SINNERS starring Michael B. Jordan

Sylvester January 16, 2025

From Ryan Coogler—director of “Black Panther” and “Creed”—and starring Michael B. Jordan comes a new vision of fear: “Sinners.” Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers (Jordan) return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back. “You keep dancing with the devil, one day he’s gonna follow you home.” Written and directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Coogler, “Sinners” stars Jordan (the “Black Panther” and “Creed” franchises) in a dual role, joined by Oscar nominee Hailee Steinfeld (“Bumblebee,” “True Grit”), Jack O’Connell (“Ferrari”), Wunmi Mosaku (“Passenger”), Jayme Lawson (“The Woman King”), Omar Benson Miller (“True Lies”), and Delroy Lindo (“Da 5 Bloods”). The film is produced by Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian and Ryan Coogler. The executive producers are Ludwig Göransson, Will Greenfield and Rebecca Cho. Coogler’s behind-the-camera artisans include his “Black Panther” franchise collaborators: director of photography Autumn Durald Arkapaw, Oscar-winning production designer Hannah Beachler, editor Michael P. Shawver, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, and Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter. Warner Bros. Pictures presents A Proximity Media Production, A Ryan Coogler Film: “Sinners.” The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, in theaters only nationwide on March 7, 2025, and internationally beginning on 5 March 2025.

THE ALTO KNIGHTS STARRING ROBERT DINERO

Sylvester January 15, 2025

From Warner Bros. Pictures, “The Alto Knights” stars Academy Award winner Robert De Niro in a dual role, directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson. The film follows two of New York’s most notorious organized crime bosses, Frank Costello (De Niro) and Vito Genovese (De Niro), as they vie for control of the city’s streets. Once the best of friends, petty jealousies and a series of betrayals place them on a deadly collision course that will reshape the Mafia (and America) forever. “The Alto Knights” was written by Oscar nominee Nicholas Pileggi (“Goodfellas”) and produced by Oscar winner Irwin Winkler (“Rocky,” “Goodfellas”), Levinson, Jason Sosnoff, Charles Winkler and David Winkler, with Mike Drake executive producing. De Niro stars alongside Debra Messing (“Will & Grace”), Cosmo Jarvis (“Shōgun”), Kathrine Narducci (“The Irishman”), Michael Rispoli (“Billions”), Michael Adler (“Peppermint”), Ed Amatrudo (“Till,” “Nashville”), Joe Bacino (“Kick-Ass”), Anthony J. Gallo (“The Irishman”), Wallace Langham (“Ford v Ferrari”), Louis Mustillo (“Cooper’s Bar,” “Mike & Molly”), Frank Piccirillo, Matt Servitto (“Billions”) and Robert Uricola (“Raging Bull”). Joining Levinson (“Rainman,” “Dopesick”) behind the camera are Oscar-nominated director of photography Dante Spinotti (“The Insider,” “L.A. Confidential”), production designer Neil Spisak (the “Spider-Man” films, “Dopesick”), Oscar-nominated editor Douglas Crise (“Babel,” “Dopesick”), Oscar-nominated costume designer Jeffrey Kurland (“Bullets Over Broadway,” “Tenet”), award-winning casting director Ellen Chenoweth (“Past Lives”) and composer David Fleming (“Hillbilly Elegy,” “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”). Warner Bros. Pictures Presents an Irwin Winkler Production, a Barry Levinson Film, “The Alto Knights.” The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures worldwide and released in theaters nationwide on March 21, 2025, and internationally beginning 19 March 2025.

Snoop Dogg to Host NFL Honors

Sylvester January 10, 2025

Snoop Dogg, multi-platinum rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, DJ, media personality, businessman and icon, will host NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, an Align Technology brand, on Thursday, Feb. 6 at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans.  The primetime awards special recognizing the NFL’s best players, performances and plays from the 2024 season will air live at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT on FOX and NFL Network and stream on NFL+. The program will not air live in all time zones.

An entertainment industry mogul, Snoop Dogg has reigned for nearly three decades as an unparalleled force, consistently raising the bar as a globally recognized innovator.  Over the course of his storied music career, Snoop Dogg has released 21 studio albums, sold more than 40 million albums worldwide, reached #1 countless times on Billboard charts internationally and received 20 Grammy Award nominations.  He recently served as a coach on NBC’s four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series “The Voice.”

As a philanthropist, Snoop Dogg launched the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) 17 years ago that has since seen more than 40 kids make it to the NFL. As part of the SYFL, Snoop Special Stars ensures that kids with any physical, mental or developmental disabilities also participate.

NFL Honors debuted in 2012 and features the announcement of awards, such as The Associated Press’ annual accolades, the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year presented by Nationwide and the newest Pro Football Hall of Fame Class the week leading up to the Super Bowl.

The awards announced at NFL Honors presented by Invisalign include:

On Thursday, Feb. 6, NFL Honors Red Carpet Show presented by Invisalign airs at 8 p.m. ET on NFL Network leading up to NFL Honors.  Local blackout restrictions may apply. 

Further details regarding this year’s NFL Honors presented by Invisalign will be announced at a later date.

NFL Honors is an NFL Network production in association with Rock Garden Media. For more information about NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, fans may visit www.nfl.com/honors and follow the #NFLHonors conversation on X. 

FOX will present Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025.

KIRK FRANKLIN TO RECEIVE BLACK MUSIC ICON AWARD 

Sylvester January 8, 2025

LEGENDARY ARTIST KIRK FRANKLIN TO RECEIVE BLACK MUSIC ICON AWARD AT FOURTH ANNUAL RECORDING ACADEMY^® HONORS PRESENTED BY THE BLACK MUSIC COLLECTIVE 

GRAMMY^® Award-winning artist, songwriter and producer Kirk Franklinwill be celebrated at the fourth annual Recording Academy^® Honors Presented by the Black Music Collective at the Fairmont Century Plaza. Franklin will receive the Black Music Icon Award, which celebrates Black music creators whose commitment to their craft has profoundly shaped the industry and whose legacy of service inspires countless people around the world. 

“Kirk has not only revolutionized gospel music but has also bridged the gap between genres, redefining the possibilities of musical expression and inspiring generations with his message of hope and faith,” said Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy. “His unwavering dedication to his craft and his legacy of service embody the very essence of the Black Music Icon Award. We look forward to honoring Kirk for his profound influence on the industry and the countless lives he continues to touch worldwide.”

Franklin, a 20-time GRAMMY Award-winning gospel artist, has revolutionized the gospel music genre by blending gospel, R&B and hip-hop. A Fort Worth, Texas native, Franklin began playing piano at age four and directing choirs at 11. His debut album, Kirk Franklin & The Family, was the first gospel album to sell more than a million copies, spending 100 weeks on the Billboard Gospel charts. Known for hits like “Stomp,” “Revolution” and “Brighter Day,” Franklin’s music has achieved widespread crossover success and transformed the genre. Through the joint-venture partnership between RCA Records and his company, Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, Franklin has fostered diverse, Christ-centered content while mentoring urban youth. His 13 albums, all certified gold or platinum, have earned him nine Dove Awards, 33 Stellar Awards and a Soul Train Award. Collaborating with artists like Kanye West, Mary J. Blige and Chance the Rapper, Franklin has consistently bridged the gap between gospel and mainstream music, reaching broader audiences. In 2011, he also authored The Blueprint: A Plan for Living Above Life’s Storms , which focuses on a transparent approach to addressing issues ranging from marriage and politics to sex and religion. Through his foundation, he leads community outreach initiatives focused on education and mentorship, empowering future generations and promoting personal growth through faith and music. Franklin’s renowned leadership of urban contemporary gospel choirs—including The Family, God’s Property and One Nation Crew (1NC)—continues to dominate the Billboard Gospel chart while achieving mainstream success. A trailblazer in music, Franklin’s legacy resonates globally, uniting audiences through the power of faith.

Returning for the fourth consecutive year to produce the Recording Academy Honors event is MVD Inc, with Adam Blackstone also returning as music supervisor for the evening.

NOMINEES ANNOUNCED FOR THE “56TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS”

Sylvester January 7, 2025

Today, NAACP announced the full list of “56^th NAACP Image Awards” nominees, with Cynthia Erivo, Keke Palmer, Kendrick Lamar, Kevin Hart, and Shannon Sharpe nominated for Entertainer of the Year. The winners will be revealed Friday, February 21, 2025 at the 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors Ceremonies on naacpimageawards.net and during the two-hour LIVE TV special, airing Saturday, February 22, 2025 from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, at 8 PM ET/ 8 PM PT on BET and CBS. This year’s theme is, “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence.”

The Piano Lesson leads in motion picture categories with 14 nods followed by The Book of Clarence with six nominations. Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist leads across the television categories with nine nominations. Netflix also leads with an impressive 64 nominations.

Ayo Edebiri is leading the television and streaming categories with four nominations – three for her role in The Bear and one for Saturday Night Live. Keke Palmerearned four total nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, recognition for her role in Password, her performance in The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy,and her podcast Baby, This is Keke Palmer.

GloRilla received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six nominations followed closely by Doechii, Kendrick Lamar and Usher, earning four nods respectively. RCA Records received an impressive 11 nominations, the most across record labels. Penguin Random House leads nominations across literary categories with four nominations, followed by HarperCollins Amistad and William Morrow tied with three nominations.

Nominations were announced today live on CBS Mornings by singer and actress Chlöe Bailey and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and on YouTube by actress Novi Brown and musician and star of Grownish Trevor Jackson.

“We look forward to celebrating the brilliance of Black talent and creativity whose stories shape culture, ignite change, and inspire generations,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “Through film, music, literature, and more, their voices weave a rich tapestry that honors our heritage, celebrates our identity, and proves that storytelling is a powerful force for driving true progress.”

“The NAACP Image Awards stand as a testament to the brilliance, resilience, and impact of Black creatives, innovators, and changemakers,” said Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET Media Group. “BET is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the NAACP to celebrate Black excellence in all forms. Together, we shine a light on the stories, voices, and artistry that shape culture and drive progress.”

ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

• Cynthia Erivo
• Keke Palmer
• Kendrick Lamar
• Kevin Hart
• Shannon Sharpe

OUTSTANDING SOCIAL MEDIA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

• Kai Cenat
• Keith Lee
• RaeShanda Lias
• Shirley Raines
• Tony Baker

MOTION PICTURE CATEGORIES

Outstanding Motion Picture

• Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Sony Pictures)
• Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
• The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
• The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
• Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture

• André Holland — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Colman Domingo — “Sing Sing” (A24)
• John David Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Kingsley Ben-Adir — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• Martin Lawrence — “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” (Sony Pictures)

Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture

• Cynthia Erivo — “Wicked” (Universal Pictures)
• Kerry Washington — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• Lashana Lynch — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• Lupita Nyong’o — “A Quiet Place: Day One” (Paramount Pictures)
• Regina King — “Shirley” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture

• Brian Tyree Henry — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)
• Corey Hawkins — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• David Alan Grier — “The American Society of Magical Negroes” (Focus Features)
• Denzel Washington — “Gladiator II” (Paramount Pictures)
• Samuel L. Jackson — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture

• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Danielle Deadwyler — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Ebony Obsidian — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• Lynn Whitfield — “Albany Road” (Faith Filmworks)

Outstanding Independent Motion Picture

• Albany Road (Faith Filmworks)
• Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
• Rob Peace (Republic Pictures)
• Sing Sing (A24)
• We Grown Now (Sony Pictures Classics)

Outstanding International Motion Picture

• El lugar de la otra (Netflix)
• Emilia Pérez (Netflix)
• Memoir of a Snail (IFC Films)
• The Seed of the Sacred Fig (NEON)
• The Wall Street Boy, Kipkemboi (ArtMattan Films)

Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture

• Brandon Wilson — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Clarence Maclin — “Sing Sing” (A24)
• Danielle Deadwyler — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Ebony Obsidian — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• Ryan Destiny — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)

Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture

• Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
• The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
• The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
• The Six Triple Eight (Netflix)
• Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Animated Motion Picture

• Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Kung Fu Panda 4 (DreamWorks Animation)
• Moana 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Piece by Piece (Focus Features)
• The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)

Outstanding Character Voice–Over Performance – Motion Picture

• Aaron Pierre — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Anika Noni Rose — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Ayo Edebiri — “Inside Out 2” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Blue Ivy Carter — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Lupita Nyong’o — “The Wild Robot” (DreamWorks Animation)

Outstanding Short Form (Live Action)

• Chocolate with Sprinkles (AFI)
• Definitely Not a Monster
• If They Took Us Back
• My Brother & Me (MeowBark Films)
• Superman Doesn’t Steal

Outstanding Short Form (Animated)

• if(fy) (OTB/The Hidden Hand Studios)
• Nate & John (Unity Animation Project, LLC)
• Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz “Jackie Robinson” (Exhibit Treal Studios)
• Self (Pixar Animation Studios)
• Walk in the Light (419 Studios)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Motion Picture)

• David Fortune — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios)
• Malcolm Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• RaMell Ross — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Titus Kaphar — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Zoë Kravitz — “Blink Twice” (Amazon MGM Studios)

Outstanding Youth Performance in a Motion Picture

• Anthony B. Jenkins — “The Deliverance” (Netflix)
• Blake Cameron James — “We Grown Now” (Sony Pictures Classics)
• Jeremiah Daniels — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios)
• Percy Daggs IV — “Never Let Go” (Lionsgate)
• Skylar Aleece Smith — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Cinematography in a Motion Picture

