In a marketplace dominated by social media, streaming and celebrities, sports and entertainment have never been more aligned. Streamers across the board are clamoring for live sports to pair with their original content, and athletes of all disciplines and genders can rocket to international fame with a single post.
To examine the growing nexus of sports, media and entertainment, Variety & Sportico held the Sports & Entertainment Summit, presented by City National Bank, on July 12 at the Beverly Hilton. The summit brought together agents, executives, and athletes to discuss fan engagement, the rise of women’s sports, the state of the art in presenting live games, and much more.
Watch highlights from the summit below.
Keynote Conversation with Jay Williams
Jay Williams, Chairman and Co-Founder, Improbable Media and ESPN Analyst
In January, ESPN anchor Jay Williams and NBA Champion Giannis Antetokounmpo founded Improbable Media with the mission to reinvent storytelling in the world of sports.
To examine the growing nexus of sports, media and entertainment, Variety & Sportico held the Sports & Entertainment Summit, presented by City National Bank, on July 12 at the Beverly Hilton. The summit brought together agents, executives, and athletes to discuss fan engagement, the rise of women’s sports, the state of the art in presenting live games, and much more.
Watch highlights from the summit below.
Keynote Conversation with Jay Williams
Jay Williams, Chairman and Co-Founder, Improbable Media and ESPN Analyst
In January, ESPN anchor Jay Williams and NBA Champion Giannis Antetokounmpo founded Improbable Media with the mission to reinvent storytelling in the world of sports.
- 7/15/2024
- by Jack Dunn and Selena Kuznikov
- Variety Film + TV
[This story contains spoilers from America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.]
The internet’s latest obsession, America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, has legions of viewers attempting the legendary cheer squad’s iconic “Thunderstruck” dance and, once again, talking about the hot-button topic of low NFL cheerleader pay.
The seven-episode Netflix docuseries brought viewers behind-the-scenes of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders’ 2023-2024 squad tryouts, training camp and season. The Greg Whiteley-directed show has pulled the featured cheerleaders into the spotlight — much like the people featured in Whiteley’s other Netflix docuseries Cheer and Last Chance U.
America’s Sweethearts follows cheerleaders who were previously on the team, referred to as “vets” or “veterans,” while also introducing viewers to several rookie candidates — among them fan favorites Reece, Charly and Kelly.
Throughout the series, while the team is in training camp, an onscreen counter shows viewers the current number of rookies and veterans in the camp. The squad’s...
The internet’s latest obsession, America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, has legions of viewers attempting the legendary cheer squad’s iconic “Thunderstruck” dance and, once again, talking about the hot-button topic of low NFL cheerleader pay.
The seven-episode Netflix docuseries brought viewers behind-the-scenes of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders’ 2023-2024 squad tryouts, training camp and season. The Greg Whiteley-directed show has pulled the featured cheerleaders into the spotlight — much like the people featured in Whiteley’s other Netflix docuseries Cheer and Last Chance U.
America’s Sweethearts follows cheerleaders who were previously on the team, referred to as “vets” or “veterans,” while also introducing viewers to several rookie candidates — among them fan favorites Reece, Charly and Kelly.
Throughout the series, while the team is in training camp, an onscreen counter shows viewers the current number of rookies and veterans in the camp. The squad’s...
- 7/13/2024
- by Nicole Fell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Spoiler Warning: This interview discusses plot points from “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” now streaming on Netflix.
Last Thanksgiving, Greg Whiteley was on the sidelines at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas as the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders put on an electrifying halftime show with special guest, country music icon Dolly Parton.
The Emmy-winning documentarian, best known for “Cheer” and “Last Chance U,” and his crew had been filming into the wee hours the night before, as workers put the finishing touches on Parton’s stage (which had to be assembled in a way that it could be torn down in a matter of minutes for the game to resume) and the cheerleaders made last-minute tweaks to their formations.
“The cheerleaders get 15 minutes of uninterrupted prime-time coverage. It’s a huge deal. No other cheerleading squad gets this, and they get it every year, so they take it seriously,” Whiteley tells Variety.
Last Thanksgiving, Greg Whiteley was on the sidelines at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas as the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders put on an electrifying halftime show with special guest, country music icon Dolly Parton.
The Emmy-winning documentarian, best known for “Cheer” and “Last Chance U,” and his crew had been filming into the wee hours the night before, as workers put the finishing touches on Parton’s stage (which had to be assembled in a way that it could be torn down in a matter of minutes for the game to resume) and the cheerleaders made last-minute tweaks to their formations.
“The cheerleaders get 15 minutes of uninterrupted prime-time coverage. It’s a huge deal. No other cheerleading squad gets this, and they get it every year, so they take it seriously,” Whiteley tells Variety.
- 6/28/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
"Rice is power." Ahead of the anime's July 6 premiere in Japan, the official website and accounts for Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin announced a collaboration with Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Foresty and Fisheries for this summer, which will entail participation in Kasumigaseki's Children's Tour Day event, a consumer exhibition display, videos on the Ministry's Buzzmaff channels, a dietary education feature in 'aff' magazine and miscellaneous social media posts. The below visual was also revealed. Collab Visual Related: Mayonaka Punch, Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin, Narenare -Cheer for You!- Anime Team up for Summer Collab Visual Based on the video game developed by Edelweiss, Masayuki Yoshihara ( The Eccentric Family ) directs the Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin anime at studio P.A. Works, with series composition by Jukki Hanada ( Sengoku Youko ), character designs by Mio Fujishima and music by Yoshiaki Fujisawa ( Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation ). The story of Sakuna: Of...
- 6/28/2024
- by Liam Dempsey
- Crunchyroll
Kelli Finglass’s voice is the first one you hear in America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,the new seven-episode docuseries from Cheer creator Greg Whiteley. It’s not her inside voice, either — like she’s done countless times before, the longtime director of the squad is corralling her team backstage before a halftime show.
“Ok y’all, are we ready?” Finglass shouts from off-screen. “Yes ma’am,” the group dutifully answers. “Listen up!” Finglass says, increasing her volume by just the right number of decibels to let you know she means business. Her tone implies that what’s coming could be a series of last-minute corrections or a full-blown dressing down. But then her voice softens.
“I just want to remind y’all that you are known as world-famous, the best in the business … how hard y’all worked to get here. You’re going to perform like you practice.
“Ok y’all, are we ready?” Finglass shouts from off-screen. “Yes ma’am,” the group dutifully answers. “Listen up!” Finglass says, increasing her volume by just the right number of decibels to let you know she means business. Her tone implies that what’s coming could be a series of last-minute corrections or a full-blown dressing down. But then her voice softens.
“I just want to remind y’all that you are known as world-famous, the best in the business … how hard y’all worked to get here. You’re going to perform like you practice.
- 6/21/2024
- by Amanda Richards
- Tudum - Netflix
On Tuesday June 18 2024, TLC broadcasts OutDaughtered!
Cheer Dad Season 10 Episode 7 Episode Summary
In this episode of “OutDaughtered” titled “Cheer Dad,” viewers will see Danielle getting ready for a busy day. She’s preparing for her first Moms of Multiples meet-up, a fashion show, and her very first therapy appointment. Meanwhile, Adam has a surprise up his sleeve for Danielle and the Quints.
Adam decides to take matters into his own hands and signs up the Quints to be Jr. Cheerleaders. This unexpected move by Adam adds a new twist to their already hectic schedule. How will Danielle react to this surprise, and how will the Quints take to their new adventure as Jr. Cheerleaders?
As the episode unfolds, viewers will witness the Busby family navigate through the challenges and joys of raising quintuplets. “Cheer Dad” promises to be an episode filled with laughter, surprises, and heartwarming moments as the Busbys tackle new experiences together.
Cheer Dad Season 10 Episode 7 Episode Summary
In this episode of “OutDaughtered” titled “Cheer Dad,” viewers will see Danielle getting ready for a busy day. She’s preparing for her first Moms of Multiples meet-up, a fashion show, and her very first therapy appointment. Meanwhile, Adam has a surprise up his sleeve for Danielle and the Quints.
Adam decides to take matters into his own hands and signs up the Quints to be Jr. Cheerleaders. This unexpected move by Adam adds a new twist to their already hectic schedule. How will Danielle react to this surprise, and how will the Quints take to their new adventure as Jr. Cheerleaders?
As the episode unfolds, viewers will witness the Busby family navigate through the challenges and joys of raising quintuplets. “Cheer Dad” promises to be an episode filled with laughter, surprises, and heartwarming moments as the Busbys tackle new experiences together.
