Oxygen True Crime’s Real Murders franchise has added a Los Angeles edition that will explore the seedy underbelly of the City of Angels. Set to premiere on October 6, 2023, Real Murders of Los Angeles is hosted by Garcelle Beauvais and will delve into the murders of a former Raiderette, a UCLA student, and a theater owner, among others.
New episodes will air on Fridays at 9pm Et/Pt.
The franchise kicked off with Real Murders of Orange County in 2020 followed by Real Murders of Atlanta in 2022. The latest addition is executive produced by Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, David Hale, and Carey Zeiser.
Oxygen offered this description of the upcoming season:
“In the City of Angels, as everyone strives for the unattainable high life, there are some who are willing to kill to get it. Oxygen True Crime expands its Real Murders franchise to Los Angeles as it looks beyond the city...
New episodes will air on Fridays at 9pm Et/Pt.
The franchise kicked off with Real Murders of Orange County in 2020 followed by Real Murders of Atlanta in 2022. The latest addition is executive produced by Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, David Hale, and Carey Zeiser.
Oxygen offered this description of the upcoming season:
“In the City of Angels, as everyone strives for the unattainable high life, there are some who are willing to kill to get it. Oxygen True Crime expands its Real Murders franchise to Los Angeles as it looks beyond the city...
- 9/28/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Busy unscripted TV production outfit 44 Blue has named veteran business exec Lee Straus as executive VP and head of business and legal affairs. In his new role, Straus will coordinate all legal and business affair functions for the banner behind shows ranging from Animal Planet’s “Pitbulls and Parolees” to A&e’s “Wahlburgers” to NBC’s “L.A. Fire & Rescue,” from producer Dick Wolf.
44 Blue is now part of North Road Co., a new venture from Peter Chernin that aspires to be a new mini-major with an emphasis on unscripted and documentary content for the global market. 44 Blue, founded in 1984 by husband-and-wife producing partners Rasha Drachkovitch and Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, was acquired by North Road in 2022.
“After many years of working together, we’re thrilled to have Lee join 44 Blue,” said Drachkovitch and Noonan Drachkovitch, CEOs and founder of 44 Blue. “With his deep relationships in the industry and diverse experience...
44 Blue is now part of North Road Co., a new venture from Peter Chernin that aspires to be a new mini-major with an emphasis on unscripted and documentary content for the global market. 44 Blue, founded in 1984 by husband-and-wife producing partners Rasha Drachkovitch and Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, was acquired by North Road in 2022.
“After many years of working together, we’re thrilled to have Lee join 44 Blue,” said Drachkovitch and Noonan Drachkovitch, CEOs and founder of 44 Blue. “With his deep relationships in the industry and diverse experience...
- 8/29/2023
- by Sophia Scorziello
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: British format Strangers on a Plane is jetting into the U.S.
44 Blue Productions has signed an option deal with UK indie Strawberry Blond TV to rework the show for the American market.
Peter Chernin’s North Road Company, which owns 44 Blue, will be shopping the format to networks and streamers after striking a deal last month with Isabella Zoltowski, International and Commercial Consultant at Strawberry Blond.
In the UK, Channel 4 ran Strangers on a Plane in a 5:30 p.m. access primetime slot in April, since when it has been optioned into several European territories and in New Zealand.
The show takes five competitors to a popular holiday destination where they battle it out to see whose trip is best. Each day one takes control for 24 hours in a bid to prove they’re the host with the most. Although they have the same budget, they...
44 Blue Productions has signed an option deal with UK indie Strawberry Blond TV to rework the show for the American market.
Peter Chernin’s North Road Company, which owns 44 Blue, will be shopping the format to networks and streamers after striking a deal last month with Isabella Zoltowski, International and Commercial Consultant at Strawberry Blond.
In the UK, Channel 4 ran Strangers on a Plane in a 5:30 p.m. access primetime slot in April, since when it has been optioned into several European territories and in New Zealand.
The show takes five competitors to a popular holiday destination where they battle it out to see whose trip is best. Each day one takes control for 24 hours in a bid to prove they’re the host with the most. Although they have the same budget, they...
- 6/15/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Oxygen True Crime’s The Real Murders of Atlanta kicks off its second season on Friday, March 17, 2023 at 9pm Et/Pt. The new 20-episode season will cover murders with Atlanta connections, providing insight into the crimes via witnesses, investigators, and family members of the victims.
The true crime series is produced by 44 Blue Productions. Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, David Hale, and Dan Messina serve as executive producers.
Friday, March 17th at 9:00Pm Et/Pt — “West End Nightmare”
When a hero of Atlanta’s West End is executed in front of his home, detectives must find the killer with no evidence and no witnesses. The killer is finally brought to justice and the community is in disbelief when he’s identified.
