Freeform Announces New Cast for the Highly Anticipated ‘Cruel Summer’ Season Two





Freeform Announces New Cast for the Highly Anticipated ‘Cruel Summer’ Season Two
— Sadie Stanley, Griffin Gluck and Newcomer Eloise Payet Set To Lead Ensemble Cast —

Freeform’s “Cruel Summer” returns as an anthology with a fresh mystery and cast when its highly anticipated second season premieres later this year. Executive produced by Emmy® Award nominee Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple (“The Sinner,” “Candy”) through Iron Ocean Productions and from studio eOne, the first season of “Cruel Summer” was a critical and ratings smash, making it Freeform’s most-watched series in network history.

Set in an idyllic waterfront town in the Pacific Northwest, the next chapter of “Cruel Summer” follows the rise and fall of an intense teenage friendship. Approaching the story from three different timelines surrounding Y2K, the season twists and turns as it tracks the early friendship between Megan, Isabella and Megan’s best friend Luke, the love triangle that blossomed, and the mystery that would impact all of their lives going forward.

Sadie Stanley (“The Goldbergs”) will star as Megan Landry, a computer coder and honor student from a blue-collar family. Once Megan meets Isabella, she begins to live in the moment and embrace her true self. When events take a tragic turn, her long-held dreams are dashed, and she is left wondering who she can trust.

Eloise Payet portrays the alluring and enigmatic Isabella, the daughter of foreign diplomats, who is spending a year as an exchange student with the Landry family. She quickly shakes up life in this small town, but her charm can’t hide the truth about her past or the real reason she came to live with the Landrys forever.

Griffin Gluck (“Locke & Key”) plays Luke Chambers, Megan’s lifelong best friend from a prominent family. Over time, Luke finds himself at a crossroads as he tries to establish his own place in the world, separate from the expectations of his powerful father.

KaDee Strickland (“Private Practice”) stars as Debbie, Megan’s hardworking single mom who thinks hosting Isabella will open Megan’s eyes to a bigger world than their small town. Lisa Yamada (“Little Fires Everywhere”) is Parker, a popular musician who becomes more cynical as the world takes a dark turn around her. Sean Blakemore (“Greenleaf”) will play Sheriff Myer, an old-fashioned law-and-order type, under pressure to solve the first major crime in Chatham. Paul Adelstein (“True Story”) will recur as Steve Chambers, Luke’s high-profile dad, whose influence in town is far-reaching.

“Cruel Summer” comes from studio eOne and was created by Bert V. Royal. Elle Triedman serves as showrunner. Executive producers include Triedman, Bill Purple, Tia Napolitano, and Iron Ocean Productions’ Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple. The series is distributed internationally by eOne.

About Freeform
Freeform’s distinct brand of coming-of-age programming helps to position it as the No. 1 primetime cable network in entertainment among Adults, Women and Men 18-34 in the 2021/2022 TV season to date. Connecting to audiences with its bold original programming and immersive social engagement, Freeform channels the force and momentum of its young adult audience in its quest for progress with authentic, groundbreaking original series such as Emmy®-nominated “grown-ish,” “Good Trouble,” “Motherland: Fort Salem,” “Single Drunk Female” and “Cruel Summer,” which was the No. 1 new cable drama of 2021 among Women 18-34. Last year, Freeform aired four of the Top 15 scripted cable original series among Women 18-34 — more than any other network, with “grown-ish” ranking as cable’s No. 1 live-action comedy series of the year in the demo.



Freeform’s ‘Cruel Summer’ Renewed for Second Season





Freeform’s ‘Cruel Summer’ Renewed for Second Season
Jessica Biel Produced Series Is Freeform’s Most-Watched Series Ever, and

Hulu’s Most-Watched Next-Day Season One Title From a Linear Channel to Date

The Series Is The No. 1 Most Engaged New Scripted Cable Series On Social In 2021

•Freeform has renewed its most-watched series ever, “Cruel Summer,” for season two, ahead of the season one finale airing today, Tuesday, June 15, at 10 p.m. EDT/PDT on Freeform, streaming next day on Hulu.

•“Cruel Summer” is the first scripted series to debut under Freeform President Tara Duncan.

•“Cruel Summer” is the network’s most-watched series ever, ranking as the No. 1 new cable drama of the year among Women 18-34, with the most recent episode delivering the drama’s biggest linear TV audience yet—surging by 31% over its premiere. In MP35, the series averages 6.8 million viewers per episode.

•On Hulu, “Cruel Summer” was the most-watched next-day season one title from a linear channel in its first seven weeks to date.

•“Cruel Summer” is the No. 1 most engaged new scripted cable series on social in 2021.

