The CW Rolls Out Premiere Dates for Summer Series





The CW Rolls Out Premiere Dates for Summer Series
“Masters of Illusion,” “Burden of Truth,” “Bulletproof” and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us” are all due back.

[via press release from The CW]

THE CW ROLLS OUT PREMIERE DATES FOR SUMMER SERIES

“Masters of Illusion” Premieres New Season on Friday, May 15 at 8pm

“Burden of Truth” Season Three Premieres Thursday, May 21 at 8pm

Season Two of “Bulletproof” Debuts Wednesday, June 17 at 9pm

New Season of “Penn & Teller: Fool Us” Kicks off Monday, June 22 at 9pm

March 31, 2020 (Burbank, CA) – The CW Network today announced premiere dates for four of its summer series, including scripted dramas BULLETPROOF and BURDEN OF TRUTH, as well as the magical MASTERS OF ILLUSION and PENN & TELLER: FOOL US.

MASTERS OF ILLUSION returns for more magical surprises on Friday, May 15 (8:00-8:30pm ET/PT), with back-to-back original episodes on premiere night.

Kristin Kreuk is back for season three of the legal drama BURDEN OF TRUTH on Thursday, May 21 (8:00-9:00pm ET/PT), paired with IN THE DARK (9:00-10:00pm ET/PT).

The second season of the action-packed drama series BULLETPROOF, starring Noel Clarke and Ashley Walters, will premiere on Wednesday, June 17 (9:00-10:00pm ET/PT).

The new season of The CW’s hit summer series PENN & TELLER: FOOL US debuts on Monday, June 22 (9:00-10:00pm ET/PT), following an hour of improv from WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY?.

Hosted by actor Dean Cain (“Supergirl,” “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman”), MASTERS OF ILLUSION features amazing magic performed by cutting-edge illusionists, escape artists and performers in each episode displaying skills ranging from perplexing interactive mind magic to hilarious comedy routines. Live audience members and viewers at home will be baffled by the astounding skills of these modern illusionists. MASTERS OF ILLUSION is from Associated Television International with executive producers David McKenzie (“The 38th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards,” “Marie”), Gay Blackstone (“The World Magic Awards” 2007-2009), David Martin (“The World Magic Awards” 2007-2009, “Marie”), and Al Schwartz (“The 38th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards,” “The Golden Globe Awards” 2013 and 2014, “The Gulf is Back”), along with co-executive producer Jim Romanovich (“From Rocky to Creed: The Legacy Continues”)

As season three of BURDEN OF TRUTH begins, Joanna Chang (Kristin Kreuk) and Billy Crawford (Peter Mooney) are finally a couple. They’re also a boutique law firm – Crawford Chang. They’re partners in law and partners in life, but right now, their romantic relationship seems as tenuous as their financially strained firm. It’s not that Joanna and Billy aren’t in love – they are, but both have one foot in and one foot ready to bolt. Falling in love is frightening. Love makes you vulnerable, and for both Billy and Joanna, vulnerability is terrifying. They’re together, but they’re not all in. Any good lawyer knows that you always need to have an exit clause. BURDEN OF TRUTH is produced by IFC Films and Entertainment One in association with Eagle Vision Inc. with executive producers Ilana Frank (“The Detail”), Adam Pettle (“Rookie Blue”) Jocelyn Hamilton (“Private Eyes”), Linda Pope (“Saving Hope”) and Kristin Kreuk (“Beauty And The Beast”).

Adrenalin-fueled and packed with compelling characters, BULLETPROOF follows two undercover cops, Bishop (Noel Clarke, “Star Trek: Into Darkness”) and Pike (Ashley Walters, “Top Boy”) as they chase down hardened criminals in London’s East End. But the series is more than high-octane action and thrilling cases. On the surface, Bishop and Pike have a lot in common – they are cool, smart and unapologetically street-wise and tough. But even more, they share a deep, fraternal relationship and are always there for each other. Season Two of BULLETPROOF sees Bishop and Pike dragged into their most dangerous case yet. What starts out as a routine sting morphs into something far more perilous as they are sucked into the dangerous world of undercover policing. Bishop and Pike find themselves in a tense, heart-stopping game of ‘cat and mouse’ with a notorious and elusive crime family, whose connections spread far beyond the borders of London and the UK. Their chase for justice will take them from the streets of London to Amsterdam and Cyprus, where they will have to risk everything – including their police badges – to succeed. BULLETPROOF is from Vertigo Films in association with Unstoppable Film and Television, with executive producers Allan Niblo (“Britannia,” “Monsters”), Nick Love (“The Football Factory,” “The Sweeney”), Noel Clarke, and Ashley Walters. BULLETPROOF was co-funded by Sky Studios, and NBCUniversal Global Distribution is handling international sales for the series.