- 6/18/2024
- by US Posts
- TV Regular
The Gotham Film & Media Institute has unveiled the three tribute recipients to be honored at the Gotham TV Awards. Mariska Hargitay will receive the Anniversary Tribute for “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” Peter Morgan will receive the Creator Tribute for “The Crown” and Lulu Wang will receive the Spotlight Tribute for “Expats.” The tributes will be presented during the inaugural ceremony on June 4 at Cipriani 25 in New York City.
“In launching the 2024 Gotham TV Awards, we’re proud to carry on a longstanding Gotham Awards tradition in honoring iconic artists and creators who have enriched the landscape and pushed the boundaries of TV, making an indelible impact on the medium,” said Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of The Gotham Institute. “Lulu Wang and Peter Morgan have crafted profound and ambitious shows that capture the artistic breadth of television while Mariska Hargitay has delivered one of the most iconic performances in the history of TV.
“In launching the 2024 Gotham TV Awards, we’re proud to carry on a longstanding Gotham Awards tradition in honoring iconic artists and creators who have enriched the landscape and pushed the boundaries of TV, making an indelible impact on the medium,” said Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of The Gotham Institute. “Lulu Wang and Peter Morgan have crafted profound and ambitious shows that capture the artistic breadth of television while Mariska Hargitay has delivered one of the most iconic performances in the history of TV.
- 5/30/2024
- by Lexi Carson, Selena Kuznikov and Jack Dunn
- Variety Film + TV
Are you optimistic about the Dallas Cowboys 2024 NFL season? Well, recent history suggests you probably shouldn’t be. (Giants fan over here.) But there is something exciting leading in to the summer’s training camp: a new cheerleading docuseries from director Greg Whiteley, the man behind Netflix’s “Cheer” and “Last Chance U.”
“America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” a collection of seven 45-minute episodes, will follow the 2023-24 squad (last season’s team) from start to finish — meaning from their auditions to the team’s inevitable late-regular-season or early-post-season collapse. The cheerleaders are led by their longtime director Kelli Finglass.
The docuseries, which is definitely not “Cheer” Season 3 (except it definitely should be), premieres on June 20 on Netflix.
Whiteley executive produces alongside Adam Leibowitz for One Potato Productions; Andrew Fried and Dane Lillegard of Boardwalk Pictures and Ross M. Dinerstein and Rebecca Evans of Campfire Studios also executive produce for their respective companies.
“America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” a collection of seven 45-minute episodes, will follow the 2023-24 squad (last season’s team) from start to finish — meaning from their auditions to the team’s inevitable late-regular-season or early-post-season collapse. The cheerleaders are led by their longtime director Kelli Finglass.
The docuseries, which is definitely not “Cheer” Season 3 (except it definitely should be), premieres on June 20 on Netflix.
Whiteley executive produces alongside Adam Leibowitz for One Potato Productions; Andrew Fried and Dane Lillegard of Boardwalk Pictures and Ross M. Dinerstein and Rebecca Evans of Campfire Studios also executive produce for their respective companies.
- 5/28/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Netflix is getting into the Olympic spirit with its newest batch of sports documentaries.
The streamer has partnered with the International Olympic Committee on three series following gymnastics superstar Simone Biles and athletes in men’s basketball and track and field. Filmmaking teams for the three shows will gain access to the athletes and venues at the summer games in Paris.
Separately, Netflix has ordered a series about the Dallas Cowboys and owner Jerry Jones, with a focus on the team’s dominant years in the early and mid-1990s. The company made the announcements as part of its first-ever upfront on Wednesday — where it also announced its biggest push into live sports so far with a deal to carry NFL games on Christmas for the next three years.
Biles’ return for her third Olympics will be chronicled in Simone Biles: Rising, which will run in two parts. The first...
The streamer has partnered with the International Olympic Committee on three series following gymnastics superstar Simone Biles and athletes in men’s basketball and track and field. Filmmaking teams for the three shows will gain access to the athletes and venues at the summer games in Paris.
Separately, Netflix has ordered a series about the Dallas Cowboys and owner Jerry Jones, with a focus on the team’s dominant years in the early and mid-1990s. The company made the announcements as part of its first-ever upfront on Wednesday — where it also announced its biggest push into live sports so far with a deal to carry NFL games on Christmas for the next three years.
Biles’ return for her third Olympics will be chronicled in Simone Biles: Rising, which will run in two parts. The first...
- 5/15/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Today, Netflix announced that the series America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders will premiere this summer on the streaming service. The series follows the 2023-24 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders squad from start to finish — kicking off at auditions and training camp and continuing all the way through the NFL season.
From Emmy Award-winning director Greg Whiteley and the team behind Cheer and Last Chance U, the seven-episode series will give viewers unfiltered access to this iconic team and franchise.
Photo Courtesy of Netflix
Led by longtime director Kelli Finglass, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders open their doors to document the personal stories behind the uniforms, revealing the drive, hustle, and drama among the cheerleaders and coaches. For many, making the team is a dream—but that’s only the beginning.
The seven-episode series is a production of One Potato Productions and Boardwalk Pictures in association with Campfire Studios.
Photo Courtesy of Netflix...
From Emmy Award-winning director Greg Whiteley and the team behind Cheer and Last Chance U, the seven-episode series will give viewers unfiltered access to this iconic team and franchise.
Photo Courtesy of Netflix
Led by longtime director Kelli Finglass, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders open their doors to document the personal stories behind the uniforms, revealing the drive, hustle, and drama among the cheerleaders and coaches. For many, making the team is a dream—but that’s only the beginning.
The seven-episode series is a production of One Potato Productions and Boardwalk Pictures in association with Campfire Studios.
Photo Courtesy of Netflix...
- 4/18/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders once again will be the subject of an unscripted series — this time at Netflix.
The streamer says its show, titled America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, will premiere in the summer and counts Cheer and Last Chance U’s Greg Whiteley among its executive producers (he also directs). The Netflix series will debut some two-and-a-half years after the long-running Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team ended after 16 seasons on CMT.
Where the latter show often had the structure of a competition series, America’s Sweethearts — at least based on a brief teaser — looks to bring more of a polished, behind-the-scenes feel to its seven episodes. The show will chronicle the 2023-24 season for the cheerleaders and will “document the personal stories behind the uniforms,” according to Netflix’s description.
“The kind of access and creative freedom we need to make the kind of work we want to...
The streamer says its show, titled America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, will premiere in the summer and counts Cheer and Last Chance U’s Greg Whiteley among its executive producers (he also directs). The Netflix series will debut some two-and-a-half years after the long-running Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team ended after 16 seasons on CMT.
Where the latter show often had the structure of a competition series, America’s Sweethearts — at least based on a brief teaser — looks to bring more of a polished, behind-the-scenes feel to its seven episodes. The show will chronicle the 2023-24 season for the cheerleaders and will “document the personal stories behind the uniforms,” according to Netflix’s description.
“The kind of access and creative freedom we need to make the kind of work we want to...
- 4/18/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Greg Whiteley has a new sports docuseries at Netflix that really isn’t new at all. The seven-episode (at 45-minutes apiece) “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” will premiere this summer on Netflix. The streamer first announced the series on Thursday, when it also put out a teaser (below).
Greg Whiteley… Netflix… cheerleading docuseries… Why does this all sound so familiar? Oh yeah, it’s because Whiteley is the guy behind Netflix’s two-season docuseries “Cheer” (as well as the equally excellent five-season “Last Chance U”).
Fans of “Cheer” have been not-so-patiently waiting for a third season, so… isn’t this just that? Why not call “America’s Sweethearts” what it really is: “Cheer” Season 3. That’s what we want.
There’s plenty of precedent here. While “Cheer” Seasons 1 and 2 focused on competitive collegiate cheerleading (mostly) at Navarro College (also in Texas!), Whiteley’s precursor “Last Chance U” not only changed schools — it changed sports.
Greg Whiteley… Netflix… cheerleading docuseries… Why does this all sound so familiar? Oh yeah, it’s because Whiteley is the guy behind Netflix’s two-season docuseries “Cheer” (as well as the equally excellent five-season “Last Chance U”).
Fans of “Cheer” have been not-so-patiently waiting for a third season, so… isn’t this just that? Why not call “America’s Sweethearts” what it really is: “Cheer” Season 3. That’s what we want.
There’s plenty of precedent here. While “Cheer” Seasons 1 and 2 focused on competitive collegiate cheerleading (mostly) at Navarro College (also in Texas!), Whiteley’s precursor “Last Chance U” not only changed schools — it changed sports.