•“Renewing ‘Cruel Summer’ for a season two was an easy decision,” stated Duncan. “It’s the biggest series debut in Freeform’s history, and the audience response has been overwhelmingly positive. Jessica, Michelle and Tia did a phenomenal job telling an addictive story that’s tapped into the cultural zeitgeist. I’m excited to see where they take the series next.”

•“Collaborating with Iron Ocean, our dedicated crew, charismatic cast, and our partners at Freeform and eOne have been the best first showrunning experience I could ask for. I am beyond grateful and excited by the amazing fan response to our show! Continuing to bottle ‘Cruel Summer’ magic for a season two is an absolute dream come true,” says Tia Napolitano.

•“We are so proud of this show and the incredible cast and crew who brought so much hard work and grit to every single scene. This wouldn’t have been possible without them and our mastermind showrunner, Tia Napolitano. To be picked up for a second season is a dream, and we have so many ideas for where we can take this next. We are excited to get to work with our brilliant team of creatives on this project, in addition to our partners at Freeform and eOne, including Jackie Sacerio, who brought the project to us. To the audiences who have been tuning into this show week in and week out, THANK YOU!!! This is all for you!” added executive producers Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple of Iron Ocean Productions.

•From executive producer Jessica Biel (“The Sinner”), “Cruel Summer” is a psychological thriller that follows two young women: Kate Wallis, the popular girl with a charmed life who one day goes missing, and Jeanette Turner, the nerdy wannabe who is accused of being connected to Kate’s disappearance. All signs point to Jeanette’s guilt, but is Kate really who she seems to be? Set over three summers and told through shifting points of view, the series challenges perception and follows how one girl can go from being a sweet outlier to the most despised person in America.

•The series stars Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Michael Landes, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Allius Barnes, Blake Lee and Brooklyn Sudano. “Cruel Summer” comes from studio eOne and was created by Bert V. Royal. Tia Napolitano serves as showrunner. Executive producers include Napolitano, Royal and Iron Ocean Productions’ Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple.

•On tonight’s all-new episode titled “Hostile Witness,” Kate and Jeanette’s worlds collide as the court date arrives, finally forcing the two young women to answer the question on everyone’s mind, but the answer comes with a price that not everyone can pay.

*COPYRIGHT ©2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of Freeform. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed. Photos posted for Web use must be at the low resolution of 72dpi, no larger than 2×3 in size.



Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for June 2021





Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for June 2021 With the Season 2 Premiere of ‘Motherland: Fort Salem,’ the Season Finale of ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’ and Including New Episodes of ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘The Bold Type’
FREEFORM RELEASES ITS TV OFFERINGS FOR JUNE 2021

WITH THE SEASON 2 PREMIERE OF ‘MOTHERLAND: FORT SALEM,’ THE SEASON FINALE OF ‘EVERYTHING’S GONNA BE OKAY’ AND INCLUDING NEW EPISODES OF

‘CRUEL SUMMER’ AND ‘THE BOLD TYPE’

”Cruel Summer”

June 1 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1008 – “Proof”
On the first day of school, everyone learns that the drama of the summer is anything but over and that some people will pay more for the consequences of Jeanette and Kate’s deception than others.

June 8 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1009 – “A Secret of My Own”
Kate’s closely held secrets and fragmented memories of her time in Martin’s captivity are brought to the surface.

June 15 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1010 – “Hostile Witness” – Season Finale
Kate and Jeannette’s worlds collide as the court date arrives, finally forcing the two young women to answer the question on everyone’s mind, but the answer comes with a price that not everyone can pay.

”The Bold Type” – FINAL SEASON

June 2 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #5002 – “The Crossover”
All eyes are on Jane as she and Jacqueline combat a public inconsistency in her latest story. Kat runs into an old friend, sparking a new idea. Alex uses his podcast to make a statement. Sutton gets a career win but a personal blow.

June 9 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #5003 – “Rolling into the Future”
Jane faces unexpected performance reviews that shake her confidence in The Failing Feminist. Sutton’s attempts to move on from her divorce are thwarted by other’s opinions, and Kat reunites with Adena, who has a secret.

June 16 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #5004 – “Day Trippers”
Jane, Kat and Sutton, all overwhelmed with monumental work decisions, seek clarity in an unorthodox way.

June 23 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #5005 – “Don’t Turn Away”
Kat struggles to get a movement off the ground and is faced with a life-changing opportunity. Sutton gets an unexpected call that threatens the progress she’s made at therapy, and Jane is faced with her biggest challenge ever at Scarlet.

