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Vin Diesel and Laverne Cox are among those speaking at the 2025 CAA Amplify Summit, the agency announced Monday.

The summit, an annual event, brings together influential leaders from media, entertainment, social justice, sports, technology, nonprofits and other industry sectors.

The lineup of speakers and attendees for Tuesday’s Laguna Beach summit also includes former prime minister of New Zealand Dame Jacinda Ardern, CEO of Microsoft AI Mustafa Suleyman, CNN anchor and senior national correspondent Sara Sidner, ACLU executive director Anthony D. Romero, Ford Foundation president Darren Walker, Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (Glsen) executive director Melanie Willingham-Jaggers and entrepreneur and philanthropist Byron Allen.

“CAA Amplify is more than a convening,” CAA Foundation executive director Natalie Tran said in a release, adding the summit “is a catalyst for building a fortified network of culture influencing leaders who are shaping the future across industries.”

“This year’s gathering reflects our unwavering commitment...

The stars are stepping out for the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival!

Miley Cyrus, and her mom Tish Cyrus, joined Mariska Hargitay, Riley Keough, and more stars at Through Her Lens: The Tribeca Chanel Women’s Filmmaker Program luncheon on Friday afternoon (June 6) held at The Greenwich Hotel Courtyard in New York City.

Founded by Tribeca and Chanel in 2015, the mentorship program provides industry support, artistic development, and funding to emerging U.S.-based self-identifying women and non-binary filmmakers.

“Storytelling is a profound responsibility … and I’ve realized, actually, the most powerful thing that I can do is what I’ve been trained to do my life, which is to tell a story,” Through Her Lens Advisory Committee member Patty Jenkins said during the luncheon.

Following the event, we compiled photos of the stars so you can see who was there!

Keep reading to find out more…Keep scrolling to see the stars in attendance…...

On Monday May 12 2025, NBC broadcasts The Kelly Clarkson Show!

Season 6 Episode 150 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “The Kelly Clarkson Show” promises to be an exciting mix of music, games, and celebrity appearances. Airing on NBC, this episode features a special segment called “Cameo-oke,” where viewers can expect a lively performance from the talented singer Ledisi. Her powerful voice and engaging stage presence are sure to captivate the audience.

In addition to the music, the episode includes a fun game called “Just Name Drop-a Famous Papa.” This game will have guests and Kelly Clarkson engaging in light-hearted banter as they try to name famous fathers in a playful competition. The energy is likely to be high as everyone gets involved in the fun.

Jimmy Fallon will also make an appearance, bringing his signature humor and charm to the show. His presence is always a highlight, and fans can look forward...

On Monday May 5 2025, NBC broadcasts Today With Jenna & Friends!

Season 1 Episode 80 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Today With Jenna & Friends” promises an exciting mix of guests and topics. Matt Rogers will join Jenna as a co-host, bringing his lively energy to the show. Fans can expect a fun and engaging conversation as they catch up with Elizabeth Chambers, who will share updates on her latest projects and personal life.

Viewers will also get a sneak peek into the glamorous world of fashion with a special segment on the Balmain Met Gala preview. This part of the show will highlight the stunning designs and trends expected to grace the red carpet at this prestigious event. Fashion enthusiasts will not want to miss the insights shared during this segment.

In addition to fashion, the episode will feature author Misty Copeland, known for her inspiring story and contributions to the arts.

“Today with Jenna & Friends” kicks off the week with co-host Matt Rogers joining Jenna Bush Hager for a Monday filled with lively conversation and engaging segments. There is a look at the upcoming Met Gala with fashion expert Zanna Roberts Rassi, offering a sneak peek at Balmain’s contribution to the iconic event. Misty Copeland, […]

Today with Jenna & Friends: Matt Rogers, Elizabeth Chambers...

This Friday, “CBS Mornings” offers a double dose of inspiration, welcoming two women who have broken barriers and redefined success in their respective fields. Misty Copeland, a groundbreaking figure in the world of ballet, joins the show to discuss her new book, “Letters to Misty: How to Move Through Life with Confidence and Grace,” a […]

CBS Mornings: Misty Copeland, Connie Britton...

Misty Copeland, star of the American Ballet Theatre, has signed with Range Media Partners for representation in all areas.

Copeland joined the New York City ballet company in 2000 and in 2015 was promoted to principal dancer — a first for an African-American woman in Abt’s 75 year-old history. Signing with Range Media Partners comes as Copeland continues a transition from the ballet stage to the big screen.

In 2015, she launched the production banner, Life in Motion Productions, with two-time Emmy-winning writer and producer Leyla Fayyaz. Their mission is bringing more diverse stories and representation of artists from underrepresented communities to traditional and new media platforms.

Their first project, Flower, directed by Lauren Finerman and written by Fayyaz, followed Rose, played by Copeland, as she carries the weight of providing a home, caring for her dementia-suffering mother and teaching young ballerinas in her Oakland community as it gentrifies. The 28-minute short made its...

