Jon Batiste took to the Oscars stage on Sunday to perform “It Never Went Away” from his nominated documentary American Symphony. Batiste showcased the intimate, emotional song at a grand piano alongside the accompanying Oscar orchestra, earning passionate applause from the crowd.
Jon Batiste performs "It Never Went Away" from #AmericanSymphony at the 2024 #Oscars pic.twitter.com/nsuHQqNE3h
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 11, 2024
The artist is up for this year’s Best Original Song award for “It Never Went Away” from his documentary American Symphony, which Rolling Stone called...
Jon Batiste performs "It Never Went Away" from #AmericanSymphony at the 2024 #Oscars pic.twitter.com/nsuHQqNE3h
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 11, 2024
The artist is up for this year’s Best Original Song award for “It Never Went Away” from his documentary American Symphony, which Rolling Stone called...
- 3/11/2024
- by Charisma Madarang
- Rollingstone.com
March 6 is a special day for Nicole Avant — because she and her mother, the late Jacqueline Avant, share the same birthday.
This year, Nicole Avant spent the occasion working. The former U.S. ambassador, film producer, activist, and now bestselling author of “Think You’ll Be Happy,” sat down for an intimate conversation about mother-daughter relationships as part of Visionary Women’s International Women’s Day summit.
Her friend, Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow, was waiting backstage of the ballroom of the Beverly Wilshire hotel when Avant floated into the private space ahead their fireside chat.
As the two women embraced, Paltrow quietly sang “Happy Birthday to You,” and Avant began to well up with happy tears. She’d been feeling quite sentimental all morning and kicked off the day by turning on her 1976 playlist to find the song “Love Is Alive.”
Why? Her mom used to play that song when...
This year, Nicole Avant spent the occasion working. The former U.S. ambassador, film producer, activist, and now bestselling author of “Think You’ll Be Happy,” sat down for an intimate conversation about mother-daughter relationships as part of Visionary Women’s International Women’s Day summit.
Her friend, Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow, was waiting backstage of the ballroom of the Beverly Wilshire hotel when Avant floated into the private space ahead their fireside chat.
As the two women embraced, Paltrow quietly sang “Happy Birthday to You,” and Avant began to well up with happy tears. She’d been feeling quite sentimental all morning and kicked off the day by turning on her 1976 playlist to find the song “Love Is Alive.”
Why? Her mom used to play that song when...
- 3/8/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Gwyneth Paltrow is one of the leading actresses in Hollywood. She has reached the summit of success in the industry and has been on the receiving end of numerous accolades. Paltrow rode the wave of fame, all the while juggling her duties as a mother and a star.
Paltrow has been an inspiration to many, demonstrating that women can do it all. But what happens when, in addition to one’s own kids, stepchildren get thrown into the mix? This is something that many couples, famous or not, have to find a solution to.
The solution is not always the easiest, and the outcome may or may not be what a stepparent wants. Sometimes, these situations do not work out or take a long time to be resolved. However, Gwyneth Paltrow has been in this position herself, which has afforded her a unique perspective on the matter.
Paltrow has juggled...
Paltrow has been an inspiration to many, demonstrating that women can do it all. But what happens when, in addition to one’s own kids, stepchildren get thrown into the mix? This is something that many couples, famous or not, have to find a solution to.
The solution is not always the easiest, and the outcome may or may not be what a stepparent wants. Sometimes, these situations do not work out or take a long time to be resolved. However, Gwyneth Paltrow has been in this position herself, which has afforded her a unique perspective on the matter.
Paltrow has juggled...
- 3/7/2024
- by Sreshtha Roychowdhury
- FandomWire
During the 2023-24 NFL season the world of sports and entertainment collided when the biggest pop star in the world began going to Kansas City Chiefs games. In September, cameras caught Taylor Swift in a suite cheering on tight end Travis Kelce alongside family and friends. And at that moment Swifties, many who never even watched a football game before, were all in.
The league benefited tremendously as sales for Kelce jerseys rose by a whopping 400% and ratings for Chiefs games shot up whenever the singer was in attendance including a playoff contest with the Buffalo Bills which averaged 50.4 million viewers and became the most-watched Divisional or Wild Card game on record.
Now data has found that every game Swift attended also meant a better performance from just about every Chiefs player including her beau.
Taylor Swift reacts during a game between the Chicago Bears and the Kansas City Chiefs...
