The Roku Channel is doubling down on sweets.
Under a new deal with Love Productions, which produces “The Great British Baking Show” and its spinoffs, Roku has acquired 150 episodes from across the franchise. Additionally, Roku is launching a free ad-supporting streaming television (Fast) channel dedicated to “Baking Show” alone on Nov. 15, Variety has learned exclusively. This is the first-ever Fast channel for the franchise, and includes content that has never been aired in the U.S.
Among the content now available on the Roku Channel is Seasons 1-7 of “The Great British Baking Show” (with Seasons 1 and 2 being U.S. debuts), the U.S. debut of Seasons 1-10 of “Celebrity Baking Show,” the U.S. debut of Seasons 1-3 of “Baking Show: An Extra Slice” and the U.S. debuts of “Paul Hollywood Bread,” “Mary Berry Cooks,” “Chronicles of Nadia” and “Liam Bakes.”
The acquisitions and channel launch come after...
Under a new deal with Love Productions, which produces “The Great British Baking Show” and its spinoffs, Roku has acquired 150 episodes from across the franchise. Additionally, Roku is launching a free ad-supporting streaming television (Fast) channel dedicated to “Baking Show” alone on Nov. 15, Variety has learned exclusively. This is the first-ever Fast channel for the franchise, and includes content that has never been aired in the U.S.
Among the content now available on the Roku Channel is Seasons 1-7 of “The Great British Baking Show” (with Seasons 1 and 2 being U.S. debuts), the U.S. debut of Seasons 1-10 of “Celebrity Baking Show,” the U.S. debut of Seasons 1-3 of “Baking Show: An Extra Slice” and the U.S. debuts of “Paul Hollywood Bread,” “Mary Berry Cooks,” “Chronicles of Nadia” and “Liam Bakes.”
The acquisitions and channel launch come after...
- 11/16/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
East Los Angeles College was a team of destiny in 2020 — and then Covid changed all our fates.
Well, the Elac Huskies and head hoops coach John Mosley are back — and so are Greg Whiteley’s cameras for Season 2 of Netflix sports-documentary series “Last Chance U: Basketball.” The sophomore season for the spinoff of Whiteley’s Juco football docuseries “Last Chance U” will premiere December 13 on the streaming service. Netflix released a trailer on Tuesday; check it out below.
Beyond Mosley, you won’t see a whole lot of familiar faces in the sneak preview. That’s kind of the nature of prestige junior college sports — or at least, it is if all goes according to plan. But before the dreams of a major transfer can take place, the talented players, many of whom lost Division I scholarships for behavioral and/or academic reasons, will attempt to gel enough to win a championship.
Well, the Elac Huskies and head hoops coach John Mosley are back — and so are Greg Whiteley’s cameras for Season 2 of Netflix sports-documentary series “Last Chance U: Basketball.” The sophomore season for the spinoff of Whiteley’s Juco football docuseries “Last Chance U” will premiere December 13 on the streaming service. Netflix released a trailer on Tuesday; check it out below.
Beyond Mosley, you won’t see a whole lot of familiar faces in the sneak preview. That’s kind of the nature of prestige junior college sports — or at least, it is if all goes according to plan. But before the dreams of a major transfer can take place, the talented players, many of whom lost Division I scholarships for behavioral and/or academic reasons, will attempt to gel enough to win a championship.
- 11/15/2022
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Exclusive: UTA’s unscripted television department is getting a new agent.
Joe Labracio, who was most recently Co-President of Love Productions USA, the U.S. arm of The Great British Bake Off producer, is joining.
Based in LA, he will report to Partners & Co-Heads of Unscripted Television, David Kirsch and Geoff Suddleson.
Labracio was recently responsible for the revival of The Great American Baking Show for Roku. He previously spent six years as EVP, Nonfiction Television and Documentaries at Condé Nast Entertainment, where he developed and sold projects such as Last Chance U to Netflix.
He returns to UTA, where he previously worked in its unscripted department and helped build its international format, broadcast, and cable television businesses
He has also served as an agent at CAA and an unscripted development and production executive at CBS, after beginning his career working for Ted Koppel at ABC News’ Nightline.
“Joe’s expansive production and development experience,...
Joe Labracio, who was most recently Co-President of Love Productions USA, the U.S. arm of The Great British Bake Off producer, is joining.
Based in LA, he will report to Partners & Co-Heads of Unscripted Television, David Kirsch and Geoff Suddleson.
Labracio was recently responsible for the revival of The Great American Baking Show for Roku. He previously spent six years as EVP, Nonfiction Television and Documentaries at Condé Nast Entertainment, where he developed and sold projects such as Last Chance U to Netflix.
He returns to UTA, where he previously worked in its unscripted department and helped build its international format, broadcast, and cable television businesses
He has also served as an agent at CAA and an unscripted development and production executive at CBS, after beginning his career working for Ted Koppel at ABC News’ Nightline.
“Joe’s expansive production and development experience,...
- 9/14/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Ellie Kemper and Zach Cherry have signed on to cohost the Roku Original reality series The Great American Baking Show.
Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood, judges from the original British version, will also take part in the series. The Great American Baking Show will debut exclusively on The Roku Channel in 2023.
Kemper and Cherry will take audiences into the tent to watch contestants vying to become America’s top baker. The US adaptation of the British competition series The Great British Baking Show will feature six 60-minute episodes. Production is underway in the United Kingdom.
Love Productions USA produces the all-new series, and brought the original British version to life along with other adaptations of the competition series, including The Great Celebrity Bake Off and The Great Junior Bake Off.
Brian Tannenbaum, Head of Alternative Originals, Roku, said the adaptation of the series...
Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood, judges from the original British version, will also take part in the series. The Great American Baking Show will debut exclusively on The Roku Channel in 2023.
Kemper and Cherry will take audiences into the tent to watch contestants vying to become America’s top baker. The US adaptation of the British competition series The Great British Baking Show will feature six 60-minute episodes. Production is underway in the United Kingdom.