Another culinary clash is on the menu, as two chefs enter the Beat Bobby Flay arena, hungry for a chance to take down the reigning champion. This week, Andrew Zimmern and ballerina Misty Copeland join forces to try and orchestrate Bobby Flay’s defeat. Their combined expertise in food anthropology and graceful movement might seem like […]

Beat Bobby Flay “From Plies to Plating”...

On Thursday January 16 2025, Food Network broadcasts Beat Bobby Flay!

From Plies to Plating Season 36 Episode 2 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Beat Bobby Flay,” titled “From Plies to Plating,” promises an exciting mix of culinary skills and artistic flair. The episode features guest judges Andrew Zimmern and Misty Copeland, who bring their unique talents to the competition. With Zimmern’s extensive food knowledge and Copeland’s background in dance, they are sure to add an entertaining dynamic to the show.

Chefs Tristen Epps and Vinnie Cimino will take on the challenge of impressing Bobby Flay with their culinary creations. Both chefs are known for their creativity in the kitchen, and they will need to stay sharp to keep up with Flay’s reputation. The episode hints at a focus on presentation, as the chefs aim to ensure their plates are not only delicious but also visually appealing.

As the competition unfolds,...

Season 36 of “Beat Bobby Flay” continues with an exciting new episode titled “From Plies to Plating.” This episode, airing on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 9:00 Pm on the Food Network, promises a thrilling culinary showdown. Andrew Zimmern and Misty Copeland are set to bring their unique flair and energy to the competition, dancing circles around the renowned chef Bobby Flay.

In this episode, chefs Tristen Epps and Vinnie Cimino will take center stage, showcasing their culinary skills and creativity. With the pressure on, these talented chefs aim to impress both the judges and Bobby himself. The stakes are high as they strive to create plates that not only taste amazing but also look stunning. The combination of Zimmern’s adventurous palate and Copeland’s artistic background adds an intriguing layer to the competition.

As the clock ticks down, the excitement builds. Viewers can expect plenty of surprises, delicious dishes, and the...

The 18th Annual CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute airs tonight!

The award-winning program, which honors everyday people who are making extraordinary contributions to help improve the lives of others, returns at 8 p.m. Et on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español and CNN Max, hosted by CNN Anchors Anderson Cooper and Laura Coates.

The second annual CNN Heroes Legacy Award will recognize Michael J. Fox with a special tribute and appearance following the launch of his Michael J. Fox Foundation, which has funded $2 billion so far in research for Parkinson’s Disease following his diagnosis at age 29.

Keep reading to find out more…

CNN Heroes will also honor two extraordinary young people with the 2024 CNN Heroes Young Wonders, Brooke and Breanna Bennett, twins on a mission to end period poverty in the United States, where 1 in 5 girls have missed school due to a lack of access to menstrual products. The two launched Women in Training,...

The stars are kicking off awards season in New York City!

Zendaya, Sebastian Stan, Angelina Jolie, Colman Domingo, and Nicole Kidman stepped out for the 2024 The Gothams Film Awards on Monday evening (December 2) held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City.

39 feature films and 25 performances are nominated in 10 categories for outstanding and breakthrough performances, films, director, and screenplay.

The event is also honoring Zendaya with The Gothams Spotlight Tribute, Angelina with the Performer Tribute, Timothee Chalamet & James Mangold with the Visionary Tribute, the cast of Sing Sing with the Social Justice Tribute, Denis Villeneuve with the Director Tribute and the cast of The Piano Lesson with the Ensemble Tribute.

We have now compiled photos of the stars in attendance so that you can see what everyone wore!

Keep reading to find out more…Keep scrolling to see the stars in attendance…

Adam Pearson

Fyi: Adam is wearing a Dior suit.

Deadline Portrait Studio hosted talent on December 2 at the 34th edition of the Gotham Awards, held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. Talent from films nominated stopped by including director C. Mason Wells from Between the Temples; Keith Kupferer, Tara Mallen, and Katherine Mallen Kupferer from Ghostlight, Pamela Anderson and Gia Coppola from The Last Showgirl, Colman Domingo and the cast of Sing Sing.

Related: Gotham Awards: A24’s ‘A Different Man’ Wins Best Feature; ‘Sing Sing’, ‘Nickel Boys’ Also Score – Full Winners List

Other talent included Boyd Holbrook, Monica Barbaro, James Mangold, Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning, Sebastian Stan, Jesse Eisenberg, Katy O’Brian, Danielle Deadwyler, Justice Smith, Halina Reijn, Franklin Leonard, Mars Verrone, Misty Copeland, Pablo Larrain, Zoey Deutch, and KiKi Layne.

Related: Gotham Awards Red Carpet Arrivals Photo Gallery

Deadline is the official portrait studio sponsor of The Gothams. Scroll through the gallery to check out the portraits.

Get into the holiday spirit this year with fan-favorite holiday programming for all ages, now streaming globally on Apple TV+. The Apple TV Plus Holiday 2024 programming features beloved Peanuts specials, musical holiday specials from Mariah Carey and Hannah Waddingham, the musical comedy feature Spirited, and more.

