It seems today that all you see is cartoon shows with little continuity.
Nevertheless, Seth MacFarlane’s Family Guy, as obscene and silly as it may be, decides to switch up its “canon” every so often. Whether it’s due to the passing of a cast member, attempts at a ratings stunt, or (unintentional) acts of progressiveness for its characters’ development, the Griffin family’s world within Quahog for the past 25 years of airing has only expanded.
Here are some of the most significant canon changes in Family Guy history.
Revival With Yolo Energy
Due to low ratings, Family Guy faced the cancellation gun early into its lifespan. But in its death, the great bird-is-the-word got around via DVD sales and rerun airings on Adult Swim. Thus, in its rebirth on Fox in 2005, the show became cruder, bloodier, and edgier than ever, both in its art style and spirit. The...
Nevertheless, Seth MacFarlane’s Family Guy, as obscene and silly as it may be, decides to switch up its “canon” every so often. Whether it’s due to the passing of a cast member, attempts at a ratings stunt, or (unintentional) acts of progressiveness for its characters’ development, the Griffin family’s world within Quahog for the past 25 years of airing has only expanded.
Here are some of the most significant canon changes in Family Guy history.
Revival With Yolo Energy
Due to low ratings, Family Guy faced the cancellation gun early into its lifespan. But in its death, the great bird-is-the-word got around via DVD sales and rerun airings on Adult Swim. Thus, in its rebirth on Fox in 2005, the show became cruder, bloodier, and edgier than ever, both in its art style and spirit. The...
- 5/20/2024
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Star Wars fans haven’t seen Lando Calrissian – that is, the Billy Dee Williams version – on the big screen in five years. But will we ever again? With so many Star Wars projects on the horizon, it’s possible that Lando could turn up in some corner of the galaxy…But would Williams ever don the cape again? Sure – provided you show him the dough.
As Billy Dee Williams told Radio Times on any potential return to the character, “Pay me a lot of money and I’ll sell my soul.” As portrayed by Williams, Lando Calrissian first appeared in 1980’s The Empire Strikes Back, a former friend of Han Solo’s and one-time owner of the Millennium Falcon, the lore of which would be explored later in the Star Wars saga. Williams would return as Lando for 1983’s Return of the Jedi but wouldn’t reprise the character again – in the flesh,...
As Billy Dee Williams told Radio Times on any potential return to the character, “Pay me a lot of money and I’ll sell my soul.” As portrayed by Williams, Lando Calrissian first appeared in 1980’s The Empire Strikes Back, a former friend of Han Solo’s and one-time owner of the Millennium Falcon, the lore of which would be explored later in the Star Wars saga. Williams would return as Lando for 1983’s Return of the Jedi but wouldn’t reprise the character again – in the flesh,...
- 3/23/2024
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
At the moment, Mark Wahlberg is content with growing older and taking on the roles that go along with it. He is currently in a family-friendly phase of his career that will continue with Arthur the King, his upcoming flick.
However, fans of the hit comedy franchise Ted might have to remain patient for another installment. Indeed, Wahlberg has recently announced that he is focusing on more family-friendly projects at this point in his career. While this may be disappointing news for fans eagerly anticipating his return to the raunchy and hilarious world of Ted, Wahlberg’s commitment to “age-appropriate roles” is admirable.
Seth MacFarlane and Mark Wahlberg in a still from Ted
The story of John Bennett, a lonely young boy who longs for a friend like Ted—his beloved teddy bear—is beautifully told in Ted, the highest-grossing comedy film of 2012. The narrative then switches to an adult Bennett,...
However, fans of the hit comedy franchise Ted might have to remain patient for another installment. Indeed, Wahlberg has recently announced that he is focusing on more family-friendly projects at this point in his career. While this may be disappointing news for fans eagerly anticipating his return to the raunchy and hilarious world of Ted, Wahlberg’s commitment to “age-appropriate roles” is admirable.
Seth MacFarlane and Mark Wahlberg in a still from Ted
The story of John Bennett, a lonely young boy who longs for a friend like Ted—his beloved teddy bear—is beautifully told in Ted, the highest-grossing comedy film of 2012. The narrative then switches to an adult Bennett,...
- 3/6/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Animation mastermind Seth MacFarlane made a name for himself with the creation of "Family Guy." After working on Hanna-Barbera cartoons like "Dexter's Laboratory" and "Johnny Bravo," MacFarlane would bring his irreverent riff on the animated family sitcom to Fox in 1999. Though the series was initially canceled after three seasons, the show's release on DVD resulted in renewed interest from both audiences and the network, and the show has been running for 22 seasons and counting. Since then, MacFarlane has created several more animated hits, including "American Dad" and the "Family Guy" spin-off "The Cleveland Show," but he's also shifted into both live-action TV and movies, which includes the raunchy buddy comedy franchise "Ted."
"Ted" follows the antics of John Bennett (Mark Wahlberg), a thirty-something who is best friends with a teddy bear that magically came to life after wishing on a magic star when John was just a boy. It might sound family friendly and whimsical,...
"Ted" follows the antics of John Bennett (Mark Wahlberg), a thirty-something who is best friends with a teddy bear that magically came to life after wishing on a magic star when John was just a boy. It might sound family friendly and whimsical,...
- 2/10/2024
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Seth Macfarlane’s animated series Family Guy, The Cleveland Show, and American Dad have become as culturally significant as The Simpsons. With edgy humor and non sequitur galore, MacFarlane segued to the big screen with the fantasy comedy Ted starring Mark Wahlberg about a man-child and his teddy bear who has come alive. Full of gross-out humor and equal amounts of heartfelt comedy, Ted was a smash hit and spawned a sequel. Since then, MacFarlane has made A Million Ways To Die In The West and the more serious science fiction series The Orville. Now, MacFarlane is returning to Ted with a Peacock prequel series that blends the sitcom format of his animated shows with that same blend of crass and feel-good comedy that has become his trademark.
Ted, the series, goes back to the high school years for John Bennett (Max Burkholder taking over for Mark Wahlberg) as he...
Ted, the series, goes back to the high school years for John Bennett (Max Burkholder taking over for Mark Wahlberg) as he...
- 1/16/2024
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
Fox’s Jon Hamm-led animation show “Grimsburg” has snagged a premiere date with some outsized leverage.
“Grimsburg,” a series that Fox has promised will bring the animation genre to “new heights,” will debut Sunday, Jan. 7, after the second of two NFL games that day.
The news was revealed Saturday at a New York Comic Con presentation that featured “Grimsburg” showrunner Chadd Gindin. The event included a screening from the show’s first episode and a panel discussion. Fox also released a trailer for “Grimsburg,” which you can watch above.
“I’m the world’s most smartest detective,” a Hamm-voiced Detective Marvin Flute declares in the clip.
Flute “may be the greatest detective ever to catch a cannibal clown or correctly identify a mid-century modern armoire,” according to a logline. Despite his detective skills, Flute struggles to crack the mystery of his family. “Now that he’s back in Grimsburg,...
“Grimsburg,” a series that Fox has promised will bring the animation genre to “new heights,” will debut Sunday, Jan. 7, after the second of two NFL games that day.
The news was revealed Saturday at a New York Comic Con presentation that featured “Grimsburg” showrunner Chadd Gindin. The event included a screening from the show’s first episode and a panel discussion. Fox also released a trailer for “Grimsburg,” which you can watch above.
“I’m the world’s most smartest detective,” a Hamm-voiced Detective Marvin Flute declares in the clip.
Flute “may be the greatest detective ever to catch a cannibal clown or correctly identify a mid-century modern armoire,” according to a logline. Despite his detective skills, Flute struggles to crack the mystery of his family. “Now that he’s back in Grimsburg,...
- 10/14/2023
- by Jeremy Bailey
- The Wrap
In 2003, Jason Sudeikis, one of the many alumni of the Second City comedy troupe who went on to be involved with "Saturday Night Live," was scouted while performing in Las Vegas. He was brought on to write "SNL" sketches, and joined the cast in 2005. Sudeikis was the show's go-to George W. Bush impersonator, as well as their Mitt Romney and occasional Joe Biden. While performing on "SNL," Sudeikis' career took off in earnest, and he began appearing on "30 Rock," "The Cleveland Show," and in many, many comedy films. Sudeikis has been in the public eye pretty constantly since 2005, and his profile has only grown since his departure from "SNL" in 2013. His most recent hit is the sports dramady "Ted Lasso," which he developed and stars in. To date, "Ted Lasso" has won eight Primetime Emmys. Sudeikis may be the only performer in history to win an Emmy and also...
