Category: Bounce

Series Premiere of “Finding Happy” Saturday, September 24 at 8 p.m. ET

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Series Premiere of “Finding Happy” Saturday, September 24 at 8 p.m. ET with Back-to-Back Episodes on Bounce
Centering around the Black female experience through the eyes of protagonist Yaz Carter, “Finding Happy” is a dramedy about the unfulfilled life of Yaz, beginning with her unhappy thirty-sixth birthday.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
Series premiere of “Finding Happy” Saturday, September 24 at 8 p.m. ET with back-to-back episodes on Bounce

ATLANTA, Sept. 21, 2022 — Bounce, the popular broadcast and multi-platform entertainment network serving African Americans, will premiere its newest original series, “Finding Happy,” on Saturday, September 24 with the first two episodes airing back-to-back starting at 8 p.m. EDT.

Centering around the Black female experience through the eyes of protagonist Yaz Carter, “Finding Happy” is a dramedy about the unfulfilled life of Yaz, beginning with her unhappy thirty-sixth birthday. The 10-episode debut season features Yaz’s loving-but-complicated family, her stagnant career in the evolving landscape of radio and a merry-go-round of unrequited love while dating in the love desert of Atlanta. “Finding Happy” reveals over time that true happiness can only be found within.

B. Simone (MTV’s “Wild ‘n Out”) stars as Yaz along with Kim Coles (“Living Single”), Marketta Patrice (“Black Jesus”), Angela Gibbs (“Hacks”), Stevie Baggs (“Ruthless”) and Mike Merrill (“A La Carte”).

Kendra Jo serves as the showrunner, writer and co-creator of “Finding Happy” along with Yasmine Coleman and Angela Wells. Eric C. Rhone, Cedric The Entertainer, Coleman, Wells, Jo, and Reesha L. Archibald are the show’s executive producers.

“Finding Happy” comes from Eric C. Rhone and Cedric The Entertainer’s A Bird & A Bear Entertainment, which also produces the hit Bounce original series “Johnson.”

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off network series, specials and events designed for African American audiences. Bounce is available to 98% of U.S. television homes free and over the air with a digital antenna, on cable, on DISH channel 359, DIRECTV channel 82, over the top on Roku, Pluto TV and Apple TV; on mobile devices via the Bounce app; and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce XL, Scripps Networks’ newest free ad-supported television (FAST) channel, is available on Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV and Xumo. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



DirecTV Launches Bounce and Grit Today

Posted on by Danielle Langer





DirecTV Launches Bounce and Grit Today
Bounce, which features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off-network series, specials and events designed for Black audiences, can be seen on channel 82.
[via press release from Scripps]
DIRECTV launches Bounce and Grit today

ATLANTA, Sept. 1, 2022 — The popular television networks Bounce and Grit are now available on DIRECTV.

Bounce, which features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off-network series, specials and events designed for Black audiences, can be seen on DIRECTV channel 82.

Grit, home of legendary heroes, stars and timeless tales of the American West in all-time favorite western movies and TV series, is now on DIRECTV channel 81.

Both networks are part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).

“Bounce is the fastest growing Black-audience-focused network on television, and the enormous popularity of the western genre has made Grit a hot and highly-rated network as well,” said Jeffrey Wolf, chief distribution officer, Scripps Networks. “DIRECTV recognizes the importance and value in offering both networks, and we look forward to their customers enjoying Bounce and Grit for years to come.”

DIRECTV customers will now be able to watch all-new episodes of Bounce’s hit original series “Johnson” – focusing on four life-long best friends who share the same last name – airing Sunday nights at 8 p.m. ET. On Saturday, Sept. 24 at 8 p.m., Bounce launches another new original series, “Finding Happy,” following life’s ups and downs from the Black female perspective. Both “Johnson” and “Finding Happy” come from Eric C. Rhone’s & Cedric The Entertainer production company A Bird & A Bear Entertainment.

About Scripps

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world. As one of the nation’s largest local TV broadcasters, Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Defy TV, Grit, ION Mystery, Laff and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, “Give light and the people will find their own way.”