In addition to Apple Original holiday films, specials, and episodes, Peanuts fans can look forward to catching the timeless and iconic holiday specials for free on Apple TV+, including A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and A Charlie Brown Christmas. Apple TV+ will provide special free streaming windows for nonsubscribers to enjoy these original holiday specials, and subscribers can watch these specials anytime, all season long.

The Apple TV Plus Holiday 2024 Programming

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving — Stream for Free Saturday, November 23, 2024, and Sunday, November 24, 2024

For over 50 years of this Peanuts classic, Peppermint Patty invites everyone to Charlie Brown’s for Thanksgiving, even though he is already...

You have one week left to catch the theatrical event of the season – Ragtime at New York City Center!

The two-week gala presentation of the beloved musical opened on Wednesday (October 30) to rave reviews and rumors of a Broadway transfer, which we hope actually happens!

The star-studded cast – including Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Stephanie Styles, Brandon Uranowitz, Nichelle Lewis, Colin Donnell, Shaina Taub and Ben Levi Ross – walked the red carpet at the opening night gala celebration and we have all the photos.

The production is getting multiple mid-show standing ovations and thunderous applause thanks to Joshua‘s “Make Them Hear You,” Caissie‘s “Back to Before,” Joshua and Nichelle‘s “Wheels of a Dream,” and the cast’s act one closer, “Till We Reach That Day.”

Ragtime is running at NY City Center through November 10 and there’s only a limited amount of tickets remaining. Get yours now while you still can!

Warning! This Article Contains Major Spoilers About The Masked Singer Season 12!During The Masked Singer season 12 Barbie Night, Chess Piece was unmasked and revealed to be actress and LGBTQ+ advocate Laverne Cox, and there were many clues that gave away her identity. The Masked Singer season 12 welcomed back host Nick Cannon, along with panelists Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Rita Ora. The season began with Group A, which included Leaf Sheep (John Elway), Showbird (Yvette Nicole Brown), Woodpecker (Marsai Martin), Ship (Paula Cole), and the Buffalos, who made it through to the quarterfinals.

For the first time ever, The Masked Singer season 12 features Masked Ambassadors, who are alums from the show with special connections to the newest singers. They introduced the Group B contestants, including Wasp, Chess Piece, Bluebell, Goo, and Dust Bunny (Andy Richter). Here are all of the clues that proved that Chess Piece was Laverne.

Get ready to dance the night away on “Barbie Night” as “The Masked Singer’s” resident “Ken,” Ken Jeong, and his fellow panelists Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, and Rita Ora, celebrate Mattel’s Barbie for the 65th anniversary! Then, it’s time to head inside the Barbie Dream House to learn more about the Group B celebrities as they pay tribute to Barbie, celebrating over six decades of breaking down boundaries and inspiring girls to explore their limitless potential! Which Emmy-winning superstar was unmasked in the all-new “Barbie Night” episode of “The Masked Singer” airing Wednesday, Oct 23 (8:00-9:02 Pm Et/Pt) on Fox?

First up in tonight’s Barbie mayhem is Bluebell. She said in her clue package, “Barbie believes you can be anything, and as a young seedling, I believed I could be a star! I even wrote a list of all my goals and never questioned that they would manifest.

Spoiler Alert: Details follow for Season 12, Episode 5 of “The Masked Singer,” “Barbie Night,” which aired October 23 on Fox.

Check mate. “Orange Is the New Black” star Laverne Cox was the next celebrity to be eliminated on “The Masked Singer,” revealed on Wednesday’s episode to be the celebrity under the Chess Piece costume.

None of the panelists got it right. Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg said it was Serena Williams. Ken Jeong though it was Issa Rae. Robin Thicke named Misty Copeland. Rita Ora said it was Tyra Banks.

“As a kid, I was a rich target for others to tease. It seemed like every piece of me was something others could poke at,” Cox-as-Chess-Piece said in her “Masked Singer” voiceover. “And on top of that, I loved Barbie. But the part that hurt was that I wasn’t allowed to play with her. The criticism and scrutiny continued over the years and...

The Masked Singer is back!

A new episode of the mystery celebrity singing competition aired on Wednesday night (October 23) on Fox.

The show, which began in South Korea, features celebrities singing songs while wearing costumes and face masks concealing their identities until they’re eliminated. Throughout the season, the contestants provide clues to try and help the judges and fans figure out who is under the mask.

This season also features Ambassadors, who are all alums of the series, that have a special connection to each singer and will be providing major new clues about their friends’ identities.

During the episode, the Group B contestants – Wasp, Chess Piece, Goo, and Bluebell – hit the stage for performances.

While on stage, Chess Piece “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan.

Click inside to check out all of the clues and guesses for Chess Piece…Keep scrolling to check out the clues and guesses…...

Exclusive: The Black List won’t be releasing its 20th anniversary tally until later this year, but the Franklin Leonard-founded platform is rolling into the Bay Area with a new collaboration and a deep bench of partners.

