The Democratic National Convention pleased fans of the show “Scandal” everywhere by announcing that Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn would be among the lineup of nightly Hollywood hosts for the event. The pair, known for their roles as Washington, D.C., fixer Olivia Pope and President Fitzgerald “Fitz” Grant on the hit ABC political drama “Scandal,” have also become vocal political activists for the Democratic party in real life.
“Reasonable Doubt” Season 2 premieres Thursday, August 22 on Hulu. In part of the celebration, Hulu and the Onyx Collective decided to host a screening in Decatur Georgia at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse with the honorable radio personality Big Tigger as moderator of the Q & A after the screening with the returning cast of last season. Emayatzy Corinealdi, McKinley Freeman, Tim Jo, Angela Grovey, Aderinsola Olabode, and Thaddeus J. Mixson.
This new season heralds significant developments for the audience, with the acclaimed actor Morris Chestnut (The Best Man) making his debut in the cast, alongside several remarkable guest appearances. I am pleased to divulge one name in particular: Kandi Burruss. The upcoming season promises to be truly exceptional.
After successfully healing from her wounds from last season’s arduous trial and deadly affair, Jax Stewart is determined to rebuild her life. But when one of her closest friends confesses to killing her husband in self-defense, Jax brings in an ambitious defense attorney to lead the case. Despite the tense situation, Jax remains hopeful as she works to defend her friend, strengthen her marriage, and navigate the biggest case of her career while preserving her energy.
Onyx Collective and ABC Signature have excitedly announced a renewal for the second season of the popular Hulu Original drama series “Reasonable Doubt,” spearheaded by executive producers Raamla Mohamed, Kerry Washington, and Larry Wilmore.
“Reasonable Doubt” continues to captivate audiences with the compelling story of Los Angeles-based high-powered criminal defense attorney Jacqueline “Jax” Stewart (Corinealdi) as she confronts past traumas, navigates the challenges of a failing marriage and motherhood, and tackles a captivating murder case, all while striving to keep balance in her life. Chestnut will portray Corey Cash, a charming and media-savvy defense attorney who often finds himself as the underdog. As Jax enlists Corey’s help on a new high-profile case, she realizes the potential in Corey’s shine and is determined to leverage his strengths to fortify her position at the firm.
Photo Credit: Jonell Whitt
“Jim Henson Idea Man” invites us to explore the captivating mind of this extraordinary creative visionary, tracing his journey from a young puppeteer on local television to the global triumph of Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and beyond. Award-winning filmmaker Ron Howard skillfully captures Henson’s relentless creativity, ambition, and artistic growth in a manner that reflects the essence of this intricate individual – an artist who transformed television, ignited the imagination of countless generations, and gave life to some of the most cherished characters in the world. With fresh interviews from Henson’s closest collaborators and children, alongside exclusive materials from his personal archives – including home movies, photographs, sketches, and diaries – Howard presents an engaging and profound glimpse into the life of a man whose limitless imagination left an indelible mark on the world.
On August 15, a special taste maker event at The Pendry West Hollywood was attended by the team behind Prime Video’s FALLOUT, including Executive Producer Director Jonathan Nolan, Creator/Show runner Graham Wagner, several cast members, and key production personnel. Notable guests Angelica Ross and Steven Ogg were also in attendance.
Based on one of the greatest video game series of all time, Fallout is the story of haves and have nots in a world in which there’s almost nothing left to have. 200 years after the apocalypse, a peaceful denizen from a cozy fallout shelter is forced to return to the surface–and is shocked to discover the wasteland waiting for her.
Meet Ella Purnell as Lucy, the ever-optimistic Vault-dweller bursting with an all-American can-do spirit. Her peaceful and idealistic nature faces the ultimate test as she is propelled to the surface on a mission to rescue her father. Aaron Moten portrays Maximus, a young soldier ascending the ranks to become a squire within the militaristic Brotherhood of Steel. Driven by unwavering determination, he stops at nothing to uphold the Brotherhood’s mission of establishing law and order in the wasteland. Walton Goggins takes on the role of the Ghoul, a morally enigmatic bounty hunter carrying within him 200 years of post-nuclear history. These distinct characters find themselves on a collision course as they pursue an artifact with the power to reshape the world’s power dynamics.