- 4/2/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Image Source: Everett Collection
Jason Sudeikis is arguably most recognized now for his award-winning work in the acclaimed Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso," but the actor had a strong start in the entertainment industry before that. In 2003, he started working as a writer for "Saturday Night Live," and he went on to work on the beloved live comedy show as both an actor and writer for the next 10 years before his departure in 2013. After he gained popularity on "SNL," Sudeikis appeared in other shows, including "30 Rock" from 2007 to 2010 and "The Cleveland Show," which he voice acted for from 2009 to 2013.
Following his success on TV, Sudeikis turned his attention to movies, notably starring in comedies like "Horrible Bosses" alongside Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman, "The Campaign," and "We're the Millers" in the early 2010s. Along with his comedic performances, the actor also has taken on roles in indie films like "Sleeping With Other People,...
Jason Sudeikis is arguably most recognized now for his award-winning work in the acclaimed Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso," but the actor had a strong start in the entertainment industry before that. In 2003, he started working as a writer for "Saturday Night Live," and he went on to work on the beloved live comedy show as both an actor and writer for the next 10 years before his departure in 2013. After he gained popularity on "SNL," Sudeikis appeared in other shows, including "30 Rock" from 2007 to 2010 and "The Cleveland Show," which he voice acted for from 2009 to 2013.
Following his success on TV, Sudeikis turned his attention to movies, notably starring in comedies like "Horrible Bosses" alongside Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman, "The Campaign," and "We're the Millers" in the early 2010s. Along with his comedic performances, the actor also has taken on roles in indie films like "Sleeping With Other People,...
- 3/14/2023
- by Alicia Geigel
- Popsugar.com
Fox's Sunday night animation lineup is about to collide, if only for a moment. In a clip from this week's episode of "Family Guy," which was just released by Entertainment Weekly, Peter Griffin (Seth MacFarlane) ends up at Bob's Burgers restaurant, where he pulls up a stool alongside Homer Simpson. It's less a major crossover moment than a quick gag, but "Bob's Burgers" star H. John Benjamin does make a voiceover guest appearance as the chef we know and love from the ever-underrated wharf restaurant.
The scene, which you can watch now below or on the Animation Domination YouTube channel, starts with Peter Griffin instantly trying to find a way to extricate himself from the situation when his wife, Lois (Alex Borstein) starts describing a dream she had the night before. "Eh-heh," he says while backing away, first out of the house and then down the street before eventually backing...
The scene, which you can watch now below or on the Animation Domination YouTube channel, starts with Peter Griffin instantly trying to find a way to extricate himself from the situation when his wife, Lois (Alex Borstein) starts describing a dream she had the night before. "Eh-heh," he says while backing away, first out of the house and then down the street before eventually backing...
- 3/6/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
WME has signed Seth MacFarlane as well as his production company Fuzzy Door. He was previously repped by CAA and continues to be repped by Jackoway Austen and manager Joy Fehily.
MacFarlane is best known for creating “Family Guy,” the animated comedy that has been running on Fox since 1999. He also voices the characters Peter, Stewie and Brian Griffin in the series, which was recently renewed for its 22nd and 23rd season. MacFarlane also co-created the “Family Guy” spinoff “The Cleveland Show,” which ran for four seasons from 2009 to 2014. “Family Guy” has earned MacFarlane five Emmy awards.
Outside of the “Family Guy” universe, MacFarlane also serves as a co-creator and executive producer on “American Dad!,” and voices Stan Smith and Roger. The series began on Fox before moving to TBS, where it concluded its 19th season in December 2022.
MacFarlane’s other credits include creating and starring in “The Orville” on Fox and later Hulu,...
MacFarlane is best known for creating “Family Guy,” the animated comedy that has been running on Fox since 1999. He also voices the characters Peter, Stewie and Brian Griffin in the series, which was recently renewed for its 22nd and 23rd season. MacFarlane also co-created the “Family Guy” spinoff “The Cleveland Show,” which ran for four seasons from 2009 to 2014. “Family Guy” has earned MacFarlane five Emmy awards.
Outside of the “Family Guy” universe, MacFarlane also serves as a co-creator and executive producer on “American Dad!,” and voices Stan Smith and Roger. The series began on Fox before moving to TBS, where it concluded its 19th season in December 2022.
MacFarlane’s other credits include creating and starring in “The Orville” on Fox and later Hulu,...
- 2/8/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Fox has handed out a (very) early renewal to one of its upcoming animated series.
The network has picked up a second season of Grimsburg, a comedy starring Jon Hamm as a down-on-his-luck detective. The series, an in-house production from Fox Entertainment and animation studio Bento Box that the network ordered a year ago, is set to premiere sometime in 2023.
“Grimsburg is yet another clear example of our strong commitment to, and intense focus on, upholding the high bar of standards any show must exceed in order to reside under the Animation Domination banner,” Fox Entertainment president Michael Thorn said in a statement. “Of course, having Jon Hamm’s talent and star power front and center is a great place to start. Everything we’re seeing with Grimsburg — from the very first scripts and show bible to animatics and preliminary cuts — makes us...
Fox has handed out a (very) early renewal to one of its upcoming animated series.
The network has picked up a second season of Grimsburg, a comedy starring Jon Hamm as a down-on-his-luck detective. The series, an in-house production from Fox Entertainment and animation studio Bento Box that the network ordered a year ago, is set to premiere sometime in 2023.
“Grimsburg is yet another clear example of our strong commitment to, and intense focus on, upholding the high bar of standards any show must exceed in order to reside under the Animation Domination banner,” Fox Entertainment president Michael Thorn said in a statement. “Of course, having Jon Hamm’s talent and star power front and center is a great place to start. Everything we’re seeing with Grimsburg — from the very first scripts and show bible to animatics and preliminary cuts — makes us...
- 10/17/2022
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Grimsburg has been picked up for a second season at Fox ahead of its premiere.
It is the latest animated series to be renewed before audiences get a chance to see the show.
Grimsburg, which stars Jon Hamm as a misanthropic detective, will launch in 2023.
It comes from newcomers Catlan McClelland and Matthew Schlissel. The news was announced by Fox’s Michael Thorn at Mipcom during a panel session.
Thorn said Grimsburg was an example of its commitment to animation.
The series follows Marvin Flute (Hamm), who might be the greatest detective ever to catch a cannibal clown or correctly identify a mid-century modern armoire. But there’s one mystery he still can’t crack: his family. Now that he’s back in Grimsburg, a town where everyone has a secret or three, Flute will follow every lead he’s got to redeem himself with the ex-wife he never stopped loving,...
It is the latest animated series to be renewed before audiences get a chance to see the show.
Grimsburg, which stars Jon Hamm as a misanthropic detective, will launch in 2023.
It comes from newcomers Catlan McClelland and Matthew Schlissel. The news was announced by Fox’s Michael Thorn at Mipcom during a panel session.
Thorn said Grimsburg was an example of its commitment to animation.
The series follows Marvin Flute (Hamm), who might be the greatest detective ever to catch a cannibal clown or correctly identify a mid-century modern armoire. But there’s one mystery he still can’t crack: his family. Now that he’s back in Grimsburg, a town where everyone has a secret or three, Flute will follow every lead he’s got to redeem himself with the ex-wife he never stopped loving,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Orville was the first live-action series from Seth Macfarlane, compared to the other series the creator has had on Fox, such as Family Guy, The Cleveland Show, and American Dad. While The Orville was the only Seth Macfarlane live-action venture on television when it premiered, it’s not the only live-action venture overall, as Seth Macfarlane has also had the movies Ted, Ted 2, and A Million Ways to Die in the West. However, Seth Macfarlane also has an upcoming television show with Hulu as a continuation of Ted. Below, we’ve detailed The Orville on Fox, then Hulu, but more
The Orville Beyond Season 3...
The Orville Beyond Season 3...
