Karlie Redd & Yandy Smith-Harris Host First Annual Courageous Awards Honoring Domestic Abuse Survivors During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Sylvester October 24, 2025

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Actress and TV Personality, Karlie Redd hosted The Inaugural Courageous Awards, a powerful ceremony dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and courage of domestic abuse survivors within the community. Karlie Redd partnered with her fellow MTV Love & Hip Hop Atlanta co-star and Serial Entrepreneur and TV personality Yandy Smith-Harris, and Councilmember Andrea Boone to shine a light on the ongoing fight against domestic violence and to uplift every individual on the journey toward healing and peace.

Held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the historic Atlanta City Hall located at: 55 Trinity Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303, the event brought together survivors, advocates, and supporters for an evening of empowerment, unity, and hope. Well over 100 women came together to stand in solidarity, hear powerful survivor stories, and honor women who have transformed their pain into purpose emerging as true pillars of strength and inspiration.

City Hall was elegantly adorned in shades of purple, the symbolic color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, beautifully designed byLadonna Thomas of Kali Soul Events. The evening was presented by Karlie Redd’s Big Heart Foundation, in partnership with TLJ Agency, and sponsored by Tierra’s Butterflies 501c3 Non-Profit, Think About It Inc., and Yelle Skin Care, with Sheen Magazine, and Victoria Attmore serving as the official media sponsor.

Bronner Bros. Innagural Beauty Icon Awards

Sylvester October 12, 2025

The legendary Bronner Bros., celebrating 75 years as the world’s largest multicultural beauty show, launches the inaugural Beauty Icon Awards — a red-carpet celebration honoring the icons, innovators, and entrepreneurs who have shaped Black beauty across generations. , Presented in partnership with Vivace and Red by KISS. 

The Beauty Icon Awards also debut a live museum of beauty over the decades—bringing to life the artistry, style, and innovation that have defined Black beauty culture across generations. The event will be hosted by journalist and media personality Segun Oduolowu, along with Shamea Morton, Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta cast member and media personality. 

Red Carpet World Premiere of the Apple TV+ Series “The Last Frontier” 

Sylvester October 12, 2025

APPLE TV+ CELEBRATES THE GLOBAL SERIES PREMIERE OF THE ACTION-PACKED THRILLER “THE LAST FRONTIER,” STARRING AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCED BY JASON CLARKE 

“The Last Frontier” follows Frank Remnick (Jason Clarke), the lone U.S. Marshal in charge of the quiet, rugged barrens of Alaska. Remnick’s jurisdiction is turned upside down when a prison transport plane crashes in the remote wilderness, setting free dozens of violent inmates. Tasked with protecting the town he’s vowed to keep safe, he begins to suspect the crash wasn’t an accident, but the first step of a well-crafted plan with far-reaching and devastating implications.

Jeezy x DJ Drama Still Snowin’ Out Now

Sylvester October 2, 2025

JEEZY DROPS BRAND NEW ALBUM 

STILL SNOWIN’

OUT NOW EVERYWHERE MUSIC IS SOLD

Cultural icon, Grammy nominated artist and New York Times Best Selling Author, Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins highly anticipated new album, Still Snowin’, a DJ Drama Gangsta Grillz collaboration, is officially out now on all major platforms. Released on Sunday, 9/28—Jeezy’s birthday—the project was launched with a coast-to-coast IG Live celebration hosted by DJ D-Nice and Jeezy in both Los Angeles and Atlanta respectively. 

Still Snowin’ is a passion project inspired by the music Jeezy listened to in his youth. It reignited his love for music and gave him a chance to give back to the culture.

Track Listing:

1. Still Snowin’
2. Slide for So
3. Treason
4. Snowman Party
5. Inside My Soul
6. My Friends
7. Another Sad Love Long
8. Bruce Wayne
9. The Whole Town
10. Don’t Play Bout Me
11. Head to TheSky (You Can Win)
12. Anything
13. Hustlers Paradise
14. Keep That Same Energy
15. My Life (Thug Life Again)
16. Back for More
17. If You Don’t Know Me

Produced by DJ Toomp + Don Cannon

Still Snowin’ is available everywhere music is sold and streamed.

Toni Braxton To Headline ‘He Wasn’t Man Enough’ Inspired By Her Song & ‘Breathe Again’ Movies For Lifetime

Sylvester September 30, 2025

LIFETIME UNVEILS TWO NEW MOVIES FROM GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING SINGER, ACTRESS AND ENTREPRENEUR 

TONI BRAXTON 

AS PART OF HER PRODUCTION 

DEAL WITH LIFETIME / A+E GLOBAL MEDIA

TONI BRAXTON’S HE WASN’T MAN ENOUGH, INSPIRED BY HER CHART-TOPPING SONG, PREMIERES NOV 22 WITH BRAXTON STARRING ALONGSIDE ESSENCE ATKINS AND YVETTE NICOLE BROWN AS PART OF THE NETWORK’S LOVE OF A LIFETIME 

NOVEMBER ROMANCE MOVIE SLATE

THE SECOND FILM, TONI BRAXTON’S BREATHE AGAIN, STARRING BRAXTON, ATKINS AND CREE SUMMER, 

IS SET FOR A 2026 DEBUT 

Following the network’s announcement of a multi-picture deal with Grammy® Award winner Toni Braxton (Unbreak My Heart, Faith Under Fire: The Antoinette Tuff Story), Lifetime is debuting two films under the partnership: He Wasn’t Man Enough and Breathe Again. Expanding her iconic music into powerful, female-driven storytelling, Braxton serves as both star and executive producer, collaborating with an ensemble cast to deliver stories that embody strength, sisterhood, and second chances.

Set to premiere Saturday, November 22 at 8/7c as part of the network’s Love of a Lifetime November romance movie slate, Toni Braxton’s He Wasn’t Man Enough, stars Braxton alongside NAACP Image Award nominee Essence Atkins (The Noel Diaries, First Wives Club) and Emmy® nominee Yvette Nicole Brown (Community, The Mayor). Braxton plays bestselling author Mel Montgomery, whose world unravels when she discovers her boyfriend Richard (Thomas Cadrot, The Night Agent) has been deceiving her. When Mel learns Richard is now engaged to her estranged college friend Monica (Atkins), the two women, with the help of Mel’s loyal best friend Candy (Brown), set aside old wounds to stand together. What begins as betrayal becomes a story of resilience and solidarity—proving Richard picked the wrong trio to mess with. Because in the end, it was never about the man who failed them, but the women who chose each other. Always and without question… sisters over misters.

Debuting in 2026, Toni Braxton’s Breathe Again, reunites Braxton with Atkins who will be joined by Emmy® Award winner Cree Summer (A Different World, Rugrats). The film follows three women—Jennifer (Braxton), Vanessa (Summer), and Evelyn (Atkins)—who meet as contestants on a reality dating show and suffer heartbreak under the spotlight. Their shared rejection sparks an unlikely sisterhood that carries them from Los Angeles to a new life in Seattle. There, they navigate fresh starts, second chances, and the messy, hilarious realities of dating, friendship, and family. Jennifer rediscovers her voice as an artist, Vanessa rebuilds her interior design business while opening herself to love again, and Evelyn faces her grief by daring to embrace joy and possibility. Along the way, the women learn that while romance may come and go, female friendship is the love story that lasts a lifetime.

Both films are executive produced by Toni Braxton, Tanya Lopez and Kenneth Crear for Lifetime. Stan Brooks directs and executive produces both movies. Toni Braxton’s He Wasn’t Man Enough is executive produced by Gemma Martini, and Jonathan Shore and produced by Lighthouse Pictures from a script written by Aireka Muse, Tara Knight, and Angela Nissel. Toni Braxton’s Breathe Again is executive produced by Howard Braunstein from a script written by Nikita Hamilton.

Karlie Redd Celebrates the Grand Opening of Redd Room Bistro

Sylvester September 29, 2025

Serial Entrepreneur & MTV Love & Hip Hop Atlanta Star, Karlie Redd, Celebrates the Grand Opening of Her Bold New Lounge Concept, “Redd Room Bistro” with Spice, the Queen of Dancehall 

On Sunday, September 28th, Actress/Serial Entrepreneur, and MTV’s Love & Hip Hop Atlanta star, Karlie Redd, celebrated the grand opening of her new highly anticipated restaurant, Red Room Bistro located at 255 Trinity Ave, Atlanta, GA 30303. The vibrant TV personality turned Restaurantercelebrated the momentous occasionalongside her business partner, Ace Carrington, close family and friends.

Guests were dressed in their finest attire and were greeted outside by Karlie making a grand entrance alongside her daughter, Jasmine Ellis, with anexuberant drumline performance by the Jonesboro High School Majestic Marching Cardinals, which left the crowd in awe. Immediately following her stunning entrance, Pastor Stephanie Jennings of the Harvest Tabernacle Church, rendered a powerful prayer that left not a dry eye in the room, followed by a moving speech from State Representative Eric Bell II, one of the second largest state reps in the history of Clayton County, who praised Karlie for creating job opportunities and revitalizing Downtown Atlanta with her latest restaurant venture.

With well over 100+ people in attendance–a powerful group of Atlanta’s elite and beyond came out to celebrate Karlie’s success, including Grammy Nominated Artist, and TV Personality, Spice, the Queen of Dancehall, who surprised her fellow MTV Love & Hip Hop Atlanta co-star with her presence. Additional guests included: Beauty Mogul, Cliff Vmir, Viral Influencer, Big Sexy, Fox 5 Porta Show Host, Portia Burner, Serial Entrepreneur, K. Botchy, Culture & Culinary Creator, Jaaion Barnes, Restauranter, Ebony Austin, Recording Artist, International Nova, and his wife, Cristina Nova among others.

Spice delivered a heartfelt speech, beaming with pride, toasting to the success of Red Room Bistro. With tunes spun by DJ Pancake, guests enjoyed delectable cuisine prepared byRed Room Bistro’s Executive Chef, Chef Teddy Lopez such as the Velvet Vixen Chicken and Waffles, Salmon bites, Red Room’s Hot Honey Signature Wings, and Smash burgers paired, with signature house drinks such as the Superman and Karlie’s Red Hot Martini.

Inspired by Karlie Redd’s father and late stepmother, who owned a successful restaurant for decades and ignited her lifelong passion for hospitality, Red Room Bistro is designed to deliver a one-of-a-kind dining experience, pairing elevated cuisine with exceptional customer service that sets it apart from Atlanta’s current dining scene. Red Room Bistro’s grand opening signified that it is destined to become one of Atlanta’s premiere new lounge destinations, with its elevated, immersive experience that blends elevated cuisine with unforgettable hospitality. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 PM to 2 AM, and Sundays from 5 PM to 12 AM ET, the bistro features a luxury lounge aesthetic curated by Restaurateur and Designer Ty Young. The space embodies an upscale ambiance embodying Karlie Redd’s bold persona, with a beautiful sultry red color palette, stylish décor, and an atmosphere perfect for a girls’ night out, a romantic date, or a lively evening as a place where friends and family can gather.

Karlie Redd, her daughter Jasmine Ellis, and granddaughter

Specializing in fine dining with a twist, Red Room Bistro introduces signature experiences like its “Bunnies and Bubbles Brunch” on Sundays from 12 PM to 4 PM ET for guests to enjoy premiere service and indulgent dishes, including one of the menu’s standouts: Thick, delectable slices of buttery French toast topped with sweet, macerated strawberries, finished with a crunchy, cinnamon crumble, drizzled with a touch of vanilla syrup; dusted with powdered sugar for the ultimate indulgence. The full menu features an eclectic mix of tapas-style offerings, from American style wings and burgers to Caribbean-inspired dishes, ensuring every guest leaves with a lasting impression of flavor, style, and sophistication.

International Nova, and his wife, Cristina Nova

For both Karlie and Ace, Red Room Bistro is more than just a business – it’s an ode to family and legacy. The two Trinidadian raised entrepreneurs’ connection as a force in the dining industry is rooted in their love for food and creating memorable experiences. The two, who have had major success with their first dining establishment, Johnny’s Chicken and Waffles, are excited to create a Bistro experience that merges their cultures’ love and admiration for food and fellowship with an upscale twist unlike anything Atlanta has experienced before.

As a self-taught restauranter, Ace, has become an emerging figure in the restaurant industry and dining world, gaining a reputation for creating and operating well over seven highly successful restaurant franchises, especially within the city of Atlanta, such as Crescent City Kitchen, Spice House, Johnny’s Chicken and Waffles, and many more. A venture that started in 2018 from a pivot to diversify his business portfolio outside of the real estate industry, has led Ace to become one of Atlanta’s go-to entrepreneurs developing and sustaining dining experiences within the city.

“I’m excited to join forces again with Karlie on this venture,” says Ace.“The restaurant industry can be both challenging and oversaturated, but our focus is clear–delivering great quality food and even greater customer service. Atlanta often carries a stigma of poor service, and we want to change that narrative by setting a new standard.”

Karlie Redd, a serial entrepreneur with a vast knowledge of restaurant experience brings her own expertise to the business, as a co-owner and operator of the Johnny’s Chicken and Waffles franchise based in College Park GA, where she has created a partnership that’s built on mutual respect, and a shared vision to provide quality customer service, which is a growing concern in Atlanta’s dining scene. Together, they promise to deliver an unforgettable American/Caribbean infused experience that establishes an expectation that is as much about quality and customer experience as it is about great food.

“Food and quality service have been a passion of mine since childhood,” Karlie Redd says. “With Red Room Bistro, I wanted to create more than just a restaurant. I wanted to create an experience. This will be a vibe unlike anything else in Atlanta, where great food, atmosphere, and unforgettable moments all come together.”

The restaurant’s unique concept is the perfect fit for Atlanta’s vibrant food scene, offering an upscale twist for a variety of audiences. The Bistro is slated to diversify Atlanta’s dining scene with a new twist of assorted menu options and unique in-house experiences, ushering in a new era of fine dining and exceptional service that is ensured to leave guests impressed with memorable quality service.

