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
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
Exclusive: Will Packer Media and Kinetic Content are developing Tia Williams’ Seven Days in June as a series for Prime Video, with Felicia Pride serving as writer and showrunner.
Pride will also executive produce the project through her production company Honey Chile, along with Will Packer and Sabrina Wind through Will Packer Media. Williams will also EP, while Honey Chile’s Ivy Grant will serve as a consultant.
Seven Days in June was a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick in June 2021 and a New York Times bestseller. Named best book by several publications including USA Today, Harper’s Bazaar and the Los Angeles Times, the novel is a BookTok favorite and has been heralded as “gutting, arousing, and sparklingly witty” by Vogue Entertainment.
Williams’ fourth novel The Perfect Find was adapted into the 2023 film starring Gabrielle Union that debuted on Netflix. Her upcoming novel A Love Song for Ricki Wilde,...
Pride will also executive produce the project through her production company Honey Chile, along with Will Packer and Sabrina Wind through Will Packer Media. Williams will also EP, while Honey Chile’s Ivy Grant will serve as a consultant.
Seven Days in June was a Reese Witherspoon Book Club pick in June 2021 and a New York Times bestseller. Named best book by several publications including USA Today, Harper’s Bazaar and the Los Angeles Times, the novel is a BookTok favorite and has been heralded as “gutting, arousing, and sparklingly witty” by Vogue Entertainment.
Williams’ fourth novel The Perfect Find was adapted into the 2023 film starring Gabrielle Union that debuted on Netflix. Her upcoming novel A Love Song for Ricki Wilde,...
- 2/7/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
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
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
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
Peacock is ready to touch gloves with Samuel L. Jackson after the Pulp Fiction and Snakes on a Plane star joined the cast of its Muhammad Ali limited series, Fight Night. Jackson plays Frank Moten for the series, 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.
The plot takes place on the night of Ali defeating Jerry Quarry after he was banned from boxing for military draft dodging. The disturbing events of that evening include hundreds of guests at an after-party being robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the most significant armed robberies in United States history. The tale unfolds in Atlanta, with story elements revolving around the cop, J.D. Hudson, and Morten (Jackson), the hustler, orchestrating the unprecedented criminal event.
Fight Night also stars Kevin Hart,...
The plot takes place on the night of Ali defeating Jerry Quarry after he was banned from boxing for military draft dodging. The disturbing events of that evening include hundreds of guests at an after-party being robbed at gunpoint, becoming one of the most significant armed robberies in United States history. The tale unfolds in Atlanta, with story elements revolving around the cop, J.D. Hudson, and Morten (Jackson), the hustler, orchestrating the unprecedented criminal event.
Fight Night also stars Kevin Hart,...
- 1/5/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
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
Veteran TV exec, producer and entrepreneur Cris Abrego can add another line to his growing list of titles: Chairman of the Television Academy. Abrego was elected to the post on Thursday night by the org’s Board of Governors, as the TV Academy also firmed up its roster of officers and governors for the board’s 2024-2025 term.
Abrego is the chairman of the Americas at global production company Banijay, and also recently partnered with Eva Longoria to launch Hyphenate Media Group, where he serves as CEO. At the TV Academy, Abrego will begin his two-year term as chairman on Jan. 1.
“I am honored to step into this role and feel the significant weight of responsibility in leading the Television Academy into the future, especially in this transformative moment in our business,” Abrego said in a statement. “Our members represent one of the most powerful and exciting industries in the...
Abrego is the chairman of the Americas at global production company Banijay, and also recently partnered with Eva Longoria to launch Hyphenate Media Group, where he serves as CEO. At the TV Academy, Abrego will begin his two-year term as chairman on Jan. 1.
“I am honored to step into this role and feel the significant weight of responsibility in leading the Television Academy into the future, especially in this transformative moment in our business,” Abrego said in a statement. “Our members represent one of the most powerful and exciting industries in the...
- 11/17/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Will Packer Media has a new person leading its scripted TV efforts.
Producer Sabrina Wind has joined the company as head of scripted television and production. She’ll be in charge of developing and producing Will Packer Media’s TV projects and working with creators and producers. She’ll report to the company’s president, Alix Baudin.
“I am beyond honored to be joining the team at Will Packer Media,” Wind said in a statement. “Will is a true force of nature in the industry, someone whose unbridled creativity, style, and business acumen have made him a powerhouse in every sense of the word. I look forward to working with Will, Alix, and the rest of the team to help bring exciting new stories and voices to audiences around the world.”
Wind founded her own production company, WindPower Entertainment, in 2019 and sold more than a dozen projects,...
Will Packer Media has a new person leading its scripted TV efforts.
Producer Sabrina Wind has joined the company as head of scripted television and production. She’ll be in charge of developing and producing Will Packer Media’s TV projects and working with creators and producers. She’ll report to the company’s president, Alix Baudin.
“I am beyond honored to be joining the team at Will Packer Media,” Wind said in a statement. “Will is a true force of nature in the industry, someone whose unbridled creativity, style, and business acumen have made him a powerhouse in every sense of the word. I look forward to working with Will, Alix, and the rest of the team to help bring exciting new stories and voices to audiences around the world.”
Wind founded her own production company, WindPower Entertainment, in 2019 and sold more than a dozen projects,...
- 7/14/2022
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Will Packer Media is bringing on Sabrina Wind to serve as head of scripted television and production.
Wind will report to Alix Baudin, president of Will Packer Media. In her role, she will be responsible for development and production of the company’s television slate, which includes working with creators, writers, and producers.
“I truly believe the key to success in today’s content landscape is working with Executives who have a specific understanding of audience’s tastes and a keen ability to execute on them,” Packer said. “Sabrina is that Exec, and her reputation as someone who delivers is unmatched.”
“Sabrina is a highly regarded creative executive with a successful track record in developing and producing great stories,” Baudin added. “We are thrilled to have Sabrina join the Wpm team.”
Prior to joining Will Packer Media, Wind was the founder of the production company WindPower Entertainment. The company was...
Wind will report to Alix Baudin, president of Will Packer Media. In her role, she will be responsible for development and production of the company’s television slate, which includes working with creators, writers, and producers.
“I truly believe the key to success in today’s content landscape is working with Executives who have a specific understanding of audience’s tastes and a keen ability to execute on them,” Packer said. “Sabrina is that Exec, and her reputation as someone who delivers is unmatched.”
“Sabrina is a highly regarded creative executive with a successful track record in developing and producing great stories,” Baudin added. “We are thrilled to have Sabrina join the Wpm team.”
Prior to joining Will Packer Media, Wind was the founder of the production company WindPower Entertainment. The company was...
- 7/14/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran producer Sabrina Wind has joined Will Packer Media as Head of Scripted Television and Production. Reporting to Alix Baudin, President of Will Packer Media, Wind will lead development and production for the company’s television projects, working closely with show creators, writers, and producers. She fills a position that has been vacant since Carolyn Newman left last fall.
“I truly believe the key to success in today’s content landscape is working with Executives who have a specific understanding of audience’s tastes and a keen ability to execute on them. Sabrina is that Exec, and her reputation as someone who delivers is unmatched,” said Will Packer Media founder Will Packer.
Added Baudin, “Sabrina is a highly regarded creative executive with a successful track record in developing and producing great stories. We are thrilled to have Sabrina join the Wpm team.”
Wind most recently ran her own production company,...
“I truly believe the key to success in today’s content landscape is working with Executives who have a specific understanding of audience’s tastes and a keen ability to execute on them. Sabrina is that Exec, and her reputation as someone who delivers is unmatched,” said Will Packer Media founder Will Packer.
Added Baudin, “Sabrina is a highly regarded creative executive with a successful track record in developing and producing great stories. We are thrilled to have Sabrina join the Wpm team.”
Wind most recently ran her own production company,...
- 7/14/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Two ABC series, “Promised Land” and “Queens,” will not be returning for a second season, Disney announced on Friday.
“Promised Land,” a drama from Matt Lopez about a Latino family in California’s Sonoma Valley, debuted to great acclaim but mediocre ratings in January. After five episodes, it was pulled from ABC‘s schedule and the entire season moved to sister streamer Hulu.
At the time of the move, an ABC spokesperson said, “‘Promised Land’ is a beautifully executed and tremendously entertaining series of which everyone at our company is extremely proud. We know it has a passionate audience that is very invested in this show, and those viewers will be able to stream all subsequent episodes exclusively on Hulu every Tuesday for the rest of the season.”
The ensemble cast was led by John Ortiz and Christina Ochoa.
“Queens” boasted real-life music stars Eve, Naturi Naughton, Brandy and Nadine Velazquez...
“Promised Land,” a drama from Matt Lopez about a Latino family in California’s Sonoma Valley, debuted to great acclaim but mediocre ratings in January. After five episodes, it was pulled from ABC‘s schedule and the entire season moved to sister streamer Hulu.