- 10/1/2022
- by Connor Dillon
- TVovermind.com
For a long time, people thought Seth MacFarlane could only make one kind of show. He got famous creating "Family Guy," and followed them up with "American Dad" and "The Cleveland Show," all three of which had extremely similar formats as animated comedies about families (it's important to note that they were "comedies about families" and not "family comedies"). He did one thing, he was good at it, and he found commercial success. The formula worked. Who cares if it got stale and produced diminishing returns? What more could he want?
This was until 2017, when "The Orville" debuted on Fox. This was a project with MacFarlane in a major creative and on-screen starring role, both of which are very familiar to him. However, the show was extremely different from his previous projects, being a live-action homage to "Star Trek." Despite initially mixed reviews, "The Orville" found its stride in its second season,...
This was until 2017, when "The Orville" debuted on Fox. This was a project with MacFarlane in a major creative and on-screen starring role, both of which are very familiar to him. However, the show was extremely different from his previous projects, being a live-action homage to "Star Trek." Despite initially mixed reviews, "The Orville" found its stride in its second season,...
- 9/7/2022
- by Matt Rainis
- Slash Film
Half of the record-breaking 14 acting Emmy nominations “Succession” received this year went to guest performers, three of whom are women. The only other series that have ever amassed as many simultaneous bids in the Best Drama Guest Actress category are “Six Feet Under” (2002), “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (2009), and “The Handmaid’s Tale” (2018). Included among the “Succession” trio is Sanaa Lathan, whose third-season performance is the first for which she has earned TV academy recognition.
SEENicholas Braun (‘Succession’) on his Emmy-nominated ‘season of maturity’ for Greg [Exclusive Video Interview]
Lathan’s “Succession” character, New York lawyer Lisa Arthur, was introduced in the latest season’s premiere episode. The actress is specifically nominated for the installment “What It Takes,” in which Arthur advises her client, Waystar Royco COO Kendall Roy (Jeremy Strong), against proceeding with his case against his family’s company due to insufficient evidence. Roy responds by cutting ties with her, but...
SEENicholas Braun (‘Succession’) on his Emmy-nominated ‘season of maturity’ for Greg [Exclusive Video Interview]
Lathan’s “Succession” character, New York lawyer Lisa Arthur, was introduced in the latest season’s premiere episode. The actress is specifically nominated for the installment “What It Takes,” in which Arthur advises her client, Waystar Royco COO Kendall Roy (Jeremy Strong), against proceeding with his case against his family’s company due to insufficient evidence. Roy responds by cutting ties with her, but...
- 8/4/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
“On the Come Up,” the directorial debut of Emmy-nominee Sanaa Lathan, will debut exclusively on Paramount+ in September shortly following its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
“On the Come Up” is based on the New York Times #1 best-selling novel by Angie Thomas (“The Hate U Give”). It is scheduled to premiere on Paramount+ Sept. 23 in the U.S., Canada and Italy and will be available in additional international territories later in the year.
Also Read:
Uzo Aduba, Aunjanue Ellis and Sanaa Lathan to Star in ‘The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat’
The film stars newcomer Jamila C. Gray as Bri, a 16 year old and gifted rapper who attempts to take the battle rap scene by storm in order to lift up her family and do right by the legacy of her father – himself a local hip hop legend whose life was cut short by gang violence. But...
“On the Come Up” is based on the New York Times #1 best-selling novel by Angie Thomas (“The Hate U Give”). It is scheduled to premiere on Paramount+ Sept. 23 in the U.S., Canada and Italy and will be available in additional international territories later in the year.
Also Read:
Uzo Aduba, Aunjanue Ellis and Sanaa Lathan to Star in ‘The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat’
The film stars newcomer Jamila C. Gray as Bri, a 16 year old and gifted rapper who attempts to take the battle rap scene by storm in order to lift up her family and do right by the legacy of her father – himself a local hip hop legend whose life was cut short by gang violence. But...
- 7/27/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
David Lynch is proudly a man of mystery, and thus it’s no surprise to ask yourself: What has this writer-director been in, besides his own works?
Well, the “Twin Peaks” creator seems to take his acting career in stride. One of the few filmmakers — or rather, people in general — who has a movement named after him, Lynch’s onscreen appearances are, well, inherently pretty Lynchian.
From voicing a cartoon bartender on “The Cleveland Show” to famously portraying far-out FBI agent Gordon Cole in “Twin Peaks,” Lynch’s performances have evolved over the course of over 40 years. Now, Lynch is set to appear in Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film “The Fabelmans,” as announced by Variety.
Spielberg is directing the film, which also stars Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” breakout Julia Butters, and newcomer Gabriel Labelle. Williams and Dano are rumored to portray Spielberg’s parents; according to Deadline,...
Well, the “Twin Peaks” creator seems to take his acting career in stride. One of the few filmmakers — or rather, people in general — who has a movement named after him, Lynch’s onscreen appearances are, well, inherently pretty Lynchian.
From voicing a cartoon bartender on “The Cleveland Show” to famously portraying far-out FBI agent Gordon Cole in “Twin Peaks,” Lynch’s performances have evolved over the course of over 40 years. Now, Lynch is set to appear in Steven Spielberg’s semi-autobiographical film “The Fabelmans,” as announced by Variety.
Spielberg is directing the film, which also stars Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” breakout Julia Butters, and newcomer Gabriel Labelle. Williams and Dano are rumored to portray Spielberg’s parents; according to Deadline,...
- 7/22/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
Craig Robinson, the star of “The Office” and “Hot Tub Time Machine,” was evacuated from the Charlotte, N.C. comedy club where he was scheduled to perform on Saturday night after a man brandished a gun and demanded everyone leave the venue. He later discharged the firearm, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, which reports that there were no injuries and the suspect is in custody. The club was evacuated before the gun was fired, police said.
Robinson shared the experience on social media. “I’m safe,” he said in a video message on Instagram. “I’m cool. It was wild I was in the green room and they’re like ‘everybody get out.’ It was a moment for sure.”
Robinson posted the video while watching a Big Time Rush concert at the Metro Credit Union Amphitheater, saying that he had been told to go to the nearby theater while...
Robinson shared the experience on social media. “I’m safe,” he said in a video message on Instagram. “I’m cool. It was wild I was in the green room and they’re like ‘everybody get out.’ It was a moment for sure.”
Robinson posted the video while watching a Big Time Rush concert at the Metro Credit Union Amphitheater, saying that he had been told to go to the nearby theater while...
- 7/17/2022
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Updated with latest: The press line at tonight’s season 3 premiere event for Hulu’s series The Orville: New Horizons has been canceled in light of yesterday’s school shooting in Uvalde, Texas which killed 19 children and two adults.
It’s the latest showbiz event that’s been scaled down as angry, sad and questioning sentiments are being broadly expressed across the political spectrum in the U.S.
Texas School Shooting: Deadline’s Coverage
The following message was sent to media by Hulu & The Orville Team earlier today:
In light of the tragic events in Texas yesterday, there will no longer be a press line at tonight’s premiere for The Orville: New Horizons. Our deepest sympathies are with the families affected. Thank you so much for your understanding.
The Orville: New Horizons is created, written, produced and directed (the pilot) by Seth MacFarlane, who also stars as Captain Ed Mercer.
It’s the latest showbiz event that’s been scaled down as angry, sad and questioning sentiments are being broadly expressed across the political spectrum in the U.S.
Texas School Shooting: Deadline’s Coverage
The following message was sent to media by Hulu & The Orville Team earlier today:
In light of the tragic events in Texas yesterday, there will no longer be a press line at tonight’s premiere for The Orville: New Horizons. Our deepest sympathies are with the families affected. Thank you so much for your understanding.
The Orville: New Horizons is created, written, produced and directed (the pilot) by Seth MacFarlane, who also stars as Captain Ed Mercer.
- 5/25/2022
- by Tom Tapp
- Deadline Film + TV
Four top TV showrunners will reveal secrets behind their projects when they join Gold Derby’s special “Meet the Experts” Q&a event with 2022 Emmy Awards contenders. They will participate in two video discussions to premiere on Thursday, May 19, at 4:00 p.m. Pt; 7:00 p.m. Et. We’ll have a one-on-one with our senior editor Daniel Montgomery and a roundtable chat with all of the group together.
