Netflix’s Good Times reboot has drawn ire from audiences and national organizations such as the NAACP for its perceived stereotypical depictions of African Americans since its trailer was first released on March 27. That same day, a Change.org petition, which has gathered some 5,000 signatures, was launched calling on viewers to boycott the new show which “promotes violence, culture destruction of the Black community and alcohol abuse,” the creator of the petition wrote.
Showrunner Ranada Shepard understands the knee-jerk reaction.
“You haven’t seen J.B. [Smoove] and Yvette [Nicole Brown] and Marsai [Martin] and Jay Pharoah and Slink Johnson on couches all across America, which typically happens when you’re rolling out a show. There was no framing that the audience had, it was just: Watch this and form an opinion. And, they watched and they formed an opinion,” Shepard tells THR in the conversation below.
Shepard took over from...
Showrunner Ranada Shepard understands the knee-jerk reaction.
“You haven’t seen J.B. [Smoove] and Yvette [Nicole Brown] and Marsai [Martin] and Jay Pharoah and Slink Johnson on couches all across America, which typically happens when you’re rolling out a show. There was no framing that the audience had, it was just: Watch this and form an opinion. And, they watched and they formed an opinion,” Shepard tells THR in the conversation below.
Shepard took over from...
- 4/25/2024
- by Brande Victorian
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Fifty years ago, “Good Times” became the first sitcom to depict a two-parent Black American family. Now, Netflix is debuting a present-day animated reboot chronicling the Evanses two generations after the original. Set in Chicago’s Cabrini Green projects in the same apartment from the 1970s dramedy, the series follows Reggie (J.B. Smoove), his wife Beverly (Yvette Nicole Brown) and their children, Junior (Jay Pharoah), Grey (Marsai Martin) and Dalvin (Slink Johnson). Black people aren’t a monolith, and respectability politics certainly aren’t the answer to racism, sexism, bigotry and homophobia. Yet it’s puzzling that this mind-numbing series is how creator Ranada Shepard is paying homage to such a classic show while trying to speak to 21st-century Black people. It’s also very clear why Netflix decided against sending out screeners for review.
In the season opener, “Meet the Evans of New,” we learn about the new occupants of apartment 17C.
In the season opener, “Meet the Evans of New,” we learn about the new occupants of apartment 17C.
- 4/12/2024
- by Aramide Tinubu
- Variety Film + TV
The title of Eric Monte and Mike Evans’ Norman Lear-produced sitcom Good Times was designed to be welcoming and inclusive. The theme song was a litany of poverty-driven adversity — temporary layoffs, easy credit rip-offs, etc. — interjected with the chorus of “Good Times!,” setting up the story of the Evans family weathering the travails of the Chicago projects with a mix of pride, determination and a whole lot of dysfunctional domestic affection.
The title of Netflix’s new 10-episode animated Good Times has taken on an almost antagonistic quality, since the first trailer was released and devotees of the original blasted those two minutes for being a violation of said original’s style and spirit.
Cavalcade of caricatures! Good Times!
Drug-dealing baby! Good Times!
Executive Producer Seth MacFarlane! Good Times!
Only for adults! Good times!
It’s impossible to review Netflix’s Good Times without starting by saying what it is not — namely,...
The title of Netflix’s new 10-episode animated Good Times has taken on an almost antagonistic quality, since the first trailer was released and devotees of the original blasted those two minutes for being a violation of said original’s style and spirit.
Cavalcade of caricatures! Good Times!
Drug-dealing baby! Good Times!
Executive Producer Seth MacFarlane! Good Times!
Only for adults! Good times!
It’s impossible to review Netflix’s Good Times without starting by saying what it is not — namely,...
- 4/12/2024
- by Daniel Fienberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Good Times is back in a new way.
The animated Netflix reboot of the ’70s sitcom, which featured TV’s first Black two-parent family, promises to “drop the laugh track and deal with modern-day issues, retaining the feeling of the original Good Times,” per the network.
“It’s about a Black family that comes together, laughs together, and survives the system on the South Side of Chicago. What you’ll get from that is a lot of social commentary, a lot of pushing the boundaries, a lot of feel-good television, but also a lot of things that may be in the vein of The Simpsons and South Park and Family Guy. When you’re looking back 10 years later, you’ll be like, ‘They said that on Good Times?’ Oh my gosh,’” says showrunner Ranada Shepard.
The animated series premieres Friday (April 12), and features a lot of big names in the voice cast.
The animated Netflix reboot of the ’70s sitcom, which featured TV’s first Black two-parent family, promises to “drop the laugh track and deal with modern-day issues, retaining the feeling of the original Good Times,” per the network.
“It’s about a Black family that comes together, laughs together, and survives the system on the South Side of Chicago. What you’ll get from that is a lot of social commentary, a lot of pushing the boundaries, a lot of feel-good television, but also a lot of things that may be in the vein of The Simpsons and South Park and Family Guy. When you’re looking back 10 years later, you’ll be like, ‘They said that on Good Times?’ Oh my gosh,’” says showrunner Ranada Shepard.
The animated series premieres Friday (April 12), and features a lot of big names in the voice cast.
- 4/9/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Stars of the original Good Times are weighing in after the trailer for Netflix’s forthcoming animated reboot led some fans to question whether the new project will indeed be “dynomite.”
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year after premiering in February 1974, Good Times focused on the Chicago-based Evans family, with the Norman Lear-produced series running for six seasons and earning praise for its realistic portrayal of a working-class Black family. After the first promo debuted last week for Netflix’s animated exploration of the Evans family’s current generation, plenty of social media users expressed surprise that the new series — which appears to double down on stereotypes with such elements as a drug-dealing infant — didn’t highlight the positive themes from the initial show.
The Hollywood Reporter spoke to original Good Times castmembers John Amos, who portrayed patriarch James Evans on the first three seasons, and BernNadette Stanis — known for playing Thelma,...
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year after premiering in February 1974, Good Times focused on the Chicago-based Evans family, with the Norman Lear-produced series running for six seasons and earning praise for its realistic portrayal of a working-class Black family. After the first promo debuted last week for Netflix’s animated exploration of the Evans family’s current generation, plenty of social media users expressed surprise that the new series — which appears to double down on stereotypes with such elements as a drug-dealing infant — didn’t highlight the positive themes from the initial show.
The Hollywood Reporter spoke to original Good Times castmembers John Amos, who portrayed patriarch James Evans on the first three seasons, and BernNadette Stanis — known for playing Thelma,...
- 4/3/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s a new month and Netflix is here with some much-anticipated new original movies and TV shows. As always Netflix is proving itself by releasing compelling content month after month on its platform. This month is no different as there will be something new for everyone, from comedy to drama and action to fantasy. So, here are the best new and licensed movies and shows coming on Netflix in April 2024.