Focusing on the talent-rich San Francisco and Oakland region, the brand new Bay List will announce 10 inaugural projects next summer. If you are part of the 415, 510 or 628 area codes, among others, you have until April 8, 2025 to submit an eligible project. Find out more info about Leonard and Blindspotting creator/showrunner Rafael Casal‘s brainchild here.

“I’ve been a longtime admirer of the arts community in the Bay generally so it was a no-brainer to jump in when Rafa reached out about being a part of it directly,” Leonard told Deadline on Tuesday. “Little did I appreciate just how big the Bay does things. It’s a real honor to be partnered up...

The stars are stepping out for Tribeca and Chanel‘s big event!

Leslie Mann and daughter Maude Apatow posed for photos as they arrived at Through Her Lens: The Tribeca Chanel Women’s Filmmaker Program Annual Luncheon held on Tuesday (Sept. 17) at the Locanda Verde in New York City.

Other stars in attendance included Olivia Wilde, Beanie Feldstein, Rosanna Arquette, Chloe Fineman, Gayle King, AnnaSophia Robb, singer Maggie Rogers, Gossip Girl actress Whitney Peak, Dickinson actress Ella Hunt, Bodies Bodies Bodies actress Chase Sui Wonders, influencer Francesca Scorsese, White Men Can’t Jump actress Rosie Perez, Assassination Nation actress Odessa Young, ballerina Misty Copeland, House of the Dragon actress Gayle Rankin, Bottoms actress Havana Rose Liu, and The Vampire Diaries actress Phoebe Tonkin.

The event is held annually to support and celebrate women in film.

“I’m thrilled by what I’m seeing with female filmmakers right now—programs like this...

Michaela Mabinty DePrince, a world-renowned ballerina who overcame adversity to rise to international fame, has passed away at the age of 29.

Her family confirmed the tragic news through her Instagram account, describing her as “an unforgettable inspiration” to everyone who encountered her or knew her story.

The cause of her death has not been disclosed, leaving many fans and colleagues in shock and mourning.

DePrince’s life story is one of remarkable resilience and determination. Born Mabinty Bangura in war-torn Sierra Leone, she lost both her parents during the country’s brutal civil war.

According to BBC, At the orphanage where she lived, she was shunned due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that left her with depigmented patches.

Despite these early hardships, her passion for dance ignited as she danced barefoot in the mud during the rainy season, dreaming of a better life.

Michaela DePrince’s rise to ballet...

Ballerina Michaela DePrince has died aged 29, her family has announced.

The death of the dancer, born in Sierra Leone and who performed with stars across the world and appeared on Dancing with the Stars aged just 17, was announced on her personal Instagram page, with her family adding in a statement that she was “an unforgettable inspiration to everyone who knew her or heard her story.”

The BBC reports that the cause of DePrince’s death has not been given, save that it had been “sudden,” according to her family.

DePrince’s life story was an inspiring one. She was made an orphan in Sierra Leone by the civil war in that country. In an orphanage, she was seen as a “devil’s child” due to her vitiligo, a condition in which patches of skin lose pigmentation.

She was adopted aged four by an American couple who took her to New Jersey.

Growing up, our toy shelves were filled with blonde beauties and barely a brown beauty to be found. Davis’ documentary delves into this lack of diversity and why representation through even the simplest of toys like Barbie really mattered.

Davis, inspired by her aunt’s longtime career at Mattel, set out to understand the story behind the groundbreaking Black Barbie doll. What she unearthed was how activism from pioneering women like Beulah Mae Mitchell helped challenge perceptions and make room within the toy kingdom for little girls of color to see dolls that looked like them.

We learn of Black children in the past only having demeaning options like “Aunt Jemima” dolls that fed into harmful stereotypes. And studies showed the psychological impacts, like black girls feeling they must aspire to be the blonde, white standard as they grew. Meanwhile, generations of non-Black children were left with an incomplete view...

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Simone Biles has already become the most decorated gymnast in history, but now the four-time gold medalist has returned for the 2024 Paris Olympics in one of the most-anticipated comebacks during this year’s gymnastics competition.

“I knew I wasn’t done after the performances in Tokyo,” Biles recently said at the U.S. Olympic trials, ahead of the Paris Olympics. “This is definitely our redemption tour. I feel...

Ina Garten welcomes a new season of “Be My Guest” with a strong lineup of guests, including Misty Copeland, Stanley Tucci, Laura Linney, and Norah Jones. The season premiere episode airs on Sbs Food on Sunday, 28 July at 7:30 pm. In this opening episode, Ina is joined by Misty Copeland, the renowned superstar ballerina. […]

Be My Guest With Ina Garten: Season 3 Premiere Sunday 28 July on Sbs Food...

“Barefoot Contessa” star Ina Garten has signed a new exclusive multiyear deal at her longtime home Food Network that includes a Season 5 renewal for her latest show, “Be My Guest With Ina Garten.”

The next season of Garten’s Emmy-award-winning cooking talk show set at the East Hampton home she shares with her husband Jeffrey will launch in the fall and boast a guest list that includes Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Stephen Colbert and Evie McGee Colbert and fellow Food Network star Bobby Flay, among others.