Bounce’s Hit Series “Johnson” Returns with All-New Episodes Sunday, July 10th 8/7c

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Bounce’s Hit Series “Johnson” Returns with All-New Episodes Sunday, July 10th 8/7c
Ahead of its season two premiere, Bounce will air a binge-viewing marathon of the first season of the popular dramedy Sunday starting at 10:30 a.m. ET.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
 
Bounce’s Hit Series “Johnson” Returns with All-New Episodes Sunday, July 10th 8/7c

ATLANTA, GA (July 7, 2022) – Bounce, the popular broadcast and multi-platform entertainment network serving African Americans, is heating things up this summer with the return of its hit original series “Johnson,” premiering with two new episodes back-to-back Sunday, July 10th 8/7c.

Ahead of its season two premiere, Bounce will air a binge-viewing marathon of the first season of the popular dramedy Sunday starting at 10:30 a.m. ET.

The Johnson men are back together… well, almost. A couple of months have passed since the fellas had the fallout at the art gallery. This season you will see more dating adventures of four best friends and the challenges they face while confronting and finding humor in the most current controversial social issues from the Black man’s perspective, ranging from love and marriage to business, politics, and religion.

The ensemble cast is led by Deji LaRay (“Bosch”, “Greenleaf”), Thomas G. Jones (“P. Valley”, “Luke Cage”), Philip Smithey (“Switched at Birth”, “The Rookie”), and Derrex Brady (“NCIS”, “First”) with D.L. Hughley. Terri J. Vaughn (“The Steve Harvey Show”, “All of Us”) joins the show for season two.

The series is produced in partnership with Cedric the Entertainer and Eric C. Rhone’s A Bird & A Bear Entertainment, LaRay, and Jones’ Midnight Train Productions. LaRay and Jones serve as showrunners and executive producers, with Rhone, Cedric the Entertainer, and Reesha L. Archibald serving as executive producers.

Viewers can also catch up on “Johnson” and all Bounce original series anytime on Brown Sugar, Bounce’s subscription video-on-demand service. Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Chromecast, Comcast Xfinity X1, Amazon Prime Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android and Apple smartphones and tablets, and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. Visit www.BrownSugar.com for more information.

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off-network series, specials, and events designed for African American audiences. Bounce is available to 98% of U.S. television homes free and over the air with a digital antenna, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku and Apple TV, and on mobile devices via the Bounce app; and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce XL, Scripps Networks’ newest free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel, is available on Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV Sling, and Xumo.

Bounce and Brown Sugar are part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards Honoring Black Excellence to World Premiere

Posted on by Danielle Langer





30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards Honoring Black Excellence to World Premiere on Juneteenth at 7pm ET
Courtney B. Vance, Stan Lathan, Zaila Avant-garde, Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, and Princess Sarah Culberson are among the honorees.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards honoring Black excellence to world premiere on Juneteenth at 7pm ET

ATLANTA, June 16, 2022 — Bounce, the nation’s popular entertainment television network serving African Americans, will present the 30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards — a night of inspiration, history and crowd-rousing performances celebrating African American achievements and contributions on Juneteenth, Sunday, June 19 at 7 p.m. ET.

The 2022 Bounce Trumpet Awards will honor:

· Courtney B. Vance (Excellence in Entertainment Award): Vance’s debut in “Hamburger Hill” launched a prolific cinematic career that includes “The Hunt for Red October,” “The Preacher’s Wife” and “The Adventures of Huck Finn.” His work in television includes “The People vs. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story” for which he won an Emmy, Critics Choice and NAACP Image award.

· Stan Lathan (Living Legend Award): Lathan launched HBO’s groundbreaking “Def Comedy Jam,” produced and directed comedy specials featuring Dave Chapelle, Cedric The Entertainer and much more in his storied career.

· Zaila Avant-garde (Rising Star Award): The Louisiana native was the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee winner and the first Black American to win the academic competition. She also holds three basketball-related Guinness World Records.

· Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff (Xernona Clayton Award of Distinction): The senators from Georgia will be honored with this award, named after the founder of the Trumpet Awards, for succeeding against immense odds, fighting for change and working to improve the lives of all. Warnock has served as senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta for over 15 years (the former pulpit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.). Ossoff was mentored by civil rights legend and former Trumpet Award honoree Congressman John Lewis.

· Princess Sarah Culberson (Impact Award): This award is given for demonstrating tremendous vision, leadership and innovation that has led to a positive impact on the community. Culberson and her brother founded the non-profit Sierra Leone Rising, which distributed aid during the 2014 Ebola outbreak and 2020’s COVID-19 crisis and continues to raise funds for community growth.