Friday, March 24th at 9:00Pm Et/Pt — “Deadly Election”
The newly elected Dekalb County sheriff is murdered just days before taking office. When the task force digs into...
The true crime series is produced by 44 Blue Productions. Stephanie Noonan Drachkovitch, David Hale, and Dan Messina serve as executive producers.
Friday, March 17th at 9:00Pm Et/Pt — “West End Nightmare”
When a hero of Atlanta’s West End is executed in front of his home, detectives must find the killer with no evidence and no witnesses. The killer is finally brought to justice and the community is in disbelief when he’s identified.
Friday, March 24th at 9:00Pm Et/Pt — “Deadly Election”
The newly elected Dekalb County sheriff is murdered just days before taking office. When the task force digs into...
- 3/10/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Jackson White and Grace Van Patten in ‘Tell Me Lies’ (Photo by: Josh Stringer/Hulu)
Hulu isn’t going to leave Tell Me Lies fans hanging. The streaming service has officially confirmed the drama, based on Carola Lovering’s bestselling novel, has been renewed for season two.
Season one premiered on September 7, 2022 and wrapped up on October 26th. Hulu’s announcement didn’t include any details on the new season or when we can expect it to arrive.
Executive producer and showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer took to Twitter to express her appreciation of all the support shown by Hulu and the series’ fans. “I’ve been blown away on a daily basis by the messages I receive about the show and I can’t wait to give you guys another season that will simultaneously entertain and traumatize you.” – @@MoppyOpps
The 10-episode first season starred Grace Van Patten as Lucy Albright and Jackson White as Stephen DeMarco.
Hulu isn’t going to leave Tell Me Lies fans hanging. The streaming service has officially confirmed the drama, based on Carola Lovering’s bestselling novel, has been renewed for season two.
Season one premiered on September 7, 2022 and wrapped up on October 26th. Hulu’s announcement didn’t include any details on the new season or when we can expect it to arrive.
Executive producer and showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer took to Twitter to express her appreciation of all the support shown by Hulu and the series’ fans. “I’ve been blown away on a daily basis by the messages I receive about the show and I can’t wait to give you guys another season that will simultaneously entertain and traumatize you.” – @@MoppyOpps
The 10-episode first season starred Grace Van Patten as Lucy Albright and Jackson White as Stephen DeMarco.
- 11/29/2022
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
“Tell Me Lies” has been renewed for Season 2 at Hulu.
The series, based on the Carola Lovering novel of the same name, debuted its first season on the streaming service on Sept. 7. The season finale aired on Oct. 26.
The cast of the series includes Grace Van Patten, Jackson White, Catherine Missal, Spencer House, Sonia Mena, Branden Cook, Benjamin Wadsworth, and Alicia Crowder.
Per the official logline, the series “follows a tumultuous but intoxicating relationship as it unfolds over the course of 8 years. When Lucy Albright (Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (White) meet at college, they are at that formative age when seemingly mundane choices lead the way to irrevocable consequences. Although their relationship begins like any typical campus romance, they quickly fall into an addictive entanglement that will permanently alter not only their lives, but the lives of everyone around them.”
Meaghan Oppenheimer developed the book for television in addition...
The series, based on the Carola Lovering novel of the same name, debuted its first season on the streaming service on Sept. 7. The season finale aired on Oct. 26.
The cast of the series includes Grace Van Patten, Jackson White, Catherine Missal, Spencer House, Sonia Mena, Branden Cook, Benjamin Wadsworth, and Alicia Crowder.
Per the official logline, the series “follows a tumultuous but intoxicating relationship as it unfolds over the course of 8 years. When Lucy Albright (Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (White) meet at college, they are at that formative age when seemingly mundane choices lead the way to irrevocable consequences. Although their relationship begins like any typical campus romance, they quickly fall into an addictive entanglement that will permanently alter not only their lives, but the lives of everyone around them.”
Meaghan Oppenheimer developed the book for television in addition...
- 11/29/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Hulu has renewed soapy college drama “Tell Me Lies” for Season 2, one month after the first season finale hit the streaming service.
“Tell Me Lies” documents the tumultuous relationship between then college students Lucy and Stephen as it unfolds over eight years, with its first season hinging on the mysterious death of Lucy’s first year roommate.
Though no official Season 2 release date or information about cast or plot are known, executive producer and showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer told TheWrap before the renewal that a potential second season would showcase more of the characters’ adult years starting with the engagement party, while also picking up where the series left off in college.
Oppenheimer also teased in October that potential future episodes will shine a light on other ensemble characters, namely Diana and Bree, since “everyone wants a lot more Bree.”
Grace Van Patten and Jackson White took lead roles in season one as Lucy and Stephen,...
