Oprah Winfrey Network Unveils Extended Trailer of New Original Drama Series ‘Queen Sugar’

Photo Caption (l-r): Kofi Siriboe, Rutina Wesley and Dawn-Lyen Gardner
Photo by Andrew Dosunmu © 2016 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc / Courtesy of OWN

On July 20, 2016, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network revealed an extended trailer of its new original drama series “Queen Sugar,” from award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay, executive producer Oprah Winfrey and Warner Horizon Television.  The series which chronicles the lives and loves of three estranged siblings will debut as a two-night event on Tuesday, September 6 and Wednesday, September 7 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, and will regularly air Wednesday nights at 10 p.m. ET/PT for the remainder of its 13-episode first season.  Click here for a first look at the series’ extended trailer: Oprah.com/QueenSugar

About “Queen Sugar”

The contemporary drama “Queen Sugar” chronicles the lives and loves of the estranged Bordelon siblings in Saint Josephine, Louisiana: Nova (Rutina Wesley, “True Blood”), a world-wise journalist and activist; Charley (Dawn-Lyen Gardner, “Unforgettable”), the savvy wife and manager of a professional basketball star; and Ralph Angel (Kofi Siriboe, “Awkward”), a formerly incarcerated young father in search of redemption.  After a family tragedy, the Bordelons must navigate the triumphs and struggles of their complicated lives in order to run an ailing sugarcane farm in the Deep South. Led by acclaimed film director DuVernay, who directed the first two episodes, all episodes in the series’ debut season are directed by women. “Queen Sugar” is produced for OWN by Warner Horizon Television. The executive producers are Ava DuVernay, Melissa Carter and Oprah Winfrey.  The series is based on the book by Natalie Baszile.

About OWN: OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network is the first and only network named for, and inspired by, a single iconic leader. Oprah Winfrey’s heart and creative instincts inform the brand – and the magnetism of the channel.  Winfrey provides leadership in programming and attracts superstar talent to join her in primetime, building a global community of like-minded viewers and leading that community to connect on social media and beyond. OWN is a singular destination on cable.  Depth with edge.  Heart. Star power. Connection.  And endless possibilities.  OWN is a joint venture between Harpo, Inc. and Discovery Communications.  The network debuted on January 1, 2011 and is available in 85 million homes.  The venture also includes the award-winning digital platform Oprah.com.  For more information, please visit http://www.oprah.com/own and http://press.discovery.com/us/own/.

 About Warner Horizon Television

Warner Horizon Television (WHTV) is one of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of scripted series for the cable and subscription/on-demand marketplace, and primetime reality series for both network and cable. A division of the Warner Bros. Television Group, WHTV was founded in 2006. Its current scripted programs are Rizzoli & Isles and Animal Kingdom for TNT, People of Earth for TBS, Pretty Little Liars and Famous in Love for Freeform, Longmire and Fuller House for Netflix, and Queen Sugar for OWN. WHTV’s unscripted series are The Voice and Little Big Shots for NBC; The Bachelor franchise — which also includes The Bachelorette, Bachelor in Paradise and After Paradise for ABC, as well as Ben and Lauren: Happily Ever After for Freeform — plus 500 Questions for ABC; and Love at First Kiss for TLC, among others.

TV One’s Hit Series “Rickey Smiley For Real” Gets Third Season Pick-Up

Photo Credit: Marcus Ingram for TV One

One July 20, 2016,  TV One announced the third season renewal of the heartwarming comedic docu-series Rickey Smiley For Real.  The third season will return with even stronger bonds and bigger laughs, as comic and radio personality Rickey Smiley continues to strive to achieve his quest for domination of the entertainment industry.  In the second season, which debuted in May, viewers have watched Smiley journey through a wild ride, ranging from his parental style being put to the test to fun family vacations to an epic DJ battle with a friendly rival morning radio show. Rickey Smiley For Real continues to post double digit gains, and is currently outperforming its first season across all total and key Black demos.