June 30 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #5006 – “I Expect You to Have Adventures” – SERIES FINALE
After a season of big changes and hard decisions, the future looks bright for the women of “The Bold Type” … but it’s always full of surprises. Jane, Kat and Sutton each face huge choices and evaluate their own paths.

”Everything’s Gonna Be Okay”

June 3 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2010 – “Gulf Fritillary Butterfly” – Season Finale
The Moss family gets ready for a big event, and nearly everyone has mixed feelings. Nicholas shares some eye-opening news with Alex.

Motherland: Fort Salem” – SEASON PREMIERE

June 22 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2001 – “Of the Blood”
Despite the threat of the Camarilla, the discovery of new witches gives Alder hope. Tally struggles with her role as a Biddy, and Raelle and Abigail return to Fort Salem with their mysterious new abilities.

June 29 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2002 – “Abomination”
The Unit begins War College, introducing them to their Coven and new challenges. Anacostia and Scylla find themselves unlikely partners in a dangerous mission. Tally mentors a new recruit.

*COPYRIGHT ©2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of Freeform. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed. Photos posted for Web use must be at the low resolution of 72dpi, no larger than 2×3 in size.



“Cruel Summer” Is Freeform’s Most-Watched Series Debut Ever





“Cruel Summer” Is Freeform’s Most-Watched Series Debut Ever
The Jessica Biel produced drama is likewise the network’s best-ever series debut among Adults 18-49 (2.65 million) and Adults 18-34 (1.33 million).
[via press release from Freeform]
‘CRUEL SUMMER’ IS FREEFORM’S MOST-WATCHED SERIES DEBUT EVER

New Drama Marks Network’s Best Ever Series Debut Among Young Adults

“Cruel Summer” scores Freeform’s most-watched series debut ever, averaging 3.81 million multiplatform viewers in the first week available. The Jessica Biel produced drama is likewise the network’s best-ever series debut among Adults 18-49 (2.65 million) and Adults 18-34 (1.33 million). Additionally, the series from studio Entertainment One (eOne) is the No. 1 most social scripted series premiere across cable year-to-date. The New York Times called “Cruel Summer” “..terrific..” and “..tantalizing.” While Entertainment Weekly declared it “..your new pop culture obsession.”

“Cruel Summer” premiered with a two-hour event on Tuesday, April 20, at 9:00 p.m. EDT/PDT. From executive producer Jessica Biel (“The Sinner”), “Cruel Summer” is a psychological thriller that follows two young women: Kate Wallis, the popular girl with a charmed life who one day goes missing, and Jeanette Turner, the nerdy wannabe who is accused of being connected to Kate’s disappearance. All signs point to Jeanette’s guilt, but is Kate really who she seems to be? Set over three summers and told through shifting points of view, the series challenges perception and follows how one girl can go from being a sweet outlier to the most despised person in America.

The series stars Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Michael Landes, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Allius Barnes, Blake Lee and Brooklyn Sudano. “Cruel Summer” comes from studio eOne and was created by Bert V. Royal. Tia Napolitano serves as showrunner. Executive producers include Napolitano, Royal and Iron Ocean Productions’ Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple.

About Freeform

Freeform connects to audiences with bold original programming and immersive social engagement that moves the cultural conversation a little forward. Freeform channels the force and momentum of its young adult audience in its quest for progress with authentic, groundbreaking original series such as “grown-ish,” “The Bold Type,” “Good Trouble,” “Motherland: Fort Salem,” “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” and “Cruel Summer.” The network also programs tentpole events such as “31 Nights of Halloween,” “Kick Off to Christmas” and “25 Days of Christmas.”

Source: Total viewership based on internal multiplatform metrics (average minute audience across linear TV and digital platforms), through 4/27/21. Social media based on TalkWalker Social Content Ratings for 1/1/21-4/20/21, season 1, episode 1. Freeform launched in January 2016.



Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for May 2021





Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for May 2021, Including the Final Season Premiere of ‘The Bold Type’ and New Episodes of ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’
April 23, 2021

FREEFORM RELEASES ITS TV OFFERINGS FOR MAY 2021,

INCLUDING THE FINAL SEASON PREMIERE OF ‘THE BOLD TYPE’

AND NEW EPISODES OF ‘CRUEL SUMMER’ AND ‘EVERYTHING’S GONNA BE OKAY’

Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for May 2021, Including the Final Season Premiere of ‘The Bold Type’ and New Episodes of ‘Cruel Summer’ and ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’
”Cruel Summer”

May 4 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1004 – “You Don’t Hunt, You Don’t Eat”

Kate, reeling from the lawsuit, prepares her defense and finds friendship in an unlikely source. The annual Wallis hunting trip becomes the setting for an important first meeting.

