An outpour of actors and comedians are paying tribute to the late Charlie Murphy, Eddie Murphy‘s older brother, who reportedly passed away at the age of 57 after a battle with leukemia.
According to TMZ, Charlie died in a New York City hospital. His manager reportedly said he had been battling leukemia and going through chemotherapy treatment.
After learning about his death, Chris Rock, Kevin Hart, Ice Cube and many more took to social media to remember the late actor, who rose to fame as a recurring performer on Comedy Central’s Chappelle’s Show from 2003-4.
“We just lost...
According to TMZ, Charlie died in a New York City hospital. His manager reportedly said he had been battling leukemia and going through chemotherapy treatment.
After learning about his death, Chris Rock, Kevin Hart, Ice Cube and many more took to social media to remember the late actor, who rose to fame as a recurring performer on Comedy Central’s Chappelle’s Show from 2003-4.
“We just lost...
- 4/12/2017
- by Natalie Stone
- PEOPLE.com
In his youth, Paul Mooney was a dancer. And you can see it, too, in vintage clips from the ’80s, in the lithe, graceful way he carried himself onstage during his comedy sets. Even as he entered middle age and beyond, and even after he took to performing while seated, Mooney had a dignified, almost regal bearing — no matter that he was, as always, laying waste to any notions of political correctness or politesse. “Kill every white person on this planet,” he said bluntly in his 2012 special, The Godfather of Comedy. “To end racism, that’s the only way.”Today, that dancer’s elegance is almost entirely gone, replaced by a slumped and diminished figure with a rambling, uncertain delivery. The 74-year-old is still touring, though whether he should be is an open question. It’s a troubling state in which to witness one of the most important and underappreciated...
- 2/2/2016
- by David Peisner
- Vulture
When YouTube was created I’m sure the plan wasn’t for people to watch bite sized amounts of comedy picking up the best skits from television shows from all over the world, but this is one way that I tend to watch the funniest comedians, and it was the first time I’ve really seen any of Dave Chappelle’s work. With the release of Chappelle’s Show: The Series Collection this week, this is my chance to see his comedy as it was meant to be seen on television.
One thing that is obvious from the first season of the show is that Chappelle’s Show: The Series Collection coming from Comedy Central was a move from a more liberal HBO to a stricter form of television. Though slightly more tamer of a channel this isn’t to say that Chappelle would not push the limits of what he could get away with.
One thing that is obvious from the first season of the show is that Chappelle’s Show: The Series Collection coming from Comedy Central was a move from a more liberal HBO to a stricter form of television. Though slightly more tamer of a channel this isn’t to say that Chappelle would not push the limits of what he could get away with.
- 4/23/2015
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
In the wake of the grand jury decision not to indict police officer Daniel Pantaleo for choking Eric Garner to death, Azealia Banks took to Twitter to slam Iggy Azalea for staying silent. Referencing the “Fancy” rapper’s black boyfriend Nick Young, Ms. Banks wrote, “It’s funny to see people Like Igloo Australia silent when these things happen… Black Culture is cool, but black issues sure aren’t huh? If you’re down to ride with us b*tch you gotta Ride All The Way. Don’t just be down to ride Black D*ck….. If you with us you With Us!!!!”
Shortly thereafter Azealia added, “Lol… Im Petty, but it’s so true, ugh, that wannabe black girl sh*t makes me wanna throw a jar of my piss at her Lmfaoooo. Like, fill a jar with piss and mayo and eggs and just dump that sh*t...
Shortly thereafter Azealia added, “Lol… Im Petty, but it’s so true, ugh, that wannabe black girl sh*t makes me wanna throw a jar of my piss at her Lmfaoooo. Like, fill a jar with piss and mayo and eggs and just dump that sh*t...
- 12/4/2014
- GossipCenter
As the saying goes, everybody wants to be black, but nobody wants to be black. Although I believe the actual Paul Mooney quote goes something like this: "Everybody wants to be a nigga, but nobody wants to be a nigga." Check out a trailer for an upcoming long-in-development documentary directed by Jonathan Ashley, (a Kartemquin Films Dvid alum) titled Wigger Please ("Wigger" as in whites who "act black" - or at least, what they perceive "acting black" looks and sounds like. The most basic of definitions). It's a film that asks, "how do you appreciate a culture beyond a skin deep level?"In the film... A group of white artists & activists share their thoughts, emotions and opinions...
- 11/5/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
It’s Better Than Yours: Andalman & Munro’s Vanilla Debut
While attempting to earnestly engage us with a depiction of mid-90s urban envy from the privileged point of view, whilst subtlety (at least as much as it probably can be) conveying an ignorant and racist streak lurking behind the naive intentions of its protagonist, American Milkshake, the directorial debut of David Andalman and Mariko Munro, fails to consistently engage us with its anemic narrative. While on paper, the directors, expanding from a short film, potentially have a daringly unique project on their hands, the end product reveals itself to be merely another depiction of the white heterosexual male reinventing himself by mimicking prized attributes of his black male peers and exploiting women for his own sexual needs and/or social status.
It’s 1995 in the suburbs outside of Washington, D.C., and high school senior Jolie Jolson (Tyler Ross...
While attempting to earnestly engage us with a depiction of mid-90s urban envy from the privileged point of view, whilst subtlety (at least as much as it probably can be) conveying an ignorant and racist streak lurking behind the naive intentions of its protagonist, American Milkshake, the directorial debut of David Andalman and Mariko Munro, fails to consistently engage us with its anemic narrative. While on paper, the directors, expanding from a short film, potentially have a daringly unique project on their hands, the end product reveals itself to be merely another depiction of the white heterosexual male reinventing himself by mimicking prized attributes of his black male peers and exploiting women for his own sexual needs and/or social status.
It’s 1995 in the suburbs outside of Washington, D.C., and high school senior Jolie Jolson (Tyler Ross...