The league benefited tremendously as sales for Kelce jerseys rose by a whopping 400% and ratings for Chiefs games shot up whenever the singer was in attendance including a playoff contest with the Buffalo Bills which averaged 50.4 million viewers and became the most-watched Divisional or Wild Card game on record.
Now data has found that every game Swift attended also meant a better performance from just about every Chiefs player including her beau.
Taylor Swift reacts during a game between the Chicago Bears and the Kansas City Chiefs...
- 2/13/2024
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Harry Belafonte’s Daughters Criticize Grammys for Not Doing More to Recognize Singer During Ceremony
Harry Belafonte’s daughters, Shari and Gina, are calling out the Grammys for not doing more to recognize the late singer during the 2024 awards ceremony Sunday.
During the In Memoriam segment, Stevie Wonder, Annie Lennox, Fantasia Barrino and Jon Batiste took to the stage to perform emotional tributes for Tina Turner, Tony Bennett, Sinead O’Connor, Clarence Avant and more.
While they performed, images of other artists the music industry lost last year were displayed onscreen behind them, including Belafonte, while Batiste sang “The Best Is Yet to Come.”
But Shari and Gina feel the Grammys should have given the singer a special tribute, similar to the ones for Turner, Bennett, O’Connor and Avant.
“While the folks who had a bit more of a #shoutout on the #GrammyAwards this year were absolutely deserving of accolades, I’m a bit appalled that our father was not included in a #SpecialTribute and...
During the In Memoriam segment, Stevie Wonder, Annie Lennox, Fantasia Barrino and Jon Batiste took to the stage to perform emotional tributes for Tina Turner, Tony Bennett, Sinead O’Connor, Clarence Avant and more.
While they performed, images of other artists the music industry lost last year were displayed onscreen behind them, including Belafonte, while Batiste sang “The Best Is Yet to Come.”
But Shari and Gina feel the Grammys should have given the singer a special tribute, similar to the ones for Turner, Bennett, O’Connor and Avant.
“While the folks who had a bit more of a #shoutout on the #GrammyAwards this year were absolutely deserving of accolades, I’m a bit appalled that our father was not included in a #SpecialTribute and...
- 2/8/2024
- by Carly Thomas
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Recording Academy recognized many of the musicians and people who worked behind the scenes in the music industry who have died in the past year during the Grammy Awards on Sunday night. Tony Bennett, Sinead O’Connor, Clarence Avant, Jimmy Buffet, and Tina Turner were among those celebrated.
Stevie Wonder, who on Thursday presented Mariah Carey with the Global Impact Award at the Black Music Collective Ceremony, performed a touching piano-backed rendition of Bennett’s “For Once in My Life,” reviving a duet together as a video of Bennett played in the background,...
Stevie Wonder, who on Thursday presented Mariah Carey with the Global Impact Award at the Black Music Collective Ceremony, performed a touching piano-backed rendition of Bennett’s “For Once in My Life,” reviving a duet together as a video of Bennett played in the background,...
- 2/5/2024
- by Kory Grow and Charisma Madarang
- Rollingstone.com
The world of sports and music collided in September 2023 when pop icon Taylor Swift was seen at an NFL game cheering on Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. After weeks of speculation from football fans and Swifties all around the world, it was confirmed that the two are dating. And since then their relationship has become a huge sports and entertainment story that some people just can’t get enough of.
So what do athletes who played with Kelce over the years think about him dating the biggest pop star on the planet? Here’s why one of Kelce’s former teammates isn’t surprised by it at all.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift arrive at ‘SNL’ Afterparty in New York City | Gotham/Gc Images Jason Avant says he ‘disciplined’ Kelce and is ‘not surprised’ the tight end’s dating Swift
Former wide receiver Jason Avant spent several seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.
So what do athletes who played with Kelce over the years think about him dating the biggest pop star on the planet? Here’s why one of Kelce’s former teammates isn’t surprised by it at all.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift arrive at ‘SNL’ Afterparty in New York City | Gotham/Gc Images Jason Avant says he ‘disciplined’ Kelce and is ‘not surprised’ the tight end’s dating Swift
Former wide receiver Jason Avant spent several seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.
- 1/28/2024
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The biggest story in the NFL this season didn’t have anything to do with what happened on the field. Instead, the headlines were dominated by Taylor Swift‘s appearances at Kansas City Chiefs games and her love story with tight end Travis Kelce.
The “Anti-Hero” artist began attending her beau’s games in September and TV cameras made sure to show her multiple times during each broadcast. While some football fans thought the coverage was too much, Swifties, who normally wouldn’t watch the game, tuned in to see every shot of the famous singer. And Kelce, who was already highly regarded by those who follow the sport as one of the best tight ends in the league, became known on the global stage.