Love Productions USA produces the all-new series, and brought the original British version to life along with other adaptations of the competition series, including The Great Celebrity Bake Off and The Great Junior Bake Off.
Brian Tannenbaum, Head of Alternative Originals, Roku, said the adaptation of the series...
- 8/18/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Ellie Kemper and Zach Cherry have signed on to co-host the Roku Original series “The Great American Baking Show.” Kemper and Cherry will take audiences into the iconic tent to watch contestants vying to become the America’s top baker.
A U.S. adaptation of the popular British competition series “The Great British Baking Show,” the new show will feature six 60-minute episodes and will premiere in 2023. In addition to Kemper and Cherry, judges featured in the original British iteration, celebrity chef Paul Hollywood and famed restauranteur Prue Leith, will serve as judges on “The Great American Baking Show.”
Love Productions USA is handling production, which is underway in the United Kingdom. Executive producers for the series are Richard McKerrow, Al Edgington, Joe Labracio, Jeremy Finn and John Hesling.
Dates
• Mattel’s “Pictionary,” hosted by Jerry O’Connell, is set to premiere nationally on September 12. O’Connell hosts the family favorite game...
A U.S. adaptation of the popular British competition series “The Great British Baking Show,” the new show will feature six 60-minute episodes and will premiere in 2023. In addition to Kemper and Cherry, judges featured in the original British iteration, celebrity chef Paul Hollywood and famed restauranteur Prue Leith, will serve as judges on “The Great American Baking Show.”
Love Productions USA is handling production, which is underway in the United Kingdom. Executive producers for the series are Richard McKerrow, Al Edgington, Joe Labracio, Jeremy Finn and John Hesling.
Dates
• Mattel’s “Pictionary,” hosted by Jerry O’Connell, is set to premiere nationally on September 12. O’Connell hosts the family favorite game...
- 8/17/2022
- by EJ Panaligan and Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Lace ‘em up, fans of top-notch sports docs: Netflix has renewed “Last Chance U: Basketball” for a second season and ordered what the streaming service is calling “Volume 2” of the excellent feature-length documentary series “Untold.”
The second season of “Last Chance U: Basketball” will return to East Los Angeles College Huskies (Elac) and head coach John Mosley. “Untold: Volume 2” will consist of four new stories told over four weeks, including a two-part film on Heisman Trophy finalist Manti Te’o. Directed by Ryan Duffy and Tony Vainuku, that one will feature interviews with Manti Te’o and the catfisher behind the hoax, Netflix said.
Additionally, Netflix has ordered a new docuseries, “Bad Sport,” which examines “six unbelievable stories at the intersection of sports and crime.”
“Bad Sport” episodes include the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic figure skating scandal; superstar Indycar driver Randy Lanier’s marijuana-smuggling operation; the Arizona State University basketball point-shaving...
The second season of “Last Chance U: Basketball” will return to East Los Angeles College Huskies (Elac) and head coach John Mosley. “Untold: Volume 2” will consist of four new stories told over four weeks, including a two-part film on Heisman Trophy finalist Manti Te’o. Directed by Ryan Duffy and Tony Vainuku, that one will feature interviews with Manti Te’o and the catfisher behind the hoax, Netflix said.
Additionally, Netflix has ordered a new docuseries, “Bad Sport,” which examines “six unbelievable stories at the intersection of sports and crime.”
“Bad Sport” episodes include the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic figure skating scandal; superstar Indycar driver Randy Lanier’s marijuana-smuggling operation; the Arizona State University basketball point-shaving...
- 9/10/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Love Productions USA (The Great American Baking Show) is set to produce Rhino Reboot, a series following the rebuilding of perennial underdog soccer team, The Rochester Rhinos, after sealing a deal with newly announced co-owners Jamie Vardy and David and Wendy Dworkin.
The Rhinos, a club that has struggled to find itself and establish a winning streak, last played professionally in the 2017 Usl season, but are anticipating a turnaround as they gear up for action in 2022.
The series will document the growth of the franchise as global football phenom Vardy and the Dworkins fill senior roles, including identifying a head coach and chief business officer, sourcing talented young local players who haven’t yet played at the competitive level, and trying to build a team both on and off the pitch. Rhino Reboot will have unfettered access to management, the coaching team, the owners, players and backroom staff. Vardy was...
The Rhinos, a club that has struggled to find itself and establish a winning streak, last played professionally in the 2017 Usl season, but are anticipating a turnaround as they gear up for action in 2022.
The series will document the growth of the franchise as global football phenom Vardy and the Dworkins fill senior roles, including identifying a head coach and chief business officer, sourcing talented young local players who haven’t yet played at the competitive level, and trying to build a team both on and off the pitch. Rhino Reboot will have unfettered access to management, the coaching team, the owners, players and backroom staff. Vardy was...
- 6/24/2021
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
Great British soccer star Jamie Vardy has teamed up with Love Productions USA on a new documentary series, “Rhino Reboot,” that will see him attempt to rebuild underdog soccer team The Rochester Rhinos.
Vardy, a Premier League soccer player who has also played for England, co-owns the Rhinos along with Sacramento Kings co-owners David and Wendy Dworkin. The series will offer exclusive access to the team’s management, coaching team, owners, players and staff as Vardy and his colleagues re-boot the Rhinos’ image and, hopefully, their performance as they make a bid for glory in 2022.
Among Vardy and the Dworkins’ first tasks will be finding a head coach and chief business officer, scouting for young players and building a team.
Love Productions USA is the U.S. arm of “Great British Bake-Off” producer Love Productions. Its co-presidents, Joe Labracio and Al Edgington, have worked on sports productions including “Last Chance U...
Vardy, a Premier League soccer player who has also played for England, co-owns the Rhinos along with Sacramento Kings co-owners David and Wendy Dworkin. The series will offer exclusive access to the team’s management, coaching team, owners, players and staff as Vardy and his colleagues re-boot the Rhinos’ image and, hopefully, their performance as they make a bid for glory in 2022.