- 4/18/2024
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
During AnimeJapan 2024 on Saturday, Dmm held a stage event for its forthcoming anime projects and confirmed that its original co-production with P.A. Works, Nanare Hananare , will premiere in July. Yujin Kitagawa of Japanese group Yuzu will serve as the composer of the anime's opening and ending themes. The themes "Cheer For You" and "with" will have the anime's main cast members performing under the name of their in-show cheerleading squad PoMPoMs. Ahead of the AnimeJapan stage event, an advanced screening was held at Takasaki Electric Museum in Takasaki City in Gunma prefecture on March 17 with voice actors Rika Nakagawa (Kanata) and Yuki Nakashima (Suzuha) in attendance. The new key visual for the series is featured below. Key Visual Set in Gunma Prefecture, Nanare Hananare follows the daily adventures of six girls: Kanata Misora, an athletic girl who aims to win the national cheer-leading championship; Suzuha Obunai, a girl who uses...
- 3/23/2024
- by Humberto Saabedra
- Crunchyroll
Exclusive: Brand management company Foundation Media Partners is leading development, packaging, and production on a new slate of projects for cheerleading and dance team company Varsity Spirit.
Among the projects is a new movie from Point Break and Varsity Blues scribe Peter Iliff, an animation featuring Morgan Simianer, the breakout star of Netflix docuseries Cheer, and a college football documentary narrated by Bill Courtney, the subject of Oscar-winning documentary Undefeated.
The brand expansion for Varsity Spirit will cover film, TV, music, live events, publishing, podcasts, documentaries, and hybrid content.
The feature film is a sports drama written by Iliff and is targeted toward young women. Set under the lights of a major university, the film “lives at the intersection of football and cheer, ushering audiences into the spirit world from a new perspective”. Iliff most recently scripted 2022 Antonio Banderas movie The Enforcer.
The feature documentary,...
Among the projects is a new movie from Point Break and Varsity Blues scribe Peter Iliff, an animation featuring Morgan Simianer, the breakout star of Netflix docuseries Cheer, and a college football documentary narrated by Bill Courtney, the subject of Oscar-winning documentary Undefeated.
The brand expansion for Varsity Spirit will cover film, TV, music, live events, publishing, podcasts, documentaries, and hybrid content.
The feature film is a sports drama written by Iliff and is targeted toward young women. Set under the lights of a major university, the film “lives at the intersection of football and cheer, ushering audiences into the spirit world from a new perspective”. Iliff most recently scripted 2022 Antonio Banderas movie The Enforcer.
The feature documentary,...
- 3/7/2024
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix is ready to play ball with Major League Baseball.
For the first time, the streamer will follow an MLB team — in this case, the Boston Red Sox — over the course of a full season. Netflix says it will have unprecedented access to players, coaches and executives throughout the 2024 season for a docuseries that will debut in 2025.
A second project is in the works with the Red Sox that’s expected to stream on Netflix later this year. The untitled documentary will look back at the historic 2004 Red Sox season, which culminated with one of the greatest comebacks in sports history and the franchise’s first World Series title in 86 years. The series will feature new, exclusive interviews with key players and figures from the team that broke one of baseball’s longest curses where the franchise has now won more World Series (four) in the last 20 years than any Club in MLB.
For the first time, the streamer will follow an MLB team — in this case, the Boston Red Sox — over the course of a full season. Netflix says it will have unprecedented access to players, coaches and executives throughout the 2024 season for a docuseries that will debut in 2025.
A second project is in the works with the Red Sox that’s expected to stream on Netflix later this year. The untitled documentary will look back at the historic 2004 Red Sox season, which culminated with one of the greatest comebacks in sports history and the franchise’s first World Series title in 86 years. The series will feature new, exclusive interviews with key players and figures from the team that broke one of baseball’s longest curses where the franchise has now won more World Series (four) in the last 20 years than any Club in MLB.
- 2/7/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Monica Aldama‘s son Austin Aldama, has been arrested on child pornography charges.
You may recognize the 51-year-old as the coach of the co-ed cheerleading team at Navarro College, which was the subject of a Netflix TV docu-series titled Cheer.
Aldama‘s son, who is 27 years old, was arrested for 10 counts of possession of pornographic images of children, TMZ is reporting. He was booked, but has been released on bond under stipulations including random drug testing, random searches to his electronic devices, and prohibited viewing of any X-rated material.
Prosecutors are saying they have evidence of materials featuring children under the age of 10 in video files.
This is not the first child pornography case to hit the Navarro area. Jerry Harris, who starred in Cheer, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for child pornography.
You may recognize the 51-year-old as the coach of the co-ed cheerleading team at Navarro College, which was the subject of a Netflix TV docu-series titled Cheer.
Aldama‘s son, who is 27 years old, was arrested for 10 counts of possession of pornographic images of children, TMZ is reporting. He was booked, but has been released on bond under stipulations including random drug testing, random searches to his electronic devices, and prohibited viewing of any X-rated material.
Prosecutors are saying they have evidence of materials featuring children under the age of 10 in video files.
This is not the first child pornography case to hit the Navarro area. Jerry Harris, who starred in Cheer, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for child pornography.
- 1/22/2024
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Dublin International Film Festival has unveiled its full programme for the upcoming edition, opening with the world premiere of Irish filmmaker Marian Quinn’s anti-war epic Twig.
This re-telling of Greek tragedy Antigone stars Sade Malone in the titular role and Brían F. O’Byrne, and is set in Dublin’s inner city, where an ancient city wall cordons off a neighbourhood which is rife with drugs. It is produced by Ireland’s Ruth Carter of Blue Ink Films and Tommy Weir for Janey Pictures.
Further Irish filmmaking talent showcased includes the previously announced closing night film, Pat Collins’ adaptation of...
This re-telling of Greek tragedy Antigone stars Sade Malone in the titular role and Brían F. O’Byrne, and is set in Dublin’s inner city, where an ancient city wall cordons off a neighbourhood which is rife with drugs. It is produced by Ireland’s Ruth Carter of Blue Ink Films and Tommy Weir for Janey Pictures.
Further Irish filmmaking talent showcased includes the previously announced closing night film, Pat Collins’ adaptation of...
- 1/22/2024
- ScreenDaily
Monica Aldama is retiring from coaching.
The 51-year-old Navarro College coach, who was prominently featured in the Netflix hit reality TV cheerleading series Cheer, announced the news on her social media.
“If you had asked me 30 years ago where my life was headed, I never would have thought I would be coaching cheerleading, certainly not for 3 decades,” she began in a lengthy post on Instagram.
Keep reading to find out more…
“As a young, naive 22-year-old, I had big plans for my future. I just knew I would make it to Wall Street one day and build my business empire. It’s funny how life works though. God knew what He had in store for me and what my purpose was going to be. I took what I thought was going to be a temporary job coaching, but here we are 30 seasons later.”
“God knew exactly what my passion was,...
The 51-year-old Navarro College coach, who was prominently featured in the Netflix hit reality TV cheerleading series Cheer, announced the news on her social media.
“If you had asked me 30 years ago where my life was headed, I never would have thought I would be coaching cheerleading, certainly not for 3 decades,” she began in a lengthy post on Instagram.
Keep reading to find out more…
“As a young, naive 22-year-old, I had big plans for my future. I just knew I would make it to Wall Street one day and build my business empire. It’s funny how life works though. God knew what He had in store for me and what my purpose was going to be. I took what I thought was going to be a temporary job coaching, but here we are 30 seasons later.”
“God knew exactly what my passion was,...
- 12/4/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Monica Aldama, the cheerleading coach from Netflix‘s docuseries Cheer, has revealed that a lawsuit accusing her of covering up sexual assault has been dismissed. The lawsuit stemmed from a cheerleader who claimed that Aldama, squad members, and school staff at Navarro College discouraged her from filing a report after she says she was sexually assaulted by a team member during her first semester. She also claimed that Aldama told her, “If you keep quiet, I’ll make sure you can cheer anywhere you want.” Aldama denied the accusations at the time and has now revealed that the lawsuit against her has been dropped. On Saturday, November 11, the coach shared a lengthy Instagram post where she opened up about what she’s been dealing with for the past six months. “It’s 10:00 pm and I am just finding my voice today. I have been at a loss for words since 9:00 am this morning,...
- 11/13/2023
- TV Insider
Forget the NFL or NBA, NBC is betting that the next big thing in streaming might be your local high school football game.
The media giant is launching a new streaming service that’s part ESPN+, part YouTube and part MasterClass, meant to appeal to families, schools and communities with amateur sports teams.