“Tell Me Lies” documents the tumultuous relationship between then college students Lucy and Stephen as it unfolds over eight years, with its first season hinging on the mysterious death of Lucy’s first year roommate.
Though no official Season 2 release date or information about cast or plot are known, executive producer and showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer told TheWrap before the renewal that a potential second season would showcase more of the characters’ adult years starting with the engagement party, while also picking up where the series left off in college.
Oppenheimer also teased in October that potential future episodes will shine a light on other ensemble characters, namely Diana and Bree, since “everyone wants a lot more Bree.”
Grace Van Patten and Jackson White took lead roles in season one as Lucy and Stephen,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Hulu wants some more of its bad romance.
The Disney-run streamer has renewed Tell Me Lies for a second season, just over a month after its 10-episode first season concluded. The drama is from creator and showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer and 20th Television and is based on a novel by Carola Lovering.
Season one follows the tumultuous, intoxicating — and just plain toxic — relationship between Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White) over the course of eight years. They meet at college, a time meet at college, when seemingly mundane choices lead the way to irrevocable consequences. Although their relationship begins like any campus romance, Lucy and Stephen fall into an addictive entanglement that will permanently alter not only their lives, but the lives of everyone around them.
In addition to Van Patten and White, the season one cast includes Catherine Missal,...
Hulu wants some more of its bad romance.
The Disney-run streamer has renewed Tell Me Lies for a second season, just over a month after its 10-episode first season concluded. The drama is from creator and showrunner Meaghan Oppenheimer and 20th Television and is based on a novel by Carola Lovering.
Season one follows the tumultuous, intoxicating — and just plain toxic — relationship between Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White) over the course of eight years. They meet at college, a time meet at college, when seemingly mundane choices lead the way to irrevocable consequences. Although their relationship begins like any campus romance, Lucy and Stephen fall into an addictive entanglement that will permanently alter not only their lives, but the lives of everyone around them.
In addition to Van Patten and White, the season one cast includes Catherine Missal,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Hulu has ordered a second season of Tell Me Lies.
Based on Carola Lovering’s novel, Tell Me Lies follows a tumultuous but intoxicating relationship as it unfolds over the course of eight years. When Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White) meet at college, they are at that formative age when seemingly mundane choices lead the way to irrevocable consequences. Although their relationship begins like any typical campus romance, they quickly fall into an addictive entanglement that will permanently alter not only their lives, but the lives of everyone around them.
Related Story Cancellations/Renewals Scorecard: TV Shows Ended Or Continuing In 2022 Season Related Story Sarah Adina Smith's Dark Comedy 'The Drop' Exec Produced By Mark And Jay Duplass Set For January Bow On Hulu – First Look Related Story 'Back In The Groove': Hulu Drops Trailer For Dating Show Hosted By Taye Diggs...
Based on Carola Lovering’s novel, Tell Me Lies follows a tumultuous but intoxicating relationship as it unfolds over the course of eight years. When Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White) meet at college, they are at that formative age when seemingly mundane choices lead the way to irrevocable consequences. Although their relationship begins like any typical campus romance, they quickly fall into an addictive entanglement that will permanently alter not only their lives, but the lives of everyone around them.
Related Story Cancellations/Renewals Scorecard: TV Shows Ended Or Continuing In 2022 Season Related Story Sarah Adina Smith's Dark Comedy 'The Drop' Exec Produced By Mark And Jay Duplass Set For January Bow On Hulu – First Look Related Story 'Back In The Groove': Hulu Drops Trailer For Dating Show Hosted By Taye Diggs...
- 11/29/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple has released the trailer for the second season of its anthology series “Little America,” which chronicles inspiring stories of immigrants across America. The series was developed by Lee Eisenberg, Emily V. Gordon and Kumail Nanjiani, and is based on Epic Magazine’s photo essay series of the same name.
Episodes throughout the second season build upon the first’s premise of following immigrant stories in pursuit of the American dream, including episodes chronicling a Sri Lankan woman in a marathon car-kissing contest in Texas, a Somali chef in Minneapolis preparing for the Minnesota State Fair, a Korean medical student who dreams of being a hat designer among others.
The second season is set to premiere with all episodes on the streamer on December 9. Check out the trailer below.
In other television news for today:
Initiatives
Shondaland announced the “Seat At The Table” initiative, where the company will partner with...
Episodes throughout the second season build upon the first’s premise of following immigrant stories in pursuit of the American dream, including episodes chronicling a Sri Lankan woman in a marathon car-kissing contest in Texas, a Somali chef in Minneapolis preparing for the Minnesota State Fair, a Korean medical student who dreams of being a hat designer among others.
The second season is set to premiere with all episodes on the streamer on December 9. Check out the trailer below.