• Andrés Arochi — “Longlegs” (NEON)
• Jomo Fray — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Justin Derry — “She Taught Love” (Andscape)
• Lachlan Milne — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Rob Hardy — “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)

TELEVISION + STREAMING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Comedy Series

• Abbott Elementary (ABC)
• How to Die Alone (Hulu)
• Poppa’s House (CBS)
• The Neighborhood (CBS)
• The Upshaws (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series

• Cedric The Entertainer — “The Neighborhood” (CBS)
• Damon Wayans — “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
• David Alan Grier — “St. Denis Medical” (NBC)
• Delroy Lindo — “UnPrisoned” (Hulu)
• Mike Epps — “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series

• Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)
• Kerry Washington — “UnPrisoned” (Hulu)
• Natasha Rothwell — “How to Die Alone” (Hulu)
• Quinta Brunson — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Tichina Arnold — “The Neighborhood” (CBS)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

• Damon Wayans Jr. — “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
• Giancarlo Esposito — “The Gentlemen” (Netflix)
• Kenan Thompson — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Tyler James Williams — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• William Stanford Davis — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

• Danielle Pinnock — “Ghosts” (CBS)
• Ego Nwodim — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Janelle James — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Sheryl Lee Ralph — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Wanda Sykes — “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Drama Series

• 9-1-1 (ABC)
• Bel-Air (Peacock)
• Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
• Found (NBC)
• Reasonable Doubt (Hulu)

Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series

• Aldis Hodge — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Donald Glover — “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Harold Perrineau — “FROM” (MGM+)
• Jabari Banks — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Michael Rainey Jr. — “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)

Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series

• Angela Bassett — “9-1-1” (ABC)
• Emayatzy Corinealdi — “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)
• Queen Latifah — “The Equalizer” (CBS)
• Shanola Hampton — “Found” (NBC)
• Zoe Saldaña — “Lioness” (Paramount+)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

• Adrian Holmes — “Bel-Air” (Netflix)
• Cliff “Method Man” Smith — “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)
• Isaiah Mustafa — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Jacob Latimore — “The Chi” (Paramount+)
• Morris Chestnut — “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

• Adjoa Andoh — “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
• Coco Jones — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Golda Rosheuvel — “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
• Lorraine Toussaint — “The Equalizer” (CBS)
• Lynn Whitfield — “The Chi” (Paramount+)

Outstanding Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
• Genius: MLK/X (National Geographic)
• Griselda (Netflix)
• Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
• The Madness (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Aaron Pierre — “Rebel Ridge” (Netflix)
• Colman Domingo — “The Madness” (Netflix)
• Kelvin Harrison Jr. — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• Kevin Hart — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Laurence Fishburne — “Clipped” (FX/Hulu)

Outstanding Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
• Naturi Naughton — “Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie” (Lifetime)
• Sanaa Lathan — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
• Sofía Vergara — “Griselda” (Netflix)
• Uzo Aduba — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Don Cheadle — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Luke James — “Them: The Scare” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Ron Cephas Jones — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• Samuel L. Jackson — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Terrence Howard — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Brandy Norwood — “Descendants: The Rise of Red” (Disney+)
• Jayme Lawson — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• Loretta Devine — “Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love” (Lifetime)
• Sanaa Lathan — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
• Taraji P. Henson — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

Outstanding News/Information (Series or Special)

• Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group)
• Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (PBS)
• Laura Coates Live (CNN)
• NewsNight with Abby Phillip (CNN)
• The ReidOut (MSNBC)

Outstanding Talk Series

• Hart to Heart (Peacock)
• Sherri (Syndicated)
• Tamron Hall Show (Syndicated)
• The Jennifer Hudson Show (Syndicated)
• The Shop Season 7 (YouTube)

Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition or Game Show (Series)

• Celebrity Family Feud (ABC)
• Password (NBC)
• Rhythm + Flow (Netflix)
• The Real Housewives of Potomac (Bravo)
• Tia Mowry: My Next Act (WeTV)

Outstanding Variety Show (Series or Special)

• BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
• Deon Cole: Ok, Mister (Netflix)
• Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…(Netflix)
• Katt Williams: Woke Foke (Netflix)
• Saturday Night Live (NBC)

Outstanding Children’s Program

• Craig of the Creek (Cartoon Network)
• Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+)
• Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
• Sesame Street (MAX)
• Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin (Apple TV+)

Outstanding Performance by a Youth (Series, Special, Television Movie or Limited–Series)

• Caleb Elijah — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Graceyn Hollingsworth — “Gracie’s Corner” (YouTube TV)
• Leah Sava Jeffries — “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” (Disney+)
• Melody Hurd — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• TJ Mixson — “The Madness” (Netflix)

Outstanding Host in a Talk or News/Information (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble

• Abby Phillip — “NewsNight with Abby Phillip” (CNN)
• Henry Louis Gates Jr. — “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.” (PBS)
• Jennifer Hudson — “The Jennifer Hudson” (Syndicated)
• Joy Reid — “The Reidout” (MSNBC)
• Sherri Shepherd — “Sherri” (Syndicated)

Outstanding Host in a Reality/Reality Competition, Game Show or Variety (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble

• Alfonso Ribeiro — “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC)
• Keke Palmer — “Password” (NBC)
• Nick Cannon — “The Masked Singer” (FOX)
• Steve Harvey — “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC)
• Taraji P. Henson — “BET Awards 2024” (BET Media Group)

Outstanding Guest Performance

• Ayo Edebiri — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Cree Summer — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Keegan-Michael Key — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Marlon Wayans — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Maya Rudolph — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)

Outstanding Animated Series

• Disney Jr.’s Ariel (Disney Jr.)
• Everybody Still Hates Chris (Comedy Central)
• Gracie’s Corner (YouTube TV)
• Iwájú (Disney+)
• Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (Disney Channel)

Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance (Television)

• Angela Bassett — “Orion and the Dark” (Netflix)
• Cree Summer — “Rugrats” (Nickelodeon)
• Cree Summer — “The Legend of Vox Machina” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Dawnn Lewis — “Star Trek: Lower Decks” (Paramount+)
• Keke Palmer — “The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy” (Amazon Prime Video)

Outstanding Short Form Series or Special – Reality/Nonfiction /Documentary

• In the Margins (PBS)
• NCAA Basketball on CBS Sports (CBS)
• Roots of Resistance (PBS)
• SC Featured (ESPN)
• The Prince of Death Row Records (YouTube TV)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television)

• Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)
• Diarra Kilpatrick — “Diarra From Detroit” (BET+)
• Maurice Williams — “The Madness” (Netflix)
• Thembi L. Banks — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
• Vince Staples — “The Vince Staples Show” (Netflix)

RECORDING CATEGORIES

Outstanding New Artist

• Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
• Myles Smith (RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment)
• Samoht (Affective Music)
• Shaboozey (American Dogwood/Empire)
• Tyla (Epic Records)

Outstanding Male Artist

• Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
• J. Cole (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
• Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
• October London (Death Row Records/gamma.)
• USHER (mega/gamma.)

Outstanding Female Artist

• Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
• Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
• GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
• H.E.R. (RCA Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album

• “Heart of a Human” — DOE (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration)
• “Live Breathe Fight” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
• “Still Karen” — Karen Clark Sheard (Karew Records/Motown Gospel)
• “Sunny Days” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
• “The Maverick Way Reimagined” — Maverick City Music (Tribl Records)

Outstanding International Song

• “Close” — Skip Marley (Def Jam Recordings)
• “Hmmm” —  Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
• “Jump” — Tyla (Epic Records)
• “Love Me JeJe” — Tems (RCA Records/Since ‘93)
• “Piece of My Heart” — Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)

Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album

• “Alright” — Victoria Monét (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
• “Alter Ego (ALTERnate Version)” — Doechii, JT (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
• “Boy Bye” — Chlöe (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
• “Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Album

• “Alligator Bites Never Heal” — Doechii (Epic Records)
• “Cape Town to Cairo” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
• “Coming Home” — USHER (mega/gamma.)
• “Cowboy Carter” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• “Glorious” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album

• “Bob Marley: One Love (Soundtrack)” (Tuff Gong/Island Records)
• “Genius: MLK/X (Songs from the Original Series)” (Hollywood Records)
• “Reasonable Doubt (Season 2) (Original Soundtrack)” (Hollywood Records)
• “The Book of Clarence (The Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (Geneva Club under exclusive license to Roc Nation Records, LLC)
• “Wicked: The Soundtrack” (Republic Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song

• “Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
• “Do It Anyway” — Tasha Cobbs (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel)
• “God Problems (Not By Power)” — (Tribl Records)
• “I Prayed for You (Said a Prayer)” MAJOR. — (NowThatsMAJOR/MNRK Music Group)
• “Working for Me” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)

Outstanding Jazz Album

• “Creole Orchestra” — Etienne Charles (Culture Shock Music)
• “Epic Cool” — Kirk Whalum (Artistry Music)
• “Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies” — Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni (Solid Jackson Records)
• “On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute” — Matthew Whitaker (MOCAT Records)
• “Portrait” — Samara Joy (Verve Records)

Outstanding Soul/R&B Song

• “16 CARRIAGES” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• “Here We Go (Uh Oh)” — Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
• “I Found You” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
• “Residuals” — Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
• “Saturn” — SZA (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)

Outstanding Hip Hop/Rap Song

• “Mamushi” — Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba (Hot Girl Productions LLC/Warner Music Group)
• “Murdergram Deux” — LL Cool J feat. Eminem (Def Jam Recordings)
• “Noid” — Tyler, the Creator (Columbia Records)
• “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
• “Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional)

• Adam Blackstone & Fantasia — “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE)
• Leela James feat. Kenyon Dixon — “Watcha Done Now” (Shesangz Music, Inc. under exclusive license to BMG Rights Management (US) LLC)
• Maverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick — “God Problems (Not By Power)” (Tribl Records)
• Muni Long & Mariah Carey — “Made for Me” (Supergiant Records/Def Jam Recordings)
• Sounds of Blackness feat. Jamecia Bennett & Buddy McLain — “Thankful” (McLain Music, LLC)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)

• FLO & GloRilla — “In My Bag” (Island Records)
• GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore — “RAIN DOWN ON ME” (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
• USHER & Burna Boy — “Coming Home” (mega/gamma.)
• Victoria Monét feat. USHER — “SOS” (Sex on Sight) (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
• Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz — “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Lovett Music)

Outstanding Original Score for Television/Motion Picture

• Challengers (Original Score) (Milan Records)
• Dune: Part Two (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (WaterTower Music)
• Star Wars: The Acolyte (Original Soundtrack) (Walt Disney Records)
• The American Society of Magical Negroes (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Back Lot Music)
• The Book of Clarence (Original Motion Picture Score) (Milan Records)

DOCUMENTARY CATEGORIES

Outstanding Documentary (Film)

• Daughters (Netflix)
• Frida (Amazon MGM Studios)
• King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones (Freestyle Digital Media)
• Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
• The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix)

Outstanding Documentary (Television)

• Black Barbie: A Documentary (Netflix)
• Black Twitter: A People’s History (Hulu)
• Gospel (PBS)
• Simone Biles Rising (Netflix)
• Sprint (Netflix)

Outstanding Short Form Documentary (Film)

• Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps (American Masters and Firelight Media)
• Danielle Scott: Ancestral Call (American Masters and Firelight Media)
• How to Sue the Klan
• Judging Juries
• Silent Killer (Kaila Love Jones Films)

WRITING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series

• Ashley Nicole Black — Shrinking – “Changing Patterns” (Apple TV+)
• Brittani Nichols — Abbott Elementary – “Breakup” (ABC)
• Crystal Jenkins — No Good Deed – “Letters of Intent” (Netflix)
• Diarra Kilpatrick — Diarra From Detroit – “Chasing Ghosts” (BET+)
• Jordan Temple — Abbott Elementary – “Smoking” (ABC)

Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series

• Azia Squire — Bridgerton – “Tick Tock” (Netflix)
• Ben Watkins — Cross – “Hero Complex” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Francesca Sloane, Donald Glover — Mr. & Mrs. Smith – “First Date” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Geetika Lizardi — Bridgerton – “Joining of Hands” (Netflix)
• Lauren Gamble — Bridgerton – “Old Friends” (Netflix)

Outstanding Writing in a Television Movie or Special

• Brandon Espy, Carl Reid — Mr. Crocket (Hulu)
• Bree West, Chazitear — A Wesley South African Christmas (BET+)
• Juel Taylor, Tony Rettenmaier, Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free. (BET+)
• Rudy Mancuso, Dan Lagana — Música (Amazon Prime Video)
• Tina Mabry, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Cee Marcellus — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Writing in a Motion Picture

• Barry Jenkins — The Fire Inside (Amazon MGM Studios)
• RaMell Ross, Joslyn Barnes — Nikel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Steve McQueen — Blitz (Apple Original Films)
• Titus Kaphar — Exhibiting Forgiveness (Roadside Attractions)
• Virgil Williams, Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)

DIRECTING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series

• Ayo Edebiri — The Bear – “Napkins” (FX/Hulu)
• Bentley Kyle Evans — Mind Your Business – “The Reunion” (Bounce TV)
• Robbie Countryman — The Upshaws – “Ain’t Broke” (Netflix)
• Tiffany Johnson — How to Die Alone – “Trust No One” (Hulu)
• William Smith — The Vince Staples Show – “Brown Family” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series