At the time of the move, an ABC spokesperson said, “‘Promised Land’ is a beautifully executed and tremendously entertaining series of which everyone at our company is extremely proud. We know it has a passionate audience that is very invested in this show, and those viewers will be able to stream all subsequent episodes exclusively on Hulu every Tuesday for the rest of the season.”
The ensemble cast was led by John Ortiz and Christina Ochoa.
“Queens” boasted real-life music stars Eve, Naturi Naughton, Brandy and Nadine Velazquez...
- 5/7/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
The ABC dramas “Queens” and “Promised Land” have both been canceled after one season at ABC.
“Queens” concluded its season on the broadcaster back in February. The series followed four women in their 40s who reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had in the ‘90s when they were legends in the hip-hop world.
Eve originally starred in the series as Brianna (aka Professor Sex), but she bowed out of the show midway through the season to go on maternity leave. It also starred Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Sele as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga as Lil Muffin, and Brandy as Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics.
Zahir McGhee wrote “Queens” and served as an executive producer. Tim Story executive produced and directed the pilot. Sabrina Wind also executive produced. Swizz Beatz served as executive music producer.
“Queens” concluded its season on the broadcaster back in February. The series followed four women in their 40s who reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had in the ‘90s when they were legends in the hip-hop world.
Eve originally starred in the series as Brianna (aka Professor Sex), but she bowed out of the show midway through the season to go on maternity leave. It also starred Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Sele as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga as Lil Muffin, and Brandy as Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics.
Zahir McGhee wrote “Queens” and served as an executive producer. Tim Story executive produced and directed the pilot. Sabrina Wind also executive produced. Swizz Beatz served as executive music producer.
- 5/7/2022
- by Joe Otterson and Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Olivier Martinez (Unfaithful) is set for a heavily recurring role opposite Maya Rudolph in Apple’s untitled half-hour comedy series from Emmy winners Alan Yang and Matt Hubbard. Created and written by Yang and Hubbard, the series follows Molly (Rudolph), a woman whose seemingly perfect life is upended after her husband leaves her with nothing but $87 billion. Martinez will play Jean Pierre, a handsome, charismatic, romantic billionaire. Jean-Pierre comes from a philanthropic, old money family in France and wants his family’s charitable foundation to collaborate with Molly. Although he intends to keep it strictly business, there is an undeniable connection between Jean-Pierre and Molly. Mj Rodriguez also stars. Martinez first became known in his native France for his Cesar-nominated performance in IP5: L’ile aux Pachydermes. He went on to star opposite Juliette Binoche in The Horseman on the Roof and in the Oscar-nominated features Before Night Falls and Unfaithful.
- 11/10/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Queens star Eve is going on a maternity leave as she is preparing for the birth of her first child in February 2022, Deadline has learned. The singer-actress, who plays one of the leads on the new ABC drama, Brianna, announced her pregnancy Oct. 15.
Eve has been commuting to Atlanta, where Queens films, from the UK where her family home is. ABC and the show’s producers have been supportive of the star, adjusting the schedule so Eve could film additional scenes before her leave to be with her family. As a result, Brianna will be in the majority of Queens‘ original 13-episode order, we hear.
We also hear that the character’s storyline is wrapped up in a way so Eve could return if she chooses to and should the series get renewed for a second season.
Eve stars alongside Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Brandy in Queens which has been well received,...
Eve has been commuting to Atlanta, where Queens films, from the UK where her family home is. ABC and the show’s producers have been supportive of the star, adjusting the schedule so Eve could film additional scenes before her leave to be with her family. As a result, Brianna will be in the majority of Queens‘ original 13-episode order, we hear.
We also hear that the character’s storyline is wrapped up in a way so Eve could return if she chooses to and should the series get renewed for a second season.
Eve stars alongside Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Brandy in Queens which has been well received,...
- 11/4/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva and Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
AMC’s “The Walking Dead” Universe and ABC’s “The Wonder Years” are among the series the Paley Center for Media announced as a part of its special 15th annual PaleyFest Fall TV Preview lineup.
Other series making the cut this year are Showtime’s “American Rust,” Fox’s “The Big Leap” and “Our Kind of People,” CBS’ “CSI: Vegas” and “Ghosts,” Peacock’s “Dan Brown’s The Lost Symbol,” Disney Plus’ “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” Paramount Plus’ “The Harper House,” HBO Max’s “Love Life,” Peacock’s “One of Us Is Lying,” NBC’s “Ordinary Joe,” ABC’s “Queens,” TNT’s “Rhodes to the Top” and TruTV’s “Tacoma Fd.”
Once again, PaleyFest is going virtual amid the Covid-19 pandemic, with panel available to Citi cardmembers and Paley Center Members on Sept. 14, and then to the general public on Sept. 20. Citi once again returns to sponsor of the event.
Other series making the cut this year are Showtime’s “American Rust,” Fox’s “The Big Leap” and “Our Kind of People,” CBS’ “CSI: Vegas” and “Ghosts,” Peacock’s “Dan Brown’s The Lost Symbol,” Disney Plus’ “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” Paramount Plus’ “The Harper House,” HBO Max’s “Love Life,” Peacock’s “One of Us Is Lying,” NBC’s “Ordinary Joe,” ABC’s “Queens,” TNT’s “Rhodes to the Top” and TruTV’s “Tacoma Fd.”
Once again, PaleyFest is going virtual amid the Covid-19 pandemic, with panel available to Citi cardmembers and Paley Center Members on Sept. 14, and then to the general public on Sept. 20. Citi once again returns to sponsor of the event.
- 9/14/2021
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Precious Way (Partners in Rhyme) is set for a key recurring role opposite Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton and Nadine Velazquez on ABC’s new musical drama series Queens, from Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and ABC Signature.
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — Naomi (Brandy), Jill (Naughton), Brianna (Eve) and Valeria (Velazquez) — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Way will play Jojo, Naomi’s, 20-year-old, estranged daughter, who has been living with her grandmother while Naomi has been chasing after her elusive lost fame. Bitterly resentful of her absentee mother, JoJo has written Naomi off for good, and tells her so in no uncertain terms. But when Naomi invites her to attend her comeback at one of the award shows,...
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — Naomi (Brandy), Jill (Naughton), Brianna (Eve) and Valeria (Velazquez) — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Way will play Jojo, Naomi’s, 20-year-old, estranged daughter, who has been living with her grandmother while Naomi has been chasing after her elusive lost fame. Bitterly resentful of her absentee mother, JoJo has written Naomi off for good, and tells her so in no uncertain terms. But when Naomi invites her to attend her comeback at one of the award shows,...
- 9/8/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Veteran executive producer Sabrina Wind has signed with CAA for representation in all areas.
Wind launched her production company WindPower Entertainment in 2019 and entered a pod deal with ABC Studios. In its first year, WindPower sold six projects, including the upcoming ABC drama series Queens, headlined by Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Pepi Sonuga, set to premiere this fall. Wind also has numerous drama and comedy projects in development with 7th Sun Productions, Milojo Productions, and eOne.
Wind has worked with ABC Studios for more than 15 years, since partnering with Marc Cherry in 2005 to executive produce the hit ABC dramedy Desperate Housewives. She then served as executive producer of Cherry’s follow-up dramedy for ABC Studios, Devious Maids, which had a four-season run on Lifetime. During their last collaboration, she and Cherry produced a drama pilot for ABC/ABC Studios, starring Reba McEntire.
Wind recently served as...
Wind launched her production company WindPower Entertainment in 2019 and entered a pod deal with ABC Studios. In its first year, WindPower sold six projects, including the upcoming ABC drama series Queens, headlined by Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Pepi Sonuga, set to premiere this fall. Wind also has numerous drama and comedy projects in development with 7th Sun Productions, Milojo Productions, and eOne.
Wind has worked with ABC Studios for more than 15 years, since partnering with Marc Cherry in 2005 to executive produce the hit ABC dramedy Desperate Housewives. She then served as executive producer of Cherry’s follow-up dramedy for ABC Studios, Devious Maids, which had a four-season run on Lifetime. During their last collaboration, she and Cherry produced a drama pilot for ABC/ABC Studios, starring Reba McEntire.
Wind recently served as...
- 6/16/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated with new photos: It was a long, pandemic-impacted broadcast development cycle, with some pilots taking a year to get produced, but the broadcast networks have made their picks for new scripted series to debut in fall 2021 as well as the bulk of their decisions for new midseason 2022 shows.
The pandemic forced broadcast executives to think outside the traditional broadcast pilot model and rely more heavily on straight-to-series orders, often based on additional scripts, sometimes delivered through the opening of a writers room.
Check out Deadline’s gallery of new 2021-22 shows. Those picked up straight-to-series that have not produced a pilot and have no episodic art available, are represented by their top talent on or behind the camera.
Click on the photo above to launch the gallery. You can find details on each of the new series below.