Among Vardy and the Dworkins’ first tasks will be finding a head coach and chief business officer, scouting for young players and building a team.
Love Productions USA is the U.S. arm of “Great British Bake-Off” producer Love Productions. Its co-presidents, Joe Labracio and Al Edgington, have worked on sports productions including “Last Chance U...
- 6/24/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, “South Park” premiered a preview clip of its coronavirus-themed special and Paramount Plus’ shared with Variety an exclusive clip from true-crime docuseries “For Heaven’s Sake.”
Casting
Matthew Sato has been cast as Kai, a series regular role, in Disney Plus‘ new “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” portraying the brother of lead Dr. Lahela Kamealoha (Peyton Elizabeth Lee). Described as Lahela’s “hot older brother,” he is a charming, emotionally intelligent and charismatic guy who sometimes struggled with book smarts. The woman-centered reboot of ABC‘s “Doogie Howser” follows Lahela, a 16-year-old genius doctor in Hawaii. While she still lives with her family and barely has her driver’s license, her days are filled with making vital life-changing decisions. The series is written and executive produced by Kourtney Kang, along with Jake Kasdan, Melvin Mar and Dayna and Jesse Bochco. Kasdan will direct the first episode.
Casting
Matthew Sato has been cast as Kai, a series regular role, in Disney Plus‘ new “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” portraying the brother of lead Dr. Lahela Kamealoha (Peyton Elizabeth Lee). Described as Lahela’s “hot older brother,” he is a charming, emotionally intelligent and charismatic guy who sometimes struggled with book smarts. The woman-centered reboot of ABC‘s “Doogie Howser” follows Lahela, a 16-year-old genius doctor in Hawaii. While she still lives with her family and barely has her driver’s license, her days are filled with making vital life-changing decisions. The series is written and executive produced by Kourtney Kang, along with Jake Kasdan, Melvin Mar and Dayna and Jesse Bochco. Kasdan will direct the first episode.
- 3/4/2021
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix released the trailer for Greg Whiteley’s “Last Chance U: Basketball” docuseries on Wednesday, and the two-minute preview’s flurry of slam dunks will not disappoint. Nor will the franchise’s latest fiery coach, John Mosley.
Having already binged the whole season of “Last Chance U: Basketball” (which Netflix is insisting on calling “Last Chance U: Basketball” Season 1 and Not “Last Chance U” Season 6) via screeners, this writer can assure you that Mosley is nicer than most of those football guys from the first five seasons. He’s just… passionate.
Watch the trailer via the video above.
As TheWrap previously first revealed, “Last Chance U: Basketball” premieres in its entirety on March 10 on Netflix. We also posted the first teaser from this first roundball season — watch that here.
Over the course of eight episodes, viewers will follow the East Los Angeles College Huskies (Elac) in their high stakes chase...
Having already binged the whole season of “Last Chance U: Basketball” (which Netflix is insisting on calling “Last Chance U: Basketball” Season 1 and Not “Last Chance U” Season 6) via screeners, this writer can assure you that Mosley is nicer than most of those football guys from the first five seasons. He’s just… passionate.
Watch the trailer via the video above.
As TheWrap previously first revealed, “Last Chance U: Basketball” premieres in its entirety on March 10 on Netflix. We also posted the first teaser from this first roundball season — watch that here.
Over the course of eight episodes, viewers will follow the East Los Angeles College Huskies (Elac) in their high stakes chase...
- 3/3/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
In today’s TV news roundup, Netflix revealed the release date and teaser for “Last Chance U: Basketball,” and Disney Channel announced the voice cast for “Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil’s Dinosaur.”
Dates
Netflix revealed that “Last Chance U: Basketball,” a spinoff of Greg Whiteley’s football-centric docuseries, will premiere globally on March 10. Over the course of eight episodes, the show will follow the East Los Angeles College Huskies (Elac) in their high stakes chase to an unprecedented California state basketball championship. Led by head coach John Mosley, the Elac team consists of former D1 recruits and powerhouse athletes hustling to showcase their college potential, but the players are tested as they battle adversity, inner demons and emotions on and off the court. In addition to Whiteley, Joe Labracio, Lucas Smith and James D. Stern serve as executive producers on “Last Chance U: Basketball.” Co-executive producers on the project include Andrew Fried,...
Dates
Netflix revealed that “Last Chance U: Basketball,” a spinoff of Greg Whiteley’s football-centric docuseries, will premiere globally on March 10. Over the course of eight episodes, the show will follow the East Los Angeles College Huskies (Elac) in their high stakes chase to an unprecedented California state basketball championship. Led by head coach John Mosley, the Elac team consists of former D1 recruits and powerhouse athletes hustling to showcase their college potential, but the players are tested as they battle adversity, inner demons and emotions on and off the court. In addition to Whiteley, Joe Labracio, Lucas Smith and James D. Stern serve as executive producers on “Last Chance U: Basketball.” Co-executive producers on the project include Andrew Fried,...
- 2/10/2021
- by Antonio Ferme
- Variety Film + TV
“Last Chance U” is heading from the football field to the hardcourt for “Last Chance U: Basketball,” a spinoff of Greg Whiteley’s excellent Netflix docuseries. The new series, chronicles the 2019-20 season of junior-college hoops in California, will launch on March 10, 2021, TheWrap has learned.
We can also reveal the new show’s first teaser, in which Elac head coach John Mosley promises: “It’s hard as hell here.”
Watch that via the video above.
“Basketball builds character? Not necessarily,” Mosley says in the first-look video. “Basketball reveals.”
“Last Chance U: Basketball” provides an “honest, gritty look inside the world of community college basketball,” according to Netflix’s synopsis. Having seen the entirety of Season 1, we can sign off on that.
We can also co-sign that whole thing about “character” the passionate coach/preacher says in our sneak peek.
Over the course of eight episodes, viewers will follow the East...
