Get ready for more Gladiators.
Range Sports has signed American Gladiators creator Johnny Ferraro for representation, with plans to revitalize the reality competition franchise.
Range plans to work with Ferraro and his partners “on the development of the American Gladiators IP across TV, film, attractions, merchandise and live events.” Ferraro and Range “are in active development on multiple projects” to bring the American Gladiators brand to new audiences.
“American Gladiators is an iconic brand, and we couldn’t be more excited to work with Johnny to accelerate its growth and expansion across sports, culture and entertainment,” said Will Funk and Greg Luckman, co-presidents of Range Sports, in a statement.
The original series, which ran in syndication from 1989-96, saw contestants face off against elite “gladiators” in made-for-tv competitions. It was revived in 2008 as a primetime show for NBC, and earlier this year it was rebooted by the BBC, earning a quick second series pickup.
Range Sports has signed American Gladiators creator Johnny Ferraro for representation, with plans to revitalize the reality competition franchise.
Range plans to work with Ferraro and his partners “on the development of the American Gladiators IP across TV, film, attractions, merchandise and live events.” Ferraro and Range “are in active development on multiple projects” to bring the American Gladiators brand to new audiences.
“American Gladiators is an iconic brand, and we couldn’t be more excited to work with Johnny to accelerate its growth and expansion across sports, culture and entertainment,” said Will Funk and Greg Luckman, co-presidents of Range Sports, in a statement.
The original series, which ran in syndication from 1989-96, saw contestants face off against elite “gladiators” in made-for-tv competitions. It was revived in 2008 as a primetime show for NBC, and earlier this year it was rebooted by the BBC, earning a quick second series pickup.
- 4/17/2024
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Celebrity Big Brother returned for the first time in six years to 2.7M viewers last night, as Sharon Osbourne and Kate Middleton’s uncle entered the house.
The show was just ahead of the launch of the civilian Big Brother UK in October, which secured 2.5M viewers, according to Barb data supplied by overnights.tv.
Celebrity Big Brother, which peaked with 3M, will now have the benefit of airing nightly on ITV main channel for the next three weeks in the primetime 9 p.m. GMT (1 p.m. Pt) slot and be given a big push on streamer Itvx. The civilian Big Brother kicked off in the same slot in October but was then moved to ITV 2 and ratings naturally declined from there – averaging around 1M per night.
Revealed yesterday by hosts Aj Odudu and Will Best, Celebrity Big Brother contestants include Sharon Osbourne, Kate Middleton’s uncle Gary Goldsmith...
The show was just ahead of the launch of the civilian Big Brother UK in October, which secured 2.5M viewers, according to Barb data supplied by overnights.tv.
Celebrity Big Brother, which peaked with 3M, will now have the benefit of airing nightly on ITV main channel for the next three weeks in the primetime 9 p.m. GMT (1 p.m. Pt) slot and be given a big push on streamer Itvx. The civilian Big Brother kicked off in the same slot in October but was then moved to ITV 2 and ratings naturally declined from there – averaging around 1M per night.
Revealed yesterday by hosts Aj Odudu and Will Best, Celebrity Big Brother contestants include Sharon Osbourne, Kate Middleton’s uncle Gary Goldsmith...
- 3/5/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Leading broadcast composition and sound design agency Mcasso welcomes Dom Scott as their new Director of Business Relations.
Dom joins from Wisebuddah a prominent radio jingle production company where he was Business Relations Manager for international markets. Prior to that his career encompassed a research role with the Financial Times and a background in live music promotion and music management.
Mcasso is a long established name in UK music composition, synchronisation and audio production with a history spanning 40 years and a famous body of work across Advertising, Film, TV, Radio, Podcasting and Gaming including projects for McDonalds, Bentley, Hyundai, Kelloggs, Mars, Google, Chelsea Fc, Made in England with Martin Scorsese, Sega, ITV, Meta, Global and the BBC.
Earlier this year Mcasso produced the themes and sound design for BBC One’s revival of Saturday night prime time series Gladiators, the biggest entertainment launch from the BBC in 7-years reaching an audience of 8.7 million viewers.
Dom joins from Wisebuddah a prominent radio jingle production company where he was Business Relations Manager for international markets. Prior to that his career encompassed a research role with the Financial Times and a background in live music promotion and music management.
Mcasso is a long established name in UK music composition, synchronisation and audio production with a history spanning 40 years and a famous body of work across Advertising, Film, TV, Radio, Podcasting and Gaming including projects for McDonalds, Bentley, Hyundai, Kelloggs, Mars, Google, Chelsea Fc, Made in England with Martin Scorsese, Sega, ITV, Meta, Global and the BBC.
Earlier this year Mcasso produced the themes and sound design for BBC One’s revival of Saturday night prime time series Gladiators, the biggest entertainment launch from the BBC in 7-years reaching an audience of 8.7 million viewers.
- 2/27/2024
- Podnews.net
Has anything truly bad ever happened in the same room as an oversized foam finger? How could it have? The oversized foam finger is a container of dreams. And smaller fingers.
Morally complex TV that confronts the issues of the day, or wades into the human experience like a police diver searching for old bones, should be celebrated. And it is celebrated. In reviews, at awards shows, during a contact lens appointment when the optometrist asks if you’ve watched anything good lately.
Yes, you’ve watched something good lately. You’ve watched the one about the post office. The one about the killer who preyed on the elderly and vulnerable, the one about the Russian poisoning, and the urgent need for revolution, and the Covid-19 NHS crisis. You watched the Netflix rom-com that left you in tears.
That’s without having gone to the cinema to watch all the...
Morally complex TV that confronts the issues of the day, or wades into the human experience like a police diver searching for old bones, should be celebrated. And it is celebrated. In reviews, at awards shows, during a contact lens appointment when the optometrist asks if you’ve watched anything good lately.
Yes, you’ve watched something good lately. You’ve watched the one about the post office. The one about the killer who preyed on the elderly and vulnerable, the one about the Russian poisoning, and the urgent need for revolution, and the Covid-19 NHS crisis. You watched the Netflix rom-com that left you in tears.
That’s without having gone to the cinema to watch all the...
- 2/23/2024
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
The Traitors has confirmed its status as one of British television’s hits of the year after Season 2’s final episode drew record ratings.
The Claudia Winkleman-fronted BBC reality series ended with an audience of 8M after seven days of streaming and catch-up viewing was accounted for, according to UK ratings body Barb.
This was a million more than its overnight audience of 6.9M and made it the most-watched show on British TV in the week to January 28.
The Traitors has not had a higher-rated episode over the course of its two seasons, with people flocking to the wink-murder-style game to watch Harry Clark be crowned winner.
Produced by All3Media-backed Studio Lambert, the show steadily built its audience throughout its 12-part run (see below), with BBC1 broadcasting batches of three episodes on a Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday night during January.
Only Mr Bates vs The Post Office, ITV’s hit drama series,...
The Claudia Winkleman-fronted BBC reality series ended with an audience of 8M after seven days of streaming and catch-up viewing was accounted for, according to UK ratings body Barb.
This was a million more than its overnight audience of 6.9M and made it the most-watched show on British TV in the week to January 28.
The Traitors has not had a higher-rated episode over the course of its two seasons, with people flocking to the wink-murder-style game to watch Harry Clark be crowned winner.
Produced by All3Media-backed Studio Lambert, the show steadily built its audience throughout its 12-part run (see below), with BBC1 broadcasting batches of three episodes on a Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday night during January.
Only Mr Bates vs The Post Office, ITV’s hit drama series,...
- 2/6/2024
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Saudi’s Joy Awards Honors Anthony Hopkins, Kevin Costner & More
The likes of Anthony Hopkins, Kevin Costner and Mark Wahlberg were honored at Saudi Arabia’s Joy Awards 2024 on Saturday. Jean Reno, Eva Longoria, Salman Khan, Martin Lawrence, Quincy Jones, Alia Bhatt, Georgina Rodriguez, Anthony Anderson, Sam Worthington and Paul Anderson were also either celebrated or in attendance in Riyadh, along with the likes directors Zach Schneider and Doug Liman, and global sports stars Tyson Fury, John Cena and Francis Ngannou. The awards are part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program and recognize major names in music, cinema, television, sports, and more from the Arab world. Hopkins, Costner and Jones were among several recipients of Lifetime Achievement honors, while industry awards went to Bollywood star Bhatt, Schneider and Bad Boys actor Martin Lawrence among others. Mbc Group, the Middle East’s largest broadcast and media firm, co-hosts the awards, which...