Previous seasons of “Be My Guest” have featured Emily Blunt, Jennifer Garner, Nathan Lane, Laura Linney, Stanley Tucci, astronaut Nicole Mann, ballerina Misty Copeland, restaurateur and author Danny Meyer and journalist Frank Bruni.

Garten is a New York Times bestselling author of thirteen cookbooks with her most recent, “Go-To Dinners,” released in October 2022. This October, Garten’s memoir, “Be Ready When the Luck Happens,” will hit shelves.

Emotional, educational, and empowering—these three words perfectly encapsulate the experience of watching ‘Black Barbie: A Documentary.’ Written and directed by Lagueria Davis, the film takes viewers on an engaging journey through the creation and evolution of the Black Barbie. It highlights the significant roles of three influential Black women, including Davis' aunt, Beulah Mitchell, one of the first Black employees at Mattel. In the opening moments of the documentary, Lagueria Davis shares how, in 2011, she moved to Los Angeles to further her film career and temporarily stayed with her aunt, Beulah Mitchell. During her stay, Davis slept in a bedroom filled with boxes of dolls and dolls stacked to the ceiling. Although Lagueria was never a fan of dolls growing up, her curiosity about her aunt's extensive collection led to a significant revelation. This discovery ultimately inspired the creation of an intriguing story about the cultural, social, and historical...

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is looking ahead as it prepares to honor the star-studded Class of 2025.

On Monday, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced next year’s selections to receive a star on Hollywood Boulevard’s storied walk, including the likes of Jane Fonda, David Beckham, Fran Drescher, Alan Cumming and the late Prince.

In addition to Fonda, the 2025 motion picture honorees include John Carpenter, Jessica Chastain, Bill Duke, Robert Englund, Emilio Estevez, Colin Farrell, Nia Long, Lisa LIu, Glynn Turman and Toni Vaz.

The television honorees include Drescher, Lauren Graham, Bill Nye, Molly Shannon, Sherri Shepherd, Courtney B. Vance, Chris Wallace and South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, to be honored in a double ceremony.

Other recording artists to receive an honor include Fantasia, Depeche Mode, Los Bukis, The B-52s, Green Day, The Isley Brothers, Busta Rhymes, George Strait, Keith Urban and War.

Cumming and...

More than thirty new stars are going to be added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2025 (and into 2026), with the new batch of honorees who will be receiving stars having been chosen by the Hollywood Chamber’s Board of Directors. Variety reports that that honorees include Jessica Chastain, Bill Duke, Emilio Estevez, Colin Farrell, Jane Fonda, Nia Long, Lisa Lu, Glynn Turman, Toni Vaz, Fran Drescher, Lauren Graham, Bill Nye, Molly Shannon, Sherri Shepherd, Courtney B. Vance, Chris Wallace, Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Misty Copeland, Alan Cumming, Adam Carolla, Fantasia, Depeche Mode, Los Bukis, The B-52s, Green Day, The Isley Brothers, Busta Rhymes, George Strait, Keith Urban, War, Prince, David Beckham, and Orel Hershiser… but the two honorees that stand out more than any others on this list for us here in the Arrow in the Head horror section of JoBlo are character actor Robert Englund and legendary filmmaker John Carpenter!

The Hollywood Walk of Fame 2025 class has been announced today, and we’re thrilled to pass along the word that two legends in the horror field are getting their bloody flowers.

First up, Robert Englund joins fellow horror acting legends including Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney and Bela Lugosi with a much-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2025.

Robert Englund tweets this afternoon, “Woke up this morning to discover I’m in great company in the Hollywood Walk of Fame class of 2025. Just to hear my name mentioned alongside Jane Fonda and Prince makes my old heart go pit-a-pat!”

Englund’s name is also being mentioned alongside fellow master of horror John Carpenter today, as Carpenter has been announced for the 2025 Hollywood Walk of Fame class!

Bill Duke, known for his roles in ’80s classics Predator and Commando, is also being honored.

Variety details, “More than 30 new stars will...

Lagueria Davis hates dolls. At least that’s what the director of Netflix’s Black Barbie documentary (streaming now) says in the first few minutes of the film. As a kid, she preferred powering remote-control cars, listening to the radio, playing computer quiz games, and shooting hoops. But an internal switch flipped in 2011 when, at 33, she moved in with her aunt, whose walls towered with beady-eyed baby dolls and accessorized Barbies. As it turns out that aunt, Beulah Mae Mitchell, was one of Mattel’s first Black employees starting in...

The worst fantasy movies of the past decade often demonstrate overconfidence in popular properties, ruined by poor execution. Execution of exposition is crucial in fantasy movies; a lack of well-written scripts can make them cringe-worthy. The rise in fantasy and sci-fi movies and TV shows has led to an increase in bad movies due to more productions in general.

