Exclusive: Blackfin, the Lionsgate-backed production company behind series including Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez, has a new Head of Documentaries.
Igal Svet, who was previously head of documentaries at Discovery+ has joined in the role as well as EVP.
Reporting to Chief Creative Officer Geno McDermott, Svet joins after nearly three years as Head of Documentaries at Discovery+, a position he left in March 2023. In that role, he helped launch a slate of docs including Trump: Unprecedented, House of Hammer, Curse of the Chippendales, Hillsong: A Megachurch Exposed, and Queen of Meth as well as acquisitions such as Introducing Selma Blair.
Before joining Discovery in 2019, initially as VP, Production and Development, Svet spent five years at Nat Geo, where he worked on docs such as LA92, Jane, Mars, Story of God with Morgan Freeman, and One Strange Rock.
Lionsgate Alternative Television’s Blackfin, which was formerly part of eOne,...
Igal Svet, who was previously head of documentaries at Discovery+ has joined in the role as well as EVP.
Reporting to Chief Creative Officer Geno McDermott, Svet joins after nearly three years as Head of Documentaries at Discovery+, a position he left in March 2023. In that role, he helped launch a slate of docs including Trump: Unprecedented, House of Hammer, Curse of the Chippendales, Hillsong: A Megachurch Exposed, and Queen of Meth as well as acquisitions such as Introducing Selma Blair.
Before joining Discovery in 2019, initially as VP, Production and Development, Svet spent five years at Nat Geo, where he worked on docs such as LA92, Jane, Mars, Story of God with Morgan Freeman, and One Strange Rock.
Lionsgate Alternative Television’s Blackfin, which was formerly part of eOne,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Dirk Hoogstra is getting the band back together at Lionsgate.
Hoogstra, who is now leading the eOne U.S. label at Lionsgate Alternative Television, is bringing over a number of his former Half Yard Productions colleagues.
Nicole Sorrenti, who was Chief Creative Officer at the Say Yes To The Dress producer, left the company, which is owned by Peter Chernin’s The North Road Company, at the same time as Hoogstra last year.
She now serves as EVP, Development, eOne U.S. In addition to TLC’s wedding series, she has produced series including Secrets & Sisterhood: The Sozahdahs for Hulu, and I Just Killed My Dad for Netflix.
San Heng joins the company as SVP, Development, eOne U.S. The showrunner has worked on series including RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Real Housewives and Little Women: LA. She recently wrapped on Chrissy & Dave Dine Out and the upcoming docuseries Wayne Brady: The Family Remix.
Hoogstra, who is now leading the eOne U.S. label at Lionsgate Alternative Television, is bringing over a number of his former Half Yard Productions colleagues.
Nicole Sorrenti, who was Chief Creative Officer at the Say Yes To The Dress producer, left the company, which is owned by Peter Chernin’s The North Road Company, at the same time as Hoogstra last year.
She now serves as EVP, Development, eOne U.S. In addition to TLC’s wedding series, she has produced series including Secrets & Sisterhood: The Sozahdahs for Hulu, and I Just Killed My Dad for Netflix.
San Heng joins the company as SVP, Development, eOne U.S. The showrunner has worked on series including RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Real Housewives and Little Women: LA. She recently wrapped on Chrissy & Dave Dine Out and the upcoming docuseries Wayne Brady: The Family Remix.
- 4/11/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Martin Scorsese is partnering with Fox Nation for an eight-part docudrama series, “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.” Hosted, narrated and executive produced by Scorsese, the series will encompass eight one-hour episodes exploring the stories of eight figures on their journey to sainthood.
The docudrama will premiere in two parts, with the first four episodes set to release on Nov. 16 and the final set to conclude in May 2025. Each episode focuses on a singular saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi, John the Baptist, Thomas Becket, Mary Magdalene, Moses the Black, Sebastian and Maximillian Kolbe.
“I’ve lived with the stories of the saints for most of my life, thinking about their words and actions, imagining the worlds they inhabited, the choices they faced, the examples they set,” Scorsese said in a statement. “These are stories of eight very different men and women, each of them living through vastly different...
The docudrama will premiere in two parts, with the first four episodes set to release on Nov. 16 and the final set to conclude in May 2025. Each episode focuses on a singular saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi, John the Baptist, Thomas Becket, Mary Magdalene, Moses the Black, Sebastian and Maximillian Kolbe.
“I’ve lived with the stories of the saints for most of my life, thinking about their words and actions, imagining the worlds they inhabited, the choices they faced, the examples they set,” Scorsese said in a statement. “These are stories of eight very different men and women, each of them living through vastly different...
- 3/27/2024
- by Selena Kuznikov
- Variety Film + TV
Not feeling conflicted enough today? Martin Scorsese is making and hosting a show on Fox News Channel’s streaming service Fox Nation.
The series is an eight-part docudrama slated for November 2024. May we present: “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.”
Each hour-long episode will explore “the remarkable stories of eight men and women who risked everything to embody humanity’s most noble and complex trait — faith,” in Fox Nation’s words. Them’s the saints.
“Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints” was developed by Scorsese for Lionsgate Alternative Television. It was created by Matti Leshem. The docuseries is written by the frequent Scorsese collaborator Kent Jones; it will be directed by Elizabeth Chomko.
Scorsese and Leshem executive produce, as do Julie Yorn, Rick Yorn, Christopher Donnelly, Yoshi Stone, Craig Piligian, David Ellender, and Matt Loze. In addition to Lionsgate, the series was produced by Sikelia Productions, Weimaraner Republic Pictures, Lbi Entertainment, and Halcyon Studios.
The series is an eight-part docudrama slated for November 2024. May we present: “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.”
Each hour-long episode will explore “the remarkable stories of eight men and women who risked everything to embody humanity’s most noble and complex trait — faith,” in Fox Nation’s words. Them’s the saints.
“Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints” was developed by Scorsese for Lionsgate Alternative Television. It was created by Matti Leshem. The docuseries is written by the frequent Scorsese collaborator Kent Jones; it will be directed by Elizabeth Chomko.
Scorsese and Leshem executive produce, as do Julie Yorn, Rick Yorn, Christopher Donnelly, Yoshi Stone, Craig Piligian, David Ellender, and Matt Loze. In addition to Lionsgate, the series was produced by Sikelia Productions, Weimaraner Republic Pictures, Lbi Entertainment, and Halcyon Studios.
- 3/27/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Acclaimed director Martin Scorsese is bringing his talents to Fox Nation, the streaming service of Fox News Channel.
The Killers of the Flower Moon director will host, narrate and executive produce for an eight-episode docudrama called Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.
The series will debut on Nov. 16 and run through May 2025. Each episode will focus on a singular saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi, John the Baptist, Thomas Becket, Mary Magdalene, Moses the Black, Sebastian and Maximillian Kolbe, “examining these extraordinary figures and their extreme acts of kindness, selflessness and sacrifice,” per Fox.
The series was created by Matti Leshem and developed by Scorsese for Lionsgate Alternative Television and was written by Kent Jones and directed by Elizabeth Chomko. Other executive producers include Julie Yorn, Rick Yorn, Christopher Donnelly, Yoshi Stone and Craig Piligian.
“I’ve lived with the stories of the saints for most of my life,...
The Killers of the Flower Moon director will host, narrate and executive produce for an eight-episode docudrama called Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.
The series will debut on Nov. 16 and run through May 2025. Each episode will focus on a singular saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi, John the Baptist, Thomas Becket, Mary Magdalene, Moses the Black, Sebastian and Maximillian Kolbe, “examining these extraordinary figures and their extreme acts of kindness, selflessness and sacrifice,” per Fox.
The series was created by Matti Leshem and developed by Scorsese for Lionsgate Alternative Television and was written by Kent Jones and directed by Elizabeth Chomko. Other executive producers include Julie Yorn, Rick Yorn, Christopher Donnelly, Yoshi Stone and Craig Piligian.
“I’ve lived with the stories of the saints for most of my life,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Martin Scorsese is exploring the journeys of eight men and women toward sainthood in a new docudrama series for Fox Nation.
The Killers of the Flower Moon director is launching Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints on the streaming service in November 2024.
He will host, narrate and exec produce the eight-part series.
Developed by Scorsese for Lionsgate Alternative Television, the series was created by Matti Leshem, written by Scorsese’s collaborator Kent Jones and directed by Elizabeth Chomko.
Scorsese and Leshem exec produce alongside Julie Yorn, Rick Yorn, Christopher Donnelly, Yoshi Stone, Craig Piligian, David Ellender and Matt Loze. It is produced by Lionsgate, Sikelia Productions, Weimaraner Republic Pictures, Lbi Entertainment and Halcyon Studios.
The series will premiere in two parts, with the first four episodes to air on Sunday, November 16, and the final set to air in May 2025.
Each episode focuses on a singular Saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi,...
The Killers of the Flower Moon director is launching Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints on the streaming service in November 2024.
He will host, narrate and exec produce the eight-part series.
Developed by Scorsese for Lionsgate Alternative Television, the series was created by Matti Leshem, written by Scorsese’s collaborator Kent Jones and directed by Elizabeth Chomko.
Scorsese and Leshem exec produce alongside Julie Yorn, Rick Yorn, Christopher Donnelly, Yoshi Stone, Craig Piligian, David Ellender and Matt Loze. It is produced by Lionsgate, Sikelia Productions, Weimaraner Republic Pictures, Lbi Entertainment and Halcyon Studios.