In other television news for today:
Initiatives
Shondaland announced the “Seat At The Table” initiative, where the company will partner with...
- 11/16/2022
- by EJ Panaligan
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Veteran film and television producer Christy Spitzer Thornton has been named Head of Film and TV, Development & Production at Rebelle Media, the female-run entertainment company founded by former CAA agent Laura Lewis. Thornton will work with Lewis to oversee the film and television slate and creative direction of the company.
Prior to her new post, Thornton served as the Head of Creative at Level Forward where she produced the Nicole Riegel-helmed upcoming film Holler starring Jessica Barden. She also executive produced Topside, written and directed by Celine Held and Logan George, and The Assistant, starring Julia Garner and written/directed by Kitty Green. Thornton oversaw the Shatterbox short film series partnership with Refinery29.
Rounding out the Rebelle team are Creative Executive Stephanie Noonan and Coordinator Rachel Clair.
“I’m beyond thrilled to join Laura, Stephanie, and the team at Rebelle Media in this progressive venture where we can...
Prior to her new post, Thornton served as the Head of Creative at Level Forward where she produced the Nicole Riegel-helmed upcoming film Holler starring Jessica Barden. She also executive produced Topside, written and directed by Celine Held and Logan George, and The Assistant, starring Julia Garner and written/directed by Kitty Green. Thornton oversaw the Shatterbox short film series partnership with Refinery29.
Rounding out the Rebelle team are Creative Executive Stephanie Noonan and Coordinator Rachel Clair.
“I’m beyond thrilled to join Laura, Stephanie, and the team at Rebelle Media in this progressive venture where we can...
- 10/27/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Emma Roberts has signed a first-look deal at Hulu and will focus on adapting books for television.
The American Horror Story and Scream Queens star struck the deal with the streamer via her Belletrist TV production company, which has set an adaptation of Carola Lovering’s Tell Me Lies as her first project.
Tell Me Lies, which was published in 2018, tells the story of a young woman’s obsession with a man who’s good at being charming. When Lucy Albright arrives on the campus of her small college, away from her mother whom she’s never forgiven for an act of betrayal in her early teen years, Lucy embraces college life and all it has to offer. But everything changes when she meets Stephen DeMarco, who has a mysterious past of his own. Their addicting entanglement will have consequences they never could have imagined.
Meaghan Oppenheimer, who created Facebook...
The American Horror Story and Scream Queens star struck the deal with the streamer via her Belletrist TV production company, which has set an adaptation of Carola Lovering’s Tell Me Lies as her first project.
Tell Me Lies, which was published in 2018, tells the story of a young woman’s obsession with a man who’s good at being charming. When Lucy Albright arrives on the campus of her small college, away from her mother whom she’s never forgiven for an act of betrayal in her early teen years, Lucy embraces college life and all it has to offer. But everything changes when she meets Stephen DeMarco, who has a mysterious past of his own. Their addicting entanglement will have consequences they never could have imagined.
Meaghan Oppenheimer, who created Facebook...
- 9/1/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Investigation Discovery (ID) has teamed up with Khloe Kardashian for a docuseries about “Twisted Love” and also greenlit a Jeffrey Epstein special as the first in its upcoming, tentatively titled “Who Killed…” series.
“Who Killed Jeffrey Epstein?” will feature exclusive interviews and in-depth investigations into new clues about their titular subjects. When it comes to Epstein, the project will explore his “seedy underworld, privileged life and controversial death.”
“This story has everything: famous names, wealth, sex, tragedy and suicide — or murder,” said Henry Schleiff, group president of Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, American Heroes Channel and Destination America. “Indeed, when deaths as high profile as Epstein’s come to light, people have questionsand that is why ID will seek to provide viewers with additional new information — and, perhaps, answers.”
Epstein was first accused of trafficking young women to his Palm Beach estate in 2005 but escaped relatively unscathed from the law enforcement system.
“Who Killed Jeffrey Epstein?” will feature exclusive interviews and in-depth investigations into new clues about their titular subjects. When it comes to Epstein, the project will explore his “seedy underworld, privileged life and controversial death.”
“This story has everything: famous names, wealth, sex, tragedy and suicide — or murder,” said Henry Schleiff, group president of Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, American Heroes Channel and Destination America. “Indeed, when deaths as high profile as Epstein’s come to light, people have questionsand that is why ID will seek to provide viewers with additional new information — and, perhaps, answers.”
Epstein was first accused of trafficking young women to his Palm Beach estate in 2005 but escaped relatively unscathed from the law enforcement system.
- 1/16/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
They need to find a cure before the entire world is eaten, dead, or worse... No pressure, right? For years, horror fans have enjoyed reading and dissecting Steven C. Schlozman's The Zombie Autopsies: Secret Notes from the Apocalypse, and now a virtual reality series adaptation is in development.