- 9/3/2013
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell is a hit and will be one of the shows that helps launch the Fxx Network this September, along with It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and The League. Season 2 of Totally Biased will also go daily Monday thru Thursday with a “Best of” show on Fridays, continuing to bring a much needed voice of comedy and social-political commentary that stands next shoulder-to-shoulder with The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. To help drum up awareness of the new channel and schedule, Bell and his fellow writers/comics are going on a 10-city tour in July performing live shows around the country starting in Boston, this Thursday July 11. It even includes a stop at The House of Blues in San Diego next week during Comic-Con.
Each show is lot packed full of hot topics discussed regarding race, social issues, discrimination, or just plain silliness.
Each show is lot packed full of hot topics discussed regarding race, social issues, discrimination, or just plain silliness.
- 7/9/2013
- by Ernie Estrella
- BuzzFocus.com
Chicago – The hottest comic and comedy show came together at the 2013 TBS “Just for Laughs Chicago” festival in June. Paul F. Tompkins – podcaster and host of VH1’s “Best Week Ever” – had a show, and also at the event were the cast of comedians that make up the TBS sitcom, “Sullivan & Son.”
HollywoodChicago.com interviewed Tompkins and the “Sullivan & Son” cast, as they talked about the comedian’s life and sitcoms in the age of YouTube.
Paul F. Tompkins
The multi-talented Tompkins has conquered most of the comic media – he has hosted “Best Week Ever” on the VH1 network, has had two comedy albums, he’s appeared in the film “Anchorman” and oversees his own “Pod F. Tompkast” podcast. He also currently produces a weekly web series called “Speakeasy,” in which he speaks with entertainers at local Los Angeles bars.
Paul F. Tompkins at the 2013 ‘Just for Laughs Chicago’
Photo...
HollywoodChicago.com interviewed Tompkins and the “Sullivan & Son” cast, as they talked about the comedian’s life and sitcoms in the age of YouTube.
Paul F. Tompkins
The multi-talented Tompkins has conquered most of the comic media – he has hosted “Best Week Ever” on the VH1 network, has had two comedy albums, he’s appeared in the film “Anchorman” and oversees his own “Pod F. Tompkast” podcast. He also currently produces a weekly web series called “Speakeasy,” in which he speaks with entertainers at local Los Angeles bars.
Paul F. Tompkins at the 2013 ‘Just for Laughs Chicago’
Photo...
- 6/27/2013
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
There is something about Richard Pryor’s face and expressions that go beyond his risqué comedic acts and punch-lines laden with the words "motherfucker" and "nigger". There is a transparent vulnerability apparent in his eyes, shown in images and footage shown throughout the documentary Omit The Logic, directed by Marina Zenovich (Roman Polansky: Wanted and Desired) and produced by Pryor’s widow Jennifer Lee Pryor. Along with personal diary excerpts and testimonies from those closest to and influenced by him, including Paul Mooney, Mike Epps and Whoopi Goldberg, Logic mounts to an intimate expose´ of the entertainer – his ingeniousness, insecurities, unflinching and self-deprecating...
- 4/25/2013
- by Vanessa Martinez
- ShadowAndAct
Dave Chappelle has become elusive in the eight years since he left his hit show on Comedy Central. But he resurfaced this week at New York City's The Cellar comedy club, joined on stage by friends and fellow comedians Chris Rock, Kevin Hart, Marlon Wayans and Paul Mooney, reports the La Times.
Rock and Chappelle have made headlines after the appearances for joking about the two of them doing a tour together. Chappelle cracks, "After next Tuesday, I'm free for like 11 years."
But Rock took the discussion seriously, discussing his tour availability onstage -- "By Halloween, I could do dates."
Then later, the two of them sent texts to Jay-z and Arsenio Hall, with Chappelle saying, "This could be the show. Fireside chats with Chris Rock," to which Rock replied, "I'm in."
Neither Rock nor Chappelle's publicists returned any requests for comment about the tour, but fans of the comedians...
Rock and Chappelle have made headlines after the appearances for joking about the two of them doing a tour together. Chappelle cracks, "After next Tuesday, I'm free for like 11 years."
But Rock took the discussion seriously, discussing his tour availability onstage -- "By Halloween, I could do dates."
Then later, the two of them sent texts to Jay-z and Arsenio Hall, with Chappelle saying, "This could be the show. Fireside chats with Chris Rock," to which Rock replied, "I'm in."
Neither Rock nor Chappelle's publicists returned any requests for comment about the tour, but fans of the comedians...
- 3/15/2013
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
It’s been almost eight years since Dave Chappelle walked away from the third season of Chappelle’s Show. Since then, the funnyman has earned a reputation for being a bit of a recluse, living out of the spotlight in Ohio. Although “reclusive” might be a strong word: Chappelle does occasional comedy shows, usually unpublicized, and even gives interviews when the mood strikes him. It’s probably more accurate to compare Chappelle to Bill Murray, another next-level comedy guy whose life appears to be one big “Do What You Feel” festival.
But every couple years, Chappelle seems to make a move back towards the mainstream.
But every couple years, Chappelle seems to make a move back towards the mainstream.
- 3/13/2013
- by Darren Franich
- EW.com - PopWatch
"Satire is the weapon of the powerless against the powerful."The above quote by the late populist columnist Molly Ivins is written on a whiteboard at the Manhattan production offices for "Totally Biased," FX's new weekly late-night show created and hosted by standup comedian W. Kamau Bell. Below that, Bell has paired Ivins' inspirational message with words of wisdom from his 1-year-old daughter: "Aaah Aaah Baah Aaah."The juxtaposition is an apt reflection of Bell's comedy, which balances socially conscious political commentary with an appreciation for the absurdity and wonder of our shared human existence. Most often, Bell turns his gaze to racism and inequality in America, with a witty and challenging point of view that combines Jon Stewart with Paul Mooney. But as FX has been asking in its promos leading up to the Aug. 9 premiere of "Totally Biased," "Who is W. Kamau Bell?"He's been building a following for years.
