The Writers Guild of America West will present Designing Women and Evening Shade creator Linda Bloodworth Thomason with its highest honor — the Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement. The award is presented to a Guild member who has “advanced the literature of television and made outstanding contributions to the profession of the television writer.” Designing Women star Jean Smart will present the statuette to Bloodworth Thomason at the Wgaw’s annual WGA Awards on April 14.
The multiple Emmy-nominated television creator-writer, director, and producer launched her career with an Emmy-nominated script on M*A*S*H* in 1973. She concurrently worked on M*A*S*H* and Mary Tyler Moore Show spinoff Rhoda before creating and producing her first series Filthy Rich in 1982. Filthy Rich would lay the groundwork for the creation of landmark comedy series Designing Women by bringing her together with actresses and collaborators Delta Burke, Dixie Carter, Annie Potts, and Smart.
In addition to her work in television,...
The multiple Emmy-nominated television creator-writer, director, and producer launched her career with an Emmy-nominated script on M*A*S*H* in 1973. She concurrently worked on M*A*S*H* and Mary Tyler Moore Show spinoff Rhoda before creating and producing her first series Filthy Rich in 1982. Filthy Rich would lay the groundwork for the creation of landmark comedy series Designing Women by bringing her together with actresses and collaborators Delta Burke, Dixie Carter, Annie Potts, and Smart.
In addition to her work in television,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
TV’s IP fetish is no coincidence. Recognizable titles and stars can guarantee strong initial tune-in off of modest marketing. But long-term results are lackluster. Just look at the past decade’s worth of revivals. Different from reboots or remakes, risky ventures in their own right, a revival features original castmembers of long-departed series revisiting characters for whom there’s an assumed appetite. Viewers aren’t often as hungry as studio brass would like. The average life span of recent revivals is three seasons, while their originals averaged eight-year runs. So as Paramount+ kicks off October by nixing one revived comedy (iCarly, starring Miranda Cosgrove, above) and attempting to mount another (Frasier with Kelsey Grammer, which premiered Oct. 12), The Hollywood Reporter examines 10 case studies from this revivals wave and where they went right … or horribly wrong.
Dallas
Original: 14 seasons (1978-1991)
Revival: 3 seasons (2012-2014)
Dallas
Sitcoms continue to drive the revival trend,...
Dallas
Original: 14 seasons (1978-1991)
Revival: 3 seasons (2012-2014)
Dallas
Sitcoms continue to drive the revival trend,...
- 10/21/2023
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Charles Kimbrough, an Emmy-nominated star of Murphy Brown, has died. He was 86 years old. The actor passed away on January 11 in Culver City, CA, as his son, John, confirmed to The New York Times. Kimbrough is best known for playing dignified anchor Jim Dial on Murphy Brown for the CBS sitcom’s original 10-season run between 1988 and 1998. His performance earned him an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1990. And when CBS revived the sitcom for another season in 2018, Kimbrough brought Jim back for a multi-episode arc. “Charlie Kimbrough … wrote a whole biography for [Jim Dial] before he started to play him,” Murphy Brown creator Diane English said in a 2007 interview with the Archive of American Television. “His was different than mine, but, you know, his wins because he’s got to actually be that guy.” She added: “Charlie is the most lovable, lanky, rubbery, sweet, adorable man.
- 2/5/2023
- TV Insider
Charles Kimbrough, the Emmy-nominated actor best known for his splendid decade-long portrayal of staid network anchor Jim Dial on Murphy Brown, has died. He was 86.
Kimbrough died Jan. 11 in Culver City, his son, John Kimbrough, told The New York Times.
A veteran of the stage, Kimbrough received a Tony Award nomination in 1971 for best featured actor in a musical for playing Harry in the original production of Stephen Sondheim’s Company. He then appeared as two characters in another acclaimed Sondheim musical, the Pulitzer Prize-winning Sunday in the Park With George, which debuted in 1984.
Kimbrough also starred in 1995 in the original off-Broadway production of the A.R. Gurney comedy Sylvia opposite Sarah Jessica Parker and appeared on the Great White Way in Candide, Same Time, Next Year, Accent on Youth, Hay Fever, The Merchant of Venice and, most recently, with Jim Parsons in a 2012 revival of Harvey.
The Minnesota native also...
Kimbrough died Jan. 11 in Culver City, his son, John Kimbrough, told The New York Times.
A veteran of the stage, Kimbrough received a Tony Award nomination in 1971 for best featured actor in a musical for playing Harry in the original production of Stephen Sondheim’s Company. He then appeared as two characters in another acclaimed Sondheim musical, the Pulitzer Prize-winning Sunday in the Park With George, which debuted in 1984.
Kimbrough also starred in 1995 in the original off-Broadway production of the A.R. Gurney comedy Sylvia opposite Sarah Jessica Parker and appeared on the Great White Way in Candide, Same Time, Next Year, Accent on Youth, Hay Fever, The Merchant of Venice and, most recently, with Jim Parsons in a 2012 revival of Harvey.
The Minnesota native also...
- 2/5/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Writers Guild of America West has penciled in Living Single creator-showrunner Yvette Lee Bowser for its 2023 Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement. She will receive the career honor, which is presented to a WGA member who has “advanced the literature of television and made outstanding contributions to the profession of the television writer,” at the 75th annual WGA Awards on March 5.
Related Story WGA Awards TV Nominations: ‘Abbott Elementary,’ ‘Better Call Saul,’ ‘The Crown,’ ‘Severance’, ’Yellowjackets’ Among Shows Vying For Top Prizes Related Story WGA Awards Film Nominations: 'Everything Everywhere', 'Top Gun: Maverick', 'The Menu', 'Nope' & More Related Story Michelle Buteau To Host 75th Annual Writers Guild Awards In New York
A 35-year guild member with more than 600 hours of TV to her credit, Bowser began her career as an apprentice writer on NBC’s Cosby Show spinoff series A Different World,...
Related Story WGA Awards TV Nominations: ‘Abbott Elementary,’ ‘Better Call Saul,’ ‘The Crown,’ ‘Severance’, ’Yellowjackets’ Among Shows Vying For Top Prizes Related Story WGA Awards Film Nominations: 'Everything Everywhere', 'Top Gun: Maverick', 'The Menu', 'Nope' & More Related Story Michelle Buteau To Host 75th Annual Writers Guild Awards In New York
A 35-year guild member with more than 600 hours of TV to her credit, Bowser began her career as an apprentice writer on NBC’s Cosby Show spinoff series A Different World,...
- 2/1/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Four years into the original 10-season run of CBS’s “Murphy Brown,” series creator Diane English developed a second sitcom for the network entitled “Love & War.” Although it only lasted three seasons, it did garner six Primetime Emmy nominations and two wins for Best Comedy Guest Actress. Tracey Ullman first triumphed in 1993 for a spot as an old flame of lead character Jack Stein (Jay Thomas), and Eileen Heckart prevailed one year later following two appearances as Stein’s mother. This was the fourth time that Heckart had contended for this award after earning two bids for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and one for “The Cosby Show.”
Heckart’s first and only Emmy win came when she was 75, making her the fifth oldest champ in her category to date. She is also the 10th oldest woman to ever be recognized for a comedic guest performance, with eight of...
Heckart’s first and only Emmy win came when she was 75, making her the fifth oldest champ in her category to date. She is also the 10th oldest woman to ever be recognized for a comedic guest performance, with eight of...