Baby Driver (April 1)
Edgar Wright has one of the most unique styles of filmmaking and he has proven that again and again in his work on the Cornetto trilogy and Scott Pilgrim vs The World, but the film that gave him a big name in Hollywood was the 2017 film Baby Driver. Written and directed by Wright, the action thriller film follows the story of Baby, a getaway driver as he is forced to partake in heists. Baby Driver stars...
Baby Driver (April 1)
Edgar Wright has one of the most unique styles of filmmaking and he has proven that again and again in his work on the Cornetto trilogy and Scott Pilgrim vs The World, but the film that gave him a big name in Hollywood was the 2017 film Baby Driver. Written and directed by Wright, the action thriller film follows the story of Baby, a getaway driver as he is forced to partake in heists. Baby Driver stars...
- 3/29/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
This isn’t the Good Times of your childhood.
Yvette Nicole Brown, who voices the character of Beverly Evans in the new animated version of Good Times for Netflix, promises it will be an “edgier, more irreverent” reboot of Norman Lear‘s groundbreaking TV sitcom.
After one of Brown’s followers wrote on X Wednesday that “I’m surprised you attached yourself to this project. Looks nothing like the show we grew up on,” Brown responded with a promise that the reboot will offer as much, if not more, than the original.
“This show is edgier and more irreverent than the Good Times of our childhood but it’s still a show about family, fighting the system and working to make things better despite where you start out in the world,” Brown wrote. “That 100% lines up with my values.”
This show is edgier and more irreverent than the Good Times...
Yvette Nicole Brown, who voices the character of Beverly Evans in the new animated version of Good Times for Netflix, promises it will be an “edgier, more irreverent” reboot of Norman Lear‘s groundbreaking TV sitcom.
After one of Brown’s followers wrote on X Wednesday that “I’m surprised you attached yourself to this project. Looks nothing like the show we grew up on,” Brown responded with a promise that the reboot will offer as much, if not more, than the original.
“This show is edgier and more irreverent than the Good Times of our childhood but it’s still a show about family, fighting the system and working to make things better despite where you start out in the world,” Brown wrote. “That 100% lines up with my values.”
This show is edgier and more irreverent than the Good Times...
- 3/27/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Dynomite!
Netflix has unspooled the trailer for its upcoming animated reboot of Norman Lear’s beloved sitcom Good Times.
The raunchy R-rated trailer reveals a new look at the Evans family through the eyes of exec producer Seth MacFarlane and showrunner Ranada Shepard.
The series features a voice cast that includes J.B. Smoove (Reggie), Yvette Nicole Brown (Beverly), Jay Pharoah (Junior), Marsai Martin (Grey), Gerald “Slink” Johnson (Dalvin) and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola (Lashes by Lisa).
Here’s the official logline, per Netflix: “An animated reboot of the Norman Lear series finds the latest generation of the Evans family, cab driver Reggie and his wife, the ever-aspirational Beverly, scratching and surviving in one of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago along with their teenage artist son, Junior, activist daughter Grey, and drug dealing infant son, Dalvin. It turns out the more things change the more they stay the same and...
Netflix has unspooled the trailer for its upcoming animated reboot of Norman Lear’s beloved sitcom Good Times.
The raunchy R-rated trailer reveals a new look at the Evans family through the eyes of exec producer Seth MacFarlane and showrunner Ranada Shepard.
The series features a voice cast that includes J.B. Smoove (Reggie), Yvette Nicole Brown (Beverly), Jay Pharoah (Junior), Marsai Martin (Grey), Gerald “Slink” Johnson (Dalvin) and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola (Lashes by Lisa).
Here’s the official logline, per Netflix: “An animated reboot of the Norman Lear series finds the latest generation of the Evans family, cab driver Reggie and his wife, the ever-aspirational Beverly, scratching and surviving in one of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago along with their teenage artist son, Junior, activist daughter Grey, and drug dealing infant son, Dalvin. It turns out the more things change the more they stay the same and...
- 3/27/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
When Ranada Shepard first got the call to serve as showrunner and executive producer of an animated reboot of Good Times, it didn’t take her long to decide she was interested. The original Good Times, created by Mike Evans and Eric Montes and executive-produced by the late television legend Norman Lear, made history in the ’70s as television’s first Black two-parent family sitcom.
Shepard told Netflix, “Once Sony said ‘Good Times,’ ‘Norman Lear,’ I said, ‘Say less. I’m there.’”
Good Times, coming to Netflix on April 12, is also executive-produced by Stephen Curry, Lear, and Seth MacFarlane. It’s a spiritual sequel of sorts to the live-action original, centering on the fourth generation of the Evans family living in apartment 17C of a Chicago housing project. Lear, who produced groundbreaking sitcoms The Jeffersons, Maude, Sanford and Son, and All in the Family, made pivotal...
Shepard told Netflix, “Once Sony said ‘Good Times,’ ‘Norman Lear,’ I said, ‘Say less. I’m there.’”
Good Times, coming to Netflix on April 12, is also executive-produced by Stephen Curry, Lear, and Seth MacFarlane. It’s a spiritual sequel of sorts to the live-action original, centering on the fourth generation of the Evans family living in apartment 17C of a Chicago housing project. Lear, who produced groundbreaking sitcoms The Jeffersons, Maude, Sanford and Son, and All in the Family, made pivotal...
- 3/27/2024
- by Stephan Lee
- Tudum - Netflix
This isn’t your grandma’s Good Times.
Netflix on Wednesday dropped the trailer for its forthcoming animated reboot of Norman Lear’s classic ’70s sitcom Good Times, and it has exec producer Seth MacFarlane’s raunchy fingerprints all over it.
More from TVLine3 Body Problem Creators Alexander Woo, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss Explain How They Brought That Brutal Ship Scene to Life (Er, Death) - WatchUncoupled Co-Star Reacts to Surprise Cancellation: 'Guess I'm Not Going to NYC in May!'3 Body Problem's Aliens Definitely Won This Round - Read Recap and Grade the Finale!
The ‘toon iteration — from writer Ranada Shepard,...
Netflix on Wednesday dropped the trailer for its forthcoming animated reboot of Norman Lear’s classic ’70s sitcom Good Times, and it has exec producer Seth MacFarlane’s raunchy fingerprints all over it.
More from TVLine3 Body Problem Creators Alexander Woo, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss Explain How They Brought That Brutal Ship Scene to Life (Er, Death) - WatchUncoupled Co-Star Reacts to Surprise Cancellation: 'Guess I'm Not Going to NYC in May!'3 Body Problem's Aliens Definitely Won This Round - Read Recap and Grade the Finale!
The ‘toon iteration — from writer Ranada Shepard,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
Netflix has slotted Friday, April 12 for the premiere of Good Times, the animated series reboot of the late Norman Lear’s groundbreaking TV sitcom. We’re also getting a first look in the trailer above.