We can also reveal the new show’s first teaser, in which Elac head coach John Mosley promises: “It’s hard as hell here.”
Watch that via the video above.
“Basketball builds character? Not necessarily,” Mosley says in the first-look video. “Basketball reveals.”
“Last Chance U: Basketball” provides an “honest, gritty look inside the world of community college basketball,” according to Netflix’s synopsis. Having seen the entirety of Season 1, we can sign off on that.
We can also co-sign that whole thing about “character” the passionate coach/preacher says in our sneak peek.
Over the course of eight episodes, viewers will follow the East...
- 2/10/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
“Crip Camp” has been named the best documentary of 2020 at the 36th annual IDA Documentary Awards, the International Documentary Association announced on Saturday at a virtual ceremony.
The film, about an upstate New York summer camp for disabled teens that helped launch the disability rights movement, also won the ABC News VideoSource Award for its use of archival footage and finished as runner-up to “My Octopus Teacher” for the Pare Lorentz Award.
“Crip Camp,” a Netflix film that premiered at last year’s Sundance Film Festival, won in a category whose other nominees were “Collective,” “Gunda,” “MLK/FBI,” “The Reason I Jump,” “Reunited,” “Softie,” “Time,” “The Truffle Hunters” and “Welcome to Chechnya.”
Garrett Bradley won the best director award for “Time” and also won the Emerging Documentary Filmmaker Award for that film.
In the television categories, awards went to “American Experience” for curated series, “Last Chance U” for episodic series and...
The film, about an upstate New York summer camp for disabled teens that helped launch the disability rights movement, also won the ABC News VideoSource Award for its use of archival footage and finished as runner-up to “My Octopus Teacher” for the Pare Lorentz Award.
“Crip Camp,” a Netflix film that premiered at last year’s Sundance Film Festival, won in a category whose other nominees were “Collective,” “Gunda,” “MLK/FBI,” “The Reason I Jump,” “Reunited,” “Softie,” “Time,” “The Truffle Hunters” and “Welcome to Chechnya.”
Garrett Bradley won the best director award for “Time” and also won the Emerging Documentary Filmmaker Award for that film.
In the television categories, awards went to “American Experience” for curated series, “Last Chance U” for episodic series and...
- 1/17/2021
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
The International Documentary Association has announced the winners of the 36th annual IDA Documentary Awards, with “Crip Camp” taking home the top prize.
The ceremony was hosted by actor Willie Garson, with musical entertainment from Ruby Ibarra, who performed the theme from “A Thousand Cuts.”
Directed by Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht, “Crip Camp” received the best feature award as well as the ABC News VideoSource award. Garrett Bradley won best director for his film “Time,” while “John Was Trying to Contact Aliens” from Matthew Killip received the best short award. “Dick Johnson Is Dead” took home the awards for best writing and best editing.
Besides “Crip Camp,” the nominees for best feature included “Collective,” “Gunda,” “The Reason I Jump,” “Softie,” “The Truffle Hunters,” “MLK/FBI,” “Reunited,” “Time” and “Welcome to Chechnya.” Nominees for best director besides Bradley included Newnham and LeBrecht for “Crip Camp,” Jerry Rothwell for “The Reason I Jump,...
The ceremony was hosted by actor Willie Garson, with musical entertainment from Ruby Ibarra, who performed the theme from “A Thousand Cuts.”
Directed by Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht, “Crip Camp” received the best feature award as well as the ABC News VideoSource award. Garrett Bradley won best director for his film “Time,” while “John Was Trying to Contact Aliens” from Matthew Killip received the best short award. “Dick Johnson Is Dead” took home the awards for best writing and best editing.
Besides “Crip Camp,” the nominees for best feature included “Collective,” “Gunda,” “The Reason I Jump,” “Softie,” “The Truffle Hunters,” “MLK/FBI,” “Reunited,” “Time” and “Welcome to Chechnya.” Nominees for best director besides Bradley included Newnham and LeBrecht for “Crip Camp,” Jerry Rothwell for “The Reason I Jump,...
- 1/17/2021
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
The International Documentary Association’s annual awards is usually a bustling get-together for the film and television non-fiction community. The 36th iteration was the usual pandemic-era virtual version, sans networking, but with returning host Willie Garson. “This past year has not been normal in any way,” said outgoing IDA executive director Simon Kilmurry. “If 2020/2021 has shown us anything, it’s that even with all the challenges we face and the grief we’ve had, the work of storytellers is essential.”
At the end of the streamlined affair, Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht’s “Crip Camp” (Netflix) took home both the Best Feature Award and ABC News VideoSource Award. “It’s one of the major civil rights stories of American history that had been forgotten,” said Newnham.
LeBrecht thanked Sundance for its support, as well as Camp Jened, he said: “My life set a course when I went there. You are all responsible,...
At the end of the streamlined affair, Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht’s “Crip Camp” (Netflix) took home both the Best Feature Award and ABC News VideoSource Award. “It’s one of the major civil rights stories of American history that had been forgotten,” said Newnham.
LeBrecht thanked Sundance for its support, as well as Camp Jened, he said: “My life set a course when I went there. You are all responsible,...
- 1/17/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The International Documentary Association’s annual awards is usually a bustling get-together for the film and television non-fiction community. The 36th iteration was the usual pandemic-era virtual version, sans networking, but with returning host Willie Garson. “This past year has not been normal in any way,” said outgoing IDA executive director Simon Kilmurry. “If 2020/2021 has shown us anything, it’s that even with all the challenges we face and the grief we’ve had, the work of storytellers is essential.”
At the end of the streamlined affair, Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht’s “Crip Camp” (Netflix) took home both the Best Feature Award and ABC News VideoSource Award. “It’s one of the major civil rights stories of American history that had been forgotten,” said Newnham.
LeBrecht thanked Sundance for its support, as well as Camp Jened, he said: “My life set a course when I went there. You are all responsible,...
At the end of the streamlined affair, Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht’s “Crip Camp” (Netflix) took home both the Best Feature Award and ABC News VideoSource Award. “It’s one of the major civil rights stories of American history that had been forgotten,” said Newnham.