• Carl Franklin — Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – “Blame It on the Rain” (Netflix)
• Marta Cunningham — Genius: MLK/X – “Protect Us” (National Geographic)
• Marta Cunningham — Genius: MLK/X – “Who We Are” (National Geographic)
• Paris Barclay — Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story – “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” (Netflix)
• Rapman — Supacell – “Supacell” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Television Movie, Documentary, or Special

• Kelley Kali — Kemba (BET+)
• Marcelo Gama — BET Awards 2024 (BET Media Group)
• Shanta Fripp — Black Men’s Summit (BET Media Group)
• Thembi L. Banks — Young. Wild. Free (BET+)
• Tina Mabry — The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can Eat (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture

• Jeymes Samuel — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
• Malcolm Washington — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
• RaMell Ross — Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Reinaldo Marcus Green — Bob Marley: One Love (Paramount Pictures)
• Steve McQueen — Blitz (Apple Original Films)

Outstanding Directing in a Documentary (Television or Motion Picture)

• Bao Nguyen — The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix)
• Dawn Porter — Luther: Never Too Much (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
• Deborah Riley Draper — James Brown: Say It Loud (A&E)
• Jason Pollard, Sam Pollard — Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys (A&E)
• Nneka Onuorah — Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words (Amazon Prime Video)

LITERARY CATEGORIES

Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction

• A Love Song for Ricki Wilde — Tia Williams (Grand Central Publishing – Hachette Book Group)
• Grown Woman — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)
• Neighbors and Other Stories — Diane Oliver, Tayari Jones (Foreword) (Grove Atlantic)
• One of Us Knows: A Thriller — Alyssa Cole (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)
• What You Leave Behind — Wanda M. Morris (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Nonfiction

• A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit: The Vision of Mary McLeod Bethune — Noliwe Rooks (Penguin Press – Penguin Books)
• Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest — Fawn Weaver (Melcher Media Inc.)
• Picturing Black History: Photographs and Stories that Changed the World — Daniela Edmeier, Damarius Johnson, Nicholas B. Breyfogle and Steven Conn (Abrams Books – Harry N. Abrams)
• The 1619 Project: A Visual Experience — Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times Magazine (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)
• The Jazzmen: How Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie Transformed America — Larry Tye (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Debut Author

• A Kind of Madness — Uche Okonkwo (Tin House Books)
• AfroCentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture — Shirley Neal (HarperCollins Amistad)
• Grown Woman — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)
• Masquerade — O.O. Sangoyomi (Forge Books – Tor Publishing Group)
• Swift River — Essie Chambers (Simon & Schuster)

Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography

• Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me — Whoopi Goldberg (Blackstone Publishing)
• By the Time You Read This: The Space Between Cheslie’s Smile and Mental Illness ― Her Story in Her Own Words — Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins (Forefront Books)
• Do It Anyway: Don’t Give Up Before It Gets Good — Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Sarah Jakes Roberts (Foreword) (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House)
• Lovely One: A Memoir — Ketanji Brown Jackson (Random House)
• Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America — Joy-Ann Reid (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional

• Black Joy Playbook: 30 Days of Intentionally Reclaiming Your Delight — Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggets (Ink & Willow –  Penguin Random House)
• I Did a New Thing: 30 Days to Living Free (A Feeding the Soul Book) — Tabitha Brown (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)
• Loving Your Black Neighbor as Yourself: A Guide to Closing the Space Between Us — Chanté Griffin (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House)
• Radical Self-Care: Rituals for Inner Resilience — Rebecca Moore (Author), Amberlee Green (Illustrator) (The Quarto Group/Leaping Hare Press)
• Wash Day: Passing on the Legacy, Rituals, and Love of Natural Hair — Tomesha Faxio (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)

Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry

• Bluff: Poems — Danez Smith (Graywolf Press)
• Good Dress — Brittany Rogers (Tin House Books)
• Load in Nine Times: Poems — Frank X Walker (Liveright Publishing – W.W. Norton & Company)
• Song of My Softening — Omotara James (Alice James Books)
• This Is the Honey: An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown and Company)

Outstanding Literary Work – Children

• All I Need to Be — Rachel Ricketts (Author), Tiffany Rose (Illustrator) with Luana Horry (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
• Cicely Tyson — Renée Watson (Author), Sherry Shine (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers)
• Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair — Carole Boston Weatherford (Author), Ekua Holmes (Illustrator) (Candlewick Press)
• My Hair Is a Book — Maisha Oso (Author), London Ladd (Illustrator) (HarperCollins Publishers)
• You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book — Taraji P. Henson (Author), Paul Kellam (Illustrator) (Zonderkidz – HarperCollins)

Outstanding Literary Work – Youth/Teens

• American Wings: Chicago’s Pioneering Black Aviators and the Race for Equality in the Sky — Sherri L. Smith and Elizabeth Wein (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers)
• Barracoon Adapted for Young Readers The Story of the Last Black Cargo — Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi (Adapted by), Jazzmen Lee-Johnson (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers)
• Black Star: The Door of No Return — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers)
• Brushed Between Cultures: A YA Coming of Age Novel Set in Brooklyn, New York — Samarra St. Hilaire (Samarra St. Hilaire)
• Clutch Time: A Shot Clock Novel (Shot Clock, 2) — Caron Butler and Justin A. Reynolds (HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Graphic Novel

• Big Jim and the White Boy: An American Classic Reimagined — David F. Walker and Marcus Kwame Anderson (Ten Speed Graphic – Penguin Random House)
• Black Defender: The Awakening — Dr. David Washington, Mr. Zhengis Tasbolatov (Illustrator), Mr. Billy Blanks (Foreword) (Washington Comix)
• Gamerville — Johnnie Christmas (HarperAlley – HarperCollins Publishers)
• Ghost Roast — Shawneé Gibbs, Shawnelle Gibbs, Emily Cannon (Illustrator) (Versify – HarperCollins Publishers)
• Punk Rock Karaoke — Bianca Xunise (Viking Books for Young Readers)

PODCAST CATEGORIES

Outstanding News and Information Podcast

• #SundayCivics (LJW Community Strategies)
• After the Uprising (iHeartPodcasts, Double Asterisk)
• Into America: Uncounted Millions (MSNBC)
• Native Land Pod (iHeartPodcasts, Reasoned Choice Media)
• The Assignment with Audie Cornish (CNN Audio)

Outstanding Lifestyle/Self–Help Podcast

• Balanced Black Girl (Dear Media)
• Is This Going to Cause An Argument (Seven14Seven Media)
• The R Spot with Iyanla (Shondaland)
• Therapy for Black Girls (iHeartPodcasts)
• We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)

Outstanding Society and Culture Podcast

• Baby, This is Keke Palmer (Wondery)
• Club Shay Shay (Shay Shay Media & The Volume)
• Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay (The Ringer)
• We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)
• What Now? with Trevor Noah (Spotify Studios in partnership with Day Zero Productions and Fulwell 73)

Outstanding Sports, Arts and Entertainment Podcast

• Naked Sports with Cari Champion (The Black Effect Podcast Network)
• Nightcap (Shay Shay Media & The Volume)
• Questlove Supreme (iHeartPodcasts)
• R&B Money Podcast (R&B Money)
• Two Funny Mamas (Mocha Podcasts Network)

Outstanding Podcast – Limited Series/Short Form

• About the Journey (Marriott Bonvoy, AT WILL MEDIA & mntra)
• Squeezed with Yvette Nicole Brown (Lemonda Media)
• Stranded (Broadway Video)
• The Wonder of Stevie (Audible, Higher Ground and Pineapple Street Studios)
• When We Win with Maya Rupert (Lemonada Media)

COSTUME DESIGN, MAKE–UP & HAIRSTYLING CATEGORIES

Outstanding Costume Design (Television or Film)

• Ernesto Martinez — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
• Megan Coates — Shirley (Netflix)
• Gersha Phillips — The Big Cigar (Apple TV+)
• Francine Jamison-Tanchuck — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)
• Paul Tazewell — Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Make-up (Television or Film)

• Carol Rasheed — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
• Debi Young — Shirley (Netflix)
• Rebecca Lee — Shōgun (Netflix)
• Matiki Anoff — The Book of Clarence (Sony Pictures)
• Para Malden — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)

Outstanding Hairstyling (Television or Film)

• Terry Hunt — Bel-Air (Peacock)
• Lawrence Davis — Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist (Peacock)
• Nakoya Yancey — Shirley (Netflix)
• Brian Badie — The Penguin (HBO/Max)
• Andrea Mona Bowman — The Piano Lesson (Netflix)

STUNT CATEGORY

Outstanding Stunt Ensemble (TV or Film)

• Cross (Amazon Prime Video)
• Grotesquerie (FX/Hulu)
• Rebel Ridge (Netflix)
• Red One (Amazon MGM Studios)
• Them: The Scare (Amazon Prime Video)

Godfather Of Harlem Season 4

Sylvester January 7, 2025

First look images of Godfather of Harlemseason 4 have finally been released, offering a glimpse at Forrest Whitaker’s return as the infamous Bumpy Johnson. Debuted in 2019 on Epix, and now streaming on MGM+, the acclaimed drama portrays Johnson’s efforts to reclaim control of Harlem during the 1960s. Godfather of Harlem season 4 promises toraise the stakes as Bumpy continues to wage war against the New York Mafia and faces a shifting power dynamic in the criminal underworld.

Via Collider, the newly revealed images show Bumpy Johnson alongside key returning cast members, including Ilfenesh Hadera, Antoinette Crowe-Legacy, Demi Singleton, and Jason Alan Carvell. Additionally, new cast member Rome Flynn joins the series as the infamous gangster Frank Lucas. Season 4, set for release nearly two years after season 3’s release in Spring 2025, will continue exploring the turbulent intersection between crime and politics in the 1960s. Check out the new images, below:

LOVE ME – OFFICIAL TRAILER

Sylvester January 2, 2025

In a story that spans billions of years, a buoy and a satellite meet online long after humanity’s extinction. As they learn what life was like on Earth, they discover themselves and what it means to be alive and in love. In this groundbreaking first feature from directors Sam and Andy Zuchero, Love Me explores contemporary topics surrounding technology and identity, though at its heart is a simple, emotionally resonant tale of transformation. Thrillingly utilizing filmmaking techniques from live-action, practical animatronics, classic animation and game engines, and anchored in enthralling performances by Stewart and Yeun, Love Me culminates in the longest-spanning love story ever told.

This Sundance breakout film stars Kristen Stewart and Steven Yeun, written and directed by visionary filmmakers Sam Zuchero and Andy Zuchero, and will debut only in theaters on January 31st. 

82ND ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES® RED CARPET ROLLOUT EVENT RECAP

Sylvester January 2, 2025

The Golden Globes® hosted its red carpet rollout for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® on Thursday, January 2 at The Beverly Hilton. Attendees included comedian, actress and first-time Golden Globes® hostNikki Glaser along with producers and executives including Glenn Weiss(Showrunner, Executive Producer, and Director), Ricky Kirshner (Showrunner and Executive Producer), Helen Hoehne(Golden Globes President), and Barry Adelman (Executive Producer).

The event included remarks by Golden Globes President Helen Hoehne and Golden Globes Host Nikki Glaser. Attendees got a preview of the stage design and mock up of seat card placements. Please note that seat card placements are subject to change. 

The 82nd Annual Golden Globes®, the first major award show of the season, will air live on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET on CBS and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).*

Multi-Emmy Award®-winning producing duo Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner of White Cherry Entertainment (WCE) will return as executive producing showrunners for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®.  Dick Clark Productions will plan, host and produce the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®, which has been viewed in more than 185 countries and territories worldwide. 

Lou Williams Hosts Community Holiday Pizza Party

Sylvester December 24, 2024

IN CELEBRATION OF THE HOLIDAYS, NBA STAR LOU WILLIAMS TEAMED UP WITH SLIM & HUSKIES TO HOST A COMMUNITY HOLIDAY PIZZA PARTY.

NBA Superstar Lou Williams spent the day greeting the community and enjoying pizza with families that came out to celebrate the holiday. Lou took the time to greet everyone and put smiles on the faces of the kids in time for Holiday season. Every family enjoyed free food as Lou Williams and Slim & Huskies teamed up to give away 500 pizzas.

Louis Tyrone Williams (born October 27, 1986) is an American former professional basketball player. He was drafted directly out of high school by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 45th overall pick in the 2005 NBA draft. He is a 3-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year. As of March 2019, he is the NBA’s career leader in points off the bench,^[1] and has played the most career games off the bench, surpassing Dell Curry‘s record in February 2022.^[2]

Williams spent seven seasons with Philadelphia before signing with the Atlanta Hawks in 2012, playing two seasons there before being traded to the Toronto Raptors in the 2014 offseason. He spent a season with the Raptors and then signed with the Los Angeles Lakers from 2015 until the middle of the 2016–17 NBA season, when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. After finishing the season with the Rockets, he was then traded in the 2017 offseason to the Los Angeles Clippers. Williams was dealt back to the Hawks in 2021.

Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria is a fast casual and gourmet pizza joint serving up artisan pizzas and unique cinnamon rolls made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s a hip hop-inspired spot founded by three Nashville natives who aim to invigorate less touched areas of the community through employment opportunities and accessible dining experiences including locally brewed craft beer and innovative pizza creations. Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria offers build your own pizzas, take out services, and delivery through third party vendors.

When the owners aren’t perfecting their product, they are hosting community events and participating in speaking engagements at local schools, nonprofits, small businesses, and organizations.

