All Entries Tagged With: "Tv Shows"
Event Recap: Q&A Reception for New Cast of Tyler Perry’s “The Have’s and the Have Nots” & “Love Thy Neighbor” On OWN
On Tuesday, May 14, the the 135th Agency hosted a private Q&A reception for the cast of The Have’s and the Have Nots and Love Thy Neighbor. The event held at Peter Thomas’s (of Real Housewives of Atlanta) local restaurant and lounge bar ONE. The event was held to give the local media outlets in Atlanta the opportunity to find out more about Tyler Perry’s two new scripted series. Both series are scheduled to air on May 28 and 29 on the OWN Network. As you know, Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey have teamed up to air several new shows written, directed, and produced by Mr. Perry. Although Turner Broadcasting (TBS) continue to show reruns of Mr. Perry’s other shows like House of Payne on their network, Tyler is no longer affiliated with that channel.
Anyway, the atmostphere at bar ONE was quaint and a little steamy. Apparently, there may have been too many people inside because the place was very warm. Luckily, the actresses had their glam squad’s on deck to touch up their make-up. If not, paparrazi shots would have looked a hot sweaty mess. Nevertheless, delicious bite-size pickings were passed around the room and drinks flowed. The DJ did a great job at maintaining the chill vibe in the room. Overall, this was a great event for various media outlets and onlookers to get the opportunity to know more about a few familiar faces and unfamiliar ones.
Cast members who were present to field questions from The Have’s and the Have Nots were John Schneider (Dukes of Hazzard), Tika Sumpter (One Life to Live/Gossip Girls), Crystal Fox (In The Heat of the Night). Also, several from the second new show Love Thy Neighbor were in attendance as well like Patricia Lovely (first African-American ring master/UniverSoul Circus and seasoned stage play actress), Kendra C. Johnson (The Game & Empowermen Editor/PLUS Model Magazine), and Palmer Williams Jr. (House of Payne). One interesting moment occured when someone asked the cast how was like to meet Oprah for the first time. Several had stories to share. But, Palmer Williams Jr’s story of meeting Oprah in Chicago and she served him fried chicken was a little funny.
Here are a few pictures from the Q&A event:
R to L: John Schneider, Renee Lawless, & Tika Sumpter
Tika Sumpter
Syleena Johson (R&B Divas)
Derek Blanks (celebrity photographer & director)
Please be sure to catch The Have’s and the Have Nots on OWN, Tuesday, May 28 at 9PM EST and Love Thy Neighbor on Wednesday, May 29 at 9PM EST. If you’re a big fan of Tyler Perry projects, then you will surely enjoy the two new series.
Thanks Saptosa Foster and the 135th Agency for the invite!
Bernice Is Back w/More Tow Drama, But Stays Humbled By the Love From Fans
Our favorite tough girl is back! It’s been a minute since STACKS Magazine spoke with Bernice [READ HERE]. At the time, she was adjusting to the new fame, her role, and the overwhelming support from her fans. At one point she was released from her duties as a tow truck driver. But the Tremont Towing family welcomed her with open-arms. Since then, she’s been working hard on nights and weekends in the city of Miami and South Beach. Her hard work and dedication is all for the benefit of her lovely mother. Coming from humble beginnings, she’s on a mission to build an empire so that her mom won’t have to work anymore. She truly has a heart of gold. Of course, though, once you piss her off all hell can break loose.
In season 3 and 13 episodes later, the fans can expect to see some interesting conflict from the Miami-native and the Tremont crew. “It’s a lot of drama. It’s a lot going on, man. Definitely, inside house [Tremont] it’s a lot going on. Basically, the dad got hurt last year (Season 2). People who he trying to get to take over to pretty much run the company while he deal with his health issues…so it’s a lot“, says Bernice. With the show premiering tonight on Tru TV, Bernice is somewhat limited in what “tea” she could spill. But she ensures that the fans will get a more in-depth look into the interactions and emotions that flow within the Tremont office. The health issues with Robert Ashenoff, Sr (the Boss) and the newborn of Christie Ashenoff has made way for someone else to manage the day-to-day operations. This new turn of events has caused a huge stir in the office. From Bernice’s point of view, it’s a matter of control. Unfortunately, everyone can’t be the boss.
Basically, it’s the drama. Everybody want to be the boss. Everybody want to be chiefs, but don’t nobody want to be indians. It’s crazy. Christy have had the baby and she was out for a while just dealing with trying to run stuff. But, everybody help each other out. But, it don’t usually work out like that when money is involved. And everybody trying to get a couple dollars. It’s just crazy! Exciting, crazy, and a lot of drama. This year is going to be more drama-filled I would say.
South Beach Tow started off with the crew towing cars and reactions of random individuals who didn’t follow parking instructions. Over the seasons, however, each crew member’s personalities started to shine. The viewers became in love with the characters and not so much with the act of towing a car. Apparently, the producers of the show has recognized this and will continue to push the stories behind the cast. In season 3, this will be evident as more drama with the crew jumps off. While the company is in a management transition, the staff will be more emotional and conflict will arise. According to Bernice, yes there will be “hella” conflict. She says, “You know, depending on who take over and who’s the boss, everybody don’t like everybody. It’s just like a family. Some people can be good as a friend, but can’t be good as a boss. You feel me? It’s just crazy. A lot of bumping heads.”
Drama makes for good television. But fans don’t worry, there will still be a lot of car towing going on. Unfortunately, Bernice couldn’t give any specific situations that will occur this season. But rest to sure that there wil be some wild and crazy stuff going on with the citizens of Miami. And the people of Miami sure do love them some Bernice. After mentiong to her that our first interview garnered a boat load of comments and support from fans, Bernice is still humble. She hasn’t let the fame get to her head and probably never will. Fans see her all the time in the streets of Miami. She humbly stops to take a photo or even sign an autograph. Despite what we all see on television, she’s very nice and a lover of the people. All of this is still a bit overwhelming though. But she’s handling things quite well with her longstanding friendships and support from family.
One thing about it, I’m from Miami so people will definitely recognize you. I love the people. I’m a people’s person. It’s pretty much the same. It’s still overwhelming, like, I communicate with the fans. I try to stay as humble as I can. Before all this, I knew a lot of people. So now, you got a lot of people on your side, backing you, and who want to see you do well. Of course, you got the people who hate. As long as they hate to the point that they are watching (the show) to hate, I’m fine with that sh*t. It’s all the same. It’s the same with everything. It’s just surreal. I have to tell the truth. I’m just thankful that people are really f**king with us like that. It’s good for me.
Stalkers stand back though! LOL. With the popularity, Bernice has encountered a few strange occurences. We tend to hear about strangers showing up a celebrities front door step. Not only this is crazy, but it is also dangerous. And it will be if you show up at Bernice’s house. Luckily she has not received an unwelcomed visitor as of yet. But she says that she has had several strange phone calls. “No, but somebody been calling my damn house. I don’t know how they got my number. They must be paying for that sh*t to get all your information. [laughs] But, I’m about to change it and block it. Listen, I have no clue. My number been the same since I was in middle school. It never been listed“, Bernice explains.
You got to love her. She upfront and don’t take no mess. And she appreciates all her fans. With her filming schedule being as hectic as it is, she does plan to get out and meet some of the fans. So, there could possibly a city-to-city tour on the way. Bernice understands the importance of having a fanbase and would like to reach and touch them and show them some love. One thing is for sure, she never wants to lose touch from where she came from. She states, “they say “you don’t change, people change around you.” That is so true because you know people change around you everyday. But, I still got the same friends. We still hangout. We still love each other. We still have fun. If I f–ks with you, I f–ks with you and if I don’t I don’t.”
Catch Bernice tonight at 9:30PM on Tru TV’s South Beach Tow. Follow her on Twitter @Bernice_SBTow!
Randy Jackson Says No More ‘American Idol’ For Him
With rumors swirling and many wondering, the air has finally been cleared.
Longtime judge of Fox’s hit singing competition show ‘American Idol’, Randy Jackson has confirmed that he will not be returning to his judge’s seat next season. Jackson attributes his departure to taking time to nurture his record label and pursue other business ventures. In a statement Jackson said, “To put all of the speculation to the rest, after 12 years of judging on ‘American Idol,’ I have decided to leave after this season. I am very proud of how we forever changed television and the music industry.”
