Love it or hate it, "Sanford and Son" is one of the most groundbreaking American sitcoms of all time. The NBC series about a widowed get-rich-quick schemer (Redd Foxx) living in Los Angeles' Watts neighborhood with his adult son (Demond Wilson) was an undeniable hit during its run. It ushered in a Golden Age of Black family sitcoms thanks to dynamic performances, frank dialogue written from a working-class Black perspective, and its often uproarious scripts. It was such a ratings juggernaut that it's often credited for killing off its much more sanitized competition, "The Brady Bunch."
"It was a groundbreaking series," Eric Deggans wrote in a series retrospective for the official Emmys website, noting that "Before 'Good Times' and 'The Jeffersons' would make TV history with powerful stories focused on Black families, 'Sanford and Son' would explore the prickly relationship between a middle-aged Black man and his son.
"It was a groundbreaking series," Eric Deggans wrote in a series retrospective for the official Emmys website, noting that "Before 'Good Times' and 'The Jeffersons' would make TV history with powerful stories focused on Black families, 'Sanford and Son' would explore the prickly relationship between a middle-aged Black man and his son.
- 8/24/2024
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Chicago – The future is bright for Chicago comedy, as the stand-up scene keeps growing along with the improv and sketch juggernauts. Comedian Ariel Julie is organizing the upcoming Windy City Comedy Fest, set for 2025, and is hosting a benefit for that Fest at Chicago’s Den Theatre on August 8th, 2024. Click here for details/tickets.
Three of the best comedians in Chicago are coming together for “One Night Only,” to raise funds for the first annual Windy City Comedy Fest … Kristen Toomey, Junior Stopka, and Dwayne Kennedy. Your host is Ariel Julie, known for her comic energy, charisma, and a wry sense of humor. At a towering 4-ft/10, Ariel Julie takes pride as part of the long, hilarious and influential lineage of the Jewish comedian. Her full-hour stand-up special, “Weiner Patrol,” is available on YouTube (link below).
Hosted by Comedian Ariel Julie
Photo credit: TheDenTheatre.com
Kristen Toomey haș been named a “Chicago Original,...
Three of the best comedians in Chicago are coming together for “One Night Only,” to raise funds for the first annual Windy City Comedy Fest … Kristen Toomey, Junior Stopka, and Dwayne Kennedy. Your host is Ariel Julie, known for her comic energy, charisma, and a wry sense of humor. At a towering 4-ft/10, Ariel Julie takes pride as part of the long, hilarious and influential lineage of the Jewish comedian. Her full-hour stand-up special, “Weiner Patrol,” is available on YouTube (link below).
Hosted by Comedian Ariel Julie
Photo credit: TheDenTheatre.com
Kristen Toomey haș been named a “Chicago Original,...
- 8/4/2024
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
The 2024 Emmy nominations are out, and this year’s slate of nominees has a solid showing for Asian American, Latino, Indigenous, and LGBTQ representation in the acting categories.
This year, with 96 acting slots up for grabs, there is an increase in the number of people of color nominated across all acting categories, with 30 recognized. Last year’s crop of nominees included 25 people of color. In 2022, 42 people of color were nominated in the acting categories (30 in main and 12 in guest); in 2021, 25 were nominated (19 in main and six in guest).
Indigenous actors and creators were a bright spot in this year’s nominations. Supporting actress (limited) nominees Lily Gladstone from “Under the Bridge” and Kali Reis from “True Detective: Night Country” became the first Indigenous women to be nominated for acting Emmys. FX’s final season of “Reservation Dogs” scored a long overdue nomination for outstanding comedy series, bringing its star D’Pharaoh Woon-a-Tai...
This year, with 96 acting slots up for grabs, there is an increase in the number of people of color nominated across all acting categories, with 30 recognized. Last year’s crop of nominees included 25 people of color. In 2022, 42 people of color were nominated in the acting categories (30 in main and 12 in guest); in 2021, 25 were nominated (19 in main and six in guest).
Indigenous actors and creators were a bright spot in this year’s nominations. Supporting actress (limited) nominees Lily Gladstone from “Under the Bridge” and Kali Reis from “True Detective: Night Country” became the first Indigenous women to be nominated for acting Emmys. FX’s final season of “Reservation Dogs” scored a long overdue nomination for outstanding comedy series, bringing its star D’Pharaoh Woon-a-Tai...
- 7/17/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
On Monday, June 10, The Jennifer Hudson Show welcomes Marla Gibbs, an iconic star known for her roles in “The Jeffersons” and “227.” Gibbs will discuss her new role in the ABC sitcom “Not Dead Yet,” where she portrays Nana Sugar, the mother of Cricket, played by her real-life daughter, Angela E. Gibbs. The show […]
The Jennifer Hudson Show: Marla Gibbs, Samuel Evans...
The Jennifer Hudson Show: Marla Gibbs, Samuel Evans...
- 6/9/2024
- by Riley Avery
- MemorableTV
Samm-Art Williams, whose Tony-nominated 1979 play Home is being revived on Broadway this year and whose TV producing credits include Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Martin and Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper, died peacefully today in Burgaw, North Carolina. He was 78.
His death was announced by family.
Born Samuel Arthur Williams on January 20, 1946, in Philadelphia, Williams was a prolific playwright, screenwriter, actor, and producer.
Performing as Samm Williams, he got his start on the New York stage in the early 1970s, appearing in notable plays such as Black Jesus and, with the New York’s Negro Ensemble Company, Nowhere to Run, Nowhere to Hide and Liberty Calland. By the mid-’70s he began performing in other Off Broadway shows under the name Samm-Art Williams.
By the end of the decade, Williams had made his mark as a stage writer, and is today best known for Home, a drama originally staged by the Negro...
His death was announced by family.
Born Samuel Arthur Williams on January 20, 1946, in Philadelphia, Williams was a prolific playwright, screenwriter, actor, and producer.
Performing as Samm Williams, he got his start on the New York stage in the early 1970s, appearing in notable plays such as Black Jesus and, with the New York’s Negro Ensemble Company, Nowhere to Run, Nowhere to Hide and Liberty Calland. By the mid-’70s he began performing in other Off Broadway shows under the name Samm-Art Williams.
By the end of the decade, Williams had made his mark as a stage writer, and is today best known for Home, a drama originally staged by the Negro...
- 5/14/2024
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Terry Carter, who portrayed Pvt. Sugie Sugarman on The Phil Silvers Show, the sidekick of Dennis Weaver’s character on McCloud and Colonel Tigh on the original version of Battlestar Galactica, has died. He was 95.
Carter died Tuesday at his home in Manhattan, his son, Miguel Carter DeCoste, told The New York Times.
Carter appeared three times on Broadway early in his career and produced and directed a documentary on jazz legend Duke Ellington for PBS’ American Masters series in 1988.
The Brooklyn native appeared on all four seasons (1955-59) of CBS’ The Phil Silvers Show (also known as Sgt. Bilko) as Pvt. Sugarman. He then played Sgt. Joe Broadhurst alongside Weaver’s Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud on NBC’s McCloud from 1970-77 and Tigh in the 1978 Battlestar Galactica movie and 1978-79 ABC series.
An only child, John Everett DeCoste was born in Brooklyn on Dec. 16, 1928. He graduated from Stuyvesant High...
Carter died Tuesday at his home in Manhattan, his son, Miguel Carter DeCoste, told The New York Times.
Carter appeared three times on Broadway early in his career and produced and directed a documentary on jazz legend Duke Ellington for PBS’ American Masters series in 1988.
The Brooklyn native appeared on all four seasons (1955-59) of CBS’ The Phil Silvers Show (also known as Sgt. Bilko) as Pvt. Sugarman. He then played Sgt. Joe Broadhurst alongside Weaver’s Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud on NBC’s McCloud from 1970-77 and Tigh in the 1978 Battlestar Galactica movie and 1978-79 ABC series.
An only child, John Everett DeCoste was born in Brooklyn on Dec. 16, 1928. He graduated from Stuyvesant High...