The likes of Anthony Hopkins, Kevin Costner and Mark Wahlberg were honored at Saudi Arabia’s Joy Awards 2024 on Saturday. Jean Reno, Eva Longoria, Salman Khan, Martin Lawrence, Quincy Jones, Alia Bhatt, Georgina Rodriguez, Anthony Anderson, Sam Worthington and Paul Anderson were also either celebrated or in attendance in Riyadh, along with the likes directors Zach Schneider and Doug Liman, and global sports stars Tyson Fury, John Cena and Francis Ngannou. The awards are part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program and recognize major names in music, cinema, television, sports, and more from the Arab world. Hopkins, Costner and Jones were among several recipients of Lifetime Achievement honors, while industry awards went to Bollywood star Bhatt, Schneider and Bad Boys actor Martin Lawrence among others. Mbc Group, the Middle East’s largest broadcast and media firm, co-hosts the awards, which...
- 1/22/2024
- by Jesse Whittock and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed Saturday evening as BBC One presents Season 1, Episode 3 of “Gladiators” at 5:50 Pm on January 27, 2024. In this thrilling episode, four contenders will step into the arena to face the resident superhumans in five brutal events before going head-to-head in the legendary Eliminator.
Viewers can expect heart-pounding action as the Gladiators showcase their prowess in the formidable Duel, delivering powerful blows that will test the contenders’ strength and resilience. However, the contenders won’t be backing down easily, hitting back with determination and grit in the intense Gauntlet. It’s a battle of wills and skills as these athletes strive to prove themselves against the formidable Gladiators.
BBC One invites you to witness the high-octane excitement, fierce competition, and spectacular athleticism in “Gladiators.” With the legendary Eliminator looming, every moment counts in this epic showdown. Don’t miss the action-packed journey as contenders push their limits...
Viewers can expect heart-pounding action as the Gladiators showcase their prowess in the formidable Duel, delivering powerful blows that will test the contenders’ strength and resilience. However, the contenders won’t be backing down easily, hitting back with determination and grit in the intense Gauntlet. It’s a battle of wills and skills as these athletes strive to prove themselves against the formidable Gladiators.
BBC One invites you to witness the high-octane excitement, fierce competition, and spectacular athleticism in “Gladiators.” With the legendary Eliminator looming, every moment counts in this epic showdown. Don’t miss the action-packed journey as contenders push their limits...
- 1/21/2024
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
MGM Alternative is getting into the gaming world.
The Amazon MGM Studios division has struck a deal with the Global Esports Federation (Gef) to make content surrounding the the Global Esports Games, esports competitors and the gaming lifestyle.
MGM Alternative makes shows such as The Voice, Shark Tank, and Survivor and is currently riding high in the UK, where its reboot of physical competition show Gladiators debuted this past weekend to 6M viewers.
The producer will work with the Gef to develop linear and streaming content, as well as live events within Gef’s esports conventions and events.
The Gef’s mission statement is “dedicated to enhancing the credibility, legitimacy, and prestige of esports.” Its marquee events include the Global Esports Games and the pro-series Global Esports Tour. A third edition of the Games took place recently in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2023. It will be staged in China this year,...
The Amazon MGM Studios division has struck a deal with the Global Esports Federation (Gef) to make content surrounding the the Global Esports Games, esports competitors and the gaming lifestyle.
MGM Alternative makes shows such as The Voice, Shark Tank, and Survivor and is currently riding high in the UK, where its reboot of physical competition show Gladiators debuted this past weekend to 6M viewers.
The producer will work with the Gef to develop linear and streaming content, as well as live events within Gef’s esports conventions and events.
The Gef’s mission statement is “dedicated to enhancing the credibility, legitimacy, and prestige of esports.” Its marquee events include the Global Esports Games and the pro-series Global Esports Tour. A third edition of the Games took place recently in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2023. It will be staged in China this year,...
- 1/19/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Gladiators came back with a bang to British TV screens on Saturday, making light work of ITV’s The Masked Singer.
In the latest line of UK TV reboots, the series in which members of the public take on the gladiators in challenges was watched by more than 6M viewers with a 38% share, comfortably becoming the BBC’s most-watched new show of the year and topping the weekend ratings chart.
Helmed by Bradley Walsh and son Barney, the hour-long show that aired from 5.50 p.m. GMT (9.50 a.m. Pt) peaked with 6.3M and comfortably beat ITV’s The Masked Singer, which is now into its fifth season and was watched by 3.7M from 7 p.m. GMT.
The rating would have been particularly frustrating for ITV as Gladiators aired on that channel for eight years and 13 seasons in the 1990s, making icons of its gladiators. It was briefly restarted by Sky One...
In the latest line of UK TV reboots, the series in which members of the public take on the gladiators in challenges was watched by more than 6M viewers with a 38% share, comfortably becoming the BBC’s most-watched new show of the year and topping the weekend ratings chart.
Helmed by Bradley Walsh and son Barney, the hour-long show that aired from 5.50 p.m. GMT (9.50 a.m. Pt) peaked with 6.3M and comfortably beat ITV’s The Masked Singer, which is now into its fifth season and was watched by 3.7M from 7 p.m. GMT.
The rating would have been particularly frustrating for ITV as Gladiators aired on that channel for eight years and 13 seasons in the 1990s, making icons of its gladiators. It was briefly restarted by Sky One...
- 1/15/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
In the UK in the 1990s, bodybuilding was a freak pursuit – the domain of weirdos who painted themselves with Ronseal and stretched tiny Lycra hammocks across acres of skin the texture of an Arbroath Smokie in an attempt to resemble Marvel’s The Thing. Nobody knew what a deltoid was. Or a protein window. Fit people were the ones who played a weekly game of five-a-side before the pub. Fake tan smelt of biscuits, and even Sporty Spice didn’t have abs.
When Gladiators first arrived on TV then, its stars were curios. We only saw people like them once a year, pulling a truck on The World’s Strongest Man or being gawped at by Clive James on Television. These demigods with 19 inch biceps and thighs the size of dustbins didn’t walk among us.
Now, it’s all change. Ordinary people “lift”. Protein shakes are sold in supermarkets, and...
When Gladiators first arrived on TV then, its stars were curios. We only saw people like them once a year, pulling a truck on The World’s Strongest Man or being gawped at by Clive James on Television. These demigods with 19 inch biceps and thighs the size of dustbins didn’t walk among us.
Now, it’s all change. Ordinary people “lift”. Protein shakes are sold in supermarkets, and...
- 1/13/2024
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Gladiators, ready! The legendary sports gameshow that sees members of the public take on super-strong “Gladiators” in a series of physical challenges is getting a revival on the BBC – what a time to be alive. The new Gladiators starts on BBC One on Saturday January 13 at 5.50 p.m., and is presented by father-son due Bradley and Barney Walsh.
Gladiators captivated Saturday nights in the nineties. The whole family huddled around a too-small television to watch Ulrika Jonsson and John Fashanu introduce four “contenders” (members of the public) who were going to take on the mighty Gladiators, in a show packed with shellsuits, tight lycra costumes, and Hairstyles with a capital H. By the time it reached the final round, aka The Eliminator, we’d all be screaming at the screen as contestants faced trapezes, a zipwire and the ultimate challenge: the travelator.
Fan favourites in the original Gladiators lineup included Wolf,...
Gladiators captivated Saturday nights in the nineties. The whole family huddled around a too-small television to watch Ulrika Jonsson and John Fashanu introduce four “contenders” (members of the public) who were going to take on the mighty Gladiators, in a show packed with shellsuits, tight lycra costumes, and Hairstyles with a capital H. By the time it reached the final round, aka The Eliminator, we’d all be screaming at the screen as contestants faced trapezes, a zipwire and the ultimate challenge: the travelator.
Fan favourites in the original Gladiators lineup included Wolf,...
- 1/9/2024
- by Lauravickersgreen
- Den of Geek
“SNL” used the occasion of Jason Momoa hosting and promoting “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” to revisit the recent meme-ing of men always thinking about the Roman Empire. The music video comedy sketch opens with several women singing about their distant male partners, wondering what’s going on in their minds as they stare into the distance.
Rather than another woman, the emphatic answer comes: Rome.
Momoa, no stranger to playing warriors from “Game of Thrones” to “Dune” to “See”, switches into full Roman gladiator attire as he delivers praises for the glorious civilization, its fun facts and its continuing influence.
“The Roman Empire, Ancient Rome / Five times a day, it pops into my dome,” Momoa declares. “Which reminds me, they invented the dome / Just one of the reasons that I think about Rome.”
“Caesar, straight didn’t give a f–k / Drank ice cold water from an aqueduct,” Momoa continues,...
Rather than another woman, the emphatic answer comes: Rome.
Momoa, no stranger to playing warriors from “Game of Thrones” to “Dune” to “See”, switches into full Roman gladiator attire as he delivers praises for the glorious civilization, its fun facts and its continuing influence.
