Exclusive: Drag Race Producer World of Wonder is about to set the House on Fire. It has snagged the titular reality series for its streaming service Wow Presents Plus.
House on Fire is set in New York and follows the pre-eminent ‘House’ in the Ballroom scene, the House of Miyake-Mugler. Produced by ITV America, Good Company and Hey, Man Productions it follows the house’s family members and the heads of the household, Yusef Mugler and Exotic Mugler, as they juggle the pressures of competition and mentoring their talented cohort. It follows in the footsteps of documentary film Paris is Burning, which offered a first glimpse into New York’s drag ball competitions, voguing and house culture.
“It is something we feel absolute confidence that our audience is going to eat up,” World of Wonder cofounder Randy Barbato told Deadline. “It’s anchored in ballroom culture, which is such an...
House on Fire is set in New York and follows the pre-eminent ‘House’ in the Ballroom scene, the House of Miyake-Mugler. Produced by ITV America, Good Company and Hey, Man Productions it follows the house’s family members and the heads of the household, Yusef Mugler and Exotic Mugler, as they juggle the pressures of competition and mentoring their talented cohort. It follows in the footsteps of documentary film Paris is Burning, which offered a first glimpse into New York’s drag ball competitions, voguing and house culture.
“It is something we feel absolute confidence that our audience is going to eat up,” World of Wonder cofounder Randy Barbato told Deadline. “It’s anchored in ballroom culture, which is such an...
- 5/2/2024
- by Stewart Clarke
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount+ today unveiled the official trailer for the ninth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars as well as a star-studded guest judge lineup that includes Alec Mapa, Anitta, Brothers Osborne (T.J. & John), Colton Haynes, Connie Britton, Jeremy Scott, Keke Palmer, Kristine W, Ruta Lee, and Stephanie Hsu.
The new season begins streaming exclusively on the service on Friday, May 17, with two all-new episodes featuring Palmer and Hsu as guest judges.
In RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season nine, eight fan-favorite queens return to use their drag superpowers for good, competing to win a supersized donation of $200,000, provided by The Palette Fund, for a charity of their choosing.
The Palette Fund is a private foundation dedicated to breaking down barriers and advancing social change in under-resourced communities that face significant challenges.
This season marks the first time in the franchise’s “herstory” that the queens are competing for charity...
The new season begins streaming exclusively on the service on Friday, May 17, with two all-new episodes featuring Palmer and Hsu as guest judges.
In RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season nine, eight fan-favorite queens return to use their drag superpowers for good, competing to win a supersized donation of $200,000, provided by The Palette Fund, for a charity of their choosing.
The Palette Fund is a private foundation dedicated to breaking down barriers and advancing social change in under-resourced communities that face significant challenges.
This season marks the first time in the franchise’s “herstory” that the queens are competing for charity...
- 5/1/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” producers and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato just snatched their fifth Emmy award for outstanding reality competition program and are riding high from Season 16 logging the series’ highest-rated season premiere in six years. Bailey can’t quite believe that the show is still gaining momentum.
“The more mature audience still loves it. They know they can count on falling in love with all these new artists and they can count on us as producers keeping it fresh,” Barbato says. “But young kids are discovering it. My 10-year-old kids have friends in their class who are watching it.”
The momentum for the show extends into its global ambitions. There are currently 20 international versions of “Drag Race” and counting. “UK vs. the World” Season 2 is close to launch, and later this year, the Mexico, Brazil, Germany and Italy show will be coming to Wow Presents Plus...
“The more mature audience still loves it. They know they can count on falling in love with all these new artists and they can count on us as producers keeping it fresh,” Barbato says. “But young kids are discovering it. My 10-year-old kids have friends in their class who are watching it.”
The momentum for the show extends into its global ambitions. There are currently 20 international versions of “Drag Race” and counting. “UK vs. the World” Season 2 is close to launch, and later this year, the Mexico, Brazil, Germany and Italy show will be coming to Wow Presents Plus...
- 2/5/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
RuPaul, the host of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” has won the Emmy for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program and continues to reign as the most-awarded host in Emmys history.
This marks the eighth consecutive win for RuPaul, who also holds the record for most wins by a person of color.
During his speech, the producer and host said, “I’m so proud to be a part of this medium, you invited me to be a part of this. You are my family.” He went on to thank his family and World of Wonder producers Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey.
He shared a story about being “at the bottom” and sleeping on his friend Larry Tee’s couch. “He told me, ‘These are terrible times. Remember who you are, don’t give up.'” Speaking to the audience, RuPaul said, “I want to tell all these kids out here in the business,...
This marks the eighth consecutive win for RuPaul, who also holds the record for most wins by a person of color.
During his speech, the producer and host said, “I’m so proud to be a part of this medium, you invited me to be a part of this. You are my family.” He went on to thank his family and World of Wonder producers Randy Barbato and Fenton Bailey.
He shared a story about being “at the bottom” and sleeping on his friend Larry Tee’s couch. “He told me, ‘These are terrible times. Remember who you are, don’t give up.'” Speaking to the audience, RuPaul said, “I want to tell all these kids out here in the business,...
- 1/8/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Thunderbirds are go, to Wow Presents Plus.
RuPaul’s Drag Race producer World of Wonder’s streaming service has snapped up rights to all 32 episodes of the iconic 1965 series, which will drop on the platform in the U.S. and Canada on Christmas Eve.
Created by Gerry Anderson, Thunderbirds originally debuted on ITV in 1965 and gained notoriety for its pioneering artform called “supermarionation.” The 32-episode series follows the Tracy family in the year 2026 as they run ‘International Rescue’ – a top-secret organization whose ongoing mission is to rescue people trapped in extraordinarily dangerous situations using their advanced Thunderbirds machines.
“Part of our mission with Wow Presents Plus is to bring viewers classics that deserve another look,” said World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato.
“The artistry and humor of Thunderbirds is as fresh as the day it was made. Barbie is not the only doll who loves pink.
RuPaul’s Drag Race producer World of Wonder’s streaming service has snapped up rights to all 32 episodes of the iconic 1965 series, which will drop on the platform in the U.S. and Canada on Christmas Eve.
Created by Gerry Anderson, Thunderbirds originally debuted on ITV in 1965 and gained notoriety for its pioneering artform called “supermarionation.” The 32-episode series follows the Tracy family in the year 2026 as they run ‘International Rescue’ – a top-secret organization whose ongoing mission is to rescue people trapped in extraordinarily dangerous situations using their advanced Thunderbirds machines.
“Part of our mission with Wow Presents Plus is to bring viewers classics that deserve another look,” said World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato.
“The artistry and humor of Thunderbirds is as fresh as the day it was made. Barbie is not the only doll who loves pink.
- 12/13/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
What was supposed to be a summer of Fleetwood Mac becomes a journey that two young cousins from different worlds will never forget in director Billy Luther’s Frybread Face and Me trailer.
Executive produced by Taika Waititi and distributed by Ava DuVernay’s Array Releasing, Frybread Face and Me serves as the narrative feature debut for Luther, a filmmaker of the Navajo, Hopi and Laguna Pueblo tribes. Set in 1990, this coming-of-age dramedy follows 12-year-old city kid Benny Lovell (Keir Tallman) as his summer — and plans to attend an upcoming Fleetwood Mac concert — are upended when his parents drop him onto the Navajo Nation reservation to spend the summer with his grandmother.
“And this is how my summer began,” the voice of the older Benny narrates in the minute in a half trailer.
On the reservation, Benny’s surrounded by his Aunt Lucy (Kahara Hodges), Grandma Lorraine (Sarah Natani), Uncle...
Executive produced by Taika Waititi and distributed by Ava DuVernay’s Array Releasing, Frybread Face and Me serves as the narrative feature debut for Luther, a filmmaker of the Navajo, Hopi and Laguna Pueblo tribes. Set in 1990, this coming-of-age dramedy follows 12-year-old city kid Benny Lovell (Keir Tallman) as his summer — and plans to attend an upcoming Fleetwood Mac concert — are upended when his parents drop him onto the Navajo Nation reservation to spend the summer with his grandmother.
“And this is how my summer began,” the voice of the older Benny narrates in the minute in a half trailer.
On the reservation, Benny’s surrounded by his Aunt Lucy (Kahara Hodges), Grandma Lorraine (Sarah Natani), Uncle...
- 11/15/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Streaming
“Sherlock” Seasons 1-4, “Death in Paradise” Seasons 1-11, “Unforgotten” Seasons 1-4 and “Life Below Zero” Seasons 1-9 are among the series that will be available as part of BBC Studios‘ new content agreement with Lemino, a Japanese video-on-demand streaming service operated by Ntt DoCoMo. The deal, which comes into effect Nov. 15 will also see Lemino subscribers gain access to long-running British dramas like “Call The Midwife” Seasons 1-11 and “Father Brown” Seasons 1-10, period dramas “The Pursuit of Love” and “Sanditon,” as well as documentary series “Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change The World.”