J.B. Smoove (Reggie Evans) and Yvette Nicole Brown (Beverly Evans) star along with Jay Pharoah (Junior Evans), Marsai Martin (Grey Evans), Gerald “Slink” Johnson (Dalvin Evans) and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola (Lashes by Lisa)
Per the logline, the animated Good Times series finds the latest generation of the Evans family, cab driver Reggie (Smoove) and his wife, the ever-aspirational Beverly (Brown), scratching and surviving in one of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago along with their teenage artist son, Junior (Pharoah), activist daughter Grey (Martin), and drug dealing infant son, Dalvin (Johnson). It turns out the more things change the more they stay the same and keeping your head above water in a system with...
J.B. Smoove (Reggie Evans) and Yvette Nicole Brown (Beverly Evans) star along with Jay Pharoah (Junior Evans), Marsai Martin (Grey Evans), Gerald “Slink” Johnson (Dalvin Evans) and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola (Lashes by Lisa)
Per the logline, the animated Good Times series finds the latest generation of the Evans family, cab driver Reggie (Smoove) and his wife, the ever-aspirational Beverly (Brown), scratching and surviving in one of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago along with their teenage artist son, Junior (Pharoah), activist daughter Grey (Martin), and drug dealing infant son, Dalvin (Johnson). It turns out the more things change the more they stay the same and keeping your head above water in a system with...
- 3/27/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix’s animated Good Times update from Seth MacFarlane and the late and great Norman Lear is moving full steam ahead.
The streamer has tapped J.B. Smoove, Yvette Nicole Brown and Jay Pharoah to lead the voice cast of the animated and adult-leaning series. Additionally, Ranada Shepard (Family Affair, Lizzie McGuire) has signed on to serve as showrunner, replacing Carl Jones (The Boondocks) in the role.
The animated series follows the Evans family in the present day as they navigate today’s world and contemporary social issues. As the original did, the new show will strive to remind viewers that with the love of family, everyone can keep their heads above water.
Smoove and Brown will play the show’s central couple, Reggie and Beverly, with Pharoah taking on the role of one of their sons, Junior.
The original series starred Esther Rolle and John Amos as Florida and James Evans,...
The streamer has tapped J.B. Smoove, Yvette Nicole Brown and Jay Pharoah to lead the voice cast of the animated and adult-leaning series. Additionally, Ranada Shepard (Family Affair, Lizzie McGuire) has signed on to serve as showrunner, replacing Carl Jones (The Boondocks) in the role.
The animated series follows the Evans family in the present day as they navigate today’s world and contemporary social issues. As the original did, the new show will strive to remind viewers that with the love of family, everyone can keep their heads above water.
Smoove and Brown will play the show’s central couple, Reggie and Beverly, with Pharoah taking on the role of one of their sons, Junior.
The original series starred Esther Rolle and John Amos as Florida and James Evans,...
- 12/12/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Netflix’s animated series reboot of Good Times has set Ranada Shepard as co-creator of the series alongside Carl Jones. Shepard will also executive produce the comedy and serve as showrunner, Deadline has learned.
The Good Times voice cast will include Jb Smoove, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jay Pharoah, Marsai Martin, Slink Johnson and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, sources close to production reveal exclusively. Pharoah portrayed original Evans family member J.J. Evans, originally played by Jimmie Walker in ABC’s Emmy Award-winning Live in Front of a Studio Audience: All In The Family and Good Times. As we revealed exclusively following the death of TV legend Norman Lear, he will guest-star in a Season 1 episode.
The animated Good Times series finds the fourth generation of the Evans family living in apartment 17C of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago. It turns out the more...
The Good Times voice cast will include Jb Smoove, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jay Pharoah, Marsai Martin, Slink Johnson and Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, sources close to production reveal exclusively. Pharoah portrayed original Evans family member J.J. Evans, originally played by Jimmie Walker in ABC’s Emmy Award-winning Live in Front of a Studio Audience: All In The Family and Good Times. As we revealed exclusively following the death of TV legend Norman Lear, he will guest-star in a Season 1 episode.
The animated Good Times series finds the fourth generation of the Evans family living in apartment 17C of the last remaining housing projects in Chicago. It turns out the more...
- 12/12/2023
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
A new chapter of Love in Gravity calls for a new set of voice stars to tell emotional stories about the Latin LGBTQ community.
Gina Torres, Froy Gutierrez, Jessica Marie Garcia, Jake Borelli, Cecilia Suarez, Marcel Ruiz, Lux Pascal, Hamish Linklater, Taylor Misiak and Kris D. Lofton are among the cast for season two of the critically acclaimed and award-nominated scripted podcast.
The new adventures in love this season will build on last season’s success, which included being shortlisted for a Cannes Lion award in audio innovation. The second installment focuses on normalizing HIV prevention and increasing awareness among the Latin LGBTQ community, members of which made up almost 25 percent of all HIV diagnoses in 2021.
The seven-episode season, which includes one entirely in Spanish, follows pop star Jules (Ruiz) and football player Teo (Gutierrez), both on the cusp of stardom, who meet at the final championship game of the U.
Gina Torres, Froy Gutierrez, Jessica Marie Garcia, Jake Borelli, Cecilia Suarez, Marcel Ruiz, Lux Pascal, Hamish Linklater, Taylor Misiak and Kris D. Lofton are among the cast for season two of the critically acclaimed and award-nominated scripted podcast.
The new adventures in love this season will build on last season’s success, which included being shortlisted for a Cannes Lion award in audio innovation. The second installment focuses on normalizing HIV prevention and increasing awareness among the Latin LGBTQ community, members of which made up almost 25 percent of all HIV diagnoses in 2021.
The seven-episode season, which includes one entirely in Spanish, follows pop star Jules (Ruiz) and football player Teo (Gutierrez), both on the cusp of stardom, who meet at the final championship game of the U.
- 8/31/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Act Your Age” earns another win for Alyson Fouse and Bounce TV.
The sitcom starring Kym Whitley, Tisha Campbell, and Yvette Nicole Brown opened to an audience of 2.14 million total viewers with its two-episode back-to-back premiere on March 4 on Bounce TV, according to figures from Nielsen. Thus, making it the most-watched half-hour series launch in Bounce history.
The initial airing was also pushed with a special presentation on Bounce’s sister network, Ion.
“It’s the storytelling. It’s wonderful and I think there needs to be something said about how it really well represents black women in America today. That’s a real breath of fresh air,” said executive producer and David Hudson. “It’s fun, it’s funny, it’s engaging, it’s reflective. I think it has real broad appeal for a lot of women, men as well.”
Hudson adds: “Straight off the bat as we started...
The sitcom starring Kym Whitley, Tisha Campbell, and Yvette Nicole Brown opened to an audience of 2.14 million total viewers with its two-episode back-to-back premiere on March 4 on Bounce TV, according to figures from Nielsen. Thus, making it the most-watched half-hour series launch in Bounce history.
The initial airing was also pushed with a special presentation on Bounce’s sister network, Ion.
“It’s the storytelling. It’s wonderful and I think there needs to be something said about how it really well represents black women in America today. That’s a real breath of fresh air,” said executive producer and David Hudson. “It’s fun, it’s funny, it’s engaging, it’s reflective. I think it has real broad appeal for a lot of women, men as well.”