Fantasy fans look back and cringe at the thought of the worst fantasy movies of the previous decade. In many ways, fantasy and sci-fi movies have been on the rise in the past 20 years with the inception of certain genre-defining franchises. A similar trend in TV shows has also played a role in the genre's expansion. However, more fantasy movies being produced, mathematically speaking, does mean that more bad fantasy movies are being produced.

Some of the worst fantasy movies in the last 10 years demonstrate overconfidence in the basic concept on...

CAA on Thursday announced the speakers and attendees set for its seventh annual CAA Amplify Summit, the invitation-only convening of artists, thought-leaders, and executives of color from leading organizations in entertainment, sports, media, brands, and technology, and beyond.

Confirmed speakers and attendees include: former First Lady of the United States and Co-Founder, Higher Ground Productions, Michelle Obama; Oscar and Emmy-winning Actress, Producer, and Director, Regina King (Shirley); NBA Hall of Famer, Activist, and Entrepreneur, Dwyane Wade; Grammy-winning Singer, Songwriter, Actor, and Activist, Ricky Martin; Emmy, Golden Globe, Grammy, and Academy Award-winning Singer and Songwriter, Jon Batiste; Emmy-nominated Television Host, Producer, Bestselling Author, and Activist, Padma Lakshmi; Actress and Comedian, Ego Nwodim (SNL); Academy Award-winning Writer and Director, Cord Jefferson (American Fiction); Chief Legal Analyst and News Anchor, Laura Coates (Laura Coates Live); Actress Ashley Park (Emily in Paris); Misty Copeland, Principal Dancer, American Ballet Theatre; Emmy-nominated Producer and Comedian, Roy Wood, Jr....

CAA’s seventh annual Amplify summit, a day dedicated to convening artists, brands and leaders of color, has set its lineup of speakers and attendees, led by none other than the former First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama.

Obama, also co-founder of Higher Ground productions, will be joined on the bill by top talents like Oscar and Emmy-winning actor, producer, and director, Regina King; NBA Hall of Famer, activist and entrepreneur Dwyane Wade (who returns after sitting for a keynote conversation with his fellow NBA legend Chris Paul in 2023); and Grammy-winning artist actor and activist Ricky Martin.

The invitation-only event kicks off on June 10th, in Ojai, Calif. and is organized by a diverse cross-section of CAA agents and executives to discuss ways to “accelerate transformational change in rooms of leadership and popular culture” via business opportunities, social justice initiatives and other various forms of collaboration.

“Our super...

Michelle Obama will attend the 2024 CAA Amplify Summit, the agency’s annual convening of thought leaders of color across entertainment, media, sports, branding, technology, nonprofits and other sectors.

Regina King, Dwyane Wade, Ricky Martin, Jon Batiste, Padma Lakshmi, Ego Nwodim, Cord Jefferson, Ashley Park, Misty Copeland, Roy Wood Jr., Lee Sung Jin, Demián Bichir, Colin Kaepernick and Mo Amer will join the former first lady, whose banner Higher Ground is represented by CAA, in Ojai on June 10-12. The roster of Amplify speakers and attendees also includes CNN chief legal analyst Laura Coates, MSNBC analyst Errin Haynes, ACLU executive director Anthony D. Romero, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund president and CEO Fatima Goss Graves, Human Rights Campaign president Kelley Robinson and Center for Countering Digital Hate CEO Imran Ahmed.

“Our superpower is connecting luminaries across business, philanthropy, entertainment, technology, politics and beyond to inform, strategize and take action...

Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including events for Challengers, Abigail, Under the Bridge and Coachella.

PaleyFest

The annual TV festival kicked off on April 12 and runs through the 21st, with events for The Morning Show, Loki, Young Sheldon, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Late Night with Seth Meyers and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Nestor Carbonell, Nicole Beharie, Tig Notaro, Jennifer Aniston, moderator Kara Swisher, Reese Witherspoon, Karen Pittman and Mark Duplass for The Morning Show event Zoe Perry, Raegan Revord, Montana Jordan, Iain Armitage, Annie Potts, Emily Osment and Lance Barber at the Young Sheldon event Andy Samberg and Seth Meyers for the Late Night with Seth Meyers panel Judd Apatow, Jeff Schaffer, Jeff Garlin, Cheryl Hines, Larry David, Susie Essman and J.B. Smoove at the Curb Your Enthusiasm event.

Breakthrough Prize

Stars including Jessica Chastain, Glenn Close,...

On Friday, April 12th, the Dance Theatre of Harlem hosted their most anticipated event of the year, The Vision Gala.

Anna Glass, Janet Jackson, Robert Garland at The Vision Gala

Credit/Copyright: Dance Theatre of Harlem

The event honored esteemed ballet dancer Misty Copeland with the Arthur Mitchell Vision Award and civic leaders and philanthropists Terri Prettyman Bowles and Alvin Bowles with the Virtuoso Award. The organization raised $1.3 Million to further their mission of providing arts education, maintaining a world-class school, and presenting a ballet Company of African American and other racially diverse artists.

“Let’s continue to dance, to dream, and to build a world where every child has the opportunity to discover their passion and reach for the stars through dance,” Misty Copeland said on stage while accepting her award.