Among the special guests paying tribute to this year’s honorees are Wendell Pierce, Sanaa Lathan, JB Smoove and Tamron Hall. Musical performers include Tank, PJ Morton, Avery Wilson and more. The special was produced by Magic Lemonade Production Company

“It’s fitting that we will honor Black excellence and achievement on a day that is a commemoration of such a significant moment in our history as African Americans,” said Cheryle Harrison, head of Bounce. “We appreciate everyone’s patience in our having to adjust this year’s schedule. Health and safety are a priority for our guests, honorees and staff.”

About the Trumpet Awards

The Bounce Trumpet Awards were conceived to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of African Americans and those who have succeeded against great odds and inspired success in others. Founded in 1992 by American Civil Rights leader Xernona Clayton, The Trumpet Awards were acquired by Bounce in 2016. The list of prestigious honorees includes Muhammad Ali, Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, Halle Berry, Stevie Wonder, The African American Women of the U.S. Congress, Steve Harvey, Martin Luther King, III, Janelle Monáe and Spike Lee. For more information about past honorees, presenters, performers and information about The Bounce Trumpet Awards visit here.

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) programming is seen over the air, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku(R), on mobile devices via the Bounce and Brown Sugar apps and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce features a programming mix of original series, docuseries and movies, off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and events and more. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



“Road to the Bee” Special Premieres May 26 on ION, Bounce

Posted on by Danielle Langer





“Road to the Bee” Special Premieres May 26 on ION, Bounce in Advance of Scripps National Spelling Bee
For the first time in Bee’s history, the competition will air on ION and Bounce, which are part of Scripps’ portfolio of free, over-the-air national networks.
[via press release from ION Television]
“Road to the Bee” Special Premieres May 26 on ION, Bounce in advance of Scripps National Spelling Bee

May 18, 2022 – CINCINNATI – “Road to the Bee” – a new, exclusive, one-hour original special documenting what it is like to prepare for and compete in the iconic Scripps National Spelling Bee – will premiere at 8 p.m. ET Thursday, May 26 on ION and Bounce.

It comes just days before the 2022 Bee begins. An accomplished actor, director, educator, and lifelong children’s literacy advocate LeVar Burton, host of the 2022 Scripps National Spelling Bee, narrates “Road to the Bee.”

For the first time in Bee’s history, the competition will air on ION and Bounce, which are part of Scripps’ portfolio of free, over-the-air national networks. The semifinals will air live-to-tape on ION and Bounce from 8-10 p.m. ET on Wednesday, June 1. (The semifinals are scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m.) The finals will air live on ION and Bounce from 8-10 p.m. ET on Thursday, June 2.

“Road to the Bee” goes behind the scenes with officials and 10 of this year’s regional competitors for a rare, inside look at the time, effort, and, yes, a practice that goes into preparing for the nearly 100-year-old academic competition. It includes perspectives from those who support spellers, including family and members of the community. The special also includes a look at the event’s rich history, a visit with 2021 champion Zaila Avant-garde and the story behind the Bee’s infamous bell.

“Road to the Bee” will have encore airings on Newsy on May 29, June 3, and June 5; visit Newsy.com for times.

The Bee is the nation’s longest-running educational competition, having launched in 1925, and aired on ESPN platforms since 1994. The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is the longtime steward of the competition and owns ION and Bounce. ION is the No. 5 most-watched entertainment network in primetime, and Bounce is the No. 2 most-watched network targeted to African Americans across broadcast and cable TV.

Visit spellingbee.com for more details on how to watch “Road to the Bee,” the full broadcast and streaming schedules for the 2022 Scripps National Spelling Bee.
About the Scripps National Spelling Bee:

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is the nation’s largest and longest-running educational program, having launched in 1925. The purpose of the Scripps National Spelling Bee is to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives. Visit spellingbee.com for more information about the Scripps National Spelling Bee, which is administered on a not-for-profit basis by The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).