The series will premiere in two parts, with the first four episodes to air on Sunday, November 16, and the final set to air in May 2025.
Each episode focuses on a singular Saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
2500 Media, the Los Angeles-based production company founded by former WME non-scripted packaging agent and partner Sean Perry, has named its senior management team.
Perry launched 2500 Media early last summer and a few months later signed a deal with Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media, which includes an exclusive unscripted agreement between 2500 Media and Pilgrim, as well as a first-look scripted pact with Lionsgate Television.
Perry has tapped Kendall Horn, who previously worked in development at Pilgrim, as head of development for 2500 Media. Nicole Taylor Perry (Scarred) has been named managing director, overseeing all operations and new business development. Pilgrim’s Nicole Urban will coordinate development for 2500 Media.
Under 2500 Media’s deal with Pilgrim/Lionsgate, the company works closely with Pilgrim’s development team, including Tom Huffman, Lauren LeMiex and Scott Eldridge, as well as Lionsgate’s Max Elins on the scripted side.
“I have immense gratitude for the staff at Lionsgate Alternative Television...
Perry launched 2500 Media early last summer and a few months later signed a deal with Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media, which includes an exclusive unscripted agreement between 2500 Media and Pilgrim, as well as a first-look scripted pact with Lionsgate Television.
Perry has tapped Kendall Horn, who previously worked in development at Pilgrim, as head of development for 2500 Media. Nicole Taylor Perry (Scarred) has been named managing director, overseeing all operations and new business development. Pilgrim’s Nicole Urban will coordinate development for 2500 Media.
Under 2500 Media’s deal with Pilgrim/Lionsgate, the company works closely with Pilgrim’s development team, including Tom Huffman, Lauren LeMiex and Scott Eldridge, as well as Lionsgate’s Max Elins on the scripted side.
“I have immense gratitude for the staff at Lionsgate Alternative Television...
- 2/21/2024
- by Denise Petski and Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Lionsgate Alternative Television has signed with UTA as the major studio gets deeper into unscripted TV.
The talent, entertainment and sports agency will represent the Lionsgate TV division as it looks to get more of its unscripted content into the global marketplace. The move also follows Lionsgate tapping Craig Piligian as managing director of the newly restructured unit after Lionsgate acquired certain film and TV assets of Entertainment One from Hasbro.
Piligian in a statement said the Hollywood studio would look to leverage UTA’s buyer relationships and industry expertise as Lionsgate Alternative Television ramps up in unscripted TV. “I am especially pleased to expand my relationship with David and Geoff and their team, as they help spearhead the future of this division,” he added of his coming partnership with David Kirsch and Geoff Suddleson, UTA partners and co-heads of unscripted television.
The Lionsgate unscripted TV unit spans Pilgrim Media Group,...
The talent, entertainment and sports agency will represent the Lionsgate TV division as it looks to get more of its unscripted content into the global marketplace. The move also follows Lionsgate tapping Craig Piligian as managing director of the newly restructured unit after Lionsgate acquired certain film and TV assets of Entertainment One from Hasbro.
Piligian in a statement said the Hollywood studio would look to leverage UTA’s buyer relationships and industry expertise as Lionsgate Alternative Television ramps up in unscripted TV. “I am especially pleased to expand my relationship with David and Geoff and their team, as they help spearhead the future of this division,” he added of his coming partnership with David Kirsch and Geoff Suddleson, UTA partners and co-heads of unscripted television.
The Lionsgate unscripted TV unit spans Pilgrim Media Group,...
- 1/25/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Fresh from its launch earlier this month, Lionsgate Alternative Television is getting a little agency help.
The unscripted arm of the studio has signed with UTA for representation.
Lionsgate launched the division earlier in January, bringing together its own Pilgrim Media Group, with eOne’s U.S. and U.K. non-scripted groups, Blackfin, Renegade and Daisybeck Studios following the $375M deal to buy eOne.
It is run by Managing Director Craig Piligian, who was previously represented by WME.
All of the eOne labels will remain intact including Naked & Afraid producer Renegade, Blackfin, which produced Netflix’s Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez, The Yorkshire Vet producer Daisybeck and eOne UK, which is behind MTV’s Ex On The Beach.
Lionsgate Alternative Television’s management team will include Pilgrim Media Group’s President Gretchen Stockdale and EVP Nicholas Caprio, while Renegade bosses David Garfinkle and Jay Renfroe will serve...
The unscripted arm of the studio has signed with UTA for representation.
Lionsgate launched the division earlier in January, bringing together its own Pilgrim Media Group, with eOne’s U.S. and U.K. non-scripted groups, Blackfin, Renegade and Daisybeck Studios following the $375M deal to buy eOne.
It is run by Managing Director Craig Piligian, who was previously represented by WME.
All of the eOne labels will remain intact including Naked & Afraid producer Renegade, Blackfin, which produced Netflix’s Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez, The Yorkshire Vet producer Daisybeck and eOne UK, which is behind MTV’s Ex On The Beach.
Lionsgate Alternative Television’s management team will include Pilgrim Media Group’s President Gretchen Stockdale and EVP Nicholas Caprio, while Renegade bosses David Garfinkle and Jay Renfroe will serve...
- 1/25/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Lionsgate is expanding in unscripted TV programming by launching an alternative TV division led by Craig Piligian.
Lionsgate Alternative Television will encompass the studio’s unscripted TV brands like Pilgrim Media Group, Blackfin, Renegade, Daisybeck Studios and more recently Entertainment One after the acquisition of key film and TV assets from Hasbro.
Piligian, the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer, becomes managing director of the new division that has unscripted franchises like Naked and Afraid, Street Outlaws, Wicked Tuna, The Yorkshire Vet, Ex on the Beach, Selling Sunset and Milf Manor. Lionsgate’s unscripted TV output includes limited series like Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez and Tulsa Burning: The 1921 Race Massacre.
The management team at Lionsgate Alternative Television also includes Pilgrim Media Group president and COO Gretchen Stockdale and top Renegade execs David Garfinkle and Jay Renfroe. Former History Channel and Half Yard Productions exec Dirk Hoogstra joins...
Lionsgate Alternative Television will encompass the studio’s unscripted TV brands like Pilgrim Media Group, Blackfin, Renegade, Daisybeck Studios and more recently Entertainment One after the acquisition of key film and TV assets from Hasbro.
Piligian, the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer, becomes managing director of the new division that has unscripted franchises like Naked and Afraid, Street Outlaws, Wicked Tuna, The Yorkshire Vet, Ex on the Beach, Selling Sunset and Milf Manor. Lionsgate’s unscripted TV output includes limited series like Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez and Tulsa Burning: The 1921 Race Massacre.
The management team at Lionsgate Alternative Television also includes Pilgrim Media Group president and COO Gretchen Stockdale and top Renegade execs David Garfinkle and Jay Renfroe. Former History Channel and Half Yard Productions exec Dirk Hoogstra joins...
- 1/9/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: BET Media Group is developing the unscripted series The Twins from Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s G-Unit Film & Television and Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group.
The series centers around the Flores brothers, Margarito and Pedro, identical twins who became multi-millionaire, cocaine kingpins by the age of 18 and who would eventually assist in the capture and take-down of drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.
The Twins will serve as a companion to the award-winning podcast Surviving El Chapo: The Twins Who Brought Down A Drug Lord, which was produced by Lionsgate Sound and G-Unit Audio, and recently released a second season.
Following their arrest, Margarito and Pedro Flores turned their backs on their lucrative drug operation and cooperated with the DEA in exchange for more lenient sentences. Both served 14 years in prison before being released in 2022 to the witness protection program. Margarito Flores continues to walk on the right side of the law.
The series centers around the Flores brothers, Margarito and Pedro, identical twins who became multi-millionaire, cocaine kingpins by the age of 18 and who would eventually assist in the capture and take-down of drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.
The Twins will serve as a companion to the award-winning podcast Surviving El Chapo: The Twins Who Brought Down A Drug Lord, which was produced by Lionsgate Sound and G-Unit Audio, and recently released a second season.
Following their arrest, Margarito and Pedro Flores turned their backs on their lucrative drug operation and cooperated with the DEA in exchange for more lenient sentences. Both served 14 years in prison before being released in 2022 to the witness protection program. Margarito Flores continues to walk on the right side of the law.
- 12/14/2023
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group has signed an exclusive unscripted deal with Sean Perry’s production company 2500 Media, the company announced Thursday.
Under the agreement, 2500 Media, which focuses on unscripted series, documentaries and scripted projects, will immediately enter into Pilgrim Media Group’s development and production staff. The deal also covers a first look scripted component with Lionsgate Television.
“When I looked around at ways to super charge my new company 2500 Media and deliver high quality production at a reasonable cost, it was clear that locking arms with Lionsgate and Pilgrim was the best and fastest way to accomplish our goals,” Perry said in a statement. “When you see what Kevin Beggs, Sandra Stern and their team have accomplished across Lionsgate Television and my good friend Craig Piligian has built with Pilgrim, it was a no brainer to dive in fully with them.”
Perry, who serves as founder and CEO of 2500 Media,...
Under the agreement, 2500 Media, which focuses on unscripted series, documentaries and scripted projects, will immediately enter into Pilgrim Media Group’s development and production staff. The deal also covers a first look scripted component with Lionsgate Television.