“The consistent growth of Rickey Smiley For Real demonstrates the strong connection our viewers have with Rickey’s lovable family and laughable team,” said D’Angela Proctor, Head of Original Programming and Production for TV One. “Over two seasons, new and devoted fans have watched as the cast takes great strides in their personal lives and we look forward to watching as the cast exhibits their commitment to the community as well.“

“Although I am happy about the renewal for Season 3 of my show; it’s very difficult for me to celebrate as I sit here and watch the funerals of Philander Castile and Alton Sterling,” remarked Smiley. “I yearn for our country to be solid and to embrace our differences and to understand our differing communities and history.  We have too many others in the world trying to destroy what our nation, on the pain and suffering of our own people, has built.  I assure you that police violence will be a topic addressed in Season 3 as I feel compelled to use my platform to make change in this country for the good of all our citizens.  I’m thankful my show is doing well, but our nation, especially black America, is grieving at this time.“

Infusing his brand of comedy into every situation, Rickey Smiley For Real, also introduces viewers to his four children – sons Brandon and Malik and daughters D’Essence and Aaryn – as well as his extended family of co-workers, colleagues and friends – his nephew Craig, live-in assistant Miss Pat, personal assistant Angie, business consultant Bruce Demps, childhood friend and family lawyer Nakita Blocton, radio co-hosts Da Brat, Gary With Da Tea, Headkrack, Rock T and Juicy, and radio show producers Beyonce and Hollywood.

As a much-loved comedian, television host of Dish Nation, and top-rated nationally syndicated radio personality of The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, Smiley rose to superstardom after igniting his 25-year career serving as opening act for industry titans such as Steve Harvey, George Wallace and Carl Strong. Throughout his career trajectory, Smiley has been one of the industry’s most towering forces in building an impressive empire that has landed him preeminent roles on radio, television, film and on-stage performances. For more information on Smiley’s personal and professional background, please visit: http://therealrickeysmiley.com/.

For more information about Rickey Smiley For Real and Rickey Smiley, visit http://www.tvone.tv.  Viewers can also join the conversation by connecting via social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Periscope (@tvonetv) using the hashtag #RickeySmileyForReal and catch clips and promos on TV One’s YouTube Channel.

Rickey Smiley For Real is produced by Bobbcat Films for TV One with Rickey Smiley and Roger M. Bobb as executive producers and Angi Bones as co-executive producer. For TV One, Lamar Chase is executive-in-charge of production, Robyn Greene Arrington is vice president of original programming and production, and D’Angela Proctor is head of original programming and production.

“Queen Sugar” Cocktail Reception at Essence Fest

Photo used with permission from OWN:The Oprah Winfrey Network

On Saturday, July 2, 2016, OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network continued its “Queen Sugar” Essence Festival takeover with a Q&A on the festival mainstage — moderated by Essence entertainment director Cori Murray — featuring the cast and show creator Ava DuVernay; an inspiring keynote speech by “Queen Sugar” executive producer Oprah Winfrey; and a culminating cocktail reception at Legacy Kitchen, where over 200 industry insiders and tv personalities celebrated the new series.

 “Queen Sugar” cast members Rutina Wesley, Dawn-Lyen Gardner, Kofi Siriboe, Omar Dorsey, Tina Lifford, Dondre Whitfield, Nicholas Ashe and Bianca Lawson graced the red carpet at the reception, followed by DuVernay, Gayle King and Ms. Winfrey herself. Additional attendees included: Lynn Whitfield (“Greenleaf”), Tina Knowles Lawson, Richard Lawson, “The Real” hosts Adrienne Bailon, Loni Love and Jeannie Mai; singer Lalah Hathaway; “Love Thy Neighbor” cast Patrice Lovely and Darmirra Brunson; “Survivor’s Remorse” cast Tichina Arnold, Jessie T. Usher,  Erica Ash and Allen Maldonado; “POWER” cast Lela Loren and Joseph Sikora; “Real Housewives of Atlanta” cast Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker; broadcast journalist/producer Soledad O’Brien, Bozoma Saint John (Head of Global Consumer Marketing, Apple Music & iTunes); Mona Scott-Young (Monami Entertainment); Stevie J (“Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta”); “Married to Medicine” cast Dr. Heavenly, Mariah Huq and Lisa Nicole Cloud; Gocha Hawkins (“LA Hair”), Tameka Foster, American Idol’s La’Porsha Renae and so many more.

“Queen Sugar” will debut as a two-night event on Tuesday, September 6 and Wednesday, September 7 at 10PM ET/PT on OWN. The series will regularly air Wednesday nights at 10PM ET/PT for the remainder of its 13-episode first season.

Investigation Discovery presents Detective Garry McFadden in I Am Homicide

Photos used with permission for Investigation Discovery

On June 13, 2016, in NYC the professional yet charismatic detective Garry McFadden discussed the new series, “I Am Homicide.” During the interview, he talked about his experience and goals in solving crimes as well as helping the community as a whole.