May 11 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1005 – “As The Carny Gods Intended”

Jeannette and Kate cross paths at the Skylin High takeover of the County Fair, where one is desperate to prove herself and the other to lose herself.

May 18 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1006 – “An Ocean Inside Me”

A new deposition threatens Jeanette’s case. A discovery causes Cindy’s suspicions about her own daughter to reach new heights as her relationship with Greg becomes further strained.

May 25 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1007 – “Happy Birthday, Kate Wallis”

Kate struggles with a family secret she’s been holding on to. Joy tries to convince Kate to go on “The Marsha Bailey Show.” Mallory has a birthday surprise.

”Everything’s Gonna Be Okay”

May 6 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2006 – “Regal Jumping Spider”

Matilda and Drea plan to spend the night in the woods to prove their independence. Genevieve goes on her first date with Oscar, and it is mostly not awkward.

May 13 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2007 – “Woolly Bear Caterpillar”

Much to the chagrin of the family, Matilda announces big plans. Suze has plans of her own and wants to rope in Nicholas for help.

May 20 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2008 – “Banded Argiope Spider”

It’s Barb’s birthday and, of course, she’s depressed. Genevieve takes her to a party in the woods to attempt to turn things around.

May 27 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2009 – “Carolina Sphinx Moth”

Nicholas is having a rough day and finds solace in Suze, which leads Genevieve to test Nicholas.

”The Bold Type” – FINAL SEASON

May 26 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #5001 – “Trust Fall” SEASON PREMIERE

Jane races to finish a high-risk expose that could have repercussions for Jacqueline. Sutton has a chance to shine at a Scarlet retreat if she can regain her focus. And Kat wants to stay true to herself while making a big decision.

*COPYRIGHT ©2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of Freeform. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed. Photos posted for Web use must be at the low resolution of 72dpi, no larger than 2×3 in size.



Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for April 2021





Freeform Releases Its TV Offerings for April 2021, Including the Series Premiere of ‘Cruel Summer’ and the Season 2 Premiere of ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’
March 18, 2021

FREEFORM RELEASES ITS TV OFFERINGS FOR APRIL 2021,

INCLUDING THE SERIES PREMIERE OF ‘CRUEL SUMMER’

AND THE SEASON 2 PREMIERE OF ‘EVERYTHING’S GONNA BE OKAY’

”Good Trouble” Season 3

April 7 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #3008 – “Trust”

Callie and the team take on a murder case while Mariana and the fight club girls struggle with their pitch. Malika reveals her feelings towards Dyonte, and Davia comes to a realization about Matt. Gael struggles with his latest assignment, while Alice tries to take control of her relationship with Ruby.

April 14 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #3009 – “Driver’s Seat”

Callie juggles the murder case and her feelings towards Gael. Mariana helps Alice take control of her life; meanwhile, Davia struggles with her feelings towards Dennis and Matt. Gael faces an ethical dilemma regarding his boss.

April 21 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #3010 – “She’s Back” – Spring Finale

Callie questions whether to help Kathleen; meanwhile, Mariana comes clean about her relationship with Evan. Malika makes a decision about her relationship with Isaac and Dyonte, and Davia gets a win at her school. Gael gets some unexpected news while Alice comes to a decision about the comedy program.

”Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” – TWO EPISODE SEASON PREMIERE

April 8 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2001 – “Gray Bird Grasshopper”

The family is stuck at home and desperate for something to do. Matilda is in a dark place, but a phone call cheers her up. Meanwhile, Genevieve gets caught trespassing, digitally.

April 8 (10:30-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2002 – “Jungle Centipede”

Matilda makes her girlfriend socially distance, and it’s atypically weird. Nicholas makes new friends, but Alex is not a fan.

April 15 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2003 – “Emperor Scorpion”

The family burns letters to Dad on the anniversary of his death. Alex tries to help Nicholas with his feelings, and it surprisingly works, sort of.

April 22 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2004 – “Cave Coackroaches”

Genevieve decides to put herself out there and gets an unexpected result. Meanwhile, Drea and Matilda reunite, and Nicholas discovers the meaning of unconditional love.

April 29 (10:00-10:30 p.m. EDT) – Episode #2005 – “California Banana Slugs”

Genevieve gets a present from a boy while Matilda and Drea do some online shopping of their own. Nicholas and Drea have a heartfelt one-on-one.

”Cruel Summer” – TWO EPISODE SERIES PREMIERE

April 20 (9:00-10:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1001 – “Happy Birthday Jeanette Turner”

Taking place over three summers in the ‘90s when a popular teen goes missing, and a seemingly unrelated girl transforms from a sweet and awkward outlier to the most popular girl in town, eventually becoming the most despised person in America.