- 4/23/2024
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Terry Carter, best known for his portrayal of Sgt. Joe Broadhurst on NBC’s McCloud from 1970 to 1977, has died, his son confirms to The New York Times. He was 95 years old.
A cause of death was not given, but according to his son, Carter passed on Tuesday at his apartment in Manhattan.
More from TVLineMeg Bennett, Daytime Emmy-Winning Young & Restless Alum, Dead at 75Stephanie Sparks, Host of the Golf Channel's Big Break, Dead at 50Mandisa, Grammy Award-Winning American Idol Alum, Dead at 47
Carter’s big break on the small screen came in 1955 when he was cast as Private Sugarman on The Phil Silvers Show,...
A cause of death was not given, but according to his son, Carter passed on Tuesday at his apartment in Manhattan.
More from TVLineMeg Bennett, Daytime Emmy-Winning Young & Restless Alum, Dead at 75Stephanie Sparks, Host of the Golf Channel's Big Break, Dead at 50Mandisa, Grammy Award-Winning American Idol Alum, Dead at 47
Carter’s big break on the small screen came in 1955 when he was cast as Private Sugarman on The Phil Silvers Show,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
Actress Regina King is known for her role as Sharon Rivers in the film If Beale Street Could Talk. King won the Academy Award and Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role. She then went on to win a Primetime Emmy Award, her fourth, for her role as Sister Night a.k.a Angela Abar in the HBO series Watchmen.
King has since gone on to be a producer and has also been the director of several episodes of TV and made her feature film debut with One Night in Miami. The film was nominated for the Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Song. The actress mentioned how Hollywood gave her the power to tell marginalized stories not just as an actor, but also as a producer and director.
Regina King’s Career And Life A still from If Beale Street Could Talk
Regina King...
King has since gone on to be a producer and has also been the director of several episodes of TV and made her feature film debut with One Night in Miami. The film was nominated for the Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Song. The actress mentioned how Hollywood gave her the power to tell marginalized stories not just as an actor, but also as a producer and director.
Regina King’s Career And Life A still from If Beale Street Could Talk
Regina King...
- 3/27/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Shirley is a biographical movie about the life of Shirley Chisholm movie written and directed by John Ridley starring Regina King.
A schoolteacher, elected to Congress. It was the early 70s, and Shirley Chisholm was also the first African American woman to run for the Presidency of the United States. A woman who ran without any backing, representing the members of the working class, the minorities.
A movie filled with hope, faith, and feminism.
Indeed, more than a racial candidacy, Shirley Chisholm based her campaign on gender politics and minorities, paving the way for a hopeful future.
A film about faith, but above all about clear-cut American politics.
About the movie
Faith, hope, and a lot of political film of good ideas, faith, hope, and political consciousness. A movie with its good ideas well defined (we don’t deny them at any moment) and does everything possible to assert its thesis.
A schoolteacher, elected to Congress. It was the early 70s, and Shirley Chisholm was also the first African American woman to run for the Presidency of the United States. A woman who ran without any backing, representing the members of the working class, the minorities.
A movie filled with hope, faith, and feminism.
Indeed, more than a racial candidacy, Shirley Chisholm based her campaign on gender politics and minorities, paving the way for a hopeful future.
A film about faith, but above all about clear-cut American politics.
About the movie
Faith, hope, and a lot of political film of good ideas, faith, hope, and political consciousness. A movie with its good ideas well defined (we don’t deny them at any moment) and does everything possible to assert its thesis.
- 3/22/2024
- by Martin Cid
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Regina King is an American actress and director. She is best known for her roles in films such as “Jerry Maguire,” “Ray,” and “If Beale Street Could Talk.” She has also appeared in numerous television shows, including “227,” “The Boondocks,” and “American Crime.” In 2019, King won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “If Beale Street Could Talk.” She has also won multiple Emmy Awards for her work on television. King is known for her powerful performances and is considered one of the most talented actresses in Hollywood.
Early Life and Background
Regina King was born on January 15, 1971 in Los Angeles, California. Her mother, Gloria, was a special education teacher and her father, Thomas King, was an electrician. King has credited her parents for instilling in her the value of hard work. King also has an older sister, Reina. Although King did not grow up in a show business family,...
Early Life and Background
Regina King was born on January 15, 1971 in Los Angeles, California. Her mother, Gloria, was a special education teacher and her father, Thomas King, was an electrician. King has credited her parents for instilling in her the value of hard work. King also has an older sister, Reina. Although King did not grow up in a show business family,...
- 3/20/2024
- by Molly Se-kyung
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Over the course of a film career that has grown over three decades, writer/director Regina King has built one of the most impressive sets of credits of any actor working today. From her early performances in films by John Singleton, King has worked with such other distinguished directors as Cameron Crowe, Taylor Hackford and Barry Jenkins, delivering performances that have showcased her skills in comedy, romance and even action films. All of this work culminated in an Academy Award win for her stunning performance in 2018’s “If Beale Street Could Talk.”
King’s honors are not limited to her performances on the big screen, however. For her work in television, King has won an impressive four Emmy Awards — for the Netflix series “Seven Seconds,” the HBO limited series “Watchmen” and two consecutive Emmys for her performance in ABC’s “American Crime.” In addition, she starred in several successful series — “The Boondocks,...
King’s honors are not limited to her performances on the big screen, however. For her work in television, King has won an impressive four Emmy Awards — for the Netflix series “Seven Seconds,” the HBO limited series “Watchmen” and two consecutive Emmys for her performance in ABC’s “American Crime.” In addition, she starred in several successful series — “The Boondocks,...
- 3/18/2024
- by Tom O'Brien, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
On Sunday, February 18, CBS’ “The Young and the Restless” won Best Hairstyling for Daytime Television during “The 11th Annual Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Awards” at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. Hairstylists Lauren Mendoza, Justin Jackson, Michelle Corona and Diana Santana received the award for their work on the daytime drama series. Melissa Peterman hosted the awards show which honors members of the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild (IATSE Local 706)
“The Bold and the Beautiful” and “The Young and the Restless” were also nominees in the Best Make-Up for Daytime Television category, but both shows lost out to “The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula,” with make-up artists Swanthula Boulet and Dracmorda Boulet taking home the award.
Kate Linder, John Brotherton
Emma McIntyre/Getty (Courtesy)
That said, there was a mix-up with the hairstylist and make-up categories as “The Young and the Restless” was initially announced as the winner for make-up,...
“The Bold and the Beautiful” and “The Young and the Restless” were also nominees in the Best Make-Up for Daytime Television category, but both shows lost out to “The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula,” with make-up artists Swanthula Boulet and Dracmorda Boulet taking home the award.
Kate Linder, John Brotherton
Emma McIntyre/Getty (Courtesy)
That said, there was a mix-up with the hairstylist and make-up categories as “The Young and the Restless” was initially announced as the winner for make-up,...
- 2/19/2024
- by Errol Lewis
- Soap Opera Network
ABC has set Chelsea Handler and Marla Gibbs to guest star in Episode 7 of “Not Dead Yet” Season 2.
“Not Dead Yet” stars Gina Rodriguez as Nell, a journalist who takes a job writing obituaries at the SoCal Independent and soon gains the ability to see and speak to ghosts. The episode featuring Handler and Gibbs, which airs in late March, sees Lexi (Lauren Ash) and Duncan (Brad Garrett) spend a weird version of quality time at the newspaper’s softball game.
Handler will play Sharon Darynson, the owner of the rival news station to the SoCal Independent and the long-time nemesis to Duncan Rhoades (Brad Garrett). While everyone else runs in fear of Duncan, Sharon refuses to be intimidated by him.
Gibbs — the mother of Angela E. Gibbs, who stars in “Not Dead Yet” as Cricket — will play Cricket’s mother, Nana Sugar, who becomes one of Nell’s (Gina Rodriguez) obituary subjects.
“Not Dead Yet” stars Gina Rodriguez as Nell, a journalist who takes a job writing obituaries at the SoCal Independent and soon gains the ability to see and speak to ghosts. The episode featuring Handler and Gibbs, which airs in late March, sees Lexi (Lauren Ash) and Duncan (Brad Garrett) spend a weird version of quality time at the newspaper’s softball game.