Cheryl Png, VP of distribution for Southeast Asia, South Korea and Japan of BBC Studios Asia, said: “BBC Studios is known for our premium content, powerful storytelling and the ability to connect with a global audience. We look forward to working closely with Ntt DoCoMo to showcase the depth and breadth of our programmes that...
“Sherlock” Seasons 1-4, “Death in Paradise” Seasons 1-11, “Unforgotten” Seasons 1-4 and “Life Below Zero” Seasons 1-9 are among the series that will be available as part of BBC Studios‘ new content agreement with Lemino, a Japanese video-on-demand streaming service operated by Ntt DoCoMo. The deal, which comes into effect Nov. 15 will also see Lemino subscribers gain access to long-running British dramas like “Call The Midwife” Seasons 1-11 and “Father Brown” Seasons 1-10, period dramas “The Pursuit of Love” and “Sanditon,” as well as documentary series “Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change The World.”
Cheryl Png, VP of distribution for Southeast Asia, South Korea and Japan of BBC Studios Asia, said: “BBC Studios is known for our premium content, powerful storytelling and the ability to connect with a global audience. We look forward to working closely with Ntt DoCoMo to showcase the depth and breadth of our programmes that...
- 11/15/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Pangina Heals is staying booked and busy!
On Tuesday, World of Wonder announced that the drag artist, best known stateside for competing on the inaugural “RuPaul’s Drag Race: U.K. vs. the World,” will return to “Drag Race Thailand” as a Season 3 judge and host in 2024.
“I am stepping back as a judge into the ‘Drag Race Thailand’ universe after four years! It’s been way too long!” Heals said in a statement. “I’m just gagging in anticipation for the incredible queens we’re about to meet. I also can’t wait for fans to see the second season of ‘Tongue Thai’d’ with extra special guests who would have to survive the extra spicy gauntlet this season!”
Heals previously served as cohost and judge for the first two seasons of “Drag Race Thailand,” which aired in 2018 and 2019.
She gained a broader following after competing in “U.K.
On Tuesday, World of Wonder announced that the drag artist, best known stateside for competing on the inaugural “RuPaul’s Drag Race: U.K. vs. the World,” will return to “Drag Race Thailand” as a Season 3 judge and host in 2024.
“I am stepping back as a judge into the ‘Drag Race Thailand’ universe after four years! It’s been way too long!” Heals said in a statement. “I’m just gagging in anticipation for the incredible queens we’re about to meet. I also can’t wait for fans to see the second season of ‘Tongue Thai’d’ with extra special guests who would have to survive the extra spicy gauntlet this season!”
Heals previously served as cohost and judge for the first two seasons of “Drag Race Thailand,” which aired in 2018 and 2019.
She gained a broader following after competing in “U.K.
- 11/14/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
World of Wonder has picked up a second season of the House of Avalon-led Wow Presents Plus original series, “Avalon TV.” The renewal announcement today comes timed to the season finale of the six-episode series, with the final episode airing on Monday, November 13.
Premiering in 2024, Avalon TV’s sophomore season will continue to stream exclusively on Wow Presents Plus, World of Wonder’s owned and operated SVOD service. The House of Avalon – Symone, Gigi Goode, Marko Monroe, Grant Vanderbilt, Hunter Crenshaw, Rylie Holden, and Caleb Feeney – will all return as the series leads.
“Avalon TV” first premiered in October of this year, bringing fans along for a genre-bending ride across fashion, nightlife, drag, art, comedy, and more with one of LA’s hottest creative collectives, The House Of Avalon. Season one showcased Symone’s first Met Gala, shared an intimate look at Gigi’s fat transfer breast augmentation surgery, featured...
Premiering in 2024, Avalon TV’s sophomore season will continue to stream exclusively on Wow Presents Plus, World of Wonder’s owned and operated SVOD service. The House of Avalon – Symone, Gigi Goode, Marko Monroe, Grant Vanderbilt, Hunter Crenshaw, Rylie Holden, and Caleb Feeney – will all return as the series leads.
“Avalon TV” first premiered in October of this year, bringing fans along for a genre-bending ride across fashion, nightlife, drag, art, comedy, and more with one of LA’s hottest creative collectives, The House Of Avalon. Season one showcased Symone’s first Met Gala, shared an intimate look at Gigi’s fat transfer breast augmentation surgery, featured...
- 11/7/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Array Releasing has acquired “Frybread Face and Me,” and has set a release date for Nov. 24 in select theaters and on Netflix.
The film marks documentary filmmaker Billy Luther’s narrative feature debut. The President of Array Tilane Jones announced the news that the company had acquired rights in the United States, United Kingdom and Ireland.
“Array is honored to partner with director Billy Luther in releasing his beautiful debut feature film to audiences which revels in the joys of adolescence,” said Jones. “Billy captures the sweet moments of his summers as a child with a Native American perspective that should be embraced and celebrated now more than ever.”
The coming-of-age story had its world premiere at the 2023 SXSW Film Festival with an international premiere at Toronto International Film Festival. It has been making the fall festival rounds including screenings at Mill Valley Film Festival and Middleburg Film Festival.
“Frybread Face and Me...
The film marks documentary filmmaker Billy Luther’s narrative feature debut. The President of Array Tilane Jones announced the news that the company had acquired rights in the United States, United Kingdom and Ireland.
“Array is honored to partner with director Billy Luther in releasing his beautiful debut feature film to audiences which revels in the joys of adolescence,” said Jones. “Billy captures the sweet moments of his summers as a child with a Native American perspective that should be embraced and celebrated now more than ever.”
The coming-of-age story had its world premiere at the 2023 SXSW Film Festival with an international premiere at Toronto International Film Festival. It has been making the fall festival rounds including screenings at Mill Valley Film Festival and Middleburg Film Festival.
“Frybread Face and Me...
- 11/3/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Andy Cohen is recalling what it was like interviewing Britney Spears several years ago while she was still under her conservatorship.
The Watch What Happens Live host remembered meeting her at an album listening party and there was a woman with her, and he said it seemed like she was Britney‘s captor.
Keep reading to see what Andy said…
“I interviewed her for her album release party, I think for Glory and her manager at the time, I think it was Larry Rudolph, thought that it would be a good way for me to get to know her and then if I got to know her, maybe someday she would do Watch What Happens Live because she didn’t like going on shows where she didn’t know the host and the reason she would always go on Ellen was because she had a relationship with her and this...
The Watch What Happens Live host remembered meeting her at an album listening party and there was a woman with her, and he said it seemed like she was Britney‘s captor.
Keep reading to see what Andy said…
“I interviewed her for her album release party, I think for Glory and her manager at the time, I think it was Larry Rudolph, thought that it would be a good way for me to get to know her and then if I got to know her, maybe someday she would do Watch What Happens Live because she didn’t like going on shows where she didn’t know the host and the reason she would always go on Ellen was because she had a relationship with her and this...
- 10/27/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Super exciting news has been revealed for fans of Drag Race!
World of Wonder announced the renewal of three of it’s shows across the world at MIPCOM in Cannes, France this week.
Earlier this year, four US-based Drag Race shows were renewed, and, this year has also seen the premieres of Drag Race Belgique, Drag Race Sverige, Drag Race Mexico, Drag Race Brazil and Drag Race Germany.
Fans have been really loving the international versions, and there is also one in particular that fans have been begging for another season.
Keep reading to learn more…
At MIPCOM, it was announced that Drag Race France, Drag Race Phillippines and Drag Race Thailand have all been given renewals for a third season each!
Drag Race Thailand has not had a new episode since 2019, and co-host Pangina Heals has since gone on to compete for the first time on RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs the World.
World of Wonder announced the renewal of three of it’s shows across the world at MIPCOM in Cannes, France this week.
Earlier this year, four US-based Drag Race shows were renewed, and, this year has also seen the premieres of Drag Race Belgique, Drag Race Sverige, Drag Race Mexico, Drag Race Brazil and Drag Race Germany.
Fans have been really loving the international versions, and there is also one in particular that fans have been begging for another season.
Keep reading to learn more…
At MIPCOM, it was announced that Drag Race France, Drag Race Phillippines and Drag Race Thailand have all been given renewals for a third season each!
Drag Race Thailand has not had a new episode since 2019, and co-host Pangina Heals has since gone on to compete for the first time on RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK vs the World.
- 10/18/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
World of Wonder announced Tuesday that “Drag Race France,” “Drag Race Philippines” and “Drag Race Thailand” have each been renewed for their third seasons. The announcement was made at MIPCOM, the global market for entertainment content across all platforms held annually in Cannes, France.
“Drag Race Philippines” and “Drag Race Thailand” will be available to stream on Wow Presents Plus globally and “Drag Race France” will be available on Wow Presents Plus in all territories outside of France per a press release.