Chris Tucker Foundation’s Annual Christmas Giveaway in Atlanta

Sylvester December 13, 2024

The Chris Tucker Foundation held its annual Christmas Giveaway in Atlanta in partnership with the A.R. “Gus” Barksdale Boys & Girls Club in Conyers, GA. Students were treated to a holiday party with music, games, and gifts. Chris Tucker took time to encourage each kid and make sure their Christmas was a lot brighter with a gift card from the Foundation.

LINK TO PHOTO ALBUM https://kingsmen.smugmug.com/Chris-Tuckers-Christmas-Giveaway-in-Atlanta

Chris Tucker Foundation

The Chris Tucker Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of youth and families through implementing innovative initiatives and funding life-changing programs. Our organization works with industries of all kinds, including doctors and lawyers who support us.

This foundation started out being an AIDS relief foundation, and then we started doing local charity work that included offering scholarships to children of impoverished families and the homeless. Our vision is to make a positive impact in the lives of youth by galvanizing community leaders and corporate partners and engaging a collective community to address critical needs affecting today’s generation of young people.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta

The A.R. “Gus” Barksdale Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atanta works with hundreds of kids and teens each year to help them reach their full potential. We provide an environment where all youth feel safe and secure to dream, discover, and develop. Our programs focus on helping kids succeed in school, live healthy, and become leaders. https://bgcma.org/club/barksdale/

About Chris Tucker

Chris Tucker is an internationally recognized, award-winning actor, producer and comedian. He is best known for his role of Detective James Carter in the blockbuster Rush Hour action-comedy film franchise, starring opposite Jackie Chan under the direction of Brett Ratner. His other film credits include the Hughes brothers’ Dead Presidents, Friday, Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown, David O’Russell’s award-winning hit Silver Linings Playbook, and Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk. In 2015, Tucker released Chris Tucker Live exclusively on Netflix, marking the first project he starred in and produced through his own company, Chris Tucker Entertainment. Chris is currently on a national standup comedy tour, performing to rave reviews around the world. He is most recently co-starred in the highly acclaimed film, AIR, about Michael Jordan’s history making shoe partnership with Nike, directed by award-winning director Ben Allfeck is currently in Theatres. 

Kyle Pitts Foundation Rewards Academic Excellence in Georgia

Sylvester December 13, 2024

Alanta Falcons star tight end, Kyle Anthony Pitts held a Academic Pep Rally for the students at Jordan Middle School in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Students that excelled academically were rewarded with a visit from the Kyle Pitts Foundation and received gifts from the Foundation. Check out great coverage from the Recap Room by DaeRae Media Group.

Kyle Anthony Pitts is an American professional football tight end for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League. He played college football for the Florida Gators.

Kyle Pitts Foundation Inc is an organization to help educate and expose youth to life opportunities.

THE UPSHAWS P6 RETURNS ON NETFLIX JANUARY 9

Sylvester December 11, 2024

Bennie Upshaw (Mike Epps), the head of a Black working class family in Indianapolis, is a charming, well-intentioned mechanic and lifelong mess just trying his best to step up and care for his family — wife Regina (Kim Fields), their two young daughters (Khali Spraggins, Journey Christine) and firstborn son (Jermelle Simon), the teenage son (Diamond Lyons) he fathered with another woman (Gabrielle Dennis) — and tolerate his sardonic sister-in-law (Wanda Sykes), all without a blueprint for success. But the Upshaws are determined to make it work, and make it to the next level, together. In this upcoming part, the Upshaws continue to ride life’s ups and downs, including new jobs, bigger dreams, health struggles and some major life surprises but still hanging on with the love that comes with family.

• Created by: Regina Hicks and Wanda Sykes
• Showrunners: Regina Hicks and Wanda Sykes
• Executive Producers: Regina Hicks, Wanda Sykes, Mike Epps, Page Hurwitz, Niles Kirchner,
• Format: 10 x 30-minute episodes
• Starring: Mike Epps (Bennie Upshaw), Wanda Sykes (Lucretia Turner), Kim Fields (Regina Upshaw), Khali Spraggins (Aaliyah Upshaw), Jermelle Simon (Bernard Upshaw), Journey Christine (Maya Upshaw)
• Filmed in: Los Angeles

Holiday Film ‘Mr. Santa A Christmas Extravaganza’ Atlanta Premiere

Sylvester December 6, 2024

Mr. Santa: A Christmas Extravaganza follows three music-loving teens clashing with the “popular” kids who are attempting to crush their annual Christmas show dreams. Inspired by the kids’ passion, Santa (Owens) hatches a plan and steps in as a substitute teacher. With higher stakes than ever, delivering toys to a billion children suddenly seems easier than restoring teenagers’ belief in the holiday spirit and saving Christmas before time runs out.

STARRING

Geoffrey Owens (Power Book II: Ghost, Poppa’s House), Tommy Davidson (In Living Color, The Proud Family), Wakeema Hollis (Aurora: A Love Story, And JustLike That…)AJ (Feyisola Soetan, Shatter Belt), Keyara (Shanel Cheatham, Lily Darling), and Logan (Emmet Smith, Good Egg)

Geoffrey Owens

Written by father/daughter duo Kellen & Noel Calloway after finding it challenging to find teenage family-friendly Christmas movies. Mr. Santa: A Christmas Extravaganza follows three music-loving teens clashing with the “popular” kids attempting to crush their annual Christmas show dreams. Inspired by the kids’ passion, Santa (Owens) hatches a plan and steps in as a substitute teacher. With higher stakes than ever, delivering toys to a billion children suddenly seems easier than restoring teenagers’ belief in the holiday spirit and saving Christmas before time runs out.

The film is Directed by Clark Atlanta Alumni, Noel Calloway and produced by Love and Hip Hop star Yandy Smith Harris. 

Noel Calloway

Film director

Yandy Harris- Producer

RATING: PG

RUN TIME: 97 Minutes

SOCIAL

INSTAGRAM: @MrSantaTheMovie

X/TWITTER:  @MrSantaTheMovie

FACEBOOK: Mr Santa Christmas Extravaganza

MINDY KALING AND MORRIS CHESTNUT TO PRESENT NOMINEES IN ALL CATEGORIES FOR THE 82ND ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBES®

Sylvester December 3, 2024

Today, the Golden Globes® announced that Mindy Kaling and Morris Chestnut will present the nominees for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® on Monday, December 9, 2024, with all categories announced on CBSNews.com/GoldenGlobesand the CBS News Mobile App at 8:15 a.m. ET/5:15 a.m. PT and 10 exclusive categories revealed beginning live at 8:30 a.m. ET/5:30 a.m. PT on “CBS Mornings” on CBS. The nominees will be highlighted across Golden Globes® social media accounts as they are announced, with the complete list of nominees available on the Golden Globes® website (GoldenGlobes.com) immediately following the announcement. 

The 82nd Annual Golden Globes®, the first major award show of the season, will air live on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET on CBS and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).*

Award-winning producer, director, actor, entrepreneur, author and National Medal of Arts recipient Mindy Kalingand NAACP award-winning actor and producer Morris Chestnut will present the nominees for each of the 27 award categories. Celebrated for her acclaimed projects such as “The Mindy Project,” “Never Have I Ever,” and “The Office,” Kaling is currently executive producing the HBO Max hit series she co-created “The Sex Lives of College Girls,” and is also set to produce and write Netflix’s upcoming series “Running Point,” scheduled for release in 2025.  Chestnut, a star of both the small and big screen for over three decades, is currently in production on his new CBS drama series, “Watson,” premiering in 2025. Known for his iconic breakout role in “Boyz n the Hood” and celebrated performances in “The Best Man franchise,” Chestnut received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022 and has earned two NAACP Image Awards for his outstanding work in television.

This year, votes will be tabulated by KPMG, the U.S. audit, tax, and advisory firm. “Being selected as the official vote tabulator for the prestigious Golden Globe Awards is an immense honor for KPMG,” said Lisa Daniels, Vice Chair, Growth and Strategy at KPMG. “We are excited to demonstrate our commitment to quality, integrity, and excellence, in support of this distinguished event.”

The 82nd Annual Golden Globes® also announced their new partnership with entertainment data and analytics partner Luminate. The company will provide the Golden Globes® team with accurate streaming viewership data for all submitted film titles in the Cinematic and Box Office Achievement category, helping to inform consumption trends and amplify viewership insights beyond box office performance. Analysis will be done via Luminate’s Streaming Viewership product, through which the company empowers leaders across the entertainment, tech, finance industries, and more. The product, which measures viewership of originally-produced and library content across all major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Paramount+, Disney+, AMC+ and Peacock, earned Luminate a place onFast Company’s list of the 2024 Most Innovative Companies in the World and fuels Variety’s recently launched Streaming Original Charts.

Cinematic and Box Office Achievement in Motion Pictures and Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television, two new awards categories presented for the first time at the 81st Annual Golden Globes®, are set to return for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®.

Film categories for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® include: Best Motion Picture – Drama; Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy; Best Motion Picture – Animated; Cinematic and Box Office Achievement; Best Motion Picture – Non-English Language; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture; Best Director – Motion Picture; Best Screenplay – Motion Picture; Best Original Score – Motion Picture; and Best Original Song – Motion Picture.

Television categories for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® include: Best Television Series – Drama; Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy; Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series – Drama; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series – Drama; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television; Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role on Television; Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role on  Television; Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television.

Previous presenters of the Golden Globes® nominations include Alfre Woodard, America Ferrera, Angela Bassett, Anna Kendrick, Cedric “The Entertainer,” Chloë Grace Moretz, Christian Slater, Dakota Fanning, Danai Gurira, Dennis Quaid, Don Cheadle, Garrett Hedlund, George Lopez, Jeremy Piven, Kate Beckinsale, Kristen Bell, Laura Dern, Leslie Mann, Mayan Lopez, Paula Patton, Peter Krause, Sharon Stone, Snoop Dogg, Susan Kelechi Watson, Terry Crews, Tim Allen, Wilmer Valderrama and more.

The Golden Globes®, often referred to as “Hollywood’s Party of the Year®,” is the largest awards show in the world to celebrate the best of both film and television. Multi-Emmy Award®-winning producing duo Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner of White Cherry Entertainment (WCE) will return as executive producing showrunners for the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®.  Dick Clark Productions will plan, host and produce the 82nd Annual Golden Globes®, which has been viewed in more than 185 countries and territories worldwide.

*Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand the day after the special airs. 

About Golden Globes®

As a premier entertainment awards show since 1944, the annual Golden Globes has honored achievements in both television and film. Over the last three decades, the Golden Globes has enabled donations of more than $55 million to entertainment-related charities including scholarship programs, film restoration projects and humanitarian efforts. This funding has also supported diverse programs in partnership with advocacy groups aimed at promoting greater access in Hollywood for underserved communities. Dick Clark Productions is the owner and producer of the Golden Globes. For more information on the Golden Globe Awards, please visitwww.GoldenGlobes.com and follow us on X, Instagram,Facebook, and in Spanish on X, and Facebook.

About Dick Clark Productions

Dick Clark Productions (DCP) is the world’s largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming including the “Academy of Country Music Awards,” “American Music Awards,” “Billboard Music Awards,” “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” “Golden Globes,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” from 19 Entertainment and DCP, and “Streamy Awards.” Dick Clark Productions owns one of the world’s most extensive and unique entertainment archive libraries with more than 60 years of award-winning shows, historic specials, performances, and legendary programming. Dick Clark Productions is owned by Penske Media Corporation, in a subsidiary joint venture between Penske Media and Eldridge. Dick Clark Productions is a Penske Media company. For more information, please visitwww.DickClark.com.

About CBS

CBS, a subsidiary of Paramount Global, creates and distributes industry-leading content across a variety of platforms to audiences around the world. The Company has businesses with origins that date back to the dawn of the broadcasting age as well as new ventures that operate on the leading edge of media. It includes some of the industry’s most successful and popular brands and businesses: CBS Television Network, CBS News and Stations, CBS Sports, CBS Studios, CBS Media Ventures and CBS digital properties.

About KPMG LLP

KPMG LLP is the US firm of the KPMG global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. The KPMG global organization operates in 143 countries and territories and has more than 273,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. For more detail about our structure, please visit home.kpmg/governance.

About Luminate 

Luminate is the preeminent entertainment data and insights company, unleashing access to the most essential, objective, and trustworthy information across music, film and television, with data compiled from hundreds of verified sources. Today, the company maintains its more than 30-year legacy of accurate storytelling by powering the iconic Billboard music charts, while also acting as the premiere database for the television and film industries. Working closely with record labels, artists, studios, production companies, networks, tech companies, and more, Luminate offers the most valued source of comprehensive, independent, and foundational entertainment data that drives industry forward. Luminate is an independently operated company and a subsidiary of PME TopCo., a joint venture between Penske Media Corporation and Eldridge. 

Golden Globes Announces Ted Danson to Receive the 2025 Carol Burnett Award

Sylvester December 2, 2024

Today, the Golden Globes® announced that 13-time Golden Globe® nominee and three-time winner Ted Danson has been named the Carol Burnett Award honoree for 2025. Danson earned Golden Globes for Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or a Motion Picture Made for Television in the film, Something About Amelia, in 1985, and Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy in the hit television sitcom, Cheers, in 1990 and 1991. 