Handler will play Sharon Darynson, the owner of the rival news station to the SoCal Independent and the long-time nemesis to Duncan Rhoades (Brad Garrett). While everyone else runs in fear of Duncan, Sharon refuses to be intimidated by him.
Gibbs — the mother of Angela E. Gibbs, who stars in “Not Dead Yet” as Cricket — will play Cricket’s mother, Nana Sugar, who becomes one of Nell’s (Gina Rodriguez) obituary subjects.
- 2/8/2024
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Upon walking into the Governors Gala, statuette in hand and partner Jessica Betts on her arm, “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” star Niecy Nash-Betts, who gave the speech of the night upon accepting the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, joked “I fell short of saying ‘About damn time,’” upon being reminded this was her fifth nomination (and fourth show she’s been nominated for.)
Though that quip is true of her specific circumstance, it also sums up the vibe of the night. For many of the milestones that occurred at the 75th Primetime Emmys on Monday, January 16, it really felt like “about damn time.”
As the telecast walked the audience through television history, it was notable how well certain segments confronted some of the Television Academy’s shortcomings over the years. Hearing Trevor Noah is the first Black late night host to...
Though that quip is true of her specific circumstance, it also sums up the vibe of the night. For many of the milestones that occurred at the 75th Primetime Emmys on Monday, January 16, it really felt like “about damn time.”
As the telecast walked the audience through television history, it was notable how well certain segments confronted some of the Television Academy’s shortcomings over the years. Hearing Trevor Noah is the first Black late night host to...
- 1/16/2024
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Two years ago, the hashtag #EmmysSoWhite began trending when the Television Academy failed to award any major acting trophies to people of color. The pendulum has swung, with this year’s ceremony awarding a record-breaking number of people of color across all major categories: drama, comedy, limited, reality and variety series — a first in the TV Academy’s history.
That said, there were some stark reminders of historical shortcomings throughout the evening, such as a “Martin” cast reunion. The beloved show failed to score a single Emmy nod during its five-season run.
One year after making history as the second Black woman to win for comedy writing, Quinta Brunson took the stage again for her performance as the lovable teacher Janine Teagues in “Abbott Elementary.” She became the second Black woman to win the category, following Isabel Sanford for “The Jeffersons” in 1981.
Ayo Edebiri was part of the historic night for FX’s “The Bear,...
That said, there were some stark reminders of historical shortcomings throughout the evening, such as a “Martin” cast reunion. The beloved show failed to score a single Emmy nod during its five-season run.
One year after making history as the second Black woman to win for comedy writing, Quinta Brunson took the stage again for her performance as the lovable teacher Janine Teagues in “Abbott Elementary.” She became the second Black woman to win the category, following Isabel Sanford for “The Jeffersons” in 1981.
Ayo Edebiri was part of the historic night for FX’s “The Bear,...
- 1/16/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
“Abbott Elementary” star and creator Quinta Brunson took home the Emmy for best actress in a comedy series on Monday night.
“I don’t even know why I’m so emotional. I think, like, the Carol Burnett of it all,” Brunson said, beginning to choke up at the top of her acceptance speech. Burnett, smiling at the remark, had presented the award — the second major prize of the evening.
“Thank you so much. I love making ‘Abbott Elementary’ so much. And I am so happy to be able to live my dream and act out comedy. I say that every time. I just love comedy so much. I’m so happy to be able to get this. I didn’t prepare anything, because I just didn’t think — oh god,” Brunson said, before continuing. “I love my mom, my dad, my sisters, my brothers, my entire family so much. I love my husband.
“I don’t even know why I’m so emotional. I think, like, the Carol Burnett of it all,” Brunson said, beginning to choke up at the top of her acceptance speech. Burnett, smiling at the remark, had presented the award — the second major prize of the evening.
“Thank you so much. I love making ‘Abbott Elementary’ so much. And I am so happy to be able to live my dream and act out comedy. I say that every time. I just love comedy so much. I’m so happy to be able to get this. I didn’t prepare anything, because I just didn’t think — oh god,” Brunson said, before continuing. “I love my mom, my dad, my sisters, my brothers, my entire family so much. I love my husband.
- 1/16/2024
- by Clayton Davis and J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Quinta Brunson has won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her performance in “Abbott Elementary” Season 2, making her the second Black woman in history to receive the honor over 42 years after “The Jeffersons” star Isabel Sanford became the first.
As discouraging a time gap between wins as that is, Brunson’s beloved ABC sitcom about teachers at an underfunded school in Philadelphia has seemingly moved the needle forward for more Black talent to win in the comedy series categories. At the 2022 Primetime Emmys, Brunson earned her first Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series, following “Master of None” writer-star Lena Waithe as the second Black woman to win the category. That same night her “Abbott Elementary” co-star Sheryl Lee Ralph became the second Black woman to win Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, 35 years after Jackeé Henry won for her work in “227.
As discouraging a time gap between wins as that is, Brunson’s beloved ABC sitcom about teachers at an underfunded school in Philadelphia has seemingly moved the needle forward for more Black talent to win in the comedy series categories. At the 2022 Primetime Emmys, Brunson earned her first Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series, following “Master of None” writer-star Lena Waithe as the second Black woman to win the category. That same night her “Abbott Elementary” co-star Sheryl Lee Ralph became the second Black woman to win Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, 35 years after Jackeé Henry won for her work in “227.
- 1/16/2024
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
Mike Nussbaum, one of the oldest working actors in the U.S. industry who appeared in such films as “Men in Black” and “Field of Dreams,” has died. He was 99.
Nussbaum died of natural causes Saturday — six days short of his 100th birthday — at his home in Chicago, his daughter Karen told the Chicago Tribune.
Nussbaum played book publisher Bob Drimmer in “Fatal Attraction” (1987), a school principal in “Field of Dreams” (1989) and alien jeweler Gentle Rosenburg in “Men in Black” (1997). He also appeared in films like “House of Games” (1987), “Things Change” (1988), “Harry and Tonto” (1974), “Losing Josiah” (1995) and “Steal Big Steal Little” (1995).
On the television side, Nussbaum had turns in “The Equalizer,” “The X-Files,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “Separate but Equal,” “Frasier,” “L.A. Law,” “227,” “The Commish” and “Early Edition.”
Nussbaum was born on Dec. 29, 1923, and raised in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago. He went on to have an extensive career in theater,...
Nussbaum died of natural causes Saturday — six days short of his 100th birthday — at his home in Chicago, his daughter Karen told the Chicago Tribune.
Nussbaum played book publisher Bob Drimmer in “Fatal Attraction” (1987), a school principal in “Field of Dreams” (1989) and alien jeweler Gentle Rosenburg in “Men in Black” (1997). He also appeared in films like “House of Games” (1987), “Things Change” (1988), “Harry and Tonto” (1974), “Losing Josiah” (1995) and “Steal Big Steal Little” (1995).
On the television side, Nussbaum had turns in “The Equalizer,” “The X-Files,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “Separate but Equal,” “Frasier,” “L.A. Law,” “227,” “The Commish” and “Early Edition.”
Nussbaum was born on Dec. 29, 1923, and raised in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago. He went on to have an extensive career in theater,...
- 12/25/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Mike Nussbaum, the late-blooming Chicago actor who portrayed the aging salesman George Aaronow in the original Broadway production of Glengarry Glen Ross, just one of his many collaborations with David Mamet, has died. He was 99.
Nussbaum died Saturday — six days shy of his 100th birthday — at his home in Chicago, his daughter, Karen, told the Chicago Sun-Times.
He acted on Windy City stages for more than a half-century and received a lifetime achievement award from the League of Chicago Theaters in 2019.
On the big screen, Nussbaum played the book publisher Bob Drimmer in Fatal Attraction (1987), a school principal in Field of Dreams (1989) and the alien jewelry store owner Gentle Rosenburg in Men in Black (1997).