Sylvester September 26, 2025

    “The Last Frontier” follows Frank Remnick (Jason Clarke), the lone U.S. Marshal in charge of the quiet, rugged barrens of Alaska. Remnick’s jurisdiction is turned upside down when a prison transport plane crashes in the remote wilderness, setting free dozens of violent inmates. Tasked with protecting the town he’s vowed to keep safe, he begins to suspect the crash wasn’t an accident, but the first step of a well-crafted plan with far-reaching and devastating implications.

In addition to Clarke, the ensemble cast includes Dominic Cooper (“The Gold”), Haley Bennett (“The Magnificent Seven”), Simone Kessell (“Yellowjackets”), Dallas Goldtooth (“Reservation Dogs”), and Tait Blum (“For All Mankind”), with Academy Award Nominee and multi-Emmy Award winner Alfre Woodard (“Clemency”).

Hailing from Apple Studios, “The Last Frontier” is executive produced by Jon Bokenkamp and Richard D’Ovidio, who also serve as writers, alongside Clarke, Laura Benson (“The Big C”), Glenn Kessler (“Bloodline”), Albert Kim (“Nikita”) and series episodic director Sam Hargrave (“Extraction”).

The 10-episode thriller will premiere globally with the first two episodes on Friday, October 10, 2025, followed by one new episode weekly through December 5, 2025 exclusively on Apple TV+.

Ruth & Boaz

Sylvester September 17, 2025

Rising Atlanta hip-hop artist Ruth Moably gives up the glamorous life to start anew in rural Tennessee, where she cares for Naomi, her surrogate mother and meets the man of her dreams.

Funk Fest Returns to Atlanta

Sylvester September 8, 2025

The Atlanta Funk Fest will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Wolf Creek Amphitheater in College Park, GA. The lineup includes Ashanti, Trey Songz, Tamar Braxton, Young Dro, Youngbloodz, and Ro James, with more artists to be announced. Tickets are available for purchase on FunkFestTour.com and Etix.com. 

American Black Film Festival Expands to NYC, Atlanta, Dallas & LA Ahead of 30th Anniversary

Sylvester August 13, 2025

NICE CROWD, the company behind the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), today announced the launch of the ABFF Pop-Up Tour, a new national initiative bringing the energy, creativity, and community spirit of the acclaimed festival to four major markets across the U.S. this fall. The ABFF Pop-Up Tour kicks off in October 2025 at AMC Theatres in New York City, followed by stops in Atlanta and Dallas in November, and culminating in Los Angeles this December. Now approaching its 30th year, ABFF is expanding beyond its flagship annual Miami Beach event to extend its mission of cultural equity, creativity, and access to communities nationwide. The Pop-Up Tour will feature award-winning independent films, celebrity conversations, and curated panels—including BOB Talks, an inspiring speaker series spotlighting Black-Owned Brands. Designed to meet audiences where they are, the tour activates cities where Black arts and entertainment communities live and thrive. The 2025 Pop-Up Tour is launched with national support from Founding Sponsor Ally Financial.

“For nearly three decades, ABFF has been a cornerstone for showcasing and elevating Black storytelling,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF Cofounder and CEO of Nice Crowd. “The ABFF Pop-Up Tour is a natural evolution of that mission—a mobile cultural movement designed to expand opportunity and deepen connection. By bringing the ABFF experience directly into local communities, we’re creating new spaces to discover talent, celebrate creativity, and unite through the power of film and shared culture. We’re excited to partner with Ally Financial to help bring this vision to life.”

ABFF POP-UP TOUR (October 2025 – December 2025)

A national tour bringing ABFF programming and spirit to four key U.S. markets. 

Founding sponsor: Ally Financial

• New York – October 25–26 | AMC Lincoln Square
• Atlanta – November 8–9 | AMC Madison Yards
• Dallas – November 15–16  | AMC NorthPark
• Los Angeles – December 13–14 | AMC The Grove

“Ally honors the remarkable talent and creativity showcased at the American Black Film Festival Pop-Up Tour as a part of our long-standing commitment as a true ally to Black and brown creators and artists,” said Erica Hughes, senior director, Ally Marketing. “Elevating their voices, sharing their experiences, and celebrating the unique gifts they bring to our communities is a key piece of Ally’s mission to serve everyone as a financial ally.”

The 14th Annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival 

Sylvester August 13, 2025

Ignites The Fox Theatre with an Opening Night Full Of Glam, Culture, And Rising Stars.

 The Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA) proudly announces the return of the 14th annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival (GALIFF), running Oct. 2–5, 2025. This year’s opening night celebration will take place at the iconic Fox Theatre, marking a milestone moment for Southern culture during Hispanic Heritage Month.

As the only Afro-Latino curated film festival in the Southeast, GALIFF is more than a cinematic showcase—it’s a cultural movement. For over a decade, GALIFF has redefined what blockbuster storytelling looks like by elevating Latino voices across genres, languages, and borders. Hosted in the heart of Atlanta, GALIFF continues to serve as a launchpad for bold premieres, creative collisions, and the next generation of visionary filmmakers.

“Hosting our opening night at the Fox Theatre is a dream come true not just for the Georgia Latino Film Alliance, but for every Latino artist who’s ever dared to tell their story.” said Jose Marquez, CEO and Co-Founder of the Georgia Latino Film Alliance. “During Hispanic Heritage Month, we proudly stand at the intersection of culture and cinema, honoring our roots and elevating our future.”

“The Fox Theatre is thrilled to welcome the Georgia Latino International Film Festival for VIP Opening night,” said Jamie Vosmeier, Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “This collaboration during Hispanic Heritage Month reflects our deep commitment to inclusivity and celebrating Atlanta’s diversity through the power of film TV and Entertainment.

GALIFF will feature four days of groundbreaking premieres, filmmaker spotlights, master classes, workshops, summits, and red-carpet activations, alongside programs like Y-FI (Youth Film Initiative Summit), The Film Lab Georgia, and Film Business 101 that empower students and early-career creatives.

������ Event: 14th Annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival VIP Opening Night

������️ Dates: October 2–5, 2025

������ VIP Opening Night Location: The Fox Theatre
        660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

������ For More Information: www.galiff.org

Soul Symphony Weekend reimagines the former annual Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic

Sylvester August 13, 2025

The Miguel Wilson Collection and the Ride to the Olympics Foundation are hosting the inaugural Soul Symphony Weekend from Friday, September 19, to Sunday, September 21. This reimagined version of the annual Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic is sponsored by Bentley Atlanta and will feature a golf outing, a black-tie orchestra experience, musical performances, a fashion show, and polo matches.

The three-day weekend will also feature polo matches with two historic teams: the Morehouse Polo Club, the first HBCU polo team, and the Atlanta’s BEST Academy Polo Team, the first all-Black high school polo team. Both teams were co-founded by Miguel Wilson and his Ride to the Olympics Foundation.

“For seven years, we’ve built a tradition of blending luxury and culture,” Wilson said. “This year, we’re taking that tradition to the next level by presenting the inaugural Soul Symphony Weekend—an experience elevated by a live 8-piece symphony orchestra, an internationally recognized pianist, and additional live musical performances.”

The Soul Symphony Weekend kicks off on Friday, September 19, with two events: the Soul Symphony Golf Outing at Eagles Landing Country Club and the Welcome Party on the rooftop of the Kimpton Overland Hotel.

The weekend’s centerpiece is the Black Tie Soul Symphony event, held on Saturday, September 20, at Enon Ranch. Guests will be immersed in a night of elegance and entertainment, featuring a live fashion show and performances by the Soul Symphony Orchestra, composer and pianist Camden Stewart, and award-winning singers Kevin Ross and Syleena Johnson. The spectacular lineup also includes T.R.A.P. Opera singer Madelyn Brené and singer Brady Turner.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore, the first Black governor of Maryland, is confirmed to attend the Black Tie Soul Symphony as a special guest.

The weekend culminates with the Atlanta Polo Party, formerly the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic, on Sunday, September 21, at Bouckaert Farm. Guests will enjoy a day of luxury and sport, featuring gourmet food, signature cocktails, live music, and thrilling equestrian exhibitions. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest derby attire.

Past notable attendees include:  Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, nationally syndicated radio host Frank Ski, Pastor Jamal Bryant (New Birth Missionary Baptist Church), rapper Young Jeezy, Nene Leakes (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Cynthia Bailey (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Sheree Whitfield (Bravo’s Real Housewives of Atlanta), Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson (TV Personalities/ HGTV’s Married To Real Estate), singer Q Parker,  singer RL (of R&B group Next), and rapper Waka Flocka. 

Soul Symphony Weekend serves to benefit the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to provide support to kids who desire to pursue equestrian activities, especially those who normally wouldn’t have the opportunity due to socio-economic obstacles. All proceeds from the will go towards the Ride to the Olympics Foundation, which also supports the Morehouse Polo Club and Atlanta’s BEST Academy Polo Team. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://fashionandpoloclassic.com/#SoulSymphony and visit https://www.ridetotheolympics.org/ to find out more about the Ride to the Olympics Foundation or to make a donation.

Amazon MGM Studios presents SARAH’S OIL

Sylvester August 6, 2025

Sarah’s Oil is the remarkable true story of Sarah Rector, an African American girl born in Oklahoma Indian Territory in the early 1900s, who believes there is oil beneath the barren land she’s allotted and whose faith is proven right. As greedy oil sharks close in, Sarah turns to her family, friends, and some Texas wildcatters to maintain control of her oil-rich land, eventually becoming among the nation’s first female African American millionaires—at eleven years old.

In theaters November 7, 2025, this inspiring true story follows Sarah Rector, a young Black girl from Oklahoma who became one of the richest children in America after oil was discovered on her family’s land.

More than a story of sudden fortune, it’s about faith, and resilience!

Directed by: Cyrus Nowrasteh

Screenplay by: Betsy Giffen Nowrasteh & Cyrus Nowrasteh

Inspired by the book: “Searching for Sarah Rector” by Tonya Bolden

Produced by: John Shepherd, Cyrus Nowrasteh, Kevin Downes, Daryl Lefever, Andrew Erwin, Jon Erwin, Zachary Levi, Derrick Williams

Executive Producers: Tony Young, Katelyn Botsch, Robert Scott Fort, Sherry Kang, Russell Wilson, Ciara

Cast: Zachary Levi, Naya Desir-Johnson, Sonequa Martin-Green, Garret Dillahunt, Mel Rodriguez, Kenric Green, Bridget Regan

Genre: Drama

Rating: PG for thematic content, some violence, language including racial slurs, a suggestive reference and brief smoking

GRAMMY® WINNER DOECHII ANNOUNCES “LIVE FROM THE SWAMP TOUR,” LAUNCHING OCTOBER 14

Sylvester August 4, 2025

After much anticipation, Doechii has officially announced her upcoming “Live from the Swamp Tour.” Produced by Live Nation, the 12-city North American headline run will kick off on October 14 at Aragon Ballroom in Chicago. The outing will also take the GRAMMY^®-winning Top Dawg Entertainment / Capitol Records recording artist to Toronto, the Eastern Seaboard, Georgia, Texas and Arizona and wrap up with a trio of West Coast shows in San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle

The announcement comes on the heels of Doechii’s Lollapalooza debut. Praising her set as “a hip hop master class,” the Chicago Tribune declared, “Welcoming thousands to Doechii’s School of Hip Hop, complete with a giant, funhouse-style boombox center stage, she rapped, writhed, and twerked circles around a troupe of dancers (delivering choreography that would make the great, ballroom pioneer Willi Ninja proud) and delivered lessons in bars, flow, genre, scratching and word play.”

She closed her Lollapalooza set by driving off in an albino alligator wrapped car, teasing the upcoming dates. Leading up to the reveal, massive albino gators appeared at landmarks in cities she’ll hit this fall, including Piedmont Park in Atlanta, the Welcome to Texas sign, La Jolla Cove in San Diego, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Seattle’s Space Needle, and even floated down the Chicago River this past weekend. 

Doechii is featured on the cover of the August issue of British Vogue, which hailed her as “a creative visionary” and observed, “She is 10-toes-down authentic, punk rock in the way that she’s motivated by her own spirit.” Read the cover story HERE. In a five-star review, The Guardian praised her Glastonbury headline set as “an education in rap from the greatest teacher in the game…unrelentingly brilliant.” In another five-star review, The Independent said, “With unbelievable lung capacity, Doechii’s rapping is relentless and thoroughly satisfying to listen to…thrilling to witness….a megastar on the rise.” The Washington Post praised her performance at WorldPride Festival as “evidence of rap music’s synchronizing power” and noted, “When she launched into her signature tale of a stressed-out crash out, ‘Denial Is a River,’ fans two blocks deep in the crowd were rattling off Doechii’s zigzag lyrics as if reciting a shouted prayer…”

In February, Doechii won a GRAMMY Award for Best Rap Album for Alligator Bites Never Heal. The album came in at No. 1 on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 20 Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2024” and placed in the top 10 of their overall “Best Albums of 2024” tally. Critics at NPR, Paste, Consequence of Sound, Stereogum and UPROXX also hailed AlligatorBites Never Heal as one of the year’s best albums. Listen HERE. Doechii was recently named Woman of the Year at the  2025 Billboard Women in Music event, Best Female Hip Hop Artist at the BET Awards and Outstanding Music Artist at the GLAAD Media Awards.

Disney’s Freakier Friday at Nana’s Chicken & Waffles

Sylvester August 2, 2025

Disney took over Nana’s Chicken & Waffles to promote their new movie, “Freakier Friday” starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis. 

Hosted by Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Kelli Ferrell

Guest were treated with gifts from Disney to celebrate the new release. Nana’s Chicken & Waffles provided a special menu for the guest to enjoy for the evening. My son and I really enjoyed the food! We are looking forward to bringing the whole family back for a visit.

 “Freakier Friday” is a sequel to the 2003 movie “Freaky Friday”. The sequel reunites Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, reprising their roles as Anna and Tess, respectively. The film features a multigenerational twist with a four-way body swap involving Anna’s daughter and soon-to-be stepdaughter.

