which collaborated with Participant and director Cuarón on a visibility campaign for his 2018 Oscar winner “Roma.”
“As we say goodbye to Participant, we must underscore that values-based storytelling is needed now more than ever,” the letter states. “There is a whole ecosystem of people, connected by the work of the last 20 years of Participant, ready to work with you.
- 5/7/2024
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Tyler Perry and Netflix are expanding their creative partnership. Fresh off his most recent film Mea Culpa, the multihyphenate has signed a new deal alongside producer DeVon Franklin (last year’s Oscar-nominated Flamin’ Hot) to produce faith-based films that will stream exclusively on Netflix. The first in the new arrangement will be R&b, a modern-day retelling of the iconic biblical love story of Ruth and Boaz.
“I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects,” Perry said. “I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder everyday, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good. And there’s no better place than Netflix.”
“Tyler and I have been great friends for over 15 years,” Franklin added, “so when he called me to team up on movies that can uplift the human spirit,...
“I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects,” Perry said. “I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder everyday, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good. And there’s no better place than Netflix.”
“Tyler and I have been great friends for over 15 years,” Franklin added, “so when he called me to team up on movies that can uplift the human spirit,...
- 5/6/2024
- by John DiLillo
- Tudum - Netflix
Tyler Perry has conquered the entertainment world — the creative force between two dozen films, 17 television shows, bestselling books and 20 stage plays. He built a thriving studio complex in Atlanta, and just today Deadline reported he has signed a first-look deal with Netflix to produce faith-based films alongside DeVon Franklin.
It’s been a long and improbable journey to the top of his profession, a tale told in the Emmy-contending documentary Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story. Gelila Bekele (Perry’s former life partner) and Armani Ortiz directed the Amazon MGM Studios film, with the first footage shot a decade ago.
“I saw this man becoming busier than ever and I had the privilege of having a front-row seat and I wanted to just document it for archive,” Bekele explained during an appearance at the Deadline Studio at Prime Experience in Hollywood. “I realized there’s a huge chunk of missing history,...
It’s been a long and improbable journey to the top of his profession, a tale told in the Emmy-contending documentary Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story. Gelila Bekele (Perry’s former life partner) and Armani Ortiz directed the Amazon MGM Studios film, with the first footage shot a decade ago.
“I saw this man becoming busier than ever and I had the privilege of having a front-row seat and I wanted to just document it for archive,” Bekele explained during an appearance at the Deadline Studio at Prime Experience in Hollywood. “I realized there’s a huge chunk of missing history,...
- 5/6/2024
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix believes in the power of faith-based film… and in the power of Tyler Perry.
Netflix has extended its creative deal with mega-producer Tyler Perry, in which he’s meant to write, direct, and produce films and series for the streamer, to now include faith-based movies. Perry and Netflix as part of the deal will recruit one of the original hit makers in the current wave of faith-based movies, DeVon Franklin (“Miracles from Heaven”).
Together, Franklin and Perry will produce several faith-based films for Netflix as part of a new multiyear and multi-picture first-look film deal, Netflix announced on May 6.
The first project under the deal will be “R&b,” a modern-day retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz, one of the Bible’s iconic love stories. Set in Tennessee, “R&b” tells the story of a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an...
Netflix has extended its creative deal with mega-producer Tyler Perry, in which he’s meant to write, direct, and produce films and series for the streamer, to now include faith-based movies. Perry and Netflix as part of the deal will recruit one of the original hit makers in the current wave of faith-based movies, DeVon Franklin (“Miracles from Heaven”).
Together, Franklin and Perry will produce several faith-based films for Netflix as part of a new multiyear and multi-picture first-look film deal, Netflix announced on May 6.
The first project under the deal will be “R&b,” a modern-day retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz, one of the Bible’s iconic love stories. Set in Tennessee, “R&b” tells the story of a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an...
- 5/6/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Tyler Perry and DeVon Franklin are teaming up to produce faith-based films under a multi-year and multi-picture first-look deal at Netflix.
The films will be produced by the duo in conjunction with Tyler Perry Studios in the latest expansion of Perry’s creative partnership at Netflix, inked as a first-look film deal in October 2023 and has broadened to include scripted and unscripted TV projects.
“I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects,” said Perry in a statement announcing the partnership. “I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder everyday, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good. And there’s no better place than Netflix.”
Added Franklin, “Tyler and I have been great friends for over 15 years, so when he called me to team up on movies that can uplift the human spirit,...
The films will be produced by the duo in conjunction with Tyler Perry Studios in the latest expansion of Perry’s creative partnership at Netflix, inked as a first-look film deal in October 2023 and has broadened to include scripted and unscripted TV projects.
“I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects,” said Perry in a statement announcing the partnership. “I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder everyday, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good. And there’s no better place than Netflix.”
Added Franklin, “Tyler and I have been great friends for over 15 years, so when he called me to team up on movies that can uplift the human spirit,...
- 5/6/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Tyler Perry and DeVon Franklin (Miracles From Heaven) are getting into business with Netflix to make faith-based movies together.
The first film under their new partnership will be R&b, written by Mike Elliott (Brown Sugar) and Cory Tynan, and described as a modern-day retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz, an iconic Biblical love story. Set in Tennessee, R&b follows a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an elderly widowed woman, only to the love of her life and gain the mother she never had.
The partnership between Tyler Perry Studios and Franklin comprises a multi-year and multi-picture first-look deal. “I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects. I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder everyday, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good.
The first film under their new partnership will be R&b, written by Mike Elliott (Brown Sugar) and Cory Tynan, and described as a modern-day retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz, an iconic Biblical love story. Set in Tennessee, R&b follows a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an elderly widowed woman, only to the love of her life and gain the mother she never had.
The partnership between Tyler Perry Studios and Franklin comprises a multi-year and multi-picture first-look deal. “I’m so excited to be working with DeVon on this and future projects. I think in this polarizing world, and at a time where the world seems to be growing colder everyday, we both share the common goal of wanting to spread some good.
- 5/6/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tyler Perry Studios and DeVon Franklin (Flamin’ Hot) are partnering with Netflix to produce faith-based films under a multiyear, multipicture first-look deal. It marks the latest extension of Perry and Netflix’s creative partnership that sees him write, direct and produce films and series, but films under the new deal will be produced by Franklin and Perry in conjunction with Tyler Perry Studios.
The first film under the new partnership will be R&b, written by Mike Elliott (Brown Sugar) & Cory Tynan (Play’d). Most recently the writing duo penned the faith-based romantic comedy Relationship Goals for Franklin and Amazon MGM Studios.
R&b is a modern retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz, one of the most iconic love stories in the Bible. Set in Tennessee, R&b tells the story of a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an elderly widowed woman...
The first film under the new partnership will be R&b, written by Mike Elliott (Brown Sugar) & Cory Tynan (Play’d). Most recently the writing duo penned the faith-based romantic comedy Relationship Goals for Franklin and Amazon MGM Studios.
R&b is a modern retelling of the story of Ruth and Boaz, one of the most iconic love stories in the Bible. Set in Tennessee, R&b tells the story of a young woman who escapes the Atlanta music scene to care for an elderly widowed woman...
- 5/6/2024
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
The live-action Masters of the Universe reboot is finally going to see the light of day after being in and out of development for many years.
After numerous false starts, Netflix was all set to develop a feature take on the beloved animated series back in 2022, but we recently got word that the latest attempt to get the project off the ground had also fallen by the wayside.
However, we'd later learn that Amazon/MGM Studios had acquired the movie, with Bumblebee director Travis Knight in talks to helm. Now, multiple trades are reporting that Knight has officially signed on, and the movie is set to hit theaters on June 5, 2026.
Chris Butler rewrote the script from an initial draft by David Callaham (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings). Previously, the Nee Brothers (The Lost City) were attached to direct.
An updated synopsis has also been revealed, it sounds...
After numerous false starts, Netflix was all set to develop a feature take on the beloved animated series back in 2022, but we recently got word that the latest attempt to get the project off the ground had also fallen by the wayside.