Hudson adds: “Straight off the bat as we started...
- 3/9/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
ABC’s Freeform is set to drop another comedy series. Titled Unrelated, the show is created by three TV creatives: Ranada Shepard, Casey Johnson, and David Windsor. Shepard is best known for his work on Born Again Virgin, Connecting…, and Besties. Johnson and Windsor, on the other hand, previously worked on shows like This Is Us, The Real O’Neals, and Don’t Trust the B— In Apartment 23. Here’s a description of the storyline, according to Deadline: “Self-absorbed Jesi and conservative, over-achiever Becca go from strangers to sisters when they find out through a genetic testing company that they share the same birth mother in this contemporary ensemble
Meet The Cast Of “Unrelated”...
Meet The Cast Of “Unrelated”...
- 5/27/2022
- by A.E. Oats
- TVovermind.com
ABC has given a big put pilot commitment to Family Affair, a single-camera family comedy with musical elements from husband-and-wife writer-producers Devon and Ranada Shepard, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Universal Music/Polygram Entertainment and ABC Signature.
Written by Devon and Ranada Shepard, Family Affair centers on A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. These kids can sing! With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
The Shepards executive produce with Jackson via his G Unit Film & Television, Blige and Bruce Miller via her Blue Butterfly, David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles for Universal Music/Polygram Entertainment and Noah Rosenberg.
Written by Devon and Ranada Shepard, Family Affair centers on A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. These kids can sing! With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
The Shepards executive produce with Jackson via his G Unit Film & Television, Blige and Bruce Miller via her Blue Butterfly, David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles for Universal Music/Polygram Entertainment and Noah Rosenberg.
- 11/19/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC has given a put pilot order to a musical comedy series that boasts Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Mary J. Blige among its executive producers.
Titled “Family Affair,” the single-camera series follows A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
According to sources, ABC picked up the project after a multi-network bidding war. It has a substantial penalty attached in the high six figure range. ABC has plans to open a writers’ room, with the show representing one of ABC’s largest commitments this season.
Devon and Ranada Shepard will...
Titled “Family Affair,” the single-camera series follows A-ron, a faded R&b star and committed bachelor whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family. With their sights set on success, A-ron’s about to learn that managing a music group might be hard, but raising four kids is even harder.
According to sources, ABC picked up the project after a multi-network bidding war. It has a substantial penalty attached in the high six figure range. ABC has plans to open a writers’ room, with the show representing one of ABC’s largest commitments this season.
Devon and Ranada Shepard will...
- 11/19/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Mary J. Blige and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson are teaming up for a comedy series in development at ABC.
The project, titled “Family Affair,” is a single-camera comedy about a faded R&b star and committed bachelor named A-ron, whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family.
Devon and Ranada Shepard are writers and executive producers on the project, alongside Jackson via his G-Unit banner. Also executive producing are Blige and Bruce Miller of Blue Butterfly Productions and David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles of Universal Music’s film and TV division, Polygram.
Noah Rosenberg is also an executive producer on the series, which hails from ABC Signature.
Jackson’s prolific G-Unit Film & Television production company is behind the ABC legal drama “For Life,” as...
The project, titled “Family Affair,” is a single-camera comedy about a faded R&b star and committed bachelor named A-ron, whose life is thrown into a tailspin when he’s saddled with raising his sister’s four kids. A-ron is overwhelmed and underwater until he discovers that musical talent runs in the family.
Devon and Ranada Shepard are writers and executive producers on the project, alongside Jackson via his G-Unit banner. Also executive producing are Blige and Bruce Miller of Blue Butterfly Productions and David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles of Universal Music’s film and TV division, Polygram.
Noah Rosenberg is also an executive producer on the series, which hails from ABC Signature.
Jackson’s prolific G-Unit Film & Television production company is behind the ABC legal drama “For Life,” as...
- 11/19/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Mary J. Blige are teaming to produce a comedy in the works at ABC.
The two music stars — who also collaborate on Starz’s Power Book II: Ghost — are behind Family Affair, about a musician who’s suddenly put into a parental role. The network has given a put pilot commitment to the single-camera show from ABC Signature and writers Devon and Ranada Shepard.
The project is the second at ABC for Jackson, who’s also an executive producer of the network’s drama For Life.
Family Affair (which has no connection to the 1960s-70s sitcom ...
The two music stars — who also collaborate on Starz’s Power Book II: Ghost — are behind Family Affair, about a musician who’s suddenly put into a parental role. The network has given a put pilot commitment to the single-camera show from ABC Signature and writers Devon and Ranada Shepard.
The project is the second at ABC for Jackson, who’s also an executive producer of the network’s drama For Life.
Family Affair (which has no connection to the 1960s-70s sitcom ...
- 11/19/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Mary J. Blige are teaming to produce a comedy in the works at ABC.
The two music stars — who also collaborate on Starz’s Power Book II: Ghost — are behind Family Affair, about a musician who’s suddenly put into a parental role. The network has given a put pilot commitment to the single-camera show from ABC Signature and writers Devon and Ranada Shepard.
The project is the second at ABC for Jackson, who’s also an executive producer of the network’s drama For Life.
Family Affair (which has no connection to the 1960s-70s sitcom ...
The two music stars — who also collaborate on Starz’s Power Book II: Ghost — are behind Family Affair, about a musician who’s suddenly put into a parental role. The network has given a put pilot commitment to the single-camera show from ABC Signature and writers Devon and Ranada Shepard.
The project is the second at ABC for Jackson, who’s also an executive producer of the network’s drama For Life.
Family Affair (which has no connection to the 1960s-70s sitcom ...
- 11/19/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Lizzie McGuire” creator Terri Minsky is stepping away from her role as showrunner on the upcoming revival of the series for Disney Plus. A new showrunner has not yet been named.
“Fans have a sentimental attachment to ‘Lizzie McGuire’ and high expectations for a new series,” said to a Disney spokesperson. “After filming two episodes, we concluded that we need to move in a different creative direction and are putting a new lens on the show.”
Production on the show has been placed on hiatus amid the transition as Disney sets a new showrunner for the series. Star Hilary Duff is currently honeymooning in Mozambique with her new husband, Matthew Koma.
The new “Lizzie McGuire” is slated to pick up as Hilary Duff’s title character is just about to turn 30. Original star Hilary Duff was set to reprise the role as Lizzie navigated the ups and downs of adulthood...
“Fans have a sentimental attachment to ‘Lizzie McGuire’ and high expectations for a new series,” said to a Disney spokesperson. “After filming two episodes, we concluded that we need to move in a different creative direction and are putting a new lens on the show.”
Production on the show has been placed on hiatus amid the transition as Disney sets a new showrunner for the series. Star Hilary Duff is currently honeymooning in Mozambique with her new husband, Matthew Koma.
The new “Lizzie McGuire” is slated to pick up as Hilary Duff’s title character is just about to turn 30. Original star Hilary Duff was set to reprise the role as Lizzie navigated the ups and downs of adulthood...