Jackson is currently the only original judge still on the show since its origination in 2002. The original panel consisted of Jackson, Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul. He now sits on the panel Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj.
With the show’s ratings being down and Jackson leaving the show, it’s left to wonder if American Idol will even have a next season and if so whether or not any of the judges will return. Only time will tell!
More Reality TV by way of “The Cee Lo Life”
Cee Lo Green is bringing himself and the rest of the mob with him to the world of reality televeision. Cee Lo’s upcoming reality series titled “The Cee Lo Life” has been given the green light and picked up by TBS.
The series which will consist of six episodes will follow Cee Lo as he reunites with his former Goodie Mob group members Big Gipp, Khujo and T-Mo. Fans will be allowed a more in-depth look at the personal side of the group members especially Cee Lo’s. According to the president of TBS, TNT and Turner Classic Movies, Michael Wright, the show will be a “fun and funny journey packed with great music.”
“The Cee Lo Life” is scheduled to premiere early next year while Goodie Mob’s upcoming album Age Against the Machine is slated for release on June 18th. This will be the first album from the group since their last album release in 2004.
It’ll be interesting to see the direction the fellas take musically and to see them working together again. Hopefully this time they’ll have all their ducks in a row.
Tionna Smalls From “What Chili Wants” Says “Girl Get Your Mind Right” In New Reality Show
Remember Tionna Smalls from Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas’ reality show “What Chili Wants”? In the case that you don’t, she was the relationship expert that was attempting to assist Chilli with her journey of finding love. If you ever got a chance to check the show out, then you know that Tionna was no joke and was definitely no holds barred when it came to telling Chilli how it is and what she thought.
Well after being featured on that show Smalls is moving on up to big and better things by way of her own reality show. Based on her book, “Girl Get Your Mind Right”, Tionna has landed a show of the same name on the MTV network. On the show, Tionna will tackle relationship issues and advise 20 single ladies on their man problems. Throughout the season she will attempt to transform the ladies where their looks, behaviors and attitudes are concerned. The ladies will later be sent out on a date which will be filmed by a hidden camera.
Check out what Tionna and MTV’s Senior Vice President Tony DiBari had to say about the show. You can also peep the trailer below.
According to Tony DiBari:
[The show allows] us to take a look into the specifics of many more girls and each episode will wind up being more relatable. They’re looking for guidance and boundaries from someone other than their parents. We felt the combination of the genre and the personality like Tionna, who is so unique, made a lot of sense for us. We thought the hidden-camera took the genre to the next level. We wanted to take it one step further and really put it all to the test.
For a long time, dating shows were a real big part of our programming slate and we’ve kind of fallen away from that recently. It remains something that’s important to our viewers, and also because dating has changed so much recently that it feels like the right time to get back into that space.”
For those of you that will be tuning in, Tionna’s “Girl Get Your Mind Right “ premieres on May 20th at 6pm [EST] on MTV.
Photo Recap: R&B Divas ATL Season 2 Premiere Party @ Museum Bar
On Wednesday evening, Atlanta’s movers and shakers congregated at the Museum Bar in support of TV One’s R&B Divas. Regarded as the “Wednesday Night Social” event, the venue was packed with supporters patiently waiting to get a glimpse of what drama would unfold in Season 2. All though all of the “divas” were not in attendance, Nicci Gilbert and Keke Wyatt held it down as official hostesses. Other industry notables spotted were Chanita Foster (Beyond The Game & Divas & Cocktails), Brandy Lynn (Divas & Wildflowers), Egypt Sherrod (V-103FM), Shay Johnson (Love & Hip Hop Atlanta), DJ Traci Steele (Love & Hip Hop Atlanta), Wanda Smith (Frank Ski Morning Show), Lisa Wu Hartwell (Real Housewives of Atlanta – Season 1), and a host of other celebrities and industry insiders.
Below are a few VIP photos from the event.
Nicci Gilbert (Exec. Producer – R&B Divas)
Shay Johnson (Love & Hip Hop ATL)
Shay Johnson & Guest
Nicci Gilbert & daughter Brandy Lynn (R&B Divas)
Nicci Gilbert (R&B Divas)
Egypt Sherrod (V-103FM) & Mrs. Georgia
Brandy Lynn
Chanita Foster & Brandy Lynn
Keke Wyatt (R&B Divas)
Lisa Wu Hartwell & Guests
In case you missed our exclusive interview with the show’s creator and executive producer, Nicci Gilbert, check it out HERE.
Tune in to R&B Divas ATL each and every Wednesday night at 10PM on TV One!
Should Friends Do Business Together?; Tyler & Oprah Set Ground Rules
Photo courtesy of OWN
The best ideas often are derived when you and some friends are sitting around thinking of ways to make money. Every now and then, one of those ideas strike a cord and end up becoming a full-fledge business. So, as friends, you know become business partners. The journey of making the business successful are sometimes filled with a lot of disagreements and lack of better judgment. When this happens, the friends are now at a crossroad which oftentimes cause the demise of the business. So the question is…Do partnerships between friends really work?
We hear of stories where two friends start a business, but not being able to put differences aside end up hurting the business. Whether it is disagreements on how the company should operate, who should handle the finances, or isn’t doing their fair share of the work, these are the type of issues that can arise. So, what should friends do in this case?
Well, as you know, Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry have joined together to bring several new shows to the OWN network. The two besties have established a pretty tight bond over the years. With Oprah’s television cable channel need to add more diverse programming, Tyler Perry’s expertise seemed like a great fit for OWN. This month marks the start of their joint venture. Tyler will be producing several new shows for OWN. But, many wonders if his addition will spark a new and profitable beginning at OWN. If it doesn’t, how will Oprah react?
In case you’re wondering what ground rules the two established prior to going into this venture, Tyler expressed his thoughts in the recent issue of Essence Magazine.
“The most important thing about coming together was making sure we would not lose our friendship because of the business. We had to establish ground rules,” Perry, 43, says.
He continues, “The main one: Both of us have to continue to live in our truth. If she doesn’t like something, say it. If I don’t like something, I’ll say it. And we’ll figure it out and keep moving on…”
Sounds simple enough, huh? Both parties should set some ground rules so that there would be no hard feelings if the business partnership didn’t work out. Secondly, put it in writing. Partnerships should be spelled out in a contract agreement. This way, if millions of dollars are involved, friends can just take it to court and let the judge decide. At the end of the day, you have to decide what is more important…the friendship or the business.
Exclusive: ‘R&B Divas’ Nicci Gilbert Switches It Up for Season 2; Talks Self-Improvement, Syleena Johnson Beef & Expanding Her Brand
In the heaving world of reality television, one things for sure, the cameras don’t lie. Meaning that, although some trickery may occur with the editing, we visually get to see a person for who they truly are. The almighty lens tends to capture truths about a person. But, it is during the playback that each cast member get the opportunity to see their flaws first-hand. At that point, it is up to that individual to decide if change is needed. This is true for one star of TV One’s hit show R&B Divas, Nichole “Nicci” Gilbert.
Despite the rumors that were swirling around about Nicci’s separation from the show, she confirmed that those rumors weren’t true and will indeed be a part of season two. However, her portrayal in season one led to many negative comments from viewers. This didn’t sit well with Nicci. So much so, she acknowledged her flaws and dedicated herself to making positive changes in her life. Not many women can call themselves out and act on it. This is what makes Nicci a “real” woman.
As creator and executive producer of R&B Divas, her transition from music to television has been a trying one. As one-third member of the 90′s R&B group, Brownstone, over the years her passion for music diminished. This caused a fair share of disagreements amongst her cast members in season one. Some friendships remain while other friendships hit a low blow. But, her new found love for production and clothing design has launched Nicci into another creative space that is just as self-gratifying as music.
STACKS Magazine had the pleasure to talk to Nicci recently to get an exclusive in-depth look into who she is as a celebrity and businesswoman. She went into detail about her involvement as executive producer and the R&B Divas franchise. Also, Nicci spoke candidly about her feelings towards the other cast members, the effects of reality TV on the Black community, empowering full-figured women, and various projects she’s working on.
In the later part of 2012, several rumors were floating around about you being fired from R&B Divas. You then released a statement stating otherwise and that you will indeed be on the show. Well, it’s great to know now that you will appear in Season 2. But what is even better news, to me, is that you are one of the Executive Producers of the show. Is that true? Can you confirm that?