Coming on the heels of a highly successful second season — which was the first European franchise to record its finale in front of an audience and received average audience figures per episode of 810,000 in France alone on France 2 and France.tv — “Drag Race France” will be inviting a new set of queens to compete for the chance to snatch the crown in 2024.
News of the “Drag Race Philippines” renewal...
“Drag Race Philippines” and “Drag Race Thailand” will be available to stream on Wow Presents Plus globally and “Drag Race France” will be available on Wow Presents Plus in all territories outside of France per a press release.
Coming on the heels of a highly successful second season — which was the first European franchise to record its finale in front of an audience and received average audience figures per episode of 810,000 in France alone on France 2 and France.tv — “Drag Race France” will be inviting a new set of queens to compete for the chance to snatch the crown in 2024.
News of the “Drag Race Philippines” renewal...
- 10/17/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Ahead of RuPaul’s Drag Race producer World of Wonder’s appearance at MIPCOM, the company has announced two new series – House of Laughs, a stand-up comedy series starring Joel Kim Booster, Cameron Esposito, Daniel Franzese, Jimbo, and more, as well as its first non-English speaking commission Grag Hearts Drag with Drag Race Brasil host.
They join recently announced RuPaul’s Drag Race Live Untucked, a behind-the-scenes look at RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! Vegas show. The three new original series will join World of Wonder’s independently owned-and-operated streaming platform Wow Presents Plus.
Grag Hearts Drag will begin streaming on Wowpp on November 8, 2023; House of Laughs will be available for streaming in the spring of 2024 and RuPaul’s Drag Race Live Untucked in early 2024.
Wow Present Plus has seen significant growth since its launch six years ago. Outside the U.S., there has been a 32% increase in global...
They join recently announced RuPaul’s Drag Race Live Untucked, a behind-the-scenes look at RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! Vegas show. The three new original series will join World of Wonder’s independently owned-and-operated streaming platform Wow Presents Plus.
Grag Hearts Drag will begin streaming on Wowpp on November 8, 2023; House of Laughs will be available for streaming in the spring of 2024 and RuPaul’s Drag Race Live Untucked in early 2024.
Wow Present Plus has seen significant growth since its launch six years ago. Outside the U.S., there has been a 32% increase in global...
- 10/10/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Citizens go above and beyond to investigate murders in SundanceTV’s True Crime Story: Citizen Detective. The new addition to the True Crime Story franchise will premiere on October 12, 2023, with new episodes of the six episode season premiering on Thursdays at 10pm Et/Pt on SundanceTV, AMC+, and Sundance Now.
True Crime Story: Citizen Detective, executive produced by Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, Jim Fraenkel, and Josh Bingham, features the stories of a young man who died just blocks from his home and the identification of bodies found in barrels.
SundanceTV offers this description of the new true crime series:
“The six-part series tells the gripping stories of everyday citizens who have solved or are attempting to solve a murder. Each episode focuses on an individual citizen detective – or a group working together – and the case that they’re consumed by, unpacking the details of the case and exploring...
True Crime Story: Citizen Detective, executive produced by Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, Jim Fraenkel, and Josh Bingham, features the stories of a young man who died just blocks from his home and the identification of bodies found in barrels.
SundanceTV offers this description of the new true crime series:
“The six-part series tells the gripping stories of everyday citizens who have solved or are attempting to solve a murder. Each episode focuses on an individual citizen detective – or a group working together – and the case that they’re consumed by, unpacking the details of the case and exploring...
- 9/15/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official predictions for the upcoming Oscars, Emmys, Grammys and Tony Awards ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis. The prediction pages reflect the current standings in the race and do not reflect personal preferences for any individual contender. As other formal (and informal) polls suggest, competitions are fluid and subject to change based on buzz and events. Predictions are updated every Thursday.
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2023 Emmy Predictions:
Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program Welcome To Wrexham — “Wromance,” — Season 1, Episode 17 (Airs October 12th) — Pictured: (l-r) Rob MCelhenney, Ryan Reynolds. Cr: FX.
Weekly Commentary: After a shell-shocking 10th season, “Vanderpump Rules” picked up its first-ever Emmy nom and stands a solid chance of it winning the prize. Also,...
Visit the prediction pages for the respective ceremonies via the links below:
Oscars | Emmys | Grammys | Tonys
2023 Emmy Predictions:
Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program Welcome To Wrexham — “Wromance,” — Season 1, Episode 17 (Airs October 12th) — Pictured: (l-r) Rob MCelhenney, Ryan Reynolds. Cr: FX.
Weekly Commentary: After a shell-shocking 10th season, “Vanderpump Rules” picked up its first-ever Emmy nom and stands a solid chance of it winning the prize. Also,...
- 8/23/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
RuPaul’s Drag Race continues to expand.
MTV and Paramount+ announced Monday that it has greenlit additional seasons of the flagship original along with RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars and Untucked. The news follows the franchise’s nine Emmy nominations, the most of any reality competition series this year. The forthcoming season of Drag Race will mark the show’s 16th.
After initially bowing on Logo back in 2009, Drag Race has since expanded internationally, too, with local editions in the U.K., Canada and Australia, featuring local “queens” and runway challenges. The U.S. edition has done stints on several of the cable networks in what is now the Paramount ecosystem, moving from LGBTQ+ channel Logo to VH1 to MTV, in addition to streaming on Paramount+.
The franchise has waded into activism, too, as drag performers and the larger LGBTQ+ community have increasingly faced backlash and censorship. In fact, the show’s production company,...
MTV and Paramount+ announced Monday that it has greenlit additional seasons of the flagship original along with RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars and Untucked. The news follows the franchise’s nine Emmy nominations, the most of any reality competition series this year. The forthcoming season of Drag Race will mark the show’s 16th.
After initially bowing on Logo back in 2009, Drag Race has since expanded internationally, too, with local editions in the U.K., Canada and Australia, featuring local “queens” and runway challenges. The U.S. edition has done stints on several of the cable networks in what is now the Paramount ecosystem, moving from LGBTQ+ channel Logo to VH1 to MTV, in addition to streaming on Paramount+.
The franchise has waded into activism, too, as drag performers and the larger LGBTQ+ community have increasingly faced backlash and censorship. In fact, the show’s production company,...
- 8/21/2023
- by Lacey Rose
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Showtime has announced the release date of their upcoming limited series “Fellow Travelers,” starring Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey. The eight-episode drama will premiere on Oct. 27.
Created by Academy Award nominee Ron Nyswaner and based on Thomas Mallon’s novel of the same name, “Fellow Travelers” is both a romance and a political thriller, depicting the secret relationship between two men who meet in McCarthy-era Washington. Bomer plays Hawkins Fuller, a man with a lucrative behind-the-scenes job in politics, and Bailey plays an idealistic, religious young man. Their romance begins at the same time that Joseph McCarthy and Roy Cohn declare war on “subversives and sexual deviants.” The show tracks the protagonists over four decades, through the Vietnam War protests, the drugs and disco of the 1970s, and the AIDS crisis of the 1980s.
“Fellow Travelers” also stars Jelani Alladin, Allison Williams and Noah J. Ricketts. Daniel Minahan serves...
Created by Academy Award nominee Ron Nyswaner and based on Thomas Mallon’s novel of the same name, “Fellow Travelers” is both a romance and a political thriller, depicting the secret relationship between two men who meet in McCarthy-era Washington. Bomer plays Hawkins Fuller, a man with a lucrative behind-the-scenes job in politics, and Bailey plays an idealistic, religious young man. Their romance begins at the same time that Joseph McCarthy and Roy Cohn declare war on “subversives and sexual deviants.” The show tracks the protagonists over four decades, through the Vietnam War protests, the drugs and disco of the 1970s, and the AIDS crisis of the 1980s.
“Fellow Travelers” also stars Jelani Alladin, Allison Williams and Noah J. Ricketts. Daniel Minahan serves...
- 8/16/2023
- by Jaden Thompson, McKinley Franklin and Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
“Drag Race” fans rejoice.
Full 90-minute episodes of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 15 are headed to Paramount+.
From Aug. 9, fans will be able to tune in and relive Sasha Colby entering the “Drag Race” werk room and slaying her way through the season to her crowning glory during the season finale when she became “America’s Next Drag Superstar.” Fans will also be able to revisit other season highlights including the Emmy-nominated episode featuring “Wigloose: The Rusical.”
Season 15 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” heralded a major move for the show, as it hopped from VH1 to MTV and went from a 90-minute format to 60 minutes. But fans wanted more “Drag Race” not less.
“You asked for it, and you got it – and we’re thrilled to deliver 90-minute episodes for all of Season 15, showcasing the joy and genius of this legendary cast,” said Executive Producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato.
The extended...
Full 90-minute episodes of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 15 are headed to Paramount+.
