Actor Marlon Wayans is known for his stand-up comedy and comedic roles in films such as White Chicks and the Scary Movie franchise. Though the actor has ventured into dramatic territory with films such as Requiem For A Dream he was mostly known for his comedic endeavors as he gained fame with his sitcom with brother Shawn Wayans, The Wayans Bros.
Wayans also starred in the 2009 action film G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. The Stephen Sommers directorial was an adaptation of the popular comics of the same name and starred Channing Tatum and Wayans in lead roles. Due to Wayans’ reputation as a comic actor, fans were reportedly concerned that the film would not be a serious adaptation of the action comics.
Marlon Wayans Assured Fans That G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra Was A Serious Action Film Marlon Wayans in Requiem For A Dream
Actor Marlon Wayans broke...
Wayans also starred in the 2009 action film G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. The Stephen Sommers directorial was an adaptation of the popular comics of the same name and starred Channing Tatum and Wayans in lead roles. Due to Wayans’ reputation as a comic actor, fans were reportedly concerned that the film would not be a serious adaptation of the action comics.
Marlon Wayans Assured Fans That G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra Was A Serious Action Film Marlon Wayans in Requiem For A Dream
Actor Marlon Wayans broke...
- 2/15/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Actor and stand-up comedian Marlon Wayans is known for his sitcom, The Wayans Bros. and films like Little Man and White Chicks. The actor is also known for his appearances in the Scary Movie franchise. While known mostly for his comedic roles, the actor also tried his hand at drama with Darren Aronofsky’s harrowing drama, Requiem for a Dream.
One of the most interesting bits of trivia for the comic and actor was that he was signed onto play Robin in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns. The dark sequel to 1989’s Batman initially planned to introduce Robin to the franchise, and Wayans would have a larger role in the threequel. However, plans reportedly fell through, and Wayans never played the role.
Marlon Wayans Was Supposed To Play Robin in Batman Returns A still from Batman | Credits: Warner Bros.
Before Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy changed the superhero genre,...
One of the most interesting bits of trivia for the comic and actor was that he was signed onto play Robin in Tim Burton’s Batman Returns. The dark sequel to 1989’s Batman initially planned to introduce Robin to the franchise, and Wayans would have a larger role in the threequel. However, plans reportedly fell through, and Wayans never played the role.
Marlon Wayans Was Supposed To Play Robin in Batman Returns A still from Batman | Credits: Warner Bros.
Before Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy changed the superhero genre,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
Marlon Wayans is ready to look at the scary side of perfection. The actor and comedian will star as an all-time great athlete in Goat, a psychological horror film from Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions and Universal, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed.
The film centers on an up-and-coming young athlete who is invited to train with a team’s retiring star, who will be played by Wayans. Justin Tipping will direct the feature, which came out of a pitch from Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie. Peele will produce along with Win Rosenfeld, Ian Cooper and Jamal Watson.
Wayans is coming off of work in Ben Affleck’s awards contender Air, about Nike’s quest to sign a young Michael Jordan, with other acting credits in recent years including the Aretha Franklin biopic Respect and Sofia Coppola’s On the Rocks. He came up with comedic roles, such as on the...
The film centers on an up-and-coming young athlete who is invited to train with a team’s retiring star, who will be played by Wayans. Justin Tipping will direct the feature, which came out of a pitch from Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie. Peele will produce along with Win Rosenfeld, Ian Cooper and Jamal Watson.
Wayans is coming off of work in Ben Affleck’s awards contender Air, about Nike’s quest to sign a young Michael Jordan, with other acting credits in recent years including the Aretha Franklin biopic Respect and Sofia Coppola’s On the Rocks. He came up with comedic roles, such as on the...
- 1/15/2024
- by Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Wayans family is in mourning. The patriarch, Howell Wayans, has died. He was 86.
Marlons Wayans, one of Howell’s 10 famous children, took to Instagram on Saturday and announced the tragic news while also paying tribute to his late father. Marlon recalled a story from his childhood, when he asked his father what he wanted to be when he grew up.
“He simply said ‘I wanted to be a man,'” Wayans wrote in his caption. “I said ‘not a lawyer? A doctor? An actor?’ He said ‘just a man.’ I said ‘but every boy becomes a man.’ Dad said, ‘Not true.’ I asked ‘then what’s a man?’ My Dad said ‘A man takes care of himself and his responsibilities. His family is always First.’ From that day on I wanted to be a Man.'”
Read More: Marlon Wayans Doesn’t Think ‘White Chicks’ Would Work Now Because...
Marlons Wayans, one of Howell’s 10 famous children, took to Instagram on Saturday and announced the tragic news while also paying tribute to his late father. Marlon recalled a story from his childhood, when he asked his father what he wanted to be when he grew up.
“He simply said ‘I wanted to be a man,'” Wayans wrote in his caption. “I said ‘not a lawyer? A doctor? An actor?’ He said ‘just a man.’ I said ‘but every boy becomes a man.’ Dad said, ‘Not true.’ I asked ‘then what’s a man?’ My Dad said ‘A man takes care of himself and his responsibilities. His family is always First.’ From that day on I wanted to be a Man.'”
Read More: Marlon Wayans Doesn’t Think ‘White Chicks’ Would Work Now Because...
- 4/1/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
Paris Hilton and her sister Nicky Hilton were used as inspirations for the movie White Chicks. But when Nicky Hilton confronted the Wayans brothers herself, the two initially denied this was the case.