RSVP today to our entire ongoing Emmy contenders panel series by clicking here to book your free reservation. We’ll send you a reminder a few minutes before the start of the show.
This “Meet the Experts” panel welcomes the following 2022 contenders:
Black-ish (ABC)
Synopsis: A couple struggles to gain a sense of cultural identity while raising kids in a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood.
Bio: Courtney Lilly was a four-time Emmy nominee for “Black-ish.” He has also been nominated at the...
RSVP today to our entire ongoing Emmy contenders panel series by clicking here to book your free reservation. We’ll send you a reminder a few minutes before the start of the show.
This “Meet the Experts” panel welcomes the following 2022 contenders:
Black-ish (ABC)
Synopsis: A couple struggles to gain a sense of cultural identity while raising kids in a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood.
Bio: Courtney Lilly was a four-time Emmy nominee for “Black-ish.” He has also been nominated at the...
- 5/13/2022
- by Chris Beachum and Daniel Montgomery
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: Ne-Yo (Step Up: High Water) has signed on to star alongside his real-life aunt Kym Whitley (Twenties) and niece Tyler Kay Whitley (The Game) in the indie romantic comedy The Pact, from writer-director Robert Mychal Patrick Butler (Life Ain’t Like The Movies).
The film follows best friends Jessie (Tyler Kay Whitley) and Brandon, who made a pact in college to get married on their 30th birthday, should they both be single at the time. After Brandon gets dumped by his longtime girlfriend Amanda (Grace Aubry) on the eve of his 30th, he heads to Vegas with Jessie, marrying her after a night of drunken shenanigans. Back home, confronted with the fallout of their decision, Jessie has to deal with a new relationship and her upset Aunt Porsha (Kym Whitley), who found out her favorite niece has gotten married on social media. She’s at the same time tasked by her manager,...
The film follows best friends Jessie (Tyler Kay Whitley) and Brandon, who made a pact in college to get married on their 30th birthday, should they both be single at the time. After Brandon gets dumped by his longtime girlfriend Amanda (Grace Aubry) on the eve of his 30th, he heads to Vegas with Jessie, marrying her after a night of drunken shenanigans. Back home, confronted with the fallout of their decision, Jessie has to deal with a new relationship and her upset Aunt Porsha (Kym Whitley), who found out her favorite niece has gotten married on social media. She’s at the same time tasked by her manager,...
- 4/14/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
David Lynch has joined the cast of Steven Spielberg’s upcoming drama “The Fabelmans,” Variety has learned. His role remains a closely guarded secret.
“The Fabelmans” will mark the first collaboration between Lynch and Spielberg, both seminal directorial talents that emerged in the 1970’s. Lynch has accumulated a celebrated body of work over the course of his filmmaking career, drawing acclaim for directing films such as “Mulholland Drive,” “Eraserhead,” “Blue Velvet,” “The Straight Story” and “Lost Highway.” His 1980 historical drama “The Elephant Man” received eight Oscar nominations, including one for Lynch’s directing, while his crime romance “Wild at Heart” won the Palme d’Or at the 1990 Cannes Film Festival. Lynch received Oscar nominations for best director for “Blue Velvet” and “Mulholland Drive.” His most recent feature, “Inland Empire,” was released in 2006, inspiring praise from critics groups.
Lynch is also one of the minds behind the television series “Twin Peaks,...
“The Fabelmans” will mark the first collaboration between Lynch and Spielberg, both seminal directorial talents that emerged in the 1970’s. Lynch has accumulated a celebrated body of work over the course of his filmmaking career, drawing acclaim for directing films such as “Mulholland Drive,” “Eraserhead,” “Blue Velvet,” “The Straight Story” and “Lost Highway.” His 1980 historical drama “The Elephant Man” received eight Oscar nominations, including one for Lynch’s directing, while his crime romance “Wild at Heart” won the Palme d’Or at the 1990 Cannes Film Festival. Lynch received Oscar nominations for best director for “Blue Velvet” and “Mulholland Drive.” His most recent feature, “Inland Empire,” was released in 2006, inspiring praise from critics groups.
Lynch is also one of the minds behind the television series “Twin Peaks,...
- 2/4/2022
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Jon Hamm is set to voice a misanthropic detective in a new animated comedy series for Fox.
The Mad Men star will lead Grimsburg from newcomers Catlan McClelland and Matthew Schlissel.
The series, which will launch in 2023, follows Marvin Flute (Hamm), who might be the greatest detective ever to catch a cannibal clown or correctly identify a mid-century modern armoire. But there’s one mystery he still can’t crack: his family. Now that he’s back in Grimsburg, a town where everyone has a secret or three, Flute will follow every lead he’s got to redeem himself with the ex-wife he never stopped loving, even if it means hanging out with the son he never bothered to get to know.
Hamm also will exec produce alongside the Jackal Group’s Gail Berman and Hend Baghdady, Connie Tavel (Judging Amy) and showrunner Chadd Gindin (The Cleveland Show).
It marks the first pilot sale,...
The Mad Men star will lead Grimsburg from newcomers Catlan McClelland and Matthew Schlissel.
The series, which will launch in 2023, follows Marvin Flute (Hamm), who might be the greatest detective ever to catch a cannibal clown or correctly identify a mid-century modern armoire. But there’s one mystery he still can’t crack: his family. Now that he’s back in Grimsburg, a town where everyone has a secret or three, Flute will follow every lead he’s got to redeem himself with the ex-wife he never stopped loving, even if it means hanging out with the son he never bothered to get to know.
Hamm also will exec produce alongside the Jackal Group’s Gail Berman and Hend Baghdady, Connie Tavel (Judging Amy) and showrunner Chadd Gindin (The Cleveland Show).
It marks the first pilot sale,...
- 10/28/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Baratunde Thurston’s animated project “How to Be Black” has been put into development at ABC, hailing from 20th Television Animation and ABC Signature. Thurston, author of the memoir of the same name and podcast host of “How to Citizen with Baratunde,” will write and executive produce alongside Courtney Lilly, producer and writer known for “Arrested Development” and “The Cleveland Show,” who recently renewed his overall deal with ABC Signature. The bestselling book “How to Be Black” focuses on the community and family that raised a young Thurston in 1980s Washington, D.C.
Laurence Fishburne and Helen Sugland will also executive produce via Cinema Gypsy Productions, the production banner behind “Black-ish,” “Grown-ish” and “Mixed-ish.” The company, founded in 2000 with an eye toward developing projects that highlight cultural, racial and gender diversity issues in America, produced the hit podcast series, “Bronzeville,” as well as “Thurgood” (HBO), “Five Fingers” (Lionsgate), “Akeelah and the Bee...
Laurence Fishburne and Helen Sugland will also executive produce via Cinema Gypsy Productions, the production banner behind “Black-ish,” “Grown-ish” and “Mixed-ish.” The company, founded in 2000 with an eye toward developing projects that highlight cultural, racial and gender diversity issues in America, produced the hit podcast series, “Bronzeville,” as well as “Thurgood” (HBO), “Five Fingers” (Lionsgate), “Akeelah and the Bee...
- 9/22/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
ABC has placed Baratunde Thurston’s animated project “How to Be Black” into development. The adaptation of Thurston’s best-selling memoir of the same name will be produced by 20th Television Animation and ABC Signature.
Thurston and Courtney Lilly will write and executive produce the project. Laurence Fishburne and Helen Sugland will serve as executive producers via Cinema Gypsy Productions.
“How to Be Black” — both the book and the potential television series — focuses on the community and family that raised a young Baratunde in 1980s Washington, D.C.
Thurston is a TV host, author and the creator and host of podcast “How To Citizen with Baratunde.” He’s also a founding partner of the new media startup Puck. He is repped by Kara Baker at Avalon Management, Seth Horwitz at Schreck Rose Dapello Adams Berlin & Dunham, UTA and ID.
Lilly, who this year renewed his overall deal with ABC Signature,...
Thurston and Courtney Lilly will write and executive produce the project. Laurence Fishburne and Helen Sugland will serve as executive producers via Cinema Gypsy Productions.
“How to Be Black” — both the book and the potential television series — focuses on the community and family that raised a young Baratunde in 1980s Washington, D.C.