According to VRFocus, 44 Blue Productions is teaming up with Ovrture are currently working on The Zombie Autopsies Vr miniseries, which will "follow multiple points-of-view around the world" during the living dead apocalypse.
Here's what 44 Blue Productions President and Co-Founder Stephanie Drachkovitch had to say about the miniseries:
“We are absolutely captivated by The Zombie Autopsies and know these subject matters will resonate with today’s modern audiences. The role culture, society and technology have on the evolution of madness in the human psyche is extremely timely, while virtual reality is primed for the next long-form thriller.”
A release date and distribution...
According to VRFocus, 44 Blue Productions is teaming up with Ovrture are currently working on The Zombie Autopsies Vr miniseries, which will "follow multiple points-of-view around the world" during the living dead apocalypse.
Here's what 44 Blue Productions President and Co-Founder Stephanie Drachkovitch had to say about the miniseries:
“We are absolutely captivated by The Zombie Autopsies and know these subject matters will resonate with today’s modern audiences. The role culture, society and technology have on the evolution of madness in the human psyche is extremely timely, while virtual reality is primed for the next long-form thriller.”
A release date and distribution...
- 6/30/2017
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Unscripted production company 44 Blue has acquired the U.S. television rights to the popular game Pie Face to develop as an hourlong game show, with UK-based Cpl Productions. Created by Rocket Games, Pie Face is one of the fastest-selling games of all time. “With well over 10 million sold worldwide, Pie Face took the Internet by storm and quickly became a household name," said Stephanie Drachkovitch, president and co-founder of 44 Blue Productions. "This project will take…...
- 4/3/2017
- Deadline TV
Bazinga! A&E has greenlit a Boston-set reality pilot called The Big Brew Theory, which follows four MIT grad students who team up with an MIT undergrad to create the micro-brewery of their dreams.
Mark Wahlberg is signed on to executive produce, along with Stephen Levinson, Stephanie Drachkovitch, and Bill Thompson. Wahlberg most recently appeared in (and executive produced) Wahlburgers, an A&E reality show about his family’s burger business.
Mark Wahlberg is signed on to executive produce, along with Stephen Levinson, Stephanie Drachkovitch, and Bill Thompson. Wahlberg most recently appeared in (and executive produced) Wahlburgers, an A&E reality show about his family’s burger business.
- 5/7/2014
- by Ariana Bacle
- EW - Inside TV
Exclusive: Following the success of Wahlburgers, A&E has greenlighted another Boston-set reality pilot executive produced by Mark Wahlberg about a fledgling business enterprise. Tipping its hat to hit comedy The Big Bang Theory, the half-hour project is tentatively titled Big Brew Theory. It follows four quirky and highly intelligent MIT grad students who have pooled their life savings to achieve their dream of creating a home grown micro-brewery and team up with a beautiful MIT undergrad to launch their business. The Big Brew Theory reunites frequent collaborators Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson, Stephanie Drachkovitch and Bill Thompson. This marks Wahlberg’s fourth reality pilot at A&E, all set in his native Boston. Two of them, Wahlburgers, which he produces with Levinson and Drachkovitch, and Breaking Boston, which he produced with Levinson, Drachkovitch and Thompson, went to series. Wahlberg, Levinson and Thompson also previously produced a Boston teamsters pilot for the network.
- 5/7/2014
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
A+E Networks‘ new lifestyle channel Fyi has picked up two hourlong unscripted pilots as it ramps up for its July 7 launch. You’re The One (working title), hosted by journalist and documentarian Cherry Healey, follows men and women as they embark on a mission to find a lost love. Through social and mass media, communities around the world are mobilized to engage in the hunt, leading up to the final face-to-face meeting. Marry Me … Today (working title) is described as a breakthrough wedding concept for the modern generation. The show partners with website The Knot to follow an ambitious groom-to-be as he surprises his girlfriend with a proposal, engagement and marriage all in one day, using his girlfriend’s online wish list to plan and execute her fantasy wedding. You’re The One is produced for Fyi by Nerd TV. Jago Lee, John Farrar and Sarah Lazenby are executive producing for Nerd TV.
- 4/14/2014
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Under the first-look development and distribution deal, Shine International will represent tape and format rights for new television output from 44 Blue Productions. The pact was brokered by Rasha Drachkovitch, President of 44 Blue, Stephanie Drachkovitch, Evp and Co-Owner of 44 Blue, and Tania Jacobson, Svp Sales and Acquisitions, Americas. Deal takes effect immediately. 44 Blue’s slate includes Wahlburgers on A&E, Lockup franchise reality series on MSNBC, Pit Bulls & Parolees (Animal Planet), Split Ends (Style) and Married To The Army: Alaska. Shine International’s third-party titles include 24 Hours In A&E , Anything Goes, Killers Behind Bars, Hoarding: Buried Alive and The School. Scripted includes Archer, In The Flesh, Real Humans and The Listener.