From Aug. 9, fans will be able to tune in and relive Sasha Colby entering the “Drag Race” werk room and slaying her way through the season to her crowning glory during the season finale when she became “America’s Next Drag Superstar.” Fans will also be able to revisit other season highlights including the Emmy-nominated episode featuring “Wigloose: The Rusical.”
Season 15 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” heralded a major move for the show, as it hopped from VH1 to MTV and went from a 90-minute format to 60 minutes. But fans wanted more “Drag Race” not less.
“You asked for it, and you got it – and we’re thrilled to deliver 90-minute episodes for all of Season 15, showcasing the joy and genius of this legendary cast,” said Executive Producers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato.
The extended...
- 7/27/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
“RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Season 8 winner Jimbo and runner up Kandy Muse will each be headlining their own Wow Presents Plus original series, producer World of Wonder has revealed.
“Jimbo Presents: It’s My Special Show!” marks the first Wow Presents Plus original series to be filmed in front of a live studio audience. The talk show will feature celebrity guests Nicole Byer, Charo, Dustin Milligan, Daniel Franzese, Heidi N Closet, Deja Skye, Pangina Heals, and Rock M Sakura.
“Inside the Producer’s Studio” will see Kandy Muse interview fellow “Drag Race” queens. Guests include Vanjie, Jimbo, Morgan McMichaels, Kerri Colby, Kimora Blac, Scarlet Envy, Aja and Gottmik.
Both shows premiere on Aug. 7 exclusively on drag speciality streamer Wow Presents Plus in the U.K.
Co-founders of World of Wonder, Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, said: “Summer just got hotter with Jimbo and Kandy Muse’s new Wow Presents Plus series.
“Jimbo Presents: It’s My Special Show!” marks the first Wow Presents Plus original series to be filmed in front of a live studio audience. The talk show will feature celebrity guests Nicole Byer, Charo, Dustin Milligan, Daniel Franzese, Heidi N Closet, Deja Skye, Pangina Heals, and Rock M Sakura.
“Inside the Producer’s Studio” will see Kandy Muse interview fellow “Drag Race” queens. Guests include Vanjie, Jimbo, Morgan McMichaels, Kerri Colby, Kimora Blac, Scarlet Envy, Aja and Gottmik.
Both shows premiere on Aug. 7 exclusively on drag speciality streamer Wow Presents Plus in the U.K.
Co-founders of World of Wonder, Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, said: “Summer just got hotter with Jimbo and Kandy Muse’s new Wow Presents Plus series.
- 7/24/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Season 8 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” may have just wrapped, but fans can see even more of winner Jimbo and runner-up Kandy Muse — as both drag queens have landed their own series on Wow Presents Plus!
The global multi-platform media company announced Monday that the two series, “Jimbo Presents: It’s My Special Show” and “Inside the Producer’s Studio with Kandy Muse,” will both premiere on Monday, August 7, worldwide, exclusively on Wow Presents Plus. An exciting addition to the platform’s offerings, “Jimbo Presents: It’s My Special Show!” marks the first first Wow Presents Plus original series to be filmed in front of a live studio audience.
Jimbo, who just was inducted into the Drag Race Hall of Fame, hosts “Jimbo Presents: My Special Show,” a bawdy and bodacious talk show with celebrity guests games, and tons of ham. The zany new Wow Presents Plus original harkens...
The global multi-platform media company announced Monday that the two series, “Jimbo Presents: It’s My Special Show” and “Inside the Producer’s Studio with Kandy Muse,” will both premiere on Monday, August 7, worldwide, exclusively on Wow Presents Plus. An exciting addition to the platform’s offerings, “Jimbo Presents: It’s My Special Show!” marks the first first Wow Presents Plus original series to be filmed in front of a live studio audience.
Jimbo, who just was inducted into the Drag Race Hall of Fame, hosts “Jimbo Presents: My Special Show,” a bawdy and bodacious talk show with celebrity guests games, and tons of ham. The zany new Wow Presents Plus original harkens...
- 7/24/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Before RuPaul Charles, Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley and Ross Mathews crown Their champion for “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” on Friday, July 21, we want to hear from You. Are you Team Jimbo or Team Kandy Muse to win the All Stars 8 crown and take home the $200,000 grand prize? Vote in our poll below and then defend your choice in the comments section.
See Sasha Colby on winning ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 15: ‘We are strong and powerful and proud’ [Watch]
Team Jimbo
If you’re Team Jimbo then you probably value the challenge wins above all else, and (or) you’re a long-time fan since she first broke out on “Canada’s Drag Race” season 1. In her first run, Jimbo debuted her portrayal of Joan Rivers on the “Snatch Game” and then in her second at-bat (on “U.K. vs. The World” season 1) she debuted Casper the Baloney Ghost. Jimbo...
See Sasha Colby on winning ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 15: ‘We are strong and powerful and proud’ [Watch]
Team Jimbo
If you’re Team Jimbo then you probably value the challenge wins above all else, and (or) you’re a long-time fan since she first broke out on “Canada’s Drag Race” season 1. In her first run, Jimbo debuted her portrayal of Joan Rivers on the “Snatch Game” and then in her second at-bat (on “U.K. vs. The World” season 1) she debuted Casper the Baloney Ghost. Jimbo...
- 7/20/2023
- by John Benutty
- Gold Derby
Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and RuPaul Charles
The Franchise RuPaul’s Drag Race
As Paramount Global further consolidates its portfolio, the value placed on its 26-time Emmy winner is apparent. RuPaul’s Drag Race migrated from VH1 to MTV earlier in 2023 — driving ratings up 17 percent. Produced by Charles and his longtime collaborators, World of Wonder’s Bailey and Barbato, the property is now supplying 15 international versions proprietary streamer Wow Presents Plus and Paramount+ — where All-Stars now lives. Drag Race México launched June 22.
Alex Baskin
The Franchise Vanderpump Rules
Bolstered by wild public interest in an infidelity scandal (see interview below), Vanderpump Rules hit series-best ratings and drove Bravo’s strongest viewership in nine years — the first of three reunion specials fetching 4.6 million viewers over three days. Shepherded by Baskin, who stayed on as showrunner after leaving production company Evolution Media to launch his own shingle, 32 Flavors Entertainment, the decade-old series is...
The Franchise RuPaul’s Drag Race
As Paramount Global further consolidates its portfolio, the value placed on its 26-time Emmy winner is apparent. RuPaul’s Drag Race migrated from VH1 to MTV earlier in 2023 — driving ratings up 17 percent. Produced by Charles and his longtime collaborators, World of Wonder’s Bailey and Barbato, the property is now supplying 15 international versions proprietary streamer Wow Presents Plus and Paramount+ — where All-Stars now lives. Drag Race México launched June 22.
Alex Baskin
The Franchise Vanderpump Rules
Bolstered by wild public interest in an infidelity scandal (see interview below), Vanderpump Rules hit series-best ratings and drove Bravo’s strongest viewership in nine years — the first of three reunion specials fetching 4.6 million viewers over three days. Shepherded by Baskin, who stayed on as showrunner after leaving production company Evolution Media to launch his own shingle, 32 Flavors Entertainment, the decade-old series is...
- 7/18/2023
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Following its run on Paramount+, the second season of “Queen of the Universe” will land on streaming platform Wow Presents Plus as a box set.
Produced by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” producers World of Wonder, and hosted by BAFTA-winner Graham Norton, the Eurovision-style series finds countries going head to head with their top drag queens putting their real singing voices to the test.
In the second season, former Spice Girl Mel B joins returning judges including recording artist, three-time Emmy-winning producer and judge of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ Michelle Visage, multi-Emmy and Grammy nominee Vanessa Williams and American drag superstar Trixie Mattel.
The “Queen of the Universe” Season 2 cast includes Aura Eternal (Italy), Chloe V (Brazil), Jazell Royale (U.S.), Love Masisi (Netherlands), Maxie (Philippines), Militia Scunt (U.S.), Miss Sistrata (Israel), Taiga Brava (Mexico), Trevor Ashley (Australia) and Viola (U.K.).
Global drag icon and multi-Emmy Award winner RuPaul serves as...
Produced by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” producers World of Wonder, and hosted by BAFTA-winner Graham Norton, the Eurovision-style series finds countries going head to head with their top drag queens putting their real singing voices to the test.
In the second season, former Spice Girl Mel B joins returning judges including recording artist, three-time Emmy-winning producer and judge of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ Michelle Visage, multi-Emmy and Grammy nominee Vanessa Williams and American drag superstar Trixie Mattel.
The “Queen of the Universe” Season 2 cast includes Aura Eternal (Italy), Chloe V (Brazil), Jazell Royale (U.S.), Love Masisi (Netherlands), Maxie (Philippines), Militia Scunt (U.S.), Miss Sistrata (Israel), Taiga Brava (Mexico), Trevor Ashley (Australia) and Viola (U.K.).