Jennifer Hudson Will Headline Whitney Houston’s Fourth Annual Legacy of Love Gala

Sylvester July 11, 2025

Jennifer Hudson Will Headline Whitney Houston’s Fourth Annual Legacy of Love Gala

The event takes place on what would have been the late artist’s 62nd birthday.

Whitney Houston’s legacy as one of the most dynamic voices in modern music will be celebrated at the fourth annual Whitney E. Houston Legacy of Love Gala, and EGOT multi-hyphenate Jennifer Hudson will headline the gala taking place at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta.

Presented by The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation and Primary Wave Music, Aug. 9 what would have been Houston’s 62nd birthday, doubles as a celebration of 40 years since the launch of her career, according to AP News.

Whitney Houston’s self-titled debut album was released in 1985.

RELATED: Jennifer Hudson Pays Tribute To Aretha Franklin

As per Billboard, Pat Houston, president of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation and executor of the late artist’s estate, shared, “We are excited to have Jennifer Hudson as our headlining performer and special guest,” Pat Houston said in the press announcement. 

“We are thrilled that she is able to take the time to spend Whitney’s 40th anniversary with us and our special guests. And more importantly, she continues to support Whitney’s legacy.”

Whitney E Houston legacy foundation was formed in 2020, “as a continuation of her journey to Rebuild lives, Restore self-esteem and Repair images through grassroots programs and initiatives for the Youth. Reciprocating back into the community generously what’s needed for one to progress in their chosen field of interest.”

“We are delighted how the foundation has developed and expanded over the past four years,” Houston added, according to Billboard. “Though Whitney is known worldwide for her exemplary talent in music and entertainment, one of the things she loved more than anything was supporting children and our youth. She always reached back to various communities globally and truly demonstrated the work of a global servant and lived by the adage — ‘I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way; show them all the beauty they possess inside, give them a sense of pride to make it easier…’ — from her international anthem, ‘Greatest Love of All.’”

“BET AWARDS” 2025 REVEALS FIRST LINEUP OF PERFORMERS: LIL WAYNE, TEYANA TAYLOR, GLORILLA

Sylvester May 27, 2025

BET announced today that “BET Awards” 2025 keeps getting BIGGER with the first slate of performers set to hit the stage. The star-studded lineup includes 5-time GRAMMY® Award winning global hip hop icon Lil Wayne, trailblazing multi-hyphenate Teyana Taylor, with a one night only legendary performance unlike anything you’ve seen before, GRAMMY® nominated superstar GloRilla, genre-defying hitmaker Playboi Carti, and GRAMMY® Award winning singer, songwriter, and producer Leon Thomas. The 25^th anniversary of “BET Awards” will air LIVE from Los Angeles on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 8 PM ET/PT on BET.

“We’re setting the tone for a night that celebrates 25 years of impact, creativity, and Black culture,” said Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “With electrifying performances from some of the biggest names in music and an iconic comedic host, ‘BET Awards’ 2025 will be a can’t-miss celebration of everything the culture represents.”

As previously announced, legendary comedian, actor, producer, and global box office sensation Kevin Hart will bring his signature energy and humor as host of “BET Awards” 2025.

Kendrick Lamar leads “BET Awards” 2025 nominationswith ten, Doechii, Drake, Future and GloRilla are tied with six nominations, Metro Boomin earned five nominations, and SZA and The Weeknd are tied with four nominations each. 

BET also previously announced that it will celebrate the 25th anniversary of legendary music video countdown show 106 & Park with a must-see tribute, and creative directed by Teyana Taylor and The Aunties Production, Beloved former hosts AJ Calloway, Free Marie Wright, Julissa Bermudez, Keshia Chanté, Rocsi Diaz, and Terrence J will reunite on stage for a nostalgic celebration. The tribute will feature timeline-shattering performances from previous host and Mr. 106 & Park, Bow Wow, Amerie, B2K, Jim Jones, Mya, T.I., and more, bringing back the culture-defining energy, music and moments of the history-making franchise.

Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy, serves as the Executive Producer for “BET Awards” 2025, with Jamal Noisette, SVP of Tentpoles & Music Community Engagement, for BET. Jesse Collins Entertainment is the production company for the show, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay also serving as Executive Producers.

Expect more exciting announcements, including more performers, honorees, and more. Additionally, Culture’s Biggest Week returns with BET Experience 2025 (BETX)—four days of immersive fan-focused events from Thursday, June 5, through Sunday, June 8, ahead of the “BET Awards” 2025.

Grammy-Winning Multiplatinum Rapper Cardi B Receives ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award

Sylvester May 24, 2025

Today, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) announces multiplatinum, Grammy-winning superstar Cardi B will be honored with the distinguished ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award.

Cardi B made history in 2020 as the first woman to receive the esteemed ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Songwriter of the Year Award two years in a row, adding to her multiple ASCAP accolades, including eight ASCAP Pop Music Awards and a whopping 23 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards. This year, the world-renowned rapper returns to accept the ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award, which is presented to ASCAP members who have had a major influence on music and culture, to recognize their success as creators and changemakers. Last year, Usher was the recipient of the distinguished award.

“Cardi B has left an indelible mark on the culture of hip-hop by redefining and challenging the norms for women,” said ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams. “Having broken through countless barriers with her unapologetic authenticity and talent, she continues to use her voice to advocate for and inspire others, a true testament to her undeniable impact. We are proud to present Cardi B with this year’s ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award.”

Cardi B will be presented with the award at a private, invitation-only event celebrating ASCAP’s top hip-hop, R&B and gospel songwriters on Sunday, June 8 in Los Angeles.

Cardi B is among the most significant musical artists of all time, regardless of genre, gender or generation. Among her seemingly endless list of accomplishments, she stands as the highest-certified female rapper of all time on the RIAA’s “Top Artists (Digital Singles)” ranking, the female rap artist with the most RIAA diamond certifications, and the only female rapper with multiple billion-streamers on Spotify, where her chart-topping, Grammy-winning, four-times RIAA platinum-certified debut album, Invasion of Privacy, remains the most-streamed album by a female rap artist to date. All 13 tracks on Invasion of Privacy are now certified at least platinum, and the smash 2018 album also includes the history-making diamond-certified “Bodak Yellow.”

With an extensive list of awards, nominations and high-profile honors, Cardi B’s additional nods include nine total Grammy Award nominations, eight Billboard Music Awards, six Guinness World Records, five Spotify One Billion Streams Awards, six American Music Awards, four MTV Video Music Awards, three iHeartRadio Titanium Awards, six BET Awards, 14 BET Hip Hop Awards, inclusion on TIME’s “TIME100: The 100 Most Influential People of 2018,” being named Entertainment Weekly’s 2018 “Entertainer of the Year” and Billboard’s 2020 “Woman of the Year,” along with countless other triumphs. In 2021, she was named Playboy‘s first-ever Creative Director in Residence and founding member of Playboy’s creator-led platform. Since then, Cardi B has been featured on chart-topping singles including platinum-certified “Tomorrow 2” with GloRilla and gold-certified “Put It on the Floor” with Latto. In 2024, Cardi B came out swinging with dual releases “Like What (Freestyle)” and “Enough (Miami),” before collaborating on Rob 49’s “On Dat Money” and Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla’s “Wanna Be (Remix).” 

Season 2 of NINE PERFECT STRANGERS

Sylvester May 12, 2025

Starring Nicole Kidman, Henry Golding, Lena Olin, Annie Murphy, Christine Baranski, Lucas Englander, King Princess, Murray Bartlett, Dolly de Leon, Maisie Richardson-Sellers, Mark Strongand Aras Aydin

The Hulu Original drama returns on May 21, 2025with two episodes at launch followed by weekly episodes.

* * *

SYNOPSIS:

Nicole Kidman returns as the enigmatic healing guru Masha in the second season of “Nine Perfect Strangers”, based on Liane Moriarty’s bestselling novel. A new batch of wellness-seekers arrive at a mysterious Alpine resort looking for transformative paths to betterment and happiness. During their stay, the guests partake in unconventional methods to reach their goals while Masha is forced to confront some past demons… threatening to destroy both her own personal wellness, and that of her guests.

KENDRICK LAMAR LEADS “BET AWARDS” 2025 NOMINEES WITH TEN NOMINATIONS

Sylvester May 8, 2025

KENDRICK LAMAR LEADS “BET AWARDS” 2025 NOMINEES WITH TEN NOMINATIONS

DOECHII, DRAKE, FUTURE AND GLORILLA TIE WITH SIX NOMINATIONS EACH

 METRO BOOMIN EARNS FIVE NOMINATIONS

SZA AND THE WEEKND TIE WITH FOUR NOMINATIONS

ARYA STARR, CHRIS BROWN, LIL WAYNE, MAVERICK CITY MUSIC, PLAYBOI CARTI, TEDDY SWIMS, AND TYLER, THE CREATOR EARN
THREE NOMINATIONS EACH

CULTURE’S BIGGEST NIGHT, “BET AWARDS” 2025 WILL AIR LIVE MONDAY, JUNE 9 AT 8 PM ET/ PT ON BET

Today, BET announces “BET Awards” 2025 nominees, with Kendrick Lamarleading the nominations with ten, Doechii, Drake, Future and GloRilla tying with six nominations, Metro Boominearning five nominations, and SZA and The Weekndtying with four nominations each. 

This year’s “BET Awards” 2025 nominees reflect multifaceted creative expression and Black excellence across music, television, film, and sports. Nominations were selected by the BET Voting Academy, which is comprised of an esteemed group of entertainment professionals and influencers in the fields of music, media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and creative arts.

Kendrick Lamar holds the top spot with ten “BET Awards” 2025 nominations. Lamar’s nominations include ‘Album of the Year’ for GNX, ‘Video of the Year’ for “Not Like Us,” three ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’ nods for “Not Like Us,” “Luther,” featuring SZA, and “Like That” with Future & Metro Boomin, three ‘Best Collaboration’ nods for “Like That,” “30 for 30,” and “Luther,” featuring SZA, ‘Video Director of the Year’ with Dave Free, and ‘Best Male Hip Hop Artist.’ 

Doechii’s six nominations include ‘Album of the Year’ for Alligator Bites Never Heal, ‘Video of the Year’ and ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’ for “Denial is a River,” ‘BET Her’ for “Bloom,” ‘Best Collaboration’ for “Alter Ego” featuring JT, and ‘Best Female Hip Hop Artist.’  

Drake’s six nominations include ‘Album of the Year’ for $ome $exy $ongs 4 U, ‘Video of the Year’ for “Family Matters,” ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’ for “Nokia,” ‘Best Group’ with “Drake & PartyNextDoor,” ‘Best Male R&B/Pop Artist’ and ‘Best Male Hip Hop Artist.’

Future’s six nominations include ‘Album of the Year’ for We Don’t Trust You with Metro Boomin, ‘Video of the Year’ for “Type Shit” with Metro Boomin, Travis Scott & Playboi Carti, ‘Best Collaboration’ and ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’ for “Like That” with Metro Boomin featuring Kendrick Lamar, ‘Best Group’ with “Future & Metro Boomin,” and Best Male Hip Hop Artist. 

GloRilla six nominations include ‘Album of the Year’ for Glorious, ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’ for “TGIF”, ‘Best Collaboration’ for “Sticky” with Tyler, The Creator, Sexyy Red and Lil Wayne, the ‘Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award’ for “Rain Down On Me,” ‘Best Female Hip Hop Artist’, and ‘BET Her’ for “In My Bag” with FLO.

SZA and The Weeknd tie with four nominations each, while Arya Starr, Chris Brown, Lil Wayne, Maverick City Music, Playboi Carti, Teddy Swims, and Tyler, The Creator each earn three nominations. 

Voting for “BET Awards” 2025 Viewer’s Choice Award will open soon.

BET.com/bet-awards is the official site for “BET Awards” 2025 and will have all the latest news and updates about this year’s show. Follow us @BET and @BETAWARDS.

Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy, will oversee and Executive Produce the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, SVP, Tentpoles & Music Community Engagement for BET. Jesse Collins Entertainment is the production company for the show, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay also serving as Executive Producers.

The 25th Anniversary of “BET Awards” – Culture’s Biggest Night – will air LIVE on BET from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 8 pm ET/PT. This milestone event will honor 25 years of cultural excellence, spotlighting the most influential names in music, film, television, and sports.

To register for the free, 2-day BETX Fan Fest, visit  BETExperience.com. “BET Experience” 2025 is co-produced by Live Nation Urban.

To apply for media credentials to cover the “BET Awards” 2025 red carpet, press room, BET Experience 2025 fanfest, concerts, and more, visit “BET Awards” 2025 Media Application.