However, we'd later learn that Amazon/MGM Studios had acquired the movie, with Bumblebee director Travis Knight in talks to helm. Now, multiple trades are reporting that Knight has officially signed on, and the movie is set to hit theaters on June 5, 2026.
Chris Butler rewrote the script from an initial draft by David Callaham (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings). Previously, the Nee Brothers (The Lost City) were attached to direct.
An updated synopsis has also been revealed, it sounds...
- 5/3/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Jonathan Majors’ name has become quite well-known in Hollywood. He was infamously involved in a controversy that put his entire career in jeopardy. His career had been at its all-time peak when the actor took a hit out of nowhere.
Jonathan Majors as Kang the Conqueror
Despite the controversies making his acting career seem shaky, that doesn’t mean everything else in his life is falling apart the same way. Meagan Good, who was also in Shazam!, is now reportedly dating the actor.
“That’s my best buddy”: The Way Jonathan Majors Values His Friendship With Michael B. Jordan Proves He Just Might Return for Creed 4
Ironically enough, it would seem that her ex-husband, DeVon Franklin, is more than ecstatic about the pair.
DeVon Franklin’s Thoughts on Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors
DeVon Franklin and Meagan Good were together for a very crucial time in their lives.
Jonathan Majors as Kang the Conqueror
Despite the controversies making his acting career seem shaky, that doesn’t mean everything else in his life is falling apart the same way. Meagan Good, who was also in Shazam!, is now reportedly dating the actor.
“That’s my best buddy”: The Way Jonathan Majors Values His Friendship With Michael B. Jordan Proves He Just Might Return for Creed 4
Ironically enough, it would seem that her ex-husband, DeVon Franklin, is more than ecstatic about the pair.
DeVon Franklin’s Thoughts on Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors
DeVon Franklin and Meagan Good were together for a very crucial time in their lives.
- 4/22/2024
- by Ananya Godboley
- FandomWire
Meagan Good is standing by her man. The Eve’s Bayou actor was with her boyfriend Jonathan Majors as he left court in New York City on April 8 after he was sentenced to probation on domestic violence charges.
In December 2023, a jury convicted Majors, 34, of assaulting and harassing his former girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. He was facing up to 12 months in jail, but on Monday, a judge instead ordered him to complete a year-long, in-person domestic violence intervention program. He was also ordered to have no contact with Jabbari.
Jonathan Majors arrives with Meagan Good for sentencing in his domestic abuse case at Manhattan Criminal Court on April 8, 2024 in New York City. | David Dee Delgado/Getty Images
Majors and Good looked somber as they arrived at court in Manhattan on Monday. On Dec. 18, the Creed III actor was found guilty of assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree...
In December 2023, a jury convicted Majors, 34, of assaulting and harassing his former girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. He was facing up to 12 months in jail, but on Monday, a judge instead ordered him to complete a year-long, in-person domestic violence intervention program. He was also ordered to have no contact with Jabbari.
Jonathan Majors arrives with Meagan Good for sentencing in his domestic abuse case at Manhattan Criminal Court on April 8, 2024 in New York City. | David Dee Delgado/Getty Images
Majors and Good looked somber as they arrived at court in Manhattan on Monday. On Dec. 18, the Creed III actor was found guilty of assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree...
- 4/8/2024
- by Megan Elliott
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Exclusive: Dr. Holly Carter (The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel) today announced the launch of her family, faith and lifestyle network MergeTV on James DuBose’s In The Black Network, a streaming service that highlights Black voices and original stories.
Carter also announced MergeTV’s slate of original programming dropping on April 2, which includes its flagship show Food for Thought with DeVon Franklin, hosted by the bestselling author, producer and preacher. Franklin will be joined by some of his famous friends “to bake up delicious desserts and share deep conversation,” according to the series description, with guests ranging from Smokey Robinson to Cedric the Entertainer.
MergeTV’s slate also includes talk show Chatter, dating show Finding My Romeo, hosted by musician and actor Romeo Miller; Preachers Reunion and Preachers Wedding Edition, and cooking show Katching Kierra, hosted by Gospel standout Kierra Sheard-Kelly. Complete descriptions follow below.
“We are thrilled...
Carter also announced MergeTV’s slate of original programming dropping on April 2, which includes its flagship show Food for Thought with DeVon Franklin, hosted by the bestselling author, producer and preacher. Franklin will be joined by some of his famous friends “to bake up delicious desserts and share deep conversation,” according to the series description, with guests ranging from Smokey Robinson to Cedric the Entertainer.
MergeTV’s slate also includes talk show Chatter, dating show Finding My Romeo, hosted by musician and actor Romeo Miller; Preachers Reunion and Preachers Wedding Edition, and cooking show Katching Kierra, hosted by Gospel standout Kierra Sheard-Kelly. Complete descriptions follow below.
“We are thrilled...
- 3/22/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
In December 2023, Jonathan Majors came under intense scrutiny after a New York jury found him guilty of assaulting and harassing his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari. While he was cleared of some charges, the situation remained serious.
Jonathan Majors in a still from Lovecraft Country
Despite the drama surrounding his conviction, the ex-Marvel star is still going strong with his girlfriend Meagan Good, and they seem unfazed by it all. Even though his reputation took a hit after a rough patch, fans are showing renewed support as he appeared in public with his girlfriend.
Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good Receive Fan Support
On December 18, 2023, a Manhattan jury convicted Jonathan Majors of reckless assault and harassment stemming from accusations of mistreatment by his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari (as reported by CBS News).
Jonathan Majors as Kang in the MCU
On December 19, 2023, the very next day, Majors and his girlfriend Meagan Good were spotted at Los Angeles International Airport.
Jonathan Majors in a still from Lovecraft Country
Despite the drama surrounding his conviction, the ex-Marvel star is still going strong with his girlfriend Meagan Good, and they seem unfazed by it all. Even though his reputation took a hit after a rough patch, fans are showing renewed support as he appeared in public with his girlfriend.
Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good Receive Fan Support
On December 18, 2023, a Manhattan jury convicted Jonathan Majors of reckless assault and harassment stemming from accusations of mistreatment by his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari (as reported by CBS News).
Jonathan Majors as Kang in the MCU
On December 19, 2023, the very next day, Majors and his girlfriend Meagan Good were spotted at Los Angeles International Airport.
- 3/17/2024
- by Shreya Jha
- FandomWire
Exclusive: DeVon Franklin is staying in business with CBS Studios and has sold his latest show.
The founder of Franklin Entertainment is developing detective drama Grace for CBS after reupping his deal with the studio for another two years.
Franklin, who was behind the Eva Longoria-directed Flamin’ Hot movie, signed his first deal with CBS Studios in 2020 and it was renewed in 2022.
Grace follows a true-blue detective known for his brash, cynical style and a passionate, community-focused pastor who wears her heart on her sleeve reluctantly partner to solve complex crimes as they debate their divergent beliefs while attempting to ignore their growing chemistry.
It is being written by Devon Greggory, showrunner of Paramount+’s revival of The Game who also has a deal at the studio, and Corey Moore, who has written on series including All Rise and NCIS: New Orleans. The pair will exec produce alongside Franklin.
The founder of Franklin Entertainment is developing detective drama Grace for CBS after reupping his deal with the studio for another two years.
Franklin, who was behind the Eva Longoria-directed Flamin’ Hot movie, signed his first deal with CBS Studios in 2020 and it was renewed in 2022.
Grace follows a true-blue detective known for his brash, cynical style and a passionate, community-focused pastor who wears her heart on her sleeve reluctantly partner to solve complex crimes as they debate their divergent beliefs while attempting to ignore their growing chemistry.
It is being written by Devon Greggory, showrunner of Paramount+’s revival of The Game who also has a deal at the studio, and Corey Moore, who has written on series including All Rise and NCIS: New Orleans. The pair will exec produce alongside Franklin.
