As buyers touch down at Lax for the annual LA Screenings, it will be a case of a return to the norm following the unusual circumstances of last year. The Hollywood labor strikes not only threw confusion on what would be a realistic purchase, but also stopped acquisitions executives getting face time (and a quick selfie) with acting and writing talent — something many value as part of their buying process.
There will be no such issues this year, and the studio sales bosses are relishing a return to the norm. “We’re really excited, it feels like we’re really back after the strikes and firing on all cylinders,” says David Decker, President of Content Sales for Warner Bros. Discovery (Wbd). “We have an abundance of titles that run the gamut of broadcast and streaming in drama and comedy. We’ll be showing the best of what Wbd stands for.
There will be no such issues this year, and the studio sales bosses are relishing a return to the norm. “We’re really excited, it feels like we’re really back after the strikes and firing on all cylinders,” says David Decker, President of Content Sales for Warner Bros. Discovery (Wbd). “We have an abundance of titles that run the gamut of broadcast and streaming in drama and comedy. We’ll be showing the best of what Wbd stands for.
- 5/17/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
When an estimated 1,000 international TV buyers descend on Los Angeles for the annual TV event known as the LA Screenings, they will see a contracted market still recovering from the twin Hollywood strikes of last year and, to a somewhat lesser extent, the pandemic.
It kicks off with the LA Screenings Independents, held May 15-17 for smaller studios and distributors at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel, which are then followed by screenings at the major studios’ respective lots across May 18-22 where they present their latest shows. They may also host a variety of events for their clients during those days, which may include cocktail receptions and luncheons or dinners with talent and executives.
While stalled projects ramped up as soon as the strikes ended, some delays were inevitable. “A couple of months ago I was wondering if we were going to be entertaining [buyers],” says Lisa Kramer, president, International Content Licensing,...
It kicks off with the LA Screenings Independents, held May 15-17 for smaller studios and distributors at the Fairmont Century Plaza Hotel, which are then followed by screenings at the major studios’ respective lots across May 18-22 where they present their latest shows. They may also host a variety of events for their clients during those days, which may include cocktail receptions and luncheons or dinners with talent and executives.
While stalled projects ramped up as soon as the strikes ended, some delays were inevitable. “A couple of months ago I was wondering if we were going to be entertaining [buyers],” says Lisa Kramer, president, International Content Licensing,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
After an opening performance by a guitar-picking Jimmy Fallon — who sung about, among other things, how “next year I’ll be a hologram” — the NBCUniversal upfront got underway Monday at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
So you didn’t make it to the home of the Rockettes? Here’s what you missed:
-NBCUniversal Chairman Mark Lazarus briefly took the stage to crow “while others have been spinning, we’ve spent the last year investing in our content, tech and overall experience.” “No one else can do what we do,” he added.
-Talent like Jabari Banks and Jesse L. Martin talked up content like The Irrational and Bel-Air before tossing to a breathless video package touting NBCUni content that was hosted by Mark-Paul Gosselaar.
-NBCUniversal Studio Group Chair and Chief Content Officer Donna Langley chatted about how she’s “excited to build up our story legacy across film,...
So you didn’t make it to the home of the Rockettes? Here’s what you missed:
-NBCUniversal Chairman Mark Lazarus briefly took the stage to crow “while others have been spinning, we’ve spent the last year investing in our content, tech and overall experience.” “No one else can do what we do,” he added.
-Talent like Jabari Banks and Jesse L. Martin talked up content like The Irrational and Bel-Air before tossing to a breathless video package touting NBCUni content that was hosted by Mark-Paul Gosselaar.
-NBCUniversal Studio Group Chair and Chief Content Officer Donna Langley chatted about how she’s “excited to build up our story legacy across film,...
- 5/13/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Thunder Buddies reunite! Peacock has given the green light to Ted Season 2, which will continue the comedic prequel series.
Following its January 11 launch, season one of Ted became Peacock’s most-watched original title to date and was the #1 Original Streaming Comedy in the U.S. for more than two consecutive months (per Nielsen).
The series was also a hit with viewers around the world. In the UK, Ted was the biggest U.S. comedy launch on Sky in over 20 years; in Australia, it was FOX8’s #1 international series premiere on the channel in the past two years and the biggest U.S. comedy launch on streaming service Binge; and in Canada, it was the #1 series on Showcase this year, while holding the #1 ranked show for streaming on Stacktv (VOD) during its season one run.