- 8/9/2012
- by help@backstage.com (Daniel Lehman)
- backstage.com
'Black Dynamite' Animated Series Premieres July 8; Eddie Griffin Voicing Richard Pryor & Paul Mooney
Black Dynamite - July 8th on Adult Swim / Eddie Griffin will be the voice of Richard Pryor and Paul Mooney in the new animated series "Black Dynamite." Words posted by Eddie Griffin on his Facebook page with regards to the upcoming Black Dynamite animated series (based on the cult 2009 feature film by Scott Sanders, starring Michael Jai White), which will air on Adult Swim in spring 2012. We definitely didn't know about his voicing Richard Pryor and Paul Mooney in the series, so this is news to me; and, looking over old posts on the upcoming series, it doesn't look like we announced the July 8th premiere date either...
- 6/4/2012
- by Tambay
- ShadowAndAct
Showtime is celebrating Black History Month by featuring documentaries and comedy, stand-up specials that highlight the culture and experience of the Black community. This includes a new documentary from filmmaker, historian and author Nelson George. The doc, entitled Brooklyn Boheme, spotlights some of the defining black voices that rose out of Brooklyn, including: Spike Lee, Chris Rock, Common and Erykah Badu.
Check out the full rundown of Black History Month specials on Showtime below:
Brooklyn Boheme
Airs Thursday, February 2nd at 8:30 Pm (Et/Pt)
This intimate portrait from noted filmmaker, historian and author Nelson George explores the Black arts movement that exploded in the famed Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York in the mid-1980s-‘90s and launched the careers of such acclaimed artists as filmmaker Spike Lee, comedian Chris Rock, musicians Branford Marsalis, Common, Erykah Badu and yasiin bey (formerly known as Mos Def), among many others.
Check out the full rundown of Black History Month specials on Showtime below:
Brooklyn Boheme
Airs Thursday, February 2nd at 8:30 Pm (Et/Pt)
This intimate portrait from noted filmmaker, historian and author Nelson George explores the Black arts movement that exploded in the famed Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York in the mid-1980s-‘90s and launched the careers of such acclaimed artists as filmmaker Spike Lee, comedian Chris Rock, musicians Branford Marsalis, Common, Erykah Badu and yasiin bey (formerly known as Mos Def), among many others.
- 1/27/2012
- by Bags Hooper
- BuzzFocus.com
February is around the corner, and Showtime has amassed great films, documentaries, and the funniest kings and queens of comedy to honor Black History Month with its annual month-long programming initiative featuring revealing documentaries and stand-up specials spotlighting the Black experience every Thursday and Friday night. Highlights include a new documentary from noted historian Nelson George and a stand-up special from the legendary Paul Mooney. Documentaries . Each Thursday: Brooklyn Boheme Airs Thursday, February 2nd at 8:30 Pm (Et/Pt) This intimate portrait from noted filmmaker, historian and author Nelson George explores the Black arts movement that exploded in the famed Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York in the mid-1980s-.90s and launched the careers of such acclaimed artists...
- 1/26/2012
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
Comedian Jasper Redd is an intriguing mass of contradictions. If he had his druthers, his entire routine would be all about race, but he counts Jerry Seinfeld's trivial observations as a major influence. Even though he's often dressed up in Western attire to celebrate his Tennessee heritage, he's as savvy about the vagaries of Hollywood as any longtime Los Angeleno. And even though he's being doing comedy for almost a decade professionally, he admits that it's only recently that he's felt confident about being a stand-up.
We were lucky enough to see Redd for the first time a few years ago when he performed in Los Angeles to commemorate the release of "Frankenhood," a straight-to-dvd movie that was his first - and as of today, last - acting job. Since then, he's been traveling across the country to various venues, including college campuses, and bringing with him a comedic...
We were lucky enough to see Redd for the first time a few years ago when he performed in Los Angeles to commemorate the release of "Frankenhood," a straight-to-dvd movie that was his first - and as of today, last - acting job. Since then, he's been traveling across the country to various venues, including college campuses, and bringing with him a comedic...
- 10/14/2011
- by IFC
- ifc.com
We are giving away (1) Blu-ray and (1) DVD of the Starz series Camelot: The Complete First Season, which stars Joseph Fiennes as Merlin, Jamie Campbell Bower as Arthur, and Eva Green as Morgan.
To Enter the Contest Here's What You Need to Do! In the Rant Back section below tell us what character in the legend of Camelot fits your personality best and why. We'll read through all of the comments and choose a winner. To win you must be logged into Facebook or Twitter when you enter so that we can contact you if you win! Open to Us residents only The Contest will end next week on Wednesday the 14th of September.
Here's the Synopsis:
Anchor Bay Entertainment is proud to release the highly anticipated Starz Original series “Camelot- Thecomplete First Season” on Blu-ray™ and DVD September 13th. The 3-disc set contains all ten episodes of the...
To Enter the Contest Here's What You Need to Do! In the Rant Back section below tell us what character in the legend of Camelot fits your personality best and why. We'll read through all of the comments and choose a winner. To win you must be logged into Facebook or Twitter when you enter so that we can contact you if you win! Open to Us residents only The Contest will end next week on Wednesday the 14th of September.
Here's the Synopsis:
Anchor Bay Entertainment is proud to release the highly anticipated Starz Original series “Camelot- Thecomplete First Season” on Blu-ray™ and DVD September 13th. The 3-disc set contains all ten episodes of the...
- 9/9/2011
- by Venkman
- GeekTyrant
Anchor Bay Entertainment is proud to release the highly anticipated Starz Original series “Camelot- The Complete First Season” on Blu-ray™ and DVD September 13th. The 3-disc set contains all ten episodes of the Arthurian Legend with a kingly lot of bonus features including never-before-seen featurettes, bloopers, behind-the-scenes (including a unique on set visit with actor Paul Mooney), character profiles and easy access episode recaps. When the series premiered on April 1, 2011, it became the highest rated and most-watched debut on Starz. “Camelot- The Complete First Season” redefines the classic medieval tale of King Arthur with an exciting ensemble cast that includes Joseph Fiennes (Shakespeare in Love, “Flash Forward”) in the magical role of Merlin, Jamie Campbell Bower (upcoming...