“The Roman Empire, Ancient Rome / Five times a day, it pops into my dome,” Momoa declares. “Which reminds me, they invented the dome / Just one of the reasons that I think about Rome.”
“Caesar, straight didn’t give a f–k / Drank ice cold water from an aqueduct,” Momoa continues,...
- 11/19/2023
- by Mike Roe
- The Wrap
Get ready for a fierce battle as “RuPaul’s Drag Race UK” gears up for the semi-final in Season 5 Episode 9, airing on BBC Three at 10:00 Pm on Thursday, November 23, 2023. The stakes are higher than ever as RuPaul inches closer to crowning the UK’s Next Drag Race Superstar. In this penultimate week, the queens face a Gladiators-themed comedy roast challenge, stepping into the Drag Race UK arena for a showdown that could secure their spot in the grand finale.
The pressure is on as the ru-maining contestants fight tooth and nail, knowing that the coveted crown is within snatching distance. However, one wrong joke could mean game over for even the most plucky contenders. To guide them through the comedy chaos, the fabulous Alan Carr lends his expertise, providing a much-needed comedy masterclass to ensure the queens are ready for the challenge.
Don’t miss this exhilarating episode as...
The pressure is on as the ru-maining contestants fight tooth and nail, knowing that the coveted crown is within snatching distance. However, one wrong joke could mean game over for even the most plucky contenders. To guide them through the comedy chaos, the fabulous Alan Carr lends his expertise, providing a much-needed comedy masterclass to ensure the queens are ready for the challenge.
Don’t miss this exhilarating episode as...
- 11/17/2023
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
With voting juiced by a decidedly partisan John Oliver, the puteketeke bird was crowned the “Bird of the Century” in New Zealand.
After it pulled in more than 290,000 votes, “puteketeke pandemonium prevails,” the conservation organization New Zealand Forest and Bird, announced, granting the title to the endangered water bird with a surviving population of just about about 3,000.
New Zealand’s national bird, the North Island brown kiwi, garnered just 12,904 votes, and the kea, a large, endangered parrot thought to be one of the most intelligent birds in the world, took third with 12,060 votes.
Oliver, meanwhile, took up a global campaign for the puteketeke, also known as the Australasian crested grebe, on his Nov. 12 show.
“It feels like your tongue is tap dancing,” Oliver said in the segment in which he described the fowl’s parenting and mating habits.
The campaign began after Oliver learned about the contest and unsuccessfully searched...
After it pulled in more than 290,000 votes, “puteketeke pandemonium prevails,” the conservation organization New Zealand Forest and Bird, announced, granting the title to the endangered water bird with a surviving population of just about about 3,000.
New Zealand’s national bird, the North Island brown kiwi, garnered just 12,904 votes, and the kea, a large, endangered parrot thought to be one of the most intelligent birds in the world, took third with 12,060 votes.
Oliver, meanwhile, took up a global campaign for the puteketeke, also known as the Australasian crested grebe, on his Nov. 12 show.
“It feels like your tongue is tap dancing,” Oliver said in the segment in which he described the fowl’s parenting and mating habits.
The campaign began after Oliver learned about the contest and unsuccessfully searched...
- 11/16/2023
- by Eileen AJ Connelly
- The Wrap
Exclusive: “Anyone expecting a polite, apologetic version of Survivor will be completely surprised,” the EP behind the BBC’s rebooted reality series has proclaimed.
Speaking to Deadline a few days prior to launch, reality TV vet Paul Osborne said Survivor’s producers have leaned into high-production values and high-stakes gameplay in a similar vein to the U.S. team behind the Emmy-winning CBS smash, which has run for 45 seasons and 650 episodes over two decades.
“It feels a long time coming,” Osborne said of the UK version, which is hosted by Masked Singer presenter Joel Dommett and launches on Saturday. “I’m hugely excited to see how the audience responds to British gameplay which they might not necessarily expect. Anyone expecting a polite, apologetic version of Survivor will be completely surprised.”
Having Banijay format consultants based around the world has helped shape the series, Osborne added of the show that has...
Speaking to Deadline a few days prior to launch, reality TV vet Paul Osborne said Survivor’s producers have leaned into high-production values and high-stakes gameplay in a similar vein to the U.S. team behind the Emmy-winning CBS smash, which has run for 45 seasons and 650 episodes over two decades.
“It feels a long time coming,” Osborne said of the UK version, which is hosted by Masked Singer presenter Joel Dommett and launches on Saturday. “I’m hugely excited to see how the audience responds to British gameplay which they might not necessarily expect. Anyone expecting a polite, apologetic version of Survivor will be completely surprised.”
Having Banijay format consultants based around the world has helped shape the series, Osborne added of the show that has...
- 10/25/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC’s director of unscripted has defended the corporation against claims that it is shutting out new content ideas by rebooting TV shows in its primetime schedule.
Kate Phillips’ commissioning team has ordered revivals of shows including Gladiators, Survivor, and The Weakest Link in recent years, sparking allegations that the BBC is increasingly reticent to take risks on fresh formats.
Phillips said BBC commissioners don’t “instinctively” want to dust off old shows, but reboots have an important place in the broadcaster’s schedule. She said revivals represent just 1% of the 3,000 hours of content her unit greenlights every year.
“I’m going to make no apologies for bringing back Gladiators and Survivor because they were really good pitches and I think they are going to be really big shows,” she told the Edinburgh TV Festival.
Phillips added that producers have to work harder to convince the BBC to commission a reboot.
Kate Phillips’ commissioning team has ordered revivals of shows including Gladiators, Survivor, and The Weakest Link in recent years, sparking allegations that the BBC is increasingly reticent to take risks on fresh formats.
Phillips said BBC commissioners don’t “instinctively” want to dust off old shows, but reboots have an important place in the broadcaster’s schedule. She said revivals represent just 1% of the 3,000 hours of content her unit greenlights every year.
“I’m going to make no apologies for bringing back Gladiators and Survivor because they were really good pitches and I think they are going to be really big shows,” she told the Edinburgh TV Festival.
Phillips added that producers have to work harder to convince the BBC to commission a reboot.
- 8/23/2023
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Actor Russell Crowe admitted that he wasn’t sure he’d be able to get along with Joaquin Phoenix when they starred in Gladiator. So Crowe tried to gauge Phoenix’s personality by taking his co-star on a night out.
Russell Crowe got Joaquin Phoenix drunk before filming ‘Gladiator’ Joaquin Phoenix | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Phoenix admitted to having quite a bit of anxiety going into the Ridley Scott feature Gladiator. The actor would be paired with Scott and Crowe when the latter’s career was reaching its prime. Crowe noticed his younger co-star’s anxiety.
He and his other Gladiator castmate Richard Harris came up with a plan to calm Phoenix down. This plan would also help them ascertain whether or not they would enjoy Phoenix’s company.
“Harris and I got together and said, ‘How are we going to make Joaquin Phoenix relax?’ And his solution was, ‘Let’s...
Russell Crowe got Joaquin Phoenix drunk before filming ‘Gladiator’ Joaquin Phoenix | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Phoenix admitted to having quite a bit of anxiety going into the Ridley Scott feature Gladiator. The actor would be paired with Scott and Crowe when the latter’s career was reaching its prime. Crowe noticed his younger co-star’s anxiety.
He and his other Gladiator castmate Richard Harris came up with a plan to calm Phoenix down. This plan would also help them ascertain whether or not they would enjoy Phoenix’s company.
“Harris and I got together and said, ‘How are we going to make Joaquin Phoenix relax?’ And his solution was, ‘Let’s...
- 8/2/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Talk about living in a Barbie World. As Greta Gerwig’s smash hit dominates the box office in just its second week of release, giddily plowing its way toward an expected billion (with a b) box office take, we must face the inevitable: this thing’s gonna get a sequel, right? While Gerwig’s film (co-written with her partner Noah Baumbach) is a major crowdpleaser, it still feels subversive in the way it takes on everything from toxic patriarchy to the very toy conglomerate that owns the iconic doll. But any smarting Mattel and Warner Bros. Discovery might have felt during the creation of the film has surely been eased by its massive success at the box office. Money talks, and we’re betting that Wbd has already pulled up the dump truck outside Gerwig and Baumbach’s house.
IndieWire’s Kate Erbland, Erin Strecker, and Proma Khosla have all seen (and enjoyed!
IndieWire’s Kate Erbland, Erin Strecker, and Proma Khosla have all seen (and enjoyed!