The honorary committee included Peg Alston, Reginald Van Lee, Susan Taylor, Derrick “D Nice” Jones, Jalen Rose, Kenny Leon,...

On Wednesday night, the African American Film Critics Association honored the top actors, directors and films of the year at the 15th annual Aafca Awards, in a Los Angeles ceremony hosted by Roy Wood Jr.

One of night’s top honors — which were announced in advance — went to American Fiction star Jeffrey Wright, who delivered a humorous speech about the debt actors owe to critics as he accepted the Legend Award.

“There is a line in The Dresser which, to my mind, is the film that best captures what it is to be an actor,” he began. “Albert Finney, playing this blustery, brilliant, Shakespearean actress, says these horrible words: ‘The critics. Hate the critics. I have nothing but compassion for them. How can one hate the crippled, the mentally deficient, and the dead?'”

“I’ve been changed,” Wright said to a response of thunderous laughter. “After this moment I...

Ask anyone who works in the fashion industry, and they’ll be quick to tell you it’s a competitive, sometimes brutal business — and they wouldn’t dream of doing anything else. Another truism: The creatives behind it outwardly seem to possess spines made of steel, and yet every element of their soul will go into a collection.

That was undeniably true on the first day of New York Fashion Week, when Prabal Gurung presented a wholly poetic Fall Winter 2024 collection inspired by personal loss. The Singapore-born Gurung was raised by Nepali parents in Katmandu, and he’s often said that he knew from an early age that he wanted to come to the U.S. and launch his own label; that decision, however, strained his relationship with his father, who died this past November. “I always had a fraught relationship with him, and now I had to go back...

Ballet dancer turned producer Misty Copeland, director, writer and producer George C. Wolfe and newly-minted Academy Award nominee Jeffrey Wright are set to receive special honors at this year’s Aafca Awards.

Roy Wood Jr. — the comedian, writer and producer, best known for his work as correspondent and guest host of “The Daily Show” — returns to emcee the ceremony for a second consecutive year. The 15th annual award show will be held Feb. 21 at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills.

During the ceremony, Copeland will receive the Innovator Award, presented by Nissan, which recognizes individuals who have made important and innovative contributions to film and beyond. Copeland shattered barriers in 2015, becoming the first Black woman to be promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre in the company’s 75-year history. After launching a career as a philanthropist and bestselling author, she founded Life in Motion Productions, which debuted its first independently produced project,...

Taylor Swift (with Vote.org), the Elton John AIDS Foundation, “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah,” “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” CNN, Vice Media, TheGrio and the SiriusXM podcast network are among the winners at the 3rd annual Anthem Awards, Variety has learned exclusively. Also, Matt Damon, Selma Blair, Kevin Bacon and Jesse Tyler Ferguson are among the celebrities set to be honored with special achievement awards.

The Webby Awards first launched the Anthem Awards in 2021 to pay tribute to social impact work around the world. The International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences announced this year’s honorees on Tueday morning. Nonprofits and foundations recognized include the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, IllumiNative, It Gets Better Project, World Central Kitchen, Decolonizing Wealth Project, AARP and Unicef.

Other cultural figures honored include “On Purpose with Jay Shetty,” Megan Rapinoe, Lil Durk and Amazon Music. Media honorees also include ABC News, Capital B, Al Jazeera, Crooked Media,...

Beginning this weekend, Michael Jackson fans can take a trip back to the ’80s to the release of the best-selling album, “Thriller.” The album, released in 1982, has had a lasting impact and has transformed music and entertainment in huge ways. A new documentary, “Thriller 40” revisits the album’s release and acknowledges its lasting effects four decades later. The documentary premieres on Paramount+ on Saturday, Dec. 2. Subscribers with a Paramount+ and Showtime subscription can stream the documentary at no additional cost. It also airs on Showtime at 8 p.m. the same day. You can watch with a subscription to Paramount Plus.

How to Watch 'Thriller 40' When: Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 8:00 Pm Est Where: Paramount Plus Stream: Watch with a subscription to Paramount Plus. Get 30 Days Free$5.99+ / month paramountplus.com

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About 'Thriller 40'

In 1982, Michael Jackson...

Denzel Washington, Eddie Murphy, Mariah Carey and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson are among the stars set to appear at the 2023 The Grio Awards, airing Saturday, Nov. 25 at 8 p.m. Pt / Et on CBS.

Watch The Grio Awards on TV through your local CBS affiliate. Want to watch The Grio Awards online without cable? Grab this free trial to Paramount+, which lets you live stream The Grio Awards on your phone, laptop and tablet. You can also use it to watch a live CBS feed on your TV.

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Co-hosted by The Talk’s Sheryl Underwood and Comedian Roy Wood, Jr., the two-hour special celebrates “icons, leaders and legends” from the African-American community, with honorees spanning film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice and education.

Carey will be honored with the Music Icon Award, with musical tributes from her godmother, Patti Labelle, and Egot-winner Jennifer Hudson,...