Drama
Queens
Studio: ABC Signature
Team: Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind (ep), Tim Story
Logline: Estranged and out of touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Cast: Eve, Naturi Naughton, Brandy, Nadine Velazquez, Pepi Sonuga
Comedy
The Wonder Years
Studio: 20th Television
Team: Saladin Patterson, Fred Savage, Lee Daniels (ep), Marc Velez (ep)
Logline: How a black middle-class family in Montgomery, Al, in the turbulent late 1960s made sure it was the Wonder Years for them too. Reboot of the 1988-93 ABC series.
Cast: Elisha “Ej” Williams, Saycon Sengbloh, Dulé Hill, Laura Kariuki, Milan Ray, Julian Lerner, Amari O’Neil, Don Cheadle (narrator)
Abbott Elementary (Midseason)
Studio: Warner Bros TV/20th Television
Team: Quinta Brunson, Justin Halpern (ep), Patrick Schumacker (ep), Randall Einhorn (d)
Logline: A group of teachers is brought together in one of the worst public schools in the country, simply because they love teaching. They will rely on one another to make it through the day and find a way to counteract the school district’s bullsh*t attitude toward educating children.
Cast: Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, Sheryl Lee Ralph
Maggie (Midseason)
Studio: 20th Television
Team: Maggie Mull, Justin Adler, Evan Hayes (ep), Jeff Morton (ep). Natalia Anderson
Logline: A young woman tries to cope with life while coming to terms with her abilities as a psychic. She can see everyone’s future, but her present is a mess. Based on the short film by Tim Curcio.
Cast: Rebecca Rittenhouse, David Del Rio, Kerri Kenney, Chris Elliott, Nichole Sakura, Angelique Cabral, Leonardo Nam, Ray Ford, Chloe Bridges
Limited Series
Women Of The Movement (Midseason)
Studio: Kapital Entertainment
Team: Marissa Jo Cerar, Jay-Z (ep), Jay Brown (ep), Tyran “Ty Ty” Smith (ep), Will Smith (ep), James Lassiter (ep), Aaron Kaplan (ep), Dana Honor (ep), Michael Lohmann (ep), Gina Prince-Bythewood, Rosanna Grace (ep), Alex Foster (ep), John Powers Middleton (ep), David Clark (ep), Tina Mabry (d), Julie Dash (d), Kasi Lemmons (d)
Logline: Centers on Mamie Till-Mobley, who devoted her life to seeking justice for her son Emmett Till. Inspired by the book ‘Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement’ by Devery S. Anderson.
Cast: Adrienne Warren, Tonya Pinkins, Cedric Joe, Glynn Turman, Ray Fisher, Chris Coy, Julia McDermott, Carter Jenkins, Joshua Caleb, Leslie Silva, Chris Butler, Alex Désert, Miles Fowler, Tongayi Chirisa, Jason Turner, Daniel Abeles
Drama
CSI: Vegas
Studio: CBS Studios/Jerry Bruckheimer Television
Team: Jason Tracey, Uta Briesewitz, Jerry Bruckheimer (ep), Jonathan Littman (ep), KristieAnne Reed (ep), Anthony Zuiker (ep), Carol Mendelsohn (ep), Ann Donahue (ep), Craig O’Neill (ep), William Petersen (ep), Cindy Chvatal (ep)
Logline: Facing an existential threat that could bring down the Crime Lab, a brilliant new team of forensic investigators must welcome back old friends and deploy new techniques to preserve and serve justice in Sin City. Sequel to the 2000-15 CBS drama ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.’
Cast: William Petersen, Jorja Fox, Wallace Langham, Paula Newsome, Matt Lauria, Mel Rodriguez and Mandeep Dhillon
FBI: International
Studio: Wolf Entertainment/Universal Television/CBS Studios
Team: Dick Wolf (ep), Derek Haas, Rick Eid (ep), Peter Jankowski (ep), Arthur Forney (ep)
Logline: ‘FBI’ spinoff follows the elite agents of the FBI’s International division as they travel the world with the mission of protecting Americans wherever they may be.
Cast: Tba
NCIS: Hawai’I
Studio: CBS Studios
Team: Christopher Silber, Jan Nash, Matt Bosack, Larry Teng
Logline: Set in the Aloha State, it follows the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor and her team as they balance duty to family and country, investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the island itself.
Cast: Vanessa Lachey
Good Sam (Midseason)
Studio: CBS Studios/Sutton St. Productions
Team: Katie Wech, Jennie Snyder Urman (ep), Joanna Klein (ep)
Logline: A talented yet stifled surgeon embraces her leadership role after her renowned and pompous boss falls into a coma. When he awakens and wants to resume surgery, however, it falls to her to supervise this overbearing blowhard who never acknowledged her talents — and also happens to be her father.
Cast: Sophia Bush, Jason Isaacs, Edwin Hodge, Skye P. Marshall, Michael Stahl-David, Davi Santos, Omar Maskati, Wendy Crewson
Comedy
Ghosts (single camera)
Studio: Lionsgate Television/BBC Studios/CBS Television Studios
Team: Joe Port, Joe Wiseman, Mathew Baynton (ep), Jim Howick (ep), Simon Farnaby (ep), Laurence Rickard (ep), Ben Willbond (ep), Martha Howe-Douglas, Alison Carpenter (ep), Debra Hayward (ep), Alison Owen (ep), Angie Stephenson (ep)
Logline: Follows a young couple, Samantha and Ryan, whose dreams come true when they inherit a beautiful country house, only to find it’s both falling apart and inhabited by many of the deceased previous residents. Based on the British series.
Cast: Rose McIver, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Rebecca Wisocky, Brandon Scott Jones, Danielle Pinnock, Asher Grodman, Richie Moriarty, Sheila Carrasco and Román Zaragoza
Smallwood (Midseason; multi-camera)
Studio: CBS Studios
Team: Mark Gross, David Hollander (ep), Brian D’Arcy James (ep), Mark Cendrowski (d)
Logline: After being laid off from the assembly line at the Gm factory, a seemingly ordinary man makes the extraordinary decision to provide for his family by following his dream of becoming a professional bowler. Based on professional bowler Tom Smallwood’s life.
Cast: Pete Holmes, Chi McBride, Katie Lowes
Drama
The Big Leap
Studios: 20th Century Fox Television/Fox Entertainment
Team: Liz Heldens, Sue Naegle (ep), Peter Dale (ep), Jason Winer
Logline: Contemporary tale about second chances, chasing your dreams and taking back what’s yours. The show revolves around a group of diverse underdogs from all different walks of life who compete to be part of a competition reality series that is putting on a modern, hip remake of Swan Lake. What they lack in the traditional dancer body type, they make up for with their edge, wit and desire to reimagine an iconic story to fit their own mold. Inspired by the UK series ‘Big Ballet.’
Cast: Scott Foley, Teri Polo, Piper Perabo, Ser’Darius Blain, Jon Rudnitsky, Simone Rescasner, Raymond Cham Jr., Kevin Daniels, Mallory Jansen
Our Kind Of People
Studios: 20th Century TV/Fox Entertainment
Team: Karin Gist, Lee Daniels (ep), Marc Velez (ep), Clarie Brown (ep), Pam Williams (ep), Ben Silverman (ep), Howard T. Owens (ep), Rodney Ferrell (ep), Montrel McKay (ep)
Logline: Single mom Angela Vaughn risks it all and moves her family to Martha’s Vineyard with hopes of taking her natural hair care line to the next level by infiltrating the African-American elite in Oak Bluffs. But she soon discovers a secret about her past that just might change her position and shake up her life and this influential community forever. Inspired by Lawrence Otis Graham’s book ‘Our Kind of People: Inside America’s Black Upper Class’
Cast: Yaya DeCosta
The Cleaning Lady (Midseason)
Studios: Warner Bros Television/Fox Entertainment
Team: Miranda Kwok, Melissa Carter, Michael Offer, Shay Mitchell (ep), Rose Marie Vega (ep), Paola Suarez (ep)
Logline: A whip-smart doctor comes to the U.S. for a medical treatment to save her ailing son. But when the system fails and pushes her into hiding, she refuses to be beaten down and marginalized. Instead, she becomes a cleaning lady for the mob and starts playing the game by her own rules. Based on the Argentine series ‘La Chica que Limpia.’
Cast: Élodie Yung, Vincent Piazza, Martha Millan, Adan Canto, Erik Valdez
Monarch (Midseason)
(fka Untitled Country Music Dynasty)
Studios: Fox Entertainment
Team: Melissa London Hilfers, Michael Rauch, Gail Berman (ep), Hend Baghdady (ep), Jason Owen (ep)
Logline: Multigenerational musical drama about America’s first family of country music. The Romans are fiercely talented, but while their name is synonymous with honesty, the very foundation of their success is a lie. When their reign as country royalty is put in jeopardy, Nicky Roman, the heir to the crown — already battling an industry stacked against her — will stop at nothing to protect her family’s legacy.