Nicci: You are correct. I’m actually the creator and executive producer of the show. So I actually cast all the women that you see on the show and some of the women in LA as well. It’s a new age in media. So I understand that anybody with a laptop can start a rumor. I just think that all is well is good because it gives us instant access to our fan bases and resources to promote our brand. It also can be a little convoluted and full of s–t. So that’s pretty much what that was.
I definitely have differences with my producer partners. Not with the network. TV One and I have a great relationship. But, I absolutely have differences with my producer partners. You know what it’s like when you are building a business and you have ideas and you get partners. We don’t always see eye to eye. So some of that stuff that you were getting from sources and other producers or whatever, you know where just people leveraging and using their relationship to make official statements. None of those statements were official. As I’ve expressed on numerous occasions, until you hear it from TV One or from me, don’t believe everything that you hear. But yes, unfortunately, I was the victim of some fraudulent recordings by some people who were in a “semi-official” capacity who happen to be partners that Faith and I brought on board to be a part of this as well. I understand now that’s what people want to hear. Most people aren’t interested in the upwardly mobile, empowering stories with black women. So this is something we’re still working to get to.
As Exec. Producer, what was the vision behind the show? Do you think that the show accomplished this?
Nicci: As people get a little bit more comfortable you’ll see the truth. You’ll see a little bit more of the truth come out. You’ll see a little bit more drama. Originally, the idea was that I didn’t see any real representation of the relationships with other women that I knew (i.e. my girlfriends, people I worked with). As far as us representing truth, us being honest and forthright, us all being singers, what makes us tick and what make some of that great soul music come out our spirit and out of our voices. That part of it, I think, is amazing. I hope that it continues to grow and evolve from there. I didn’t know that when you are playing the TV game sometimes you got to have a little extra drama. Sometimes you got to plant a couple seeds of B.S.. I hope that doesn’t overshadow and I hope that we don’t feel the need to compete. Because of course, when you have somebody blowing their brains out on TV, there’s going to be a million people that will want to see that. I hope that we can continue to be the example of a positive show. The truth is that we all have a little bit of ratchet in us. That’s nothing surprising. Everybody knows somebody like somebody on Love & Hip Hop or whatever. But typically, when you don’t like somebody you don’t want to be around them. You don’t have to sit up and be friends with them. You don’t have to sit and have cocktails with them. Unfortunately, that’s the formula for a successful show. Get a bunch of people who don’t like each other. Create reasons for people not to like each other. BOOM! There it is…two or three million [viewers]. My goal was to have a group of people that were friends and that like each other, empower, and uplift each other. Hopefully, we’ll stay that.
Bels: In the media you caught flack for being bossy and rude…
Nicci: You know, anything you say can and will be held against you in the editing room, right out. You know what I’m saying. I said everything that came out of my mouth. One of the things I wanted to encourage us to do as a people, just in general, is we hear something and we see something and we believe that sound bite. We believe the 15 sentences that come out of a person’s mouth on the television. None of these women are weak. None of these women are going to let me disrespect them and be rude.
Based on these things and how the audience itself put you in this box as being this type of person, did you find yourself having to change anything in this upcoming season as far as how you interact and communicate with other cast members?
Nicci: Absolutely! Last season, which people would never believe because again, we believe the sound bite. But last season, I spent a lot of time because I was executive producer and creator. I was a boss. We were literally trying to make sure that some of the things that were happening behind the scenes that people didn’t see [some of the cursing out and flipping out and all that stuff when the cameras were not rolling]. When the cameras were rolling, it was my objective to be kind of like, “yall let’s not do this.”
This season, I’m nobody’s momma. We’re all grown. Going into this, the ladies agreed to do this because they were like we’re your friends. We love each other and as long as you’re involved and it’s not going to damage our careers. So I was holding on my chest the responsibility of making sure that it didn’t turn into that show. Clearly with this particular group of people it could turn into that in a heartbeat. And it did behind the scenes. This season, I came into the situation and said “aye look, we’re going to just put it all on the table. I’m not going to look crazy by my damn self. I’m going to say exactly what it is. I’m not trying to protect anybody. I’m not trying to mother hen anybody. I’m going to handle my business and do what it that I need to do for me. But I am going to let you know that on camera that I’m not going for that this time. This flipping out behind the scenes and when the cameras are rolling “ooh no… NO.” We’re going to just keep it real and if this is what this is.”
I learn to just be more honest. I learned to be more honest and not try to control grown women. And that’s exactly what I was trying to do last season. Not because I wanted to control someone’s career, but because I wanted to prevent us from going down that road, which you’ll see this season. There is definitely a lot more drama. Some people are going to love it. Some people are going to not care one way or the other. Some people are going to definitely see that some of this is definitely drama….A LOT of drama.
Bels: Yeah a lot of times in any situation when there’s a group of women, especially strong minded women…
Nicci: Right! Like, I’m on the only strong minded one in the group. News flash! That ain’t the case. Yo, do y’all really think I could just flip out on them and they just sit there looking at me. Half the time, I was talking to the producers off camera. But because it came out of my mouth, it made for good TV.
Who would you say is the person(s) whose personality you just can’t seem to mesh with? On the flipside of that, who do you consider a “friend” or someone that you enjoy their company and spirit?
Nicci: Syleena Johnson. And as plain as simple as this…I don’t do “putting hands on folk” in any capacity. I don’t do because I’ve have a couple cocktails and flipped out. I don’t do any of that. I’m grown. Not only am I grown, I’m the person who brought you into the situation. For that reason alone, I think I should be respected a little bit more. I just don’t get down with people that don’t accept the truth. If you can’t handle the truth, you don’t need to be friends with me.
Well I mean… I think all of the ladies on some level have a good spirit about them. But, Faith (Evans) and I have been friends for the longest time. She is hands down. I’m older than her by a year or two. But, she is my counselor. She is such a resource for me because she’s been affected by this industry a lot longer than I have and in a lot more serious situations. Faith is definitely my friend, my sister. We go back 20 or so years. Anything I need, she’s there for me. Our children know each other. That is genuinely my friend.
Keke (Wyatt) is one the most honest women I’ve met in my life. I love her so much for her honesty and her truth and her vulnerability. I learned so much from her about not caring what everybody else thinks as long as you can get to a place of healing. I think Keke is a star. I think she is the star of this franchise.
And Monifah is obviously “Iyanla” to everyone. [laughs] Mo’ and I go back 10 years.
Angie (Stone) and I have known each other for a while. But, it’s different when cameras start rolling. When you see people like NeNe Leakes, Evelyn Lozada, and Tami Roman, who all of which are “go-get’em” girls. I’m not mad at anybody getting their checks. Especially NeNe, you put the work in for this money that you’re getting. But, when you have this kind of success and you see that as the blueprint, you’re going to get all kinds of characters that feel like “I can scream and curse and fight better than all of them.” And it’s just not that important to me.
Speaking of NeNe Leakes of Real Housewives of Atlanta, do you think there are too many shows? Plus, do you think African-American women are tarnishing the culture?
Nicci: Yes. I think it is unfortunate. But, I think it used to be where we were really concerned about the black man. I come from the age of crack. If they weren’t smoking it, they were dealing it. I’m from Detroit. Unfortunately, all of my cousins are locked up. Now, “they” figure because we had to learn from a lot of our mothers who were single mothers and had to learn that male/female hustle. Unfortunately, they realize “oh it’s not the black man we have to deal the degradation and all that stuff that need to happen. Damn, they’re over there. Those [women] are the ones that are going to empower the black man.” Not to get too deep, but it’s really unfortunate. It’s like crabs in a barrel. It’s the only thing you can get…is drama and ratchet-ry. If that’s the only thing that’s going to pay your bills and feed your kids, what are you going to do?