- 1/23/2014
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
London – Shine International, part of Elisabeth Murdoch's Shine Group, has signed a first-look development and distribution deal with 44 Blue Productions, the outfit behind shows such as Wahlburgers, which is set to debut on Jan. 22 on the A+E channel; the Lockup franchise, one of the longest-running reality series on television; and Pit Bulls & Parolees, which airs on Animal Planet. The deal, which begins with immediate effect, was announced and brokered by 44 Blue Productions president Rasha Drachkovitch, Stephanie Drachkovitch, executive vp and co-owner of 44 Blue, and Tania Jacobson, Shine International svp sales and
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- 1/23/2014
- by Stuart Kemp
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sarah Poage has been promoted to Svp at 44 Blue Productions. The exec, who was VP Production and has been with the company since 2002, works in areas including finance, legal, talent negotiations, budgeting, cost analysis, tax incentives, vendor negotiations, line producing, production management, postproduction, insurance and human resources. “Sarah has played an important role in almost every one of our recent series,” said Stephanie Drachkovitch, Evp and Co-Owner of 44 Blue. “With this new position, we look forward to her taking an even bigger role in the direction of our company.” Lesley Goldman has joined truTV as VP Development & Original Programming. She comes to the cable net from CNBC, where she was VP Primetime Alternative. In her NY-based new gig, Goldman will be oversee development of new programming, from concept to series, with creative oversight of pilots, series and specials. Before CNBC, she was senior development consultant for MTV’s East Coast series development team.
- 1/9/2014
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Ray Richmond contributes to Deadline’s conference coverage. A group of cable network execs and producers shared their views on the ever-evolving reality TV landscape and how the sales game is changed this afternoon during a Produced By panel sponsored by Deadline Hollywood and entitled, “Reality Isn’t What it Used to Be: Selling Nonfiction Television.” “You used to be able to sell a show off of paper; you didn’t need tape,” recalled Stephanie Drachkovitch, a principal in 44 Blue Productions. “That’s much harder to do now. Also, what would have been a brilliant idea three years ago doesn’t make the bar. It’s not big enough, it’s not loud enough, it’s not gonna move the needle, it’s not gonna break through.” The reason for needing bigger and noisier programming ideas, she believes, is the sheer number of networks and venues doing original reality program content and vying for eyeballs.
- 6/9/2013
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Los Angeles (May 14, 2013) – The Producers Guild of America (PGA) announced today the list of top industry producers and executives who will serve as mentors during the intimate Mentoring Roundtable meetings that will be held throughout the 5th annual Produced By Conference (Pbc), June 8-9, at 20th Century Fox Studios in Los Angeles. Confirmed mentors include: Victoria Alonso (Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Solider, The Avengers) Executive Vice President of Visual Effects and Post Production, Marvel Studios Nancy Daniels, Executive Vice President, Production and Development, Discovery Channel; General Manager, Discovery Fit & Health Stephanie Drachkovitch (Married to the Army: Alaska, Split Ends, Family Court with Judge Penny) Executive Vice President and Co-Founder, 44 Blue Productions Tracey Edmonds (Jumping the Broom, Soul Food, Good Luck Chuck) CEO, Edmonds Entertainment, Our Stories Films, Alright TV Cassian Elwes (The Butler, Paper Boy, Margin Call) Head of Evolution Independent, Evolution Entertainment...
- 5/14/2013
- by THE DEADLINE TEAM
- Deadline TV
Exclusive: A&E has given a six-episode order to an untitled docu-reality series executive produced by Mark Wahlberg, which is set in his native Boston. This marks the first unscripted series for Wahlberg, who is executive producing through his Closest to the Hole Prods along with frequent collaborator Stephen Levinson of Leverage, Bill Thompson of Bill Thompson Prods. and veteran reality producer Stephanie Drachkovitch of 44 Blue Prods as well as Jennifer Colbert who serves as showrunner. The initial impetus for the project, which was first ordered as a pilot by A&E in November, came from the tough, hard-as-nails female characters in Wahlberg‘s Oscar-nominated feature The Fighter. Wahlberg and Thompson were inspired by the women’s spirit and set out to find a group of those types of Boston girls going through challenging times and tell their story. The series, whose main themes are exceeding expectations and getting second chances,...
- 5/6/2013
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Six years ago when producer Stephanie Drachkovitch began pitching the idea for a show that followed the lives of real-life soldiers' wives, the U.S. Army was understandably wary. "The feeling was the families have enough stress," says Lt. Col. Steven Cole, an Army public affairs liaison based in Los Angeles. "There was a general reluctance to have our Army families be the object of entertainment."