Cast: Tba
Accused (for 2022-23 season)
Studios: Sony Pictures Television/Fox Entertainment
Team: Howard Gordon, Alex Gansa, David Shore, Glenn Geller (ep), Erin Gunn (ep), Jacob Cohen-Holmes (ep), Jimmy McGovern (ep), Sita Williams (ep), Roxy Spencer (ep)
Logline: Each episode opens in a courtroom with the accused without knowing their crime or how they ended up on trial. It follows how an ordinary person got caught up in an extraordinary situation, ultimately revealing how one wrong turn leads to another, until it’s too late to turn back. Based on the BBC series.
Cast: Tba
Comedy
Pivoting (Midseason; single camera)
Studios: Warner Bros. Television/Fox Entertainment/Kapital Entertainment
Team: Liz Astrof, Aaron Kaplan (ep), Dana Honor (ep), Tristram Shapeero
Logline: Follows three women after the death of their childhood best friend. Faced with the reality that life is short, in desperate attempts to find happiness, they make a series of impulsive, ill-advised and self-indulgent decisions, strengthening their bond proving it’s never too late to screw up your life.
Cast: Eliza Coupe, Ginnifer Goodwin, Maggie Q, Tommy Dewey, Jt Neal, Julian Reyes
Welcome To Flatch (Midseason; single camera; fka This Country)
Studios: Lionsgate/BBC Studios/Fox Entertainment/Feigco Entertainment
Team: Jenny Bicks, Paul Feig, Daisy May Cooper (ep), Charlie Cooper (ep), Angie Stephenson (ep), Dan Magnante (co-ep), Cathy Mason (p), Rachel Mason (p)
Logline: A documentary crew follows cousins Kelly and Shrub Mallet as they go about their daily lives in idiosyncratic surroundings.
Cast: Chelsea Holmes, Sam Straley, Seann William Scott, Aya Cash, Taylor Ortega, Justin Linville, Krystal Smith
Drama
LA Brea
Studios: Universal Television/Keshet Studios
Team: David Appelbaum, Avi Nir (ep), Alon Shtruzman (ep), Peter Traugott (ep), Rachel Kaplan (ep), Ken Woodruff (ep), Steven Lilien (ep), Bryan Wynbrandt (ep), Ken Woodruff (ep), Arika Lisanne Mittman (ep), Adam Davidson (ep), Thor Freudenthal (d)
Logline: A massive sinkhole opens in the middle of Los Angeles, pulling hundreds of people and buildings into its depths. Those who fell in find themselves in a mysterious and dangerous primeval land, where they have no choice but to band together to survive. Meanwhile, the rest of the world desperately seeks to understand what happened. In the search for answers, one family torn apart by this disaster will have to unlock the secrets of this inexplicable event to find a way back to each other.
Cast: Natalie Zea, Eoin Macken, Jon Seda, Nicholas Gonzalez, Chiké Okonkwo, Karina Logue, Zyra Gorecki, Jack Martin, Veronica St. Clair, Rohan Mirchandaney, Lily Santiago, Josh McKenzie, Chloe De Los Santos, Ione Skye (recurring)
Law & Order: For The Defense
Studios: Universal Television/Wolf Entertainment
Team: Carol Mendelsohn, Dick Wolf (ep), Arthur Forney (ep), Julie Weitz (ep), Peter Jankowski (ep)
Logline: ‘Law & Order’ spinoff looks inside a criminal defense firm, putting the lawyers under a microscope, along with the criminal justice system.
Cast: Tba
Ordinary Joe
Studios: 20th Television/Universal Television/6th & Idaho/3 Arts
Team: Russel Friend, Garrett Lerner, Matt Reeves (ep), Adam Kassan (ep), Rafi Crohn (ep), Howard Klein (ep), Adam Davidson
Logline: Life is all about the choices you make – and sometimes what you do in a single moment can change everything. Joe Kimbreau faces one of these decisions at his college graduation. The three parallel stories that diverge from that night find Joe and the people around him with different careers, relationships and family lives, showing the unexpected ways that things change – and stay the same. But when it comes down to it, there is no “right” choice; no matter what happens, Joe’s life is always messy, exciting, tough, unpredictable … and beautiful.
Cast: James Wolk, Natalie Martinezt, Elizabeth Lail, Charlie Barnet
Comedy
American Auto (Midseason)single camera)
Studio: Universal Television/Spitzer Holding Company/Kapital Entertainment.
Team: Justin Spitzer, Aaron Kaplan (ep), Dana Honor (ep), Jeff Blitz
Logline: Set in Detroit, the corporate executives of Payne Motors are at a crossroads: adapt to the changing times or be sent to the junkyard. Shaking things up is the new CEO, whose leadership, experience and savvy is only slightly offset by her complete lack of knowledge about cars. Luckily, her team has some of the best minds in the business – when they aren’t fighting or trying to outwit one another.
Cast: Ana Gasteyer, Jon Barinholtz, Harriet Dyer, Humphrey Ker, Michael B. Washington, Tye White, X Mayo
Grand Crew (Midseason)single camera)
Studio: Universal Television
Team: Phil Augusta Jackson, Dan Goor, Mo Marable
Logline: Follows a group of young professionals all trying to navigate the ups and downs of life and love in Los Angeles — and they always find time to gather at their favorite bar to “wine down” and unpack it all.
Cast: Echo Kellum, Justin Cunningham, Carl Tart, Aaron Jennings, Nicole Byer
Limited Series
The Thing About Pam (Midseason)
Studios: Blumhouse Television/NBC News Studios/Big Picture Company
Team: Jessika Borsiczky, Jenny Klein, Renee Zellweger (ep), Carmella Casinelli (ep), Liz Cole (ep), Noah Oppenheim (ep), Jason Blum (ep), Chris McCumber (ep), Jeremy Gold (ep)
Logline: Based on the 2011 murder of Betsy Faria that resulted in her husband Russ’ conviction, though he insisted he did not kill her. His conviction later was overturned, but the brutal crime set off a chain of events that would expose a diabolical scheme deeply involving Pam Hupp.
Cast: Renee Zellweger
4400
Studio: CBS Studios
Team: Ariana Jackson, Anna Fricke, Laura Terry (ep)
Logline: 4,400 overlooked, undervalued or otherwise marginalized people who vanished without a trace over the past hundred years all are returned in an instant, having not aged a day and with no memory of what happened to them. As the government races to analyze the potential threat and contain the story, the 4,400 themselves must grapple with the fact that they’ve been returned with a few … upgrades, and the increasing likelihood that they were all brought back now for a specific reason. Based on the 2004-07 USA Network series.
Cast: Joseph David-Jones, Khailah Johnson, Brittany Adebumola, Jaye Ladymore, Amarr Wooten
Launch Gallery: New Scripted Series On Network TV For 2021-22: Photo Gallery...
The pandemic forced broadcast executives to think outside the traditional broadcast pilot model and rely more heavily on straight-to-series orders, often based on additional scripts, sometimes delivered through the opening of a writers room.
Check out Deadline’s gallery of new 2021-22 shows. Those picked up straight-to-series that have not produced a pilot and have no episodic art available, are represented by their top talent on or behind the camera.
Click on the photo above to launch the gallery. You can find details on each of the new series below.
Drama
Queens
Studio: ABC Signature
Team: Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind (ep), Tim Story
Logline: Estranged and out of touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Cast: Eve, Naturi Naughton, Brandy, Nadine Velazquez, Pepi Sonuga
Comedy
The Wonder Years
Studio: 20th Television
Team: Saladin Patterson, Fred Savage, Lee Daniels (ep), Marc Velez (ep)
Logline: How a black middle-class family in Montgomery, Al, in the turbulent late 1960s made sure it was the Wonder Years for them too. Reboot of the 1988-93 ABC series.
Cast: Elisha “Ej” Williams, Saycon Sengbloh, Dulé Hill, Laura Kariuki, Milan Ray, Julian Lerner, Amari O’Neil, Don Cheadle (narrator)
Abbott Elementary (Midseason)
Studio: Warner Bros TV/20th Television
Team: Quinta Brunson, Justin Halpern (ep), Patrick Schumacker (ep), Randall Einhorn (d)
Logline: A group of teachers is brought together in one of the worst public schools in the country, simply because they love teaching. They will rely on one another to make it through the day and find a way to counteract the school district’s bullsh*t attitude toward educating children.
Cast: Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, Sheryl Lee Ralph
Maggie (Midseason)
Studio: 20th Television
Team: Maggie Mull, Justin Adler, Evan Hayes (ep), Jeff Morton (ep). Natalia Anderson
Logline: A young woman tries to cope with life while coming to terms with her abilities as a psychic. She can see everyone’s future, but her present is a mess. Based on the short film by Tim Curcio.