- 8/29/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Four years into the original 10-season run of CBS’s “Murphy Brown,” series creator Diane English developed a second sitcom for the network entitled “Love & War.” Although it only lasted three seasons, it did garner six Primetime Emmy nominations and two wins for Best Comedy Guest Actress. Tracey Ullman first triumphed in 1993 for a spot as an old flame of lead character Jack Stein (Jay Thomas), and Eileen Heckart prevailed one year later following two appearances as Stein’s mother. This was the fourth time that Heckart had contended for this award after earning two bids for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and one for “The Cosby Show.”
Heckart’s first and only Emmy win came when she was 75, making her the fifth oldest champ in her category to date. She is also the 10th oldest woman to ever be recognized for a comedic guest performance, with eight of...
Heckart’s first and only Emmy win came when she was 75, making her the fifth oldest champ in her category to date. She is also the 10th oldest woman to ever be recognized for a comedic guest performance, with eight of...
- 8/29/2022
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Exclusive: Former top ICM talent and literary agent John Burnham, who left earlier this month to become a manager and partner at Atlas Artists and Atlas Literary, has signed Alex O’Loughlin as a client.
This marks a reunion for the duo. Burnham represented O’Loughlin for years as an agent and facilitated the actor’s casting as the lead of CBS’ Hawaii Five-0 reboot, which ran for 10 seasons. Soon after the Hawaii Five-0 pilot had been picked up to series in 2010, O’Loughlin left ICM to follow Chris Hart, who had been an agent on his team, to UTA. The actor, who most recently did not have a manager, continues to be repped by UTA.
The Hawaii Five-0 alum joins a long list of Burnham clients who stayed with him in the transition to management and followed him to Atlas Artists, including John Cusack, Stephen Dorff, Diane English, Stephen Frears,...
This marks a reunion for the duo. Burnham represented O’Loughlin for years as an agent and facilitated the actor’s casting as the lead of CBS’ Hawaii Five-0 reboot, which ran for 10 seasons. Soon after the Hawaii Five-0 pilot had been picked up to series in 2010, O’Loughlin left ICM to follow Chris Hart, who had been an agent on his team, to UTA. The actor, who most recently did not have a manager, continues to be repped by UTA.
The Hawaii Five-0 alum joins a long list of Burnham clients who stayed with him in the transition to management and followed him to Atlas Artists, including John Cusack, Stephen Dorff, Diane English, Stephen Frears,...
- 4/29/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: John Burnham, a cornerstone talent and literary agent who has spent more than 25 years at ICM Partners, is leaving to become a manager and partner at Atlas Artists and Atlas Literary, the Atlas Entertainment subsidiary. The exit is amicable, and Burnham will bring with him a client list of renowned writers, filmmakers and actors he now will represent as a manager.
The long list of clients that will follow him includes Oscar, Emmy and Pulitzer winners. The roster includes Brandon Cronenberg, John Cusack, Stephen Dorff, Diane English, Kleber Mendonca Filho, Stephen Frears, Walter Hill, Felicity Huffman, Adrian Lyne, Sophia Macy, William H. Macy, Clara Mamet, David Mamet, Joe Mantegna, Nicholas Martin, Elaine May, Malcolm Mays, Takashi Miike, Pat McKinley, Keith McNally, David Milch, Rob Reiner, Emma Tammi, Caroline Thompson, David Twohy, Wayne Wang, Peter Weir, Alice Winn, John Woo and Terry Zwigoff. Others will follow as his exit gets sorted.
The long list of clients that will follow him includes Oscar, Emmy and Pulitzer winners. The roster includes Brandon Cronenberg, John Cusack, Stephen Dorff, Diane English, Kleber Mendonca Filho, Stephen Frears, Walter Hill, Felicity Huffman, Adrian Lyne, Sophia Macy, William H. Macy, Clara Mamet, David Mamet, Joe Mantegna, Nicholas Martin, Elaine May, Malcolm Mays, Takashi Miike, Pat McKinley, Keith McNally, David Milch, Rob Reiner, Emma Tammi, Caroline Thompson, David Twohy, Wayne Wang, Peter Weir, Alice Winn, John Woo and Terry Zwigoff. Others will follow as his exit gets sorted.
- 4/11/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Murphy Brown is a sitcom that aired on CBS in 1988, featuring a fictional newsroom helmed by Murphy Brown, an investigative journalist and anchor. Created by Diane English, Murphy Brown was one of the most popular shows during its time, constantly ranking within the top 10 most watched shows during its middle seasons. It waned in popularity, however, but still maintained to keep its fans hooked until the very end. Recently, the show was revived for an 11th season, but was canceled after low ratings. Bergen spoke about waiting for the appropriate timing to revive the show, according to TV Insider:
The Cast Of “Murphy Brown”: Where Are They Now?...
The Cast Of “Murphy Brown”: Where Are They Now?...
- 12/28/2021
- by A.E. Oats
- TVovermind.com
The founder and program director of the Etheria Film Festival, Heidi Honeycutt, discusses her favorite films from women filmmakers with Josh and Joe.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Destroyer (1988)
Army of the Dead (2021)
The Howling (1981) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine recommendation
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Wonder Woman (2017)
The Dirty Dozen (1967) – Ed Neumeier’s trailer commentary
The Wild Bunch (1969) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Joe Dante’s review
The Women (1939) – Allan Arkush’s trailer commentary
The Opposite Sex (1956) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Women (2008)
Halloween (1978) – Adam Rifkin’s trailer commentary, Alex Kirschenbaum’s series and timeline power rankings, Randy Fuller’s wine recommendation
Valley Girl (1983) – Karyn Kusama’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s trailer commentary
Valley Girl (2020)
The Wicker Man (1973)
The Wicker Man (2006)
Mandy (2018)
Fast Times At Ridgemont High (1982) – Karyn Kusama’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s trailer commentary
Clueless (1995)
Legally Blonde (2001)
The Craft (1996)
Runaway...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Destroyer (1988)
Army of the Dead (2021)
The Howling (1981) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine recommendation
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Wonder Woman (2017)
The Dirty Dozen (1967) – Ed Neumeier’s trailer commentary
The Wild Bunch (1969) – Josh Olson’s trailer commentary, Joe Dante’s review
The Women (1939) – Allan Arkush’s trailer commentary
The Opposite Sex (1956) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Women (2008)
Halloween (1978) – Adam Rifkin’s trailer commentary, Alex Kirschenbaum’s series and timeline power rankings, Randy Fuller’s wine recommendation
Valley Girl (1983) – Karyn Kusama’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s trailer commentary
Valley Girl (2020)
The Wicker Man (1973)
The Wicker Man (2006)
Mandy (2018)
Fast Times At Ridgemont High (1982) – Karyn Kusama’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s trailer commentary
Clueless (1995)
Legally Blonde (2001)
The Craft (1996)
Runaway...
- 7/13/2021
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
Merrill Markoe, longtime head writer at “Late Night With David Letterman,” will receive the Writers Guild of America West’s Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement.
She will be honored at the Writers Guild Awards on Feb. 1 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“Merrill Markoe’s pioneering work created what was then a new language of comedy in television, and her writing has influenced every comedy variety series in the last three decades. We are truly honored to give her this award,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman.
Markoe has been a member of the WGA West since 1977. She’s best known as the co-creator and original head writer of 1980’s “The David Letterman Show,” for which she shared a Daytime Emmy Award. Markoe went on to earn six Emmy nominations and share three Emmy Awards for her work on “Late Night With David Letterman,” creating many of the show,...
She will be honored at the Writers Guild Awards on Feb. 1 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“Merrill Markoe’s pioneering work created what was then a new language of comedy in television, and her writing has influenced every comedy variety series in the last three decades. We are truly honored to give her this award,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman.