- 1/9/2020
- by Will Thorne, Joe Otterson and Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Lizzie McGuire purists rejoice! Adam Lamberg is set to reprise his role as Lizzie’s sarcastic Bff David “Gordo” Gordon in the Disney+ revival.
Gordo was a fan-favorite in the original series created by Terri Minsky. He was smart, creative and was a bit of an outcast, but was loved by his inner circle of friends.
“Gordo was an essential piece of the puzzle to what made the original Lizzie McGuire so authentic and beloved,” said Duff, who reprises the title role. “I couldn’t imagine the series without him. I can’t wait for fans to see what he’s up to 15 years later and how he fits into Lizzie’s adult world.”
The revival picks up as Lizzie McGuire is about to reach the milestone of 30 years old. Now living in New York City, working as an assistant to a fancy interior designer, she lives in a cool...
Gordo was a fan-favorite in the original series created by Terri Minsky. He was smart, creative and was a bit of an outcast, but was loved by his inner circle of friends.
“Gordo was an essential piece of the puzzle to what made the original Lizzie McGuire so authentic and beloved,” said Duff, who reprises the title role. “I couldn’t imagine the series without him. I can’t wait for fans to see what he’s up to 15 years later and how he fits into Lizzie’s adult world.”
The revival picks up as Lizzie McGuire is about to reach the milestone of 30 years old. Now living in New York City, working as an assistant to a fancy interior designer, she lives in a cool...
- 11/20/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Lizzie McGuire will reunite with her best friend Gordo in the upcoming Disney+ revival, with original star Adam Lamberg set to reprise his role, Disney announced on Wednesday.
Lamberg originated the character David “Gordo” Gordon on the original “Lizzie McGuire” series, starring opposite Hilary Duff for two seasons on the Disney Channel as well as in the follow-up theatrical release, “The Lizzie McGuire Movie.” He will return for the revival in a recurring role.
“Gordo was an essential piece of the puzzle to what made the original ‘Lizzie McGuire’ so authentic and beloved,” said Duff, who will executive produce the revival in addition to starring. “I couldn’t imagine the series without him. I can’t wait for fans to see what he’s up to 15 years later and how he fits into Lizzie’s adult world.”
Also Read: 'Lizzie McGuire': Trio of Original Cast Members Join Hilary Duff in...
Lamberg originated the character David “Gordo” Gordon on the original “Lizzie McGuire” series, starring opposite Hilary Duff for two seasons on the Disney Channel as well as in the follow-up theatrical release, “The Lizzie McGuire Movie.” He will return for the revival in a recurring role.
“Gordo was an essential piece of the puzzle to what made the original ‘Lizzie McGuire’ so authentic and beloved,” said Duff, who will executive produce the revival in addition to starring. “I couldn’t imagine the series without him. I can’t wait for fans to see what he’s up to 15 years later and how he fits into Lizzie’s adult world.”
Also Read: 'Lizzie McGuire': Trio of Original Cast Members Join Hilary Duff in...
- 11/20/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
The “Lizzie McGuire” revival series at Disney Plus is bringing back another familiar face.
Original series star Adam Lamberg will return as David “Gordo” Gordon in a recurring role on the new show. He joins previously announced returning cast members Hilary Duff, Hallie Todd, Robert Carradine and Jake Thomas. Production on the series began earlier this month.
“Gordo was an essential piece of the puzzle to what made the original ‘Lizzie McGuire’ so authentic and beloved,” said Duff. “I couldn’t imagine the series without him. I can’t wait for fans to see what he’s up to 15 years later and how he fits into Lizzie’s adult world.”
The new story picks up as Lizzie is just about to turn 30. She seemingly has it all – her dream job as an assistant to a fancy New York City interior designer, her dream guy, and a picturesque Brooklyn apartment – but...
Original series star Adam Lamberg will return as David “Gordo” Gordon in a recurring role on the new show. He joins previously announced returning cast members Hilary Duff, Hallie Todd, Robert Carradine and Jake Thomas. Production on the series began earlier this month.
“Gordo was an essential piece of the puzzle to what made the original ‘Lizzie McGuire’ so authentic and beloved,” said Duff. “I couldn’t imagine the series without him. I can’t wait for fans to see what he’s up to 15 years later and how he fits into Lizzie’s adult world.”
The new story picks up as Lizzie is just about to turn 30. She seemingly has it all – her dream job as an assistant to a fancy New York City interior designer, her dream guy, and a picturesque Brooklyn apartment – but...
- 11/20/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Hilary Duff is reuniting with her original “Lizzie McGuire” family for the upcoming sequel series at Disney+.
Hallie Todd, Robert Carradine and Jake Thomas have signed on to reprise their roles as Jo, Sam and Matt McGuire, Lizzie’s parents and little brother. This week, the foursome reunited after 15 years and did a read-through of the first episode.
“Just like there is no Lizzie McGuire without Hilary Duff, there is no McGuire family without Hallie, Robert, and Jake,” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer of Disney Channels Worldwide. “The original series holds a special place in the hearts of so many, and we can’t wait to introduce fans, both old and new, to an older, wiser, yet still perfectly imperfect Lizzie.”
The sequel picks up as Lizzie McGuire is just about to turn 30. Here is the rest of the official description: “She seemingly has it all – her...
Hallie Todd, Robert Carradine and Jake Thomas have signed on to reprise their roles as Jo, Sam and Matt McGuire, Lizzie’s parents and little brother. This week, the foursome reunited after 15 years and did a read-through of the first episode.
“Just like there is no Lizzie McGuire without Hilary Duff, there is no McGuire family without Hallie, Robert, and Jake,” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer of Disney Channels Worldwide. “The original series holds a special place in the hearts of so many, and we can’t wait to introduce fans, both old and new, to an older, wiser, yet still perfectly imperfect Lizzie.”
The sequel picks up as Lizzie McGuire is just about to turn 30. Here is the rest of the official description: “She seemingly has it all – her...
- 10/24/2019
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
The McGuires are back together. Lizzie McGuire original cast members Hallie Todd, Robert Carradine and Jake Thomas are set to reprise their roles as Jo, Sam and Matt McGuire on the upcoming Disney+ sequel series, joining previously announced star Hilary Duff as Lizzie. This week, the cast of the hit Disney Channel comedy convened for the first time in 15 years for a read-through of the first episode of the sequel. (photo above).
The new Lizzie McGuire comes from the original series’ creator Terri Minsky and Disney Channel.
“We are incredibly excited to bring back one of the most popular Disney Channel series of all time along with some beloved and familiar faces,” said Ricky Strauss, president, Content & Marketing, Disney+. “With Terri at the helm and Hilary, Hallie, Robert, and Jake back after all these years, it’s our honor to welcome the McGuire family into the Disney+ family.”
The new...
The new Lizzie McGuire comes from the original series’ creator Terri Minsky and Disney Channel.