Created in 2019 and initially awarded to its namesake, the Carol Burnett Award is presented to an honoree who has made outstanding contributions to television on or off screen. The recipient is selected based on their body of work and the lasting impact of their television career achievements on both the industry and audiences. Past recipients include Norman Lear, Ryan Murphy and Ellen DeGeneres. 

“Ted Danson has entertained audiences for decades with his iconic performances that will forever be ingrained in television history,” said Helen Hoehne, President of the Golden Globes. “His renowned career is a testament to his remarkable talent and versatility as an actor and bears resemblance to the award’s legendary namesake. It is an honor to present him with the 2025 Carol Burnett Award to celebrate the tremendous impact he has made and continues to make in television.”  

Danson is an Emmy Award and Golden Globe Award-winning actor known for an array of exceptional performances, and his role of Boston bartender Sam Malone on NBC’s multi-award winning and iconic comedy “Cheers,” which ran for 11 seasons and won four Emmys as Best Comedy Series. More recently, Danson can be seen playing himself in the quintessential comedy “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” which just concluded its 12th and final season on HBO. Danson also starred in the acclaimed NBC comedy “The Good Place,” for which he was nominated for his 14th Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor.

Previously, Danson starred in “Mr. Mayor,” an NBC comedy series written and executive produced by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock. Danson also had a prominent role in the second season of FX’s critically acclaimed series “Fargo.” Other credits include CBS’ long-running “CSI” and “CSI: Cyber,” FX’s “Damages” (playing tycoon Arthur Frobisher) and CBS’ “Becker” – the latter two roles for which he was Golden Globe nominated. Currently, Danson will be starring in the upcoming Netflix comedy series, “A Man on the Inside,” which was written and executive produced by “The Good Place” creator, Mike Schur. Based on the Oscar-nominated documentary, “The Mole Agent,” the series will follow a retired man who gets a new lease on life when he answers an ad placed by a private investigator and goes undercover in a retirement home.

In film, Danson appeared in “Hearts Beat Loud,” “Three Men and a Baby,” and its sequel, “Three Men and a Little Lady.” He also had a co-starring role in Steven Spielberg’s World War II masterpiece “Saving Private Ryan.” Danson graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in drama. He relocated to Los Angeles in 1978 to manage the Actor’s Institute and soon after, earned a role in “The Onion Field” and also co-starred in the TV movie “The Women’s Room.” In addition to acting and producing, Danson is an environmental activist, co-founding the American Oceans Campaign (AOC) in 1987 to alert Americans to the life-threatening hazards created by oil spills, off-shore development, toxic wastes, sewage pollution and other ocean abuses. 

Danson, along with 2025 Cecil B. DeMille Award winner, Viola Davis, will be honored at a gala dinner on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. This will mark the first time that the Golden Globes will host a special evening dedicated to these two historic awards. Danson will also be recognized on the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® broadcast.  

Hosted by Nikki Glaser, the Golden Globes will air Sunday, January 5, 2025 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/5:00-8:00 PM, live PT) on the CBS Television Network, and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs). 

Nominations for the Golden Globes will be announced on Monday, December 9, 2024. 

About Golden Globes® 

The Golden Globes, often referred to as “Hollywood’s Party of the Year®,” is the largest awards show in the world to celebrate the best of both film and television and has been viewed in more than 185 countries and territories worldwide. As a premier entertainment awards show since 1944, the annual Golden Globes has honored achievements in both television and film. Over the last three decades, the Golden Globes has enabled donations of more than $55 million to entertainment-related charities including scholarship programs, film restoration projects and humanitarian efforts. This funding has also supported diverse programs in partnership with advocacy groups aimed at promoting greater access in Hollywood for underserved communities. Dick Clark Productions is the owner and producer of the Golden Globes. For more information on the Golden Globes, please visitGoldenGlobes.com and follow us on X, Instagram,Facebook, Threads, and TikTok. 

Celebrate Black Excellence: HBCU Honors, Presented by Procter & Gamble, Premieres on BET Sunday, Dec. 1st

Sylvester November 26, 2024

UNSTOPPABLE ASU Special Screening with Jharrel Jerome, Don Cheadle and Anthony Robles

Sylvester November 26, 2024

On Thursday, November 22, Amazon MGM Studios hosted a Special Screening of Unstoppable at Arizona State University,the alma mater of Anthony Robles. In 2011, Robles won the NCAA individual wrestling national championship in the 125-pound weight class, despite being born with only one leg. 

Attendees included Unstoppable stars Jharrel Jerome and Don Cheadle, and Producer Anthony Robles. Special guests includedJudy Robles, Coach Shawn Charles(portrayed by Don Cheadle), Coach Shawn Williams (portrayed by Michael Peña), Coach Zeke Jones (current ASU wrestling coach) and Coach Brian Stith, an ASU wrestling alum and former ASU assistant coach who helped train Jharrel Jerome during film production and now coaches high school wrestling with Anthony. 

From left to right: Coach Zeke Jones, Coach Brian Stith, Don Cheadle, Anthony Robles, Jharrel Jerome, Coach Shawn Charles, Coach Bobby Williams 

JEEZY TRANSFORMS FOR FIRST LEADING ROLE IN TRAP CITY

Sylvester November 22, 2024

Kyyba Films, in partnership with Anchored Lens Productions, proudly announces the nationwide theatrical release of the highly anticipated urban drama Trap City on December 13, 2024. The announcement is accompanied by the debut of an exclusive first-look trailer that promises an electrifying cinematic experience.

Trap City stars Grammy-nominated rapper and New York Times bestselling author Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins in a career-defining role as Reverend Lylee. The film offers a powerful narrative of fame, power, resilience, and redemption. Jeezy‘s compelling portrayal of this morally complex character bridges the worlds of music and film, delivering an unforgettable performance. “Trap City sheds light on the realities of fame, power, and the sacrifices we make to overcome adversity. This film is a powerful narrative that I know will resonate with audiences,” said Jeezy.

Joining Jeezy is the magnetic Brandon T. Jackson (Tropic Thunder), who takes on the role of Deshawn, a young artist navigating the gritty realities of the music industry while trying to escape a life entrenched in violence and impossible choices. Together, their performances anchor a story that holds a mirror to the struggles and triumphs of inner-city life. The cast also features powerhouse performances from Clifton Powell (Ray, Saints & Sinners), Erica Pinkett (All Eyez on Me, BMF), Omar Gooding (Baby Boy, Smart Guy) and international stars Yogi Babu, GV PrakashKumar, Nepoleon Duraisamy, and Tarina Patel.

Written, directed, and produced by Tel K. Ganesan, the film serves as a stark exploration of society’s obsession with fame and power, juxtaposed with the resilience of the human spirit. Ganesan, who has described Trap Cityas a “movement,” emphasizes the film’s deeper message. “Trap City holds a mirror to society’s allure of fame and power. It reflects the intricate tapestry of contemporary life, shedding light on how power can uplift or shatter the human spirit,” said Ganesan.

About the Film:

A struggling rapper working as a drop man for a drug kingpin, records a song that becomes a viral hit hours before his arrest. His fame intensifies because of his crime but after an attempt on his life, he will face the choice of going to prison and destroying his career, or testifying against a dangerous crime boss who will not fail a second time.Trap City is executive produced by Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins, Ashwin T. Ganesan, G.B. Theos, Nasik Rav (Yisrael), and David E. Taylor. The film will debut in select theaters across the U.S., with a subsequent Video On Demand (VOD) release.

About the Cast:

The ensemble cast of Trap City is led by Brandon T. Jackson (Tropic Thunder), represented by Buchwald Agency and Zero Gravity Management, and Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins, represented by manager Solomon Fornie. The film also features acclaimed actor Clifton Powell (Ray, Rush Hour), represented by Opus Entertainment and J. Pervis Talent Agency, and Omar Gooding (Baby Boy, Smart Guy), represented by Silvera Arougheti Entertainment Group. Erica Pinkett (All Eyez on Me, BMF), represented by Smith Young Talent Agency, adds further depth to the cast, alongside international stars Yogi Babu, GV Prakash Kumar, Nepoleon Duraisamy, and Tarina Patel, who bring global appeal to this dynamic story.

The Golden Globes® Announces Viola Davis to Receive the 2025 Cecil B. DeMille Award 

Sylvester November 20, 2024

The Golden Globes® announced that actress, producer and Golden Globe winner Viola Davis has been named the Cecil B. DeMille Award honoree for 2025. Davis earned her first Golden Globe award for Best Supporting Actress in the film adaptation of August Wilson’s screenplay, Fences, in 2017 opposite fellow Cecil B. DeMille winner Denzel Washington.

First created in 1952 and honoring the eponymous director, the Cecil B. DeMille Award has been bestowed on 69 honorees drawn from Hollywood’s greatest and most iconic talents, including Walt Disney, Jack Warner, Sidney Poitier, Robert Redford, Barbra Streisand and Oprah Winfrey.

“Viola Davis is a luminary whose profound talent has continuously shifted the lens through which we see and understand film,” stated Helen Hoehne, President of the Golden Globes. “Presenting her with the 2025 Cecil B. DeMille Award is not only an honor but a reflection of our admiration for her relentless dedication to her craft and her monumental impact on the industry. Viola’s courage in portraying complex, powerful characters has broken barriers and paved new paths, making her an emblem of excellence and an ideal recipient of this prestigious award.”

Davis is a critically revered artist, activist, producer, philanthropist, and New York Times best-selling author. She earned EGOT status through her Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, and multi-Tony Award wins.  She was honored in 2017 by Time 100 as one of the world’s most influential people and, in 2022, was honored with the Public Counsel’s William O Douglas Award for her commitment to social justice causes. Davis has partnered with multiple programs to eradicate childhood hunger in the United States.

In 2012, Davis and her husband Julius Tennon founded their production company, JuVee Productions, with its focus on giving a voice to the voiceless through strong, impactful narratives. JuVee creates scripted and non-scripted television, film, documentary, theater, and digital immersive content for global audiences. It remains at the forefront of innovation, while developing and producing a library of socially relevant entertainment, defined by inclusion. A graduate of The Julliard School, Davis received an Honorary Doctorate during its 109th Commencement Ceremony and she also holds an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from her alma mater, Rhode Island College.

Davis, along with the 2025 Carol Burnett Award winner, honoring television achievements, will be feted at a gala dinner on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. For the first time ever, the Golden Globes will host a special evening dedicated to these two most historic awards. Davis will also be recognized on the 82nd Annual Golden Globes® broadcast.

The first major award show of the season, will air Sunday, January 5, 2025 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/5:00-8:00 PM, live PT) on the CBS Television Network, and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs)*.

Nominations for The Golden Globes will be announced on Monday, December 9, 2024.

IHQ NETWORK LAUNCH Hosted by Tamika Scott of XSCAPE

Sylvester November 15, 2024

Welcome to the highly anticipated launch of IHQ Network, a groundbreaking Black-owned streaming platform founded by entertainment industry leader Mercer E. Prince. This new network, distributed by Radiant TV, is set to revolutionize the streaming industry by empowering creators to own their content while offering uplifting, educational, and entertaining programming. The launch event was a night of celebration hosted by Tamika Scott of XSCAPE, featuring a star-studded red carpet hosted by Your Industry Bestie, special performances, and exclusive previews of IHQ’s content lineup.

Tamika Scott (photo credit: DaeRae & Kingsmen)

IHQ Network is a Black-owned streaming platform that blends entertainment and empowerment by offering educational, inspiring, and uplifting content. Distributed by Radiant TV, IHQ provides creators with non-exclusive agreements that allow them to retain ownership of their work while earning a fair profit. The platform is free and accessible, committed to delivering stories that highlight African American culture in a positive light and foster a new era of content ownership.

Mercer E. Prince, better known as “Rico,” is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for empowering creatives and reshaping media narratives. Drawing on years of experience in music and entertainment, Prince founded IHQ Network with a mission to provide a platform that prioritizes content ownership and fair compensation. His work through IHQ and Radiant TV reflects a commitment to shifting the culture, offering content that is both enriching and impactful.

Radiant TV, based in Las Vegas, Nevada, leads in digital video, app development, and OTT/CTV solutions with a team across the U.S. With decades of experience, Radiant TV combines advanced technologies with streamlined practices to bring client visions to life. Managing over 100 million ad requests monthly, they also own and operate their own platforms and vested projects with top-tier partners, offering unique opportunities in digital media innovation.

’Uncle Hank’

Yandy & Mendeecees 

Trina Braxton

Carcelia Ivory-epiMediaGroup

The ‘Style Me for Christmas’ Celebrity Screening w/ Mario, Raven Goodwin & More

Sylvester November 15, 2024

 Style Me for Christmas — a new Christmas Film that is exclusively Airing on BET+ starting today!

The movie is now available for streaming and features singer Mario, Raven Goodwin, Pretty Vee alongside Sincerely Ward & Jessie Woo.

Mario

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DCVjdy4tSHg/?igsh=dzkzazg2bzdlYm80

The event took place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Silverspot Cinema in Atlanta, Georgia.

The dress code was STYLISH and FUN – and thecelebrities, influencers and stars were out!

Red Carpet & Cocktail Hour started at 6:30p, the Movie started promptly at 7:30p and shortly after, everyone stayed for a live Q&A with the cast and crew. 

Raven Goodwin

FILM LOGLINE: A boutique owner facing eviction at Christmas gets the fashion assignment of a lifetime when she’s chosen to style a handsome celebrity who’s a playboy. 