The Complete List Of Nominees for “BET Awards” 2025 Are:

Album of the Year                                           

$OME $EXY $ONGS 4 U                   DRAKE & PARTYNEXTDOOR  

11:11 DELUXE                                    CHRIS BROWN

ALLIGATOR BITES NEVER HEAL    DOECHII

COWBOY CARTER                           BEYONCÉ

GLORIOUS                                         GLORILLA

GNX                                                    KENDRICK LAMAR

HURRY UP TOMORROW                  THE WEEKND

WE DON’T TRUST YOU                    FUTURE & METRO BOOMIN

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist

ARI LENNOX

AYRA STARR

COCO JONES

KEHLANI

MUNI LONG

SUMMER WALKER

SZA

VICTORIA MONÉT

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist

BRUNO MARS

CHRIS BROWN

DRAKE

FRIDAYY

LEON THOMAS

TEDDY SWIMS

THE WEEKND

USHER

Best Group

41

COMMON & PETE ROCK

DRAKE & PARTYNEXTDOOR

FLO

FUTURE & METRO BOOMIN

JACQUEES & DEJ LOAF

LARRY JUNE, 2 CHAINZ, THE ALCHEMIST

MAVERICK CITY MUSIC

Best Collaboration

30 FOR 30                              SZA FEAT. KENDRICK LAMAR

ALTER EGO                           DOECHII FEAT. JT

ARE YOU EVEN REAL          TEDDY SWIMS FEAT. GIVĒON

BECKHAM                              DEE BILLZ FEAT. KYLE RICHH, KAI SWERVO, KJ SWERVO

BLESS                                    LIL WAYNE, WHEEZY & YOUNG THUG

LIKE THAT                              FUTURE & METRO BOOMIN & KENDRICK LAMAR

LUTHER                                 KENDRICK LAMAR & SZA

STICKY                                   TYLER, THE CREATOR FEAT. GLORILLA, SEXYY RED & 

LIL WAYNE

TIMELESS                              THE WEEKND FEAT. PLAYBOI CARTI

Best Female Hip Hop Artist

CARDI B

DOECHII

DOJA CAT

GLORILLA

LATTO

MEGAN THEE STALLION

NICKI MINAJ

RAPSODY

SEXYY RED

Best Male Hip Hop Artist

BIGXTHAPLUG

BOSSMAN DLOW

BURNA BOY

DRAKE

FUTURE

KENDRICK LAMAR

KEY GLOCK

LIL WAYNE

TYLER, THE CREATOR

Video of the Year     

3AM IN TOKEYO                    KEY GLOCK

A BAR SONG (TIPSY)           SHABOOZEY

AFTER HOURS                      KEHLANI

DENIAL IS A RIVER               DOECHII

FAMILY MATTERS                 DRAKE

NOT LIKE US                         KENDRICK LAMAR

TIMELESS                              THE WEEKND FEAT. PLAYBOI CARTI

TYPE SHIT                             FUTURE, METRO BOOMIN, TRAVIS SCOTT & PLAYBOI

CARTI

Video Director of the Year

ANDERSON .PAAK

B PACE PRODUCTIONS & JACQUEES

BENNY BOOM

CACTUS JACK

COLE BENNETT

DAVE FREE & KENDRICK LAMAR

DAVE MEYERS

FOGGIERAW

TYLER, THE CREATOR

Best New Artist

41

AYRA STARR

BIGXTHAPLUG

BOSSMAN DLOW

DEE BILLZ

LEON THOMAS

OCTOBER LONDON

SHABOOZEY

TEDDY SWIMS

Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award

A GOD (THERE IS)                COMMON & PETE ROCK FEAT. JENNIFER HUDSON

AMEN                                     PASTOR MIKE JR.

BETTER DAYS                       FRIDAYY

CHURCH DOORS                  YOLANDA ADAMS FEAT. SIR THE BAPTIST & DONALD 

LAWRENCE (TERRY HUNTER REMIX)          

CONSTANT                            MAVERICK CITY MUSIC, JORDIN SPARKS, CHANDLER 

MOORE & ANTHONY GARGIULA

DESERVE TO WIN                TAMELA MANN

FAITH                                      RAPSODY

RAIN DOWN ON ME             GLORILLA FEAT. KIRK FRANKLIN, MAVERICK CITY MUSIC

Viewer’s Choice Award

RESIDUALS                           CHRIS BROWN

DENIAL IS A RIVER               DOECHII  

NOKIA                                     DRAKE

LIKE THAT                              FUTURE & METRO BOOMIN FEAT. KENDRICK LAMAR

TGIF                                        GLORILLA

NOT LIKE US                         KENDRICK LAMAR

LUTHER                                 KENDRICK LAMAR & SZA

BROKEY                                 LATTO             

Best International Act

ANY GABRIELLY (BRAZIL)

AYRA STARR (NIGERIA)

BASHY (UNITED KINGDOM)

BLACK SHERIF (GHANA)

EZRA COLLECTIVE (UNITED KINGDOM)

JOÉ DWÈT FILÉ (FRANCE)

MC LUANNA (BRAZIL)

REMA (NIGERIA)

SDM (FRANCE)

TYLA (SOUTH AFRICA)

UNCLE WAFFLES (SWAZILAND)

Best New International Act

ABIGAIL CHAMS (TANZANIA)

AJULIACOSTA (BRAZIL)

AMABBI (BRAZIL)

DLALA THUKZIN (SOUTH AFRICA)

DR YARO (FRANCE)

KWN (UNITED KINGDOM)

MAGLERA DOE BOY (SOUTH AFRICA)

MERVEILLE (FRANCE)

ODEAL (UNITED KINGDOM)

SHALLIPOPI (NIGERIA)

TxC (SOUTH AFRICA)

BET Her

BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE                        MARY J. BLIGE

BLACKBIIRD                                      BEYONCÉ FEAT. TANNER ADELL, BRITTNEY

SPENCER, TIERA KENNEDY & REYNA ROBERTS

BLOOM                                               DOECHII

BURNING                                           TEMS

DEFYING GRAVITY                           CYNTHIA ERIVO FEAT. ARIANA GRANDE

HEART OF A WOMAN                       SUMMER WALKER

HOLD ON                                           TEMS

IN MY BAG                                                 FLO & GLORILLA

Best Movie

BAD BOYS: RIDE OR DIE

BEVERLY HILLS COP: AXEL F

LUTHER: NEVER TOO MUCH

MUFASA: THE LION KING

ONE OF THEM DAYS

REBEL RIDGE

THE PIANO LESSON

THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT

Best Actor

AARON PIERRE

ALDIS HODGE

ANTHONY MACKIE

COLMAN DOMINGO

DENZEL WASHINGTON

JAMIE FOXX

JOEY BADA$$

KEVIN HART

STERLING K. BROWN

WILL SMITH

Best Actress

ANDRA DAY

ANGELA BASSETT

COCO JONES

CYNTHIA ERIVO

KEKE PALMER

KERRY WASHINGTON

QUINTA BRUNSON

VIOLA DAVIS

ZENDAYA

YoungStars Award  

AKIRA AKBAR

BLUE IVY CARTER

GRACEYN “GRACIE” HOLLINGSWORTH

HEIRESS HARRIS

MELODY HURD

THADDEUS J. MIXSON

TYRIK JOHNSON

VANVAN

Sportswoman of the Year Award

A’JA WILSON

ANGEL REESE

CLARESSA SHIELDS

COCO GAUFF

DAWN STALEY

FLAU’JAE JOHNSON

JUJU WATKINS

SHA’CARRI RICHARDSON

SIMONE BILES

Sportsman of the Year Award

AARON JUDGE

ANTHONY EDWARDS

DEION SANDERS

JALEN HURTS

JAYSON TATUM

LEBRON JAMES

SAQUON BARKLEY

STEPHEN CURRY

Tyler Perry Studios and Courtney Glaudé Present Psychological Thriller “Old Gray Mare”

Sylvester May 2, 2025

TYLER PERRY STUDIOS AND AWARD-WINNING FILMMAKER COURTNEY GLAUDÉ 

ILLUMINATE THE HARSH REALITIES OF DEMENTIA IN PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER “OLD GRAY MARE”

“Old Gray Mare,” written and directed by Courtney Glaudé —fresh off an overall deal with Tyler Perry Studios —delivers a gripping exploration of the emotional weight carried by families affected by dementia. What begins as minor memory lapses quietly escalates into something far more unsettling. When Steven and Robin return from a peaceful cruise and visit Eileen’s home, they’re confronted with a chilling new reality. This time, it’s more than forgotten groceries or misplaced keys—this time, the truth is impossible to ignore. With a deeply personal perspective, Glaudé crafts a poignant and haunting portrait of love, loss, and the slow unraveling of memory.

Courtney Glaudéis an award-winning filmmaker, writer, and director from Houston, Texas, renowned for his emotionally gripping narratives that tackle complex social issues. He rose to prominence with his critically acclaimed film “The Reading” starring Mo’Nique on BET+, which established him as a master of suspense-driven drama. Glaudé made his television directorial debut with Zatima (Season 3) and Ruthless (Season 6) for Tyler Perry Studios, while also contributing as a writer for Zatima (Season 4) and Ruthless (Season 6). Under an overall deal with Tyler Perry Studios, Glaudé is set to direct his first feature film for the studio, “A Love”, a psychological thriller that explores the dark reality of domestic violence rooted in learned behavior from childhood. In addition to directing, Glaudé will be developing and producing both scripted and unscripted content for Tyler Perry Studios, further expanding his influence in the entertainment industry. Known for his ability to explore deep emotional and societal themes, Glaudé continues to push the boundaries of storytelling while elevating underrepresented voices. Courtney Glaudé’s debut short film “Old Gray Mare” premiered at the Atlanta Film Festival and will continue its festival run with upcoming screenings at ABFF (Miami), MVAFF (Martha’s Vineyard), and BronzeLens (Atlanta) in summer 2025.

Kerry Washington attends Red Carpet for Shadow Force in Atlanta

Sylvester May 1, 2025

Kerry Washington graced the Red Carpet for The Atlanta Film Festival ATLFF screening of SHADOW FORCE.

In SHADOW FORCE, Kyrah (Washington) and Isaac (Sy) were once the leaders of a multinational special forces group called Shadow Force. They broke the rules by falling in love, and in order to protect their son, they go underground. With a large bounty on their heads, and the vengeful Shadow Force hot on their trail, one family’s fight becomes all-out war. 

Directed by: Joe Carnahan

Written by: Leon Chills and Joe Carnahan

Produced by: Kerry Washington, p.g.a., Pilar Savone, p.g.a., Stephen “Dr.” Love, p.g.a., Sterling K. Brown

Executive Producers: Jonathan McCoy, Christopher Woodrow, K. Blaine Johnston, Kathy Atkinson, Quinn Curry, Danielle Reardon, Jennifer Wiley-Stockton

Starring: Kerry Washington, Omar Sy, Mark Strong, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Cliff “Method Man” Smith

Kelli Ferrell’s Peach Brunch and Day Party

Sylvester April 29, 2025

Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kelli Ferrell held her Peach Brunch and Day Party at her Fabulous restaurant Nana’s Chicken & Waffles. This was Kingsmen Media’s first time patronizing the establishment and I was blown away! The food was AMAZING! Great vibes great people enjoying Atlanta with family and friends. I’ll be back here again even without an invite from Kelli!!! I will bring my family here for lunch to experience her special touch! Did you know Kelli is a self taught chef??? Great job Kelli and thanks for the invite. Check out some photos from Kingsmen Media.

Atlanta Film Festival Opening Night

Sylvester April 29, 2025

Opening night of the 49th Atlanta Film Festival at The Plaza Theatre was amazing. First on the list was an amazing film called COLOR BOOK. Media professionals from all over were excited to meet the cast and hear about the production from this great film. If opening night is like this Kingsmen Media is excited to see what’s in store for the coming week. Check out some photos from the event and stay tuned for more coverage.

FILM INFO

About: Following the passing of his wife, a devoted father is learning to raise his son with Down Syndrome as a single parent. 

Directed by: David Fortune

Produced by: Kiah Clingman, Kristen Uno, Autumn Bailey-Ford

Executive Producers: Naturi Naughton, Two Lewis, Korstiaan Vandiver, Tyler Edgarton

Starring: Will Catlett, Jeremiah Daniels, Brandee Evans, Terri J. Vaughn

Director David Fortune, executive producer Naturi Naughton, cast members Will Catlett, Brandee Evans, Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, and producers Kiah Clingman and Kristen Uno are expected to participate in red carpet interviews.

About: Following the passing of his wife, a devoted father is learning to raise his son with Down Syndrome as a single parent. 

Directed by: David Fortune

Produced by: Kiah Clingman, Kristen Uno, Autumn Bailey-Ford

Executive Producers: Naturi Naughton, Two Lewis, Korstiaan Vandiver, Tyler Edgarton

Starring: Will Catlett, Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, Brandee Evans, Terri J. Vaughn

KEVIN HART NAMED HOST OF “BET AWARDS” 2025

Sylvester April 22, 2025

The 25th Anniversary of “BET Awards”—Culture’s Biggest Night—is going even BIGGER! BET announced today, global superstar, comedian, and entertainment mogul Kevin Hart will host “BET Awards” 2025, airing LIVE on BETfrom the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 8 pm ET/PT. This milestone celebration will honor 25 years of cultural artistry and shine a spotlight on the most influential voices across music, film, television, and sports.

Hart is a two-time New York Times best-selling author and four-time EMMY® winner, known for his larger-than-life personality and unique comedic style. He will bring his signature humor and energy to the “BET Awards”stage, ensuring an unforgettable night for audiences worldwide.  As one of the most influential figures in entertainment, Hart’s presence highlights BET’s commitment to celebrating Black culture and its significant contributions to the global landscape.

Since its inception, “BET Awards” has remained the most coveted stage for Black culture, recognizing and amplifying the voices and talents shaping the industry. “BET Awards” 2024 underscored BET’s singular ability to convene the largest Black audiences and drive meaningful and unforgettable cultural moments that reverberate across communities and society. “BET Awards” 2025 special 25^th anniversary edition promises to deliver the ultimate show-stopping performances, powerful moments, and heartfelt tributes reflecting Black culture’s depth and richness over the last quarter century.

“I love a celebration! It’s a chance to reflect, cherish, and honor life’s unforgettable moments,” says Kevin Hart.“I’m truly honored to host the 25th BET Awards and celebrate the culture’s biggest night. This year marks the 25th anniversary, and my partners at Hartbeat, BET, and JCE are pulling out all the stops to make it a night to remember. It’s a Black-Tie affair, and you’re all invited. Tune in live on June 9th, only on BET.”

“Kevin Hart is a powerhouse of an entertainer. His impact spans comedy, film, television, and beyond. As we celebrate 25 years of the BET Awards, we couldn’t think of a more dynamic host to lead this historic night,” said Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “Kevin’s unmatched charisma, comedic brilliance, and deep-rooted connection to our culture make him the perfect choice to commemorate this milestone event.”

“For over a decade, Kevin Hart has been a beloved part of the BET family, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him return to host the 25th anniversary BET Awards,” said Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET. “His unparalleled talent, infectious energy, and deep connection to our audience make him the perfect host for this historic celebration. Kevin has continuously pushed boundaries in entertainment. On the heels of the successful launch of BET+ original series Lil Kev, we are eager to expand our partnership and continue to bring groundbreaking projects to life.”