Nussbaum and Mamet first met in the late 1960s, and the future Pulitzer Prize winner would cast him as Teach in the 1975 premiere of his three-man drama American Buffalo at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. He...
Nussbaum died Saturday — six days shy of his 100th birthday — at his home in Chicago, his daughter, Karen, told the Chicago Sun-Times.
He acted on Windy City stages for more than a half-century and received a lifetime achievement award from the League of Chicago Theaters in 2019.
On the big screen, Nussbaum played the book publisher Bob Drimmer in Fatal Attraction (1987), a school principal in Field of Dreams (1989) and the alien jewelry store owner Gentle Rosenburg in Men in Black (1997).
Nussbaum and Mamet first met in the late 1960s, and the future Pulitzer Prize winner would cast him as Teach in the 1975 premiere of his three-man drama American Buffalo at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. He...
- 12/24/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tributes continue to pour in after the death this week of 101-year-old television pioneer Norman Lear.
Amid the celebration of and reflection on his towering legacy, a present-day realization has dawned about Lear’s singular catalog, which includes shows like All in the Family, The Jeffersons and Maude. With the exception of Sanford & Son and Good Times on Peacock and 227 on Hulu, no Lear-created show can be accessed on a subscription streaming outlet. Instead, some shows can be purchased for download and many stream on free, ad-supported services like Pluto, Freevee and Tubi.
Joe Adalian brought up the void Thursday in his Buffering newsletter for Vulture, noting that Lear shows like the trailblazing Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman are completely Mia.
Sony Pictures Entertainment, which controls rights to Lear’s catalog, declined to comment to Deadline on the streaming presence of his shows. The company’s CEO, Tony Vinciquerra,...
Amid the celebration of and reflection on his towering legacy, a present-day realization has dawned about Lear’s singular catalog, which includes shows like All in the Family, The Jeffersons and Maude. With the exception of Sanford & Son and Good Times on Peacock and 227 on Hulu, no Lear-created show can be accessed on a subscription streaming outlet. Instead, some shows can be purchased for download and many stream on free, ad-supported services like Pluto, Freevee and Tubi.
Joe Adalian brought up the void Thursday in his Buffering newsletter for Vulture, noting that Lear shows like the trailblazing Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman are completely Mia.
Sony Pictures Entertainment, which controls rights to Lear’s catalog, declined to comment to Deadline on the streaming presence of his shows. The company’s CEO, Tony Vinciquerra,...
- 12/8/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
David McKnight, who portrayed the title character in the cult blaxploitation horror classic J.D.’s Revenge and appeared in Hollywood Shuffle and The Five Heartbeats for Robert Townsend, has died. He was 87.
McKnight died Sunday of cancer in Las Vegas, his friend and publicist Cynthia Busby told The Hollywood Reporter.
McKnight also showed up on dozens of TV shows, from Kojak, Hill Street Blues, The Incredible Hulk, Dynasty and Benson to Moonlighting, 227, Roc, L.A. Law and The District.
In the New Orleans-set J.D.’s Revenge (1976), directed by Arthur Marks, McKnight played a deceased hustler who takes over the body of a college student (Glynn Turman) and goes after the man who murdered him and his sister 30 years earlier.
In a 2018 interview, McKnight said that he first met Townsend when the first-time feature filmmaker was putting together Hollywood Shuffle (1987) and offered him advice.
He was then hired to play Uncle Ray,...
McKnight died Sunday of cancer in Las Vegas, his friend and publicist Cynthia Busby told The Hollywood Reporter.
McKnight also showed up on dozens of TV shows, from Kojak, Hill Street Blues, The Incredible Hulk, Dynasty and Benson to Moonlighting, 227, Roc, L.A. Law and The District.
In the New Orleans-set J.D.’s Revenge (1976), directed by Arthur Marks, McKnight played a deceased hustler who takes over the body of a college student (Glynn Turman) and goes after the man who murdered him and his sister 30 years earlier.
In a 2018 interview, McKnight said that he first met Townsend when the first-time feature filmmaker was putting together Hollywood Shuffle (1987) and offered him advice.
He was then hired to play Uncle Ray,...
- 12/7/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Paul Reubens, the actor who portrayed beloved character Pee-wee Herman that amused kids and adults of multiple generations, died on Sunday night at the age of 70. The cause of death was an unspecified cancer.
“Last night, we said farewell to Paul Reubens, an iconic American actor, comedian, writer, and producer whose beloved character Pee-wee Herman delighted generations of children and adults with his positivity, whimsy, and belief in the importance of kindness,” a post on the actor’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts read.
“Paul bravely and privately fought cancer...
“Last night, we said farewell to Paul Reubens, an iconic American actor, comedian, writer, and producer whose beloved character Pee-wee Herman delighted generations of children and adults with his positivity, whimsy, and belief in the importance of kindness,” a post on the actor’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts read.
“Paul bravely and privately fought cancer...
- 7/31/2023
- by Althea Legaspi, Ej Dickson and Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
Niecy Nash-Betts, Quinta Brunson and P-Valley are among the winners at the African American Film Critics Association’s fifth annual TV Honors, recognizing achievements in streaming and broadcast television.
Brunson was recognized for her writing on ABC’s Abbott Elementary, Nash-Betts for her performance in Netflix’s Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story and actors J. Alphonse Nicholson and Nicco Annan for their work on Starz’s P-Valley.
In addition, Abbott Elementary was named best comedy series, while P-Valley landed the award for best drama.
Also among the winners are Netflix’s Mo for best new show and the Peacock series The Best Man: The Final Chapters for best limited series.
Additionally, the Aafca previously announced its plans to present special achievement honors to several recipients, including Egot winner Jennifer Hudson, who will be honored with the We See You Award; actor Delroy Lindo, known for roles in such films as Crooklyn,...
Brunson was recognized for her writing on ABC’s Abbott Elementary, Nash-Betts for her performance in Netflix’s Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story and actors J. Alphonse Nicholson and Nicco Annan for their work on Starz’s P-Valley.
In addition, Abbott Elementary was named best comedy series, while P-Valley landed the award for best drama.
Also among the winners are Netflix’s Mo for best new show and the Peacock series The Best Man: The Final Chapters for best limited series.
Additionally, the Aafca previously announced its plans to present special achievement honors to several recipients, including Egot winner Jennifer Hudson, who will be honored with the We See You Award; actor Delroy Lindo, known for roles in such films as Crooklyn,...
- 7/19/2023
- by Xennia Hamilton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Since the category of supporting actress in a comedy series was launched at the Primetime Emmy Awards in the mid-1960s, only 13 African American performers had been nominated in total leading up to this year. Just two had won: Jackee Harry for “227” in 1987 and Sheryl Lee Ralph last year for “Abbott Elementary.” But the category, and the Emmys in general, received a radical shake-up this morning when four Black actresses cracked the lineup of nominees: Ralph and Janelle James for “Abbott,” Ayo Edebiri for “The Bear” and Jessica Williams for “Shrinking.” That’s more than half the seven slots allotted to the category. There have never been more than two in that lineup previously.
Indeed, if that seems like a lot, it should. No Emmy performer category has ever featured four women of color in the same year and precious few have ever included three. Consider that the count...
Indeed, if that seems like a lot, it should. No Emmy performer category has ever featured four women of color in the same year and precious few have ever included three. Consider that the count...
- 7/12/2023
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
The African American Film Critics Association revealed on Friday the artists, actors and TV shows that will be honored at the 5th annual Aafca TV Honors.
Among the special achievement recipients this year are classic TV legend Marla Gibbs, known for sitcoms 227 and The Jeffersons, who will receive Aafca’s Legend Award. Delroy Lindo, known for his roles in Unprisoned, Da 5 Bloods, Crooklyn and Romeo Must Die, will receive the Legacy Award.
In addition, Egot winner Jennifer Hudson will receive Aafca’s We See You Award for her “versatility” and “consistent excellence” throughout her music and acting career, as well as hosting The Jennifer Hudson Show.