- 3/15/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Andrew Erwin, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Kingdom Story Company has launched The Storytellers podcast. The brand new series looks into the personal stories of renowned actors and musicians in order to give a unique glimpse into their journeys of hope and redemption. This season kicks off with guests Dennis Quaid, Brian "Head" Welch, Candace Cameron Bure, and DeVon Franklin.
- 2/14/2024
- by PodcastingToday
- Podcastingtoday
The 96th annual Oscar nominees luncheon gathered a vibrant crowd of celebrities, filmmakers and cinephiles at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills.
DeVon Franklin, a Board of Governors member, kicked off the event by announcing the roll call of attendees, starting with composer Laura Karpman of “American Fiction” and concluding with Robert Downey Jr., nominated for his supporting role in “Oppenheimer.”
Here are some of the key takeaways from the event.
Emma Stone and Bradley Cooper at the 2024 Oscars Nominees Luncheon.
The dog from “Anatomy of a Fall” stole the show.
The breakout star of the day was the lovable pooch from “Anatomy of a Fall.” Messi, the canine actor portraying Snoop in Justine Triet’s film, stole the hearts of nearly every nominee present. From Ryan Gosling and America Ferrera of “Barbie” fame to the musical sensation Billie Eilish, everyone seemed to be enchanted by the furry star.
DeVon Franklin, a Board of Governors member, kicked off the event by announcing the roll call of attendees, starting with composer Laura Karpman of “American Fiction” and concluding with Robert Downey Jr., nominated for his supporting role in “Oppenheimer.”
Here are some of the key takeaways from the event.
Emma Stone and Bradley Cooper at the 2024 Oscars Nominees Luncheon.
The dog from “Anatomy of a Fall” stole the show.
The breakout star of the day was the lovable pooch from “Anatomy of a Fall.” Messi, the canine actor portraying Snoop in Justine Triet’s film, stole the hearts of nearly every nominee present. From Ryan Gosling and America Ferrera of “Barbie” fame to the musical sensation Billie Eilish, everyone seemed to be enchanted by the furry star.
- 2/13/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Snoop, the border collie featured in best picture nominee Anatomy of a Fall, and figurines of monsters from Godzilla: Minus One, a nominee for best visual effects, competed for attention with A-listers including Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Bradley Cooper and Robert Downey Jr. at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ annual Oscar Nominees Luncheon.
Per tradition, the gathering of nominees from across the 23 Oscar categories — along with their plus ones, members of the Academy’s board of governors and a handful of journalists also in the room — took place in the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton. Unlike Oscar night itself, nominees tend to feel less nervous at the luncheon, at which they are deliberately seated with nominees from other categories and films, and from which everyone leaves a winner. (See photos of the arrivals.)
Table groupings included Poor Things’ Stone, Maestro’s Cooper and American...
Per tradition, the gathering of nominees from across the 23 Oscar categories — along with their plus ones, members of the Academy’s board of governors and a handful of journalists also in the room — took place in the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton. Unlike Oscar night itself, nominees tend to feel less nervous at the luncheon, at which they are deliberately seated with nominees from other categories and films, and from which everyone leaves a winner. (See photos of the arrivals.)
Table groupings included Poor Things’ Stone, Maestro’s Cooper and American...
- 2/12/2024
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Year 2023 will be remembered in Hollywood for various phenomena — the strikes, Barbenheimer — but for Latinos, 2023 was the year that saw a relatively significant number of movies and TV releases from and about their community, in a variety of genres. With actors and writers spending about half of last year unable to promote their projects, the atmosphere at Neuehouse in Hollywood was all the more electric last Friday evening as a who’s who of Latin entertainment, media, sports and politics came together to toast the excellence they saw on the big and small screens.
The event, La Cena Los Angeles, was an expansion of the intimate multi-city La Cena dinner series started last year by culture and impact consultant Ruben Garcia, formerly co-head of cultural business strategy at CAA, to cultivate community among impactful Latino figures across disciplines.
Sponsored by the Latino-focused organization Equis, La Cena LA saluted a range of work,...
The event, La Cena Los Angeles, was an expansion of the intimate multi-city La Cena dinner series started last year by culture and impact consultant Ruben Garcia, formerly co-head of cultural business strategy at CAA, to cultivate community among impactful Latino figures across disciplines.
Sponsored by the Latino-focused organization Equis, La Cena LA saluted a range of work,...
- 1/9/2024
- by Rebecca Sun
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Intellectual property — the books, films, characters and properties that get butts into seats — has long been a cornerstone of Hollywood moviemaking. But many of this year’s films have drawn from less likely, though perhaps inevitable, sources of inspiration: products and brands. Movies ranging from “Barbie” and “Air” to “BlackBerry” and Michael Mann’s upcoming “Ferrari” all to one extent or another leverage the namesake of the object, or the business associated with it in the name of attracting audiences to theaters.
This parade of product-driven titles seems to mark an inflection point in a crowded entertainment landscape where consumer recognizability has become one of the most important (or seemingly only) factor when deciding which movies to make.
At their best, these movies hit it out of the park with critics and moviegoers, as in the case with “Barbie,” the biggest movie of the year, or gain critical heat, as with “Air,...
This parade of product-driven titles seems to mark an inflection point in a crowded entertainment landscape where consumer recognizability has become one of the most important (or seemingly only) factor when deciding which movies to make.
At their best, these movies hit it out of the park with critics and moviegoers, as in the case with “Barbie,” the biggest movie of the year, or gain critical heat, as with “Air,...
- 11/17/2023
- by Todd Gilchrist
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: William H. Macy (Shameless), John Corbett (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Joel Courtney (The Kissing Booth), DeVon Franklin (Jesus Revolution), and Stephanie Szostak (A Million Little Things) are among those set to star in On Fire, another new film from Sean McNamara (Reagan) that has landed a SAG-AFTRA Interim Agreement and will begin production in St. Louis November 6.
News of the project comes following McNamara’s recent commitment to direct the indie One Man’s Castle, penned by producer John Zaring, for Zaring/Cioffi Entertainment, Virtuosity Media, and his own banner Brookwell McNamara Entertainment. Rounding out the cast of today’s film, based on the bestseller by inspirational speaker John O’Leary, are Masey McLain (I Am Not Ashamed), Natalie Buck (Marry Me), and James McCracken (Christmas Again).
Believed to be the first feature to take advantage of Missouri’s new production tax credit, On Fire was adapted for the...
News of the project comes following McNamara’s recent commitment to direct the indie One Man’s Castle, penned by producer John Zaring, for Zaring/Cioffi Entertainment, Virtuosity Media, and his own banner Brookwell McNamara Entertainment. Rounding out the cast of today’s film, based on the bestseller by inspirational speaker John O’Leary, are Masey McLain (I Am Not Ashamed), Natalie Buck (Marry Me), and James McCracken (Christmas Again).
Believed to be the first feature to take advantage of Missouri’s new production tax credit, On Fire was adapted for the...
- 10/26/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
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Disney Entertainment TV is set to reinstate overall deals for creatives that were suspended during the WGA strike as early as Thursday, TheWrap has learned.
In mid-September, the company paused overall and first look deals across its subsidiaries, with Billy Porter, Yara Shahidi, Gina Rodriguez, “This Is Us” alum Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore, “Rebel” executive producer Marc Webb, “The Bear” EP Hiro Murai and FX Productions’ Stacey Sher among those impacted.
While Disney Entertainment TV had paused the deals, the studio planned to continue paying for the deals in order to provide salaries for assistants through the end of 2023, as well as cover salaries for development executives through the first week of October 2023, an individual with knowledge of the decision told TheWrap at the time.
Disney’s reinstated deals...
Disney Entertainment TV is set to reinstate overall deals for creatives that were suspended during the WGA strike as early as Thursday, TheWrap has learned.
In mid-September, the company paused overall and first look deals across its subsidiaries, with Billy Porter, Yara Shahidi, Gina Rodriguez, “This Is Us” alum Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore, “Rebel” executive producer Marc Webb, “The Bear” EP Hiro Murai and FX Productions’ Stacey Sher among those impacted.