“When I looked around at ways to super charge my new company 2500 Media and deliver high quality production at a reasonable cost, it was clear that locking arms with Lionsgate and Pilgrim was the best and fastest way to accomplish our goals,” Perry said in a statement. “When you see what Kevin Beggs, Sandra Stern and their team have accomplished across Lionsgate Television and my good friend Craig Piligian has built with Pilgrim, it was a no brainer to dive in fully with them.”
Perry, who serves as founder and CEO of 2500 Media,...
- 9/7/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group has signed an exclusive unscripted deal with Sean Perry’s recently launched 2500 Media production company.
As part of the deal, 2500 Media will immediately plug into the worldwide development and production staff at Pilgrim and the agreement includes a first-look scripted component with Lionsgate Television
“When I looked around at ways to super charge my new company 2500 Media and deliver high quality production at a reasonable cost, it was clear that locking arms with Lionsgate and Pilgrim was the best and fastest way to accomplish our goals,” said Perry. “When you see what Kevin Beggs, Sandra Stern and their team have accomplished across Lionsgate Television and my good friend Craig Piligian has built with Pilgrim, it was a no brainer to dive in fully with them.”
2500 Media focuses on unscripted series, documentaries and scripted projects. Perry, 2500 Media founder and CEO, is an industry veteran who previously founded the Endeavor non-scripted department.
As part of the deal, 2500 Media will immediately plug into the worldwide development and production staff at Pilgrim and the agreement includes a first-look scripted component with Lionsgate Television
“When I looked around at ways to super charge my new company 2500 Media and deliver high quality production at a reasonable cost, it was clear that locking arms with Lionsgate and Pilgrim was the best and fastest way to accomplish our goals,” said Perry. “When you see what Kevin Beggs, Sandra Stern and their team have accomplished across Lionsgate Television and my good friend Craig Piligian has built with Pilgrim, it was a no brainer to dive in fully with them.”
2500 Media focuses on unscripted series, documentaries and scripted projects. Perry, 2500 Media founder and CEO, is an industry veteran who previously founded the Endeavor non-scripted department.
- 9/7/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
The Hollywood Radio and Television Society has elected 12 new board members and six new advisory council members, and extended CEO Melissa Grego’s contract through 2025, the organization announced Wednesday.
Newly elected to the Hrts Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning in July 2023 are: Kathryn Busby; Ben Davis; Jaime Feld; David Eilenberg (Head of Content – Roku Media); Frank Jung (Co-Founder/Co-head of Digital Media – CAA); Lisa Katz (President, Scripted Content – NBCUniversal); Tim McNeal (Senior Vice President, Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, Disney Television Studios – Disney Entertainment); DJ Nurre (Executive Vice President – Unscripted, Endemol Shine North America); Brett Paul (President, Warner Bros Television – Warner Bros Discovery); Rhonda Price (Managing Partner – The Gersh Agency); Lauren Stein (EVP Drama Development – Sony Pictures Television) and Erin Underhill (President, Universal Television).
Existing board members elected to a new three-year term beginning July 2023 are Kate Adler (EVP,...
Newly elected to the Hrts Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning in July 2023 are: Kathryn Busby; Ben Davis; Jaime Feld; David Eilenberg (Head of Content – Roku Media); Frank Jung (Co-Founder/Co-head of Digital Media – CAA); Lisa Katz (President, Scripted Content – NBCUniversal); Tim McNeal (Senior Vice President, Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, Disney Television Studios – Disney Entertainment); DJ Nurre (Executive Vice President – Unscripted, Endemol Shine North America); Brett Paul (President, Warner Bros Television – Warner Bros Discovery); Rhonda Price (Managing Partner – The Gersh Agency); Lauren Stein (EVP Drama Development – Sony Pictures Television) and Erin Underhill (President, Universal Television).
Existing board members elected to a new three-year term beginning July 2023 are Kate Adler (EVP,...
- 7/19/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Longtime WME partner Sean Perry is preparing to exit the agency after 25 years to launch a production company, 2500 Media.
Perry’s banner will focus on unscripted series as well as documentaries and some scripted projects. Perry has quietly been working with WME leaders on the transition for several months. Ever the dealmaker, Perry has already lined up commitments for projects from cable, broadcast and streaming platforms. He will also stay close to his longtime colleagues, albeit as a client, as WME will represent 2500 Media.
“While there’s sadness in leaving WME after 25 amazing years, this has been a dream that went from something I’d like to do to something I have to do. It’s time to roll up my sleeves and actually make what I’ve been selling for years,” Perry said. “I want to thank all of my friends, colleagues and partners at Endeavor and WME. WME will forever be my family,...
Perry’s banner will focus on unscripted series as well as documentaries and some scripted projects. Perry has quietly been working with WME leaders on the transition for several months. Ever the dealmaker, Perry has already lined up commitments for projects from cable, broadcast and streaming platforms. He will also stay close to his longtime colleagues, albeit as a client, as WME will represent 2500 Media.
“While there’s sadness in leaving WME after 25 amazing years, this has been a dream that went from something I’d like to do to something I have to do. It’s time to roll up my sleeves and actually make what I’ve been selling for years,” Perry said. “I want to thank all of my friends, colleagues and partners at Endeavor and WME. WME will forever be my family,...
- 6/2/2023
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Lionsgate Sound, the award-winning audio division of global content leader Lionsgate, has announced its next tentpole podcast production, Scamanda. Premiering May 15 across all podcast platforms, the non-fiction limited series unravels the surprising and bizarre story behind Amanda C. Riley’s long-running scam to use her growing online presence to take advantage of the social media community. Ultimately, the young woman pleaded guilty to soliciting over $100,000 in donations to help pay for cancer treatments that she never received.
Amanda C. Riley was a lot of things – a wife, a mother, a devoted member of her church, and a blogger with a rising profile. Online and in real life, family, friends, and followers knew her as a charming and beautiful young woman who persevered with an upbeat attitude despite a cancer diagnosis. Her shared cancer journey, as detailed in her blog, was remarkable – it captivated her local San Jose, CA community and followers from around the globe,...
Amanda C. Riley was a lot of things – a wife, a mother, a devoted member of her church, and a blogger with a rising profile. Online and in real life, family, friends, and followers knew her as a charming and beautiful young woman who persevered with an upbeat attitude despite a cancer diagnosis. Her shared cancer journey, as detailed in her blog, was remarkable – it captivated her local San Jose, CA community and followers from around the globe,...
- 5/15/2023
- Podnews.net
Lionsgate Sound will launch its first companion podcast with a six-part podcast series in connection to Fox Nation’s “Jussie Smollett: Anatomy of a Hoax,” TheWrap can exclusively reveal.
“Attacking Jussie,” which launches March 13 on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, will feature exclusive interviews with Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, the brothers hired by the former “Empire” actor to attack and stage a hate crime against him as they share their point of view for the first time in both the series and the podcast.
Hosted by Lionsgate Sound’s Charlie Webster, who also executive produces the podcast, the brothers will elaborate on the planning that went behind the hoax as the docuseries breaks down Smollett’s multi-step plans for faking the hate crime that generated outrage from the masses and public expressions of support prominent political figures, including Nancy Pelosi, Kamala Harris and Joe Biden.
Also Read:
Fox Nation’s Jussie...
“Attacking Jussie,” which launches March 13 on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, will feature exclusive interviews with Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, the brothers hired by the former “Empire” actor to attack and stage a hate crime against him as they share their point of view for the first time in both the series and the podcast.
Hosted by Lionsgate Sound’s Charlie Webster, who also executive produces the podcast, the brothers will elaborate on the planning that went behind the hoax as the docuseries breaks down Smollett’s multi-step plans for faking the hate crime that generated outrage from the masses and public expressions of support prominent political figures, including Nancy Pelosi, Kamala Harris and Joe Biden.
Also Read:
Fox Nation’s Jussie...
- 3/13/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Fox Nation is set to release the five-part docuseries Jussie Smollett: Anatomy of a Hoax on March 13.
News of the series comes as the former Empire actor has filed an appeal of a December 2021 conviction for staging an anti-gay, racist attack on himself and then lying to Chicago police about it. The Fox Nation series will feature first-time interviews with brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who were part of the elaborate ruse hatched by Smollett in 2019.
After an investigation, Chicago police concluded that the attack was staged and that Smollett had hired the Osundairo brothers to carry out the crime. A jury eventually found Smollett guilty on five counts of disorderly conduct — one count for each separate time he was charged with lying to police in the days immediately after the alleged attack.
He was acquitted on a sixth count, of lying to a detective weeks after Smollett said he was attacked.
News of the series comes as the former Empire actor has filed an appeal of a December 2021 conviction for staging an anti-gay, racist attack on himself and then lying to Chicago police about it. The Fox Nation series will feature first-time interviews with brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who were part of the elaborate ruse hatched by Smollett in 2019.
After an investigation, Chicago police concluded that the attack was staged and that Smollett had hired the Osundairo brothers to carry out the crime. A jury eventually found Smollett guilty on five counts of disorderly conduct — one count for each separate time he was charged with lying to police in the days immediately after the alleged attack.
He was acquitted on a sixth count, of lying to a detective weeks after Smollett said he was attacked.
- 3/2/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Hulu has announced that Season 3 of “The Great” will drop all 10 episodes on May 12, and revealed a first-look image.