The service, SportsEngine Play, will stream live matches from amateur teams (think high schools, etc.). The company says it has 90 cameras installed in 85 venues; however, coaches or spectators can also stream matches live to the service via their own smartphones or iPads, and NBC Sports is trying to encourage as many schools and coaches as possible to take advantage of the streaming capabilities.
Matches will also be available on-demand.
The service will also launch with complementary content featuring professional athletes, a MasterClass-esque offering with guides for specific sports and general advice for dealing with pressure or mental health,...
The media giant is launching a new streaming service that’s part ESPN+, part YouTube and part MasterClass, meant to appeal to families, schools and communities with amateur sports teams.
The service, SportsEngine Play, will stream live matches from amateur teams (think high schools, etc.). The company says it has 90 cameras installed in 85 venues; however, coaches or spectators can also stream matches live to the service via their own smartphones or iPads, and NBC Sports is trying to encourage as many schools and coaches as possible to take advantage of the streaming capabilities.
Matches will also be available on-demand.
The service will also launch with complementary content featuring professional athletes, a MasterClass-esque offering with guides for specific sports and general advice for dealing with pressure or mental health,...
- 10/17/2023
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
NBC Sports Next, a subsidiary of NBC Sports focused on golf as well as youth and amateur sports, has launched a new streaming outlet called SportsEngine Play.
The service is billed by the company as the first of its kind, providing a range of live and on demand video of youth and amateur sporting events and filling a void in a growing sector of American corporate and social life. While a number of digital players offer various features for youth and amateur team members and families, the market is fragmented and social media giants hosting youth sports video don’t offer bespoke services. SportsEngine Play, which is created on a foundation built by NBC Sports, is aiming to be a centralized hub for organizations, leagues, coaches and parents.
Recent estimates from analysts have pegged the global youth sports market at more than $37 billion, which is twice the size of the NFL.
The service is billed by the company as the first of its kind, providing a range of live and on demand video of youth and amateur sporting events and filling a void in a growing sector of American corporate and social life. While a number of digital players offer various features for youth and amateur team members and families, the market is fragmented and social media giants hosting youth sports video don’t offer bespoke services. SportsEngine Play, which is created on a foundation built by NBC Sports, is aiming to be a centralized hub for organizations, leagues, coaches and parents.
Recent estimates from analysts have pegged the global youth sports market at more than $37 billion, which is twice the size of the NFL.
- 10/17/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Everyone loves an underdog, but it’s possible nobody loves one more than Greg Whiteley. With Netflix hits “Cheer” and “Last Chance U,” the documentarian trained his eye on undergraduate athletes whose programs lack the resources or respect of a Big Ten institution. Each show made a compelling case for its subjects’ skill, tenacity and right to a bigger spotlight; “Cheer,” in particular, made stars of its protagonists, a charismatic squad of Texas students who performed death-defying stunts with a smile.
The second season of “Cheer” was forced to reckon with the fallout of its own success, taking some focus away from its namesake sport to address squad member Jerry Harris’ being sentenced to prison for soliciting sex from minors, as well as coach Monica Aldama’s stint on “Dancing With the Stars” and the uncomfortable transition from challenger to heavy favorite. Thankfully, Whiteley’s latest effort offers a fresh start.
The second season of “Cheer” was forced to reckon with the fallout of its own success, taking some focus away from its namesake sport to address squad member Jerry Harris’ being sentenced to prison for soliciting sex from minors, as well as coach Monica Aldama’s stint on “Dancing With the Stars” and the uncomfortable transition from challenger to heavy favorite. Thankfully, Whiteley’s latest effort offers a fresh start.
- 9/13/2023
- by Alison Herman
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix has set the premiere date for a docuseries about the pro wrestling promotion Ohio Valley Wrestling, Variety has learned exclusively.
Titled “Wrestlers,” the show will debut on Netflix on Sept. 13. The series hails from director and executive producer Greg Whiteley, who previously created the hit docuseries “Cheer” and “Last Chance U” for Netflix.
A trailer and first look images from the series can be seen below.
Ohio Valley Wrestling, or Ovw, is based in Louisville, Ky. It was originally an independent promotion until it became a developmental territory for the WWE. It has since returned to being independent, but not before future stars like Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Randy Orton, The Miz, Dave Bautista, and Cm Punk passed through its doors.
The official synopsis states: “Once a proud finishing school for aspiring pro wrestlers, the gym has since hit hard times. Acclaimed wrestler Al Snow clings to an old...
Titled “Wrestlers,” the show will debut on Netflix on Sept. 13. The series hails from director and executive producer Greg Whiteley, who previously created the hit docuseries “Cheer” and “Last Chance U” for Netflix.
A trailer and first look images from the series can be seen below.
Ohio Valley Wrestling, or Ovw, is based in Louisville, Ky. It was originally an independent promotion until it became a developmental territory for the WWE. It has since returned to being independent, but not before future stars like Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Randy Orton, The Miz, Dave Bautista, and Cm Punk passed through its doors.
The official synopsis states: “Once a proud finishing school for aspiring pro wrestlers, the gym has since hit hard times. Acclaimed wrestler Al Snow clings to an old...
- 8/21/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
“Wait, the name at the top of this website reads ‘Den of Geek’ and now they’re talking about sports? Don’t they know I’m gangly and uncoordinated?”
Yes, dear reader, we know that. Truth is, we’re all gangly and uncoordinated as well. But that doesn’t mean that we geeks can’t occasionally get together and enjoy the dramatic majesty of competitive sports. Sports documentaries have always been a part of the entertainment ecosystem. Of late, however, it seems as though there’s more of them for the casual sports fan or even fully sports-phobic TV-watcher to enjoy.
ESPN’s “30 for 30” sports documentary initiative kicked off a new era of TV sports documentaries in 2009. And since then, the offerings have only gotten better. With streamers like Netflix fully into the fray there have never been as many compelling sports stories being told as there is right now.
Yes, dear reader, we know that. Truth is, we’re all gangly and uncoordinated as well. But that doesn’t mean that we geeks can’t occasionally get together and enjoy the dramatic majesty of competitive sports. Sports documentaries have always been a part of the entertainment ecosystem. Of late, however, it seems as though there’s more of them for the casual sports fan or even fully sports-phobic TV-watcher to enjoy.
ESPN’s “30 for 30” sports documentary initiative kicked off a new era of TV sports documentaries in 2009. And since then, the offerings have only gotten better. With streamers like Netflix fully into the fray there have never been as many compelling sports stories being told as there is right now.
- 6/16/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Bravo’s “Vanderpump Rules,” Hulu’s “The Kardashians” and TLC’s “90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way” are among the 45 reality programs hoping to nab their first Emmy nominations. This is down from the previous three years, which had 65, 48 and 44 submissions, respectively.
Nomination voting opened on Thursday to members of the Television Academy, with the three juggernaut-rated shows vying for consideration in the outstanding unstructured reality series category.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Emmy predictions in all categories.
“Vanderpump” is coming off its biggest season yet after star Tom Sandoval was revealed to be cheating on his partner of nine years, Ariana Madix (with her best friend and fellow co-star Raquel Leviss). Dubbed on social media as “#Scandoval,” the talk surrounding the show’s 10th season has been electrifying, adding another massive hit for the Bravo network, which also steers franchise hits like “Real Housewives” and “Below Deck.
Nomination voting opened on Thursday to members of the Television Academy, with the three juggernaut-rated shows vying for consideration in the outstanding unstructured reality series category.
Read: Variety’s Awards Circuit for the latest Emmy predictions in all categories.
“Vanderpump” is coming off its biggest season yet after star Tom Sandoval was revealed to be cheating on his partner of nine years, Ariana Madix (with her best friend and fellow co-star Raquel Leviss). Dubbed on social media as “#Scandoval,” the talk surrounding the show’s 10th season has been electrifying, adding another massive hit for the Bravo network, which also steers franchise hits like “Real Housewives” and “Below Deck.
- 6/15/2023
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
“The Rehearsal” has never been an easy series to pin down. Throughout the magnificent first season, questions stacked up with each new episode: Is it real, or is it fake? How much is real, and how much is fake? What does “real” even mean, in the context of a show about rehearsing for life’s biggest moments by playing out every possible scenario ahead of time? And among the dialogue-free birthday parties, dialogue tree conversations, and a bar on a soundstage that just happens to have an operating liquor license, don’t get me started on what might constitute a “fake.”
Where some saw incisive commentary on reality TV, others saw actual reality TV. When some fans compulsively rewatched episodes to appreciate the intricate construction, impressive production, or jokes they missed the first time from laughing too hard, others were physically repulsed by what they considered diabolical cringe comedy. What...