When the streets talk, he listens. Where a crime scene has already been picked over, he can see things everyone else missed. Meet homicide detective Garry McFadden, the focus of Investigation Discovery’s all-new original series “I Am Homicide. After nearly three decades with the Charlotte Police Department, Det. McFadden has solved more than 700 homicide cases, resulting in a 90-percent success rate with the investigations he pursues. But his work doesn’t stop at protecting and serving the community of Charlotte. Chances are that when a call comes in, he knows the victim, the family, or even the perpetrator, because he has made it his mission to be one with the people of Charlotte, operating his investigations out of a local diner instead of the police precinct so he can truly get to know residents across the city and gain their confidence. Det. McFadden uses his street smarts to work the neighborhood networks and gather critical information for leads, at times risking his life by trusting the streets he calls home. I Am Homicide world premieres Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at 10/9c only on Investigation Discovery.

Writer, Judith Davis and Detective Garry McFadden

During each one-hour episode, Det. McFadden opens his case files to reveal how his unorthodox investigation methods helped solve one of the most precarious cases of his career. Using recreations, archival footage and revisiting the scenes of his most renowned cases, McFadden will take you behind the curtain on the cases that not only defined his career but the community he lives in. He will go anywhere, talk to anyone, and follow any lead with or without backup assistance – all the while wearing the best suits in town. And, after thirty-five years on the force, retirement be damned, he shows no signs of slowing down.

Fans can also take a deeper dive each week when Investigation Discovery’s top-rated podcast, DETECTIVE, returns on June 7 for an all-new season featuring Det. McFadden. In each weekly installment of DETECTIVE, McFadden goes into detail about topics including his decorated career, cases that haunt him today, the legacy he wants to leave in Charlotte and his belief that community-based policing could diffuse contentious relations between law enforcement and the people they vow to protect.

For more information on this unconventionally detective, visit his website. Also, check him out on Twitter and Facebook. This shows seems to have the making of a hit with solutions for viewers and the families, they showcase.

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network unveils trailer of new original series ‘Greenleaf’

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network recently revealed an extended trailer of its new, original drama series “Greenleaf.” The series comes from Lionsgate and Emmy-nominated writer/producer Craig Wright who worked on the hit shows, (“Lost,” “Six Feet Under,” “Brothers and Sisters”). The series follows the story of the Greenleaf family and their Memphis megachurch. The story is intense, very enthralling and set to lure audiences in for a thrilling ride each week.

On April, 20, 2016 in NYC, the cast of the Greenleaf held a press screening and panel at the Roxy Hotel. Also on the same date, the cast which includes (Keith David, Lynn Whitfield, Merle Dandridge, Lamman Rucker, Kim Hawthorne, and Tye White) were available for second panel as part of the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival talk series lineup. Members of the production discussed their roles and were elated to share the first episode with the audience.

Photos used with permission from OWN TV Network

OWN will launch with a two-night premiere on Tuesday, June 21 at 10 p.m. ET/PT and Wednesday at June 22 at 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. ET/PT on the OWN Network. Afterwards, the series will regularly air on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The trailer can be viewed here.

‘Sisters In Law’ series comes to WE TV

Just when you thought there could be no new women centered reality shows around, here is another one to join the ranks. This time the story follows the lives of six intelligent female attorneys.

The show is set in Houston,Texas and the “Sisters In Law” series follows a close-knit group of elite high-powered black female lawyers as they juggle their families, busy careers, and even more demanding social calendars. The ladies may differ in their fundamental beliefs when it comes to right and wrong, but what they have in common is their passion for trying cases in a traditionally white, male-dominated profession. “Sisters In Law” documents their fascinating legal lives as well as their intricately woven personal lives. From trial prep and courtroom cross-examinations, to opposing council and opposing each other, watch as these powerful women struggle to remain civil under fierce competition and pressure.

WE tv and the Association of Black Women Attorneys (ABWA) hosted an exclusive screening of the docu-series “Sisters In Law, in New York City on March 23, 2016. The event began with a red carpet photo opps, a cocktail reception, a screening and ended with a Q&A with the cast moderated by TV/Radio personality Jacque Reid. Each of the cast member answered questions and shared some of their experiences as legal professionals. The show offers an honest look inside the lives of the very busy and successful women.

The first episode of the show is set to premiere on WE TV on Thursday, March 24, 2016 at 10/9c. For more information visit, the website.

Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete Docu-Series on OWN on March 19, 2016

Looks like there is another exciting and fun reality type show coming to the Oprah Winfrey Network, and although the show can be considered by some as a reality series, the show is really much more. The show, “For Peete’s Sake” deals with family relationships, but also includes information on Holly’s advocacy for causes like Autism and Parkinson’s disease.