But Drachkovitch didn't give up, and last spring, the Army decided the timing was right. "It struck me that the stories of the families were just so invisible during this war," she says. "And yet there are thousands of them who are basically heroes on the other side of the battlefield. We've been at war 10 years as of last spring, and while the war in Iraq [has wound] down, we're still in Afghanistan. The Army felt it was important, now more than ever, to keep the stories...
But Drachkovitch didn't give up, and last spring, the Army decided the timing was right. "It struck me that the stories of the families were just so invisible during this war," she says. "And yet there are thousands of them who are basically heroes on the other side of the battlefield. We've been at war 10 years as of last spring, and while the war in Iraq [has wound] down, we're still in Afghanistan. The Army felt it was important, now more than ever, to keep the stories...
- 11/20/2012
- by Michael Schneider
- TVGuide - Breaking News
Exclusive: Mark Wahlberg‘s Oscar-nominated feature The Fighter is the inspiration for a docu reality series. Wahlberg executive produces the half-hour project, which has received a pilot order from A&E. Inspired by the scene-stealing, big-haired, loud-talking, punch-throwing sisters of Wahlberg’s Micky Ward and Christian Bale’s Dicky Eklund in Fighter, the untitled Mark Wahlberg Boston Women Project showcases the real women of Boston, featuring the day-to-day life of four of these tough, hard-as-nails women who juggle family, work, and relationships all while remaining true to their way of life. Wahlberg is executive producing through his Closest to the Hole Prods, along with frequent collaborator Stephen Levinson of Leverage, Bill Thompson of Bill Thompson Prods Inc and veteran reality producer Stephanie Drachkovitch of 44 Blue Prods. Filming is slated to begin in a few weeks. This is the second Boston-set docu reality pilot at A&E for Wahlberg, Levinson and Thompson,...
- 11/16/2012
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
A word of advice: Stock up on tissues before sitting down to watch Own's new reality series "Married to the Army: Alaska," because it will definitely (probably) make you cry your eyes out.
It's hard not to get emotional when thinking of the sacrifices soldiers make when signing up to serve their country, but not as many people think about the sacrifices their spouses and children make too.
At the 2012 Television Critics Association summer press tour, "Married to the Army" star Rynn Randall tears up when discussing the sacrifices she and her family have had to make because of her husband's career. "I just want America to know it's not just the soldiers who serve, it's me, it's our kids. It's my daughter, whose dad misses her going to her junior prom," she says of why she signed up to do the show. "It's those things that I don't think everybody thinks about.
It's hard not to get emotional when thinking of the sacrifices soldiers make when signing up to serve their country, but not as many people think about the sacrifices their spouses and children make too.
At the 2012 Television Critics Association summer press tour, "Married to the Army" star Rynn Randall tears up when discussing the sacrifices she and her family have had to make because of her husband's career. "I just want America to know it's not just the soldiers who serve, it's me, it's our kids. It's my daughter, whose dad misses her going to her junior prom," she says of why she signed up to do the show. "It's those things that I don't think everybody thinks about.
- 8/3/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
VH1 has picked up two reality series: Aptitude Test, from American Idol‘s Randy Jackson, and House of Consignment, starring Chicago fashion entrepreneur Corri McFadden. The hourlong Aptitude Test, from Jackson and Shed Media, will premiere next year. In every episode, a celebrity will retake their high school career aptitude test to determine their “rightful calling.” The celebrity will then don a disguise and undergo on-the-job training before revealing their true identity to their boss and co-workers. “Are we where we should be? Are we doing what we should be doing? Everybody wonders these things … even celebrities,” said Jackson. “The show is a fun look at what could have been.” Executive producing Aptitude Test are Jackson, Abe Hoch, Harriet Sternberg, Joel A. Morgan, Nick Emmerson, Alex Demyanenko and Jennifer O’Connell. House Of Consignment, which has received a 10-episode order for a January premiere, chronicles the workings of McFadden’s Lincoln Park retain store eDrop-Off,...
- 10/10/2011
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Johnny Wright, hairstylist for the first lady, has landed a development deal to star in a reality show. Wright styled Michelle Obama's hair for the Democratic National Convention and for her upcoming appearance on the cover of Vogue magazine.
Wright has signed a deal with 44 Blue, which produces the reality shows, "Split Ends" on the Style Network and A&E's "L.A. Gang Unit." Executive Vice President for 44 Blue, Stephanie Drachkovitch discovered Wright while searching for a reality host. Drachkovitch was searching for someone with a mainstream clientele and a different point of view.