Hart has a robust history with the BET, beginning as host of stand-up comedy showcase “Comic View: One Night Stand” in 2008. Hart also executive produced and starred in “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” the scripted parody series that premiered in 2013. On March 6, BET+ launched “Lil Kev,” the streamer’s first adult animated comedy series, based on Hart’s childhood and family, and produced by Hart’s entertainment company, Hartbeat.

SUPERMAN

Sylvester April 18, 2025

“Superman,” DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind. DC Studios heads Peter Safran and Gunn are producing the film, which Gunn directs from his own screenplay, based on characters from DC, Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The film stars David Corenswet (“Twisters,” “Hollywood”) in the dual role of Superman/Clark Kent, Rachel Brosnahan (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”) as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult (the “X-Men” movies, “Juror #2”) as Lex Luthor. The film also stars Edi Gathegi (“For All Mankind”), Anthony Carrigan (“Barry,” “Gotham”), Nathan Fillion (the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, “The Suicide Squad”), Isabela Merced (“Alien Romulus”), Skyler Gisondo (“Licorice Pizza,” “Booksmart”), Sara Sampaio (“At Midnight”), María Gabriela de Faría (“The Moodys”), Wendell Pierce (“Selma,” “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”), Alan Tudyk (“Andor”), Pruitt Taylor Vince (“Bird Box”) and Neva Howell (“Greedy People”). “Superman” is executive produced by Nikolas Korda, Chantal Nong Vo and Lars Winther. Behind the camera, Gunn is joined by frequent collaborators, including director of photography Henry Braham, production designer Beth Mickle, costume designer Judianna Makovsky and composer John Murphy, along with composer David Fleming (“The Last of Us”), editors William Hoy (“The Batman”), Jason Ballantine (the “IT” films, “The Flash”) and Craig Alpert (“Deadpool 2,” “Blue Beetle”).

2025 ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL FILMS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS

Sylvester April 14, 2025

The 49th Annual Atlanta Film Festival + Creative Conference presented byRendezvous (ATLFF) revealed newly added key programming, including the Closing Night Presentation, talent appearances, and the full lineup of Marquee screenings and Special Presentations for the 2025 event. The 11-day film festival and educational conference will take place Thursday, April 24 through Sunday, May 4, 2025, with screenings primarily held at the Plaza Theatre and Tara Theatre in Atlanta.

On Saturday, May 3, the Closing Night Presentation of A24’s “Friendship,”  a comedy film written and directed by Andrew DeYoung, will take place at the Plaza Theatre at 7:00pm. The film stars Paul Rudd and Tim Robinson and chronicles a suburban dad as he falls hard for his charismatic new neighbor.

Today’s announcement includes Marquee screenings of“The Surfer,” starring Nicolas Cage, “Ricky,” directed by Rashad Frett, and documentary “Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted.”  Newly announced talent expected to attend the festival include actor and SNAFU author Ed Helms, “Red Clay” Co-Screenwriters and Executive Producers Tauheed “2 Chainz” Epps and Omar Epps, “Come See Me in the Good Light” Director and producer Ryan White and producer Jessica Hargrave,“Desperately Seeking Susan” filmmaker Susan Seidelman, and “Metropolitan” filmmaker Whit Stillman. The Special Presentation lineup features collaborations with Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week, the Atlanta Convention and Visitor Bureau, Seed & Spark, RE:IMAGINE and more. 

The screenings and events announced today join the previously announced lineup of more than 132 official selections and Marquee screenings, including the Opening Night Presentation of the Georgia-filmed narrative feature, “Color Book.” Previously announced talent appearances at the 2025 festival include Kerry Washington, Will Catlett, Jeremiah Alexander Daniels, David Fortune, Billy Payne, and Ambassador Andrew Young.

Atlanta Film Festival will again offer a mix of in-person and virtual screenings. Screenings will be primarily held at the Plaza Theatre (1049 Ponce De Leon Ave NE) and The Tara Theatre (2345 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324), with additional screenings and events held at The Rialto, The Supermarket, and Scout Atlanta. Most official selections will be available to watch virtually following the in-person events; the virtual screenings and events will be presented via Eventive. 

The full schedule of selected films, Marquee screenings and Special Presentations is now available here and through the ATLFF 2025 app. Festival badges and individual screening tickets are also now available for purchase. 

CLOSING NIGHT PRESENTATION 

Friendship

directed by Andrew DeYoung

United States // 2024 // English // 101 mins

A suburban dad Craig falls hard for his charismatic new neighbor, but Craig’s attempts to make an adult male friend threaten to ruin both of their lives. 

#NarrativeFeature, #Marquee

NEWLY ADDED MARQUEE SCREENINGS 

Come See Me in the Good Light

directed by Ryan White

United States // 2025 // English // 104 mins

An unexpectedly funny and joyful love story, poets Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley navigate life and mortality in the face of an incurable diagnosis.

#DocumentaryFeature, #Marquee

*Director and producer Ryan White and producer Jessica Hargrave are expected to attend.

Ricky

directed by Rashad Frett 

United States // 2025 // English 112 mins

Newly released after being locked up in his teens, 30-year-old Ricky navigates the challenging realities of life post-incarceration, and the complexity of gaining independence for the first time as an adult.

#Marquee

The Surfer

directed by Lorcan Finnegan

United States // 2024 // English // 103 mins

A man returns to the idyllic beach of his childhood to surf with his son. When he is humiliated by a group of locals, the man is drawn into a conflict that keeps rising and pushes him to his breaking point.

#NarrativeFeature, #Marquee

*Lorcan Finnegan expected to attend

Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted

directed by Isaac Gale, Ryan Olson, David McMurry

United States // 2024 // English // 95 mins

Cult musician Swamp Dogg and housemates Moogstar and Guitar Shorty have turned their suburban LA home into an artistic haven. They journey through the turbulent music business, forming a special friendship transcending eras.

#DocumentaryFeature, #Marquee

SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS

A Cappella Books presents: SNAFU with Book Talk 

written by Ed Helms 

A Cappella Books and the Atlanta Film Festival are thrilled to welcome actor, comedian, writer and host of the hit podcast “SNAFU” Ed Helms to the historic Tara Theatre for a hilarious and history-packed evening in celebration of his new book, “SNAFU: The Definitive Guide to History’s Greatest Screwups.” Spanning from the 1950s to the 2000s, “SNAFU” dives deep into some of America’s most entertaining historical misfires. With stories like planting nukes on the moon and training cats to be CIA spies, Helms unpacks the decision-making (or lack thereof) behind these misadventures. Filled with sharp humor, “SNAFU” is a wild ride through time that not only entertains but offers fresh insights that just might prevent history from repeating itself again and again.

#SpecialPresentation

*Ed Helms will attend for Book Talk conversation 

ACVB Presents: Colors of Atlanta 

An Academy Award®-qualifying event that showcases bold storytelling from around the world. This year’s featured documentaries follow 12 visionary photographers as they capture the city through food, history and the faces that define its culture. While a single image can tell a story, the deeper narrative behind each frame comes to life in this stunning visual journey. Experience the premiere of four new features on April 28, 2025, at the Plaza Theatre.

Reserve your ticket HERE.

#SpecialPresentation

Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week presents: Fashion Meets Film: The 2025 Zero Waste Fashion Show 

In partnership with Atlanta Sustainable Fashion Week, Fashion Meets Film: The 2025 Zero Waste Fashion Show will take place on April 25 at The Supermarket Atlanta. This groundbreaking event blends fashion, film, and conscious creativity, featuring the debut of the College Football Playoff Upcycled Collection, crafted from repurposed game-day materials. 

#SpecialPresentation 

Coherence

directed by James Ward Byrkit

United States, United Kingdom // 2013 // English // 99 mins

Strange things begin to happen when a group of friends gather for a dinner party on an evening when a comet is passing overhead.

#NarrativeFeature, #SpecialPresentation

Desperately Seeking Susan

directed by Susan Seidelman

United States // 1985 // English // 104 mins

Plazadrome and the Atlanta Film Festival present: “Desperately Seeking Susan” (1985) with director Susan Seidelman in attendance. In the film, a bored New Jersey suburban housewife’s fascination with a free-spirited woman she has read about in the personal columns leads to her being mistaken for the woman herself. A book signing will take place ahead of the screening with the director and author Marya E. Gates on Saturday, May 3 at 12pm at the Plaza Theatre.

#NarrativeFeature, #SpecialPresentation

*Susan Seidelman expected to attend 

The Games in Black & White

directed by George Hirthler and Bob Judson 

United States // 2025 // 100 mins

Centered around the inspirational friendship of icons Andrew Young and Billy Payne—the most successful Black and White partnership in the American South in the civil rights era—“The Games in Black & White” presents the first comprehensive look at Atlanta’s Olympics from bid to legacy and the city’s transformation that followed.

#DocumentaryFeature, #SpecialPresentation

*Ambassador Andrew Young and Billy Payne expected to attend

Metropolitan

directed by Whit Stillman

United States, Spain // 1989 // English // 98 mins

A group of young upper-class Manhattanites are blithely passing through the gala debutante season, when an unusual outsider joins them and stirs them up.

#NarrativeFeature, #Special Presentation

*Walt Stillman expected to attend 

Plaza presents: Rocky Horror Picture Show with LDOD

directed by Jim Sharman 

United States // 1975 // English // 93 minutes 

In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon), stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), a transvestite scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker (Meat Loaf) and a creepy butler (Richard O’Brien). Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.”

LDOD was founded to perform screen accurate productions of The Rocky Horror Picture Show every Friday night as an alternative entertainment source for the metro Atlanta area. 

#SpecialPresentation 

RE:IMAGINE Presents ‘Reel Connections: Spring’—A Celebration of Atlanta’s Rising Filmmakers

As part of the Atlanta Film Festival, Reel Connections: Spring will feature a curated selection of student work, short films from RE:IMAGINE programs, and work from local artists, offering a platform for fresh perspectives in storytelling. Attendees will also gain insight from an esteemed panel of students, teaching artists, and HBCU Fellows, who will share their journeys and experiences in the industry.

#SpecialPresentation 

Seed & Spark Sustainability Summit 

Presented by Dolly Card, IMDb Pro, and the Trilith Institute, the Seed & Spark Sustainability Summit is a FREE one-day educational event focused on bringing the local independent film community together and thriving as a storyteller living in the Southeast.

#SpecialPresentation

Shadow Force

directed by Joe Carnahan

United States // 2025 // English // 104 minutes

Kyrah (Kerry Washington) and Issac (Omar Sy) were once the leaders of a multinational special forces group called Shadow Force. They broke the rules by falling in love, and in order to protect their son, they go underground. With a large bounty on their heads, and the vengeful Shadow Force hot on their trail, one family’s fight becomes all-out war.

#NarrativeFeature, #Marquee

*Kerry Washington expected to attend

Withdrawal

directed by Aaron Strand

United States // 2025 // English // 93 mins

Artistic lovers, Viv and Jay, have become trapped in a vicious cycle of codependent heroin

addiction. But when Viv’s wealthy parents hire an interventionist to take Viv to rehab, the couple

decides to set off on their own with the help of a suboxone prescription… all they have to do is

survive a harrowing night through drug withdrawal. As the hours tick by, the couple is faced with

an ever-increasing array of physical, mental, and emotional torments that sends them searching

through their fractured memories trying to figure out where it all went wrong.

#NarrativeFeature, #SpecialPresentation, #GeorgiaFilm, #WorldPremiere

NARRATIVE SHORTS

Red Clay

directed by Christian Nolan Jones

United States // 2025 // English // 22 mins

In early 2000s Atlanta, Nook struggles to define a future for himself, aside from the world perpetuated by his mother’s addiction.

#NarrativeShort #GeorgiaFilm

###

About Atlanta Film Festival

The Atlanta Film Festival is an Academy Award-qualifying festival and the area’s preeminent celebration of cinema. As one of the largest and longest-running festivals in the country, ATLFF welcomes an audience of over 28,000 annually to discover hundreds of new independent, international, animated, documentary, and short films, selected from 8000+ submissions from all over the world. It is also the most distinguished event in its class, recognized as Best Film Festival by Creative Loafing, Sunday Paper, 10Best, and Atlanta Magazine. The 2025 Atlanta Film Festival will take place from April 24 – May 4 and is presented by Rendezvous. 

The Atlanta Film Festival is the chief annual operation of the Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS), one of the oldest and largest organizations dedicated to the promotion and education of film in the United States, which enriches the community through screenings, classes, workshops, and other events year-round. 

www.AtlantaFilmFestival.com

HGTV’s ‘Married to Real Estate’ Moves to Prime Time

Sylvester April 14, 2025

Gabourey Sidibe Stars in “Give Me Back My Daughter”

Sylvester March 27, 2025

ACADEMY AWARD® AND GOLDEN GLOBE® NOMINEE 

GABOUREY SIDIBE STARS IN

GIVE ME BACK MY DAUGHTER

PREMIERING ON APRIL 5 ON LIFETIME

Lifetime greenlights new original movie, Give Me Back My Daughter, headlined by Academy Award and Golden Globe nominee and NAACP Image Award winner Gabourey Sidibe (Precious). Premiering on Saturday April 5 at 8p/7c, Sidibe stars as Renee, a single mother struggling to make ends meet and who after making a heartbreaking decision, loses custody of her daughter.

Give Me Back My Daughter tells the story of Renee (Gabourey Sidibe) and her daughter, Imani (Cadence Reese), who are left homeless after Renee loses her job and they are evicted from their home. Determined to stay independent, Renee refuses any public assistance, but her desperation leads to a difficult decision: leaving her daughter, in the car during a job interview, which results in her arrest and Imani being taken by Child Protective Services. As Renee navigates family court, she discovers the support of those around her and comes to understand that she can’t do it all on her own. With the help of new friends, she starts to see a glimmer of hope in her situation and remains steadfast in her determination to do whatever it takes to be reunited with her daughter. Walnette Santiago, Sean Anthony Baker and Myles Truitt co-star.

Give Me Back My Daughter is produced by Swirl Films for Lifetime. Leslie Greif, Jason Egenberg, Eric Tomosunas, Ron Robinson executive produce. Kelley Kali directs from the script written by Xavier Burgin.