Thurston is a TV host, author and the creator and host of podcast “How To Citizen with Baratunde.” He’s also a founding partner of the new media startup Puck. He is repped by Kara Baker at Avalon Management, Seth Horwitz at Schreck Rose Dapello Adams Berlin & Dunham, UTA and ID.
Lilly, who this year renewed his overall deal with ABC Signature,...
- 9/22/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
The Legends of Tomorrow are now the Legends of… 1925? In a new promo for Season 7, the team is grounded in the past following the unexpected destruction of their time-ship by another, mysterious Waverider in the Season 6 finale.
“If we stay here, it could get really bad,” Ava warns as the group goes about saving history while getting quite familiar with 1920s fashion. But can the Legends find a way out of their current predicament? “We’re just a bunch of weirdos with truly random superpowers,” Zari notes.
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“If we stay here, it could get really bad,” Ava warns as the group goes about saving history while getting quite familiar with 1920s fashion. But can the Legends find a way out of their current predicament? “We’re just a bunch of weirdos with truly random superpowers,” Zari notes.
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- 9/17/2021
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
Chicago – Meeting Ed Asner is like meeting the grumpy uncle that you still love, because you know despite his curmudgeon nature, his has passion, spunk and delivers all of it in many ways. He was Lou Grant in The Mary Tyler Moore Show most famously in the 1970s, but his other acting pursuits were just as significant.
Edward Asner was born in Kansas City, Missouri. He began his acting career in the Army, touring in plays while in the Signal Corp. He attended the University of Chicago, and joined an early version of The Second City troupe, the Playwrights Theatre Company of Chicago (Asner is considered a Second City alumni). He was a consummate character actor in the 1960s, appearing in such diverse series as “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “Route 66,” “The Untouchables,” “The Outer Limits,” “Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea” and “Mission: Impossible.”
Ed Asner in Chicago, circa...
Edward Asner was born in Kansas City, Missouri. He began his acting career in the Army, touring in plays while in the Signal Corp. He attended the University of Chicago, and joined an early version of The Second City troupe, the Playwrights Theatre Company of Chicago (Asner is considered a Second City alumni). He was a consummate character actor in the 1960s, appearing in such diverse series as “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “Route 66,” “The Untouchables,” “The Outer Limits,” “Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea” and “Mission: Impossible.”
Ed Asner in Chicago, circa...
- 8/30/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Seth MacFarlane signed a massive television deal with NBCUniversal last year, signaling the end of his decades-long relationship with 20th Century Fox Television (now 20th Century Television). MacFarlane’s biggest hit during his tenure at Fox was the animated comedy series “Family Guy,” which, to the creator’s disappointment, will remain a Fox fixture even as he makes a new home at NBCUniversal.
MacFarlane has long been a vocal opponent of Fox News host Tucker Carlson, so much so that he said in 2018 that he was “embarrassed” to work for the same parent company that counts Carlson as one of its employees. Now the “Family Guy” creator is making headlines for sharing his wish that “Family Guy” aired on any other network besides Fox.
“Tucker Carlson’s latest opinion piece once again makes me wish ‘Family Guy’ was on any other network,” MacFarlane wrote August 1 on Twitter. “Look, Fox, we...
MacFarlane has long been a vocal opponent of Fox News host Tucker Carlson, so much so that he said in 2018 that he was “embarrassed” to work for the same parent company that counts Carlson as one of its employees. Now the “Family Guy” creator is making headlines for sharing his wish that “Family Guy” aired on any other network besides Fox.
“Tucker Carlson’s latest opinion piece once again makes me wish ‘Family Guy’ was on any other network,” MacFarlane wrote August 1 on Twitter. “Look, Fox, we...
- 8/2/2021
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
HBO Max will drop all 12 episodes of the animated British royal family satire series “The Prince” at midnight on Thursday. The show, executive produced by “Bob’s Burgers” alums Joel Kuwahara and Scott Greenberg, and produced by Leanne Moreau (“Young Justice”), looks at Buckingham Palace’s residents and staff through the eyes of Prince George — the eldest child of Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge.
Writer and executive producer Gary Janetti, who has written for shows like “Family Guy” and “Will & Grace,” will voice Prince George. Other members of the voice cast including Orlando Bloom as Prince Harry, Condola Rashad at Meghan Markle, Lucy Punch as Middleton, Tom Hollander as both Prince Philip and Prince Charles, Alan Cumming as George’s butler Owen, Frances de la Tour as Queen Elizabeth, Iwan Rheon as Prince William, Dan Stevens as Prince Charles and Sophie Turner as Princess Charlotte. 20th Century Fox Television will produce.
Writer and executive producer Gary Janetti, who has written for shows like “Family Guy” and “Will & Grace,” will voice Prince George. Other members of the voice cast including Orlando Bloom as Prince Harry, Condola Rashad at Meghan Markle, Lucy Punch as Middleton, Tom Hollander as both Prince Philip and Prince Charles, Alan Cumming as George’s butler Owen, Frances de la Tour as Queen Elizabeth, Iwan Rheon as Prince William, Dan Stevens as Prince Charles and Sophie Turner as Princess Charlotte. 20th Century Fox Television will produce.
- 7/28/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
Kevin Michael Richardson will be taking over the voice role of Dr. Hibbert on “The Simpsons,” replacing Harry Shearer, who portrayed the Black character since 1990.
Shearer voiced Dr. Hibbert on Sunday’s episode of “The Simpsons,” titled “DiaryQueen,” for the final time. Next week’s episode “Wad Goals” will feature Kevin Michael Richardson in the role, a representative for 20th Television confirmed to Variety.
The recasting comes after “Simpsons” producers said in June 2020 that white actors will no longer play non-white characters. Prior to that, Hank Azaria voiced the Indian character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon for years, drawing backlash among fans and the South Asian community. Azaria stepped down from the role in January 2020, and he was also replaced by Black voice actor Alex Désert as Carl Carlson in a fall 2020 episode.
During the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, several other animated shows recast characters of color who had previously been voiced by white actors.
Shearer voiced Dr. Hibbert on Sunday’s episode of “The Simpsons,” titled “DiaryQueen,” for the final time. Next week’s episode “Wad Goals” will feature Kevin Michael Richardson in the role, a representative for 20th Television confirmed to Variety.
The recasting comes after “Simpsons” producers said in June 2020 that white actors will no longer play non-white characters. Prior to that, Hank Azaria voiced the Indian character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon for years, drawing backlash among fans and the South Asian community. Azaria stepped down from the role in January 2020, and he was also replaced by Black voice actor Alex Désert as Carl Carlson in a fall 2020 episode.
During the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, several other animated shows recast characters of color who had previously been voiced by white actors.
- 2/22/2021
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
In the latest win for inclusive voice casting in animation, Harry Shearer is stepping down from voicing Dr. Hibbert on “The Simpsons” (via The Wrap.) The character, who first appeared in the 1990 second season of the iconic series, will be voiced by beloved voice actor Kevin Michael Richardson, best known for voicing Cleveland Brown Jr. on Seth MacFarlane’s “Family Guy” and “The Cleveland Show.” The change will go into effect as of next week’s episode, according to a statement from “Simpsons” studio 20th Television.
Shearer’s exit comes about eight months after a June 2020 announcement in solidarity with the George Floyd protests that “The Simpsons” would no longer voice Black characters with white actors. “Moving forward, ‘The Simpsons’ will no longer have white actors voice nonwhite characters,” the network said in a brief statement at the time.
Dr. Hibbert is not the most notorious case of cross-racial voice casting on “The Simpsons.
Shearer’s exit comes about eight months after a June 2020 announcement in solidarity with the George Floyd protests that “The Simpsons” would no longer voice Black characters with white actors. “Moving forward, ‘The Simpsons’ will no longer have white actors voice nonwhite characters,” the network said in a brief statement at the time.
Dr. Hibbert is not the most notorious case of cross-racial voice casting on “The Simpsons.
- 2/22/2021
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
General Hospital alum Chad Brannon, who played Zander Smith from August 2000 to March 2004, is returning to the ABC sudser in an undisclosed role/manner (given that Zander is, well, long dead).
Brannon will start taping his scenes as whomever/whatever (planet Lumina resident?) in mid-February, EW.com reports.