So what do Kelce’s teammates think about the attention he’s been getting all year that overshadowed how the team has played at times?...
The “Anti-Hero” artist began attending her beau’s games in September and TV cameras made sure to show her multiple times during each broadcast. While some football fans thought the coverage was too much, Swifties, who normally wouldn’t watch the game, tuned in to see every shot of the famous singer. And Kelce, who was already highly regarded by those who follow the sport as one of the best tight ends in the league, became known on the global stage.
So what do Kelce’s teammates think about the attention he’s been getting all year that overshadowed how the team has played at times?...
- 1/16/2024
- by Michelle Kapusta
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The streaming landscape can feel endless. It’s not and we’re here to help. Netflix has hundreds of documentaries in its streaming library, but they’re not all created equal, and we’ve narrowed down the options for you with 25 of our top picks for the best documentary movies currently available to watch on the streaming platform. If you’re looking for something light and visually stunning, you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for something gruesome yet fascinating, there are options for you below. If you only have half an hour or 40 minutes to kill, Netflix has something for you.
So peruse our list below, and get watching!
“Athlete A” Netflix
One of the best documentaries in recent years, “Athlete A” works on multiple fronts: First, it effectively chronicles the abuse perpetrated by Larry Nassar, a former sports medicine physician who used his position...
So peruse our list below, and get watching!
“Athlete A” Netflix
One of the best documentaries in recent years, “Athlete A” works on multiple fronts: First, it effectively chronicles the abuse perpetrated by Larry Nassar, a former sports medicine physician who used his position...
- 11/3/2023
- by Kayti Burt
- The Wrap
It’s a lean month for new original content on HBO/Max. November will see the return of two scripted series in Julia and Rap Sh!t, both of which are debuting their respective second seasons, but this month’s fresh highlight is likely to be Bookie, a new comedy series from the partnership of The Big Bang Theory creator Chuck Lorre, and Nick Bakay. The show tracks an LA bookie called Danny (Sebastian Maniscalco), whose business is in peril as California movies to legalize sports gambling.
Elsewhere in November, there quite a few interesting documentaries to keep an eye on, and two that jump out as “must watch”. The first is Albert Brooks: Defending My Life, which chronicles the aging comedian’s life and career. The second is the previously-released Little Richard: I Am Everything, which tries to peel back the whitewashed canon of Richard Penniman in a true...
Elsewhere in November, there quite a few interesting documentaries to keep an eye on, and two that jump out as “must watch”. The first is Albert Brooks: Defending My Life, which chronicles the aging comedian’s life and career. The second is the previously-released Little Richard: I Am Everything, which tries to peel back the whitewashed canon of Richard Penniman in a true...
- 11/1/2023
- by Kirsten Howard
- Den of Geek
In the middle of August this year, three legends of the music industry died within 72 hours of each other: founder of A&m Records Jerry Moss; music lawyer Abe Somer; and my father, the “Black Godfather” himself, Clarence Avant. These three men helped define the recording industry of the past six decades, and what’s more, they were inseparable best friends.
Somer, Moss, and Avant met in New York City in the early 1960s, and in the six decades since, never left one another’s side, never once let their “soul contract” expire.
Somer, Moss, and Avant met in New York City in the early 1960s, and in the six decades since, never left one another’s side, never once let their “soul contract” expire.
- 10/28/2023
- by Nicole Avant
- Rollingstone.com
Here is a wrap-up of all the news you need to know from Tuesday, October 17, 2023.
Netflix has taken an odd approach to promoting Elite Season 7.
We've had random teasers on social media that haven't given much of the plot away,
Now, three days before its premiere date, we have a full-length promo that teases what's on the horizon.
Off the bat, I'm not interested in going back to Las Encinas.
Bringing Omar Ayuso back made me think that a change of scenery was on the menu.
Unfortunately, that isn't the case.
We see that Omar is still trying to piece together his thoughts about Samuel's death at the end of Elite Season 5.
New cast members for Elite Season 7 include Mirela Balic, Gleb Abrosimov, Nadia Al Saidi, Fernando Líndez, Alejandro Albarracín, Iván Mendes, and Maribel Verdú.
They join Elite Season 6 cast members Valentina Zenere, Andre Lamoglia, Carmen Arrufat, Alex Pastrana, Alvaro de Juana,...
Netflix has taken an odd approach to promoting Elite Season 7.