“We are incredibly excited to bring back one of the most popular Disney Channel series of all time along with some beloved and familiar faces,” said Ricky Strauss, president, Content & Marketing, Disney+. “With Terri at the helm and Hilary, Hallie, Robert, and Jake back after all these years, it’s our honor to welcome the McGuire family into the Disney+ family.”
The new...
- 10/24/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Kenya Barris’ “Unrelated” is no longer moving forward in its current state at Freeform, TheWrap has learned.
The multi-camera comedy, which was fully cast and ready to head into production, will be redeveloped with a new writer.
Co-created by Barris and Ranada Shepard, “Unrelated” (formerly known as “Besties”) is a multi-camera comedy following a pair of newly-discovered half-sisters, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to family.
Also Read: Freeform's Kenya Barris Comedy 'Unrelated' Gets New Showrunner
Freeform gave the project a straight-to-series order last May, marking one of Barris’ last projects with ABC Studios prior to exiting the studio for a new overall deal at Netflix. In April 2019, Aeysha Carr was brought on to serve as showrunner on the series, which by then had cast Jordin Sparks and “The Real O’Neals...
The multi-camera comedy, which was fully cast and ready to head into production, will be redeveloped with a new writer.
Co-created by Barris and Ranada Shepard, “Unrelated” (formerly known as “Besties”) is a multi-camera comedy following a pair of newly-discovered half-sisters, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to family.
Also Read: Freeform's Kenya Barris Comedy 'Unrelated' Gets New Showrunner
Freeform gave the project a straight-to-series order last May, marking one of Barris’ last projects with ABC Studios prior to exiting the studio for a new overall deal at Netflix. In April 2019, Aeysha Carr was brought on to serve as showrunner on the series, which by then had cast Jordin Sparks and “The Real O’Neals...
- 7/2/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Freeform will not proceed with its straight-to-series order to multi-camera comedy Unrelated, which was fully cast, heading into production. Instead, the project, from Kenya Barris, Ranada Shepard and ABC Signature, will go into redevelopment at the cable network.
Unrelated (fka Besties) has had a complicated road to the screen so far. It was a surprising straight-to-series order off of a pitch announced at the 2018 ABC/Freeform upfront as Barris was leaving Disney for a deal at Netflix. As a result, The Real O’Neals co-creators Casey Johnson and David Windsor were brought in to co-create, write and executive produce the series alongside original co-creator/executive producer Ranada Shepard through ABC Signature, the cable/streaming division of ABC Studios, part of Disney TV Studios. Like he does with all of his existing series, including hit Grown-ish on Freeform, Black-ish and the upcoming Mixed-ish on ABC, Barris remained creatively involved and continued as an executive producer.
Unrelated (fka Besties) has had a complicated road to the screen so far. It was a surprising straight-to-series order off of a pitch announced at the 2018 ABC/Freeform upfront as Barris was leaving Disney for a deal at Netflix. As a result, The Real O’Neals co-creators Casey Johnson and David Windsor were brought in to co-create, write and executive produce the series alongside original co-creator/executive producer Ranada Shepard through ABC Signature, the cable/streaming division of ABC Studios, part of Disney TV Studios. Like he does with all of his existing series, including hit Grown-ish on Freeform, Black-ish and the upcoming Mixed-ish on ABC, Barris remained creatively involved and continued as an executive producer.
- 7/2/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Freeform is changing showrunners for its Kenya Barris comedy, “Unrelated,” with Aeysha Carr taking over for Casey Johnson and David Windsor.
The decision to replace Johnson and Windsor was a collective one between Barris, the network, Johnson and Windsor — who will remain as executive producers — an individual with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap.
Co-created by Barris and Ranada Shepard, “Unrelated” (formerly known as “Besties”) is a multi-camera comedy following a pair of newly-discovered half-sisters, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to family. “Unrelated” stars Jordin Sparks and Gigi Zumbado as the half-sisters — Becca and Jesi — and also stars Matt Shively, Kris D. Lofton, Jessika Van and Davi Santos.
Also Read: Why Lionsgate Needs 'Hellboy,' 'John Wick 3' and a Charlize Theron-Seth Rogen Rom-Com to Work
Shively will play Matt,...
The decision to replace Johnson and Windsor was a collective one between Barris, the network, Johnson and Windsor — who will remain as executive producers — an individual with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap.
Co-created by Barris and Ranada Shepard, “Unrelated” (formerly known as “Besties”) is a multi-camera comedy following a pair of newly-discovered half-sisters, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to family. “Unrelated” stars Jordin Sparks and Gigi Zumbado as the half-sisters — Becca and Jesi — and also stars Matt Shively, Kris D. Lofton, Jessika Van and Davi Santos.
Also Read: Why Lionsgate Needs 'Hellboy,' 'John Wick 3' and a Charlize Theron-Seth Rogen Rom-Com to Work
Shively will play Matt,...
- 4/4/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Freeform's forthcoming Kenya Barris comedy Unrelated is making a change at the top.
The straight-to-series comedy (formerly called Besties) has tapped Aeysha Carr (The Carmichael Show, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) to take over as showrunner. Carr, who was handpicked by Barris for the role, replaces Casey Johnson and David Windsor (The Real O'Neals), who were brought in to serve as co-creators and co-showrunners on the series starring Jordin Sparks.
Sources say Barris was behind the switch, as he was unhappy with the show's early creative direction. Barris, who co-created the series alongside Ranada Shepard, stepped down as writer on the ...
The straight-to-series comedy (formerly called Besties) has tapped Aeysha Carr (The Carmichael Show, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) to take over as showrunner. Carr, who was handpicked by Barris for the role, replaces Casey Johnson and David Windsor (The Real O'Neals), who were brought in to serve as co-creators and co-showrunners on the series starring Jordin Sparks.
Sources say Barris was behind the switch, as he was unhappy with the show's early creative direction. Barris, who co-created the series alongside Ranada Shepard, stepped down as writer on the ...
Kris D. Lofton (Ballers) has joined Freeform comedy series Unrelated (fka Besties), starring Jordin Sparks and Gigi Zumbado, in a recasting.
Lofton will play Todd, Becca’s brother, a mama’s boy who still lives in their parents’ basement. He replaces Brooks Brantley, who was initially cast as the character. The role went in another direction creatively and was recast.
Created by Ranada Shepard, Casey Johnson and David Windsor and executive produced by Kenya Barris, Unrelated follows Becca (Sparks) and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi (Zumbado) as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
The series also stars Jessika Van, Davi Santos and Matt Shively.
Shepard, Johnson and Windsor will executive produce along with Barris. Michael McDonald directs the first episode.
Lofton has been recurring as Kisan Teague on HBO’s Ballers.
Lofton will play Todd, Becca’s brother, a mama’s boy who still lives in their parents’ basement. He replaces Brooks Brantley, who was initially cast as the character. The role went in another direction creatively and was recast.