So the problem isn’t the African-American woman because we have African-American women who are not ratchet. I love the Gossip Game. Love that show. I love Mary Mary. I love Kim Whitley’s show. I don’t think there are too many reality shows. I think that they are not going anywhere. They are cheap to make. I think people having a platform, is amazing. I hope that R&B Divas becomes the franchise for TV One that ‘Housewives’ is for Bravo. I hope that people come to realize that all that is left in our community is the black woman. I mean…not ALL that is left. Unfortunately, the women who are holding the community down; the people that are holding the families down are black women. Now, these kids are flipping out. Girls walking up to people doors beating them down like, “you said something to me on Twitter.” It’s ridiculous. I think yeah, you can show that. We all want to see that ratchet-ry. Everybody, when they were a kid ran to see the fight. I didn’t. But, a lot of people did run to see the fight in the circle. But, where are the shows that help to inspire and empower. I looked up to Patti Labelle. I looked up to Gladys Knight and Aretha Franklin and we could see them in their gowns singing on stage. We respected them as icons and legends. We can’t allow this to happen with this franchise. And if and when it does, I’ll be building another one because I’m not going to do it.
Bels: and it starts with the producers….
Nicci: You know what’s really crazy. This is what I definitely want to get out.
This was Faith and I first TV experience. So, yes we are partners in the franchise. We are executive producers of any spin-off, any extension of the brand or any franchises or whatever. But, we do not make the final call on edit. That is Think Factory Media. Think Factory Media does not consist of black women. They are great. They are amazing. But, they are not us. TV One is the network. We brought Think Factory Media on board and introduced them to TV One to do this. We created it. We spent our own money shooting the pilot and flying everybody down. We cast the show and everything. But from there, we kind of washed our hands of it. It wouldn’t be fair for us to be on camera and have the ability to edit ourselves any ole kind of way.
Let’s say… we look like angels and the other ladies looked horrible. To level the playing field, we had to have a neutral party during the edits. But, what I didn’t expect is the disrespect that I experienced as a new producer. So now, I can empathize with Shaunie O’Neal. I can empathize with Mona Scott (Young). Because I understand that at the end of the day, I mean I don’t know what their deals are but, I would assume that Shaunie is not sitting in the editing base saying don’t do that. It may not be difficult for Mona because she’s not on the show. But it is difficult for someone on the show to be unbiased in the editing room. I’d be worried about myself. I’m not even going to hold you up. [laughs] I’d be worried about my brand. So, we do not.
However, I do agree that we still have to be accountable. My way of being accountable when it comes to that – I’m still going to get my check and I’m still going to get my credit. But, I will not be on the camera doing that.
In season 1, you made it clear that singing was no longer a priority for you and that you were diving into ventures outside of music. One of those ventures was Curvato Clothing Line. How’s the clothing line going?
Nicci: It’s going really well. We are about to launch our 2013 collection at “Full-Figured Fashion Week 2013” in New York City. I’m really excited about that. It is going to be sexy. It’s going to be confident. I’m a new designer so I’m learning. Our business will be a year old in August. So I’m definitely learning how to be better. The beauty of the whole Curvato movement is that it was born of me being subconscious and insecure about my body. I’m a big girl. So you know back in the day it wasn’t as accessible as it is now. It is a lot more accessible to be curvy and larger. You can be empowered. So, I really want the clothing line to represent that more than anything. I’m not trying to beat out Versace or Donna Karan or anyone. I’m just trying to create options for plus-size women. More important than anything, empower and inspire little girls who may need to see a reflection of who they are, looking fly. Know what I mean? And not like a mumu. So, the clothing line is a brand and a lifestyle for me. We are expanding the brand.
We’re launching a new online destination called AllThingsNicci.com, which houses all of the different brands. Along with that, we are re-launching Curvato Lifestyle this year. It will include a Facebook-like community for big women, curvy women and girls. So you’ll be able to set up a profile. You’ll be able to interact. I’m excited about that. In addition to our boutique, we are going to be updating it much more often. I finally got a styling team together. We’re excited. I think the clothing line is here to stay. We are going to reach for big box retailers in a minute. I kind of wanted to be in business and learn things and have an understanding of what it was before we started really reaching out to some of those larger retailers and trying to get things in stores. I just wanted to live in it for a minute. Now we’re ready to take it to the next level. I’m going to do a curvy pageant next year in 2014. Which I’m super excited about. So, Curvato is here to stay. You’ll see us…I lost some weight like Jakeem (Smith), Nicci’s executive assistant and a PR contact. He has lost some weight. We’ve been on our fitness grind. It’s been a long process. But we are getting there. So, I’m really excited about sharing that which is something I’ll be sharing on Curvato as well.
Are there any other business ventures in the works? Checking out J. Smith’s website, I noticed an announcement that you were in search of comedic script writers. Is this something you can talk about?
Nicci: Yes. In addition to that, we have Divas and Wildflowers, which is my daughters’ Brandy charity. I’m super excited about that. She’s using her love of fashion and makeup and all things girly to help inspire young girls. So, I’m helping her put together a series of events and fundraisers for that. R&B Divas L.A. will air this summer. I’m really excited about that. Faith and I are working. In our little prayer basket, we have R&B Divas New York, hopefully coming soon. Hopefully, TV One will be pleased with the whole franchise and the momentum to give us that. Of course, there’s my baby which is called Divas & Cocktails. Divas & Cocktails, in short, a fun little late night show. It’s kind of like “Watch What Happens” meets “Wendy Williams with a little bit of “SNL”. So it’s sketch comedy, standup, live musical performances, lip service, the talk, the tea, and celebrity interviews. It is coming every Wednesday night, at 11pm, right after R&B Divas online at DivasandCocktails.com. I’m definitely very excited about the possibility of that being picked up by a major network. It is in the hands of some cool people as we speak. So, I just want to continue to build my brand as a producer and content provider. That’s sort of it.
Throughout this process, what have you taken away? Are there any life lessons or food-for-thoughts that you can share with our readers?
Nicci: Yes absolutely. I learned a lot of things about myself that I’d probably would not. Anytime you see a mirror of yourself in any capacity, you’re like “ole Lord Jesus I need to lose some weight. I need to stop talking so loud.” I learned a lot of little things about Nicci that I didn’t really realize. I mean it is one thing to be loud. It’s another thing to be doing it on TV with a microphone. So, I learned that I could fall back a little bit and evaluate a little more, which is always good in any career. As a human being, if we’re not growing, you know what the alternative is. I definitely see that I’ve influenced and inspired a lot of young people, which has been a passion for me. I want to continue to do that and continue to build. I’m actually developing a show around Jakeem and Brandy and some of the other kids. They are grown, but, young people that I work with.
So you know…just seeing what works, what is effective and what’s not; understanding the business of television a little more; understanding what it is I need to stand for and represent. I’m very pleased with the fact that in spite of all the horrible “she’s terrible, she’s a bitch, she’s mean, she’s awful.” In spite of all of that, as hard as it is, any human being waking up to negative press every week, eventually, it’s going to break you and you’re going to be like “what the hell did I do? This isn’t what this was supposed to be.” But, then you realize who it’s coming from. Then you realize who the comments are coming from. You really sit back and think it’s ridiculous for me to have such an ego that I would think that that stuff really mattered and defined who I was. Faith and Mo’, these women are still (most of them) my friends. My husband and I are still happily married. The people in my life who matter and know me they understand it.
Now, it’s the real hard thing for me too. It really affected my mother in a negative way. My mother is like “you are the nicest person ever and you’re my child and I know you better than anybody else.” You know what I’m saying. So, it’s hard for her to see all of that. “Oh my God they fired you and you created it.” And I’m like, “Ma!” So, that’s tough. The affect that it has on my family is very very tough. And that’s when I will…you’ll get that “Detroit coming from Chicago-Mansfield” Nicci. And I have to remember that at the end of the day we’re here, we are breathing. For the most part, we are successful. To live in the moment that it’s real and to not allow the moment that is reality TV to define who I am in my real life as a woman.
Tune in tonight and watch the Season 2 premiere of R&B Divas, at 10PM on TV One!
You can follow Nicci Gilbert on Twitter @niccigilbert and stay connected 24/7 at www.allthingsnicci.com.
Special thanks to Jakeem Smith of J.Productions!
Another Day, Another “Reality” Spin-Off
It’s beginning to seem like if not every day almost every other day a new reality show is popping up.
After already pulling rank as not only one of the top “Real Housewives of Atlanta” but of the show’s franchise as a whole, Linnethia “NeNe” Leakes is getting her own reality show.
Following all the ups and downs of her marriage to Greg Leakes which ultimately led to them divorcing, the two have rekindled their love and are getting re-married. NeNe’s new wedding spin-off, “I Dream of NeNe: The Wedding” will follow the two as they make their way down the aisle. NeNe confirmed the news the tweet below.