In the third season, Catherine (Elle Fanning) and Peter (Nicholas Hoult) try to salvage their marriage after Catherine imprisoned his friends and almost had him murdered. Peter must also deal with visions of his dead father (Jason Isaacs) as Catherine spreads her word across borders and must compromise to create progress as a political leader.
Tony McNamara created, wrote and executive produced “The Great,” along with executive producers Fanning, Hoult, Marian Macgowan, Mark Winemaker, Echo Lake’s Brittany Kahan Ward, Doug Mankoff and Andrew Spaulding, Thruline’s Ron West and Josh Kesselman. Civic Center Media produced the series in association with MRC Television.
Also in today’s TV news:
First Looks
Peacock dropped a first-look teaser for the new series “Mrs. Davis,” which will premiere at SXSW on March 14 and debut...
In the third season, Catherine (Elle Fanning) and Peter (Nicholas Hoult) try to salvage their marriage after Catherine imprisoned his friends and almost had him murdered. Peter must also deal with visions of his dead father (Jason Isaacs) as Catherine spreads her word across borders and must compromise to create progress as a political leader.
Tony McNamara created, wrote and executive produced “The Great,” along with executive producers Fanning, Hoult, Marian Macgowan, Mark Winemaker, Echo Lake’s Brittany Kahan Ward, Doug Mankoff and Andrew Spaulding, Thruline’s Ron West and Josh Kesselman. Civic Center Media produced the series in association with MRC Television.
Also in today’s TV news:
First Looks
Peacock dropped a first-look teaser for the new series “Mrs. Davis,” which will premiere at SXSW on March 14 and debut...
- 3/2/2023
- by Charna Flam and Julia MacCary
- Variety Film + TV
Fox Nation will revisit the infamous Jussie Smollett saga with a five-part docuseries titled “Jussie Smollett: Anatomy of a Hoax.”
Set for March 13, the series will feature exclusive interviews with brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who were part of an elaborate plot to perpetrate a staged hate crime on the Empire actor. They have apparently never spoken to the media about their role in the hoax.
Smollett continues to maintain his innocence.
“Anatomy of a Hoax takes a deep dive into a scam that reverberated through the worlds of entertainment, pop culture and politics,” said John Finley, the streaming platform’s Executive Vice President. “We’re excited for viewers to hear the real stories behind this scandal from the Osundairo brothers for the very first time.”
In January 2019, Smollett alleged he was attacked on a Chicago street by two men who were said to have shouted “this is Maga country...
Set for March 13, the series will feature exclusive interviews with brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who were part of an elaborate plot to perpetrate a staged hate crime on the Empire actor. They have apparently never spoken to the media about their role in the hoax.
Smollett continues to maintain his innocence.
“Anatomy of a Hoax takes a deep dive into a scam that reverberated through the worlds of entertainment, pop culture and politics,” said John Finley, the streaming platform’s Executive Vice President. “We’re excited for viewers to hear the real stories behind this scandal from the Osundairo brothers for the very first time.”
In January 2019, Smollett alleged he was attacked on a Chicago street by two men who were said to have shouted “this is Maga country...
- 3/1/2023
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
The new TBS show Power Slap: Road to the Title is generating controversy on social media because its sole premise is to watch men and women slap each other – sometimes to the point of unconsciousness.
A video tweet by Dr. Chris Nowinski, a neuroscientist and founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, has garnered more than 15 million views after showing a particularly disturbing moment from show, hosted and created by UFC president Dana White. In the first few minutes of the program that debuted Wednesday, a contestant named Chris Kennedy is literally knocked to the ground after the first slap by opponent Chris Thomas. It takes a few beats before Kennedy, who shows the tell tale signs of a concussion by clenching his arms and fists, regains consciousness after hearing a doctor tell him what happened.
“Got knocked out doing what, was I fighting?” replies Kennedy.
“This is so sad,” Nowinski tweets.
A video tweet by Dr. Chris Nowinski, a neuroscientist and founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, has garnered more than 15 million views after showing a particularly disturbing moment from show, hosted and created by UFC president Dana White. In the first few minutes of the program that debuted Wednesday, a contestant named Chris Kennedy is literally knocked to the ground after the first slap by opponent Chris Thomas. It takes a few beats before Kennedy, who shows the tell tale signs of a concussion by clenching his arms and fists, regains consciousness after hearing a doctor tell him what happened.
“Got knocked out doing what, was I fighting?” replies Kennedy.
“This is so sad,” Nowinski tweets.
- 1/20/2023
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
TBS has pushed back the premiere of Dana White’s Power Slap: Road to the Title by one week after the UFC president admitted to an instance of domestic violence on New Year’s Eve.
The show, which is based on a slapping league created in partnership with Ultimate Fighting Championship and Endeavor, will now premiere on Jan. 18, rather than the originally scheduled date of Jan. 11, a spokesperson for TBS said Thursday. The spokesperson affirmed the new premiere date, amid rumors that the show had been shelved.
The delayed premiere follows an incident reported by TMZ, in which a video appeared to show White slapping his wife, Anne, after she had hit him at a night club in Mexico. White later released a statement to TMZ apologizing for the incident, as did his wife.
“You’ve heard me say for years, ‘There’s never ever an excuse for a guy...
The show, which is based on a slapping league created in partnership with Ultimate Fighting Championship and Endeavor, will now premiere on Jan. 18, rather than the originally scheduled date of Jan. 11, a spokesperson for TBS said Thursday. The spokesperson affirmed the new premiere date, amid rumors that the show had been shelved.
The delayed premiere follows an incident reported by TMZ, in which a video appeared to show White slapping his wife, Anne, after she had hit him at a night club in Mexico. White later released a statement to TMZ apologizing for the incident, as did his wife.
“You’ve heard me say for years, ‘There’s never ever an excuse for a guy...
- 1/5/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
TBS hasn’t yet pulled the plug on UFC president Dana White’s upcoming reality series, “Power Slap: Road To The Title.” Though, it has been rescheduled to premiere at a later date after a video showing White slapping his wife over the holidays made its way onto the internet.
Originally slated to air on Jan. 11, the show is now expected to arrive on Jan. 18. In the meantime, the network plans to fill the programming slot with reruns of “Young Sheldon.”
The series follows over 30 athletes as they compete for a spot in the new Power Slap league and, ultimately, a shot at victory in the first title fight. Created by White, Lorenzo Fertitta and Craig Piligian, the sports league focuses on open-handed hitting.
Pilgrim Media Group, a division of Lionsgate, is the studio behind the eight-part series with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Endeavor behind the creation.
TBS didn...
Originally slated to air on Jan. 11, the show is now expected to arrive on Jan. 18. In the meantime, the network plans to fill the programming slot with reruns of “Young Sheldon.”
The series follows over 30 athletes as they compete for a spot in the new Power Slap league and, ultimately, a shot at victory in the first title fight. Created by White, Lorenzo Fertitta and Craig Piligian, the sports league focuses on open-handed hitting.
Pilgrim Media Group, a division of Lionsgate, is the studio behind the eight-part series with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Endeavor behind the creation.
TBS didn...
- 1/5/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
“Power Slap: Road to the Title,” a TBS reality series following the titular sports league and its founder, Dana White, has pushed its premiere back a week following a public slap between White and his wife, IndieWire has confirmed.
The series will now premiere its first episode January 18, after originally scheduled to air January 11.
During New Year’s Eve, White was filmed fighting with his wife, Anne White, at the Cabo San Lucas nightclub in Mexico. In the video, which TMZ published, Anne White can be seen slapping her husband before he slaps her in retaliation, leading to a series of blows between them.
White, who is best known as the president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship company, issued an apology to TMZ shortly after the video leaked.
“There was a lot of alcohol involved, but that’s no excuse. You’ve heard me say for years, there’s never...
The series will now premiere its first episode January 18, after originally scheduled to air January 11.
During New Year’s Eve, White was filmed fighting with his wife, Anne White, at the Cabo San Lucas nightclub in Mexico. In the video, which TMZ published, Anne White can be seen slapping her husband before he slaps her in retaliation, leading to a series of blows between them.
White, who is best known as the president of the Ultimate Fighting Championship company, issued an apology to TMZ shortly after the video leaked.
“There was a lot of alcohol involved, but that’s no excuse. You’ve heard me say for years, there’s never...
- 1/5/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
TBS will air Power Slap: Road To The Title, a reality series based around a new sports league from Dana White, despite UFC President being caught on camera slapping his wife over the holidays.
Related Story Ari Emanuel's Conundrum: What To Do After UFC Chief Caught On Video Slapping Wife Related Story UFC Boss Dana White Says He Has Apologized To His Wife After Video Surfaces Of The Pair Having A Physical Altercation Related Story Stephan Bonnar Dies: UFC Hall Of Famer Was 45
The Warner Bros. Discovery network, however, has pushed the premiere of the series back a week following the incident.
Deadline understands that TBS will air the first episode on January 18. It was originally scheduled to air on January 11. It has been replaced in the schedule with a repeat on Young Sheldon.
There had been reports earlier today that the series had been shelved after it was removed from the January 11 schedule.
Related Story Ari Emanuel's Conundrum: What To Do After UFC Chief Caught On Video Slapping Wife Related Story UFC Boss Dana White Says He Has Apologized To His Wife After Video Surfaces Of The Pair Having A Physical Altercation Related Story Stephan Bonnar Dies: UFC Hall Of Famer Was 45
The Warner Bros. Discovery network, however, has pushed the premiere of the series back a week following the incident.