PENN & TELLER: FOOL US is a one-hour competition series celebrating magic and featuring the legendary duo Penn & Teller. On each episode of PENN & TELLER: FOOL US, aspiring magicians are invited to perform their best trick to try and fool the world-famous team of Penn & Teller. Anyone who succeeds wins the right to perform with Penn & Teller in their celebrated show at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The live studio audience and the TV audience watch along with Penn & Teller as they try to figure out the secrets. Penn & Teller see the trick only once and have to immediately try to work it out. The live studio audience knows there are no camera tricks, secret edits or helpful camera cuts. This is all real magic. PENN & TELLER: FOOL US, hosted by actress Alyson Hannigan (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “How I Met Your Mother”), is created and executive produced by Penn Jillette, Teller, Peter Adam Golden (“Penn & Teller’s BS – Showtime,” “Penn & Teller Tell A Lie”) and Andrew Golder (“Win Ben Stein’s Money,” “Solitary”), in association with 1/17 Productions and September Films (part of DCD Media).

FRIDAY, MAY 15
8:00-8:30pm MASTERS OF ILLUSION (Season Premiere)
8:30-9:00pm MASTERS OF ILLUSION (Special Original Episode)

THURSDAY, MAY 21
8:00-9:00pm BURDEN OF TRUTH (Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00pm IN THE DARK (Original Episode)

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17
9:00-10:00pm BULLETPROOF (Season Premiere)

MONDAY, JUNE 22
8:00-8:30pm WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY? (Original Episode)
8:30-9:00pm WHOSE LINE IS IT ANYWAY? (Encore Episode)
9:00-10:00pm PENN & TELLER: FOOL US (Season Premiere)



NFL Clubs Approve Expansion of Postseason





NFL Clubs Approve Expansion of Postseason
The NFL last expanded the playoffs for the 1990 season, increasing from 10 to 12 the number of teams to qualify for the postseason.

[via press release from NFL]

NFL CLUBS APPROVE EXPANSION OF POSTSEASON

14 TEAMS TO QUALIFY FOR PLAYOFFS BEGINNING WITH 2020 SEASON – ONE ADDITIONAL WILD CARD TEAM ADDED IN EACH CONFERENCE

CBS, NBC TO BROADCAST ADDITIONAL WILD CARD GAME

NFL clubs voted today to expand the postseason by two teams beginning with the 2020 season.

Expanding the NFL postseason was addressed in the new NFL-NFLPA Collective BargainingAgreement. Players and clubs both recognized that nothing energizes fans like the chance to see their team qualify for the playoffs and compete for the Super Bowl.

Today’s vote during a league meeting held remotely follows the recommendation of the Competition Committee, Management Council Executive Committee and Media Committee on increasing the number of playoff teams from 12 to 14.

Two additional Wild Card teams – one each in the American and National Football Conferences – will qualify for the playoffs. The No. 1 seed in each conference will receive a bye in the Wild Card round. The remaining division champions in each conference with the best records will be seeded 2, 3, and 4, followed by the next three teams per conference with the best records seeded 5, 6, and 7.

AFC and NFC Wild Card games will feature the 2 seed hosting the 7 seed, the 3 seed hosting the 6 seed and the 4 seed hosting the 5 seed.

Wild Card Weekend for the 2020 season will consist of three games on Saturday, January 9, and three games on Sunday, January 10, 2021.

CBS will broadcast one additional Wild Card game on January 10 with kickoff at approximately 4:40 p.m. ET. The game will also be available via a livestream on CBS All Access. Additionally, as part of CBS’ coverage, a separately produced telecast of the game will air on Nickelodeon, tailored for a younger audience.

NBC, its new streaming service Peacock, as well as Telemundo will all broadcast an additional Wild Card game on January 10 with kickoff at approximately 8:15 p.m. ET.