Markoe has been a member of the WGA West since 1977. She’s best known as the co-creator and original head writer of 1980’s “The David Letterman Show,” for which she shared a Daytime Emmy Award. Markoe went on to earn six Emmy nominations and share three Emmy Awards for her work on “Late Night With David Letterman,” creating many of the show,...
- 12/13/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Merrill Markoe, the multple-Emmy-winning former head writer of Late Night with David Letterman, will receive the WGA West’s 2020 Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement.
Named after one of television’s the most influential writers, the Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award is the guild’s highest honor for television writing. It is presented to a guild member who has “advanced the literature of television and made outstanding contributions to the profession of the television writer.”
Markoe will receive the award at the Writers Guild Awards ceremony on February 1 in Los Angeles.
“Merrill Markoe’s pioneering work created what was then a new language of comedy in television, and her writing has influenced every comedy variety series in the last three decades. We are truly honored to give her this award,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman.
Markoe’s career as a TV writer began in 1977 on the revival of Laugh-In,...
Named after one of television’s the most influential writers, the Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award is the guild’s highest honor for television writing. It is presented to a guild member who has “advanced the literature of television and made outstanding contributions to the profession of the television writer.”
Markoe will receive the award at the Writers Guild Awards ceremony on February 1 in Los Angeles.
“Merrill Markoe’s pioneering work created what was then a new language of comedy in television, and her writing has influenced every comedy variety series in the last three decades. We are truly honored to give her this award,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman.
Markoe’s career as a TV writer began in 1977 on the revival of Laugh-In,...
- 12/12/2019
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
The future of Murphy Brown was still up in the air when the revival from series creator Diane English and star Candice Bergen was filming its finale in New York in November.
Amid a reboot frenzy, CBS brought back Bergen's trailblazing TV journalist and much of the original cast after 20 years off the air. The new iteration of the hit 1990s multicamera comedy from Warner Bros. TV — which re-created Murphy's iconic townhouse at Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens — was picked up straight to series and had been one of the most anticipated new shows of ...
Amid a reboot frenzy, CBS brought back Bergen's trailblazing TV journalist and much of the original cast after 20 years off the air. The new iteration of the hit 1990s multicamera comedy from Warner Bros. TV — which re-created Murphy's iconic townhouse at Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens — was picked up straight to series and had been one of the most anticipated new shows of ...
CBS has canceled a quartet of shows.
Three of those, “Fam,” “Happy Together,” and “Murphy Brown,” will come to and end after only one season, while “Life In Pieces” will end after its fourth season, which is currently airing.
The “Life In Pieces” news comes only five episodes into season 4. So far, it is averaging a 0.84 rating in the key 18-49 demographic and 5.75 million viewers per episode, which represents a dip on last season which averaged a 1.11 rating and just under 6.5 million total viewers.
Created by Justin Adler and starring Dianne Wiest and James Brolin, the comedy revolved around one big, happy family and their milestone moments.
Freshman comedy “Fam” starred Nina Dobrev as Clem, a woman whose idea of a perfect life with her fiance (Tone Bell) is thrown off course when her out-of-control 16-year-old half-sister (Odessa Adlon) unexpectedly comes to live with her.
Corinne Kingsbury created “Fam” and...
Three of those, “Fam,” “Happy Together,” and “Murphy Brown,” will come to and end after only one season, while “Life In Pieces” will end after its fourth season, which is currently airing.
The “Life In Pieces” news comes only five episodes into season 4. So far, it is averaging a 0.84 rating in the key 18-49 demographic and 5.75 million viewers per episode, which represents a dip on last season which averaged a 1.11 rating and just under 6.5 million total viewers.
Created by Justin Adler and starring Dianne Wiest and James Brolin, the comedy revolved around one big, happy family and their milestone moments.
Freshman comedy “Fam” starred Nina Dobrev as Clem, a woman whose idea of a perfect life with her fiance (Tone Bell) is thrown off course when her out-of-control 16-year-old half-sister (Odessa Adlon) unexpectedly comes to live with her.
Corinne Kingsbury created “Fam” and...
- 5/10/2019
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Breaking news, and it’s not good: CBS has cancelled the revival of Murphy Brown after one season, TVLine has learned.
Candice Bergen returned to the title role that won her five Emmys during the show’s original 1988-98 CBS run, with series creator Diane English back as showrunner. The revival also brought back original cast members Joe Regalbuto (Frank Fontana), Faith Ford (Corky Sherwood) and Grant Shaud (Miles Silverberg), and added Jake McDorman as Murphy’s son Avery — now a reporter for the rival Wolf network — Tyne Daly as bar owner Phyllis and Nik Dodani as social media whiz Pat.
Candice Bergen returned to the title role that won her five Emmys during the show’s original 1988-98 CBS run, with series creator Diane English back as showrunner. The revival also brought back original cast members Joe Regalbuto (Frank Fontana), Faith Ford (Corky Sherwood) and Grant Shaud (Miles Silverberg), and added Jake McDorman as Murphy’s son Avery — now a reporter for the rival Wolf network — Tyne Daly as bar owner Phyllis and Nik Dodani as social media whiz Pat.
- 5/10/2019
- TVLine.com
This just in: CBS' Murphy Brown will not be returning for another cycle.
The revival from series creator Diane English and featuring star Candice Bergen and much of the original cast has been canceled after one season of the reboot. CBS has also canceled veteran comedy Life in Pieces (ending with season five) and rookies Fam and Happy Together.
The multicamera comedy from Warner Bros. TV was picked up straight to series and had been one of the most anticipated new series of the 2018-19 broadcast season. The comedy, co-starring Jake McDorman as Bergen's onscreen son, was never going to attract scores ...
The revival from series creator Diane English and featuring star Candice Bergen and much of the original cast has been canceled after one season of the reboot. CBS has also canceled veteran comedy Life in Pieces (ending with season five) and rookies Fam and Happy Together.
The multicamera comedy from Warner Bros. TV was picked up straight to series and had been one of the most anticipated new series of the 2018-19 broadcast season. The comedy, co-starring Jake McDorman as Bergen's onscreen son, was never going to attract scores ...
- 5/10/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
If you watched television in the late 1980s, you probably remember the My Sister Sam TV show on CBS. The sitcom revolves around San Francisco freelance photographer Samantha "Sam" Russell (Pam Dawber). Sam's world is turned upside down when her 16-year-old sister, Patti (Rebecca Schaeffer), comes to live with her. Others in the cast include Jenny O'Hara, Joel Brooks, and David Naughton. Executive produced by Diane English (pre-Murphy Brown), the series did well enough in its first season to be renewed but the ratings saw a big decline in year two and was cancelled in May 1988 with 12 installments left unaired.
While My Sister Sam didn't last, it looked clear that Schaeffer was destined for bigger things. Tragically, in July 1989, the actress was fatally shot by an obsessed fan in the doorway of her Los Angeles apartment. He had been stalking her for three years.
While My Sister Sam didn't last, it looked clear that Schaeffer was destined for bigger things. Tragically, in July 1989, the actress was fatally shot by an obsessed fan in the doorway of her Los Angeles apartment. He had been stalking her for three years.
- 4/12/2019
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Jenji Kohan, creator of Weeds and Orange Is the New Black, will be this year’s recipient of the WGA West’s Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award, which is given to a guild member who has “advanced the literature of television and made outstanding contributions to the profession of the television writer.” She will be honored at the guild’s La awards show on February 17.
“Jenji Kohan’s work is what all good writers aspire to – touching on the harsh but also comedic realities of life through characters that don’t sound written, that talk like real people,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman. “Her scenes can be comic and tragic simultaneously; while she engages, she also unnerves, pushing us out of our comfort zone. Her work has truly advanced the literature of television, and the WGA West board of directors considers it our honor to give her this award.