April 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1002 – “A Smashing Good Time”

It’s time for the annual Skylin Garden Club Party! Year after year after year, the residents of Skylin struggle with the truth around what happened to Kate, keeping their secrets buried and maintaining appearances.

April 27 (10:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) – Episode #1003 – “Off With a Bang

Victim or villain? Jeanette continues to add fuel to the fire as her reckless behavior causes her friends and family to question her even more.

OSCAR® FUNDAY MOVIE WEEKEND

Saturday, April 24

7:00 a.m. EDT/PDT – “Lilo & Stitch” (Disney Animated)

9:00 a.m. EDT/PDT – “Finding Nemo” (Disney-Pixar)

11:30 a.m. EDT/PDT – “Up” (Disney-Pixar)

1:40 p.m. EDT/PDT – “Zootopia” (Disney Animated)

4:10 p.m. EDT/PDT – “Ratatouille” (Disney-Pixar)

6:50 p.m. EDT/PDT – “Moana” (Disney Animated)

9:20 p.m. EDT/PDT – “Wreck-It-Ralph” (Disney Animated)

11:25 p.m. EDT/PDT – “Cars” (Disney-Pixar)

Sunday, April 25 [EAST COAST ONLY]

7:00 a.m. EDT – “Mary Poppins” (1964)

10:00 a.m. EDT – “Mary Poppins” (1964)

1:00 p.m. EDT – “Monsters, Inc.” (Disney-Pixar)

3:00 p.m. EDT – “Toy Story 3” (Disney-Pixar)

5:30 p.m. EDT – “Coco” (Disney-Pixar)

8:00 p.m. EDT – “Shrek”

10:00 p.m. EDT – “Shrek 2”

12:00 a.m. EDT – “Shrek Forever After”

Sunday, April 25 [WEST COAST ONLY]

7:00 a.m. PDT – “Mary Poppins” (1964)

10:00 a.m. PDT – “Monsters, Inc.” (Disney-Pixar)

12:00 p.m. PDT – “Toy Story 3” (Disney-Pixar)

2:30 p.m. PDT – “Coco” (Disney-Pixar)

5:00 p.m. PDT – “Mary Poppins” (1964)

8:00 p.m. PDT – “Shrek”

10:00 p.m. PDT – “Shrek 2”

12:00 a.m. PDT – “Shrek Forever After”

Watch the 93rd Oscars® on Sunday, April 25, 2021, live on ABC at 8 p.m. EDT/5 p.m. PDT.

Programming subject to change.

*COPYRIGHT ©2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of Freeform. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed. Photos posted for Web use must be at the low resolution of 72dpi, no larger than 2×3 in size.



News and Notes From Freeform’s Winter TCA Virtual Press Conference





News and Notes From Freeform’s Winter TCA Virtual Press Conference
Feb. 26, 2021

NEWS AND NOTES FROM FREEFORM’S WINTER TCA VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE

At Freeform’s virtual TCA presentation, Walt Disney Television’s young adult network announced that “Single Drunk Female,” from Simone Finch and Jenni Konner, has been picked up to series. The network, which remains the No. 1 primetime cable net in entertainment for the 2020/21 season (A18-34 and W18-34), also announced the highly anticipated series premiere of new drama “Cruel Summer” and unveiled a first look at the Jessica Biel produced thriller. Freeform also announced the premiere date for the critically acclaimed comedy “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” and unveiled key art for the new season. The newly announced premiere dates add to Freeform’s slate, which includes signature hit “The Bold Type,” premiering this spring, and “Motherland: Fort Salem,” premiering this summer.

Fan-favorite original series “Good Trouble” and “grown-ish” are currently airing all-new episodes and will return with additional episodes this summer, premiere dates to be announced soon.

All titles will be available to stream the day after premiere on Hulu.

Freeform Greenlights ‘Single Drunk Female’ Comedy Series

Freeform has ordered comedy “Single Drunk Female” to series. After a spectacularly embarrassing public breakdown, irreverent alcoholic Samantha Fink is forced to move back home with her “Smother” to sober up and avoid jail time. But when her childhood BFF reveals surprising news, Samantha starts to learn there is a fine line between party girl and walking disaster. “SINGLE DRUNK FEMALE” stars Sofia Black-D’Elia, Ally Sheedy, Rebecca Henderson, Sasha Compère, Lily Mae Harrington and Garrick Bernard. The series comes from 20th Television and is written and created by Simone Finch (“The Connors”), who will executive produce along with Jenni Konner (“Camping,” “Girls”), Phil Traill (“Good Girls”) and Nora Silver. Leslye Headland (“Russian Doll” and “Star Wars: The Acolyte”) directed and executive produced the pilot.