Global drag icon and multi-Emmy Award winner RuPaul serves as...
- 6/28/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
It’s Emmy season so what better time than now for Television Academy voters to consider the 15th season of MTV’s reality competition series “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” On Saturday, June 10, Gold Derby spoke with the year’s big winner, Sasha Colby, on the red carpet at the network’s FYC event held at The Village at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Watch our interview above.
“I’m really more powerful than ever,” Sasha proclaimed on the red carpet. “I think [Pride month] is the exact moment when the audience is most proud, [especially] with everything that’s going on in the world. It just means that they are really seeing how powerful love and queer love is, and it means we’re doing something right.”
SEEMaking of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’: Lively roundtable with producer and 3 crafts artisans [Exclusive Video Interview]
Sasha explained how her finale looks were “really loosely based on like a type...
“I’m really more powerful than ever,” Sasha proclaimed on the red carpet. “I think [Pride month] is the exact moment when the audience is most proud, [especially] with everything that’s going on in the world. It just means that they are really seeing how powerful love and queer love is, and it means we’re doing something right.”
SEEMaking of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’: Lively roundtable with producer and 3 crafts artisans [Exclusive Video Interview]
Sasha explained how her finale looks were “really loosely based on like a type...
- 6/21/2023
- by Latasha Ford and Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
HBO’s The Last of Us from creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann was named program of the year at the Rockie Awards gala at the Banff World Media Festival on Tuesday night.
The first season of the post-apocalyptic hit was shot in Alberta. Jason Loftus’ Canadian documentary Eternal Spring picked up the Grand Jury Prize for the highest-scoring project in the Rockies program.
“This is a culmination of a lot of work we’ve done related to human rights in China,” Loftus said as he accepted a trophy for the animated documentary about Falun Gong practitioners in China persecuted for their activism.
The Buffalo Rock Award went to the Star Trek franchise for its endurance with global fans.
In other prize-giving, The Office star Craig Robinson received the Peter Ustinov Comedy Award. Robinson, who is also executive producer and star of Peacock’s Killing It, hosted the Rockie Awards at the Banff festival.
The first season of the post-apocalyptic hit was shot in Alberta. Jason Loftus’ Canadian documentary Eternal Spring picked up the Grand Jury Prize for the highest-scoring project in the Rockies program.
“This is a culmination of a lot of work we’ve done related to human rights in China,” Loftus said as he accepted a trophy for the animated documentary about Falun Gong practitioners in China persecuted for their activism.
The Buffalo Rock Award went to the Star Trek franchise for its endurance with global fans.
In other prize-giving, The Office star Craig Robinson received the Peter Ustinov Comedy Award. Robinson, who is also executive producer and star of Peacock’s Killing It, hosted the Rockie Awards at the Banff festival.
- 6/14/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
HBO’s “The Last of Us” took home the program of the year award at the 44th Banff World Media Festival. The series was awarded at the 2023 Rockie Award Gala on Tuesday evening alongside other individuals, programs, films and media outlets. The event is held annually in Banff, Alberta in the Canadian Rockies.
Craig Robinson, actor and producer with credits on programs like “The Office,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Killing It,” was awarded with the Sir Peter Ustinov Comedy Award. Robinson was also the host of the festival’s flagship awards program.
The Grand Jury Prize was awarded to “Eternal Spring” and the Buffalo Rock Award went to “Star Trek” for its legacy in TV programming.
As previously announced, Garcell Beauvais of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” was presented with the Inclusion Award presented by A+E. The award recognizes individuals whose work promote diversity and inclusivity in media. Alanis Obomsawin...
Craig Robinson, actor and producer with credits on programs like “The Office,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Killing It,” was awarded with the Sir Peter Ustinov Comedy Award. Robinson was also the host of the festival’s flagship awards program.
The Grand Jury Prize was awarded to “Eternal Spring” and the Buffalo Rock Award went to “Star Trek” for its legacy in TV programming.
As previously announced, Garcell Beauvais of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” was presented with the Inclusion Award presented by A+E. The award recognizes individuals whose work promote diversity and inclusivity in media. Alanis Obomsawin...
- 6/14/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Long before RuPaul’s Drag Race made Emmy history by getting men in glitzy dresses, colorful wigs and fierce heels to compete to become America’s Next Drag Superstar, World of Wonder founders and maverick filmmakers Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato made bold, personal movies that broke through media representation barriers to queer representation and reshaped how America looks at its LGBTQ community.
“It’s become a mission for us,” Bailey tells The Hollywood Reporter about how, with swagger and success, he and long-time collaborator Barbato followed up films like Party Monster and The Eyes of Tammy Faye and championed self-expression and visibility for drag show performers crashing through to pop stardom.
For their art and activism, Barbato and Bailey will receive THR‘s Impact Award at the upcoming Banff World Media Festival, where they will also take part in a keynote conversation led by editorial director Nekesa Mumbi Moody.
“It’s become a mission for us,” Bailey tells The Hollywood Reporter about how, with swagger and success, he and long-time collaborator Barbato followed up films like Party Monster and The Eyes of Tammy Faye and championed self-expression and visibility for drag show performers crashing through to pop stardom.
For their art and activism, Barbato and Bailey will receive THR‘s Impact Award at the upcoming Banff World Media Festival, where they will also take part in a keynote conversation led by editorial director Nekesa Mumbi Moody.
- 6/9/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Organizers of the Banff World Media Festival, which annually attracts top Hollywood talent and execs, say devastating wildfires in Alberta do not pose any threat to the industry event, which gets underway Sunday.
“There are no major wildfires within or near Banff National Park and air quality is not presently an issue in Banff,” Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of the Banff TV Festival told The Hollywood Reporter.
The festival all-clear came as top industry execs such as CBS CEO George Cheeks, Fremantle CEO Jennifer Mullin and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds actors Celia Rose Gooding and Ethan Peck are set to participate in informal conversations and panels in Banff National Park next week.
Also headed to Banff, where wilderness-bound Hollywood celebrities annually have to contend with little more than pesky mosquitoes and deer and elk sightings, are This Is Us writer Elan Mastai; Killing It star and The Office alum Craig Robinson,...
“There are no major wildfires within or near Banff National Park and air quality is not presently an issue in Banff,” Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of the Banff TV Festival told The Hollywood Reporter.
The festival all-clear came as top industry execs such as CBS CEO George Cheeks, Fremantle CEO Jennifer Mullin and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds actors Celia Rose Gooding and Ethan Peck are set to participate in informal conversations and panels in Banff National Park next week.
Also headed to Banff, where wilderness-bound Hollywood celebrities annually have to contend with little more than pesky mosquitoes and deer and elk sightings, are This Is Us writer Elan Mastai; Killing It star and The Office alum Craig Robinson,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s not just a television series. It’s a global phenomenon. And it’s here to “shantay, you stay” for many glittery and fabulous years to come.
Since its humble beginnings in 2008 as a low-budget reality competition show, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has become a hugely successful and influential pop culture sensation, loudly and proudly celebrating drag culture for a worldwide audience. To celebrate the the show’s spectacular fifteenth season, check out our special 40-minute “making of” roundtable discussion with executive producer Tom Campbell, production designer Gianna Costa, composer and songwriter Leland and choreographer Miguel Zarate. Together they are joined by Gold Derby senior editor Rob Licuria for a memorable and lively Q&a about their highlights, key scenes and goosebump moments. Watch our exclusive Q&a video above.
See Exclusive Video Interview: Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato (‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ producers)
Over 16 episodes of Season 15 for the series,...
Since its humble beginnings in 2008 as a low-budget reality competition show, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has become a hugely successful and influential pop culture sensation, loudly and proudly celebrating drag culture for a worldwide audience. To celebrate the the show’s spectacular fifteenth season, check out our special 40-minute “making of” roundtable discussion with executive producer Tom Campbell, production designer Gianna Costa, composer and songwriter Leland and choreographer Miguel Zarate. Together they are joined by Gold Derby senior editor Rob Licuria for a memorable and lively Q&a about their highlights, key scenes and goosebump moments. Watch our exclusive Q&a video above.
See Exclusive Video Interview: Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato (‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ producers)
Over 16 episodes of Season 15 for the series,...
- 6/8/2023
- by Rob Licuria
- Gold Derby
World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, the creative force behind the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise, are set to receive The Hollywood Reporter’s Impact Award at the Banff World Media Festival.
To honor the duo’s achievements, THR editorial director Nekesa Mumbi Moody will present the award to Bailey and Barbato, whose reality TV and other content credits over three decades include Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Pam: Girl on the Loose, Being Chaz, Tori & Dean: Inn Love, #CandidlyNicole, I Am Britney Jean and Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes.
The World of Wonder creatives will also participate in a keynote conversation in Banff led by Moody that is likely to touch on their long collaboration with RuPaul, the face of the Drag Race franchise, and their subscription-based streaming platform Wow Presents Plus, among other career milestones.