Where some saw incisive commentary on reality TV, others saw actual reality TV. When some fans compulsively rewatched episodes to appreciate the intricate construction, impressive production, or jokes they missed the first time from laughing too hard, others were physically repulsed by what they considered diabolical cringe comedy. What...
- 5/12/2023
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
On the heels of winning a Peabody Award for the Showtime docuseries “We Need to Talk About Cosby,” W. Kamau Bell has launched a new production company, Who Knows Best, and inked an overall deal with Boardwalk Pictures.
Bell, an Emmy-winning producer, director, host and comedian, founded Who Knows Best Productions (Wkb), an Oakland-based company, with the mission of “fostering a diverse creative community and telling revolutionary non-fiction stories by any medium necessary.”
Wkb launches with a multi-year overall deal with Boardwalk Pictures after the parties partnered on the critically acclaimed four-part documentary “We Need to Talk About Cosby.”
“I’m super excited for the opportunity to highlight stories and talent from the Bay Area — and specifically Oakland — alongside a powerhouse production company like Boardwalk Pictures,” stated Bell, a Bay Area resident for more than 20 years, announcing the deal.
Under the new pact, Wkb will create both unscripted and scripted...
Bell, an Emmy-winning producer, director, host and comedian, founded Who Knows Best Productions (Wkb), an Oakland-based company, with the mission of “fostering a diverse creative community and telling revolutionary non-fiction stories by any medium necessary.”
Wkb launches with a multi-year overall deal with Boardwalk Pictures after the parties partnered on the critically acclaimed four-part documentary “We Need to Talk About Cosby.”
“I’m super excited for the opportunity to highlight stories and talent from the Bay Area — and specifically Oakland — alongside a powerhouse production company like Boardwalk Pictures,” stated Bell, a Bay Area resident for more than 20 years, announcing the deal.
Under the new pact, Wkb will create both unscripted and scripted...
- 5/12/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
A former cheerleader for Navarro College says she was sexually assaulted by a fellow, male cheerleader in September 2021 and has filed a lawsuit.
The Bulldogs squad is considered legendary by many in the cheerleading world, its notoriety amplified by the Netflix docuseries “Cheer”, which ran for two seasons.
Allegations detailed in the 20-page lawsuit filed in a Dallas court include: an overall culture of abuse, violence, hazing, and cover-ups within the program. It names the cheerleader’s alleged attacker, the college and head coach Monica Aldama.
According to the lawsuit, the former cheerleader called Aldama and told her about the assault.
“Let’s not make this a big deal,” Aldama said, according to the lawsuit. “I want the best for you and I will help you cheer wherever you want.” She then hung up.
Read More: 'Cheer': Monica Aldama on the Toughest Moment in Season 2 and LA'Darius Fallout (Exclusive)
Several days later,...
The Bulldogs squad is considered legendary by many in the cheerleading world, its notoriety amplified by the Netflix docuseries “Cheer”, which ran for two seasons.
Allegations detailed in the 20-page lawsuit filed in a Dallas court include: an overall culture of abuse, violence, hazing, and cover-ups within the program. It names the cheerleader’s alleged attacker, the college and head coach Monica Aldama.
According to the lawsuit, the former cheerleader called Aldama and told her about the assault.
“Let’s not make this a big deal,” Aldama said, according to the lawsuit. “I want the best for you and I will help you cheer wherever you want.” She then hung up.
Read More: 'Cheer': Monica Aldama on the Toughest Moment in Season 2 and LA'Darius Fallout (Exclusive)
Several days later,...
- 4/29/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
The college that was seen on Cheer, the Netflix docuseries following the cheer team in Texas, is once again in the news. Navarro College, with head coach Monica Aldama (who became known following the aforementioned show on the streaming service and went on to compete on Dancing With the Stars), director of athletics Michael Landers, Title IX coordinator Elizabeth Pillans, and the person accused named, is being sued for allegedly concealing a student’s sexual assault in fall 2021, Entertainment Weekly reports after reading a complaint filed on April 26. According to the lawsuit, the student is accusing one of the male members of the cheer squad, invited over by her roommate when she was sleeping, of climbing into her bed. She said, according to the report, “that she tried to call for help and eventually was able to push him away.” She also claimed that among those who told her not...
- 4/28/2023
- TV Insider
Monica Aldama, who starred in the Netflix docuseries “Cheer,” allegedly told a former student to “keep quiet” about being sexually assaulted.
Cheerleader Madi Lane claims she was sexually assaulted in 2021 by teammate Salvatore “Salvo” Amico during her first semester at Navarro College in Corsicana, Texas, according to court documents obtained by TheWrap.
After Lane told Aldama about the alleged assault, she said the coach told her, “Let’s not make this a big deal. I want the best for you and I will help you cheer wherever you want.”
Also Read:
How Engine Problems Nearly Sunk an Entire Season of Bravo’s ‘Below Deck: Sailing Yacht’
“You just need to drink it off.. that’s what Navarro girls do, they drink. We don’t tell anyone. We just keep it to ourselves,” Maddy Brum, the team’s unofficial captain, allegedly told Lane.
Aldama told TMZ that she’s “heartbroken by...
Cheerleader Madi Lane claims she was sexually assaulted in 2021 by teammate Salvatore “Salvo” Amico during her first semester at Navarro College in Corsicana, Texas, according to court documents obtained by TheWrap.
After Lane told Aldama about the alleged assault, she said the coach told her, “Let’s not make this a big deal. I want the best for you and I will help you cheer wherever you want.”
Also Read:
How Engine Problems Nearly Sunk an Entire Season of Bravo’s ‘Below Deck: Sailing Yacht’
“You just need to drink it off.. that’s what Navarro girls do, they drink. We don’t tell anyone. We just keep it to ourselves,” Maddy Brum, the team’s unofficial captain, allegedly told Lane.
Aldama told TMZ that she’s “heartbroken by...
- 4/28/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
Guru, the studio behind animated hit Paw Patrol, is teaming with Foundation Media Partners and global cheerleading industry leader Varsity Spirit for a new animated series starring Cheer breakout Morgan Simianer.
The companies are developing Spirits of Ridgeway High, a story about optimist cheerleader Melissa Mayfield, whom Simianer will voice. While on a mission to lead her last-place cheer team to victory, Melissa discovers both cheer and music have secret magical powers. Now, she and her teammates will need to work together to master their powers and keep their school safe.
“I am beyond excited to be a part of this amazing project,” Simianer said in a statement. “As someone who knows firsthand the power of school spirit, I cannot wait for audiences to see the world we have created. This show is going to be a must-watch for anyone who loves animation, cheerleading and magic.”
The former reality star...
The companies are developing Spirits of Ridgeway High, a story about optimist cheerleader Melissa Mayfield, whom Simianer will voice. While on a mission to lead her last-place cheer team to victory, Melissa discovers both cheer and music have secret magical powers. Now, she and her teammates will need to work together to master their powers and keep their school safe.
“I am beyond excited to be a part of this amazing project,” Simianer said in a statement. “As someone who knows firsthand the power of school spirit, I cannot wait for audiences to see the world we have created. This show is going to be a must-watch for anyone who loves animation, cheerleading and magic.”
The former reality star...
- 4/4/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tennessee native Jackson Michie controversially won Big Brother 21 in 2019 and has since largely disappeared from the reality TV community. He recently got engaged to a Tennessee local, Caitlin Goodrich.
‘Big Brother’ winner Jackson Michie is engaged to Caitlin Goodrich
In September 2019, Jackson Michie won Big Brother 21 and began dating his showmance from the season, runner-up Holly Allen. The two lived together in a California-based apartment before calling it quits in June 2020.
He later appeared to move on with Netflix’s Cheer star Morgan Morgan Simianer in January 2021, and they had a short fling before he moved back to his native Tennessee. It’s unclear when he began dating Caitlin Goodrich but his first post with her dates to November 2022.
Rt if you’re team #BBJackson. #BB21Finale pic.twitter.com/F1FVsC1TYq
— Big Brother (@CBSBigBrother) September 26, 2019
He wished her a happy birthday to Ruth B.s “Dandelions” with a...
‘Big Brother’ winner Jackson Michie is engaged to Caitlin Goodrich
In September 2019, Jackson Michie won Big Brother 21 and began dating his showmance from the season, runner-up Holly Allen. The two lived together in a California-based apartment before calling it quits in June 2020.