Shawn Wayans came up with the idea for ‘White Chicks’ after reading an article about the Hilton sisters Paris and Nicky Hilton | Jim Spellman/Getty Images
Shawn and Marlon Wayans were used to co-starring and sometimes even developing their own projects. The pair enjoyed a long run on the hit sitcom simply titled The Wayans Bros. Afterward, the duo turned their attention to movies, and developed two of the Scary Movie films. Disagreements with the studio would eventually see the two Wayans brothers leave the Scary Movie franchise behind. But this allowed them to tackle a brand new movie idea in White Chicks.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Shawn Wayans revealed he rung up his brother...
Shawn Wayans came up with the idea for ‘White Chicks’ after reading an article about the Hilton sisters Paris and Nicky Hilton | Jim Spellman/Getty Images
Shawn and Marlon Wayans were used to co-starring and sometimes even developing their own projects. The pair enjoyed a long run on the hit sitcom simply titled The Wayans Bros. Afterward, the duo turned their attention to movies, and developed two of the Scary Movie films. Disagreements with the studio would eventually see the two Wayans brothers leave the Scary Movie franchise behind. But this allowed them to tackle a brand new movie idea in White Chicks.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Shawn Wayans revealed he rung up his brother...
- 2/24/2023
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Art will imitate life very, very closely for Marlon Wayans, who is set to lead an autobiographical comedy series now in development at Starz.
Wayans will star in, co-write and executive-produce Book of Marlon, a half-hour project inspired by the comedian’s life and career. He’ll play a fictionalized version of himself, “exploring his professional life as a comedian and actor, as well as his personal life as he attempts to reconcile being a good person and loving father with being Marlon,” the official synopsis reads. (The project was initially in development at HBO Max.)
More from TVLineOutlander Prequel Blood of My Blood,...
Wayans will star in, co-write and executive-produce Book of Marlon, a half-hour project inspired by the comedian’s life and career. He’ll play a fictionalized version of himself, “exploring his professional life as a comedian and actor, as well as his personal life as he attempts to reconcile being a good person and loving father with being Marlon,” the official synopsis reads. (The project was initially in development at HBO Max.)
More from TVLineOutlander Prequel Blood of My Blood,...
- 8/9/2022
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
Marlon Wayans is moving his semi-autobiographical comedy series “Book of Marlon” to Starz.
The premium cabler has put the show into development after it was previously set up at HBO Max. It was originally set up at HBO Max in 2020 as part of an overall deal Wayans had signed there.
In the half-hour show, Wayans would play a fictionalized version of himself, exploring his professional life as a comedian and actor, as well as his personal life as he attempts to reconcile being a good person and loving father with being Marlon. Wayans will star in the series in addition to co-writing and executive producing. As with the original HBO Max iteration, Rick Alvarez will also co-writer and executive produce. Now, though, Diallo Riddle and Bashir Salahuddin have come onboard to co-write and serve as co-showrunners and executive producers. Riddle previously worked with Wayans on the latter’s NBC series “Marlon,...
The premium cabler has put the show into development after it was previously set up at HBO Max. It was originally set up at HBO Max in 2020 as part of an overall deal Wayans had signed there.
In the half-hour show, Wayans would play a fictionalized version of himself, exploring his professional life as a comedian and actor, as well as his personal life as he attempts to reconcile being a good person and loving father with being Marlon. Wayans will star in the series in addition to co-writing and executive producing. As with the original HBO Max iteration, Rick Alvarez will also co-writer and executive produce. Now, though, Diallo Riddle and Bashir Salahuddin have come onboard to co-write and serve as co-showrunners and executive producers. Riddle previously worked with Wayans on the latter’s NBC series “Marlon,...
- 8/9/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Mike Hagerty, the prolific character actor who recently starred in HBO’s critically acclaimed dramedy “Somebody Somewhere,” died Thursday in Los Angeles. He was 67.
Bridget Everett, who played Hagerty’s on-screen daughter in “Somebody Somewhere,” shared the news via her Instagram on Friday.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Bridget Everett (@bridgeteverett)
A veteran character actor with over 100 credits in various television shows and movies, Hagerty was also known for his recurring role in the hit NBC sitcom “Friends,” where he played Mr. Treeger, the superintendent of the apartment complex that the majority of the main cast lived in. He also was a main cast member on Fox’s “The George Carlin Show” and on HBO’s “Lucky Louie.” Born and raised in Chicago, Hagerty was noted for his distinctive mustache and thick Chicago accent and got his start as a performer at the city’s famed improv theater company Second City.
Bridget Everett, who played Hagerty’s on-screen daughter in “Somebody Somewhere,” shared the news via her Instagram on Friday.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Bridget Everett (@bridgeteverett)
A veteran character actor with over 100 credits in various television shows and movies, Hagerty was also known for his recurring role in the hit NBC sitcom “Friends,” where he played Mr. Treeger, the superintendent of the apartment complex that the majority of the main cast lived in. He also was a main cast member on Fox’s “The George Carlin Show” and on HBO’s “Lucky Louie.” Born and raised in Chicago, Hagerty was noted for his distinctive mustache and thick Chicago accent and got his start as a performer at the city’s famed improv theater company Second City.
- 5/6/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Mike Hagerty, best known for his roles on Somebody Somewhere, as the building super Mr. Treeger on Friends and as the surly owner of a used-clothing store on Seinfeld, has died. His death April 29 was confirmed by Bridget Everett, who plays his daughter on the HBO comedy. No cause was given.