‘Single Black Female 3: The Final Chapter’

Sylvester March 19, 2025

SINGLE BLACK FEMALE 3: THE FINAL CHAPTER 

PREMIERES MARCH 22ND ON LIFETIME

STARRING RAVEN GOODWIN, AMBER RILEY, 

K. MICHELLE AND PORSHA WILLIAMS

THE THIRD AND FINAL INSTALLMENT 

OF THE SINGLE BLACK FEMALE FRANCHISE 

Lifetime announces the final installment of the epic Single Black Female franchise, reuniting Raven Goodwin, Amber Rileyand K. Michelle to reprise their roles for Single Black Female 3: The Final Chapter, premiering Saturday, March 22 at 8p/7c. Joining the trio for the new original movie are Porsha Williams (Real Housewives of Atlanta) as Detective Ebony Williams and Kennedy Chanel as Simone’s daughter Joy. 

After being wrongfully convicted of murder, Monica (Raven Goodwin) has finally been exonerated—but freedom comes at a price. Though the charges against her have been dropped, the stain of suspicion lingers, and reclaiming her life, her career, and the trust of those around her is proving to be an uphill battle. Meanwhile, the real threat has yet to vanish. Simone (Amber Riley), now a fugitive, has fled to a convent in Mexico, having no choice but to abandon Houston, along with the one thing she truly cared about—her daughter, Joy (Kennedy Chanel). When a terrifying nightmare shakes her to the core, Simone becomes convinced Joy is in danger and returns to Houston, for a final reckoning between the estranged half-sisters. It’s only a matter of time before old grudges resurface and Monica and Simone come face-to-face. K. Michelle reprises her role as Monica’s best friend Bebe. 

Single Black Female 3: The Final Chapter is produced by Swirl Films for Lifetime. Raven Goodwin, Karen Peterkin, Monique Nash, Korin Williams, Eric Tomosunas and Ty Walker executive produce. Keena Ferguson directs from the script written by Sa’Rah L. Jones and Tessa Scott. 

#SingleBlackFemale3 #TheFinalChapter

Premiere Date: Saturday, March 22 at 8p/7c on Lifetime

Cast:

Raven Goodwin as Monica

Amber Riley as Simone

K. Michelle as Bebe

Porsha Williams as Detective Ebony Williams

Kennedy Chanel as Joy

ABOUT LIFETIME

Celebrating 40 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies, high-quality limited series and breakout non-fiction series and documentaries. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long-running Stop Breast Cancer for Life, Stop Violence Against Women, and Broader Focus, a major global initiative dedicated to supporting and hiring female directors, writers and producers, including women of color, to make its content. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime DigitalTM are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC, a subsidiary of A+E Networks. A+E Networks is a joint venture of the Disney- ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

“Married To Real Estate” Private Watch Party With Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson

Sylvester March 18, 2025

The hit Atlanta-based series Married to Real Estate is officially back and better than ever for its fourth season. Married To Real Estate held their Private Screening and Red Carpet with Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson at Modex Studio for Atlanta VIPs and Tastemakers. Egypt and Mike arrived to a full room of fans and family who were excited to get an early viewing of the new season.

About the Show

Egypt Sherrod and Mike Jackson get clients into the Atlanta, Georgia dream neighborhoods they never thought they could afford. By using their unparalleled real estate expertise, the couple will make smart purchases and even smarter renovations while managing their busy family.

Egypt Sherrod Bio

Egypt Sherrod is a successful real estate broker in Atlanta Georgia and CEO of the Egypt Sherrod Real Estate Group, designer, television host, author and serial entrepreneur. HGTV fans and her personal real estate and design clients have come to affectionately expect tough love with a hug from Egypt. She is best known as the host of Married to Real Estate, which garners 19 million viewers. Her best-selling book, Keep Calm, It’s Just Real Estate was named the #1 book in the real estate genre by the Book Authority, and nominated for an NAACP Image Award. Egypt along with her builder husband Mike, were crowned the winners on Season 3 of HGTV’s flagship competition design and renovation show Rock the Block, building the highest-selling home in the series’ history. 

The transparent mother of three girls recently had the honor of ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange and was honored by 100 Black Women as a real estate trailblazer. She has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, Black Enterprise, Ebony, Essence, Rolling Stone and Architectural Digest and has been named Network Journal’s 40 Under 40.

Mike Jackson Bio

Mike Jackson is a builder with a passion for woodworking, art and creative projects. He also moonlights as DJ Fadelf and has traveled the world for years as a professional, award winning celebrity DJ. Mike joins his wife Egypt Sherrod, a powerhouse real estate broker, in their new HGTV series Married to Real Estate. Together, they create gorgeous homes with smart renovations for their clients, all while juggling busy professional and personal lives. Egypt and Mike also compete in season 3 of HGTV’s mega-hit home renovation competition series, Rock the Block.

Come Wednesday, March 12 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, you can catch Egypt and Mike back at what they do best when the fourth season of Married to Real Estate premieres on HGTV.

The 2025 American Black Film Festival Announces Nia Long and Larenz Tate as Ambassadors

Sylvester March 15, 2025

The 29th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF)announced today that Nia Long and Larenz Tate, stars of the 1997 iconic romantic drama Love Jones will serve as Ambassadors to the festival. As Ambassadors, Long and Tate will help bring awareness to ABFF’s mission of showcasing Black content and fostering opportunities for creators of color to succeed in the film and TV industry, while inspiring and empowering the next generation of storytellers. This year’s festival will take place live in Miami Beach June 11-15, followed by an online segment June 16-23 on ABFF PLAY (https://abffplay.com/). 

In addition to their roles as Ambassadors, Long and Tate will participate in the ABFF Remembers: Love Jones – an intimate conversation and musical tribute celebrating the legacy of the film. The beloved co-leads will reunite to reflect on the making of the film, their experiences on set, and the enduring friendship that has flourished over the years. Adding to the magic, the event will feature curated selections from the film’s iconic soundtrack, a musical masterpiece in its own right. Jeff Friday first saw Love Jones at another film festival, an experience that inspired him to create the American Black Film Festival. Since the early days, Long and Tate have been ardent supporters of the festival.

“We are thrilled to welcome Nia and Larenz as Ambassadors to the American Black Film Festival,” said Jeff and Nicole Friday, Founders of NICE CROWD. “Their work in Love Jones remains iconic, and they have long been trailblazers in the industry. Their contributions to ABFF’s mission have been immeasurable, dating back to the festival’s early days in Acapulco in the late ’90s. We are honored to count them as dear friends.”

Nia Long is an Award-winning actor, Grammy-nominated performer and author, who is known for her iconic work and legendary roles across both film and television which has garnered her four NAACP Awards. Long next stars in Lionsgate’s Michael, the highly anticipated biopic of Michael Jackson, coming out October 3, 2025. Her upcoming memoir will be published by Gallery Books.

Larenz Tate is a Chicago-born actor who became a cultural icon with his roles in both television and film. He currently stars as Congressman Tate in Power Book II: Ghost on Starz, after first appearing in the Power universe in Season 4 as the ambitious Councilman Rashad Tate. Tate’s career includes groundbreaking roles in films like Menace II Societyand Dead Presidents, which vividly depicted the struggles of Black men in South Central Los Angeles, and his celebrated performance in Love Jones (1997), a cult classic. He’s also starred in Crash, Girls Trip, and TV series such as House of Lies and Rescue Me. Tate is also an entrepreneur, co-founding TateMen Entertainment with his brothers to develop and produce content that champions Black storytelling. The company launched the hit podcast Bronzeville, which has garnered over 20 million downloads. Tate remains a strong advocate for supporting emerging filmmakers and creators in the industry.

Founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is the leading festival of its kind showcasing Black storytelling. Since its inception, the ABFF has been dedicated to supporting Friday’s conviction that Black artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. Having premiered the work and encouraged the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers and actors, the ABFF has become the standard-bearer of excellence for Black American creativity.

ABFF sponsors and partners to date are Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO^® (Founding), Comcast NBCUniversal, Walmart, Ally (Presenting), Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) (Host), City of Miami Beach (Major), Sony Pictures Entertainment, American Airlines (Official), Getty Images, NYFA, (Industry), Variety, LA Times (Media).

About NICE CROWD
NICE CROWD, formerly ABFF Ventures, is a Los Angeles-based live events company that develops and produces properties in the arts, entertainment, lifestyle and wellness industries that showcase BIPOC culture and talent. The Company’s tentpole event is the American Black Film Festival, founded in 1997.

To learn more about NICE CROWD events, visit www.nicecrowd.com.

TAMAR BRAXTON & MS. E CELEBRATE PREMIERE OF BRAND NEW CLEO TV SERIES

Sylvester March 13, 2025

CLEO TV celebrated the premiere of “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E.,” starring Tamar Braxton and Evelyn “Ms. E” Braxton,
 at The Garden Room in Atlanta, GA. The evening brought together key media, influencers, and industry tastemakers for a first look at the highly anticipated show, premiering Wednesday, March 26 at 9 PM ET/CT on CLEO TV. Guests enjoyed a dynamic program featuring a welcome from TV One and CLEO TV President, Michelle Rice, and Powerhouse Productions founder, Rochelle Brown; an exclusive episode clip preview and Q&A session with Tamar Braxton and Evelyn Braxton, moderated by network President, Michelle L. Rice.

About “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E.”

Get ready to spice up your screens with the new series “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E.” Join the dynamic duo of award-winning superstar Tamar Braxton and her mother, Evelyn (affectionately known as Ms. E), as they turn up the heat in the kitchen serving up fabulous looks and delicious dishes. With years of cooking together and friendly competition over who makes the best family recipes, this pair brings their signature humor and charm to every episode. “Cooking Sessions with Tamar & Ms. E” premieres Wednesday, March 26 at 9 PM ET/CT on CLEO TV.

BIRTHDAY BASH ATL Returns June 21 at State Farm Arena

Sylvester March 11, 2025

Atlanta’s Hot 107.9 is approaching three decades of influencing Hip Hop culture in the South, across the nation and around the world. Though their reach is global, HOT 107.9 continues to gain loyal fans with authentic community service, exclusive listener experiences and one of the biggest sold-out concerts in the country, Birthday Bash ATL. 

Last year, Birthday Bash ATL presented a captivating show at the award-winning State Farm Arena. HOT 107.9 produced a memorable concert experience with a historic headlining performance from Atlanta’s own Latto, Boosie, Killer Mike, BossMan Dlow and surprise guests such as Usher, Summer Walker and more. 

Birthday Bash ATL 2025 is positioned to raise the bar again and provide another unforgettable evening for the culture. This highly anticipated annual summer concert is projected to be a sell-out success. Event producers recommend purchasing tickets early. 

Birthday Bash ATL 2025 presale tickets will be available to the HOT 107.9 Text Club members on Thursday, March 6^th and to the general public on Friday, March 7th at 10:00am at Ticketmaster.com. For up to date information, visit www.BirthdayBashATL.com or www.HotSpotATL.com, follow us on Instagram and Twitter @HOT1079atl and of course listen to WHTA HOT 107.9 FM.   

Birthday Bash ATL 2025 EVENT DETAILS: 

Saturday, June 21, 2025 @ State Farm Arena 

Gates Open: 6:00pm 

Showtime: 7:00pm – 11:00pm 

HURRY UP TOMORROW in Theaters May 16

Sylvester March 7, 2025

Lionsgate released the official poster forHURRY UP TOMORROW, in theaters May 16. The film was directed by Trey Edward Shults and stars Abel Tesfaye, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan. 

ONLY IN THEATERS MAY 16

Directed by: Trey Edward Shults

Written by: Trey Edward Shults & Abel Tesfaye & Reza Fahim

Produced by: Abel Tesfaye, p.g.a., Reza Fahim, p.g.a., Kevin Turen, p.g.a., Harrison Kreiss, p.g.a.

Cast: Abel Tesfaye, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan

Synopsis: A musician plagued by insomnia is pulled into an odyssey with a stranger who begins to unravel the very core of his existence.

Hurry Up Tomorrow, directed by Trey Edward Shults features Abel Tesfaye, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan, exclusively in theaters on May 16.

Official Site: https://www.hurryuptomorrow.movie

Publicity Materials: https://www.lionsgatepublicity.com/theatrical/hurry-up-tomorrow

Genre: Psychological Thriller

Keshia Knight Pulliam Stars in ‘Wife Stalker’ on Lifetime

Sylvester March 6, 2025

Elisabeth Rohm (Girl in the Basement) returns to executive produce and direct Keshia Knight Pulliam in the thriller Wife Stalker. Based on the book The Wife Stalker by Liv Constantine, the film also stars real-life spouses Grace and Traí Byers and follows a wife whose husband leaves her for a woman with a nefarious past.Joanna (Keshia Knight Pulliam) and Leo (Traí Byers) seem to have it all. Two adorable children, Evie (Alayna Bernard) and Aaron (AJ Bernard) and a beautiful house in the suburbs.  But their perfect marriage begins to unravel when Piper (Grace Byers), the owner of a wellness center moves to town and sets her sights on Leo who quickly falls for her charms. As Piper ruthlessly maneuvers her way into the family, Joanna starts digging into her past and discovers some very disturbing secrets including two previous dead husbands. Fearing for their safety, Joanna is determined to find the proof that she needs and expose Piper in time to protect her family.

 CELEBRATION OF BLACK EXCELLENCE AT THE “56TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS”

Sylvester March 3, 2025

THE INDUSTRY’S PREMIERE CELEBRATION OF BLACK EXCELLENCE HONORED FORMER VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS, THE WAYANS FAMILY,  DAVE CHAPPELLE, BET MEDIA GROUP FOR 45 YEARS OF ENTERTAINMENT & COMMUNITY IMPACT AND KEKE PALMER AS ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR

NEARLY THREE MILLION P2+ TOTAL VIEWERS ACROSS BET MEDIA GROUP

THE “56TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS” WAS THE #1 MOST SOCIAL PROGRAM OF THE NIGHT WITH OVER 2 MILLION INTERACTIONS

Gabrielle Union

NAACP and BET Media Group delivered an unforgettable celebration of Black excellence at the “56th NAACP Image Awards”, honoring individuals whose contributions continue to uplift and empower the Black community. From Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ rallying call for civic engagement to the Wayans family’s multigenerational influence on comedy, the night was a testament to the legacy and future of Black excellence. Dave Chappelle’s fearless artistry and BET Media Group’s 45-year mission to champion Black stories reinforced a well-known truth: Black voices matter, Black talent is unstoppable, and Black culture drives the world forward. The live event dominated the evening with a turnout of nearly three million P2+ Total Viewers*, underscoring the commitment of NAACP and BET to celebrate and uplift Black voices.