While Disney Entertainment TV had paused the deals, the studio planned to continue paying for the deals in order to provide salaries for assistants through the end of 2023, as well as cover salaries for development executives through the first week of October 2023, an individual with knowledge of the decision told TheWrap at the time.
Disney’s reinstated deals...
- 9/28/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Actors Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good have sparked marriage rumors after Majors called her “The Mrs.”
The couple attended the eighth Annual Black and White Gala held by the Congressional Black Caucus on Saturday in Washington, D.C.
A video of the moment was shared on X, formerly Twitter, of the pair speaking on stage with the caption, “So… They actually got married?!!?”
Good started off by announcing, “We’re just so happy to be here with y’all tonight, celebrating us, celebrating the moves we’re making, celebrating the way we love and support each other, the way that we shift the world. Let’s enjoy ourselves!”
She continued, “So many beautiful black faces. I love us, y’all! We are so beautiful! That’s all I got. I’m just happy to be here and I love y’all!” She asked Majors if he wanted “to say anything?...
The couple attended the eighth Annual Black and White Gala held by the Congressional Black Caucus on Saturday in Washington, D.C.
A video of the moment was shared on X, formerly Twitter, of the pair speaking on stage with the caption, “So… They actually got married?!!?”
Good started off by announcing, “We’re just so happy to be here with y’all tonight, celebrating us, celebrating the moves we’re making, celebrating the way we love and support each other, the way that we shift the world. Let’s enjoy ourselves!”
She continued, “So many beautiful black faces. I love us, y’all! We are so beautiful! That’s all I got. I’m just happy to be here and I love y’all!” She asked Majors if he wanted “to say anything?...
- 9/27/2023
- by Nina Hauswirth
- Uinterview
Apple has become the latest entertainment company to suspend additional overall and first-look deals this month as the WGA strike is getting past the four-and-a-half-month mark.
As has been the case with the other recent suspensions at Disney, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros. TV and CBS Studios, impacted are non-writing producers who are not currently rendering services due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. I hear the handful of pacts that are being suspended include those for Natalie Portman’s MountainA, the company she formed with producer Sophie Mas, and Adam McKay’s Hyperobject Industries. A rep for Apple declined comment.
A number of the streamer’s high-profile deals with non-writing producers are still ongoing as they are working on projects, including Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman’s Playtone, which is behind the upcoming Apple series Masters of the Air. Martin Scorsese, who signed a film and TV deal with...
As has been the case with the other recent suspensions at Disney, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros. TV and CBS Studios, impacted are non-writing producers who are not currently rendering services due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. I hear the handful of pacts that are being suspended include those for Natalie Portman’s MountainA, the company she formed with producer Sophie Mas, and Adam McKay’s Hyperobject Industries. A rep for Apple declined comment.
A number of the streamer’s high-profile deals with non-writing producers are still ongoing as they are working on projects, including Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman’s Playtone, which is behind the upcoming Apple series Masters of the Air. Martin Scorsese, who signed a film and TV deal with...
- 9/16/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney Entertainment TV has suspended a slew of overall and first-look deals with producers across its subsidiaries, including Billy Porter, Yara Shahidi and Gina Rodriguez, among others, TheWrap has learned.
Additional non-writing producers impacted by the suspensions include fellow “This Is Us” alum Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore, as well as “Rebel” executive producer Marc Webb, “The Bear” EP Hiro Murai and FX Productions’ Stacey Sher.
Despite the suspensions, Disney Entertainment TV plans to continue paying for the deals in order to provide salaries for assistants through the end of 2023, as well as cover salaries for development executives through the first week of October 2023, an individual with knowledge of the decision told TheWrap.
The entertainment giant becomes the latest company to make the move to suspend deals as the WGA strike stretches into its fourth month, with SAG-AFTRA members joining striking writers on the picket line in mid-July.
Last week,...
Additional non-writing producers impacted by the suspensions include fellow “This Is Us” alum Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore, as well as “Rebel” executive producer Marc Webb, “The Bear” EP Hiro Murai and FX Productions’ Stacey Sher.
Despite the suspensions, Disney Entertainment TV plans to continue paying for the deals in order to provide salaries for assistants through the end of 2023, as well as cover salaries for development executives through the first week of October 2023, an individual with knowledge of the decision told TheWrap.
The entertainment giant becomes the latest company to make the move to suspend deals as the WGA strike stretches into its fourth month, with SAG-AFTRA members joining striking writers on the picket line in mid-July.
Last week,...
- 9/13/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Disney has become the latest entertainment company to suspend additional overall and first-look deals four and a half months into the WGA strike.
I hear the bulk of the pacts with non-writing producers across Disney TV Entertainment divisions are impacted, including deals at Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television and ABC Signature, FX Productions and Disney Branded Television. The move involves producers who are not performing services due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
According to sources, Disney will pay for the suspended term deals to provide salaries for their assistants through the end of 2023 and for their development executives through the first week of October.
I hear the list of suspensions include deals with Not Dead Yet star Gina Rodriguez and ThIs Is Us alums Justin Hartley, Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore at 20th Television, Yara Shahidi (grown-ish) and director-producer Marc Webb (Rebel) at ABC Signature as well...
I hear the bulk of the pacts with non-writing producers across Disney TV Entertainment divisions are impacted, including deals at Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television and ABC Signature, FX Productions and Disney Branded Television. The move involves producers who are not performing services due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
According to sources, Disney will pay for the suspended term deals to provide salaries for their assistants through the end of 2023 and for their development executives through the first week of October.
I hear the list of suspensions include deals with Not Dead Yet star Gina Rodriguez and ThIs Is Us alums Justin Hartley, Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore at 20th Television, Yara Shahidi (grown-ish) and director-producer Marc Webb (Rebel) at ABC Signature as well...
- 9/13/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
BET+ has set premiere dates for its fall slate of films and new and returning TV series.
First on the list is “Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy,” a film series starring Taye Diggs. Part 1 debuts on Sept. 21 while Part 2 will arrive on the streamer a week later, on Sept. 28. The films follow an investigation into the murder of Lance (Diggs), a successful Atlanta businessman known both for revolutionizing the city’s 911 system and for being a womanizer. The cast also includes Keesha Sharp, Ciera Payton, Apryl Jones, Ernestine Johnson, Nicole Lyn, Robert Brown, Tye White, Anton Peeples, Yung Joc, Karlie Redd and Yandy Smith. Jaira Thomas directs scripts from Gregory R. Anderson. Mona Scott-Young and Eric Tomosunas executive produce, with co-executive producers including Lorisa Bates, Marvin Neil, Stephanie R. Gayle, Abbey MacDonald and Nick Roses and producers including Ron Robinson, Jimmy Watson, Ron Stodghill, Keith Neal, Brian Rikuda and Devin Griffin.
First on the list is “Love & Murder: Atlanta Playboy,” a film series starring Taye Diggs. Part 1 debuts on Sept. 21 while Part 2 will arrive on the streamer a week later, on Sept. 28. The films follow an investigation into the murder of Lance (Diggs), a successful Atlanta businessman known both for revolutionizing the city’s 911 system and for being a womanizer. The cast also includes Keesha Sharp, Ciera Payton, Apryl Jones, Ernestine Johnson, Nicole Lyn, Robert Brown, Tye White, Anton Peeples, Yung Joc, Karlie Redd and Yandy Smith. Jaira Thomas directs scripts from Gregory R. Anderson. Mona Scott-Young and Eric Tomosunas executive produce, with co-executive producers including Lorisa Bates, Marvin Neil, Stephanie R. Gayle, Abbey MacDonald and Nick Roses and producers including Ron Robinson, Jimmy Watson, Ron Stodghill, Keith Neal, Brian Rikuda and Devin Griffin.
- 9/12/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Updated: More studios are suspending additional overall and first-look deals almost four and a half months into the WGA strike.
I hear the NBCUniversal studios — both film and TV — have suspended the pacts for all non-writing producers who no longer can render services as a result of the ongoing writers and actors strike. That includes Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video and Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks Prods., sources said.