The NFL last expanded the playoffs for the 1990 season, increasing from 10 to 12 the number of teams to qualify for the postseason. Since 1990, at least four new teams have qualified for the playoffs that missed the postseason the year before – a streak of 30 consecutive seasons.



BYUtv Announces New, Returning Unscripted Spring Premieres





BYUtv Announces New, Returning Unscripted Spring Premieres
Newcomers include “Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ,” “The Wizard of Paws,” “Step Up to the Plate” and “Jeff’s Homemade Game Show.”

[via press release from BYUtv]

BYUtv Announces New, Returning Unscripted Spring Premieres

“Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ,” “The Wizard of Paws,” “Step Up to the Plate” and “Jeff’s Homemade Game Show” Debut

“Making Good,” “Studio C” and “Best Cake Wins” Return

PROVO, Utah, March 31, 2020 — BYUtv, a family entertainment network available over cable, satellite and streaming, today announced the spring premiere dates of a slew of unscripted shows, including a comedy bootcamp, an animal prosthetics series, a housebound game show and a kids’ cooking competition. The spring premiere schedule of new and returning shows is as follows:

Wednesday, April 1

“Making Good” (season 2) at 8:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. MT/5:30 p.m. PT

Monday, April 6

“Studio C” (season 11) at 7:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. MT/4:30 p.m. PT (previously scheduled for Monday, March 16)

“Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ” (season 1) at 8 p.m. ET/6 p.m. MT/5 p.m. PT (SERIES PREMIERE)

Wednesday, April 8

“The Wizard of Paws” (season 1) at 9 p.m. ET/7 p.m. MT/6 p.m. PT (SERIES PREMIERE)

Tuesday, May 12

“Best Cake Wins” (season 3) at 8 p.m. ET/6 p.m. MT/5 p.m. PT

“Step Up to the Plate” (season 1) at 8:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. MT/5:30 p.m. PT (SERIES PREMIERE)

“Jeff’s Homemade Game Show” (season 1) at 9 p.m. ET/7 p.m. MT/6 p.m. PT (SERIES PREMIERE)

“Viewers will be riveted as Wayne Brady mentors the next generation of comics, animals receive custom prosthetics, and a game show is created and played in contestants’ own houses,” said Michael Dunn, managing director of BYUtv. “While families find themselves at home looking for uplifting content they can enjoy together, they can binge our long-running shows to prepare for the upcoming season premieres as well as enjoy our incredible new series that inspire hope in unique ways.”

BYUtv’s new comedy competition series “Wayne Brady’s Comedy IQ” was created and hosted by multiple Emmy-winning and Grammy-nominated Wayne Brady and his producing partner, Mandie Taketa. Talented young people from across the country compete in a one-of-a-kind performers’ bootcamp to demonstrate the highest “comedy IQ.” Each new challenge teaches them to be multi-faceted in writing, directing, performing and creating comedic and musical content. Along the way, the teens learn universal skills that can bring them success in the real world. The 10-episode unscripted series was executive produced by Wayne Brady, Mandie Taketa, Queen Latifah, Shakim Compere, Mechelle Collins and Kevin Dill of Intuitive Entertainment (Bravo’s “The Millionaire Matchmaker,” Lifetime’s “The Rap Game”) and BYUtv.

Inspirational new 10-episode series “The Wizard of Paws” profiles Derrick Campana as he continues his longstanding mission of charitably dedicating his time to crafting custom prosthetics for animals of all sizes from elephants to rabbits. Derrick will assist a loving dwarf pony who is unable to stand for longer than a few minutes, a bubbly golden retriever who struggles to walk because of her deformed back paws, a sensitive two-year-old potbelly pig who has a connective tissue disorder that affects all four of his legs, and many more heartwarming animals. “The Wizard of Paws” is a partnership between BYUtv and The Dodo, the most engaged with media brand on mobile and no. 1 media brand for reach on mobile in the United States. Hyundai will exclusively sponsor the show with product placement as part of a larger campaign, “Better Together.”

“Step Up to the Plate” is a 15-episode competitive cooking series that aired on CBBC, the British children’s channel owned by the BBC. In the energetic show, a “Kitchen Crew” made up of children ages 10 to 14 runs a busy restaurant, dealing with obstacles they would face in the real world. Themed menus, including diner, zombie, tropical, medieval and magical, stretch their imaginations. “Step Up to the Plate” was acquired from Cineflix (HGTV’s “Property Brothers,” History’s “American Pickers”).