He later appeared to move on with Netflix’s Cheer star Morgan Morgan Simianer in January 2021, and they had a short fling before he moved back to his native Tennessee. It’s unclear when he began dating Caitlin Goodrich but his first post with her dates to November 2022.
Rt if you’re team #BBJackson. #BB21Finale pic.twitter.com/F1FVsC1TYq
— Big Brother (@CBSBigBrother) September 26, 2019
He wished her a happy birthday to Ruth B.s “Dandelions” with a...
- 3/18/2023
- by Tamara Grant
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Netflix and the National Football League are teaming up for the first time through new docuseries “Quarterbacks,” which will provide exclusive, unprecedented access to icons like Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins and Marcus Mariota both on and off the field.
The docuseries, which has been greenlit for one season, will premiere in summer 2023 and include some of biggest moments of the 2022 season, such as Mahomes setting an NFL record for total offense on his way to winning the league and Super Bowl Mvp awards, Cousins engineering the greatest comeback in NFL history and leading the Minnesota Vikings to an NFC North Division title and Mariota taking over as the starting quarterback in his first season with the Atlanta Falcons.
Also Read:
Super Bowl Lvii Highlights: Mahomes Makes History With Second Championship Win
“We aim to give our members unprecedented access to the biggest athletes in the world, telling stories that you can’t see anywhere else,...
The docuseries, which has been greenlit for one season, will premiere in summer 2023 and include some of biggest moments of the 2022 season, such as Mahomes setting an NFL record for total offense on his way to winning the league and Super Bowl Mvp awards, Cousins engineering the greatest comeback in NFL history and leading the Minnesota Vikings to an NFC North Division title and Mariota taking over as the starting quarterback in his first season with the Atlanta Falcons.
Also Read:
Super Bowl Lvii Highlights: Mahomes Makes History With Second Championship Win
“We aim to give our members unprecedented access to the biggest athletes in the world, telling stories that you can’t see anywhere else,...
- 2/22/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
After winning the Super Bowl this February, Patrick Mahomes is spending the summer on Netflix. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback is one of the three leads in the streamer’s newly-announced docuseries “Quarterback,” set to premiere later this year.
“Quarterback” will focus on Mahomes, Kirk Cousins from the Minnesota Vikings, and Marcus Mariota of the Atlanta Falcons, and their respective journeys across the 2022-2023 NFL season, which ended in Mahomes winning the Super Bowl and being declared the game’s Mvp. All three had significant seasons this year, with Mahomes setting a record for total offense, Cousins leading the Vikings to an NFC North Division title in a comeback, and Mariota taking the role of starting quarterback in his first season with the Falcons. The show will provide access to the players on and off the field, as well as shining a light on their family life.
Mahomes’ newly formed...
“Quarterback” will focus on Mahomes, Kirk Cousins from the Minnesota Vikings, and Marcus Mariota of the Atlanta Falcons, and their respective journeys across the 2022-2023 NFL season, which ended in Mahomes winning the Super Bowl and being declared the game’s Mvp. All three had significant seasons this year, with Mahomes setting a record for total offense, Cousins leading the Vikings to an NFC North Division title in a comeback, and Mariota taking the role of starting quarterback in his first season with the Falcons. The show will provide access to the players on and off the field, as well as shining a light on their family life.
Mahomes’ newly formed...
- 2/22/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Boardwalk Pictures, the docuseries label behind Chef’s Table on Netflix and Welcome to Wrexham on FX/Hulu, has sold a minority stake to private equity firm Shamrock Capital, the producer said Feb. 15. Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
The Santa Monica-based unscripted producer, led by CEO-founder Andrew Fried, said it secured a growth investment from Shamrock with an eye toward broadening its output as a seller of content to networks and streaming platforms as well as build out its staff working on projects.
Boardwalk, founded in 2010, has a suite of shows at Netflix, including Chef’s Table: Pizza, Street Food: USA, Last Chance U: Basketball, The Goop Lab and Cheer, sold docuseries Chasing Waves to Disney+, brought Dan Levy’s The Big Brunch to HBO Max and worked on W. Kamau Bell’s We Need to Talk About Cosby for Showtime. (The burgeoning portfolio of glossy projects landed Fried on...
The Santa Monica-based unscripted producer, led by CEO-founder Andrew Fried, said it secured a growth investment from Shamrock with an eye toward broadening its output as a seller of content to networks and streaming platforms as well as build out its staff working on projects.
Boardwalk, founded in 2010, has a suite of shows at Netflix, including Chef’s Table: Pizza, Street Food: USA, Last Chance U: Basketball, The Goop Lab and Cheer, sold docuseries Chasing Waves to Disney+, brought Dan Levy’s The Big Brunch to HBO Max and worked on W. Kamau Bell’s We Need to Talk About Cosby for Showtime. (The burgeoning portfolio of glossy projects landed Fried on...
- 2/15/2023
- by Erik Hayden
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: The non-fiction space is heating up in terms of M&a as Boardwalk Pictures, the company behind long-running Netflix series such as Chef’s Table and Last Chance U, has struck a deal to sell a minority stake.
The company, founded by Andrew Fried, has sold a stake to investment firm Shamrock Capital. No one is commenting, but we understand that the deal is in the nine-figure range.
The move is the latest big-ticket deal in the booming non-fiction space and follows deals such as Sony Pictures Television’s 350M acquisition of Industrial Media, Peter Chernin’s North Road Company’s 200M purchase of Red Arrow Studios, Fremantle’s acquisitive streak including companies such as 72 Films, and ITV Studio’s 126M deal for Plimsoll Productions.
Fried, who directed We Are Freestyle Love Supreme, founded the company in 2010 and also makes series such as FX’s Welcome To Wrexham, HBO Max’s The Big Brunch,...
The company, founded by Andrew Fried, has sold a stake to investment firm Shamrock Capital. No one is commenting, but we understand that the deal is in the nine-figure range.
The move is the latest big-ticket deal in the booming non-fiction space and follows deals such as Sony Pictures Television’s 350M acquisition of Industrial Media, Peter Chernin’s North Road Company’s 200M purchase of Red Arrow Studios, Fremantle’s acquisitive streak including companies such as 72 Films, and ITV Studio’s 126M deal for Plimsoll Productions.
Fried, who directed We Are Freestyle Love Supreme, founded the company in 2010 and also makes series such as FX’s Welcome To Wrexham, HBO Max’s The Big Brunch,...
- 2/15/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
In the opening sequence of “Going Varsity in Mariachi,” a high school mariachi band takes the stage of a dramatically lit an auditorium. Just as the violinist raises her bow, the camera cuts away. We don’t hear what she’s going to play until about an hour and a half later. It’s a frustrating tease that serves as a good example of some of the shortcomings of Sam Osborn and Alejandra Vasquez’s otherwise .
Osborn and Vasquez’s feature plays like a mashup of Netflix’s “Cheer” and Fox’s “Glee” but set in the Rio Grande Valley, where the primary competitive endeavor is mariachi music. Centering on the underdogs of Edinburg North High School’s Mariachi Oro, “Going Varsity in Mariachi” is a thoroughly enjoyable if formulaic narrative that also fails to closely examine the subculture its proclaims to introduce. That is to say: I wish “Going...
Osborn and Vasquez’s feature plays like a mashup of Netflix’s “Cheer” and Fox’s “Glee” but set in the Rio Grande Valley, where the primary competitive endeavor is mariachi music. Centering on the underdogs of Edinburg North High School’s Mariachi Oro, “Going Varsity in Mariachi” is a thoroughly enjoyable if formulaic narrative that also fails to closely examine the subculture its proclaims to introduce. That is to say: I wish “Going...
- 1/22/2023
- by Esther Zuckerman
- Indiewire
Julie Chrisley reported to Federal Medical Center Lexington in Kentucky on Tuesday, January 17, to begin her seven-year prison sentence, but she isn’t the only reality star incarcerated at the facility. Ex-cheerleader Jerry Harris, who appeared in the Emmy-winning Netflix docuseries Cheer, was locked up at Federal Medical Center Lexington last August after being sentenced to 12 years in prison for soliciting sex and pornographic photos and videos from minors. However, Julie and Harris are unlikely to cross paths while in prison as male and female inmates are kept separate. Chrisley resides with her fellow female inmates at Federal Medical Center Lexington, while Harris stays with the male inmates at Fmc Lexington Camp, located adjacent to the main institution. Other notable names who have served time at Fmc Lexington include the former mayor of Birmingham, Alabama, Larry Langford; guitarist and co-founder of the Detroit rock band MC5, Wayne Kramer; political activist...