President & CEO Scott Mills of BET Media Group remarked, “The NAACP Image Awards continues to be a vital platform for celebrating the depth and breadth of Black excellence. This year’s show reinforced the importance of representation in media and the power of storytelling to uplift and empower our community. BET Media Group is proud to partner with the NAACP in this legacy of amplifying Black voices, and we remain committed to telling the stories that shape culture and inspire future generations.”

• The Awards drew nearly three MM Total Viewers P2+ (EDAC),* as it was simulcast LIVE across 11 Paramount networks, including CBS, BET Her, VH1, MTV, MTV2, Pop, TV Land, LOGO, Comedy Central, and Smithsonian, along with the pre-show and next-day encore.
• The show captivated audiences across all TV, and cable, securing its position as the #1 most social program of the night, excluding sports (2/25/25).** 
• On social, the show generated more than 2 million social interactions across Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube**, a testament to the enduring relevance and resonance of the NAACP Image Awards. 
• The NAACP Red Carpet Live was the #2 most social special program on TV across BET, VH1, and BET Her.**

From the heartfelt humor of Damon and Marlon Wayans’ reflections on their family’s journey from humble beginnings to a multigenerational comedic dynasty to Kerry Washington’s emphatic and timely speech for her Outstanding Actress win for “The Six Triple Eight” to Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ resounding speech that uplifted and challenged the audience ”to stay alert, to seek the truth, and to actively participate in the fight for America’s future,” the evening’s program left an indelible impression on all who were able to witness.

Damon Wayans and Amyra

From the heartfelt humor of Damon and Marlon Wayans’ reflections on their family’s journey from humble beginnings to a multigenerational comedic dynasty to Kerry Washington’s emphatic and timely speech for her Outstanding Actress win for “The Six Triple Eight” to Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ resounding speech that uplifted and challenged the audience ”to stay alert, to seek the truth, and to actively participate in the fight for America’s future,” the evening’s program left an indelible impression on all who were able to witness.  

JOHN P. KEE TO BE HONORED AT THE 2025 BMI TRAILBLAZERS OF GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS

Sylvester February 26, 2025

Ceremony Will Also Celebrate Top Gospel Songs, Songwriters and Publishers on Thursday, April 3 in Atlanta, GA

BMI will celebrate the songwriters and publishers behind the year’s best in Gospel at the 2025 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, held at Flourish Atlanta on Thursday, April 3rd.World-renowned Gospel music pioneer and pastor John P. Kee will be honored as a Trailblazer of Gospel in recognition of his award-winning career spanning over 40 years. Throughout the ceremony, BMI will also recognize the songwriters, producers and music publishers of the past year’s 25 most-performed Gospel songs in the United States. The BMI Gospel Song, Songwriter and Publisher of the Year will also be named during the inspirational gathering. The private event will be hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

“John P. Kee is a true visionary in the genre, and his music continues to have an impact in Gospel music for over forty years and counting. It’s an honor to recognize his dedication and the unwavering commitment he’s made through his artistry and evangelism,” said Brewton. “We’re extremely excited to come together and celebrate his legacy and incredible accomplishments and proudly honor all of our award-winning songwriters and publishers for a special afternoon of great music and fellowship.”

John P. Kee, known as the “Prince of Gospel Music,” is a prolific multiple award-winning singer/songwriter and beloved pastor who is widely recognized for his contributions to contemporary Gospel music. Kee’s musical talents were discovered at an early age where after feeling inspired by the music heard in church, he began playing piano and writing songs at only eight years old. In the mid 1980’s, he started a community choir in Charlotte that eventually became known as the widely celebrated New Life Community Choir (NLCC). Over the course of his professional career spanning almost four decades he has written music for Hallmark, Inc., The Hawkins Family, Daryl Coley, Billy Preston, Dorinda Clark Cole, Rev. James Cleveland, Bishop Rance Allen, Florida Mass Choir, Mississippi Mass Choir, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and for the legendary Dr. James Cleveland’s Gospel Music Workshop of America, among others. His music has been featured in film, television, commercials and on Saturday Night Live. Throughout his solo career and his work with NLCC, he has amassed 37 GMWA Excellence Awards, 27 Stellar Awards, three BMI Awards, two Billboard Music Awards, a Soul Train Music Award, a Trailblazer Award from former President Bill Clinton and received seven GRAMMY nominations. Adding to his tremendous list of accolades, Kee was inducted into the International Gospel Hall of Fame in 2005 and was previously honored at the BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards in 2001 and 2005. 

In addition to being one of Gospel music’s greatest pioneers, Pastor Kee has been the full-time pastor of the New Life Fellowship Center in Charlotte, NC since its inception in 1995. Through non-traditional outreach that transcends the four walled structure, the church’s unique approach to ministry has resulted in a rapidly growing, thriving congregation.

Max Original Film THE PARENTING Debuts March 13

Sylvester February 12, 2025

• The Max Original film THE PARENTING, starring Nik Dodani, Brandon Flynn, Brian Cox, Edie Falco, Lisa Kudrow, Dean Norris, Parker Posey, and Vivian Bang, debuts THURSDAY, MARCH 13 on Max.
   
• Logline: A hilariously terrifying comedy, THE PARENTING follows young couple Rohan and Josh as they plan a perfect weekend getaway in the country to introduce their parents. As tensions begin to flare between the more traditional Sharon and Frank and the laid-back Liddy and Cliff, the families soon realize that their rental – managed by eccentric local Brenda – is haunted by the presence of a 400-year-old poltergeist. When one parent becomes thoroughly possessed, it’s up to the young couple and their meddlesome BFF Sara to unite the families and stop the evil entity once and for all.
   
• Cast: Nik Dodani (Rohan), Brandon Flynn (Josh), Brian Cox (Frank), Edie Falco (Sharon), Lisa Kudrow (Liddy), Dean Norris (Cliff), Parker Posey (Brenda), Vivian Bang (Sara), and others.
   
• Credits: Directed by Craig Johnson; written by Kent Sublette; produced by Chris Bender and Jake Weiner; executive producers Richard Brener, Chris Pan, David Neustadter, and Jared Ian Goldman.

DAVE CHAPPELLE NAMED PRESIDENT’S AWARD RECIPIENT FOR “56TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS”

Sylvester February 11, 2025

Today, the NAACPannounced that comedy legend and cultural icon Dave Chappelle will receive the prestigious President’s Award during the “56th NAACP Image Awards” airing live from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium on Saturday, February 22, at 8:00 PM ET/PT on BET and CBS. This year, the broadcast will be extended 30 minutes to 2.5 hours.

The President’s Award is presented in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service. Previous recipients include Usher, Gabrielle Union-Wade, Dwyane Wade, Rihanna, LeBron James, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, and Ms. Lauryn Hill.

“The President’s Award honors an unwavering dedication to community, and throughout his distinguished career, Dave Chappelle has consistently been recognized as a powerful voice of social consciousness,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “Through his unique ability to transform complex political issues into thought-provoking humor, Dave has solidified his place as one of the most impactful voices of our time. His work sparks conversations that compel people to examine their own beliefs, proving that in an age where open dialogue is increasingly rare, comedy can be both a powerful truth-teller and a driver of progress.”

Dave Chappelle is recognized as one of the greatest comedians of all time. He is the 2019 recipient of the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Chappelle’s work has earned him more than 30 nominations and awards in television and film for projects that include his groundbreaking sketch comedy television series Chappelle’s Show, comedy specials, and guest appearances on Saturday Night Live. Chappelle has received five Emmy awards, including three for his Netflix comedy specials Sticks & Stones(2020) and Equanimity & The Bird Revelation (2018), and two for hosting Saturday Night Live (2017 and 2021). Chappelle has won six GRAMMY^® Awards for Best Comedy Album, winning most recently in 2025 with The Dreamer.

BET and the NAACP remain committed to celebrating Black excellence and resilience through the “56^thNAACP Image Awards.” This support extends to the Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Pasadena communities affected by the recent wildfires. As part of these efforts, BET Media Group, NAACP, JSK and WME have partnered with LA County and in collaboration with local community organizations such as Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage, and WalkGood LA, to launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund, aimed at protecting homeowners from displacement and preserving the community’s cultural heritage.

EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT THE 31st ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS®

Sylvester February 11, 2025

The 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, produced by Silent House Productions in partnership with SAG-AFTRA, will stream live globally on Netflix Sunday, Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT

The Official SAG Awards Pre-Show, streaming on Netflix at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, will feature nominee interviews, highlights of the best fashion looks of the night, and a special look at the star-studded SAG Awards red carpet. The hosts of the Official Pre-Show will be announced in the coming days.

Kristen Bell returns as host after making history as the prestigious ceremony’s inaugural host in 2018.

• Jane Fonda will be honored with the 60thSAG Life Achievement Award in recognition of her career achievements and humanitarian accomplishments.
• For the first time, Michelin starred-chefDavid Chang has been named Executive Chef of the SAG Awards. Chef Chang’s menu will put a fresh spin on his Momofuku classics, with exclusive dishes for this year’s nominees inspired by his signature bold flavors.
• The SAG Awards are the only televised awards ceremony to exclusively honor performers and is voted on by SAG-AFTRA’s robust and diverse membership of 122,000+ performers, the largest voting body on the awards circuit.
• Since its inception, the Screen Actors Guild Awards has provided an annual donation to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. The Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund will prioritize financial assistance for members who have been affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles.

The BET Her Original Series “Design My Space: Atlanta

Sylvester February 10, 2025

The four-episode BET Her Original series “Design My Space: Atlanta” premieres Wednesday, February 26 at 8 PM ET on BET Her.  The series will continue with one episode weekly, with the finale on Wednesday, March 19.

Series Logline: “Design My Space: Atlanta” is the ultimate home makeover series where fresh starts meet bold transformations on a budget. An award-winning designer helps deserving Atlanta residents—first-time homeowners, empty nesters, and entrepreneurs—reimagine their spaces with stunning yet affordable makeovers that empower them to embrace new chapters in their lives.

Tyka Pryde Biography: Tyka Pryde is an Emmy®-nominated interior designer with over a decade of experience transforming spaces and redefining how we connect with our environments. Recognized for her exceptional work as the Art Director on Netflix’s Queer Eye, Tyka has contributed to two Emmy Award-winning shows and has been acknowledged for her contributions six times on the projects. Since entering the world of home makeover television in 2015, she has transformed hundreds of homes, restaurants, and television sets across the globe. Tyka’s designs are a vibrant reflection of individuality, combining bold textures, rich colors, and unexpected elements to craft spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. She curates her clients’ homes to reflect who they are inside, demonstrating that a successful interior is, above all else, a personal reflection of how one wishes to show up in the world. A trendsetter with an innate flair for storytelling through design, Tyka continues to captivate audiences and set new standards for impactful, deeply personal interiors. Her work is driven by a personal mission to create spaces that enhance mental and emotional well-being while inspiring a sense of belonging

Credits: “Design My Space: Atlanta” is executive produced by Eric Tomosunas for Swirl Films. Executive produced for BET by Tiffany Lea Williams and produced by Ashley Taylor. 

26TH ANNUAL SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 

Sylvester February 7, 2025

The Ultimate Celebration of Faith, Music & Football!

Super Bowl LIX week in New Orleans just got even more soulful! Join hosts Bill Bellamy & Rocsi Diaz as they bring you an unforgettable night of powerhouse performances, inspiring tributes, and legendary moments.

Featuring Performances By:
The Isley Brothers, Muni Long, Yolanda Adams, Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, Master P, Big Freedia, Lucky Daye, Trombone Shorty & The NFL Players Choir!

Honoring:

• Michael Strahan (Lifetime of Inspiration Award)
• Cameron Jordan (Community Award)
• Jared Verse (Rising Star Award)

• Cobie Durant (HBCU Spotlight Player)
• Jayden Daniels (Faith In Action) 

Don’t miss the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration airing Saturday, February 8, 2025, on FOX – the night before the big game!

Star-Studded 26th Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Hosted by Bill Bellamy and Rocsi Diaz Honors Michael Strahan, Cameron Jordan, Jared Verse

Sylvester January 29, 2025

The 26th Annual Super Bowl Soulful Celebration, an official NFL-sanctioned event and a cornerstone of Super Bowl weekend for over a quarter of a century, is now set to dazzle audiences with an unforgettable evening of music, faith, and football during Super Bowl LIX week in New Orleans with a star-studded live taping on FOX. This year’s celebration is led by acclaimed hosts Bill Bellamy, comedian and actor known for his scene-stealing roles in Love Jones and Any Given Sunday, and New Orleans native Rocsi Diaz, Emmy Award-winning media personality who currently serves as co-host for Tubi’s We Got Time Today with sports legend Deion Sanders. 

Joining Bellamy and Diaz to celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage and unbreakable spirit of New Orleans with epic performances and mashups is an incredible slate of award-winning artists, including The Isley Brothers, Muni Long, Yolanda Adams, Tori Kelly, and Jonathan McReynolds; New Orleans’ own Master P, Big Freedia, Lucky Daye, and Trombone Shorty; as well as the soulful harmonies of the NFL Players Choir, and heartfelt tributes to NFL players and leaders. This celebration under the theme “Keep Going” will premiere as a primetime special on FOX onSaturday, February 8, 2025, at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT, with additional airings on FS1, FOX Sports VOD, FOX Soul and Tubi.