Cast: Rebecca Rittenhouse, David Del Rio, Kerri Kenney, Chris Elliott, Nichole Sakura, Angelique Cabral, Leonardo Nam, Ray Ford, Chloe Bridges
Limited Series
Women Of The Movement (Midseason)
Studio: Kapital Entertainment
Team: Marissa Jo Cerar, Jay-Z (ep), Jay Brown (ep), Tyran “Ty Ty” Smith (ep), Will Smith (ep), James Lassiter (ep), Aaron Kaplan (ep), Dana Honor (ep), Michael Lohmann (ep), Gina Prince-Bythewood, Rosanna Grace (ep), Alex Foster (ep), John Powers Middleton (ep), David Clark (ep), Tina Mabry (d), Julie Dash (d), Kasi Lemmons (d)
Logline: Centers on Mamie Till-Mobley, who devoted her life to seeking justice for her son Emmett Till. Inspired by the book ‘Emmett Till: The Murder That Shocked the World and Propelled the Civil Rights Movement’ by Devery S. Anderson.
Cast: Adrienne Warren, Tonya Pinkins, Cedric Joe, Glynn Turman, Ray Fisher, Chris Coy, Julia McDermott, Carter Jenkins, Joshua Caleb, Leslie Silva, Chris Butler, Alex Désert, Miles Fowler, Tongayi Chirisa, Jason Turner, Daniel Abeles
Drama
CSI: Vegas
Studio: CBS Studios/Jerry Bruckheimer Television
Team: Jason Tracey, Uta Briesewitz, Jerry Bruckheimer (ep), Jonathan Littman (ep), KristieAnne Reed (ep), Anthony Zuiker (ep), Carol Mendelsohn (ep), Ann Donahue (ep), Craig O’Neill (ep), William Petersen (ep), Cindy Chvatal (ep)
Logline: Facing an existential threat that could bring down the Crime Lab, a brilliant new team of forensic investigators must welcome back old friends and deploy new techniques to preserve and serve justice in Sin City. Sequel to the 2000-15 CBS drama ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.’
Cast: William Petersen, Jorja Fox, Wallace Langham, Paula Newsome, Matt Lauria, Mel Rodriguez and Mandeep Dhillon
FBI: International
Studio: Wolf Entertainment/Universal Television/CBS Studios
Team: Dick Wolf (ep), Derek Haas, Rick Eid (ep), Peter Jankowski (ep), Arthur Forney (ep)
Logline: ‘FBI’ spinoff follows the elite agents of the FBI’s International division as they travel the world with the mission of protecting Americans wherever they may be.
Cast: Tba
NCIS: Hawai’I
Studio: CBS Studios
Team: Christopher Silber, Jan Nash, Matt Bosack, Larry Teng
Logline: Set in the Aloha State, it follows the first female Special Agent in Charge of NCIS Pearl Harbor and her team as they balance duty to family and country, investigating high-stakes crimes involving military personnel, national security and the mysteries of the island itself.
Cast: Vanessa Lachey
Good Sam (Midseason)
Studio: CBS Studios/Sutton St. Productions
Team: Katie Wech, Jennie Snyder Urman (ep), Joanna Klein (ep)
Logline: A talented yet stifled surgeon embraces her leadership role after her renowned and pompous boss falls into a coma. When he awakens and wants to resume surgery, however, it falls to her to supervise this overbearing blowhard who never acknowledged her talents — and also happens to be her father.
Cast: Sophia Bush, Jason Isaacs, Edwin Hodge, Skye P. Marshall, Michael Stahl-David, Davi Santos, Omar Maskati, Wendy Crewson
Comedy
Ghosts (single camera)
Studio: Lionsgate Television/BBC Studios/CBS Television Studios
Team: Joe Port, Joe Wiseman, Mathew Baynton (ep), Jim Howick (ep), Simon Farnaby (ep), Laurence Rickard (ep), Ben Willbond (ep), Martha Howe-Douglas, Alison Carpenter (ep), Debra Hayward (ep), Alison Owen (ep), Angie Stephenson (ep)
Logline: Follows a young couple, Samantha and Ryan, whose dreams come true when they inherit a beautiful country house, only to find it’s both falling apart and inhabited by many of the deceased previous residents. Based on the British series.
Cast: Rose McIver, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Rebecca Wisocky, Brandon Scott Jones, Danielle Pinnock, Asher Grodman, Richie Moriarty, Sheila Carrasco and Román Zaragoza
Smallwood (Midseason; multi-camera)
Studio: CBS Studios
Team: Mark Gross, David Hollander (ep), Brian D’Arcy James (ep), Mark Cendrowski (d)
Logline: After being laid off from the assembly line at the Gm factory, a seemingly ordinary man makes the extraordinary decision to provide for his family by following his dream of becoming a professional bowler. Based on professional bowler Tom Smallwood’s life.
Cast: Pete Holmes, Chi McBride, Katie Lowes
Drama
The Big Leap
Studios: 20th Century Fox Television/Fox Entertainment
Team: Liz Heldens, Sue Naegle (ep), Peter Dale (ep), Jason Winer
Logline: Contemporary tale about second chances, chasing your dreams and taking back what’s yours. The show revolves around a group of diverse underdogs from all different walks of life who compete to be part of a competition reality series that is putting on a modern, hip remake of Swan Lake. What they lack in the traditional dancer body type, they make up for with their edge, wit and desire to reimagine an iconic story to fit their own mold. Inspired by the UK series ‘Big Ballet.’
Cast: Scott Foley, Teri Polo, Piper Perabo, Ser’Darius Blain, Jon Rudnitsky, Simone Rescasner, Raymond Cham Jr., Kevin Daniels, Mallory Jansen
Our Kind Of People
Studios: 20th Century TV/Fox Entertainment
Team: Karin Gist, Lee Daniels (ep), Marc Velez (ep), Clarie Brown (ep), Pam Williams (ep), Ben Silverman (ep), Howard T. Owens (ep), Rodney Ferrell (ep), Montrel McKay (ep)
Logline: Single mom Angela Vaughn risks it all and moves her family to Martha’s Vineyard with hopes of taking her natural hair care line to the next level by infiltrating the African-American elite in Oak Bluffs. But she soon discovers a secret about her past that just might change her position and shake up her life and this influential community forever. Inspired by Lawrence Otis Graham’s book ‘Our Kind of People: Inside America’s Black Upper Class’
Cast: Yaya DeCosta
The Cleaning Lady (Midseason)
Studios: Warner Bros Television/Fox Entertainment
Team: Miranda Kwok, Melissa Carter, Michael Offer, Shay Mitchell (ep), Rose Marie Vega (ep), Paola Suarez (ep)
Logline: A whip-smart doctor comes to the U.S. for a medical treatment to save her ailing son. But when the system fails and pushes her into hiding, she refuses to be beaten down and marginalized. Instead, she becomes a cleaning lady for the mob and starts playing the game by her own rules. Based on the Argentine series ‘La Chica que Limpia.’
Cast: Élodie Yung, Vincent Piazza, Martha Millan, Adan Canto, Erik Valdez
Monarch (Midseason)
(fka Untitled Country Music Dynasty)
Studios: Fox Entertainment
Team: Melissa London Hilfers, Michael Rauch, Gail Berman (ep), Hend Baghdady (ep), Jason Owen (ep)
Logline: Multigenerational musical drama about America’s first family of country music. The Romans are fiercely talented, but while their name is synonymous with honesty, the very foundation of their success is a lie. When their reign as country royalty is put in jeopardy, Nicky Roman, the heir to the crown — already battling an industry stacked against her — will stop at nothing to protect her family’s legacy.
Cast: Tba
Accused (for 2022-23 season)
Studios: Sony Pictures Television/Fox Entertainment
Team: Howard Gordon, Alex Gansa, David Shore, Glenn Geller (ep), Erin Gunn (ep), Jacob Cohen-Holmes (ep), Jimmy McGovern (ep), Sita Williams (ep), Roxy Spencer (ep)
Logline: Each episode opens in a courtroom with the accused without knowing their crime or how they ended up on trial. It follows how an ordinary person got caught up in an extraordinary situation, ultimately revealing how one wrong turn leads to another, until it’s too late to turn back. Based on the BBC series.
Cast: Tba
Comedy
Pivoting (Midseason; single camera)
Studios: Warner Bros. Television/Fox Entertainment/Kapital Entertainment
Team: Liz Astrof, Aaron Kaplan (ep), Dana Honor (ep), Tristram Shapeero
Logline: Follows three women after the death of their childhood best friend. Faced with the reality that life is short, in desperate attempts to find happiness, they make a series of impulsive, ill-advised and self-indulgent decisions, strengthening their bond proving it’s never too late to screw up your life.