This thrilling series is brought to you by Kilter Films and the acclaimed executive producers Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, with Nolan at the helm for the first three episodes. Executive producers, writers, and co-showrunners Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner promise an electrifying narrative. The show stars Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets), Aaron Moten (Emancipation), and Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight) at its core. Athena Wickham of Kilter Films joins forces with Todd Howard for Bethesda Game Studios and James Altman for Bethesda Softworks as executive producers. Amazon MGM Studios and Kilter Films, in association with Bethesda Game Studios and Bethesda Softworks, come together to produce this highly anticipated series. The talented cast includes Moisés Arias (The King of Staten Island), Kyle MacLachlan (Twin Peaks), Sarita Choudhury (Homeland), Michael Emerson (Person of Interest), Leslie Uggams (Deadpool), Frances Turner (The Boys), Dave Register (Heightened), Zach Cherry (Severance), Johnny Pemberton (Ant-Man), Rodrigo Luzzi (Dead Ringers), Annabel O’Hagan (Law & Order: SVU), and Xelia Mendes-Jones (The Wheel of Time). Prepare to stream this captivating series exclusively on Prime Video, available in over 240 countries and territories worldwide.
Showrunners: Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner
Starring: Ella Purnell, Walton Goggins, Aaron Moten, Moisés Arias, Kyle MacLachlan, Sarita Choudhury, Michael Emerson, Leslie Uggams, Frances Turner, Dave Register, Zach Cherry, Johnny Pemberton, Rodrigo Luzzi, Annabel O’Hagan, and Xelia Mendes-Jones
Executive Producers: Geneva Robertson-Dworet, Graham Wagner, Jonathan Nolan, Lisa Joy, Athena Wickham, Todd Howard, James Altman
Instagram: @PrimeVideo
X: @PrimeVideo
Restaurateur, businessman, and owner of Fin & Feathers Restaurants, Damon Johnson, collaborated with restaurant real estate broker Bryan Davis for the second leg of Black Restaurant Week in Atlanta. Alongside black spirit owners and representatives from Stella Artois, Greenwood Whiskey, and influential tastemakers of Atlanta, the networking mixer exuded confidence and success.
“This Stella Artois beer is highly enjoyable; it possesses a balanced strength suitable for all, regardless of gender,” remarked a female patron at the event. “Initially sampling my husband’s beer, I found myself desiring my own.” This enthusiastic conversation echoed throughout the restaurant.
“The catfish nuggets and the thigh nuggets were absolutely fantastic,” exclaimed a Microsoft tech enthusiast. “When I stumbled upon the event flyer online, I just had to come over here for the complimentary drinks. Guess what? I was even more thrilled when I discovered the $5 Menu.”
Numbers were being exchanged, selfies and group photos were being taken throughout, reflecting the high level of engagement within the group of business professionals. Their palpable excitement about the food, drinks, and the stimulating conversations with new acquaintances indicated a truly invigorating gathering.
Fin and Feathers offers its $5.00 menu daily from 12 noon to 8 pm on weekdays and from 5 pm to 8 pm on weekends. Visit one of their locations in Douglasville, Edgewood, Riverdale, Midtown, Valdosta, Las Vegas; or Augie’s Cafe and Augie’s Cafe Breakfast Bar in Atlanta, Georgia.
Black Restaurant week ends on the 18th of August. There are only a couple of days left. Visit the website to find out about the closeout events happening through the 18th. The seafood fest is on the way, and there are so many activities. Please continue to check your Eventbrite for more themed events.
The BET Experience, presented by Walmart, began night one of the comedy series at the Miracle Theater in Inglewood, California. Comedian Chris Spencer and his talented friends, including the legendary Earthquake, delivered a night of unforgettable comedy.
Spencer unquestionably stood out as the perfect choice to unite all the world-renowned comedians for the commencement of the annual BET Awards week. An exceptionally skilled and sharp-witted individual, he proudly touts over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, a career that began at the age of six. With a diverse portfolio encompassing acting, writing, producing, directing, and stand-up, Spencer reigns at the summit of the entertainment world. He has showcased his talent in over thirty TV commercials and nine feature films, appeared on countless TV shows, authored a published book, and embarked on nationwide comedy tours.
Additionally, witnessing a troupe of kickass female comics owning the big stage was a total blast. Tiffany Haddish lives by the motto: “Go hard or go home,” and boy, did she go hard! Melanie Comarcho and Aida Rodriguez? Same energy, same awesomeness. Keep slaying, ladies!
Other acts included Finesse Mitchell, Brandon T. Jackson, Andre Pitre, and Lewis Dix Jr.
In the past decade of working in every aspect of the Hospitality Industry of Restaurants, Damon Johnson CEO of Doe Nation Hospitality and Restaurant Development is very passionate when it comes to providing excellent customer service to all patrons of every establishment he owns.