Created by Ranada Shepard, Casey Johnson and David Windsor and executive produced by Kenya Barris, Unrelated follows Becca (Sparks) and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi (Zumbado) as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
The series also stars Jessika Van, Davi Santos and Matt Shively.
Shepard, Johnson and Windsor will executive produce along with Barris. Michael McDonald directs the first episode.
Lofton has been recurring as Kisan Teague on HBO’s Ballers.
- 3/9/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Freeform has changed the title of their upcoming comedy series Besties to Unrelated. The series, starring Jordin Sparks and Gigi Zumbado has began production with actor and director Michael McDonald directing the first episode.
Created by Ranada Shepard, Casey Johnson and David Windsor and executive produced by Kenya Barris, Unrelated follows Becca (Sparks) and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi (Zumbado) as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
The series also stars Jessika Van, Davi Santos, Matt Shively and Brooks Brantly. Shepard, Johnson and Windsor will executive produce along with Barris. Unrelated is produced by ABC Signature Studios.
Created by Ranada Shepard, Casey Johnson and David Windsor and executive produced by Kenya Barris, Unrelated follows Becca (Sparks) and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi (Zumbado) as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
The series also stars Jessika Van, Davi Santos, Matt Shively and Brooks Brantly. Shepard, Johnson and Windsor will executive produce along with Barris. Unrelated is produced by ABC Signature Studios.
- 3/6/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Newcomer Gigi Zumbado, Jessika Van (Seoul Searching) and Davi Santos are set as series regulars opposite Jordin Sparks, Matt Shively and Brooks Brantly in Freeform’s new comedy series Besties (working title).
Zumbado will play Jesi, a free-spirited 23-year-old Cuban American, raised by two adoring gay dads, who is more than thrilled to find out she has a half-sister (Zumbado). Van will portray Luna, Becca’s (Sparks) roommate and a brilliant med student who is No. 1 in her class but has no intention of being a doctor. Santos will play Simon, the assistant to a high-powered agent, who is constantly at odds with Jesi.
Set in Los Angeles, the series will follow Becca and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
Zumbado will play Jesi, a free-spirited 23-year-old Cuban American, raised by two adoring gay dads, who is more than thrilled to find out she has a half-sister (Zumbado). Van will portray Luna, Becca’s (Sparks) roommate and a brilliant med student who is No. 1 in her class but has no intention of being a doctor. Santos will play Simon, the assistant to a high-powered agent, who is constantly at odds with Jesi.
Set in Los Angeles, the series will follow Becca and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
- 2/20/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Freeform’s forthcoming new series Besties (w/t) revealed today that American Idol alum and Sparkle star Jordin Sparks will star in the highly anticipated comedy alongside Matt Shively (The Real O’Neals) and newcomer Brooks Brantly.
The new series features Sparks as Becca, an ambitious overachiever from a hard-working, conservative African-American family, who learns that her birth mother is actually white. Shively is set to play Matt, a former athlete and current bar manager, who can’t completely let go of his glory days. Rounding out the cast is Brantly, who play Becca’s brother Todd, a mama’s boy who still lives in their parent’s basement.
Set in Los Angeles, the series will follow Becca and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
The new series features Sparks as Becca, an ambitious overachiever from a hard-working, conservative African-American family, who learns that her birth mother is actually white. Shively is set to play Matt, a former athlete and current bar manager, who can’t completely let go of his glory days. Rounding out the cast is Brantly, who play Becca’s brother Todd, a mama’s boy who still lives in their parent’s basement.
Set in Los Angeles, the series will follow Becca and her newly discovered half-sister Jesi, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to sisters.
- 2/5/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Freeform has found its “Besties.”
“American Idol” alum Jordin Sparks and “The Real O’Neals” star Matt Shively will headline the Kenya Barris comedy alongside newcomer Brooks Brantly, the network announced on Tuesday.
Co-created by Barris — who also executive produces “Black-ish” spinoff Grown-ish” for the network — and Ranada Shepard, “Besties” is a multi-camera comedy following a pair of newly-discovered half-sisters, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to family.
Sparks will star as Becca, an ambitious overachiever from a hard-working, conservative African-American family, who learns that her birth mother is actually white. Shively will play Matt, a former athlete and current bar manager, who can’t completely let go of his glory days. Brantly will portray Becca’s brother Todd,...
“American Idol” alum Jordin Sparks and “The Real O’Neals” star Matt Shively will headline the Kenya Barris comedy alongside newcomer Brooks Brantly, the network announced on Tuesday.
Co-created by Barris — who also executive produces “Black-ish” spinoff Grown-ish” for the network — and Ranada Shepard, “Besties” is a multi-camera comedy following a pair of newly-discovered half-sisters, as they’re thrown into each other’s lives by an online genetics test and have to figure out how to go from strangers to family.
Sparks will star as Becca, an ambitious overachiever from a hard-working, conservative African-American family, who learns that her birth mother is actually white. Shively will play Matt, a former athlete and current bar manager, who can’t completely let go of his glory days. Brantly will portray Becca’s brother Todd,...
- 2/5/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Exclusive: The Real O’Neals co-creators Casey Johnson and David Windsor have come on board Freeform’s upcoming multi-camera comedy series Besties as co-creators, writers, executive producers and showrunners. They will co-create and write the series alongside original co-creator/executive producer Ranada Shepard through ABC Signature, the cable/streaming division of ABC Studios.
Freeform in May announced a straight-to-series order for Besties, which was to be created and executive produced by Kenya Barris, creator of the cable network’s breakout single-camera comedy series Grown-ish, and Born Again Virgin creator Shepard. In light of Barris’ exit from his ABC Studios deal for a pact at Netflix, he will no longer be involved as a writer but will remain an executive producer.
Here is a more detailed logline for the series from the one announced in May: Self-absorbed Jesi and conservative, over-achiever Becca go from strangers to sisters when they find out...
Freeform in May announced a straight-to-series order for Besties, which was to be created and executive produced by Kenya Barris, creator of the cable network’s breakout single-camera comedy series Grown-ish, and Born Again Virgin creator Shepard. In light of Barris’ exit from his ABC Studios deal for a pact at Netflix, he will no longer be involved as a writer but will remain an executive producer.
Here is a more detailed logline for the series from the one announced in May: Self-absorbed Jesi and conservative, over-achiever Becca go from strangers to sisters when they find out...
- 10/29/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The status of Kenya Barris’ future with Disney-ABC is still uncertain but we know for sure that the Black-ish executive producer will not be going to trial over the Emmy nominated sitcom.
With a June 11 start date set for the courtroom drama, Barris and his former writing partner Bryan Barber have reached a settlement in the one and half year-old dispute. “This entire case is settled,” said documents filed in La Superior Court late last month by the Barber’s attorney Kenneth Ingber. “A request for dismissal will be filed within 45 days after the settlement,” the short notice of May 23 added (read it here).
No details of the confidential settlement were disclosed in the filing but Deadline has learned that all sides were indeed eager to see the matter concluded. This occurred a week after the Black-ish Season 4 finale aired and as Barris’ contract talks with ABC Studios continue.