Second Season of Critically Acclaimed Comedy Premieres

Thursday, April 8, at 10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT With Two Back-to-Back Episodes

From creator, writer and star Josh Thomas and produced by Avalon for Freeform, the second season of the half-hour comedy “EVERYTHING’S GONNA BE OKAY” will premiere THURSDAY, APRIL 8, at 10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT with two back-to-back episodes. After their heartbreaking trip to New York, the Moss family and Nicholas’ boyfriend, Alex, are just trying their best to move forward. With everyone back home, Matilda is rethinking her life goals, Genevieve starts putting herself out there—even dating—and Nicholas is working out how to balance being a brother, parental figure, boyfriend and cute entomologist. This season also welcomes new eccentric friends, unexpected hookups and a lot more bugs. In addition to Thomas as Nicholas, the series stars Kayla Cromer as Matilda, Maeve Press as Genevieve and Adam Faison as Alex. Thomas, Stephanie Swedlove and Kevin Whyte serve as executive producers, with David Martin, Jon Thoday and Richard Allen-Turner executive producing for Avalon. After the series premiere, new episodes will air Thursdays at 10:30 p.m. EDT/PDT.

Follow “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” (#everythingsgonnabeokay) on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Psychological Thriller Will Have Its Series Debut

Tuesday, April 20, at 9:00 p.m. EDT/PDT With a Two-Hour Event

First Look Promo and Photos Released

Freeform’s highly anticipated psychological mystery, “CRUEL SUMMER,” will premiere with a two-hour event on TUESDAY, APRIL 20, at 9:00 p.m. EDT/PDT. From executive producer Jessica Biel (“The Sinner”), “Cruel Summer” is a psychological thriller that follows two young women: Kate Wallis, the popular girl with a charmed life who one day goes missing, and Jeanette Turner, the nerdy wannabe who is accused of being connected to Kate’s disappearance. All signs point to Jeanette’s guilt, but is Kate really who she seems to be? Set over three summers and told through shifting points of view, the series challenges perception and follows how one girl can go from being a sweet outlier to the most despised person in America. The series stars Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Michael Landes, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Allius Barnes, Blake Lee and Brooklyn Sudano. “Cruel Summer” comes from studio eOne and was created by Bert V. Royal. Tia Napolitano serves as showrunner. Executive producers include Napolitano, Royal and Iron Ocean Productions’ Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple. Max Winkler directs and executive produces the pilot. After the series premiere, new episodes will air Tuesdays at 10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT.

Follow “Cruel Summer” (#CruelSummer) on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Final Season of Freeform’s Signature Dramedy Premieres Spring 2021

Signature hit “THE BOLD TYPE” will return for its final season in spring 2021. Season four of the series left Kat, Jane and Sutton at their limits, both personally and professionally, at Scarlet Magazine. In the final season, our trio is on the brink of defining who they really are and how to best leave their mark on the world. Their futures are bright, but their love and support for each other will never change. “The Bold Type” stars Katie Stevens, Aisha Dee, Meghann Fahy, Stephen Conrad Moore and Melora Hardin. The series is executive produced by Wendy Straker Hauser, Matt McGuinness, David Bernad, Joanna Coles, Brian Madden, Ruben Fleischer and Sandrine Gros d’Aillon. The series is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group and The District.

Follow “The Bold Type” (#TheBoldType) on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Second Season of the Witch Drama Premieres Summer 2021

In the anticipated second season of “MOTHERLAND: FORT SALEM,” premiering summer 2021, Raelle, Tally and Abigail confront higher stakes, dangerous magic and a new threat from an ancient group of witch-hunters, the Camarilla. In the first season, we saw our trio of young witches follow in the footsteps of their foremothers, defending the nation from The Spree as part of the United States Army. Their training is intensified when they are promoted to attend War College, where their magic, relationships and beliefs will be pushed to the limits. While General Alder seeks out new witches to join the wars to come, The Spree and the Army learn their fight may no longer be with one another. But how can two enemies work together to thwart a hatred that won’t stop until all witches are exterminated? “Motherland: Fort Salem” stars Taylor Hickson, Jessica Sutton, Ashley Nicole Williams, Amalia Holm, Demetria McKinney and Lyne Renee. It is written and created by Eliot Laurence. With Laurence, Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Kevin Messick are executive producers. Amanda Tapping, Erin Maher, Kay Reindl and Bryan Q. Miller will also serve as executive producers on the series.