Season one of the Ted features creator and star Seth MacFarlane alongside Max Burkholder, Alanna Ubach,...
Following its January 11 launch, season one of Ted became Peacock’s most-watched original title to date and was the #1 Original Streaming Comedy in the U.S. for more than two consecutive months (per Nielsen).
The series was also a hit with viewers around the world. In the UK, Ted was the biggest U.S. comedy launch on Sky in over 20 years; in Australia, it was FOX8’s #1 international series premiere on the channel in the past two years and the biggest U.S. comedy launch on streaming service Binge; and in Canada, it was the #1 series on Showcase this year, while holding the #1 ranked show for streaming on Stacktv (VOD) during its season one run.
Season one of the Ted features creator and star Seth MacFarlane alongside Max Burkholder, Alanna Ubach,...
- 5/9/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Exclusive: Rockmond Dunbar has joined the recurring cast of Peacock’s upcoming limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, starring and executive produced by Kevin Hart. This marks Dunbar’s first acting job since he was terminated from 9-1-1 in 2021 over not complying with the studio’s Covid vaccine mandate after his requests for a medical and religious exemptions were rejected. The actor subsequently filed a $1M lawsuit against Disney over the firing, with the case now headed to trial.
Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Dunbar will play Uncle Willie, who owns an autobody shop but his real job is as the top fence in the area. He joins an ensemble cast led by Hart, Samuel L. Jackson and Terrence Howard.
Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Dunbar will play Uncle Willie, who owns an autobody shop but his real job is as the top fence in the area. He joins an ensemble cast led by Hart, Samuel L. Jackson and Terrence Howard.
- 3/23/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Taraji P. Henson is going to keep telling her truth.
As she took the stage at the 2024 ABFF Honors on Sunday night, “The Color Purple” star pointed to a tattoo on her left bicep that spells out those words exactly: “The Truth.”
“If you are alive and God blessed you with another day to live, it is your job to tell your truth,” Henson told the crowd gathered for the American Black Film Festival’s marquee gala. “Because by you telling your truth, you set yourself free and somebody else free. When we stay quiet, nothing changes. The squeaky wheel gets fixed.”
That ideology is something Henson’s learned to keep close over the years, particularly when it comes to navigating Hollywood.
Late last year, Henson spoke her truth and sparked an important conversation about the unique challenges Black actresses face. She used her platform during “The Color Purple” press...
As she took the stage at the 2024 ABFF Honors on Sunday night, “The Color Purple” star pointed to a tattoo on her left bicep that spells out those words exactly: “The Truth.”
“If you are alive and God blessed you with another day to live, it is your job to tell your truth,” Henson told the crowd gathered for the American Black Film Festival’s marquee gala. “Because by you telling your truth, you set yourself free and somebody else free. When we stay quiet, nothing changes. The squeaky wheel gets fixed.”
That ideology is something Henson’s learned to keep close over the years, particularly when it comes to navigating Hollywood.
Late last year, Henson spoke her truth and sparked an important conversation about the unique challenges Black actresses face. She used her platform during “The Color Purple” press...
- 3/5/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Peacock is bulking up its scripted roster.
The NBCUniversal-owned streamer on Wednesday announced series orders for four new scripted originals, including Mr. Throwback, a mockumentary starring NBA legend Steph Curry and an untitled James Wan thriller with Simu Liu set to topline the drama. Also ordered to series are Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy from the creators of Dr. Death and All Her Fault, a suburban thriller based on the novel of the same name by Andrea Mara.
The news was announced Wednesday during Peacock’s time at the Television Critics Association’s winter press tour, where the streamer held panels for Apples Never Fall and The Traitors, among others.
The pickups join a roster of scripted series at Peacock that also includes Apples Never Fall, Hysteria!, The Tattooist Of Auschwitz, Those About To Die, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, We Are Lady Parts, Teacup The Day of the Jackal...
The NBCUniversal-owned streamer on Wednesday announced series orders for four new scripted originals, including Mr. Throwback, a mockumentary starring NBA legend Steph Curry and an untitled James Wan thriller with Simu Liu set to topline the drama. Also ordered to series are Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy from the creators of Dr. Death and All Her Fault, a suburban thriller based on the novel of the same name by Andrea Mara.