We've had random teasers on social media that haven't given much of the plot away,
Now, three days before its premiere date, we have a full-length promo that teases what's on the horizon.
Off the bat, I'm not interested in going back to Las Encinas.
Bringing Omar Ayuso back made me think that a change of scenery was on the menu.
Unfortunately, that isn't the case.
We see that Omar is still trying to piece together his thoughts about Samuel's death at the end of Elite Season 5.
New cast members for Elite Season 7 include Mirela Balic, Gleb Abrosimov, Nadia Al Saidi, Fernando Líndez, Alejandro Albarracín, Iván Mendes, and Maribel Verdú.
They join Elite Season 6 cast members Valentina Zenere, Andre Lamoglia, Carmen Arrufat, Alex Pastrana, Alvaro de Juana,...
- 10/17/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Mass Appeal, the multimedia company co-founded by hip-hop icon Nas, was hit on Tuesday with a discrimination lawsuit in which a white executive claims she was the victim of “venomous and racist comments about ‘White folk’ and ‘crackers,’” and was subsequently fired.
Filed in a federal court in Manhattan, the lawsuit specifies the races of the parties due to the nature of the allegations. Melissa Cooper, a veteran documentary producer who was head of development at Mass Appeal and is white, alleges that company executives — including Peter Bittenbender, the company’s chief executive who is also white, and Jenya Meggs, its senior vp for partnerships & content acquisition, who is Black — “discriminated against her by removing her from several high value projects, creating a hostile work environment, and terminating her employment.”
Nas is not specifically named as a defendant in the lawsuit, but he is a partner in Mass Appeal, which is named.
Filed in a federal court in Manhattan, the lawsuit specifies the races of the parties due to the nature of the allegations. Melissa Cooper, a veteran documentary producer who was head of development at Mass Appeal and is white, alleges that company executives — including Peter Bittenbender, the company’s chief executive who is also white, and Jenya Meggs, its senior vp for partnerships & content acquisition, who is Black — “discriminated against her by removing her from several high value projects, creating a hostile work environment, and terminating her employment.”
Nas is not specifically named as a defendant in the lawsuit, but he is a partner in Mass Appeal, which is named.
- 10/17/2023
- by Allen Salkin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Black Music Action Coalition will honor Keke Palmer, Jermaine Dupri and the late Clarence Avant at its 2023 gala.
The fete, presented by Live Nation, is a yearly celebration honoring those in Black music who have exemplified positivity and helped promote equity in the community. The coalition was started in 2020 to help fight systemic racism in the music business on behalf of Black artists, producers, lawyers and many Black professionals in the music industry.
Avant, known as “The Godfather of Black Music,” will be honored with a special tribute from the coalition. The legendary music executive was also a member of the Bmac board along with Quincy Jones and Irving Azoff, among others.
“Bmac will always be honored to have had him on our Advisory Board,” coalition co-founder Shawn Holiday said in a statement. “His life, and contributions to the industry, are unparalleled, his legacy will live on forever.”
The...
The fete, presented by Live Nation, is a yearly celebration honoring those in Black music who have exemplified positivity and helped promote equity in the community. The coalition was started in 2020 to help fight systemic racism in the music business on behalf of Black artists, producers, lawyers and many Black professionals in the music industry.
Avant, known as “The Godfather of Black Music,” will be honored with a special tribute from the coalition. The legendary music executive was also a member of the Bmac board along with Quincy Jones and Irving Azoff, among others.
“Bmac will always be honored to have had him on our Advisory Board,” coalition co-founder Shawn Holiday said in a statement. “His life, and contributions to the industry, are unparalleled, his legacy will live on forever.”
The...
- 8/23/2023
- by Xennia Hamilton
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Clarence Avant, the judicious manager, entrepreneur, facilitator and adviser who helped launch or guide the careers of Quincy Jones, Bill Withers and many others and came to be known as the “Black Godfather” of music and beyond, has died. He was 92.
Avant, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, died Sunday at his home in Los Angeles, according to a family statement released Monday.
Avant’s achievements were both public and behind the scenes, as a name in the credits, or a name behind the names. Born in a segregated hospital in North Carolina, he became a man of lasting and wide-ranging influence, in part by minding two pieces of advice from an early mentor, the music manager Joe Glaser: Never let on how much you know, and ask for as much money as possible, “without stuttering.”
“He exemplified a certain level of cool and street smarts...
Avant, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, died Sunday at his home in Los Angeles, according to a family statement released Monday.