Follow “Motherland: Fort Salem” (#Motherland) on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

About Freeform

Freeform connects to audiences with bold original programming and immersive social engagement that moves the cultural conversation a little forward. Freeform channels the force and momentum of its young adult audience in its quest for progress with authentic, groundbreaking original series such as “grown-ish,” “The Bold Type,” “Good Trouble,” “Motherland: Fort Salem” and “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay.” The network also programs tentpole events such as “31 Nights of Halloween,” “Kick Off to Christmas” and “25 Days of Christmas.”

*COPYRIGHT ©2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of Freeform. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed. Photos posted for Web use must be at the low resolution of 72dpi, no larger than 2×3 in size.



Freeform Announces Programming Slate for 2020 and 2021





Freeform Announces Programming Slate for 2020 and 2021
FREEFORM ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING SLATE FOR 2020 AND 2021

‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’ and ‘Motherland: Fort Salem’ Picked Up for Second Seasons

‘grown-ish,’ ‘Good Trouble’ and ‘Cruel Summer’ (formerly known as ‘Last Summer’)

Move to 2021

Holiday Favorites Return Bigger and Better Than Ever With Halloween, Christmas,

Valentine’s Day and Summer Programming Events

New Network Promo Released

In advance of the Disney Advertising Sales Virtual Roadshow presentation, Freeform highlighted its commitment to bold and boundary-pushing young adult content with the pickups of both “Everything’s Gonna be Okay“ and “Motherland: Fort Salem,” as well as the recently announced scripted romantic-comedy series “Love in the Time of Corona,” which begins production this summer.

Marking another strong year, Freeform is the No. 2 prime-time cable entertainment network of the season among Women 18-34. Freeform also delivered the No. 1 live-action comedy for young women with “grown-ish.” In the holiday department, Freeform continues to outperform all other networks as the No. 1 holiday destination for Adults 18-34, powered by “31 Nights of Halloween,” “Kickoff to Christmas” and “25 Days of Christmas.”

“We couldn’t be happier to bring both ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Okay’ and ‘Motherland: Fort Salem’ back for second seasons. Each show’s originality, characters and themes struck a chord with our audience, and we’re excited to share the ambitious stories the writers have planned for season two,” said Lauren Corrao, executive vice president, Original Programming and Development, Freeform. “We have a strong slate ahead, and with our young adult audience coming of age in a time that will forever impact their lives, we owe it to them to tell bold, authentic stories that reflect who they are and where they are going.”

Below are several programming announcements for 2020 and 2021.

‘EVERYTHING’S GONNA BE OKAY’ IS GONNA BE BACK FOR SEASON TWO

New Promo Released

Freeform has picked up critically acclaimed comedy “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay” for a second season. The series, which is created, executive produced and stars Josh Thomas, follows Nicholas, a neurotic twenty-something-year-old who is forced to raise his two teenage half-sisters, one of whom is on the autism spectrum, after the untimely death of their father. The series stars Josh Thomas, Kayla Cromer, Adam Faison and Maeve Press and is produced and distributed internationally by Avalon. Thomas, Stephanie Swedlove and Kevin Whyte serve as executive producers, with David Martin, Jon Thoday and Richard Allen-Turner executive producing for Avalon. Additionally, “Please Like Me” collaborator Thomas Ward reunites with Thomas as co-executive producer.

“This is great news, not just because it means I have a group of writers that have to hang out on my screen with me all day and I don’t have to be alone anymore getting weird,” said creator, executive producer and star Josh Thomas, “but because I love this show and I love these characters and I love our cast and crew and making another season is just going to be so nice.”

‘MOTHERLAND: FORT SALEM’ BRINGS MORE EPISODES TO LIFE WITH

SEASON TWO RENEWAL

Lyne Renee Upped to Series Regular

“Motherland: Fort Salem,” Freeform’s fierce genre thriller, has been picked up for a second season and Lyne Renee (General Alder) has been upped to series regular. The series is set in an alternate, present-day America where witches ended their persecution over 300 years ago by cutting a deal with the U.S. government to fight for their country with supernatural tactics and weapons. The series stars Taylor Hickson, Jessica Sutton, Ashley Nicole Williams, Amalia Holm, Demetria McKinney and Lyne Renee. “Motherland: Fort Salem” is written and created by Eliot Laurence, with Laurence, Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Kevin Messick as executive producers. Steven Adelson, Erin Maher, Kay Reindl and Bryan Q. Miller will also serve as executive producers on the series.

“I could not be more grateful for the chance to keep exploring the world of ‘Motherland: Fort Salem,’” said Laurence. “Freeform has been such a fabulous home for us through the development process, production, post and marketing. I’m also blown away by the love we’ve gotten from our fans, whose excitement and passion played a massive part in this renewal. Thank you, witches!”