The news was announced Wednesday during Peacock’s time at the Television Critics Association’s winter press tour, where the streamer held panels for Apples Never Fall and The Traitors, among others.
The pickups join a roster of scripted series at Peacock that also includes Apples Never Fall, Hysteria!, The Tattooist Of Auschwitz, Those About To Die, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, We Are Lady Parts, Teacup The Day of the Jackal...
- 2/14/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
There’s a huge series coming to Peacock, and it centers around a Muhammad Ali story!
The limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist has added several actors to its cast, featuring some high-profile names from the modeling and music worlds, as well as big actors.
Production on the series is set to begin this month. It was created and written by Shaye Ogbonna who will co-showrun and executive produce the project alongside Jason Horwitch.
Via Deadline: “The series, based on the eponymous iHeartPodcast, will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen. Fight Night, set in Atlanta, will focus on the cop and the hustler,...
The limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist has added several actors to its cast, featuring some high-profile names from the modeling and music worlds, as well as big actors.
Production on the series is set to begin this month. It was created and written by Shaye Ogbonna who will co-showrun and executive produce the project alongside Jason Horwitch.
Via Deadline: “The series, based on the eponymous iHeartPodcast, will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen. Fight Night, set in Atlanta, will focus on the cop and the hustler,...
- 2/8/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Exclusive: Peacock‘s limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist has added six actors to its growing cast: Chloe Bailey (Candy Cane Lane), Melvin Gregg (Snowfall), Artrece Johnson (A Thousand One), Jalyn Hall (Genius: MLK/X), Clifton Powell (Black Lightning) and Lori Harvey. Production is set to begin next week
The series, based on the eponymous iHeartPodcast, will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen. Fight Night, set in Atlanta, will focus on the cop and the hustler, at the center of it all.
Previously announced cast includes Dexter Darden as Muhammad Ali, Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Hart, Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson and Don Cheadle.
The series, based on the eponymous iHeartPodcast, will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen. Fight Night, set in Atlanta, will focus on the cop and the hustler, at the center of it all.
Previously announced cast includes Dexter Darden as Muhammad Ali, Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Hart, Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson and Don Cheadle.
- 2/8/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Marsha Stephanie Blake has joined the cast of the upcoming Peacock limited series “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” Variety has learned exclusively.
Blake joins previously announced series lead Kevin Hart in the show, along with fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, Don Cheadle, and Dexter Darden.
The series is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Will Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures. It will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s (Darden) historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Blake will star as Delores Hudson, described as “Jd’s (Cheadle) wife and a social worker fighting for her community.”
Blake received an Emmy nomination for her role in the...
Blake joins previously announced series lead Kevin Hart in the show, along with fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, Don Cheadle, and Dexter Darden.
The series is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Will Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures. It will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s (Darden) historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Blake will star as Delores Hudson, described as “Jd’s (Cheadle) wife and a social worker fighting for her community.”
Blake received an Emmy nomination for her role in the...
- 2/8/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Naomie Harris, Jameela Jamil, Joel Fry and Olivia Lee have joined the cast of the British romantic comedy ‘Lola and Freddie.’
Described as a reimaging of 2012’s ‘Celeste and Jesse Forever,’ the story follows a couple who were once inseparable and totally in love but now, in their 40s and having grown in different directions, are getting a divorce. Lola is thriving in her career while Freddie continues to chase his dream of becoming a screenwriter. When a big studio hires Freddie and rekindles a relationship with an old flame, he matures and aligns more with what Lola desires in their marriage.
With Freddie’s change in fortune, Lola starts to miss a life she thought she no longer wanted. With newly separate worlds colliding again, Lola and Freddie are forced to confront the uncomfortable truth that they might still be in love with each other. But a major development...
Described as a reimaging of 2012’s ‘Celeste and Jesse Forever,’ the story follows a couple who were once inseparable and totally in love but now, in their 40s and having grown in different directions, are getting a divorce. Lola is thriving in her career while Freddie continues to chase his dream of becoming a screenwriter. When a big studio hires Freddie and rekindles a relationship with an old flame, he matures and aligns more with what Lola desires in their marriage.
With Freddie’s change in fortune, Lola starts to miss a life she thought she no longer wanted. With newly separate worlds colliding again, Lola and Freddie are forced to confront the uncomfortable truth that they might still be in love with each other. But a major development...