Created and hosted by Second City alum Jeff Rogers, “Jeff’s Homemade Game Show” turns a visit to a family’s home into an instant game show using common on-site household objects, locations and activities. Family members can win cash and prizes by participating in homegrown challenges such as stacking cans from their kitchen into a pyramid, returning items that have been removed from their living room to the correct locations, catapulting cereal into a milk-filled bowl, collecting as much loose change as possible, and guessing the expiration date of a condiment in their refrigerator. The 10-episode series was co-produced by BYUtv and World View Productions, whose credits include A&E, FX, PBS, Showtime and more.

In addition to the shows above, BYUtv’s returning original programming slate this spring includes “Making Good,” an unscripted series chronicling one man’s quest to serve, featuring Kirby Heyborne (“The Three Stooges”); the long-running sketch comedy series “Studio C,” which touts nearly 2 billion views on YouTube; and “Best Cake Wins,” a fun and family-friendly baking competition series designed to make a child’s most desired birthday cake a reality. BYUtv is available across the country via cable, satellite and multiple digital media platforms.

For a complete listing of BYUtv’s programming and to view full episodes, visit www.byutv.org or download the free app. Press access to video, photo and other assets is available at www.byutv.org/pressinfo.

About BYUtv

BYUtv provides families more than 1,700 hours of entertaining and compelling programming they can enjoy together. The network’s content is trusted, contemporary and clean, yet clever and sophisticated enough to inspire children and parents alike. BYUtv’s diverse portfolio of original, co-produced and acquired content includes scripted and unscripted dramas and comedies, 700+ hours of live HD collegiate sports, game shows, and holiday special made-for-tv movies, docudramas and concerts. BYUtv is available in more than 50 million homes in every state of the country on DISH Network, DirecTV and 146 other major cable systems. A digital pioneer, BYUtv was the first U.S. television network to stream all of its content live and unencrypted over the Internet. Today, BYUtv has more than two million YouTube subscribers and nearly two billion views and is available live and on-demand on multiple digital platforms free of charge, including Apple TV, YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, Chromecast, Xbox One, Windows Media, digital apps for iOS and Android, and BYUtv.org. Based in Provo, Utah, BYUtv is part of BYU Broadcasting, which is owned by Brigham Young University.



Video: “Prodigal Son” Returns in Three Weeks





Video: “Prodigal Son” Returns in Three Weeks, With Bigger Twists and Turns Than Ever Before
April 20 and April 27 will mark the final two episodes of the season.

[via press release from FOX]

A NEW MONSTER EMERGES

“PRODIGAL SON” RETURNS IN THREE WEEKS, WITH BIGGER TWISTS AND TURNS THAN EVER BEFORE

Watch/Share An All-New Promo:

Don’t Miss the Final Two Episodes of the Season, Beginning Monday, April 20 @ 9/8c on FOX

OFFICIAL “PRODIGAL SON” SOCIAL INFORMATION OFFICIAL FACEBOOK: ProdigalSonFOX OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM: ProdigalSonFOX OFFICIAL TWITTER: ProdigalSonFOX Join the Discussion: #ProdigalSon



MY BRILLIANT FRIEND: THE STORY OF A NEW NAME – April Episodes





MY BRILLIANT FRIEND: THE STORY OF A NEW NAME – April Episodes

Episode 4: “The Kiss”
Debut date: MONDAY, APRIL 6 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT)
Elena (Margherita Mazzucco) agrees to a holiday in Ischia with Lila (Gaia Girace), knowing that Nino Sarratore (Francesco Serpico) will also be on the island.
Written by Elena Ferrante, Francesco Piccolo, Laura Paolucci and Saverio Costanzo; directed by Alice Rohrwacher.

Episode 5: “The Betrayal”
Debut date: MONDAY, APRIL 13 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT)
On Ischia, an agonizing rift begins to form between Elena (Margherita Mazzucco) and Lila (Gaia Girace).
Written by Elena Ferrante, Francesco Piccolo, Laura Paolucci and Saverio Costanzo; directed by Alice Rohrwacher.

Episode 6: “Rage”
Debut date: MONDAY, APRIL 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT)
Elena (Margherita Mazzucco) plunges headfirst into her academic future, while Lila (Gaia Girace) tackles problems of an entirely different nature.
Written by Elena Ferrante, Francesco Piccolo, Laura Paolucci and Saverio Costanzo; directed by Saverio Costanzo.