Banff’s Impact Award is given each year...
To honor the duo’s achievements, THR editorial director Nekesa Mumbi Moody will present the award to Bailey and Barbato, whose reality TV and other content credits over three decades include Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Pam: Girl on the Loose, Being Chaz, Tori & Dean: Inn Love, #CandidlyNicole, I Am Britney Jean and Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes.
The World of Wonder creatives will also participate in a keynote conversation in Banff led by Moody that is likely to touch on their long collaboration with RuPaul, the face of the Drag Race franchise, and their subscription-based streaming platform Wow Presents Plus, among other career milestones.
Banff’s Impact Award is given each year...
- 5/25/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” producer World of Wonder has revealed a trailer for “Big Freedia Means Business,” an eight-part docu-series that follows “Queen of Bounce” Big Freedia.
A subgroup of 1980s hip-hop music, Bounce music has defined much of contemporary hip-hop culture. The series follows New Orleans choirboy-turned-Bounce rapper Freddie “Big Freedia” Ross, Jr., as she juggles new business ventures, touring, and the ups and downs of her personal relationships. This season Freedia begins work on opening a hotel; starts a cannabis line; and prepares to launch her own beauty and fragrance lines. The series will also chronicle the launch of a new album, set to drop later this year.
After having her music sampled by Beyoncé for “Formation,” Big Freedia was featured on “Break My Soul” from Beyoncé’s album, “Renaissance.” She released the album “3rd Ward Bounce” on Asylum Records in 2018. In 2019, Big Freedia and Kesha released their pop single “Raising Hell,...
A subgroup of 1980s hip-hop music, Bounce music has defined much of contemporary hip-hop culture. The series follows New Orleans choirboy-turned-Bounce rapper Freddie “Big Freedia” Ross, Jr., as she juggles new business ventures, touring, and the ups and downs of her personal relationships. This season Freedia begins work on opening a hotel; starts a cannabis line; and prepares to launch her own beauty and fragrance lines. The series will also chronicle the launch of a new album, set to drop later this year.
After having her music sampled by Beyoncé for “Formation,” Big Freedia was featured on “Break My Soul” from Beyoncé’s album, “Renaissance.” She released the album “3rd Ward Bounce” on Asylum Records in 2018. In 2019, Big Freedia and Kesha released their pop single “Raising Hell,...
- 5/22/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The 2023 BAFTA TV Awards took place at Royal Festival Hall in London on Sunday evening, honoring the best performances in British television in 2022. The ceremony, which was hosted by comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan, paid tribute to an eclectic mix of popular British shows and international hits.
The third and final season of “Derry Girls” was a big winner, with Lisa McGee’s Netflix-distributed series winning Best Scripted Comedy and Best Female Performance In a Comedy Program for Siobhán Mcsweeney.
Kate Winslet also had a big night, winning Best Leading Actress for her role in the Channel 4 series “I Am Ruth.” The series was also honored with a win in the Single Drama category. Best Leading Actor went to Ben Whishaw for his work on “This Is Going to Hurt.” Netflix’s “Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” won Best International Series.
On the unscripted side,...
The third and final season of “Derry Girls” was a big winner, with Lisa McGee’s Netflix-distributed series winning Best Scripted Comedy and Best Female Performance In a Comedy Program for Siobhán Mcsweeney.
Kate Winslet also had a big night, winning Best Leading Actress for her role in the Channel 4 series “I Am Ruth.” The series was also honored with a win in the Single Drama category. Best Leading Actor went to Ben Whishaw for his work on “This Is Going to Hurt.” Netflix’s “Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” won Best International Series.
On the unscripted side,...
- 5/14/2023
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Kate Winslet, Sharon Horgan and Ben Whishaw were among those who scooped the top prizes at the BAFTA TV awards on Sunday evening.
The ceremony, which took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London, was hosted by comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan.
Winslet won the prize for best leading actress for her turn in “I Am Ruth,” which also starred her real-life daughter Mia Threapleton. The duo also took to the stage to accept the award for best single drama, with Threapleton tearing up. “We did this together kiddo,” Winslet said as she accepted the leading actress award, adding: “There were days when it was agony for [Threapleton] to dig as deeply as she did and it took my breath away.”
Horgan, meanwhile, thanked her writers as she accepted the award for best drama on behalf of Apple TV+ series “Bad Sisters,” which also saw Anne-Marie Duff take home...
The ceremony, which took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London, was hosted by comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan.
Winslet won the prize for best leading actress for her turn in “I Am Ruth,” which also starred her real-life daughter Mia Threapleton. The duo also took to the stage to accept the award for best single drama, with Threapleton tearing up. “We did this together kiddo,” Winslet said as she accepted the leading actress award, adding: “There were days when it was agony for [Threapleton] to dig as deeply as she did and it took my breath away.”
Horgan, meanwhile, thanked her writers as she accepted the award for best drama on behalf of Apple TV+ series “Bad Sisters,” which also saw Anne-Marie Duff take home...
- 5/14/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Gold Derby caught up with Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato backstage at the 2023 edition of RuPaul’s DragCon LA, a two-day extravaganza taking place at the Los Angeles Convention Center. In addition to winning five Emmy Awards for “RuPaul’s Drag Race” (2018-21) and “RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked” (2021), they’ve also been producers of DragCon for World of Wonder since the very beginning. Watch our exclusive video interview above.
“It started in 2015 so we’re in year eight, but we had a pandemic and things like that,” Bailey tells us. “But we’ve done DragCon in New York and the UK, so we’re fully in our eighth year, but in the 12th DragCon.”
What’s special about this year’s DragCon? Barbato declares, “This year we have over 150 ‘Drag Race’ queens from all over the world, so it’s like the United Nations of drag. There are so many queens.
“It started in 2015 so we’re in year eight, but we had a pandemic and things like that,” Bailey tells us. “But we’ve done DragCon in New York and the UK, so we’re fully in our eighth year, but in the 12th DragCon.”
What’s special about this year’s DragCon? Barbato declares, “This year we have over 150 ‘Drag Race’ queens from all over the world, so it’s like the United Nations of drag. There are so many queens.
- 5/12/2023
- by Marcus James Dixon and Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
She looks like Linda Evangelista. She’s a model. And now, Valentina is the cohost of “Drag Race Mexico” alongside global superstar Lolita Banana.
The announcement was made Friday on the main stage of DragCon LA, the world’s largest annual drag convention.
Valentina rose to fame during Season 9 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” The judges were enamored with her beauty and style, but her run ended after she famously protested taking off her facemask during her elimination lip-sync against Nina Bonina Brown, placing seventh.
She would later compete in “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 4,” also finishing seventh. She’s appeared in her own Wow Presents Plus series and modeled in several fashion magazines, including Vogue Mexico, and appeared in Fox’s live musical “Rent.”
Also Read:
‘Drag Race’ Winners Symone, Danny Beard and Krystal Versace Land New Shows on Wow Presents Plus (Exclusive)
Born in Mexico City and based in Paris,...
The announcement was made Friday on the main stage of DragCon LA, the world’s largest annual drag convention.
Valentina rose to fame during Season 9 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” The judges were enamored with her beauty and style, but her run ended after she famously protested taking off her facemask during her elimination lip-sync against Nina Bonina Brown, placing seventh.
She would later compete in “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars 4,” also finishing seventh. She’s appeared in her own Wow Presents Plus series and modeled in several fashion magazines, including Vogue Mexico, and appeared in Fox’s live musical “Rent.”
Also Read:
‘Drag Race’ Winners Symone, Danny Beard and Krystal Versace Land New Shows on Wow Presents Plus (Exclusive)
Born in Mexico City and based in Paris,...
- 5/12/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Dragas mexicanas, start your engines! Valentina and Lolita Banana will host the first-ever iteration of Drag Race Mexico, Rolling Stone can exclusively reveal. Both stars are expected to make the announcement at DragCon in Los Angeles Friday.
The two hosts will guide local queens to become Mexico’s next drag superstar as contestants face off in acting, fashion, and comedy challenges for a cash prize. The show’s contestants will be revealed at a later date.
“With Drag Race Mexico, you can find the tenacity of the Mexican heart,” Valentina tells Rolling Stone.
The two hosts will guide local queens to become Mexico’s next drag superstar as contestants face off in acting, fashion, and comedy challenges for a cash prize. The show’s contestants will be revealed at a later date.
“With Drag Race Mexico, you can find the tenacity of the Mexican heart,” Valentina tells Rolling Stone.
- 5/12/2023
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
The ninth annual SeriesFest, an annual television-centric event held in Denver, kicks off Friday with a slightly abbreviated schedule in light of the writers strike. Per WGA rules, writers are not allowed to make “promotional appearances” at film festivals or at “For Your Consideration” Emmy events. Already, a number of FYC showcases have either been canceled, or continued on but with just a screening, no panel, due to the strike.