- 2/7/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Don Cheadle is the latest name to team up with Kevin Hart to star in Peacock’s limited true crime series ‘Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist.’
Based on the podcast ‘Fight Night,’ the series is set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Cheadle will take on the role of the series regular Jd Hudson, described as “one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives assigned to Ali’s security detail and the robbery.”
He joins previously announced series lead Kevin Hart in the show, along with fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, and Dexter Darden.
Also in news – Toni Collette set for comedy ‘A French Pursuit’
Kevin Hart is...
Based on the podcast ‘Fight Night,’ the series is set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Cheadle will take on the role of the series regular Jd Hudson, described as “one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives assigned to Ali’s security detail and the robbery.”
He joins previously announced series lead Kevin Hart in the show, along with fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, and Dexter Darden.
Also in news – Toni Collette set for comedy ‘A French Pursuit’
Kevin Hart is...
- 2/6/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Don Cheadle is the latest addition to the stacked cast for the upcoming Peacock limited true crime series “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist.”
Cheadle joins previously announced series lead Kevin Hart in the show, along with fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, and Dexter Darden.
The series is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Will Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures. It will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s (Darden) historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Cheadle will appear in the series regular role of Jd Hudson, described as “one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives assigned to Ali’s security detail and the robbery.”
Cheadle has...
Cheadle joins previously announced series lead Kevin Hart in the show, along with fellow cast members Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, and Dexter Darden.
The series is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Will Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures. It will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s (Darden) historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Cheadle will appear in the series regular role of Jd Hudson, described as “one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives assigned to Ali’s security detail and the robbery.”
Cheadle has...
- 2/5/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, the Peacock limited series that tells the story of an infamous armed robbery after Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight, has added Don Cheadle to its cast.
Cheadle is to play Jd Hudson, one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives assigned to Ali’s security detail and the robbery, in the series.
He joins Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson and Terrence Howard in the series, which comes from Shaye Ogbonna.
Set in Atlanta, the series follows the heavyweight fight and criminal underground heist that introduced the world to the city dubbed “the Black Mecca,” and the cop and the hustler at the center of it all.
The series was created and written by Ogbonna, who serves as showrunner alongside Jason Horwitch. It is produced by Universal Television and is based on the podcast Fight Night.
Ogbonna, Horwitch, Hart, Will Packer, Sabrina Wind,...
Cheadle is to play Jd Hudson, one of Atlanta’s first Black detectives assigned to Ali’s security detail and the robbery, in the series.
He joins Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Henson, Samuel L. Jackson and Terrence Howard in the series, which comes from Shaye Ogbonna.
Set in Atlanta, the series follows the heavyweight fight and criminal underground heist that introduced the world to the city dubbed “the Black Mecca,” and the cop and the hustler at the center of it all.
The series was created and written by Ogbonna, who serves as showrunner alongside Jason Horwitch. It is produced by Universal Television and is based on the podcast Fight Night.
Ogbonna, Horwitch, Hart, Will Packer, Sabrina Wind,...
- 2/5/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Peacock’s limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist continues to add to its A-list cast.
Don Cheadle is the latest actor to sign on to the drama, which tracks an armed robbery (and its fallout) on the night of Muhammad Ali’s 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. Cheadle joins a cast that also includes Kevin Hart (who’s also executive producing), Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson, Terrence Howard, Dexter Darden (who’s playing Ali) and Myles Bullock.
Fight Night is based on an iHeart podcast and will follow “the heavyweight fight and criminal underground heist that introduced the world to the city dubbed ‘the Black Mecca,’ and the cop and the hustler at the center of it all,” according to the show’s logline. Oscar and Emmy nominee Cheadle will play the aforementioned cop, Jd Hudson, one of the first Black detectives on Atlanta’s police force who...
Don Cheadle is the latest actor to sign on to the drama, which tracks an armed robbery (and its fallout) on the night of Muhammad Ali’s 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. Cheadle joins a cast that also includes Kevin Hart (who’s also executive producing), Samuel L. Jackson, Taraji P. Henson, Terrence Howard, Dexter Darden (who’s playing Ali) and Myles Bullock.