Avant’s achievements were both public and behind the scenes, as a name in the credits, or a name behind the names. Born in a segregated hospital in North Carolina, he became a man of lasting and wide-ranging influence, in part by minding two pieces of advice from an early mentor, the music manager Joe Glaser: Never let on how much you know, and ask for as much money as possible, “without stuttering.”
“He exemplified a certain level of cool and street smarts...
- 8/15/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
A myriad of notable Hollywood stars and figures are remembering the late Clarence Avant.
Known as the “Godfather of Black Music,” Avant died at the age of 92 on Sunday at his home in Los Angeles, his family announced in a statement.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” the Avant/Sarandos family said. “The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
His death came 20 months after his wife of 54 years, philanthropist Jacqueline Avant, was shot and killed by an intruder in their Beverly Hills home in the early morning hours of Dec. 1, 2021.
The recording industry insider inspired multiple generations of artists and executives. Among the notable names he advised are Quincy Jones, David Geffen, Jay-Z, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Pharrell Williams, Whitney Houston, Antonio “L.
Known as the “Godfather of Black Music,” Avant died at the age of 92 on Sunday at his home in Los Angeles, his family announced in a statement.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” the Avant/Sarandos family said. “The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
His death came 20 months after his wife of 54 years, philanthropist Jacqueline Avant, was shot and killed by an intruder in their Beverly Hills home in the early morning hours of Dec. 1, 2021.
The recording industry insider inspired multiple generations of artists and executives. Among the notable names he advised are Quincy Jones, David Geffen, Jay-Z, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Pharrell Williams, Whitney Houston, Antonio “L.
- 8/14/2023
- by Lexy Perez
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Clarence Avant, the music executive and film producer who was known unofficially as “The Godfather” of Black entertainment, died on Sunday in his Los Angeles home. He was 92.
“It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant,” a statement from his children, Nicole and Alexander, as well as his son-in-law Ted Sarandos read. “Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘the Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics and sports. Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
Avant began his music industry career in the 1950s as a manager of Teddy P’s Lounge in Newark, New Jersey. He would later go on...
“It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant,” a statement from his children, Nicole and Alexander, as well as his son-in-law Ted Sarandos read. “Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘the Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics and sports. Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
Avant began his music industry career in the 1950s as a manager of Teddy P’s Lounge in Newark, New Jersey. He would later go on...
- 8/14/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Clarence Avant, the veteran music and entertainment executive known as the “Black Godfather” who was hailed for his influence and guidance by Quincy Jones, Pharrell Williams, Snoop Dogg, Whitney Houston, and others, died at home in Los Angeles on Sunday. He was 92.
Avant’s death was announced Monday through a statement shared by his family. “It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant,” the statement read. “Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music,...
Avant’s death was announced Monday through a statement shared by his family. “It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant,” the statement read. “Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music,...
- 8/14/2023
- by Larisha Paul and Kory Grow
- Rollingstone.com
Clarence Avant, the trailblazing record executive known as the “Godfather of Black Music,” has died at the age of 92.
Avant passed away on Sunday, August 13th, according to a statement from his family. “It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant. Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports. Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
The North Carolina native rose the ranks to become one of the preeminent Black executives in music. After managing local jazz musicians in New Jersey, he relocated to Los Angeles to assist clients in the increasing lucrative field of movie soundtracks.
Avant passed away on Sunday, August 13th, according to a statement from his family. “It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant. Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports. Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
The North Carolina native rose the ranks to become one of the preeminent Black executives in music. After managing local jazz musicians in New Jersey, he relocated to Los Angeles to assist clients in the increasing lucrative field of movie soundtracks.
- 8/14/2023
- by Scoop Harrison
- Consequence - Music
Clarence Avant, who was dubbed the “Godfather of Black Music,” died Sunday in Los Angeles, his family has confirmed. He was 92.
A statement provided by his family including son-in-law Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s co-ceo, announced Avant’s passing “with a heavy heart,” and said he had “passed away gently.”
“Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘the Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports,” the statement said. “Top artists and executives like Quincy Jones, JayZ, Whitney Houston, Pharrell Williams, Lionel Richie, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Sean Combs, L.A. Reid, Suzanne de Passe, Kenny ‘Baby Face’ Edmonds, Jon Platt, Irving Azoff, Snoop Dogg Reginald Hudland, Benny Medina and Queen Latifah all credit Avant for his inspiration and guidance.”
The news comes almost two years after the shooting death of his wife, Jackie Avant, during a break-in at the family’s Beverly Hills home...