Additionally, CBS Studios has suspended a handful of pacts with non-writing executive producers, including Phil McGraw and his production company Stage 29 and DeVon Franklin and his Franklin Entertainment. The studio will continue to pay salaries to assistants associated with the suspended term deals through the end of 2023. Reps for NBCUniversal Studio Group and CBS Studios declined comment.
TV studios initiated the first wave of suspending overall and first-look deals –primarily with writers — in early May, just days into the WGA strike. There...
I hear the NBCUniversal studios — both film and TV — have suspended the pacts for all non-writing producers who no longer can render services as a result of the ongoing writers and actors strike. That includes Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video and Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks Prods., sources said.
Additionally, CBS Studios has suspended a handful of pacts with non-writing executive producers, including Phil McGraw and his production company Stage 29 and DeVon Franklin and his Franklin Entertainment. The studio will continue to pay salaries to assistants associated with the suspended term deals through the end of 2023. Reps for NBCUniversal Studio Group and CBS Studios declined comment.
TV studios initiated the first wave of suspending overall and first-look deals –primarily with writers — in early May, just days into the WGA strike. There...
- 9/11/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
CBS Studios has suspended its term deals with three major producers, TheWrap has learned. Those impacted include the talk show host and celebrity Dr. Phil McGraw, “Kingdom Revolution”/”Flamin’ Hot” producer DeVon Franklin and “Dynasty”/”Nancy Drew” executive producer Lis Rowinski.
CBS will continue to cover the salary and benefits for the impacted assistants through the end of the strike or the end of 2023, an insider familiar with the deals told TheWrap. That timeline will depend on which comes first. Additionally, the term deals that haven’t been suspended by CBS Studios involve either alternative, unscripted or animated projects or some other non-wga activity.
Representatives for Franklin and Rowinski confirmed this story. However, representatives for McGraw did not respond by the time of publication.
CBS Studios declined to comment on this story.
The legacy network is far from the only one that has suspended deals with its top creators. On Monday,...
CBS will continue to cover the salary and benefits for the impacted assistants through the end of the strike or the end of 2023, an insider familiar with the deals told TheWrap. That timeline will depend on which comes first. Additionally, the term deals that haven’t been suspended by CBS Studios involve either alternative, unscripted or animated projects or some other non-wga activity.
Representatives for Franklin and Rowinski confirmed this story. However, representatives for McGraw did not respond by the time of publication.
CBS Studios declined to comment on this story.
The legacy network is far from the only one that has suspended deals with its top creators. On Monday,...
- 9/11/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
CBS Studios and NBCUniversal’s Universal Studio Group have suspended a new round of overall deals due to the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike.
On Wednesday, Disney TV joined the list of studios suspending deals, hitting the pause button on some first-look and overall pacts at 20th Television, Disney Branded Entertainment and ABC Signature. Among those affected are non-writing producing deals for actor-producers including Gina Rodriguez, Billy Porter, Mandy Moore and others who were not in active production at the time the strike began on May 2.
It’s understood that Disney’s plan is to pay assistants who work for banners that have been suspended through the end of the year. Development executives tied to suspended deals will be paid through early October. The Disney suspensions were first reported by Deadline.
On the CBS Studios side, talkshow star Phil “Dr. Phil” McGraw, BET+’s “Kingdom Business” producer DeVon Franklin...
On Wednesday, Disney TV joined the list of studios suspending deals, hitting the pause button on some first-look and overall pacts at 20th Television, Disney Branded Entertainment and ABC Signature. Among those affected are non-writing producing deals for actor-producers including Gina Rodriguez, Billy Porter, Mandy Moore and others who were not in active production at the time the strike began on May 2.
It’s understood that Disney’s plan is to pay assistants who work for banners that have been suspended through the end of the year. Development executives tied to suspended deals will be paid through early October. The Disney suspensions were first reported by Deadline.
On the CBS Studios side, talkshow star Phil “Dr. Phil” McGraw, BET+’s “Kingdom Business” producer DeVon Franklin...
- 9/11/2023
- by Jennifer Maas and Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Thomas Dexter, better known as T.D. Jakes, is an American non-denominational Christian preacher. He is known as the senior pastor of The Potter’s House, a non-denominational American megachurch. He is also the author of many published books, while having dabbled in a bit of film production as well.
T.D. Jakes Biography: Age, Early Life, Family, Education
T.D. Jakes was born on June 9, 1957 (T.D. Jakes age: 66) in South Charleston, West Virginia. His father, Ernest Sr., was a businessman and entrepreneur, while his mother, Odith, was employed as an educator.
Jakes was raised in Vandalia, West Virginia. He was born the youngest of three children.
As a result of his slight lisp, Jakes was told that he would never be able to preach his ideas.
When Jakes was just 10 years old, his father developed kidney failure. Jakes and his mother cared for him until his tragic death in 1973.
In...
T.D. Jakes Biography: Age, Early Life, Family, Education
T.D. Jakes was born on June 9, 1957 (T.D. Jakes age: 66) in South Charleston, West Virginia. His father, Ernest Sr., was a businessman and entrepreneur, while his mother, Odith, was employed as an educator.
Jakes was raised in Vandalia, West Virginia. He was born the youngest of three children.
As a result of his slight lisp, Jakes was told that he would never be able to preach his ideas.
When Jakes was just 10 years old, his father developed kidney failure. Jakes and his mother cared for him until his tragic death in 1973.
In...
- 8/13/2023
- by Trevor Hanuka
- Uinterview
Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good's relationship still seems to be going strong amid the former's assault and harassment charges. Popsugar confirmed in May that the "Creed III" actor, 33, and "Harlem" star, 41, are dating. TMZ was the first to report the news and People also confirmed.
Since then, the two have been spotted out together a number of times. Most recently, they were seen together in New York City at Majors's latest court hearing on Aug. 3 for his assault trial, which has been delayed until Sept. 6, per Deadline. The pair were photographed walking into the Manhattan Criminal Court hand in hand. Good supported Majors at his May 9 court hearing as well, where they were also seen entering and exiting court together holding hands.
Previously, Majors and Good were spotted seeing a movie together at the Alamo Drafthouse in Los Angeles the week before their relationship was confirmed, People noted.
Since then, the two have been spotted out together a number of times. Most recently, they were seen together in New York City at Majors's latest court hearing on Aug. 3 for his assault trial, which has been delayed until Sept. 6, per Deadline. The pair were photographed walking into the Manhattan Criminal Court hand in hand. Good supported Majors at his May 9 court hearing as well, where they were also seen entering and exiting court together holding hands.
Previously, Majors and Good were spotted seeing a movie together at the Alamo Drafthouse in Los Angeles the week before their relationship was confirmed, People noted.
- 8/3/2023
- by Sabienna Bowman
- Popsugar.com
The producer also begins her fifth year as an Ampas governor-at-large.
Producer Janet Yang has been elected to a second term as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Ampas) by the US organisation’s board of governors.
Yang, first elected Ampas president this time last year, is also beginning her fifth year as a governor-at-large for the Academy.
A member of the Academy’s producers branch since 2002, Yang’s producing credits include The Joy Luck Club, The People vs Larry Flynt and animated feature Over the Moon.
Also elected to the Ampas board, as vice-presidents and chairs of their respective committees,...
Producer Janet Yang has been elected to a second term as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Ampas) by the US organisation’s board of governors.
Yang, first elected Ampas president this time last year, is also beginning her fifth year as a governor-at-large for the Academy.
A member of the Academy’s producers branch since 2002, Yang’s producing credits include The Joy Luck Club, The People vs Larry Flynt and animated feature Over the Moon.
Also elected to the Ampas board, as vice-presidents and chairs of their respective committees,...
- 8/2/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Janet Yang has been re-elected as president of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. Her second-term re-election was made by the Academy’s board of governors who additionally elected a number of officer positions for 2023-2024.
Yang is an Emmy-winning producer with credits on projects including “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt,” “Zero Effect,” “High Crimes,” “Dark Matter,” “Shanghai Calling” and “Over the Moon.” She climbed to her success in Hollywood after working under Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy who helped show her the ropes at Amblin.