A new documentary, Thriller 40, arrives to celebrate Michael Jackson‘s Thriller four decades after its landmark release. The doc will examine the groundbreaking album, including the iconic music video for “Thriller,” a Halloween staple.

Thriller 40 debuts December 2 at 8 p.m. Et on Showtime and will stream on Paramount+ (for Paramount+ With Showtime subscribers).

The film “takes fans back in time to the making of the record-breaking album and release of revolutionary short films that redefined the music video format and captivated audiences globally,” the official press release teased previously. “’Billie Jean’ remains the most streamed Michael Jackson song and ‘Thriller’ is the only music video that has been inducted onto the elite National Film Registry of the Library of Congress.”

The upcoming documentary will feature “never-before-seen footage and candid interviews,” chronicling “the point in Jackson’s career that launched the singer into mega-stardom and created a pop culture...

In the midst of a great debate about the future of the U.S. news business, the British are coming.

Katty Kay, the veteran BBC newscaster, is set to launch a new deep-dive interview program that will take her away — not permanently — from her usual role covering U.S. politics in favor of long-form conversations with interesting figures. In the first nine-episode season of “Influential with Katty Kay,” the journalist will interview actor Wendell Pierce, dancer Misty Copeland and author Ken Follett, among others, all in a longform format that will put emphasis not only on what makes them famous but also some of their interests.

“You interview people in one way in news or politics. You are trying to catch them maybe saying something they don’t necesssarirly want to say or in an unguarded way. There’s a combative nature, which can be exhilarating, but it’s definitely combative,...

The second annual edition of “Byron Allen Presents TheGrio Awards” will air on CBS on Nov. 25 at 8 p.m. after recently being recorded in Beverly Hills.

TheGrio is Allen Media Group’s African American-focused news, lifestyle, sports and entertainment website. TheGrio Awards, which were hosted by Sheryl Underwood and Roy Wood Jr., are meant to celebrate achievements across ilm, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice, education.

2023 honorees included Mariah Carey, Don Cheadle, Misty Copeland, Doctor Kizzmekia S Corbett-Helaire, Tamron Hall, Kevin Hart, Steve Harvey, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Eddie Murphy, Al Sharpton and Denzel Washington. Additionally, the ceremony featured performances by Boyz II Men, Jennifer Hudson, Coco Jones, Patti Labelle, Smokey Robinson and DJ Kiss.

“Byron Allen Presents TheGrio Awards” is co-produced by Allen Media Group and Backhand Productions. Allen, Carolyn Folks, Jennifer Lucas, Jeff Atlas, and Michelle Willrich are executive producers. Greg Phillinganes serves as musical director.

Byron Allen Presents theGrio Awards special, honoring African American excellence, is returning to CBS for its second year. Co-hosted by The Talk‘s Sheryl Underwood and comedian Roy Wood, with honorees including Mariah Carey, Don Cheadle and Misty Copeland, the event will air on Saturday, November 25 from 8-10 Pm on CBS and will stream live on Paramount+.

Byron Allen Presents theGrio Awards celebrates excellence in film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice, education, and the cultural icons and innovators whose contributions positively impact America. The television special pays tribute to and amplifies the history makers, change agents and artists who define and influence our world, according to organizers.

Carey will be honored with The Music Icon Award, Washington with The Film Icon award, Murphy with The Icon award, Cheadle with the Environmental Champion Icon award and Copeland with The Trailblazer Icon award, along with Doctor...

Mariah Carey, Don Cheadle, Eddie Murphy and more will be among the honorees at the second annual Byron Allen Presents theGrio Awards airing Nov. 25 on CBS.

The star-studded black-tie event, which will be co-hosted by Sheryl Underwood and Roy Wood, Jr., will air 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Et/Pt on the CBS Television Network and simulcast live on Paramount+ for premium subscribers via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate.

The special will celebrate excellence in film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social justice, environmental justice, education, and the cultural icons and innovators whose many contributions positively impact America.

“I created ‘theGrio Awards’ to celebrate and amplify African-American excellence and the incredible champions from other communities who truly support us,” Allen Meida group founder, chairman and CEO Byron Allen said in a statement. “As a child, strong, positive African-American icons such as Berry Gordy, Jr., Rosa Parks,...

Lift is a new documentary executive produced by Misty Copeland, which follows homeless children finding solace and self-expression through dance. The film highlights the stories of promising ballet dancers Victor Abreu, Yolanssie Cardona, and Sharia Blockwood, whose futures are overshadowed by housing insecurity. Director David Petersen's ten-year project sheds light on homelessness in America, while showcasing the transformative power of dance and the dedication of mentor Steven Melendez.

Lift, a documentary about the power of dance, was recently acquired by Paramount and debuts today in select theaters before hitting digital platforms on September 22. The beloved ballerina Misty Copeland executive produces and serves as principal advisor for the movie, which follows a group of children impacted by homelessness as they learn to express themselves through dance. Their mentor is Steven Melendez, Principal Artist and Artistic Director of New York Theater Ballet, and his guidance in the Lift Community Service Program...