I Dream Of Nene-The Wedding coming soon on Bravo! Greg & I hope 2 inspire others 2 save their marriage twitter.com/NeNeLeakes/sta…
— NeNe Leakes (@NeNeLeakes) April 18, 2013
Celebrity wedding planner Tiffany Cook will be joining the Leakes on the show as she assists them in putting their big day together. NeNe’s RHOA buddies Cynthia Bailey and Marlo Hampton will also be making appearances on the show.
The “I Dream of NeNe” wedding special will premiere on the Bravo network this fall. Will you be tuning in???
Tracey Edmonds Is ‘Alright’ with New TV Newtork; Speaks On Working Relationship with Deion Sanders
Tracey Edmonds & Deion Sanders @ TD Jakes 35th Anniversary
Tracey Edmonds is one the most prominent female producers in television and film. As CEO of Edmonds Entertainment Group Inc, her projects have included Soul Food, Hav Plenty, Light It Up, Good Luck Chuck, Jumping the Broom, and various other films and television shows. With numerous awards and honors achieved for her many contributions to the entertainment and philanthropic arenas, Edmonds has secured her spot in production history.
Well, it seems as though, Ms. Edmonds is moving into the digital world with the creation of a new Youtube Channel. She recently sat down with Essence.com to discuss the new network (“Alright TV”) and what its content will contain.
ESSENCE.com: Congrats on the launch of Alright TV. What was your motivation in creating this channel?
Tracey Edmonds: A year and a half ago I started tweeting something inspirational every morning to keep people going. I got so many tweets back and had no idea how much it helped others. I realized people were really hungry to be uplifted and inspired. I had been working on a business plan for a cable network of inspirational programming and YouTube was the perfect partnership. We offer high entertainment value alongside a message, without beating people over the head.
ESSENCE.com: And you definitely are bringing the entertainment with Issa Rae and more on the network.
Tracey Edmonds: I love Issa Rae! We are doing a choir series with her to take a fun look at everything that happens in a church choir including relationships and choir competitions. Ever Sunday we also live stream church services from Bishop T.D. Jakes and many others. This network is more modern and progressive than traditional gospel networks. We may surprise people. We have a dating web series for singles. Ms. Right stars DeRay Davis and pokes fun at the prototypes men deal with when dating. Mr. Right features Kali Hawk, as a woman searching for love. Our message is whatever you are going through, you are not alone. If you haven’t met Mr. Right yet, that’s ok. Stay optimistic because one day you will.
Despite her hectic schedule, Edmonds is able to balance work and personal time all while being in the spotlight. This is evident through her past marriages to Babyface and Eddie Murphy. Now, her personal life is in the forefront of the media, again, due to her association with former NFL star Deion Sanders. The two are now a couple. Some wonder if Sanders’ career in television helped spawn Edmonds interest in the sports legend. Edmonds must see his on-film star quality because he’ll be involved with a new show project titled “Sports Dad.”
ESSENCE.com: We also see Deion Sanders, who you are dating, has a few shows on your network. How is it working with him and also being in a relationship?
Tracey Edmonds: He’s been wonderful. He’s one of the most positive people I know. On the network, Deion hosts Sports Dad where he comes to the rescue of sports-obsessed dads who are pushing their kids too hard. He’s also doing an inspirational blog. I met Deion through business and had a chance to see the wonderful man he is.
Congratulations to Tracey Edmonds and Deion Sanders on their new endeavours!
Photo Spotted: Necolebitchie.com
Video: DMX Wilds Out On ‘Fix My Life’; Says Iyanla Vanzant Manipulated Him
Just when you think DMX’s life can’t possibly get no crazier…he appears on the OWN Network’s “Iyanla: Fix My Life”.
New York rapper DMX made a note-worthy appearance on the show this past Saturday. In what was suppose to be a civilized conversation about his past relationship with his estranged mother and constant bouts with drug abuse, dramatically turned for the worse. The first episode to kick off the new season of ‘Fix My Life’ showed the deep rooted inner battle DMX has with himself. Iyanla tried her best to try to dig deeper into his issues, but the emcee did not budge. As a surprise, DMX’s oldest child made an appearance in hopes of rekindling a father/son relationship. Unfortunately, the son stated that he would only open up the lines of communication if DMX remains sober. DMX couldn’t make that promise and believed that their relationship must be based on unconditional love.
This was definitely an explosive episode which ended with DMX cursing Iyanla out. In case you missed it, you can watch the full episode at YARDIE.
After the sit down, DMX apparently felt some kind of way about the whole ordeal. Thus, he met with JET Magazine and expressed his views on Iyanla’s manipulation, his son’s appearance, and his disgust of the entire episode. Peep that interview below:
Many people took to social networks to voice their opinions regarding DMX’s health and episode. Drug abuse is a sickness. As much as we may think he could kick the habit at any moment, this is not true. All of his fans across the world can only do is pray for his wellness and let him live his own life. Hopefully, this appearance with Iyanla didn’t set him back and cause any more hurt than he’s already endured.
BET Announces New Programming Line-Up; Past Shows Get Revamped
Gladys Knight & Chaka Khan attends BET Upfront event in LA
For years now, BET television programs haven’t done the best when it comes to competing with the other cable channels (i.e. VH1, MTV, Bravo, etc). The “reality tv” craze is one area that the other stations have successfully capitalized off of. While, viewership has grown because of reality television and other types of programming, BET is now preparing to step up their game.
At their recent Upfront presentation, in Los Angeles, BET announced several new shows and past programs that are being revamped. Several of the actors and actresses came out to the Montage Beverly Hills in support of the network and also to give that added appeal to the potential advertisers that were in attendance. Celebrities present at the event were Regina Hall, Kevin Hart, Laura London, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Duane Martin, Tony Rock, Richard Roundtree, Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, and a host of other celebrities and BET Network executives.
With the new and revamped shows set to launch on BET, Loretha Jones, Pres. of Original Programming, insists that the network will be the top contender when it comes to the overall “connection” between African-American viewing audience and television programs. To kick off their list of new programs airing during the fourth quarter of 2013, shows will include:
T.D. Jakes: Mind, Body, & Soul – BET brings better talk with spiritual leader, educator and humanitarian Bishop T.D. Jakes as host of a brand new talk show. Covering a wide range of topics including health and wellness, finance and relationships, Bishop Jakes unearths deeper conversations and insight on the topics that matter count on Bishop T.D. Jakes to take talk to another level every Sunday. Executive Producer: Marilyn H. Gill.
Comic View (Revamped) – Some of our biggest names in comedy got their big break on the COMIC VIEW stage. The beloved original comedy series is back, reimagined for a new season on BET. Showcasing the best and brightest in stand-up, COMIC VIEW takes funny to a new level in 2014. Executive Producer: James Dubose.
In early 2014, BET is set to premier the following shows starring Gabrielle Union and the Burns family.
Being Mary Jane – From the producers of the award-winning, record breaking BET comedy THE GAME, GIRLFRIENDS and box-office hits JUMPING THE BROOM and SPARKLE comes an original series starring the gorgeous and talented Gabrielle Union. The series is a follow up to the release of the BEING MARY JANE movie of the week slated to launch on BET this summer. BEING MARY JANE is a story to which millions of modern women will both relate and respond. Mary Jane Paul is a one-woman-show: a successful TV news anchor, and an entirely self-sufficient powerhouse who remains devoted to a family that doesn’t share her motivation. Intense drama and unforgettable moments unfold as Mary Jane juggles her life, her relationships, her work, and commitments to her family. Starring: Gabrielle Union, Omari Hardwick, Lisa Vidal, Richard Roundtree, Richard Brooks, Aaron D. Spears and Margaret Avery. Executive Producers: Mara Brock Akil (also Creator) and Salim Akil.
Burns BBQ – Being a small business doesn’t mean thinking small. This new unscripted reality series takes viewers into the daily operation of a long-standing family barbecue business changing hands from one generation to the next. But do the young self-involved entrepreneurs have what it takes to carry the torch and the family legacy? Production Co: A. Smith and Co. Productions.
The normal day-to-day programming and yearly specials will continue to air on BET (i.e. 106 & Park, Bobby Jones Gospel, The Game, Apollo Live, Real Husbands of Hollywood, Sundays Best, The Sheards, BET Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, Black Girls Rock!, etc).