“With great sadness, the family of Michael G. Hagerty announced his death yesterday in Los Angeles,” wrote Everett on Instagram. “A beloved character actor, his love of his hometown of Chicago and his family were the cornerstones of his life. … He will be sorely missed.”
HBO said statement: “We are very saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Mike Hagerty. A member of the HBO family for many years, his most recent role as Bridget Everett’s father in Somebody Somewhere showed his special talent for bringing heart to a performance. Mike was a joy to work with...
“With great sadness, the family of Michael G. Hagerty announced his death yesterday in Los Angeles,” wrote Everett on Instagram. “A beloved character actor, his love of his hometown of Chicago and his family were the cornerstones of his life. … He will be sorely missed.”
HBO said statement: “We are very saddened to hear about the sudden passing of Mike Hagerty. A member of the HBO family for many years, his most recent role as Bridget Everett’s father in Somebody Somewhere showed his special talent for bringing heart to a performance. Mike was a joy to work with...
- 5/6/2022
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Her roots were planted in the past. Though her life was changing fast, who she was was who she wanted to be. Twenty years ago, the now defunct WB network introduced a family sitcom starring country music icon and American treasure Reba McEntire. Appropriately titled “Reba,” in the multicamera sitcom, McEntire plays Reba Hart, a recent divorcee who now has to handle being a single mother who worked too hard — but who also loves her kids and never stops.
Of course, outside of just the financial struggles of becoming a single mother (when the father was the breadwinner), this new normal was made even more difficult for Reba with the reveal that her eldest child, popular high school cheerleader Cheyenne (JoAnna Garcia Swisher), was impregnated by her himbo boyfriend, star high school football player Van (Steve Howey). In the pilot, Van is kicked out of his home for this and moves in with the Harts,...
Of course, outside of just the financial struggles of becoming a single mother (when the father was the breadwinner), this new normal was made even more difficult for Reba with the reveal that her eldest child, popular high school cheerleader Cheyenne (JoAnna Garcia Swisher), was impregnated by her himbo boyfriend, star high school football player Van (Steve Howey). In the pilot, Van is kicked out of his home for this and moves in with the Harts,...
- 10/4/2021
- by LaToya Ferguson
- Variety Film + TV
[Editor’s Note: The following contains minor spoilers for “Pose” Season 3.]
Anyone who’s been watching “Pose” over its history-making FX run won’t be surprised to learn the colorful show about New York’s ball culture definitely goes out with a bang. No expense was spared on the third and final season of Ryan Murphy’s most influential period melodrama — and the makeup and costumes are just as indulgent as the sentimental storytelling. With all of the pain and heartache trans people of color face in the real world, “Pose” laughs in face of reality by throwing something much more celebratory onscreen. Throughout all three seasons, “Pose” remains the fiercest advocate for itself — and for the power of living your truth.
Not that “Pose” ignores the ravages of the AIDS crisis, discrimination, and violence faced by the most marginalized (and most fabulous) among us. This season pulls no punches with the tragic realities of life for LGBTQ people...
Anyone who’s been watching “Pose” over its history-making FX run won’t be surprised to learn the colorful show about New York’s ball culture definitely goes out with a bang. No expense was spared on the third and final season of Ryan Murphy’s most influential period melodrama — and the makeup and costumes are just as indulgent as the sentimental storytelling. With all of the pain and heartache trans people of color face in the real world, “Pose” laughs in face of reality by throwing something much more celebratory onscreen. Throughout all three seasons, “Pose” remains the fiercest advocate for itself — and for the power of living your truth.
Not that “Pose” ignores the ravages of the AIDS crisis, discrimination, and violence faced by the most marginalized (and most fabulous) among us. This season pulls no punches with the tragic realities of life for LGBTQ people...
- 5/2/2021
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
Ja’net DuBois, best known for her role as Good Times‘ Willona Woods, died on Tuesday at the age of 74, TMZ reports. A cause of death has not been disclosed.
DuBois rose to fame as Florida and James Evans’ next-door neighbor on the aforementioned Norman Lear sitcom, which ran from 1974-1979. She also co-wrote and sang the iconic Jeffersons theme song “Movin’ On Up.”
More from TVLineGood Times Recap: Was Viola Davis 'Dyn-o-mite'? Grade the Live EpisodeLive in Front of a Studio Audience: Patti Labelle and Anthony Anderson Sing Good Times Theme Song -- WatchLive Good Times Cast: Viola Davis, Andre Braugher,...
DuBois rose to fame as Florida and James Evans’ next-door neighbor on the aforementioned Norman Lear sitcom, which ran from 1974-1979. She also co-wrote and sang the iconic Jeffersons theme song “Movin’ On Up.”
More from TVLineGood Times Recap: Was Viola Davis 'Dyn-o-mite'? Grade the Live EpisodeLive in Front of a Studio Audience: Patti Labelle and Anthony Anderson Sing Good Times Theme Song -- WatchLive Good Times Cast: Viola Davis, Andre Braugher,...
- 2/18/2020
- TVLine.com
Jane Milmore, who co-created the Don Rickles-Richard Lewis sitcom Daddy Dearest and wrote and produced for such shows as Martin, The Wayans Bros. and The Hughleys, has died. She was 64.
Milmore died Tuesday in Los Angeles after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer, a publicist announced.
She and Billy Van Zandt were writing partners of 46 years; in addition to creating Fox's Daddy Dearest, which lasted just a handful of episodes in 1993, they worked on Martin, The Wayans Bros., The Hughleys, Anything But Love, Suddenly Susan, Yes, Dear, Center of the Universe and other shows.