- 1/20/2023
- TV Insider
Netflix may not be in the live sports business but it certainly wants viewers to know that it’s got some content around the edges.
The streamer has debuted a new teaser that highlights its sporting prowess with shows such as Formula 1: Drive to Survive and its forthcoming documentary on Celtics star Bill Russell: Legend.
“We got GOATs,” it notes of the trailer. “More of the greatest sports stories are coming to Netflix.”
It has launched the trailer online and will also air it during the season-opening NBA game tonight. The LA Lakers take on the Golden State Warriors, while Philadelphia 76ers take on the Boston Celtics.
Elsewhere, Netflix has a documentary series following the PGA Tour golf and a second season of Last Chance U: Basketball, which launches on December 13, as well as an upcoming docuseries following tennis stars across Grand Slam tournaments from the producers of Formula 1: Drive to Survive.
The streamer has debuted a new teaser that highlights its sporting prowess with shows such as Formula 1: Drive to Survive and its forthcoming documentary on Celtics star Bill Russell: Legend.
“We got GOATs,” it notes of the trailer. “More of the greatest sports stories are coming to Netflix.”
It has launched the trailer online and will also air it during the season-opening NBA game tonight. The LA Lakers take on the Golden State Warriors, while Philadelphia 76ers take on the Boston Celtics.
Elsewhere, Netflix has a documentary series following the PGA Tour golf and a second season of Last Chance U: Basketball, which launches on December 13, as well as an upcoming docuseries following tennis stars across Grand Slam tournaments from the producers of Formula 1: Drive to Survive.
- 10/18/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Kicking off the nomination season, Fire of Love and Good Night Oppy lead all comers in nominations for the seventh annual Critics Choice Documentary Awards.
Both are nominated in the marquee Best Documentary Feature category and also will square off against each other for Best Director, Music Score, Editing, Narration and Science/Nature docu.
Related Story 'Personality Crisis: One Night Only' Review: Martin Scorsese And David Tedeschi Rock Out To The Music Of New York Legend David Johansen Related Story Box Office Hit And Oscar Contender 'Fire Of Love' To Get Limited Imax Release Related Story 'Good Night Oppy' Telluride Review: A Mission To Mars Becomes A Heartfelt Documentary From Amazon And Amblin
Fire of Love, the adventure love story of a pair of volcano hunters and scientists, has a leading seven noms and also is a contender for Best Archival docu. The doc has been in theatrical...
Both are nominated in the marquee Best Documentary Feature category and also will square off against each other for Best Director, Music Score, Editing, Narration and Science/Nature docu.
Related Story 'Personality Crisis: One Night Only' Review: Martin Scorsese And David Tedeschi Rock Out To The Music Of New York Legend David Johansen Related Story Box Office Hit And Oscar Contender 'Fire Of Love' To Get Limited Imax Release Related Story 'Good Night Oppy' Telluride Review: A Mission To Mars Becomes A Heartfelt Documentary From Amazon And Amblin
Fire of Love, the adventure love story of a pair of volcano hunters and scientists, has a leading seven noms and also is a contender for Best Archival docu. The doc has been in theatrical...
- 10/17/2022
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
The Bring It On franchise has been around since 2000, taking viewers into the world of cheerleading.
The seventh entry in the series, Bring It On: Cheer Or Die, is a complete overhaul, adding a slasher element that was not present in the prior installments.
Director Karen Lam wanted to switch things up for fans of the franchise.
"I think of this one as the Halloween special, the way a lot of franchise shows have a holiday-themed stand-alone," Lam tells TV Fanatic.
"It’s definitely in the horror category, but it’s a throwback to the fun horror from the 80s, and hopefully something that bridges the fans of Bring It On with horror fans who want a film that’s campy and lighter than really dark fare."
Lam says she considers it the “gateway drug” to horror for teen girls.
Cheer or Die was Lam's entry into the franchise, with...
The seventh entry in the series, Bring It On: Cheer Or Die, is a complete overhaul, adding a slasher element that was not present in the prior installments.
Director Karen Lam wanted to switch things up for fans of the franchise.
"I think of this one as the Halloween special, the way a lot of franchise shows have a holiday-themed stand-alone," Lam tells TV Fanatic.
"It’s definitely in the horror category, but it’s a throwback to the fun horror from the 80s, and hopefully something that bridges the fans of Bring It On with horror fans who want a film that’s campy and lighter than really dark fare."
Lam says she considers it the “gateway drug” to horror for teen girls.
Cheer or Die was Lam's entry into the franchise, with...
- 10/6/2022
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Cheer star Cassadee Dunlap’s father was reportedly “shot several times” on Saturday, 10 September, after he allegedly entered the wrong apartment.
According to news reports, the incident occurred at a complex in Little Rock, Arkansas, around 3am.
A spokesperson for the Little Rock police department told the New York Post that Ronald Dunlap, 49, had been out drinking with his nephew and a few friends on Saturday night.
On returning to the Canopy Apartments complex, he allegedly tried to enter apartment 12D – instead of apartment 15C, which belongs to him.
The publication reported that the owner of apartment 12D Joshua Womach said he was sleeping, when he heard a banging noise. The 23-year-old added that he “woke up and grabbed his firearm”, saw Ron in his kitchen and fired five or six rounds at him.
Police said they found Ron “lying face down on the ground outside of Womack’s apartment...
According to news reports, the incident occurred at a complex in Little Rock, Arkansas, around 3am.
A spokesperson for the Little Rock police department told the New York Post that Ronald Dunlap, 49, had been out drinking with his nephew and a few friends on Saturday night.
On returning to the Canopy Apartments complex, he allegedly tried to enter apartment 12D – instead of apartment 15C, which belongs to him.
The publication reported that the owner of apartment 12D Joshua Womach said he was sleeping, when he heard a banging noise. The 23-year-old added that he “woke up and grabbed his firearm”, saw Ron in his kitchen and fired five or six rounds at him.
Police said they found Ron “lying face down on the ground outside of Womack’s apartment...
- 9/14/2022
- by Maanya Sachdeva
- The Independent - TV
Jimmy Kimmel is facing heavy criticism online after gatecrashing Quinta Brunson’s Emmys acceptance speech.
Brunson won an Emmy Award for her writing on the comedy series Abbott Elementary.
She was introduced by actor Will Arnett, who dragged Kimmel onstage as part of a bit – the host pretended to have passed out after drinking too many skinny margaritas upon losing in his own category.
However, instead of getting off the stage to let Brunson have her moment, Kimmel remained sprawled out on stage while she gave her speech.
Brunson tried to move the talk show host, shaking him and saying, “Jimmy, wake up, I won,” but he remained where he was, leading many to accuse him of stealing the winner’s spotlight.
“Jimmy Kimmel should have left the stage during Quinta’s speech. Highly disrespectful,” journalist Philip Lewis wrote on Twitter.
Jimmy Kimmel should have left the stage during Quinta’s speech.
Brunson won an Emmy Award for her writing on the comedy series Abbott Elementary.
She was introduced by actor Will Arnett, who dragged Kimmel onstage as part of a bit – the host pretended to have passed out after drinking too many skinny margaritas upon losing in his own category.
However, instead of getting off the stage to let Brunson have her moment, Kimmel remained sprawled out on stage while she gave her speech.
Brunson tried to move the talk show host, shaking him and saying, “Jimmy, wake up, I won,” but he remained where he was, leading many to accuse him of stealing the winner’s spotlight.
“Jimmy Kimmel should have left the stage during Quinta’s speech. Highly disrespectful,” journalist Philip Lewis wrote on Twitter.
Jimmy Kimmel should have left the stage during Quinta’s speech.
- 9/13/2022
- by Tom Murray
- The Independent - TV
Andrew Marr has spoken out about his emotional live reaction to the Queen’s death.
The broadcaster received confirmation of the monarch’s passing on Thursday (8 September) as he was live on the radio, hosting a special show in anticipation of the news after an earlier report of her ill health.
“I have to interrupt the programme to tell you that Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the Queen has died,” he told listeners on Lbc, as his voice broke.
Audibly struggling to maintain his composure, Marr told listeners that the monarch had died “peacefully” while surrounded by her family.
“I said I’d lose it, and I did,” the broadcaster added, acknowledging his emotional state.
Marr appeared on Monday’s (12 September) edition of Good Morning Britain to speak about the moment, and he explained that part of his reaction came from remembering the death of his father.
“I’ve been asking myself ever since that,...
The broadcaster received confirmation of the monarch’s passing on Thursday (8 September) as he was live on the radio, hosting a special show in anticipation of the news after an earlier report of her ill health.