Question: What are your thoughts on the new BET line-up? Do you think these programs will help BET maintain the lead in black programming?
Charlie Sheen Teams with DigiDev to Create “Charlie Sheen Cyber TV”
One of Hollywood’s most well-known misfits, Charlie Sheen, hasn’t let his outlandish antics in the past few years stop him from making stacks. Outside of his current gig on FX’s show Anger Management, he know has teamed up with an television content acquisition and distribution company to soon create new shows via the internet.
The Hollywood, California based company, Digital Development Group (DigiDev), sought out Sheen to be the spokesperson for the network, DigiDev TV. Sheen will have the responsibility of creating special content for his own channel “Charlie Sheen Cyber TV”. The channel will showcase unique and unconventional programming.
“A long time ago on a movie set far, far away, a character I once played said, ‘life all comes down to a few moment, and this is one of them.,’” says Sheen. “DigiDev is one of these moments. For years I have longed for a home and an outlet for the tsunami that is my brain. Batten down the Forbes hatches; I hope DigiDev can hold its breath for a long time.”
DigiDev thank the Sheen team members Darius McCrary (“Family Matters”), Kato Kaelin, and Jeff Ballard (Sheen’s publicist) for making this vision become a “virtual reality.”
Source: BusinessWire
Bravo’s Newest Reality…”Married to Medicine”
Uh oh they seem to be coming so fast, I missed this one. But out of nowhere and I’m sure this comes as no surprise that yet once again premieres another reality show.
This time by way of the Bravo network comes a reality show that will chronicle the lives of a group of women who are doctors or at least married to one. The six women based out of Atlanta will allow Bravo to present their lives as they juggle their careers, families and social lives in Married to Medicine.
Married to the Medicine premiered this past Sunday on the Bravo network and drew in 1.9 million viewers. The show will air on Sundays at 9pm [EST]but in the case you missed the premiere you can play catch up by getting familiar with the cast below and of course you know Bravo will re-run episode one before airing the new episode on Sunday.
Meet the cast…
Jacqueline Walters
Jacqueline Walters is the doctor to stars like Toni Braxton, T.I., and Usher.
Jacqueline Walters is the doctor to stars like Toni Braxton, T.I., and Usher. This Board-certified OBGYN lives by the philosophy “work hard, play hard.” After graduating medical school at the University of Mississippi, Jacqueline completed her residency at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, Jackie has a positive and vibrant attitude toward life.
Her dedication to work and family sets this bombshell in motion at all times. Her husband, Curtis, and daughter by marriage, Kursten have to get up early in the morning to catch this career-driven diva — which by her definition stands for “Dedicated, Innovative, Victorious, Admirable.” Her “Thin is In” motto comes with a hint of vanity and sometimes pure obsession with eating healthy and excessive exercise. Between furthering her OBGYN practice, fostering a happy family life, and advocating for breast cancer awareness, many wonder how Jackie has time to balance it all.
Kari Wells
Kari Wells, a well-mannered, British-born model skillfully balances work, play, and family life in Atlanta with her husband of 10 years, Colombian raised, orthopedic surgeon Duncan Wells. Kari has had many successful careers including owning a production company. Today, she serves as CFO of her husband’s orthopedic practice and medical realty company, but her most important role is as mother to their two children, Alexa, 8, and Bryson, 7.
In addition to her various commitments, Kari is involved socially and politically in Atlanta and can frequently be seen hobnobbing with celebrities and politicians. The couple supports many charitable organizations including Doctors Without Borders and Thriving Children Atlanta.
Known for their international flair, the Wells family loves to travel, and Kari, who speaks four languages, lives by the philosophy “you cannot have a narrow mind with a thick passport.” Kari’s dogged determination to succeed, sense of humor and spirituality help her to live life to the fullest.
Mariah Huq
Mariah Huq, “Queen Bee” and sophisticated and fierce mother of two, brings a new definition to the term “working mom.” Enjoying a strong, multicultural marriage to Dr. Aydin Huq, an emergency physician and native of Bangladesh, Mariah juggles family and career with their two children, Lauren-Taylor, 8, and Ethan-Tyler, 6.
Mariah openly embraces her husband’s culture by attending Mosque, learning to cook traditional Indian food and studying Bengali. The founder/CEO of Mariah Media Group, troop leader of her daughter’s Girl Scout Troop, and a producer of Married to Medicine, Mariah has a full life. To top it off, Mariah is working on her latest venture, the Chief Operating Officer of Jewel and Jem, a children’s décor and pajama company, she runs with her sister, Lake.
When she’s not busy in the states, Mariah and her family support their family foundation in Bangladesh and are currently working on building a hospital in name of her late father-in-law.
Quad Lunceford
Known as the “Black Barbie” in her social circle, Quad Lunceford is the life of the party and a self-acknowledged socialite. She is newly wed to psychiatrist Dr. Gregory Lunceford, whose reserved demeanor often clashes with her unpredictable feistiness their love blossomed into a bond that will stand the test of time. Their personality differences may be connected to their gap in age — he is 13 years her senior, as she prefers it.
The couple is the proud parents of two pampered pooches: Khloe and Kar’ie. In addition to being enthusiastic supporters of the Canine Assistants Foundation, the Luncefords also volunteer their time and efforts with various charities and organizations throughout Atlanta.
When Quad enrolled in Tennessee State University, she was the first in her family to attend college. With more than a decade of experience in medical sales under her belt, Quad’s work ethic has landed her in the top 10 percent in her industry. Quad, who dances to the beat of her own drum, often says “I did not ‘marry medicine,’ medicine was lucky enough to marry me.”
Simone Whitmore
Simone Whitmore is an independent OBGYN who runs both her practice and house with an iron fist. She and her more laid-back husband of 16 years, Cecil Whitmore, have two sons, Miles, 14, and Michael, 10.
Simone graduated from Spelman College with a degree in biology/pre-medicine and earned her doctorate from East Tennessee State University. She completed her residency at Boston Medical Center and became a Board Certified OBGYN in 1999. From 1999 to 2004, Simone worked in various practices including Duncan-Cody Medical Group, Arista OBGYN and Castillo, Walters and Whitmore. She has owned North Perimeter OBGYN since 2004 and is a solo practitioner, allowing her to make her own rules. While her staff may call her “The Warden” and “Witchmore,” Simone simply likes hard workers and refuses to settle for mediocrity. Simone is a member of the American College of OBGYN and the American Board of OBGYN.
In her spare time, Simone participates in a mentor program with Spelman College and a local high school. When her packed schedule allows, Simone loves to shop, socialize, travel, and catch up on much-needed sleep.
Toya Bush-Harris
Toya Bush-Harris, met her husband, emergency medicine physician Eugene Harris, during a speed dating event five years ago while pursuing her Masters in education from the University of Phoenix and working two jobs. Even though Eugene was completing a rigorous medical residency at the same time, no amount of distractions could keep this dynamic couple apart.
In addition to being a busy mom to boys Ashton, 3, and Avery, 1, Toya is helping to launch her husband’s medical concierge business and working on publishing a children’s nursery book series. On top of family commitments and career projects, Toya and her family are in the process of building a home conducive to their growing family. When she first moved to Atlanta, Toya joined Mocha Moms, which brings moms together in the community to promote healthy families and she currently enjoys volunteering at her church and mentoring young women in area.
Be sure to let us know if you’re already watching this or whether or not you will be.
Rihanna’s Upcoming “777″ Tour Documentary
While Rihanna has already launched her Diamonds tour, I’m sure you haven’t forgotten about the 777 Tour she embarked on last year. The 777 tour in which she hit seven cities in seven days was to promote and in honor of her seventh album Unapologetic.
The traveling portion of the tour itself made several headlines considering she toured a little differently than normal. On this particular tour, she took along 200 guests that were comprised of 50 fans and 150 journalists and they all traveled on the same plane. Together they made stops in Mexico City, Toronto, Stockholm, Paris, Berlin, London and New York.
Well not to leave the rest of the world out on all the goings of touring seven cities in seven with such a large group, Rihanna documented the whole thing. So get ready because in May Fox will premiere the documentary entitled “Rihanna 777” letting her fans in on it all.
“Rihanna 777” premieres on Monday, May 6th at 8pm [EST] on Fox.