LeBrecht thanked Sundance for its support, as well as Camp Jened, he said: “My life set a course when I went there. You are all responsible,...
- 1/17/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Models and the fashion industry are known for being glamorous, beautiful and alluring — with a definite ugly side. Actress and iconic cover girl model Shari Belafonte is partnering with Love Productions USA and Bolo Media to give audiences a look behind the curtain of the industry’s longtime systemic racism.
The docuseries will give a behind-the-scenes look at the industry with other famous Black supermodels, including Beverly Johnson. Black Cat Walking will take a deep dive into the real world of modeling, marketing and merchandising.
Black Cat Walking comes at a pivotal time in the country when there is a reckoning in regard to the unjust treatment of people of color — specifically the Black community. Belfonte first came up with the idea for the docuseries in 2019 while considering projects for her Sowelu Entertainment production banner. Kareem “Biggs” Burke and Wally Eltawashy encouraged her to run with the idea and flesh out episodes. From there, Belafonte and Bolo Media partnered with Joe Labracio and Al Edgington of Love Productions USA for the series.
Belafonte finished the first script for the series while the social landscape was drastically changing with the Black Lives Matter movement in May 2020. With the current call to action for change, Black Cat Walking is a narrative that deserves to be in the spotlight. WME is currently shopping the docuseries with early interest from networks and streamers looking to support Bipoc programs.
Belafonte serves as executive producers alongside Burke and Eltawashy of Bolo Media; and Labracio and Edgington of Love Productions USA.
Love Productions USA is a division of the UK-based Love Productions, which produces The Great British Sewing Bee, The Great Pottery Throw Down and The Great British Bake-Off, which was adapted into The Great American Baking Show. Bolo Media is a television and film company with a multimedia component for digital platforms that focuses on putting the culture front and center.
Belafonte is an award-winning actor, producer, director, singer and writer. As a model, she’s been on the cover of Vogue six times. She recurred on Apple TV+’s The Morning Show and appears Tyler Perry’s BET series Sistas.
The docuseries will give a behind-the-scenes look at the industry with other famous Black supermodels, including Beverly Johnson. Black Cat Walking will take a deep dive into the real world of modeling, marketing and merchandising.
Black Cat Walking comes at a pivotal time in the country when there is a reckoning in regard to the unjust treatment of people of color — specifically the Black community. Belfonte first came up with the idea for the docuseries in 2019 while considering projects for her Sowelu Entertainment production banner. Kareem “Biggs” Burke and Wally Eltawashy encouraged her to run with the idea and flesh out episodes. From there, Belafonte and Bolo Media partnered with Joe Labracio and Al Edgington of Love Productions USA for the series.
Belafonte finished the first script for the series while the social landscape was drastically changing with the Black Lives Matter movement in May 2020. With the current call to action for change, Black Cat Walking is a narrative that deserves to be in the spotlight. WME is currently shopping the docuseries with early interest from networks and streamers looking to support Bipoc programs.
Belafonte serves as executive producers alongside Burke and Eltawashy of Bolo Media; and Labracio and Edgington of Love Productions USA.
Love Productions USA is a division of the UK-based Love Productions, which produces The Great British Sewing Bee, The Great Pottery Throw Down and The Great British Bake-Off, which was adapted into The Great American Baking Show. Bolo Media is a television and film company with a multimedia component for digital platforms that focuses on putting the culture front and center.
Belafonte is an award-winning actor, producer, director, singer and writer. As a model, she’s been on the cover of Vogue six times. She recurred on Apple TV+’s The Morning Show and appears Tyler Perry’s BET series Sistas.
- 7/29/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Comcast’s European broadcaster Sky has taken full control of Love Productions, the producer behind Channel 4 hit The Great British Bake Off.
Sky took a 70.41% stake in Love Productions in 2014, and now the pay-tv operator has acquired the remaining 29.59% of shares in the Richard McKerrow-founded outfit, as it continues to build its production empire.
Jane Millichip, Sky Studios’ chief commercial officer, said: “Love Productions is a world-class production company that has continued to create popular, thought-provoking and award-winning factual and factual entertainment shows since Sky first invested in 2014.
“We are proud that Love Productions is now a wholly-owned Sky Studios company and we look forward to continuing to work with Richard and the team as we build on their continued success.”
The deal was done in February, according to Love’s 2019 earnings, and followed both Sky and the producer’s directors receiving significantly increased dividends from the Bake Off business.
Sky took a 70.41% stake in Love Productions in 2014, and now the pay-tv operator has acquired the remaining 29.59% of shares in the Richard McKerrow-founded outfit, as it continues to build its production empire.
Jane Millichip, Sky Studios’ chief commercial officer, said: “Love Productions is a world-class production company that has continued to create popular, thought-provoking and award-winning factual and factual entertainment shows since Sky first invested in 2014.
“We are proud that Love Productions is now a wholly-owned Sky Studios company and we look forward to continuing to work with Richard and the team as we build on their continued success.”
The deal was done in February, according to Love’s 2019 earnings, and followed both Sky and the producer’s directors receiving significantly increased dividends from the Bake Off business.
- 7/7/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, Ray Romano got a guest star gig on “One Day at a Time” and Freeform released the trailer for “The Thing About Harry.”
First Looks
Freeform released a trailer for “The Thing About Harry,“ which premieres Feb. 15. The upcoming rom-com tells the story of high school enemies, “uber-jock” Harry (Niko Terho) and “out-and-proud” Sam (Jake Borelli), who are forced to share a car ride to their Missouri hometown for a friend’s engagement party on Valentine’s Day. When Sam learns Harry has come out, things seem to take a turn for the worst until they begin developing a deep friendship, leaving them wondering if one road trip could change the rest of their lives. The film was written and directed by Peter Paige of “Queer as Folk” and “Good Trouble.”
Casting
Ray Romano has booked a guest star appearance on Pop TV‘s “One Day at a Time.