Episode 7: “Ghosts”
Debut date: MONDAY, APRIL 27 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT)
In reading Lila’s private diaries, Elena (Margherita Mazzucco), now an accomplished college student, realizes how much her friend’s new role has changed her.
Written by Elena Ferrante, Francesco Piccolo, Laura Paolucci and Saverio Costanzo; directed by Saverio Costanzo.

An HBO, Rai Fiction series, produced by Lorenzo Mieli and Mario Gianani for The Apartment and Wildside, both part of Fremantle, and by Domenico Procacci for Fandango, in collaboration with Rai Fiction, In collaboration with HBO Entertainment, In co-production with Mowe and Umedia. Internationally distributed by Fremantle in collaboration with Rai Com; executive producers, Lorenzo Mieli, Mario Gianani, Domenico Procacci, Paolo Sorrentino, Jennifer Schuur, Elena Recchia, Guido De Laurentiis. Based on Elena Ferrante’s bestselling book of the same name, which is the second of her four-part series published in the U.S. by Europa Editions.



Video: Trailer – Hulu Original Series “Normal People”





Video: Trailer – Hulu Original Series “Normal People”
The half-hour series, based on Sally Rooney’s best-selling novel, premieres with all 12 episodes, Wednesday, April 29.

[via press release from Hulu]

TRAILER: Hulu Original Series Normal People

Today, Hulu released the official trailer for Normal People, a 30-minute drama series based on Sally Rooney’s best-selling novel. Normal People premieres with all 12 episodes, Wednesday, April 29th, only on Hulu.

Synopsis:

Based on Sally Rooney’s New York Times best-selling novel, Normal People tracks the tender but complicated relationship of Marianne and Connell from the end of their school days in a. small-town west of Ireland to their undergraduate years at Trinity College. At school, he’s well-liked and popular, while she’s lonely, proud and intimidating. But when Connell comes to pick up his mother from her cleaning job at Marianne’s house, a strange and indelible connection grows between the two teenagers – one they are determined to conceal. A year later, they’re both studying in Dublin and Marianne has found her feet in a new social world but Connell hangs at the side lines, shy and uncertain.

Honest, smart and intoxicating, Normal People sees the pair weave in and out of each other’s lives and explores just how complicated intimacy and young love can be.

The series stars Daisy Edgar-Jones (War of the Worlds, Cold Feet) as Marianne, and Paul Mescal, in his first television role, as Connell.

Lenny Abrahamson (ROOM, THE LITTLE STRANGER, FRANK) and Hettie McDonald will direct the series, with Abrahamson directing the first six and McDonald directing the final six.

Adapted by Sally Rooney alongside writers Alice Birch and Mark O’Rowe, Normal People is a 12-episode 30-minute drama series. Normal People is an Element Pictures production (THE FAVOURITE, THE LOBSTER, Dublin Murders) for Hulu and BBC Three. The series is executive produced by Ed Guiney (THE FAVOURITE, ROOM, THE LOBSTER, Dublin Murders), Andrew Lowe (THE FAVOURITE, ROOM, THE LOBSTER), Emma Norton (ROSIE, A DATE FOR MAD MARY), and Anna Ferguson (No Offense, Prisoners’ Wives) for Element Pictures. Sally Rooney and Lenny Abrahamson will also serve as executive producers. Endeavour Content will serve as the international distributor.

The series will premiere in the UK on BBC Three on April 26th.



Duff Goldman and His Talented Team Are Back to Create New Cake Masterpieces





Duff Goldman and His Talented Team Are Back to Create New Cake Masterpieces on the Return of “Duff Takes the Cake”
The series will have a special sneak peek on Sunday, May 3 following the finale of “Buddy vs. Duff” with remaining new episodes premiering Mondays at 10:00/9:00c beginning May 4.