“I have to interrupt the programme to tell you that Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the Queen has died,” he told listeners on Lbc, as his voice broke.
Audibly struggling to maintain his composure, Marr told listeners that the monarch had died “peacefully” while surrounded by her family.
“I said I’d lose it, and I did,” the broadcaster added, acknowledging his emotional state.
Marr appeared on Monday’s (12 September) edition of Good Morning Britain to speak about the moment, and he explained that part of his reaction came from remembering the death of his father.
“I’ve been asking myself ever since that,...
- 9/12/2022
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
A far-right Italian politician has called for an episode of the children’s TV series Peppa Pig to be banned in the country.
The episode, entitled “Families”, was broadcast in the UK on Tuesday (6 September). It is noteworthy for introducing the characters of two co-parenting lesbian polar bears.
Federico Mollicone, a member of the right-wing Italian political party Brothers of Italy, who are predicted to win the general election this month, said broadcasting the episode in Italy would be “unacceptable”.
“Once again the politically correct has struck, at the expense of our children. Can’t children just be children?” he told La Stampa (as reported by The Guardian).
“We ask Rai, which buys the rights to the Peppa Pig series in Italy with a fee from all Italians, not to broadcast the episode in question on any channel or web platform.”
It is not yet known when the episode will be broadcast in Italy.
The episode, entitled “Families”, was broadcast in the UK on Tuesday (6 September). It is noteworthy for introducing the characters of two co-parenting lesbian polar bears.
Federico Mollicone, a member of the right-wing Italian political party Brothers of Italy, who are predicted to win the general election this month, said broadcasting the episode in Italy would be “unacceptable”.
“Once again the politically correct has struck, at the expense of our children. Can’t children just be children?” he told La Stampa (as reported by The Guardian).
“We ask Rai, which buys the rights to the Peppa Pig series in Italy with a fee from all Italians, not to broadcast the episode in question on any channel or web platform.”
It is not yet known when the episode will be broadcast in Italy.
- 9/10/2022
- by Louis Chilton
- The Independent - TV
The Creative Arts Emmy Awards were presented during two ceremonies over the weekend of September 3 and September 4, so who were the big winners? Scroll down for the results in all 93 categories, updated throughout the weekend as they were announced.
SEEWatch Saturday’s live streaming 2022 Creative Arts Emmys webcast revealing 45 winners
The Primetime Emmy telecast scheduled for September 12 will get the most media attention, but the vast majority of awards were presented at these Creative Arts ceremonies. Those races included top program awards like Best TV Movie, Best Variety Special (Live), Best Variety Special (Pre-Recorded), and Best Structured Reality Program. But this was also where TV’s outstanding costume designers, sound designers, hairstylists, choreographers, and many others were recognized. These awards can also give us a preview of what programs are front-runners for top prizes that will be presented eight days later. For instance, shows like “Game of Thrones,” “Chernobyl,” and...
SEEWatch Saturday’s live streaming 2022 Creative Arts Emmys webcast revealing 45 winners
The Primetime Emmy telecast scheduled for September 12 will get the most media attention, but the vast majority of awards were presented at these Creative Arts ceremonies. Those races included top program awards like Best TV Movie, Best Variety Special (Live), Best Variety Special (Pre-Recorded), and Best Structured Reality Program. But this was also where TV’s outstanding costume designers, sound designers, hairstylists, choreographers, and many others were recognized. These awards can also give us a preview of what programs are front-runners for top prizes that will be presented eight days later. For instance, shows like “Game of Thrones,” “Chernobyl,” and...
- 9/5/2022
- by Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Love on the Spectrum, Netflix’s groundbreaking docuseries featuring young adults on the autism spectrum who are looking for love, has won its first Emmy.
The show beat out last year’s winner RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked! (VH1), as well as Below Deck Mediterranean (Bravo), Cheer (Netflix), and Selling Sunset (Netflix).
Creative Arts Emmys 2022 Photos: Chip & Joanna Gaines, ‘Queer Eye’ & ‘Selling Sunset’ Stars Plus RuPaul, Simone Boseman & More
Love on the Spectrum is an Australian reality show co-created by Cian O’Clery.
Wow, this is exciting and unexpected. This is amazing. Thank you so much to the Academy, to everyone involved, to Netflix,” said O’Clery after accepting the Emmy. “Thank you to Molly and Jan. When we were asked to make an American version of the show, I was scared. I thought, ‘Oh no, it’ll never be the same. You’ll never find another Michael. You’ll never have...
The show beat out last year’s winner RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked! (VH1), as well as Below Deck Mediterranean (Bravo), Cheer (Netflix), and Selling Sunset (Netflix).
Creative Arts Emmys 2022 Photos: Chip & Joanna Gaines, ‘Queer Eye’ & ‘Selling Sunset’ Stars Plus RuPaul, Simone Boseman & More
Love on the Spectrum is an Australian reality show co-created by Cian O’Clery.
Wow, this is exciting and unexpected. This is amazing. Thank you so much to the Academy, to everyone involved, to Netflix,” said O’Clery after accepting the Emmy. “Thank you to Molly and Jan. When we were asked to make an American version of the show, I was scared. I thought, ‘Oh no, it’ll never be the same. You’ll never find another Michael. You’ll never have...
- 9/4/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
At least one Clover is ready to make a comeback. On Aug. 25, Gabrielle Union celebrated the 22nd anniversary of the premiere of "Bring It On" by pitching an idea for a sequel to the teen classic. Union retweeted a post about the movie's anniversary alongside her idea for a next generation follow-up to the cheerleading film. "Hmmmm so Isis might have a teenager...
- 8/28/2022
- by Sabienna Bowman
- Popsugar.com
The Television Academy on Tuesday announced its first batch of presenters for this year’s Creative Arts Emmy Awards, which will be held over two consecutive nights, Saturday, Sept. 3, and Sunday, Sept. 4.
The first group features some 2022 Emmy nominees including W. Kamau Bell (We Need to Talk About Cosby), Colman Domingo (Euphoria; Fear the Walking Dead), Marcia Gay Harden (The Morning Show) and Randy Rainbow (The Randy Rainbow Show).
Other presenters include Monica Aldama and Morgan Simianer (Cheer), Skylar Astin (So Help Me Todd; Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist), Christine Chiu and Kevin Kreider (Bling Empire), Cat Deeley (So You Think You Can Dance), Chris Hardwick (Talking Dead; @midnight), Jon Huertas (This Is Us), Jane Levy (Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist), Ralph Macchio and William Zabka (Cobra Kai), Simone Missick (All Rise; Iron Fist) and Niecy Nash (The Rookie: Feds; Reno 911!).
The 2022 Creative Arts Emmy Awards will take place at the Microsoft Theater.
The first group features some 2022 Emmy nominees including W. Kamau Bell (We Need to Talk About Cosby), Colman Domingo (Euphoria; Fear the Walking Dead), Marcia Gay Harden (The Morning Show) and Randy Rainbow (The Randy Rainbow Show).
Other presenters include Monica Aldama and Morgan Simianer (Cheer), Skylar Astin (So Help Me Todd; Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist), Christine Chiu and Kevin Kreider (Bling Empire), Cat Deeley (So You Think You Can Dance), Chris Hardwick (Talking Dead; @midnight), Jon Huertas (This Is Us), Jane Levy (Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist), Ralph Macchio and William Zabka (Cobra Kai), Simone Missick (All Rise; Iron Fist) and Niecy Nash (The Rookie: Feds; Reno 911!).
The 2022 Creative Arts Emmy Awards will take place at the Microsoft Theater.
- 8/23/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Variety Awards Circuit section is the home for all awards news and related content throughout the year, featuring the following: the official awards predictions for the upcoming Oscars and Emmys ceremonies, curated by Variety senior awards editor Clayton Davis; Awards Circuit Column, a weekly analysis dissecting the trends and contenders by television editor Michael Schneider (for Emmys) and Davis (for Oscars); Awards Circuit Podcast, a weekly interview series with talent and an expert roundtable discussion; and Awards Circuit Video analyzes various categories and contenders by Variety's leading awards pundits. Variety's unmatched coverage gives its readership unbeatable exposure in print and online, as well as provide inside reports on all the contenders in this year's awards season races.
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Emmys Collective
Visit each category, per the individual awards show from The Emmys Hub
To see old predictions and commentary,...
To see all the latest predictions, of all the categories, in one place, visit The Emmys Collective
Visit each category, per the individual awards show from The Emmys Hub
To see old predictions and commentary,...
- 8/19/2022
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
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