Augie Johnson, Damon’s father, was an exceptional entrepreneur who owned the family Dry Cleaning Business. In addition to his business ventures, he was a talented songwriter, music producer, and the lead singer of ‘Side Effects’, a group formed in May 1972. Augie’s musical journey began in childhood, and he achieved significant milestones early on. He was part of the Robert Mitchell Boys Choir, performing on Frank Sinatra’s hit ‘High Hopes’ in 1959, and later, he had the honor of singing at Marilyn Monroe’s last public appearance on June 1, 1962, at Dodger Stadium.
Augie was also one of the Doodletown Pipers between the 1960’s and 1970’s, who made numerous appearances on network television such as their first appearance being on “The Red Skelton Show” and thereafter, “The Ed Sullivan Show.” As one of the Doodletown Pipers, Augie had the opportunity to work with such luminaries as Count Basie, The Carpenters, Perry Como, Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Frank Gorshin, Alan King, Mike Post, Sarah Vaughan, John Wayne, and Rowan and Martin.
When the opportunity presented itself to open Augie’s Breakfast Bar located at 1220 Caroline Street NE in Atlanta, GA 30307 off Moreland Ave; CEO Damon Johnson did not hesitate to create a family oriented environment playing throwback music that took patrons back to a time when music had real meaning. There is a collage wall of old school artists, television shows, and actors that date back to the 70’s and 80’s when a certain joy and energy permeated through the air when African Americans ran businesses and led careers with a sense of pride.
“Celebrating the opening of Augie’s Breakfast Bar during Black History Month just seemed appropriate,” exclaimed his son Damon Johnson, restaurant developer. Augie Johnson was also featured in the biopic titled, The Mikki Howard Story ‘Love Under New Management’ (played by actor Gary Dourdan) as he is also the father of Mikki’s 2 sons. Their relationship took place during a very pivotal stage in the beginning of her musical career.
“I’ve always been proud of my dad Augie Johnson’s career as an early entrepreneur and a change maker to the culture. His life impacted mine in so many ways that I’m elated to celebrate the opening of Augie’s Breakfast Bar during Black History month,” – CEO Damon Johnson.
Augie and his band members have worked with superstars such as Michael Jackson, Barbara Streisand, Johnny Mathis, The Temptations, Gloria Trevi, Elton John, Bette Midler, Barry Manilow, Lance Bass of *NSYNC, Warren G “Midnight Hour” and a host of others. Sadly Augie passed away on October 11, 2014, at the age of 66, unexpectedly. Augie was a man who befriended many, and assisted those who were in need. He always had words of good cheer, ready to put a smile on someone’s face, and always ready to sing and light up the room. Augie’s legacy will continue to live on through his music.
Damon Johnson CEO of Doe Nation Hospitality and Restaurant Development, Inc extends a special thank you to all who supported the celebration of this new establishment ‘Augie’s Breakfast Bar’ during Black History Month.
| Movie fans in Atlanta, Georgia were to experience a thriller like never before as Lifetime announces the highly anticipated sequel to Single Black Female. The original movie garnered over 8.0 million total viewers across linear and on digital platforms. It was the #1 original non-holiday movie of 2022. Amber Riley, Raven Goodwin and K. Michelle reprise their roles for Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge, premiering Saturday, March 2 at 8p/7c set three years after the crazy events from the first film. Three years after narrowly escaping the murderous clutches of her half-sister Simone (Amber Riley), Monica (Raven Goodwin) is ready for a fresh start in Seattle as the host of the city’s #1 prime time investigative television program. With her best friend Bebe (K. Michelle) by her side and a new love interest, things are looking up for Monica. Secretly nursed back to health and suffering from amnesia, Simone is building a new life when she comes across Monica on TV and her memories come rushing back, leading to a fateful reunion between the sisters. Can the two put the past behind them? Or will Simone’s need to get revenge win the day? The film also stars Morgan Alexandria (Line Sisters), Christine Horn (Snowfall) and Kendrick Cross (Ambitions). Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge is produced by Swirl Films for Lifetime. Gold Morgan, Ron Robinson, Abbey Sibucao and Eric Tomosunas serve as Executive Producers. Shari Carpenter directs from a script written by Sa’Rah Jones and Tessa Scott. #SingleBlackFemale2 |
Perimeter, the newest series from BET+ created and directed by Armani Ortiz. Perimeter is the latest work from Armani, the co-director of Tyler Perry’s documentary, Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story.
Executive produced by Tyler Perry and Armani, this series is set in 1992 Atlanta, and follows a promising college student during the infamous annual spring break festival in Atlanta, Georgia, Freaknik and the preparations for the 1996 Olympics, as she navigates the ups and downs of falling in love with a drug dealer.