First Looks
Freeform released a trailer for “The Thing About Harry,“ which premieres Feb. 15. The upcoming rom-com tells the story of high school enemies, “uber-jock” Harry (Niko Terho) and “out-and-proud” Sam (Jake Borelli), who are forced to share a car ride to their Missouri hometown for a friend’s engagement party on Valentine’s Day. When Sam learns Harry has come out, things seem to take a turn for the worst until they begin developing a deep friendship, leaving them wondering if one road trip could change the rest of their lives. The film was written and directed by Peter Paige of “Queer as Folk” and “Good Trouble.”
Casting
Ray Romano has booked a guest star appearance on Pop TV‘s “One Day at a Time.
- 1/27/2020
- by Klaritza Rico
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Love Productions, the British production company behind The Great British Bake Off, has appointed Condé Nast Entertainment executive vice presidents Joe Labracio and Al Edgington to lead its U.S. operation.
Labracio and Edgington will be become co-presidents of Love Productions USA, effectively replacing Kevin Bartel, who left to launch Best Production Company with All3Media last year.
Labracio has spent the past six years at Condé Nast, most recently as Evp of non-fiction television and documentaries, while Edgington has been an Evp at the production studio for the past four years.
Together, they made shows including Netflix’s Fastest Car and Cricket Fever: Mumbai Indians, while Labracio was also responsible for Last Chance U, the Netflix college football show that has run for four seasons.
Prior to joining Condé Nast, Labracio was co-head of UTA’s alternative TV department, while he also had a two-year spell at CAA, where...
Labracio and Edgington will be become co-presidents of Love Productions USA, effectively replacing Kevin Bartel, who left to launch Best Production Company with All3Media last year.
Labracio has spent the past six years at Condé Nast, most recently as Evp of non-fiction television and documentaries, while Edgington has been an Evp at the production studio for the past four years.
Together, they made shows including Netflix’s Fastest Car and Cricket Fever: Mumbai Indians, while Labracio was also responsible for Last Chance U, the Netflix college football show that has run for four seasons.
Prior to joining Condé Nast, Labracio was co-head of UTA’s alternative TV department, while he also had a two-year spell at CAA, where...
- 1/27/2020
- by Jake Kanter and Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The International Documentary Assn. announced nominees for the 34th annual Ida Awards Wednesday, spotlighting the best in documentary filmmaking.
Among the feature nominees were mainstays on the circuit so far this year like Hulu’s “Crime + Punishment” and “Minding the Gap,” as well as National Geographic’s “Free Solo” and Focus Features’ “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”
In recognition of another banner year for non-fiction cinema, which has been reflected in box office spikes around key titles this year, the Ida expanded the number of nominees in the best feature and short films categories to 10 films.
In “creative recognition” fields, winners and nominees were announced. “Distant Constellation” won the cinematography prize, while “Minding the Gap” took editing. “The Other Side of Everything” won the writing award, and the music category saw a tie, between “Bisbee ’17” and “Hale County This Morning, This Evening.”
Additionally, the Ida’s Courage Under...
Among the feature nominees were mainstays on the circuit so far this year like Hulu’s “Crime + Punishment” and “Minding the Gap,” as well as National Geographic’s “Free Solo” and Focus Features’ “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”
In recognition of another banner year for non-fiction cinema, which has been reflected in box office spikes around key titles this year, the Ida expanded the number of nominees in the best feature and short films categories to 10 films.
In “creative recognition” fields, winners and nominees were announced. “Distant Constellation” won the cinematography prize, while “Minding the Gap” took editing. “The Other Side of Everything” won the writing award, and the music category saw a tie, between “Bisbee ’17” and “Hale County This Morning, This Evening.”
Additionally, the Ida’s Courage Under...
- 10/24/2018
- by Kristopher Tapley
- Variety Film + TV
Facebook Watch will soon be home to a new unscripted series from Condé Nast Entertainment.
“Risky Biz,” produced by Condé Nast Entertainment and Mak Pictures, is set to premiere on the video platform on Oct. 21. The eight-episode series, which was inspired by an article in The New Yorker, follows Odds On Promotions owner Mark Gilmartin and contest engineers Will Pemble and Joel Ifill as they conceptualize and weigh the odds of someone winning a contest created by their team.
The Odds On Promotions team designs out-of-the-box competitions such as punching ones way out of a paper bag using novelty boxing gloves, climbing up a slippery set of stairs angled at 60-degrees that’s covered in slime in order to open a treasure chest, and picking a $50,000 cash prize hidden in a stuffed toy where the contestant is the human claw suspended 100-feet in the air. The competitions are typically used at sports events’ halftime contests,...
“Risky Biz,” produced by Condé Nast Entertainment and Mak Pictures, is set to premiere on the video platform on Oct. 21. The eight-episode series, which was inspired by an article in The New Yorker, follows Odds On Promotions owner Mark Gilmartin and contest engineers Will Pemble and Joel Ifill as they conceptualize and weigh the odds of someone winning a contest created by their team.
The Odds On Promotions team designs out-of-the-box competitions such as punching ones way out of a paper bag using novelty boxing gloves, climbing up a slippery set of stairs angled at 60-degrees that’s covered in slime in order to open a treasure chest, and picking a $50,000 cash prize hidden in a stuffed toy where the contestant is the human claw suspended 100-feet in the air. The competitions are typically used at sports events’ halftime contests,...
- 10/8/2018
- by Matt Lopez
- The Wrap
Viceland has ordered a 20-episode third season of Grammy winner 2 Chainz’s Most Expensivest as well as a second season of Slutever with Karley Sciortino. In addition, the network is rebooting is ts James Beard Award-nominated cannabis culinary show Bong Appétit, all for premiere in 2019.
Bong Appétit returns with a new competitive format and new host Cypress Hill frontman/marijuana entreprenuer B Real, joining returning expert-turned judge Vanessa Lavorato with chef/restaurateur Miguel Trinidad Each episode follows three contestants as they face off in a series of cannabis cooking challenges; with one will be crowned winner.