About ION:

ION (@iontv) is a top-five rated broadcast television network featuring a lineup of popular off-network series, original and holiday movies, and more. ION is available to 99% of U.S. television homes free and over the air with a digital antenna, on cable, on DISH channel 250 and DIRECTV channel 305, and over the top on Pluto TV. ION is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



“Finding Happy” Highlights Bounce’s Upcoming Originals Slate

Posted on by Danielle Langer





New All-Black Female-Driven Series “Finding Happy” Highlights Bounce’s Upcoming Originals Slate
Other highlights include the return of “Johnson” and the sequel to “Faith Heist.”
[via press release from Bounce TV]
New All-Black Female-Driven Series “Finding Happy” Highlights Bounce’s Upcoming Originals Slate

May 5, 2022 – ATLANTA – Bounce, the popular broadcast and multi-platform entertainment network serving African Americans, today unveiled its upcoming original programming schedule. The lineup features an all-new original series about Black women that is written, produced, directed by, and starring Black women, “Finding Happy.”

Overview:

New original Scripted Series:

· “Finding Happy” (Fall 2022)

Returning Series

· “Johnson” (July 10)

New Original Movies:

· “Faith Heist 2” (Holidays 2022)

Special Events

· “Scripps National Spelling Bee” (June 1-2)

· “Bounce Trumpet Awards” (Juneteenth, June 19)

Original Series

“Finding Happy” is a dramedy following the Black female experience through the unfulfilled life of Yaz Carter, beginning with her unhappy 36th birthday. The 10-episode debut season features Yaz’s loving-but-complicated family, her stagnant career in the evolving landscape of radio, and a merry-go-round of unrequited love while dating in the love desert of Atlanta. “Finding Happy” reveals over time that true happiness can only be found within.

B. Simone (MTV’s “Wild ‘n Out”) stars as Yaz along with Kim Coles (“Living Single”), Marketta Patrice (“Black Jesus”), Angela Gibbs (“Hacks”), Stevie Baggs Jr (“Ruthless”) and Mike Merrill (“A La Carte”). Kendra Jo serves as the showrunner/writer and co-creator along with Yasmine Coleman and Angela Wells. Eric C. Rhone, Cedric the Entertainer, Yasmine Coleman, Angela Wells, Kendra Jo, and Reesha L. Archibald are the show’s executive producers.

“Finding Happy” is being developed as a companion show to Bounce’s male-centric breakout hit “Johnson.” Deji LaRay, who created the dramedy, returns for season two on July 10, and Terri J. Vaughn has joined the ensemble cast alongside LaRay, Thomas Q. Jones, D.L. Hughley, Derrex Brady, and Philip A. Smithey.

Both “Johnson” and “Finding Happy” come from Cedric The Entertainer & Eric C. Rhone’s production company, A Bird & A Bird Entertainment, and the pair serve as co-executive producers.

Original Movies

“Faith Heist 2” – In time for the holidays comes “Faith Heist 2” as Bounce premieres a sequel to last year’s popular movie “Faith Heist,” which was nominated for multiple Gemini Awards, Canada’s version of the Emmys. The original cast members, including Jonathan Langdon, Dalmar Abuzeid, and Sagine Semajuste, reprise their roles as Pastor Benjamin (Langdon) and his motley crew of congregants. This time, they find themselves locked in the local mall just as a fearsome team of armed thieves breaks in to rob the place and all the money raised by the church for a worthy Christmas charity. Unable to flee or signal for help, the pastor & his friends realize it’s up to them to battle the crooks and save the mall – all before Christmas morning. “Faith Heist 2” is being produced by JB Sugar and No Equal Entertainment.

Other Bounce original programming highlights include the iconic Scripps National Spelling Bee, which will be airing on sister network ION and several other Scripps networks June 1-2, and the prestigious Bounce Trumpet Awards, returning to television for a special 30th-anniversary telecast on Juneteenth.

Special Events

Scripps National Spelling Bee The nation’s most extensive and longest-running educational program is coming home to Scripps Networks, where it will air on ION and Bounce and other networks. An accomplished actor, director, educator, and lifelong children’s literacy advocate LeVar Burton will serve as host. The televised semifinals on June 1 and finals on June 2, 2022, are taking place at National Harbor, Maryland.

Bounce Trumpet Awards – The gala event celebrates the best in African American excellence and achievement. A beacon to inspire, enlighten and raise the human spirit to its highest potential, the program recognizes Black humanitarians who have succeeded against immense odds and augment the richness of society by striving for the justice and equality of all. The program will air on the Juneteenth holiday, Sunday, June 19, a date that serves as the perfect fit for what this event stands for and offers a significant way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the show. This year’s honorees include Courtney B. Vance, Stan Lathan, Zaila Avant-garde, Princess Sarah Culberson, Senators Raphael Warnock, and Jon Ossoff.