- 7/27/2011
- by Kimberly Houston
- The Daily BLAM!
Anchor Bay Entertainment reimagines a legend when 'Camelot - The Complete First Season lands on Blu-ray and DVD on September 13th, 2011. All Ten Episodes and Gallant New Bonus Features! I'm looking forward to checking this out for my medieval self!
From the Official Press Release:
Beverly Hills, CA – Anchor Bay Entertainment is proud to release the highly anticipated Starz Original series “Camelot- The Complete First Season” on Blu-ray and DVD September 13th. Srp is $59.99 for the Blu-ray™ and $49.98 for the DVD. Pre-book is August 17th. The 3-disc set contains all ten episodes of the Arthurian Legend with a kingly lot of bonus features including never-before-seen featurettes, bloopers, behind-the-scenes (including a unique on set visit with actor Paul Mooney), character profiles and easy access episode recaps.
When the series premiered on April 1, 2011, it became the highest rated and most-watched debut on Starz. “Camelot- The Complete First Season” redefines...
From the Official Press Release:
Beverly Hills, CA – Anchor Bay Entertainment is proud to release the highly anticipated Starz Original series “Camelot- The Complete First Season” on Blu-ray and DVD September 13th. Srp is $59.99 for the Blu-ray™ and $49.98 for the DVD. Pre-book is August 17th. The 3-disc set contains all ten episodes of the Arthurian Legend with a kingly lot of bonus features including never-before-seen featurettes, bloopers, behind-the-scenes (including a unique on set visit with actor Paul Mooney), character profiles and easy access episode recaps.
When the series premiered on April 1, 2011, it became the highest rated and most-watched debut on Starz. “Camelot- The Complete First Season” redefines...
- 6/28/2011
- by brians
- GeekTyrant
Why are so many people upset about the Super Bowl's Pepsi Max commercial, in which a black woman asserts herself? Raina Kelley on the misplaced outrage.
Ever since Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" at the 2004 Super Bowl, audiences have come to expect scandal with their microwaved nachos and over-choreographed half-time shows. There was Prince's phallic guitar, the child-protection advocates' protests against The Who's Pete Townshend, and the free-speech debates over banning commercials, sparked by Moveon.org's Bush in 30 Seconds ad and quarterback Tim Tebow's pro-life spot. (Does anyone just watch the game?)
Related story on The Daily Beast: How Many Americans Know the Star Spangled Banner?
This year was no different, and even threatened to smash the record for apparent offensiveness. People were offended by Groupon's minimalizing Tibet's troubles, Homeaway.com smashing a plastic baby into a hotel window, Snickers sending a log into the side of Roseanne Barr's head,...
Ever since Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" at the 2004 Super Bowl, audiences have come to expect scandal with their microwaved nachos and over-choreographed half-time shows. There was Prince's phallic guitar, the child-protection advocates' protests against The Who's Pete Townshend, and the free-speech debates over banning commercials, sparked by Moveon.org's Bush in 30 Seconds ad and quarterback Tim Tebow's pro-life spot. (Does anyone just watch the game?)
Related story on The Daily Beast: How Many Americans Know the Star Spangled Banner?
This year was no different, and even threatened to smash the record for apparent offensiveness. People were offended by Groupon's minimalizing Tibet's troubles, Homeaway.com smashing a plastic baby into a hotel window, Snickers sending a log into the side of Roseanne Barr's head,...
- 2/12/2011
- by Raina Kelley
- The Daily Beast
The comedian, 55, on fame, posing for Playboy, and being thick-skinned
As a five year old I'd lie in bed fantasising about performing on stage in big musical comedies. You could say I knew what I wanted to do from a young age.
Every performer worries about maintaining their success. What gets me down is worrying about keeping my material fresh and relevant. Then I realise it's just a waste of time to think about it too much.
I'm Jewish, but I'm not particularly religious. I believe there are higher powers that we connect with and channel, but that we certainly have the ability to control most of the things that happen in our lives ourselves.
When I was growing up, the idea of fame ran in tandem with being a great performer – people loving you and celebrating you because you made them feel good and you took them places they couldn't take themselves.
As a five year old I'd lie in bed fantasising about performing on stage in big musical comedies. You could say I knew what I wanted to do from a young age.
Every performer worries about maintaining their success. What gets me down is worrying about keeping my material fresh and relevant. Then I realise it's just a waste of time to think about it too much.
I'm Jewish, but I'm not particularly religious. I believe there are higher powers that we connect with and channel, but that we certainly have the ability to control most of the things that happen in our lives ourselves.
When I was growing up, the idea of fame ran in tandem with being a great performer – people loving you and celebrating you because you made them feel good and you took them places they couldn't take themselves.
- 1/23/2011
- by Shahesta Shaitly
- The Guardian - Film News
Chicago – “I don’t even know what to do on this show. We just talk?” asks comic Bobby Slayton in episode four of the new Showtime series “The Green Room with Paul Provenza.” Yes. And therein lies the problem.
Television Rating: 3.0/5.0
Certainly, the premise of “The Green Room” is not new. Jon Favreau’s IFC series “Dinner for Five” was also an unscripted, round robin, celebrities-just-talking-for-30-minutes style of show. But while the success of “Dinner” hinged somewhat on the selection of guests on each episode, host Favreau was charismatic, a little cocky and, ultimately, interesting enough to make the show work most of the time, regardless of the cast.
Paul Provenza on The Green Room.
Photo credit: Cliff Lipson/Showtime
“The Green Room” is different. Paul Provenza, comedian and director of “The Aristocrats” hosts an ever-changing cast of celebrity comedians that come on to tell jokes or talk about their lives and careers,...