Deadline understands that TBS will air the first episode on January 18. It was originally scheduled to air on January 11. It has been replaced in the schedule with a repeat on Young Sheldon.
There had been reports earlier today that the series had been shelved after it was removed from the January 11 schedule.
- 1/5/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Karis Jagger and Fabienne Toback have entered a first look deal with Lionsgate Television.
Under the deal, they will develop and produce unscripted and documentary programming under their production banner Hey Sistah Productions. Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group, which focuses on unscripted programming, will provide development support and serve as production services entity for sold projects.
Jagger and Toback are best known for producing “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America,” a Netflix documentary series based on Dr. Jessica Harris’ book of the same name. The series follows food writer Stephen Satterfield on a culinary journey alongside chefs, historians and activists that celebrates the courage, artistry and resourcefulness of the African American people.
The producers are longtime friends who began collaborating in 2011, producing and directing a series of shorts for the New York Times before optioning “High on the Hog” and partnering with Pilgrim Media Group and...
Under the deal, they will develop and produce unscripted and documentary programming under their production banner Hey Sistah Productions. Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group, which focuses on unscripted programming, will provide development support and serve as production services entity for sold projects.
Jagger and Toback are best known for producing “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America,” a Netflix documentary series based on Dr. Jessica Harris’ book of the same name. The series follows food writer Stephen Satterfield on a culinary journey alongside chefs, historians and activists that celebrates the courage, artistry and resourcefulness of the African American people.
The producers are longtime friends who began collaborating in 2011, producing and directing a series of shorts for the New York Times before optioning “High on the Hog” and partnering with Pilgrim Media Group and...
- 10/13/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Lionsgate has signed a three-year first-look deal with Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg and Donnie Wahlberg to develop and produce unscripted/reality television, docs, and non-fiction podcasts through their newly-formed Work Baby Productions banner.
As part of the pact, Lionsgate company Pilgrim Media Group will provide development support and be the production services entity for sold projects.
McCarthy Wahlberg is an actress, TV personality, activist and best-selling author of 11 books. She currently serves as a judge on Fox’s The Masked Singer, which is entering its eighth season.
Wahlberg stars on CBS’ Blue Bloods.The couple have been married since 2014 and created Work Baby Productions to produce new and innovative content inspired by their decades-long careers and lives in the public eye.
“Our focus as a couple, and as partners, is to bring light to projects that we are passionate about,” said Wahlberg and McCarthy Wahlberg in a statement. “Our new partners...
As part of the pact, Lionsgate company Pilgrim Media Group will provide development support and be the production services entity for sold projects.
McCarthy Wahlberg is an actress, TV personality, activist and best-selling author of 11 books. She currently serves as a judge on Fox’s The Masked Singer, which is entering its eighth season.
Wahlberg stars on CBS’ Blue Bloods.The couple have been married since 2014 and created Work Baby Productions to produce new and innovative content inspired by their decades-long careers and lives in the public eye.
“Our focus as a couple, and as partners, is to bring light to projects that we are passionate about,” said Wahlberg and McCarthy Wahlberg in a statement. “Our new partners...
- 9/15/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg and Donnie Wahlberg have signed a three-year first-look deal for unscripted projects with Lionsgate Television.
The deal will see the couple produce and develop unscripted and reality projects, documentaries, short form productions, and non-fiction podcasts via their newly formed company, Work Baby Productions. Lionsgate company Pilgrim Media will provide development support and the production services entity for sold projects under the terms of the deal.
“Our focus as a couple, and as partners, is to bring light to projects that we are passionate about,” said Wahlberg and McCarthy Wahlberg. “Our new partners at Pilgrim and Lionsgate share that passion, and we are so excited to work with them to make these dreams reality.”
McCarthy Wahlberg is currently a judge on the popular Fox competition series “The Masked Singer.” She previously hosted the talk show “The Jenny McCarthy Show” as well as a radio show and served as co-anchor for “The View.
The deal will see the couple produce and develop unscripted and reality projects, documentaries, short form productions, and non-fiction podcasts via their newly formed company, Work Baby Productions. Lionsgate company Pilgrim Media will provide development support and the production services entity for sold projects under the terms of the deal.
“Our focus as a couple, and as partners, is to bring light to projects that we are passionate about,” said Wahlberg and McCarthy Wahlberg. “Our new partners at Pilgrim and Lionsgate share that passion, and we are so excited to work with them to make these dreams reality.”
McCarthy Wahlberg is currently a judge on the popular Fox competition series “The Masked Singer.” She previously hosted the talk show “The Jenny McCarthy Show” as well as a radio show and served as co-anchor for “The View.
- 9/15/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Lionsgate, the studio behind “John Wick,” “The Hunger Games” and Starz, has entered the podcasting space. The company launched a new division called Lionsgate Sound, which will operate as a full-service podcast production company, handling titles for the studio’s film and television business while also overseeing projects for third-party clients.
Lionsgate Sound will launch with four shows, including a podcast from rapper 50 Cent. It has more than a dozen additional projects in the pipeline.
The current slate includes “Cuate/twin: The Downfall of El Chapo (working title),” hosted and produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and his newly established G-Unit Audio; an interview podcast “Playing Dead”; the FBI-focused show “A Nation for Thieves”; and “Died and Survived,” which details near-death experiences. Lionsgate Sound is also producing true-crime thriller “The Lives and Deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman” for exclusive distribution by CBC. The podcast from 50 Cent will be exclusively distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network,...
Lionsgate Sound will launch with four shows, including a podcast from rapper 50 Cent. It has more than a dozen additional projects in the pipeline.
The current slate includes “Cuate/twin: The Downfall of El Chapo (working title),” hosted and produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and his newly established G-Unit Audio; an interview podcast “Playing Dead”; the FBI-focused show “A Nation for Thieves”; and “Died and Survived,” which details near-death experiences. Lionsgate Sound is also producing true-crime thriller “The Lives and Deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman” for exclusive distribution by CBC. The podcast from 50 Cent will be exclusively distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network,...
- 8/3/2022
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
A Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson-hosted and produced show about former Mexican drug lord “El Chapo” is among the first projects set for the launch of Lionsgate’s new podcast division, Lionsgate Sound.
Jackson’s show has the working title “Cuate/twin/: the downfall of El Chapo” and is part of his newly established G-Unit Audio, exclusively distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network.
In “Cuate/twin/: the downfall of El Chapo,” speaking publicly for the first time ever, Chicago-born identical twins Peter and Jay Flores will explore how they became two of the biggest drug traffickers in America, peddling tons of cocaine across the country and eventually become seated at the right hand of El Chapo himself, only to eventually betray him in a desperate attempt to escape.
Also Read:
Adam Fogelson to Exit STX and Named Vice Chair at Lionsgate Motion Picture Group
Three other shows will also launch along with Lionsgate Sound,...
Jackson’s show has the working title “Cuate/twin/: the downfall of El Chapo” and is part of his newly established G-Unit Audio, exclusively distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network.
In “Cuate/twin/: the downfall of El Chapo,” speaking publicly for the first time ever, Chicago-born identical twins Peter and Jay Flores will explore how they became two of the biggest drug traffickers in America, peddling tons of cocaine across the country and eventually become seated at the right hand of El Chapo himself, only to eventually betray him in a desperate attempt to escape.
Also Read:
Adam Fogelson to Exit STX and Named Vice Chair at Lionsgate Motion Picture Group
Three other shows will also launch along with Lionsgate Sound,...
- 8/3/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Lionsgate has launched a podcasting division with shows by Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent, and Michael Nathanson of Netflix’s Marvel’s The Punisher.
Lionsgate Sound will handle podcast production for the studio’s film and TV businesses while also producing audio product for third party clients. Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group, headed by producer Craig Piligian, becomes a minority owner in Lionsgate Sound and will handle the day-to-day operations of the group to be overseen by Gretchen Stockdale and Nicholas Caprio.
And broadcast-journalist and producer Charlie Webster will head up creative for the new division. Lionsgate Sound will kick off with four shows, including the podcast with a working title Cuate/twin/: the downfall of El Chapo, hosted and produced by Curtis Jackson — executive producer of the Power franchise from Lionsgate-owned cable and streaming network Starz — and his newly established G-Unit Audio.
Lionsgate has launched a podcasting division with shows by Curtis Jackson, aka 50 Cent, and Michael Nathanson of Netflix’s Marvel’s The Punisher.
Lionsgate Sound will handle podcast production for the studio’s film and TV businesses while also producing audio product for third party clients. Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group, headed by producer Craig Piligian, becomes a minority owner in Lionsgate Sound and will handle the day-to-day operations of the group to be overseen by Gretchen Stockdale and Nicholas Caprio.
And broadcast-journalist and producer Charlie Webster will head up creative for the new division. Lionsgate Sound will kick off with four shows, including the podcast with a working title Cuate/twin/: the downfall of El Chapo, hosted and produced by Curtis Jackson — executive producer of the Power franchise from Lionsgate-owned cable and streaming network Starz — and his newly established G-Unit Audio.
- 8/3/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: The Ultimate Surfer has wiped out.
ABC has canceled the water-based competition series after one season.