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off-network series, specials, and events designed for African American audiences. Bounce is available to 98% of U.S. television homes free and over the air with a digital antenna, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku, Pluto TV, and Apple TV; on mobile devices via the Bounce app; and on the web via BounceTV.com.Bounce XL, Scripps Networks’ newest free ad-supported television (FAST) channel, is available on Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV, and Xumo. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards to Take Place April 23

Posted on by Danielle Langer





30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards to Take Place April 23 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood
Produced by Magic Lemonade Production Company, the gala event will be televised on Bounce, the nation’s popular entertainment television network serving African Americans.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards to Take Place April 23 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood

Annual Awards Event Honoring Black Excellence to Air on Juneteenth

ATLANTA, GA (April 7, 2022) – The 30th Anniversary Bounce Trumpet Awards has been rescheduled for April 23, 2022, at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood and will air on Juneteenth, Sunday, June 19, at 7 p.m. ET. Produced by Magic Lemonade Production Company, the gala event will be televised on Bounce, the nation’s popular entertainment television network serving African Americans.

The event was rescheduled from January because of COVID-19 concerns.

“It’s fitting that we will honor Black excellence and achievement on a day that is a commemoration of such a significant moment in our history as African Americans,” said Cheryle Harrison, head of Bounce. “We appreciate everyone’s patience in our having to adjust this year’s schedule. Health and safety are a priority for our guests, honorees, and staff.”

The 2022 Bounce Trumpet Awards will honor:

· Courtney B. Vance (Excellence in Entertainment Award): Vance’s debut in “Hamburger Hill” launched a prolific cinematic career that includes “The Hunt for Red October,” “The Preacher’s Wife,” and “The Adventures of Huck Finn.” His work in television includes “The People vs. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story,” for which he won an Emmy, Critics Choice, and NAACP Image award.

· Stan Lathan (Living Legend Award): Lathan launched HBO’s groundbreaking “Def Comedy Jam,” produced and directed comedy specials featuring Dave Chapelle, Cedric The Entertainer, and much more in his storied career.

· Zaila Avant-garde (Rising Star Award): The Louisiana native was the 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee winner and the first Black American to win the academic competition. She also holds three basketball-related Guinness World Records.

· Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff (Xernona Clayton Award of Distinction): The senators from Georgia will be honored with this award, named after the founder of the Trumpet Awards, for succeeding against immense odds, fighting for change and working to improve the lives of all. Warnock has served as senior pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta for over 15 years (the former pulpit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.). Ossoff was mentored by civil rights legend and former Trumpet Award honoree Congressman John Lewis.

· Princess Sarah Culberson (Impact Award): This award is given for demonstrating tremendous vision, leadership, and innovation that has led to a positive impact on the community. Culberson and her brother founded the non-profit Sierra Leone Rising, which distributed aid during the 2014 Ebola outbreak and the 2020’s COVID-19 crisis and continues to raise funds for community growth.

Among the special guests paying tribute to this year’s honorees are Tamron Hall, Wendell Pierce, Sanaa Lathan, and JB Smoove. Musical performers include Dru Hill, Mary Mary, Tank, PJ Morton, and more. Additional musical performers and presenters will be announced shortly.

About the Trumpet Awards

The Bounce Trumpet Awards were conceived to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of African Americans and those who have succeeded against great odds and inspired success in others. Founded in 1992 by American Civil Rights leader Xernona Clayton, The Trumpet Awards were acquired by Bounce in 2016. The list of prestigious honorees includes Muhammad Ali, Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, Halle Berry, Stevie Wonder, The African American Women of the U.S. Congress, Steve Harvey, Martin Luther King, III, Janelle Monáe, and Spike Lee. For more information about past honorees, presenters, performers, and information about The Bounce Trumpet Awards, visit here.