Cast: Eliza Coupe, Ginnifer Goodwin, Maggie Q, Tommy Dewey, Jt Neal, Julian Reyes
Welcome To Flatch (Midseason; single camera; fka This Country)
Studios: Lionsgate/BBC Studios/Fox Entertainment/Feigco Entertainment
Team: Jenny Bicks, Paul Feig, Daisy May Cooper (ep), Charlie Cooper (ep), Angie Stephenson (ep), Dan Magnante (co-ep), Cathy Mason (p), Rachel Mason (p)
Logline: A documentary crew follows cousins Kelly and Shrub Mallet as they go about their daily lives in idiosyncratic surroundings.
Cast: Chelsea Holmes, Sam Straley, Seann William Scott, Aya Cash, Taylor Ortega, Justin Linville, Krystal Smith
Drama
LA Brea
Studios: Universal Television/Keshet Studios
Team: David Appelbaum, Avi Nir (ep), Alon Shtruzman (ep), Peter Traugott (ep), Rachel Kaplan (ep), Ken Woodruff (ep), Steven Lilien (ep), Bryan Wynbrandt (ep), Ken Woodruff (ep), Arika Lisanne Mittman (ep), Adam Davidson (ep), Thor Freudenthal (d)
Logline: A massive sinkhole opens in the middle of Los Angeles, pulling hundreds of people and buildings into its depths. Those who fell in find themselves in a mysterious and dangerous primeval land, where they have no choice but to band together to survive. Meanwhile, the rest of the world desperately seeks to understand what happened. In the search for answers, one family torn apart by this disaster will have to unlock the secrets of this inexplicable event to find a way back to each other.
Cast: Natalie Zea, Eoin Macken, Jon Seda, Nicholas Gonzalez, Chiké Okonkwo, Karina Logue, Zyra Gorecki, Jack Martin, Veronica St. Clair, Rohan Mirchandaney, Lily Santiago, Josh McKenzie, Chloe De Los Santos, Ione Skye (recurring)
Law & Order: For The Defense
Studios: Universal Television/Wolf Entertainment
Team: Carol Mendelsohn, Dick Wolf (ep), Arthur Forney (ep), Julie Weitz (ep), Peter Jankowski (ep)
Logline: ‘Law & Order’ spinoff looks inside a criminal defense firm, putting the lawyers under a microscope, along with the criminal justice system.
Cast: Tba
Ordinary Joe
Studios: 20th Television/Universal Television/6th & Idaho/3 Arts
Team: Russel Friend, Garrett Lerner, Matt Reeves (ep), Adam Kassan (ep), Rafi Crohn (ep), Howard Klein (ep), Adam Davidson
Logline: Life is all about the choices you make – and sometimes what you do in a single moment can change everything. Joe Kimbreau faces one of these decisions at his college graduation. The three parallel stories that diverge from that night find Joe and the people around him with different careers, relationships and family lives, showing the unexpected ways that things change – and stay the same. But when it comes down to it, there is no “right” choice; no matter what happens, Joe’s life is always messy, exciting, tough, unpredictable … and beautiful.
Cast: James Wolk, Natalie Martinezt, Elizabeth Lail, Charlie Barnet
Comedy
American Auto (Midseason)single camera)
Studio: Universal Television/Spitzer Holding Company/Kapital Entertainment.
Team: Justin Spitzer, Aaron Kaplan (ep), Dana Honor (ep), Jeff Blitz
Logline: Set in Detroit, the corporate executives of Payne Motors are at a crossroads: adapt to the changing times or be sent to the junkyard. Shaking things up is the new CEO, whose leadership, experience and savvy is only slightly offset by her complete lack of knowledge about cars. Luckily, her team has some of the best minds in the business – when they aren’t fighting or trying to outwit one another.
Cast: Ana Gasteyer, Jon Barinholtz, Harriet Dyer, Humphrey Ker, Michael B. Washington, Tye White, X Mayo
Grand Crew (Midseason)single camera)
Studio: Universal Television
Team: Phil Augusta Jackson, Dan Goor, Mo Marable
Logline: Follows a group of young professionals all trying to navigate the ups and downs of life and love in Los Angeles — and they always find time to gather at their favorite bar to “wine down” and unpack it all.
Cast: Echo Kellum, Justin Cunningham, Carl Tart, Aaron Jennings, Nicole Byer
Limited Series
The Thing About Pam (Midseason)
Studios: Blumhouse Television/NBC News Studios/Big Picture Company
Team: Jessika Borsiczky, Jenny Klein, Renee Zellweger (ep), Carmella Casinelli (ep), Liz Cole (ep), Noah Oppenheim (ep), Jason Blum (ep), Chris McCumber (ep), Jeremy Gold (ep)
Logline: Based on the 2011 murder of Betsy Faria that resulted in her husband Russ’ conviction, though he insisted he did not kill her. His conviction later was overturned, but the brutal crime set off a chain of events that would expose a diabolical scheme deeply involving Pam Hupp.
Cast: Renee Zellweger
4400
Studio: CBS Studios
Team: Ariana Jackson, Anna Fricke, Laura Terry (ep)
Logline: 4,400 overlooked, undervalued or otherwise marginalized people who vanished without a trace over the past hundred years all are returned in an instant, having not aged a day and with no memory of what happened to them. As the government races to analyze the potential threat and contain the story, the 4,400 themselves must grapple with the fact that they’ve been returned with a few … upgrades, and the increasing likelihood that they were all brought back now for a specific reason. Based on the 2004-07 USA Network series.
Cast: Joseph David-Jones, Khailah Johnson, Brittany Adebumola, Jaye Ladymore, Amarr Wooten
Launch Gallery: New Scripted Series On Network TV For 2021-22: Photo Gallery...
- 5/25/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva and Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
With ABC's fall schedule released, it was only a matter of time before we laid eyes on clips of the new shows.
It's an exciting time.
We've rounded up the clips for the new shows below.
Queens
Estranged and out-of-touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
The series stars Eve as Brianna aka Professor Sex, Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Selé as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga as Lil Muffin, and Brandy as Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics.
Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind, and Tim Story are executive producers.
The series is produced by ABC Signature, a part of Disney Television Studios.
The Wonder Years
Inspired by the beloved award-winning series of the same name,...
It's an exciting time.
We've rounded up the clips for the new shows below.
Queens
Estranged and out-of-touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
The series stars Eve as Brianna aka Professor Sex, Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Selé as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga as Lil Muffin, and Brandy as Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics.
Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind, and Tim Story are executive producers.
The series is produced by ABC Signature, a part of Disney Television Studios.
The Wonder Years
Inspired by the beloved award-winning series of the same name,...
- 5/18/2021
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
ABC has released the first teaser trailers for its fall drama series Queens and comedy reboot The Wonder Years, as well as midseason comedies Abbott Elementary and Maggie. You can watch all below.
Queens – Drama
Estranged and out-of-touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world. The series stars Eve as Brianna aka Professor Sex, Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Selé as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga as Lil Muffin and Brandy as Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics. Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and Tim Story are the executive producers. The series is produced by ABC Signature, a part of Disney Television Studios. The pilot episode is written by McGhee and directed by Story.
The Wonder Years...
Queens – Drama
Estranged and out-of-touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world. The series stars Eve as Brianna aka Professor Sex, Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Selé as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga as Lil Muffin and Brandy as Naomi aka Xplicit Lyrics. Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and Tim Story are the executive producers. The series is produced by ABC Signature, a part of Disney Television Studios. The pilot episode is written by McGhee and directed by Story.
The Wonder Years...
- 5/18/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC released the trailers for its new 2021-22 series Tuesday, pegged to the unveiling of the broadcast network’s fall schedule. That includes the first look at Lee Daniels’ remake of “The Wonder Years” — complete with an updated take on that classic theme song.
Below, see the trailers for “The Wonder Years” and ABC’s other new dramas and comedies, along with the series’ descriptions, each in the network’s own words.
Readers can find ABC’s full fall 2021 schedule here.
New Fall Series
Queens
Estranged and out-of-touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
“Queens” stars Eve as Brianna aka Professor Sex, Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Selé as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga...
Below, see the trailers for “The Wonder Years” and ABC’s other new dramas and comedies, along with the series’ descriptions, each in the network’s own words.
Readers can find ABC’s full fall 2021 schedule here.
New Fall Series
Queens
Estranged and out-of-touch, four women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
“Queens” stars Eve as Brianna aka Professor Sex, Naturi Naughton as Jill aka Da Thrill, Nadine Velazquez as Valeria aka Butter Pecan, Taylor Selé as Eric Jones, Pepi Sonuga...
- 5/18/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
After the success of The Bachelorette, delayed by the pandemic, as a Tuesday 8 Pm anchor last fall, the ABC reality series will be back in the time slot this coming fall with the second of two 2021 cycles. Among the few changes on the ABC schedule from last fall is the move of breakout freshman drama Big Sky to the network’s high-flying Thursday lineup. There, it will succeed canceled Rebel in the 10 p.m. hour, following ABC’s highest-rated scripted series Grey’s Anatomy, which again has spinoff Station 19 as a lead-in.