[via press release from Food Network]

DUFF GOLDMAN AND HIS TALENTED TEAM ARE BACK TO CREATE NEW CAKE MASTERPIECES ON THE RETURN OF “DUFF TAKES THE CAKE”

New Season Premieres on Monday, May 4th at 10pm ET/PT with a Special Sneak Peek on Sunday, May 3rd at 10pm ET/PT Following the Finale of Buddy vs. Duff

New York – March 31, 2020 – Duff Goldman and his Charm City Cake team of decorators, designers and builders return with an all-new array of top-tier cakes that are beyond wild imagination on the new season of Duff Takes The Cake. For years renowned clients have come to the Ace of Cakes star for his artistry and ability to design marvelous edible masterpieces made entirely of cake for noteworthy celebrations and A-list events. Now, Duff and his team are using their master skills to design epic cakes for deserving, good-hearted people serving their communities, to celebrate their hard work and special milestones. It’s no cakewalk, as Duff and his team must work around the clock to meet impossible deadlines, defeat design challenges, and overcome delivery obstacles, but the reactions to their incredible creations are always the icing on the cake. Duff Takes The Cake will have a special sneak peek on Sunday, May 3rd at 10pm ET/PT following the finale of Buddy vs. Duff with remaining new episodes premiering Mondays at 10pm ET/PT beginning May 4th.

“Duff Goldman is the master of dazzling and astonishing cakes, mixing unrestrained creativity and ingenuity in each and every one of his one-of-a-kind cakes designs,” said Courtney White, President, Food Network. “The new season will warm viewers’ hearts as Duff and his talented team build and deliver cakes to well deserving people and audiences will be entertained with witty, behind the scenes moments as the spectacular cakes come to life.”

Throughout the five half-hour long episodes, no job is too big, and no detail is too small for this crew of confectionery masters as they transform last-minute, heartfelt requests into innovative cakes, often facing unforeseeable challenges along the way. From a life-size angel cake for volunteers of Project Angel Food, who prepare and deliver healthy meals to the sick, to a Star Wars droid cake with a twist for kids who are leading the way with science and technology innovation, and to a deceptively real grill cake with meat barbecuing for a celebration for the Los Angeles Fire and Police Departments, these cakes always impress as an added surprise for these celebrations.

Every cake must be as special as its recipients and it must arrive intact and on time, to some of the wildest locations including a prehistoric dinosaur-themed cake to brighten the day for two children at Jurassic World(TM) at Universal Studios Hollywood, and a whale-watching cake presented on a boat off the coast in the Pacific Ocean. The season also features more outrageous cakes including for the cast of Cirque du Soleil’s Volta, local elementary school kids learning about health and wellness with Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team, and for a Scottish festival celebrating strength and skill with Highland games. Nothing is too crazy or over-the-top as Duff Takes the Cake!

Fans can watch Duff take on culinary challenges and check out his best creations by following #DuffTakesTheCake. Plus, get his expert tips on boosting your baking skills at FoodNetwork.com/DuffTakesTheCake.

# # #

FOOD NETWORK (www.foodnetwork.com) is a unique lifestyle network, website and magazine that connects viewers to the power and joy of food. The network strives to be viewers’ best friend in food and is committed to leading by teaching, inspiring, empowering and entertaining through its talent and expertise. Food Network is distributed to nearly 100 million U.S. households and draws over 46 million unique web users monthly. Since launching in 2009, Food Network Magazine’s rate base has grown 13 times and is the No. 2 best-selling monthly magazine on the newsstand, with 13.5 million readers. Food Network is owned by Discovery, Inc., a global leader in real life entertainment spanning 220 countries and territories; the portfolio also includes Discovery Channel, HGTV, TLC, Investigation Discovery, and OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network.



ESPN and Netflix Set New April 19 Premiere Date





ESPN and Netflix Set New April 19 Premiere Date for Highly Anticipated Documentary Series “The Last Dance”
The series, directed by Jason Hehir, chronicles one of the greatest icons and most successful teams in sports history, Michael Jordan and the 1990s Chicago Bulls.

[via press release from ESPN]

ESPN and Netflix Set New April 19 Premiere Date for Highly Anticipated Documentary Series “The Last Dance”

10-part documentary series on Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ quest for a sixth NBA Championship in 1998 is produced by Mandalay Sports Media, in association with NBA Entertainment and Jump 23

March 31, 2020 – Today it was announced that the premiere of “The Last Dance,” the highly anticipated 10-part documentary series will air on ESPN in the U.S. on Sunday nights over five weeks from April 19 through May 17. The series will also be available outside of the U.S. on Netflix.

The series, directed by Jason Hehir (“The Fab Five,” “The ’85 Bears,” “Andre the Giant”), chronicles one of the greatest icons and most successful teams in sports history, Michael Jordan and the 1990s Chicago Bulls, and features never-before-seen footage from the 1997-98 season as the team pursued its sixth NBA championship in eight years.