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) programming is seen over the air, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku(R), on mobile devices via the Bounce and Brown Sugar apps, and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce features a programming mix of original series, docuseries and movies, off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and events, and more. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



“Don’t Hang Up” Dials Up Nearly One Million Viewers in Its Premiere

Posted on by Danielle Langer





“Don’t Hang Up” Dials Up Nearly One Million Viewers in Its Premiere, Becomes Bounce’s Most-Watched Original Movie
The March 20 premiere also improved its timeslot by +38% in Persons 2+ viewers and by +30% in Households, P25-54, and P18-49 vs. prior four-week averages.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
“Don’t Hang Up” dials up nearly one million viewers in its premiere, becomes Bounce’s most-watched original movie

ATLANTA (March 29, 2022) — The premiere telecasts of the Bounce original “Don’t Hang Up” on Sunday, March 20, were seen by nearly one million viewers 2+, making it the network’s most-watched original movie in its 10-year history.

Starring Wendell Pierce (“The Wire,” “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”), “Don’t Hang Up” also improved its timeslot by +38% in Persons 2+ viewers and by +30% in Households, P25-54, and P18-49 vs. prior four-week averages.

“Don’t Hang Up” has several more airings and is also available for viewing on Bounce’s streaming service Brown Sugar.

The thriller revolves around Chris Daniels (Pierce), a husband and father whose life is upended when he gets a phone call that hurls him into a harrowing journey to save his family. Told his daughter has been taken hostage, Daniels is ordered by the kidnappers to complete a series of missions to get her back, all while maintaining one deceptively simple rule: Don’t hang up.

“Don’t Hang Up” was directed by J.B. Sugar (“Faith Heist”, “Bitten”) from a screenplay by Byl Caruthers and produced by Sugar and Ella Myers for No Equal Entertainment.

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) programming is seen over the air, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku(R), on mobile devices via the Bounce and Brown Sugar apps, and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce features a programming mix of original series, docuseries and movies, off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and events, and more. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).

# # #

Source: Nielsen Live+SD. P2+ average delivery across 3 plays on Bounce (8p, 10p Midnight). Data compared to L+SD data for all Bounce original premieres back to 2013. Reach based on a 1-minute qualifier.



“Don’t Hang Up” Premieres This Sunday, March 20 at 8pm ET on Bounce

Posted on by Danielle Langer





“Don’t Hang Up” Premieres This Sunday, March 20 at 8pm ET on Bounce, True-Crime Original Thriller Stars Wendell Pierce, Lauren Holly & Eden Cupid
The mystery revolves around Chris Daniels (Pierce), a husband and father whose life is upended when he gets a phone call that hurls him into a harrowing journey to save his family.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
“Don’t Hang Up” Premieres This Sunday, March 20 at 8pm ET on Bounce, True-Crime Original Thriller Stars Wendell Pierce, Lauren Holly & Eden Cupid

ATLANTA (March 16, 2022) — Bounce (@bouncetv) will premiere its newest original movie “Don’t Hang Up” this Sunday, March 20th at 8 pm ET. The action-thriller based upon real-life events stars Wendell Pierce (“The Wire,” “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”), Lauren Holly (“NCIS,” “Picket Fences”), and Eden Cupid (“Umbrella Academy”).

The mystery revolves around Chris Daniels (Pierce), a husband and father whose life is upended when he gets a phone call that hurls him into a harrowing journey to save his family. Told his daughter has been taken hostage, Chris is ordered by the kidnappers to complete a series of missions to get her back, all while maintaining one deceptively simple rule: Don’t hang up.

Meanwhile, the growing number of unanswered texts and calls from his wife Tracy (Holly) leads to escalating fear and even police interference – which unwittingly puts the safe return of their daughter (Cupid) in even greater jeopardy.

“We are elated to have Wendell Pierce and Lauren Holly in the starring roles of ‘Don’t Hang Up,'” said David Hudson, Head of Original Programming, Scripps Networks. “We are elevating our original programming with superlative artists in unique, high-quality, high-octane stories. This stellar cast will take writer William “Byl” Caruthers’ fantastic page-turner screenplay to incredible heights and ‘Don’t Hang Up’ will be an edge-of-your-seat thriller.”

“As an actor, I always look for opportunities to do good work with good material. ‘Don’t Hang Up’ is a film that meets this standard,” said Wendell Pierce. “I’ve always wanted to do a thriller, where an ordinary man is thrown into an extraordinary situation. Based on a true story, it’s evidence that sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction.”

“Don’t Hang Up” is being directed by J.B. Sugar (“Faith Heist,” “Bitten”) from a screenplay by Byl Caruthers and produced by Sugar and Ella Myers for No Equal Entertainment.