Television Rating: 3.0/5.0
Certainly, the premise of “The Green Room” is not new. Jon Favreau’s IFC series “Dinner for Five” was also an unscripted, round robin, celebrities-just-talking-for-30-minutes style of show. But while the success of “Dinner” hinged somewhat on the selection of guests on each episode, host Favreau was charismatic, a little cocky and, ultimately, interesting enough to make the show work most of the time, regardless of the cast.
Paul Provenza on The Green Room.
Photo credit: Cliff Lipson/Showtime
“The Green Room” is different. Paul Provenza, comedian and director of “The Aristocrats” hosts an ever-changing cast of celebrity comedians that come on to tell jokes or talk about their lives and careers,...
- 6/10/2010
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Photo by Pop Culture Passionistas
Next Monday night, Last Comic Standing is finally coming back to TV and this season promises to be a funny one. The Office's Craig Robinson will be the new host and Greg Giraldo, Natasha Leggero, and Andy Kindler will sit at the judges table.
We sat in on a panel featuring these stars as well as Executive Producers Page Hurwitz, Peter Engel, and Jayson Dinsmore. Here's what they had to say about female comics, changes this season, and comedic influences.
Q: What's the addition of Craig been like for the season as far as the energy and the atmosphere for the rest of you who have been on the show longer?
Peter: It's great. I mean, we have funny people, and it's all about funny. Craig is one of the hottest young, actor-comedians going. The judges are all qualified and huge comedy stars in their own right,...
Next Monday night, Last Comic Standing is finally coming back to TV and this season promises to be a funny one. The Office's Craig Robinson will be the new host and Greg Giraldo, Natasha Leggero, and Andy Kindler will sit at the judges table.
We sat in on a panel featuring these stars as well as Executive Producers Page Hurwitz, Peter Engel, and Jayson Dinsmore. Here's what they had to say about female comics, changes this season, and comedic influences.
Q: What's the addition of Craig been like for the season as far as the energy and the atmosphere for the rest of you who have been on the show longer?
Peter: It's great. I mean, we have funny people, and it's all about funny. Craig is one of the hottest young, actor-comedians going. The judges are all qualified and huge comedy stars in their own right,...
- 6/3/2010
- by Pop Culture Passionistas
- popculturepassionistas
By Marilyn Beck and Stacy Jenel Smith
HollywoodNews.com: Expect to see plenty of sparks fly on ‘The Green Room With Paul Provenza’ when the Showtime show hits the tube June 10. Among the verbal dustups filmed for the series are a heated political argument between Tommy Smothers and Penn Jillette, and a no-holds-barred conversational melee involving race with Rain Pryor, Bobby Slayton (Richard Pryor’s one-time writing partner), Paul Mooney and Australian comic Jim Jeffries.
‘Nobody is selling a DVD. It really, truly is like comedy jazz’with these greats riffing off each other,’ Provenza wants us to know. The idea for the show grew out of onstage gatherings of comics held by Provenza at the Edinburgh and Montreal comedy festivals. Putting such groups together for the cameras seemed like a natural — but not easy — idea.
‘I was very fortunate. I called a lot of people I knew personally and they came in.
HollywoodNews.com: Expect to see plenty of sparks fly on ‘The Green Room With Paul Provenza’ when the Showtime show hits the tube June 10. Among the verbal dustups filmed for the series are a heated political argument between Tommy Smothers and Penn Jillette, and a no-holds-barred conversational melee involving race with Rain Pryor, Bobby Slayton (Richard Pryor’s one-time writing partner), Paul Mooney and Australian comic Jim Jeffries.
‘Nobody is selling a DVD. It really, truly is like comedy jazz’with these greats riffing off each other,’ Provenza wants us to know. The idea for the show grew out of onstage gatherings of comics held by Provenza at the Edinburgh and Montreal comedy festivals. Putting such groups together for the cameras seemed like a natural — but not easy — idea.
‘I was very fortunate. I called a lot of people I knew personally and they came in.
- 5/25/2010
- by Beck / Smith
- Hollywoodnews.com
Shaquille O.Neal.s All Star Comedy Jam-Live From Dallas special exclusively airs on demand May 6th. Fans who want more of Shaq and the comedy May 6th special can go to the Facebook page. The special includes Academy Award winner and one of the Original Queens of Comedy, Mo.nique who rules the stage as host of the 3rd installment in Shaquille O.Neal.s All Star Comedy Jam concert series. Filmed in front of a live audience during the 2010 NBA All-Star Weekend in Dallas Texas, Mo.Nique leads her court with some of the industry.s most talented comedians. No topic is off limits on this night at Aeg.s Nokia Theatre stage as seasoned comedians, Mike Epps, Paul Mooney, Corey Holcomb,...
- 5/5/2010
- by April MacIntyre
- Monsters and Critics
By Lisa Horowitz
Augmenting its previously announced summer premieres, Showtime has set debut dates for several more series.
Premiering Thursday, June 10, at 10:30 p.m. Et/Pt, the half-hour "The Green Room With Paul Provenza" puts the comedian-actor together with his fellow comedians in a round-table setting before a studio audience. Panelists include Roseanne Barr, Sandra Bernhard, Eddie Izzard, Paul Mooney, Bob Saget and Jonathan Winters.
Starting Sund...
Augmenting its previously announced summer premieres, Showtime has set debut dates for several more series.
Premiering Thursday, June 10, at 10:30 p.m. Et/Pt, the half-hour "The Green Room With Paul Provenza" puts the comedian-actor together with his fellow comedians in a round-table setting before a studio audience. Panelists include Roseanne Barr, Sandra Bernhard, Eddie Izzard, Paul Mooney, Bob Saget and Jonathan Winters.
Starting Sund...
- 5/1/2010
- by Lisa Horowitz
- The Wrap
Today we discovered a new technology trend that is about to hit the comedy world; we hear that Warner Bros. Digital Distribution will offer exclusively via on demand the Shaquille O'Neal Presents: All-Star Comedy Jam stand up comedy special beginning May 6.