Here is ABC’s fall 2021 schedule, which features two new series, comedy The Wonder Years and drama Queens, followed by a brief analysis and descriptions of all of ABC’s new scripted series for next season
ABC Fall 2021 Schedule
(New programs in Upper Case)
Monday
8 Pm — Dancing with the Stars
10 Pm – The Good Doctor
Tuesday
8 Pm — The Bachelorette...
Here is ABC’s fall 2021 schedule, which features two new series, comedy The Wonder Years and drama Queens, followed by a brief analysis and descriptions of all of ABC’s new scripted series for next season
ABC Fall 2021 Schedule
(New programs in Upper Case)
Monday
8 Pm — Dancing with the Stars
10 Pm – The Good Doctor
Tuesday
8 Pm — The Bachelorette...
- 5/18/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC unveiled its fall TV offerings for the 2021-2022 season ahead of Disney’s upfront presentation Tuesday, with a schedule that includes several heavy-hitter mainstays as well as a few high-profile newcomers.
Unscripted staples “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Bachelorette” anchor Monday and Tuesday nights, respectively, with new drama “Queens” following the dating reality show on Tuesdays, signaling the network’s confidence in the new series. Starring Eve, Brandy, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez, Taylor Selé and Pepi Sonug, the ABC Signature-produced show revolves around four “estranged and out-of-touch” women in their 40s who reunite in the hopes of recapturing their glory as ’90s hip-hop group Nasty Bitches.
Then there’s “The Wonder Years” reboot leading into “The Conners” on Wednesday nights, starring Don Cheadle as an adult Dean Williams, with Elisha “Ej” Williams as 12-year-old Dean, and Dulé Hill, Saycon Sengbloh, Laura Kariuki, Julian Lerner, Amari O’Neil and...
Unscripted staples “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Bachelorette” anchor Monday and Tuesday nights, respectively, with new drama “Queens” following the dating reality show on Tuesdays, signaling the network’s confidence in the new series. Starring Eve, Brandy, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez, Taylor Selé and Pepi Sonug, the ABC Signature-produced show revolves around four “estranged and out-of-touch” women in their 40s who reunite in the hopes of recapturing their glory as ’90s hip-hop group Nasty Bitches.
Then there’s “The Wonder Years” reboot leading into “The Conners” on Wednesday nights, starring Don Cheadle as an adult Dean Williams, with Elisha “Ej” Williams as 12-year-old Dean, and Dulé Hill, Saycon Sengbloh, Laura Kariuki, Julian Lerner, Amari O’Neil and...
- 5/18/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
It's been a whirlwind day for ABC.
We've had the renewals of fan-favorite series such as A Million Little Things, The Rookie, and The Conners, the cancellation of Call Your Mother, and now ABC is closing off the day with some series pickups!
Fun, right?
The Wonder Years reboot, which has been a lock for a pickup ever since it was announced, has nabbed a formal series pickup.
We also have another new comedy on the way to ABC next season in the form of Abbott Elementary.
Then there are new dramas, Maggie and Queens, which both sound like they'll be solid additions to the ABC lineup.
Get up to speed on what the shows will be about below.
Abbott Elementary
In this workplace comedy, a group of dedicated, passionate teachers — and a slightly tone-deaf principal — are brought together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them,...
We've had the renewals of fan-favorite series such as A Million Little Things, The Rookie, and The Conners, the cancellation of Call Your Mother, and now ABC is closing off the day with some series pickups!
Fun, right?
The Wonder Years reboot, which has been a lock for a pickup ever since it was announced, has nabbed a formal series pickup.
We also have another new comedy on the way to ABC next season in the form of Abbott Elementary.
Then there are new dramas, Maggie and Queens, which both sound like they'll be solid additions to the ABC lineup.
Get up to speed on what the shows will be about below.
Abbott Elementary
In this workplace comedy, a group of dedicated, passionate teachers — and a slightly tone-deaf principal — are brought together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them,...
- 5/14/2021
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Four days before ABC’s upfront presentation, the network has made its first new scripted series pickups for the 2021-22 season, with nods to music-themed drama Queens and comedies The Wonder Years, Maggie and Abbott Elementary.
Queens, headlined by Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Pepi Sonuga, and the Wonder Years reboot, from Saladin Patterson, the original series’ Fred Savage and Lee Daniels, emerged as frontrunners at the script stage and remained strong during casting, production as well as screening and testing of the finished pilots.
Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary also was an early standout, while Maggie Mull and Justin Adler’s Maggie, headlined by Rebecca Rittenhouse, proved a textbook dark horse, staying largely under the radar until a very strong showing during screenings.
ABC has already passed on a number of pilots, including comedy Adopted, and expect more pilot passes this afternoon, while some pilots will remain in active consideration for midseason.
Queens, headlined by Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Pepi Sonuga, and the Wonder Years reboot, from Saladin Patterson, the original series’ Fred Savage and Lee Daniels, emerged as frontrunners at the script stage and remained strong during casting, production as well as screening and testing of the finished pilots.
Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary also was an early standout, while Maggie Mull and Justin Adler’s Maggie, headlined by Rebecca Rittenhouse, proved a textbook dark horse, staying largely under the radar until a very strong showing during screenings.
ABC has already passed on a number of pilots, including comedy Adopted, and expect more pilot passes this afternoon, while some pilots will remain in active consideration for midseason.
- 5/14/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva and Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC has given out series orders to the reboot of “The Wonder Years,” drama series “Queens,” and comedies “Maggie” and “Abbott Elementary.”
The new version of “The Wonder Years” is a coming of age story set in the late 1960’s that takes a nostalgic look at a black middle-class family in Montgomery, Alabama through the point-of-view of imaginative 12 year-old Dean (Elisha “Ej” Williams). With the wisdom of his adult years, Dean’s hopeful and humorous recollections show how his family found their “wonder years” in a turbulent time.
Along with Williams, the series also stars Dule Hill as Bill Williams, Saycon Sengbloh as Lillian Williams, Laura Kariuki as Kim Williams, Julian Lerner as Brad Hitman, Amari O’Neil as Cory Long and Milan Ray as Keisa Clemmons. Don Cheadle will narrate as the adult version of Dean.
Saladin Patterson serves as writer and executive producer. Lee Daniels and Marc Velez of...
The new version of “The Wonder Years” is a coming of age story set in the late 1960’s that takes a nostalgic look at a black middle-class family in Montgomery, Alabama through the point-of-view of imaginative 12 year-old Dean (Elisha “Ej” Williams). With the wisdom of his adult years, Dean’s hopeful and humorous recollections show how his family found their “wonder years” in a turbulent time.
Along with Williams, the series also stars Dule Hill as Bill Williams, Saycon Sengbloh as Lillian Williams, Laura Kariuki as Kim Williams, Julian Lerner as Brad Hitman, Amari O’Neil as Cory Long and Milan Ray as Keisa Clemmons. Don Cheadle will narrate as the adult version of Dean.
Saladin Patterson serves as writer and executive producer. Lee Daniels and Marc Velez of...
- 5/14/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Taylor Sele is set to co-star opposite Brandy, Eve, Naturi Naughton, Nadine Velazquez and Pepi Sonuga in Queens, ABC’s hourlong pilot from Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and ABC Signature.
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — Naomi (Brandy), Jill (Naughton), Brianna (Eve) and Valeria (Velazquez) — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Sele will play Eric Jones. In the late 90s, Eric Jones struck gold when the group he managed, the Nasty Bitches, reached the pinnacle of hip-hop. A Queens hustler through and through, Eric is always looking for how to secure his next bag, and he’s really good at it. A handsome playboy with a magnetic smile, Eric’s dalliances with women were...
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — Naomi (Brandy), Jill (Naughton), Brianna (Eve) and Valeria (Velazquez) — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Sele will play Eric Jones. In the late 90s, Eric Jones struck gold when the group he managed, the Nasty Bitches, reached the pinnacle of hip-hop. A Queens hustler through and through, Eric is always looking for how to secure his next bag, and he’s really good at it. A handsome playboy with a magnetic smile, Eric’s dalliances with women were...
- 3/10/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Nadine Velazquez has been tapped as the co-lead opposite Brandy, Eve and Naturi Naughton in Queens, ABC’s hourlong pilot from Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and ABC Signature.
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — Naomi (Brandy), Jill (Naughton), Brianna (Eve) and Valeria (Velazquez) — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Velazquez plays Valeria, aka Butter Pecan. Better known in the 90s as Puerto Rican rapper, Butter Pecan, Valeria is the fourth member of the hip-hop group, the Nasty Bitches. Valeria wasn’t an original member, added by the groups’ manager, Eric, for her effortless star quality. It worked. The ladies catapulted into superstardom with a number-one record and iconic video. Valeria quickly became the face of the group,...