The pair ...
Milmore died Tuesday in Los Angeles after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer, a publicist announced.
She and Billy Van Zandt were writing partners of 46 years; in addition to creating Fox's Daddy Dearest, which lasted just a handful of episodes in 1993, they worked on Martin, The Wayans Bros., The Hughleys, Anything But Love, Suddenly Susan, Yes, Dear, Center of the Universe and other shows.
The pair ...
Jane Milmore, who co-created the Don Rickles-Richard Lewis sitcom Daddy Dearest and wrote and produced for such shows as Martin, The Wayans Bros. and The Hughleys, has died. She was 64.
Milmore died Tuesday in Los Angeles after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer, a publicist announced.
She and Billy Van Zandt were writing partners of 46 years; in addition to creating Fox's Daddy Dearest, which lasted just a handful of episodes in 1993, they worked on Martin, The Wayans Bros., The Hughleys, Anything But Love, Suddenly Susan, Yes, Dear, Center of the Universe and other shows.
The pair ...
Milmore died Tuesday in Los Angeles after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer, a publicist announced.
She and Billy Van Zandt were writing partners of 46 years; in addition to creating Fox's Daddy Dearest, which lasted just a handful of episodes in 1993, they worked on Martin, The Wayans Bros., The Hughleys, Anything But Love, Suddenly Susan, Yes, Dear, Center of the Universe and other shows.
The pair ...
John Witherspoon Remembered by Ice Cube, Arsenio Hall and More: ‘Life Won’t Be as Funny Without Him’
Tributes are flooding in for “Hollywood Shuffle” and “Friday” actor John Witherspoon following news of his death on Tuesday at age 77.
“It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever,” Witherspoon’s family said in a statement announcing his passing at his Sherman Oaks, Calif., home.
Friends, co-stars and famous fans were quick to share their fondest memories of the legendary actor and comedian, expressing sadness over the loss.
Also Read: John Witherspoon, Prolific Character Actor and 'Friday' Star, Dies at 77
“I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon,” Ice Cube wrote. “Life won’t be as funny without him.”
The actor’s son, J.D. Witherspoon tweeted his favorite photos of his father:...
“It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever,” Witherspoon’s family said in a statement announcing his passing at his Sherman Oaks, Calif., home.
Friends, co-stars and famous fans were quick to share their fondest memories of the legendary actor and comedian, expressing sadness over the loss.
Also Read: John Witherspoon, Prolific Character Actor and 'Friday' Star, Dies at 77
“I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon,” Ice Cube wrote. “Life won’t be as funny without him.”
The actor’s son, J.D. Witherspoon tweeted his favorite photos of his father:...
- 10/30/2019
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
John Witherspoon, a prolific character actor best known for a run of comedic turns in acclaimed films and cult classics like “Hollywood Shuffle” and the “Friday” franchise, died Tuesday in his Sherman Oaks, California, home. He was 77.
“It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever,” Witherspoon’s family said in a statement posted to his Twitter account.
Born John Weatherspoon in Detroit (he changed his name to Witherspoon later) in 1942, he began his career in the 1960s, performing as an actor, comedian and occasional model. He made his television debut in 1970 on an episode of “Barnaby Jones,” and later in the decade appeared on episodes of “Good Times,” “What’s Happening!!” and “The Incredible Hulk,...
“It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever,” Witherspoon’s family said in a statement posted to his Twitter account.
Born John Weatherspoon in Detroit (he changed his name to Witherspoon later) in 1942, he began his career in the 1960s, performing as an actor, comedian and occasional model. He made his television debut in 1970 on an episode of “Barnaby Jones,” and later in the decade appeared on episodes of “Good Times,” “What’s Happening!!” and “The Incredible Hulk,...
- 10/30/2019
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
John Witherspoon, the prolific comic actor who starred in the cult Friday franchise as well as his long stint on The Wayans Bros. and The Tracy Morgan Show, has died. He was 77.
A statement from Witherspoon's family posted on his official Twitter account confirmed that the comedian had died. "It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever."...
A statement from Witherspoon's family posted on his official Twitter account confirmed that the comedian had died. "It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever."...
- 10/30/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
John Witherspoon, the prolific comic actor who starred in the cult Friday franchise as well as his long stint on The Wayans Bros. and The Tracy Morgan Show, has died. He was 77.
A statement from Witherspoon's family posted on his official Twitter account confirmed that the comedian had died. "It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever."...
A statement from Witherspoon's family posted on his official Twitter account confirmed that the comedian had died. "It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “Pops” always & forever."...
- 10/30/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Stop us if you’ve heard this one before: A major media company is set to launch a streaming service in an effort to follow viewers increasingly thumbing their noses at traditional television.
On Thursday, Viacom will launch Bet+, a streaming service centered around the 40-year-old African-American cable network in partnership with Tyler Perry. That comes two months before Apple and Disney jump into the arena, and five months ahead of NBCUniversal and WarnerMedia.
“We really wanted to be thoughtful about meeting viewers and meeting audiences where they are, and planting a flag for folks who are ‘cable nevers’ and ‘cable cutters,'” Devin Griffin, who will run Bet+ as general manager, told TheWrap. “We want to fish where the fish are and make sure we mount our presence in every corner.”
Griffin said Viacom’s decision to use Bet as the focal point for a new streaming service — when...