For this show the talented and beautiful, Holly Robinson Peete allows camera’s into her home for the first time and joins the OWN TV Network’s popular Saturday night lineup beginning on March, 19, 2016. As the Peetes lovingly Work to balance busy careers With their hectic and always hilarious family life, fans will get a sense of feeling as the Peetes are part of their own family. The new comedic, dramatic and intimate OWN docu-series following the lives of husband and wife duo Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete.

 As fans and some of their audience will know, Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete were two of the brightest stars in their fields in the 80’s and 90’s. Holly lit up the small screen from an early she with starring roles in “21 Jump Street” and “Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper,” and her husband and NFL quarterback Rodney Peete dominated the league for 16 years. Now the duo are giving viewers an intimate look at their hectic and often-times comical lives as they attempt to balance raising their four kids, running a charity (the HollyRod Foundation) and spending time with Holly’s über-manager mother

Dolores who is still wheeling and dealing even as she approaches 80 years young. In a household where constant activity and change are the norm, the series celebrates the chaotic, yet loving dynamic of life in this magnetic American family.

In its premiere season, the Peetes fully display their knack for getting the most out of life no matter what curveballs might be thrown their way. Holly and Rodney are loving parents to their 17-year-old son RJ who has autism and was told he would never speak. Today, not only can’t he stop talking, but he enjoys advocating for special needs children. Meanwhile his twin sister Ryan is trying to decide whether to go to college or jumpstart a career in music.

Thirteen-year-old son Robinson caught the athletic gene from his father and would love to follow in his footsteps, but all the latest concussion studies have Holly wishing for a less dangerous choice. Rodney is beginning to feel the aches and pains in retirement, prompting Holly to have him visit a doctor to get tested after so many years playing football. And as a self-proclaimed “black-tress” of a certain age, Holly has struggled in recent years to find acting roles suitable for her and is ready to branch out and develop a lifestyle brand of her own.

Whether they’re setting up for their next big fundraiser, coaching their kids into lives of their own, or just trying to keep that special spark alive in their marriage, there’s never a dull moment with the Peetes.

Orange Is The New Black Star Danielle Brooks Joins Cast-Broadway’s Color Purple

The revival and production of the Broadway show, THE COLOR PURPLE is coming together. as the powerhouse cast grows with some very talented women on board. Recently, DANIELLE BROOKS, who plays ‘Taystee’ on the hit TV show, Orange is the New Black, will make her Broadway debut as ‘Sofia’ in the upcoming Broadway musical revival of THE COLOR PURPLE.  A graduate of the Juilliard School, Ms. Brooks joins the previously announced JENNIFER HUDSON and CYNTHIA ERIVO in the critically acclaimed staging from London’s Menier Chocolate Factory.

Note:  All three extraordinary women will be making their Broadway debuts with this production.

Directed by Tony Award winner John Doyle, THE COLOR PURPLE will begin preview performances on Monday, November 9th at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre (242 West 45th street) and will officially open on Thursday, December 10.   THE COLOR PURPLE is produced by Scott Sanders, Roy Furman, Oprah Winfrey, David Babani, and Tom Siracusa.

A Young Hollywood Award Winner, DANIELLE BROOKS stars as “Tasha ‘Taystee’ Jefferson” in Jenji Kohan’s Orange is the New Black, a Netflix original series that follows the lives of prisoners in an all-women’s correctional facility.  Orange is the New Black will return for its third season on June 12th, 2015.  Brooks was born and raised in South Carolina before heading to NYC to attend Juilliard’s drama program.  Brooks’ other credits include the Sony/Rovio animated feature, Angry Birds, alongside Maya Rudolph and Josh Gad; HBO’s Girls; the indie feature film I Dream Too Much, executive produced by Richard Linklater (SXSW); and Time Out of Mind, written and directed by Oren Moverman, starring Richard Gere.

 

The Comeback Kings Viewing Party on July 17, 2015

There is nothing like a rebirth, or a re-emergence in life. Whether it is a career or some other type of business there is always a good time for someone or something to be reinvented. This is what has been happening with some of the most popular legends on hip hop. You can call it a Comeback, but the Comeback Kings are showing they have so much more to offer. On, Friday, July 15, 2015 the music and hip hop audience go a taste of the second installment of The Comeback Kings with their viewing party.

The Comeback Kings is 30 Minute “Scripted” Reality TVComedy Series and they are launching all new shows weekly for their audience. The viewing party was held in
midtown New York city at SUITE 36 located 16 West 36th Street.