SeriesFest becomes the first festival to be impacted by the strike. This year’s event takes place from May 5 to May 10, which now happens to coincide with the early days of the strike. As a result, showrunners have opted out of a handful of panels, while screenings of many new and returning shows will now take place without talent/showrunner Q&As. It could be an early peak at the pivot that may have to take place with other upcoming festivals,...
SeriesFest becomes the first festival to be impacted by the strike. This year’s event takes place from May 5 to May 10, which now happens to coincide with the early days of the strike. As a result, showrunners have opted out of a handful of panels, while screenings of many new and returning shows will now take place without talent/showrunner Q&As. It could be an early peak at the pivot that may have to take place with other upcoming festivals,...
- 5/5/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Actors and creatives from “Star Trek” and “Ghosts” are set to host Master Classes during the Banff World Media Festival in June, Variety can confirm.
The two Paramount Global shows will be repped at the 44th edition of the festival, which is set to take place in Banff, Alberta, Canada from June 11-14.
The “Star Trek” masterclass will feature “Star Trek: Discovery’s” Sonequa Martin-Green, “Star Trek: Lower Decks’” Tawny Newsome, “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’” Ethan Peck plus Alex Kurtzman, who is an executive producer for the “Star Trek” franchise, and CBS Studios president David Stapf. They will all be on hand to discuss “ushering in the golden age of ‘Trek,’ growing the franchise, and introducing a new generation to this universe all while staying true to what made it a cultural phenomenon 56 years ago,” according to the festival.
Meanwhile creatives behind CBS comedy “Ghosts” are set to discuss...
The two Paramount Global shows will be repped at the 44th edition of the festival, which is set to take place in Banff, Alberta, Canada from June 11-14.
The “Star Trek” masterclass will feature “Star Trek: Discovery’s” Sonequa Martin-Green, “Star Trek: Lower Decks’” Tawny Newsome, “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’” Ethan Peck plus Alex Kurtzman, who is an executive producer for the “Star Trek” franchise, and CBS Studios president David Stapf. They will all be on hand to discuss “ushering in the golden age of ‘Trek,’ growing the franchise, and introducing a new generation to this universe all while staying true to what made it a cultural phenomenon 56 years ago,” according to the festival.
Meanwhile creatives behind CBS comedy “Ghosts” are set to discuss...
- 4/28/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Actress/writer and author Lilly Singh, Fremantle CEO Jennifer Mullin and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato have been added to the roster of speakers attending this year’s Banff World Media Festival, the event announced on Thursday.
Mullin, who has served as group CEO of Fremantle (part of the Rtl Group) since 2018, is confirmed as a keynote speaker as part of Banff’s ‘Summit Series’ lineup. And joining the event’s ‘In Conversation With’ sessions is Singh, whose credits include ‘The Muppets Mayhem,’ ‘The Bad Guys,’ ‘Dollface’ and ‘Battle of the Generations,’ and Bailey and Barbato, the exec producers behind ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye,’ ‘Party Monster’ and their own streaming service Wow Presents Plus.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of Banff World Media Festival, in a statement.
Mullin, who has served as group CEO of Fremantle (part of the Rtl Group) since 2018, is confirmed as a keynote speaker as part of Banff’s ‘Summit Series’ lineup. And joining the event’s ‘In Conversation With’ sessions is Singh, whose credits include ‘The Muppets Mayhem,’ ‘The Bad Guys,’ ‘Dollface’ and ‘Battle of the Generations,’ and Bailey and Barbato, the exec producers behind ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye,’ ‘Party Monster’ and their own streaming service Wow Presents Plus.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of Banff World Media Festival, in a statement.
- 4/20/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Buoyed by the global success of the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise, World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato are headed to the Banff World Media Festival for an “In Conversation With…” appearance.
Banff will also host Jennifer Mullin, CEO of Fremantle, as a keynote speaker as part of the Summit Series lineup, and another “In Conversation With…” session is set with Canadian entertainer, actress, producer, writer and creator Lilly Singh.
Nekesa Mumbi Moody, editorial director of The Hollywood Reporter, will lead the keynote conversation with Bailey and Barbato, whose reality TV and other content credits over three decades include Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Pam: Girl on the Loose, Being Chaz, Tori & Dean: Inn Love, #CandidlyNicole, I Am Britney Jean and Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes.
Their appearance in Banff, certain to touch on their long collaboration with RuPaul, the face of the Drag Race franchise,...
Banff will also host Jennifer Mullin, CEO of Fremantle, as a keynote speaker as part of the Summit Series lineup, and another “In Conversation With…” session is set with Canadian entertainer, actress, producer, writer and creator Lilly Singh.
Nekesa Mumbi Moody, editorial director of The Hollywood Reporter, will lead the keynote conversation with Bailey and Barbato, whose reality TV and other content credits over three decades include Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Pam: Girl on the Loose, Being Chaz, Tori & Dean: Inn Love, #CandidlyNicole, I Am Britney Jean and Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes.
Their appearance in Banff, certain to touch on their long collaboration with RuPaul, the face of the Drag Race franchise,...
- 4/20/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Banff World Media Festival is growing its lineup.
Jennifer Mullin, CEO of American Idol producer Fremantle, is set to join the keynote lineup for the Canadian TV event. Lilly Singh and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato are also set to feature ‘In Conversation With’ sessions.
They join the likes of CBS President and CEO George Cheeks, Toby Gorman, President of Universal Television Alternative Studio, Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios and Erin Underhill, President, Universal Television.
The 44th edition of Banff will take place in-person June 11 – 14 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director, Banff World Media Festival. “Jennifer Mullin no doubt will have us rapt with her vision of what it takes to helm one of the world’s global content powerhouses.
Jennifer Mullin, CEO of American Idol producer Fremantle, is set to join the keynote lineup for the Canadian TV event. Lilly Singh and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato are also set to feature ‘In Conversation With’ sessions.
They join the likes of CBS President and CEO George Cheeks, Toby Gorman, President of Universal Television Alternative Studio, Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios and Erin Underhill, President, Universal Television.
The 44th edition of Banff will take place in-person June 11 – 14 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director, Banff World Media Festival. “Jennifer Mullin no doubt will have us rapt with her vision of what it takes to helm one of the world’s global content powerhouses.
- 4/20/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
True Detective is taking an ice-cold turn in its fourth season.
HBO has released a teaser trailer for True Detective: Night Country, premiering later this year on the premium cabler (and Max, the new name of Warner Bros. Discovery’s combined streaming service).
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Julie Bowen's Peacock Series, Slow Horses Adds Five and MoreTVLine Items: Kerry Condon's Star Wars Role, Cocaine Bear Streams and MoreWas Clark Kent Badass? Did FBI Send Wrong Agent? Best Challenge in Ages? WrestleMania Win a Cheat? More Qs!
Set around an Alaskan disappearance case, this installment of the popular crime-drama...
HBO has released a teaser trailer for True Detective: Night Country, premiering later this year on the premium cabler (and Max, the new name of Warner Bros. Discovery’s combined streaming service).
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Julie Bowen's Peacock Series, Slow Horses Adds Five and MoreTVLine Items: Kerry Condon's Star Wars Role, Cocaine Bear Streams and MoreWas Clark Kent Badass? Did FBI Send Wrong Agent? Best Challenge in Ages? WrestleMania Win a Cheat? More Qs!
Set around an Alaskan disappearance case, this installment of the popular crime-drama...
- 4/12/2023
- by Erianne Lewis
- TVLine.com
SeriesFest has announced the official lineup for SeriesFest: Season 9, which will be held from May 5 to 10 in Denver. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” producers will be presented with the SeriesFest Impact in Television Award at the annual festival, Variety can exclusively reveal.
SeriesFest: Season 9 has slated a wide variety of screenings, panels, workshops and sneak peeks/television premieres at this year’s festival. The non-profit organization is committed to showcasing and uplifting rising talent and underserved communities through episodic storytelling.
This year’s Impact in Television Award will be presented to “RuPaul’s Drag Race” producers Randy Barbato, Fenton Bailey and Tom Campbell, for their pioneering and creative developments in the world of television production. Barbato, Bailey and Campbell will also participate in a panel on Monday, May 8, where audiences can ask the creatives questions.
“We’re excited to celebrate this amazing content and embrace conversations about the ever-changing industry,” Randi Kleiner, co-founder and CEO of SeriesFest,...
SeriesFest: Season 9 has slated a wide variety of screenings, panels, workshops and sneak peeks/television premieres at this year’s festival. The non-profit organization is committed to showcasing and uplifting rising talent and underserved communities through episodic storytelling.
This year’s Impact in Television Award will be presented to “RuPaul’s Drag Race” producers Randy Barbato, Fenton Bailey and Tom Campbell, for their pioneering and creative developments in the world of television production. Barbato, Bailey and Campbell will also participate in a panel on Monday, May 8, where audiences can ask the creatives questions.