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Zander, for the uninitiated, is Cameron Webber’s biological father by way of Elizabeth Webber (played...
Brannon will start taping his scenes as whomever/whatever (planet Lumina resident?) in mid-February, EW.com reports.
More from TVLineBachelor's Chris Harrison Apologizes for 'Perpetuating Racism' in Interview About Contestant's Past PhotosFor Life's Nicholas Pinnock: Aaron Will Prosecute the Cops Who Killed His Client 'By Any Means Necessary'Big Sky Recap: Ronald Unravels
Zander, for the uninitiated, is Cameron Webber’s biological father by way of Elizabeth Webber (played...
- 2/10/2021
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
Sanaa Lathan, Linda Emond and Jihae have been tapped for recurring roles on the upcoming third season of HBO’s Emmy-winning drama series Succession. Season 3 is currently in production.
Lathan will play Lisa Arthur, a high profile well-connected New York lawyer. Emond portrays Michelle-Anne Vanderhoven, a senior White House aide. Jihae is Berry Schneider, a leading Public Relations consultant.
Ambushed by his rebellious son Kendall (Jeremy Strong) at the end of Season 2, Logan Roy (Brian Cox) begins Season 3 in a perilous position. Scrambling to secure familial, political, and financial alliances, tensions rise as a bitter corporate battle threatens to turn into a family civil war.
Succession is created by Jesse Armstong, who also serves as showrunner. He executive produces Season 3 with Adam McKay, Frank Rich, Kevin Messick, Jane Tranter, Mark Mylod, Tony Roche, Scott Ferguson, Jon Brown and Will Ferrell.
Succession won seven Emmys out of 18 nominations for its second season,...
Lathan will play Lisa Arthur, a high profile well-connected New York lawyer. Emond portrays Michelle-Anne Vanderhoven, a senior White House aide. Jihae is Berry Schneider, a leading Public Relations consultant.
Ambushed by his rebellious son Kendall (Jeremy Strong) at the end of Season 2, Logan Roy (Brian Cox) begins Season 3 in a perilous position. Scrambling to secure familial, political, and financial alliances, tensions rise as a bitter corporate battle threatens to turn into a family civil war.
Succession is created by Jesse Armstong, who also serves as showrunner. He executive produces Season 3 with Adam McKay, Frank Rich, Kevin Messick, Jane Tranter, Mark Mylod, Tony Roche, Scott Ferguson, Jon Brown and Will Ferrell.
Succession won seven Emmys out of 18 nominations for its second season,...
- 1/14/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
David Lynch hasn’t directed a feature since 2006’s Inland Empire, but he’s hardly been sitting back and taking it easy. The multi-talented filmmaker, actor, musician and artist has helmed 21 shorts, five commercials and five music videos in the interim, as well as lending his vocal talents to Gus the Bartender in The Cleveland Show and Family Guy.
He also spearheaded the Twin Peaks revival that brought the series back over a quarter of a century after the existential cult classic had originally been aired, making it appear as though he might be taking up permanent residence on the small screen having shown absolutely no interest in fighting against the compromises required to exist within the studio system. And frankly, that’s probably for the best.
The 74 year-old is now set to write and direct a new Netflix TV show going under the working title of Wisteria, which is...
He also spearheaded the Twin Peaks revival that brought the series back over a quarter of a century after the existential cult classic had originally been aired, making it appear as though he might be taking up permanent residence on the small screen having shown absolutely no interest in fighting against the compromises required to exist within the studio system. And frankly, that’s probably for the best.
The 74 year-old is now set to write and direct a new Netflix TV show going under the working title of Wisteria, which is...
- 11/27/2020
- by Scott Campbell
- We Got This Covered
Exclusive: Rapper Snoop Dogg is to voice and exec produce an animated comedy for Amazon with Vince Vaughn also exec producing.
The streamer is developing Oaklandia, which is written by Daniel Dominguez (right), head writer and exec producer for season two of HBO Max’s Michael B. Jordan animated series Gen:Lock, and Chris “Comedian Cp” Powell (left), who starred in Comedy Central’s Detroiters and created Adult Swim special Ole Bud’s Anu Football Weekly.
The animated series is set in Oakland, California. Produced by Amazon Studios, Snoop Dogg and his manager and business partner Ted Chung exec produce alongside Vaughn, Victoria Vaughn and Peter Billingsley for Wild West Picture Show Productions and Dominguez and Powell.
It is the streamer’s latest move into adult animation. Earlier this year, it ordered Fairfax, a series based on the strange phenomenon of Los Angeles hypebeast culture, from Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum, and...
The streamer is developing Oaklandia, which is written by Daniel Dominguez (right), head writer and exec producer for season two of HBO Max’s Michael B. Jordan animated series Gen:Lock, and Chris “Comedian Cp” Powell (left), who starred in Comedy Central’s Detroiters and created Adult Swim special Ole Bud’s Anu Football Weekly.
The animated series is set in Oakland, California. Produced by Amazon Studios, Snoop Dogg and his manager and business partner Ted Chung exec produce alongside Vaughn, Victoria Vaughn and Peter Billingsley for Wild West Picture Show Productions and Dominguez and Powell.
It is the streamer’s latest move into adult animation. Earlier this year, it ordered Fairfax, a series based on the strange phenomenon of Los Angeles hypebeast culture, from Matt Hausfater, Aaron Buchsbaum, and...
- 11/19/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network has ordered a second season of Ava DuVernay’s popular anthology drama series Cherish The Day. Season one co-executive producers Raynelle Swilling and Teri Schaffer (Marlon) have been tapped as executive producers and co-showrunners for season two. Production is slated to begin in 2021.
The renewal follows strong ratings for the first season of Cherish The Day. Starring Xosha Roquemore, Alano Miller and Cicely Tyson, the series, on average during its seven-week season, ranked #1 in its time period across all of cable with African American women, households and total viewers
Cherish the Day, from DuVernay, Array Filmworks and Warner Bros. Television, chronicles the stirring relationship of one couple, with each episode spanning a single day. Season two will feature a new couple’s love story, with an all-new cast. The narrative will unfold to reveal significant moments in a relationship that compel us to hold true to the ones we love,...
The renewal follows strong ratings for the first season of Cherish The Day. Starring Xosha Roquemore, Alano Miller and Cicely Tyson, the series, on average during its seven-week season, ranked #1 in its time period across all of cable with African American women, households and total viewers
Cherish the Day, from DuVernay, Array Filmworks and Warner Bros. Television, chronicles the stirring relationship of one couple, with each episode spanning a single day. Season two will feature a new couple’s love story, with an all-new cast. The narrative will unfold to reveal significant moments in a relationship that compel us to hold true to the ones we love,...
- 10/26/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Family Guy has lined up Mike Henry's replacement, three months after he announced he was stepping down as the voice of Cleveland Brown on the beloved animated series.
Arif Zahir will assume the role, but he will not be a part of the early episodes of Family Guy Season 19.
Because of how long in advance animated shows are produced, it will be some time before Zahir's episodes will be ready to air.
Henry, who is not Black, has played Cleveland, who is Black, Family Guy debuted.
He also toplined its spinoff, The Cleveland Show, for four seasons, and returned to Family Guy full-time when the series was canceled.
"Firstly, I’m eternally grateful to have received this once in a lifetime opportunity,” Zahir said in a statement.
“When I heard that Mike Henry was stepping down from the role of Cleveland Brown — my favorite cartoon character of all time — I was shocked and saddened,...
Arif Zahir will assume the role, but he will not be a part of the early episodes of Family Guy Season 19.
Because of how long in advance animated shows are produced, it will be some time before Zahir's episodes will be ready to air.
Henry, who is not Black, has played Cleveland, who is Black, Family Guy debuted.
He also toplined its spinoff, The Cleveland Show, for four seasons, and returned to Family Guy full-time when the series was canceled.
"Firstly, I’m eternally grateful to have received this once in a lifetime opportunity,” Zahir said in a statement.
“When I heard that Mike Henry was stepping down from the role of Cleveland Brown — my favorite cartoon character of all time — I was shocked and saddened,...
- 9/25/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Three months after Family Guy star Mike Henry announced that he was stepping down as the voice of Cleveland Brown, a replacement has been named.