“Jenji Kohan’s work is what all good writers aspire to – touching on the harsh but also comedic realities of life through characters that don’t sound written, that talk like real people,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman. “Her scenes can be comic and tragic simultaneously; while she engages, she also unnerves, pushing us out of our comfort zone. Her work has truly advanced the literature of television, and the WGA West board of directors considers it our honor to give her this award.
- 1/16/2019
- by David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Jenji Kohan, creator and showrunner of “Orange Is the New Black” and “Weeds,” has been named recipient of the Writers Guild of America West’s Paddy Chayefsky Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement.
She will be honored at the Writers Guild Awards show on Feb. 17 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif.
“Jenji Kohan’s work is what all good writers aspire to – touching on the harsh but also comedic realities of life through characters that don’t sound written, that talk like real people,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman. “Her scenes can be comic and tragic simultaneously; while she engages, she also unnerves, pushing us out of our comfort zone. Her work has truly advanced the literature of television, and the Wgaw Board of Directors considers it our honor to give her this award.”
Kohan is also an executive producer and writer on “Glow.” She has...
She will be honored at the Writers Guild Awards show on Feb. 17 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif.
“Jenji Kohan’s work is what all good writers aspire to – touching on the harsh but also comedic realities of life through characters that don’t sound written, that talk like real people,” said WGA West president David A. Goodman. “Her scenes can be comic and tragic simultaneously; while she engages, she also unnerves, pushing us out of our comfort zone. Her work has truly advanced the literature of television, and the Wgaw Board of Directors considers it our honor to give her this award.”
Kohan is also an executive producer and writer on “Glow.” She has...
- 1/16/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Murphy Brown recently wrapped its 11th season, but will there be a 12th? Recently, creator Diane English spoke with The Hollywood Reporter about the future of the CBS TV show.
A revival, the comedy series stars Candice Bergen as the titular Murphy Brown, who is now hosting the CNC morning show, Murphy in the Morning. The cast also includes Grant Shaud, Faith Ford, and Joe Regalbuto, Nik Dodani, Jake McDorman, Adan Rocha, and Tyne Daly.
Read More…...
A revival, the comedy series stars Candice Bergen as the titular Murphy Brown, who is now hosting the CNC morning show, Murphy in the Morning. The cast also includes Grant Shaud, Faith Ford, and Joe Regalbuto, Nik Dodani, Jake McDorman, Adan Rocha, and Tyne Daly.
Read More…...
- 1/3/2019
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Spoiler Alert: This story contains details of tonight’s season and likely series finale of Murphy Brown
If the revived Murphy Brown is really and truly ending for good with tonight’s Season 11 finale, creator Diane English made sure the Emmy winning journalism comedy went out with a mix of fictionalized bigwigs and real life talking heads. Unfortunately, all that couldn’t blow the wig off anyone in a return that has never captured the tenor of the times nor any real traction.
On the sidelines in many ways from its September 17 debut, the 13-episode latest round of the Candice Bergen led series has been up against the primetime dominance of Thursday Night Football on Fox week after sometimes series low hitting week. Tonight there was no Tnf but now the “Happy New Year” episode faced the last half hour of the feature length Timeless series ender over on NBC.
If the revived Murphy Brown is really and truly ending for good with tonight’s Season 11 finale, creator Diane English made sure the Emmy winning journalism comedy went out with a mix of fictionalized bigwigs and real life talking heads. Unfortunately, all that couldn’t blow the wig off anyone in a return that has never captured the tenor of the times nor any real traction.
On the sidelines in many ways from its September 17 debut, the 13-episode latest round of the Candice Bergen led series has been up against the primetime dominance of Thursday Night Football on Fox week after sometimes series low hitting week. Tonight there was no Tnf but now the “Happy New Year” episode faced the last half hour of the feature length Timeless series ender over on NBC.
- 12/21/2018
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
On Murphy Brown Season 11 Episode 11, Murphy gets a dog, and Avery gets a wake-up call.
We all knew it was only a matter of time before Avery lost his marbles on the air.
He was going into the lion's den and expecting to change an entire network from the inside.
He's young, but he's not that young.
When something looks too good to be true, it usually is. Was Avery so arrogant that he thought he would get this primetime slot with no strings attached?
No matter what network he was on, there would be strings attached.
So they basically lied to me.
Avery Permalink: So they basically lied to me. Added: December 06, 2018
I wonder if this means he's going to move to Murphy's network.
He might not want to be under the Murphy umbrella, but Murph is such a huge name in the news, he would be under her shadow a bit anyway,...
We all knew it was only a matter of time before Avery lost his marbles on the air.
He was going into the lion's den and expecting to change an entire network from the inside.
He's young, but he's not that young.
When something looks too good to be true, it usually is. Was Avery so arrogant that he thought he would get this primetime slot with no strings attached?
No matter what network he was on, there would be strings attached.
So they basically lied to me.
Avery Permalink: So they basically lied to me. Added: December 06, 2018
I wonder if this means he's going to move to Murphy's network.
He might not want to be under the Murphy umbrella, but Murph is such a huge name in the news, he would be under her shadow a bit anyway,...
- 12/7/2018
- by Kim Russell
- TVfanatic
Murphy Brown star Candice Bergen thanked the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for her 12th Golden Globes nomination, calling it a “wonderful acknowledgement of my work in a show we are all so proud of bringing back this year.”
But, giving credit where credit is due, Bergen on Thursday also acknowledged “it would not have been possible without the help of the President, who not only gave us the impetus for this reboot but provided us with fresh fields to plow daily that Diane English and our superb writing staff have cultivated fearlessly and with unique wit.”
“He is, truly, the gift that keeps on giving,” she added.
This acknowledgement will no doubt be well received by President Donald Trump, who, last month complained to the New York Post that he was going to be robbed of the Nobel Peace Prize he so richly deserved for his summit with North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un.
But, giving credit where credit is due, Bergen on Thursday also acknowledged “it would not have been possible without the help of the President, who not only gave us the impetus for this reboot but provided us with fresh fields to plow daily that Diane English and our superb writing staff have cultivated fearlessly and with unique wit.”
“He is, truly, the gift that keeps on giving,” she added.
This acknowledgement will no doubt be well received by President Donald Trump, who, last month complained to the New York Post that he was going to be robbed of the Nobel Peace Prize he so richly deserved for his summit with North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un.
- 12/6/2018
- by Lisa de Moraes
- Deadline Film + TV
Candice Bergen this morning received her 12th Golden Globe nomination for her starring role in CBS’ de facto 11th season of Murphy Brown, returning more than two decades after wrap of the comedy series’ most recent prior season.
Bergen’s nomination tipped the scale in the Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy category in favor of broadcast TV. She joined a list that included Kristen Bell of NBC’s The Good Place and Debra Messing, from NBC’s nod to the TV throwback trend Will & Grace. Also nommed: Alison Brie of Netflix’s Glow and last year’s category winner Rachel Brosnahan for the title role in Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Congratulations to #MurphyBrown star Candice Bergen for scoring a #GoldenGlobes nomination! Did you know this is her 12th nomination for her role as Murphy?! pic.twitter.com/j4jyz3NyeR...
Bergen’s nomination tipped the scale in the Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy category in favor of broadcast TV. She joined a list that included Kristen Bell of NBC’s The Good Place and Debra Messing, from NBC’s nod to the TV throwback trend Will & Grace. Also nommed: Alison Brie of Netflix’s Glow and last year’s category winner Rachel Brosnahan for the title role in Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Congratulations to #MurphyBrown star Candice Bergen for scoring a #GoldenGlobes nomination! Did you know this is her 12th nomination for her role as Murphy?! pic.twitter.com/j4jyz3NyeR...