A statement provided by his family including son-in-law Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s co-ceo, announced Avant’s passing “with a heavy heart,” and said he had “passed away gently.”
“Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘the Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports,” the statement said. “Top artists and executives like Quincy Jones, JayZ, Whitney Houston, Pharrell Williams, Lionel Richie, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Sean Combs, L.A. Reid, Suzanne de Passe, Kenny ‘Baby Face’ Edmonds, Jon Platt, Irving Azoff, Snoop Dogg Reginald Hudland, Benny Medina and Queen Latifah all credit Avant for his inspiration and guidance.”
The news comes almost two years after the shooting death of his wife, Jackie Avant, during a break-in at the family’s Beverly Hills home...
- 8/14/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Clarence Avant, the beloved recording industry insider whose work as an executive, label owner, dealmaker and mentor earned him the nickname the “Godfather of Black Music,” has died. He was 92.
Avant died Sunday at his home in Los Angeles, his family announced in a statement. His death came 20 months after his wife of 54 years, philanthropist Jacqueline Avant, was shot and killed by an intruder in their Beverly Hills home in the early morning hours of Dec. 1, 2021.
Survivors include their daughter, Nicole Avant, a producer, former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas and the wife of Netflix co-ceo and chief content officer Ted Sarandos, and their son, Alexander, a producer (Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!) and talent rep.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” the Avant/Sarandos family said.
Avant died Sunday at his home in Los Angeles, his family announced in a statement. His death came 20 months after his wife of 54 years, philanthropist Jacqueline Avant, was shot and killed by an intruder in their Beverly Hills home in the early morning hours of Dec. 1, 2021.
Survivors include their daughter, Nicole Avant, a producer, former U.S. ambassador to the Bahamas and the wife of Netflix co-ceo and chief content officer Ted Sarandos, and their son, Alexander, a producer (Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!) and talent rep.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” the Avant/Sarandos family said.
- 8/14/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nicole Avant will release her memoir, “Think You’ll Be Happy: Moving Through Grief With Grit, Grace, and Gratitude,” in October, Variety can exclusively reveal.
In the book, the philanthropist, filmmaker and diplomat writes candidly about coming to terms with the tragic death of her mother, Jacqueline, who was fatally shot during a robbery at her Beverly Hills home in 2021.
“Getting out there and being creative helps me a lot,” Avant says. “I am grieving and I am crying and I am angry and I’m furious at what has happened — there is no denying that. But I’m going to put one foot forward because the greatest thing I can do for my mom is live my life. The greatest way to honor her soul is to live my life to the fullest.”
Avant certainly has a full life. She grew up in Los Angeles among some of Hollywood biggest stars because her father,...
In the book, the philanthropist, filmmaker and diplomat writes candidly about coming to terms with the tragic death of her mother, Jacqueline, who was fatally shot during a robbery at her Beverly Hills home in 2021.
“Getting out there and being creative helps me a lot,” Avant says. “I am grieving and I am crying and I am angry and I’m furious at what has happened — there is no denying that. But I’m going to put one foot forward because the greatest thing I can do for my mom is live my life. The greatest way to honor her soul is to live my life to the fullest.”
Avant certainly has a full life. She grew up in Los Angeles among some of Hollywood biggest stars because her father,...
- 7/12/2023
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
HollyRod is finalizing details for the foundation’s annual DesignCare Gala in Los Angeles by zeroing in on supermodel Naomi Campbell to receive the inaugural Jacqueline Avant HollyRod Humanitarian Award and couple Nicole Ari Parker and Boris Kodjoe to take home the Muhammad Ali Trailblazer Award.
The event, set for July 15 at a private location in Los Angeles, will feature sounds from special guest DJ D-Nice and runway designs from Sergio Hudson. It will also mark a milestone 25th anniversary for HollyRod, the foundation formed in 1993 by Holly Robinson Peete and husband Rodney Peete as a vehicle to raise awareness and deliver resources to families that have a loved one who has received an autism or Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. The couple will serve as co-hosts of the event.
Of the milestone, Robinson Peete said that her heart is filled with “immense gratitude and pride” as she shouted out donors,...
The event, set for July 15 at a private location in Los Angeles, will feature sounds from special guest DJ D-Nice and runway designs from Sergio Hudson. It will also mark a milestone 25th anniversary for HollyRod, the foundation formed in 1993 by Holly Robinson Peete and husband Rodney Peete as a vehicle to raise awareness and deliver resources to families that have a loved one who has received an autism or Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. The couple will serve as co-hosts of the event.