This project is Armani’s first project that he has created, executive produced, directed, and starred in. The first four episodes of this series will premiere on BET+ on February 29th.
SERIES PREMIERE DATE: Binge the first 4-episode original series that premieres on Thursday, February 29, only on BET+.
SERIES DESCRIPTION: In Atlanta, in the 1990’s a complex web of personal stories unfolds. Paige, a promising Spelman sophomore, veers off her path to success when she falls for a “bad boy” just before the pivotal “Freaknik” event. Adulthood disrupts their lives, pulling Paige, her long-term boyfriend Malcolm, and newcomer Romeo into a series of challenges. Amidst Atlanta’s global Olympic spotlight, eventual mayor Robert Dawn’s rise to power comes at the price of personal sacrifices and moral dilemmas. These interconnected stories set off a transformative chain reaction in the city, echoing Dante’s words: “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”
EXECUTIVE CREDITS:
About Armani Ortiz
Armani Ortiz, a Bronx-born Afro-Latino director, writer, and actor, effortlessly merges his unique perspective with exceptional talent and an unparalleled work ethic. As Tyler Perry boldly proclaimed, “Once the world can see what he can do, it’s going to blow some people’s minds.” Armani’s passion for film ignited during his childhood, when his parents took him to Washington Heights’ iconic Coliseum Cinema. Captivated by classics like “Back To The Future” and “Spider-Man: The Animated Series”, he nurtured a dream to direct from an early age. While at St. John’s University in Queens, NY, Armani transformed his dream into reality, investing $2,000 from his student loan to acquire his first camera.
After graduating in 2012, Armani started his career working for Sean Combs’ newly launched, REVOLT TV. In a matter of months, Ortiz rose from intern to Combs’ personal director. Tyler Perry caught eye of Armani’s private work with Combs and took him under his wing in 2015.
At Tyler Perry Studios since then, Armani has worn numerous hats, being the studio’s sole talent to write, direct, and edit projects. His independent ventures include directing a thrilling Spider-Man concept trailer titled “NOIR,” along with a short musical film “Del Mar (En El Bronx),” which garnered a staggering 28 million views. He also created, directed, and starred in the original series “Perimeter,” wrapping in late 2022. Armani boasts a directorial portfolio spanning over 100 episodes of televised content.
With an innate ability to captivate audiences, Armani Ortiz’s artistic journey enriches storytelling with his Bronx roots, Afro-Latino heritage, and boundless creativity.
ABOUT BET+:
BET+ is the preeminent streaming service for the Black audience, with exclusive originals and thousands of TV episodes and movies from the best Black creators. A joint venture between BET and Tyler Perry Studios, BET+ allows users to stream Black culture including hit movies, TV shows, stand-up comedy, award shows, and specials, all in one place, commercial-free. The new service from BET Networks, a subsidiary of Paramount Global, is the official home of Tyler Perry’s film, TV and stage works.
The ad-free subscription video-on-demand service also provides users with access to original content including Emmy-nominated The Ms. Pat Show from Lee Daniels, Martin: The Reunion, hit unscripted series The Impact Atlanta and College Hill: Celebrity Edition, and exclusive originals from Carl Weber including The Family Business and The Black Hamptons to name a few. Visit BET.Plus to learn more and follow @BETPlus on social to join the conversation and get the latest.
Plymouth Blvd Productions and ALL BLK brings you a must see action packed sci-fi thriller!
Plymouth Blvd Productionhosted a star studded World Premiere of their anticipated film, “Lunar Lockdown” at iPic Westwood last Tuesday, January 23rd. Guest were welcomed with complimentary cocktails while the movie’s producers and talent walked the Black Carpet.
The film features LisaRaye McCoy, Cameo Sherrell, Leila Weisberg, Erica Peeples, Jhone Y. Lucas, Janeshia Adams-Ginyard, Damien Douglas, Mark Fleischmann, Laila Odom, Nari Blair-Mangat. The packed out theater boasted a happy crowd engaged in the films synopsis given by Producer, Writer and Actor Damien Douglas and the films producer Kevin Weisberg.
A packed theater filled with guest enjoyed unlimited popcorn & candy as well as an entree of their choice while watching the special premiere of “Lunar Lockdown”.
After a brief q&a with film star Lisa Raye who shared pivotal moments featured during the process of filming, guest caravanned to Senator Jones for a fun after party where the extraordinary dj Brian Henry set the tone for a jubilant night. A dessert bar was the perfect pairing to the champagne & cocktails that flowed as everyone celebrated Lunar Lockdown’s premiere. Lunar Lockdown premieres on AllBLK network, Thursday, February 1st. Lunar Lockdown World Premiere photo gallery available here.
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