The Most Expensivist, currently airing its second season, follows 2 Chainz as he crisscrosses the country to delve into the highest end versions of everything from the obvious indulgences to the extraordinary and ridiculous. He’s joined by Lush-life loving cohorts Rick Ross, Jesse Williams, Wale, Hannibal Burress and T.I.
Slutever returns for its...
Bong Appétit returns with a new competitive format and new host Cypress Hill frontman/marijuana entreprenuer B Real, joining returning expert-turned judge Vanessa Lavorato with chef/restaurateur Miguel Trinidad Each episode follows three contestants as they face off in a series of cannabis cooking challenges; with one will be crowned winner.
The Most Expensivist, currently airing its second season, follows 2 Chainz as he crisscrosses the country to delve into the highest end versions of everything from the obvious indulgences to the extraordinary and ridiculous. He’s joined by Lush-life loving cohorts Rick Ross, Jesse Williams, Wale, Hannibal Burress and T.I.
Slutever returns for its...
- 8/20/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix has renewed “Fastest Car” for a second season, and will be adding two more series to its motor programming with “Hyperdrive” and “Car Masters: Rust to Riches,” the streaming service announced Tuesday.
The eight-episode “Car Masters: Rust to Riches” will follow Mark Towle and his team at Gotham Garage as they upgrade old cars to cash in six-figure paydays. The series will premiere Sept. 14, produced by Mak Pictures and executive produced by Mark Kadin, Will Ehbrecht, Rob Hammersley, Michael Lutz, John Stokel and Scott Popjes.
“Hyperdrive” received a 10-episode order and is a tournament series that sees drivers compete on one of the largest automotive obstacle courses ever constructed. The series is currently filming in Rochester, NY, and will premiere sometime in 2019, and is produced by Whalerock Industries and Denver & Delilah Productions. Showrunner Aaron Catling executive produces with Lloyd Braun, Chris Cowan, Charlize Theron, Beth Kono and Aj Dix.
The eight-episode “Car Masters: Rust to Riches” will follow Mark Towle and his team at Gotham Garage as they upgrade old cars to cash in six-figure paydays. The series will premiere Sept. 14, produced by Mak Pictures and executive produced by Mark Kadin, Will Ehbrecht, Rob Hammersley, Michael Lutz, John Stokel and Scott Popjes.
“Hyperdrive” received a 10-episode order and is a tournament series that sees drivers compete on one of the largest automotive obstacle courses ever constructed. The series is currently filming in Rochester, NY, and will premiere sometime in 2019, and is produced by Whalerock Industries and Denver & Delilah Productions. Showrunner Aaron Catling executive produces with Lloyd Braun, Chris Cowan, Charlize Theron, Beth Kono and Aj Dix.
- 8/14/2018
- by Ashley Boucher
- The Wrap
Netflix is revving up its unscripted motor programming, picking up a second season of its hit competition show Fastest Car, and ordering two new original series – Car Masters: Rust To Riches for premiere September 14 and Hyperdrive, executive produced by Charlize Theron, for premiere in 2019.
Eight-episode series Car Masters: Rust To Riches asks “What does it take to turn $1,000 into $100,000?” Mark Towle and his team at Gotham Garage have perfected the upgrade and trade model, using sweat equity and sheer car genius to turn rusty wrecks into six-figure paydays.
Car Masters is produced by Mak Pictures. Mark Kadin, Will Ehbrecht, Rob Hammersley, Michael Lutz, John Stokel, Scott Popjes executive produce.
Hyperdrive is a 10-episode high-stakes tournament series where daring drivers from across the globe compete on one of the largest automotive obstacle courses ever constructed. The series is produced by Whalerock Industries and Denver & Delilah Productions. Aaron Catling is executive producer and showrunner.
Eight-episode series Car Masters: Rust To Riches asks “What does it take to turn $1,000 into $100,000?” Mark Towle and his team at Gotham Garage have perfected the upgrade and trade model, using sweat equity and sheer car genius to turn rusty wrecks into six-figure paydays.
Car Masters is produced by Mak Pictures. Mark Kadin, Will Ehbrecht, Rob Hammersley, Michael Lutz, John Stokel, Scott Popjes executive produce.
Hyperdrive is a 10-episode high-stakes tournament series where daring drivers from across the globe compete on one of the largest automotive obstacle courses ever constructed. The series is produced by Whalerock Industries and Denver & Delilah Productions. Aaron Catling is executive producer and showrunner.
- 8/14/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix and Condé Nast Entertainment have partnered on a new unscripted series focused on Indian Premier League (Ipl) franchise the Mumbai Indians.
The eight-part series will follow the storied cricket team as they attempt to win the Ipl for a record fourth time. It will spend time with players in the 2018 season, both on and off the field, on the road and at home to go deep into the cricketing values and traditions that make the Mumbai Indians the most followed team globally, all leading up to the IPL18 final.
The Mumbai Indians, led by captain Rohit Sharma, is the most successful Ipl franchisee. They have won three titles (2013, 2015 & 2017) and two Champions League titles (2011 & 2014) trophies. The team has nurtured many young talents like Jasprit Bumrah, Padya brothers Hardik and Krunal, Ambati Rayudu, Yuzvendra Chahal, and many others who have gone to represent India senior at international competitions. Owned by IndiaWin Sports Pvt.
The eight-part series will follow the storied cricket team as they attempt to win the Ipl for a record fourth time. It will spend time with players in the 2018 season, both on and off the field, on the road and at home to go deep into the cricketing values and traditions that make the Mumbai Indians the most followed team globally, all leading up to the IPL18 final.
The Mumbai Indians, led by captain Rohit Sharma, is the most successful Ipl franchisee. They have won three titles (2013, 2015 & 2017) and two Champions League titles (2011 & 2014) trophies. The team has nurtured many young talents like Jasprit Bumrah, Padya brothers Hardik and Krunal, Ambati Rayudu, Yuzvendra Chahal, and many others who have gone to represent India senior at international competitions. Owned by IndiaWin Sports Pvt.