Fight Night is based on an iHeart podcast and will follow “the heavyweight fight and criminal underground heist that introduced the world to the city dubbed ‘the Black Mecca,’ and the cop and the hustler at the center of it all,” according to the show’s logline. Oscar and Emmy nominee Cheadle will play the aforementioned cop, Jd Hudson, one of the first Black detectives on Atlanta’s police force who...
- 2/5/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Myles Bullock (Bmf) has landed a role in Peacock’s starry true crime limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist. He joins an ensemble that includes Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, Taraji P. Henson and Dexter Darden. Details as to his role are under wraps.
Created and written by Shaye Ogbonna based on the same-name podcast from iHeartPodcasts, Doghouse Pictures and Will Packer Media, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s (Darden) historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch are serving as showrunners, with Craig Brewer directing the first two episodes and exec producing alongside Hart, Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts,...
Created and written by Shaye Ogbonna based on the same-name podcast from iHeartPodcasts, Doghouse Pictures and Will Packer Media, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s (Darden) historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch are serving as showrunners, with Craig Brewer directing the first two episodes and exec producing alongside Hart, Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts,...
- 2/2/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Dexter Darden (Chang Can Dunk) is ready to float like a butterfly and sting like a bee as Muhammad Ali for Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, a limited crime series coming to Peacock. The forthcoming series features Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Hart, and Terrence Howard for a story about an infamous armed robbery after Muhammad Ali’s historical comeback fight in 1970.
In the series, Jackson plays Frank Morten, a real-life underworld kingpin dubbed the Black Godfather by the New York tabloids. The project finds Jackson reuniting with Black Snake Moan filmmaker Craig Brewer, who will direct the first two episodes of Fight Night. Meanwhile, Howard plays Richard “Cadillac” Wheeler, a gangster and associate of the Council of 12. Hart plays Chicken Man in the series, while Taraji P. Henson portrays Vivian Thomas, a savvy businesswoman and Chicken Man’s mistress.
The plot takes place on the night of Ali defeating...
In the series, Jackson plays Frank Morten, a real-life underworld kingpin dubbed the Black Godfather by the New York tabloids. The project finds Jackson reuniting with Black Snake Moan filmmaker Craig Brewer, who will direct the first two episodes of Fight Night. Meanwhile, Howard plays Richard “Cadillac” Wheeler, a gangster and associate of the Council of 12. Hart plays Chicken Man in the series, while Taraji P. Henson portrays Vivian Thomas, a savvy businesswoman and Chicken Man’s mistress.
The plot takes place on the night of Ali defeating...
- 1/31/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Taraji P. Henson is the latest addition to the cast of the upcoming Peacock limited series “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” Variety has learned.
Henson joins previously announced cast members Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, and Dexter Darden. The role reunites Henson, Howard, and Craig Brewer, who is executive producing and directing. The three previously worked together on projects like the Oscar-winning film “Hustle & Flow” as well as the hit Fox music industry drama “Empire.”
The series is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Will Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures. It will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Hart will star as Chicken Man,...
Henson joins previously announced cast members Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson, Terrence Howard, and Dexter Darden. The role reunites Henson, Howard, and Craig Brewer, who is executive producing and directing. The three previously worked together on projects like the Oscar-winning film “Hustle & Flow” as well as the hit Fox music industry drama “Empire.”
The series is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Will Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures. It will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Hart will star as Chicken Man,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Taraji P. Henson has joined the cast of Peacock’s limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist in the series regular role of Vivian Thomas, a savvy businesswoman and Chicken Man’s (Kevin Hart) mistress.
The series reunites Henson with Hart who have collaborated on multiple projects including the films Think Like a Man and Not Easily Broken. Additionally, Fight Night also brings Henson back together with Terrence Howard and Craig Brewer, with whom she collaborated on Hustle & Flow and Empire, among other projects.
Set in Atlanta, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life but an entire city’s destiny.
As Deadline exclusively revealed on Wednesday morning, Dexter Darden will star as the legendary boxer in the limited series. In addition to Henson,...
The series reunites Henson with Hart who have collaborated on multiple projects including the films Think Like a Man and Not Easily Broken. Additionally, Fight Night also brings Henson back together with Terrence Howard and Craig Brewer, with whom she collaborated on Hustle & Flow and Empire, among other projects.
Set in Atlanta, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life but an entire city’s destiny.