On Thursday, Viacom will launch Bet+, a streaming service centered around the 40-year-old African-American cable network in partnership with Tyler Perry. That comes two months before Apple and Disney jump into the arena, and five months ahead of NBCUniversal and WarnerMedia.
“We really wanted to be thoughtful about meeting viewers and meeting audiences where they are, and planting a flag for folks who are ‘cable nevers’ and ‘cable cutters,'” Devin Griffin, who will run Bet+ as general manager, told TheWrap. “We want to fish where the fish are and make sure we mount our presence in every corner.”
Griffin said Viacom’s decision to use Bet as the focal point for a new streaming service — when...
- 9/18/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
"Cooley High" ought to be remembered as a cinema milestone, and its writer and director remembered as pioneers.
Released 40 years ago this week (on June 25, 1975), it ought to be celebrated for its vast influence on movies, TV, and music. As a young-men-coming-of-age movie, it deserves to be mentioned alongside Fellini's "I Vitelloni," George Lucas's "American Graffiti," Barry Levinson's "Diner," and John Singleton's "Boyz N the Hood." And yet, the film and its creators have been largely forgotten, lost to history.
The story behind "Cooley High" is even more dramatic than the comedy-drama that unspooled on the screen. It's the story of Kenneth Williams, who, like protagonist Preach, left Chicago's Cabrini-Green projects with dreams of becoming a Hollywood screenwriter. Having dropped out of high school, he hitchhiked from the Windy City to Hollywood with $5 in his pocket and no connections, and for a while he supported himself selling drugs.
Released 40 years ago this week (on June 25, 1975), it ought to be celebrated for its vast influence on movies, TV, and music. As a young-men-coming-of-age movie, it deserves to be mentioned alongside Fellini's "I Vitelloni," George Lucas's "American Graffiti," Barry Levinson's "Diner," and John Singleton's "Boyz N the Hood." And yet, the film and its creators have been largely forgotten, lost to history.
The story behind "Cooley High" is even more dramatic than the comedy-drama that unspooled on the screen. It's the story of Kenneth Williams, who, like protagonist Preach, left Chicago's Cabrini-Green projects with dreams of becoming a Hollywood screenwriter. Having dropped out of high school, he hitchhiked from the Windy City to Hollywood with $5 in his pocket and no connections, and for a while he supported himself selling drugs.
- 6/25/2015
- by Gary Susman
- Moviefone
Canadian character actor Rick Ducommun, who starred in a wide range of beloved films throughout the '80s and '90s, has died. He was 62.
Ducommun had his breakout role in 1989's "The 'Burbs" opposite Tom Hanks, and director Joe Dante tweeted out his condolences on Thursday. Dante said that the late actor was a virtually unknown stand-up comic when he auditioned for the dark comedy, but "knocked it out of the park," beating out more established stars like Rick Moranis for the part.
"Lots of the funniest stuff he says was totally ad libbed," Dante wrote, adding that Ducommun was "A very funny guy" who was "Too young to go."
In addition to that cult classic, Ducommun also had small roles in many movies including "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" (another collaboration with Dante), Bill Murray classic "Groundhog Day," "Die Hard," "Little Monsters," "The Hunt for Red October," "The Last Boy Scout,...
Ducommun had his breakout role in 1989's "The 'Burbs" opposite Tom Hanks, and director Joe Dante tweeted out his condolences on Thursday. Dante said that the late actor was a virtually unknown stand-up comic when he auditioned for the dark comedy, but "knocked it out of the park," beating out more established stars like Rick Moranis for the part.
"Lots of the funniest stuff he says was totally ad libbed," Dante wrote, adding that Ducommun was "A very funny guy" who was "Too young to go."
In addition to that cult classic, Ducommun also had small roles in many movies including "Gremlins 2: The New Batch" (another collaboration with Dante), Bill Murray classic "Groundhog Day," "Die Hard," "Little Monsters," "The Hunt for Red October," "The Last Boy Scout,...
- 6/18/2015
- by Katie Roberts
- Moviefone
Reynaldo Rey, longtime comedian and character actor, died early Thursday morning in Los Angeles ... TMZ has learned. Rey was famous for his movie roles in "Friday," "White Men Can't Jump," and "Harlem Nights." He also appeared in tons of TV shows going back to the 80s ... such as "The Bernie Mac Show," "The Wayans Bros.," "227," and "Sanford." His manager tells us Rey passed away in a hospital. He suffered a stroke last year ... and started suffering complications in January.
- 5/28/2015
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
TBS has unveiled the 10 talented comedians slated to compete against one another in Funniest Wins, a new series set to premiere Friday, June 20, at 10 p.m. (Et/Pt). Funniest Wins comes to TBS from comedy heavyweight and WhatTheFunny.com founder Marlon Wayans (Scary Movie, A Haunted House, The Wayans Bros.) and Eyeworks USA. In the series, Wayans, along with some of his comic friends and family, will put the comics through the ringer to find the funniest multi-talented comedian working today. The new series will open with 10 comedic competitors of various types, who range in age from 25 to 40. Each week, guided by Marlon Wayans and a...
- 5/28/2014
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Before The CW, there was The WB. With shows like "Unhappily Ever After," "The Jamie Foxx Show," "Popular" and "The Parent ‘Hood," the network had a very diverse slate of sitcoms -- but what do their stars look like now? As Nikki Cox celebrates her 35th birthday today, check out the gallery above to see how much she and the casts of shows like "The Wayans Bros." and "Smart Guy" changed through the years.For some, it ain't pretty.And if The WB's dramas were more your thing, be sure to click the following links to check in on the casts of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Felicity." Read more...