About Bounce

Bounce (@bouncetv) features a programming mix of original series and movies, theatrical motion pictures, off-network series, specials, and events designed for African American audiences. Bounce is available to 98% of U.S. television homes free and over the air with a digital antenna, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku, and Apple TV; on mobile devices via the Bounce app; and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce XL, Scripps Networks’ newest free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel, is available on Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV Sling, and Xumo. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).



Bounce to Premiere 23rd Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration Saturday, February 12 at 8E/7C

Posted on by Danielle Langer





Bounce to Premiere 23rd Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration Saturday, February 12 at 8E/7C
Themed “Catch the Light,” the groundbreaking praise and worship extravaganza is an annual highlight of Super Bowl weekend, hosted this season by inspirational figure Sarah Jakes Roberts and funnyman DC Young Fly.
[via press release from Bounce TV]
THE 23RD ANNUAL SUPER BOWL GOSPEL CELEBRATION RETURNS WITH TRIPLE THREAT SIMULCAST STREAMING ON PRIME VIDEO AND IMDB TV AND PREMIERING ON BOUNCE TV SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 12 AT 8E/7C ON, WITH ENCORE ON ION

Themed “Catch The Light,” The Show Honors Pro Football Hall of Famer & Jackson State University Head Coach Deion “Prime Time” Sanders With the Lifetime of Inspiration Award

Hosted by Sarah Jakes Roberts and DC Young Fly, Show Features Performances By CeCe Winans, CeeLo Green, Chloe, Mali Music, Pastor Mike Jr, Natalie Grant, Regina Belle, LeCrae, and The NFL Players Choir; Special Appearances By NFL Players Russell Wilson, Myles Garrett, Kirk Cousins, Cam Jordan, Stefon Diggs, and Matt Judon

(Atlanta, GA) – February 7, 2022 – Bounce will premiere the highly-anticipated 23rd Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration on Saturday, February 12 at 8 pm ET. The debut telecast will be followed by an encore on Bounce’s sister network ION Sunday, February 13 at 12 am ET, and will continue to be available to stream in front of the paywall on Prime Video and on IMDb TV throughout February in celebration of Black History Month.

Bounce and ION Telecast Schedule:

· Premiere – Saturday, February 12 at 8 pm ET on Bounce

· Encores:

· Saturday, February 12 at 9 pm ET – Bounce

· Sunday, February 13 at 12 am ET – ION

· Sunday, February 13 at 10 am ET and 11 am ET – Bounce

Themed “Catch the Light,” the groundbreaking praise and worship extravaganza is an annual highlight of Super Bowl weekend, hosted this season by inspirational figure Sarah Jakes Roberts and funnyman DC Young Fly. This unique annual praise fest highlights NFL players and their faith, with uplifting songs of joy and shout-worthy, never-before-seen performances and mashups. Viewers are offered a rare glimpse into the spiritual lives of their favorite NFL players, as well as what inspires them to greatness each day. The hour-long show was taped in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Dallas as a concession to the still ongoing COVID pandemic.

“This 23-year journey with the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration is a testament to how faith can grow the seed of a dream into a reality far greater than any plan we might have set out to achieve. Despite every obstacle placed in our path, our faith in this vision has been rewarded with this anointed production that has touched the lives of so many,” said Melanie Few, Founder and Executive Producer.

Super Bowl Gospel Celebration is making a special presentation to the 2022 Lifetime of Inspiration Award recipient Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, sponsored by the Amazon Black Business Accelerator Program. The current head coach for Jackson State University’s football team, two-time SuperBowl champion, Pro Football Hall of Famer, and Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year is being honored for his commitment to bringing more visibility to HBCU sports franchises and reinvigorating HBCU sports into high-profile must-watch events. Coach Prime is one of only four NFL Players to ever receive this prestigious award.

“As we approach our 23rd anniversary, I am so very thankful for the support and partnership of the National Football League. I am also excited for the amazing partners that have joined forces to help elevate this brand. It is truly a privilege to honor Coach Prime as I have followed him his entire career and watched him be a light to others, both on and off the field,” added Few, the only woman and person of color that produces an NFL sanctioned event during Super Bowl week.