Also being honored at the ceremony are several TV shows, including S.W.A.T and Ted Lasso. The association said the CBS series is being honored with Aafca’s Impact Award for its work with storylines that impact the African American community. The Apple...
Among the special achievement recipients this year are classic TV legend Marla Gibbs, known for sitcoms 227 and The Jeffersons, who will receive Aafca’s Legend Award. Delroy Lindo, known for his roles in Unprisoned, Da 5 Bloods, Crooklyn and Romeo Must Die, will receive the Legacy Award.
In addition, Egot winner Jennifer Hudson will receive Aafca’s We See You Award for her “versatility” and “consistent excellence” throughout her music and acting career, as well as hosting The Jennifer Hudson Show.
Also being honored at the ceremony are several TV shows, including S.W.A.T and Ted Lasso. The association said the CBS series is being honored with Aafca’s Impact Award for its work with storylines that impact the African American community. The Apple...
- 6/23/2023
- by Xennia Hamilton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“I am Black woman; hear me roar!”
The hilarity of Black women on television has been sorely missed and ignored by the Television Academy over multiple decades. However, this year’s slate of outstanding lead and supporting comedy actress seem to be the two spots preventing an #EmmysSoWhite moment from occurring.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Emmy predictions in all categories.
Quinta Brunson is the front-runner to win her first acting Emmy for her charming turn as Janine Teagues, the optimistic 2nd-grade teacher from ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” With a beautiful sophomore season in the books and the added benefit of Jean Smart being out of the competition for “Hacks,” she seems perfectly aligned with the Emmy cosmos to land much-deserved recognition. The possible recognition would be long overdue for Black comedians on television.
Pasadena, CA – September 13: Actress Isabel Sanford attends the 33rd Annual Primetime Emmy...
The hilarity of Black women on television has been sorely missed and ignored by the Television Academy over multiple decades. However, this year’s slate of outstanding lead and supporting comedy actress seem to be the two spots preventing an #EmmysSoWhite moment from occurring.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Emmy predictions in all categories.
Quinta Brunson is the front-runner to win her first acting Emmy for her charming turn as Janine Teagues, the optimistic 2nd-grade teacher from ABC’s “Abbott Elementary.” With a beautiful sophomore season in the books and the added benefit of Jean Smart being out of the competition for “Hacks,” she seems perfectly aligned with the Emmy cosmos to land much-deserved recognition. The possible recognition would be long overdue for Black comedians on television.
Pasadena, CA – September 13: Actress Isabel Sanford attends the 33rd Annual Primetime Emmy...
- 5/5/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Days of Our Lives is no stranger to hiring prominent name actors.
Sometimes people make a name for themselves on the soap before hitting the big time, such as when Days of Our Lives alum Charlotte Ross joined the cast of NYPD Blue. Other times, Days of Our Lives hires well-known actors such as Marla Gibbs as recurring characters.
And now, Days of Our Lives has scored its biggest guest appearance yet -- Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke!
At 97, Van Dyke is one of Hollywood's oldest and best-known actors. Whether you know him as the ottoman-tripping Rob Petrie from the 1950s Dick Van Dyke show, movies such as Mary Poppins, or his long-running cozy mystery series Diagnosis: Murder, you're sure to have seen him Somewhere.
He shows no signs of slowing down, having recently appeared on The Masked Singer. And now he can add a soap opera appearance to his lengthy resume.
Sometimes people make a name for themselves on the soap before hitting the big time, such as when Days of Our Lives alum Charlotte Ross joined the cast of NYPD Blue. Other times, Days of Our Lives hires well-known actors such as Marla Gibbs as recurring characters.
And now, Days of Our Lives has scored its biggest guest appearance yet -- Hollywood legend Dick Van Dyke!
At 97, Van Dyke is one of Hollywood's oldest and best-known actors. Whether you know him as the ottoman-tripping Rob Petrie from the 1950s Dick Van Dyke show, movies such as Mary Poppins, or his long-running cozy mystery series Diagnosis: Murder, you're sure to have seen him Somewhere.
He shows no signs of slowing down, having recently appeared on The Masked Singer. And now he can add a soap opera appearance to his lengthy resume.
- 4/21/2023
- by Jack Ori
- TVfanatic
Robin Thede ain’t here for any more Emmy snubs for the hilarious Black women from “A Black Lady Sketch Show.”
“We’re showing you the characters behind the characters,” she recently told Variety at a Q&a panel. “I love it. You see the full range of actors on the show. But I want to note that none of the show’s actors have ever been nominated for an Emmy, and they deserve it.”
Four seasons into the groundbreaking HBO series, the creative minds and strategists hope to change that.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Emmy predictions.
HBO confirms exclusively to Variety that the network will be submitting the six-episode Season 4 for 30 Emmy categories, notably outstanding scripted variety series and three main acting categories: Thede for lead comedy actress and Gabrielle Dennis and Skye Townsend for supporting comedy actress.
Acting nominees for various sketch comedies have...
“We’re showing you the characters behind the characters,” she recently told Variety at a Q&a panel. “I love it. You see the full range of actors on the show. But I want to note that none of the show’s actors have ever been nominated for an Emmy, and they deserve it.”
Four seasons into the groundbreaking HBO series, the creative minds and strategists hope to change that.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Emmy predictions.
HBO confirms exclusively to Variety that the network will be submitting the six-episode Season 4 for 30 Emmy categories, notably outstanding scripted variety series and three main acting categories: Thede for lead comedy actress and Gabrielle Dennis and Skye Townsend for supporting comedy actress.
Acting nominees for various sketch comedies have...
- 4/19/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tyler James Williams are looking to make some Emmy history this year as the current comedy supporting actor/actress category frontrunners for their performances in the ABC comedy hit “Abbott Elementary.” Ralph of course memorably won last year – complete with a powerful singing acceptance speech – and is going for two in a row after also taking the comedy supporting actress trophy at the Critics Choice Awards in January. Williams, who won a Golden Globe earlier this year, is looking to keep Brett Goldstein from pulling off an Emmy three-peat for “Ted Lasso” after being nominated a year ago.
Should both Ralph and Williams triumph, it would be the first time that performers of color won in the comedy supporting categories in the same year. In fact, it would be the first time African Americans took home an Emmy statue in the same year in any supporting series category – drama included.
Should both Ralph and Williams triumph, it would be the first time that performers of color won in the comedy supporting categories in the same year. In fact, it would be the first time African Americans took home an Emmy statue in the same year in any supporting series category – drama included.
- 4/10/2023
- by Ray Richmond
- Gold Derby
Norman Lear, Mimi Kennedy, George Takei, Marla Gibbs and George Wallace are encouraging Hollywood to take steps in creating more stories about the lives of older adults in a new #RethinkAging campaign.
In partnership with the University of Southern California Annenberg’s Norman Lear Center, the industry veterans created an amusing video announcing that they’re still very much in the game — and their stories matter.
“They said 91 is the new 60,” Gibbs said in the video. “I don’t know where they got that, honey. Ninety-one is the new 30.”
Gibbs most recently appeared in Grey’s Anatomy season 19 as the grandmother of one of the hospital’s new residents, but she’s best known for her portrayal of Florence on Lear’s 1970s sitcom The Jeffersons and her role as Mary Jenkins in the ’80s comedy 227.
Lear, who will be 101 in July, cheerfully shared that he became the oldest person...
In partnership with the University of Southern California Annenberg’s Norman Lear Center, the industry veterans created an amusing video announcing that they’re still very much in the game — and their stories matter.
“They said 91 is the new 60,” Gibbs said in the video. “I don’t know where they got that, honey. Ninety-one is the new 30.”
Gibbs most recently appeared in Grey’s Anatomy season 19 as the grandmother of one of the hospital’s new residents, but she’s best known for her portrayal of Florence on Lear’s 1970s sitcom The Jeffersons and her role as Mary Jenkins in the ’80s comedy 227.
Lear, who will be 101 in July, cheerfully shared that he became the oldest person...
- 2/22/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
February is Black History Month, and with such a wide array of streaming options, there’s no shortage of options for learning about Black heritage and celebrating Black excellence.