- 7/31/2023
- by Kate Erbland, Erin Strecker and Proma Khosla
- Indiewire
Gladiators was a hugely popular game show that started in the UK in 1992 and ran for eight seasons. The premise of the show was simple: contestants would compete in a series of challenges designed to test their strength, speed, and agility. These challenges were set in a spectacular arena, complete with lights, smoke, and dramatic music. Contestants were pitted against a team of muscle bound athletes known as the gladiators. These gladiators, each with their own unique look and skill set, were designed to be larger-than-life characters, and were hugely popular with viewers. The show was a huge success,...
- 7/21/2023
- by Matthew C. F
- TVovermind.com
The UK gameshow revival continues apace.
Having already put high-profile reboots of Big Brother, Jeopardy and Deal or No Deal back into production, ITV is now reviving iconic gameshow Wheel of Fortune, helmed by UK TV stalwart Graham Norton.
Sony-owned Whisper North, which is also producing Stephen Fry-hosted Jeopardy, will make an eight-part run including two celebrity specials.
Wheel of Fortune aired beween 1988 and 2001 on ITV, generating something of a cult following alongside the original U.S. version, which has aired non-stop for nearly 50 years. Yesterday, it was revealed that Ryan Seacrest will take over from Pat Sajak as host of the U.S. show’s 42nd season. The UK version was hosted by the likes of Nicky Campbell and Bradley Walsh during its initial run.
The show is centered around a giant carnival wheel as contestants spin to win for a cash prize. The turn of the...
Having already put high-profile reboots of Big Brother, Jeopardy and Deal or No Deal back into production, ITV is now reviving iconic gameshow Wheel of Fortune, helmed by UK TV stalwart Graham Norton.
Sony-owned Whisper North, which is also producing Stephen Fry-hosted Jeopardy, will make an eight-part run including two celebrity specials.
Wheel of Fortune aired beween 1988 and 2001 on ITV, generating something of a cult following alongside the original U.S. version, which has aired non-stop for nearly 50 years. Yesterday, it was revealed that Ryan Seacrest will take over from Pat Sajak as host of the U.S. show’s 42nd season. The UK version was hosted by the likes of Nicky Campbell and Bradley Walsh during its initial run.
The show is centered around a giant carnival wheel as contestants spin to win for a cash prize. The turn of the...
- 6/28/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The two-part “30 for 30” documentary on the seminal 1990s competition show “American Gladiators” has now concluded, wrapping up an epic saga that cut right to the core of the American Dream.
The documentary dove deep into the largely unknown history of the show, which dominated the TV landscape in its initial run in syndication on US television and around the world. It revealed stories of love, lust, betrayal, friendship, injury, agony, and everything in between from the creators of the show and the Gladiators themselves.
So how did a nearly three-hour doc about a show famous for events like jousting with things that looked like huge cotton swabs and rolling around in giant steel balls called Atlaspheres come together? According to the doc’s director Ben Berman, he was skeptical when initially approached by Vice about the project but changed his mind once he learned more about the story.
The documentary dove deep into the largely unknown history of the show, which dominated the TV landscape in its initial run in syndication on US television and around the world. It revealed stories of love, lust, betrayal, friendship, injury, agony, and everything in between from the creators of the show and the Gladiators themselves.
So how did a nearly three-hour doc about a show famous for events like jousting with things that looked like huge cotton swabs and rolling around in giant steel balls called Atlaspheres come together? According to the doc’s director Ben Berman, he was skeptical when initially approached by Vice about the project but changed his mind once he learned more about the story.
- 6/1/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
We may live in a post-truth world, but most viewers still settle in to watch documentaries with the assumption that what we’re going to be treated to is at least some version of “truth.” Surely, we think, “truth” is what most documentary filmmakers aspire to.
Perhaps owing to a background that’s in comedy — Lady Dynamite, Comedy Bang! Bang! — rather than nonfiction, Ben Berman doesn’t operate on that level. Berman, who made his documentary debut with 2019’s Sundance entry The Amazing Johnathan Documentary, is more interested in the lengths that people go to avoid the truth. He isn’t angry at liars — he’s not Alex Gibney — so much as he is fascinated with the prevarication itself, not always the motivation for it or the reality behind it.
Berman’s new film is ESPN’s two-part The American Gladiators Documentary, which airs under the 30 for 30 banner, even though,...
Perhaps owing to a background that’s in comedy — Lady Dynamite, Comedy Bang! Bang! — rather than nonfiction, Ben Berman doesn’t operate on that level. Berman, who made his documentary debut with 2019’s Sundance entry The Amazing Johnathan Documentary, is more interested in the lengths that people go to avoid the truth. He isn’t angry at liars — he’s not Alex Gibney — so much as he is fascinated with the prevarication itself, not always the motivation for it or the reality behind it.
Berman’s new film is ESPN’s two-part The American Gladiators Documentary, which airs under the 30 for 30 banner, even though,...
- 5/30/2023
- by Daniel Fienberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Johnny Ferraro comes across like a Mafia soldier in witness relocation as a used car salesman, or maybe that one casino employee you really don’t want to mess with. He has a way of looking at the camera like he wants to strangle it, or at least spit on it. But somehow, some way, he musters charm. Ferraro is the creator of the much-mocked, absurdly popular proto-reality-tv competition series American Gladiators. Or is he?
This question lingers over the new two-part ESPN 30 for 30 film The American Gladiators Documentary, whose...
This question lingers over the new two-part ESPN 30 for 30 film The American Gladiators Documentary, whose...
- 5/30/2023
- by Chris Vognar
- Rollingstone.com
This week's episode of the Empire Podcast is better, down where it's wetter. Although we wouldn't recommend listening to this under the sea, in case you get your phone all soggy. Anyway, this is our way of saying that we're joined this week by Javier Bardem and Daveed Diggs, two of the stars of the latest Disney live-action animation adaptation (try saying that when you're the worse for wear), The Little Mermaid. They talk to Helen O'Hara and Ben Travis, respectively, and both are tons of fun.
Then, in the podbooth, Chris Hewitt hosts and is joined by Helen, James Dyer and, in the fourth chair, Kobi Omenaka, co-host of the Flixwatcher podcast, who tells us all about his brush with fame on Gladiators. Then, the four of them pay tribute to Tina Turner, talk about their favourite musicians-turned-actors, discuss the week's movie news (including the sad death of Ray Stevenson...
Then, in the podbooth, Chris Hewitt hosts and is joined by Helen, James Dyer and, in the fourth chair, Kobi Omenaka, co-host of the Flixwatcher podcast, who tells us all about his brush with fame on Gladiators. Then, the four of them pay tribute to Tina Turner, talk about their favourite musicians-turned-actors, discuss the week's movie news (including the sad death of Ray Stevenson...
- 5/26/2023
- by Chris Hewitt
- Empire - Movies
Exclusive: Channel 4 has abruptly cancelled its Four Weddings reboot in a move that has had the industry speculating over the state of the network’s finances amidst declining ad revenues and an economic downturn.
Deadline understands around two-dozen people were due to start production on Four Weddings shortly but were informed earlier this week that the show had been stood down, leaving the production team blindsided. ITV Studios-backed MultiStory Media was producing the reboot and it was commissioned several weeks ago, with production due to take place over the summer. Freelancers have instead been given a compensation package for a two-week notice period, we understand.
Four Weddings aired on Sky for four seasons around a decade ago and sold to several territories around the world including TLC in the U.S. The Come Dine with Me-style show follows four brides or grooms attending each other’s weddings, as they rate them on dress,...
Deadline understands around two-dozen people were due to start production on Four Weddings shortly but were informed earlier this week that the show had been stood down, leaving the production team blindsided. ITV Studios-backed MultiStory Media was producing the reboot and it was commissioned several weeks ago, with production due to take place over the summer. Freelancers have instead been given a compensation package for a two-week notice period, we understand.
Four Weddings aired on Sky for four seasons around a decade ago and sold to several territories around the world including TLC in the U.S. The Come Dine with Me-style show follows four brides or grooms attending each other’s weddings, as they rate them on dress,...
- 5/26/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Benedict Cumberbatch & Claire Foy To Lead Channel 4’s ‘Mog’s Christmas’ Adaptation
Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy are leading the voice cast for Channel 4’s latest Judith Kerr Christmas animation, Mog’s Christmas. The pair, who combined for 2021’s The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, will play Mr and Mrs Thomas and feature as part of a stellar cast that includes narrator Adjoa Andoh (Bridgerton), Miriam Margolyes, Maggie Steed, Zawe Ashton and Charlie Higson. Universal Pictures Content Group and Lupus Films’ adaptation follows the Thomas’s attempts to rescue their cat from the top of a tree. Despite everyone’s fears, Mog has a magical night in the snow with a cat-themed Christmas dream. “This festive, family-friendly tale has huge cross generational appeal and is the perfect literary classic to adapt for the whole family to come together to watch,” said Ruth Fielding, Lupus Films Producer and Co-Founder. The...
Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy are leading the voice cast for Channel 4’s latest Judith Kerr Christmas animation, Mog’s Christmas. The pair, who combined for 2021’s The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, will play Mr and Mrs Thomas and feature as part of a stellar cast that includes narrator Adjoa Andoh (Bridgerton), Miriam Margolyes, Maggie Steed, Zawe Ashton and Charlie Higson. Universal Pictures Content Group and Lupus Films’ adaptation follows the Thomas’s attempts to rescue their cat from the top of a tree. Despite everyone’s fears, Mog has a magical night in the snow with a cat-themed Christmas dream. “This festive, family-friendly tale has huge cross generational appeal and is the perfect literary classic to adapt for the whole family to come together to watch,” said Ruth Fielding, Lupus Films Producer and Co-Founder. The...
- 5/23/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Doctor Who star Bradley Walsh and his son Barney Walsh are to host the BBC’s rebooted Gladiators.
The show, which hasn’t aired in the UK for almost 25 years, is coming back later this year along with another rebooted show, Survivors, on the BBC.
Bradley Walsh, who also hosts ITV’s The Chase and the BBC’s rebooted Blankety Blank, will take the reins alongside son Barney Walsh. The pair have hosted ITV’s successful documentary format Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad, in which they travel around the world.
Bradley Walsh’s wife Donna Walsh was head choreographer for the original Gladiators cheerleaders and Bradley Walsh also competed in a ‘Celebrities vs Jockeys’ special in 1997.
In the rebooted Gladiators, which is produced by Hungry Bear and MGM Television UK, a new generation of superhuman Gladiators will compete against contenders in a test of speed and strength. Brand new games...
The show, which hasn’t aired in the UK for almost 25 years, is coming back later this year along with another rebooted show, Survivors, on the BBC.
Bradley Walsh, who also hosts ITV’s The Chase and the BBC’s rebooted Blankety Blank, will take the reins alongside son Barney Walsh. The pair have hosted ITV’s successful documentary format Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad, in which they travel around the world.
Bradley Walsh’s wife Donna Walsh was head choreographer for the original Gladiators cheerleaders and Bradley Walsh also competed in a ‘Celebrities vs Jockeys’ special in 1997.
In the rebooted Gladiators, which is produced by Hungry Bear and MGM Television UK, a new generation of superhuman Gladiators will compete against contenders in a test of speed and strength. Brand new games...
- 5/3/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
ITV’s rebooted Big Brother has landed Aj Odudu and Will Best as hosts. A teaser unveiling the pair can be seen below.
The duo will share the iconic hosting role on the main show previously occupied by Davina McCall, presiding over the weekly evictions and quizzing housemates on all of the goings on in house over six weeks. The duo will also host an additional nightly live show.
ITV revealed it would be rebooting Big Brother last year and the network is now the third channel to have hosted the show in the UK, following Channel 4 and Channel 5. Big Brother airs around the world in numerous territories and is produced by Banijay-backed Initial in the UK, helmed by reality vet Natalka Znak, who recently joined Banijay.
Odudu already hosts a number of UK formats include Channel 4’s revival of The Big Breakfast and Comic Relief, while she...
The duo will share the iconic hosting role on the main show previously occupied by Davina McCall, presiding over the weekly evictions and quizzing housemates on all of the goings on in house over six weeks. The duo will also host an additional nightly live show.
ITV revealed it would be rebooting Big Brother last year and the network is now the third channel to have hosted the show in the UK, following Channel 4 and Channel 5. Big Brother airs around the world in numerous territories and is produced by Banijay-backed Initial in the UK, helmed by reality vet Natalka Znak, who recently joined Banijay.
Odudu already hosts a number of UK formats include Channel 4’s revival of The Big Breakfast and Comic Relief, while she...
- 4/25/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Piers Morgan announces Stormy Daniels interview has been suddenly postponed ‘due to security issues’
Piers Morgan has announced his scheduled interview with former adult film star Stormy Daniels has been cancelled due to “security issues”.
Daniels was expected to appear on the broadcaster’s Piers Morgan Uncensored show on Friday (31 March).
However, in a last-minute update from Morgan on Twitter, the host wrote that “due to security issues, this interview is postponed”.
“Unfortunately, Stormy Daniels has had to suddenly postpone our interview tonight due to some security issues that have arisen,” Morgan added. “Hope she’s Ok.”
In an initial teaser of the “world exclusive with Stormy Daniels”, the talk show tweeted: “It’s the indictment that’s rocked the world... and tonight Piers Morgan interviews the former adult star at the centre of it all.”
In an interview with The Times, published earlier that day, Daniels said she believes Trump’s indictment will cause “injuries and deaths”.
She also revealed that since word of his indictment broke,...
Daniels was expected to appear on the broadcaster’s Piers Morgan Uncensored show on Friday (31 March).
However, in a last-minute update from Morgan on Twitter, the host wrote that “due to security issues, this interview is postponed”.
“Unfortunately, Stormy Daniels has had to suddenly postpone our interview tonight due to some security issues that have arisen,” Morgan added. “Hope she’s Ok.”
In an initial teaser of the “world exclusive with Stormy Daniels”, the talk show tweeted: “It’s the indictment that’s rocked the world... and tonight Piers Morgan interviews the former adult star at the centre of it all.”
In an interview with The Times, published earlier that day, Daniels said she believes Trump’s indictment will cause “injuries and deaths”.
She also revealed that since word of his indictment broke,...
- 3/31/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - TV
Netflix is on the cusp of taking down a wide selection of movies and TV series.
The streaming service removes numerous titles each month, but without fanfare; unless you happen to select the thing that’s about to leave, you will have no idea there’s a limited amount of time left to watch.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of every movie and TV show being removed from Netflix in April 2023.
We’ve aggregated all the impending removals from Netflix in the UK and US, which we’ve signalled below. If there isn’t a territory listed next to the title, then it will be leaving both.
Nb: We put this list together with help from What’s on Netflix.
Movies
1 April
Akbar Birbal – US
The American Game
The Aviator – US
Bal Ganesh – US
Bee Movie – UK
Big Daddy – US
Bill – UK
Brokeback Mountain – US
The Bye Bye Man...
The streaming service removes numerous titles each month, but without fanfare; unless you happen to select the thing that’s about to leave, you will have no idea there’s a limited amount of time left to watch.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of every movie and TV show being removed from Netflix in April 2023.
We’ve aggregated all the impending removals from Netflix in the UK and US, which we’ve signalled below. If there isn’t a territory listed next to the title, then it will be leaving both.
Nb: We put this list together with help from What’s on Netflix.
Movies
1 April
Akbar Birbal – US
The American Game
The Aviator – US
Bal Ganesh – US
Bee Movie – UK
Big Daddy – US
Bill – UK
Brokeback Mountain – US
The Bye Bye Man...
- 3/31/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Three people have been arrested in connection to the assault on controversial rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine earlier this month.
Footage showed the 26-year-old Fefe Mc – real name Daniel Hernandez – lying on the ground outside a Florida gym sauna while being hit by multiple assailants.
Rafael Medina Jr, 43, Octavious Medina, 23, and Anthony Maldonado, 25, have now been arrested for assaulting and robbing, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Thursday (30 March).
According to People, police records show all three men are being held at Palm Beach County Jail and are expected to attend their first hearing on Friday (31 March).
In a statement to NBC News after the incident, Hernandez’s attorney, Lance Lazzaro, said the rapper was attacked in the sauna by “three or four thugs who beat him up”.
“Employees heard the disturbance and the perpetrators fled,” Lazzaro said. “Police in South Florida were called and he was transported...
Footage showed the 26-year-old Fefe Mc – real name Daniel Hernandez – lying on the ground outside a Florida gym sauna while being hit by multiple assailants.
Rafael Medina Jr, 43, Octavious Medina, 23, and Anthony Maldonado, 25, have now been arrested for assaulting and robbing, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Thursday (30 March).
According to People, police records show all three men are being held at Palm Beach County Jail and are expected to attend their first hearing on Friday (31 March).
In a statement to NBC News after the incident, Hernandez’s attorney, Lance Lazzaro, said the rapper was attacked in the sauna by “three or four thugs who beat him up”.
“Employees heard the disturbance and the perpetrators fled,” Lazzaro said. “Police in South Florida were called and he was transported...
- 3/31/2023
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - Music
Chris Pine and Regé-Jean Page are well aware of what fans are saying about them online. In fact, they’ve admitted that they’re “into it big time”.
While promoting their newest adventure fantasy film Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves – out in cinemas now – the two co-stars addressed their other important off-screen role as the “internet’s boyfriend”.