The show premiered in August 2021 and ran for eight eps but it struggled to find a big wave of fans with its opening episode being boarded by less than 1.5M viewers and a 0.3 in the demo.
The series featured top up-and-coming surfers training and battling it out at the surf ranch with men and women competing in individual and team challenges focused on specific surfing disciplines.
Male and female surfers were vying for the title of the Ultimate Surfer and the opportunity to compete on the Wsl World Tour.
The competition series, which is produced by Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group and Wsl Studios, was shot at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Kings County, California.
Surf champion Slater was the lead consultant and also served as a special correspondent. Former NFL quarterback...
ABC has canceled the water-based competition series after one season.
The show premiered in August 2021 and ran for eight eps but it struggled to find a big wave of fans with its opening episode being boarded by less than 1.5M viewers and a 0.3 in the demo.
The series featured top up-and-coming surfers training and battling it out at the surf ranch with men and women competing in individual and team challenges focused on specific surfing disciplines.
Male and female surfers were vying for the title of the Ultimate Surfer and the opportunity to compete on the Wsl World Tour.
The competition series, which is produced by Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group and Wsl Studios, was shot at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Kings County, California.
Surf champion Slater was the lead consultant and also served as a special correspondent. Former NFL quarterback...
- 3/30/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
From the infamous murders of Tupac and Biggie Smalls to the countless deaths of other rappers, the hip-hop community has long been hit by homicides.
This is now being explored in an unscripted series for WEtv from Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.
The rapper is producing Hip Hop Homicides, via his G-Unit Film & Television, along with Mona Scott-Young’s Monami Productions and Lionsgate Television.
The series is hosted by Van Lathan, the former TMZ personality who hosted Oscar-winning short film Two Distant Strangers. It will look into the staggering number of unsolved murders in the hip-hop community in an attempt to uncover details of what really happened.
The eight-part series will air later this year on AMC Networks’ WEtv as well as its streaming service Allblk.
Monami Productions will handle physical production. Lionsgate handles international distribution rights.
Jackson will executive produce for G-Unit Film & Television, Mona Scott-Young, Stephanie R. Gayle and...
This is now being explored in an unscripted series for WEtv from Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.
The rapper is producing Hip Hop Homicides, via his G-Unit Film & Television, along with Mona Scott-Young’s Monami Productions and Lionsgate Television.
The series is hosted by Van Lathan, the former TMZ personality who hosted Oscar-winning short film Two Distant Strangers. It will look into the staggering number of unsolved murders in the hip-hop community in an attempt to uncover details of what really happened.
The eight-part series will air later this year on AMC Networks’ WEtv as well as its streaming service Allblk.
Monami Productions will handle physical production. Lionsgate handles international distribution rights.
Jackson will executive produce for G-Unit Film & Television, Mona Scott-Young, Stephanie R. Gayle and...
- 1/20/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Ultimate Surfer producer Pilgrim Media Group has promoted a trio of execs in its development division.
The Lionsgate-backed company has handed promotions to Tom Huffman, who has been upped to Chief Creative Officer, Lauren Lemieux upped to VP and Head of Development and SVP, Original Content Scott Eldridge has had his duties expanded to include true-crime.
The company, which also makes series including Ghost Hunters and Street Outlaws, has also promoted Michael Dunn to Executive Director of Development, Christian Navarrete to Director of Development, Lauren Mickle to Coordinator and Cara Groom joined the group from Lionsgate as Director of Development.
Huffman and Eldridge joined Pilgrim in 2019 and Lemieux in 2018. Navarrete has served in various roles at Pilgrim since 2015, including heading up its e-sports division, Dunn, who has a production background, has been with the company since 2018 and Groom transitioned from Lionsgate after Craig Piligian was appointed head of Lionsgate’s unscripted business.
The Lionsgate-backed company has handed promotions to Tom Huffman, who has been upped to Chief Creative Officer, Lauren Lemieux upped to VP and Head of Development and SVP, Original Content Scott Eldridge has had his duties expanded to include true-crime.
The company, which also makes series including Ghost Hunters and Street Outlaws, has also promoted Michael Dunn to Executive Director of Development, Christian Navarrete to Director of Development, Lauren Mickle to Coordinator and Cara Groom joined the group from Lionsgate as Director of Development.
Huffman and Eldridge joined Pilgrim in 2019 and Lemieux in 2018. Navarrete has served in various roles at Pilgrim since 2015, including heading up its e-sports division, Dunn, who has a production background, has been with the company since 2018 and Groom transitioned from Lionsgate after Craig Piligian was appointed head of Lionsgate’s unscripted business.
- 12/17/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
‘American Chopper’ EP Franco Porporino Jr. Strikes First-Look TV Deal With Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media
Exclusive: Franco Porporino Jr., who helped reboot American Chopper for the Discovery Channel, has signed a first-look unscripted TV deal with Lionsgate-owned Pilgrim Media Group.
The Wicked Tuna producer will work with Porporino Jr. to develop and produce unscripted series across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms through his Kiss Fly Productions banner.
It builds on his work with Craig Piligian’s company – Porporino Jr. exec produced Pilgrim’s Hoffman Family Gold for Discovery.
“Franco is a true force of nature with a wealth of strong talent relationships,” said President of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television and Pilgrim CEO and Chair Craig Piligian. “His company’s mission of discovering and fostering new voices while also championing familiar ones fits perfectly with ours.”
“I’m honored to embark on this exciting collaboration with Pilgrim Media Group after having worked with them on Hoffman Family Gold and American Chopper. I’ve been a huge...
The Wicked Tuna producer will work with Porporino Jr. to develop and produce unscripted series across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms through his Kiss Fly Productions banner.
It builds on his work with Craig Piligian’s company – Porporino Jr. exec produced Pilgrim’s Hoffman Family Gold for Discovery.
“Franco is a true force of nature with a wealth of strong talent relationships,” said President of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television and Pilgrim CEO and Chair Craig Piligian. “His company’s mission of discovering and fostering new voices while also championing familiar ones fits perfectly with ours.”
“I’m honored to embark on this exciting collaboration with Pilgrim Media Group after having worked with them on Hoffman Family Gold and American Chopper. I’ve been a huge...
- 12/16/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Johnny Gould, who was previously chief creative officer at Craig Piligian’s Pilgrim Media Group, has set up his own unscripted production company, backed by 3Bmg.
Gould has launched Superluna Studios as a joint venture with the company, which was launched last year by Reinout Oerlemans and Ross Weintraub.
Superluna is developing series across the docuseries, lifestyle, history, competition and nonfiction spaces. He currently has more than 20 projects in development including a feature documentary set up at a major streamer.
During his 16-year tenure at Pilgrim, he oversaw development and worked on series including Fast N’ Loud, Street Outlaws, Wicked Tuna, My Big Fat Fabulous Life, Bring It!, Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s, Michael Sam, Lindsay, Raising Whitley, Battlefish, Days that Shaped America, and Car Kings.
It is the latest joint venture for 3Bmg, the parent company of Bar Rescue producer 3 Ball Productions. Chairman and Chief Creative Officer...
Gould has launched Superluna Studios as a joint venture with the company, which was launched last year by Reinout Oerlemans and Ross Weintraub.
Superluna is developing series across the docuseries, lifestyle, history, competition and nonfiction spaces. He currently has more than 20 projects in development including a feature documentary set up at a major streamer.
During his 16-year tenure at Pilgrim, he oversaw development and worked on series including Fast N’ Loud, Street Outlaws, Wicked Tuna, My Big Fat Fabulous Life, Bring It!, Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s, Michael Sam, Lindsay, Raising Whitley, Battlefish, Days that Shaped America, and Car Kings.
It is the latest joint venture for 3Bmg, the parent company of Bar Rescue producer 3 Ball Productions. Chairman and Chief Creative Officer...
- 9/21/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Showtime has released a trailer for “American Rust,” premiering Sept. 12.
Starring Jeff Daniels and Maura Tierney, the limited series based on Philipp Meyer’s novel of the same name follows Del Harris (Daniels), the chief of police of a Pennsylvania Rust Belt town, as he decides how far he’ll go to protect the son of a woman he loves, Grace (Tierney), after a murder upends the town.
“The oath we all took together was, we’d do this for each other,” Daniels’ Del says at the start and end of the trailer, which you can watch below.
The trailer showcases Del’s moral dilemma of how to handle the murder investigation that is complicated by personal connections. In it, he acknowledges the case is “poisoning” the town, as someone is going to have to answer for the crime no matter what. It also offers glimpses of the graphic details...
Starring Jeff Daniels and Maura Tierney, the limited series based on Philipp Meyer’s novel of the same name follows Del Harris (Daniels), the chief of police of a Pennsylvania Rust Belt town, as he decides how far he’ll go to protect the son of a woman he loves, Grace (Tierney), after a murder upends the town.
“The oath we all took together was, we’d do this for each other,” Daniels’ Del says at the start and end of the trailer, which you can watch below.
The trailer showcases Del’s moral dilemma of how to handle the murder investigation that is complicated by personal connections. In it, he acknowledges the case is “poisoning” the town, as someone is going to have to answer for the crime no matter what. It also offers glimpses of the graphic details...
- 7/23/2021
- by Jennifer Yuma
- Variety Film + TV
Tiffany Haddish, Brad Paisley, and William Shatner are some of the stars appearing during Shark Week, television’s longest-running summer event.