- 12/6/2018
- by Lisa de Moraes
- Deadline Film + TV
Christmas came a little early for some of Hollywood’s finest this morning as the nominations for the 76th annual Golden Globes were announced by Terry Crews, Leslie Mann, Christian Slater and Danai Gurira.
For the likes of Vice, A Star Is Born, Sacha Baron Cohen, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Killing Eve, there are some nice shiny presents under the awards season tree waiting to be opened when the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s shindig takes place live and hopefully well liquored up on NBC on January 6. However, for others like This Is Us and First Man, it was not such a good start to the day.
Take a look at the names and titles that were significantly snubbed by the HFPA members today.
The Conners – The Roseanne spinoff couldn’t replicate the Golden Globes love the mothership drew in for its original run. With all the blast radius...
For the likes of Vice, A Star Is Born, Sacha Baron Cohen, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Killing Eve, there are some nice shiny presents under the awards season tree waiting to be opened when the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s shindig takes place live and hopefully well liquored up on NBC on January 6. However, for others like This Is Us and First Man, it was not such a good start to the day.
Take a look at the names and titles that were significantly snubbed by the HFPA members today.
The Conners – The Roseanne spinoff couldn’t replicate the Golden Globes love the mothership drew in for its original run. With all the blast radius...
- 12/6/2018
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
In the midst of Hollywood's current reboot mania, there were bound to be some failed experiments. While revived series like Will & Grace and Fuller House are still going strong, ABC's Roseanne and Paramount's Heathers encountered some notable stumbles. Fortunately it seems CBS's modern take on Murphy Brown will avoid being the next nostalgic revival to get the ax.
The Hollywood Reporter shared on Wednesday that CBS is pulling the plug on both Murphy Brown and their Damon Wayans Jr. comedy, Happy Together. The news about the Candice Bergen-led series didn't come as a surprise, necessarily, since the multicamera newsroom comedy was "always intended to be a closed-ended order of 13 episodes," according to THR. Despite those reports, creator Diane English clarified that Murphy Brown is still very much looking forward to a second season, and that they ordered 13 episodes on purpose.
Murphy Brown fans. We are Not Canceled!
The Hollywood Reporter shared on Wednesday that CBS is pulling the plug on both Murphy Brown and their Damon Wayans Jr. comedy, Happy Together. The news about the Candice Bergen-led series didn't come as a surprise, necessarily, since the multicamera newsroom comedy was "always intended to be a closed-ended order of 13 episodes," according to THR. Despite those reports, creator Diane English clarified that Murphy Brown is still very much looking forward to a second season, and that they ordered 13 episodes on purpose.
Murphy Brown fans. We are Not Canceled!
- 11/30/2018
- by Quinn Keaney
- Popsugar.com
Spoiler Alert: Do not read if you have not yet watched “Beat the Press,” the 10th episode of “Murphy Brown.”
Diane English, creator and showrunner of “Murphy Brown,” set out to tell the revival season of the classic 1980s and 1990s sitcom through the “prism of the press.” So it was really only a matter of time before the characters came face-to-face with angry citizens who have come to believe members of the media are the enemy.
In the 10th episode of “Murphy Brown’s” revival season, “Beat the Press,” Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto) attends one of Donald Trump’s rallies, and when Trump (voiced by Bob Dibuono) spots him in the audience, he calls him “fibbing Frank” and tells his supporters to “let him know what you think of him.” This incites a small mob of “red hats” to surround Frank and beat him up, ultimately landing him in the hospital.
Diane English, creator and showrunner of “Murphy Brown,” set out to tell the revival season of the classic 1980s and 1990s sitcom through the “prism of the press.” So it was really only a matter of time before the characters came face-to-face with angry citizens who have come to believe members of the media are the enemy.
In the 10th episode of “Murphy Brown’s” revival season, “Beat the Press,” Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto) attends one of Donald Trump’s rallies, and when Trump (voiced by Bob Dibuono) spots him in the audience, he calls him “fibbing Frank” and tells his supporters to “let him know what you think of him.” This incites a small mob of “red hats” to surround Frank and beat him up, ultimately landing him in the hospital.
- 11/30/2018
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Some hefty star power is coming to Murphy Brown. Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winner Bette Midler, Golden Globe nominee Brooke Shields, Emmy and Tony winner John Larroquette Emmy-winning news anchor Katie Couric and SAG winner Peter Gallagher are all set to guest star in upcoming Season 1 episodes of the CBS/Wbtv comedy starring Candice Bergen.
The revival is continuing the tradition of the original series, which frequently featured celebrity guest stars, both playing themselves, as well as various roles.
Midler and Couric both appeared in the original series, Midler as Caprice, and Couric playing herself. Larroquette, Shields and Gallagher are Murphy Brown newcomers.
In the revival, Midler reprises her role 20 years later as Caprice Morton,...
The revival is continuing the tradition of the original series, which frequently featured celebrity guest stars, both playing themselves, as well as various roles.
Midler and Couric both appeared in the original series, Midler as Caprice, and Couric playing herself. Larroquette, Shields and Gallagher are Murphy Brown newcomers.
In the revival, Midler reprises her role 20 years later as Caprice Morton,...
- 10/18/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Candice Bergen herself is now vivaciously buzzing over the power of apps.
“On Instagram I just get constant thank yous, and people saying things like, ‘I feel so much better. It has given me hope. It has given me joy,’” Bergen said on Saturday at the “Murphy Brown” panel at PaleyFest.
The 70-year-old star of the bold political comedy joked that she thought she might never work again after years in the industry. Today, she is happy about the attraction to the blast-from-the-past character. “I think people need comfort,” Bergen said. “I think the last couple of years have been upsetting to people and disorienting to people. I think it might in some way be about finding something that, ‘Well, I know that. That was when things were okay,’ and if I watch that show again, it will make me feel like things are okay again.”
Series creator Diane English...
“On Instagram I just get constant thank yous, and people saying things like, ‘I feel so much better. It has given me hope. It has given me joy,’” Bergen said on Saturday at the “Murphy Brown” panel at PaleyFest.
The 70-year-old star of the bold political comedy joked that she thought she might never work again after years in the industry. Today, she is happy about the attraction to the blast-from-the-past character. “I think people need comfort,” Bergen said. “I think the last couple of years have been upsetting to people and disorienting to people. I think it might in some way be about finding something that, ‘Well, I know that. That was when things were okay,’ and if I watch that show again, it will make me feel like things are okay again.”
Series creator Diane English...
- 10/15/2018
- by Elizabeth Taylor
- Variety Film + TV
CBS' Murphy Brown revival features a more inclusive cast than the original version of the series, with new additions like Nik Dodani (who plays tech genius Pat Patel) and Phil's staffer Miguel (Adan Rocha).
Additionally, it was recently announced that Merle Dandridge will play Murphy and Co.'s arrogant network boss.
During a panel discussion with star Candice Bergen at Paleyfest NY on Saturday night, Murphy Brown creator and showrunner Diane English explained that she felt it was important the revival better reflect the U.S. today.
"We were a pretty white show back in the day," English ...
Additionally, it was recently announced that Merle Dandridge will play Murphy and Co.'s arrogant network boss.
During a panel discussion with star Candice Bergen at Paleyfest NY on Saturday night, Murphy Brown creator and showrunner Diane English explained that she felt it was important the revival better reflect the U.S. today.
"We were a pretty white show back in the day," English ...