“We talk about it all the time,” Pine told People in a joint interview with Page. “We have a WhatsApp. It’s just called ‘internet’s boyfriend.’ We’ll send each other pictures of ourselves: ‘These are what my fans are saying.’ So, we’re into it big time.”
Chiming in, the Bridgerton alum joked: “We send the internet flowers all the time.”
“We invite people if we’re walking down the street, ‘C’mon join the Whatsapp group,’” Pine added.
Pine and Page star in the movie adaptation of the...
While promoting their newest adventure fantasy film Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves – out in cinemas now – the two co-stars addressed their other important off-screen role as the “internet’s boyfriend”.
“We talk about it all the time,” Pine told People in a joint interview with Page. “We have a WhatsApp. It’s just called ‘internet’s boyfriend.’ We’ll send each other pictures of ourselves: ‘These are what my fans are saying.’ So, we’re into it big time.”
Chiming in, the Bridgerton alum joked: “We send the internet flowers all the time.”
“We invite people if we’re walking down the street, ‘C’mon join the Whatsapp group,’” Pine added.
Pine and Page star in the movie adaptation of the...
- 3/31/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Film
Hannah Waddingham has proffered her own theory about why UK viewers aren’t so keen on Ted Lasso.
The actor stars opposite Jason Sudeikis in Apple TV+’s series about an American college football coach who takes over as the manager of AFC Richmond, a struggling Premier League team in the UK.
Waddingham appeared on This Morning on Friday (31 March), with host Dermot O’Leary saying that the show is “about football, but it’s not really about football”.
“I’m so glad you said that, because I wonder sometimes if British audiences don’t watch it because they think it’s about football,” Waddingham theorised.
“But it’s actually about very much the human condition that we find through comedy, all the ridiculous things about ourselves, with the backdrop of football. A brilliant backdrop of football, but it’s about all of us supporting each other.
Waddingham is hosting the Olivier Awards this weekend,...
The actor stars opposite Jason Sudeikis in Apple TV+’s series about an American college football coach who takes over as the manager of AFC Richmond, a struggling Premier League team in the UK.
Waddingham appeared on This Morning on Friday (31 March), with host Dermot O’Leary saying that the show is “about football, but it’s not really about football”.
“I’m so glad you said that, because I wonder sometimes if British audiences don’t watch it because they think it’s about football,” Waddingham theorised.
“But it’s actually about very much the human condition that we find through comedy, all the ridiculous things about ourselves, with the backdrop of football. A brilliant backdrop of football, but it’s about all of us supporting each other.
Waddingham is hosting the Olivier Awards this weekend,...
- 3/31/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Boygenius have released The Film directed by Kristen Stewart, a visual counterpart to their first full-length album The Record.
Formed in 2018 by singers Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker, the indie rock supergroup followed up their self-titled 2018 EP boygenius with their debut album on Friday (31 March).
Along with the 12-track record, the trio teamed up with Oscar-nominated actor Stewart to produce a 14-minute music video featuring visuals for the songs “$20”, “Emily I’m Sorry”, and “True Blue”.
In the first part of the triptych, a confused Baker is shown hastily running around an unfamiliar rural home where she eventually helps repair an old car.
Bridgers leads the second portion, singing “Emily I’m Sorry” as she stands in the middle of a monster truck arena as trucks drive around her.
The final act follows Dacus as she paints the interior of a house a deep blue. She’s then...
Formed in 2018 by singers Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker, the indie rock supergroup followed up their self-titled 2018 EP boygenius with their debut album on Friday (31 March).
Along with the 12-track record, the trio teamed up with Oscar-nominated actor Stewart to produce a 14-minute music video featuring visuals for the songs “$20”, “Emily I’m Sorry”, and “True Blue”.
In the first part of the triptych, a confused Baker is shown hastily running around an unfamiliar rural home where she eventually helps repair an old car.
Bridgers leads the second portion, singing “Emily I’m Sorry” as she stands in the middle of a monster truck arena as trucks drive around her.
The final act follows Dacus as she paints the interior of a house a deep blue. She’s then...
- 3/31/2023
- by Inga Parkel
- The Independent - Music
Russell Crowe has announced the death of his dog, Louis, after he was hit by a truck.
The actor, who will soon star in the horror film The Pope’s Exorcist, shared news of his pet’s demise on social media.
Crowe posted a picture of Louis’ face, along with a caption about the dog.
“This is Louis the Papillion,” his message begins. “Sixteen months old. Tiny, cheeky, brave. He won my heart.”
The Gladiator star went on to note that the dog died on a significant day for him – the second anniversary of his father’s death.
“Unfortunately today, on the second anniversary of my father’s passing, Louis was hit by a truck.
“We tried to get him to the vet, but he died in my arms while I was telling him how much we loved him.”
This is Louis the Papillion.
16 months old.
Tiny, cheeky, brave. He won my heart.
The actor, who will soon star in the horror film The Pope’s Exorcist, shared news of his pet’s demise on social media.
Crowe posted a picture of Louis’ face, along with a caption about the dog.
“This is Louis the Papillion,” his message begins. “Sixteen months old. Tiny, cheeky, brave. He won my heart.”
The Gladiator star went on to note that the dog died on a significant day for him – the second anniversary of his father’s death.
“Unfortunately today, on the second anniversary of my father’s passing, Louis was hit by a truck.
“We tried to get him to the vet, but he died in my arms while I was telling him how much we loved him.”
This is Louis the Papillion.
16 months old.
Tiny, cheeky, brave. He won my heart.
- 3/31/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - Film
Gladiators star Bernadette Hunt has died at age 59, it has been announced.
Hunt took on the persona of Falcon in the hit Nineties series, which saw everyday contestants battling against a “Gladiator” in a series of physical challenges, in front of an arena audience.
Falcon first appeared on the programme in season two in 1993, and was a regular cast member until her departure in 1999.
In a Facebook post from Hunt’s sister’s partner, Rick Jango, Hunt was revealed to have died after living with cancer for several years.
“It is with great sadness that I have to tell you of my partner's younger sister, Bernadette Hunt,” the post begins.
“Most people will remember her as ‘Falcon’ from the hit TV Show Gladiators.
“I had the privilege to be in her company a few times and I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met.
Hunt took on the persona of Falcon in the hit Nineties series, which saw everyday contestants battling against a “Gladiator” in a series of physical challenges, in front of an arena audience.
Falcon first appeared on the programme in season two in 1993, and was a regular cast member until her departure in 1999.
In a Facebook post from Hunt’s sister’s partner, Rick Jango, Hunt was revealed to have died after living with cancer for several years.
“It is with great sadness that I have to tell you of my partner's younger sister, Bernadette Hunt,” the post begins.
“Most people will remember her as ‘Falcon’ from the hit TV Show Gladiators.
“I had the privilege to be in her company a few times and I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met.
- 3/31/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Kathy Burke has told young people to “be woke” as she called out people who use of the term as an insult.
In a recent episode of her Channel 4 documentary series Kathy Burke: Growing Up, the comedian explored the topics that matter to young people today.
After meeting with a climate activist, Burke said: “I think activism is a part of being young, and it’s important that the young show us what their p***ed off about.
“It’s not a fad and it’s not ‘wokeism’,” Burke continued, mimicking large air quotes. “Can I just say, that gets on my f***ing nerves.
“They’re calling you ‘woke’ if you call out bad things, basically. If you’re not racist, you’re woke. If you’re not homophobic, oh, you’re woke. Be woke, kids. Be woke. Be wide awake and f***ing call it out.”
The clip was circulated online,...
In a recent episode of her Channel 4 documentary series Kathy Burke: Growing Up, the comedian explored the topics that matter to young people today.
After meeting with a climate activist, Burke said: “I think activism is a part of being young, and it’s important that the young show us what their p***ed off about.
“It’s not a fad and it’s not ‘wokeism’,” Burke continued, mimicking large air quotes. “Can I just say, that gets on my f***ing nerves.
“They’re calling you ‘woke’ if you call out bad things, basically. If you’re not racist, you’re woke. If you’re not homophobic, oh, you’re woke. Be woke, kids. Be woke. Be wide awake and f***ing call it out.”
The clip was circulated online,...
- 3/31/2023
- by Isobel Lewis
- The Independent - TV
Stephen Fry is to host an ITV reboot of iconic NBC gameshow Jeopardy!.
The show, which will air as a 20-part order in the daytime, sees contestants using general knowledge skills to win rounds and amass winnings. In each round, contestants are presented trivia clues phrased as answers, to which they must respond in the form of a question that correctly identifies whatever the clue is describing. An extra round is being forged for the rebooted UK version.
The American classic first appeared in the UK in the late 1980s on Channel 4 and was also on ITV and Sky in the 1990s. ITV said Fry will “bring a modern twist to the cult classic.”