- 6/2/2013
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Certainly some of the more successful black TV shows that have ever been broadcast on television; Now you can enjoy reruns of them, courtesy of Bet, who I'm sure are glad that none of the selected series listed below, are streaming on Netflix! All the details via press release from Bet follows: Bet Networks Licenses Package Of Iconic African American Comedies From Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution Network Snags Premiere Off-Net Comedies Including "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air," "Family Matters," "Martin," "The Jamie Foxx Show" and "The Wayans Bros." To Air Only On Bet And Viacom Media Networks (March 20, 2013 - New York and Burbank) - Bet Networks announced today it has...
- 3/20/2013
- by Tambay A. Obenson
- ShadowAndAct
Two years after Teen Nick found ratings success with the return of '90s hits Doug and Clarissa Explains It All, Bet is going retro. The network said Wednesday that it has acquired off-network rights to '90s comedies The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Family Matters, Martin, The Jamie Foxx Show and The Wayans Bros. Photos: The Faces of Pilot Season 2013 In a licensing deal with Warner Bros. Domestic Television, the series will air on Bet and Centric, with Viacom corporate sibling Nick at Nite retaining rights to continue airing Full House and Living Single, which will air on
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- 3/20/2013
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Chicago – When it comes to the art of spoofing the current movie culture, few have done it with more success than Marlon Wayans. As a sibling member of the Wayans Brothers, he has spent his career doing take-offs in films such as the “Scary Movie” franchise, “Dance Flick” and his current spooky satire, ‘A Haunted House.’
Marlon Wayans is the youngest of the Wayans comedy clan, which includes Keenan Ivory, Shawn, Damon and Kim. After attending Laguardia High School of the Performing Arts and Howard University, he joined his rising star siblings in the family business of comedy. After appearing in the film “Mo’ Money” (1992) – written by brother Damon – he joined the cast of Fox TV’s “In Living Color” (1990-94) produced by Keenen Ivory and Damon. He morphed from there to “The Wayans Bros” (1995-99), a sitcom on The WB. In 2000, he took a dramatic turn with a notable...
Marlon Wayans is the youngest of the Wayans comedy clan, which includes Keenan Ivory, Shawn, Damon and Kim. After attending Laguardia High School of the Performing Arts and Howard University, he joined his rising star siblings in the family business of comedy. After appearing in the film “Mo’ Money” (1992) – written by brother Damon – he joined the cast of Fox TV’s “In Living Color” (1990-94) produced by Keenen Ivory and Damon. He morphed from there to “The Wayans Bros” (1995-99), a sitcom on The WB. In 2000, he took a dramatic turn with a notable...
- 1/9/2013
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
It's like a scary ghost story. Only with more farting.
Over the years, Marlon Wayans has become a bit of an enigma as an actor. Starting out on the sketch comedy show In Living Color and subsequent sitcom The Wayans Bros., Wayans soon made the natural transition to movie parodies like 1996's Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood and co-writing and starring in the first two of the Scary Movie franchise. However, sprinkled amongst missteps like G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra and Dungeons & Dragons, Wayans has shown he can actually act in movies like Requiem For a Dream and The Ladykillers and was even attached to play Richard Pryor in a long-gestating biopic. Yet, Wayans continues to help put movies like Dance Flick into existence.
The conundrum continues. Wayans is back with his latest parody, A Haunted House, which...
Over the years, Marlon Wayans has become a bit of an enigma as an actor. Starting out on the sketch comedy show In Living Color and subsequent sitcom The Wayans Bros., Wayans soon made the natural transition to movie parodies like 1996's Don't Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood and co-writing and starring in the first two of the Scary Movie franchise. However, sprinkled amongst missteps like G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra and Dungeons & Dragons, Wayans has shown he can actually act in movies like Requiem For a Dream and The Ladykillers and was even attached to play Richard Pryor in a long-gestating biopic. Yet, Wayans continues to help put movies like Dance Flick into existence.
The conundrum continues. Wayans is back with his latest parody, A Haunted House, which...
- 10/20/2012
- by Ryan Gowland
- Reelzchannel.com
Michael Hughley is in deep trouble. E! News confirms former child star Dee Jay Daniels (real name Dorjan Lyndell Daniels) was arrested in California on possession of marijuana, premeditated murder and gang activity charges in connection with a fatal stabbing. The 23-year-old was reportedly part of a group of three men who allegedly stabbed 26-year-old John Joseph outside a nightclub in Stockton, Calif., in August 2011. Daniels is currently being held in San Joaquin County jail with no bail and could face life in prison if convicted. The Hughleys aired from 1998-2002. Dee Jay Daniels was also featured on Cold Case, Coach, ER, Grace Under Fire, The Wayans Bros. and Family...
- 6/7/2012
- E! Online
I'm not mad at Lena Dunham, creator of the new HBO show Girls. She wanted to write about her life -- which is filled with white folks -- and people gave her some money to do it. Her voice is a new voice for television. Despite the misogynist rants of Three and a Half Men co-creator Lee Arohnson about television reaching the point of "labia saturation," women have hardly been at the center of television or film production.
I think the backlash against the show -- largely by feminists of color -- is as much about the kind of praise it received as it is about the show itself. When countless reviews gush about her representing this generation, of course it is going to irritate all the people who are invisible on the show and to the critics. Duhnam didn't help herself with the claim that the white casting was an "accident,...