Of the milestone, Robinson Peete said that her heart is filled with “immense gratitude and pride” as she shouted out donors,...
- 6/12/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The first episode of “Queen Charlotte” features a dedication to Jacqueline Avant which might leave viewers scratching their heads.
The “Bridgerton” spin-off is now streaming on Netflix, with the end of the premiere episode featuring the words “In Memory of Jacqueline Avant”.
Contrary to usual dedications, which are tributes to late crew and cast members, Avant did not work on the series.
She was a prominent figure in the Black cultural world, as well as a philanthropist and community activist, according to Entertainment Weekly.
Mother to former United States ambassador Nicole Avant, who is married to Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos, the late figure was shot and killed Dec. 2021 at the age of 81.
While Avant didn’t work directly on the series, she was a driving force behind the spin-off being created.
Read More: Golda Rosheuvel Insists Queen Charlotte’s Wigs Keep Getting ‘Bigger, Better And Heavier’, Says She’ll Never...
The “Bridgerton” spin-off is now streaming on Netflix, with the end of the premiere episode featuring the words “In Memory of Jacqueline Avant”.
Contrary to usual dedications, which are tributes to late crew and cast members, Avant did not work on the series.
She was a prominent figure in the Black cultural world, as well as a philanthropist and community activist, according to Entertainment Weekly.
Mother to former United States ambassador Nicole Avant, who is married to Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos, the late figure was shot and killed Dec. 2021 at the age of 81.
While Avant didn’t work directly on the series, she was a driving force behind the spin-off being created.
Read More: Golda Rosheuvel Insists Queen Charlotte’s Wigs Keep Getting ‘Bigger, Better And Heavier’, Says She’ll Never...
- 5/4/2023
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
Last week, Nicole Avant, daughter of the late and prolific philanthropist Jacqueline Avant, joined Los Angeles Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, the MLK Health and Wellness Community Development Corporation and over 100 special guests including Ted Sarandos, Clarence Avant, Alex Avant, Holly Robinson-Peete, Rick Caruso, Jimmy Jam and more to commemorate the name unveiling for the Jacqueline Avant Children & Family Center (The Center) located in the Watts-Willowbrook community.
The three-story and 50,000 sq. ft. Center will serve as a national model for programs that address the complex needs of at-risk children struggling with trauma, health, and mental health problems. The first floor is now open, and the second floor will open to the community this summer. The third floor will be finished by the end of this year.
“My family and I are thrilled and honored to celebrate the unveiling of the Jacqueline Avant Children and Family Center,” said Nicole Avant. “For over 50 years,...
The three-story and 50,000 sq. ft. Center will serve as a national model for programs that address the complex needs of at-risk children struggling with trauma, health, and mental health problems. The first floor is now open, and the second floor will open to the community this summer. The third floor will be finished by the end of this year.
“My family and I are thrilled and honored to celebrate the unveiling of the Jacqueline Avant Children and Family Center,” said Nicole Avant. “For over 50 years,...
- 5/3/2023
- Look to the Stars
Jacqueline Avant, the late wife of music executive Clarence Avant, was a brilliant bouquet of things: mother, philanthropist, community activist, art collector. But during her life — which was tragically cut short in December 2021 — she was also quietly a bridge between the palm tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills and those of South Central as president of Neighbors of Watts, a support group for the South Central Community Child Care Center where she committed her time and resources to at-risk youth.
“My mom was almost the ambassador to South Central,” Nicole Avant, daughter of Jacqueline and Clarence Avant and former U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas, told The Hollywood Reporter. “She lived in Beverly Hills all her life. The first time she touched down in LA, [she and my dad] moved to Beverly Hills. That was it.”
What was once known as The MLK Child and Family Well-Being Center has now been renamed the Jacqueline Avant...
“My mom was almost the ambassador to South Central,” Nicole Avant, daughter of Jacqueline and Clarence Avant and former U.S. Ambassador to the Bahamas, told The Hollywood Reporter. “She lived in Beverly Hills all her life. The first time she touched down in LA, [she and my dad] moved to Beverly Hills. That was it.”
What was once known as The MLK Child and Family Well-Being Center has now been renamed the Jacqueline Avant...
- 4/28/2023
- by Evan Nicole Brown
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tyler Perry Sets Next Film At Netflix: ‘Six Triple Eight’ About Only All-Black Female WWII Battalion
Tyler Perry is set to helm his fourth movie at Netflix, Six Triple Eight, which follows the 6888th battalion, the only all-black, all-female troop in the World War II effort.