The special, held Feb. 12th during the National Basketball Association All-Star Game weekend and hosted by Academy Award-winning actress and comedian Mo'Nique, features stand-up performances from several popular urban comics including Mike Epps, George Willborn, Paul Mooney, Michael Blackson and Corey Holcomb, according to Warner Bros. officials.
Comcast/Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Cox Cable, Charter Communications, Verizon FiOS, At&T U-Verse and Dish Network have signed to carry the event, according to Warner Bros. executives.
Viewers will also be able to access Warner Bros.-distributed vintage stand-up comedy shows featuring Tracy Morgan, Steve Harvey, Jamie Foxx, Cedric the Entertainer, Eddie Griffin and Sommore.
This is the first of several high-profile event programming Warner Bros.
The special, held Feb. 12th during the National Basketball Association All-Star Game weekend and hosted by Academy Award-winning actress and comedian Mo'Nique, features stand-up performances from several popular urban comics including Mike Epps, George Willborn, Paul Mooney, Michael Blackson and Corey Holcomb, according to Warner Bros. officials.
Comcast/Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Cox Cable, Charter Communications, Verizon FiOS, At&T U-Verse and Dish Network have signed to carry the event, according to Warner Bros. executives.
Viewers will also be able to access Warner Bros.-distributed vintage stand-up comedy shows featuring Tracy Morgan, Steve Harvey, Jamie Foxx, Cedric the Entertainer, Eddie Griffin and Sommore.
This is the first of several high-profile event programming Warner Bros.
- 4/20/2010
- by noreply@blogger.com (The Humor Mill Magazine)
- Humor Mill Magazine
Showtime heats up this summer with three series debuts, including "The Big C," "The Real L Word," and "The Green Room With Paul Provenza."
"Weeds" (Season 6) and "Penn & Teller: Bulls**t!" (Season 8) will also premiere.
Mark Monday, Aug. 16 on your calendars, Showtime fans. "Weeds" picks up after the cliffhanger at the end of last season at 10 p.m., and then premiere of buzzed-about "The Big C" follows right after at 10:30 p.m. Three-time Emmy winner Laura Linney stars as a wife, mother and teacher who receives the news that she has terminal cancer. Emmy nominee Oliver Platt ("Huff" and "Frost/Nixon") stars as her well-meaning husband and Oscar nominee Gabourey Sidibe ("Precious") plays her precocious student.
But you won't have to wait until August to get your Showtime fix. "The Real L Word" has its series premiere on Sunday, June 20 at 10 p.m. The new reality show (inspired by...
"Weeds" (Season 6) and "Penn & Teller: Bulls**t!" (Season 8) will also premiere.
Mark Monday, Aug. 16 on your calendars, Showtime fans. "Weeds" picks up after the cliffhanger at the end of last season at 10 p.m., and then premiere of buzzed-about "The Big C" follows right after at 10:30 p.m. Three-time Emmy winner Laura Linney stars as a wife, mother and teacher who receives the news that she has terminal cancer. Emmy nominee Oliver Platt ("Huff" and "Frost/Nixon") stars as her well-meaning husband and Oscar nominee Gabourey Sidibe ("Precious") plays her precocious student.
But you won't have to wait until August to get your Showtime fix. "The Real L Word" has its series premiere on Sunday, June 20 at 10 p.m. The new reality show (inspired by...
- 3/17/2010
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
We just received confirmation that this past weekend’s Shaq’s NBA All -Star Comedy Jam in Dallas produced by Codeblack Entertainment generated the highest 2 day gross ticket sales for an urban comedy show since The Original Kings of Comedy which began its huge run in the 1995.
So far, the Original Kings Of Comedy Tour is the highest grossing comedy tour of all time, but that window looks like it’s shrinking quickly. As we all know, the Kings featured Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric The Entertainer, and the late Bernie Mac.
Why do we say that? Well, the two day gross for All Star Jam was $880,676.00, and this was for just Two days. We should also note here that the show would have crossed 1 million dollars if it had not been for the snow as Dallas was hit with a snow storm on Thursday and the storm dampened ticket sales.
So far, the Original Kings Of Comedy Tour is the highest grossing comedy tour of all time, but that window looks like it’s shrinking quickly. As we all know, the Kings featured Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric The Entertainer, and the late Bernie Mac.
Why do we say that? Well, the two day gross for All Star Jam was $880,676.00, and this was for just Two days. We should also note here that the show would have crossed 1 million dollars if it had not been for the snow as Dallas was hit with a snow storm on Thursday and the storm dampened ticket sales.
- 2/16/2010
- by noreply@blogger.com (The Humor Mill Magazine)
- Humor Mill Magazine
The NBA All Star Weekend competition did not prove to be as full of excitement as in years past, especially the Slam Dunk competition. However, the excitement and hype for the one of the most anticipated shows of the weekend fell on the shoulders of The Katt Williams Experience which never took place.
Due to the enormous amounts of complaints that we have received from the fans in Dallas, we would have to say that comedian Katt Williams’ no show for The Katt Williams experience Still has folks talking.
But not to be lost in all of the drama of Katt Williams, Codeblack Entertainment still produced a duo comedy show that kicked off the weekend despite the turbulent start with the inclement weather. The Shaq’s Comedy All Stars shows both were sold out, as they featured comedians Mo’Nique, Mike Epps, DeRay Davis, Kevin Hart, Bruce Bruce, George Wilborn,...
Due to the enormous amounts of complaints that we have received from the fans in Dallas, we would have to say that comedian Katt Williams’ no show for The Katt Williams experience Still has folks talking.
But not to be lost in all of the drama of Katt Williams, Codeblack Entertainment still produced a duo comedy show that kicked off the weekend despite the turbulent start with the inclement weather. The Shaq’s Comedy All Stars shows both were sold out, as they featured comedians Mo’Nique, Mike Epps, DeRay Davis, Kevin Hart, Bruce Bruce, George Wilborn,...