Amazon Prime Video
Among the programming being promoted in Prime Video’s “Celebrating Black History Month” lineup are the new second season of “Harlem,” which follows four female friends from Harlem as they navigate their love lives and careers. There’s also the new original unscripted series “Coach Prime,” which chronicles Deion Sanders in his third year coaching football at Jackson State. Other noteworthy selections include Regina King‘s Oscar-nominated “One Night in Miami,” the acclaimed documentaries “My Name is Pauli Murray” and “I Am Not Your Negro,” the Emmy-nominated romance “Sylvie’s Love,” Spike Lee‘s “Chi-Raq,” the Aretha Franklin biopic “Respect” starring Jennifer Hudson, the Oscar-winning stage adaptation “Fences” from Denzel Washington, who also stars in Prime offerings “Devil in a Blue Dress...
Amazon Prime Video
Among the programming being promoted in Prime Video’s “Celebrating Black History Month” lineup are the new second season of “Harlem,” which follows four female friends from Harlem as they navigate their love lives and careers. There’s also the new original unscripted series “Coach Prime,” which chronicles Deion Sanders in his third year coaching football at Jackson State. Other noteworthy selections include Regina King‘s Oscar-nominated “One Night in Miami,” the acclaimed documentaries “My Name is Pauli Murray” and “I Am Not Your Negro,” the Emmy-nominated romance “Sylvie’s Love,” Spike Lee‘s “Chi-Raq,” the Aretha Franklin biopic “Respect” starring Jennifer Hudson, the Oscar-winning stage adaptation “Fences” from Denzel Washington, who also stars in Prime offerings “Devil in a Blue Dress...
- 2/9/2023
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
As Angela Bassett enjoys a serious awards-season run for her supporting role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, she’s about to dress up her trophy case even more. The current Oscar nominee and recent Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award winner will receive the Spotlight Award at the Costume Designers Guild’s gala next month.
Related Story Costume Designers Guild Awards Nominees: ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’, ‘Elvis’, ‘Bridgerton’ & More Related Story Oscars Snubs & Surprises: Tom Cruise, Viola Davis, Taylor Swift, David Bowie & Women Directors Spurned Related Story Angela Bassett Earns First MCU Oscar Nom In Acting Category For 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever', But Sequel Snubbed In Best Pic Category
She will be honored with the awards, which honors an actor whose talent and career personify an enduring commitment to excellence, including a special awareness of the role and importance of costume design, at the...
Related Story Costume Designers Guild Awards Nominees: ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’, ‘Elvis’, ‘Bridgerton’ & More Related Story Oscars Snubs & Surprises: Tom Cruise, Viola Davis, Taylor Swift, David Bowie & Women Directors Spurned Related Story Angela Bassett Earns First MCU Oscar Nom In Acting Category For 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever', But Sequel Snubbed In Best Pic Category
She will be honored with the awards, which honors an actor whose talent and career personify an enduring commitment to excellence, including a special awareness of the role and importance of costume design, at the...
- 1/26/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Over the course of a film career that has grown over three decades, writer/director Regina King has built one of the most impressive sets of credits of any actor working today. From her early performances in films by John Singleton, King has worked with such other distinguished directors as Cameron Crowe, Taylor Hackford and Barry Jenkins, delivering performances that have showcased her skills in comedy, romance and even action films. All of this work culminated in an Academy Award win for her stunning performance in 2018’s “If Beale Street Could Talk.”
SEEOscar Best Supporting Actress Gallery: Every Winner in Academy Award History
King’s honors are not limited to her performances on the big screen, however. For her work in television, King has won an impressive four Emmy Awards — for the Netflix series “Seven Seconds,” the HBO limited series “Watchmen” and two consecutive Emmys for her performance in ABC’s “American Crime.
SEEOscar Best Supporting Actress Gallery: Every Winner in Academy Award History
King’s honors are not limited to her performances on the big screen, however. For her work in television, King has won an impressive four Emmy Awards — for the Netflix series “Seven Seconds,” the HBO limited series “Watchmen” and two consecutive Emmys for her performance in ABC’s “American Crime.
- 1/15/2023
- by Tom O'Brien and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
MeTV invites you to hang out with Archie Bunker, wife Edith et al every Sunday night, when the classic sitcom All in the Family joins the network’s line-up this winter.
TVLine has learned exclusively that the Norman Lear-created All in the Family will make its debut on MeTV, the classic television network, on Sunday, Feb. 5, where it will air four back-to-back episodes each week (starting with the pilot “Meet the Bunkers”).
More from TVLineAll in the Family, 227, Maude and More Norman Lear Classics to Stream Exclusively on Amazon Prime, IMDb TVAll in the Family Recap: Archie vs.
TVLine has learned exclusively that the Norman Lear-created All in the Family will make its debut on MeTV, the classic television network, on Sunday, Feb. 5, where it will air four back-to-back episodes each week (starting with the pilot “Meet the Bunkers”).
More from TVLineAll in the Family, 227, Maude and More Norman Lear Classics to Stream Exclusively on Amazon Prime, IMDb TVAll in the Family Recap: Archie vs.
- 1/10/2023
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
“Have I not given everything?” These words, filled with all of the pain and grief of a mother who has lost not only her son, but also her husband, and given of herself to and for her people, are those of Queen Ramonda, played regally by Angela Bassett in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
When you see the name Angela Bassett in any cast list, you know that each scene she’s in will be one in which she captivates the audience, telegraphing everything felt through her words and body. With an acting career that spans four decades, and over a hundred acting credits to her name, Bassett has become a Hollywood screen legend in her own right, and as such is the honoree of Variety’s Creative Impact Award in Acting.
In selecting Bassett for this recognition of her work and impact on the film industry, Variety senior VP global...
When you see the name Angela Bassett in any cast list, you know that each scene she’s in will be one in which she captivates the audience, telegraphing everything felt through her words and body. With an acting career that spans four decades, and over a hundred acting credits to her name, Bassett has become a Hollywood screen legend in her own right, and as such is the honoree of Variety’s Creative Impact Award in Acting.
In selecting Bassett for this recognition of her work and impact on the film industry, Variety senior VP global...
- 1/9/2023
- by Carolyn Hinds
- Variety Film + TV
Fifty-two years ago, Gail Fisher (“Mannix”) followed Diahann Carroll (“Julia”) as the second Black woman to win an acting Golden Globe and the first to be so honored for a supporting TV performance. After all this time, her name remains the only one on the latter list, but she could soon be joined by Niecy Nash-Betts, who is looking to set a record of her own as the first Black actress to ever receive a Golden Globe for work on a limited series. If she succeeds on her bid for Netflix’s “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story,” she will also be the 21st Black actress ever honored by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association in any competitive category.
Nash-Betts is one of the five inaugural nominees in the newly-established Best TV Movie/Limited Series Supporting Actress category, which was created to separate featured female performers on continuing and non-continuing programs. Her...
Nash-Betts is one of the five inaugural nominees in the newly-established Best TV Movie/Limited Series Supporting Actress category, which was created to separate featured female performers on continuing and non-continuing programs. Her...
- 1/6/2023
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
I never worked on a TV show where a male writer declared it “rape day” or groped me or watched porn in the writers room, some of the actions attributed to Eric Weinberg. This was, as one female writer was quoted, “The worst of the worst.” This is the big stuff.
But in my nearly 20 years as a sitcom writer, I experienced plenty of medium to small stuff. Everything from a showrunner’s hanging women’s underpants on his lamp, to being told women aren’t funny, to being asked if my contribution to a script was making the coffee, to innumerable jokes about my breasts. Each time I’d laugh and blow it off. Yes, it wore me down. But I wanted to work. And it had happened on every show.
Except one. On that show, nothing like that happened. Ever.
When Michael Elias contacted me recently about the passing of Rich Eustis,...