Perry is adapting from an article by Kevin M. Hymel which was published in Sovereign Media’s WWII History Magazine.
The 855 women of the 6888th joined the war effort with little knowledge of what exactly they would be doing. However, they were quickly given the mission of a lifetime: sort through and fix the three-year backlog of undelivered mail. A herculean task, that most thought to be impossible, the women not only succeeded but did it in half the time they were given. Facing discrimination, unfamiliar land, and a war-torn country, they persevered and sorted over 17 million pieces of mail, reconnecting American soldiers with their families and loved ones back home. The motto that kept them going each day was...
Perry is adapting from an article by Kevin M. Hymel which was published in Sovereign Media’s WWII History Magazine.
The 855 women of the 6888th joined the war effort with little knowledge of what exactly they would be doing. However, they were quickly given the mission of a lifetime: sort through and fix the three-year backlog of undelivered mail. A herculean task, that most thought to be impossible, the women not only succeeded but did it in half the time they were given. Facing discrimination, unfamiliar land, and a war-torn country, they persevered and sorted over 17 million pieces of mail, reconnecting American soldiers with their families and loved ones back home. The motto that kept them going each day was...
- 12/14/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
When “Trees of Peace,” a drama set during the 1994 Rwandan genocide, surged into the top 10 English-language films on Netflix in June, some may have been amazed that a low-budget, albeit critically acclaimed indie was among the most-watched movies of the week. But executive producer Nicole Avant (“The Black Godfather”) wasn’t among them.
“It was incredible. I was surprised how quickly it got so much attention, but I wasn’t surprised,” Avant tells Variety about learning that the film racked up more than 9.3 million hours viewed in those first few days.
To Avant, the numbers indicated that audiences was ready for and interested in stories like this, despite its heavy subject matter.
“We’ve all felt pretty beaten up for many years, with all this social unrest happening in the United States and everywhere around the world, and just so much negativity,” she explains. “Then here comes this film about strength,...
“It was incredible. I was surprised how quickly it got so much attention, but I wasn’t surprised,” Avant tells Variety about learning that the film racked up more than 9.3 million hours viewed in those first few days.
To Avant, the numbers indicated that audiences was ready for and interested in stories like this, despite its heavy subject matter.
“We’ve all felt pretty beaten up for many years, with all this social unrest happening in the United States and everywhere around the world, and just so much negativity,” she explains. “Then here comes this film about strength,...
- 8/30/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Bodyguards have long been a Hollywood fixture, appearing alongside A-listers on red carpets, on nights out and occasionally onscreen (looking at you, Kevin Costner). But there’s more than meets the eye to these protection agents, who are being increasingly called upon in recent months as Los Angeles’ crime rate has ticked up.
The LAPD reported in March that robberies involving firearms were up 57 percent from 2020 and homicides were up 29 percent for the first six months of the year compared with the same period in 2020. As a result, says Kent Moyer, president and CEO of L.A.-based World Protection Group, “Our business revenues have doubled from January on, every month. And it’s due to the fact that people are scared.”
Security experts say that’s sparked a change in Hollywood. In the past, stars often relied on bodyguards only for daily outings and press tours.
Bodyguards have long been a Hollywood fixture, appearing alongside A-listers on red carpets, on nights out and occasionally onscreen (looking at you, Kevin Costner). But there’s more than meets the eye to these protection agents, who are being increasingly called upon in recent months as Los Angeles’ crime rate has ticked up.
The LAPD reported in March that robberies involving firearms were up 57 percent from 2020 and homicides were up 29 percent for the first six months of the year compared with the same period in 2020. As a result, says Kent Moyer, president and CEO of L.A.-based World Protection Group, “Our business revenues have doubled from January on, every month. And it’s due to the fact that people are scared.”
Security experts say that’s sparked a change in Hollywood. In the past, stars often relied on bodyguards only for daily outings and press tours.
- 8/15/2022
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On what should have been the biggest night of his life, the 70-year old singer-songwriter Sixto Rodriguez was, once again, nowhere to be found. Searching for Sugar Man, the blockbuster 2012 documentary that finally, miraculously introduced his music to the world, was about to win the Oscar for Best Documentary. But Rodriguez hadn’t just skipped the ceremony at L.A.’s Dolby Theatre. He was back home in Detroit, sleeping. “I missed the program,” Rodriguez says “We just came in the day before from South Africa. My daughter Sandra called toto tell me.
- 4/11/2013
- by Andy Greene
- Rollingstone.com
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