Paramount Global Content Distribution handles format rights and Sony-backed Whisper North is producing in the UK. Jeopardy! has aired on U.S. screens for nearly 60 years. The show will be filmed at dock10 studios...
The show, which will air as a 20-part order in the daytime, sees contestants using general knowledge skills to win rounds and amass winnings. In each round, contestants are presented trivia clues phrased as answers, to which they must respond in the form of a question that correctly identifies whatever the clue is describing. An extra round is being forged for the rebooted UK version.
The American classic first appeared in the UK in the late 1980s on Channel 4 and was also on ITV and Sky in the 1990s. ITV said Fry will “bring a modern twist to the cult classic.”
Paramount Global Content Distribution handles format rights and Sony-backed Whisper North is producing in the UK. Jeopardy! has aired on U.S. screens for nearly 60 years. The show will be filmed at dock10 studios...
- 2/27/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
“Survivor” has officially opened its applications in the U.K.
The Banijay-produced and distributed format will land on the BBC next year — marking the first time the reality adventure format has returned to U.K. shores in more than 20 years.
The casting process has begun, with applications now open until Feb. 24 for anyone over the age of 18 at survivoruk.com. The show is produced by Remarkable Entertainment.
The famous competition series, which is now on its 43rd season in the U.S., maroons members of the public — divided into two groups based around a certain theme — in a far-flung location to play a game of social, mental and physical skill. People must form their own tribal societies and compete in challenges for reward or immunity.
The BBC show, which will be shooting for eight weeks in the Dominican Republic, has a cash prize of £100,000.
The success of the BBC adaptation...
The Banijay-produced and distributed format will land on the BBC next year — marking the first time the reality adventure format has returned to U.K. shores in more than 20 years.
The casting process has begun, with applications now open until Feb. 24 for anyone over the age of 18 at survivoruk.com. The show is produced by Remarkable Entertainment.
The famous competition series, which is now on its 43rd season in the U.S., maroons members of the public — divided into two groups based around a certain theme — in a far-flung location to play a game of social, mental and physical skill. People must form their own tribal societies and compete in challenges for reward or immunity.
The BBC show, which will be shooting for eight weeks in the Dominican Republic, has a cash prize of £100,000.
The success of the BBC adaptation...
- 11/24/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
UK Saturday night television in the 1990s cannibalised its own audience, relying on them not merely to watch its entertainment, but also to be the entertainment. It was all good, harmless fun, and none of it placed particularly great demands on the contestants or the audiences from which they were plucked. Blind Date invited us to trade cheesy chat-up lines with strangers, and sometimes go on holiday with people we didn’t like. Noel Edmonds wanted to secretly monitor us in our homes, and then pour gunge on us. But then came Gladiators, and by golly it wasn’t interested in giving us an easy ride.
Each week, Gladiators pitted members of the public against the eponymous gladiators: a coterie of contoured, chiselled athletes and bicep-bulging body-builders with fearsome names like Hunter, Lightning, and Warrior. Two male and two female contestants competed against the gladiators, and each other, across a series of six gruelling games,...
Each week, Gladiators pitted members of the public against the eponymous gladiators: a coterie of contoured, chiselled athletes and bicep-bulging body-builders with fearsome names like Hunter, Lightning, and Warrior. Two male and two female contestants competed against the gladiators, and each other, across a series of six gruelling games,...
- 9/16/2022
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
The UK TV boom that brought you the likes of Netflix’s The Crown may be slowing, with producer trade body Pact’s latest Census showing the lowest level of international TV revenue since 2017 and streamer spend dropping by £50M (57.7M).
While the overall UK TV market almost returned to pre-Covid levels due to a £500M (577M) boost in domestic revenue in 2021, the report cited a worrying 12.5 drop in international turnover to £950M (1.1B), which is almost one-quarter behind 2019’s record figure.
In recent years, the Pact Census has shown major gains in UK TV revenues from global players, with studios and streamers taking advantage of the plethora of British on and off-screen talent, cheaper production costs and the nation’s fabled tax credit.
But last year, spend by streamers including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video fell by 16 to £299M, the lowest level since this data started being recorded in 2018.
Speaking to journalists yesterday morning,...
While the overall UK TV market almost returned to pre-Covid levels due to a £500M (577M) boost in domestic revenue in 2021, the report cited a worrying 12.5 drop in international turnover to £950M (1.1B), which is almost one-quarter behind 2019’s record figure.
In recent years, the Pact Census has shown major gains in UK TV revenues from global players, with studios and streamers taking advantage of the plethora of British on and off-screen talent, cheaper production costs and the nation’s fabled tax credit.
But last year, spend by streamers including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video fell by 16 to £299M, the lowest level since this data started being recorded in 2018.
Speaking to journalists yesterday morning,...
- 9/6/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Reality hit show Survivor, “one of the world’s most successful TV formats,” is set for a British reboot on the BBC, the public broadcaster said Monday.
“A new U.K. adaption of the entertainment phenomenon has been commissioned by BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Banijay U.K. company Remarkable Entertainment, run by leading entertainment producers Natalka Znak and Claire O’Donohoe,” the broadcaster unveiled.
The 16-episode season “promises viewers a compelling test of brains, brawn and betrayal as players compete to outwit, outplay and outlast their rivals to be crowned the Ultimate Survivor,” the BBC said in summarizing the format’s tried and tested formula. “Twenty people, carefully selected from across the U.K. will be marooned in a tropical location. They will be divided into two tribes, going head-to-head in a range of physical and psychological challenges. Following a number of...
Reality hit show Survivor, “one of the world’s most successful TV formats,” is set for a British reboot on the BBC, the public broadcaster said Monday.
“A new U.K. adaption of the entertainment phenomenon has been commissioned by BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Banijay U.K. company Remarkable Entertainment, run by leading entertainment producers Natalka Znak and Claire O’Donohoe,” the broadcaster unveiled.
The 16-episode season “promises viewers a compelling test of brains, brawn and betrayal as players compete to outwit, outplay and outlast their rivals to be crowned the Ultimate Survivor,” the BBC said in summarizing the format’s tried and tested formula. “Twenty people, carefully selected from across the U.K. will be marooned in a tropical location. They will be divided into two tribes, going head-to-head in a range of physical and psychological challenges. Following a number of...
- 9/5/2022
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The BBC is rebooting hit reality series “Survivor.” The show last appeared on U.K. screens in 2001 and 2002, when it aired on ITV for two seasons.
The new adaptation, which will be produced by Banijay U.K.-owned Remarkable Entertainment, will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
It is the latest in a series of high-profile unscripted reboots from the BBC, following “Gladiators” and “The Osbournes: Home to Roost.”
The 16-episode season promises physical and psychological challenges for 20 contestants, who must compete in a tropical location to be crowned the Ultimate Survivor.
The show works by dividing the competitors into two tribes, who will go head to head for each challenge. Eliminations will take place throughout the show until the tribes merge and one person emerges victorious.
More information – including the host and TX date as well as casting details – is set to be announced soon.
“Survivor,” which was...
The new adaptation, which will be produced by Banijay U.K.-owned Remarkable Entertainment, will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
It is the latest in a series of high-profile unscripted reboots from the BBC, following “Gladiators” and “The Osbournes: Home to Roost.”
The 16-episode season promises physical and psychological challenges for 20 contestants, who must compete in a tropical location to be crowned the Ultimate Survivor.
The show works by dividing the competitors into two tribes, who will go head to head for each challenge. Eliminations will take place throughout the show until the tribes merge and one person emerges victorious.
More information – including the host and TX date as well as casting details – is set to be announced soon.
“Survivor,” which was...
- 9/5/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
There was a sense of excitement and, dare it be said, even joy permeating the first in-person Edinburgh International TV Festival since 2019, which came to a close on Friday. Panels were packed, dinners were back and even a garbage collection strike and wet weather couldn’t put a dampener on proceedings as producers, commissioners, executives and talent reunited under one roof to take stock of the industry. It’s been a turbulent few years and signs suggest the ride isn’t over yet. This year’s festival was a chance to take stock, reconnect and look forward.
Below are Variety’s top takeaways from the three-day festival:
1. Make Content Local, But Not Parochial
Local content is big business and the U.S. streamers are committed to projects that reflect the countries they’re operating in. “What we saw when we launched globally in 2016 was all our audiences were crying out for local content,...
Below are Variety’s top takeaways from the three-day festival:
1. Make Content Local, But Not Parochial
Local content is big business and the U.S. streamers are committed to projects that reflect the countries they’re operating in. “What we saw when we launched globally in 2016 was all our audiences were crying out for local content,...