The Discovery Channel and discovery+ showcase returns for its 33rd year starting Sunday, July 11 and continuing through Sunday, July 18. This year has the most hours of programming in Shark Week history at 45 hours, taking viewers to new locations to study and record new shark behaviors that have never been seen on camera.
Leading up to Shark Week, Discovery and discovery+ will celebrate sharks all month long with a shark movie festival across both platforms, including the Sharknado series, Mega Shark vs. Octopus, Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark, 2-Head Shark Attack, and 3-Headed Shark Attack, all available starting July 1 on discovery+.
The classic Jaws will air July 10 at 8Pm Et/Pt on Discovery. In addition, pre-premieres of Shark Week shows Return to Headstone Hell, Mega Predators of Oz, and Return...
The Discovery Channel and discovery+ showcase returns for its 33rd year starting Sunday, July 11 and continuing through Sunday, July 18. This year has the most hours of programming in Shark Week history at 45 hours, taking viewers to new locations to study and record new shark behaviors that have never been seen on camera.
Leading up to Shark Week, Discovery and discovery+ will celebrate sharks all month long with a shark movie festival across both platforms, including the Sharknado series, Mega Shark vs. Octopus, Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark, 2-Head Shark Attack, and 3-Headed Shark Attack, all available starting July 1 on discovery+.
The classic Jaws will air July 10 at 8Pm Et/Pt on Discovery. In addition, pre-premieres of Shark Week shows Return to Headstone Hell, Mega Predators of Oz, and Return...
- 6/26/2021
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
discovery+, the definitive non-fiction, real-life subscription streaming service, announced today the launch of the powerful and timely documentary written, directed and executive produced by acclaimed filmmaker Eli Roth, Fin, on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The film is produced by Lionsgate and its Pilgrim Media Group company in association with Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Away productions.
In Fin, Roth and a professional group of scientists, researchers and activists sail around the globe to unveil the truth behind the death of millions of sharks, exposing the criminal enterprise that is impacting the extinction of the misunderstood creatures. Fin features work from photographer Michael Muller and the support of organizations such as Oceana, Sea Shepherd, and Wild Aid. Oscar® winner Leonardo DiCaprio executive produces the film along with actor, producer and shark activist Nina Dobrev and President of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television and Pilgrim CEO and Chair Craig Piligian.
“Fin is the scariest film I’ve ever made,...
In Fin, Roth and a professional group of scientists, researchers and activists sail around the globe to unveil the truth behind the death of millions of sharks, exposing the criminal enterprise that is impacting the extinction of the misunderstood creatures. Fin features work from photographer Michael Muller and the support of organizations such as Oceana, Sea Shepherd, and Wild Aid. Oscar® winner Leonardo DiCaprio executive produces the film along with actor, producer and shark activist Nina Dobrev and President of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television and Pilgrim CEO and Chair Craig Piligian.
“Fin is the scariest film I’ve ever made,...
- 6/24/2021
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
If the truth is out there, you may be able to find it in the upcoming government report reveal on unexplained aerial phenomena. And you’ll definitely be able to find it on Discovery, Science Channel and Travel Channel.
The Discovery, Inc.-owned cable networks plan to simulcast a three-hour live event on Wednesday, June 30, exploring the report’s findings, TheWrap has learned. That is, if the highly anticipated report leaves anything unredacted.
Even if said report proves to be a dud, well, Josh Gates and the gang are going to have plenty to talk about anyway.
Gates, the face of Discovery’s “Expedition Unknown,” is set to host the live event. He’ll question top experts including NASA administrator Bill Nelson, former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, former counselor to President Obama John Podesta and retired senior intelligence officer Bob Wallace. There’s also astrophysicist Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, physicist and astronomer Robert Weryk,...
The Discovery, Inc.-owned cable networks plan to simulcast a three-hour live event on Wednesday, June 30, exploring the report’s findings, TheWrap has learned. That is, if the highly anticipated report leaves anything unredacted.
Even if said report proves to be a dud, well, Josh Gates and the gang are going to have plenty to talk about anyway.
Gates, the face of Discovery’s “Expedition Unknown,” is set to host the live event. He’ll question top experts including NASA administrator Bill Nelson, former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, former counselor to President Obama John Podesta and retired senior intelligence officer Bob Wallace. There’s also astrophysicist Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, physicist and astronomer Robert Weryk,...
- 6/24/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Jesse Palmer, the former NFL quarterback who appeared as The Bachelor in season five, is hosting ABC’s reality competition series The Ultimate Surfer.
Palmer, who played for the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers and also hosted ABC’s The Proposal, will front the series with the help of sports anchor Erin Coscarelli and the voice of surfing Joe Turpel as commentators.
Surf champion Kelly Slater is the lead consultant and also serves as a special correspondent.
The competition series, which is produced by Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group and Wsl Studios, was shot at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Kings County, California.
It features top up-and-coming surfers training and battling it out at the surf ranch with men and women competing in individual and team challenges focused on specific surfing disciplines. Weekly eliminations will leave two men and two women as finalists who will vie for...
Palmer, who played for the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers and also hosted ABC’s The Proposal, will front the series with the help of sports anchor Erin Coscarelli and the voice of surfing Joe Turpel as commentators.
Surf champion Kelly Slater is the lead consultant and also serves as a special correspondent.
The competition series, which is produced by Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group and Wsl Studios, was shot at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in Kings County, California.
It features top up-and-coming surfers training and battling it out at the surf ranch with men and women competing in individual and team challenges focused on specific surfing disciplines. Weekly eliminations will leave two men and two women as finalists who will vie for...
- 5/6/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO Max released a trailer for Season 4 of “Gomorrah,” which launches on May 20.
The new season focuses on Genny, who, in order to protect his family, commits to legit business and tries to escape the world in which his father raised him.
“Gomorrah” stars Salvatore Esposito, Ivana Lotito, Cristiana Dell’Anna, Arturo Muselli and Loris De Luna.
Based on the book by Roberto Saviano, “Gomorrah” is executive produced by Riccardo Tozzi, Gina Gardini, Giovanni Stabilini, Marco Chimenz, Nils Hartman and Sonia Rovai. The series is developed by Saviano and Stefano Bises, alongside Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli, who also serve as writers with Enrico Audenino and Monica Zapelli. The fourth season is directed by Claudio Cupellini, Marco D’Amore, Enrico Rosati, Ciro Visco and Francesca Comencini, who is also the artistic supervisor.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
First Looks
PBS released a trailer for “Tulsa: The Fire and the Forgotten,...
The new season focuses on Genny, who, in order to protect his family, commits to legit business and tries to escape the world in which his father raised him.
“Gomorrah” stars Salvatore Esposito, Ivana Lotito, Cristiana Dell’Anna, Arturo Muselli and Loris De Luna.
Based on the book by Roberto Saviano, “Gomorrah” is executive produced by Riccardo Tozzi, Gina Gardini, Giovanni Stabilini, Marco Chimenz, Nils Hartman and Sonia Rovai. The series is developed by Saviano and Stefano Bises, alongside Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli, who also serve as writers with Enrico Audenino and Monica Zapelli. The fourth season is directed by Claudio Cupellini, Marco D’Amore, Enrico Rosati, Ciro Visco and Francesca Comencini, who is also the artistic supervisor.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
First Looks
PBS released a trailer for “Tulsa: The Fire and the Forgotten,...
- 5/4/2021
- by Antonio Ferme and Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Pilgrim Media Group’s Craig Piligian has re-upped his deal with Lionsgate, expanding his purview to oversee the studio’s unscripted division. Piligian will continue as CEO of Pilgrim Media Group. Under the new deal, he also has also been elevated to Chair of Pilgrim Media Group.
In his new role, Piligian will be responsible for overseeing Lionsgate’s unscripted television business, developing new nonfiction series and managing the Company’s partnerships with unscripted television producers.
Lionsgate’s unscripted television roster includes House of Ho on HBO Max, Selling Sunset and Kevin Hart: Don’t F**k This Up on Netflix and De Viaje con Los Derbez on Pantaya.
Alice Dickens-Koblin, who stepped in from Starz to ramp up Lionsgate’s unscripted business, will continue her role as Starz SVP and Head of Unscripted Television for the global premium streaming service. She will also continue to lead Lionsgate’s 1619 Project...
In his new role, Piligian will be responsible for overseeing Lionsgate’s unscripted television business, developing new nonfiction series and managing the Company’s partnerships with unscripted television producers.
Lionsgate’s unscripted television roster includes House of Ho on HBO Max, Selling Sunset and Kevin Hart: Don’t F**k This Up on Netflix and De Viaje con Los Derbez on Pantaya.
Alice Dickens-Koblin, who stepped in from Starz to ramp up Lionsgate’s unscripted business, will continue her role as Starz SVP and Head of Unscripted Television for the global premium streaming service. She will also continue to lead Lionsgate’s 1619 Project...
- 4/15/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video debuted a trailer for “The Underground Railroad,” an original limited series from showrunner and director Barry Jenkins.
All 10 episodes of the series, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead, will premiere on May 14.
“The Underground Railroad” follows Cora Randall’s journey to freedom in the antebellum South as bounty hunter Ridgeway seeks to bring her back to the plantation she escaped. Thuso Mbedu, Chase W. Dillon and Joel Edgerton star alongside Aaron Pierre, William Jackson Harper, Sheila Atim, Amber Gray, Peter De Jersey, Chukwudi Iwuji, Damon Herriman, Lily Rabe, Irone Singleton, Mychal-Bella Bowman, Marcus “Mj” Gladney, Jr., Will Poulter and Peter Mullan.