“I’ve felt like an outsider many times throughout my life,” Yang said this year at the Oscars. “It’s wonderful to have a sense of belonging, and terrible not to … If I can help open the door for other women and people of color, I’m thrilled.
Since 2002, she has been a member of the Academy’s...
Yang is an Emmy-winning producer with credits on projects including “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt,” “Zero Effect,” “High Crimes,” “Dark Matter,” “Shanghai Calling” and “Over the Moon.” She climbed to her success in Hollywood after working under Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy who helped show her the ropes at Amblin.
“I’ve felt like an outsider many times throughout my life,” Yang said this year at the Oscars. “It’s wonderful to have a sense of belonging, and terrible not to … If I can help open the door for other women and people of color, I’m thrilled.
Since 2002, she has been a member of the Academy’s...
- 8/1/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Janet Yang has been elected to her second term as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, AMPAS announced Tuesday. Yang was chosen by the Academy’s 55-member Board of Governors at the first meeting of the 2023-2024 board, which was elected in June.
Yang is the fourth woman to serve as Academy president, and the first Asian-American. She is a member of the Academy’s Producers Branch, with a filmography that includes “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt” and the animated feature “Over the Moon.”
Yang is a one of three Governors-at-Large. Where most of the AMPAS governors are elected by specific branches, the at-large positions are nominated by the Academy president and elected by the board. She was first nominated for the board by then-president John Bailey in 2019 and nominated again by David Rubin in 2022, putting her in the second year of her second three-year term.
Yang is the fourth woman to serve as Academy president, and the first Asian-American. She is a member of the Academy’s Producers Branch, with a filmography that includes “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt” and the animated feature “Over the Moon.”
Yang is a one of three Governors-at-Large. Where most of the AMPAS governors are elected by specific branches, the at-large positions are nominated by the Academy president and elected by the board. She was first nominated for the board by then-president John Bailey in 2019 and nominated again by David Rubin in 2022, putting her in the second year of her second three-year term.
- 8/1/2023
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Tuesday that its Board of Governors has re-elected producer Janet Yang as president of the organization. Members elected new people to fill the majority of officer positions as well, with only Lynette Howell Taylor and Kim Taylor-Coleman returning to their posts.
CEO Bill Kramer, who started his role around the same time as Yang last year, said in a statement, “I am thrilled to welcome this year’s board officers. Under Janet’s esteemed leadership, these dedicated governors will guide the Academy’s ongoing efforts to elevate the work of our global membership and film community, highlight our industry’s rich history, foster meaningful dialogue, and continue to build equity and inclusion in every aspect of our organization.”
Yang will now be in her second term as president, and her fifth year as a Governor-at-Large, having made history as the first Asian-American,...
CEO Bill Kramer, who started his role around the same time as Yang last year, said in a statement, “I am thrilled to welcome this year’s board officers. Under Janet’s esteemed leadership, these dedicated governors will guide the Academy’s ongoing efforts to elevate the work of our global membership and film community, highlight our industry’s rich history, foster meaningful dialogue, and continue to build equity and inclusion in every aspect of our organization.”
Yang will now be in her second term as president, and her fifth year as a Governor-at-Large, having made history as the first Asian-American,...
- 8/1/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Janet Yang, the film producer who a year ago was elected the 36th president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, was re-elected to that post on Tuesday during the first meeting of the Academy’s recently reconstituted board of governors, the Academy has announced.
Yang, 67, the Queens-born daughter of Chinese immigrants, broke into showbiz by connecting key players in the Chinese and Hollywood film industries to make possible films like Empire of the Sun before becoming a producer of films including The Joy Luck Club and The People vs. Larry Flynt. She is just the fourth female (after Bette Davis, Fay Kanin and Cheryl Boone Isaacs) and second person of color (after Boone Isaacs) ever tapped for the board’s top job.
A member of the producers branch since 2002, she has served on the board since 2019 as a governor-at-large. Three seats for governors-at-large were added to the...
Yang, 67, the Queens-born daughter of Chinese immigrants, broke into showbiz by connecting key players in the Chinese and Hollywood film industries to make possible films like Empire of the Sun before becoming a producer of films including The Joy Luck Club and The People vs. Larry Flynt. She is just the fourth female (after Bette Davis, Fay Kanin and Cheryl Boone Isaacs) and second person of color (after Boone Isaacs) ever tapped for the board’s top job.
A member of the producers branch since 2002, she has served on the board since 2019 as a governor-at-large. Three seats for governors-at-large were added to the...
- 8/1/2023
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Janet Yang has been re-elected president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences by the organization’s Board of Governors.
The producer will be serving her second consecutive one-year term and was widely expected to take the reins once again. Presidents can serve up to four consecutive one-year terms as long as they are eligible, and Yang is only in her fifth year as a Governor-at-Large and thus conceivably could run again in 2024 and 2025. AMPAS presidents almost always are re-elected without much controversy.
Board officers also were elected, and it will be a group with a lot of new faces compared to 2022. The lineup is as follows:
Bonnie Arnold, Vice President
Howard Berger, Vice President
Brooke Breton, Vice President
Tom Dufffield, Vice President/Treasurer
DeVon Franklin, Vice President
Lynette Howell Taylor,...
The producer will be serving her second consecutive one-year term and was widely expected to take the reins once again. Presidents can serve up to four consecutive one-year terms as long as they are eligible, and Yang is only in her fifth year as a Governor-at-Large and thus conceivably could run again in 2024 and 2025. AMPAS presidents almost always are re-elected without much controversy.
Board officers also were elected, and it will be a group with a lot of new faces compared to 2022. The lineup is as follows:
Bonnie Arnold, Vice President
Howard Berger, Vice President
Brooke Breton, Vice President
Tom Dufffield, Vice President/Treasurer
DeVon Franklin, Vice President
Lynette Howell Taylor,...
- 8/1/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Summer Of Soul producer David Dinerstein among new intake.
Bad Robot president of film Hannah Minghella, marketing executive and Summer Of Soul producer David Dinerstein, and actor Lou Diamond Phillips are among the new intake of governors announced on Thursday.
Also elected to the board for the first time are: Wendy Aylsworth, production and technology branch; Richard Gibbs, music branch; Jinko Gotoh, short films and feature animation branch; Kalina Ivanov, production design branch; Simon Kilmurry, documentary branch; Daniel Orlandi, costume designers branch; Dana Stevens, writers branch; and Mark P. Stoeckinger, sound branch.
Minghella belongs to the executives branch, Dinerstein to marketing and public relations,...
Bad Robot president of film Hannah Minghella, marketing executive and Summer Of Soul producer David Dinerstein, and actor Lou Diamond Phillips are among the new intake of governors announced on Thursday.
Also elected to the board for the first time are: Wendy Aylsworth, production and technology branch; Richard Gibbs, music branch; Jinko Gotoh, short films and feature animation branch; Kalina Ivanov, production design branch; Simon Kilmurry, documentary branch; Daniel Orlandi, costume designers branch; Dana Stevens, writers branch; and Mark P. Stoeckinger, sound branch.
Minghella belongs to the executives branch, Dinerstein to marketing and public relations,...
- 6/22/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
There will be a lot of new faces in the room at the next meeting of the Board Of Governors of the Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences including actor Lou Diamond Phillips. Eleven first timers have been elected in the organizations annual election to select one third of the Board as eleven other members have termed off including Actors Branch Governor Whoopi Goldberg and Writers Branch Governor Larry Karaszewski. With AMPAS’ more stringent guidelines for service in place now two longtime Board members, Charles Bernstein (Music) and Jon Bloom (shorts and feature animation) are permanently off the Board, while others termed out can run again in two years.
Incumbent governors reelected to the Board:
Rob Bredow, Visual Effects Branch
Ava DuVernay, Directors Branch
Linda Flowers, Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch
Lynette Howell Taylor, Producers Branch
Stephen Rivkin, Film Editors Branch
Debra Zane, Casting Directors Branch
Elected to the Board...