Actors Taye Diggs, Derek Luke & Omar Epps’ and their Drama
Actors Taye Diggs, Derek Luke and Omar Epps have all managed to snag starring roles in 3 separate pilots for upcoming television drama shows. Here’s what each of the fellas having going on…
Taye Diggs who’s gig on the show Private Practice recently came to an end will now co-star in TNT”s murder mystery show called Murder in the First. He will co-star alongside Kathleen Robertson and play the role of a homicide detective by the name of Terry Seagrave.
According to sources, the murder mystery will be based on two high-profile murder cases detailing the police investigation, arrest and the trials. Viewers will get an up-close look at the workings of modernized justice system. Steven Boncho (Raising the Bar) created the show and will serve as executive producer.
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As for Derek Luke, his shine will come by way of CBS’s upcoming drama pilot Second Sight in which he will play the role of Detective Paul Giroux. His character is said to be quite confident and one that tends to assert an authority beyond his calling as part of an investigative team within the New Orleans Police Department.
Luke will co-star alongside Jason Lee, Kim Dickens, Erik Jensen, Madison Moellers and singer Jill Scott.
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After a long stint on the hit television series House, Omar Epps is putting his hat back in the ring with a starring role in ABC’s upcoming supernatural drama pilot The Returned. Epps will take on the role of Martin Bellamy who is a former cop turned U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent.
The show is based on a novel by Jason Mott of the same name which is based on a town in which the dead return to make an impact on the lives of those they left behind.
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Hopefully all three shows will get the greenlight for a full series!
Promo for the 6th Season of BET’s The Game [Video]
The 6th season premiere of the BET’s hit show The Game is right around the corner and the network is beefing up the promos. While several promo pics have been making their rounds, a new promo video has made its way to the forefront. Even though Tia Mowry-Hardict and Pooch Hall have left the show taking Melanie and Derwin with them, two new characters have been casted to be played by Lauren London and Jay Ellis.
Check out the promo for the upcoming season of The Game below.
The 6th season of The Game premieres on March 26th at 9pm [EST].
Queen Latifah’s New Talk Show; Jada Pinkett-Smith to Executive Produce
It’s official! Entertainment veteran Queen Latifah is bringing The Queen Latifah Show to daytime television.
However, this will not be the Queen’s first rodeo with a talk show. Her first round was a talk show of the same name that aired from 1999-2001.
This time around The Queen Latifah Show will feature celebrity interviews, musical performances, stand-up comedy, and human interest topics. The show will be produced by Latifah and her partner Shakim Compere’s Flavor Unit, Sony Pictures, and Will Smith’s Overbrook Entertainment.
It looks like Queen Latifah is coming out hard by the look of her executive production team and the level of experience they each bring to the table. According to a press release, the team includes Corin Nelson (Chelsea Lately), Todd Yasui (The Tonight Show), Jack Mori (The Oprah Winfrey Show), Catherine McKenzie (Good Morning America), David Harte (The Late, Late Show w/Craig Ferguson), and Sierra Lindsey (MTV, Obama Campaign).
Also, according to her Facebook post, Jada Pinkett-Smith will also have a hand in producing the show. On the social networking site she wrote, “Wearing my Executive Producer hat, standing beside the next daytime talk show superstar. Starting September 16, 2013, you will be able to kick it with Queen Latifah everyday. We’re gonna have fun.”
The Queen Latifah show makes its debut this fall on Monday, Sept 16th at 11am [EST] on CBS stations. Will you be tuning in???
VH1 Ready to Get the Scoop with New Reality Show ‘The Gossip Game” [Sneak Peek]
For a brief moment, especially with the cancellation of the reality show ‘Starter Wives Confidential and green light, red light action that happened with rapper Shawty Lo’s baby mama drama show, it seemed as the world of reality was about to face some challenges. But have no fear because more reality shows are near.
Coming soon to VH1 is the network’s newest reality show, “The Gossip Game”. The show will shadow the lives of seven female media personalities whose careers revolve what’s happening in urban entertainment.
“The Gossip Game” premieres Monday, April 1st at 9pm [EST]. Here’s VH1’s description of the show, introduction of the cast and a sneak peek.
Every day, these ambitious women navigate the ever-shifting landscape of the media industry, where they strive to preserve their place in the ‘pecking order’ while chasing the latest exclusive scoop. These rivals, who often find themselves at the epicenter of celebrity controversy, forge an uneasy alliance of friendly foes as they compete to hit their professional marks by being the first to break the latest news and divulge the intimate details of the enviable lives of hip hop’s movers and shakers.
The cast of ‘The Gossip Game”…
Angela Yee, co-host of the “Breakfast Club” show on Power 105.1;
K. Foxx, co-host of “The Cipha Sounds & Rosenberg Show with K. Foxx” on Hot 97 FM;
Kim Osorio, Editor-In-Chief of The Source magazine;
Sharon Carpenter, reporter on Russell Simmons’ Global Grind website;
Jas Fly, freelance writer, whose pop culture column appears on Vibe.com twice a week;
Ms. Drama, host of the MsDramaTV blog and on-air personality at Major Playaz and
NYC Gossip Girl (Vivian Billings), owner of HipHopGossipSite.com blog.
Bravo Greenlights Kandi Burruss’ The Kandi Factory; Season 1 Starts April 9 [Trailer]
Kandi Burruss is making moves and isn’t stopping no time soon. With a highly successful reality show (RHOA) and sex toy line (Bedroom Kandi), the Atlanta native is heading back to television with her own show. Based on helping singing hopefuls find their spotlight in the music business, The Kandi Factory will follow each contestant through the a rigirous singers bootcamp. Each episode will feature artists as they prepare for the TKF music showcase where a winner will be chosen. Kandi and her team of choreographers, producers, and songwriters will lend a helping hand in efforts to find the next big artist.
Check out the official trailer for Season 1 of The Kandi Factory below…
The Kandi Factory will air on Bravo 10/9C, April 9!
RZA Casted in Upcoming Fox Pilot “Gang Related”
Fresh off the heels of making his directorial debut with his film “The Man with the Iron Fists”, rapper RZA is about to add more acting to the film and tv portion of his career. The Wu-Tang Clan member was recently casted in an upcoming Fox drama pilot entitled “Gang Related.”
Here’s the synopsis for the show…
Gang Related centers on Ryan Lopez (Charlie’s Angels’ Ramon Rodriguez), a gang member sent to infiltrate the San Francisco Police Department and rise through its ranks. He must balance his obligations to his crime family — the gang from his old neighborhood — with an increasing sense of loyalty to his new “family,” the SFPD’s Gang Task Force.
RZA will play Cassius, Ryan’s partner and best friend on the Gang Task Force. He decided to become a cop after the object of his affection was gunned down. The community’s ambivalence toward her death drives him to seek justice in a world that seems to have stopped caring. [Source]
Chris Morgan (Fast and Furious) will write the script while Allen Hughes (Menace II Society; Dead Presidents) will serve as director. Other cast members include Jay Hernandez, Sung Kang and Inbar Lavi.
Sounds like this one may have staying power. In the meantime, we’ll keep you posted on any new information released about the show.
Trump’s Celebrity Apprentice Returns w/All-Stars Omarosa, Dennis Rodman, LaToya Jackson and Others
Welp…Donald Trump is maintaining his relevancy by bringing back Celebrity Apprentice. This time around all of the seasons allstars will return for more teamwork and drama as they vow to win money for their favorite charity.
Set to premier this Sunday, March 3 (9/8c on NBC), All-Star Celebrity Apprentice: Season 6 is bringing many of our favorites such as Dennis Rodman, Dee Snider, La Toya Jackson, Marilu Henner, Claudia Jordan, Omarosa, Trace Adkins, Stephen Baldwin, Gary Busey, Penn Jillette, Lil Jon, Bret Michaels, Lisa Rena, and Brande Roderick. In addition, Trump and his offspring will continue to host the show along with celebrity advisors Arsenio Hall, Joan Rivers, Piers Morgan, and John Rich.
We’re sure there will be many fueds and hilarious moments amongst the cast. Will you be tuning in? In the meantime, check out the official trailer below…
John Legend Sells Another TV Show to Major Cable Network
After already making his stamp in the music world, it looks as if singer-songwriter and now producer John Legend is about to make his mark in the television industry.
We reported a few months ago that Legend had sold his family comedy series to the FOX network. Well now he’s shopped another deal with another network for yet another television show.