‘GROWN-ISH,’ ‘CRUEL SUMMER,’ (FKA ‘LAST SUMMER’) AND ‘GOOD TROUBLE’

MOVE TO 2021

Freeform’s number one comedy series “grown-ish,” which had its midseason finale in March, will return to the network next year to finish up season three. Starring Yara Shahidi, Trevor Jackson, Francia Raisa, Emily Arlook, Jordan Buhat, Chloe Bailey, Halle Bailey, Luka Sabbat and Diggy Simmons, “grown-ish” is produced by ABC Signature Studios, a part of Disney Television Studios, and executive produced by Kenya Barris, Julie Bean, Jenifer Rice-Genzuk Henry, Craig Doyle, Anthony Anderson, Laurence Fishburne, Helen Sugland and E. Brian Dobbins.

From executive producers Bert V. Royal and Jessica Biel, Freeform’s highly anticipated psychological thriller “Cruel Summer” will now debut in 2021. Olivia Holt (“Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger”) returns to the network to co-star in the series. The unconventional drama takes place over three summers in the 90s when a beautiful and popular teen goes missing, and a seemingly unrelated girl transforms from a sweet and awkward outlier to the most popular girl in town, eventually becoming the most despised person in America. Each episode is told from alternating POVs. The series stars Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Michael Landes, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Allius Barnes, Blake Lee and Brooklyn Sudano. “Cruel Summer” comes from eOne and executive producers Bert V. Royal, with Iron Ocean Productions’ Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple. Max Winkler directs and executive produces the pilot.

Freeform’s fan-favorite series “Good Trouble,” which had its season two finale in March, will return to the network next year for season three. Starring Maia Mitchell, Cierra Ramirez, Sherry Cola, Tommy Martinez, Zuri Adele, Emma Hunton, Josh Pence and Beau Mirchoff, the series follows residents of Downtown Los Angeles’ The Coterie as they deal with the consequences of their personal and professional decisions and realize that sometimes standing up for what you believe in comes at a price. “Good Trouble” is co-created by Joanna Johnson, Peter Paige and Bradley Bredeweg. Gregory Gugliotta, Christine Sacani, Maia Mitchell, Cierra Ramirez, Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and Benny Medina also serve as executive producers. A special video message from stars and executive producers Maia Mitchell and Cierra Ramirez can be viewed here.

RECENTLY ANNOUNCED ‘LOVE IN THE TIME OF CORONA’ AND FAN FAVORITE

‘THE BOLD TYPE’ SET TO AIR SUMMER 2020

Freeform’s limited scripted series “Love in the Time of Corona,” from “Good Trouble”’s Joanna Johnson, will go into production this summer and premiere in August. This four-part romantic comedy series is a funny and hopeful look at the search for love, sex and connection during this time of social distancing. Also this summer, fan-favorite series “The Bold Type” returns on THURSDAY, JUNE 11, at 10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT, continuing its fourth season.

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS HOWEVER THE FF YOU WANT ON FREEFORM

With the success of Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween,” “Kickoff to Christmas” and “25 Days of Christmas,” the network has become the number one destination for holiday programming of all kinds. The Halloween and Christmas programming blocks will be back and bigger than ever in 2020, continuing to delight viewers in the holiday spirit. “31 Nights of Halloween” will once again feature the classics “Hocus Pocus” and “Ghostbusters,” while “25 Days of Christmas” will bring you “The Santa Clause” trilogy and be the cable home of “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Building off of this year’s inaugural Valentine’s Day stunt “Love However the FF You Want,” the network will bring back the event in 2021 to celebrate the funnier side of love. In Summer 2021, Freeform will launch its newest programming block, “Summer Singalong,” featuring great movies with great music, including the network premiere of Disney’s live-action film “Aladdin,” keeping the celebration going all year round.

About Freeform

Freeform connects to audiences with bold original programming and immersive social engagement that moves the cultural conversation a little forward. As Walt Disney Television’s young adult television network, Freeform channels the force and momentum of its audience in its quest for progress with authentic, groundbreaking original series such as “grown-ish,” “The Bold Type,” “Good Trouble,” “Siren,” “Motherland: Fort Salem” and “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay.” The network also programs tentpole events such as “31 Nights of Halloween,” “Kick Off to Christmas” and “25 Days of Christmas.”

*COPYRIGHT ©2020 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All photography is copyrighted material and is for editorial use only. Images are not to be archived, altered, duplicated, resold, retransmitted or used for any other purposes without written permission of Freeform. Images are distributed to the press in order to publicize current programming. Any other usage must be licensed. Photos posted for Web use must be at the low resolution of 72dpi, no larger than 2×3 in size.