- 10/14/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
[Editor’s note: The following contains spoilers for the “Murphy Brown” episode airing Thursday, Oct. 11, entitled “#MurphyToo.”]
Near the beginning of “#MurphyToo,” the fourth episode of the CBS revival “Murphy Brown,” eternally perky Corky (Faith Ford) is reflecting back on times in her life when she had to deal with inappropriate men. “I don’t know any woman who hasn’t had an experience,” she says, turning to Murphy (Candice Bergen), expecting her to agree with her.
Murphy instead jokes, “What guy would be stupid enough to try something with me,” but the formidable journalist is holding back. As she later reveals to her son Avery (Jake McDorman), she does have her own story.
It’s a touchy time for a CBS sitcom to take on #MeToo so directly, given that former CEO Les Moonves, recently exited following a number of sexual misconduct allegations. While creator Diane English teased “#MurphyToo” this summer at the Television Critics Association press tour,...
Near the beginning of “#MurphyToo,” the fourth episode of the CBS revival “Murphy Brown,” eternally perky Corky (Faith Ford) is reflecting back on times in her life when she had to deal with inappropriate men. “I don’t know any woman who hasn’t had an experience,” she says, turning to Murphy (Candice Bergen), expecting her to agree with her.
Murphy instead jokes, “What guy would be stupid enough to try something with me,” but the formidable journalist is holding back. As she later reveals to her son Avery (Jake McDorman), she does have her own story.
It’s a touchy time for a CBS sitcom to take on #MeToo so directly, given that former CEO Les Moonves, recently exited following a number of sexual misconduct allegations. While creator Diane English teased “#MurphyToo” this summer at the Television Critics Association press tour,...
- 10/12/2018
- by Liz Shannon Miller
- Indiewire
After more than 20 years off the air, “Murphy Brown” has had to justify its rebooted existence in 2018. Murphy (Candice Bergen) has to grapple with the wild world of 24-hour cable news, while her son (Jake McDorman) tries to break through his conservative Fox News facsimile network with the power of reason. And as creator and showrunner Diane English has said, the reboot’s goal is to remain as timely as the original run was, hewing as close to real world events as it possibly can.
So it was only a matter of time before the new “Murphy Brown” confronted the chaotic new reality borne of the #MeToo movement, which has proved one of the most lasting, consequential cultural flashpoints of this generation. “Murphy Brown” was always known for tackling issues head-on, especially from the perspective of a staunchly feminist career woman. It should be a perfect fit for this particular topic.
So it was only a matter of time before the new “Murphy Brown” confronted the chaotic new reality borne of the #MeToo movement, which has proved one of the most lasting, consequential cultural flashpoints of this generation. “Murphy Brown” was always known for tackling issues head-on, especially from the perspective of a staunchly feminist career woman. It should be a perfect fit for this particular topic.
- 10/12/2018
- by Caroline Framke
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Murphy Brown (Candice Bergen) and her news team cohorts are getting a tough new boss. Greenleaf star Merle Dandridge is set for a key recurring role on CBS’ Murphy Brown revival.
She’ll play Diana Macomber, the team’s arrogant Crc network boss, a no-nonsense, tough-as-nails career woman who is proud to have worked her way up to where she is today. Her character will be introduced in the October 18 episode.
“I am excited to have Merle Dandridge join us,” said showrunner/executive producer Diane English. “She plays Diana brilliantly, and her comic timing is fantastic.”
In the revival, Bergen reprises her role as the famous investigative journalist and TV anchor, as Murphy Brown returns to a world of cable news, social media, fake news and a very different political and cultural climate. Amid a divided nation, chaotic national discourse and rampant attacks on the press, Murphy decides to...
She’ll play Diana Macomber, the team’s arrogant Crc network boss, a no-nonsense, tough-as-nails career woman who is proud to have worked her way up to where she is today. Her character will be introduced in the October 18 episode.
“I am excited to have Merle Dandridge join us,” said showrunner/executive producer Diane English. “She plays Diana brilliantly, and her comic timing is fantastic.”
In the revival, Bergen reprises her role as the famous investigative journalist and TV anchor, as Murphy Brown returns to a world of cable news, social media, fake news and a very different political and cultural climate. Amid a divided nation, chaotic national discourse and rampant attacks on the press, Murphy decides to...
- 10/11/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Hillary Clinton made a surprise cameo appearance on the premiere of the “Murphy Brown” revival Thursday night, making several jokes at her own expense.
At the beginning of the episode, Candice Bergen’s Murphy Brown interviews a new candidate for a “secretarial position.” Enter Hillary, who says she spells her name with just one “L,” and insists she just looks like the ex-Secretary of State.
“Hilary” references one of Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign blurbs, saying “I’m qualified, and I’m ready on day one,” and quips that she has “some experience with emails.” The she adds that her experience includes four years as a secretary in “a very large organization.” And of course, “Hilary” also references one of Clinton’s books, saying that in a TV news production, “everyone works together. It takes a village.” Wokka wokka wokka.
Also Read: Kristen Bell Wants to 'Brace Fans' for How Much...
At the beginning of the episode, Candice Bergen’s Murphy Brown interviews a new candidate for a “secretarial position.” Enter Hillary, who says she spells her name with just one “L,” and insists she just looks like the ex-Secretary of State.
“Hilary” references one of Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign blurbs, saying “I’m qualified, and I’m ready on day one,” and quips that she has “some experience with emails.” The she adds that her experience includes four years as a secretary in “a very large organization.” And of course, “Hilary” also references one of Clinton’s books, saying that in a TV news production, “everyone works together. It takes a village.” Wokka wokka wokka.
Also Read: Kristen Bell Wants to 'Brace Fans' for How Much...
- 9/28/2018
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
Almost two years after Hillary Clinton and most of the world thought she was going to become America’s first female President, it seems the candidate defeated by Donald Trump is making a new home on the small screen.
As Deadline predicted in our Murphy Brown review yesterday, tonight saw Clinton appear on the debut of the revival in what was a near-state-secret cameo. Teased by creator Diane English and left off critics’ review screeners, the brief turn by the ex-Secretary of State and First Lady saw her applying to be the assistant of Candice Bergen’s Murphy. In a trademark red pantsuit, Clinton mocked herself and the controversy that plagued her during the 2016 election with a line about “some experience with emails.” (you can watch a video below.)
The short stint on Murphy Brown follows a Late Show appearance with Stephen Colbert last week and Clinton joining former secretaries...
As Deadline predicted in our Murphy Brown review yesterday, tonight saw Clinton appear on the debut of the revival in what was a near-state-secret cameo. Teased by creator Diane English and left off critics’ review screeners, the brief turn by the ex-Secretary of State and First Lady saw her applying to be the assistant of Candice Bergen’s Murphy. In a trademark red pantsuit, Clinton mocked herself and the controversy that plagued her during the 2016 election with a line about “some experience with emails.” (you can watch a video below.)
The short stint on Murphy Brown follows a Late Show appearance with Stephen Colbert last week and Clinton joining former secretaries...
- 9/28/2018
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Hillary Clinton was the first big name cameo of “Murphy Brown’s” revival season.
Clinton appeared in the Sept. 27 premiere of the Candice Bergen-led sitcom — but not as herself. Instead, she was “Hilary,” a woman who said she is often mistaken for the former presidential candidate but actually spells her name with only one “L.” She arrived at Murphy’s new cable news show, “Murphy in the Morning,” to interview for the “secretarial position.”
“Your reputation proceeds you, but I want you to know I’m not afraid of hard work, I’m qualified, and I’m ready on day one,” Clinton said to Murphy at the start of her interview.