- 8/26/2022
- by K.J. Yossman and Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Two former stars of Gladiators have shared their concerns about the changes in the forthcoming reboot of the hit programme.
The high-energy physical competition, which originally aired in the 1990s, will return to screens in 2023.
The reboot will comprise 11 episodes airing on BBC and will include new games as well as fan favourite contest “The Eliminator”, the final challenge of a giant obstacle course.
To adhere to 21st-century safety standards, however, the show will include some modifications to ensure that all participants are as safe as possible.
On Friday’s (26 August) episode of BBC Breakfast, Gladiators Kim Betts and Sharron Davies, known to fans as Lightning and Amazon, spoke about the show’s revival.
While looking forward to a new version of the programme, both were intrigued about how producers would achieve the same levels of excitement with tighter safety regulations.
Davies said: “The only thing I think is going...
The high-energy physical competition, which originally aired in the 1990s, will return to screens in 2023.
The reboot will comprise 11 episodes airing on BBC and will include new games as well as fan favourite contest “The Eliminator”, the final challenge of a giant obstacle course.
To adhere to 21st-century safety standards, however, the show will include some modifications to ensure that all participants are as safe as possible.
On Friday’s (26 August) episode of BBC Breakfast, Gladiators Kim Betts and Sharron Davies, known to fans as Lightning and Amazon, spoke about the show’s revival.
While looking forward to a new version of the programme, both were intrigued about how producers would achieve the same levels of excitement with tighter safety regulations.
Davies said: “The only thing I think is going...
- 8/26/2022
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
A “Gladiators” revival is heading to BBC One next year.
The competition series is returning with an eleven episode series produced by MGM Television UK and Hungry Bear Media, and will focus on “a brand new generation of superhumans who will compete against contestants in the ultimate test of speed and strength.”
Per BBC One, this new iteration of “Gladiators” will incorporate fresh games alongside classic challenges, culminating at the end of each installment with the iconic “The Eliminator” event.
Filming will take place at the Utilita Arena Sheffield in 2023. Additional information about the series, including broadcast details, will be announced at a later date.
It’s notable that “Gladiators” is being revived internationally by MGM while the studio is in a state of limbo under new parent company Amazon, and at the same time as MGM is still trying to get a reboot off the ground stateside for “American Gladiators,...
The competition series is returning with an eleven episode series produced by MGM Television UK and Hungry Bear Media, and will focus on “a brand new generation of superhumans who will compete against contestants in the ultimate test of speed and strength.”
Per BBC One, this new iteration of “Gladiators” will incorporate fresh games alongside classic challenges, culminating at the end of each installment with the iconic “The Eliminator” event.
Filming will take place at the Utilita Arena Sheffield in 2023. Additional information about the series, including broadcast details, will be announced at a later date.
It’s notable that “Gladiators” is being revived internationally by MGM while the studio is in a state of limbo under new parent company Amazon, and at the same time as MGM is still trying to get a reboot off the ground stateside for “American Gladiators,...
- 8/25/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Blue Planet III and Gladiators are coming to the BBC. The Junior Eurovision Song Contest will also air on the network for the first time.
The Sir David Attenborough-presented landmark was revealed at the Edinburgh TV Festival this afternoon by BBC commissioners, described as “using the very latest in underwater filming techniques to reveal brand new and untold stories from magical underwater worlds.”
The show from the prestigious BBC Studios Natural History Unit will take on the legacy of 2017’s Blue Planet II, which led to a sea change in plastics pollution and the perception of life in our oceans. Blue Planet II was one of the most-viewed BBC shows of the decade, coming a few years after the first Blue Planet.
The third series will focus on the five major underwater habitats: the Tropical Seas; Temperate Seas; Polar Seas; High Seas; and Deep Seas, while the sixth episode...
The Sir David Attenborough-presented landmark was revealed at the Edinburgh TV Festival this afternoon by BBC commissioners, described as “using the very latest in underwater filming techniques to reveal brand new and untold stories from magical underwater worlds.”
The show from the prestigious BBC Studios Natural History Unit will take on the legacy of 2017’s Blue Planet II, which led to a sea change in plastics pollution and the perception of life in our oceans. Blue Planet II was one of the most-viewed BBC shows of the decade, coming a few years after the first Blue Planet.
The third series will focus on the five major underwater habitats: the Tropical Seas; Temperate Seas; Polar Seas; High Seas; and Deep Seas, while the sixth episode...
- 8/25/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Contenders ready!
Gladiators, the U.K version of American Gladiators and a show that became a staple of British Saturday night TV in the 1990s, is getting a reboot.
Confirming rumors that emerged last month, the BBC has revealed it is the new home for the spandex-friendly, muscle-flexing entertainment show, which originally ran on ITV from October 1992 to January 2000 (Sky had a short-lived revival that lasted just a year between 2008 and 2009).
The eleven-episode series — made by Hungry Bear Media (behind BBC game show Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel) and MGM Television U.K. (part of the Amazon-owned MGM, which owns American Gladiators) — is set to land on screens in 2023 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with brand new games alongside some of the original classic challenges, culminating in the classic head-to-head race, The Eliminator.
“Gladiators is back and a whole new generation of...
Contenders ready!
Gladiators, the U.K version of American Gladiators and a show that became a staple of British Saturday night TV in the 1990s, is getting a reboot.
Confirming rumors that emerged last month, the BBC has revealed it is the new home for the spandex-friendly, muscle-flexing entertainment show, which originally ran on ITV from October 1992 to January 2000 (Sky had a short-lived revival that lasted just a year between 2008 and 2009).
The eleven-episode series — made by Hungry Bear Media (behind BBC game show Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel) and MGM Television U.K. (part of the Amazon-owned MGM, which owns American Gladiators) — is set to land on screens in 2023 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with brand new games alongside some of the original classic challenges, culminating in the classic head-to-head race, The Eliminator.
“Gladiators is back and a whole new generation of...
- 8/25/2022
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
BBC Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore has hit back at Channel 4’s Ian Katz’s view on TV reboots by stating “well, Channel 4 bought The Great British Bake Off back.”
Katz used his Edinburgh TV Festival session this morning to describe the current penchant for reboots as “depressing” but Moore said reboots take “creativity and are challenging.”
Questioned on Katz’s comments, she reminded the Edinburgh audience that Channel 4 had commissioned Great British Bake Off, it’s top-rated show, soon after the show stopped airing on the BBC last decade.
The issue has become a key talking point at Edinburgh and reboots were also criticized by former Channel 4 CEO David Abraham a day before Katz.
“I don’t think it’s easy to bring titles back and make them successful,” said Moore. “It would be a problem if it was all we were doing but if you’re going...
Katz used his Edinburgh TV Festival session this morning to describe the current penchant for reboots as “depressing” but Moore said reboots take “creativity and are challenging.”
Questioned on Katz’s comments, she reminded the Edinburgh audience that Channel 4 had commissioned Great British Bake Off, it’s top-rated show, soon after the show stopped airing on the BBC last decade.
The issue has become a key talking point at Edinburgh and reboots were also criticized by former Channel 4 CEO David Abraham a day before Katz.
“I don’t think it’s easy to bring titles back and make them successful,” said Moore. “It would be a problem if it was all we were doing but if you’re going...
- 8/25/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
All3Media CEO Jane Turton has said the debate around British public service broadcasting needs to be “reframed” as the biggest indie bosses in the country debate future Psb, privatization and the plethora of reboots.
These broadcasters are not “Netflix, Apple TV+ or YouTube,” Turton stressed during an Edinburgh TV Festival session on public service broadcasting, where she debated with Banijay UK Exec Chair Patrick Holland, Naked MD Fatima Salaria, Cardiff Productions Founder Pat Younge, Avalon Founder Jon Thoday and former Channel 4 CEO David Abraham.
“We have to concentrate on what PSBs do well and make more of that,” added Turton, whose company owns the likes of Gogglebox producer Studio Lambert. “I don’t think people celebrate their success enough.”
She called for a “reframing” of the debate around these broadcasters.
Other panelists pushed the PSBs to do more for young audiences, in a world in which younger people are...
These broadcasters are not “Netflix, Apple TV+ or YouTube,” Turton stressed during an Edinburgh TV Festival session on public service broadcasting, where she debated with Banijay UK Exec Chair Patrick Holland, Naked MD Fatima Salaria, Cardiff Productions Founder Pat Younge, Avalon Founder Jon Thoday and former Channel 4 CEO David Abraham.
“We have to concentrate on what PSBs do well and make more of that,” added Turton, whose company owns the likes of Gogglebox producer Studio Lambert. “I don’t think people celebrate their success enough.”
She called for a “reframing” of the debate around these broadcasters.
Other panelists pushed the PSBs to do more for young audiences, in a world in which younger people are...
- 8/24/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
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