Arif Zahir (pictured right) will assume the role for the show’s upcoming 19th season. Several episodes were already produced — including Sunday’s premiere — and will continue to feature Henry’s voice, but the episodes currently in production will find Zahir playing the part.
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Henry,...
Arif Zahir (pictured right) will assume the role for the show’s upcoming 19th season. Several episodes were already produced — including Sunday’s premiere — and will continue to feature Henry’s voice, but the episodes currently in production will find Zahir playing the part.
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Henry,...
- 9/25/2020
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
Arif Zahir has gone from impersonating “Family Guy’s” Cleveland Brown on YouTube… to being cast as the new voice of the character on the actual show.
Zahir will take over as Cleveland in Season 19, as the show has just been picked up for two more seasons (its 19th and 20th) and episodes are now going into production. He takes over from Mike Henry, who created the character and voiced it since “Family Guy” premiered in 1999 (and later on the spin-off “The Cleveland Show”).
In June, Henry announced that he would step down from playing Cleveland: “I love this character, but persons of color should play characters of color,” he said at the time.
Henry will continue to be heard as Cleveland in this year’s Season 18 “Family Guy” episodes, which had already been completed and return on Sunday night with the show’s 350th episode. But series creator and...
Zahir will take over as Cleveland in Season 19, as the show has just been picked up for two more seasons (its 19th and 20th) and episodes are now going into production. He takes over from Mike Henry, who created the character and voiced it since “Family Guy” premiered in 1999 (and later on the spin-off “The Cleveland Show”).
In June, Henry announced that he would step down from playing Cleveland: “I love this character, but persons of color should play characters of color,” he said at the time.
Henry will continue to be heard as Cleveland in this year’s Season 18 “Family Guy” episodes, which had already been completed and return on Sunday night with the show’s 350th episode. But series creator and...
- 9/25/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Homer Simpson’s African American nuclear plant supervisor Carl Carlson will be voiced by Alex Désert on The Simpsons season 32 premiere, according to Variety.
There is now word yet on whether Désert will continue to voice the character beyond Sunday’s episode “Undercover Burns.” Désert is a veteran animation voice actor, appearing as Swarm on Disney Xd’s Spider-Man: Maximum Venom, Mr. Bojenkins on Adult Swim’s Mr. Pickles and its spinoff, Momma Named Me Sheriff, and on The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. He was a regular on the TV series Becker, which starred Ted Danson, and appeared on such varied shows as Boy Meets World, Better Call Saul, and Better Things. He also appeared in films like The Flash, Freaky Friday, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, High Fidelity and Swingers.
“We are very pleased to welcome Alex Désert, playing Carl in The Simpsons’ season premiere,...
There is now word yet on whether Désert will continue to voice the character beyond Sunday’s episode “Undercover Burns.” Désert is a veteran animation voice actor, appearing as Swarm on Disney Xd’s Spider-Man: Maximum Venom, Mr. Bojenkins on Adult Swim’s Mr. Pickles and its spinoff, Momma Named Me Sheriff, and on The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. He was a regular on the TV series Becker, which starred Ted Danson, and appeared on such varied shows as Boy Meets World, Better Call Saul, and Better Things. He also appeared in films like The Flash, Freaky Friday, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, High Fidelity and Swingers.
“We are very pleased to welcome Alex Désert, playing Carl in The Simpsons’ season premiere,...
- 9/25/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Fox’s Family Guy has found its new Cleveland Brown.
YouTuber and voice actor Arif Zahir will take over the role for the Fox animated show’s 19th season, which is set to air in the 2021-22 season. Series creator Seth MacFarlane and showrunners Rich Appel and Alec Sulkin announced the casting Friday.
Mike Henry, who has voiced the character throughout the show’s run — and on spinoff The Cleveland Show — said in June that he would step away from the part as a number of animated series re-examined the casting of characters of color. Henry will continue to voice ...
YouTuber and voice actor Arif Zahir will take over the role for the Fox animated show’s 19th season, which is set to air in the 2021-22 season. Series creator Seth MacFarlane and showrunners Rich Appel and Alec Sulkin announced the casting Friday.
Mike Henry, who has voiced the character throughout the show’s run — and on spinoff The Cleveland Show — said in June that he would step away from the part as a number of animated series re-examined the casting of characters of color. Henry will continue to voice ...
- 9/25/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Fox’s Family Guy has found its new Cleveland Brown.
YouTuber and voice actor Arif Zahir will take over the role for the Fox animated show’s 19th season, which is set to air in the 2021-22 season. Series creator Seth MacFarlane and showrunners Rich Appel and Alec Sulkin announced the casting Friday.
Mike Henry, who has voiced the character throughout the show’s run — and on spinoff The Cleveland Show — said in June that he would step away from the part as a number of animated series reexamined the casting of characters of color. Henry will continue to voice ...
YouTuber and voice actor Arif Zahir will take over the role for the Fox animated show’s 19th season, which is set to air in the 2021-22 season. Series creator Seth MacFarlane and showrunners Rich Appel and Alec Sulkin announced the casting Friday.
Mike Henry, who has voiced the character throughout the show’s run — and on spinoff The Cleveland Show — said in June that he would step away from the part as a number of animated series reexamined the casting of characters of color. Henry will continue to voice ...
- 9/25/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
“The Simpsons” fans might notice at least one long-running character sounds a little different in Sunday’s Season 32 premiere.
In the episode, Carl Carlson — Homer Simpson’s nuclear plant co-worker, and best friend to Lenny Leonard — is now voiced by actor Alex Désert (“Better Things”). Désert replaces Hank Azaria in the role, at least for that episode.
The switch comes as “The Simpsons” producers confirmed earlier this summer that it would no longer have white actors voice non-white characters. Azaria had voiced Carl, who is Black, since the beginning of the show.
It’s unclear whether Désert is Carl’s permanent voice, and if he’ll be voicing other characters as well. Among other recurring characters the edict might impact include Dr. Julius Hibbert, who is seen in the episode, but doesn’t speak.
Désert also voices Swarm on Disney Xd’s “Spider-Man: Maximum Venom” and Mr. Bojenkins on Adult Swim...
In the episode, Carl Carlson — Homer Simpson’s nuclear plant co-worker, and best friend to Lenny Leonard — is now voiced by actor Alex Désert (“Better Things”). Désert replaces Hank Azaria in the role, at least for that episode.
The switch comes as “The Simpsons” producers confirmed earlier this summer that it would no longer have white actors voice non-white characters. Azaria had voiced Carl, who is Black, since the beginning of the show.
It’s unclear whether Désert is Carl’s permanent voice, and if he’ll be voicing other characters as well. Among other recurring characters the edict might impact include Dr. Julius Hibbert, who is seen in the episode, but doesn’t speak.
Désert also voices Swarm on Disney Xd’s “Spider-Man: Maximum Venom” and Mr. Bojenkins on Adult Swim...
- 9/24/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Seth MacFarlane is best known as the creator of Family Guy, but he’s built up a reputation over the last two decades as one of the busiest and most prolific multi-hyphenates in the industry, somehow finding the time to voice countless characters in his animated output that at various stages included American Dad, The Cleveland Show and his Cavalcade of Cartoon Comedy, not to mention live-action appearances in everything from Gilmore Girls to Star Trek: Enterprise, as well as releasing six studio albums.
At first, it looked like he would make a seamless transition to the big screen when Ted earned almost $550 million at the box office on a budget of just $50 million and scored an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, but MacFarlane has never managed to recapture that same kind of momentum in the years since.
Ted 2 made over $300 million less than its predecessor, while his...
At first, it looked like he would make a seamless transition to the big screen when Ted earned almost $550 million at the box office on a budget of just $50 million and scored an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, but MacFarlane has never managed to recapture that same kind of momentum in the years since.
Ted 2 made over $300 million less than its predecessor, while his...
- 9/6/2020
- by Scott Campbell
- We Got This Covered
Exclusive: CBS All Access is developing The Multivorce, an adult animated TV series created by Kirker Butler (Family Guy) and Scott Mosier (The Grinch), I have learned. It hails from Aaron Kaplan’s Kapital Entertainment and CBS TV Studios.