Murphy went on to ask if she had any secretarial experience and if she had experience with technology and teamwork.
“I do have some experience with emails,” she said. And on the topic of how many people it takes to run a production,...
Clinton appeared in the Sept. 27 premiere of the Candice Bergen-led sitcom — but not as herself. Instead, she was “Hilary,” a woman who said she is often mistaken for the former presidential candidate but actually spells her name with only one “L.” She arrived at Murphy’s new cable news show, “Murphy in the Morning,” to interview for the “secretarial position.”
“Your reputation proceeds you, but I want you to know I’m not afraid of hard work, I’m qualified, and I’m ready on day one,” Clinton said to Murphy at the start of her interview.
Murphy went on to ask if she had any secretarial experience and if she had experience with technology and teamwork.
“I do have some experience with emails,” she said. And on the topic of how many people it takes to run a production,...
- 9/28/2018
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: This review contains details of the revival of Murphy Brown, debuting tomorrow on CBS. This review originally ran on September 26
Shined up with tweets about dating Donald Trump, fourth-wall-cracking quips and Roseanne implosion asides, the revival of Murphy Brown is very meta. Yet despite those lofty lunges, the CBS sitcom still led by Candice Bergen just can’t grasp the big-picture reality of 2018.
To put it another way, Fyi, if you really don’t want to “tarnish” your legacy, to quote Bergen’s now-unretired TV journalist Brown in the first episode of this de facto 11th season, then hit the reset button on this revival Asap before irrelevance comes knocking.
Even with a sideswipe of Charlie Rose that would have never shown up on a network show just a year ago, the revival of the Diane English-created series (returning more than two decades after its last season...
Shined up with tweets about dating Donald Trump, fourth-wall-cracking quips and Roseanne implosion asides, the revival of Murphy Brown is very meta. Yet despite those lofty lunges, the CBS sitcom still led by Candice Bergen just can’t grasp the big-picture reality of 2018.
To put it another way, Fyi, if you really don’t want to “tarnish” your legacy, to quote Bergen’s now-unretired TV journalist Brown in the first episode of this de facto 11th season, then hit the reset button on this revival Asap before irrelevance comes knocking.
Even with a sideswipe of Charlie Rose that would have never shown up on a network show just a year ago, the revival of the Diane English-created series (returning more than two decades after its last season...
- 9/28/2018
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
It's been 20 years since Murphy Brown ended its acclaimed 10-season run. That's 30 years since its original debut if you're doing the math. A lot has changed. Murphy Brown, the character played by Candice Bergen, has not. And that's why she's back now in a new era of TV news, politics and comedy. "Murphy Brown is back because there's a way for us to be very relevant again," creator Diane English said. "We're in a very interesting time in our country's history and it seemed like all the tumblers were clicking into place." And CBS has pulled out all the stops for the acclaimed show's return, including plastering Bergen's face all over a fleet of buses around New...
- 9/27/2018
- E! Online
Long before the cries of “fake news”, Murphy Brown drew the ire of Vice President Dan Quayle. So now that the news media is finding itself under fire, it makes perfect sense that Murphy Brown is coming back. And that was exactly the motivation that spurred the show’s creator, Diane English, to bring it back, [...]
The post Candice Bergen: Why ‘Murphy Brown’s’ Back In Town appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
The post Candice Bergen: Why ‘Murphy Brown’s’ Back In Town appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
- 9/27/2018
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
After 20 years, Candice Bergen’s irascible news journalist Murphy Brown will return to CBS for its “11th season” on Thursday.
The revival of “Murphy Brown” reunites Bergen, also an executive producer, with series creator and executive producer Diane English and original series co-stars Faith Ford, Joe Regalbuto and Grant Shaud.
It picks up as Murphy, following a brief retirement, is back hosting a cable news morning show, “Murphy in the Morning.” She is joined by her “Fyi” team, including lifestyle reporter Corky Sherwood (Ford), investigative journalist Frank Fontana (Regalbuto), and her former news producer Miles Silverberg (Shaud). Shaud left “Murphy Brown” after eight seasons and his character left town for a new job.
Also Read: 'Murphy Brown': Candice Bergen's TV Son Works at the Wolf Network, Which Is Definitely Fox News
Helping the “Fyi” gang learn how to use social media is social media director Nik Dodani (Pat Patel). Murhpy’s now-adult son,...
The revival of “Murphy Brown” reunites Bergen, also an executive producer, with series creator and executive producer Diane English and original series co-stars Faith Ford, Joe Regalbuto and Grant Shaud.
It picks up as Murphy, following a brief retirement, is back hosting a cable news morning show, “Murphy in the Morning.” She is joined by her “Fyi” team, including lifestyle reporter Corky Sherwood (Ford), investigative journalist Frank Fontana (Regalbuto), and her former news producer Miles Silverberg (Shaud). Shaud left “Murphy Brown” after eight seasons and his character left town for a new job.
Also Read: 'Murphy Brown': Candice Bergen's TV Son Works at the Wolf Network, Which Is Definitely Fox News
Helping the “Fyi” gang learn how to use social media is social media director Nik Dodani (Pat Patel). Murhpy’s now-adult son,...
- 9/26/2018
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
As with so many recent revivals and remakes, some things are best left in the past. However, if any show is suited for these times, it’s “Murphy Brown.” It was always an idiosyncratic, politically engaged sitcom and, given the state of current events, it is thus a genuine delight to have Candice Bergen back as the uncompromising yet flawed reporter, angry as hell and ready for a fight.
Creator Diane English brings the show about the making of a television news show into 2018 by having Murphy, accompanied by longtime colleagues Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto) and Corky Sherwood (Faith Ford), anchor a cable news morning show — one that happens to be in direct competition with a show hosted by Murphy’s adult son Avery (Jake McDorman) on the “Wolf” Network.
It may be a sitcom shot weeks in advance, Murphy and her team very much live in our world. Episode 2 of the revival,...
Creator Diane English brings the show about the making of a television news show into 2018 by having Murphy, accompanied by longtime colleagues Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto) and Corky Sherwood (Faith Ford), anchor a cable news morning show — one that happens to be in direct competition with a show hosted by Murphy’s adult son Avery (Jake McDorman) on the “Wolf” Network.
It may be a sitcom shot weeks in advance, Murphy and her team very much live in our world. Episode 2 of the revival,...
- 9/26/2018
- by Liz Shannon Miller
- Indiewire
It's difficult to look back at 1988 and not recognize how important it was in terms of television sitcom history, as writers had begun tackling issues that previously had not been as fully explored before. Roseanne put its focus on a blue collar family struggling to survive economically; The Wonder Years offered up a look back at the 1960s — and everything that decade represented — that was humorous yet so realistic that virtually anyone growing up at that time could fully identify with it; and Murphy Brown took on politics, the media, and the idea of an older woman in the workplace. Significantly, two of the three shows have been revived, with Murphy about to hit the air. In terms of the latter, Candice Bergen plays the title character, a recovering alcoholic who returns to the fictional TV newsmagazine Fyi following a stint in rehab. Notes Wikipedia, "Over 40 and single, she is sharp-tongued and hard as nails.
- 9/26/2018
- by Ed Gross
- Closer Weekly
Moments before the start of Murphy Brown’s return to the world of TV news — which comes late in Murphy Brown‘s return to the world of TV sitcoms (it premieres September 27th on CBS) — Candice Bergen’s eponymous heroine has a rare moment of self-doubt.
“What if nobody watches?” she asks. “What if it tarnishes our legacy?”
Murphy’s first concern proves unnecessary, as show-within-a-show Murphy in the Morning — which reunites Murphy with most of the old Fyi team from the Nineties(*), including cocky Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto), peppy...