Incumbent governors reelected to the Board:
Rob Bredow, Visual Effects Branch
Ava DuVernay, Directors Branch
Linda Flowers, Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch
Lynette Howell Taylor, Producers Branch
Stephen Rivkin, Film Editors Branch
Debra Zane, Casting Directors Branch
Elected to the Board...
- 6/22/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
As a result of elections that took place this year from June 5-9, when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ 55-person board of governors convenes in July, more than one-fifth of its seats will be occupied by people who were not a part of it in June.
This is the result not of a repudiation of incumbents — in fact, no incumbent who could have sought reelection opted not to, and no incumbent who sought reelection lost — but rather of stricter term limits that the board imposed upon itself in recent years.
For the 2023-24 term, the board — which is composed of three governors representing each of the Academy’s 18 branches except for the newly created production/technology branch, which has just one, plus three “governors at large” — will be joined by 11 rookie governors: Wendy Aylsworth (production/technology branch), David I. Dinerstein (marketing/public relations), Richard Gibbs (music), Jinko Gotoh...
This is the result not of a repudiation of incumbents — in fact, no incumbent who could have sought reelection opted not to, and no incumbent who sought reelection lost — but rather of stricter term limits that the board imposed upon itself in recent years.
For the 2023-24 term, the board — which is composed of three governors representing each of the Academy’s 18 branches except for the newly created production/technology branch, which has just one, plus three “governors at large” — will be joined by 11 rookie governors: Wendy Aylsworth (production/technology branch), David I. Dinerstein (marketing/public relations), Richard Gibbs (music), Jinko Gotoh...
- 6/22/2023
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Actor Lou Diamond Phillips, documentary filmmaker Simon Kilmurry and writer Dana Stevens are among the 11 film professionals who have been elected to the board of governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Academy announced on Thursday.
Those new governors are part of a wholesale makeover of the AMPAS board prompted by new term limits imposed last year. In 10 of the 11 branches where first-time governors were elected, the incumbent governors were unable to run again because of those new limits, which restrict governors to two consecutive three-year terms. Last year, when those limits were instituted, 10 governors were termed off the board and 12 first-time governors were elected.
This year’s election means that 23 of the 55 members of the board will be in their first or second term.
In the Academy’s 18 branches, all six incumbent governors who were eligible to run again were re-elected. Those are Debra Zane...
Those new governors are part of a wholesale makeover of the AMPAS board prompted by new term limits imposed last year. In 10 of the 11 branches where first-time governors were elected, the incumbent governors were unable to run again because of those new limits, which restrict governors to two consecutive three-year terms. Last year, when those limits were instituted, 10 governors were termed off the board and 12 first-time governors were elected.
This year’s election means that 23 of the 55 members of the board will be in their first or second term.
In the Academy’s 18 branches, all six incumbent governors who were eligible to run again were re-elected. Those are Debra Zane...
- 6/22/2023
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has announced its newly elected Board of Governors. The governors, who set the Academy’s strategic vision and watch out for the organization’s financial health, will take office at the first scheduled board meeting of the new term. Wednesday the board voted to expand theatrical release requirements in order to qualify for Best Picture eligibility.
Directors branch member Ava DuVernay is back on the 55-member 2023-2024 Academy Board of Governors. So is producer Lynette Howell Taylor. The incumbents stay, while the ones who have served their three-year term move on, to be replaced by someone else. And, after three terms, like those served by Charles Bernstein and Jon Bloom, they are permanently termed off.
The Academy’s 18 branches are each represented by three governors, except for the recently established Production and Technology Branch, which is represented by a single governor. As a result of this election,...
Directors branch member Ava DuVernay is back on the 55-member 2023-2024 Academy Board of Governors. So is producer Lynette Howell Taylor. The incumbents stay, while the ones who have served their three-year term move on, to be replaced by someone else. And, after three terms, like those served by Charles Bernstein and Jon Bloom, they are permanently termed off.
The Academy’s 18 branches are each represented by three governors, except for the recently established Production and Technology Branch, which is represented by a single governor. As a result of this election,...
- 6/22/2023
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the newly elected Board of Governors for the 2023-2024 year.
Elected to the board for the first time are acclaimed actor Lou Diamond Phillips, screenwriter Dana Stevens, executive Hannah Minghella, costume designer Daniel Orlandi and more. Among the newly elected is technology executive Wendy Aylsworth, who will represent the brand new Production and Technology Branch. Aylsworth, who also serves on the Board of Governors for the Television Academy, spent more than two decades at Warner Bros. and became the first woman president of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers.
In addition, six incumbents were re-elected to the board — Rob Bredow (visual effects), Ava DuVernay (directors), Linda Flowers (makeup artists and hairstylists), Lynette Howell Taylor (producers), Stephen Rivkin (film editors) and Debra Zane (casting directors). Also, cinematographer Ellen Kuras returns after a hiatus.
They will join returning governors Pam Abdy,...
Elected to the board for the first time are acclaimed actor Lou Diamond Phillips, screenwriter Dana Stevens, executive Hannah Minghella, costume designer Daniel Orlandi and more. Among the newly elected is technology executive Wendy Aylsworth, who will represent the brand new Production and Technology Branch. Aylsworth, who also serves on the Board of Governors for the Television Academy, spent more than two decades at Warner Bros. and became the first woman president of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers.
In addition, six incumbents were re-elected to the board — Rob Bredow (visual effects), Ava DuVernay (directors), Linda Flowers (makeup artists and hairstylists), Lynette Howell Taylor (producers), Stephen Rivkin (film editors) and Debra Zane (casting directors). Also, cinematographer Ellen Kuras returns after a hiatus.
They will join returning governors Pam Abdy,...
- 6/22/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Update: President Joe Biden said that Flamin’ Hot was “the first-ever public screening of a film focused on the Hispanic community at the White House,” just before the Disney+/Hulu project was shown before a crowd of several hundred on the South Lawn.
Biden, First Lady Jill Biden and director Eva Longoria walked out together to make brief remarks to the crowd, who were spread out on blankets and munching on chips and, of course, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The movie is the story of Frito Lay janitor Richard Montañez, who claimed to have invented the snack, although the origin story is in dispute. Montañez rose in the ranks at Frito Lay to become a marketing executive and “played a key role in accelerating the growth of our Flamin’ Hot Brand and other brands particularly through his Hispanic marketing efforts,” according to the company.
Biden said that it was “fitting that...
Biden, First Lady Jill Biden and director Eva Longoria walked out together to make brief remarks to the crowd, who were spread out on blankets and munching on chips and, of course, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The movie is the story of Frito Lay janitor Richard Montañez, who claimed to have invented the snack, although the origin story is in dispute. Montañez rose in the ranks at Frito Lay to become a marketing executive and “played a key role in accelerating the growth of our Flamin’ Hot Brand and other brands particularly through his Hispanic marketing efforts,” according to the company.
Biden said that it was “fitting that...
- 6/16/2023
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Eva Longoria jokes that she’s taking an extended vacation to get some rest after her whirlwind promotion of “Flamin’ Hot,” her feature film directorial debut. “I am going to sleep for about three months,” Longoria told me Thursday morning. “When I come up for air, I hopefully will know what I’m doing next.”
Joking aside, she said, “I will tell you it’s been very difficult. I’ve been sent many scripts already. I’ve been reading so much, but there’s nothing so far that has sparked in me the intense passion that I had for telling this particular story.
“I was asking my agent, ‘Do I have to feel this way about every story I want to direct? Because I haven’t felt it yet,'” Longoria continued. “He said that should be the bar.”
“Flamin’ Hot” tells the story of Richard Montañez, a Frito-Lay executive...
Joking aside, she said, “I will tell you it’s been very difficult. I’ve been sent many scripts already. I’ve been reading so much, but there’s nothing so far that has sparked in me the intense passion that I had for telling this particular story.
“I was asking my agent, ‘Do I have to feel this way about every story I want to direct? Because I haven’t felt it yet,'” Longoria continued. “He said that should be the bar.”