“Hosting the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is like hitting the trifecta—music, faith, and football all in one show! And you can’t beat doing it in New Orleans. I’m excited to bring some laughs, some energy, and to be part of this incredible night with an amazing lineup,” said Bellamy. 

“Growing up in the lively vibe of New Orleans, I’ve felt the magic, resilience, and soul that make this city totally unique,” Diaz said with excitement. “Joining forces with Bill to host Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is a blast—it’s my moment to spotlight the beauty and spirit of the Big Easy! This isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of faith, community, and unity—values that define New Orleans and inspire the world. I’m beyond excited to help bring this epic night to life in my hometown!”

Honoring outstanding achievements on and off the field, the Lifetime of Inspiration Award will be presented to former NFL player and FOX Sports’ award-winning broadcaster Michael Strahan, celebrating his impact on sports, media, and philanthropy. 

“Being recognized with the Lifetime of Inspiration Award is such an incredible honor,” said Strahan. “When I think about the legends who’ve received this award, it’s truly special to be part of this group. The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is more than just music or football; it’s about making a real impact on and off the field. I’m thrilled to participate in this exceptional event which showcases a commitment to fostering positive change.”

The Community Award will recognize New Orleans Saints player Cameron Jordan for his dedication to service and leadership, while Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams will be honored with the Rising Star Award. Additional honorees and show participants will be announced.

The Super Bowl Soulful Celebration is brought to life by an outstanding production team dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience. The event is founded and executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as executive producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as showrunner and director, with GRAMMY®-nominated artist Adam Blackstone as music director, ensuring a seamless blend of performance, storytelling, and inspiration.  

“As we celebrate the 26th year of the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration as an official NFL-sanctioned event, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the journey that has brought us here,” said Few, Founder and Executive Producer. “Returning to New Orleans, a city that embodies resilience, culture, and faith, feels like the perfect way to honor the essence of what this event has always stood for. New Orleans is a city with a heartbeat of music, a legacy of strength, and a deep sense of community—qualities that reflect the very soul of this celebration.”

Laurence Fishburne and Hiroyuki Sanada to Receive Special Tribute and Honorary Awards at 52nd Annual Saturn Awards

Sylvester January 28, 2025

The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films is proud to unveil special tribute and honorary awards at the upcoming 52^ndAnnual Saturn Awards, including Laurence Fishburne whowill receive The Lance Reddick Legacy Award and two-time Emmy^® and two-time Golden Globe^® Award-winner Hiroyuki Sanada who is receiving The Robert Forster Artist’s Award.The Saturn Awards is being held Sunday, February 2 at The Hilton Universal City Hotel and will be live-streamed for FREE on both The Roku Channel and Electric Entertainment’s premium OTT app and FAST channel, ElectricNOW. 

Academy President Robert Holguin, alongside Saturn producers Bradley and Kevin Marcus, comment, “Both of these remarkable actors have significantly shaped the entertainment landscape, and captivating audiences around the globe. Their unique contributions have enriched genre entertainment and played a pivotal role in bringing it into the mainstream, celebrating the creativity and passion that fuel our industry. We can’t wait to honor their incredible achievements!”

The Lance Reddick Legacy Award represents and honors a performer’s exceptional talent and character, recognizing an individual who serves as an exemplary goodwill ambassador within their industry. Following in the footsteps of last year’s recipient, Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne will be presented his award by acclaimed Emmy^® and Grammy^® Award-winning actor, director and producer LeVar Burton. Laurence’s ability to embody complex characters and convey deep emotions has solidified his status as one of the most respected actors in the industry.  For the past 40 years, he has been using his platform and influence to promote positive change, inclusivity, and a deeper appreciation for the arts in the entertainment industry.

The Robert Forster Artist’s Award honors an actor for their body of work and impact on the industry in memory of the Academy’s late, dear friend and Saturn Award favorite, Robert Forster. His talent and legacy among his peers have been an inspiration to us all. Hiroyuki Sanada’s ability to seamlessly transition between Japanese and Western cinema while maintaining authenticity and depth in his performances has made him a respected figure both in Japan and internationally. His dedication to his craft and efforts to promote cultural exchange through his work mark him as an exemplary figure worthy of recognition. His influence extends beyond his acting prowess; he has been a trailblazer for Japanese actors in Hollywood, breaking barriers and paving the way for greater diversity in the industry. 

Previous recipients of The Robert Forster Artist’s Award have been Christopher Lloyd and Seth MacFarlane.

About The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror

The Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror is a non-profit organization founded in 1972 by film historian Doctor Donald A. Reed and is supported by several hundred genre enthusiasts and professionals (such as JJ Abrams, Dean Devlin, Gale Anne Hurd, Guillermo Del Toro, Greg Berlanti, and Kevin Feige) who have participated in the ongoing efforts of the Academy to promote genre film production and television programming since 1972. The organization is currently headed by President Robert Holguin and Saturn leaders Bradley Marcus and Kevin Marcus.

DEADLY ATTRACTION Red Carpet Premiere

Sylvester January 26, 2025

Deadly Attraction is #1 on TUBI and is on both their “Most Popular” and “Recommended” tabs — and is about “a woman who encounters a younger man who reignites her faith in true love, but she sees a jealous dark side to him and soon realizes her craving for love can potentially turn deadly.”

Those in attendance included: Monyetta Shaw-Carter, Toya Rushing, Veon Selman, Terry Allen (B.M.F.), Tray Chaney, Arrington Foster (BET’s Family Business), Christina Johnson, Tameka Foster, Rasheeda Frost, Angel Love, Zane, Sincerely Ward, Shaquita Smith and much more.

Synopsis – Eboni Jackson (40s), owner of a thriving PR Firm, regrets putting her career over finding love. After another bad date with an arrogant peer, she confides in her friend Tasha (30s) who suggests she considers dating younger men. When Eboni’s car breaks down, a charming young surgeon, Michael (30s) comes to her aid. They begin dating and Michael seems like the perfect man. Eboni falls for Michael, and he reveals that he’s having financial problems. Eboni, eager to make things work, surprises Michael with a check. Tasha doesn’t believe that giving Michael money is good judgement and expresses concern that Eboni is moving too fast with Michael. When one of Eboni’s employees, Chase, helps Eboni with her bags, jealousy grips Michael. Chase is later murdered in his apartment. On a double date with Tasha, Eboni witnesses an unhinged side of Michael. When Tasha’s date Dr. Donald probes into Michael’s backstory he flies into a rage and strikes Donald. Days later Dr. Donald ends up dead. Fearing that Michael may be the killer, Eboni decides to break things off with him. This angers Michael who promises Eboni that she’ll regret it. More tragedy strikes as Tasha is killed. Detective Parker (47) who has been investigating a string of domestic homicides reveals to Eboni that Michael isn’t who he claims to be and that her life may be in grave danger.

American Black Film Festival Honors Announces 2025 Honorees

Sylvester January 22, 2025

Hosted by Zainab Johnson, ABFF Honors Celebrates Legendary Performers Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Giancarlo Esposito and Keke Palmer 

The 7th American Black Film Festival (ABFF) Honors announced today the honorees of its annual awards ceremony recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry. Presented by NICE CROWD, the 2025 ABFF Honorswill take place on Monday, February 17 at the SLS hotel in Beverly Hills, CA, hosted by actress and comedian Zainab Johnson. The intimate, non-televised dinner will feature ABFF honorees and festival partners.

The 2025 ABFF Honors recipients are:

Excellence in the Arts Award (Female) – an Oscar-nominated actress, acclaimed for her portrayal of Oracene Price in King Richard, which earned her numerous awards and nominations, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor will soon star in the adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Nickel Boys. This award recognizes a highly acclaimed artist for their body of work and distinguished career achievements.

Giancarlo Esposito, an Emmy-nominated and award-winning actor, director, and producer, is celebrated for his iconic role as Gustavo “Gus” Fring in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, earning multiple accolades including Critics’ Choice and NAACP Image Awards. Known for his versatility, he stars as Moff Gideon in Disney+’s The Mandalorian, Stan Edgar in Amazon Prime’s The Boys, and has led projects like Netflix’s Kaleidoscope and AMC’s Parish. Esposito’s filmography includes The Usual Suspects, Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing, Beauty, and Megalopolis. Upcoming projects include Captain America: Brave New World, the Russo Brothers’ The Electric State, and Shonda Rhimes’ The Residence. He continues to captivate audiences across film, television, and streaming platforms with his powerful performances and remarkable range.

Keke Palmer is a multi- Emmy Award winning actress and television host, singer/songwriter, producer, NY Times best-selling author and a passionate voice of the millennial generation. She rose to fame at 12 with her breakout role in Akeelah and the Bee and has since starred in over 25 films and 30 TV shows, including True Jackson, VP. Recently, Keke starred in Jordan Peele’s blockbuster Nope and hosted NBC’s Password with Jimmy Fallon, earning the 2023 Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Game Show. In addition to releasing her new book, Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative, Palmer is set to star in the upcoming TriStar Pictures’ film One of Them Days. As CEO of KeyTV and Big Bosses Entertainment, she champions diverse creators and democratizes entertainment. Palmer has made history as the youngest SAG-nominated actress in a lead role, the first Black Cinderella on Broadway, and the youngest talk show host in history, continuing to break barriers across her remarkable career.

ABFF Honors is the American Black Film Festival’s annual awards season gala dedicated to recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry. Founded in 2016, the ceremony pays tribute to Black artists who have made significant contributions to American entertainment through their work as well as those who champion diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. 

ABFF Honors stems from the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), founded by Jeff Friday in 1997, the leading festival of its kind showcasing Black storytelling. Since its inception, the ABFF has been dedicated to supporting Friday’s conviction that Black artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts. Having premiered the work and encouraged the careers of many of today’s most successful filmmakers and actors, the ABFF has become the standard-bearer of excellence for Black American creativity. 

ABFF Honors is executive produced by Nicole and Jeff Friday (NICE CROWD) in association with dePasse Jones Entertainment and Rikki Hughes (Magic Lemonade). Sponsors for the event to date include: Cadillac, Ally (Presenting), and Sony Pictures Entertainment, Fulton Films GA (Supporting), and SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills (Industry).

Mary J. Blige’s Family Affair

Sylvester January 22, 2025

Mary J. Blige’s Family Affair picks up as Kendra (Ajiona Alexus)and Ben (Da’Vinchi) move out of the city in hopes of finally building a life together. With all their family around and inserted in their lives, tensions rise as they struggle with fertility issues and Kendra tries to find her footing with Ben’s son Miles.  Their relationship reaches a boiling point when Ben secretly helps his brother, and Kendra returns to the city and an old friend comes back into her life. The family must come together to help Kendra and Ben save their relationship and stay true to their real love.   

MARY J. BLIGE’S FAMILY AFFAIR 

PREMIERES THIS SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 8/7C

Mary J. Blige’s Family Affair is produced by Front Street Pictures.  Mary J. Blige, Bruce Miller, and Milana Edwards-Brooks executive produce from Blue Butterfly alongside Davis Entertainment’s Jordan and John Davis and Ajiona Alexus and Da’Vinchi also executive produce. Troy Scott directs from a script written by Rachel Ingram. 

ABOUT LIFETIME

Celebrating 40 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies, high-quality limited series and breakout non-fiction series and documentaries. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long-running Stop Breast Cancer for Life, Stop Violence Against Women, and Broader Focus, a major global initiative dedicated to supporting and hiring female directors, writers and producers, including women of color, to make its content. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime DigitalTM are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC, a subsidiary of A+E Networks. A+E Networks is a joint venture of the Disney- ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

THE KING CENTER BELOVED COMMUNITY AWARDS

Sylvester January 21, 2025

The Beloved Community Awards honor national and international individuals and

organizations that exemplify excellence in leadership, unwavering commitment to social justice, and

a dedication to fostering the Beloved Community. This event is a unique opportunity to celebrate

those who are making a significant impact in the world and to be inspired by their remarkable

contributions. The Beloved Community Awards not only celebrates excellence but also reinforces

the values of equality, peace, and justice. This year’s event was hosted by Entertainment Tonight’s

Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner. This year’s honorees include:

5Beloved Community Civic Leadership Award – Black Voters Matter – Accepted by LaTosha

Brown and Cliff Albright, Co-Founders. This award was presented by Michael Tubbs, Founder/

Executive Director of EPIC and Executive Chairman of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income.

Beloved Community Technological Innovation Award – PSYONIC– Accepted by Aadeel

Akhtar, Founder and CEO.

Beloved Community Christine King Farris Legacy of Service in Education Award – Morris

Brown -Accepted by Dr. Kevin E. James, President. This award presented by Dr. Angela

Farris Watkins, Author, Civic Intellectual, and Professor at Spelman College.

Beloved Community Yolanda D. King Higher Ground Award – Jenifer Lewis-Actress,

Singer, Author, Activist. This award presented by Kyla Pratt, award-winning actress, writer

and producer.

Beloved Community Youth Influencer Award (Individual) – Heman Bekele–Student

Scientist. This award presented by Iain Armitage, Actor.

Beloved Community Youth Influencer Award (Corporation) – Latino American Association

– Accepted by Santiago Marquez, Chief Executive Officer.

Beloved Community Environmental Justice Award – Serenbe– Accepted by Steve Nygren-

Founder and Managing Partner.

Beloved Community Coretta Scott King Soul of the Nation Award – Nadia Murad – President

& Chairwoman of Nadia’s Initiative and Nobel Peace Laureate. This award presented by

Minyon Moore.

Beloved Community Corporate Social Impact Award – MARS, Inc.- Accepted by Anton

Vincent, President of Mars Wrigley North America & Global Ice Cream. This award

presented by Morgan Shaw Parker, President and Chief Operating Officer of WNBA

Atlanta Dream.

Beloved Community Social Justice Award – AIDS Healthcare Foundation– Accepted by

Michael Weinstein, President and Co-Founder.

Beloved Community Salute to Greatness Humanitarian Award- Laura Arnold- Founder and

Co-Chair of Arnold Ventures.

Special musical performances by Eric Benet, Jennifer Holliday, and MaKenzie

Thomas.