“What if nobody watches?” she asks. “What if it tarnishes our legacy?”
Murphy’s first concern proves unnecessary, as show-within-a-show Murphy in the Morning — which reunites Murphy with most of the old Fyi team from the Nineties(*), including cocky Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto), peppy...
- 9/25/2018
- by Alan Sepinwall
- Rollingstone.com
Just nine months after announcing its return, CBS premieres the new Murphy Brown on Sept. 27. The fictional TV journalist, again played by Candice Bergen, blurred the lines between fiction and reality in the 1990s when the show's storylines became political fodder. But can it duplicate that buzz during the Donald Trump presidency?
Back are Bergen and creator Diane English, who penned the first episode of the 11th season — the series' first episode in more than 20 years. Here's a rundown of who else is back, how the show will look different and everything else you need to ...
Back are Bergen and creator Diane English, who penned the first episode of the 11th season — the series' first episode in more than 20 years. Here's a rundown of who else is back, how the show will look different and everything else you need to ...
- 9/24/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Murphy Brown is back… and boy, news and politics have changed just a bit in the last twenty years, haven’t they?
The Emmy-winning sitcom returns to CBS next Thursday (9:30/8:30c) for the first time since leaving the air in 1998, with Candice Bergen reprising her role as the titular TV journalist. In the 13-episode revival, Murphy comes out of retirement to host a new cable news show, Murphy in the Morning, with old pals Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto), Corky Sherwood (Faith Ford) and Miles Silverberg (Grant Shaud) in tow. Plus, her son Avery — who we saw Murphy give birth to,...
The Emmy-winning sitcom returns to CBS next Thursday (9:30/8:30c) for the first time since leaving the air in 1998, with Candice Bergen reprising her role as the titular TV journalist. In the 13-episode revival, Murphy comes out of retirement to host a new cable news show, Murphy in the Morning, with old pals Frank Fontana (Joe Regalbuto), Corky Sherwood (Faith Ford) and Miles Silverberg (Grant Shaud) in tow. Plus, her son Avery — who we saw Murphy give birth to,...
- 9/21/2018
- TVLine.com
Welcome to “Remote Controlled,” a podcast from Variety featuring the best and brightest in television, both in front of and behind the camera.
In this week’s episode, Variety’s managing editor of TV, Cynthia Littleton, speaks with “Murphy Brown” star Candice Bergen and creator/executive producer Diane English about the revival of the CBS sitcom, which bows on Sept. 27.
Listen to this week’s podcast for free below and at Apple Podcasts:
“Murphy Brown’s” creator and star speak candidly about how the rise of Donald Trump drove them back into business together, 20 years after the original CBS comedy signed off. The pair also offers a glimpse into how the show is tackling a wildly different media landscape, and discusses the emotional journey of reuniting with cast and crew members.
English was a rare example of a female showrunner at the helm of a network primetime series in 1988 when...
In this week’s episode, Variety’s managing editor of TV, Cynthia Littleton, speaks with “Murphy Brown” star Candice Bergen and creator/executive producer Diane English about the revival of the CBS sitcom, which bows on Sept. 27.
Listen to this week’s podcast for free below and at Apple Podcasts:
“Murphy Brown’s” creator and star speak candidly about how the rise of Donald Trump drove them back into business together, 20 years after the original CBS comedy signed off. The pair also offers a glimpse into how the show is tackling a wildly different media landscape, and discusses the emotional journey of reuniting with cast and crew members.
English was a rare example of a female showrunner at the helm of a network primetime series in 1988 when...
- 9/21/2018
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, Netflix released a new trailer for its upcoming horror film “The Haunting of Hill House” and ABC has cast Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as a guest star in the Season 5 premiere of “Fresh off the Boat.”
Dates
TBS‘ “The Guest Book” is returning on Oct. 23 at 10 p.m. Et/Pt with back-to-back new episodes. The second season will feature a new town, new series regulars, and new guest stars in the small ocean-side community of Mabel Beach, starring series regulars Jimmy Tatro (“American Vandal”), Kimiko Glenn (“Orange Is the New Black”), and Dan Beirne (“Fargo”). In future episodes, several guest stars will also make an appearance, including Pete Davidson (“SNL”), Will Arnett (“Arrested Development”), Michael Kenneth Williams (“The Wire”) and Matt Walsh (“Veep”) among others. Following the premiere, episodes will air on Tuesdays at 10:30 p.m. Et/Pt on TBS.
First Look
Netflix has released...
Dates
TBS‘ “The Guest Book” is returning on Oct. 23 at 10 p.m. Et/Pt with back-to-back new episodes. The second season will feature a new town, new series regulars, and new guest stars in the small ocean-side community of Mabel Beach, starring series regulars Jimmy Tatro (“American Vandal”), Kimiko Glenn (“Orange Is the New Black”), and Dan Beirne (“Fargo”). In future episodes, several guest stars will also make an appearance, including Pete Davidson (“SNL”), Will Arnett (“Arrested Development”), Michael Kenneth Williams (“The Wire”) and Matt Walsh (“Veep”) among others. Following the premiere, episodes will air on Tuesdays at 10:30 p.m. Et/Pt on TBS.
First Look
Netflix has released...
- 9/19/2018
- by Nate Nickolai
- Variety Film + TV
CBS is giving Murphy Brown an extra five minutes for the revived series’ Sept. 27 premiere, the network announced today.
The “extended” episode begins at 9:30 pm Et/Pt, and runs until 10:05..
CBS describes the debut episode as the return of the Murphy character to the news business following a brief retirement.
“Amid a divided nation,” says the network, “chaotic national discourse and rampant attacks on the press, Murphy decides to return to the airwaves with her biting take on current events on the Cnc cable network’s morning news program, ‘Murphy in the Morning,’ for which she recruits her ‘Fyi’ team: lifestyle reporter Corky Sherwood, investigative journalist Frank Fontana and her former wunderkind news producer Miles Silverberg. Joining them is social media director Pat Patel,...
The “extended” episode begins at 9:30 pm Et/Pt, and runs until 10:05..
CBS describes the debut episode as the return of the Murphy character to the news business following a brief retirement.
“Amid a divided nation,” says the network, “chaotic national discourse and rampant attacks on the press, Murphy decides to return to the airwaves with her biting take on current events on the Cnc cable network’s morning news program, ‘Murphy in the Morning,’ for which she recruits her ‘Fyi’ team: lifestyle reporter Corky Sherwood, investigative journalist Frank Fontana and her former wunderkind news producer Miles Silverberg. Joining them is social media director Pat Patel,...
- 9/19/2018
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Murphy Brown is paying its r-e-s-p-e-c-ts to a music legend: Next week’s premiere of the CBS comedy revival will include a tribute to the late Aretha Franklin.
“We did do something in the first episode” to acknowledge Franklin’s passing, creator Diane English confirms for TVLine. The chart-topping “Queen of Soul” died last month at the age of 76.
Franklin’s music was a huge part of the original Murphy Brown, with her iconic song “Respect” being featured in the pilot episode and Candice Bergen’s title character (a big fan of Franklin’s) singing “(You Make Me Feel Like...
“We did do something in the first episode” to acknowledge Franklin’s passing, creator Diane English confirms for TVLine. The chart-topping “Queen of Soul” died last month at the age of 76.
Franklin’s music was a huge part of the original Murphy Brown, with her iconic song “Respect” being featured in the pilot episode and Candice Bergen’s title character (a big fan of Franklin’s) singing “(You Make Me Feel Like...
- 9/17/2018
- TVLine.com
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