ESPN statement: “As society navigates this time without live sports, viewers are still looking to the sports world to escape and enjoy a collective experience. We’ve heard the calls from fans asking us to move up the release date for this series, and we’re happy to announce that we’ve been able to accelerate the production schedule to do just that. This project celebrates one of the greatest players and dynasties ever, and we hope it can serve as a unifying entertainment experience to fill the role that sports often play in our lives, telling a story that will captivate everyone, not just sports fans.”

In the fall of 1997, Michael Jordan, Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf and head coach Phil Jackson agreed to let an NBA Entertainment film crew follow the team all season long. The result would be a remarkable portrait of an iconic player and a celebrated team – a portrait only now being revealed, more than two decades later, in “The Last Dance.”

As the series weaves its way through the tumultuous 1997-98 season, viewers will be transported back to how it all began – from Jordan’s childhood roots, the Bulls’ dire circumstances before his arrival and how the team was built after drafting him in 1984, to the struggles that eventually led to the team’s first NBA championship. As the series takes the audience through the Bulls’ first five championships, viewers will experience the off-court challenges, struggles and triumphs that were a part of the culture-shifting phenomenon created by Jordan and the Bulls.

It’s an unlikely scenario that serves as a fascinating backdrop for the inside tale of the 1998 championship run, with extensive profiles of Jordan’s key teammates including Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman and Steve Kerr, head coach Phil Jackson, and featuring dozens of current-day interviews with rivals and luminaries from basketball and beyond. All throughout, the tension and conflict that defined that final championship run are very much on display.

“Michael Jordan and the ’90s Bulls weren’t just sports superstars, they were a global phenomenon,” said director Jason Hehir. “Making ‘The Last Dance’ was an incredible opportunity to explore the extraordinary impact of one man and one team. For nearly three years, we searched far and wide to present the definitive story of an era-defining dynasty and to present these sports heroes as humans. I hope viewers enjoy watching our series as much as we enjoyed the opportunity to make it.”

The result is one of the most fascinating sports documentary series ever produced – a series viewers won’t want to miss. The full episodic documentary will air on ESPN in the U.S. and on Netflix outside of the U.S. as follows:

ESPN

Sunday, April 19
9 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 1
10 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 2

Sunday, April 26
7 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 1
8 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 2
9 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 3
10 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 4

Sunday, May 3
7 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 3
8 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 4
9 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 5
10 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 6

Sunday, May 10
7 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 5
8 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 6
9 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 7
10 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 8

Sunday, May 17
7 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 7
8 p.m. ET – Re-air of “The Last Dance” Episode 8
9 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 9
10 p.m. ET – Premiere of “The Last Dance” Episode 10

NETFLIX (outside of the U.S.)
Monday, April 20 – 12:01 a.m. PT – “The Last Dance” Episodes 1 and 2
Monday, April 27 – 12:01 a.m. PT – “The Last Dance” Episodes 3 and 4
Monday, May 4 – 12:01 a.m. PT – “The Last Dance” Episodes 5 and 6
Monday, May 11 – 12:01 a.m. PT – “The Last Dance” Episodes 7 and 8
Monday, May 18 – 12:01 a.m. PT – “The Last Dance” Episodes 9 and 10

Immediately following each episode’s linear ESPN premiere, it will be available to authenticated subscribers on the ESPN App via mobile and connected TV devices, ESPN.com and ESPN on Demand via cable, satellite and DMVPD distributors.



“The Masked Singer: Sing-Along” Special to Air Wednesday, April 15 at 8/7c on FOX





“”The Masked Singer: Sing-Along” Special to Air Wednesday, April 15 at 8/7c on FOX” Special to Air Wednesday, April 15 at 8/7c on FOX
The one-hour special was previously set for Tuesday, April 14; while the season finale is now slated for Wednesday, May 27.

[via press release from FOX]

ALL HAIL THE SUPER NINE!

THE SUPER NINE FINALISTS FROM GROUPS “A,” “B” AND “C” COME TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME ON AN ALL-NEW SPECIAL TWO-HOUR EPISODE OF “THE MASKED SINGER” THIS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1 @ 8/7c ON FOX!

WATCH/SHARE A SNEAK PEEK AT THE SUPER NINE’S GROUP PERFORMANCE!