“Flamin’ Hot” tells the story of Richard Montañez, a Frito-Lay executive...
- 6/15/2023
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Eva Longoria is heading to the White House, where her new movie “Flamin’ Hot” will be screened for an audience including President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.
According to a press release from Searchlight Pictures, the White House screening for the new film — which marks the “Desperate Housewives” alum’s feature directorial debut — comes after “Flamin’ Hot” set a new record for Searchlight as the studio’s most-watched streaming motion picture of all time.
“Flamin’ Hot” tells the true story of Frito Lay janitor Richard Montañez (played by Jesse Garcia), the son of a Mexican immigrant, who drew upon his heritage to come up with the idea for Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, revitalizing the company and disrupting the food industry in the process.
Read More: Eva Longoria On Portraying The Image Of A Hero With Her Film ‘Flamin’ Hot’
In recognition of the cultural impact that the film...
According to a press release from Searchlight Pictures, the White House screening for the new film — which marks the “Desperate Housewives” alum’s feature directorial debut — comes after “Flamin’ Hot” set a new record for Searchlight as the studio’s most-watched streaming motion picture of all time.
“Flamin’ Hot” tells the true story of Frito Lay janitor Richard Montañez (played by Jesse Garcia), the son of a Mexican immigrant, who drew upon his heritage to come up with the idea for Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, revitalizing the company and disrupting the food industry in the process.
Read More: Eva Longoria On Portraying The Image Of A Hero With Her Film ‘Flamin’ Hot’
In recognition of the cultural impact that the film...
- 6/15/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
Eight-year-old TikToker Brice Gonzalez can now see himself on the big screen.
Gonzalez was cast for Eva Longoria‘s Cheetos origin film Flamin’ Hot in 2021, after rising to fame alongside his late father, Randy Gonzalez, on their shared TikTok account Enkyboys.
Randy, who passed away from colon cancer in January, was the account’s original star, but when he began including Brice, their audience grew exponentially–from 190,000 followers in November 2020 to 500,000 in December. Within nine days of hitting 500,000, they were already at a million, Time reports.
Their videos showed off Brice’s ability to memorize and lip sync lines, and that caught the attention of Flamin’ Hot producer DeVon Franklin. He Dm’d Randy on Instagram, and soon, Brice had his very first Hollywood role.
Flamin’ Hot, now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, tells the story of Richard Montañez (Jesse Garcia), who claims to have invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Brice plays Montañez’s son Steven,...
Gonzalez was cast for Eva Longoria‘s Cheetos origin film Flamin’ Hot in 2021, after rising to fame alongside his late father, Randy Gonzalez, on their shared TikTok account Enkyboys.
Randy, who passed away from colon cancer in January, was the account’s original star, but when he began including Brice, their audience grew exponentially–from 190,000 followers in November 2020 to 500,000 in December. Within nine days of hitting 500,000, they were already at a million, Time reports.
Their videos showed off Brice’s ability to memorize and lip sync lines, and that caught the attention of Flamin’ Hot producer DeVon Franklin. He Dm’d Randy on Instagram, and soon, Brice had his very first Hollywood role.
Flamin’ Hot, now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, tells the story of Richard Montañez (Jesse Garcia), who claims to have invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Brice plays Montañez’s son Steven,...
- 6/13/2023
- by James Hale
- Tubefilter.com
Eva Longoria may just now be making her feature film directorial debut with Flamin’ Hot, but she’s been laying the groundwork for nearly 20 years — all the way back to her breakout role on Desperate Housewives.
After a decade of directing TV episodes for shows including Black-ish, Jane the Virgin and Gordita Chronicles, Longoria noted that for Flamin’ Hot “all of my TV experience paid off because we move at a very ambitious, fast pace and this movie was very ambitious in our scheduling. I really think wow, all of my 10 years in TV prepared me for this moment, which is a film set.”
“And I used Desperate Housewives as my film school, that’s where I really learned everything,” she continued at Friday’s Los Angeles premiere of the movie, which tells the story of Richard Montañez, a Frito Lay janitor who says he came up with the idea for Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.
After a decade of directing TV episodes for shows including Black-ish, Jane the Virgin and Gordita Chronicles, Longoria noted that for Flamin’ Hot “all of my TV experience paid off because we move at a very ambitious, fast pace and this movie was very ambitious in our scheduling. I really think wow, all of my 10 years in TV prepared me for this moment, which is a film set.”
“And I used Desperate Housewives as my film school, that’s where I really learned everything,” she continued at Friday’s Los Angeles premiere of the movie, which tells the story of Richard Montañez, a Frito Lay janitor who says he came up with the idea for Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.
- 6/10/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jesse Garcia, Dennis HaysbertPhoto: Searchlight Pictures
We wouldn’t blame you if you sat down to watch Flamin’ Hot on Hulu (premiering June 9) believing it’s the true story of the man who invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. All of the marketing leading up to the film has been designed to make you think that.
We wouldn’t blame you if you sat down to watch Flamin’ Hot on Hulu (premiering June 9) believing it’s the true story of the man who invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. All of the marketing leading up to the film has been designed to make you think that.
- 6/9/2023
- by Cindy White
- avclub.com
Eva Longoria's directorial debut "Flamin Hot" doesn't begin like your typical film. As the opening credits role, it seems normal enough, with Searchlight Pictures's drum role, a rhythm moviegoers everywhere know. But as the horns come in, the classic tune is transformed from the traditional march to mariachi - gritas and all. It's a clear sign that what's about to happen has a different flavor, a decidedly Mexican perspective.
"My North Star was authenticity," Longoria tells Popsugar of creating the biopic of Richard Montañez and his wife Judy as he rises from a janitor at Frito Lay to an executive, thanks to his insight into the Latine community and our untapped market potential in the spicy snack arena.
Related: Eva Longoria Reveals a Blunt Bob at Cannes Film Festival
Longoria shares that in directing the film it was really crucial to her that they got all the cultural details right.
"My North Star was authenticity," Longoria tells Popsugar of creating the biopic of Richard Montañez and his wife Judy as he rises from a janitor at Frito Lay to an executive, thanks to his insight into the Latine community and our untapped market potential in the spicy snack arena.
Related: Eva Longoria Reveals a Blunt Bob at Cannes Film Festival
Longoria shares that in directing the film it was really crucial to her that they got all the cultural details right.
- 6/8/2023
- by Cristina Escobar
- Popsugar.com
The Hollywood Reporter hosted the inaugural “Raising Our Voices” luncheon, sponsored by The Golden Globes, Wallis Annenberg GenSpace, and East West Bank at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion on Wednesday, May 31.
Eva Longoria speaks onstage during The Hollywood Reporter Raising Our Voices Deia Luncheon
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images
“Raising Our Voices” brought together the industry’s most influential and inspiring executives, storytellers and thought leaders for a groundbreaking series of discussions on the state and future of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in Hollywood.
During the program, keynote speaker Taika Waititi (Academy Award-winning screenwriter (JoJo Rabbit)), Emmy Award-nominated television producer, actor and filmmaker) was introduced by Bird Runningwater (Executive Producer and Activist). During his speech, Waititi spoke about the journey of moving forward to foster more diversity in the entertainment world and his beliefs on the best practices for incorporating representation within movies and film.
Eva Longoria speaks onstage during The Hollywood Reporter Raising Our Voices Deia Luncheon
Credit/Copyright: Michael Kovac/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images
“Raising Our Voices” brought together the industry’s most influential and inspiring executives, storytellers and thought leaders for a groundbreaking series of discussions on the state and future of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in Hollywood.
During the program, keynote speaker Taika Waititi (Academy Award-winning screenwriter (JoJo Rabbit)), Emmy Award-nominated television producer, actor and filmmaker) was introduced by Bird Runningwater (Executive Producer and Activist). During his speech, Waititi spoke about the journey of moving forward to foster more diversity in the entertainment world and his beliefs on the best practices for incorporating representation within movies and film.
- 6/8/2023
- Look to the Stars
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