As Deadline exclusively revealed on Wednesday morning, Dexter Darden will star as the legendary boxer in the limited series. In addition to Henson,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Dexter Darden has signed on to join Peacock’s “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” limited series, Variety has confirmed. He’ll take on the role of heavyweight boxer, Muhammad Ali.
Based on the true crime podcast “Fight Night” by Doghouse Pictures, LLC and iHeartMedia + Entertainment, the true crime limited series tells the story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city. The series follows the infamous heavyweight fight and criminal underground heist that “introduced the world to the city dubbed ‘the Black Mecca,’ and the cop and the hustler at the center of it all,” reads the description. nh. nnb
Darden joins previously announced star Kevin Hart, who also executive produces alongside Will Packer. As Variety previously reported, Samuel L. Jackson joined the series as notorious gangster Frank Moten, who was given...
Based on the true crime podcast “Fight Night” by Doghouse Pictures, LLC and iHeartMedia + Entertainment, the true crime limited series tells the story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city. The series follows the infamous heavyweight fight and criminal underground heist that “introduced the world to the city dubbed ‘the Black Mecca,’ and the cop and the hustler at the center of it all,” reads the description. nh. nnb
Darden joins previously announced star Kevin Hart, who also executive produces alongside Will Packer. As Variety previously reported, Samuel L. Jackson joined the series as notorious gangster Frank Moten, who was given...
- 1/31/2024
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Up-and-comer Dexter Darden (Chang Can Dunk) has been tapped to portray all-time great boxer Muhammad Ali in Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, the forthcoming true crime limited series for Peacock. He joins an ensemble that also includes Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson and Terrence Howard, as previously announced.
Created and written by Shaye Ogbonna based on the same-name podcast from iHeartPodcasts, Doghouse Pictures and Will Packer Media, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch are serving as showrunners, with Craig Brewer directing the first two episodes and exec producing alongside Hart, Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts,...
Created and written by Shaye Ogbonna based on the same-name podcast from iHeartPodcasts, Doghouse Pictures and Will Packer Media, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.
Ogbonna and Jason Horwitch are serving as showrunners, with Craig Brewer directing the first two episodes and exec producing alongside Hart, Bryan Smiley and Mike Stein for Hart’s Hartbeat, Will Packer and Sabrina Wind for Will Packer Media, Conal Byrne, Will Pearson and Carrie Lieberman for iHeartPodcasts,...
- 1/31/2024
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Amber Riley is looking for payback.
Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge, a sequel to the popular 2022 Lifetime movie, will premiere Saturday, March 2 at 8/7c on the cabler, our sister site Deadline reports. Riley, Raven Goodwin and K. Michelle will reprise their roles from the first film.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Taraji P. Henson Joins Fight Night, Superstore Reunion on Not Dead Yet and MoreAbbott Elementary Season 3 Trailer: A Strict 'New Ava' Shakes Up the SchoolThe Rookie Season 6 Trailer Pits Nolan/Bailey vs. 'The Curse' on Eve of Wedding
The synopsis, as described by Deadline, follows: “Three...
Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge, a sequel to the popular 2022 Lifetime movie, will premiere Saturday, March 2 at 8/7c on the cabler, our sister site Deadline reports. Riley, Raven Goodwin and K. Michelle will reprise their roles from the first film.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Taraji P. Henson Joins Fight Night, Superstore Reunion on Not Dead Yet and MoreAbbott Elementary Season 3 Trailer: A Strict 'New Ava' Shakes Up the SchoolThe Rookie Season 6 Trailer Pits Nolan/Bailey vs. 'The Curse' on Eve of Wedding
The synopsis, as described by Deadline, follows: “Three...
- 1/30/2024
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
Empire star Terrence Howard has been cast opposite Kevin Hart and Samuel L. Jackson in Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, the upcoming Peacock limited series based around Muhammad Ali’s iconic 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. As reported by Deadline, Howard will star in a series regular role as Richard “Cadillac” Wheeler, a gangster and associate of the Council of 12. Based on the popular iHeart true crime podcast from Jeff Keating and Jim Roberts, Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Ali’s 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life but an entire city’s destiny. It focuses on the hustler at the center of the robbery and the detective, one of the first Black Atlanta police officers to rise to that rank, tasked with solving the crime. Howard’s casting marks a reunion with Craig Brewer, who will direct...