Pretty Vee

FILM SYNOPSIS: Mario plays Tedee Maxwell, a charming and handsome R&B singer whose known for his playboy lifestyle and lustful love songs, but his cold-hearted ways have hurt both his career and personal life. With pressure mounting from his audience to mature, his manager, Sarah, devises a plan to fix his image by faking a relationship with Raven Goodwin’s character Tiffany Ford, an unsuspecting stylist. Tiffany, a plus-sized fashion designer struggling to save her late mother’s boutique, has sacrificed everything to keep the business afloat while dreaming of launching her own line. Her outspoken best friend Ray’ah Jenkins played by Pretty Vee, supports her fashion dreams and pushes Tiffany to step out of her mother’s shadow and create her own designs. When Tedee and Tiffany’s fake relationship begins to blur the lines between business and love, things get complicated. A boutique owner facing eviction at Christmas gets the fashion assignment of a lifetime when she’s chosen to style a handsome celebrity who’s a playboy. 

Denzel Washington in Black Panther 3

Sylvester November 12, 2024

Marvel Studios has not officially confirmed that a third film in the Black Panther franchise is in the works, but actor Denzel Washington on Tuesday indicated that there is, and that he will have a role.

Speaking to the Today show on Australia’s Channel 9 as part of a Gladiator II press junket, Washington said that director Ryan Coogler is writing a part for him in the next Black Panther film.

Zatima’ Returns Dec. 26 | New Trailer

Sylvester November 7, 2024

The worst fears were realized at the end of Zatimaepisode 309, and episode 310 picks up right where Zac completely loses control, brutally attacking his brother, Jeremiah. The fight gets so intense that Connie, Nate, and Tony have to jump in to hold Zac back, taking a few hits themselves in the process. Once Zac storms off, they’re left to deal with the fallout—getting a bloody and barely conscious Jeremiah to the hospital in a hurry.

Meanwhile, unaware of the chaos, Fatima spends the night at Angela’s, still upset with Zac. The two chat about Angela’s latest dating drama, with Fatima dishing out tough love, urging Angela to get her act together. Little does Fatima know, she’s missing the real drama brewing with Zac.

DEAR SANTA | New Trailer

Sylvester November 7, 2024

When a young boy mails his Christmas wish list to Santa with one crucial spelling error, a devilish Jack Black arrives to wreak havoc on the holidays. From the hilarious minds behind Dumb & Dumber, Christmas is about to go up in flames.

PARAMOUNT PICTURES Presents

A FARRELLY BROTHERS / KRAYMATION FILMS Production 

A BOBBY FARRELLY Film “DEAR SANTA”

Executive Producer

Kevin Barnett, Pete Jones, Gretel Twombly

Produced by 

Peter Farrelly, p.g.a., Bobby Farrelly, p.g.a., Jeremy Kramer, p.g.a.

Story by 

Ricky Blitt & Peter Farrelly and Dan Ewen 

Screenplay by 

Ricky Blitt & Peter Farrelly

Directed by 

Bobby Farrelly

Cast:

Jack Black, Robert Timothy Smith, Keegan-Michael Key, Brianne Howey, Hayes MacArthur, Post Malone, P.J. Byrne, Jaden Carson Baker, Kai Cech

DEAR SANTA has been rated PG-13 for some language and suggestive material.

#DearSanta

GRAMMY Museum Presents Luther Vandross: Artistry And Elegance

Sylvester October 29, 2024

The GRAMMY Museum^®announces new exhibit celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Luther Vandross, an eight-time GRAMMY^® winner, revered songwriter, arranger, producer, performer, and one of the most gifted vocalists in music history. Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance offers an intimate glimpse into Vandross’ creative process and showcases his ornate stage wardrobe, exclusive performance footage from his popular tours, and a never-before-heard recording of him in the studio. 

The exhibit opens on Weds, Nov. 20 with an exclusive screening of the feature documentary from award-winning director Dawn Porter Luther: Never Too Much, produced by Raindog Films and Foxxhole Productions for Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Music Publishing, in association with Trilogy Films. The special preview will take place in the Museum’s Clive Davis Theater before the documentary premieres on CNN, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, and Max in 2025. Attendees will enjoy a panel discussion with the filmmakers and a sneak peek of the exhibit. Tickets will be available to purchase starting Thursday, October 31. The exhibit will be on display through June 15, 2025.

In alignment with the film and exhibition release, Luther Vandross’ previously unreleased soulful rendition of the Beatles’ “Michelle” is available now. The song will be one of many included on Never Too Much: Greatest Hits, a new compilation of music by Vandross out December 13.

Luther Vandross first captured the spotlight in the 1970s as a sought-after backup singer, collaborating with luminaries such as David Bowie, Roberta Flack, Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan, Bette Midler, and Carly Simon. As a solo artist, he became renowned for his relatable lyrics about love and mesmerizing live performances, characterized by dynamic bands, elaborate stage designs, and striking custom costumes worn by his background singers. Vandross achieved remarkable success, charting a Top 10 R&B hit every year from 1981 to 1994 and releasing 11 consecutive platinum records, with over 40 million albums sold worldwide.

“The Luther Vandross Estate is excited to be sharing Luther’s musical legacy with the GRAMMY Museum and its visitors through this upcoming exhibit. It is a special window into all of Luther Vandross’ talents – singer, of course; but also music producer, live performer, stage craft master, wardrobe designer, and songwriter. Showcasing all of these amazing elements of Luther the artist via the long-cherished possessions of his personal archives is a treat for die-hard fans and new ones,” says The Luther Vandross Estate.

“It’s incredible that with all the gifted singers out there, Luther was able to carve out his own totally unique space. No one could replicate Luther’s sound, his songwriting genius, or even his covers of other people’s songs.  Luther was a complete and utter perfectionist with a very specific vision of how he wanted things to be.  His shows were theatrical masterpieces, and Luther was involved in every detail of their production: his vocals, his background singers’ harmonies, their choreography and even his background singers’ gowns! The gown beading had to be exquisite and authentic. The furs had to be real. I would say, ‘Luther, no one’s gonna know if the furs are real!!’ To which he would reply: ‘ I will know!’ That was part of the magic of Luther, his unyielding commitment to excellence. It was truly an honor to have worked with my friend and big brother, Luther Vandross,” says Marcus Miller.

“Luther Vandross is a cherished icon who defined the smooth, jazz-inspired era of R&B and whose timeless love songs have graced countless weddings, graduations, and family reunions for the past several decades,” says Kelsey Goelz, Curator at the GRAMMY Museum. “The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to provide fans a close look into his incredible achievements in the studio and onstage.”

Exhibit highlights:

1. Hand-beaded suits and jumpsuits worn by Vandross and his background singers during the Power of Love Tour in 1991 
2. An emerald green hand-beaded suit and two matching gowns worn by Vandross’ background singers, alongside Vandross’ black tuxedo from his 1993-94 performances
3. Original fashion sketches of Vandross’ tour wardrobe 
4. Handwritten lyrics and studio notes for “I Can Make It Better,” featuring an exclusive recording of Vandross crafting the song
5. Handwritten lyrics and original sheet music for several of Vandross’ hits, including “Think About You” and “Never Too Much” 
6. Six of Vandross’ eight GRAMMY Awards^® 

For tickets and more information on the exhibit, please visitwww.grammymuseum.org

Netflix’s SIMONE BILES RISING Part 2 World Premiere

Sylvester October 24, 2024

Netflix celebrated the premiere of Simone Biles Rising Part 2 with Simone Biles and her family and friends at the legendary Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, CA.

Additional notable attendees included Nastia Liukin, Adam Rippon, Lecrae, Alex Aiono, Hannah Kosh and more. Guests from Friends of the Children and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy were also in attendance.

Immediately following the screening, Simone Biles and director Katie Walsh took part in a Q&A moderated by Scott Evans.

About Simone Biles Rising Part 2: 

Part 2 of Simone Biles Rising follows along as she competes at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials and officially qualifies for the U.S. Olympic Team to her incredible performances in Paris, all the while sharing personal thoughts and moments of her incredible journey to become the most decorated gymnast in history. The episodes provide intimate access to Biles as she captures three gold medals and one silver medal at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Daymond John Announces 5th Annual Black Entrepreneurs Day

Sylvester October 24, 2024

A Celebration of Black Excellence and Opportunity in Atlanta 

Daymond John, entrepreneur and investor, proudly announces the 5th AnnualBlack Entrepreneurs Day (BED), taking place on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the iconic Fox Theater in Atlanta—the historic birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement and a thriving hub of Black culture and excellence. This year, BED will be free for all guests to attend and include branded activations as well as light bites and drinks for sale – promising an unforgettable experience that aims to entertain, inform, and inspire.

Founded in 2020 in response to the community’s challenges following the tragic events surrounding George Floyd, Black Entrepreneurs Day was created to shift the narrative from destruction to empowerment. With a commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs, the event aims to educate and inspire through conversation with iconic Black leaders and celebrity friends, includes superstar musical performances, and will provide essential financial support through its NAACP Powershift Grant program.

Tickets for Black Entrepreneurs Day 2024 are free and available for registration at BlackEntrepreneursDay.comnow. 

A Star-Studded Experience

The event will feature engaging conversations with an inspiring lineup of guests, including Grammy-winning artist and philanthropist Kelly Rowland; the iconic entertainer Flavor Flav, known for his unique blend of humor and cultural influence; influential media personality Charlamagne tha God, celebrated for his thought-provoking discussions on social issues; Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles (presented by J.P. Morgan Wealth Management), a role model of tenacity and excellence; and financial educators Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings from Earn Your Leisure, passionate advocates for financial literacy. Additionally, attendees will be treated to a live performance by Atlanta’s own multi-platinum rapper 2Chainz presented by Raising Cane’s. Known for his dynamic style and impactful lyrics, 2 Chainz will energize the audience and celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship. Attendees will also enjoy the Entrepreneur Plaza pre-event, showcasing brand activations and pop-ups from sponsors. Past Black Entrepreneurs Day guests include Whoopi Goldberg, Spike Lee, Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Hart, Tyra Banks, Michael Strahan, and many more.

NAACP Small Business Powershift Grant Program 

From October 24 to November 1, entrepreneurs can apply for the Powershift Grant HERE. By the conclusion of BED 2024, the initiative will have awarded over $1 million in grants to more than 40 Black-owned businesses, fostering economic growth and innovation in the community. This year, partners JPMorganChase, Hilton, T-Mobile for Business and Constant Contact will contribute a total of $100,000 in grants, with each grant amounting to $25,000.

“Atlanta isn’t just a city; it’s the heartbeat of Black culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience. When we considered moving Black Entrepreneurs Day from the Apollo, there was no question in our minds—Atlanta is the ‘Black Mecca.’ It’s where innovation meets history, and it embodies the spirit of empowerment that we celebrate at this event. We are excited to honor that legacy and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs right here in the heart of the community,” said Daymond John. He continued, “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support of Black businesses; they are truly walking the walk in a time when commitment to diversity and inclusion is more important than ever.”

Key Partners

JPMorganChase, a proud supporter of Black Entrepreneurs Day since its inception five years ago, will return as a prominent sponsor of this year’s event. The firm offers financial tools and resources to help business owners start, run and grow their businesses while working towards their personal financial goals. This year, JPMorganChase and J.P. Morgan Wealth Management will take center stage, powering conversations led by Daymond John with Olympian Jordan Chiles and Lanän Clark, Regional Director at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management. To learn more about JPMorganChase’s offerings, visitblackentrepreneursday.com/jpmorganchase.

A returning partner and continuous supporter of entrepreneurs, Hilton will introduce a new discussion focused on the ways in which the company is dedicated to meeting entrepreneurs where they are, providing them with valuable networking opportunities, travel tools, as well as new business opportunities. As the home away from home for millions of entrepreneurs every day, Hilton takes seriously its commitment to be a powerful engine of opportunity. To learn more about Hilton’s support and travel tools, visitHilton for Business. 

At Black Entrepreneurs Day, Constant Contact will showcase how it helps entrepreneurs succeed by providing them with the marketing tools and guidance they need to build communities, engage with their customers, and generate sales. Joining Daymond John on stage for a roundtable conversation will be Constant Contact brand ambassadors Tamika Catchings, a four-time Olympic Gold Medalist, WNBA Hall of Famer, and owner of Tea’s Me Cafe, and Scharrell Jackson, international keynote speaker, executive coach, author, and Founder of Leadership in Heels. In addition, Constant Contact will offer professional headshots at the Fox Theater, helping entrepreneurs elevate their personal branding. To learn more about Constant Contact, visit ConstantContact.com.

As a proud returning partner of Black Entrepreneurs Day, T-Mobile for Business is excited to join Daymond John for the fifth year of inspiration, education, and celebration. This year’s partnership will spotlight the T-Mobile for Business community alongside Daymond, showcasing the journey of entrepreneurship while harnessing the intersection of mobile connectivity and emerging technology to grow and scale business. To learn more about how entrepreneurs can take their business further, visit: https://www.t-mobile.com/business/small-midsize-business

America’s Navy is a new, proud supporter of Black Entrepreneurs Day, showcasing the journeys of Sailors who have successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship. The Navy is the most highly skilled, technologically advanced military force in the world, and attendees will learn about the training and resources available in the Navy that help prepare service members to start and grow their own businesses. Through inspiring stories and interactive exhibits, the Navy aims to highlight the breadth and depth of skills and discipline Sailors bring to the entrepreneurial landscape.