But in my nearly 20 years as a sitcom writer, I experienced plenty of medium to small stuff. Everything from a showrunner’s hanging women’s underpants on his lamp, to being told women aren’t funny, to being asked if my contribution to a script was making the coffee, to innumerable jokes about my breasts. Each time I’d laugh and blow it off. Yes, it wore me down. But I wanted to work. And it had happened on every show.
Except one. On that show, nothing like that happened. Ever.
When Michael Elias contacted me recently about the passing of Rich Eustis,...
- 12/2/2022
- by Lisa Rosenthal
- The Wrap
Clarence Gilyard Jr., a reliable character actor-turned-university professor with memorable roles in Die Hard, Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger, has died. He was 66.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas — where Gilyard spent over 15 years working as a film and theater professor — announced Gilyard’s death in a statement shared Monday, Nov. 28. No cause of death was given, though Gilyard had reportedly been suffering from a long illness (per the Las Vegas Review Journal).
“He had many extraordinary talents and was extremely well-known in the university through his dedication to teaching and his professional accomplishments,...
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas — where Gilyard spent over 15 years working as a film and theater professor — announced Gilyard’s death in a statement shared Monday, Nov. 28. No cause of death was given, though Gilyard had reportedly been suffering from a long illness (per the Las Vegas Review Journal).
“He had many extraordinary talents and was extremely well-known in the university through his dedication to teaching and his professional accomplishments,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Clarence Gilyard, a veteran actor who had notable roles in Die Hard, Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger who would later become a theater professor and author, has died. He was 66.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, where Gilyard taught, announced his death on Monday afternoon, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He had been suffering from a long illness. No further details were released.
In a rich and varied career that spanned five decades, Gilyard achieved success in film, television and on stage. For film fans, he is perhaps best known for playing Theo, Hans Gruber’s cocky computer hacker in 1988’s Die Hard. In the 1990s, Gilyard was a familiar face on primetime television, first for playing private investigator Conrad McMasters on the legal drama Matlock and then, in a career-defining role, as Ranger James Trivette in the long-running series Walker, Texas Ranger.
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, where Gilyard taught, announced his death on Monday afternoon, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He had been suffering from a long illness. No further details were released.
In a rich and varied career that spanned five decades, Gilyard achieved success in film, television and on stage. For film fans, he is perhaps best known for playing Theo, Hans Gruber’s cocky computer hacker in 1988’s Die Hard. In the 1990s, Gilyard was a familiar face on primetime television, first for playing private investigator Conrad McMasters on the legal drama Matlock and then, in a career-defining role, as Ranger James Trivette in the long-running series Walker, Texas Ranger.
- 11/29/2022
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 1971 Golden Globes marked the first instance of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association bestowing awards for supporting TV performances. The inaugural male and female recipients of these two prizes were James Brolin and Gail Fisher (“Mannix”), both of whom had won Emmys for the same roles eight months earlier. Fisher followed Diahann Carroll as the second Black woman to win a Golden Globe in any acting category, and, five decades later, remains the only Black Best TV Supporting Actress champ. She could, however, finally have company if Niecy Nash (“Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story”) catches the attention of enough voters this year. And Nash would make history in her own right by becoming the first Black actress to win a Golden Globe for any limited series.
At the 2023 Golden Globes, for the first time ever, supporting TV players will be divided by both gender and program classification. This generally welcome...
At the 2023 Golden Globes, for the first time ever, supporting TV players will be divided by both gender and program classification. This generally welcome...
- 11/10/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Immediately following the news of Leslie Jordan’s tragic passing from a car crash, friends, collaborators, and fans took to social media to share their memories of the Emmy-winning comedian.
“Will and Grace” star Sean Hayes, who frequently acted alongside Jordan during the latter’s guest appearances on the sitcom, called him “one of the funniest people” he ever worked with, and “a unique talent with an enormous, caring heart.”
My heart is broken. Leslie Jordan was one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone who ever met him, loved him. There will never be anyone like him. A unique talent with an enormous, caring heart. You will be missed, my dear friend. pic.twitter.com/RNKSamoES0
— Sean Hayes (@SeanHayes) October 24, 2022
Paul Feig, who appeared with Jordan in the 1990 film “Ski Patrol,” called Jordan, “A true sweetheart” and said, “The world is a much...
“Will and Grace” star Sean Hayes, who frequently acted alongside Jordan during the latter’s guest appearances on the sitcom, called him “one of the funniest people” he ever worked with, and “a unique talent with an enormous, caring heart.”
My heart is broken. Leslie Jordan was one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone who ever met him, loved him. There will never be anyone like him. A unique talent with an enormous, caring heart. You will be missed, my dear friend. pic.twitter.com/RNKSamoES0
— Sean Hayes (@SeanHayes) October 24, 2022
Paul Feig, who appeared with Jordan in the 1990 film “Ski Patrol,” called Jordan, “A true sweetheart” and said, “The world is a much...
- 10/24/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
When Sheryl Lee Ralph first read Quinta Brunson’s pilot script to “Abbott Elementary,” she knew exactly which character she wanted to play: Ava Coleman, the inappropriate principal who only seems to have her own best interests at heart.
But Brunson had another idea. “She was just short of [saying,] ‘Oh, hell no!’” Ralph says. “She said, ‘We need a queen for Barbara Howard. And you are that queen!’ And I was just like, ‘Baby, if you put it that way, How do I say no? What else do I need to know about that? I’m going to be the queen. I love it. Yes, I’m ready.’”
Janelle James wound up being cast as Ava, and landed an Emmy nomination this year for the role. But tapping Ralph to play Barbara, the no-nonsense, seen-it-all veteran teacher in “Abbott Elementary,” also turned out to be the right move. On Monday night,...
But Brunson had another idea. “She was just short of [saying,] ‘Oh, hell no!’” Ralph says. “She said, ‘We need a queen for Barbara Howard. And you are that queen!’ And I was just like, ‘Baby, if you put it that way, How do I say no? What else do I need to know about that? I’m going to be the queen. I love it. Yes, I’m ready.’”
Janelle James wound up being cast as Ava, and landed an Emmy nomination this year for the role. But tapping Ralph to play Barbara, the no-nonsense, seen-it-all veteran teacher in “Abbott Elementary,” also turned out to be the right move. On Monday night,...
- 9/16/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
It’s Tuesday morning, less than 24 hours after she’s won an Emmy, and Quinta Brunson’s voice is hoarse. The days of pre-award festivities leading up to the Sept. 12 ceremony were frantic, starting with Variety’s Showrunners Dinner. Then came the Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony in downtown Los Angeles, the Governors Gala and Disney’s post-Emmy celebration, which spilled into the next day. Something had to give.
Yet when the “Abbott Elementary” creator and star sits down for an in-depth interview with Variety, her creative voice is clear and strong.
On the morning after the Emmys, she’s back on Warner Bros.’ Burbank lot, about to take part in a table read and start production on a new episode of the hit ABC comedy. Before the grind resumes, however, Brunson stops by the studio commissary’s executive dining room for breakfast and a quick conversation about the Wbtv comedy...
Yet when the “Abbott Elementary” creator and star sits down for an in-depth interview with Variety, her creative voice is clear and strong.
On the morning after the Emmys, she’s back on Warner Bros.’ Burbank lot, about to take part in a table read and start production on a new episode of the hit ABC comedy. Before the grind resumes, however, Brunson stops by the studio commissary’s executive dining room for breakfast and a quick conversation about the Wbtv comedy...
- 9/15/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
During the 2022 Emmys on Monday evening, Twitter users showered their favorite stars and shows with praise — and one show, and one actress, stood out from the crowd.
According to data compiled by Twitter on Monday evening in the U.S., Sheryl Lee Ralph — who won best supporting actress in a comedy series for her work in Abbott Elementary — was mentioned more than 150,000 times on Twitter, making her the most tweeted-about Emmy nominee for the night.
Ralph’s moving acceptance speech began with the actress singing a verse from Dianne Reeves’ “Endangered Species.” Ralph, a first-time Emmy winner, then told the crowd, “To anyone who has ever, ever had a dream and thought your dream wasn’t, wouldn’t, couldn’t come true, I am here to tell you that this is what believing looks like — this is what striving looks like. And don’t you ever,...