Jenkins executive produces with Adele Romanski, Mark Ceryak, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Brad Pitt, Richard Heus, Jacqueline Hoyt and Colson Whitehead. “The Underground Railroad” is a production of Plan B, Pastel and Big Indie with Amazon Studios.
Watch the trailer below.
Dates
HBO Max...
All 10 episodes of the series, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead, will premiere on May 14.
“The Underground Railroad” follows Cora Randall’s journey to freedom in the antebellum South as bounty hunter Ridgeway seeks to bring her back to the plantation she escaped. Thuso Mbedu, Chase W. Dillon and Joel Edgerton star alongside Aaron Pierre, William Jackson Harper, Sheila Atim, Amber Gray, Peter De Jersey, Chukwudi Iwuji, Damon Herriman, Lily Rabe, Irone Singleton, Mychal-Bella Bowman, Marcus “Mj” Gladney, Jr., Will Poulter and Peter Mullan.
Jenkins executive produces with Adele Romanski, Mark Ceryak, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Brad Pitt, Richard Heus, Jacqueline Hoyt and Colson Whitehead. “The Underground Railroad” is a production of Plan B, Pastel and Big Indie with Amazon Studios.
Watch the trailer below.
Dates
HBO Max...
- 4/15/2021
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Lionsgate Television is consolidating its unscripted business under Pilgrim Media Group’s Craig Piligian.
The Pilgrim CEO has signed a new three-year agreement to remain with the Lionsgate-backed unscripted studio. As part of his new deal, Piligian has been named chair of Pilgrim Media Group and will serve in the newly created role of president of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television.
While Lionsgate has a nearly two-thirds ownership stake in Piligian’s Pilgrim, the studio has not had a dedicated unscripted exec since Jennifer O’Connell departed in May 2019. In the interim, Alice Dickens-Koblin has overseen unscripted at both Lionsgate TV ...
The Pilgrim CEO has signed a new three-year agreement to remain with the Lionsgate-backed unscripted studio. As part of his new deal, Piligian has been named chair of Pilgrim Media Group and will serve in the newly created role of president of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television.
While Lionsgate has a nearly two-thirds ownership stake in Piligian’s Pilgrim, the studio has not had a dedicated unscripted exec since Jennifer O’Connell departed in May 2019. In the interim, Alice Dickens-Koblin has overseen unscripted at both Lionsgate TV ...
- 4/15/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Lionsgate Television is consolidating its unscripted business under Pilgrim Media Group’s Craig Piligian.
The Pilgrim CEO has signed a new three-year agreement to remain with the Lionsgate-backed unscripted studio. As part of his new deal, Piligian has been named chair of Pilgrim Media Group and will serve in the newly created role of president of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television.
While Lionsgate has a nearly two-thirds ownership stake in Piligian’s Pilgrim, the studio has not had a dedicated unscripted exec since Jennifer O’Connell departed in May 2019. In the interim, Alice Dickens-Koblin has overseen unscripted at both Lionsgate TV ...
The Pilgrim CEO has signed a new three-year agreement to remain with the Lionsgate-backed unscripted studio. As part of his new deal, Piligian has been named chair of Pilgrim Media Group and will serve in the newly created role of president of Lionsgate Nonfiction Television.
While Lionsgate has a nearly two-thirds ownership stake in Piligian’s Pilgrim, the studio has not had a dedicated unscripted exec since Jennifer O’Connell departed in May 2019. In the interim, Alice Dickens-Koblin has overseen unscripted at both Lionsgate TV ...
- 4/15/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Savion Einstein is adapting Helen Hoang’s romance novel Kiss Quotient for Lionsgate. The studio acquired the novel two years as we first told you.
In addition, Kristin Burr through her Burr! Productions banner will be joining the feature alongside Craig Piligian through Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group. Piligian was already attached to the project when Lionsgate was selling the title AFM two years ago.
Kiss Quotient follows Stella Lane, a brilliant econometrician on the autism spectrum, who knows everything about algorithms but finds the nuances of relationships terrifying and insurmountable. In an effort to grow comfortable with the idea of dating, she comes to a very logical conclusion: hiring a male escort. But as someone who thought math was the only thing that united the universe, Stella unexpectedly finds love and acceptance for being herself with the unlikeliest of partners.
The Kiss Quotient is the first book in a series by Hoang,...
In addition, Kristin Burr through her Burr! Productions banner will be joining the feature alongside Craig Piligian through Lionsgate’s Pilgrim Media Group. Piligian was already attached to the project when Lionsgate was selling the title AFM two years ago.
Kiss Quotient follows Stella Lane, a brilliant econometrician on the autism spectrum, who knows everything about algorithms but finds the nuances of relationships terrifying and insurmountable. In an effort to grow comfortable with the idea of dating, she comes to a very logical conclusion: hiring a male escort. But as someone who thought math was the only thing that united the universe, Stella unexpectedly finds love and acceptance for being herself with the unlikeliest of partners.
The Kiss Quotient is the first book in a series by Hoang,...
- 4/9/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC has set its summer schedule, which includes the first season of “The Bachelorette” without longtime host Chris Harrison, the long-awaited comeback of Covid-delayed “Bachelor in Paradise” and the premieres of three new series and several staples.
Katie Thurston’s season of “The Bachelorette” will premiere Monday, June 7. As previously announced, Harrison, the face of the “Bachelor” franchise, will take the upcoming season off after temporarily stepping away from the series earlier this year. Former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe will step in as co-hosts for Season 17.
ABC is bringing more romance later in the summer with the premiere of “Bachelor in Paradise” Season 7. No word yet on who is hosting this season of the show, which has been off the air for two years due to the pandemic.
Among the other ABC series returning this summer are freshman competition shows “The Chase” and “The Hustler” (both now formally...
Katie Thurston’s season of “The Bachelorette” will premiere Monday, June 7. As previously announced, Harrison, the face of the “Bachelor” franchise, will take the upcoming season off after temporarily stepping away from the series earlier this year. Former Bachelorettes Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe will step in as co-hosts for Season 17.
ABC is bringing more romance later in the summer with the premiere of “Bachelor in Paradise” Season 7. No word yet on who is hosting this season of the show, which has been off the air for two years due to the pandemic.
Among the other ABC series returning this summer are freshman competition shows “The Chase” and “The Hustler” (both now formally...
- 4/7/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Netflix has acquired the documentary “Giving Voice” and will release it on the streaming service later this year.
“Giving Voice” won the Sundance Film Festival favorite award, a plaudit that’s selected by audience votes from the 128 features screened at the 2020 event.
Directed by James D. Stern and Fernando Villena, “Giving Voice” follows the lives of six students as they compete against fellow high schoolers from around the country in the August Wilson Monologue Competition in New York City. It features the original song “Never Break” performed by John Legend.
“This is my fifth project with Netflix and nothing thrills me more than to be able to bring ‘Giving Voice’ to a place that I consider home,” Stern said.
The movie was produced by Endgame Entertainment and Pilgrim Media Group Production, in association with Endeavor Content, Impact Partners, Get Lifted Film Co and JuVee Productions. Stern and Villena also produced the film,...
“Giving Voice” won the Sundance Film Festival favorite award, a plaudit that’s selected by audience votes from the 128 features screened at the 2020 event.
Directed by James D. Stern and Fernando Villena, “Giving Voice” follows the lives of six students as they compete against fellow high schoolers from around the country in the August Wilson Monologue Competition in New York City. It features the original song “Never Break” performed by John Legend.
“This is my fifth project with Netflix and nothing thrills me more than to be able to bring ‘Giving Voice’ to a place that I consider home,” Stern said.
The movie was produced by Endgame Entertainment and Pilgrim Media Group Production, in association with Endeavor Content, Impact Partners, Get Lifted Film Co and JuVee Productions. Stern and Villena also produced the film,...
- 6/18/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix has acquired the worldwide rights to “Giving Voice,” a documentary about the August Wilson Monologue Competition that won the Audience Award at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
“Giving Voice” is directed by James D. Stern and Fernando Villena and follows six students as they advance through the monologue competition, which highlights the work of the playwright behind “Fences” and “The Piano Lesson” and allows winners the chance to perform at the August Wilson Theater on Broadway.
The documentary specifically looks at students from public schools pursuing careers in performance arts, and it uses Wilson’s words to focus on the black experience in America and how words and voices can be ignited to inspire change. Netflix plans to release “Giving Voice” later this year.
Also Read: Watch Dave Chappelle Respond to George Floyd's Death in Surprise Netflix Special '8:46' (Video)
“This is my fifth project...
“Giving Voice” is directed by James D. Stern and Fernando Villena and follows six students as they advance through the monologue competition, which highlights the work of the playwright behind “Fences” and “The Piano Lesson” and allows winners the chance to perform at the August Wilson Theater on Broadway.
The documentary specifically looks at students from public schools pursuing careers in performance arts, and it uses Wilson’s words to focus on the black experience in America and how words and voices can be ignited to inspire change. Netflix plans to release “Giving Voice” later this year.
Also Read: Watch Dave Chappelle Respond to George Floyd's Death in Surprise Netflix Special '8:46' (Video)
“This is my fifth project...
- 6/18/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
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