As part of the festivities at Black Entrepreneurs Day, Raising Cane’s—a brand deeply committed to empowering entrepreneurial efforts across Communities—is proud to present a live performance by acclaimed rapper 2 Chainz. This partnership underscores Raising Cane’s dedication to fostering small business growth and entrepreneurship, recognizing their vital role in driving economic development and strengthening local Communities. Through initiatives like these, Raising Cane’s continues to champion opportunities that inspire and uplift future business leaders.

Lowe’s, a longtime supporter of entrepreneurship, workforce development, community partnerships, and Black Entrepreneurs Day, will host a conversation between Daymond John and Quonta “Que” Vance, Lowe’s Executive Vice President, Pro and Home Services.

Salesforce, the #1 AI CRM, is a proud sponsor of Black Entrepreneurs Day for the fourth year in a row, helping entrepreneurs and organizations of any size reimagine their business for the world of AI. This year, Daymond John will host AI for All, a conversation presented by Salesforce that will showcase how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students are gaining AI skills and certifications through Salesforce’s free learning platform,Trailhead. Check out their AI for All Announcement to learn more.

Join Us – FREE Tickets! 

Don’t miss this landmark event celebrating Black excellence and entrepreneurship. Register for in-person tickets and apply for the NAACP PowerShift Grant at blackentrepreneursday.com. 

Streaming and Access 

Black Entrepreneurs Day will be live-streamed for free on the Black Entrepreneurs Day website and all of Daymond John’s social media platforms. Budding businesspersons and existing entrepreneurs around the globe can stream the event on BlackEntrepreneursDay.com and connect on social channels. 

Nene Leakes, Pastor Jamal Bryant, Peter Thomas, Martell Holt, Ryan Cameron, and more celebrate the 7th Annual Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic

Sylvester October 23, 2024

The Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic celebrated its seventh and final year on October 11-13, bringing together Atlanta’s elite for a weekend of fashion, polo, boxing, and entertainment.

Founded by renowned menswear designer Miguel Wilson, this lavish event is generously sponsored by Bentley Atlanta and Fulton County Arts & Culture. It also serves as a fundraiser for the Ride to the Olympics Foundation. 

“Thank you to everyone who played a part in making the 7th Annual Atlanta Fashion and Polo Classic Weekend a huge success,” Wilson said. “We had a seven-year run and it’s been full of good times and great memories. So many friendships and relationships were greeted here. I’m forever grateful to you all.”

To commemorate the final year of the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, Wilson introduced a Celebrity Fight Night, featuring five rounds of boxing alongside a seated dinner, on Friday, October 11, at the Renaissance Hotel. Two-time Emmy Award-winning radio personality Ryan Cameron served as the announcer for the boxing event. 

Wilson also expanded Sunday’s polo classic to include the Junior Polo Classic, where young athletes from Atlanta’s B.E.S.T. Academy and the Congressional Polo Club competed before the main polo match.

Continuing the tradition of the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, Wilson hosted his Cocktails & Cigars Under the Stars event on Saturday, October 12, at the Renaissance Hotel. The grand finale, the signature Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, was on Sunday, October 13, at Bouckaert Farms in Chattahoochee Hills.

The signature Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic offered attendees a comfortable experience, with multiple event tents surrounding the polo field. Guests enjoyed delicious food and refreshments while watching the junior and adult polo matches, with FOX 5 DC anchor Guy Lambert was the emcee for the matches. The event culminated in a spectacular fashion show.

The guest list featured a constellation of notable figures, including Nene Leakes (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Peter Thomas (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta) Mike Jackson (HGTV’s Married To Real Estate), Pastor Jamal Bryant (New Birth Missionary Baptist Church), Frank Ski (nationally syndicated radio host), Ryan Cameron (radio host), actor Clifton Powell, Q Parker (R&B Artist), RL (singer/of NEXT), Martell Holt (OWN’s Love & Marriage Huntsville), Ralph Pittman (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Dr. Gregory and Lateasha Lunceford (Bravo’s Married to Medicine), Chris and Neal Fletcher (OWN’s Love & Marriage Huntsville), DJ Scream,  singer Jhonni blaze (Love & Hip Hop: New York and Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta), Rod Gardner (former NFL player) and Leticia Garnder (social media influencer), Ovie Mughelli (former NFL Player), Red Grant (comedian/actor), and Lil Zane (rapper). 

The primary purpose of the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic was to raise funds for the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, a non-profit organization established by Miguel Wilson in 2018. The foundation aims to provide underprivileged youth with opportunities to participate in equestrian sports.

Since its inception, the Ride to the Olympics Foundation’s most significant achievement has been the establishment of the Morehouse Polo Club, the first-ever polo team at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Wilson, a co-founder of the Morehouse Polo Club, was recognized for his contributions by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and the State of Georgia.

“Having two Black polo teams play here was my goal and we did that. My new goal is to create a youth polo team in DC with the Congressional Polo Club, while also keeping the teams going at Atlanta’s B.E.S.T. Academy and in Prince George’s County,” Wilson said. 

Sponsors for this year’s Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic include Remy Martin, Titos Vodkah, Rap Snaps, Mercedes Benz of Buckhead, A. Wash and Associates, Atlanta Fibroid Center, St. Royale Vodka, and Granville Group.

Check out photos from Kingsmen Media Group.

DEVALE ELLIS & CHRISTINA MILIAN IN NEW NETFLIX HOLIDAY ROM-COM MEET ME NEXT CHRISTMAS

Sylvester October 23, 2024

Today, Netflix released the trailer for new holiday rom-com ‘Meet Me Next Christmas,’ executive produced and starring our client, former NFL player, actor (Sistas/Zatima), and New York Times’ best-selling author, Devale Ellis and actress Christina Milian.

 In pursuit of a fairytale romance with the man of her dreams, Layla must race through New York City to get her hands on the hottest ticket in town: the sold out Pentatonix Christmas Eve Concert.

BREAD & ROSES, Powerful Cannes Doc from Producers Jennifer Lawrence & Malala

Sylvester October 17, 2024

Apple original Films’ “Bread & Roses” offers a powerful window into the seismic impact on women’s rights and livelihoods after Kabul fell to the Taliban in 2021. The film follows three women, in real time, as they fight to recover their autonomy. Director Sahra Mani captures the spirit and resilience of Afghan women through a raw depiction of their harrowing plight.

“Bread & Roses,” an Eyan Foundation presentation in association with Extracurricular, is produced by Jennifer Lawrence and Justine Ciarrocchi with Sahra Mani, alongside executive producers Malala Yousafzai and Farhad Khosravi. Mani directs the film.

Director:  Sahra Mani         

Producers:  Jennifer Lawrence and Justine Ciarrocchi

LeBron and Savannah James Break Silence on Son Bronny’s Cardiac Arrest

Sylvester October 10, 2024

In the new Netflix docuseries “Starting 5,” the couple opened up about how the health scare deeply impacted their family, sharing their emotional journey as Bronny, now 20, continues his recovery. “I think at the end of the day, it was just about us supporting each other and just being super grateful for the outcome,” Savannah said in the premiere episode.

The show also captured LeBron and his mother, Gloria James, visiting the University of Southern California, where they met Erin, a member of the medical team who immediately performed CPR on Bronny when collapsed during basketball practice. “Shout out to the man above and to the whole coaching staff, training staff, members of that program,” LeBron said before calling Erin a “lifesaver, literally.”

(source: BET)

Kendrick Lamar receives 11 BET Hip-Hop Awards Nominations

Sylvester September 25, 2024

Megan Thee Stallion leads this year’s nominations with an outstanding twelve nods. Megan’s nominations include ‘Song of the Year,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Album of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’  ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse,’’ ‘Impact Track,’ and three in the category for ‘Best Collaboration.’  Kendrick Lamar follows with eleven nods, including ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ twice for ‘Song of the Year,’ ‘Best Collaboration.’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year,’ ‘Video Director of the Year,’ ‘Impact Track,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ and ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse’. Drake rounds out the top three nominees with an impressive eight nods. Cardi B, GloRilla, Metro Boomin, and Nicki Minaj each score seven nods. Future and Travis Scott tie with six nods each.

Other notable nominations include 21 Savage and 41,who received four nominations each. A$AP Rocky, Common, Lil Wayne, Pete Rock, and Sexyy Red each received three nominations.

NBA MVP & Champion Jaylen Brown Turns Down Over $50M in Endorsements to Launch His Own Performance Brand – “741”

Sylvester September 24, 2024

FAT JOE RETURNS AS HOST & CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCER OF “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2024 

Sylvester September 19, 2024

GRAMMY® AWARD-NOMINATED ARTIST, ENTREPRENEUR, AUTHOR, AND PHILANTHROPIST FAT JOE RETURNS AS HOST & CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCER OF “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2024 

The highly anticipated results are in! BET has revealed the returning host and this year’s nominees for the 19th annual “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2024. Celebrating the best in Hip Hop from the past year across 17 categories and chosen by a prestigious voting academy of industry experts, this year’s show will be taped in an exciting, iconic new location in Las Vegas, NV, on Tuesday, October 8. Fat Joe, the Grammy® Award-nominated artist, actor, author, and media personality, returns as co-executive producer and host. “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2024 will air on BET on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 8 PM ET/PT.

Annual Boys & Girls Clubs of America Gala with Denzel Washington and more

Sylvester September 19, 2024

(Photo Credit: Sylvester White/Kingsmen Media)

For more than 75 years, millions of Boys & Girls Club youth have participated in local, state and regional Youth of the Year events. Six teens — representing Boys & Girls Clubs from each region of the United States and U.S. Military-connected Youth Centers worldwide — advance to the national stage where one outstanding young person is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year serves as a role model, leader and advocate for their generation and the more than 3 million youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs.  

Boys & Girls Clubs of America welcomed six teen finalists from Boys & Girls Clubs across the nation and overseas to its home city of Atlanta in celebration of its annual “National Youth of the Year” gala, gathering notable celebrity alumni, influencers and supporters including:

1. BGCA National Spokesperson, Denzel Washington

1. BGCA Board Member, Alex Rodriguez
2. J.B. Smoove
3. Ronnie DeVoe
4. Kofi Kingston
5. Xavier Woods
6. Cam Newton

These individuals embody Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s mission and are living proof of the impact Clubs have in providing pathways for young people to achieve great futures. Previous National Youth of the Year recipients have gone on to be successful in a variety of industries, building on the foundational skills and life-shaping experiences they received at their Boys & Girls Club.  

Babyface Honored As A BMI Icon At The 2024 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards

Sylvester September 12, 2024

( photo credit : Sylvester White/Kingsmen Media Group)

SZA Presented With The BMI Champion Award, Named Songwriter Of The Year And Honored With Song Of The Year For “Kill Bill” With Rob Bisel And Carter Lang

Tay Keith Named Producer of the Year and Coleman, Dougie F, Metro Boomin, RIOTUSA and Jahaan Sweet Were Honored as Top Producers

Universal Music Publishing Received Publisher of the Year

BMI paid tribute to the best in R&B and Hip-Hop last night at its 2024 R&B/Hip-Hop Awards held at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, CA. Babyfacereceived the night’s highest honor as the BMI Iconand SZA was presented with the BMI Champion Award, marking the first time this award was given in the R&B/Hip-Hop ceremony’s 24-year history. SZA was also named BMI’s R&B/Hip-Hop Songwriter of the Year and was honored with Song of the Year for the massive hit, “Kill Bill”alongside her co-writers Rob Bisel and Carter Lang. BMI’s R&B/Hip-Hop Producer of the Year, Top Producers, Publisher of the Year and BMI’s Top 35 Most-Performed R&B/Hip-Hop Songs in the U.S. of the previous year were also announced. The private event was hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

In addition to being named a BMI Icon, Babyface now has 64 BMI Awards and received BMI’s Song of the Year three times, BMI Pop Songwriter of the Year seven times and, together with his LaFace Records co-founder L.A. Reid, was named a BMI Icon in 2006. R&B and Hip-Hop royalty paid tribute to Babyface with performances of some of his most popular songs. Mac Royals opened with “My My My,” Tamar Braxton followed with a passionate version of “Superwoman,” and Marioclosed the tribute performances with “I’ll Make Love to You” and “Can We Talk.” Superstar Lil Wayne paid tribute to his mentor and friend before O’Neill and Brewton presented the Icon Award to the five-time GRAMMY® Award-winning legend. O’Neill praised Babyface’s incomparable talent and impact on generations of music makers and for being with the BMI family for nearly five decades. In accepting the award Babyface thanked the crowd and said, “I only know that I got here because I love music, and it was the one pure thing that I knew that I could do, and I did it with all my heart. If you do it from the heart, that’s the main thing that keeps you going.” He then surprised the audience with an incredible performance of “Whip Appeal” that brought the room to their feet.

(Mario)
As the 2024 BMI Icon, Babyface joins an elite group of music creators, including Busta Rhymes, Janet Jackson, Lil Wayne, Patti LaBelle, Nile Rodgers, Snoop Dogg, The Jacksons, LA Reid, Al Green, Isaac Hayes, James Brown and others.