During the 2022 Emmys on Monday evening, Twitter users showered their favorite stars and shows with praise — and one show, and one actress, stood out from the crowd.
According to data compiled by Twitter on Monday evening in the U.S., Sheryl Lee Ralph — who won best supporting actress in a comedy series for her work in Abbott Elementary — was mentioned more than 150,000 times on Twitter, making her the most tweeted-about Emmy nominee for the night.
Ralph’s moving acceptance speech began with the actress singing a verse from Dianne Reeves’ “Endangered Species.” Ralph, a first-time Emmy winner, then told the crowd, “To anyone who has ever, ever had a dream and thought your dream wasn’t, wouldn’t, couldn’t come true, I am here to tell you that this is what believing looks like — this is what striving looks like. And don’t you ever,...
- 9/13/2022
- by J. Clara Chan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It feels like one can simply copy and paste the same story every year. “This year’s Emmys ceremony had some wins, but ultimately still reminds us that little has changed when it comes to championing diverse talent.” The deck was already stacked against the Television Academy the minute the overwhelmingly white nominations were announced.
Some categories, like Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Best Actor in a Drama, even had multiple nominees from the same show; four of the seven slots in the former category were taken up by actresses from “The White Lotus.” It was proof of a core problem when it comes to issues of nominee diversity: Not only were the voters not looking at different actors for nominations, they also weren’t watching nearly as much television to begin with, preferring instead to stick with a few popular shows as opposed to spreading the love.
Some categories, like Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Best Actor in a Drama, even had multiple nominees from the same show; four of the seven slots in the former category were taken up by actresses from “The White Lotus.” It was proof of a core problem when it comes to issues of nominee diversity: Not only were the voters not looking at different actors for nominations, they also weren’t watching nearly as much television to begin with, preferring instead to stick with a few popular shows as opposed to spreading the love.
- 9/13/2022
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
The 74th annual Emmy Awards hosted by Kenan Thompson at the Microsoft Theater saw several repeat winners, along with quite a few surprising upsets. During the ceremony, ‘Ted Lasso’ won best comedy series for the second year in a row, ‘The White Lotus’ took top limited series and ‘Succession’ grabbed the highest honor of the night with outstanding drama series, reports ‘Variety’.
Earlier in the show, Netflix’s ‘Squid Game’ star Lee Jung-jae became the first Asian actor to ever win lead actor in a drama series, and the fourth Asian person ever to win an acting Emmy, while ‘Euphoria’ star Zendaya became the first Black woman to win lead actress in a drama series, and the youngest two-time winner of any Emmy in history.
‘Hacks’ star Jean Smart won outstanding actress in a comedy series for the HBO Max show, and ‘Ted Lasso’ star Jason Sudeikis once again took...
Earlier in the show, Netflix’s ‘Squid Game’ star Lee Jung-jae became the first Asian actor to ever win lead actor in a drama series, and the fourth Asian person ever to win an acting Emmy, while ‘Euphoria’ star Zendaya became the first Black woman to win lead actress in a drama series, and the youngest two-time winner of any Emmy in history.
‘Hacks’ star Jean Smart won outstanding actress in a comedy series for the HBO Max show, and ‘Ted Lasso’ star Jason Sudeikis once again took...
- 9/13/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Sheryl Lee Ralph has proved that the Television Academy is hot for teacher and making history in the process, with a win for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her portrayal of straight-laced, veteran kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard on ABC’s hit series “Abbott Elementary.”
Ralph is only the second Black woman in history to take home the top prize in the category, some 35 years since Jackée Harry was first victorious for her performance as Sandra Clark in the second season of “227.”
Also Read:
Watch Sheryl Lee Ralph Belt Out Dianne Reeves Song to Accept Emmy for ‘Abbott Elementary’ (Video)
“To anyone who has ever, ever had a dream, and thought your dream wasn’t, wouldn’t, couldn’t come true, I am here to tell you this is what believing looks like,” Ralph said during her acceptance speech. After, of course, she finished a jaw-dropping a...
Ralph is only the second Black woman in history to take home the top prize in the category, some 35 years since Jackée Harry was first victorious for her performance as Sandra Clark in the second season of “227.”
Also Read:
Watch Sheryl Lee Ralph Belt Out Dianne Reeves Song to Accept Emmy for ‘Abbott Elementary’ (Video)
“To anyone who has ever, ever had a dream, and thought your dream wasn’t, wouldn’t, couldn’t come true, I am here to tell you this is what believing looks like,” Ralph said during her acceptance speech. After, of course, she finished a jaw-dropping a...
- 9/13/2022
- by Libby Hill
- The Wrap
The 74th annual Emmy Awards are in the books following a tight three-hour telecast on NBC that saw several repeat winners, along with quite a few surprising upsets.
During Monday’s Kenan Thompson-hosted ceremony, Apple TV+’s “Ted Lasso” won best comedy series for the second year in a row, HBO Max’s “The White Lotus” took top limited series and HBO’s “Succession” grabbed the highest honor of the night with outstanding drama series.
Earlier in the show, Netflix’s “Squid Game” star Lee Jung-jae became the first Asian actor to ever win lead actor in a drama series, and the fourth Asian person ever to win an acting Emmy, while HBO’s “Euphoria” star Zendaya became the first Black woman to win lead actress in a drama series, and the youngest two-time winner of any Emmy in history.
“Hacks” star Jean Smart won outstanding actress in a...
During Monday’s Kenan Thompson-hosted ceremony, Apple TV+’s “Ted Lasso” won best comedy series for the second year in a row, HBO Max’s “The White Lotus” took top limited series and HBO’s “Succession” grabbed the highest honor of the night with outstanding drama series.
Earlier in the show, Netflix’s “Squid Game” star Lee Jung-jae became the first Asian actor to ever win lead actor in a drama series, and the fourth Asian person ever to win an acting Emmy, while HBO’s “Euphoria” star Zendaya became the first Black woman to win lead actress in a drama series, and the youngest two-time winner of any Emmy in history.
“Hacks” star Jean Smart won outstanding actress in a...
- 9/13/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
“Abbott Elementary” just might do it. After winning for casting, the ABC hit freshman sitcom could make history in many significant ways. After Quinta Brunson made history by becoming the first Black woman to be nominated for comedy series, acting and writing categories in the same year, she would be only the second Black person ever to win as a producer in the comedy series. The first was Winifred Hervey for “The Golden Girls” back in 1987. Also, forecast to go along with the top category a win for writing (Brunson would be the third Black person after Larry Wilmore for “The Bernie Mac Show” in 2002 and Lena Waithe for “Master of None” in 2017) and Sheryl Lee Ralph in supporting actress (she would be the second Black woman to win the category after Jackee Harry for “227” in 1987).
Let’s be clear, I’m aware I may be “overthinking much of this,...
Let’s be clear, I’m aware I may be “overthinking much of this,...
- 9/8/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
In the nearly seven-decade history of the Primetime Emmys, there have only been five instances of a series netting three Best Comedy Supporting Actress nominations in the same year. This precedent was established in 2004 by “Sex and the City” ladies Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon and was then emulated in 2017, 2018 and 2021 by various trios from “Saturday Night Live.” This year, Sarah Niles, Juno Temple and Hannah Waddingham of “Ted Lasso” added their names to the list. The latter two previously vied for the 2021 prize, which went to Waddingham, while Niles stands as the only Emmy newcomer in the group.
Niles joined the cast of “Ted Lasso” in its second season, which originally streamed on Apple TV+ from July to October 2021. Her character, sports psychologist Dr. Sharon Fieldstone, was hired during the season premiere to help the AFC Richmond team out of a collective funk. Her episode submission, “Headspace,...
Niles joined the cast of “Ted Lasso” in its second season, which originally streamed on Apple TV+ from July to October 2021. Her character, sports psychologist Dr. Sharon Fieldstone, was hired during the season premiere to help the AFC Richmond team out of a collective funk. Her episode submission, “Headspace,...
- 9/1/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
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