- 2/15/2010
- by noreply@blogger.com (The Humor Mill Magazine)
- Humor Mill Magazine
· Oscar-nominee, talk show queen and fake orgasm virtuoso Mo'Nique has signed on to emcee Shaquille O'Neal Presents: All-Star Comedy Jam for Showtime. The star-packed comedy special will be taped in Dallas the night before the Feb. 14 NBA All-Star Game and will co-star fellow comics George Willborn, Mike Epps and Paul Mooney. The event will be produced by Codeblack Entertainment, Shaq Entertainment and Aeg Live. Acknowledged Codeblack CEO Jeff Clanagan, "It's a testament to the strength of the All-Star Comedy Jam franchise that Codeblack and Aeg Live locked in a comedienne as talented as Mo'Nique." Maybe, maybe not; it's not like she'd be doing anything else -- like Oscar campaigning -- that night. [THR]
Arianna Huffington casts her first Freshman, Dancing With the Stars taps Baywatch talent, and more TV Bites after the jump.
Arianna Huffington casts her first Freshman, Dancing With the Stars taps Baywatch talent, and more TV Bites after the jump.
- 2/4/2010
- Movieline - TVline
Oscar nominee and talk show host Mo'Nique will emcee a celebrity-filled comedy special.
The "Precious" star will host "Shaquille O'Neal Presents: All-Star Comedy Jam" from Codeblack Entertainment, Shaq Entertainment and Aeg Live.
The event will be taped in Dallas on the eve of the Feb. 14 NBA All-Star Game and is set to air on Showtime. Performers include comedians George Willborn, Mike Epps, Paul Mooney, Michael Blackson and Corey Holcomb.
"It's a testament to the strength of the All-Star Comedy Jam franchise that Codeblack and Aeg Live locked in a comedienne as talented as Mo'Nique," Codeblack Entertainment CEO Jeff Clanagan said. "We're looking to make comedy history because of the chemistry between her and Shaq and all the other talented comics in the lineup."
Mo'Nique's star is rising following her Oscar nom for best supporting actress in "Precious" and wins at the Golden Globes and SAG Awards.
The "Precious" star will host "Shaquille O'Neal Presents: All-Star Comedy Jam" from Codeblack Entertainment, Shaq Entertainment and Aeg Live.
The event will be taped in Dallas on the eve of the Feb. 14 NBA All-Star Game and is set to air on Showtime. Performers include comedians George Willborn, Mike Epps, Paul Mooney, Michael Blackson and Corey Holcomb.
"It's a testament to the strength of the All-Star Comedy Jam franchise that Codeblack and Aeg Live locked in a comedienne as talented as Mo'Nique," Codeblack Entertainment CEO Jeff Clanagan said. "We're looking to make comedy history because of the chemistry between her and Shaq and all the other talented comics in the lineup."
Mo'Nique's star is rising following her Oscar nom for best supporting actress in "Precious" and wins at the Golden Globes and SAG Awards.
- 2/3/2010
- by By James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
If you happened to watch the Red Carpet of the Critics Choice Awards (and the ratings state that you probably didn't) The Queen Of Comedy Mo'Nique was asked if she was ever going back to comedy. Mo'Nique then stated that not only has she never left comedy she plans on going back on tour at the end of February, or early March to at least 30 cities. No word yet on which cities she plans on touring but we will let you know as soon as we find out. If you can't wait to see her perform, she is about to host The Shaquille O'Neal All Star Comedy Jam in Dallas during the NBA All Star Weekend. The show features Mike Epps, Michael Blackson, Paul Mooney and Corey Holcomb to name a few, and is produced by Codeblack Entertainment.
Mo'Nique, the current Host of late night show on Bet titled The Mo'Nique Show,...
Mo'Nique, the current Host of late night show on Bet titled The Mo'Nique Show,...
- 1/19/2010
- by noreply@blogger.com (The Humor Mill Magazine)
- Humor Mill Magazine
Showtime is celebrating Black History Month with premieres of a new comedy documentary, a Tyler Perry film and stand-up specials throughout the month of February.
"Why We Laugh" will premiere on Thursday, February 4 at 8:00 pm and will feature various comedians examining the cultural, political and historical influence of black comedy. The documentary was directed by filmmaker Robert Townsend and is the centerpiece of the network's annual Black History Month celebration. Townsend will poll a diverse roster of comics, scholars and cultural critics including Bill Cosby, Stanley Crouch, Dick Gregory, Steve Harvey and Chris Rock, among others.
Tyler Perry's blockbuster drama "The Family That Preys" starring Alfre Woodard, Sanaa Lathan and Rockmond Dunbar will premiere on Saturday, February 13 at 9:00 pm.
Showtime will also be premiering new stand-up comedy specials from comedians such as Paul Mooney, Tony Roberts and Leslie "Big Les" Jones. Fans can also catch a host...
"Why We Laugh" will premiere on Thursday, February 4 at 8:00 pm and will feature various comedians examining the cultural, political and historical influence of black comedy. The documentary was directed by filmmaker Robert Townsend and is the centerpiece of the network's annual Black History Month celebration. Townsend will poll a diverse roster of comics, scholars and cultural critics including Bill Cosby, Stanley Crouch, Dick Gregory, Steve Harvey and Chris Rock, among others.
Tyler Perry's blockbuster drama "The Family That Preys" starring Alfre Woodard, Sanaa Lathan and Rockmond Dunbar will premiere on Saturday, February 13 at 9:00 pm.
Showtime will also be premiering new stand-up comedy specials from comedians such as Paul Mooney, Tony Roberts and Leslie "Big Les" Jones. Fans can also catch a host...
- 1/18/2010
- icelebz.com
The Laugh Factory in Hollywood will hold a very special celebrity charity event on Christmas Day.