Wright recently moved to Los Angeles and his clients have included Vivica A. Fox, Rebecca Gayheart, Lauren London and "Sex and the City" creator, Candace Bushnell. Drachkovitch says she was impressed with Wright before she knew about the Obama connection, although, the well-timed Obama connection doesn't hurt.
Drachkovitch will soon pitch the idea to cable networks.
Wright has signed a deal with 44 Blue, which produces the reality shows, "Split Ends" on the Style Network and A&E's "L.A. Gang Unit." Executive Vice President for 44 Blue, Stephanie Drachkovitch discovered Wright while searching for a reality host. Drachkovitch was searching for someone with a mainstream clientele and a different point of view.
Wright recently moved to Los Angeles and his clients have included Vivica A. Fox, Rebecca Gayheart, Lauren London and "Sex and the City" creator, Candace Bushnell. Drachkovitch says she was impressed with Wright before she knew about the Obama connection, although, the well-timed Obama connection doesn't hurt.
Drachkovitch will soon pitch the idea to cable networks.
- 1/21/2009
- icelebz.com
Disney Channel has ordered more episodes of its live-action series "Hannah Montana" and "The Suite Life on Deck."
In other cable news, Hgtv announced four new real estate-themed series debuting Jan. 1, and Style Network has ordered a second season of "Peter Perfect."
Disney has ordered six additional episodes for the third season of "Hannah," bringing the total order to 30. Addition, the network greenlighted a 13-episode second season of "Suite Life."
"Hannah," which debuted in 2006, stars Miley Cyrus, Emily Osment, Jason Earles, Mitchel Musso, Billy Ray Cyrus and Moises Arias. For the fourth quarter, it ranks as the No. 1 basic cable series among kids 6-11 and tweens 9-14 and the No. 1 scripted series in total viewers.
"Suite Life," a spinoff of "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody" that premiered in September, stars Dylan and Cole Sprouse, Brenda Song, Debby Ryan and Phill Lewis. It ranks as TV's No. 2 program among kids 6-11 and No.
In other cable news, Hgtv announced four new real estate-themed series debuting Jan. 1, and Style Network has ordered a second season of "Peter Perfect."
Disney has ordered six additional episodes for the third season of "Hannah," bringing the total order to 30. Addition, the network greenlighted a 13-episode second season of "Suite Life."
"Hannah," which debuted in 2006, stars Miley Cyrus, Emily Osment, Jason Earles, Mitchel Musso, Billy Ray Cyrus and Moises Arias. For the fourth quarter, it ranks as the No. 1 basic cable series among kids 6-11 and tweens 9-14 and the No. 1 scripted series in total viewers.
"Suite Life," a spinoff of "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody" that premiered in September, stars Dylan and Cole Sprouse, Brenda Song, Debby Ryan and Phill Lewis. It ranks as TV's No. 2 program among kids 6-11 and No.
- 12/2/2008
- by By Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"Family Court With Judge Penny", the freshman court series from Program Partners and 44 Blue Prods., has now been cleared in 85% of the U.S. for its fall launch.
In addition, the production team has been finalized, including exec producers Stephanie Drachkovitch, Rasha Drachkovitch and Jill Blackstone; co-executive producer Glenn Meehan; supervising producer Mike Kopplin and line producer Ellen Raphael as well as director Hal Grant.
In addition, the production team has been finalized, including exec producers Stephanie Drachkovitch, Rasha Drachkovitch and Jill Blackstone; co-executive producer Glenn Meehan; supervising producer Mike Kopplin and line producer Ellen Raphael as well as director Hal Grant.
- 6/25/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Celebrity stylist Peter Ishkhans and the Style Network are gearing up for the premiere of "Peter Perfect", an hourlong series in which the British style sage administers extreme image makeovers to struggling businesses from the inside out.
Ishkhans ("The Oprah Winfrey Show") will use his Midas touch to revamp establishments including a coffee shop, hair salon and dog groomer by redesigning every aspect of the business, including staff training and attire, marketing materials -- and even the owners.
The series, developed by 44 Blue Prods. in collaboration with Style Network exec producer Sarah Weidman and director of development Merah Chung, debuts at 9 p.m. EST April 19. Stephanie Drachkovitch and Rasha Drachkovitch will executive produce.
Ishkhans ("The Oprah Winfrey Show") will use his Midas touch to revamp establishments including a coffee shop, hair salon and dog groomer by redesigning every aspect of the business, including staff training and attire, marketing materials -- and even the owners.
The series, developed by 44 Blue Prods. in collaboration with Style Network exec producer Sarah Weidman and director of development Merah Chung, debuts at 9 p.m. EST April 19. Stephanie Drachkovitch and Rasha Drachkovitch will executive produce.
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