There was press and other industry VIPs in attendance along with the chance for audience members to meet and great the cast. The current cast includes: Ed Lover, Anthony “Treach” Criss, Dupre “Doitall” Kelly, Mr. Cheeks, Black Rob, Jermaine Hopkins, “Talent” Harris, June Balloon, Super Producer Jameio & Nashawn Kearse.

The cast who attended the viewing party were: Ed Lover, Dupre “Doitall” Kelly, Mr. Cheeks, Black Rob, and Nashawn Kearse. The audience, their guests and press were the first to see the first episode of the new season, followed by an after party. For more information on the show and cast bios, visit their website at: http://www.comebackkings.co/aboutus.html

Actor & Comedian Flex Alexander Set to Emcee The Comedy Underground Series Live

For all you comedy lovers and Flex Alexander fans, he is back and it seems like in a big way. The Urban Movie Channel is excited to announce the production of the second installment of the Comedy Underground Series featuring Flex Alexander – actor, comedian and star of OWN docu-series ” Flex & Shanice“. Taping for the second , installment is set to take place on Friday, July 17th at the Alex Theater in Glendale,CA.

Each volume of the Comedy Underground Series will begin airing on Urban Movie Channel starting at the end of July. Flex Alexander will host an evening of urban entertainment. The current line up includes stand-up acts Red Grant, Alex Thomas, Chastity Washington, Capone, Kevin “Damn Fool” Simpson and Jay Lamont, with MC Lyte and DJ Jermaine deep in hip-hop beats.

While the first Comedy Underground Series hosted by Tony Rock premieres on July 24, 2015, Silver Lining Entertainment is in the thick of production on their second installment. This series will highlight actor, comedian and star of OWN docu-series “Flex & Shanice,” Flex Alexander and a fresh batch of stand-ups. After interviewing, Flex he stated that one of his main goals was to “spread the love and laughter to all while introducing new comedians to the world”, which is a very positive and welcome statement these days. In addition, Flex Alexander is very busy these days with various projects with The Comedy Undergroound being the first of many.

So California comedy fans, get ready because from six-thirty to seven-thirty p.m., audience members will be captivated by The Comedy Underground Seriesstar-studded, red carpet of invited guests such as: Vivica A. Fox, Shanice, Jenifer Lewis, Sharon Leal, All 4 One, Elise Neal, Tatyana Ali, Eva Marcille, Tamar Braxton, Lloyd Boston, Billie Woodruff, Michael Jai White, Darren DeWitt Henson, Malinda Williams, Mike Epps, Jackie Christie and more.

The show will commence at seven-thirty p.m. with the always hilarious Flex Alexander taking the mic and six comedians, all who have been performing nationally for over ten years. Comedienne and funny individuals with jokes standing by are once again: Chastity Washington, Red Grant, Alex Thomas, Capone, Kevin “Damn Fool” Simpson and Jay Lamont. Hip-hop pioneer MC Lyte and DJ Jermaine are slated to be live on the decks, “mixing it up,”marrying music to laughter. Music and comedy go together hand in hand; likewise I am excited about bringing the music to the Comedy Underground Series,” said MC Lyte.

Following the comedy show, will be an invite only, industry reception for VIP’s and performers. Founder of Silver Lining Entertainment and executive producer of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) 2015 Grand Jury Prize winner “The Night Before,” Angela White is spearheading The Comedy Underground Series. The EP has helmed award-winning films such as “The Sin Seer” and Overflow Entertainment’s “My Sister’s Wedding,” “The Last Letter,” and “Who Can I Run To.” Joining Ms. White’s production team is
“Redemption of a Dog,” “My Favorite Five,” and “Marriage Chronicles” writer-director-producer Paul D. Hannah and “Superstition,” “Supermodel,” and “Blackbird” producer Carol Ann Shine.

Each showcase in the series is scheduled to air on the Urban Movie Channel (UMC) with distribution via RLJ Entertainment, the premier independent owner, developer, licensee, and distributor of entertainment content and programming throughout North America, the United Kingdom, and Australia. A leader in numerous genres including feature films with urban themes, RLJ is set to release the Comedy Underground Series Vol. 1 & Vol. 2 in late July 2015.

The Comedy Underground comedians will not only perform on stage and make themselves known, but also give the audience a behind the curtain glimpse at their climb to success. Each comedian discusses life on the road and their triumphs and tribulations throughout the comedy industry on that quest for nationwide exposure. For more information about The Urban Movie Channel (UMC), visit: their website and follow them on Facebook or Twitter.