According to reports, Legend has sold his crime drama series, The Edge, to the USA network. The show chronicles the happenings and ordeals of “an idealistic Harvard Business School graduate named Jeff Cross who joins a progressive financial firm called Edgeton Global, where he discovers the company’s dark secrets while becoming entangled in a high-stakes FBI investigation.”
Legend and Get Lifted production company partners Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorious will executive produce the show. The trio will work hand in hand with show writers Justin Herber and Adam Hoff.
Details concerning casting and a premiere date are not yet available, but as soon as we know you’ll know.
Beyonce’s Next Up On OWN’s ‘Next Chapter’
OWN’s ‘Next Chapter’ continues to draw millions of viewers with in-depth highly exclusive interviews. Next up to sit down with Oprah Winfrey is none other than Beyonce. Expected to air at 8pm (one hour before her anticipated Life Is But A Dream documentary program on HBO), Beyonce will share some information that will act as a prequel to her documentary.
We’re sure all of her fans can’t wait to see both programs. Beyonce is known as a private person. So, it will be interesting to learn some new things about her. Peep the trailer below…
Cheap Dates vs Expensive Dates Sparks Debate On Tiny Tonight’s V-Day Special [Video Clip]
Chile…Tiny Tonight’s Valentine’s Day special got a little deep in the love and sex categories. But, when a few questions arose regarding cheap first dates versus extravagant first dates, it was clear that Tamar Braxton got a little peeved with Claudia Jordan. From that point on, the show took a turn…for the awkward. Although Shekinah provided a brief comedic relief with her Street Therapy bit, the show ended rather lack luster in comparison to its first airing. We’re not sure why VH1 decided to space the episodes so far apart. But, this time gap may have caused Tiny and crew a few less viewers this time around (which was evident because we barely saw any mentions of the show on Twitter).
Nonetheless, Tiny is still boss’n it up and doing her thang. Hopefully, we’ll see more concurrent episodes in the future.
In case you missed it, watch the clip that set it off below…
Tiny Tonight! The V Special
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Tiny Tonight! The V Special, Tiny Tonight
Oh, Finally Some Swirl Action On ABC’s ‘The Bachelor’
As far as the African-American community goes, many women stopped tuning into the popular dating show after the first few seasons. ABC, for some strange discriminatory reason, refused to enlist a black male or woman as the star whose in search of their soulmate. In addition, the one or two blacks that were sprinkled in as contestants, never made it pass the first eliminations. It was sort of reminiscent of the only black character in a scary movie that always get killed. You get my point??!!
Well it seems as though ABC has had a wake up call. This season, they’ve enlisted a caucasian male Sean Lowe who doesn’t mind dating outside of his race. Therefore, in season 17, you will see several beautiful African-American females vying for his attention. Robyn Howard (pictured above) was one of the lucky ones to make it past the first round with a rose during the season’s premiere. Robyn is from Houston, Texas and works as an Oilfield Account Manager. Alongside her were two other sistas who got a rose…Brooke Burchette (Community Organizer from Pittsburgh, PA) and Leslie A. Hughes (Poker Dealer from Rukins, FL).
If you want to keep up with the ladies progress and see if they make it to the end, check out The Bachelor Monday nights on ABC.
Kevin Hart’s ‘The Real Husbands of Hollywood’ Takes Over BET; Premieres Jan. 15 [Sneak Peak]
Kevin Hart is definitely one funny dude. After several skits aired during the 2011 BET Awards, the feedback from the viewers secured the spot for his own full fledge television show. ‘The Real Husbands of Hollywood’ will premiere on BET next Tuesday, January 15 at 10pm. The show will follow Kevin and his other celebrity male friends Boris Kodjoe, Duane Martin, Robin Thicke, Nick Cannon, and JB Smoove) as they go through life dealing with the craziness of marriage.
Check out the 30-second sneak peak below:
This is going to be hilarious!
Rick Ross Releases Cover Art & Trailer For “Mastermind” Album + ‘Magic City’ Season 2 Trailer
Rick Ross continues to make major moves with his Maybach Music Group empire. After securing a gold-certified album with “God Forgives, I Don’t”, he’s been the studio lately working on his next album. He’s been hinting for the past month that he would be releasing the official name of the album. Well, he did. “Mastermind” will be his next studio album set to be released sometime this year.
As he’s known to do, Rick Ross released an official trailer for “Mastermind”. In case you are expecting something different from the Boss visually, sorry to dissappoint you. The video maintains the beautiful beach house scenery, a sexy companion, fashion and jewels type forte that only a boss of his stature can pull off. Peep the trailer below:
In other Rick Ross news, the Miami-bred rapper will do an on-screen appearance in season 2 of Starz original series “Magic City”. Rick Ross will play a character name The Bolita Boss. Season 1 was pretty dope. So, the second season will surely be just as exciting. In case you’re wondering what “Magic City” is all about, here’s the official synopsis from the Starz website:
Miami Beach, 1959.
As Ike Evans rings in the New Year at his luxurious Miramar Playa Hotel, Havana falls to Castro’s rebels. It’s a turbulent time in Miami, but it’s THE place to be. The Kennedys, the mob and the CIA all hold court here. And Ike, he’s the star of his hotel.
But everything comes at a price.
To finance his dream, he sold his soul to mob boss Ben “The Butcher” Diamond. Ike’s wife Vera, a former showgirl, and his three kids think he’s an honorable man, but he can’t break his pact with the devil. His life is a façade.
In fact, nothing at the Miramar Playa is what it seems. By day, it’s diving clowns and cha-cha lessons. By night, escorts have secret liaisons with husbands in the family cabanas, while Miami’s seedier residents and the law drift together to hear legendary singers, musicians and comics.
As Ike’s world threatens to implode, he fights for his family, and the Miramar Playa, in Magic City.
Magic City Season 2 trailer:
Season 3 of Love And Hip-Hop: New York [Trailer]
Get ready, get ready get ready! Buckle your seat belts and get ready for the ride that has become VH1’s Love and Hip-Hop no matter which city they’re in.
Nonetheless it’s New York’s time to shine, make a fool of themselves, and get their minutes of fame in and from the sounds and looks of things they are in full force and ‘ret to go’. Returning for season 3 are some of the previous cast members and of course some new members to spice things up. Here’s who makes up the cast; Yandy Smith, Mendeecees Harris, Erica Mena, Rich Dollaz, Jen The Pen, Consequence, Olivia, Joe Budden and his girlfriend Kailyn, Tahiry, Raqi Thunda, Lore’l, Winter Ramos, and Rashidah Ali.
Check out the trailer below to see what the show’s producer, Mona Scott-Young, has in store for season 3 of Love and Hip-Hop: New York which premieres on January 7, 2013 at 8pm [EST].
Love & Hip Hop New York Season 3 Trailer | Video by Get_Heard
Tiny Tonight Stirs Up Conflict on Twitter; Stylist Shekinah Steals The Show
Last night, VH1 premiered its first late night talk show, Tiny Tonight. The one hour episode indeed grabbed the attention of the millions that were tuned in. Starring Tameka “Tiny” Harris, Claudia Jordan, Tamar Braxton, and Trina as hosts, the ladies left no opinion unturned as they discussed various hot topics of 2012. But, it were the topics of Beyonce’s baby bump (or lack thereof), Drake, Love & Hip Hop Atlanta, and Chris Brown’s love triangle that caused the social networks to pop off. LOL…the Twitter fight between Claudia Jordan and Joseline Hernandez (LHHAtl) was down right hilarious and a hot mess “at the same damn time”.
Overall, the show was good. However, Tamar Braxton is a talker and clearly overshadowed Tiny and Trina at certain points. The dynamics of the ladies are visible in that each portray a different type of character. Three of them are clearly defined. But,Trina is the only one that seems questionable. Maybe because her opinion was nuetral the entire show. Nonetheless, the ladies did a good job and kept the audience/viewers entertained.
For those fans and lovers of borderline ratchetness, this show will sooth that craving. Outside of the cheesy “Tinies” Awards, which they can leave off the program, the highlight was Shekinah and her ”Word On The Streets” parts. Her realism shines through. What you see is what you get. She stole the show. Check out Shekinah’s hilarious segment below:
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Tiny Tonight! 2012: Year in Review
Tune into Tiny Tonight Monday nights on VH1.