Described by sources as Marriage Story mixed with Rick and Morty, The Multivorce is a half-hour animated comedy about the Gundersons, a seemingly normal American family: mother, father, three kids dealing with the complicated realities of divorce. However, instead of the kids having to spend every other weekend at their father’s shitty bachelor apartment across town, they spend every other weekend with their warrior queen mother in her very exciting (and often very dangerous) kingdom somewhere in the Multivorce.
Butler and Mosier executive produce with Kapital’s Kaplan and Dana Honor.
Mosier produced his first movie, Clerks, at age twenty-one with writer-director Kevin Smith. He went on to produce Smith’s Mallrats,...
Described by sources as Marriage Story mixed with Rick and Morty, The Multivorce is a half-hour animated comedy about the Gundersons, a seemingly normal American family: mother, father, three kids dealing with the complicated realities of divorce. However, instead of the kids having to spend every other weekend at their father’s shitty bachelor apartment across town, they spend every other weekend with their warrior queen mother in her very exciting (and often very dangerous) kingdom somewhere in the Multivorce.
Butler and Mosier executive produce with Kapital’s Kaplan and Dana Honor.
Mosier produced his first movie, Clerks, at age twenty-one with writer-director Kevin Smith. He went on to produce Smith’s Mallrats,...
- 8/27/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Apple’s “Central Park” animated series is feeling more like a “Hamilton” reunion by the second.
Exactly a month after Kristen Bell announced she was stepping away from voicing the mixed-race character Molly, Apple has found her replacement in the form of “Hamilton” alumna and “Umbrella Academy” star Emmy Raver-Lampman.
She will become the show’s third prominent former “Hamilton” cast member, joining Leslie Odom Jr. (who plays Molly’s father Owen Tillerman) and Daveed Diggs (who voices the assistant to Stanley Tucci’s tyrannical Bitsy Brandenham).
The re-casting comes amid a racial reckoning in the animated space, which has seen multiple white actors stop voicing characters of color.
Bell’s removal from the role was announced in late June via a lengthy statement from the show’s creative team, which said that “casting of the character of Molly is an opportunity to get representation right – to cast a Black...
Exactly a month after Kristen Bell announced she was stepping away from voicing the mixed-race character Molly, Apple has found her replacement in the form of “Hamilton” alumna and “Umbrella Academy” star Emmy Raver-Lampman.
She will become the show’s third prominent former “Hamilton” cast member, joining Leslie Odom Jr. (who plays Molly’s father Owen Tillerman) and Daveed Diggs (who voices the assistant to Stanley Tucci’s tyrannical Bitsy Brandenham).
The re-casting comes amid a racial reckoning in the animated space, which has seen multiple white actors stop voicing characters of color.
Bell’s removal from the role was announced in late June via a lengthy statement from the show’s creative team, which said that “casting of the character of Molly is an opportunity to get representation right – to cast a Black...
- 7/24/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
ABC’s new family sitcom, “United We Fall,” starts from a fairly thin premise: It follows a married couple, their two young children, and one in-law per spouse, as they cope with one another. This is fairly thin stuff, but it’s buoyed by the charms of the cast. “United We Fall” lacks, perhaps, enough of a hook to instantly compel viewers, but its low-key pleasantness makes it better than replacement-level.
Will Sasso and Christina Vidal Mitchell play Bill and Jo, parents of two daughters (played by Ella Grace Helton and the pair of child actors Ireland and Sedona Carvajal). Their generally low-key approach to parenting is perpetually stepped on by Bill’s mother Sandy (Jane Curtin) and Jo’s brother Chuy (Guillermo Diaz), both of whom push the family — Chuy towards an optimized, test-prepped version of modern excellence, Sandy towards a sort of benevolent mania. Sasso and Vidal Mitchell...
Will Sasso and Christina Vidal Mitchell play Bill and Jo, parents of two daughters (played by Ella Grace Helton and the pair of child actors Ireland and Sedona Carvajal). Their generally low-key approach to parenting is perpetually stepped on by Bill’s mother Sandy (Jane Curtin) and Jo’s brother Chuy (Guillermo Diaz), both of whom push the family — Chuy towards an optimized, test-prepped version of modern excellence, Sandy towards a sort of benevolent mania. Sasso and Vidal Mitchell...
- 7/14/2020
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
Humbly listed at the bottom of recent press release, Hulu revealed a rather startling viewership statistic. In the last year, more than half of Hulu subscribers had watched at least one of its adult animated programs. Further still, nearly 40 percent watch some form of adult animation every month. Based on reported figures, that’s roughly 12 million people regularly seeking out Hulu’s acquired and original animated series.
It’s no wonder the Disney-controlled streamer has invested in making more of its own animated programs, including “Solar Opposites” (the main focus of the press release), which became the No. 1 title on Hulu (animated or otherwise) during its premiere week in May. There’s a growing demand for adult animated content, and Hulu is in a prime position to capitalize. Why? A bulk of Hulu’s high-profile animated content comes from Fox, one of the streamer’s sister networks and a long-standing...
It’s no wonder the Disney-controlled streamer has invested in making more of its own animated programs, including “Solar Opposites” (the main focus of the press release), which became the No. 1 title on Hulu (animated or otherwise) during its premiere week in May. There’s a growing demand for adult animated content, and Hulu is in a prime position to capitalize. Why? A bulk of Hulu’s high-profile animated content comes from Fox, one of the streamer’s sister networks and a long-standing...
- 7/3/2020
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
Family Guy has a vacancy in the Cleveland Brown department following the departure of voice actor Mike Henry, and the perfect candidate to fill it has just presented himself. Jack Ryan and Suits star Wendell Pierce has taken to Twitter to express interest in landing the role.
Pierce tweeted series creator Seth McFarlane to give him a heads-up about his “campaign to voice the role myself on The Cleveland Show.” Presumably, the actor means the parent series rather than the cancelled spinoff, although there’s an outside chance the wording of his post was intentional and he’s calling for The Cleveland Show to be revived.
Now that Mike Henry has consciously given up the role of Cleveland,I am publicly starting a campaign to voice the role myself on The Cleveland Show. #WendellIsCleveland @TheClevelandSho @SethMcFarlane_ pic.twitter.com/Ux3F0uk1p6
— Wendell Pierce (@WendellPierce) June 28, 2020
Amid intense debate...
Pierce tweeted series creator Seth McFarlane to give him a heads-up about his “campaign to voice the role myself on The Cleveland Show.” Presumably, the actor means the parent series rather than the cancelled spinoff, although there’s an outside chance the wording of his post was intentional and he’s calling for The Cleveland Show to be revived.
Now that Mike Henry has consciously given up the role of Cleveland,I am publicly starting a campaign to voice the role myself on The Cleveland Show. #WendellIsCleveland @TheClevelandSho @SethMcFarlane_ pic.twitter.com/Ux3F0uk1p6
— Wendell Pierce (@WendellPierce) June 28, 2020
Amid intense debate...
- 6/30/2020
- by Mark Langshaw
- We Got This Covered
Cult animated series Mission Hill could return for a reboot with creators Bill Oakley and Josh Weinstein twenty years after originally airing.
The pair, former exec producers on The Simpsons, are working on bringing the show back with a focus on supporting characters Gus Duncz and Wally Langford.
Oakley posted on a social media that the series is tentatively titled Gus & Wally and the pair are “taking it out to buyers soon”.
The show originally aired on The WB between September 1999 and July 2000 and on Adult Swim in the summer of 2002. It only ran for 13 episodes and was initially cancelled after two episodes due to poor ratings but became a cult classic after repeat airings. Warner Bros Animation is expected to be the studio on the reboot, although Deadline understands that the deal has not closed.
The show followed two brothers Andy French and Kevin French, who did not get...
The pair, former exec producers on The Simpsons, are working on bringing the show back with a focus on supporting characters Gus Duncz and Wally Langford.
Oakley posted on a social media that the series is tentatively titled Gus & Wally and the pair are “taking it out to buyers soon”.
The show originally aired on The WB between September 1999 and July 2000 and on Adult Swim in the summer of 2002. It only ran for 13 episodes and was initially cancelled after two episodes due to poor ratings but became a cult classic after repeat airings. Warner Bros Animation is expected to be the studio on the reboot, although Deadline understands that the deal has not closed.
The show followed two brothers Andy French and Kevin French, who did not get...
- 6/30/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
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