“THE MASKED SINGER: SING-ALONG” SPECIAL TO AIR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 @ 8/7c ON FOX!

Gather the Family and Sing Along to The Best Performances of The Season!

THE TOP THREE FINALISTS WILL BE UNMASKED IN THE SEASON FINALE EPISODE AIRING WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 @8/7c ON FOX!

FACEBOOK: @MaskedSingerFOX TWITTER: @MaskedSingerFOX INSTAGRAM: @maskedsingerfox #TheMaskedSinger




Quibi Announces New Series “Fresh Dressed*” Featuring Celebrity Designer Fresh





Quibi Announces New Series “Fresh Dressed*” Featuring Celebrity Designer Fresh
The brand new series following celebrity designer and bespoke tailor to the stars, Fresh.

[via press release from Quibi]

QUIBI ANNOUNCES NEW SERIES “FRESH DRESSED*” FEATURING CELEBRITY DESIGNER FRESH

Series Produced by Magical Elves and 3 Arts Entertainment

Los Angeles, CA – March 30, 2020 – Today, Quibi announced FRESH DRESSED* (working title), a brand new series following celebrity designer and bespoke tailor to the stars, Fresh. FRESH DRESSED follows Fresh as he creates head-turning, custom looks for his A-list clients. His clientele includes Lena Waithe, Kevin Hart, John Legend, Dwyane Wade, Gabrielle Union and more. Fresh is a self-made luxury designer who is changing the narrative of black entrepreneurship in the fashion industry, while gaining popularity for his signature style and undeniable charisma. Under the label RichFresh, the bold designer is dressing some of the most stylish men and women in Hollywood.

The series is produced by Magical Elves and 3 Arts Entertainment, with Casey Kriley and Jo Sharon serving as executive producers for Magical Elves and Dunia McNeily and Luke Dillon executive producing for 3 Arts. Fresh and Eli Gill are also executive producers on the series.

Starring: Fresh

Executive Producers: Casey Kriley and Jo Sharon (Magical Elves); Dunia McNeily and Luke Dillon (3 Arts); Fresh and Eli Gill

Produced by: Magical Elves and 3 Arts Entertainment

Quibi launches on April 6. Sign-up for Quibi news and updates at www.Quibi.com to learn more about our limited time 90-day free trial offer that starts April 6.

About Fresh

Fresh grew up between Little Rock, AR and Memphis, TN. He moved to Los Angeles in 2013 to aggressively pursue fashion/tailoring. After working with Ermenegildo Zegna for a year, Fresh chose to step out and go into business for himself, creating the brand “Richfresh.”

As a child, Fresh taught himself to sew, sketch, and paint which would serve as useful tools later in his career. At the age of 20, after dropping out of college, he opened a tailoring and alterations shop in the artsy section of downtown Memphis. Struggling to find a fashion-forward base, he then moved to NYC. After tailoring for a few prominent menswear brands in New York, Fresh moved to LA to pursue a more colorful passion.

With a love for vibrance and colorblocking, Richfresh has become a name known amongst elite circles for his use of color and beautifully tailored garments.

About Magical Elves

Magical Elves is a leading producer of award-winning, non-fiction content for domestic and international television markets. Known for Emmy Award-winning hits like “Top Chef” (Bravo) and “Top Chef: Last Chance Kitchen” (Bravo), as well as Peabody Award-winning “Project Runway” (Bravo), Magical Elves is a veteran production company with a long track record of consistently delivering the highest quality programming. In addition to the “Brain Games” reboot (NatGeo), and their Emmy-nominated streaming success “Nailed It!” (Netflix), Magical Elves’ wide range of credits also include “Sugar Rush” (Netflix), “Braxton Family Values” (WEtv), “Shine On with Reese” (DirectTV), “All In With Cam Newton” (Nickelodeon), “Cold Justice” (Oxygen), and “Top Chef Junior” (Universal Kids), among many others. Magical Elves is a part of The Tinopolis Group’s portfolio of production companies.

About Quibi

Quibi is a mobile-first media technology platform bringing together the best of Silicon Valley and Hollywood. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Quibi is the first entertainment platform built for easy, on-the-go mobile viewing, allowing today’s leading studios and creative talent to tell original stories in an entirely new way. For more information visit www.quibi.com. Follow Quibi on Facebook @QuibiUS and on Twitter @Quibi.