With a June 11 start date set for the courtroom drama, Barris and his former writing partner Bryan Barber have reached a settlement in the one and half year-old dispute. “This entire case is settled,” said documents filed in La Superior Court late last month by the Barber’s attorney Kenneth Ingber. “A request for dismissal will be filed within 45 days after the settlement,” the short notice of May 23 added (read it here).
No details of the confidential settlement were disclosed in the filing but Deadline has learned that all sides were indeed eager to see the matter concluded. This occurred a week after the Black-ish Season 4 finale aired and as Barris’ contract talks with ABC Studios continue.
- 6/4/2018
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Black-ish creator, Kenya Barris (pictured above) isn't just doing well at ABC. He's knocking it out of the park at Disney-ABC's cable network, too. Today, Freeform, which already has Black-ish spinoff Grown-ish, ordered the Besties TV show to series. The comedy comes from Barris and co-creator Ranada Shepard. For now, the start date is Tbd. A Freeform sitcom, Besties delves into issues of identity, race, and class, through the lens of a lasting friendship. Learn more about Besties, season one, from this Freeform TV show description. Read More…...
- 5/16/2018
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
In Beacon Heights, a seemingly perfect town, a group of three college
friends struggle with the stress of being overachievers. In the aftermath
of the town’s first murder, each Perfectionist hides behind a secret, a
lie and an alibi. (Freeform/Allyson Riggs)Freeform announced new and returning series on Tuesday, including Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, whose cast includes current General Hospital actress Hayley Erin.
The recently re-branded network continues to build its roster of quality programming that speaks to the young adult consumer who has embraced its authenticity, evident in recent multi-platform hits "grown-ish," "Siren" and the critically acclaimed "The Bold Type." In addition to strong female representation on-screen, the network champions and has built an impressive, inclusive roster behind the scenes. Half of Freeform's episodic directors are female, diverse, or Lgbtq, 60% of series writers are female or diverse, and every original series on the network has a female producer.
friends struggle with the stress of being overachievers. In the aftermath
of the town’s first murder, each Perfectionist hides behind a secret, a
lie and an alibi. (Freeform/Allyson Riggs)Freeform announced new and returning series on Tuesday, including Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, whose cast includes current General Hospital actress Hayley Erin.
The recently re-branded network continues to build its roster of quality programming that speaks to the young adult consumer who has embraced its authenticity, evident in recent multi-platform hits "grown-ish," "Siren" and the critically acclaimed "The Bold Type." In addition to strong female representation on-screen, the network champions and has built an impressive, inclusive roster behind the scenes. Half of Freeform's episodic directors are female, diverse, or Lgbtq, 60% of series writers are female or diverse, and every original series on the network has a female producer.
- 5/15/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
ABC Entertainment president Channing Dungey stands by a joke on “Roseanne” that was perceived by some as a slight against a couple of her network’s sitcoms, “Black-ish” and “Fresh off the Boat,” the ones with more racially inclusive casts.
In an episode earlier this spring, Roseanne and Dan Conner (Roseanne Barr and John Goodman) wake up in front of the TV, realizing they missed everything between “Wheel of Fortune” to “Jimmy Kimmel Live” while watching ABC.
“We missed all the shows about black and Asian families,” Dan said — clearly a reference to ABC’s “Black-ish” and “Fresh off the Boat.” Quipped Roseanne, “They’re just like us. There, now you’re all caught up.”
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday while announcing ABC’s fall schedule, Dungey noted that she was surprised by the negative reaction.
“We felt like the writers were simply tipping their hat to those shows, and...
In an episode earlier this spring, Roseanne and Dan Conner (Roseanne Barr and John Goodman) wake up in front of the TV, realizing they missed everything between “Wheel of Fortune” to “Jimmy Kimmel Live” while watching ABC.
“We missed all the shows about black and Asian families,” Dan said — clearly a reference to ABC’s “Black-ish” and “Fresh off the Boat.” Quipped Roseanne, “They’re just like us. There, now you’re all caught up.”
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday while announcing ABC’s fall schedule, Dungey noted that she was surprised by the negative reaction.
“We felt like the writers were simply tipping their hat to those shows, and...
- 5/15/2018
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
Freeform has given a series order to a Kenya Barris comedy and given a sophomore season renewal to mermaid drama “Siren.”
The orders were unveiled Tuesday in advance of Freeform’s upfront presentation today to advertisers in New York. The Disney-owned cabler will be part of ABC’s presentation at Lincoln Center.
“Besties” revolves around the coming-of-age relationship between two lifelong female best friends. Barris created the series with Ranada Shepard, who are exec producers for ABC Signature Studios.
“Siren” has nabbed a 16-episode second season renewal.
“In the past year, our commitment to quality has been reflected back to us with a rousing chorus of critical and fan acclaim,” said Freeform president Tom Ascheim. “Our young adult audience is the most important and influential generation in America and we want to be right there with them every step of the way.”
Previously, Freeform announced a series order for...
The orders were unveiled Tuesday in advance of Freeform’s upfront presentation today to advertisers in New York. The Disney-owned cabler will be part of ABC’s presentation at Lincoln Center.
“Besties” revolves around the coming-of-age relationship between two lifelong female best friends. Barris created the series with Ranada Shepard, who are exec producers for ABC Signature Studios.
“Siren” has nabbed a 16-episode second season renewal.
“In the past year, our commitment to quality has been reflected back to us with a rousing chorus of critical and fan acclaim,” said Freeform president Tom Ascheim. “Our young adult audience is the most important and influential generation in America and we want to be right there with them every step of the way.”
Previously, Freeform announced a series order for...
- 5/15/2018
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Following the breakout success of Kenya Barris’ Grown-ish, Freeform has ordered a second comedy series from the Black-ish creator, this time multi-camera. The pickup is part of the upfront announcements by Freeform which is sharing an upfront presentation with sibling ABC this season.
Created by Barris and Born Again Virgin creator Ranada Shepard, Besties explores friendship, identity, race, and class as two lifelong best friends use each other to get through some of the toughest challenges that they will ever face – figuring out who they are and who they want to be.
Barris and Shepard executive produce via ABC Signature Studios, the cable/streaming arm of ABC Studios where Barris is under an overall deal. (He has been in talks to exit his pact.)
The series order for Besties comes exactly a year after Freeform picked up the pilot for Grown-ish, a spinoff from Black-ish originally developed and ordered by ABC,...
Created by Barris and Born Again Virgin creator Ranada Shepard, Besties explores friendship, identity, race, and class as two lifelong best friends use each other to get through some of the toughest challenges that they will ever face – figuring out who they are and who they want to be.
Barris and Shepard executive produce via ABC Signature Studios, the cable/streaming arm of ABC Studios where Barris is under an overall deal. (He has been in talks to exit his pact.)
The series order for Besties comes exactly a year after Freeform picked up the pilot for Grown-ish, a spinoff from Black-ish originally developed and ordered by ABC,...
- 5/15/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
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