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — Naomi (Brandy), Jill (Naughton), Brianna (Eve) and Valeria (Velazquez) — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Velazquez plays Valeria, aka Butter Pecan. Better known in the 90s as Puerto Rican rapper, Butter Pecan, Valeria is the fourth member of the hip-hop group, the Nasty Bitches. Valeria wasn’t an original member, added by the groups’ manager, Eric, for her effortless star quality. It worked. The ladies catapulted into superstardom with a number-one record and iconic video. Valeria quickly became the face of the group,...
- 3/9/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: ABC’s Queens continues to assemble a killer lead cast. In her return to the network, Cinderella star Brandy has signed on as a co-lead opposite Eve and Naturi Naughton in the hourlong pilot from Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and ABC Signature.
In Queens, written by McGhee, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — three of them played by Brandy, Naughton and Eve — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Actress and Grammy-winning musician Brandy will play Naomi. Twenty years ago, Naomi was better known as Xplicit Lyrics — the highly skilled musical engine of the Nasty Bitches. A true artist with boundless musical talent — Naomi was certain she’d go on to mainstream success after the group’s demise. She hasn’t, singing and playing her...
In Queens, written by McGhee, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — three of them played by Brandy, Naughton and Eve — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Actress and Grammy-winning musician Brandy will play Naomi. Twenty years ago, Naomi was better known as Xplicit Lyrics — the highly skilled musical engine of the Nasty Bitches. A true artist with boundless musical talent — Naomi was certain she’d go on to mainstream success after the group’s demise. She hasn’t, singing and playing her...
- 3/8/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Brandy Norwood, best known by the stage name Brandy, has signed on for one of the lead roles in the ABC drama pilot “Queens.”
The pilot is about four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s who reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Brandy will play Naomi, better known as Xplicit Lyrics — the highly skilled musical engine of the Nasty Bitches. A true artist with boundless musical talent, Naomi was certain she’d go on to mainstream success after the group’s demise. She hasn’t, singing and playing her guitar in crappy dive bars where all people want is her old persona. When the group gets back together, Naomi is reunited with the only man she ever loved, and the rival bandmate who stole that man from her.
The pilot is about four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s who reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Brandy will play Naomi, better known as Xplicit Lyrics — the highly skilled musical engine of the Nasty Bitches. A true artist with boundless musical talent, Naomi was certain she’d go on to mainstream success after the group’s demise. She hasn’t, singing and playing her guitar in crappy dive bars where all people want is her old persona. When the group gets back together, Naomi is reunited with the only man she ever loved, and the rival bandmate who stole that man from her.
- 3/8/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
“Moesha” alum Brandy has been cast as the third lead in ABC’s hip-hop drama pilot “Queens.”
The pilot, which hails from writer Zahir McGhee, centers on four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s who “reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches — their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.”
Brandy will star as Naomi, a.k.a Xplicit Lyrics, “the highly skilled musical engine of the Nasty Bitches.” Per ABC, “A true artist with boundless musical talent — Naomi was certain she’d go on to mainstream success after the group’s demise. She hasn’t, singing and playing her guitar in crappy dive bars where all people want is her old persona. When the group gets back together, Naomi is reunited with the only man she ever loved, and the rival bandmate who stole that man from her.
The pilot, which hails from writer Zahir McGhee, centers on four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s who “reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches — their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.”
Brandy will star as Naomi, a.k.a Xplicit Lyrics, “the highly skilled musical engine of the Nasty Bitches.” Per ABC, “A true artist with boundless musical talent — Naomi was certain she’d go on to mainstream success after the group’s demise. She hasn’t, singing and playing her guitar in crappy dive bars where all people want is her old persona. When the group gets back together, Naomi is reunited with the only man she ever loved, and the rival bandmate who stole that man from her.
- 3/8/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Actress-singer Pepi Sonuga (Famous in Love) has been tapped as a series regular opposite Eve and Naturi Naughton in Queens, ABC’s hourlong pilot from Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and ABC Signature.
Sonuga is joining Queens after having been cast in McGhee and ABC Signature’s 2020 drama pilot Harlem’s Kitchen.
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — two of them played by Eve and Naughton — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
2020-21 ABC Pilots & Series Orders
Sonuga plays “Lil Muffin” aka Lauren Rice, a sweet young woman from Atlanta. But she’s better known as Lil Muffin, a brash, colorful emcee. Ever since her debut record, Candy Cane, dropped — Muffin has been on a nonstop rocket ship to superstardom.
Sonuga is joining Queens after having been cast in McGhee and ABC Signature’s 2020 drama pilot Harlem’s Kitchen.
In Queens, written by McGhee and directed by Tim Story, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s — two of them played by Eve and Naughton — reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
2020-21 ABC Pilots & Series Orders
Sonuga plays “Lil Muffin” aka Lauren Rice, a sweet young woman from Atlanta. But she’s better known as Lil Muffin, a brash, colorful emcee. Ever since her debut record, Candy Cane, dropped — Muffin has been on a nonstop rocket ship to superstardom.
- 3/3/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Tim Story, fresh from directing the No. 1 theatrical film of the weekend, Tom & Jerry, is set to helm the pilot for ABC hip-hop drama Queens.
Story is best known for directing hit feature films including 2005’s Fantastic Four and its sequel, Barbershop, Ride Along and its sequel and Shaft, but he has worked in TV before, shooting the pilot for Fox’s Standoff, Freeform’s Nicki Minaj project and Showtime’s White Famous.
Queens, written by Zahir McGhee, follows four women, estranged and out-of-touch, in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
The pilot stars rapper Eve and Power alum Naturi Naughton. Eve plays Professor Sex, while Naughton stars as Da Thrill.
2021 ABC Pilots & Series Orders
It’s quite fertile ground for Story, who...
Story is best known for directing hit feature films including 2005’s Fantastic Four and its sequel, Barbershop, Ride Along and its sequel and Shaft, but he has worked in TV before, shooting the pilot for Fox’s Standoff, Freeform’s Nicki Minaj project and Showtime’s White Famous.
Queens, written by Zahir McGhee, follows four women, estranged and out-of-touch, in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
The pilot stars rapper Eve and Power alum Naturi Naughton. Eve plays Professor Sex, while Naughton stars as Da Thrill.
2021 ABC Pilots & Series Orders
It’s quite fertile ground for Story, who...
- 3/1/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Power star Naturi Naughton has been tapped as a co-lead opposite Eve in Queens, ABC’s hourlong pilot from Zahir McGhee, Sabrina Wind and ABC Signature.
In Queens, written by McGhee, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Naughton plays Jill, aka Da Thrill, a founding member of the Nasty Bitches — the group she formed with her high school friends. Da Thrill lived fast, had rugged rhymes and a troubling drug habit. Today, Jill couldn’t be more put together. She’s a devout Catholic living a quiet life in Montana with her husband. But everything isn’t as idyllic as it seems. Jill is haunted by past secrets.
The Nasty Bitches reuniting allows Jill to escape her issues at home,...
In Queens, written by McGhee, four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches – their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.
Naughton plays Jill, aka Da Thrill, a founding member of the Nasty Bitches — the group she formed with her high school friends. Da Thrill lived fast, had rugged rhymes and a troubling drug habit. Today, Jill couldn’t be more put together. She’s a devout Catholic living a quiet life in Montana with her husband. But everything isn’t as idyllic as it seems. Jill is haunted by past secrets.
The Nasty Bitches reuniting allows Jill to escape her issues at home,...
- 2/25/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Eve has been tapped to star in ABC’s hip-hop drama pilot “Queens,” TheWrap has confirmed.
The series, which hails from writer Zahir McGhee, centers on four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s who “reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches — their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.”
Eve will star as Brianna, aka “Professor Sex.” Per ABC, “Today Brianna is a proud wife and mother of five — in a stained sweatsuit who barely has a second to breathe. Not glamorous. But Brianna loves her life. The Nasty Bitches are a distant, distant memory. But when an opportunity arises for the group to reunite, Brianna will grapple with whether or not she still has the swagger and confidence that made her an icon decades ago.”
McGhee, a Shondaland veteran who worked on both “Scandal...
The series, which hails from writer Zahir McGhee, centers on four estranged and out-of-touch women in their 40s who “reunite for a chance to recapture their fame and regain the swagger they had as the Nasty Bitches — their ’90s group that made them legends in the hip-hop world.”
Eve will star as Brianna, aka “Professor Sex.” Per ABC, “Today Brianna is a proud wife and mother of five — in a stained sweatsuit who barely has a second to breathe. Not glamorous. But Brianna loves her life. The Nasty Bitches are a distant, distant memory. But when an opportunity arises for the group to reunite, Brianna will grapple with whether or not she still has the swagger and confidence that made her an icon decades ago.”
McGhee, a Shondaland veteran who worked on both “Scandal...
- 2/19/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
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