“We’re excited to celebrate this amazing content and embrace conversations about the ever-changing industry,” Randi Kleiner, co-founder and CEO of SeriesFest,...
- 4/11/2023
- by McKinley Franklin
- Variety Film + TV
Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, the Emmy-winning producers behind “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and co-founders of World of Wonder, have responded to the wave of anti-drag legislation being introduced by GOP lawmakers, calling it “un-American.”
Speaking with Variety over Zoom, Barbato said the bills — which are working their way through at least 11 state legislatures and threatening to restrict or prohibit drag show performances — are all part of an “insidious” campaign.
“It’s been going on and it’s orchestrated by a minority,” Barbato said. “They have been successful in these hideous laws. That same minority is threatening the civil rights of the LGBTQ+ community. They are a threat and we must take them seriously.”
In response to attempts from conservative legislators around the country to ban children from drag performances, bar drag shows from occurring in public places and brand them as adult-oriented businesses, World of Wonder partnered with the ACLU...
Speaking with Variety over Zoom, Barbato said the bills — which are working their way through at least 11 state legislatures and threatening to restrict or prohibit drag show performances — are all part of an “insidious” campaign.
“It’s been going on and it’s orchestrated by a minority,” Barbato said. “They have been successful in these hideous laws. That same minority is threatening the civil rights of the LGBTQ+ community. They are a threat and we must take them seriously.”
In response to attempts from conservative legislators around the country to ban children from drag performances, bar drag shows from occurring in public places and brand them as adult-oriented businesses, World of Wonder partnered with the ACLU...
- 3/30/2023
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” has had many memorable guest judges for its season premiere: Lady Gaga in Season 9, Christina Aguilera in Season 10, Nicki Minaj in Season 12 and Ariana Grande in the currently airing Season 15, to name a few.
But Britney Spears — whose discography has been a lip sync mainstay on the reality competition series (four times in Season 13 alone!) — has yet to make an appearance on the show, despite numerous efforts.
“Of course,” replied “Drag Race” creator and executive producer Fenton Bailey when asked if Spears has been invited to judge. “Many stars are approached for ‘Drag Race.’ And it hasn’t been possible – whether her schedule or people or her own desires, you know?”
Also Read:
Rip Logo? Inside the Slow Death of Paramount’s LGBTQ Brand
Bailey has a special relationship with Spears. Prior to “Drag Race” and its many iterations, Bailey and business partner (and World of Wonder...
But Britney Spears — whose discography has been a lip sync mainstay on the reality competition series (four times in Season 13 alone!) — has yet to make an appearance on the show, despite numerous efforts.
“Of course,” replied “Drag Race” creator and executive producer Fenton Bailey when asked if Spears has been invited to judge. “Many stars are approached for ‘Drag Race.’ And it hasn’t been possible – whether her schedule or people or her own desires, you know?”
Also Read:
Rip Logo? Inside the Slow Death of Paramount’s LGBTQ Brand
Bailey has a special relationship with Spears. Prior to “Drag Race” and its many iterations, Bailey and business partner (and World of Wonder...
- 3/29/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Exclusive: AMC Networks is continuing its true-crime drive.
The company’s SundanceTV has renewed Hilarie Burton Morgan’s It Couldn’t Happen Here and has also ordered two new series as it ramps up its True Crime Story franchise.
It Couldn’t Happen Here returns for a second season, hosted by One Tree Hill and The Walking Dead star Burton Morgan.
Separately, it has ordered True Crime Story: Citizen Detective and Crimes of Entitlement (w/t). The three series will air on SundanceTV, AMC+ and SundanceNow.
Citizen Detective is a documentary series that examines true-crime stories through the eyes of the untrained amateur sleuths who solved them or are still trying to do so. Each episode spotlights one new crime and the crime-fighter determined to make sure the case he or she is obsessed with is ultimately classified as closed.
It comes from RuPaul’s Drag Race producer World of...
The company’s SundanceTV has renewed Hilarie Burton Morgan’s It Couldn’t Happen Here and has also ordered two new series as it ramps up its True Crime Story franchise.
It Couldn’t Happen Here returns for a second season, hosted by One Tree Hill and The Walking Dead star Burton Morgan.
Separately, it has ordered True Crime Story: Citizen Detective and Crimes of Entitlement (w/t). The three series will air on SundanceTV, AMC+ and SundanceNow.
Citizen Detective is a documentary series that examines true-crime stories through the eyes of the untrained amateur sleuths who solved them or are still trying to do so. Each episode spotlights one new crime and the crime-fighter determined to make sure the case he or she is obsessed with is ultimately classified as closed.
It comes from RuPaul’s Drag Race producer World of...
- 3/29/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Italy has become the latest territory to jump on the RuPaul’s Drag Race hype.
Paramount+ has greenlit a version in the West European nation shortly after the unveiling of editions of the World of Wonder smash in Brazil, Germany and Mexico plus a Global Drag Race All Stars. The show will launch on Paramount+ in Italy before being rolled out to the U.S. and Latin America.
“Drag Race has become a global phenomenon and we were honored to be there from the beginning with the incredibly talented team of RuPaul and World of Wonder,” said Chris McCarthy, President/CEO of Showtime, MTV Entertainment Studios and Paramount Media Networks.
“As we expand Paramount+’s global footprint, it was important to recapture Drag Race in key international markets and also build an interconnected competition series – with a new Global Drag Race All Stars – it’s like a global Super Bowl for Drag.
Paramount+ has greenlit a version in the West European nation shortly after the unveiling of editions of the World of Wonder smash in Brazil, Germany and Mexico plus a Global Drag Race All Stars. The show will launch on Paramount+ in Italy before being rolled out to the U.S. and Latin America.
“Drag Race has become a global phenomenon and we were honored to be there from the beginning with the incredibly talented team of RuPaul and World of Wonder,” said Chris McCarthy, President/CEO of Showtime, MTV Entertainment Studios and Paramount Media Networks.
“As we expand Paramount+’s global footprint, it was important to recapture Drag Race in key international markets and also build an interconnected competition series – with a new Global Drag Race All Stars – it’s like a global Super Bowl for Drag.
- 3/22/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: A ban on drag performances in public places has been enacted in Tennessee, and more than a dozen other states may follow suit, a movement predicated on the fear that children who might glimpse such a show would be scarred by it. But an upcoming documentary defies that demonization by portraying drag performers as a force for good in their community.
Emmy-winning media company World of Wonder and Gatekeeper Productions today announced they have wrapped production on The Little Pageant That Could, a feature documentary that chronicles the journey of L.A.’s Best in Drag Show to support the Alliance for Housing and Healing.
“The event, which started as a spur-of-the-moment spoof of Miss America thrown by a few twenty-something friends in a tiny West Hollywood apartment in 1990, grew to become L.A.’s longest-running drag benefit including appearances by A-list actors,...
Emmy-winning media company World of Wonder and Gatekeeper Productions today announced they have wrapped production on The Little Pageant That Could, a feature documentary that chronicles the journey of L.A.’s Best in Drag Show to support the Alliance for Housing and Healing.
“The event, which started as a spur-of-the-moment spoof of Miss America thrown by a few twenty-something friends in a tiny West Hollywood apartment in 1990, grew to become L.A.’s longest-running drag benefit including appearances by A-list actors,...
- 3/20/2023
- by Matthew Carey
- Deadline Film + TV
Janelle James, the actor whose role as principal Ava Coleman on “Abbott Elementary” earned her an Emmy nomination, has been named host of the 75th annual Writers Guild Awards on the West Coast.
“I am honored to be hosting the WGA Awards this year,” James said in a statement. “I was told that I can say whatever I want. And after making sure that was true and that it would not be televised…that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”
Hugh Fink, executive producer of the awards show, quipped, “A few years ago, when I first worked with the hilarious and fearless Janelle James, my goal was to get her to host the WGA Awards. To commemorate this amazing event, all nominees will be receiving a 10,000 cash gift, redeemable at all participating Ftx Bitcoin Exchanges.”
“Abbott Elementary” received nods in WGA’s best comedy series and best new series categories.
“I am honored to be hosting the WGA Awards this year,” James said in a statement. “I was told that I can say whatever I want. And after making sure that was true and that it would not be televised…that’s exactly what I’m going to do.”
Hugh Fink, executive producer of the awards show, quipped, “A few years ago, when I first worked with the hilarious and fearless Janelle James, my goal was to get her to host the WGA Awards. To commemorate this amazing event, all nominees will be receiving a 10,000 cash gift, redeemable at all participating Ftx Bitcoin Exchanges.”
“Abbott Elementary” received nods in WGA’s best comedy series and best new series categories.
- 2/17/2023
- by Julia MacCary, Katie Reul and Charna Flam
- Variety Film + TV
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