“Super Bowl Gospel provides an opportunity for our players to celebrate their faith,” said Arthur McAfee, the NFL’s senior vice president for player engagement. “A large number of our players are of faith, and they celebrate that faith many ways during the course of the game and throughout the season. You may see them take a knee and pray, either prior to or after the game. This is one of the natural connections we have to help players elevate their platform.”

This year’s production features a roster of anointed performances including a Gospel medley from multiple Grammy Award winner CeCe Winans; a duet between Pastor Mike, Jr. and multi-talented entertainer CeeLo Green; Mali Music joining singer/actress Chloe in a heartfelt collaboration to salute individuals impacted by cancer; singer/songwriter Natalie Grant; and a cypher led by two-time Grammy-winning Christian rapper LeCrae. Songstress Regina Belle is joining the famed NFL Players Choir for an inspiring song selection closing out the show.

Other slated guest appearances include Seattle Seahawks Quarterback – Russell Wilson, Cleveland Browns Defensive End – Myles Garrett, New Orleans Saints Defensive End – Cam Jordan, Minnesota Vikings Quarterback – Kirk Cousins, Buffalo Bills Wide Receiver – Stefon Diggs, New England Patriots Linebacker and Defensive Player of the Year contender – Matt Judon.

The Black Women’s Health Imperative, the first and only national non-profit focused on the health and wellness of Black women and girls, will present special recognition to retired Carolina Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams for his contributions to driving life-saving cancer screenings through his nonprofit, The DeAngelo Williams Foundation.

The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration will be available to stream on Prime Video in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, and on IMDb TV in the U.S. and the U.K.

Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC) was originally founded and executive produced in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few and continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, award-winning musicians spanning all genres, and faith-based leaders on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, prayer, hope, and uplifting messages.

Past SBGC shows have featured performers such as Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, Snoop Dogg, Pharrell Williams, Koryn Hawthorne, Patti Labelle, Erica Campbell, Gladys Knight, Fantasia, Donnie McClurkin, and Anthony Hamilton among others.

This year’s Super Bowl Gospel Celebration is sponsored by NFL Player Engagement, Black Women’s Health Imperative, United Airlines, Juice Plus, Amazon Black Business Accelerator Program, and Compassion International.

For more information, visit superbowlgospel.com and join the social conversation using #SuperBowlGospel and #CatchTheLight.

Streaming – Prime Video

· Premiere – Saturday, February 12, 2022

· Video On-Demand – All of February 2022 as Black History Month Spotlight

ABOUT THE SUPER BOWL GOSPEL CELEBRATION

The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration was launched in Miami in 1999 during SuperBowl XXXIII weekend. The event became the first and has remained the only inspirational concert sanctioned by the National Football League (NFL). The show has drawn crowds in the thousands and has demonstrated growth year after year, selling out venues in major host cities including Dallas, Atlanta, Detroit, Jacksonville, Houston, and Phoenix.

ABOUT BOUNCE TV

Bounce is the leading broadcast and multi-platform entertainment network serving African Americans, with programming seen over-the-air, on cable, DISH, and Roku. The network can be viewed on any mobile device via the Bounce app, Brown Sugar apps, and on the web via BounceTV.com. BounceTV is available in more than 102 million homes across the U.S. BounceTV is part of the E.W. Scripps Company.

ABOUT ION

A leading general entertainment network, ION’s lineup features major cable and broadcast shows, original series, and special event programming. ION is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP), a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world as one of the nation’s largest local TV broadcasters; Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Grit, Laff, Court TV Mystery, Defy TV, and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of the broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades the motto, “Give light, and the people will find their way.”

ABOUT PRIME VIDEO

Prime Video offers customers a vast collection of movies, series, and sports – all available to watch on hundreds of compatible devices. Prime Video is just one of many shopping, savings, and entertainment benefits included with a Prime membership, along with fast, free shipping on millions of Prime-eligible items at Amazon.com, ultrafast grocery delivery and pickup, unlimited photo storage, exclusive deals and discounts, prescription savings, and access to ad-free music, books, and games. To sign up or start a 30-day free trial of Prime, visit: amazon.com/prime.

ABOUT IMDb TV

IMDb TV is a free streaming video service with thousands of premium movies and TV shows available anytime. Always entertaining. Always Free. To learn more about IMDb TV, visit www.amazon.com/imdbtv and follow @IMDbTV.