The 30th annual Laugh Factory Toy Giveaway and Free Christmas Dinner will offer free meals and toys to struggling families and anyone who is alone for the holiday.
Seatings are available at 1:00, 3:00, 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. Each meal service will feature performances by comedians Paul Rodriguez, Dane Cook, Tom Arnold, Paul Mooney, Larry Miller among others.
Read more...
The 30th annual Laugh Factory Toy Giveaway and Free Christmas Dinner will offer free meals and toys to struggling families and anyone who is alone for the holiday.
Seatings are available at 1:00, 3:00, 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. Each meal service will feature performances by comedians Paul Rodriguez, Dane Cook, Tom Arnold, Paul Mooney, Larry Miller among others.
Read more...
- 12/23/2009
- Look to the Stars
Paul Mooney is well known to stand-up comedians for his own work and for writing for his longtime friend, Richard Pryor. Outside of that, though, his name recognition gets a little fuzzier. So for TV comedy fans, Mooney's new memoir, Black Is the New White, provides some great behind-the-scenes moments they should probably know.
There are a lot of heartfelt stories about Richard Pryor and Mooney's own personal life, but there is a lot of fun TV trivia, as well. Mooney talks about getting forced onstage by a couple of friends to do his first solo stand-up spot in the early 60s in San Francisco. Mooney is drunk and nervous, and winds up doing the act of a comic named Ronnie Schell, who would later co-star with Jim Nabors on Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. Mooney admits whenever he catches the show in reruns, he feels a little guilty.
There are a lot of heartfelt stories about Richard Pryor and Mooney's own personal life, but there is a lot of fun TV trivia, as well. Mooney talks about getting forced onstage by a couple of friends to do his first solo stand-up spot in the early 60s in San Francisco. Mooney is drunk and nervous, and winds up doing the act of a comic named Ronnie Schell, who would later co-star with Jim Nabors on Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. Mooney admits whenever he catches the show in reruns, he feels a little guilty.
- 11/9/2009
- by Nick Zaino
- Aol TV.
Roadside Attractions and Liddell Entertainment have acquired worldwide rights to Chris Rock's "Good Hair."
The HBO Films documentary, which won a special jury prize when it premiered at Sundance in January, looks at hair culture in the black community. Roadside plans to release the film theatrically in the fall.
"I'm very happy to be working with the good people at Roadside Attractions," Rock said. "I loved the job they did with 'Super Size Me' and hope we can have similar success."
Lionsgate will handle home video and other domestic ancillary rights, and HBO will retain pay cable rights and broadcast the film in its traditional pay TV window. Icm repped the film.
Rock produced and co-wrote "Hair," and Jeff Stilson directed. The doc is a travelogue that explores the way hairstyles affect the activities, pocketbooks, sexual relationships and self-esteem of black people. Ice-t, Nia Long, Paul Mooney,...
The HBO Films documentary, which won a special jury prize when it premiered at Sundance in January, looks at hair culture in the black community. Roadside plans to release the film theatrically in the fall.
"I'm very happy to be working with the good people at Roadside Attractions," Rock said. "I loved the job they did with 'Super Size Me' and hope we can have similar success."
Lionsgate will handle home video and other domestic ancillary rights, and HBO will retain pay cable rights and broadcast the film in its traditional pay TV window. Icm repped the film.
Rock produced and co-wrote "Hair," and Jeff Stilson directed. The doc is a travelogue that explores the way hairstyles affect the activities, pocketbooks, sexual relationships and self-esteem of black people. Ice-t, Nia Long, Paul Mooney,...
- 5/14/2009
- by By Jay A. Fernandez
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
We like to keep you informed about film-related auctions here at Boxwish. Often this takes the form of iconic props, memorable movie fashions or even classic cars. Such rare chances to snaffle up some silver screen goodies require deep pockets in these cash-strapped times, but the latest film treasure to go under the hammer is only for the seriously loaded – we’re talking property here people as the farmhouse belonging to Uncle Monty in Brit comedy cult classic Withnail And I can be yours for upwards of £145,000.
Sleddale Hall, an 18th Century farmhouse near Shap in Cumbria’s Lake District is owned by water company United Utilities (Uu) and now they’re looking to offload the property for the right price. The property itself is pretty isolated, only accessible via a dirt track and one mile from the nearest house and nearly two from the nearest public road. It has...
Sleddale Hall, an 18th Century farmhouse near Shap in Cumbria’s Lake District is owned by water company United Utilities (Uu) and now they’re looking to offload the property for the right price. The property itself is pretty isolated, only accessible via a dirt track and one mile from the nearest house and nearly two from the nearest public road. It has...
- 1/21/2009
- Boxwish.com
Bill Cosby has joined a who's who of black comedians for the Robert Townsend-directed documentary Why We Laugh: Black Comedians on Black Comedy.
The Codeblack Entertainment docu, inspired by a book by comedian and writer Darryl Littleton, is a no-holds-barred, raw, uncensored and truthful look at black comedy and its cultural influence. It also takes a critical examination of the social impact of black comedy and its notable artists.
Cosby joins a cast of comedians that include Chris Rock, Steve Harvey, George Wallace, Paul Mooney and Katt Williams, among others.
Codeblack's Quincy Newell and Littleton are producing, along with Richard Foos. Codeblack's Jeff Clanagan is executive producing. Townsend and Angela Northingon are co-executive producing.
The Codeblack Entertainment docu, inspired by a book by comedian and writer Darryl Littleton, is a no-holds-barred, raw, uncensored and truthful look at black comedy and its cultural influence. It also takes a critical examination of the social impact of black comedy and its notable artists.
Cosby joins a cast of comedians that include Chris Rock, Steve Harvey, George Wallace, Paul Mooney and Katt Williams, among others.
Codeblack's Quincy Newell and Littleton are producing, along with Richard Foos. Codeblack's Jeff Clanagan is executive producing. Townsend and Angela Northingon are co-executive producing.
- 4/22/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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