- 1/30/2024
- TV Insider
Exclusive: Terrence Howard (The Best Man: The Final Chapters) is set to star opposite Kevin Hart and Samuel L. Jackson in the Peacock limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist.
The project reunites Howard with Craig Brewer, who will direct and executive produce the first two episodes of the series. The pair previously worked together on Brewer’s 2005 feature Hustle & Flow, in which Howard starred, earning an Oscar nomination for his performance; and on the Fox series Empire, also starring Howard, on which Brewer was director-producer.
This also makes a return to Peacock for Howard who most recently appeared in the streamer’s limited series The Best Man: The Final Chapters, Peacock’s first original to break into Nielsen’s Top 10 streaming rankings.
Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life,...
The project reunites Howard with Craig Brewer, who will direct and executive produce the first two episodes of the series. The pair previously worked together on Brewer’s 2005 feature Hustle & Flow, in which Howard starred, earning an Oscar nomination for his performance; and on the Fox series Empire, also starring Howard, on which Brewer was director-producer.
This also makes a return to Peacock for Howard who most recently appeared in the streamer’s limited series The Best Man: The Final Chapters, Peacock’s first original to break into Nielsen’s Top 10 streaming rankings.
Fight Night tells the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life,...
- 1/30/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ are embarking on a new adventure and heading to the big screen.
The latest ‘Star Wars’ feature is directed and produced by Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy and Dave Filoni also produce. This new chapter in the Mandalorian and Grogu’s journey will go into production in 2024.
“I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created. The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting,” Favreau shared.
Also in news – Samuel L. Jackson joins true crime limited series ‘Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist’
Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm, added, “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.”
‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ will lead Lucasfilm’s ongoing feature-development slate, which includes films helmed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy,...
The latest ‘Star Wars’ feature is directed and produced by Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy and Dave Filoni also produce. This new chapter in the Mandalorian and Grogu’s journey will go into production in 2024.
“I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created. The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting,” Favreau shared.
Also in news – Samuel L. Jackson joins true crime limited series ‘Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist’
Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm, added, “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters, and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.”
‘The Mandalorian & Grogu’ will lead Lucasfilm’s ongoing feature-development slate, which includes films helmed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy,...
- 1/10/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Samuel L. Jackson has teamed up with Kevin Hart to star in Peacock’s limited true crime series ‘Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist.’
The series is set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Jackson takes on the role of notorious gangster Frank Moten, who was given the moniker “the Black Godfather” by New York tabloids.
Also in news – Jack Black added to ‘Minecraft’ movie
Kevin Hart is attached to star and executive produce with Will Packer also executive producing. It is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures.
Shaye Ogbonna serves as creator, and showruns alongside Jason Horwitch. Both executive produce alongside Hart,...
The series is set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Jackson takes on the role of notorious gangster Frank Moten, who was given the moniker “the Black Godfather” by New York tabloids.
Also in news – Jack Black added to ‘Minecraft’ movie
Kevin Hart is attached to star and executive produce with Will Packer also executive producing. It is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures.
Shaye Ogbonna serves as creator, and showruns alongside Jason Horwitch. Both executive produce alongside Hart,...
- 1/8/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Regina Hall came down with pneumonia while shooting Girls Trip, the irreverent 2017 comedy from Will Packer, a savant who repeatedly has shown an obdurate Hollywood that Black movies can mint money at the box office. Hall recalls Packer’s superpower: persuading anyone, be they filmmakers, studio execs or, in this case, his star, to do what needs to be done. “I came to work, they tested me, and I had a fever. Will said he would rearrange the entire schedule so we could shoot my part first: ‘If you can just get through this scene for me, you won’t have to do anything else,’ ” she says. “I did get through it, and he made sure I had everything I needed to heal.”
Girls Trip — the first movie produced, written, directed by and starring African Americans to cross $100 million at the domestic box office on its way to earning $140.9 million...
Girls Trip — the first movie produced, written, directed by and starring African Americans to cross $100 million at the domestic box office on its way to earning $140.9 million...
- 1/8/2024
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Samuel L. Jackson is set to star in the upcoming Peacock true crime limited series “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” Variety has learned.
The show was ordered to series at Peacock in December with Kevin Hart attached to star and executive produce with Will Packer also executive producing. It is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures.