Earlier in the evening, the BMI Champion Awardwas presented to SZA for elevating the craft of songwriting and sharing her artistic gifts with the world. BMI’s EVP, Chief Revenue & Creative Officer Mike Steinberg praised the four-time GRAMMY® winner “for using her voice as a champion … and raising the bar in songwriting creativity and breaking boundaries at every turn.” He added, “her once in a lifetime sound has mesmerized audiences around the globe.” In a special tribute to SZA, Bren Joy gave an electrifying performance of “Broken Clocks,” and emerging pop and R&B singer MaKenzie gave a soul-stirring performance of the hit song “Nobody Gets Me.” Upon receiving the honor, SZA said, “I have to say songwriting awards mean the most to me because when I started and I needed people to come and write for me I didn’t have anybody.” She went on to say, “I’m grateful to be honored today because there’s so many songwriters in here that literally made me.”

(Ice Spice)
In receiving this honor, SZA joins previous BMI Champion Award recipients who were honored for their commitment and efforts supporting future songwriters and music makers, including Khalid, Inflo, Mark Ronson, Residente, Sebastian Krys and Keith Urban.

In addition to the BMI Champion Award, SZA was also named BMI’s R&B/Hip-Hop Songwriter of the Year for co-writing, “Nobody Gets Me,” “Shirt,” “Snooze,” and received Song of the Year for “Kill Bill” alongside her co-writers Rob Bisel and Carter Lang. The smash hit became her first number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 and has over one billion streams on Spotify.

(Wiz Khalifa)

Over the course of the ceremony, BMI recognized the top producers and songwriters of the previous year’s 35 Most-Performed R&B/Hip-Hop Songs in the U.S, naming 56 first-time winners.

Hitmaker Tay Keith earned Producer of the Yearfor his work on hits such as “First Person Shooter” performed by Drake featuring J. Cole, “Meltdown” by Travis Scott featuring Drake, “SkeeYee” by Sexyy Red and “Circo Loco” by Drake and 21 Savage. This marks the third time Keith has been named Producer of the Year, and he was also named BMI’s R&B/Hip-Hop Songwriter of the Year in 2018. Additionally, Coleman, Dougie F, Metro Boomin, RIOTUSA and Jahaan Sweet were also named top producers during the ceremony.

(Boyz ll Men)
Universal Music Publishing was named BMI’s R&B/Hip-Hop Publisher of the Year for representing 21 of the previous year’s most-performed songs including BMI’s R&B/Hip-Hop Song of the Year “Kill Bill,” “Barbie World,” “Paint the Town Red,” “Players,” “Superhero (Heroes & Villains),” and “Snooze,” to name a few.

(Chante Moore)

Jadakiss “Timbs to Tuxedos” Orchestra Concert coming to Atlanta

Sylvester September 12, 2024

Spase Jenkins Entertainment and GPK Entertainment proudly announce an extraordinary night of music and culture with Jadakiss, one of Hip Hop’s most influential lyricists. Jadakiss “Timbs to Tuxedos” Orchestra Symphony will take place on Sunday, December 1^st, 2024, at the iconic Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. This event promises to blend the raw energy of Hip Hop with the sophistication of classical music in an unprecedented celebration of art and legacy.

This elegant black-tie affair marks the 20th anniversary of Jadakiss’ critically acclaimed album, Kiss of Death. As a defining project in Hip Hop history, the album delivered timeless tracks and solidified Jadakiss as a lyrical titan. In honor of this milestone, fans will witness his music like never before, reimagined with the lush sounds of a live orchestra, creating a fusion of genres that transcends expectations.

The grandeur of this event isn’t simply a concert, it’s a cultural moment. The “Timbs to Tuxedos” Orchestra Symphony represents the evolution of Hip Hop, showcasing how the genre has transcended urban streets to become a globally respected art form. By incorporating orchestral arrangements, the event symbolizes the merging of two artistic worlds, making it a night that will leave a lasting impact on both music lovers and the Hip Hop community alike.

Tickets are available for purchase online via CobbEnergyCentre.com and Ticketmaster.com on Friday, September 13^th.

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga

Sylvester September 4, 2024

From acclaimed writer/director/producer Todd Phillips comes “Joker: Folie À Deux,” the much-anticipated follow-up to 2019’s Academy Award-winning “Joker,” which earned more than $1 billion at the global box office and remains the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time. The new film stars Joaquin Phoenix once again in his Oscar-winning dual role as Arthur Fleck/Joker, opposite Oscar winner Lady Gaga (“A Star Is Born”).

Born”). “Joker: Folie À Deux” finds Arthur Fleck institutionalized at Arkham awaiting trial for his crimes as Joker. While struggling with his dual identity, Arthur not only stumbles upon true love, but also finds the music that’s always been inside him. The film also stars Oscar nominees Brendan Gleeson (“The Banshees of Inisherin”) and Catherine Keener (“Get Out,” “Capote”), alongside Zazie Beetz, reprising her role from “Joker.”

Phillips, who was nominated for Oscars for directing, writing and producing “Joker,” directed “Joker: Folie À Deux” from a screenplay by fellow Oscar nominee Scott Silver & Phillips, based on characters from DC. The film was produced by Phillips, Oscar nominee Emma Tillinger Koskoff and Joseph Garner. Lady Gaga served as music consultant. The film’s executive producers are Michael E. Uslan, Georgia Kacandes, Silver, Mark Friedberg and Jason Ruder. Working with Phillips behind the camera are his team from “Joker,” including Oscar-nominated director of photography Lawrence Sher, production designer Mark Friedberg, Oscar-nominated editor Jeff Groth, and composer Hildur Guđnadóttir, who won the Oscar for her work on the first film. New to the team is Oscar-nominated costume designer Arianne Phillips (“Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood,” “Don’t Worry Darling”). Ruder is the film’s executive music producer and the music supervisors are Randall Poster and George Drakoulias. Casting is by Francine Maisler (the “Dune” films, “Challengers”). Warner Bros. Pictures Presents A Joint Effort Production, A Film by Todd Phillips, “Joker: Folie À Deux.” The film will be released worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, and will be only in theaters nationwide on October 4, 2024, and beginning internationally on 2 October, 2024.

Chris Tucker Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament in Atlanta

Sylvester August 30, 2024

The Chris Tucker Foundation Held its 2024 CTF Celebrity Golf Tournament Monday, August 26th at the Eagles Landing Country Club in Atlanta.

Chris Tucker and Icons from the Sports, Entertainment, and Political worlds such as; Boris Kodjoe, Glynn Turman, Johnny Gill, Brian Jordan, Dawnn Lewis,Tim Reid, Clifton Davis, Flex Alexander, Seema Sadekar, Marquis Grissom, Ariel Collins, Mohamed Sanu, Dexter Tucker, former Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell, Sherman Golden, Sam Puryear, Karen Graham, Neil Smith, Gerald Henderson, Dougie Cash, Major James Jones, Quincy Carter, Joe Carter, Sean “Smooth” Weatherspoon, Jay Harris helped raise funds for important programs supporting children and education programs in the Atlanta area and nationally. 

The Chris Tucker Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to empowering youth both in the United States and globally by developing and supporting transformative programs. Each year, the foundation funds a variety of community organizations and charities focused on youth development and well-being. Chris Tucker has made significant charitable contributions to organizations in his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia, while also extending his philanthropic efforts to support global initiatives that address youth health and education. He is dedicated to expanding the foundation’s reach to create a larger impact both domestically and internationally.

About Chris Tucker

Chris Tucker is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning actor, producer, and comedian. He gained worldwide fame for his portrayal of Detective James Carter in the blockbuster Rush Hour action-comedy film series, starring alongside Jackie Chan and directed by Brett Ratner. Tucker’s diverse filmography also includes roles in Dead Presidents by the Hughes Brothers, Friday, Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown, David O. Russell’s acclaimed Silver Linings Playbook, and Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk.

In 2015, Tucker made his debut as both star and producer with Chris Tucker Live on Netflix, through his production company, Chris Tucker Entertainment. He is currently on the 2024-2025 Chris Tucker Legends Tour earning rave reviews worldwide.  Most recently, Tucker co-starred in the critically praised film AIR, which tells the story of Michael Jordan’s historic shoe partnership with Nike, directed by Ben Affleck and released by Amazon MGM Studios.

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC ICON ALEJANDRO SANZ ADDED TO BILLBOARD LATIN MUSIC WEEK

Sylvester August 28, 2024

Billboard announced international music icon Alejandro Sanz will join Billboard Latin Music Week for an exclusive Icon Q&A. Miami Beach!  Sanz’s exclusive Q&A marks his return to Latin Music Week after he sat for an exclusive conversation in 2003, underscoring the significance of the event for both artists and the industry at large. 

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the ‘most important week in Latin music’ returns with an unprecedented number of Latin stars from all genres at The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater from October 14-18, 2024, coinciding with National Hispanic Heritage Month.  Some of the previously announced participants include Belinda,Camila Fernández, Chiquis, DANNA, Danny Ocean, Eslabon Armado, Fat Joe, Gloria Estefan, J Balvin, Lele Pons, Lupita Infante, Majo Aguilar, María Becerra, Mau y Ricky, Mon Laferte, N.O.R.E., Peso Pluma, and Yahritza y Su Esencia.

Jay Will Shares His Experience Working with Mary J. Blige and Meeting the ROB PEACE Family

Sylvester August 20, 2024

Rob Peace is a 2024 American biographical drama film written and directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor and starring Ejiofor, Camila Cabello, Jay Will, and Mary J. Blige. It is based on the 2014 biography The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace by Jeff Hobbs.

https://www.robpeacemovie.com/

IN THEATERS NOW!!

Based on a true story, a brilliant young man puts his bright future at risk to help his father.

Rob Peace star Jay Will interview with Kingsmen Media Group about his experience with his role and meeting the Rob Peace Family.

Directed, adapted by, and starring Academy Award nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film follows the true story of a brilliant young man (Jay Will) torn between his father’s shadowed past and his own promising future. Raised by his devoted yet struggling mother (Academy Award nominee Mary J. Blige), Rob risks everything he has worked for to free his imprisoned father (Ejiofor). Also starring Camila Cabello, and based on the New York Times bestseller by Jeff Hobbs.

Peacock original documentary ‘GARY’

Sylvester August 8, 2024

GARY follows the extraordinary story of Gary Coleman’s rise to international fame as the child star of Diff’rent Strokes; his struggles with fame; and the controversy surrounding his tragic death at the age of 42. For the first time, viewers will get insight into Coleman’s private world through exclusive interviews with his fellow actors, industry insiders and his estranged ex-wife and parents. Aug. 29th

UNSTOPPABLE Starring Don Cheadle and Jennifer Lopez

Sylvester August 8, 2024

Unstoppable is an inspiring, true story about Anthony Robles (played by Jharrel Jerome) who defied every expectation to become a national wrestling champion.
The film features an all-star ensemble cast including Jharrel Jerome, Bobby Cannavale, Michael Peña with Don Cheadle and Jennifer Lopez.

This film marks William Goldenberg’s directorial debut. He is a decorated Academy Award winning editor for Argo with previous nominations includingThe Imitation Game, Zero Dark Thirty, Seabiscuit and The Insider.  

Anthony Robles himself is seen in the film and credited as ‘Anthony Robles Double’, performing the complex wrestling moves and stunts. He is also a producer on the film.

@AmazonMGMStudios 

#UnstoppableMovie

TV One’s “RAISING FAME” featuring Kevin Durant

Sylvester August 8, 2024

Popular docu-series “Raising Fame” is hosted by celebrity moms Lucille O’Neal (mom of Shaquille O’Neal) and Sonya Curry (mom of Stephen, Seth, and Sydel Curry). “Raising Fame” delves beyond the glitz and glamour to provide a unique perspective in the words of both the parents and celebrated children themselves. 

Basketball superstar Kevin Durant was born and raised in Maryland by a strong and determined single mother who drove him to beat the odds of poverty to become one of the greatest basketball players ever to grace the court.
“Raising Fame” airs Sundays at 10/9C on TV One.

Peacock Hosts Summer BBQ With A Surprise Performance from Will Smith

Sylvester August 4, 2024

Last night, Thursday, August 1, Peacock hosted a Summer BBQ at the Universal Studios Backlot for the return of BEL-AIR Season 3. Guests were surprised with a show-stopping performance from Coco Jones, who sang her new single “Here We Go” before inviting Will Smith up to duet his classic hit “Summertime” to celebrate the BEL-AIR state of mind.

BEL-AIR cast members Jabari Banks, Coco Jones, Adrian Holmes, Jimmy Akingbola, Olly Sholotan, Akira Akbar, Jordan L. Jones and Simone Joy Jones, attended alongside executive producers Will Smith and Morgan Cooper; showrunner, executive producer, and writer Carla Banks Waddles. Special guest stars in attendance included Jazlyn Martin, Justin Cornwell, Alycia Pascual-Peña and more. 

Attendees were treated to BBQ favorites from Trejos Tacos and black-owned staples, Earle’s on Crenshaw and Eagle Rock BBQ. The Summer BBQ also brought “Blackccess” to life (a new term this season coined by Will and Carlton meaning “Black Access”), through a Blackccess Flea Market, which featured 3 black-owned vendors and custom Blackccess merch. 

Host Charles Kuykendoll, kept the vibes high throughout the night, and yard games, iconic photo ops, and tunes by DJ Meel gave guests multiple opportunities to take part in the newest chapter for the Banks family: Summertime in BEL-AIR. This event promoted NBCUniversal and State Farm’s Open Doors initiative which supports small businesses across the country – with a special spotlight on minority-owned businesses. 

The new season of BEL-AIR premieres August 15, only on Peacock with three episodes airing at launch.

The fam is back, baby 

#BelAir season 3 arrives August 15, only on Peacock.