I think the backlash against the show -- largely by feminists of color -- is as much about the kind of praise it received as it is about the show itself. When countless reviews gush about her representing this generation, of course it is going to irritate all the people who are invisible on the show and to the critics. Duhnam didn't help herself with the claim that the white casting was an "accident,...
- 4/30/2012
- by Rebecca Wanzo
- Aol TV.
[1] There's a little bit of something for everyone in today's very full TV Bits, whether your preference is for lightweight comedies, serious dramas, humanoid robots, or good-looking serial killers. After the jump: HBO and the creators of Big Love team up for an unconventional family drama Fox buys a boy genius sitcom from the guy who plays Kurt's dad on Glee Marlon Wayans makes a return to television with a buddy cop project for ABC Bunim/Murray and GameSpot prep an online series about gaming NBC unveils a plan to bring Grimm to you early FX gives a fifth season to Kurt Sutter's Sons of Anarchy Marvel announces a comic book series for fans of Dexter Let's start with the projects that are currently in development. Big Love may have wrapped earlier this year, but co-creators Mark V. Olsen and Will Scheffer aren't through with HBO. The pair are...
- 10/19/2011
- by Angie Han
- Slash Film
Echo Bridge Entertainment continues their HD raid of older Miramax titles on July 5th with the release of The Wayans Bros.’ Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood. Spoofing modern films like Boyz n the Hood, Do the Right Thing and Friday with a blaxploitation spin, the film was panned upon its theatrical run, only to gather a nice following on home video.
This is an early announcement, so we don’t have any listings for specs, extras, or cover art, but much like past Echo Bridge releases on Blu-ray from Miramax, don’t expect any extras.
Source: Blu-ray...
This is an early announcement, so we don’t have any listings for specs, extras, or cover art, but much like past Echo Bridge releases on Blu-ray from Miramax, don’t expect any extras.
Source: Blu-ray...
- 5/23/2011
- by Jon Peters
- Killer Films
Actress Kimberly Elise welcomes 44. Born in Minneapolis, her boasting rights include appearances in Set It Off, In The House, Beloved, Bojangles, Bait, John Q, Girlfriends, Woman Thou Art Loosed, Diary Of A Mad Black Woman, The Great Debaters, Grey’s Anatomy and For Colored Girls.
Actress Lela Rochon turns 47 today. A native of California, she’s appeared in numerous films and tv shows including Breakin’, The Facts of Life, The Cosby Show, Amen, Harlem Nights, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Boomerang, The Wayans Bros., Any Given Sunday, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, Brooklyn’s Finest and Waiting To Exhale. Her most recent project was Blood Done Sign My Name.
Actress Lela Rochon turns 47 today. A native of California, she’s appeared in numerous films and tv shows including Breakin’, The Facts of Life, The Cosby Show, Amen, Harlem Nights, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Boomerang, The Wayans Bros., Any Given Sunday, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, Brooklyn’s Finest and Waiting To Exhale. Her most recent project was Blood Done Sign My Name.
- 4/18/2011
- by Cynthia
- ShadowAndAct
Exclusive: Talent manager/producer Lisa Blum has joined New Wave Entertainment. Blum, who comes from The Collective, is bringing all of her clients including Marlon Wayans, Cheri Oteri, Orlando Jones, Jennifer Hollander (Universal’s Merman), Jim Jefferies (HBO’s I Swear To God), Gary Owen (TBS’ House of Payne), Virginia Williams (USA’s Fairly Legal), Pete Johansson and Sammi Hanratty (American Girl). Blum previously ran her own management company for six years. Before that, she was with Mosaic Media's predecessor Gold/Miller, where she began her 15-year relationship with the Wayans brothers among other clients. While at Gold/Miller, in addition to managing talent, Blum also developed and produced TV and film projects, including movies Scary Movie and Scary Movie 2 and the WB series The Wayans Bros. She most recently developed Pretty Ugly at Paramount, which will star Marlon Wayans; The Year of Living Biblically, also at Paramount, an...
- 3/10/2011
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
A collective groan echoed through the graveyard when it was announced a few years back that The Munsters were going to make their way to the big screen. Why a "groan"? The Wayans Bros. were involved with the project. Entertainment Weekly's Ausiello Files reports, however, that Bryan Fuller ( Pushing Daisies ) is at work on a modern-day television reboot. That's right, the Munster family may be back on the small screen where they belong. Furthermore, Ausillo's sources say Guillermo del Toro may be involved in some capacity behind-the-scenes. Who do you think should play Herman Munster? Ron Perlman is an immediate go-to (especially with the del Toro connection) idea. But I'm thinking Brad Garrett, of Everybody Loves Raymond , may be a good contender.
- 9/30/2010
- shocktillyoudrop.com
This may or may not be the greatest news for Moonlight fans who have probably seen every last episode anyway: The CW announced today that it'll air reruns of the old CBS show beginning June 3. The Alex O'Loughlin drama about a vampire who works as a private investigator will air on Thursdays after repeats of The Vampire Diaries. It's not unheard of for the CW to air an off-network series in its prime time lineup. Previously, the CW aired reruns of Jericho during the 2008-09 season and comedies like Reba and The Wayans Bros. from 3 to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
- 5/6/2010
- by Lynette Rice
- EW - Inside Movies
The former "Happy Days" star Scott Baio says he is receiving Twitter death threats after tweeting an unflattering photo of Michelle Obama (below) with a childish caption.
"Wow He wakes up to this every morning," the die-hard Republican tweeted, along with a photo of Michelle with her mouth open.