The series will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Jackson will star as notorious gangster Frank Moten, who was given the moniker “the Black Godfather” by New York tabloids.
Shaye Ogbonna serves as creator, and showruns alongside Jason Horwitch. Both executive produce alongside Hart,...
The show was ordered to series at Peacock in December with Kevin Hart attached to star and executive produce with Will Packer also executive producing. It is based on the podcast “Fight Night,” which was produced by Packer along with iHeartPodcasts and Doghouse Pictures.
The series will be set in Atlanta in 1970. The official description states that it will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight changed not only one man’s life, but an entire city’s destiny.”
Jackson will star as notorious gangster Frank Moten, who was given the moniker “the Black Godfather” by New York tabloids.
Shaye Ogbonna serves as creator, and showruns alongside Jason Horwitch. Both executive produce alongside Hart,...
- 1/5/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Samuel L. Jackson has joined the Peacock Muhammad Ali limited series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist. He will portray Frank Moten, a real-life underworld kingpin coined the Black Godfather by the NY tabloids.
The project reunites Jackson with Craig Brewer, who will direct the first two episodes of the show. The pair previously collaborated on the 2006 film Black Snake Moan.
The series will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen. Fight Night, set in Atlanta, will focus on the cop and the hustler, at the center of it all.
Kevin Hart will star in and produce the limited...
The project reunites Jackson with Craig Brewer, who will direct the first two episodes of the show. The pair previously collaborated on the 2006 film Black Snake Moan.
The series will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen. Fight Night, set in Atlanta, will focus on the cop and the hustler, at the center of it all.
Kevin Hart will star in and produce the limited...
- 1/5/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
The story of an infamous armed robbery after Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback fight is heading to streaming.
Kevin Hart will star in, and produce, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, which has landed a series order at Peacock. It is based on the eponymous podcast and comes from Shaye Ogbonna and Will Packer.
It will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen.
Shaye Ogbanna (Victoria Stevens)
The Atlanta-set limited series, which was created and written by Ogbonna, a writer on Penguin and The Chi, follow the fight and the heist introduced the world to the city dubbed “the Black Mecca,” and the cop and...
Kevin Hart will star in, and produce, Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist, which has landed a series order at Peacock. It is based on the eponymous podcast and comes from Shaye Ogbonna and Will Packer.
It will tell the story of how on the night of Ali’s defeat of Jerry Quarry, which came after he was banned from boxing for refusing to enter the military draft, hundreds of guests at an after-party were robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the largest armed robberies the country has ever seen.
Shaye Ogbanna (Victoria Stevens)
The Atlanta-set limited series, which was created and written by Ogbonna, a writer on Penguin and The Chi, follow the fight and the heist introduced the world to the city dubbed “the Black Mecca,” and the cop and...
- 12/13/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Peacock and Kevin Hart are stepping into the boxing ring.
The NBCUniversal streamer has ordered a limited series titled Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist that will tell the story of an armed robbery orchestrated around Muhammad Ali’s 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. Hart will star in the series and serve as an executive producer.
Fight Night is based on an iHeart podcast written by Jeff Keating (who also hosted) and Jim Roberts. Shaye Ogbonna (The Chi) created the TV series and will serve as showrunner along with Jason Horwitch (Peacock’s The Calling, Apple TV+’s Echo 3). The show comes from Universal Television, Will Packer Media (which also produced the podcast) and Doghouse Pictures. Craig Brewer (Dolemite Is My Name) is set to direct the first two episodes.
The series will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback...
The NBCUniversal streamer has ordered a limited series titled Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist that will tell the story of an armed robbery orchestrated around Muhammad Ali’s 1970 comeback fight in Atlanta. Hart will star in the series and serve as an executive producer.
Fight Night is based on an iHeart podcast written by Jeff Keating (who also hosted) and Jim Roberts. Shaye Ogbonna (The Chi) created the TV series and will serve as showrunner along with Jason Horwitch (Peacock’s The Calling, Apple TV+’s Echo 3). The show comes from Universal Television, Will Packer Media (which also produced the podcast) and Doghouse Pictures. Craig Brewer (Dolemite Is My Name) is set to direct the first two episodes.
The series will tell “the infamous story of how an armed robbery during the night of Muhammad Ali’s historic 1970 comeback...
- 12/13/2023
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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