- 4/7/2018
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Friday night’s 32nd annual International Documentary Association Awards at the Paramount Theater in Hollywood became another step in certifying a new American classic in Espn Films’ epic “O.J.: Made in America.”
Ezra Edelman’s nearly eight-hour documentary was named as the Ida’s 2016 Best Feature Award. It’s the latest in a series of accolades for the landmark saga of the life and trial of O.J. Simpson.
On the Best Short side, the top prize went to Netflix’s Syrian first-responders profile “The White Helmets,” from “Virunga” director/producer team Orlando von Einsiedel and Joanna Natasegara.
Ida members voted on these two categories from a list of six nominees each.
In addition to “The White Helmets,” Netflix programming comprised a significant portion of the evening’s winners. “Making a Murderer,” the true-crime investigation of the decade-spanning conviction and imprisonment of Steven Avery, was named Best Limited Series. The Best...
Ezra Edelman’s nearly eight-hour documentary was named as the Ida’s 2016 Best Feature Award. It’s the latest in a series of accolades for the landmark saga of the life and trial of O.J. Simpson.
On the Best Short side, the top prize went to Netflix’s Syrian first-responders profile “The White Helmets,” from “Virunga” director/producer team Orlando von Einsiedel and Joanna Natasegara.
Ida members voted on these two categories from a list of six nominees each.
In addition to “The White Helmets,” Netflix programming comprised a significant portion of the evening’s winners. “Making a Murderer,” the true-crime investigation of the decade-spanning conviction and imprisonment of Steven Avery, was named Best Limited Series. The Best...
- 12/10/2016
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
The International Documentary Association (Ida) hailed its own at Friday’s 32nd Annual Ida Documentary Awards and launched a $5m journalism project.
Espn’s episodic O.J.: Made In America won the best feature award in further recognition of Ezra Edelman’s work after wins at the National Board of Review and New York Film Critics Circle.
The best Short Award went to Netflix’s The White Helmets directed by Orlando von Einsiedel. Best Cinematography was presented to Gianfranco Rosi for his Fire At Sea, distributed in the Us by Kino Lorber, while Netflix’s Making a Murderer earned best limited series award.
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation has gifted the Ida the four-year, $5m grant to establish the Ida Documentary/Journalism Project to improve and combine work from both fields in a manner that promotes the safety of it practitioners.
This year the Ida honored five filmmakers and documentary luminaries. Lyn and [link...
Espn’s episodic O.J.: Made In America won the best feature award in further recognition of Ezra Edelman’s work after wins at the National Board of Review and New York Film Critics Circle.
The best Short Award went to Netflix’s The White Helmets directed by Orlando von Einsiedel. Best Cinematography was presented to Gianfranco Rosi for his Fire At Sea, distributed in the Us by Kino Lorber, while Netflix’s Making a Murderer earned best limited series award.
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation has gifted the Ida the four-year, $5m grant to establish the Ida Documentary/Journalism Project to improve and combine work from both fields in a manner that promotes the safety of it practitioners.
This year the Ida honored five filmmakers and documentary luminaries. Lyn and [link...
- 12/9/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Conde Nast Entertainment has hired UTA agent Joe Labracio to develop and produce unscripted programming for the publishing company’s growing video production division. Labracio will report to Dawn Ostroff, president of Conde Nast Entertainment. Ostroff’s mandate is to create programming that complements and broadens the brand of the publishing giant. Sometimes that means a web series based on an article in GQ or Vanity Fair, sometimes it means a TV show that fits with one of those magazine’s brands is a less direct way. Labracio helped run UTA’s alternative programming division, but now the agent moves back to the buying.
- 1/9/2014
- by Lucas Shaw
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Joe Labracio, co-head of UTA’s alternative TV department, is leaving the agency for a top executive job at Condé Nast Entertainment. Labracio has been named Evp, alternative programming and will oversee the development and production of unscripted programming for the company, reporting to Condé Nast Entertainment president Dawn Ostroff. Labracio, who starts on Jan. 13, succeeds Michael Klein, who recently moved to a new role as head of creative for the company’s digital channels. “Joe has worked with the team at UTA to build an impressive alternative television department,” said Ostroff. “I am delighted that he will be bringing his keen sense of resonant programming and extensive experience in unscripted television development and production to CNÉ.” This marks Labracio’s return to the executive ranks after holding a position at CBS where he oversaw series production on The Amazing Race, Big Brother and Rock Star, among others, before segueing to agenting.
- 1/9/2014
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Michael Camacho, a partner at United Talent Agency and head of the agency's alternative department, has resigned from the company, a spokesman for UTA told TheWrap. UTA's managing director Jay Suresh will oversee the department, and agents Brett Hansen and Joe Labracio will run the day-to-day operations for the time being. Two weeks ago, Camacho's former client, Scott Einziger, a producer of reality television, dropped a $10 million lawsuit against UTA and Camacho. In the email to staff members Monday, Camacho said: "I have decided to resign as a Partner at UTA in order...
- 10/8/2012
- by Liza Foreman
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Michael Camacho, United Talent Agency partner and head of the agency’s alternative department, has resigned from UTA after five years and is leaving agenting. The move comes two weeks after Camacho’s former client, reality television producer Scott Einziger, dropped his $10-million lawsuit against UTA and Camacho as the two sides settled out of court. While Camacho did resign on his own accord, I hear he would’ve been terminated by the agency. His lieutenants Brett Hansen and Joe Labracio will take over day-to-day duties of running UTA’s alternative department under managing partner Jay Sures. Camacho just announced his resignation in a company email: Dear Colleagues: I have decided to resign as a Partner at UTA in order to pursue the next phase of my career. This was a difficult decision. My time at UTA has been incredible, and I am very proud of the department that we have built.
- 10/8/2012
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
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