The responding tweets have included suggestions that he kill himself and calling him a racist idiot and a lot worse. Baio then tried to prove he's not racist:
"I'm Not racist for posting a pic of M.O. My Wife's Best Frd Is Black,Hello" he tweeted.
And: "Do I look like I'm racist? This is Renee's Best frd. Stop Using The Race Card!!!"
Further evidence of his tolerance of black people: "If I'm racist, don't think I would have Directed shows like The Parkers & The Wayans Bros. or worked 41 eps w/ Victoria Rowell on D.Murder"...
"Wow He wakes up to this every morning," the die-hard Republican tweeted, along with a photo of Michelle with her mouth open.
The responding tweets have included suggestions that he kill himself and calling him a racist idiot and a lot worse. Baio then tried to prove he's not racist:
"I'm Not racist for posting a pic of M.O. My Wife's Best Frd Is Black,Hello" he tweeted.
And: "Do I look like I'm racist? This is Renee's Best frd. Stop Using The Race Card!!!"
Further evidence of his tolerance of black people: "If I'm racist, don't think I would have Directed shows like The Parkers & The Wayans Bros. or worked 41 eps w/ Victoria Rowell on D.Murder"...
- 1/21/2010
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
Machinima.com, flush with cash after recently raising $3.85 million in capital, has announced the Machinima Comedy Lab, where the site is bringing on fifteen traditional TV writers, each to develop a comedy web series pilots. The series will be greenlit for up to four episodes each before they decide whether to further produce the series. Amongst the list veteran writers selected are Writers Guild of America West president Patric M. Verrone, Family Guy scribe Mike Rowe and a number of former staffers on The Simpsons. The full list: * Chris Cluess: Mad TV, The Simpsons, Cheers * Bill Freiberger: Drawn Together, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, The Simpsons * Eric Horsted: Boondocks, Knights of Prosperity, Futurama * Ken Keeler: Futurama, The Simpsons, Wings * Stacie Lipp: King of Queens, Roseanne, Married With Children * Christina Lynch: Wildfire, The Dead Zone, Unhappily Ever After * Peggy Nicoll: WordGirl, Daria * Bill Oakley: Mission Hill,...
- 12/19/2008
- by Marc Hustvedt
- Tubefilter.com
Daytime talker "The Tyra Banks Show" is moving to the CW's afternoon block in September.
The hourlong show, from Warner Bros. Domestic TV Distribution and Telepictures Prods., has been airing in syndication for four seasons. The switch to the CW will see "Tyra" double-run from 3-5 p.m. weekdays.
The CW agreement means that both of Banks' TV shows -- "The Tyra Banks Show" and "America's Next Top Model" -- will air on the same network starting in the fall.
As a result of "Tyra" moving to the CW, Wbdtd will begin offering the freshman court program "Judge Jeanine Pirro" in first-run syndication for fall 2009. The show is now airing from 3-4 p.m. weekdays on the CW, followed by the sitcoms "The Wayans Bros." and "The Jamie Foxx Show" from 4-5 p.m.
"Tyra" will continue to air new episodes in syndication, where it's cleared in 97% of the country,...
The hourlong show, from Warner Bros. Domestic TV Distribution and Telepictures Prods., has been airing in syndication for four seasons. The switch to the CW will see "Tyra" double-run from 3-5 p.m. weekdays.
The CW agreement means that both of Banks' TV shows -- "The Tyra Banks Show" and "America's Next Top Model" -- will air on the same network starting in the fall.
As a result of "Tyra" moving to the CW, Wbdtd will begin offering the freshman court program "Judge Jeanine Pirro" in first-run syndication for fall 2009. The show is now airing from 3-4 p.m. weekdays on the CW, followed by the sitcoms "The Wayans Bros." and "The Jamie Foxx Show" from 4-5 p.m.
"Tyra" will continue to air new episodes in syndication, where it's cleared in 97% of the country,...
- 11/21/2008
- by By Kimberly Nordyke
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Have the networks run out of new episodes of your favorite shows? The writers strike has brought the current TV season to a standstill but thankfully you can still find performers from cancelled shows. Check out what some of them are doing!
Marlon Wayans (The Wayans Bros.) and Joseph Gordon-Levitt (3rd Rock from the Sun) are the latest to join the cast of the upcoming G.I. Joe live-action movie. Wayans will play Ripcord, a leader of the military unit, while Gordon-Levitt's role is currently unknown. Filming will begin in February and the movie hits theaters on August 7, 2009.
Antoni Corone (Oz) has signed on to Paul Greengrass' Imperial Life in the Emerald City movie. He'll be acting alongside Matt Damon (Project Greenlight) and Amy Ryan (The Wire, Kidnapped), and will play a colonel in Baghdad's Green Zone. Production is currently underway in Spain.
Liza Lapira (Huff) has joined the...
Marlon Wayans (The Wayans Bros.) and Joseph Gordon-Levitt (3rd Rock from the Sun) are the latest to join the cast of the upcoming G.I. Joe live-action movie. Wayans will play Ripcord, a leader of the military unit, while Gordon-Levitt's role is currently unknown. Filming will begin in February and the movie hits theaters on August 7, 2009.
Antoni Corone (Oz) has signed on to Paul Greengrass' Imperial Life in the Emerald City movie. He'll be acting alongside Matt Damon (Project Greenlight) and Amy Ryan (The Wire, Kidnapped), and will play a colonel in Baghdad's Green Zone. Production is currently underway in Spain.
Liza Lapira (Huff) has joined the...
- 1/18/2008
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
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